Award-winning documentary filmmaker and fine-art photographer Miguel Gandert shows his work highlighting his mestizaje heritage, and the fusion and tension of the relationship between Spanish Colonial and Native Cultures of the Americas. Runs through 12/29.

Querer means to want, to desire, to be in a place, with its people. In folk terminology, querencia is such a place, the center space of desire, the root of belonging and yearning to belong, that vicinity where you first beheld the light. Querencia, in collective terms, is homeland. ~Enrique Lamadrid, Nuevo Mexico Profundo

Miguel Gandert tells stories. He tells stories of his homeland, New Mexico (and beyond), its people and the cultural practices that distinguish communities from each other while simultaneously revealing their kinship. You will have to form your own words, however. Ganderts stories are told through penetrating, black and white photos. A primary focus of his work is his own mestizaje heritage and the fusion and tension of the relationship between Spanish Colonial and Native Cultures of the Americas.

Miguel Gandert, a native of Espanola, NM, is an award-winning documentary and fine-art photographer and filmmaker. His photographs have been shown in galleries and museums throughout the world and are in numerous public collections including the Smithsonian Museum of American Art, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and the National Museum of American History and Art at the Smithsonian.

Querencia: Rituals of the Rio Arriba opens Friday, October 6 at the New Mexico Humanities Council, 4115 Silver Ave SE, Albuquerque. An artists reception will be 6:00 pm  8:00 pm with an artist's discussion at 7:00 pm. The exhibit closes December 29, 2017.
Mumbai: Citing a likely negative free cash flow situation due to heavy debt repayments over the next 18 months, global ratings agency Moody's has lowered the credit outlook on Reliance Industries to 'stable' from 'positive' but retained the Baa2 ratings its long-term debt.

Moody's said the country's richest and most profitable company will see large cash outflow over the next 18 months towards paying back its creditors for the billions of dollars of capex it had incurred on telecom business as well refining and petrochemical expansions in the past few years.

This will lead the energy and telecom conglomerate, which already is the largest forex borrower in the country, to tap the debt market more as a result of which it will not be able to reduce its debt and also its free cash flow to be in the negative territory for next 18 months or so, it warned.

However, it noted that though the refining and petrochem capex is almost complete, the cash outflow will still remain high as payments to creditors for the past capex are made over the next 12-18 months.

For the quarter to September, RIL, which has a Rs 6 trillion market capitalisation, saw its cash pile falling to Rs 77,014 crore at the same time its debt swelled to Rs 2,14,145 crore from Rs 1,96,601 crore.

"Such payments along with additional capex towards telecom will constrain any reduction in net borrowings until fiscal 2019," Moody's warned in a weekend note.

"Accordingly, we've revised our outlook on RIL's long-term issuer rating to stable from positive, but the outlook on its foreign currency senior unsecured rating is maintained at stable. The outlook on Reliance Holding US is also maintained at stable," Moody's said.

"The change in the outlook on the Baa2 rating reflects the increase in its business risks due to the growing digital services segment and our expectation that the high capex will keep its free cash-flow negative for at least next 18 months," it said.

The company has invested over Rs 1.4 trillion into its telecom arm Reliance Jio while it's at the fag-end of its refining and petrochemical expansion worth over Rs 1 trillion.

The company expects Jio, which reported a Rs 260 crore operational profit in the September quarter with a R 271 crore net loss, to turn in first set of profits in the current fiscal itself.

The oil-to-telecom conglomerate reported a 12.5 per cent jump in September quarter net after refining margin soared to a nine-year high and mobile telephony venture earned operational profit.

It earned a net income of Rs 8,109 crore, or Rs 13.7 per share, as it could earn USD 12 on turning every barrel of crude oil into fuel, up from USD 10.1 a barrel gross refining margin in same quarter of previous year and USD 11.9 a barrel in first quarter of the current fiscal. Total revenue was up 23.9 per cent to Rs 1,01,169 crore.

"The Baa2 rating affirmation reflects our expectation that RIL's credit metrics will recover over the next 12-18 months and be better positioned for the ratings as it continues to increase its earnings from the recently completed and ongoing projects in the refining and petrochemical segments," said Vikas Halan, a vice-president and senior credit officer at Moody's and its lead analyst for RIL, said.

The Baa2 ratings also reflect the strong ability of RIL to generate operating cash flows, with annual Ebitda exceeding USD 10 billion from its large-scale integrated refining and petrochemical operations with strong margins and its nascent but growing digital services business, he added.
Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is seeking technical expertise to restore and preserve 20,000 rare and archival documents. The archival records are in the form of printed books and bound volumes and there are no handwritten manuscripts.

"There are approximately 20,000 folios (both sides) which require scientific preservation treatment. Standard norms for conservation regarding tissue paper, paste and Archival binding need to be followed," RBI said while inviting expression of interest from agencies having experience in preservation and conservation of old library documents.

"The documents identified for preservation are old, delicate, fragile and brittle which need sophisticated handling techniques," the bid document said.

The service provider, the RBI said, "must undertake" the preservation an conservation of the documents in the Bank's premises only.

The work involves scientific repairing, removing "all the enemies" from the documents (such as iron pins, needles, cello and brown tapes), removing all stains from the documents, de-acidification and ink fixing.

The RBI was established on April 1, 1935 and its Central Office was initially established in Calcutta but was permanently moved to Mumbai in 1937.

The Central Office is where the Governor sits and policies are formulated. Though originally privately owned, since nationalisation in 1949, the Reserve Bank is fully owned by the Government of India.
The actor, who plays Alauddin Khilji in 'Padmavati,' bid farewell to his character by wrapping up his portion for the saga.

New Delhi: Ranveer Singh, who plays Alauddin Khilji in one of the most anticipated films of the year, 'Padmavati,' bid farewell to his character by wrapping up his portion for the saga.

The 32-year-old actor, who plays the character of the most powerful ruler of the Khalji dynasty, took to his Twitter handle and posted his portrait as Khilji with blood stains on it.

The picture was captioned, "And it's a wrap! Goodbye Alauddin. 1 year and a few weeks later, I bid thee farewell. May your restless soul find its peace... #Khilji"

And it's a wrap!

Goodbye Alauddin. 1 year and a few weeks later, I bid thee farewell. May your restless soul find its peace... #Khilji pic.twitter.com/Q958NazuJC  Ranveer Singh (@RanveerOfficial) November 4, 2017

The movie is based on Rani Padmini, a legendary Hindu Rajput queen, mentioned in 'Padmavat', an Avadhi language epic poem written by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi in 1540.

According to Padmavat, she was the wife of Ratan Sen (called Rawal Ratan Singh in later legends), the Rajput ruler of Mewar.

In 1303, Alauddin Khilji, the Turkic ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, laid siege to the Chittor Fort in Rajputana.

Rani Padmini is said to have committed jauhar (self-immolation) along with all the other women of the city to protect their honour.

The men of the city stormed out in a final mortal sally to kill as many enemies before falling.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's epic saga, 'Padmavati', has been embroiled in controversies with Rajput Karni Sena objecting to the film's release.
Earlier on Friday, the accused attacker, was arrested at the Ahmedabad airport after his arrival from Riyadh.

New Delhi : The Congress on Sunday expressed suspicion over the arrest of Abdul Rashid Ajmeri, alleged prime conspirator of the terrorist attack on Gandhinagar Akshardham temple in 2002, ahead of the Gujarat Assembly elections.

Congress leader Tom Vadakkan said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat when this incident happened and he was not able to trace this culprit then."

"Now 15 years later, just before the Gujarat elections, he as the Prime Minister has been able to get hold of this culprit. Moreover, the culprit is arrested after the visit of the Prime Minister to the temple. There are too many coincidences," Vadakkan mooted.

He added that Vijay Rupani as Gujarat 's Chief Minister has failed in all fronts of governance but it took Prime Minister Modi's prodding to capture the chief architect of the crime.

"It also happened very close to Gujarat 's elections, which is suspicious. But yes, I am happy that the terrorist has been arrested," Vadakkan said.

Earlier on Friday, Ajmeri, was arrested at the Ahmedabad airport after his arrival from Riyadh .

It was alleged that he had planned the terror attack and helped Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in executing it.

Ajmeri, an Ahmedabad resident, had absconded to Riyadh before the terror act was committed.

Two terrorists, allegedly with links to Pakistan-based LeT, had attacked the temple in Gandhinagar on September 24, 2002, killing 32 and injuring over 80 people.

The attackers were killed by the National Security Guard (NSG) commandos.

The Supreme Court had, in May 2014, acquitted all six convicts arrested earlier, including three facing death sentences, in the case.

The two-phase polling in the state is scheduled on December 9 and 14.
The accused, a railway engineer, said that the German national first blew a fist at his mouth when the former greeted him.

Holger Eric is a resident of Berlin, who had come to visit Agori Fort when the incident took place. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

Sonbhadra: A German national was beaten up by a group of people at the Robertsganj Railway Station in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday.

The police arrested one railway staff in connection with the case.

Robertsganj police reached the site of incident on the complaint of the Station Master and arrested railway staff Aman Yadav.

The accused, who says he is a Railway engineer, has alleged that the German national first blew a fist at his mouth when the former greeted him, which led to a fight.

"I am innocent. The German national punched me when I said 'welcome to India' to him. He even abused me and spat on me," Yadav said.

According to Robertsganj Police, the accused began to question the German tourist about his whereabouts, but the tourist refused when he smelled alcohol in his breath.

The arrested accused has been handed over to the Government Railway Police (GRP), as the area of incident comes under its jurisdiction.

As per the Police, the German tourist, Holger Eric is a resident of Berlin who had come to visit Agori Fort when the incident took place.

The incident comes a week after, a young Swiss couple was attacked by a group of four youth in Agra's Fatehpur Sikri in Uttar Pradesh, leaving them battered and bruised.
Modi also launched a scathing attack on Himachal chief minister Virbhadra Singh who is facing corruption charges.

New Delhi: Hinting at a fresh crackdown against benami properties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday ridiculed the ruling Congress in Himachal Pradesh by likening it to termites and urging voters in the hill state to wipe out the party by giving an unequivocal mandate to the BJP in the November 9 Assembly elections.

Himachal ko bimariyon se dur karne ke liye Congress rupi dimak ko Himachal ki jad se nikalkar phekna zaroori hain (Congress needs to be dumped to rid Himachal of its ailments), Mr Modi said.

Addressing a rally in Himachal Pradesh, the Prime Minister said the Congress campaign against demonetisation was driven by its attempts to mislead people and create an atmosphere against him before he can raise a storm over benami assets.

Mr Modi also launched a scathing attack on Himachal chief minister Virbhadra Singh who is facing corruption charges.

He went on to add that if people elect a BJP chief minister in the state, development will increase like it did when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister and BJP leader Prem Kumar Dhumal was the state chief minister.

In the upcoming elections, the BJP has declared Mr Dhumal as it chief ministerial candidate.

Chiding the Congress decision to mark the first anniversary of demonetisation as a black day, Mr Modi said that it was actually blackmoney day for the Opposition party and other vested interests who are unhappy with him for his fight against corruption.

Hinting at a crackdown on benami properties, he said that the Congress is worried as illegal assets of its leaders will not be spared.

The time has come to return to the poor what had been robbed of them... I am going to create a situation that they (Congress leaders) will not be able to reclaim their benami assets, Mr Modi said.

Mr Modi claimed that the Congress has already conceded defeat and has left the field open for the BJP. No senior Congress leader has come here to campaign. They have already left the field leaving everything on fate, he said.

The BJP has made the fight against corruption its poll plank in the state. The Prime Minister said that there is anger amongst the people of Himachal Pradesh and they will give a befitting reply to the Congress for its sins on polling day. The result of the election will be out on December 18.
Sources said that an empowered panel headed by Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant had prepared the blueprint of the entire scheme.

The Budget, as in the previous fiscal year, in likely to be presented on February 1, 2018 by finance minister Arun Jaitley. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: A significant project to improve development parameters of 115 backward districts across the country and to bring them into the social mainstream, envisaged by the Prime Ministers Office, is awaiting finance ministry clearance while the Centre seems to be in a dilemma on whether to announce it in the 2018-19 Union Budget.

The scheme has its genesis in Prime Minister Narendra Modis interaction with Central secretaries in June this year, when he asked them to work on mission mode to improve conditions in the 100 most backward districts and come up with concrete objectives for these under a definite timeframe.

Highly-placed sources told this newspaper that the delay in clearing the scheme by the finance ministrys expenditure finance committee has led to some raised eyebrows within the government as the PMO was keen to expedite it.

They further said that under the Rs 3,000-crore project, a national dashboard will be set up of these 115 backward districts. It will be a database with numerical details of various development parameters of these districts like health, education, sanitation, financial inclusion, etc. On the basis of this data, measures will be taken to improve basic necessities in these districts to bring them back into the social mainstream.

The district magistrates of these 115 districts will be empowered to use funds up to Rs 10 crore each to come up with innovative ideas to improve the development parameters. If the ideas given by DMs find acceptability with the Centre, these would be implemented under the scheme, the sources added.

Once the dashboard is prepared, it would be monitored by a committee which would be headed by an additional secretary of the Niti Aayog and all the DMs would be its members.

Sources said that an empowered panel headed by Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant had prepared the blueprint of the entire scheme. However, things on the fiscal front appear to be stuck as the finance ministry has not yet provided clearance to the project.

Also, within the government, there seems to be a rethink on the timing of officially launching the scheme. Sources said that it is now being thought that as clearance by the finance ministry is taking time, announcing the scheme in the Union Budget for 2018-19 may not be a bad idea. The Budget, as in the previous fiscal year, in likely to be presented on February 1, 2018 by finance minister Arun Jaitley.

Out of the 115 backward districts which have been earmarked under the scheme, 30 have been identified by the Niti Aayog, 35 by the Union home ministry and the remaining 50 by other Central ministries.
Dineshwar Sharma is scheduled to arrive in the State on Monday on his maiden visit as the Centres new interlocutor.

Srinagar: In a significant development, Jammu and Kashmirs main opposition party National Conference (NC) on Sunday said that the Centres appointing a new interlocutor on the state was an exercise in futility and wastage of time.

The National Conference president and three-time chief minister Farooq Abdullah said that he was not any optimistic about the Centres move and has very little expectation from its news interlocutor on Kashmir. Instead, he said, the government should devise a sound Kashmir policy.

The appointment of this interlocutor is nothing new. Ive very little expectations from him. Like it has been done before, he will come and meet people and eventually nothing will happen, he said. Abdullah who represents Srinagar constituency in LoK Sabha was addressing a rally in Tangdhar area close the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district.

Abdullahs statement is bound to leave an adverse impact on the task assigned to 1979 batch IPS officer and former Intelligence Bureau Chief Dineshwar Sharma who was appointed as the governments representative to hold talks with all stakeholders in Jammu and Kashmir on October 23. He is scheduled to arrive in the State on Monday on his maiden visit as the Centres new interlocutor.

Already an alliance of separatists called Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL) has termed Sharmas appointment as nothing more than a tactic to buy time and announced that it wont meet him.

The alliance which has been calling shots in Kashmir over a period of time and has on it key separatist leaders Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Muhammad Yasin Malik on Sunday while reiterating it said that it wont become part of this useless talks process.

Geelani-led Hurriyat Conference in a statement issued here said, The Hurriyat Conference rejects the facade of talks initiated to kill time. We reiterate that no forum or party from Hurriyat camp will become part of the process.

It also said, The dialogue that refers to the destruction in Yemen and Syria in a bid to threaten Kashmir, trying to make Islam understandable to us is actually extension of the military operation that is aimed at forcing Kashmir leadership to talk.

The NC president, however, pointed out that the Centre has appointed interlocutors on Kashmir earlier also but failed to implement their recommendations. He said that in 2010 the then UPA government appointed a group of three interlocutors. It visited the State and had detailed discussions with every section here. The process took more than two months and after they were done with meeting people, a report was compiled, he said.

He asked, What happened to that report. Did the government discuss it in any forum including the Parliament? Answering it himself, he said, No. Instead it has been thrown into a dust bin somewhere in North Block.

He said that it was followed by a delegation comprising of parliamentarians who visited Kashmir. What happened to that delegation and their recommendations? Nothing! So I expect nothing will happen even now.

He alleged, Ever since Modi-led government assumed power, their Kashmir policy has been swinging like a pendulum. The appointment of the new interlocutor is itself mired in controversies.

Elaborating, he said that Home Minister, Rajnath Singh, at his October 23 press conference described Sharma as the governments representative whereas the very next day Minister of State at the PMP, Jitendra Singh, designated him as mere spokesperson. So essentially when the mandate given to Mr. Dineshwar Sharma is not clearly specified, then what is the fun in having deliberations with him?, he asked.

Abdullah reiterated that autonomy is the NCs core political agenda and a way forward towards resolution of the political issue of Jammu and Kashmir. He said, Our stand on resolving the issue of J&K politically is loud and clear which is the restoration of pre-1953 situation to the State.

Asserting that New Delhi was bound to make provisions to grant autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, he said, This was a guarantee that time and again has been clarified with number of deputations and representatives of the Government of India. Therefore for upholding the political dignity and rights of the people of J&K, restoration of autonomy is a must.
Voting in 68 Assembly constituencies in the state is due on November 9 and the results will be out on December 18.

New Delhi: Predicting that the BJP will come to power in Himachal Pradesh as people have already made up their minds to throw out the corrupt Congress government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that Congress leaders have realised that they are not coming back to power and have run away from the battlefield due to the one-sided contest.

Hitting out at the Congress Partys plans to burn his effigies on the anniversary of the note ban on November 8, Mr Modi said that such protests will not deter him from uprooting corruption. Mr Modi, who addressed three rallies in the hill state at Una, Palampur and Kullu, continued his attack on the Congress, and said: The Congress has left the ground and run away. This election has become one-sided, never seen earlier, he said, about the November 9 poll.

He said it is hard to separate Congress and corruption from each other and when it comes to vikas (development), the party is famous for atkana, latkana aur bhatkana (creating hurdles).

The Congress and corruption are inseparable, they are like a tree and its roots. All their leaders are out on bail after facing serious charges of corruption and they are speaking about putting a check on corruption, he said, adding: Corruption is the only identity of the Congress Party.

Voting in 68 Assembly constituencies in the state is due on November 9 and the results will be out on December 18.

Mr Modi said instead of preparing for the poll campaign, the Congress was busy preparing for November 8 when they will burn my effigies to mark the first anniversary of demonetisation. A few people who faced the heat of demonetisation are still complaining and are planning to observe November 8 as a black day. The Congress cannot scare me by burning my effigies... My fight against corruption will not stop, he said.

The Opposition parties, including the Congress, have decided to mark the first anniversary of the Modi governments decision of demonetising higher currency notes as a black day, while the BJP will observe it as anti-black money day.

The Prime Minister highlighted that three lakh shell companies have been shut down after demonetisation and a probe into 5,000 such firms has found a fraud of Rs 4,000 crore.

Mr Modi accused former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of not going for a note ban when needed and said that he would not have had to carry out this big task had she taken the step years ago.

Had she done note ban when needed, I would not have had to carry out this big task. For the Congress, it is never dal se bada desh (country bigger than party). For them only their partys interest comes first, he said.

In Una, Mr Modi said, I will be sad about only one thing in this election, that is the Congress party has already left the battlefield, and such one-sided election has never happened before.

Invoking local deities in his rallies, Mr Modi also cited Kullus famous Dusshera celebration and said he is indebted to the hill state where he had spent many years as an incharge of the saffron party and learnt a lot.

The Prime Minister said he will pay off the debt through development in the state.

Heaping praise on former chief minister and party veteran Shanta Kumar in Palampur, Mr Modi cited how he toiled to make sure that potable water reached everywhere in the hill state during his tenure as the chief minister. Mr Kumar, who is apparently unhappy with the party for not fielding some candidates close to him, has a major stronghold in the region.

Mr Modi also praised partys chief ministerial candidate P.K. Dhumal for promoting tourism in the state.

Asking people to make sure that they bring the BJP to power with three fourth majority, Mr Modi said the coming election is not just about one party losing and another winning but deciding Himachal Pradeshs fate.

Mr Modi accused the Congress of being responsible for many social evils in India as he blamed it for promoting corruption and communal, caste and social disharmony.

He reiterated that the state needs to be freed of five danavs (demons)  mining mafia, forest mafia, drug mafia, tender mafia and transfer mafia, for which the state needs to throw out the incumbent Virbhadra Singh-led Congress government.
Air pollution might at least partially explain the rise in incidence of CKD of unknown origin in many geographies around the world.

Benjamin Bowe from the Clinical Epidemiology Center at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System in the US previously described an association between increased levels of fine particulate matter and risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) (Photo: AFP)

Washington: Air pollution is causing chronic kidney disease in over 10 million people around the world, a study has found.

Benjamin Bowe from the Clinical Epidemiology Center at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System in the US previously described an association between increased levels of fine particulate matter and risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Scientists used the Global Burden of Disease study methodologies to estimate the burden of CKD attributable to air pollution.

The estimated global burden of incident CKD attributable to fine particulate matter was more than 10.7 million cases per year, researchers said.

Epidemiologic measures of the burden of CKD attributable to air pollution including years living with disability, years of life lost, and disability-adjusted life years suggest that the burden varies greatly by geography, with higher values seen in Central America and South Asia.

"Air pollution might at least partially explain the rise in incidence of CKD of unknown origin in many geographies around the world, and the rise in Mesoamerican nephropathy in Mexico and Central America," said Bowe.Air pollution is causing chronic kidney disease in over 10 million people around the world, a study has found.

Benjamin Bowe from the Clinical Epidemiology Center at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System in the US previously described an association between increased levels of fine particulate matter and risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Scientists used the Global Burden of Disease study methodologies to estimate the burden of CKD attributable to air pollution.

The estimated global burden of incident CKD attributable to fine particulate matter was more than 10.7 million cases per year, researchers said.

Epidemiologic measures of the burden of CKD attributable to air pollution including years living with disability, years of life lost, and disability-adjusted life years suggest that the burden varies greatly by geography, with higher values seen in Central America and South Asia.

"Air pollution might at least partially explain the rise in incidence of CKD of unknown origin in many geographies around the world, and the rise in Mesoamerican nephropathy in Mexico and Central America," said Bowe.
The truck was going 80 kph when the thieves boarded it.

COPENHAGEN: Swedens postal service was puzzled when packages of electronics disappeared from its trucks on a road northeast of the countrys second-largest city.

PostNord head of security Alexis Larsson says the service mounted concealed cameras inside the back of a postal truck in September to crack the thefts. The stolen items  mostly laptops, computers and smartphones  were estimated to be worth 2.5 million kronor (about $300,000).

The cameras provided a live feed of the PortNord truck. Thats how Larsson was able to watch as two men leapt onto the moving truck from the hood of a car traveling behind it, entered the cargo area and rummaged through the load.

The truck was going 80 kph (50 mph) when the thieves boarded it, he told The Associated Press Friday.

The idea to equip a mail truck with a roving eye came about after PostNord noticed valuables vanishing from trucks traveling between Stockholm and Goteborg. The vehicles padlocks had been cut and removed, leading Larsson and his team to conclude the thefts must have happened while the trucks were in transit.

After the camera caught the daring duo that broke into the truck while it was in motion, police were contacted and four men  all non-Swedes  were arrested on Sept. 16, during an operation involving unmarked police cars.

Charges against the men, who range in age between 30 and 45, are expected later this month. Larsson said they are suspected of being part of an international gang.

This is a modus operandi that has been seen elsewhere in Europe, but it has been hard to prove, said Larsson, a former military officer who has worked in corporate security for the past 10 years.

I think this is good for the shipping industry as a whole. We have been able to see how it happens, he said.
Political observers believe that this has connected the chief minister directly to the farmers.

Mumbai: Despite facing sharp criticism, the state is not budging on the issue of money being transferred directly to the farmers loan account. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis is adamant about banks not being given total control of funds in proportion to the agricultural loans they have. This stance seems to be working politically for the CM.

Political observers believe that this has connected the chief minister directly to the farmers. It may be taking time in implementation, but politically it is sending a helpful message about Mr Fadnavis. A CM clearing your debt directly would help BJP consolidate its strength in rural Maharashtra, analyses senior journalist, Anant Dikshit.

From the very beginning, Mr Fadnavis had been raising objections against the role of banks, citing the 2008 loan waiver scheme. He had made his stance on house floor during the assemblys budget session this year. We have seen what happened in 2008. People know who benefited from that scheme in reality. Farmers will not be cheated this time, he had said.

The mess regarding the actual number of farmers eligible for the scheme took place after the state level banking committee (SLBC) submitted its data to the cooperative department. According to cooperative minister Subhash Deshmukh, confusion over the actual number of eligible farmers as well as repetitive AADHAAR numbers against many farmers names was created due to this data. This has caused the state government to look incompetent. Mr Fadnavis strictly instructed SLBC to be more careful while waiving off loans.

Senior banker Vishwas Utagi said, The government cant blame banks. It has to pay actually the banks to clear loans of the farmers, said Mr Utagi. Former finance minister Jayant Patil too had warned state government, saying, Bypassing them would not send a good signal to the bureaucracy, he had said.

But, to avoid incidents of corruption, Mr Fadnavis went ahead with transferring money directly to the farmers loan account.
A preliminary probe has revealed that Zaid had formed a social media group that he used to allegedly radicalise and lure youth.

Mumbai: In a major crackdown on alleged Islamic States (IS) Indian recruitment, the Uttar Pradesh anti-terrorism squad (ATS) arrested Abu Zaid, who was luring Indian youth to join the terror outfit.

An ATS team nabbed Zaid late on Saturday night from the international terminal of Mumbai airport soon after he arrived from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he is currently based. A preliminary probe has revealed that Zaid had formed a social media group that he used to allegedly radicalise and lure youth.

The Uttar Pradesh ATS held a press conference in Lucknow on Sunday afternoon in which it was revealed that Zaid, a native of Azamgarh, was in touch with three other suspected IS terrorists who were arrested by them in April.

They were identified as Nazim alias Umar, Ghazi Baba alias Muzammil, Mufti alias Faizan and Jakawan alias Ehteshyam alias Faizan.

During their questioning, Zaids name cropped up and we learnt that he was recruiting disgruntled youngsters from Uttar Pradesh.

The were in touch via an internet based application and were in the process of hatching a terror attack in India.

A look-out notice was issued against Zaid soon after the four arrests, said an officer of the Uttar Pradesh ATS.

ATS officials have taken Zaid to Lucknow for further questioning as well as to get more details on the alleged attack that was hatched by them. All four accused would be grilled face to face to unravel the plan.

The ATS officials will also question Zaid in a bid to find out how many people he had successfully influenced from his home state of Uttar Pradesh. Officials of Mumbai ATS did not comment on the development that took place on Saturday night.

A case has been regisered against all the accused persons under sections 120 (B) (criminal conspiracy), 121 (A) (conspiracy to wage war or attempting the same),

153 (prompting enmity between different groups on the lines of race, religion etc), 123 (intentionally concealing to facilitate design to wage war), 122 (B) (collecting arms) of the Indian Penal Code. Also, relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act have been invoked in the case.
Workers statements indicate accused left bldg without warning residents.

Mumbai: The statements of workers in the chargesheet filed by the Parksite police in the Sai Siddhi building collapse at Ghatkopar, which led to the death of 17 residents on July 25, states that main accused Sunil Shitap allegedly left from the spot immediately in his car, even as workers propped up a tilted load bearing column with girders. Minutes after he left, the building came crashing down even as the workers tried to warn the residents to vacate it as it had started tilting.

Another resident who exited the building moments before Shitap said that though he alighted from his first floor flat before him, the fact that he exited the building after him indicates that Shitap may have seen the propping work but did not bother to warn other residents about the imminent danger, which resulted in their demise when it collapsed minutes later. Shitap is in judicial custody after his arrest by the police on charges related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder.

The statements of workers in the chargesheet says that around 10.30 am, they noticed that a column from which the plaster had been removed had tilted and the iron rods had also come out.

They immediately propped it with girders, which took around 15-20 minutes. But soon after they finished putting the props, they noticed

that the other side of the building had started tilting, so they ran out of the building.

The chargesheet also had the statement of Lalchand Ramchandani (67), a resident of the fourth floor of the building, who said that while he was alighting and reached the second floor, Shitap exited from his flat and even said hello to him.

However, Shitap left in his car a few moments after Ramchandani left in his vehicle. This according to Birendra Singh another surviving resident said indicates that Shitap may have gone to see progress of the work before leaving in his car.

The CCTV footage of the collapse shows that moments after Shitap left in his car, the workers came out and asked residents to vacate the building. Assuming that Shitap left despite having knowledge of the tilted columns hints at the fact that he was not bothered about the safety of the residents, said Singh.
Puigdemont calls for Catalan separatists to unite for December polls.

Demonstrators holding banners reading in Catalan freedom for political prisoners gather outside the Palau Generalitat, during a protest against the decision of a judge to jail ex-members of the Catalan government in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo: AP)

Barcelona: Catalonias deposed leader Carles Puigdemont called on Saturday for separatists to unite in a December election called by Spain to try to avert a disputed push for the regions independence.

Mr Puigdemonts rallying cry came a day after a Spanish judge issued an arrest warrant against him, with prosecutors seeking to charge him with rebellion, sedition and misuse of public funds over his secessionist drive.

The time has come for all democrats to unite. For Catalonia, for the release of political prisoners and for the republic, he said on Twitter.

The 54-year-old has been holed up in Belgium since Monday and ignored a summons to appear before the judge in Madrid, saying that he wanted guarantees that he would receive a fair trial.

The judge issued the European arrest warrants late on Friday for Mr Puigdemont and four of his allies who are also in Belgium, to force them to return to Spain.

The Belgian public prosecutors office confirmed on Saturday that it had received the warrants, saying a decision would happen within 24 hours of them appearing before a judge. But the authorities said that any appeals process could last for up to three months. The EU Framework Decision provides that the final decision must be taken within 60 days, with an extension to 90 days under exceptional circumstances, the Belgian justice ministry said in a statement.

The warrants have further fuelled separatists anger and frustration after deposed members of Mr Puigdemonts government who did not flee to Belgium, including his deputy, appeared before a Spanish judge on Thursday and were detained pending a possible trial.

Protesters in the wealthy northeastern Catalonia region have held frequent demonstrations, chanting and waving Catalan flags, calling for their release.

The central government responded by dismissing Mr Puigdemonts executive, imposing direct rule and calling fresh Catalonia elections on December 21.
It was not the first attack attributed to IS against civilians fleeing Deir Ezzor.

Abdel Rahman said the victims had fled battles in the province, where Syrian regime forces and a US-backed Kurdish-Arab alliance, the Syrian Democratic Forces, are fighting the extremist group in separate offensives. (Photo: AFP)

Beirut: At least 75 civilians were killed in an Islamic State group car bombing that struck a gathering of people displaced by fighting in eastern Syria, a monitor said Sunday.

Saturday's attack in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor killed "at least 75 displaced civilians including children" and wounded 140, said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Abdel Rahman said the victims had fled battles in the province, where Syrian regime forces and a US-backed Kurdish-Arab alliance, the Syrian Democratic Forces, are fighting the extremist group in separate offensives.

The Britain-based war monitor, which relies on a network of sources on the ground inside Syria for its information, reported Saturday that dozens had died in the blast.

Fighting across Deir Ezzor province has sent thousands of civilians fleeing for their lives, some straight into the desert.

Some had sought refuge in a desert area controlled by the SDF on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River where the Saturday bombing struck.

It was not the first attack attributed to IS against civilians fleeing Deir Ezzor.

On October 12, a car bombing in the northeastern province of Hasakeh killed at least 18 people, including displaced people and Kurdish security forces, the Observatory said.

Sonia Khush, Syria director at the Save the Children charity, said Saturday an estimated 350,000 people have fled the recent fighting in Deir Ezzor province, half of them children.

"The situation in the city, and surrounding countryside, has been especially bleak with civilians trapped between the fighting and all too often caught in the crossfire," she said.
During the Angelus, Pope Francis criticised those who "have authority, be it civilian and ecclesiastical. For him, Authority provides help, but if it is exercised badly, it becomes oppressive, it does not allow people to grow, and creates a climate of mistrust and hostility that can also lead to corruption. Indeed, I personally feel sorry to see people who psychologically live by chasing honours. The martyred Regina (Rani) Maria Vattalil is beatified. "Her sacrifice is a seed of faith and peace, especially in India where she was known as Sister smile.

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  In todays Angelus Pope Francis commented this Sundays Gospel (Mt, 23:1-12) before the pilgrims gathered in St Peters Square. In his address, the pontiff said that Jesuss "harsh criticisms of the scribes and the Pharisees" are also "important directions for Christians of all times, thus for us as well" so as to avoid "bad use of authority". Francis also mentioned yesterdays beatification of Sister Rani (Regina) Maria Vattalil, killed in 1995 for her faith.

Citing the criticisms of the scribes and Pharisees who "speak and do nothing" and "place heavy and difficult burdens on people's shoulders, but do not want to lift them even with a finger," Francis noted that "A frequent flaw in those who exercise authority, be it civilian and ecclesiastical, is to demand from others things, even right ones, that they do not put into practice in person . . .

This attitude is a bad use of authority, whose first strength should come directly from the good example, helping others do what is right and proper, helping them in the trials that they encounter on the path of doing good. Authority provides help, but if it is exercised badly, it becomes oppressive, it does not allow people to grow, and creates a climate of mistrust and hostility that can also lead to corruption."

"Jesus openly denounces some of the negative behaviours of the scribes and the Pharisees: They love places of honour at banquets, seats of honour in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, (Mt, 23:6-7). This temptation corresponds to human pride and is not always easy to defeat. It is the attitude of living only for appearance."

The "directions" given to the disciples include not having others call them "rabbi" or "master" because "You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers and you have but one master, the Messiah.

"We, disciples of Jesus," said the pope, " must not seek titles of honour, authority or supremacy. I personally feel sorry to see people who psychologically live by chasing honours . . . for among us there must be a brotherly attitude. We are all brothers and we must in no way overwhelm others. If we received good traits from the Heavenly Father, we must put them in the service of our brothers, and not take advantage of them for our own satisfaction and personal interest. We must not consider ourselves superior to others; modesty is essential for an existence that conforms to the teachings of Jesus, who is gentle and humble in heart and came not to be served but to serve. "

"May the Virgin Mary, more humble and exalted than any other creature (Dante, Paradiso, XXXIII, 2), help us, through her motherly intercession, to shun pride and vanity and be docile to the love that comes from God, for the service of our brothers and for their joy, which will also be ours."

After the Marian prayer, Francis noted that yesterday, in Indore (India), Regina (Rani) Maria Vattalil, a martyred nun from the Franciscan Clarist Congregation, was beatified.

"Sister Vattalil, said the pontiff, bore witness to Christ in love and meekness, and joins the long line of martyrs of our time. Her sacrifice is a seed of faith and peace, especially in India. She was so kind that they called her Sister smile.
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There are 166 Medication Assisted Treatment facilities in California, but the majority are c

Almost 2,000 people died in California last year of opioid overdoses as a sprawling epidemic

Harold Pierce covers education and health for The Californian. He can be reached at 661-395-7404. Follow him on Twitter @RoldyPierce
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The Maa community has lost almost 400,000 cattle in a period of three months. The community has been engaging the government to waive their economical turbulence.Last week police killed also 400 cattle in Laikipia which the government had ordered. The Police were ordered to keep safe the British ranches and making sure no people trespass and invade.The Maa community lost 320,000 cattle in Tanzania. The drought affecting the Maa land in Kajiado and Laikipia has made them move to Tanzania searching for pasture through Oloitoktok.The Government of Tanzania ordered to arrest and detain all herders from Kenya and later auctioned their cattle. The Tanzania government is estimated to have auctioned approximately 300,000 cattle and detained 20,000 in their zoos.The Maa community is facing the real economic sabotage as the government has been quiet in all the matters." We need to make sure we assist ourselves in this difficult times. We call the government through the foreign affairs CS Amina Mohammed to help us out in Tanzania. What we lost in Tanzania is more than what was shot by police in Laikipia." Mathew Lempurkel said.
Across the South and even here in Florida, cities have debated what to do with Confederate statues.

Lakeland commission to vote on Confederate monument

Some commissioners are in favor of moving the statue

Other support keeping the statue in Munn Park



Some have relocated them out of city parks and into cemeteries like the city of Orlando.

In Lakeland, the commission had originally planned to host a public forum on the topic. However on Friday, when trying to reschedule the forum, the commissioners voted 5-2 to cancel the forum altogether out of safety concerns and fear that outside groups would take over the discussion.

Several of the commissioners said theyve heard from hundreds of residents and have already made up their minds how they'll vote on the issue, so they didnt see the need for a public forum.

Commissioners Edie Yates, Phillip Walker, Bill Read and Mayor Howard Wiggs have all said they support keeping the Confederate statue in Munn Park, which is located in the center of downtown Lakeland.

I think the super majority of the people in Lakeland want it to stay there, said Read during an agenda study meeting Friday. And thats the way I would vote to accommodate the masses.

Commissioners Justin Troller, Don Selvage, and Jim Malless, all do not believe the monument belongs in a public park, in the center of the city where many events are held.

Its part of our past. I dont want to see it destroyed, said Malless. I want to see it moved and Id like to see something else in there that talks about Lakelands future versus the past.

I think we have to accept the fact that monument is offensive and painful to some people and for good reason, said Commissioner Don Selvage. Whatever you decide why that war was fought, and the Jim Crow era that followed, it was essentially about enslaving some of our people and suppressing our people.

Wiggs, Yates and Walker are for the plan presented by resident Ashley Troutman that suggested adding to the monument other statues that represent the diversity in Lakeland.

Lets complete the story. Lets complete what happened, said Walker, the only African-American sitting on the commission. As a result what came about, I think if you do that, you embrace this entire situation.

Although commissioners say theyve received hundreds of emails and letters, theyll hear from the public on Dec. 4 during the commission meeting. They will then vote on a resolution on whether to add to the monument other statues representing Lakelands heritage.

People who have an opinion on the topic and cant attend that meeting are encouraged to email their commissioner.

For more information, click here.
The Tampa Police Department is investigating a drive-by shooting overnight that sent one man to the hospital.

Leonard Iciano-Perez injured in drive-by shooting

Victim says suspect fired shots at his vehicle while driving

Bullet grazed back of victim's head, police say

Police were called out to a Shell Gas Station on Florida Avenue around 2 a.m. Sunday in reference to a victim who reported he was shot.

The victim, identified as Leonardo Iciano-Perez, told police that he was shot while driving on E. Giddens Avenue.

Iciano-Perez said he first noticed a dark colored Sedan following him on Hillsborough Avenue. After Iciano-Perez turned south onto N. Nebraska Ave. and then east on E. Giddens Ave., he told police an unknown suspect in the Sedan fired shots at his vehicle.

Iciano-Perez was grazed by a bullet on the back of his head and was transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries, police said.

According to the report, the suspect vehicle fled eastbound on E. Giddens Avenue then northbound on N. 15th Street.

Police also found multiple shell casings on N. Nebraska Ave. and E. Giidens Ave.

Police are continuing to investigate the shooting and ask anyone with information to call police at 813-276-3255.
At least 26 people were killed after a gunman walked into a church in South Texas and opened fire Sunday, according to authorities.

26 killed in Texas church shooting



At least 20 people transported to hospitals



The suspected shooter was killed

The shooting happened at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, which is 30 miles southeast of San Antonio.

According to authorities, the suspected shooter was dressed in "all black" when he started shooting.

The suspect, identified as Devin Kelley, fled the scene in a vehicle and was killed. It's unclear if it was due to a self-inflicted wound or during a confrontation with a resident.



During a news conference Sunday, Gov. Greg Abbott said that at least 20 people were transported to hospitals. The victims ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old.



The pastor's wife said that the couple's 14-year-old daughter was among those killed.

Sherri Pomeroy and her husband, Pastor Frank Pomeroy, were both out of town when the church was attacked.

Authorities said multiple weapons were found in the Kelley's vehicle.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement following the incident:

"While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act. I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss."

President Donald Trump, who is currently in Japan, tweeted about the shooting.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

Kelley previously served in the Air Force "at one point," the Pentagon said in a statment.



Sunday's shooting is being called the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
Promises made over Brexit are "undeliverable," Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney has said.

In an interview with Sky News the minister said that while there was a desire to maintain the "status quo" between the Republic and Northern Ireland after March 2019 when the UK separates from the EU, it was "proving much more complicated and much more difficult than people had anticipated".

After meeting with Brexit Secretary David Davis and Chancellor Philip Hammond, Mr Coveney said UK politicians needed to be "honest" with the British public about the split from the EU.

He said that Ireland was more exposed and vulnerable to a bad Brexit deal than any of its EU counterparts and there were big challenges both to cross-border trade and the Northern Ireland peace process.

However, after meeting Secretary of State James Brokenshire he did offer hope of a workable solution being found saying his country would be "Britain's closest friend" in the talks process, adding: "The outcome that we want is one that I think Britain also wants."

He added: "What has been promised to the British people in terms of what Brexit offers and the opportunities of it, in the context of also trying to hold on to the benefits of the relationship that Britain has with the EU, I don't think is deliverable.

He said the task of the exit talks was "such a difficult challenge" that there needed to be a "mature, flexible and pragmatic" approach in finding solutions.

"It is not in my view possible for Britain on the one hand to be negotiating free trade arrangements with countries on a bilateral basis all over the world and at the same time to expect barrier-free trade into the single market of the EU, which is the most open single market in history."

Following his talks with Mr Coveney, Mr Davis expressed confidence a Brexit deal would protect the Good Friday Agreement.

"We both recognise the importance of finding flexible and imaginative solutions to the issues we face, and I am determined to build on the genuine progress we have made so far when negotiations with the EU begin again next week," he said.
Belfast Zoo has announced the death of Tina the elephant.

The Asian elephant had been a resident at the zoo since 1966. She collapsed on Sunday morning and staff and a vet took the difficult decision to put her to sleep.

The Fire Service had been called to the Cave Hill site on Sunday to assist.

A Belfast City Council statement said: "Belfast Zoo staff are extremely saddened by the death of much-loved Asian elephant, Tina. At age 54, Tina was one of the oldest elephants living in the Zoo arriving in 1966.

"Tina collapsed in the early hours of this morning and the very difficult decision was made by zoo staff and veterinary staff to put her to sleep.

"Belfast Zoo will remain open as normal, however the elephant house will be closed until further notice."

Tina arrived at the zoo from Tyseley Pet Store in Birmingham, at a shipping cost of 20. She became notorious for stealing  and sometimes eating  visitors' items, including handbags, coats, gloves and cameras.
Stephen Henry, 41yrs of no fixed abode, pictured leaving the Criminal Courts of Justice after he appeared before the Dublin District Court. Pic: Collins Courts

Murderer Stephen Henry is to appear in court on Monday charged with being unlawfully at large.

Henry was arrested on Friday evening in the Waringstown area after he failed to return to prison on Monday sparking a police manhunt for the 41-year-old.

Earlier on Friday he had appeared in a Dublin court but released over a public order offence. The court heard how it would take a week to organise a European Arrest warrant.

Henry, who has also been charged with possession of a Class C drug, will appear at Lisburn Magistrates' Court on Monday. As is usual procedure the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

He has been serving a 13-year sentence for the murder of John Cooke in 2004.
The CCTV image is thought to be the last image of Karen before her disappearance.

Police searching for missing Belfast woman Karen Lane have released what's thought to be the last known image of her before her disappearance.

Karen Lane was last seen in the Templemore Avenue at around 11:30am on Monday, October 23.

"A local family desperately miss their mum and grandmother and any information may help us locate her," a police spokesman said.

"This image is the last known image of her prior to her disappearance. We need to know where Karen went at this time. Were you in the east Belfast area, specifically Albertbridge, Templemore, Newtownards Road at this time and maybe have a dash cam on your car?

"Or are you a local business owner with CCTV or a homeowner with CCTV and could review your footage from 23/10/17 between approx. 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to see if we can learn a direction of travel for our missing person?

"Please call Police on 101 quoting Serial 447 of 24/10/17."
Stephen Henry failed to return to Magilligan Prison after day release

A convicted killer who failed to return to prison after a day release has been charged with being unlawfully at large.

Stephen Henry, 41, who was convicted of murdering father-of-two John Cooke with a Samurai sword in Lisburn in 2004, failed to return to Magilligan jail last Monday.

He crossed the border into the Irish Republic where he was detained over a public order offence but subsequently released.

He was arrested in Northern Ireland on Friday.

Henry has been charged with being unlawfully at large while under sentence and possessing a Class C controlled drug.

He is due to appear in court in Lisburn on Monday.
Around 35 million fewer pints were sold in the three months to September compared with the same quarter last year (Philip Toscano/PA)

Sales of beer in Britains pubs, bars and restaurants have fallen by the biggest margin for five years, figures show.

Around 35 million fewer pints were sold in the three months to September compared with the same quarter last year  a fall of 3.6%, said the British Beer and Pub Association.

The organisation warned that pubs will keep on closing if the trend continues, blaming sky high business rates.

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Chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: When the Government was cutting or freezing beer duty from 2013-15, sales of British beer stabilised, after years of steep decline.

With sales down this quarter, following the Budget tax hike, urgent action from the Chancellor is needed.

Beer has had a 39% tax rise in the past decade. With tax rates 14 times higher than in Germany, these levels are unsustainable.

We need fair taxes for British beer, so that brewers and pub operators can invest in thriving pubs, and take advantage of new opportunities to export more beer around the world as we leave the EU.
The UK was part of the coalition led by the US which invaded Iraq (Maurice McDonald/PA)

Former prime minister Tony Blair will almost certainly be remembered for the Iraq war despite all that he achieved, Gordon Brown has said.

Mr Brown, who was chancellor when the decision to go to war in 2003 was made, also said he accepted that the war was not a glorious chapter in British history.

The former prime minister was speaking as he launched his memoir My Life, Our Times at an event at the University of Edinburghs McEwan Hall.

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In extracts from the book, due for release on Tuesday, he has claimed the UK was misled over Saddam Husseins weapons of mass destruction, revealing that top-secret US intelligence that cast serious doubt over the dictators destructive capabilities was not shared with Britain.

Mr Brown claimed that only after leaving office did he become aware of crucial papers held by the US Department of Defence and believes the course of history could have been different had the information been shared.

He told the audience that the evidence at the time had appeared irrefutable.

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He said: I regret what has happened, I tell you honestly that I believed the evidence that I was given, it was very compelling but I tell you now that the evidence that the Americans had at the time was more detailed and was more profound and more in depth and it was not shared with us for whatever reason.

I believe that most of you sitting in this audience, if you had seen the evidence that we had seen at the time would have concluded exactly what I and others concluded but I believe also youve got to be honest with yourself and honest with the country about what happened and I now know that there was evidence that was not available to us.

This is not a glorious chapter in British history but it is a chapter that allows us now I believe to be honest about what happened and Im trying to be as honest as possible.

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Reflecting that all political careers end in failure one way or another, he added: Tony probably, great things he achieved, great things and we must not forget that, but he will be remembered almost certainly because of what happened over the Iraq war.

My feeling is that I did not manage to persuade people to take the view that I took about how we dealt with the global recession.

Mr Brown also said a national conversation was needed to tackle the big issues facing Britain, including Brexit, maintaining the Union and sexual harassment in politics.

He said: If there were a proper national conversation I dont think anyone would tolerate the standards we have seen in public life, the sexism and also the racism, and I think that people would demand, rightly so, because politicians have an influence on young people in our country, would demand that politicians have the highest possible standards and show the best forms of behaviour when dealing with other people, whether its women or whether its people of other colours or people who are in minorities who are often discriminated against.
A gunman has opened fire at a church in Texas killing at least 27 people.

Another 20 are thought to have been injured.

The attack happened at the the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in Wilson County, in the south of the state.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt said the man walked into the church and opened fire on the congregation. The gunman was later "taken down" and killed, he said.

Emergency services rushed to the church and local media showed helicopters airlifting victims to nearby hospitals.

As well as local police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and US Marshalls are all said to be at the scene.

The police commissioner confirmed that at least 27 people had died.

President Donald Trump, who is on a visit to Japan tweeted: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

Texas governor Greg Abbott said: "Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response."

Sutherland Springs is a community of about 400 people 30 miles south east of San Antonio.

More to follow.

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Indonesian Minhati Madrais, widow of militant leader Omarkhayam Maute who was killed last month in the southern Philippine city of Marawi, goes through a physical checkup in a government hospital in nearby Iligan city following her arrest, Nov. 5, 2017.

Police arrested the Indonesian widow of militant Omarkhayam Maute on Sunday and seized bomb-making equipment from her home in the southern Philippines, officials said.

The suspect, Minhati Madrais, was taken into police custody in Iligan city, about 30 km (19 miles) north of the southern city of Marawi, which was besieged for five months by pro-Islamic State (IS) militants. Social workers took custody of her six children  four girls and two boys.

Police recovered materials used to create improvised explosive devices, including blasting caps and detonating cords, as well as Minhatis expired Indonesian passport when authorities raided her home, regional police director Supt. Timoteo Gascon Pacleb said in his incident report.

"Based on her passport, she went to the country thrice between 2012 and 2016. When it expired in 2016, she filed extensions of her permit whenever she was here," Senior Supt. Leony Roy Gia, Iligan's chief of police, told BenarNews.

Gia said the suspect was under interrogation for authorities to gather information on her remaining contacts in Marawi or in Mindanao, the nations southern third-largest island.

The arrest came after officials directed police personnel in the province to be on heightened alert, as authorities expressed fears militants might attempt to escape the gun battles in Marawi, where about 39 stragglers are locked in close-quarter battles with government forces.

Officials had said that the remaining fighters, possibly including foreign militants, were growing desperate as the military tightened its security cordon in the battle area.

Minhati, a teacher by profession, met Omarkhayam when they were college students in Egypt. After finishing her university studies, they moved back to Indonesia, but eventually returned to Marawi, police said.

Indonesian Minhati Madrais, widow of slain militant Omarkhayam Maute, holds a sign with her name during her booking at a police station in the southern Philippine city of Iligan following her arrest, Nov. 5, 2017. [Police HO]

Last week, police also arrested 23-year-old Mohammad Ilham Syahputra, an Indonesian militant, as he deserted his comrades and swam across a lake in Marawi, a mosque-studded city of 200,000 that has been reduced to rubble.

The Marawi battle erupted on May 23 when police and the military moved to arrest Isnilon Hapilon, the acknowledged leader of the Southeast Asian branch of IS who was on the FBIs most-wanted list.

But they were met by a huge force of fighters, including Hapilons Abu Sayyaf comrades and several fighters from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. They were also backed by a group of militants led by Omarkhayam and his brother, Abdullah Maute.

Militant snipers took strategic positions in buildings, but Air Force jets reduced the threat by launching daily bombing runs.

Government forces killed Hapilon and Omarkhayam on Oct. 16, while Abdullah was slain earlier.

Mahmud Ahmad, a Malaysian university professor who allegedly bankrolled the Marawi attack, was subsequently killed, the military also reported. It said Mahmuds death was witnessed by several hostages who had escaped, but his remains have yet to be recovered.

The fighting, which stoked fears that IS might gain a foothold in Southeast Asia, killed almost 1,000 militants, 165 soldiers and police and 47 civilians.

Jeoffrey Maitem in Iligan contributed to this story.
Von: By ANGELIKA HELLEMANN, ROMAN EICHINGER and NIELS STARNICK

Our world order is in acute danger, says Sigmar Gabriel (58) during the interview in Goslar. He lives there with his wife Anke (40) and his daughters Marie (5) and Thea (8 months). His daughter Saskia (28) is from a former relationship.

It is a slow good-bye from great power. For the interview, the incumbent Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel (SPD) has travelled to his home town of Goslar in the Harz region (Lower Saxony) on Friday afternoon  on his own.

Nobody from the Foreign Office in Berlin is accompanying him. Only his long-time bodyguard is standing outside the door. A Foreign Minister is always under personal protection, even if he is only the acting minister, like Gabriel, until the new government is formed.

BILD am SONNTAG: Mr. Gabriel, how does Goslar feel, compared to Washington?

Sigmar Gabriel: Good  I have always liked coming home. There is a big map of the world on the wall in the Vatican. The most important city in the world is marked in the middle of that map: Jerusalem. Immediately to the left of it is Goslar. No sign of Washington and Berlin. Admittedly, the map is 1000 years old. But we in the old imperial city are proud of this, as if it had been made yesterday.

For a minister, Gabriel is dressed casually. Black trousers, black polo shirt. The dark clothes match the ministers melancholic mood. He is talking more quietly than usual.

What state is the world in these days?

Auch interessant

Gabriel: Our liberal, Western-influenced world order is in acute danger. The US  formerly a guarantee of this liberalism  is bowing out of it. Because of this, the idea of freedom, democracy, and human rights is now even more under threat world-wide than before.

Next week marks the anniversary of US President Trumps election. Was the year with Trump better or worse than expected?

Gabriel: The shocking thing about Trump is that he wants to replace the strength of the law by the law of the strongest. In his mind, the world is not a place where you try to get along with each other well and safely. For him, the world is an arena. Only the stronger one can prevail. This is the opposite of the liberal world order that the US and the West have promoted for the last 70 years.

Is world peace in danger?

Gabriel: Yes, of course. We are standing at the beginning of a new global military buildup, because all sides can only mistrust each other. In Europe and Germany, we are also facing the destruction of all the success that has been achieved in the 1980s and 90s in arms control and disarmament. Unfortunately, it is more than likely that we will see new nuclear medium-range ballistic missiles in Europe. We Germans, in particular, finally have to promote a renewed disarmament. Germany has to be a power for peace instead of running after Trumps armament plans  as Angela Merkel intends to, unfortunately. I am curious as to what the Greens and the FDP will say about this.

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What worries you most?

Gabriel: The completely dysfunctional relationship between the US and Russia is the biggest threat to world peace. If North Korea succeeds in attaining nuclear weapons, many others will follow. Only the US and Russia together can prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. If the relationship between Washington and Moscow does not improve again, our children will grow up in a dangerous, disordered, and highly nuclear-armed world. Moreover, Trump is increasing the military budget and lowering the development cooperation budget. He thereby produces millions of new refugees.

Do you think Trump is mentally healthy?

Gabriel: What an absurd question. The American President is a calculating politician. He saw that the majority of Americans feel left behind and that they no longer believe in politicians slogans. He then put himself at the top of an anti-establishment movement. These people still support him. I would not bet against Trump remaining President for eight years.

Why did so many Americans vote for him?

Gabriel: His Foreign Minister once told me that the election one year ago was a Can you hear me now? election. In Germany, we also just had a Can you hear me now? election.

Sigmar Gabriel and the American Foreign Minister Rex Tillerson in Washington

You are referring to the AfDs election success?

Gabriel: Yes. Quite a number of people obviously had the impression that we no longer care about them; that we do not meet their lives with respect; and that we are leaving them on their own. For decades, the whole of Eastern Germany has been turned into an experimental ground for low wages. I just met a skilled worker in a pressing plant who only takes home 1200 Euros, despite the plant running a three-shift operation. In the West, he would earn more than twice as much. Or look at the small communities: in 20 percent of German communities, there is no school, no pharmacy, no shop, no longer even a bus stop. This amounts to destroying peoples hometowns. And all of this is happening in a country that is incredibly powerful and has billions in tax surpluses. The new CDU/CSU-FDP-Greens government wants to lower taxes for the wealthy. It would do better to help those who do not have much, despite working hard.

Have you personally felt peoples anger during the election campaigning?

Gabriel: Many people  regardless of whether its in the East or West  are utterly annoyed when the established parties try to tell them how to live their lives. Much of what we consider to be so politically correct is now regarded as detached and elitist. I am wondering too whether people can still stand up in German party meetings and say: by the way, I smoke, eat sausage, like watching soaps on RTL (German TV station, ed.), and love all-inclusive holidays. Or will they have to expect becoming the target of political education attempts?

There is another parallel: in Trump, we have a self-confessed sexist as President of the US. In Germany, the AfD thinks the sexism debate is completely superfluous.

Gabriel: The sexism debate is indeed justified. For years, it has repeatedly been cropping up as a public issue, and there are major reasons for this. In most cases, minor and major incidents of harassment happen behind closed doors. It is everyday sexism that many women experience at work or in their spare time. And when they resist, most of the time the eye or ear witnesses male response is: Dont make such a fuss or Dont make a mountain out of a molehill. Besides investigating the big cases that have now become public, we must also stop this everyday acceptance of harassment.

You have been Prime Minister, Minister for Ecology, head of the SPD, Minister for Economy, Vice Chancellor, Foreign Minister. What was your biggest achievement?

Gabriel is thinking for a few seconds. Tears can be seen in his eyes.

Gabriel: Every time my political actions concretely helped people. One of the most moving experiences was securing 15 000 jobs at Tengelmann (German company, ed.).

And the worst failure?

Gabriel: The last federal election. 20 percent is depressing.

Soon your successor from the Jamaica government will have to deal with global politics. What is your advice?

Gabriel: I am worried about the great gap concerning the issue of Europe. Angela Merkel has no idea how to advance Europe. On the contrary, she doesnt support French President Macron with his suggestions for closer cooperation. The FDP is following a national-economic course like the AfD did in its initial phase. A FDP Minister of Finance would further divide Europe. And the Greens are too weak to oppose this.

Gabriel has always counted as one of the greatest political talents in Germany. Rhetorically extremely strong, very smart, but also a bit unpredictable. He has never dared to step forward and run for the chancellorship. It is unlikely that he will hold a top position again after the SPDs retirement from government. Since the lost federal election, his wife Anke (40) keeps teasing him by asking: Have you already become used to no longer being Mr. Important?

What will you do in a years time?

Gabriel: Bring my daughter Marie to primary school. Thats for sure.

Have you promised your wife to take more care of the household and education of your children in the future?

Gabriel: My wife does not tolerate such promises, since she does not believe I will keep them. She is firmly convinced that I need work. She once said: Regardless of where and what your work is  if necessary, as a taxi driver in Goslar  you will always work twelve to 16 hours per day.

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Nisrin Omer

Earlier this year, the then White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer, argued that the 109 airport detentions authorised under the first Muslim ban were a "minor inconvenience" to keep America safe. I was among those 109 people who were detained, questioned, handcuffed and body searched under the ban, and nothing about our experiences could be characterised as minor or inconvenient.

An Iraqi man who was detained with me at John F Kennedy airport in New York on the evening of January 27 had waited for two years to receive a visa that would reunite him with his wife and child. As his family waited on the other side of the airport border, I watched him grow increasingly anxious and distraught as he was denied a translator and told that he could be deported back to Iraq. A few hours later, a 76-year-old Sudanese man with health issues was detained in the same terminal and held for 30 hours without medical attention.

At Dulles Airport, some 400km away, a five-year-old boy with a US passport was detained and separated from his Iranian mother for several hours.

For every one of us who was detained at a US airport, many more were prevented from boarding their planes at terminals around the world. In total, more than 100,000 visas were revoked with the stroke of US President Donald Trump's pen, and with it, hundreds and thousands of lives were altered and disrupted. In many ways, the mainstream media's somewhat myopic focus on our detentions, particularly on the detentions of doctors and researchers like myself, masked this reality.

Thousands were separated from their family members, were forced to postpone weddings and important medical procedures, interrupted their studies and lost employment and life savings as a result of the first ban. Because the Muslim ban is also a refugee ban, thousands of refugees, who risked their lives to flee wars and political persecution, were denied safety and refuge after years of navigating a scrupulous, bureaucratic US visa process.

Please see AlJazeera
The British boss of Diageo has warned the British government against triggering another downturn in Scotch whisky sales by serving up a tax hike in November's Budget.

Charles Ireland, general manager for Great Britain, Ireland and France, said the move would be counterproductive because British Treasury takings from Scotch fell when the Chancellor imposed a 3.9% tax rise earlier this year.

Sales of the spirit dropped by one million bottles in the first half of 2017 following March's tax rise, which pushed the duty on an average bottle to 80%.

Mr Ireland, who has worked at the Bell's-to-Johnnie Walker group for 20 years, said the "unfair" levy not only harms the domestic market, but hampers its overseas business by encouraging countries to impose harsher tax regimes.

Speaking to the Press Association, Mr Ireland said: "Our modelling shows there would be a negative impact on the strength of the market at home.

"The spirits market suffered a downturn when the last increase happened earlier this year and that there would be another downturn if the tax increased in the next Budget.

"On top of that, it will make it more difficult for us to argue against increases and unfair treatment overseas.

"I think there is both a domestic impact for our industry and an international impact for our industry."

Scotch whisky is Britain's biggest food and drink export, with Diageo holding around a third of the global market.

The British government is in the midst of trying to bolster UK exports by laying the groundwork for free trade deals (FTD) once Britain breaks from the European Union (EU).

Diageo chief executive Ivan Menezes joined the British Prime Minister's trade delegation to India last year, where Theresa May suggested Scotch whisky producers could benefit if the UK strikes an FTD with the Asian nation.

Mr Ireland said Diageo had passed the March tax hike down to consumers, but would also reduce prices if the Government cut the levy.

Asked whether the firm has pushed up prices in response to rising inflation, he added: "We manage our pricing against a number of different factors.

"Some of those are about import costs and a lot of our production in the UK is based on UK-sourced products.

"Our barley is largely sourced in Scotland, our packaging material and labour is sourced in the UK.

"We have a different burden in terms of inflationary pressures and overall we have seen stable prices in the market.

"To remain competitive we try and keep our prices relatively stable, but from time to time we have to look at our businesses and put in price increases outside of excise tax."

The FTSE 100 firm behind Smirnoff vodka and Guinness said in July that operating profit surged 25% to 3.6bn for the year ending in June, while reported net sales climbed 15% to 12.1bn.

A British Treasury spokesman said: "We recognise the importance of the Scotch whisky industry.

"In the UK, tax on a bottle of Scotch is 90p lower now than it would have otherwise been, thanks to duty freezes and cuts introduced in the last three years.

"In addition, both businesses and their customers have saved over 2 billion since 2013 thanks to changes to alcohol duty."
Update 4.30pm:The Citizens' Assembly has voted overwhelmingly in favour of Ireland taking measures to address climate change.

The Assembly has voted to make 13 recommendations for State action on climate change.

The results have been announced at Malahide in Dublin and showed 97% of delegates voting in favour of climate change being at the centre of government policy-making.

80% agreed they would pay higher taxes to reduce carbon emissions, and 96% supported the government taking immediate steps to support a transition to electric cars.

The Stop Climate Chaos coalition described the the outcome as a clarion call for the Government to immediately step up climate action.

Director of Friends of the Earth Oisin Coghlan said: "These common-sense, practical recommendations for climate action will not get us from laggard to leader. But they will allow us to catch up with our European neighbours. If implemented by Government they will end nearly a decade of dithering and delay.

Head of Policy and Advocacy at Trocaire Niamh Garvey said: Climate change is here, it is now, and it is everywhere. Its impacting most profoundly on those who have done least to cause it. For the communities that Trocaire works with, the impacts of climate change are already too much.

The Assembly's 13 recommendations are:

98% of the Assembly's members recommended that to ensure climate change is at the centre of policy-making in Ireland, as a matter of urgency a new or existing independent body should be resourced appropriately, operate in an open and transparent manner, and be given a broad range of new functions and powers in legislation to urgently address climate change;

100% of the members recommended that the State should take a leadership role in addressing climate change through mitigation measures, including, for example, retrofitting public buildings, having low carbon public vehicles, renewable generation on public buildings and through adaptation measures including, for example, increasing the resilience of public land and infrastructure;

80% of the members said they would be willing to pay higher taxes on carbon intensive activities;

96% of the members recommended that the State should undertake a comprehensive assessment of the vulnerability of all critical infrastructure (including energy, transport, built environment, water and communications) with a view to building resilience to ongoing climate change and extreme weather events. The outcome of this assessment should be implemented. Recognising the significant costs that the State would bear in the event of failure of critical infrastructure, spending on infrastructure should be prioritised to take account of this;

99% of the members recommended that the State should enable, through legislation, the selling back into the grid of electricity from micro-generation by private citizens (for example energy from solar panels or wind turbines on peoples homes or land) at a price which is at least equivalent to the wholesale price;

100% of the members recommended that the State should act to ensure the greatest possible levels of community ownership in all future renewable energy projects by encouraging communities to develop their own projects and by requiring that developer-led projects make share offers to communities to encourage greater local involvement and ownership;

97% of the members recommended that the State should end all subsidies for peat extraction and instead spend that money on peat bog restoration and making proper provision for the protection of the rights of the workers impacted with the majority 61% recommending that the State should end all subsidies on a phased basis over 5 years;

93% of the members recommended that the number of bus lanes, cycling lanes and park and ride facilities should be greatly increased in the next five years, and much greater priority should be given to these modes over private car use;

96% of the members recommended that the State should immediately take many steps to support the transition to electric vehicles;

92% of the members recommended that the State should prioritise the expansion of public transport spending over new road infrastructure spending at a ratio of no less than 2-to-1 to facilitate the broader availability and uptake of public transport options with attention to rural areas;

89% of the members recommended that there should be a tax on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture. There should be rewards for the farmer for land management that sequesters carbon. Any resulting revenue should be reinvested to support climate friendly agricultural practices;

93% of the members recommended the State should introduce a standard form of mandatory measurement and reporting of food waste at every level of the food distribution and supply chain, with the objective of reducing food waste in the future;

99 % of the members recommended that the State should review, and revise supports for land use diversification with attention to supports for planting forests and encouraging organic farming.

Update 12.18pm: Oisin Coghan, Director of Friends of the Earth, has urged the Government to adopt proposals on tackling climate change that were discussed in today's meeting of the Citizens Assembly.

"The draft proposals for climate action from the Citizens Assembly would not get us from laggard to leader," he said.

"But they would allow us to aspire to being average. They are mostly about playing catch-up with our European neighbours.

"If adopted and implemented they would end nearly a decade of Government inaction."

Earlier:

The Citizens Assembly is to discuss climate change for a second day today.

Delegates are expected to hear about how Ireland is on course to miss their targets by a wide margin.

Members will take part in a secret ballot later to finalise their recommendations to submit to the Oireachtas.

Kevin O'Farrell, who has spent the weekend as an observer for Cyclist.ie, claimed that the transport sector is lagging behind when it comes to bringing about real change.

"the presentations were a bit disappointing, because they were just reiterating what the Government's doing or not doing, not emphasising investing in sustainable transport and continuing business as usual," he said.

"Increased investment in cycling infrastructure, the recommended level would be about 10% of the transport budget - it's not even close to that at the moment."
LATEST: Catalan ex-president Carles Puigdemont and four other former regional ministers have turned themselves in to police in Brussels, federal prosecutors in Belgium said.

A spokesman for the Brussels' prosecutor's office, Gilles Dejemeppe, said the five presented themselves to federal police and have been in custody since 9am local time.

He said that they have not been arrested and that Mr Puigdemont and the four ex-ministers would be heard by an investigative judge this afternoon.

The judge will have to decide what the next steps are within 24 hours. They could vary from arrest and imprisonment to conditional release.

A European arrest warrant has been issued for Mr Puigdemont and the other four as Spain seeks their return for an investigation related to Catalonia's independence bid.

They had fled to Belgium this week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to impede the region's illegal declaration of independence.

The separatist politicians are wanted in Spain on suspicion of rebellion for pushing through a declaration of independence for Catalonia in violation of Spain's constitution.

Mr Dejemeppe said the judge's options range from "refusal to execute the European arrest, arresting the people involved, releasing them on conditions or under bail".

He said if they were arrested then they would be sent to jail as the extradition process continued.

Mr Dejemeppe said that the entire process from arrest to extradition could take more than 60 days.

That delay could give Mr Puigdemont time to participate, albeit from afar and in largely a symbolic capacity, in the snap regional election called by Spain's government for Catalonia on December 21.

A senior official of Mr Puigdemont's party, the centre-right Democratic Party of Catalonia, said on Sunday that the party wanted Mr Puigdemont to continue as its candidate.

Spanish government spokesman Inigo Mendez de Vigo has said that any politician can stand in the election unless he or she has been convicted of a crime.

Mr Puigdemont and the four ex-ministers fled to Belgium in the past week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to quash the region's illegal secession claim.

A Spanish National Court judge issued warrants for them on suspicion of five crimes, including rebellion, sedition and embezzlement, on Friday, a day after the same judge sent another eight former Catalan cabinet members to jail without bail while her investigation continues.

A ninth spent a night in jail and was freed after posting bail.

Mr Puigdemont wrote in Dutch on his Twitter account on Saturday that he was "prepared to fully co-operate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain".

Earlier:

Catalan ex-president Carles Puigdemont and four other former regional ministers have turned themselves in to police in Brussels, Belgian state broadcaster VRT said.

VRT said that all five have arrived at the Brussels' prosecutor's office.

The prosecutor was due to make a statement about a European arrest warrant issued for Mr Puigdemont and the other four as Spain sought their return for an investigation related to Catalonia's independence bid.

They had fled to Belgium this week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to impede the region's illegal declaration of independence.

Federal prosecutors in Belgium had said on Saturday that they were studying the warrants and that they had shared them with city counterparts in Brussels.
Update 11pm: A man opened fire inside a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing more than 20 people, including children, and wounding at least 20 others.

Authorities said the man walked into the First Baptist Church, a white, wood-framed building, during the morning service and began shooting at the 50-strong congregation.

Authorities have not confirmed the number of fatalities, but a Wilson County commissioner, Albert Gamez, said he was told by emergency officials that more than 20 people were slain and more than 20 others were wounded. Other reports put the number of dead at 27.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt told the Wilson County News that the gunman was then "taken down" after fleeing the scene of the massacre in Sutherland Springs.

The gunman escaped in a vehicle, another official said, and was killed either by a self-inflicted wound or during a confrontation with police who pursued him into a neighbouring county.

Video on KSAT television showed emergency services taking a stretcher from the church to a waiting AirLife helicopter. Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Centre, said KSAT TV station.

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Centre, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds.

A woman who lives about 10 minutes away from Sutherland Springs in Floresville and was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said that everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

Update 8.11pm: A gunman has killed more than 20 people and injured about 30 in a shooting rampage at a Baptist church in Texas.

A two-year-old child is reported to be among the dead.

US President Donald Trump said he was monitoring the situation from his visit to Japan.

Local law enforcement and FBI are at the scene at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs.

First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy told ABC that his 14-year-old daughter is among the dead. She "was one very beautiful, special child," he said.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt said the man walked into the church and opened fire on the congregation. The gunman was later "taken down" and killed, he said.

Emergency services rushed to the church and local media showed helicopters airlifting victims to nearby hospitals.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott called the attack an "evil act".

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

The Republican governor has also promised "more details" from the state's Department of Public Safety shortly.

Earlier: Local media are reporting several people have been shot dead at a church in southern Texas.

Police have told local media outlet Ksat.com that the gunman is now dead. Police said there were "multiple victims", but did not say how many.

A witness says up to about 20 shots were fired at the church in Sutherland Springs, about 40 miles east of San Antonio.

A witness reported seeing a man walk into First Baptist Church and began shooting around 11.30am.
       :   MLA ,        41 
It has been a nightmare few days for medical teams rescuing refugees from the Mediterranean.

Around 600 men, women and children have been rescued, but an unknown number are missing and are feared drowned after an inflatable boat capsized on Wednesday.
Latest News On-time property sale settlements hit new heights Almost 90% finalised on first scheduled date, says PEXA

Regional hotspots record sharp falls in value, new data shows Value declines have become more geographically broad-based over the three months to October

Functionality for financial planning software FinPal will be expanded to include mortgage brokers in a truly consolidated platform across the two sectors.



FinPal was first created by founder and CEO Stephen Handley within his financial planning firm around four years ago to further the scope of existing software.



When I came into the industry, I discovered that their software capabilities were fairly limited in my opinion. One of the key reasons was the lack of a real CRM underneath the actual other functionalities, he said in an interview with Australian Broker.



Twelve months ago, the firm FinPal was born. The software was rolled out to financial advisers in February and has now been expanded due to added interest from brokers.



We had the opportunity to bring in business that was both an adviser and a broker because they wanted better software for the advice side and as soon as they saw the capabilities of the CRM, asked if we could start to add functionality for the mortgage side of the business.



Similarities between data used by brokers and advisers meant it was fairly simple to add extra features for mortgage brokers which will be rolled out in an upcoming release by December, he said.



That will allow our customers that have both disciplines in practice to have all the clients data in one consolidated view, be able to run workflows for both sides of the business through the same systems, and that will allow them to do things like know the overall cost of the client regardless of what sort of service is being delivered.



FinPal is built using customisations within Microsofts Dynamics 365 CRM system which brokers can install and gain instant access to.



Beyond that, we have a set of web apps that we ship that run on the Azure platform. They extend the functionality by extracting data out of the CRM. Weve built other features such as the client portal, Handley said.



FinPal is currently working with brokers to add functions such as workflow and commissions management into the overall system.



Handley said the firm will take a ground up approach to try and introduce the software to more independent brokerages as well as a top down strategy through aggregator groups.



This especially targets aggregators and brokers which have taken out an Australian financial services licence (AFSL), he added.



I think were going to get quite a bit of interest because to my knowledge there are no systems out there that support the two disciplines well in a centralised fashion.



The FinPal system is also scalable, meaning it can be further updated and expanded to offer greater efficiencies to brokers and advisers, he said.
A 24-year-old man is facing a slew of felony charges for illegal straw purchase of 21 guns at gun stores, almost exclusively in Bucks County. Leonard Truesdale was arraigned on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022, on 21 counts each of making false statements on firearm purchase forms, criminal conspiracy to make false statements on firearm purchase forms and selling or transferring...
The government is counting on the average age of 55 years among the non-technical Air India employees as a human resources (HR) blessing, ahead of disinvestment of the state-owned carrier.
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Baba Ramdev has actor Akshay Kumar as competition. In Hindustan Unilevers ongoing campaign for Lever Ayush, the actor in an all-Indian attire looks into the camera exhorting consumers to go beyond the superficial when choosing ayurvedic products. As HUL takes on Patanjali, positioning its Ayush brand as a trusted name for herbal, natural and chemical-free personal care products, it is open season for claims, counter-claims and competitive advertising.
ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company has launched a Rs 750-crore fund to invest in rent earning office properties. We are looking to raise the fund in the next two to three months. The fund will invest in pre-leased, completed office properties, said Rahul Rai, head, real estate investment business at ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company.
is looking at a 10 per cent growth in the number of Indian visitors to the capital city in 2017 as it undertakes various initiatives to hard sell itself as a preferred destination.

had received 3,36,024 visitors from India in 2016, Department of Culture and Tourism said.

"We are expecting 10 per cent growth year on year in the number of visitors from India in 2017," Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism Country Manager India Bejan Dinshaw told PTI.

India currently is the second largest source market for Abu Dhabi, he added.

On the initiatives taken by the department, Dinshaw said: "Over the last four years we have a build up a lot of destination awareness. Earlier people were not aware of the kind of diverse offerings the destination has."



The proximity of Abu Dhabi is also an important factor, he added.

"We also have consumer initiatives such as 'Abu Dhabi Week' that we are having in India. Moreover, we work with trade partners," Dinshaw said.

The average stay of Indian visitors is 2.8 nights per visit, he added.

The department is also planning to target tier II and tier III cities for promoting Abu Dhabi as a destination.

"It is our intention next year to go to tier II and tier III cities as the purchasing power are phenomenal in these cities," Dinshaw said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said the Congress has conceded defeat in Himachal Pradesh as its senior leaders have "run away" from campaigning in the state leaving Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh to his fate.

At a rally in Kangra, the state's largest and politically key district, he launched a stinging attack on the Congress over corruption, likening the party to termites, and exhorted the people to finish it off by handing over a three-fourth majority to the BJP in the November 9 Assembly polls.

The alleged corruption of the Congress and his government's pro-poor development works were the central theme of Modi's two election meetings.

He vowed to continue fighting corruption, claiming that it had angered the opposition party which was observing "black money day" on November 8, the first anniversary of demonetisation decision.

The prime minister said the Congress has run away from the battlefield conceding defeat in the 68-member Assembly.

"Elections are a few days away and senior leaders generally do an intensive campaign in these last few days... It seems Congress leaders have left (Chief Minister) Virbhadra Singh to his fate. It seems they have not only left him to his fate but rather hung him by his fate," he said.

Why such a revenge the Congress is inflicting on him at such an age, Modi said sarcastically. Singh is 83.

Lashing out at the Congress over corruption in the UPA government as also the party dispensation in the state, he said its "sins" speak to the people, who will not trust it on the issue of honesty for 100 more years.

While most states have accepted his request to do away with interviews for Class III and IV posts, the Himachal government has not, he said, accusing it of breeding corruption in the name of interviewing candidates.

Not only senior leaders of the opposition party but even its next generations of leaders have been infected with this disease, he said.

"Their rotten mindset and rotten work culture will set rot in India's democracy," he said, asking the people to punish the party in the polls.

The Congress was now reduced to propping up rebels against the BJP to create instability in the state following polls but the saffron party was getting huge support, he said.

"The Congress will not improve until you punish it severely," he said, claiming that it will not be seen even through a "microscope" following the poll results in Himachal Pradesh as is the case with it in Bihar and UP.

He said the state had progressed most when Prem Kumar Dhumal was its chief minister and Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the prime minister as the central government pumped in money which Dhumal used effectively for development of the hill state.

Modi said he and Dhumal, who is the party's chief ministerial candidate, will take Himachal to new heights of development, adding that its infrastructure and tourism sectors needed a boost.

Seeking votes for a "commoner" like Dhumal, he asked the people to vote out "royals", a reference to Singh.

He cited his government's move to provide cooking gas cylinders to poor households, Mudra scheme to boost entrepreneurship, its decision to cap prices of medicine and medical equipment like heart stents, reducing cost of LED bulbs and other measures to showcase its pro-poor and pro- development credentials.

Himachal had received more rail and road projects from his government at the Centre than it had received in many years before, he said, adding that development is solution to all problems.

Modi is scheduled to address a rally each at Palampur, Kullu and Una tomorrow.

Counting of votes in the Assembly polls would be held on December 18.
More than 10,000 people in rain- battered Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Nagapattinam districts have taken shelter in over 100 relief camps, the Tamil Nadu government said today.

The state has gauged 174 mm of rainfall between October 27 and November 3, a government statement said.

As many as 10,640 residents in low-lying areas have taken shelter in 114 relief centres in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Nagapattinam, the statement said.

The incessant downpour has brought the districts to their knees.

Special rescue and relief teams have been formed and dams and reservoirs are being monitored to prevent anti-social elements from creating problems, the statement said.

Over 7,000 encroachments on 22,538 water bodies have been removed while 12,070 km of riverways were desilted, it added.

The state civil supplies corporation has been asked to stock essential commodities in vulnerable areas.

In Chennai, adequate number of boats and gensets are avaiable for use as per requirements, the release said.

The government has appealed to people not to believe in rumours of any lake or reservoir breach as it was closely monitoring storage levels.

Here's what people of Tamil Nadu had to say about the ongoing rain fury on Twitter:

Taken today morning near Habibullah Road Jn. T.Nagar, traditional hot spot. #Chennai Corporation was clearing it though. As ground starts saturating we will see more water logging in the coming days of #Chennairains2017 pic.twitter.com/aX9M1rEXwU  Chennairains (@ChennaiRains) November 4, 2017



Heavy rain in tiruvallur pic.twitter.com/73OZlGsG5X  pachaikani (@pachaikani4) November 4, 2017





Just crossed the location 15mins back while returning from office. Yes! Policemen preventing entry of vehicles. Even #MTC buses are plying through #Vandalur - Padapai road.  Vijay (@VjEngr) November 4, 2017


has "testified" before the Israeli police in connection with allegations of corruption involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reports in Israeli media said, which were denied as "factually incorrect" by the noted Indian industrialist's office.

Tata "testified to the police for two hours regarding suspicions that he was involved in a case in which the prime minister is alleged to have received gifts valued at hundreds of thousands of shekels," The Times of Israel reported.

The investigation into allegations against Netanyahu related to the expensive gifts has been dubbed as Case 1000, and also involves Israeli businessman and Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan.

According to a Channel 10 report, Milchan allegedly asked Netanyahu to promote a free trade zone near the Jordan-Israel border. The request by Milchan was allegedly made following consultations with Tata. The initiative never came through.

Other than The Times of Israel, the reports were carried by Hebrew language media and web portal Nana.co.il.

When contacted, Israel Police spokesman Mickey Rosenfeld, in his email response to PTI, said that he had "no idea whatsoever".

Meanwhile, a statement emailed to PTI by Tata's office did not deny the meeting between him and the Israeli officials. But it said the reports in Israeli media on the contents of the meeting are "factually incorrect and appear to have been motivated".

"Tata holds Netanyahu in high esteem and considers him to be a respected friend. Allegations such as those made seem baseless and highly motivated," the statement added.

The statement gave a detailed account of the meetings.

It said that a few days before the 'Fuel Choices and Smart Mobility Summit' on October 31 November 1 in Israel, a section of the press reported that in connection with their probe of Milchan, an Israeli investigative team might also wish to speak to Tata while he was in Israel.

It said Tata was advised to cancel his visit but as he had nothing to hide, he attended the conference in Tel Aviv as planned.

"Tata was requested if he would informally meet with members of agencies in connection with an ongoing probe in Israel as they wished to confirm certain facts relating to the investigations they were undertaking," the statement said.

"Tata agreed to meet them and two persons, presumed to be members of the agencies, met him at the David Intercontinental at 1530 hrs on November 1st. No IDs were offered," it added.

The officers asked questions on how Tata had met Milchan and their business relations, if any.

Tata stated how they met and clarified that they had no business relationship other than a client relationship with a security advisory company for the Taj Group of Hotels subsequent to the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai where Tatas were later informed that Milchan had an interest, it said.

Tata was asked to recount events around a proposal in 2009 to build a low volume automotive assembly plant in Israel.

"Tata clarified that he was requested by a member of the Israeli security team to assist in preparing a concept plan for a project that was to be part of a peace initiative, to be built on the banks of the Jordan river with a free trade corridor to Haifa to offset higher logistics costs in Israel. It was intended to provide skilled jobs to Palestinians," the statement said.

A concept layout plan for the plant was drawn up but was never costed. The peace initiative was never put in place and the project died a natural death, it said.

It said that the team member queried Tata on a figure he read out from a sheet of paper he had, stating that Milchan was spearheading the project and that it was estimated to be $250 million.

"Tata immediately responded that he had never discussed this project with Milchan and the project cost had never been computed by Tatas. He stated that he had no knowledge as to how that figure was established.

"The number also seemed inordinately high for an assembly plant. They asked whether Netanyahu had been involved. Tata stated that there had been one meeting of about 10-15 minutes where Netanyahu was present at which he had suggested one or two preferred sites for the plant," the statement added.

It said Tata also "clarifies that at no time did he express or support a view that Netanyahu was involved directly and indirectly or derive any personal benefit from this project."



Netanyahu is facing two separate criminal investigations, known as Case 1000 and Case 2000.

Case 1000 revolves around alleged illicit gifts received by Netanyahu and his family from billionaire benefactors.

Case 2000 focuses on an alleged clandestine quid pro quo deal made between Netanyahu and Israel's largest circulated daily Yedioth Ahronoth's publisher and owner Arnon Mozes.
Amazon, Microsoft and Apple to seek clarity on Google tax after ITAT ruling



Online firms are planning to meet finance ministry officials this week to seek clarity on the applicability of general anti-avoidance rules (GAAR) in cases where the websites use patents based out of an offshore jurisdiction. The move comes after the recent Bengaluru Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) judgment against Google India, asking it to pay up taxes on Rs 1,457 crore of income that the Indian arm had transferred to its Ireland unit pertaining to Googles AdWords service, used by advertisers to display ads. (More details)



Air India gets busy with VRS before disinvestment



The government is counting on the average age of 55 years among the non-technical Air India employees as a human resources (HR) blessing, ahead of disinvestment of the state-owned carrier. With a large number of employees left with only three years for superannuation, the government is negotiating a generous voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) as part of the sale process. The retirement age at Air India is 58 years. Air India and its five subsidiaries together have around 22,000 employees. (Full report)



Shell companies deposited, withdrew Rs 17,000 crore after demonetisation





As the government nears completion of a year after demonetisation, the data shows suspected shell companies deposited and withdrew Rs 17,000 crore in the days after the note ban.
"FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017", Conference on Human Physiology - VII Congress of Federation of Indian Physiological Societies (FIPS) along with XXIX Annual Conference of the Physiological Society of India (PSI) organised by Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIPAS) of DRDO was inaugurated at Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute (VPCI), University of Delhi today. The objective of the conference is to update the scientific community about most recent advances in human Physiology in extreme environments, Neuroscience, Yoga, Sport Physiology and translational research. .

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Speaking on the occasion, Chairman DRDO and Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development Dr S Christopher emphasised on the importance of quality research and its application for tangible products and solutions to major problems. He highlighted the importance of Yoga and other approaches to improve human capabilities in difficult environmental conditions and terrains. In this context he urged the entire scientific community to utilise the facilities like highest altitude research station created by DRDO at Changla (17,660 ft), Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir. .

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Director DIPAS and Convener of the conference Dr. Bhuvnesh Kumar in his welcome address deliberated the importance of the theme Integrating Physiological and Biomedical Science Approaches to Improve Performance, Health and Safety" and various topics of the conference in orations, key note addresses, plenary sessions, 16 sessions, 118 lectures and 140 posters by the 300 delegates from India, USA, UK, Kyrgyz Republic and Malaysia. .

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President of PSI Prof. Amar K. Chandra in his presidential address highlighted the necessity of the formation of the Federation of Indian Physiological Societies by combining PSI, SAPI, APPI, ISCAP and its role to facilitate the scientific interaction between physiologists of this country with their international counterparts. .

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Distinguished Scientist & DG Life Sciences, DRDO, President, FIPS Dr. Shashi Bala Singh in her address focused on optimisation of physical performance with interdisciplinary approaches. She also cited the unique mechanism of human body system by emphasising on different important aspects like sophisticated neural processing and energy requirements of human brain. She highlighted the collaborative approaches not only within the physiological sciences but also in a broader spectrum involving physical sciences and engineering. .

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MJPS/NA/ NM/DK
President of India addresses concluding ceremony of World Food India-2017; says summit showcased vast, near limitless opportunities in Indian food industry

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, addressed the concluding ceremony of World Food India-2017, organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Govt. of India, today (November 5, 2017) in New Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated the organisers for the resounding and truly historic success of the World Food India-2017. He stated that this Summit saw the participation of delegates from over 60 countries, including CEOs of 60 global companies. It has helped showcase the vast and near limitless opportunities in the food industry and in food processing in India. It has been the Kumbh Mela of Indian food.

The President said that food is culture  but food is also commerce. Indias food consumption is currently valued at US $370 billion. It is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2025, in less than a decade. There are opportunities across the entire food value chain in India  including post-harvest facilities, logistics, cold chains, and manufacturing. It is a sector with a large business appetite. The food industry can be a huge employer.

And this is of utmost importance for a country such as India, which has such a large youth population. It is also noteworthy that women are deeply involved in the food sector. Especially in our rural areas, there is great potential for women to emerge as micro-entrepreneurs by setting up small food processing units.
President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind terms World Food India the Kumbh Mela of Indian Food" President Distributes Start Up & Hackathon Awards at the Valedictory Session of WFI 2017

Smt Badal says WFI 2017 Is Only a Beginning - 50 MOUs worth $11.25b Signed by MoFPI; States also sign MOUs worth $2.5b

Food Processing Industries have to be the bridge between farmers and consumers: Smt Badal

World Food India 2017 achieved a resounding success with delegates from over 60 countries and Global CEOs congregating in New Delhi for the three day Conference cum exhibition. The President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind graced the event at its Valedictory session and congratulated the Union Minister of Food processing Industries Smt Harsimrat kaur Badal, ably supported by MoS Sadhavi Niranjan Jyoti for putting together the mega event.

Addressing the gathering, President Shri Kovind said World Food India 2017 has helped showcase the vast and near limitless opportunities in the food industry and in food processing in India. The President termed WFI the Kumbh Mela of Indian food. He noted that the diversity of Indian cuisine literally renders one human lifetime not enough to experience the range and richness of Indian food! The President however pointed out that Food is not just culture, it is also commerce. He said Indias food consumption is currently valued at US $370 billion. It is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2025, in less than a decade. There are opportunities across the entire food value chain in India  including post-harvest facilities, logistics, cold chains, and manufacturing. It is a sector with a large business appetite and the food industry can be a huge employer.

The President cautioned that the regrettable wastage has to be curtailed. A focused emphasis on modern food processing can change things. It gives the food sector the potential to become the intersection of so many of our flagship programmes  Make in India, Start-up India, Skill India, Digital India, and the resolve to double farm incomes Shri Kovind added.

The President noted that the food story in India has world-wide implications. On a global scale, the market for Indian food products is massive. It extends from 1.8 billion people in South Asia to a 30 million strong diaspora population, and to millions more in all parts of the world he elaborated.

On the occasion, the President gave away Start-up Awards and Hackathon Awards to college students who helped suggest ways of detecting food adulteration. Shri Kovind said There is an increasing stress on food safety, accurate labelling, intellectual property issues and innovation in the food processing sector  as well as on using technology as an enabler.

Recapitulating the action packed three day Mega Food event, the host Union Minister Smt Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that inspired by the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, her Ministry sees World Food India 2017 as a beginnimg and not end of an event. She said at the World Food India 2017 not only has a Guinness book record been established for cooking 918kg of ubiquitous comfort, wellness food  the nutritious Khichadi; business worth $11.25b with 50 MoUs has been transacted during the three days.

Smt Badal said MoFPIs resolve is only strengthened to help India be established as the World Food Factory. Smt Badal said that during WFI, States including Punjab and Haryana also have negotiated MOUs worth $2.5b. Ministry of Food Processing Industries will forge ahead to work expeditiously on implementing these MOUs. A special cell has been setup in Invest India to follow up on these negotiations and the Knowledge Partners would help achieve the goals she informed. Smt Badal said her Ministry is guided by the principles of - ensure steps to reduce wastage, produce more and process more. Farm to Fork is their mantra and Food Processing Industries have to be the bridge between Farmers and Consumers. The Minister informed that while States of Maharashtra and Telangana have announced their Food Processing Policy, the MoFPI would soon finalize the National Food Processing Policy.

SBS/AK
Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman visited the forward Army posts in Arunachal Pradesh and Air Force base in Eastern Assam today. The visit to the forward army and Air Force bases followed her visits to Bomdilla and Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh yesterday, where she attended the inauguration ceremony of the Buddha Mahotsav 2017 and called on the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh at Raj Bhawan in Itanagar. In todays visit to the forward army post of Kibithu in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh, which is in continuation with her visits to forward areas along the Line of Actual Control, she was accompanied by Lt Gen Abhay Krishna, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command and other senior officers of the Indian Army. .

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The minister was briefed on the situation and defence preparedness along the Line of Actual Control. She also interacted with the troops and appreciated their dedication to the service and efforts in such a remote and inhospitable terrain. As part of this visit the Raksha Mantri also visited the important Eastern air base of Chabua, where she was received by Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar VM, Senior Air Staff Officer HQ Eastern Air Command, and Air Commodore George Thomas VM, AOC, Air Force Station Chabua. During the visit she took stock of the operational preparedness and infrastructure development of the base. The strategic base presented a static display of the combat assets available at the station to the Defence minister, which included the Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter aircraft and modern Missiles. She also interacted with Air Force personnel serving in this eastern most region of our nation and had lunch with the air warriors. She complimented the air warriors for their professional approach and commitment in the service of the nation. She appreciated the operational readiness, ongoing infrastructure development and the high morale of the Air Force personnel at the base. .

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With the arrest of Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, the prominent billionaire investor, Saudi Arabia has touched one of the richest and most influential investors in the world.
A teacher helped second graders at Church Lane as they worked on their HP devices, which can convert from laptops into tablets. The district has committed more than $200 million for the laptops | Matt Roth for The New York Times
A Sikh mayoral candidate in the US has been labelled a terrorist in slanderous flyers left on car windshields only days before the election, according to a media report.

The flyers targeting Ravinder Bhalla, the first Sikh to hold elected office in New Jersey, were placed on car windshields on Friday night, New York Daily News reported.

They have a photo of New Jersey Councilman Bhalla. In red letters above him, the flyers read: "Don't let terrorism take over our Town!", it added.

The report alleged that the leaflets appear to be a modified version of mailers sent out by another Hoboken mayoral candidate, Mike DeFusco. The original flyers accused Bhalla of having a potential conflict of interest.

Officials in New Jersey are condemning flyers that paint the Sikh politician running for the mayor of Hoboken as a terrorist.

DeFusco condemned the altered flyers in a statement yesterday.

"Today I spoke out not only against the racist, disgusting flyers targeting Ravi Bhalla that appeared last night and was made to look like it came from my campaign, but also against the rest of the hate that has been shamefully displayed throughout this race," DeFusco said.

DeFusco said he has also been the victim of hateful rhetoric accusing him of being a part of a "crime family" and attacking his sexuality, the report said.

He would be Hoboken's first gay mayor, if elected.

Bhalla addressed the terrorism flyers yesterday, calling them "troubling" in a statement.

"We won't let hate win in Hoboken," he said.

"I want to use this incident as an opportunity to affirm to each other and our children the value of living in a diverse community where we are judged by the content of our character - not by the colour of our skin or how we worship," Bhalla said in the statement.

Senator Cory Booker posted a photo of the flyers to his Twitter account. He called it "vile" and "hateful" and said, "We all must condemn bigotry & hate!"



Six candidates are vying to replace outgoing Mayor Dawn Zimmer in the election on Tuesday.

The flyers appeared days after racist campaign mailers attacking two Asian school board candidates in Edison evoked the campaign slogan of President Donald Trump and claimed Chinese and Indian residents are "taking over" the town.
Under a new legislation to be debated in the UK's House of Lords later this week, children under the age of 13 will be banned from joining Facebook and Twitter to keep them safe from child abuse on the platforms.

According to a report in The Telegraph, the government's Data Protection Bill will legally enshrine the age at which children will be allowed to create accounts on platforms.

The proposal, however, might not get support from cross-party peers who are insisting that the measure must be accompanied by new rules forcing companies to adapt their sites for younger users.

The move comes as Home Secretary Amber Rudd is to meet executives from the Internet giants in the US this week.

Writing in a national daily The Sun on Sunday, Rudd said giants must do more to stop child sexual exploitation, adding that the companies have a "moral duty" to go "further and faster" in their efforts to tackle the abuse.

"Online technology had made 'vile child sexual abuse content vastly easier to find'. It is an absolute urgency that I call on all Internet companies to go further and go faster in tackling online child sexual abuse.

"We need you all to bring your resources and your technical expertise to help us turn the tide on this horrendous scourge. It is your moral duty," she added.

During her trip to Washington, Rudd will attend a roundtable discussion which will be joined by tech companies, including Google, Facebook and Microsoft.

As per a BBC report, new government figures show there was a 700 per cent increase in the number of indecent images identified on technology company servers and flagged to law enforcement agencies between 2013 and 2017.

Each month there are more than 400 arrests for indecent images of children offences in Britain and some 500 children are being protected from online sexual exploitation, BBC cited the government data as saying.
Furthering the Centre's commitment towards providing world class transport and logistics infrastructure to support the growth of economic activity, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari stated that 44 Economic Corridors and 24 Multi Modal Logistics Parks have been planned under the Government's flagship 'Bharatmala' programme to facilitate efficient movement of freight along routes of economic importance.

Addressing a session on 'Opportunity in Infrastructure, Logistics Technology and Equipment' in the World Food India 2017 conference here on Saturday, Gadkari claimed that the implementation of these projects is expected to bolster growth of the food processing industry.

"The Multi Modal Logistics Parks are being planned as centers of freight aggregation with warehousing, cold storage and other such facilities. These parks will be built on NH outside cities, so they will help reduce traffic congestion and also reduce pollution. Work has already begun for setting up Logistics Parks at Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Vijaywada, Surat and Guwahati. The Economic Corridors and Multi Modal Logistics Parks will facilitate faster movement of farm produce to food processing centres and to markets. This will raise the income of farmers, give a boost to the food processing industry and create a large number of jobs," said Gadkari.

"The rate of construction of Highways has gathered considerable momentum. The country had just 96,000 km of NH three years back, but this has grown to nearly 1.7 lakh km, and will soon reach a length of 2 lakh km. This will provide more farmers in remote areas with access to markets for their produce," he added.

On the waterways front, Gadkari stated that 14 Coastal Economic Zones have been planned under the Sagarmala programme, with two mega food processing parks planned at Kakinada and Satara at a cost of Rs 140 Crores. This, he said, will support fishermen to develop their skills and raise their productivity.

In addition to this, Gadkari said 111 waterways are being developed as Waterways, which will reduce logistics costs, thus benefiting the food processing industry. The development of River Ganga and Brahmaputra for transport will also make it easier to move local produce to Bangladesh, he said.

"The efficiency of the 12 major ports has been growing rapidly, and they have been making profits consistenty over the last three years. Dry ports are being developed at Jalna, Vidarbha and Nasik to begin with. The availability of ports will give a boost to movement of goods," he said.

In addition to developing the road and water transport infrastructure, Gadkari said the government is also giving priority to developing micro or drip irrigation in the water deficient regions of the country. 13 river linking projects are also on the anvil, of which three will be done within three months. All these projects, Gadkari said, will improve the availability and utilisation of water and raise agricultural productivity.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Government employees working on contract basis in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) staged a protest in Muzaffarabad demanding clearance of their monthly emoluments.

It has been several months that these employees have not received their salaries.

Blaming Islamabad for its discriminatory policies against them, the protestors, who are working in health, education and other government sectors in PoK, have been demanding regular jobs.

"One of our colleagues who had not received salary for the past 8 months died because of illness. In July 2017, the government assured us to provide regular salaries as it was passed in the assembly. But, we have not received our salaries," said Syda Sarvar Abbasi, a woman protester.

"In Pakistan's all four provinces the workers are getting regular salaries, but here, we have not received our pay for the past 8 months," she added.

Shamim Bibi, another woman protester said, "Whenever we come to protest, they give us 3-4 months' salary. We don't want salaries. We demand regular jobs. We have been doing all sort of work. In July 2017, the Supreme Court of Pakistan declared that our jobs should be made regular and the Government will give our salaries. Now, we will go to Supreme Court of Pakistan, which will decide our fate".

Another protestor questioned why were they being punished and for what reason.

Blaming the politicians, the protester said, "They (politicians) have increased their salaries manifold whereas our salaries are very less".

Tall promises have been made by the Pakistani establishment to bring development in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, but, corrupt administrative system has made it one of the most backward regions under its rule.

Pakistan occupied Kashmir, has a Prime Minister and a President, but is ruled from Islamabad.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan is the chairman and chief executive of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council that manages all affairs related to PoK.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium arrived in New Delhi on Sunday for a seven-day visit.

This is King Philippe's maiden visit to the country following his ascension to the throne in 2013.

The royals will begin their India trip with a visit to Agra on Monday.

They have been accompanied by six ministers and a high-powered business delegation, comprising CEOs of 86 Belgian companies, 13 chiefs of academic institutions and 29 members from media.

"The visit would further strengthen the historical strong ties between the two countries. Belgium was also among the first European countries to establish a diplomatic mission in India after Independence," a press release by Ministry of External Affairs stated.

India is Belgium's second largest export destination and third largest trade partner outside European Union.

In 2016-17, bilateral trade between the two nations amounted to $13.28 billion of which exports from India to Belgium accounted for $5.65 billion, while imports from Belgium accounted for $6.62 billion.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Increase in the carbon emissions and the soot from various vehicles that pass through Khunjerab Pass in the Karakoram Mountain range will lead to melting glaciers in Pakistan, experts have warned.

Khunjerab Pass on the Karakoram Highway, which joins China and Pakistan by road, is already witnessing an increase in receding glaciers in the region due to rising temperatures linked to climate change.

The region has become a tourist attraction after a major upgrade of the Karakoram highway as part of multibillion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project to boost transport and trade links between the two countries.

Expert says that increase in heavy tourism and exhaust-spewing traffic threatens the fragile Khunjerab National Park, which surrounds the high-mountain border post, and particularly its glaciers.

The author of National Climate Change Policy, Qamaruz Zaman Chaudhry, said the upgradation of Karakoram highway due to the CPEC will bring in much-needed infrastructure, but the carbon emissions and the soot going into the atmosphere will definitely accelerate melting of glaciers.

He said Pakistan need to develop a strategy in this regard after conducting comprehensive studies on the impacts of such projects in the region.

There are more glaciers in Pakistan than anywhere on Earth outside the Polar Regions, according to various studies, feeding rivers that account for about 75 percent of the stored-water supply in the country of at least 180 million.

According to researchers, Pakistan's glaciers are receding, especially those at lower elevations, including in the Hindu Kush Mountain range in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Researchers say that beside diminished snowfall, higher temperatures, heavier summer rainstorms and rampant deforestation, black carbon soot released from diesel vehicle exhaust, factories, open fires and cook-stoves are also the reasons for the rise in glaciers retreat.

The wind-blown pollutants settle onto glaciers, darkening them and reducing their ability to reflect away sunlight, which leads to a faster rate of melting, Ghulam Rasul, Director General of the Meteorological Department was quoted by Dawn, as saying.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tamil Nadu police on Sunday arrested a cartoonist in connection with a caricature that allegedly depicted Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami in a distasteful manner.

The cartoonist, identified as Bala, was arrested after a defamatory case was registered against him.

Bala had allegedly portrayed the chief minister, the state's collector and police commissioner wearing nothing and covering their private parts with money, while a baby burns in front of them.

The caricature was published after a recent incident where a couple and two of their children self-immolated at collectorate, alleging police inaction on usury complaint.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Catalan ex-president Carles Puigdemont and four other former ministers surrendered before police, according to Belgium's state broadcaster.

Puigdemont and the former-ministers had fled to Belgium after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of a crackdown to obstruct region's illegal declaration of independence.

Earlier on Saturday, Puigdemont took to twitter and wrote in Dutch that he is "prepared to fully cooperate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain."

A Spanish National Court judge on Friday had issued warrants for the five politicians on suspicion of five crimes, including rebellion, rebellion and embezzlement.

This came a day after the same judge sent eight former Catalan Cabinet members to jail without bail.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A complaint was filed against Maharashtra Water Resource Minister Girish Mahajan on Sunday for his statement that products demands soar high if they are named after women.

The complaint against the minister has been filed by a social activist.

Mahajan while delivering an address during an event organised by a sugar factory, had said, "If you want alcohol or any product's demand to rise, name it after a woman and see how the demand soars."

The minister has come under fire for his statement.

Earlier, reacting to his statement, Nationalist Congress Party leader Nawab Malik had urged women to come out on streets to fight against such mindset.

"I think the minister is a habitual drinker and we appeal all the women in Maharashtra to come out and fight this kind of a mindset," Malik said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Congress on Sunday expressed suspicion over the arrest of Abdul Rashid Ajmeri, alleged prime conspirator of the terrorist attack on Gandhinagar Akshardham temple in 2002, ahead of the Gujarat Assembly elections.

Congress leader Tom Vadakkan told ANI, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat when this incident happened and he was not able to trace this culprit then."

"Now 15 years later, just before the Gujarat elections, he as the Prime Minister has been able to get hold of this culprit. Moreover, the culprit is arrested after the visit of the Prime Minister to the temple. There are too many coincidences," Vadakkan mooted.

He added that Vijay Rupani as Gujarat's Chief Minister has failed in all fronts of governance but it took Prime Minister Modi's prodding to capture the chief architect of the crime.

"It also happened very close to Gujarat's elections, which is suspicious. But yes, I am happy that the terrorist has been arrested," Vadakkan said.

Earlier on Friday, Ajmeri, was arrested at the Ahmedabad airport after his arrival from Riyadh.

It was alleged that he had planned the terror attack and helped Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in executing it.

Ajmeri, an Ahmedabad resident, had absconded to Riyadh before the terror act was committed.

Two terrorists, allegedly with links to Pakistan-based LeT, had attacked the temple in Gandhinagar on September 24, 2002, killing 32 and injuring over 80 people.

The attackers were killed by the Security Guard (NSG) commandos.

The Supreme Court had, in May 2014, acquitted all six convicts arrested earlier, including three facing death sentences, in the case. (ANI)

The two-phase polling in the state is scheduled on December 9 and 14.

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Defence experts on Sunday hailed Army Chief General Bipin Rawat's preposition of according late Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa's with country's highest civilian award.

Speaking to ANI, Defence expert P.K. Sehgal said, "I'm in absolute and total agreement with Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, today the Indian Army is one of the most respected and regarded forces around the world. The professionalism that was taught to the Indian Army by Field Marshal Cariappa is something to be seen and believed. Qualities like, good character, integrity, sensitivity and compassion that the Army hails over was ingrained by Cariappa. It is high time that this nation bestows appropriate recognition to its tallest military leader".

Resonating similar views another defence expert Capt. (Retd.) Anil Gaur said, "If Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has asked there is nothing wrong in it, because he was the first Chief in the Indian Army and has led the Army very well with full honour and pride. From restructuring to fighting the intruders, Field Marshal Cariappa has done everything for the country," he said.

Yesterday, General Rawat said, it is time to recommend late Field Marshal Cariappa, who was the first Indian commander-in-chief (C-in-C) of the Indian Army, for Bharat Ratna.

"It's time to recommend Field Marshal K M. Cariappa for the Bharat Ratna," asserted General Bipin Rawat, who was here to unveil the statues of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, and Padma Bhushan and Distinguished Service Order (DSO) awardee General Kodendera Subayya Thimayya, at Cauvery College in Karnataka's Kodagu District.

"If others can get it (Bharat Ratna), I see no reason why he (Field Marshal KM Cariappa) shouldn't be a deserving personality for the same," he added.

Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, Order of the British Empire (OBE), was the first Indian commander-in-chief (C-in-C) of the Indian Army. He led Indian forces on the Western Front during the 1947 Indo-Pakistani War. He is one of the two Indian Army officers to hold the five-star rank of field marshal and was appointed commander-in-chief of the Indian Army in 1949.

Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa is survived by son Air Marshal K C Cariappa, who was a Squadron Leader during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War.

Air Marshal K C Cariappa was shot, while carrying out air attacks during the 1965 war, with Pakistan and was taken prisoner.

He died on 15 May 1993, at the age of 94.

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Haryana minister on Sunday launched a veiled attack at the Congress party and the Patidar leaders for uniting against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for upcoming Gujarat assembly elections.

Expressing confident about winning the Gujarat polls, the minister said the alliance being formed by the opposition parties and other groups in Gujarat cannot defeat the BJP.

"Even if 100 dogs join hands, they cannot challenge a lion. BJP will win the Gujarat polls," Vij tweeted.

"The 'Modi wave' continues in the country and the saffron party will form government again in that state," he added.

The Congress is counting on the Patidar votes to sway the election results of Gujarat polls in their favour and uproot the BJP, which has been in power since 1995 in the state.

Earlier, Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) convenor Hardik Patel had also met Congress leaders and hinted that they would join hands with the Congress if their reservation demand would be fulfilled.

The polls will be conducted in Gujarat in two phases. The polling for the first phase will be held on December 9 and for the second phase on December 14.

The counting of the votes will be held on December 18.

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Former Lebanese President Michel Suleiman has said that he "salutes" Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri for his decision to step down.

On Saturday, Hariri resigned during a trip to Saudi Arabia fearing for his life.

In a televised address from Riyadh, Hariri said that the atmosphere in the country was similar to the one that existed before his father, former prime minister Rafik Hariri, was assassinated in 2005.

Suleiman said, "The repercussions of Hariri's resignation will be positive," reported the Saudi-owned pan-Arab television channel al-Arabiya al-Hadath.

Referring to Hezbollah's role in Lebanon, he stressed that "no state can build another state inside Lebanon" and "there cannot be two armies."

Lebanon is sharply divided along a camp loyal to Saudi Arabia, headed by the Sunni Muslim Hariri, and a camp loyal to Iran represented by Hezbollah.

The former president urged the need "to withdraw Hezbollah from Syria, and to develop a defensive strategy."

He stressed that "the settlements must not come at the expense of the sovereignty of Lebanon.

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A German was beaten up by a group of people at the Robertsganj Railway Station in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday.

The police arrested one railway staff in this connection.

Robertsganj police reached the site of incident on the complaint of the Station Master and arrested railway staff Aman Yadav.

The accused, who says he is a Railway engineer, has alleged that the German first blew a fist at his mouth when the former greeted him, which led to a fight.

"I am innocent. The German punched me when I said 'welcome to India' to him. He even abused me and spat on me," Yadav said.

According to Robertsganj Police, the accused began to question the German tourist about his whereabouts, but the tourist refused when he smelled alcohol in his breath.

The arrested accused has been handed over to the Government Railway Police (GRP), as the area of incident comes under its jurisdiction.

As per the Police, the German tourist, Holger Eric is a resident of Berlin who had come to visit Agori Fort when the incident took place.
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Sunday said the country couldn't develop because of the poor policies of the Congress party.

Speaking to ANI, the Chief Minister further blamed the Congress for unemployment, corruption and poverty in the country.

Rupani's statement comes after Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi accused the Gujarat government of failing to provide employment to the youth, saying that nearly 30 lakh youth were unemployed in the state.

Rejecting Rahuls's claim, the Chief Minister said, "They are talking about unemployment. As the state Chief Minister, I can say that Gujarat is increasingly generating employment. They are just making baseless point that around 30 lakh people are unemployed in Gujarat. From where have they got this number? I want to ask them the authentic and exact figure."

Holding the Congress responsible for unemployment and poverty, Rupani said, "All these years, country couldn't progress because of Congress' wrong policies. What Congress has done during their tenure?"

Reacting to Rahul's statement demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resignation over increasing prices of gas cylinders and ration, the Chief Minister reminded the Congress vice-president of scams and scandals that took place under the UPA regime.

"Most of the scandals and scams took place during Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's tenure. If Rahul would have asked Manmohan ji to vacate the throne then people would have trusted him. The UPA government used to work on their command. He didn't say anything at that time so he has no right to speak against Prime Minister Modi," he said.

He further said that public has rejected and dethroned the Congress Party in all the elections which took place in the country in the last three years.

Rahul, had earlier in his tweet, asked the prime minister to vacate his position over increasing LPG gas cylinder and ration price.

The Chief Minister also said that he was ready to debate on state's employment and said, "I want to discuss as to how much employment opportunities has been generated in Gujarat as compared to Punjab, Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh. Gujarat is increasingly generating employment. As per last year figures, 83 per cent employment generation of country took place in Gujarat."

The political parties are indulging in blame game and mudslinging ahead of crucial Assembly elections in the state, which are slated to held in two phase on December 9 on December 14.

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The Islamic State (ISIS) has claimed the responsibility for the suicide car bombing in Yemen's southern Aden city on Sunday that killed seven soldiers, Anadolu news agency reported.

A bomber rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into the gate of the main security headquarters in Aden, Anadolu news agency quoted a security source, as saying.

According to the report, gunmen attacked the building of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) after the bombing.

Security forces were continuing to battle armed militants who had taken hostages in a police department at the time of filing the report.

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A man has been arrested for assaulting and injuring U.S. Senator Rand Paul at his Kentucky home.

The state Police confirmed that they arrested 59-year-old Rene Boucher of Bowling Green, Kentucky, who "intentionally assaulted" Paul, CNN reported.

In a statement, Paul's office said, "Senator Paul was blindsided and the victim of an assault. The assailant was arrested and it is now a matter for the police. Senator Paul is fine."

As of Saturday afternoon (local time), he was being held in the Warren County Regional Jail on a $5,000 bond.

Boucher was charged with one count of fourth-degree assault.

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Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan has scored himself trouble over a derogatory remark against women, saying if products and alcohol brands are named after fairer sex, one could see the demands soaring high.

"If you want alcohol or any product's demand to rise, name it after a woman and see how the demand soars," Mahajan said in a speech, while attending an event by a sugar factory, which also produces liquor under the brand name 'Maharaja'.

The minister has drawn flak from all quarters for his derogatory remarks.

"The way the minister had made the remark makes me believe that he had consumed four bottles of maharaja (liquor) in the night," Nationalist Congress Party leader Nawab Malik told ANI.

He added that women should come out on streets to fight this mindset.

"I think the minister is a habitual drinker and we appeal all the women in Maharashtra to come out and fight this kind of a mindset," Malik said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Sunday address three election rallies at Una, Palampur and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh.

As per reports, the star campaigner of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Prime Minister Modi, will address 'Parivartan' rallies in these regions.

The Assembly elections in the state is slated on November 9, campaigning of which will end on November 7.

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh will address rallies in various constituencies of Hamirpur and Kangra districts.

This will be PM Modi's third visit to Himachal in the past four days.

On the other hand, Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to address party rallies in Ponta Sahib, Chamba and Nagrota tomorrow.
President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a two-day visit to Chhattisgarh on Sunday.

He will be participating in the valedictory function of the 18th statehood day celebrations this evening at Naya Raipur, the new state capital of Chhattisgarh.

The president will also be paying homage to martyrs at Mana Shahid Smarak.

As per reports, during the Rajyotsav function, President Kovind will present state level awards to 18 personalities and five organisations for their outstanding contribution in their respective fields.

He will also visit the stalls set up by various departments depicting the development initiatives taken up by them.

Ahead of the valedictory function, an Indian Air Force team comprising of four helicopters will perform an impressive and colourful air show at Naya Raipur.

On the second day of his visit, the President will pay a visit to Girodhpuri, the birth place of Guru Ghasidas.

He will be the first President of India to visit Girodhpuri.

The President will also lay foundation stone for the new community building to be built in the region.

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Eleven princes including prominent billionaire investor Prince Alwaleed bin Talal and dozens of current and former ministers were arrested in Saudi Arabia on Saturday a night after the formation of an anti-corruption committee by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.

The creation of a powerful new anti-corruption committee, headed by the crown prince, came only hours before the committee ordered the arrests.

According to Al-Arabiya, the committee has announced fresh investigations into the 2009 Jeddah floods and the outbreak of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus, which emerged in Saudi Arabia in 2012.

The committee has been given the authority to investigate arrest, ban from travel, disclose and freeze accounts and portfolios, track funds and assets of individuals involved in corruption, said the state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Saudi Arabia's Economy and Planning Minister Adel bin Mohammed Faqih, National Guard Minister Prince Miteb bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and Naval Forces Commander Admiral Abdullah bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Sultan, were removed from their position.

The three ousted ministers were replaced, with Prince Khalid bin Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Ayyaf Al Muqren becoming National Guard minister, Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri becoming the Economy and Planning Minister, and Vice Admiral Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Ghifaili taking on the role of Naval Forces Commander, CNN reported.

According to the New York Times, Prince Alwaleed's arrest is expected to send shock waves both through the Kingdom and the world's major financial centers as he controls the investment firm Kingdom Holding and is one of the world's richest men, with major stakes in News Corp, Citigroup, Twitter and many other well-known companies.

The prince also controls satellite television networks watched across the Arab .

The arrests are being viewed as the latest move to consolidate the power of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the favourite son and top adviser of King Salman.

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The Sri Lankan Navy apprehended eight fishermen of Indian origin and seized one boat belonging to them near Jaffna on Sunday.

The Indian fishermen were apprehended for allegedly poaching in the Sri Lankan territorial waters, northeast of Vettalakerni.

The arrested fishermen were brought to the naval base SLNS Uttara in Kankesanthurai and subsequently, handed over to the Assistant Fisheries Director of Jaffna for legal action.

The seized trawler and fishing gear were retained at SLNS Elara in Karainagar.

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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday offered condolences to the family of an Indian-origin boy, who was shot dead in Kenya by the country's security forces on Saturday.

Bunty Shah, a Kenyan of Indian-origin, was mistaken for a terrorist and shot dead by the security forces, who were conducting anti-terror operations in Nairobi, the country's capital.

Swaraj took to Twitter to assure help and assistance to the bereaved family from Indian High Commission in Nairobi.

The security forces were looking for terrorists on the building across Shah's residence. Bunty thought this as an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air. The forces retaliated the fire, killing Bunty on the spot.

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Pumping young blood into the elderly may help ward off the symptoms of dementia, according to a recent study.

Stanford University School of Medicine investigators have reported success in an early-phase clinical trial examining the safety, tolerability and feasibility of administering infusions of blood plasma from young donors to participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. There were also some signs suggesting improvements in participants' conditions.

Principal investigator Sharon Sha noted that the finding of safety wasn't surprising, given that blood-plasma infusions have long been in widespread use for other indications and are considered extremely safe.

More surprising, she said, were hints of recipients' improvement on tests of functional ability: the capacity to perform basic tasks essential to independent daily life, such as remembering to take medications and being able to pay bills and prepare one's own meals.

Sha cautioned that these assessments were based on caregiver reports and that the number of participants in the study -- 18 -- was small. Further studies on larger numbers of participants would be necessary before conclusions about efficacy could be reached, Sha said.

The trial took place at Stanford Hospital and proceeded in two stages. In the first stage, nine participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease were given four weekly infusions either of plasma -- the liquid, cell-free part of blood -- obtained from donors 18-30 years old, or of placebo (a saline solution). Neither the participants nor those administering the infusions knew which of the two infusions any given participant was getting. Then, after a six-week "washout" period, the regimens were reversed: Those initially receiving plasma got four weekly infusions of placebo, and vice versa.

The participants and their carers completed tests and questionnaires to assess their mood and mental and physical abilities before and after the treatment.

The study found no significant changes in participants' mood or their ability to remember lists or recent events.

Only one reported any side-effects - and that was excessive itching, a common complaint among people who have received donor blood.

Sha revealed that she was surprised by the findings because the trial was only intended to demonstrate safety and not effectiveness.

The findings were presented at the annual Clinical Trial on Alzheimer's Disease conference in Boston, United States.

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The government has struck-off around 2.24 lakh companies till date for remaining inactive for a period of two years or more, including those which were involved in suspicious financial transactions in days following demonetisation, it was announced on Sunday.

Following the action of striking-off of defaulting companies, restrictions have also been imposed on the operation of their bank accounts, said a statement from the Corporate Affairs Ministry.

It added that a preliminary inquiry on the basis of information received from 56 banks revealed that 35,000 companies involving 58,000 accounts saw suspicious transactions with over Rs 17,000 crore being deposited and withdrawn from those accounts post- .

"In one case, a company which had a negative opening balance on November 8, deposited and withdrew Rs 2,484 crore post-demonetisation," the statement said.

"Apart from the restrictions on bank accounts, action has also been taken to restrict sale and transfer of movable and immovable properties of struck-off companies until they are restored. The state governments have been advised to take necessary action in this regard by disallowing registration of such transactions," it added.

The Corporate Affairs Ministry said that the information with respect to such companies had been shared with enforcement authorities, including the Central Board of Direct Taxes, Financial Intelligence Unit, Department of Financial Services and Reserve Bank of India for further necessary action.

Companies have also been identified for inquiry, inspection and investigation under the Companies Act, 2013 and necessary action is underway, it added.

"Separately, action has also been taken to disqualify directors on the board of companies that have failed to file financial statements or annual returns for a continuous period of three financial years during 2013-14 to 2015-16," the statement said.

"Around 3.09 lakh directors have been affected by this action. A preliminary inquiry has shown that over 3,000 disqualified directors are directors in more than 20 companies each, which is beyond the limit prescribed by the law.

"With a view to checking the problem of dummy directors, action is underway to seed Director Identification Number with Permanent Account Number and Aadhaar," it added.

The Prime Minister's Office has constituted a Special Task Force under the joint chairmanship of the Revenue Secretary and Corporate Affairs Secretary to oversee the drive against defaulting companies with the help of various enforcement agencies.

The Special Task Force has so far met five times and action has been initiated against several defaulting companies, "which is expected to help in the drive against black money", the statement said.
The Libyan Navy has rescued 200 illegal immigrants off western Libyan shores, said an official.

"A patrol of the Libyan Navy rescued 200 illegal immigrants on a rubber boat that crashed into the Libyan territorial waters," Xinhua news agency quoted Mahmoud Shabrak, documentation officer of the Libyan Navy, as saying.

The rescued migrants include women who are of African nationalities, Shabrak added.

The immigrants, who have been rescued by the Libyan Navy, are detained in receptions centres with poor living conditions.

Libya is a preferred point of departure for illegal immigrants, who want to cross the Mediterranean towards European shores, due to the insecurity and chaos in the country since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011.

--IANS

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At three people, including a police officer, were killed in a shootout at a traffic checkpoint in Russia's North Caucasus region of Ingushetia on Sunday, a media report said.

Citing a national anti-terrorism committee statement, Interfax news agency said two assailants attacked the traffic checkpoint at around 5:30 p.m. Moscow time (1430 GMT) and they were killed in an exchange of fire, Xinhua news agency reported.

No civilians were hurt during the armed clash.

The North Caucasus region is a hotbed of insurgency with separatists and extremists frequently attacking the governmental, military and police facilities as well as civilians.

--IANS

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Sir William Mark Tully -- arguably more Indian than most Indians -- had "a very British childhood". The acclaimed broadcaster and writer, now in his 80s, once wanted to become a priest and even pursued a degree in theology. "But the turn of events" was such that he found his way back to India. Journalism wasn't his choice, he says, but destiny willed otherwise. And India, which he was not initially allowed to identify with, is now home .

Tully was born in India in 1935, one of six children; his father was a successful businessman who worked in what was then Calcutta.

"My mother's side had lived in India for long; in fact, they were living here even before the first war of independence in 1857. My great great grandfather was an opium agent in eastern UP, my great grandfather was a trader and my grandfather dealt in the jute business. My father had never been to India and knew no one on this side, but my mother was born in what is now Bangladesh. I was born in Calcutta. We had a very British life," Tully recalled in an interview with IANS.

"We were not allowed to identify with India at all; we were sort of discouraged from becoming a part of this culture. Our European nanny stopped us from learning Hindi or other languages and insisted that we spoke only in English."

It was customary for British children to be sent home for education during those days, but while Tully was growing up, the Second World War was wreaking havoc in the Western world. Mark was sent to Darjeeling for his preliminary education.

"Those were wonderful days. I loved the place and it was very close to nature. I wasn't under much of adult supervision and I had a very liberal headmaster. We went around the bazaars and roamed freely," he recalled.

And then his father got a job in Manchester and off went Tully along with him, spending his childhood in boarding schools of Britain. India was left far behind, out of sight and out of mind. There was no question of returning.

"I went to Cambridge then and because I wanted to become a priest, I pursued a degree in theology and history. I really wanted to become a priest but that did not work out. The Archbishop thought I was not priest material and I respected the Church enough, as I still do, to not let it down," he added.

For the next four years, Tully worked for an NGO and then, in 1964, he joined the BBC, not as a journalist but as "personnel manager of middle seniority". The very next year, in 1965, all of a sudden, came an opportunity to work as a junior administrative assistant in New Delhi.

He returned to the country of his birth of which he had fond memories. "It was destiny. I was meant to return to India and it happened." In the following months, he recalled, he was promoted to news correspondent, reporting for the BBC World Service on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal.

"BBC was the most trusted source of news at that time. Many people did not trust the government-owned broadcasters and I travelled the length and breadth of the country. I loved it and found out, to my surprise, that journalism too was my destiny," he said.

During the Emergency of 1975, Tully -- along with 40 foreign correspondents, including those of The Guardian and The Washington Post -- was thrown out of the country and he found his way back to London. When the emergency ended, he was back -- as the Chief of Bureau.

He has lived in India ever since and has written some fascinating books like "No Full Stops In India" and "India In Slow Motion".

His latest -- "Upcountry Tales: Once Upon A Time In The Heart Of India" (Speaking Tiger/Rs 599/ 285 Pages) -- is a supremely engaging collection of short stories, marked by warmth, wit and a keen and compassionate eye for the everyday human theatre in rural north India. Tully uses his vast experience and draws interesting characters and stories -- each more charming than the next.

The Indian government honoured him in 1992 with the Padma Shri and in 2005 with the Padma Bhushan, the fourth and third highest civilian awards. He was knighted by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace in 2002 for services to broadcasting.

(Saket Suman can be contacted at saket.s@ians.in)

--IANS

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Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Sunday turned down a renewed offer from New Zealand to resettle some refugees from a Papua New Guinea (PNG) detention centre, the media reported.

About 600 men are refusing to leave a de-commissioned Australian centre on Manus Island saying they fear attacks from locals, reports the BBC.

Turnbull said he would not, at this time, take up the offer from his New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern.

The two leaders held talks here earlier on Sunday.

Ardern had said she could not ignore "the human face" of what Australia was dealing with.

Under a policy, Australia refuses to take in any asylum seekers trying to reach its territories unofficially by boat. Those who arrive are placed in camps on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea (PNG), and on the Pacific island of Nauru.

New Zealand first said it would take 150 of the asylum seekers in 2013, but the offer has been repeatedly rejected by Australia, the BBC reported.

Australia withdrew from the Manus Island centre on Tuesday, following a PNG court ruling that the centre was unconstitutional.

The men - most of whom have refugee status - have now lost access to running water, electricity and working toilets, and their food supplies are dwindling.

They have begun digging into the ground to find water and set up catchments to collect rain water.

--IANS

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BJP Delhi unit chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday said his party will observe November 8 as Anti-Black Money Day through a public campaign across the city.

"Party workers will go to the people as part of the campaign against black money and tell them that the biggest sufferers of the menace are the poor who lose out on educational and health opportunities," Tiwari said after a meeting with party leaders here.

He said Bharatiya Janata Party workers will stand in prominent markets, traffic junctions and hold billboards against black money.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8 last year announced scrapping of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes to curb black money and corruption.

--IANS

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In commemoration of the UK-India Year of Culture 2017, Britain will be the focus country for the 23rd edition of the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF), India's second oldest film festival, which will also pay homage to icons of Indian cinema Tom Alter, Om Puri and Ramananda Sengupta.

The festival beginning here on November 10 will screen an assemblage of 143 films spanning 53 countries under 16 different categories till November 17.

"As many as 13 films from Britain will be shown during the festival while six films of acclaimed English filmmaker Michael Winterbottom will be screened as part of retrospective," Yadab Mandal, KIFF Director, said here on Sunday.

Stars Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan will be present at the inaugural ceremony on November 10. Tamil film icon Kamal Haasan and filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt are also slated to attend the ceremony, to be presided over by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Iranian film maker Mostafa Taghizadeh's "Yellow" (2017) will kick-off the gala event while prolific French-Swiss filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard's "The Rise and Fall of a Small Film Company" will be screened in cinematic format at the fest. The 1986 film, made for television was restored and released in October this year.

According to organisers, this would be the first screening of the film in India.

Three films will be showcased in memory of cinematographer Sengupta ("Headmaster") and actors Tom Alter ("Shatranj Ke Khiladi") and Om Puri ("Sadgati").

As for the competitive section, the women's director's competition has been replaced by 'Innovation in Moving Images' with a prize money of Rs 51 lakh for the best film and Rs 21 lakh for the best director.

"The women directors' exclusive section was done away with following feedback from the female filmmakers who felt a separate section would create distinctions and they felt it doesn't matter who is male, who is female.. the fact that they make good films, matters most," said Mandal.

Indian languages competition section has been introduced this year in which 10 films in nine languages will fight it out for the Hiralal Sen Memorial Award. Also, there's a prize money of Rs 700,000 for Best Film and Rs 500,000 for Best Director.

"As many as eight films in as many languages (Monpa, Konkani, Kodava, Boro, Dogri, Maithili, Khasi and Chakma) will be featured in the 'Unheard India: Rare Indian Languages' section," Mandal said.

Apart from Winterbottom, in the retrospective category, six films of Pen-Ek Ratanaruang, one of Thailand's most celebrated working directors will be screened.

In a toast to cinematic technique, an exposition of original equipment used by the Lumiere brothers, auteur Satyajit Ray and Ritwik Ghatak has been planned.

The Satyajit Ray Memorial Lecture will be given by Rachel Dwyer, professor of Indian Cultures and Cinema at SOAS, University of London.

A total of 93 foreign language films be screened through the festival and 50 from India.

--IANS

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Days after Islamabad summoned the British High Commissioner to lodge a protest over the display of anti-Pakistan slogans on London cabs, transport authorities in the British capital have ordered the immediate removal of offensive advertisements.

According to Radio Pakistan, the transport company confirmed initiating an inquiry into the matter while assuring disciplinary action against perpetrators of the malicious campaign.

The development came after Pakistani social media users spotted the cabs in London.

On Friday, the Foreign Office issued a statement saying: "Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua called in British High Commissioner Thomas Drew to convey Pakistan's serious concern over the controversial slogans."

It added: "The High Commissioner is informed that Pakistan, in line with the UN Charter, rejects actions and advertisements with malicious content that impinge on our sovereignty and territorial integrity."

In September, Islamabad had summoned the Swiss ambassador over the public display of anti-Pakistan posters by a group in Switzerland.

--IANS

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BJP leader Prakash Bajaj, the narrator of the Chhattisgarh sex tape who was "missing" for the past nine days, surfaced on Sunday and spoke to the police and . He, however, sounded evasive.

It was Bajaj on whose complaint senior journalist Vinod Verma was arrested from Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh. Bajaj, a Raipur resident, filed a complaint alleging Verma was trying to extort money from him.

Bajaj is considered to be a close aide of Chhattisgarh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Dharam Lal Kaushik. His sudden disappearance had sparked off several rumours and speculation.

Surfacing after nine days, he provided evasive answers to the questions put by police which confused the case further.

Based on his statement, it seems Bajaj was not clear if the caller was talking about a particular person.

"I don't know of which 'boss' the blackmailer was talking. He just said your 'boss' would be defamed," Bajaj said. "I have said everything to police. Now, I will speak in court," he added.

He told police that he received a call 10-12 days ago. "The caller said he has a sex CD of my 'boss'," he said.

The caller told Bajaj to come to Delhi along with the money if he wants to 'save' his boss and disconnected the phone call. "I dismissed it as a joke," he told police.

"I received a call again on October 26 and the caller once again asked me to reach Delhi and meet him to save my 'boss'. The second call got me worried and I lodged a complaint with the police," he said.

The BJP leader said he came to know about the journalist's arrest on October 27. "My cell phone was ringing non-stop. When I answered the call, I came to know a journalist has been arrested in Delhi."

"Initially, I could not understand anything," said Bajaj. He said when he spoke to his party members, he realised on the basis of his complaint, Vinod Verma was arrested.

"I started getting so many phone calls... it made me jittery. My family members also started panicking. I switched off my cell phone and went to a relative's place," Bajaj told police.

"When I lodged the complaint, I had no idea the matter would escalate so much. I realised the issue has become quite big when the CD was seized in Delhi," he said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
China will hold the fourth World Internet Conference (WIC) next month in the river town of Wuzhen, east China's Zhejiang Province, a media report said.

The conference, scheduled to run from December 3 to 5, has invited leading figures from governments, international organisations, companies, technology communities and non-governmental organisations, to discuss Internet-related topics including digital economy, cutting-edge technology, cyberspace governance, Xinhua news agency quoted the statement released on the WIC website on Sunday as saying.

Latest internet technologies will be presented to the world at this year's WIC jointly sponsored by the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Zhejiang provincial government.

The WIC will push for the building of a community of shared future in the cyberspace, advocate respect of differences and forging of consensus, focus on development and innovation so that a prosperous Internet will produce greater welfare for the human being, the statement said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Finland's flag carrier Finnair has begun a new programme where it weighs passengers before take-off to help the airline collect more accurate data about weights on its flights, the company announced on Sunday.

Paivyt Tallqvist, director for media relations at Finnair, confirmed that the airline started weighing passengers at Helsinki airport, reports CNN.

"So many people actually wanted to take part in this," she said, noting that the weigh-ins are voluntary and anonymous.

"No one is forced on the scale."

About 180 people volunteered so far, which was more than expected.

The airline launched the programme, which will run intermittently into 2018, to get a more accurate picture of the average weights of the men, women and children that fly with the airline.

Their carry-on baggage is also being taken into consideration and passengers must carry it onto the scale with them.

Tallqvist said that it was a common industry practice to calibrate a plane based on average passenger weights provided by the European Aviation Safety Agency, which was based on research from 2009, CNN reported.

But Finnair said it wanted more up-to-date, relevant data to help plan its flights.

"The weight of the aircraft impacts on so many things," including fuel levels and the speed and balance of the aircraft, said Tallqvist.

"We just want to verify that the data we are using is as accurate as possible."

Finnair is hoping to get a total of about 2,000 weigh-ins from men, women and children. It will conduct the study over the winter and spring, since carry-on baggage and coats tend to be heavier in the winter versus the spring.

Tallqvist said the airline last conducted a similar study of passenger weights in the 1980s.

--IANS

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From playing a sari-clad lady in her debut film "Parineeta" to essaying mother to megastar Amitabh Bachchan in "Paa" -- National Award-winning actress Vidya Balan has taken on myriad roles all in just 12 years of her Bollywood career. Now geared to be seen as a full-of-life housewife in "Tumhari Sulu", she says she is unapologetic about her age and happy that she never tried to "act" like a teenager on screen.

"I came into the film industry as a woman at the age of 26. Now I am a happy 38-year-old lady. I have been married for five years. I am not apologetic about my age and I know there will always be some work for me in whichever age I am. I have never tried to act like a teenager, but you know what, it was never a conscious decision," Vidya told IANS in an interview here.

Hasn't she missed out on playing the roles a quintessential Bollywood heroine is known for?

"The role of a teenager and dancing around the trees never excites me... They never did. What excites me is now I can experiment with roles and characters being in my age. Perhaps that also makes writer like Suresh Triveni to write a character like Sulu and approach me for the film," Vidya said.

But isn't choosing certain kinds of films limiting her talent? Or is that giving her more room for experimentation?

"I am experimenting in my way. In a year, I have three films and each character is different from one another. Last November, I had a 'Kahaani 2', in March this year I had 'Begum Jaan' and now 'Tumhari Sulu' is coming. So yes, I am doing enough experimentation as a performer."

The story of "Tumari Sulu" -- releasing on November 17 -- revolves around a middle-aged ordinary housewife Sulochona aka Sulu who is a happy-go-lucky person with an extraordinary calibre.

There are characteristics of Sulu that Vidya likes.

"I love how easily she can laugh, how enthusiastic she is. Though she is a homemaker, she is always looking for something more from life. She has a list of hobbies and she always wants to try every opportunity that is coming her way. In fact, that is how she lands up in a radio station and gets a job as a radio jockey."

What are Vidya's own hobbies?

"No, I do not have many hobbies. When I am not shooting, I am at home. I love cleaning my house... I have OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder). I also enjoy reading books, watching films. Though it has been quite some time since I have read a book, because since the last two years, I was so busy shooting these three films, I did not get time.

"Otherwise, I chill at home. I love spending time with family, going out for a long drive... I love all that," added the actress, who is married to producer Siddharth Roy Kapur.

Born and brought up in a middle-class South Indian family in Mumbai, Vidya has grown up with traditional values and a very progressive mindset.

"You know, I am the first Palakkad Iyer girl to join Hindi films as an actress... As a community, we are very traditionalist. Our focus is always on studies, classical dance and music. Acting is never taken as a profession there. But I am blessed to be born in a family where my parents gave me and my sister, wings to fly.

"Of course, we sisters are born and brought up in Mumbai, but our upbringing is very different. We are emotionally safe and secure. My parents told me to do everything to the best of our ability without thinking too much about the result. We are taught that the result is not in our hands, but efforts are, so always put your best effort," she added.

--IANS

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Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini left Australia's Fremantle on Sunday morning for its onwards journey to New Zealand's Lyttleton, a defence statement said.

INSV Tarini had arrived at Fremantle on October 23, after completion of first leg of its maiden voyage to circumnavigate the globe.

This historic circumnavigation attempt by an all-women crew is being led by Lt Commander Vartika Joshi, and the crew comprises Lt Commanders Pratibha Jamwal and P. Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta.

The crew of INSV Tarini was officially welcomed to Western Australia by its Tourism, Defence Issues and Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia and Women's Interests Minister Simone McGurk on November 1. Western Australia Ministers were accompanied by two Indian-origin members of WA Parliament.

Royal Australian Navy chief, Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, also visited the vessel on November 1 to welcome the crew.

He also handed over a personal message from Australian Minister for Defence Marise Payne for the crew.

The crew had several engagements during its stay in Fremantle, including call-on meetings with Western Australia Governor Kerry Sanderson and Freemantle Deputy Mayor Ingrid Waltham. WA Legislative Council President Kate Doust also hosted the crew at WA Parliament for an interaction with female MPs from all major parties.

The INSV Tarini crew had an opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders during the welcome reception hosted by the Indian Consulate on October 28, which was attended by about 100 distinguished guests, including members of WA Parliament, state officials, businessmen, academicians, consular corps, leaders from Indian community and media persons.

The crew of INSV Tarini also had an opportunity to interact with strategic thinkers and academia during a presentation and reception event hosted by Perth US-Asia Centre, a leading think tank focusing on geopolitical issues based in the University of Western Australia, on October 31. More than 200 students attended a presentation and interaction session with the crew at Perth Modern School on the same day.

The crew also visited the scientific facilities at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre at University of Western Australia. They also had a chance to meet renowned Australian scientist & Australian of the Year 2017 Professor Alan Mackay-Sim, who is famous for his work on stem cell research. The crew also had a trip to few tourist places in Perth and Fremantle, including Rottnest Island.

--IANS

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The three-day mega food fair ended on Sunday with investment commitment of worth $19 billion including $11.25 billion from private sector in 50 MoUs signed while many participants said it would help bringing focus on India's food processing sector.

During the World Food India conference, delegates from across the states and over 60 countries held meetings over opportunities and expansion of food processing sector, which many of them called productive, an official statement said.

Food Processing Industries Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal said the investment included commitment worth $11.25 billion by the private sector, $2.5 billion by states and initiatives undertaken by the Central government, it said.

She said the conference witnessed participation of 10,000 participants and over 8,000 business to business (B2B) and business to government (B2G) meetings were held.

Many states had their stalls at the conference, where they showcased their products, schemes and projects they have undertaken in order to attract investment.

The Andhra Pradesh government, which had also participated in the exhibition, said the conference would help the state in building strong infrastructure for food processing industries.

Y.S. Prasad, CEO of the state Industry Departments' Food Processing Society, said the government had planned 12 food parks in addition to the Central government's plan of 42 such parks across the country.

"We have signed a MoU with Japan during the conference. Also, Sri Lanka has shown interest in investing in our state," Prasad told IANS.

International government agencies and companies that were also attended the conference said it helped them showcase their products, services and plans in better way.

Kuldeep Bera of Assam Dairy Cooperative Society said the conference was going to help them convincing farmers benefits of food processing.

A Japanese official said the country wanted to promote healthy Japanese processed food as well as raw food products in India.

"We have got good response from as many visitors had shown interest in what we have presented," said the official.

An official from Council of Danish Industry said companies had showcased their expertise in building infrastructure for food processing sector including cold chain.

--IANS

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Iran has said that the resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is aimed at creating tension in Lebanon and the region, Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.

"Hariri's sudden resignation and the announcement of his resignation in another country is regretful and at the same time surprising," Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said in a statement.

"It shows Hariri is playing in a field prepared by those who wish ill for the region, and the winner of this game is both Arab countries and the Zionist regime (of Israel) whose survival is contingent upon tension in regional Muslim countries," Qasemi was quoted as saying.

At a time when the life of the Islamic State and other groups in the region is coming to an end, efforts should be made to calm the situation and to fix the damage by terrorists trained and sponsored by the US and its regional allies, he said.

On Saturday, Hariri announced his resignation claiming that it stemmed from a "rejection of Iran's political over-extension in the region."

"I declare my resignation from the premiership of the Lebanese government, with certainty that the will of the Lebanese is strong," Hariri said in an unexpected move in a televised statement he read from the Saudi capital Riyadh.

His "country would be able to overcome political influence exerted by internal and external forces," he said, adding that the "Islamic Republic (of Iran) has a desire to destroy the Arab world and has boasted of its control over the decisions of Arab capitals."

"Iran's hand would be cut off," Hariri said, adding that "Lebanon would not play a role in destabilizing the region."

He also implicated the Lebanese Hezbollah Shiite group in what he views as Iran's race to regional domination.

The Iranian spokesman rejected Hariri's comments against Iran, saying that "the resigned Lebanese premier's repetition of unfounded accusations levelled against Iran by Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United States bears witness to the fact that this resignation, too, is a new scenario to create new tension in Lebanon and in the region."

He maintained that "but we believe that strong Lebanese people will easily pass through this phase too."

Iran has always wanted to see peace and stability in the Middle East countries and has defined its interests based on the security, stability and economic growth of all neighbouring and regional countries, Qasemi stressed.

"Accordingly, top of Iran's regional policies is to fight insecurity and instability as well as extremist and terrorist groups to ensure tranquillity for all countries," he added.

--IANS

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Terming Prime Minister Narendra Modi "sapnon ka saudagar" (merchant of dreams), the Congress on Sunday said that Modi has not fulfilled any promises he made to the people of Himachal Pradesh during his 2014 Lok Sabha campaign.

"In 2014, Mr. Narendra Modi came as merchant of dreams and made several attractive promises. Today the people of 'Dev Bhoomi' Himachal want to know what happened to those promises," Congress Spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said here.

"On April 29, 2014, at a rally in Solan, Modiji had promised to steeply hike import duty on apples to protect the local apple orchards. But now more than three lakh tonne of apples are being imported from US, China and New Zealand. Can he explain it?" he said.

Surjewala said that in another rally on the same day at Palampur, Modi had promised to make the hill state a "paradise of tourism" but the Centre has not given any funds nor any new project to develop tourism in the state.

"In another rally at Mandi on April 29, 2014, Modiji said his government would build Himalyan rail network from Chandigarh to Ladakh. After 41 months, the Railway Ministry says they have no such plans. Why such falsehood?"

Taking another dig at the Narendra Modi government, Surjewala said on April 27 this year, the Prime Minister had announced that an air ticket from Delhi to Shimla under the 'Udaan' scheme would cost just Rs 2,036, but this scheme was never implemented on the ground.

"Modiji had said that now even persons who wear 'hawai chappals' (those not quite well-off) can now fly in 'hawai jahaaz' (aeroplane). But after six months of this announcement, the reality is that mostly there is no flight between Delhi and Shimla or if there is one, the fare is over Rs 15,000," he said.

He said that the Bharatiya Janata Party's "anti-people" face has been exposed and the public of Himachal Pradesh would give it a "befitting reply for its lies, deception and drama".

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hit out at the previous Congress-led government for abusing subsidy of Rs 57,000 crore meant for the poor.

"People used to loot the treasury in the name of subsidies. In the past, 57,000 crore used to get leaked due to rampant corruption in implementing subsidies," Modi said in an election rally here ahead of the state's November 9 assembly polls.

"Now our policy has stopped the leak. The leaders in Congress cannot bear this, so they are attacking me."

Taking potshots at former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's statement that Re 1 ends up as 15 paise when it reaches villages, Modi said: "Rajiv was such a doctor who diagnosed the problem of corruption but did not do anything about it.

"He has made sure that the whole of 100 paise now goes to the pockets of the poor."

Playing the development card by driving through promotion of tourism in the hill state, the Prime Minister said his government was focusing on laying road networks in the state.

"I have never seen such enthusiasm for the BJP that I am witnessing this time in Himachal Pradesh. It's a one-sided contest."

Donning a Himachali cap, Modi, on his third and last round of election tour of the state, said: "In the last 20 years, there has not been a single election where I have not been involved. But this is an unprecedented election. I know where the wind is blowing.

"A storm is raging here against the corrupt Congress."

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly in here on Monday morning to participate in the diamond jubilee celebrations of Daily Thanthi newspaper, said state BJP chief Tamilisai Soundararajan.

Modi is expected to arrive here at around 10 a.m. and would return back to New Delhi the same day.

Security has been beefed up in connection with Modi's visit. Union Minister of State for Finance and Shipping Pon Radhakrishnan and others on Sunday inspected the arrangements at the airport, she said.

--IANS

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The Odisha government on Sunday said compensation will be provided to the farmers whose crops have been affected by the pest attack, terming it as a natural calamity.

The state government's move came after farmers in various places across the state burnt their standing paddy crops following the pest attack.

Besides, several farmers have allegedly committed suicide as the pesticides failed to contain the pest menace in their paddy fields.

Reviewing the situation through a video conference with district collectors at the state secretariat here, Development Commissioner R. Balakrishnan stressed on various measures to tackle the situation.

He said collectors have been advised to intensify different awareness drives and other grassroot level workers will be mobilized for this exercise.

"The government is with the farmers. There is no need to panic," said the Development Commissioner.

The state government has already ordered the disbursal of assistance for Rabi crops and at present there is no need for the farmers to panic, he added.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will hold a cabinet meeting on Monday to discuss the farmers' issues and pest attack.

According to a report of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), crops in nearly 1,78,932 hectares of agricultural land have been affected by pests in nine districts of Odisha.

Standing crops in 8,211 villages in 92 blocks and 19 urban local bodies have been affected by the pest attack in Bargarh, Nuapada, Bhadrak, Bolangir, Kalahandi, Sonepur, Sambalpur, Koraput and Ganjam districts, the report said.

There has been 33 to 50 per cent crop loss in nearly 1,12,000 hectares of land while 20 blocks in Ganjam district have been the worst affected.

Besides, 14 blocks in Bolangir and Koraput, 12 in Kalahandi and 11 in Bargarh have also been affected by pests this year.

--IANS

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The central government's newly-appointed interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma will begin a six-day visit to the Kashmir Valley from Monday to open talks with "all stakeholders" and understand the "pain and suffering" of a common Kashmiri.

This will be Sharma's first trip to the valley after he was appointed the government's Kashmir pointsman on October 23 to begin "sustained dialogue process... (and) understand legitimate aspirations of the people, especially youth" in the troubled state.

"I am going there without any preconceived notions. Everyone is welcome to meet me. I don't want any new effort (to bring peace in Jammu and Kashmir) to be seen from the prism of the past," Sharma told IANS here.

He said he would return to Delhi on November 11, hoping that his efforts will result in "peace and prosperity" in Jammu and Kashmir.

"I am hopeful I will be able to contribute towards peace and prosperity in Kashmir," he said.

Asked whom did he plan to meet during his visit, Sharma said: "I want to understand the pain and suffering of Kashmiris. I know it is not a problem that can be solved overnight or in just one visit. It is a step one towards bringing peace in the state.

"I am open to talking to everybody. Anybody who believes in peace and wants to come and give me some ideas how to go about, I am willing to listen."

Sharma is expected to meet political leaders, traders and students. However, separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yaseen Malik have declined to have parleys with the interlocutor.

He said it was their choice whether they want to meet him or not. "I can only suggest everyone to contribute to peace building in the state. People have suffered a lot there."

Sharma is an old Kashmir hand who served as Assistant Director Intelligence Bureau in the state from 1992-94 - the time when militancy was at its peak in Jammu and Kashmir.

He headed the IB for two years from December 2015 to December 2016. It was also the time when widespread violent street protests erupted in the Kashmir Valley following the death of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.

--IANS

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The Philippines authorities on Sunday deployed close to 60,000 police officers and soldiers to coordinate the security at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit, which will be held here from November 10 to 14.

In addition to the leaders of the 10 Asean member countries, the Presidents of the US and China, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping respectively, as well as leaders of the European Union, Russia, Japan and Australia, are also expected to attend the summit, reports Efe news.

The Philippine police force has also banned firearms in Manila, Calabarzon and Central Luzon on account of the summit.

The Rohingya crisis in Myanmar, North Korea's nuclear ambitions, terrorism and the territorial disputes in South China Sea will be some of the matters discussed during the summit.

The economy will also feature prominently in the meetings of the group, which is made up of 620 million inhabitants and a combined GDP of around $2.55 trillion.

Asean was founded in 1967 and is composed of Myanmar, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

--IANS

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Saudi Arabia-led coalition warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on military targets in the Yemeni capital Sanaa overnight and early Sunday, just a few hours after Yemen's Houthi rebels fired a ballistic missile towards Saudi capital Riyadh and hit its main airport.

The warplanes hit several military targets inside Sanaa, including the platform of al-Sabeen square, the nearby presidential palace, the national security headquarters, the interior ministry and the air defence bases in the capital's mountains of Attan and Noqom, according to residents and the Houthi-run Saba news agency.

Saba reported over 15 airstrikes on the targets inside Sanaa and an approximate number of airstrikes on military targets on the outskirts of Sanaa and around it.

These targets have been hit by the coalition fighter jets hundreds of times since the beginning of the war two and a half years ago.

Houses and other properties nearby the targeted places in Sanaa were slightly damaged. There were no reported casualties from the airstrikes.

The coalition warplanes kept flying over the Yemeni capital for long hours following the rebels' ballistic missile that hit the north end of King Khalid international airport north of Riyadh.

The Shiite Houthi rebels backed by rocketry forces loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh fired the long-range ballistic missile towards Riyadh at around 8 p.m on Saturday.

Residents of Riyadh reported hearing a loud bang near King Khalid international airport.

The Saudi government said the missile exploded north of the airport but caused no casualties, according to the Saudi local Al Arabiya satellite TV, adding that air traffic was not disturbed.

Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam said in his Twitter account that the missile was in retaliation for the Saudi air attack last Wednesday on a hotel and popular marketplace in the Yemeni northern province of Saada, killing 29 civilians and injuring two dozen. However, the coalition said the hotel and marketplace were military targets because there were gatherings of Houthi fighters there.

The Houthi rebels' Saturday missile attack was the latest in a series of ballistic missile attacks by the Houthis from Yemen towards Saudi cities since Saudi Arabia intervened in the Yemen war more than two years ago.

The Houthi rebels last week fired another ballistic missile towards a Saudi military base in the Saudi border province of Najran and authorities said the missile hit a residential complex in the Beir Salaries area.

Saudi Arabia led a military coalition of 10 countries and intervened in Yemen's civil war in March 2015 to back the internationally recognised government of exiled President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi against the Iranian-allied Shiite Houthis who stormed the capital Sanaa and controlled much of the country's north.

The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemenis, mostly civilians, and displaced more than 3 million others, according to UN agencies.

--IANS

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Dozens of people were killed when a car bomb ripped through a group of refugees in eastern Syria, a monitor group reported.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said several explosions rocked the area between the Conoco gas field and the Jafra energy plants in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour, Xinhua news agency reported.

It added that many people have fled toward the desert region following the explosions on Saturday carried out by the Islamic State.

The areas on the eastern bank of Euphrates River are largely controlled by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, who are advancing in that area against the IS.

--IANS

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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday condoled the death of Indian-origin Kenyan national Bunty Shah, who was killed in police firing in October in Nairobi, and assured of all help to Shahs family.

Replying to a tweet by Netra Parikh who asked Sushma Swaraj to help the bereaved family, the Minister said: "I have received a report from the Indian High Commission in Nairobi. Deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin."

"The Kenyan security forces were conducting anti-terror operations in a building across Shah's residence. Bunty thought this was an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air," she wrote on Twitter.

"The security forces returned fire, resulting in Bunty's death. The Kenyan Police have regretted the incident. The Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family," Sushma Swaraj added.

The incident occurred at 3 a.m. on October 22 in Nairobi when Bunty Shah, 32, woke up after hearing some commotion and fired two shots in the air from his first floor bedroom window.

One of the police officers reportedly returned fire and hit Shah in the chest, resulting in his death. Shah is survived by his wife and a six-month-old infant.

The local administration had promised a thorough probe into the circumstances leading to Shah's death, who had a licensed weapon.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he expected to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during his Asia tour.

"I think it's expected we'll meet with Putin, yeah. We want Putin's help on North Korea, and we'll be meeting with a lot of different leaders," Trump told reporters on Air Force One before landing at the Yokota Air Base in Japan, Efe reported.

Putin is scheduled to participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Da Nang, Vietnam, which Trump will also attend as part of his long Asia tour.

The North Korean nuclear threat is expected to dominate Trump's meetings in Japan and the next two stages of his tour, South Korea and China, where he will have a highly anticipated sit-down with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The remainder of the tour will be more focused on economic issues, with Trump scheduled to take part in the APEC meeting in Da Nang and then in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit and the East Asia Summit in the Philippines.

Trump's first trip to Asia is the longest international tour by a US head of state since the one then-President George H.W. Bush embarked on in 1992.

Bush became ill at the end of that trip, famously vomiting on the Japanese prime minister's lap at a formal dinner before fainting.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
With its assets of forests, rivers and minerals, Chhattisgarh has immense potential for development, President Ram Nath Kovind said here on Sunday.

In his address at the Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava, he said that the development of Chhattisgarh can be an example of development for the rest of the country.

The President congratulated people of Chhattisgarh on the 17th anniversary of the formation of the state and said that the state's biggest assets are its honest and friendly people.

Kovind said that Chhattisgarh has done many things in the field of public welfare and development that have been praised throughout the country, and from which other states have learnt a lot.

Chhattisgarh is the first state in the country to enact 'Food and Nutrition Security Act', he said.

The President said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Raman Singh, commendable work has been done for Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, the underprivileged, farmers, women, youth and other sections of society.

Earlier in the day, the President paid tributes at the Shahidi Smarak Sthal here.

He is scheduled to visit the Guru Ghasidas Jaitkham and attend the bhoomi pujan for a Saamudayik Bhavan at Girodhpuri on Monday.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Armed with just water bottles and sticks, a group of poor tribal women in Muturkham village of Purbi Singhbhum district of Jharkhand trekked miles to the sal forest that surrounded their habitat. Their mission: To save the forest from being plundered and denuded by the "forest mafia".

Accompanied by just a dog for their safety, these determined women made frequent forays into the deep forest -- with which they shared a symbiotic relationship -- and have been able, over the years, to successfully conserve 50 hectares of forest land and its flora and fauna deep in the heart of a territory that has also been a battle zone between government forces and left-wing extremists.

This group was brought together by Jamuna Tudu, 37, who has spent the last two decades of her life fighting against deforestation. It was in 1998, after her marriage, that Jamuna took up this challenge of preserving the forest by making villagers develop a stake in it.

Today, her Van Suraksha Samiti (Forest Protection Group) has about 60 active women members who patrol the jungle in shifts thrice a day: Morning, noon and evening. And sometimes even at night, as the mafia set fire to the forests in random acts of vandalism and vengeance.

Jamuna's fight has not gone unnoticed. The President of India has honoured her conservation efforts.

"Few days after my marriage, when my mother-in-law, sister-in-law and a few other women from the village took me to the forest to cut wood and get it to cook food, I felt that if we keep cutting the trees this way, all our forests will be wiped out," Jamuna recalled to IANS in an interview.

In her quest, she had to battle against the mafia that was chopping down trees for their precious sal timber with complete disregard for the law or the tribal tradition that prohibits cutting of the trees.

Realising that she would get little help from authorities, who may well have been hand in glove with the mafia, she took matters in her own hands. She spoke to a few women of the village who were quite aghast at the task she had taken on. We won't do it; this will require us to fight the men in the village, they told her.

But Jamuna, who has studied up to Class X, foresaw a bleak green-less future for herself and her community with no trees and forests to sustain or protect them.

'Jungle nahi rahega toh paryavaran kaise bachega (how will we protect the environment if the forest is destroyed)?' she asked.

Jamuna's clear understanding of the issue soon trickled down to the other women and even men in her village.

"I was brought up with a love and respect for nature. My father used to plant numerous trees in our farms in Odisha. That's where I learnt the importance of the environment," she said.

Pointing out how the mafia was exploiting the wood from Muturkham to fund their alcohol needs, she said she was bewildered by the passive response of the community at their habitat being slowly destroyed.

"I went on to speak to a few women in the village. I held a meeting with them several times to be able to convince them that we needed to protect our beautiful forests," she said.

Gradually, she mobilised a group of 25 women from the village and armed them with bows and arrows, bamboo sticks and spears, they marched into the forest to take on the forest predators.

With time, many men also became part of the campaign against deforestation, but most of the effort has continued to be from women, said Jamuna.

There are many daunting challenges that came their way, but their single-minded dedication towards their cause kept them going.

"There were too many altercations with the village people initially.. many scuffles with the mafia... and I told those women that in this journey, we would come across both good and bad times, but we have to struggle to keep the forest," said Jamuna.

The group convinced the railway authorities to bar the plundered wood from being exported.

"Some time in 2008-09, we were brutally attacked by the mafia," she said.

"They pelted stones at us while we were coming back from the railway station after speaking to the station master. Everybody got injured," she added.

For obvious reasons, Jamuna, the woman whose initiatives were hampering their business, was their main target. She and her husband suffered most in the assault.

"My husband got hit on his head as he tried to save me. It was dark and we somehow managed to run away. We narrowly escaped death that day." But she did not give up.

Over 15 years of many fierce encounters with the mafia and relentless sensitisation of the community, Jamuna, and the Van Suraksha Samiti that she formed, have succeeded in protecting and conserving the 50 hectares of forest land not just surrounding her village, but around many others as well.

Tribal communities cannot survive without wood. They need it for various things -- mostly to cook food. But they ensure that their requirements remain within sustainable limits.

"We don't cut trees on purpose any more and use the fallen trees and branches for all our needs," Jamuna said. "The amount we are able to save up during the rains is sufficient for the whole year."

The Forest Department has "adopted" her village, which has led to Muturkham getting a water connection and a school.

In 2013, Jamuna was conferred with the Godfrey Phillips Bravery Award in the 'Acts of Social Courage' category and this year in August, she was awarded with Women Transforming India Award by the NITI Aayog.

Today, she runs awareness campaigns through various forest committees in Kolhan Division. Around 150 committees formed by Jamuna, comprising more than 6,000 members, have joined her movement to save the forests.

She wants to do a lot more. "I wish to do a lot... to make a lot more difference, but I am bound by limited resources. I can't in many ways afford to go beyond the villages in my state."

But if I get more support, many more forests like ours can be saved, she declared.

(This feature is part of a special series that seeks to bring unique and extraordinary stories of ordinary people, groups and communities from across a diverse, plural and inclusive India, and has been made possible by a collaboration between IANS and the Frank Islam Foundation. Mudita Girotra can be contacted at mudita.g@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
There will be no politics of revenge if the BJP comes to power in Himachal Pradesh, says the party's chief ministerial candidate Prem Kumar Dhumal, asserting that restoration of law and order and eliminating the mafia in the state will be his first priority.

"There will be no revenge. We will like to devote our time to the development of the state. We will focus on restoring democracy and values for which the government is elected. Law and order will be established so that drug mafia, mining mafia and all these mafias are controlled," Dhumal told IANS in an interview at his Hamirpur residence.

Confident of winning the November 9 Assembly elections, Dhumal said he would reinstate the safety, security and self-respect of the people, otherwise ruined by the Congress government led by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.

"Safety, security and self-respect of people are the main responsibilities of any government. In the last five years, the law and order has collapsed and the anti-social elements are dominant."

Accusing the Congress government of establishing a mafia raj, he said that Virbhadra Singh turned this "dev bhumi", the land of gods, into "drug bhumi and crime bhumi".

"People in the state feel they are governed by the mafias. Forest mafia is cutting trees. If officials try to stop, they are beaten up and killed. Mining mafias are transporting minerals to other states and locals are being deprived."

He said the liquor mafia and the tender mafia are also ruining the natural resources of Himachal.

"The state government had formed a Beverage Corporation. Out of 29 such corporations, 27 were running in losses. Suddenly, last year Beverages Corporation of Himachal Pradesh was constituted just to benefit some people.

"Through this, the government started to supply liquor in the state but no infrastructure was created. This gave birth to many new liquor mafia. There is an industry in the state for transfer and postings of government officials. Tenders are given to favourites."

Dhumal alleged that Hoshiyar Singh, a forest guard, was killed just because he saw and recorded on his mobile phone how some people were carrying out illegal felling of trees. But the state government turned his murder into a suicide case, he said.

"There are many such examples. First time in the history of Himachal Pradesh, the High Court has intervened in the cases of Gudia, who was raped and brutally murdered in Shimla, and also in the case of Hoshiyar Singh," he said.

The court has ordered a CBI probe in both the cases. "These are the issues which show the character of this government."

Dhumal said common people have lost faith in the government and police because of such incidents.

"My first task would be to reinstate the confidence of the people into government. My priority would be to give right posting to honest and efficient police officers so that confidence is reinstated and criminal elements and mafias feel insecure. The dev bhumi will be brought to its old glory."

He said his government would form an anti-drug squad in the name of Hoshiyar Singh that would be operative 24/7 in the Chief Minister's office to note every complaint.

The BJP leader said he would constitute a squad of ex-servicemen in the name of Himachal's first Param Veer Chakra winner Major Somnath Sharma to check anti-social elements and help the police.

He said the state government was under a Rs 50,000 crore debt and that his government would try to get the state to get rid of these debts and be self-sufficient.

"I think the time of giving packages is over. The present government was getting Rs 40,000 crore but after Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, the state was given Rs 1.15 lakh crore. The share in central taxes was also increased by the present union government to 42 per cent from 32 after 14th finance commission.

"We have already got packages for 69 National Highways, for three-four-laning of roads and six bridges. When Rs 70,000 crore will be invested in the state, a number of economic activities will take place and number of people will be engaged in this. Employment will be generated," he said.

Asked why the BJP changed its strategy and announced a chief ministerial face in Himachal, Dhumal said: "In small states, people like to know the face with whom to interact later on. Everybody wants to have direct contact with the chief minister. Himachal election has always been fought by projecting a face."
Politicians never lose an opportunity to praise our armed forces, none more so than the present Prime Minister, his Cabinet and party. So youd think the attention they pay to the welfare and status of our soldiers must be irreproachable. One Rank One Pension suggests it is, but read on and discover the full truth.
Top Communist leaders of India are headed to Moscow this week to take part in the centenary celebrations of the Russian Revolution, also called the October Revolution. Leaders of the Communist Party of India, Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and other Left parties will be in the Russian capital on November 7. The took place on November 7, 1917, or, according to the old Russian calendar, on October 25. Reports state that the Kremlin has planned sedate celebrations, but the Russian Communist Party plans to mark the event with fanfare. Of the Left leaders from India, CPI-M chief Sitaram Yechury is scheduled to be in Moscow from November 4 to 7.
Soon after the Union Cabinet cleared the model Shops and Establishments Act in June 2016, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley noted in a media briefing: The implementation of the law will depend on the states. The Bill will now be sent to the states, which have the option of adopting it or making modifications. It is a suggestive law for the states. The model law proposed measures and regulations for keeping shopping establishments open round the clock all through the year.
Describing the Himachal Pradesh election as a one-sided contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress of running away from the battlefield and said it had nothing left to do but grieve in the coming days.
Around 30 people fell ill with symptoms of food poisoning after eating at a community feast in Odisha's Balasore district.

The villagers, who attended the feast at Kantabania village on the occasion of Kartik Purnima last night, complained of vomiting, stomach pain and nausea early today, a district health official said.

They were taken to the local community health centre from where 22 persons, including 15 children, were shifted to the district headquarter hospital, they said.

Balasore chief district medical officer, Bibekananda Das, said the condition of all the patients was stable.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The parliamentary committee on external affairs plans to submit a comprehensive report on Sino-Indian ties next year, and is currently looking at the "extremely topical" Dokalam issue, panel chairman Shashi Tharoor has said.

Tharoor said the panel wanted to take a comprehensive look at the India-China ties by understanding their trade and political relations, cooperation in international bodies and the Chinese attitude on India's membership bid for the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), on terrorism and Pakistan among other aspects.

Right now the panel is looking at Dokalam because it is extremely topical, the former minister of state for external affairs told PTI.

"Just as this year we submitted to Parliament a report on Indo-Pakistan relations, similarly for next summer we want to submit a report on Sino-Indian relations," he said.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs held two meetings on the Dokalam situation last month.

At the first meeting where the panels members were briefed by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had raised questions on media reports of Chinese action in the Dokalam area, a member present at the meeting had said on the condition of anonymity.

The second meeting was briefed by Jaishankar, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra.

The 73-day face-off between Indian and Chinese troops in Dokalam started on June 16 after the Indian side stopped the construction of a road by the Chinese Army. According to the external affairs ministry, the two forces "disengaged" on August 28.

On the Dokalam standoff, Tharoor said if the Chinese had stopped doing something that had triggered the reaction from India, then "clearly we had achieved something".

"If on the other hand, the stoppage is purely temporary and two weeks later they have started again, which is what we want to find out (during panel meetings), then there is some doubt as to whether the original portrayal of the incident as an Indian victory was accurate or not," the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram said.

Tharoor said for the preparation of the report on Indo- Pak ties, submitted in August this year, the panel had five or six hearings.

"Some with the foreign secretary alone, some with the foreign and defence secretaries and the military people, some with the commerce ministry, some with individual experts...We got everyone's view and we put it into a comprehensive report. So our approach on China will be the same," he said.

On the government's foreign policy, Tharoor said there was no doubt that relations with Pakistan were at a "pretty bad low" and with China they were "not much better".

"In both the cases we have come down a long way from the kind of bonhomie that characterised these relationships at different phases in the last decade, including during Mr Modi's initial years of prime ministership," he said.

"In fact, with Pakistan, one can truly accuse the government of inconsistency because there have been so many ups and downs," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Air India is looking to raise loans worth $535 million to finance an acquisition of three Boeing planes, including two aircraft that will be used for ferrying VVIPs, a senior airline official said.

Late in the evening, an Air India spokesperson confirmed the PTI report that the two aircraft will be used for VVIP travel.

However, the disinvestment-bound carrier has reduced the required loan amount by around $20 million in less than three weeks after floating a tender where it had sought loan up to $555 million for buying the three aircraft.

The delivery of three B777-300 ER planes is scheduled to be completed in February next year, with two expected to be bought in January.

Issuing a revised tender, the airline has solicited interest from lenders for the loan worth up to $535 million, for which two separate term sheets would be inked.

At current exchange rates, the loan would be to the tune of around Rs 3,460 crore.

Out of three aircraft, two are to be acquired in January 2018 and those would be for the use of VVIPs, the official said.

After making required modifications, the two planes would join the fleet that is generally used to carry President, Vice President and Prime Minister, the official added.

As per the purchase agreement with Boeing, Air India is to buy 15 B777-300 ER aircraft and it has already taken delivery of 12 such planes.

The spokesperson said that Air India had placed an order with Boeing for 68 aircraft in 2005.

"These B777-300 ER aeroplanes are the last of the three aircraft to be delivered. They are being delivered on January 18 and February 18 by Boeing.

"Out of these three aeroplanes, two will be used by the government for VVIP travel," the spokesperson said in a statement.

He also said the airline has floated a tender for financing these aircraft through bridge finance.

According to the revised tender document, one term sheet would be for two aircraft that are to be delivered in January next year and the loan amount required is up to USD 400 million. The figure translates to around USD 200 million for each plane.

For the remaining aircraft, a separate term sheet would be inked for a loan of up to USD 135 million.

The specific reasons for revising downwards the proposed loan amount to USD 535 million from USD 555 million could not be immediately ascertained.

"The facility should be a direct loan without the requirement for formation of a special purpose vehicle structure which requires title transfer," the tender document said.

Air India has said that the Government of India has indicated that they would issue its guarantee for the bridge financing of B777-300 ER aircraft for a period of 12 months or till the date the loan is refinanced whichever is earlier.

No commitment fee would be paid to the bidder and that the "pre-payment/ short closure of the bridge loan should be allowed without any extra cost" to the airline, it added.

In 2005, Air India placed orders with Boeing for 68 aircraft -- 27 Dreamliners, 15 B777-300 ERs, eight B777-200 LRs and 18 B737-800s.

Of these, the state-run carrier has already taken the delivery of 65 planes.

At present, the flagship airline has a fleet of 115 aircraft.

The B777-300 ER aircraft owned by Air India has 342 seats for passengers.
Scouting for funds, is in advanced discussions with public sector lender SBI for sale of at least two residential properties that could net nearly Rs 50 crore, airline and banking sources said.

While the government moves ahead with the process for strategic stake sale, the loss-making airline continues to work on the strategy to divest non-core assets.

Saddled with more than Rs 50,000 crore debt, recently sought loans worth over Rs 1,500 crore to meet working capital requirements.

Against the backdrop of the severe financial crunch, the airline's talks with the State Bank of India (SBI) assumes significance in terms of raising additional monetary resources.

The discussions between and SBI are at an advanced stage with respect to sale of two residential properties in South Mumbai, sources told PTI.



While the final contours of the deal are being worked out, an airline source said the sale is expected to fetch around Rs 46 crore.

Despite trying to dispose of such assets, so far Air India has managed to sell only four of its flats in Mumbai to SBI for Rs 90 crore.

These properties are located at upmarket Peddar Road in South Mumbai.

The carrier has been in possession of some properties which are lying vacant and unused for a long time. These include parcels of land as well as residential and commercial estate in India and abroad.

Among others, the carrier has leased out almost the entire space at its previous headquarters at Nariman Point to various government agencies.

As per the turnaround/financial restructuring plan approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) back in 2012, Air India is required to monetise its assets and generate Rs 5,000 crore by way of sale, leasing or developing an asset as a joint venture.

Under the plan, the carrier is to get financial assistance to the tune of Rs 30,000 crore over a 10-year period.
Air pollution is causing chronic kidney disease in over 10 million people around the world, a study has found.

Benjamin Bowe from the Clinical Epidemiology Center at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System in the US previously described an association between increased levels of fine particulate matter and risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Scientists used the Global Burden of Disease study methodologies to estimate the burden of CKD attributable to air pollution.

The estimated global burden of incident CKD attributable to fine particulate matter was more than 10.7 million cases per year, researchers said.

Epidemiologic measures of the burden of CKD attributable to air pollution including years living with disability, years of life lost, and disability-adjusted life years suggest that the burden varies greatly by geography, with higher values seen in Central America and South Asia.

"Air pollution might at least partially explain the rise in incidence of CKD of unknown origin in many geographies around the world, and the rise in Mesoamerican nephropathy in Mexico and Central America," said Bowe.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Citing a Supreme Court verdict in the 2002 Akshardham Temple attack case, a POTA court here today rejected the city crime branch's plea seeking remand of alleged prime conspirator of the attack, Abdul Rashid Suleiman Ajmeri.

Ajmeri, who was arrested yesterday, was produced before Special POTA Judge P B Desai at his residence by officials of the Crime Branch, who sought a 14-day custody on various grounds.

However, Desai rejected the demand and sent Ajmeri to Sabarmati Central Prison here.

The judge, however, allowed the Crime Branch to question Ajmeri in the prison for 10 days between 10 am and 2 pm every day.

In its remand plea, the Crime Branch said that they needed Ajmeri's custody to find out his overseas connections.

It also argued that the agency needs custody in order to unearth the various details related to Ajmeri's hideouts during these years and also to find out if he was in contact with other "wanted" accused in the case.

However, defence lawyer appearing for Ajmeri, Ilyaskhan Pathan, raised objections, saying the grounds mentioned in the remand plea were based on a theory that had been rejected by the Supreme Court when it acquitted all the six accused held by the Crime Branch in 2014.

Pathan argued that Ajmeri was in the Crime Branch's custody for more than 24 hours after his arrest, a time sufficient for the police to get information.

The argument by the defence lawyer was accepted by the judge.

Crime Branch personnel had arrested Ajmeri yesterday at 1.30 am after he landed at the Ahmedabad International Airport from Riyadh.

Ajmeri, who hails from Ahmedabad, is the ninth accused to be arrested of the 34 named in the terrorist attack on the Gandhinagar-based temple on September 24, 2002, that had left 34 dead and 84 injured.

He is also accused of conspiring with the terrorists from organisations such as the Jaish-e-Mohammad and the Lashkar-e-Taiba in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pakistan to get fund, personnel and weapons for the attack along with his brother Adam Ajmeri and other accused.

In 2003, an FIR was lodged against Ajmeri and others at the Sector 21 police station of Gandhinagar under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 121 (waging war against the government), 124A (sedition), 302 (murder), 307 (attempt to murder), among others, as well as relevant sections of the POTA Act and Explosive Substance Act, and Gujarat Police Act, he said.

Two terrorists had entered the temple and opened fire on devotees. The attack had taken place after the 2002 Godhra riots.

The attackers were were killed by National Security Guard (NSG) commandos.

The Supreme Court had, in May 2014, acquitted six convicts, including three facing death sentence, for want of sufficient evidence against all of them.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Gujrat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd (Amul) has decided to invest about Rs 250 crore in the dairy sector of Odisha, according to an official statement here.

The statement quoted Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Limited's Managing Director R S Sodhi who made the announcement at the sidelines of a seminar at the World Food India 2017 in New Delhi yesterday.

Sodi also said that currently there was a supply gap of 30 lakh litres of milk per day in Odisha. He also said the state was the second biggest market for Amul in the country.

Mayank Jalan, MD of Keventer Agro Ltd, during his meeting with the Odisha delegation also expressed their intent to set up a unit for maize processing, promote banana cultivation and set up a food processing laboratory in the state.

In the seminar, the representative of the TATA Global Beverages Ltd said that it had shortlisted Odisha as the potential location for setting up of a tea packaging unit over 20 acres of land with an investment of 40 crore and employment to 400 people.

The AGT Foods, along with their co-promoters based in Canada, also expressed their interest to make an investment of 250 crore near Paradeep in food processing unit.

ITC representatives along with their subsidiary, Technico Technologies, indicated to expedite setting up of their food plant at Khurda.

Besides, MD of Kijalk Agro Pvt Ltd, representatives of TCS, Godrej Tyson, Impeccable Innovations met the state delegation and expressed their interest to invest in Odisha, said the statement issued last evening.

Gautam Sharma, MD of Indo-Nissin Foods elaborated their plans to expand their capacity from the existing plant at 12 tons per day.

The state MSME Minister Prafulla Samal, who was present in the seminar, had said food processing was a focus sector for the state. In order to promote the industry, Odisha had chalked out food processing policy, developed mega food parks at Deras and Rayagada and single window facilitation for investors.

Odisha's Additional Chief Secretary, MSME, L N Gupta said that with 10 agro climatic zones and 480 km long coastline coupled with surplus production of cereals, rice and vegetables, the state offered an enormous opportunity for food processing industry.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A gunman opened fire inside a Baptist church in the US state of Texas, killing at least 27 people, including the pastor's 14-year-old daughter, officials said today.

The incident, which left at least 20 other people injured, occurred yesterday at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in Wilson County where a man in "full gear" barged into the church and began shooting parishioners.

The gunman was killed in the aftermath, the local media quoted police as saying, although it is not sure if the deputies killed the shooter or he took his own life.

"Upto 27 people are dead," MSNBC quoted Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr. as saying.

One of the victims of the mass shooting was the church's pastor Frank Pomeroy's daughter, Annabelle.

"I was not at the church when the shooting took place. My youngest daughter, Annabelle, was," Pomeroy told ABC .

Among the injured, 10 have been transported to nearby trauma hospital, one most severe was air lifted to San Antonio military center, while the others have been transferred to several close-by hospitals.

Meanwhile, hospital sources have not yet commented on the number of people being treated.

Unconfirmed early reports say that a child is also among the victims.

President Donald Trump, who is currently on a two-week tour of east Asia, expressed condolences to the victims of the mass shooting.

"May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan," Trump said in a tweet.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott condemned the incident labelling it as an "evil act."



"Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon," he wrote on Twitter.

A KSAT-TV reporter, in a live report on Facebook Live, said a man in full gear came into the church and unloaded several rounds, and then took off in a vehicle.

The FBI personnel at the scene said only one gunman was reported.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union minister Ramdas Athawale's RPI (A), an NDA ally, will observe the first anniversary of demonetisation on November 8 as the "white money day".

Athawale said he has planned the initiative to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for targetting black money through 'notebandi' last year, wherein high value currencies of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 were withdrawn from circulation.

While opposition parties had announced that they will observe the first anniversary of the note ban as the 'black day', the BJP had said it will be the "anti-black money day".

Athawale said his party will hold programmes near statues of B R Ambedkar in Maharashtra on November 8 to mark the "white money day".

He said the RPI (A) will hold the Vidarbha Rajya convention in Nagpur on November 10.

"We have invited leaders of all the political parties, including the BJP that support the cause of carving out separate Vidarbha out of Maharashtra, to attend the convention," the Minister of State for Social Justice said.

Hailing the note ban, the Dalit leader said even Ambedkar had suggested a "change in currency every ten years".

Athawale said RPI(A) will extend support to the BJP in Gujarat assembly polls next month.

He appealed to Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani and Patidar quota spearhead Hardik Patel to support the ruling BJP and not the Congress in the elections.

"I am ready to act as a mediator between them (Hardik Patel and Mewani) and the state government on the issue of quota," he said.

Athawale said Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi should give suggestions on implementation of GST instead of criticising it, as the party was part of its conceptualisation.

"Complaints of traders on GST will be addressed by the GST council," he said.

Athawale reiterated that BSP chief Mayawati should embrace Buddhism "if she is a true follower of B R Ambedkar and is serious about fulfilling the dream of late Kanshiram".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium arrived here tonight on a seven-day visit to India with an aim at boosting overall cooperation between the two countries with a focus on further ramping up trade and investment ties.

This is King Philippe's first state visit to India after his ascension to the throne in 2013.

The royal couple was received at the airport by Union Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, according to an official of the Belgian Embassy.

India is Belgium's second largest export destination and the third largest trading partner outside the European Union.

According to official data, in 2016-17, bilateral trade amounted to USD 13.28 billion of which exports from India to Belgium accounted for USD 5.65 billion while imports from Belgium accounted for USD 6.62 billion.

The royal couple will travel to Agra tomorrow to visit the iconic Taj Mahal.

According to the official schedule, the King will meet President Ram Nath Kovind and hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. On Wednesday, he will attend an India-Belgium Business Forum meeting.

The King is accompanied by a business delegation of nearly 90 people comprising CEOs of Belgian companies.

On Thursday, he will leave for Mumbai on a two-day visit.

In Mumbai, he will attend a rountable of businessmen of the diamond industry and pay a visit to the memorial of the victims of the 2008 terrorist attack. He will also attend a conference which will focus on solutions for smart cities.

The royal couple will leave for Belgium on Saturday.

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At least 12 people, including five children, drowned in two separate incidents in Vaishali and Samastipur districts of Bihar today, police said.

While nine picnickers died after falling into the Ganga river in Vaishali, three women drowned in the Baghmati river when a boat capsised in Samastipur district, they said.

The Vaishali incident happened when the picnickers had gathered atop a mound formed by silt near Mastana Ghat for a Sunday picnic, Naseem Ahmed, in-charge of Fatuha police station, said.

"Prima facie, one of the children had fallen into the river and the others jumped into the water to rescue the drowning child and lost their own lives," he said.

Nine bodies have been fished out so far, said Ahmed, who had gone to the spot after the incident.

All the deceased, five girls and four men, hailed from Dariyapur in Fatuha sub-division of Patna district.

The site of the incident falls in Raghopur block of Vaishali district.

Patna District Magistrate Sanjay Agarwal, however, said, "So far we have confirmation of eight bodies having been recovered from the river."



Two people are missing and efforts are on to trace them with the help of divers, Agarwal said.

Meanwhile, three women drowned in the Baghmati river in Samastipur district when a small boat carrying over 12 people capsised, the police said.

While some people swam to safety, five others were rescued, Deputy Superintendent of Police in-charge of Rosera sub-division, Ajit Kumar, said.

Locals jumped into the river and fished out the bodies of the three women, aged between 20 and 30 years.

"All those in the boat were involved in the business of cattle-rearing. They cross the river routinely to collect fodder," Kumar said.

The boat capsized near Madhurapur Dharmpur Ghat.

Divers have been pressed into service to check for more persons, he said.

The rescued people were taken to a local primary healthcare centre.

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A blog about life under, and resisting, a dictatorship
At least nine people, including five children, drowned in two incidents in Vaishali and Samastipur districts of Bihar today, police said.

While six picnickers died after falling into the Ganga river in Vaishali, three women drowned in the Baghmati river when a boat capsized in Samastipur district, they said.

The police had earlier in the day said that nine people had drowned in Vaishali.

However, Naseem Ahmed, the in-charge of Fatuha police station, who visited the spot, said, "Three men, who were pulled out of the water and whom we had thought to be dead, turned out to be alive during medical examination."



The six deceased, five children and a woman, were from Dariyapur in Fatuha sub-division of Patna district and they belonged to two families.

The incident happened when they had gathered atop a mound formed by silt near Mastan Ghat for a Sunday picnic, Ahmed added.

"Prima facie, one of the children fell into the river and the others jumped into the water to rescue the drowning child and lost their own lives," he said.

Six bodies have been fished out so far, said Ahmed.

Patna District Magistrate Sanjay Agarwal, who had earlier informed that eight bodies were recovered, said, "The number of bodies recovered is six."



Agarwal and Vaishali Superintendent of Police Rakesh Kumar said the search is on for at least two missing people.

"The bodies have been brought to Fatuha for post-mortem examination after which they will be handed over to the family members," Ahmed said.

Expressing grief over the deaths at Mastan Ghat, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh to the next of kin of each of the deceased, the CMO said in a release.

Meanwhile, in Samastipur district, the police said three women drowned in the Baghmati river when a small boat carrying over 12 people capsized.

While some people swam to safety, five were rescued, said Ajit Kumar, the Deputy Superintendent of Police in-charge of Rosera sub-division.

Locals jumped into the river and fished out the bodies of the three women, aged between 20 and 30 years, he said.

"All those in the boat were involved in the business of cattle-rearing. They cross the river routinely to collect fodder," Kumar said.

The boat capsized near Madhurapur Dharmpur Ghat.

Divers have been pressed into service to check for more persons, he said.

The rescued people were taken to a local primary healthcare centre.

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Birla Cellulose, Aditya Birla Group's umbrella brand for its range of cellulosic fibres, will open a design studio this month in New York to connect with international fashion brands, a company official said.

Besides, the company also has plans to open studios at other international destinations such as London and Hong Kong for its collections, Birla Cellulose, President - Marketing, Manohar Samuel, said.

"We are launching a design studio at the 7th Avenue in New York which is known as the garment district, it is the most premium location in New York," Samuel told PTI.

He further said: "We are launching the studio in November this year, then our seasonal collections will be available for global brands."



Opened in Noida this year, the studio is known in India as Liva accredited partner forum (LAPF).

LAPF has samples of Viscose, Modal and Excel with technical specifications and a variety of woven, knitted, and flat knitted fabrics on display under Liva, the fabric brand of Birla Cellulose.

Samuel further said the company is "also planning to set up studios in Europe and Hong Kong".

Birla Cellulose is opening one LAPF studio at Tirupur to cater the Southern textiles hub and has plans to be present at major centres like Jaipur and Bengaluru.

The company is also looking at adding more kiosks in its network, which consists of co-branded design fabricated studios. These are operated in collaboration with local partners.

"We see around 15 kiosks in the coming years and about 6 studios in the country as of now. Four studios in India, Jaipur and Bengaluru for sure. Noida is already present and Tirupur is almost ready," Samuel said.

Birla Cellulose is the Pulp and fibre business of Aditya Birla Group under Grasim. It has four units in India and fibre units in Thailand, Indonesia and China.

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The body of a vehicle driver, abducted on September 20, was recovered from Suiakobra in Khumlwng area of West district, police said today.

SP (West) Abhjit Saptarshi said the skeletal remains of Jeevan Debnath were recovered in the presence of a magistrate yesterday and the slain driver was identified by his relatives.

Debnath was abducted after his vehicle carrying two persons was set ablaze by miscreants in the area where hours ago a local TV journalist Shantanu Bhowmick was killed. The two passengers managed to flee, the SP said.

The journalist was killed by miscreants when he had gone to Khumlwung to cover a demonstration organised by the Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT).

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The works of master sculptor and painter Ramkinkar Baij on the Vishva-Bharati campus in Santiniketan will now be restored to its full glory as the Centre has sanctioned Rs 8 crore for its preservation.

The acting vice-chancellor of the central university, Swapankumar Dutta, said the ministry of culture has given its verbal assent to their proposal for preserving the works created by the legendary sculptor between 1930 and 1980.

"The sculptures of Ramkinkar are made of cement and laterite mortar. He used material that was available to him. The sculptures are now falling prey to the vagaries of nature despite best efforts by the university. We are now waiting for an official consent letter from the Centre," the acting vice chancellor told PTI.

Some of Baij's famous works such as the 'Santhal Family', the 'Buddha' and the 'Sujata' would be cast in bronze, Dutta said.

These sculptures would then be retained by the university or find a place at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi, he asserted.

"Visiting scholars and guests to Visva Bharati have often expressed concern over the state of the creations by Ramkinkar, who is an integral part of Santiniketan's legacy. The Visva Bharati has been doing everything possible. But that may not be enough, he said.

The Centre's move came after the visit of a top government official to the campus in March. Soon after, a central team arrived in the institute and studied the condition of the sculptures and held a series of talks with the institute officials, he added.

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China wants joint cooperation with the US in developing next-generation nuclear power technology, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said, ahead of President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing this week.

Trump will be in China from Wednesday to Friday. He would hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In his meeting yesterday with Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of TerraPower, Li has called for closer China-US cooperation in developing the next-generation nuclear power technology.

Speaking highly of the China-US partnership in this field, Li said companies of the two countries have set up a joint venture with each holding half of shares and agreeing to share the intellectual property rights, state-run Xinhua agency reported.

TerraPower, LLC signed a joint venture agreement with China National Nuclear Corporation to form the Global Innovation Nuclear Energy Technology Limited. The two companies plan to work together to complete the Travelling Wave Reactor (TWR) design and commercialise the TWR technology.

"This is a pioneering work in China-US high-tech cooperation, which is on a voluntary basis. This shows the open attitudes of both sides," Li said. He said he expects "win-win" results in this cooperation.

China hopes to combine its advantage in talent resources with advanced technologies overseas, and make good use of the internet platform, to promote technological progress that the world can share and benefit from, Li said.

Acknowledging the significance of the next-generation nuclear power in the development of future energy technology, Gates said it is important to ensure the energy supply is clean, safe and reliable.

He said his company cherishes the cooperation with the Chinese counterpart, values China's rich talent resources, and will try to translate their shared cooperation vision into reality.

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Hollywood star Chris Pratt is back on Instagram three months after he parted ways with actor Anna Faris.

The 38-year-old "Guardians of the Galaxy" star posted a picture of him, son Jack, five, and brother Cully Pratt making fight poses at a screening of "Thor: Ragnarok".

The post marks Pratt's first since he and wife Faris, 40, announced in August they are "legally separating" after eight years of marriage. The actor had remained active on Twitter after the split .

"HOLY CRAP!! THOR RAGNAROK IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!... So proud to be part of the Marvel universe," Chris wrote in the caption of his Instagram post.

Pratt plays Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, in Marvel's two "Guardians of the Galaxy" films and will reprise his role alongside Thor himself, Chris Hemsworth, and the rest of the Marvel superheroes in "Avengers: Infinity War.

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The quarterly results of companies, including bluechips SBI, Tata Motors and Coal India, will decide the course of the stock market this week, according to experts.

"Sentiment continues to be positive. However, rising crude prices remains to be a concern for the Indian markets," said Anita Gandhi, Whole Time Director, Arihant Capital .

Among major companies scheduled to release their earnings this week are: SBI, Tata Motors, BHEL, Cipla, CIL and NHPC.

"In the near term, market will continue to gauge on the ongoing Q2 results," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services.

"The results season is in the middle of completion. Mixed numbers have come out. No clear trend is emerging to state forcefully that all is well with the economy. Some pockets are impacted but some are still unclear what would be the impact of GST/demonetisation," said Jimeet Modi, Founder & CEO, SAMCO Securities.

Foreign investors, a major driver for the Indian equity market, turned net buyers in October and pumped in over Rs 3,000 crore in the equity after two months of selling.

Last week, the Sensex rose, notching up a significant gain of 528.34 points, or 1.59 per cent. The Nifty was up 129.45 points, or 1.25 per cent, during the past week.

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Anti-corruption watchdog CVC has sought details of all fraud reported to the CBI since 2001 by public sector banks to analyse the modus operandi followed by fraudsters, Vigilance Commissioner T M Bhasin on Sunday said.

The exercise is part of a first-of-its-kind initiative being undertaken by the Central Vigilance Commission aimed at bringing in systematic improvements in the banking system to prevent fraud.

"Now what we have done is that we got the information collected from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on cases of fraud. They have submitted to us the information with regard to top 111 accounts," he said.

Bhasin, former chairman and managing director of Indian Bank, said the Commission has also asked all banks to provide information on all the cases of fraud involving Rs 3 crore and more.

"Right since 2001, whatever fraud has been reported to the CBI, Rs 3 crore and above, all those information is being collected. We have talked to chief vigilance officers of the public sector banks. They have been asked to submit the data by November 15," he told PTI.

The vigilance commissioner said the information will then be analysed to find out the common modus operandi used in various types of fraud.

"And then we will take up with the RBI also as to how systematic improvements are required to be made," he said.

As many as 1,806 cases of major fraud would be studied by the Commission as part of this exercise, he said.

Various banks reported 4,851 cases of fraud involving about Rs 23,902 crore during 2016-17, according to a reply given by the finance ministry in Parliament in July.

At present, all banks are reporting fraud cases to RBI through Fraud Monitoring Returns (FMR) based on the fraud reporting and monitoring system supplied to them.

The modus operandi followed in fraud cases is sent by banks to the Indian Banks' Association which then circulates it in a physical form.

The CVC plans to put details of commonly-followed modus operandi on a portal to be developed specifically for this purpose.

"In times to come, it will be ensured that there is a common database or data pool is available to the bankers where various types of modus operandi are available. We plan to host a website for this purpose alone," Bhasin said.
Egypt has recovered 354 archaeological objects that were seized by authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the antiquities ministry in Cairo said.

Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed al-Qasimi, ruler of the emirate of Sharjah, had ordered the pieces returned to Egypt after police captured them, the ministry said yesterday.

It did not provide any details on where or how the pieces were recovered, or from whom.

Antiquities Minister Khaled El-Enany inspected the pieces at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo yesterday, it said, adding that they would be placed on display in a "special exhibition".

The recovered pieces include antiques from the Pharaonic era and some from Islamic times, it said.

Among them are a pottery container carrying the name of Ramses III, who ruled Egypt around 3,000 years ago, and several bronze statues depicting Egyptian gods including Isis and Osiris.

They also include tombstones from the Islamic era.

Egypt, a rich source of archaeological treasures, regularly announces the recovery of stolen artefacts.

It has long campaigned for the return of precious artefacts which it considers stolen and which are housed in European museums, such as the Nefertiti Bust in Berlin.

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Egypt today summoned the ambassadors of Germany, Italy and The Netherlands after they criticised the arrest of an Egyptian human rights lawyer opposed to enforced disappearances, the foreign ministry said.

The ministry added that they will also summon the ambassadors of the United Kingdom and Canada later in the day.

Authorities arrested in September Ibrahim Metwally, who is linked to the case involving murdered Italian student Giulio Regeni, as he was about to fly to Geneva for a conference on enforced disappearances.

The lawyer, who has founded the Association for the Families of the Disappeared, was detained at Cairo airport.

On Friday the embassies of Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Italy issued a joint statement saying they were "deeply concerned" over Metwally's "ongoing detention".

"We are concerned at the detention conditions that Ibrahim Metwally... is reportedly enduring, and continue to call for transparency on prison conditions in Egypt," said the statement.

"We call on the Egyptian authorities to ensure the freedom of civil society and the protection from torture that are enshrined in the Egyptian Constitution," it added.

The foreign ministry said the summons was aimed at expressing "Egypt's strong dissatisfaction with the statement's blatant and unacceptable interference in its internal affairs".

At the time of Metwally's arrest, prosecution officials had said Metwally was detained on suspicion of "dealing with foreign parties" and "spreading false news".

He was also accused of having set up an "illegal" group.

The foreign ministry also denied that "torture" was underway in Egyptian prisons.

Metwally had been in touch with the legal defence team of Regeni's family.

Regeni, a PhD student, went missing in Cairo on January 25, 2015 and his body was found days later bearing torture marks.

Egypt has faced accusations that one of its security services murdered the student who was researching trade unions -- a sensitive topic in the country -- but Cairo denied any such involvement.

Rights groups accuse the Egyptian government of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances of dissidents that spiked after the military overthrew Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013 and cracked down on his supporters.

The government disputes such allegations.

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Mueller Set Sights On Flynn And Son Click to expand...

There may be a semblance of truth to this subject line.But in my opinion it represents Mueller as a predator with a political agenda.Perhaps that can't be ruled out.However, before Mueller was chosen for this role, my impression is he was highly regarded by both sides of the aisle, and sported a sterling resume.Suddenly for Republicans, objectivity has gone out the window, and now Mueller is the handmaiden of the Democrat's Devil.Sober up!Ockham's Razor!Mueller is doing his job, apparently in about as professional a manner as it is humanly possible to do.
A 50-year-old farmer collapsed and died after he was allegedly hit in the chest by the collection agent of a nationalised bank following an argument over loan dues here today, police said.

Gnanasekaran of Pondhai village in the district swooned after the alleged assault and was rushed to the Medical College Hospital here, where he did not respond to treatment, police said.

According to the family, the farmer had taken a loan of Rs 4.5 lakh from the Sathanur branch of the bank and had repaid Rs 2 lakh through equated monthly instalments (EMIs).

However, he could not pay the EMIs for the last two years due to crop failure, they claimed.

Quoting family members, the police said, the recovery agent had come to the farmer's house today to enquire about the dues and seize a tractor, hypothecated to the bank in connection with the loan.

The farmer had asked for the ID card of the agent, triggering an argument during which he was allegedly hit in the chest and fainted, they said.

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A German national and a railway employee entered into an altercation at the Robertsganj railway station in Sonbhadra district after which both filed complaints against each other, police said today.

The railway employee alleged that when he greeted Holger Erik Misch by saying "welcome to India", the German hit him.

Police are now probing the incident which comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agra's Fatehpur Sikri.

Misch and railway supervisor Aman Kumar entered into an altercation and fought with each other yesterday at around 1 pm at platform number one of the Robertsganj railway station, a senior police official said in Lucknow.

"According to reports, the railway supervisor enquired the German national about his well being, which angered him. The German hit the railway employee, who might have pushed him in retaliation. Based on the complaints of the two, non- cognisable reports have been registered. Their medical examination has been conducted," ADG (Law and Order) Anand Kumar told reporters in Lucknow.

Police officials said that it had also emerged that an FIR was lodged against the German national on July 5 in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, for attacking a person with a sharp edged weapon.

His passport and visa is deposited in the chief judicial magistrate court, they said.

Kumar claimed that when he greeted Misch by saying "welcome to India", the German hit him.

Misch refused to talk to the media.

Earlier, on October 22, two tourists from Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and Marie Droz (24), were chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack. Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

The couple were offered a free stay in a 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons.

Even as the police probed German national Misch's allegations, the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) attacked the BJP government over what it called the "growing attacks" on foreign tourists in the state.

"Earlier in Agra and now in Sonbhadara. The situation is the same everywhere. It's a big achievement on the tourism front that the pride and lives of foreign tourists are in danger. This is Yogi (Adityanath) government," SP spokesman Sunil Singh Sajan said.

BJP spokesman Shalabh Mani Tripathi said that the incident was unnecessarily "hyped" by the opposition.

"It was a fight between two individuals and police was prompt to intervene. The German national had a case lodged against him. A probe is on in the matter. If any one is guilty, he will be taken care of by the police," Tripathi said.

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A German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj railway station in the district, police said today.

The incident comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agra's Fatehpur Sikri.

Holger Ereek was allegedly beaten by railway contractor Aman Kumar yesterday after which the station master informed the police.

Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwari said that the accused has been arrested.

However, the railway contractor alleged that when he greeted Ereek by saying "welcome to India", he hit him.

The victim refused to talk to the media.

On October 22, the Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple was quoted as saying in a media report that they were strolling near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youths started following them and later attacked.

The couple said as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones, the report said.

All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

The couple were also offered a free stay in 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons.

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Diversified jute manufacturer and exporter, the Gloster Limited is planning to set up a unit in Bangladesh for which it is in talks with a corporate of that country, a company official said.

The Bangladesh unit will be a greenfield one and cater to the export market, its executive chairman Hemant Bangur said.

"We are planning to set up a unit in Bangladesh for which we are talking to one of the top corporates of that country", he told PTI.

The investment required for setting up the unit will be Rs 500 crore and the unit will have an employment potential for 4500 people, he said.

The company will require 100 acres, Bangur said adding that the preferred location would be on the west side of the Padma river either in Rajshahi or Khulna.

Gloster, whose operations are located in Bauria in Howrah district of West Bengal, will now require land for expansion of its existing operations, Bangur said.

The Bauria operations provide employment to more than 4600 people, he said.

Bangur said "we are not keen on getting the 14Y clearance for holding land in excess of 25 acres due to the Land Ceiling Act. This means again vesting the land with the state. This is making the expansion process slow.

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Mama, as she was known, inspired terror in the urban ghetto where she lived. But the undisputed godmother of Sangam Vihar, who also led her sons into crime, is now planning to call it a day and lead a quiet life, police here said.

Basiran, 62, and her eight sons have been accused of bootlegging, murder, robbery, snatching and other such crimes in a total of 99 cases.

The queen of crime of Sangam Vihar, a locality in southwast Delhi, was released from Tihar Jail a couple of months ago. Some of her sons are still lodged in Tihar, the police said.

Now that she is out, Basiran is planning to sell off her three-storeyed house -- said to worth Rs 50 lakh -- and move to Faridabad on the outskirts of Delhi to lead a simple life, the police said.

Basiran is named in three cases of bootlegging. Her son Shamim Gunga is an accused in 38 cases, including those related to murder and robbery. Sons Shakeel and Vakeel are involved in 29 cases, Rahul in three, including one of murder. Three other sons, Sunny, Sohil and Faisal, have been named in 17 cases, the police said.

For long years, Basiran and her family evaded arrest. But in the the last 10 months, the police began cracking down on the family and arrested her and her seven sons.

The eighth is a juvenile and was sent to a juvenile home.

Basiran had moved to Delhi from Rajasthan in 2000 with her family. She took to crime by selling illicit liquor, a police official said.

"There are no thekas (liquor outlets) in the area. She started manufacturing liquor and selling it to people in nearby Faridabad and in the area where she stayed," recalled a police officer.

Gradually, her her sons took to crime, too, and dropped out of school. Soon, they were involved in robbery and snatching cases.

A police officer said Basiran's empire started expanding. She gave patronage to other criminals, bought and sold stolen items and gave shelter to criminals when they were on the run.

Such was her terror she wielded that even the police could not touch her. She slowly came to be known as 'Mama' in the area.

"If the police would go to arrest her or any of her accomplices, she would start tearing off her clothes and threaten to accuse them of molesting her. Scared, the policemen would retreat," said a police personnel.

The crackdown on the family began soon after inspector Upender Singh was posted to the Sangam Vihar police station as Station House Officer.

Earlier this year, the police started its operations against the family. When they went to arrest her or her accomplices, they made sure they went in a police party of not less than 20 personnel, including women constables.

"We would only go whenever we had a specific tip-off and would surround her house from all sides to close any escape route. We also started videographing the entire event so that she could not use her tactics," the officer added.

Basiran, who was arrested in February, has four daughters apart from her eight sons. Her daughters and husband do not have any criminal links. Two of her daughters are married.

Her husband, Malkan Singh, rears goats. He leaves home in the morning and returns only in the evening. He has been a mute spectator to his wife and sons' crimes, said the official.

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Gold worth Rs 70 lakh has been seized by customs officials at the international airport here from three persons, including a 46-year-old who hid 400 grams of the metal in his rectum.

The seizure was made in three cases of smuggling registered by the customs department in last three days.

In the first case, a passenger was intercepted on Friday after his arrival from London.

During his baggage and personal search, 118 gold medallions weighing 1,094 grams (1.09 kg) was recovered, a press release issued today by the customs said.

The 46-year-old accused, who is a UK citizen of Indian origin, had concealed 694 grams of gold medallions in his baggage and the remaining 400 grams in his rectum, it said.

The passenger has been arrested and the gold valuing Rs 29.7 lakh was seized, the release said.

In another case, a 45-year-old man was arrested by the customs for allegedly trying to smuggle gold into the country.

The accused had concealed 752 grams of gold, valued at Ra 21.99 lakh, in the pockets of his trouser, it said.

The passenger has been arrested and the gold has been seized.

In the latest case, a senior citizen was intercepted by the customs after his arrival from London here today.

The accused was trying to smuggle in about 600 grams of gold, valued at about Rs 18 lakh.

The passenger, who is a UK citizen of Indian origin, has not been arrested.

The total value of the gold seized in these three cases is about Rs 70 lakh.

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The alleged medical negligence by Safdarjung Hospital in wrongly declaring a newborn as dead in June this year has led the Delhi High Court to direct the Centre to order a probe into the incident.

The infant was brought back to the hospital and put on a ventilator, but died after 36 hours, the court noted in its order.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru also found "disturbing" the manner in which the infant was handed over to the parents



It directed the Ministry of Health, represented by central government standing counsel Monika Arora and advocate Kushal Sharma, to set up a three-member committee to enquire into the incident.

The panel shall comprise the Health Secretary or his nominee who is not below the rank of Joint Secretary, the Additional Director General Health Sevices and the Medical Superintendent of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, the court said



It said that the committee shall submit a report within eight weeks.

The court also said that the committee would be at liberty to call any staff or doctors of the hospital for the purposes of the enquiry and they will have to fully cooperate with the panel.

Apart from that the court also directed Safdarjung Hospital's Medical Superintendent to hand over all the documents related to the infant to the parents and to retain a copy for the perusal of the committee.

It also said that the parents can make a complaint to the Delhi Medical Council against the alleged medical negligence by the hospital.

With these directions, the court listed the matter for further hearing on January 3, 2018.

According to the petition filed by the parents, the incident occurred on June 18 this year when the baby was born four months prematurely.

The baby was born at 5.45 am, but at 6.00 am the same day the parents were informed that the infant has passed away and the body was handed over in an envelope for the last rites, the petition said.

However, a few hours later, while taking the infant for cremation, it was noticed that the baby was gasping for breath and was rushed back to the hospital.

The hospital provided oxygen to the baby, but the infant did not survive for more than 36 hours, the petition has said.

Apart from seeking an inquiry into the incident, the parents have sought compensation for the trauma suffered by them and also action against the doctors and staff concerned.

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The Bombay High Court has said that the Maharashtra government was only holding meetings but taking no action on the issue of police protection provided to people and recovery of dues from VIPs, including politicians.

A division bench headed by Chief Justice Manjula Chellur was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by advocate, Sunny Punamiya, seeking direction to the state police to recover dues from VIPs, including politicians and Bollywood personalities, who have been provided security cover but have not paid till date.

The court had in September this year directed the government to review each and every case in which police protection has been given, to see if the security was still required for that person.

When the petition came up for hearing on November 2, the government's lawyer informed the high court that meetings were held by the officials concerned on the issue but a decision is yet to be taken and hence, sought adjournment.

Irked with this, Chief Justice Chellur said, "Only meetings...meetings...meetings...no action. A committee set up by the government has given suggestions in the past on the issue. Why can't the government take some decision based on them. Or else I will pass a detailed order." The court then posted the petition for hearing on November 16.

On the earlier hearing in September, the high court had said the policemen should not become private guards.

Chief Justice Chellur had then said that the state police is not meant for all this. Protection must be given in rarest of rare cases.

Not as a matter of giving for the sake of it. For normal cases there are private firms.

She said why should the public exchequer's money be wasted on people who do not deserve protection. She also said that people who can afford must pay.

The high court had previously directed the state government to revisit its policy on providing police protection to private persons.

The court directed the state to streamline the process to ensure that only those who deserve police protection should be provided it.

The PIL claimed that around 1,000 personnel from the state police were deployed for providing protection to private individuals. The plea also claimed that around 600 policemen in Mumbai were deployed for protection duty.
Hundreds of South Koreans protested today against an upcoming visit by Donald Trump and called for peace as the US President begins an Asian tour dominated by North Korea's nuclear programme.

Trump, who arrived in Tokyo, is set to visit the South from Tuesday to Wednesday as part of his first Asian trip as head of state that also includes Vietnam, China and the Philippines.

He is scheduled to hold a summit with President Moon Jae-In and visit a US military base, with all eyes on his message to the North and its leader Kim Jong-Un.

Tensions flared after Pyongyang staged a sixth atomic test in September and test-launched multiple missiles capable of reaching the US mainland, while Trump and Kim have traded colourful personal attacks.

South Korea is a key US ally and hosts 28,500 US troops but many of Trump's critics in the South see him as a warmonger whose recent war of words with Kim has heightened tensions on the flashpoint peninsula.

"We oppose war! Negotiate for peace!" the protesters chanted in central Seoul, waving banners and balloons emblazoned "Peace, not war" and "We want peace".

Many protesters slammed both Trump and Kim for heightening the risk of conflict.

"Trump and Kim... are using the current military standoff for their own political gain, while we South Koreans are trembling with fear of war!" one activist said on stage.

One mother whose son is serving the South's mandatory two-year army conscription accused Trump of putting her son's life at risk.

"My heart stirs at every single word Trump says about North Korea," she said.

Organisers estimated the number of protesters at around 2,000.

The latest standoff between Trump and Kim has raised concern among South Koreans, who have over decades grown indifferent to regular threats of attack from Pyongyang.

But some Trump advisers say US military options are limited because any armed conflict on the peninsula would be expected to cause huge casualties.

Seoul is home to 10 million people and only about 50 kilometres from the heavily-fortified border, within range of Pyongyang's artillery.

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Uma Thurman said she is "waiting to feel less angry" before she addresses the Harvey Weinstein scandal and the ongoing problem of sexual harassment in Hollywood.

The "Kill Bill" star, however, said "it's commendable" for so many women to come forward with their own experiences of harassment and assault.

"I don't have a tidy soundbite for you because I've learned I am not a child and I have learned that when I've spoken in anger, I usually regret the way I express myself.

"So I've been waiting to feel less angry and when I'm ready, I'll say what I have to say," Thurman told Access Hollywood.

Weinstein, who worked with Thurman on "Kill Bill", "Pulp Fiction", and various other films, is currently under investigation by police in New York, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and the UK for sexual assault accusations.

Numerous women have come forward against Weinstein in the wake of exposes from The New York Times and The New Yorker, while even more individuals have alleged similar behaviour from men like former Amazon Studios head Roy Price, Kevin Spacey and directors Brett Ratner and James Toback.

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Many fledgling voters in the U.S. obtain much if not most of their news from late night entertainers, including Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon.



Fallon's mother is reported to have died, perhaps explaining the re-run NBC broadcast Friday night.



Can there be a political butterfly affect here?



How powerful an influence do these ostensible "entertainers" have on public opinion?



Does Rush Limbaugh influence public opinion? Did Jon Stewart?
Saad Hariri's resignation from Lebanon's premiership has raised fears that regional tensions were about to escalate and that the small country would once again pay a heavy price.

Analysts said the Saudi-backed Sunni politician's move yesterday to step down from the helm less than a year after forming a government was more than just the latest hiccup in Lebanon's notoriously dysfunctional politics.

"It's a dangerous decision whose consequences will be heavier than what Lebanon can bear," Hilal Khashan, a professor of political science at the American University of Beirut, said.

Hariri announced his resignation in a broadcast from Saudi Arabia, accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of taking over his country and destabilising the entire region.

Hezbollah is part of the government, but the clout of a group whose military arsenal outstrips that of Lebanon's own armed forces is far greater than its share of cabinet posts.

For years now, Lebanon has been deeply divided between a camp dominated by the Shiite Tehran-backed Hezbollah and a Saudi-supported movement led by Hariri.

"Hariri has started a cold war that could escalate into a civil war, bearing in mind that Hezbollah is unmatched in Lebanon on the military level," Khashan said.

The rift in Lebanon's political class led to the assassination in 2005 of Hariri's father Rafik, an immensely influential tycoon who made his fortune in Saudi Arabia.

Investigations pointed to the responsibility of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah.

Other political assassinations in the anti-Hezbollah camp ensued, then a month-long war between the powerful militia and neighbouring Israel, as well as violent internal clashes that harked back to the dark days of the 1975-1990 civil war.

Twelve years on, Lebanese politics remain just as toxically sectarian and the threat of another flare-up very real. Hariri even said yesterday he feared going the way of his father.

His resignation came in a context of high tension between Saudi Arabia, once the region's powerhouse, and Iran, which has played an increasingly prominent political and military role in the region recently.

On Friday, Hariri met Iran's most seasoned diplomat, Ali Akbar Velayati, before flying to Saudi Arabia and resigning from there via a Saudi-funded television network.

"The timing and venue of the resignation are surprising... but not the resignation itself," said Fadia Kiwane, political science professor at Beirut's Saint Joseph University.

"The situation is developing rapidly and we're at a turning point... there could be a deadly clash between Saudi Arabia and Iran," she said. "In that event, the two main camps in Lebanon will clash too."



Over the past few weeks, a Saudi minister, Thamer al- Sabhan, has unleashed virulent attacks against Hezbollah on social media.

"The terrorist party should be punished... and confronted by force," he wrote last month.

Other than just an internal conflict, analysts also do not rule out an external attack on Hezbollah, be it by Saudi Arabia directly or by the Shiite militia's arch-foe Israel.

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Indian firms mobilised over Rs 36,000 crore through issuance of shares to institutional investors during April-September period of the current fiscal, a 13-fold rise from the year-ago period.

As per the latest data available with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), capital garnered by the listed companies through the Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) route stood at Rs 36,653 crore in the first six months of 2017-18.

In comparison, firms had mopped-up Rs 2,818 crore in April-September period of 2016-17.

The capital garnered by the listed companies in the first six months of 2017-18 is also four times the total amount raised in the entire 2016-17, which stood at Rs 8,464 crore.

The funds have been mobilised for business expansion, refinancing of debt, working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes.

QIP is an alternative mode of resource raising available for listed companies to raise funds from domestic market.

In terms of numbers, 16 issues were witnessed in the first six months of the current fiscal as compared to 9 during the same period of the previous financial year.
India should augment its water storage capacity in the north-eastern states to tackle any shortage in case China undertakes a project diverting water from the Brahmaputra river, experts have recommended.

The recommendation came amid reports that Chinese engineers were testing techniques that could be used to build a 1,000-km-long tunnel to divert water from the Brahmaputra river in Tibet close to Arunachal Pradesh to the parched Xinjiang region.

China, however, has rejected these media reports as "false and untrue".

While some experts felt India might not be affected in a big way in flood seasons even if China went ahead with the tunnel project, former Central Water Commission chairman A B Pandya differed on the extent to which the tunnel project would affect India.

Uttam Sinha, fellow at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), a strategic think tank, said, "We are a little fortunate that compared to China, we get much of the Brahmaputra water (due to heavy rains in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam). So, it (the tunnel project) will not affect India much, particularly during the flood season."



The level of water in the Brahmaputra, known as the Yarlung Tsangpo river in southern Tibet, may go down during lean periods if China diverts water from it "creating some problems downstream", he said.

Sinha stressed India should augment its storage capacity, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, to tackle the ensuing shortage of water during the lean period.

A former senior official from the Union water resources ministry, who did not wish to be named, seconded Sinha's opinion.

"When the river enters India, it is called Siang and not Brahmaputra. When several other rivers including Siang, Lohit and Dibang come together, Brahmaputra is born in Assam," he said.

Even if China diverts the water through the tunnel project upstream, the Siang will get 30-40 per cent of the total water being received now which is still a "huge quantum", he said.

Agreeing with them, South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP) coordinator Himanshu Thakkar also said the possibility of the river becoming dry did not arise.

The SANDRP is an informal network of organisations working on issues related to the water sector, particularly on issues associated with large dams.

However, Pandya differed with these experts on the extent to which the tunnel project would affect India.

"If we consider the remote possibility of China undertaking that project, the flow of river water will go down substantially in the north-eastern states. That may also lead to excessive problems during the flood season," Pandya said.

India should enhance its storage capacity to deal with any problem arising out of the possible construction of dams by China in the Brahmaputra Valley, especially in Arunachal Pradesh, he added.

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A contested wire-tapping bill in Italy risks landing journalists in jail for up to three years and could see mafia-related crimes go undetected, critics said today.

The bill, which was approved by the cabinet this week and is waiting for a green light from the prime minister's office, is a bid by the government to stop potentially incriminating but private conversations being splashed in the media.

"It will be the last rites for criminal trials," warned Giulia Bongiorno, one of Italy's most renowned lawyers.

Under the proposed law, police officers listening to wiretapped conversations will only be allowed to transcribe and pass on to prosecutors "relevant" bits. Any transcripts not used in trial would be sealed as "secret".

Successive governments have attempted to change the law to protect against what former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi in 2010 dubbed "porno politics", where reputations are ruined and trials jeopardised before courts rule.

But each time their efforts have been stymied by police, prosecutors and the media, who say it would hobble investigations and limit journalists' ability to report on matters of public interest.

Justice Minister Andrea Orlando said on Thursday the bill would "in no way hamper the possibilities for prosecutors and police to use wiretaps as instruments in their investigations".

"Nor does it affect freedom of the press or the right to inform," he said.

But La Repubblica daily said today it would mean "six to three years for the journalist who, doing his job, finds and publishes wiretaps that the prosecutor considers 'irrelevant' for trial, but are extremely relevant for their value".

"Publishing such transcripts will become extremely risky, with the real chance of ending up behind bars for revealing 'secret' wiretaps that the political sphere above all does not want to end up in the papers," it added.

Leaving it up to policemen to decide what could be of interest to the legal process was pure folly, Bongiorno said.

"There will be an enormous amount of discretion in deciding, almost arbitrarily, what wiretaps are relevant. Overworked Italian judges won't be able to perform the necessary controls this law demands," she said.

Bongiorno argued that Orlando had also ignored the "most obvious pitfall: the ambiguity of language".

"Perhaps he thinks that people always talk openly? Does he know how many times the word mozzarella is used instead of cocaine? Will mozzarellas be held to be relevant or not?" she said.

In one famous trial in 1983, judges convicted dozens of defendants for mafia crimes after examining transcripts of conversations in which "horses" was used as a code word for heroin and "green lemons" for US dollars.

Former anti-mafia magistrate Antonio Di Pietro said the bill "has big holes in it" and called for it to be modified.

"The criticisms raised by magistrates, lawyers, jurists and journalists should convince the government to review the bill and persuade parliament to call for radical changes," the Italian National Press Federation (FNSI) said.

Transforming it into law not only risked "serious conflicts with heavy consequences for freedom of the press" but would also deny citizens "the right to know about mafia, corruption and crime cases," it said.

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The Jammu and Kashmir Police today paid floral tributes to a constable, who was killed in firing by militants in south Kashmir's Pulwama district yesterday.

Senior police officials, including Deputy Inspector General of Police S P Pani, paid tributes to Abdul Salam at the District Police Lines, Pulwama, a spokesman said.

Salam and his colleague Munir Ahmad were injured when militants fired on a naka party near the Rajpora police station.

They were shifted to the Army's to 92 Base Hospital Badamibagh for treatment, where Salam succumbed to injuries.

He said that officers and personnel of other security forces also attended the ceremony.

Salam is survived by his four children, including a 12- year-old daughter, mother and wife, the spokesman said.

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A joint venture between Swedish defence giant Saab and the Adani group is looking at producing a broad portfolio of products including UAVs and helicopters for the Indian armed forces, besides eyeing a billion-dollar deal for supplying fighter jets to the Indian Air Force.

Asish Rajvanshi, head of the Adani Group's Defence and Aerospace division, said the joint venture was focusing on developing "foundational capabilities" to produce a wide-range of products in the aerospace sector for the domestic as well as export markets.

In September, Saab and the Adani Group had announced a collaboration in defence manufacturing entailing billions of dollars of investment and said the joint venture would produce Gripen military jets in India if it won the single-engine aircraft deal.

Chairman and Managing Director of Saab Group's India operation Jan Widerstrom too said the JV was not only eyeing the lucrative fighter jet deal but also looking at other areas.

Rajvanshi and Widerstrom said the joint venture was aiming at building unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs), military helicopters and various other aerospace components and equipment with a broad focus on developing a world-class ecosystem for the aerospace sector in India.

"If Gripen does not happen, it does not matter. We have started the journey of building foundational capabilities...We will pursue the UAV programme, the helicopter programme," Rajvanshi told PTI when asked about the future of the JV if it did not get the fighter jet deal.

The government is set to start the process soon for procuring a fleet of single-engine fighters for the IAF and US defence firm Lockheed Martin will be a major competitor for Saab for the deal.

The fighter jets will be produced jointly by a foreign aircraft maker along with an Indian company under the recently launched strategic partnership model which seeks to bring in high-end defence technology to India.

Official sources said the the RFI (request for information), kick-starting the acquisition process, will begin "very soon".

In May, the government had unveiled the strategic partnership model under which select private firms will collaborate to build military platforms such as submarines and fighter jets in India in partnership with foreign entities.

Widerstrom said Saab was excited about the Indian market and was looking forward to the implementation of the strategic partnership model.

"There is a need to shape it in a way that it focuses on enabling the strategic partner to build up a long term sustainable capability rather than specific business oriented capacity," he said.

The government has been focusing on strengthening the capability of the IAF.

In September last year, India signed an Euro 7.87- billion (approx Rs 59,000 crore) deal with the French government for the purchase of 36 Rafale twin-engine fighter jets.

The IAF was keen on a follow-on order of 36 additional Rafales.

The supply of Rafale jets is scheduled to start from September 2019. Sources said the IAF would start receiving a fresh fleet of 36 Sukhoi jets from 2019.
A 58-year-old man was arrested for his alleged involvement in a burglary at the Aam Aadmi Party office at Rouse Avenue in central Delhi, police said today.

The incident happened on Friday when a vagabond, identified as Mohd Qazim, stole canopies from the office, they said.

A case was registered yesterday, the police said.

They said the accused was identified on the basis of a CCTV footage shared by a complainant with the police.

An officer privy to the probe said that the face of the accused was not visible in the footage.

However, on the basis of the physical appearance of the accused, five to six people were rounded up and Qazim was nabbed from Kamla Market, he said.

Twenty-two-year-old Surtan, a scrap dealer, was also arrested for buying the canopies sold to him by Qazim.

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Actor Karthi's soon to be released Tamil action thriller 'Dheeran Adhigaram Ondru,' will feature Rajasthani, Gujarathi theatre and Marathi, Bhojpuri actors, who are entwined in the crime plot that moves forward in several Indian States.

Set for release on November 17, the Tamil flick, based on true events would see Marathi actor Kishore Kadam, Bollywood's Abhimanyu Singh and Jameel Khan, pep up the crime movie.

'Sathuranga Vettai'-fame film director, H Vinoth told PTI that the movie which was shot in several States including Rajasthan and Gujarat would feature actors from other States as in sync with demands of the story line.

He said Bhojpuri star Rohit Pathak, and Rajasthani and Gujarati theatre actors would also feature in the movie.

Two retired police officials who were actually involved in the crime investigation would be starring in the movie as well, he said to a question. Action sequences are done by Dileep 'master,' he said.

Karthi, who is playing the role of a cop again in the movie after 'Siruthai,' will be a police officer from a small town fighting men to unravel the crime.

Rakul Preet Singh, who starred in the recent Mahesh Babu Telugu-Tamil bilingual "Spyder" is paired with Karthi.

'Dheeran Adhigaram Ondru' would release in Telugu as "Khaki.

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One person was killed and seven others were injured in a clash between members of two communities at Khurrampur village over construction of a toilet, the police said today.

Two persons have been arrested in connection with the incident that took place yesterday, SSP Rajesh Pandey said.

Giving details, police said Omprakash, who owns a field adjoining a mosque, protested when members of another community constructed a toilet near the mosque.

The matter was taken to court and the verdict was in favour of Omprakash.

Armed with the court order, Omprakash and his associates arrived on the spot to demolish the structure without informing the police leading to the clash in which fire arms were also used.

18-year-old Haseen Khan was killed in the clash. Among the seven injured, the condition of Omprakash and Ramveer is stated to be serious.

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Unidentified miscreants fired at the residence of a newly elected pachayat member in Thoubal district but there was no report of any casualty, police said today.

Unidentified miscreants fired at the residence of Hasina Begum, newly elected adhyaksha at Lilong Chingtham area of Thoubal district midnight last night, the police said adding they are investigating the incident.

Begum described the firing at her residence as an act of criminal activity and urged the police to arrest the culprits.

Meanwhile, people of Lilong Chingtham today demanded that the police immediately arrest the miscreants who fired at the residence of Begum.

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A shooting at a Baptist church in the US state of Texas today resulted in multiple casualties, media reported.

The shooter was reported killed.

The shooting took place at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, southeast of San Antonio, reports said.

They said the shooter walked into the church shortly before noon and opened fire. A two-year-old was among the wounded, the Dallas Morning website reported.

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A day before the Kashmir visit of interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah today said the party had "little" expectations from him.

He also asked the central government to devise a sound Kashmir policy.

"I have very little expectations from this new interlocutor. Like it has been done before, he will come and meet people. In 2010, the then UPA government had appointed a group of interlocutors who visited the state and had detailed discussions with every section here.

"The process took more than two months and after they were done with meeting people, a report was compiled. What happened to that report? Did the government discuss that report in any forum, including the Parliament? No. Instead it has been thrown into a dust bin somewhere in the North Block," he said.

The NC president was addressing a gathering in the Tangdar area of north Kashmir's Kupwara.

The appointment of a group of interlocutors in 2010 was followed by a delegation comprising of parliamentarians, who visited Kashmir, but "nothing happened", he claimed.

"So, I expect nothing to happen now as well," Abdullah said and rued the BJP-led central government's Kashmir-centric policy.

"Ever since the Narendra Modi government assumed power, their Kashmir policy has been swinging like a pendulum. The appointment of the new interlocutor is itself mired in controversies," the NC president said.

"Home Minister Rajnath Singh describes him as an interlocutor whereas the very next day another minister in the PMO designates him as a mere spokesperson.

"So essentially, when the mandate given to Sharma is not clearly specified, then what is the fun in having deliberations with him?" he asked.

Describing autonomy a way forward towards resolving the state's political issues, the NC leader said, "Our stand on resolving the issue of JK politically is loud and clear which is the restoration of pre-1953 situation."



"New Delhi is bound to make provisions to grant autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir. This is a guarantee that time and again has been clarified with number of deputations and representatives of the government," he said.

Therefore, for upholding the political dignity and rights of the state's people autonomy is a must, the MP claimed.

The NC president attacked the PDP-led state government for its "submissiveness" to BJP and alleged that it was a shame that a chief minister has to take "dictations from lower rung BJP functionaries".

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A team of experts from the National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Cuttack, is scheduled to review and assess the damage caused to crops because of pest attack in Ganjam district.

As Ganjam is one of the worst-affected districts due to massive pest attack in the state, experts of the Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) have already reviewed the croploss on Friday, officials said.

They said crops on around 19,904 hectares of land were destroyed due to the insect attack. Crops on 13,009 hectares area were destroyed by brown plant hopper (BPH). Paddy was cultivated on 2.16 lakh hectares area in the district.

The NRRI team will soon visit the fields to asess the damage, said Deputy Director of Agriculture (DDA), Ganjam, Manoj Behera.

They are likely to study the pesticides used by the farmers to control the pest menace, while the extent of damage due to pest attack would be known after getting reports from all blocks, he said.

Meanwhile, the state government is contemplating sending the pesticides used by the farmers for laboratory test to the Central Insecticides Laboratory (CIL), Faridabad, to ascertain their quality, officials said. Several farmers complained that the pesticides, which they used, were not effective.

A six-member expert team, led by Bhagaban Patra, professor in entromology department of OUAT, visited different blocks in the district and interacted with the farmers about the use of pesticides. "We'll submit our report to the government soon with some recommendations," said Patra after visiting the affected areas of Aska, Sorada, Bhanjanagar and Hinjili blocks.

Farmers in different areas staged demonstrations, displaying their damaged plants. They demanded compensation for the crop loss. Many farmers said they expected a bumper crop this year due to favourable climate, but all hopes were shattered due to the pest attack.

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Haryana minister Anil Vij today said the alliance being stitched up by the opposition parties and other groups in Gujarat cannot defeat the BJP in the assembly polls in the western state next month.

The 'Modi wave' continues in the country and the saffron party will form government again in that state, he said.

"Even if 100 dogs join hands, they cannot challenge a lion. BJP will win the Gujarat polls," tweeted Vij, an outspoken minister in the BJP-led government in Haryana, while referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "lion".

The opposition parties and other groups which are trying to join hands in Gujarat can never defeat the ruling BJP there, he said



"The BJP will once again be victorious in the Gujarat polls," he said.

Earlier, the health minister lashed out at Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala for comparing Modi to the whimsical 14th-Century monarch Muhammad Bin Tughlak.

Talking to media persons in Ambala today, he said Surjewala was a "liar".

He accused Congress leaders of always leveling false allegations to divert the attention of people.

Modi has become the symbol of progress and now the India is being recognised throughout the world because of the prime minister, Vij said.

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Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria today said appropriate action would be taken if anyone tried to disturb law-and-order in the state during the release of Hindi film 'Padmavati', which has courted controversy.

He, however, added that if the film, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, had any objectionable content, it should be removed as Rajput queen Padmavati was an icon of India.

"If anyone tries to disturb law-and-order, appropriate action will be taken. Issues can be sorted out through talks and if there is any objectionable content in the film, it should be removed," Kataria told reporters here when asked about the threats of protests by Rajput outfits if the film was released in the state.

The BJP leader said Rani Padmavati should not be seen from a caste viewpoint.

"Rani Padmavati is an icon of the country and if there is anything insulting (about her) in the film, it should be corrected," he added.

Meanwhile, a letter issued by the deputy superintendent of police (DSP) yesterday, in reference to a letter from the superintendent of police (SP), had created a confusion as to whether there was a ban on the film's release in Udaipur.

The SP, however, clarified later that there was no such ban.

"No ban has been imposed on the film in Udaipur and there is no such direction," SP Rajendra Prasad said.

Members of the Rajput community have been protesting against 'Padmavati', while accusing Bhansali of distorting historic facts about Rani Padmavati of Chittorgarh.

The film is set to hit the screens across the country on December 1.

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi today rejected the idea of an "independent Kashmir", saying it was not based on "reality", according to a media report.

Abbasi was addressing a conference on 'Future of Pakistan 2017' held at the London School of Economics' South Asia Centre here.

After his address, the prime minister responded to a range of questions on topics from Afghanistan, civil-military ties, disqualification of his predecessor Nawaz Sharif, to relations with India and the Kashmir issue.

On a question about "independent Kashmir", the prime minister said "the idea is often floated around but has no reality", Geo TV reported.

"There is no support for the demand for independent Kashmir," he claimed.

Talking about ties with India, Abbasi said relations between the two countries cannot improve till the Kashmir issue is resolved.

"Talks are the only way forward, without talks no quantum change is possible," he said.

To another question, he said though the judiciary had removed Sharif as prime minister, "however we have left it to history to judge whether history accepts the judgment or not".

He also said that most of Pakistan does not agree with Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court.

Sharif was disqualified as premier by the apex court on July 28 in the Panama Papers scandal.

On US-Pakistan relations, Abbasi said they should not be defined by Afghanistan alone.

The prime minister also presented a positive picture of Pakistan's economy and claimed there has been a marked improvement in every economic field since 2013.

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The Congress might take a final call tomorrow on the issue of promising reservation for Patidars under the OBC category, a condition set by quota spearhead Hardik Patel for extending his community's support to the party in poll-bound Gujarat, a state party leader said today.

This was stated by former Gujarat Congress president Siddharth Patel, who along with Gujarat High Court lawyer Babubhai Mangukiya, met senior party leader and advocate Kapil Sibal here.

After the meeting, Patel told reporters that the party high-command might take a call on the issue tomorrow.

Hardik has set a condition that he would support the Congress in the Assembly election, due next month, only if the party committed itself to allotting a quota in education and government jobs to his community under the OBC category.

He has set November 7 as the deadline for the Congress to make its stand clear on the issue.

Sibal said he had conveyed his opinion about the quota to party president Sonia Gandhi.

"I have studied the Constitution in detail and given my views (about reservation) to the party high-command," he told reporters.

On his meeting with the Gujarat leaders, Sibal said they discussed the quota issue in detail.

"However, the final call on the issue will be taken by the party high-command. I cannot say anything about the issue of reservation (to Patels) as of now," he said.

Siddharth Patel said the Congress high-command was likely to take a call on the issue of reservation for Patels tomorrow.

"We have discussed various alternatives during today's meeting (with Sibal). By tomorrow, the party high-command is expected to take a call on those suggestions (about giving reservations to Patels), following which, we will engage in discussions with Hardik," he said, adding that the party was "doing its best" to resolve the issue.

Mangukiya said the Constitution did not have words such as OBC or EBC (economically backward class) and Patidars should not insist on the OBC quota.

"The words OBC and EBC are not mentioned anywhere in the Constitution. It mentions only 'Backward Classes' and 'Weaker Section'. Don't give too much stress on OBC or EBC, the important thing is that they will definitely get reservation," Mangukiya said, adding that Sibal might come to Gujarat to hold a meeting with Hardik on the issue, if needed.

Hardik Patel (24), the face of the quota stir, recently met Congress' Gujarat affairs in-charge Ashok Gehlot to discuss the quota demand.

The issue of OBC quota for Patels remained unresolved during a meeting between Patidar representatives and state Congress leaders on October 30.

Trying to do a balancing act, the Congress had promised to offer reservation in jobs and education to Patidars under the EBC category, but not in the other backward class (OBC) group as demanded by the community.

The Congress had agreed to various demands of Patidars, including the formation of an SIT to investigate alleged atrocities against the members of the community during a PAAS (Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti) rally in Ahmedabad on August 25-26 last year, if voted to power.

The party is trying to wean away the Patidars from the ruling BJP in the state. The community is believed to be a loyal vote bank of the saffron party and its numerical strength can tilt the scales in elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had tried to reach out to the Patels on November 2 when he attended the silver jubilee function of the Akshardham temple of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in Gandhinagar.

He had said that the Patidars had traditionally been with the BJP, "but a section of the community has turned against the party due to the recent agitation for reservation".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A court in Kalyan has rejected bail applications of the 12 accused in the multi-crore petrol pump fraud case, police said today.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime) Mukund Hatote told PTI that the court on Friday rejected bail pleas filed by the 12 accused.

District and Additional Sessions Judge N M Waghmare also rejected anticipatory bail applications filed by the remaining 36 accused.

In June last year, the Crime Branch of Thane police unearthed the racket in dispensing of petrol at the pumps, which was done by tampering with dispensing machines.

The Thane police had also raided petrol pumps in 21 districts of Maharashtra and two petrol pumps in Odisha.

Police had then registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and The Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel (Regulation of Supply, distribution and Prevention of Malpractice) order of 2005 and Essential Commodities Act 1955.

Subsequently 12 persons were arrested. They filed the bail applications, which were disposed of on Friday, the officer added.

Explaining the modus operandi, Hatota said the accused connived and tampered with dispensing machines at petrol pumps by converting the pulser card, mother board, control card, and keypad and dispensed less petrol and diesel to customers.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal today called upon his party workers in Madhya Pradesh to prepare the ground for "uprooting" the "corrupt" BJP government in the state.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh in November- December next year.

Kejriwal accused Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of indulging in massive corruption and misrule.

The Delhi chief minister was addressing a convention -- the 'Shankhnaad Rally' -- at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here.

AAP workers, who had gathered from across the state, responded with a huge applause after Kejriwal asked them about contesting the 2018 state Assembly polls.

"The BJP has been ruling Madhya Pradesh for the last 14- 15 years. The time span is sufficient for making a new Madhya Pradesh. But, can you point out a single achievement of Shivraj Singh Chouhan during this period," the AAP supremo asked the gathering amid slogan shouting.

He claimed that all the sections of the society, including teachers, farmers, students, women, traders, scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), were facing problems in the state.

"Shivraj sucked Madhya Pradesh like a mango. What is happening in Madhya Pradesh was happening in Delhi as well. But, the situation there has changed now.

"The power tariff in Madhya Pradesh is the costliest in the country, despite it being a power-surplus state. On the other hand, the Delhi government purchases electricity from Madhya Pradesh and supplies it to the citizens at one-third of the rates in MP," Kejriwal said.

He added that while the electricity bill for 200 units would come to Rs 1,370 in Madhya Pradesh, it would be for Rs 462 in Delhi.

Taking a swipe at Chouhan over the Vyapam scam, Kejriwal said Madhya Pradesh had earned notoriety for the entire episode and added that 40 young people were killed following this massive corruption.

"The young students, aspiring for a good life, were killed in the Vyapam scam, though officials and leaders were responsible," he alleged.

Kejriwal claimed that corruption had reduced in Delhi after the AAP government took charge.

"A report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), an agency of the BJP-led central government, has said that corruption has reduced by 81 per cent in two-and-a-half years in the Delhi government, while graft has increased by 67 per cent in three years in the central government," he said.

Claiming that the success rate of the students of government schools in the national capital had gone up compared to the private schools, Kejriwal said, "If you want cheap electricity, good government schools, health facilities and a corruption-free Madhya Pradesh, you will have to fight."



Referring to his government's achievements in developing the school infrastructure and in the health sector, the AAP leader sought to know that if Delhi could be developed in the last two-and-a-half years, why was Madhya Pradesh not developed in 14 years.

He said the BJP and Congress were hobnobbing with each other in Delhi, where the people had found an alternative in the AAP.

"The work done in Delhi in the last two-and-a-half years has never happened in any city of the country in the last 70 years," Kejriwal claimed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
04960319 said: Home Owners Associations are ******* stupid and I wouldn't follow the rules either. Like hell some wrinkly boomer is going to tell me what shade I need to paint my ******* house. Click to expand...

Home Owner Associations are a thing, and if you have the money to buy a nice house in a good neighborhood, seeing if there is a HOA is important and if there is, read what their rules are, because you will have to sign and agree with said rules or risk fines and possible losing of your house.Penn and Teller had a show called "********" I really enjoyed, where they present things in life, that are, yes, ********. Polygraph exams was one example. One episode the subject was "the lawn". One part of it was the HOA's and how snippy they are. One neighborhood required a certain breed of grass. Dunno the name, but this grass was about the most high maintenance grass there is, which must be constantly watered and tended, or the grass will die. No other kind of grass is allowed, and they interviewed the person who is in enforcement and he revelled at all the different bad names people call him when the guy knocks on their door because their grass is getting brown.My parents do not live in a HOA, but my father is 85 and is taking care of my invalid mother, he doesnt have time and hasnt really given a fark about his lawn for years. Imagine elderly people who should be enjoying life having to deal with this crap. Life is too short.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is seeking technical expertise to restore and preserve 20,000 rare and archival documents.

The archival records are in the form of printed books and bound volumes and there are no handwritten manuscripts.

"There are approximately 20,000 folios (both sides) which require scientific preservation treatment. Standard norms for conservation regarding tissue paper, paste and Archival binding need to be followed," RBI said while inviting expression of interest from agencies having experience in preservation and conservation of old library documents.

"The documents identified for preservation are old, delicate, fragile and brittle which need sophisticated handling techniques," the bid document said.

The service provider, the RBI said, "must undertake" the preservation an conservation of the documents in the Bank's premises only.

The work involves scientific repairing, removing "all the enemies" from the documents (such as iron pins, needles, cello and brown tapes), removing all stains from the documents, de-acidification and ink fixing.

The RBI was established on April 1, 1935 and its Central Office was initially established in Calcutta but was permanently moved to Mumbai in 1937.

The Central Office is where the Governor sits and policies are formulated.

Though originally privately owned, since nationalisation in 1949, the Reserve Bank is fully owned by the Government of India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Kanpur-based Regency Healthcare is planning to open three hospitals by the end of 2019 at an investment of Rs 450 crore, a senior company official said.

The company currently has five multi-speciality tertiary care hospitals with over 620 beds.

"We plan to add three hospitals with a total of around 750 beds by the end of 2019 as part of our expansion plans. We will be investing Rs 450 crore for this," Regency Healthcare SVP-Strategy Abhishek Kapoor told PTI.

The hospitals will be opened in Lucknow, Kanpur and Varanasi, he added.

"The Kanpur hospital will have 350 beds while Lucknow and Varanasi will have 200 beds each," Kapoor said.

When asked how the company plans to fund the expansion, Kapoor said: "It would be a mix of debt and equity. Going forward we plan to adopt a asset light model."



The company had earlier in March this year raised around USD 14 million (over Rs 90 crore) from a consortium of leading investors IFC, KOIS and Healthquad.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
has awarded a major contract for bringing to production the R-Series gas field in the flagging KG-D6 block to US engineering and construction company McDermott.

R-Series is one of the three sets of discoveries in the eastern offshore KG-D6 block that RIL and its partner BP plc of UK are working to bring to production by 2021-22 to reverse the declining trend in output.

McDermott on its website confirmed award of the contract but did not give value of the deal.

The company said it will provide "engineering, procurement, installation and pre-commissioning of subsea flowlines, vent lines, and a pipeline-end manifold for connection with six subsea wells in the R-cluster field at a water depth of up to 6,890 feet (2,100 meters)."



This is the first of three planned projects in KG-D6 that RIL-BP had announced in June, involving a cumulative investment of Rs 40,000 crore and producing from about 3 trillion cubic feet of discovered gas resources.

The R-series (D34) project is a dry gas development in water-depths of more than 2,000 metres, about 70 kilometres offshore.

It is to be developed by linking six producing wells with existing producing facilities at Dhirubhai-1 and 3 (D1&D3) gas fields in the block.

"The project is expected to produce up to 12 million cubic metres of gas a day, coming on stream in 2020," RIL-BP had said in June.

McDermott said in addition to the R-Cluster of six subsea wells, RIL can give it the job of five to seven more subsea wells at the Satellite-cluster fields in the KG-D6 block.

"The optional scope also consists of two additional subsea structures and flowlines at a water depth between 4,593 feet (1,400 meters) and 5,905 feet (1,800 meters)," it said.

McDermott said it plans to leverage its significant experience and presence within India including its Engineering Center of Excellence office in Chennai providing engineering and project management oversight for the project.

RIL-BP had in August 2013 won approval to invest up to $3.18 billion to produce gas for 13 years from D-34 (R- Series) discovery in the KG-DWN-98/3 or KG-D6 block.

The planned output from D-34, which is estimated to hold an in-place reserve of 2.2 Trillion cubic feet, more than double of the combined current production from Dhirubhai-1 and 3 (D1&D3) gas field and MA field in the KG-D6 block.

RIL had originally put the recoverable reserves in D-34 at 1.413 Tcf that could produce a peak output of 14.9 mmscmd. However, the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) trimmed the recoverable reserves to 1.191 Tcf and peak output to 12.9 mmscmd.

The Dhirubhai-34 or D-34 gas discovery in the southern part of KG-D6 block in Krishna Godavari basin was notified in May 2007. The find was declared commercially viable by MC in November 2011.

RIL has so far made 19 gas discoveries and 1 oil find in the KG-D6 block. Of these, D1&D3 gas fields were brought to production in April 2009 while MA oilfield began pumping oil in September 2008.
Russian police detained at least 380 activists across the country today for holding unauthorised protests against President Vladimir Putin, a monitoring group said.

The demonstrations took place after radical opposition politician Vyacheslav Maltsev appealed on his website for supporters to hold protests across the country, calling for a "people's revolution" to end "Putin's tyranny".

"We know of 380 detained. 13 were detained in Saint Petersburg and 346 in Moscow, who were taken to 19 police stations," said OVD-Info, a rights group that monitors detentions at political protests.

It added that officers from the powerful Investigative Committee, which probes serious crime, was questioning detainees at some police stations.

Moscow police said previously they had detained 263 people "for breaches of public order".

Many of those detained were carrying knives, knuckledusters and pistols that can fire rubber bullets, TASS state agency reported.

An AFP photographer said police, some in helmets and bullet-proof vests, picked up the protesters one by one in central Moscow close to the Kremlin. Police then detained activists on another central square, TASS reported.

A reporter for popular Echo of Moscow radio station, Andrei Yezhov, wrote on Twitter that he was detained, but he was later released without charge.

The detentions come after police in Moscow yesterday also detained dozens of people at an authorised nationalist anti- Kremlin march on a public holiday known as the Day of National Unity.

In recent months, opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who wants to stand against Putin in polls next year, has also called on his supporters to hold unauthorised protests, resulting in large numbers of arrests.

In June, more than 1,500 Navalny supporters were detained during a day of demonstrations across the nation. Thousands previously turned out in March for the biggest protests in years against the Kremlin, with police saying around 500 people were detained in Moscow.

Previously a little-known marginal figure, Maltsev ran for parliament last year as part of a coalition with former prime minister Mikhail Kasyanov despite opposition from some liberals who accused him of anti-Semitism.

The bearded 53-year-old activist calls himself a "Russian nationalist" and in a video released yesterday urged his supporters to "say no to Putin's regime".

Maltsev comes from the regional city of Saratov but fled to Paris earlier this year. A Moscow court later issued a warrant for his arrest over accusations of making public calls for extremist activity.

His movement, Artpodgotovka -- whose name refers to a military manoeuvre to deploy artillery -- was banned by a court in October.

The FSB security service said Friday that it had detained a group of Artpodgotovka members who were planning "high- profile extremist actions" on November 4 and 5 including setting fire to government offices and attacking police.

It said officers confiscated 15 Molotov cocktails during detentions in Moscow and the surrounding region.

The security service said police also shut down groups of his supporters in five other cities and accused Maltsev of using the internet for "propaganda of violent actions".

Maltsev told TV Dozhd (Rain) independent channel that the FSB had detained more than 100 of his supporters.

In a video statement last week, Navalny -- who is currently campaigning in Siberia -- accused the authorities of intimidating Maltsev and his supporters.

"People have a full right to gather, including on (November) the fifth," Navalny said. "What the authorities are doing against Artpodgotovka and specifically Maltsev is an absolutely illegal outrage.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Saudi Arabia pursued a sweeping purge of the kingdom's upper ranks today, saying it would freeze the accounts of dozens of princes, ministers and a tycoon arrested as the crown prince cements his hold on power.

Prominent billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal was among the princes arrested late Saturday, a government source told AFP, immediately after a new anti-corruption commission headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was established by royal decree.

Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves through the kingdom.

The dramatic shake-up comes at a time of unprecedented social and economic transformation in ultra-conservative Saudi Arabia, as Prince Mohammed steps up his reform drive for a post-oil era.

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported that 11 princes, four current ministers and dozens of ex-ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into old cases such as floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009.

The government official gave AFP a list of 14 of the most high-profile names including Prince Al-Waleed, ranked among the richest men in the world.

The information ministry separately said the bank accounts of those arrested will be "frozen" and any assets related to the corruption cases will be registered as state property.

"The suspects are being granted the same rights and treatment as any other Saudi citizen," attorney general Sheikh Saud al-Mojeb said in a statement, adding that a number of investigations had been initiated.

"A suspect's position or status does not influence the firm and fair application of justice."



Shares in Kingdom Holding, 95 percent of which is owned by Prince Al-Waleed, dived 9.9 percent as the Saudi stock exchange opened Sunday after reports of his arrest. The share price later recovered some of its losses to end the day down 7.6 percent.

In a statement Kingdom Holding said it was "aware" of Saturday's developments but insisted that it was "business as usual" after the chief executive of the company was assured of support from the government.

Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan said the crackdown "heralds a new era and policy of transparency, clarity and accountability".

"The decisive decisions will preserve the investment environment and boost trust in the rule of law," the Saudi Press Agency quoted him as saying.

The kingdom's top council of clerics also lauded the anti-corruption efforts as "important", essentially giving religious backing to the crackdown.

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets at airports, possibly to prevent high- profile figures from leaving the country.

There was fevered speculation on social media that the arrested figures were being held at Riyadh's Ritz Carlton, a palatial hotel originally planned as a palace for guests of the royal family.

The hotel appeared to be closed off to the public on Sunday and its website said the property was fully booked.

"The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community," Ulrichsen told AFP.

The purge comes less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business leaders to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his reform drive that has shaken up the kingdom.

It follows a wave of arrests of influential clerics and activists in September as the 32-year-old prince, often known as MBS, consolidates his hold on power.

Analysts said many of those detained were resistant to Prince Mohammed's aggressive foreign policy that includes the boycott of Gulf neighbour Qatar as well as some of his bold policy reforms, including privatising state assets and cutting subsidies.

The latest purge saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah sacked as the head of the National Guard, an elite internal security force. His removal consolidates the crown prince's control of the kingdom's security institutions.

To analysts, Prince Mohammed's meteoric rise has seemed almost Shakespearean in its aggression and calculation. In June, he edged out a 58-year-old cousin, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, to become heir to the throne.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The of judges of the Supreme Court and the 24 high courts has been increased even as proposals to give them a salary hike are pending approval of the Union Cabinet.

In a letter to the secretary general of the apex court and registrars general of the high courts last month, the department of justice in the law ministry said that the DA of the judges has been revised to 139 per cent with effect from July 1 "at the same rates (139 per cent) as are admissible to the members of the all-India service".

The letter pointed out that according to the revised rates, central government employees continuing to draw their pay in the pre-revised pay scale as per the Sixth Pay Commission are entitled to the DA at the rate of 139 per cent which was revised from 136 per cent.

The judges have been given the DA hike based on the 6th Pay Commission as two bills to provide them the benefits of the Seventh Pay Commission are pending approval of the Union Cabinet.

The bills are likely to come up for Cabinet's consideration in the coming days and would be tabled in Parliament in the Winter Session.

While one bill deals with salary and allowances of the Supreme Court judges, the other deals with salary of the high court judges.

During a hearing last week on a case relating to grant of washing allowance to apex court staff and officers, a bench of justices J Chelameswar and S Abdul Nazir had reportedly asked Additional Solicitor General P S Narasimha about the salary of judges of the Supreme Court and high courts which was to be brought on par with Seventh Pay Commission recommendations for central government employees.

In 2016, the then Chief Justice of India T S Thakur had written to the government seeking a hike in salaries of the Supreme Court and the high court judges on the basis of the recommendations made by a committee of judges which was set up by the CJI to look into the issue of salary and emoluments.

Sources in the government said the issue is under active consideration and a bill to amend The High Court and the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Act may come up in the Winter Session of Parliament.

Government functionaries said the quantum of the hike will not be as recommended by the judges' committee. They said the hike in pay packets would be applicable from January 1, 2016.

The judges' committee recommended a pay hike of Rs 2.8 lakh for Supreme Court judges, Rs 2.5 lakh for high court judges.

A Supreme Court judge at present gets Rs 1.5 lakh a month in hand after all deductions from salary and allowances. The CJI gets a higher amount than this, while the judges of the high court get a lesser amount. This amount does not include the rent-free residences provided to the judges while they are in service.

After the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission, the matter was already under the consideration of the government.

While the approved strength of judges in the apex court is 31, it is 1,079 in the 24 high courts. There are several vacancies.
North Korea could use biological and chemical weapons in the event of a conflict and the only way to locate and secure all of its nuclear weapons sites "with complete certainty" is through an invasion of ground forces, the Pentagon has warned.

In a letter to lawmakers, the Pentagon said that a full discussion of US capabilities to "counter North Korea's ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and to eliminate" its nuclear weapons located in underground sites is best suited for a classified briefing, the Washington Post reported.

The letter, reportedly written by vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff Rear Adm. Michael J Dumont, said North Korea "has a long-standing chemical weapons program with the capability to produce nerve, blister, blood and choking agents."



The Pentagon leaders "assess that North Korea may consider the use of biological weapons," the letter said.

The letter was in response to a request from two members of Congress about "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea," the Post said.

The Pentagon said that calculating "best- or worst-case casualty scenarios" was challenging and would depend on the "nature, intensity and duration" of a North Korean attack; how much warning civilians would have to get to the shelters in South Korea; and the ability of US and South Korean forces to respond to North Korean artillery, rockets and missiles.

A statement by 16 lawmakers, released simultaneously with the Pentagon letter, urged President Donald Trump to stop making "provocative statements" that impede diplomatic efforts and risk the lives of US troops, the paper said.

Trump and North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong-Un have traded increasingly threatening and personal insults as Pyongyang races towards its goal of developing a nuclear- tipped missile capable of reaching the US.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea conducted its biggest nuclear test in September, which its state-run KCNA agency described as a hydrogen bomb.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has written to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal seeking a CBI probe into the alleged DSSSB examination paper leak case and demanding strict action against officers involved in it.

The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) exam was recently held for the appointment of primary teachers in municipal schools.

Sisodia has also sought the cancellation of the exam for the paper that was allegedly leaked and demanded that the officers involved in conducting it be suspended so that they do not tamper with evidence.

"Since the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has taken no action in the past, this case should immediately be referred to the CBI for a fair and an unbiased investigation," he said in his letter, seeking re-examination.

Referring to the incident, Sisodia said that it was a serious case of corruption in the teacher recruitment process and there have been numerous complaints of exam papers being leaked.

There have also been complaints of papers being set from a particular guidebook and servers being down at the time when documents have to be uploaded, he said.

He added that all these issues have already been referred to the LG.

There have been instances of students being barred from the exams, but no action has been taken against any senior officer in the DSSSB despite multiple such instances, Sisodia said in the letter.

"Strong action needs to be taken in this case, so as to give a clear message that the LG's office is not protecting the corrupt within the DSSSB," he said.

The examination conducted by the DSSSB for the posts of primary school teachers in MCD schools was held on October 29.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Six people, including two minors, were killed after their car rammed a divider on the busy Lucknow-Agra expressway in Uttar Pradesh's Kannauj district and caught fire, police said today.

The incident happened around midnight when Vinay, a 22- year-old resident of Bihar's Siwan district, was returning to Delhi alongwith his younger brother, Abhay (20), a 30-year- old woman, two children, aged five and six months, and the car's driver, a police official said.

The car collided with the divider near the NCC plot in Talgram, around 152km from Lucknow, and caught fire.

Vinay, who works in Delhi, was found dead outside the car, while the rest of the passengers were charred to death, said Keshav Chandra Goswami, Additional Superintendent of Police.

Vinay's relatives have been informed about the incident from the contact details on his mobile phone, Goswami added.

The identity of the four deceased persons could not be ascertained yet and the bodies have been sent for post-mortem, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Four years back, Nand Lal Dangi was growing just 20 tonne of cucumber a year on his 2-acre land at Maharaj ki Khedi, a remote village in south Rajasthan, before he brought in the soil-lesscocopit farming technique.

The new farming technique has quadrupled his farm output to 80 tonnes in a year and zoomed his annual income, the farmer said.

However, there was a time when it was hard for him to even recover labour cost due to crop damage and low produce. Beside arid and hot climate, the region, around 425 km from Jaipur, is fighting with a common problem of nemetode, the 40 -year-old said.

Nematodes are worm like pests that feed on the root of the plants.

"After facing so much of crop damage I even invested Rs 10 lakh and purchased new soil for my farm but the problem of nemetode did not go. Against my expectations of 40-45 tonne cucumber my yield remained around 10 tonne, rest was damaged due to various reasons from pests to unfavourable weather conditions," Dangi said.

Finally in 2013, the Israeli technique, about which he got to know during a visit to Gujarat, gave him a reason to smile.

The farmer got a breakthrough in Himatnagar municipality in Sabarkantha district of Gujarat where he saw a company called Asian Agro company growing vegetables in cocopits.

Cocopit farming is a soil-less farming used to grow crops in coconut husk.

Dangi, who had never heard the concept of soil-less farming, was so much moved by the technique that he gave up the traditional way of farming in open fields and switched to cocopit farming.

Besides, he moved to polyhouse for plantation of crops and also gave up the traditional way of irrigating the fields through tubewells. He now uses drip irrigation method.

With the new technique of farming, his output has grown four-fold to 80 tonnes on the same area.

"I started producing Turkish cucumber variety Yuskel 53321 Hybrid with the new technique in my polyhouses. My output jumped four-fold and as production has gone up my income has also gone up," Dangi told PTI.

On 1 acre of land, the total input cost comes around Rs 3 lakh for one harvest. The seed and cocopit are bought from a Gujarati seed company for a total cost of 1 lakh.

Another Rs 70,000 is spent on fertiliser, Rs 30,000 on pest-controlling medicines and Rs 1 lakh on labour, he said and added he mixes the nutrients with cocopit and puts 1.5 kg of mixture in polybags.

Nemetodes fail to enter the bag.

"I cultivate my land twice a year. So, it costs me Rs 6 lakh a year to produce 80 tonne cucumber every year. And the return I get is Rs 18 lakh," Dangi said.

Earlier the input cost was comparatively less, but the annual produce was 1/4th of it, he added.

Even the fruiting period has gone up, he said, adding during summers the fruiting period begins between 35-40 and in winters 45-50.

During summers it lasts for 120-130 days wheres when the seeds were sown in open field the crop cycle was of 90 days. For winters, he said the number varies.

Earlier, where there was no guarantee that a particular plant will be able to produce a single cucumber, today each plant is producing minimum five cucumbers.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The son of a convicted Egypt-born terrorist who was associated with the mastermind of the World Trade Center bombing in 1993 has joined the New York Fire Department as a firefighter, according to a media report.

Omar Ahmed Sattar, 30, the eldest son of convicted terrorist Ahmed Abdel Sattar, graduated with 278 others from the FDNY Academy in October, the New York Post reported.

The elder Sattar, now 58, was convicted by federal authorities in 2005 of "soliciting crimes of violence" and conspiracy to murder Jews, the report said.

Six months after the 9/11 attack, the elder Sattar -- a postal worker from Elm Park -- was arrested and accused of providing material aid to Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman, the blind Egyptian cleric who masterminded the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, which killed six people.

He is currently serving a 24-year prison sentence in the federal penitentiary in Marion, Illinois.

In a statement to The Post, the young fireman did not mention his father, but described how his new job is a dream come true, the paper said.

"This is what I have always wanted to do. This is who I have always wanted to be. I have always admired firefighters," he said.

The department assigned Sattar to Engine Co. 282 in Borough Park, a heavily Orthodox Jewish neighborhood.

An FDNY spokesman would not say whether the department knew of the elder Sattar's criminal record when it hired the son.

"All individuals prior to appointment as a firefighter



must pass a comprehensive background check," said the spokesman, Frank Dwyer.

Officials noted that the younger Sattar worked for the city Sanitation Department for three years before joining the FDNY.

The graduates include John Palombo, whose firefighter dad, Frank, was killed in the 9/11 attacks.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Nearly 10 days after launching Telangana's first human milk bank in the public sector, the state government is planning to set up more such facilities in various hospitals.

On October 27, the human milk bank was inaugurated at the Niloufer Hospital here.

There is requirement in other hospitals also, state medical education director Dr K Ramesh Reddy told PTI.

"To reduce infant mortality, a lot of measures have already been started in teaching (state-run) and non-teaching hospitals. Now with the setting up of the first human milk bank at Niloufer Hospital, plans are afoot to establish more such banks," he said.

"The human milk bank at Niloufer Hospital will act as a base for us towards establishing more such banks in other hospitals," Reddy said.

After studying the functioning at Niloufer Hospital, plans will be formulated to set up more such facilities in the teaching hospitals and major district hospitals, he said.

There are also plans to set the banks at the secondary level hospitals in the state, managed by the Telangana Vaidya Vidhana Parishad (TVVP), as they also have paediatric units, the official said.

"We will plan depending on the load...like in teaching hospitals in Hyderabad and Warangal, there are a large number of referral cases of neonates," Reddy said.

These banks need lot of equipment as part of safety measures and to ensure that the milk stored does not get contaminated, he said.

Asked how many hospitals they plan to set up and by when, Reddy said, "We will be planning to establish in other hospitals one by one."



A human milk bank or breast milk bank is a facility which collects, screens, processes and dispenses by prescription the milk voluntarily donated by nursing mothers, who are biologically not related to the recipient infant, said an official of NGO Dhaatri, which is supervising the operation of the bank in Niloufer hospital.

"At Dhaatri, we counsel mothers on the benefits of donating their extra milk," he said.

"Some mothers who deliver babies prematurely are unable to provide the newborns with breast milk. Through a milk donor, the baby can receive all the benefits of breast milk," the official said.

Also, mothers with health complications and those on certain medications cannot breastfeed their babies. The human milk bank could help such mothers, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Britain's former prime minister Gordon Brown has claimed that his predecessor Tony Blair was "duped" by US President George W Bush into backing the 2003 Iraq War, according to a media report today.

Brown, who was Chancellor of the Exchequer when the decision to go to war was made in 2003, said that a top secret US intelligence report was not shared with Britain.

He said the US kept quiet about the secret intelligence report which showed there was "no evidence" that Iraq had access to weapons of mass destruction, the Mirror reported.

"Britain would not have invaded Iraq had we known about it," he was quoted as saying by the paper.

The report also undermined Britain's so-called "dodgy dossier" which claimed that Iraq could launch a biological attack on the UK within 45 minutes, the paper reported.

"We were all misled on the existence of WMDs," Brown writes in his new book, 'My Life, Our Times', which is being published on Tuesday.

"Given Iraq had no usable chemical, biological or nuclear weapons that it could deploy and was not about to attack the coalition, then two tests of a just war were not met.

"War could not be justified as a last resort and invasion cannot now be seen as a proportionate response."



Brown says he was assured by then MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove that Iraq had WMDs.

"I was told they knew where the weapons were housed. I remember thinking it was almost as if they could give me the street name and number where they were," he writes.

What neither Brown nor Blair knew was that the US Defence Department had its own report into WMD commissioned by Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld and delivered to him in September, 2002, the paper said.

The document revealed 90 per cent of US-held information on Iraqs WMDs was based on "imprecise intelligence" and relied on "judgment rather than hard evidence".

Brown says he had no idea that decision makers in America were already aware that the evidence on the existence of WMDs was weak, even negligible and in key areas non-existent.

"It is astonishing that none of us in the British Government ever saw this American report.

"As we were later to discover, the intelligence had not established beyond doubt either that Saddam had continued to produce chemical and biological weapons or that efforts to develop nuclear weapons continued," he writes.

As chancellor, Brown says his only official role was to find funds for the war.

The US-led multi-nation coalition forces toppled Saddam Hussain's government in Iraq in 2003 invasion.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has organised a two-day meet of its senior leaders at Karjat in Raigad district from tomorrow.

There will be several rounds of meetings followed by discussions on issues related to the state such as GST, farmers' loan waiver and challenges before the agricultural sector, urbanisation, strengthening of youth and women in the society among others, an official statement issued by the party said.

The party will also discuss its expansion plans. Party's founder president Sharad Pawar will address the gathering on November 7, it said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Two National Democratic Front of Bodoland (Songbijit) faction militants were injured in an encounter with police at Janglang area in Assam's Sonitpur district bordering Arunachal Pradesh today, police said.

A group of NDFB(S) militants fired at the police, who returned the fire injuring two insurgents at around 5.30 pm this evening, the sources said.

The other militants fled away, they said, adding search operation is on in the area.

The injured ultras have been admitted to hospital, the sources added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Steps for unlocking the US-India trade potential would be explored byAmerican, Indian, and international businesses with trade experts at a two-day trade meet beginning here on November 7.

Around 100 conference attendees will explore the economic partnership between the United States and India, factors that pose impediments to growth, and potential solutions.

The trade conference would address themes, including ease of doing business, expanding defence cooperation and energy cooperation, US Consulate General, Chennai, said.

Theconference titled"Unlocking US-India Trade Potential,"being heldin association with Atlantic Council South Asia Center,wouldenable conversation and collaboration among key stakeholders, thought leaders, and policymakers, the Consulate said in a statement here.

"We are pleased that our bilateral trade has expanded again this year to more than $114 billion, and two-way investment to $40 billion," US Consul General Robert Burgess said.

"We are also proud of the fact that the United States buys more Indian goods and services than any other country in the world.

US companies continue to see great opportunities in India, and we support India's efforts to open up to greater trade and investment to support US jobs," he said.

He said initiatives like this conference and the Global Entrepreneurship Summit, coming up later this month in Hyderabad, will further strengthen US-India business ties.

While bilateral trade between the United States and India is five times what it was a decade ago, tremendous potential for growth remains, the statement noted.

The Bengaluru meet is timed in advance of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES), a gathering of emerging entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders from around the world, which will take place in Hyderabad from November 28 to 30, it said.

It is co-hosted by the United States and India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A US soldier has died from wounds sustained during an operation in Afghanistan's eastern Logar province.

The NATO mission in the country issued a statement saying the soldier died during the military operation on Saturday, without providing further details.

President Donald Trump in August approved a Pentagon plan to deploy as many as 3,800 additional US forces to Afghanistan, where there are already more than 11,000 serving.

The US and allied forces are battling a resurgent Taliban as well as an Islamic State affiliate in Afghanistan, which is still gripped by unrest 16 years after the US-led invasion.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) chief Praveen Togadia today launched a health initiative here to ensure free treatment to the poor and needy at their doorsteps.

The initiative -- India Health Line -- is aimed at ensuring free treatment to every poor and needy in the country. People in need of medical attention just have to make a phone call except on Saturday, Togadia told reporters at the launch event.

The VHP is also planning to set up the world's largest mega blood bank and women healthcare clubs across the country in the coming months. It will also reach out to Hindus in 100 countries if they need help, he added.

"We have enrolled over 10,000 doctors who are providing free services, while the number of health ambassadors has crossed the 1 lakh mark," the VHP chief claimed.

India Health Line is functioning for the past four years and Jammu and Kashmir is the 26th state to be brought under its ambit, said Pankaj Tulli, secretary of India Health Line.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The world wants India to show the path to other countries and is looking at it with hope, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said today.

Speaking at a function here, Bhagwat said that the world is "fed up of experiments" and has expectations from India that it will lead the world.

The world is looking at the east, towards India and China but there are doubts about China and the world is looking at India with a hope. The world wants India to lead, Bhagwat said.

For this, he said, there is a need to push good works within the country so that the nation can become a world leader in good works and deeds.

Bhagwat was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the new building Sewa-Sadan of Sewa Bharti Samiti-Rajasthan.

He said sewa or the service to people, society and the nation is something which should be done instead of publicising it.

He said the service should be done and not just highlighted.

Bhagwat said RSS is also engaged in serving people and society. The work of the Sangh is of service or sewa.The service is done and not seen, he said.

Referring to the aid India provided to Nepal at the time of the massive earthquake in 2015, Bhagwat said technology has bridged the gap and it takes little time to reach out to those who are in need of help.

He also asked Sewa Bharti functionaries to create a positive atmosphere in the newly inaugurated building.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said there is a need to enhance social harmony, which has seen a decline in recent years, in the state by the way of sewa.

She said the government has undertaken works of renovating temples and protecting historical monuments in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
DUBAI (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's stock market fell in early trade on Sunday after Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman moved to consolidate his power and crack down on corruption with a cabinet reshuffle and a string of detentions of prominent figures.

The Saudi equities index was down 1.0 percent after 25 minutes of trade as declining stocks overwhelmed advancers by 155 to 15. Investment firm Kingdom Holding, owned by billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who was one of those detained, plunged 9.9 percent.

Shares in National Industrialization Co (Tasnee), in which Kingdom holds a 6.2 percent stake, fell 1.3 percent and Banque Saudi Fransi, in which Kingdom bought a 16.2 percent stake in September, sank 2.8 percent.

However, much of the market escaped panic selling and some blue chips were little changed, with top petrochemical producer Saudi Basic Industries down only 0.2 percent.

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported a new anti-corruption committee chaired by Prince Mohammed had detained 11 princes, four current ministers and tens of former ministers, as well as several senior businessmen.

Analysts said the worried the stock market because businessmen implicated in the probe might end up having to sell some of their equity holdings, which could temporarily at least weaken prices. New investment in the market by the businessmen could shrink.

However, they said local investors might ultimately welcome the prospect of Prince Mohammed increasing his power and reducing uncertainty about his authority. Economic reforms such as privatisation and development projects could potentially now move faster.

Elsewhere in the Gulf, Dubai's stock market fell 0.9 percent as the most heavily traded stock, Deyaar Development, lost 1.9 percent. Qatar's stock index dropped 0.6 percent in a broad-based decline, with nine of the 10 most active stocks weaker.

(Reporting by Andrew Torchia; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg)

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Despite concerns over the implementation of GST, the monthly collection ratios of loan pools of commercial vehicles (CVs), loan against property (LAP) and MSMEs remained strong at 95-99 per cent in July and August, says a report. Since the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax from July 1, there have been reports about temporary disruptions in the performance of these loans as borrowers have been working overtime to make their businesses GST compliant on one hand and their working capital cycle getting stretched on the other, says the report of Icra.

The observed collection efficiencies are largely in line with the levels witnessed during the previous few quarters, it noted. "While these are still early days, the initial performance suggests that the rated pools are demonstrating remarkable resilience. The monthly collection ratios at a median level in July and August have remained strong at 95-99 per cent for CV, LAP and MSME loan pools," Icra's structured finance head Vibhor Mittal said.

He said there has been a small increase of 30-50 basis points in 30+ delinquency levels during this period for CV and LAP asset classes. But delinquencies in the MSME segment have only come down. The report said for the CV industry, the GST is likely to have a positive impact in the medium to long term.

"For transporters plying in some sectors, the vehicle transit time has come down due to the removal of check posts at state borders. The deferment of e-way bill implementation has also helped," Mittal said. He said the ability of small road transporters to cope with the e-way bill requirement once it is rolled out and the corresponding rise in operational cost, remains to be seen.

For MSME loans, many borrowers are either outside the GST ambit or have complied with GST under the composition scheme, where tax rates are marginal and compliance requirements are significantly lower, he said, adding "these borrowers are likely to see minimal impact on businesses." The agency said for the larger ticket loans offered in the MSME and the LAP segment, the government has extended the return filing dates which has provided an interim relief.

The compliance costs for some of these businesses may go up. As borrowers are forced to report their true income, their margins may also get suppressed owing to higher income tax levy, the report said.

In the long-term, the entities that are able to face the interim challenges will become part of a stronger marketplace, it added. "These entities will then be able to reap the benefits of GST-lower indirect tax burden, better logistics, and the end of goods and services distinction," Mittal said.
Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri expressed confidence that "physical manifestation of the work" in contracts that are in an advanced stage of implementation in the smart cities mission would be visible by June next year.

"This kind of advance thinking is being promoted in my ministry's flagship mission for smart cities. This again is a scheme which is operating very well. 90 cities were selected by competition, another 10 will be selected before this year," he said. "I am confident that by June next year, you will all begin to see the physical manifestation of the work that is done, of the contracts which are in an advanced stage of implementation," he said.

He was speaking at the 10th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference cum Exhibition inaugurated here by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. The smart cities are in the process of developing a large number of innovative projects which cover aspects like electric vehicles, he said.

"Our smart cities are in the process of developing a large number of innovative projects that cover such unprecedented aspects like electric vehicles, improved passenger information systems and smart parking systems, common payment cards for smooth transfers between different networks, intelligent traffic management," he said.

The minister also expressed confidence that the targets under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana would be met by the due date of 2022.

"I have no doubt that the work that was started in the time of the Vice President in terms of ensuring the implementation of the scheme, we will meet the target. I am confident that we will meet the target well before the due date of 2022," he said. The minister said he finds it reassuring that construction work has either started or at an advanced stage in states like Andhra Pradesh.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  The growth in enrollment in Utah charter schools has slowed, but it still outpaces enrollment increases across the states entire public education system, according to new figures from the state Board of Education.

The numbers released Tuesday indicate charter school enrollment grew by 5.7 percent this year as statewide enrollment grew by 1.2 percent, The Salt Lake Tribune reported .

Utahs public education system added 7,872 students for a total enrollment of 652,348. More than 4,000 students enrolled in charter schools, bringing the total to 75,567. While the charter school growth percentage exceeded the state rate, it was the lowest increase in four years.

Charter schools were seeing enrollment growth percentages in the double digits as recently as 2014, but the rate has declined each year since. The number of charter schools was increasing, though three charters were shut down because of issues with low performance and budgetary lapses. Charter schools are publicly funded, but they operate outside the states 41 public school districts.

The number of applications for new charter schools has, unsurprisingly, gone down, said Royce Van Tassell, executive director of the Utah Association of Public Charter Schools. The state Charter School Board continues to be thorough in evaluating proposed charters. There are more that they reject than they approve.

Mark Peterson, a spokesman for the state Board of Education, said this years numbers have largely followed the recent trends. Despite the statewide growth, some of the states rural school districts experienced enrollment declines. Both growth and decline can cause financial challenges for districts, Peterson said.

That is a sizeable number of students who all have to have classrooms and teachers available to them, Peterson said of the statewide enrollment number. Were not seeing such numbers that are going to overly stress the system. But we still are going to need funding.
The Lebanon Fire District battled a two-alarm rural structure fire Saturday afternoon, which the landowner reported at about 2 p.m., according to a news release from the district.

After arriving on scene, the first engine quickly called the second alarm to ensure adequate personnel and water arrived to extinguish the flames.

The fire consumed a manufactured home and a large A-frame carport and took 13 firefighters almost two hours to extinguish. Fire crews kept the blaze from spreading to brush and trees that were near the buildings.

No civilians or firefighters were injured.
| BY Ricki Green |

LIDA Australia, the customer engagement specialist business within the M&C Saatchi Group, has released its latest work for the Naval Association of Australia (NAA).

The campaign Reflections marks this years Remembrance Day. The beautifully illustrated campaign features three print ads, website homepage redesign, Facebook animation and Instagram content recognising the service of former sailors, while paying tribute to the current fleet of the modern Australian Navy.

Separate from the Navy, the NAA is the foremost Naval ex-service organisation in Australia. The organisation exists to look after the interests of both serving and former sailors.

Says Russell Pettis, from the Naval Association of Australia: Remembrance Day is a day to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by our service men and women both past and present. This year, the NAA with LIDA, has developed three print ads to remember not only the service of former sailors, but also to pay tribute to the current fleet of the Royal Australian Navy.

Says Rich Donovan, creative director, LIDA Australia: Australias current service men and women are constantly being deployed for long periods of time in war zones far from Australian shores  the Royal Australian Navy is no exception. This idea accurately matches the current ships of the Royal Australian Navy fleet with former Australian war ships of the same name or class. The powerful illustrations demonstrate the idea being that the sacrifice and duty of former servicemen and women is reflected in the service of todays modern Navy.

You can visit the Naval Association of Australia here: http://navalassoc.org.au/.

LIDA Australia (M&C Saatchi Group)

Victoria Curro: Managing Director

Brendon Harrington: General Manager

Richard Donovan: Creative Director

Domenic Bartolo: Creative / Design Director

Janet Evans: Senior Copy Writer

Ticiana Andrade: Software Engineer

John Pannocchia: Senior Integrated Producer

Fleur Farrington: Creative Services Manager

Naval Association of Australia:

National President: Commander Terry Makings AM RAN Retd.

National Secretary: Commander Peter Cooke Russell RAN Retd.

White Ensign Magazine:

Magazine Editor: Russell Pettis FAIM

Sub Editor & Designer: Darren Rush
Let's say you're in a line of cars that's stopped at a traffic light, maybe with six or seven cars ahead of you. If, when the light turns green, you wonder why all the cars ahead of you don't move more quickly through the intersection, today's column is for you.

I've written before about my fascination with traffic lights, which frankly is starting to border on the unhealthy. But you can imagine how excited I was to read about a study from Oregon State University that examined the use of so-called countdown timers for drivers at traffic lights. So I called the corresponding author on the study, David Hurwitz, a transportation engineering researcher in OSU's College of Engineering. I was gratified to find someone who shared my deep interest in traffic lights, and Hurwitz was a good sport with my questions, frequently telling me that I was asking a really smart question even when we both knew otherwise.

These countdown timers tell drivers how much time remains before the current stoplight indication  red, yellow or green  will change. They're like the timers that guide pedestrians across intersections, but they're intended for drivers.

The traffic timers are used in about two dozen countries worldwide, but not in the United States. Hurwitz told me that's because federal authorities worry about providing inconsistent information to drivers at different intersections. The countdown timers only work at traffic lights that are on fixed-time schedules; that's because so-called "actuated" signals, which get their cues from metal detectors and other devices that react to real-time traffic conditions, typically change their signals one to four seconds after making the decision to change. That's not enough time for a countdown timer to be useful to drivers.

And, Hurwitz said, the countdown timers likely only would be practical in larger cities, where traffic signals are connected to a central operations system.

Still, the OSU study is intriguing. The researchers put 55 drivers behind the wheel of a full-scale driving simulator (in this case, a 2009 Ford surrounded by massive projection screens to provide what Hurwitz called "a virtual reality of sorts"). The drivers then reacted to hundreds of what traffic engineers like to call "intersection interactions," half of which involved a countdown timer that showed how much time remained before a green light turned yellow. The idea was to replicate those "dilemma zone" situations in which you're not sure whether to stop or speed up to get through the intersection.

I know what you're thinking, because that's what I thought too: My theory was that the presence of the countdown timer would prompt these drivers to speed up to beat the light.

But science has quashed another one of my theories: In fact, Hurwitz and his colleagues found that drivers in the dilemma zone with access to the countdown timer were 13 percent more likely to stop. Drivers were less likely to brake hard. They also were less likely to floor it and race through the intersection, but that's probably because I wasn't one of the drivers in the study.

The implication of the study, of course, is that the countdown timers could improve safety at intersections, and you can see why that could be a big deal: Out of the 37,000 traffic fatalities in the United States in 2016, about 20 percent of them occurred at intersections.

This new study builds on previous research about how drivers reacted to a timer displaying how much time remained before a red light turned green. (This gets to that issue of why traffic doesn't move more efficiently through stoplights.) In this case, the study confirmed what you might expect: Drivers using the timers were better prepared to move when the light turned green. In fact, the first vehicle in line moved through the intersection nearly one second more quickly. Presumably, the drivers in the cars following also would be able to move more efficiently, assuming they weren't busy texting on their cellphones. Hey! Put the phone down and drive through the intersection! The light is green!

You might be thinking that getting through a stoplight a second or so quicker isn't any big deal. But here's the way I look at it: On a typical work day, I likely get stopped at 25 or so traffic lights. Over the course of a year, these timers could save me more than two hours. I don't know what you would do with that extra time, but I would subscribe to a batch of transportation engineering journals. (mm)
Did You Know? According to the Carlson, "venomous snakes in Australia do not bite each other when fighting for mating rights to local females, instead they twirl around one another, and the fittest male wrestles the other to the ground with strength alone". This wrestling is fast-paced and full of movement. Mating in non-venomous snakes on the other hand is a much gentler affair, with males sometimes seen "twitching" their body over the top of the female in what is a relatively stationary activity.
Tonight there's something of a sceptical crowd. We're asked who believes in ghosts. I'm still on a sugar high from the neighbourhood trick or treating, in fact I'm still dressed in my witch costume (first time I've ever turned up for a job on a broom) so my hand shoots up. "I do, I do." Everyone looks at me. "Come on people it's Halloween, get into the spirit of things," I say. No one gets my joke.
He said the people of NSW had clearly shown the industry deserved "a second chance" if it could prioritise animal welfare and said Queanbeyan could be at the forefront of an improved industry.
People on the list cannot know if or why they are on the plan. Ms Sentas was concerned that simply by being on the list, young people would be more likely to interact with NSW's criminal justice system contradictory to existing laws to divert young and Indigenous people away from punitive measures.
"There's a large number spread around the archdiocese who really want to be part of a group who stirs the pot. The issues raised during the hearings and preliminary reports of the royal commission make it clear there will be plenty adverse comment about the culture and governance of the Catholic Church and many Catholics want to have their say."
"In light of ongoing correspondence between the committee and the minister, despite the government's position on this matter, the committee maintains that it would be of value for the [university's] annual and financial statements to be subject to scrutiny and reporting by a committee of this Assembly," he said.
For Sydney this was the first quarterly fall, by a total of 0.6 per cent, since May 2016, while prices in Melbourne grew by 1.9 per cent over the quarter. In the ACT, prices fell by on average 0.1 per cent for the month but grew by 1.1 per cent for the quarter.
With just over a week until the official result is known, the "yes" vote is widely predicted to win (acting Prime Minister Julie Bishop said she assumed the "yes" case would get up this week). This follows years of polls that put support at about 60 per cent, as well as several polls taken during the campaign. In October, a Roy Morgan poll of more than 1500 people found 62 per cent would vote yes.
The campaign for Ann Roe, who is running for Congress against Lyin' Bryan Steil has come out with the best one-liner of this cycle so far: I can't argue...

1 year ago
Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact.

Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here.

Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing.

You are our people. You Care. We Care2.
EK Cell Repair went above and beyond my expectations for customer service.

I started my day with a phone that wouldnt make or receive calls, volume didnt work and a few other features didnt work. I called the cellular service provider only to be told that it would cost me approximately $300.00 to get into a new phone as I was still within the 2 year contract. They advised that I should go to EK Cell Repair as they possibly might be able to fix it.

They advised to leave the phone with them for a few hours and promptly called me 2.5 hours later advising that my phone was now fixed and ready for pick up! I got there and not only did the gentleman clean it for me, he tested it again and didnt charge me! Absolutely made my week.

Huge thank you and to anyone who has phone issues I would definitely recommend you pay EK Cell Repair a visit!

Pam Berman


Photo: Eileen Sadlowski

The Central Okanagan school district didn't have to look far to find its new secretary-treasurer.

Eileen Sadlowski, the current assistant secretary-treasurer, will assume the top job Dec. 1.

She replaces Larry Paul, who is leaving the district for a position in Alberta.

Sadlowski has been employed by the district since 1998. She was supervisor of financial services and director of finance before taking over the job of assistant secretary-treasurer under Paul.

"Trustees are pleased that Mrs. Sadlowski accepted the board's offer to move into the secretary-treasurer-CFO position," said board chair Moyra Baxter.

"Eileen has worked with trustees on the finance and legal committee, and provided the board with sound financial advice over the years. We look forward to working with Eileen in her new position as the board's corporate financial officer, and as secretary-treasurer-CFO of Central Okanagan Public Schools."

Sadlowski said she was pleased to accept the appointment and looks forward to working with the board, superintendent and senior management.

The district also announced Friday Supt. Kevin Kaardal has been appointed to the CEA/EdCan Network Advisory Council.

With his longstanding education and community leadership, Kevin brings an invaluable perspective to our Council table, says CEA/EdCan Network chair Darren Googoo.

The council provides a forum for expression of countrywide issues and trends in education and advises the board on the direction and priorities for the network.
Photo: Contributed

The provincial government says safety improvements on the Lower Mainland's Alex Fraser Bridge should prevent "ice bombs" that damaged dozens of vehicles last winter.

But, it won't be in place until the new year.

Ice and slush falling off the bridge's cables resulted in about 80 ICBC claims last December at the Alex Fraser and Port Mann bridges.

A new cable-collar system will be installed in January on the bridge that links Richmond to Delta and Surrey.

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena said the new cable-collar system "will help ensure the Alex Fraser Bridge stays open  regardless of the weather  so people can get to work on time."

The B.C.-made collar system is similar to one that's already been installed on the Port Mann.

The nearly 3,000 collars slide down the cables to clear ice and snow from them.

Last winter, thousands of drivers were affected when snow and ice on the Alex Fraser Bridges cables forced some closures of this busy crossing, said Delta North MLA Ravi Kahlon. "Adding a cable-collar system to clear snow and ice will vastly improve the reliability of the bridge."

The project is estimated to cost $5 million.
LAS VEGAS  The Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program is underway in Nevada and throughout the United States.

The annual program, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, provides educational resources to teachers to help students in grades K-12 learn about the outdoor world and their connection to waterfowl, wetlands and habitat conservation.

The program is a dynamic art and science initiative designed to teach wetlands habitat and waterfowl conservation to students in kindergarten through high school and help reconnect young people with the outdoors. The program guides students, using scientific and wildlife observation principles, to communicate visually what they have learned through an entry into the Junior Duck Stamp art contest.

Mariah Bacon of Elko took top honors in last years Nevada Junior Duck Stamp art competition with her acrylic painting of a northern pintail. Each states winning entry competes in the national contest, as well.

In Nevada, the program is facilitated by the Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Las Vegas. The deadline for submitting entries to the Nevada art contest is March 15, 2018.

Visit the national website at www.fws.gov/juniorduck/ for a full list of contest rules and requirements.
Colton Davies

Many of the best male curling teams in the world are in Penticton this weekend.

A total of 24 teams are at the Penticton Curling Club for the first-ever Ashley Homestore Curling Classic, running from Nov. 3 to 6.

Eight of those teams are among the worlds top-10, and six others are from the Okanagan.

The tournament is part of the World Curling Tour, which runs more than 50 tournaments annually in North America and Europe.

Its not often that tournaments part of the tour bring in as many top teams as this event in Penticton has, according to the tournament chair.

"These teams that are at our club, many of them you will be seeing on T.V. for the Olympics, so it feels like we're actually running a mini-Olympics right now," Cathy Jones said, the tournament's chair and the general manager of the club.

The top-ranked team at the tournament is Team Edin, rated number two in the world and bronze-medal winners at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.

"Really good hosting committee here, doing pretty much everything right for an event that's one of the best already," Team Edin skip Nicholas Edin said, comparing the tournament to others that are part of the World Curling Tour.

Penticton native Matt Tolley, curling with Team Baier at the tournament, is also the co-chair of the event, and applauded the reception by the community of the curling event

"Being part of the organizing committee, we worked hard to bring the event here... This has definitely exceeded our expectations." Tolley said.

"I guess I'm a little biased, but I'm pretty sure we knocked it out of the ballpark here."

The purse for the tournament is $66,000, money that Jones said the non-profit curling club has been able to raise on their own this year.

She added this event is the highest-paid of all World Curling Tour events in Canada, where about 40 of the tour events take place each year.

The World Curling Tour has signed for the next three years to host an event at the Penticton Curling Club.
Photo: CTV

A child passed away on Saturday afternoon after falling from a highrise apartment building in Burnaby.

Burnaby RCMP received reports of a fall at 3771 Bartlett Court, just before 3 p.m.

The child had already died when officers showed up at the scene.

"(We're) investigating a very tragic incident where there was a multi-level fall involving a pre-teen child," staff Sgt. Dale Carr told CTV.

Carr added that at least one of the parents was home, and said it's not clear if the child fell off of a balcony, out a window or any other method.

Police interviewed both parents at the scene and several witnesses to the tragedy.

"Anytime anybody witnesses anything terrible like this it can have a long-lasting, devastating effect on a person," Carr said.

Police will notify extended family of the child before releasing any further details of the identity.

- with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: Colton Davies Bev, left, and Dawn, owners of Oyama Soap Co., hosting a booth at the Okanagan Makers Christmas craft fair on Saturday.

Buy local, support the local economy and local charities.

That's the theme for the Okanagan Makers in hosting their 21st annual Christmas craft fair, taking place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre this weekend.

Admission for the craft fair is $4 dollars, and proceeds go to more than half-a-dozen local charities including Discovery House, SOWINS, OSNS and others.

More than 165 vendors are taking part in this year's fair.

Laurel Burnham, Okanagan Makers chief executive officer, said money is better-spent during the holiday season at community-based shops and vendors.

"Our economic well-being is all intertwined. It doesn't go to big box stores, it doesn't leave... they spend their money here, and that's what creating a strong, efficient economy is all about."

Burnham suspects this weekend's Christmas craft fair is the largest in the Okanagan.

She said more than 5,000 people came through the craft fair in two days last year, and expects the numbers this year will be similar.

The fair is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m on Sunday at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre.
Photo: Kelowna RCMP

UPDATE: 9:30 a.m.

A woman who went missing on Thursday has been located safe, according to her mother.

Kierstyn Brittany Patterson, 23, was located on Saturday night.

Her mother said RCMP did a safety check and found her "safe and OK."

"Kelowna RCMP would like to thank those that assisted with the investigation," said Cpl. Jesse O'Donaghey.

ORIGINAL: 7:50 a.m.

Kelowna RCMP are asking for the public's help to find a missing woman in Kelowna.

Kierstyn Brittany Patterson, 23, was last seen on Thursday.

Patterson is described as a caucasian female who is 5'3" and 100 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes.

Police said there is nothing to suggest foul play in her disappearance at this point.

Anyone with information is asked to contact local police or CrimeStoppers.
Photo: RCMP

UPDATE: Sunday 6 a.m.

Kamloops RCMP have identified a suspect in an incident in which a gun was pulled on a police officer and shots were fired.

About 5:20 p.m. Saturday, an officer approached a suspicious group in the parking lot of the Tournament Inn, and a struggle broke out during an attempt to detain a male suspect.

The man pulled a handgun and shots were exchanged before the suspect fled the scene.

It's not known if the suspect went into a room at the hotel or left the area, Cpl. Jodi Shelkie reported in a press release at 1 a.m.

"This situation is very fluid as the suspect has not been located yet," she said.

By 2 a.m., police said they have identified their suspect.



Michael Shawn Boyer, 41, is considered armed and dangerous. He is described as Caucasian, six feet one inch tall, 180 pounds, with short, brown hair.

If you see him, do not approach, and call 911 immediately.

The officer in the altercation suffered a non-life-threatening injury and was taken to hospital. He has since been released and was not shot.

Anyone with information on Boyer's whereabouts is asked to call Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.



The Kelowna emergency response team is on the scene, and officers will continue to process the crime scene today. The public is urged to avoid the area.

ORIGINAL: Saturday 8:30 p.m.

Police in Kamloops are currently surrounding a hotel and are reportedly looking for a suspect from an altercation earlier in the evening.

RCMP have set up a perimeter at the Tournament Inn, located on Highway 1 on the east side of the city.

An unconfirmed report indicates that police have been surrounding the hotel for more than an hour.

"It is early in the situation, and more details will be available in a few hours," spokesperson Cpl. Jody Shelkie said in a news release.

The situation is the second serious police incident in Kamloops today.

Police responded to an incident where shots were fired in an apartment building on Saturday morning, resulting in one male tenant being injured.
Photo: The Canadian Press Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh speaks at NDP convention in Victoria, Saturday.

Jagmeet Singh says he's witnessed the devastation of B.C.'s opioid overdose epidemic and it breaks his heart.

The federal NDP leader said he visited an overdose prevention site in Vancouver this week where he saw people struggling with addiction and learned how to administer the overdose-busting medication Naloxone.

Singh told about 2,000 delegates attending the B.C. NDP convention on Saturday that Canada's drug laws should reflect that drug addiction is a social justice issue and not a criminal justice matter. He called on the federal government to declare opioid addiction a national crisis.

Singh drew a standing ovation when he said the New Democrats would decriminalize personal possession of all drugs, not just marijuana.

"I saw that people's lives are being destroyed while the federal government does little or nothing and it breaks my heart," he said. "I saw with my own eyes the devastation of the opioid crisis."

Singh said addiction is rooted in issues of poverty and mental health.

"To me poverty, mental health and addictions don't sound like criminal justice problems," he said. "They sound to me like a social justice problem. That's why I'm calling for the decriminalization of all personal possession offences when it comes to drugs to make a difference in the lives of people and actually bring real change."
Photo: Contributed Photo of Nissan Sentra.

It was found covered in snow but in working order thanks to an eagle-eyed Kelowna woman who spotted an elderly woman's car.

The distraught 85-year-old made an appeal on Castanet for help to find the 2004 Nissan Sentra after it disappeared last week and a search failed to find it.

Helen's son, Glenn, had driven the car to a Tim Hortons for coffee, but suffered an episode and had to be taken to Kelowna General Hospital for treatment before being transferred to Vancouver General.

It was then the vehicle disappeared.

Thankfully, it was found on Saturday, a few days after it went missing.

"A lady was taking a course at the Capri and spotted a car covered in snow," explained Norma Hurley, Helen's daughter. "She checked Castanet for the licence plate number and called us."

Hurley said her mother is ecstatic that her car has been returned.

"It just goes to show that something like that can work," Hurley said of the appeal.

She said the car was in good working order and sent out her thanks to the Castanet reader for her help.
Photo: Alanna Kelly Homeless brave the cold in Kelowna on Nov. 5, 2017.

Wintery conditions have arrived in Kelowna forcing the homeless to take cover from the cold.

City of Kelowna spokesperson Tom Wilson said "Kelownas Gospel Mission is the citys cold weather station."

If people are located in distress across the city, RCMP will take them to the location at 251 Leon Street.

Temperatures are expected to drop down to minus 9 in Kelowna, without any relief from the cold until Thursday.

The City of Vancouver opened warming centres for the homeless this weekend and the B.C. government said nearly 2,000 spaces were also available at winter and extreme weather shelters that are now open across the province.
Photo: RCMP April Conlin, missing since Nov. 1, 2017.

UPDATE: 4:15 p.m.

RCMP in Kelowna said a 35-year-old woman has been located safe and sound after she had been reported missing since Wednesday.

"Thanks to the media and public for your assistance," said Cpl. Jesse O'Donaghey.

ORIGINAL: 11:14 a.m.

RCMP are asking for the publics assistance in locating a missing 35-year-old Kelowna woman.

April Conlin was last heard from on Wednesday.

There is nothing to indicate foul play at this time and police believe she is either in Kelowna or Vernon, said Cpl. Jesse ODonaghey.

She is described as Caucasian, five-foot-one, 165 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Police are very concerned for Conlins health and well-being.

Friends and family report that it is out of character for her to be out of contact for this long, said ODonaghey.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is being urged to contact police at 1-800-222-8477.
Photo: North Shore Rescue North Shore Rescue show area they are searching for missing hiker.

North Shore Rescue continues its search for a hiker who went missing some days ago.

In a tweet Sunday morning, the group said the search for the missing man, Carl Couture, has resumed.

"Today, teams are focusing on the west side of Lynn Creek below the Hanes/Lynn Lake junction. Thank you to SAR teams, Lions Bay, Coquitlam, Surrey, and Ridge Meadows, for their assistance," said the tweet.

Couture, 24, has been missing since Oct. 31.

Couture recently moved to Vancouver from Quebec, and friends say they're extremely concerned.

"We're all worried," said Marie-Pierre Fecteau. "He's made some trails before. It's not his first time [but] I would say he is not an experienced hiker."

Crews were first called around noon Friday to help locate Couture in Hanes Valley, which was blanketed with snow during this week's blast of early winter weather.

Search manager Doug Pope said crews are worried Couture might have already spent days exposed to the elements.

Anyone who may have seen Couture is asked to contact Vancouver Police at 604-717-3321.
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Photo: CTV An eight-year-old girl died in a fall from a high rise in Burnaby.

UPDATE: Monday 10:35 a.m.

An eight-year-old girl that fell more than a dozen storeys to her death from a high rise building in Burnaby was visually impaired, according to neighbours.

Police are still trying to determine how she fell and whether it was from a balcony or window.

A memorial is growing outside showing a happy girl wearing glasses and identifying her as Audrey.

Police would not confirm if the girl was visually impaired, saying they were not prepared to speak about the victim's medical status.

- with files from CTV Vancouver.

ORIGINAL: Sunday 12:50 p.m.

There is a little more information about a tragedy in Burnaby on Saturday.

An eight-year-old girl was killed after falling from a high-rise apartment building, police confirmed.

RCMP said the girls father lived in the building at 3771 Bartlett Court for about one year.

Officers arrived just before 3 p.m. and found she was dead.

Police are not sure at this time how the girl fell.

- with files from CTV Vancouver.
Alvaro Morata of Chelsea celebrates scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Manchester United. (Shaun Botterill / Getty Images)

LONDON  Alvaro Morata ended a six-game goal drought with a second-half header Sunday, giving Chelsea a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the Premier League on a miserable return to Stamford Bridge for Jose Mourinho.

United heads into the international break still second but now eight points behind leader Manchester City, which beat Arsenal 3-1.

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"We are worried," Mourinho said. "But there are 18 teams more worried than us because we are second."

But United was outplayed by the technically superior Chelsea, which instantly recovered from a debilitating loss at Roma in the Champions League with a spirited performance that took the champions a point behind Mourinho's side in fourth place.

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The goal was gifted in the 55th minute by the United defense, but it also owed much to Cesar Azpilicueta's vision and precision.

Morata peeled away from defender Eric Bailly and the striker was completely unmarked 12 yard (meters) from goal when he met Azpilicueta's pinpoint cross with a powerful looping header.

No combination has been more fruitful in the Premier League this season, with Azpilicueta also providing the assist for four of Morata's previous six goals in the competition.

Morata was only signed by Chelsea in the offseason because Romelu Lukaku opted to sign for United rather than rejoining the Premier League champions from Everton. But while Lukaku has now gone a seventh game in all competitions without scoring, Morata's goal famine is over.

It lifted the sense of strife surrounding Antonio Conte that has grown as his Chelsea side has failed to win its last two Champions League games.

Chelsea was transformed from the disorganized team that was picked apart so easily in Rome, with an assertive start against United.

Tiemoue Bakayoko had an early chance to put the hosts in front but missed the target, United goalkeeper David De Gea denied Eden Hazard and Morata lacked power with a strike before half time.

But Chelsea was getting closer, overrunning United in midfield with stability restored by N'Golo Kante returning from six games on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

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Within two minutes of Hazard being again thwarted by De Gea, United was carved open as Morata scored.

But it was an anxious ending for Chelsea, with the three points preserved with a minute to go when Thibaut Courtois produced a close-range save from Marouane Fellaini.
Rough roads such as Snake Road in the LaRue-Pine Hills Research Natural Area on the western edge of Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, can take its toll on a car's suspension, says Motormouth. (Sam Owens / AP)

Q: Can you settle a dispute I have with my husband? We have a very rough asphalted road I like to drive as a shortcut. My husband says that riding on this road can crack the battery or cause other damage to the car. Is he right about this?

 J.S., Oak Park, Ill.

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A: Continuous driving on rough roads can take its toll, but will not crack the battery case. Suspension components such as control arms and ball joints get most of the abuse. The occasional quarter-mile shortcut wont harm anything.

Q: I have a 2008 Infiniti M35x with approximately 78,000 miles on it. At my last oil change I was told that the rack and pinion system was leaking and they would replace it for a mere $4,000. I took it to the local Infiniti dealership, which stated the amount of leakage was normal and it doesn't need to be replaced. Now, 3,000 miles later when I got an oil change at a different shop, they also said the rack and pinion should be replaced. When I said what the dealer told me, I was told it should never leak. My bias is to believe technicians at the dealer since they did not jump at a chance for a $4,000 repair bill, but I would like to hear your opinion.

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 D.H., Stillwater, Minn.

A: Your logic is sound. A little seepage at the dust boots does not indicate seal failure. If there is fluid dripping on the ground or wetting other parts under the car, by all means, get it fixed. If the steering becomes stiff and heavy, that is an indication of an internal leak which cannot be seen.

Q: I have a 2005 Toyota Corolla with 84,000 miles. Two months ago the front passenger-side wheel started making a grinding noise when I braked. My regular mechanic told me the caliper was frozen. My brake equipment except for brake pads was original so my mechanic suggested I replace the majority of my brake equipment. The brakes work properly, but now they make a mechanical noise  similar to the noise you hear when you press the lever to unlatch the trunk. I have brought the Corolla back to the mechanic twice. He can't figure out what is causing the noise, but says the brakes are definitely safe. Can you solve this mystery?

 M.P., Chicago

A: What you describe seems to be a clicking sound. If so, the brake pads may be shifting in the calipers as you apply the brakes. They are safe, but to get rid of the annoying noise, have new anti-rattle clips installed. They are not expensive and should be replaced during every brake job.

Q: I have a safety issue question. We have a 2003 Ford Escape with 93,000 miles on it. We maintain both of our cars obsessively and have very few surprise issues. However, we've had things "age out" instead of break down and I'm concerned that the air bags may no longer be viable. We've had dry rot in the past and I was wondering if air bags could do that and become dangerous.

 J.M., Arlington Heights, Ill.

A: For about the first decade after airbags were first installed, some car companies would require annual inspections. They discovered that there was no degradation over time. Your car should be safe for as long as you own it.

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Send questions along with name and town to Motormouth, Rides, Chicago Tribune, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Fourth Floor, Chicago, IL 60611 or motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.
America's favorite seafood? Shrimp. It's easy to see why; shrimp are available fresh or frozen, shell-on and peeled, raw and cooked. Shrimp lend themselves to countless dishes, from curries to gumbos to kebabs to stir fries.



"Mom and I loved shrimp," celebrity chef John Besh recalls in "My New Orleans," a combination cookbook, memoir and tribute to Louisiana's food culture. "Dad enjoyed them but Mom and I loved them, just because they are so easy to cook."



Louisiana is the major source for domestic shrimp. The state's shrimp industry was socked hard by hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, as Besh noted in his book (written before the oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico), and has been battered by cheaper foreign competition.



For Besh and others, shrimp is more than a food; it's a way of life.



"It's not just the critters we need to protect here but also the spirit of our shrimping community," Besh wrote.



The region's shrimpers are the equivalent of the family farm to Besh. "In our neck of the woods, that means everything," he said in a telephone interview."



Besh, whose restaurants include August, Luke, Domenica and Besh Steak, is not the only New Orleans chef gung-ho on the local product.



"I think it's important to know where the shrimp are from because I personally think the Gulf shrimp are the tastiest and the best," said Susan Spicer, who, as chef/owner of Bayona restaurant, has made a reputation for using underused and underappreciated fish species on her menus.



In terms of having environmental cred, wild and farmed shrimp from the United States and Canada get the nod from the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program. Seafood Watch recommends avoiding shrimp from other countries.



Which shrimp is which? Consumers should ask at restaurants and retail outlets, said Sheila Bowman, outreach director for the California-based program. "The seafood supply chain has good information available that will tell you how it was caught, where it was caught," she said. "If a restaurant or a retailer can't tell you, it's because they haven't made it a priority to understand or know about the information."



"Not all shrimp are created equal," Besh insisted. "Domestic shrimp are much more scrutinized. Take the Gulf of Mexico for instance, where the shrimping season has just begun. Never have there been waters more controlled or tested on such a regular basis. They are making sure shrimp caught in these waters are not polluted." Of course, as the Gulf situation keeps unfolding new advisories or warning could be issued.



Spicer relies on a shrimper who goes farther west in the Gulf of Mexico, near Morgan City, La., to get shrimp.



"He delivers several times a week himself  which means he shrimps all night, then drives back to New Orleans and delivers to his restaurants all morning and afternoon. I don't know when the guy sleeps," she said.



Spicer likes using the Gulf's brown and white shrimps.



"I usually use a 16-20 count, which means there are between 16 to 20 shrimp per pound," she said. "If the shrimp are headless, a count of 21-25 is a good size. The smaller the number, the bigger the shrimp and the higher the price."



Besh uses both the brown shrimp, which tends to arrive at the market in May and June, and the larger white shrimp, which can be found from August onward. While larger shrimp are more popular, they also pose somewhat of a challenge.



"They're more prone to be tougher and chewier," he said. "If you go for medium-sized shrimp they'll be more forgiving and, frankly, there's sometimes less of that iodine flavor."



Whatever shrimp you buy, make sure to enjoy them to the max and showcase them for all their worth. For, as Bowman notes, the best way to treat the world's shrimp population may be not to eat them so often but relish them more.



"We have this all-you-can-eat-shrimp mentality," she said. "Shrimp is not a commodity that can withstand that kind of demand. We have to rethink overeating seafood like the salmon, tuna and shrimp that we love. We're loving them to death."



FDA: Gulf seafood is safe



The BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a major environmental disaster that has left chefs, consumers and experts wondering and worrying over the region's rich aquatic bounty. While a survey by the University of Minnesota's Food Industry Center found 44 percent of respondents wouldn't eat seafood from the Gulf, others are consuming it while keeping a watchful, waiting attitude.



The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says on its Web site that the Gulf situation and its impact on seafood safety are being closely monitored.



"Although crude oil has the potential to taint seafood with flavors and odors caused by exposure to hydrocarbon chemicals, the public should not be concerned about the safety of seafood in stores at this time," the FDA noted. "Fish and shellfish harvested from areas unaffected by the closures are considered safe to eat."



Chefs Collaborative, a Boston-based national network of chefs working on sustainability issues, has advised members to continue supporting Gulf fisheries.



"The testing has been so rigorous that our understanding is any seafood that's coming to market is safe to eat," said Melissa Kogut, the program's executive director.



While a huge quantity of oil was spilled, John Besh, the New Orleans-based restaurateur, said most people don't realize just how big the Gulf of Mexico is.



"The spill happened 45 miles offshore in water over 1 mile deep," he said. "That's not where the shrimping is done."



"A large portion of the fisheries is not affected," Besh said. "We need to spread the message the food here is good to eat."



How to buy shrimp



New Orleans chef John Besh offers tips on what to look for:



Dark brown heads, legs or tails can mean old shrimp. The color should be light, "almost transparent in a way," Besh said.



Use fresh shrimp immediately, if possible, or within a day.



Whole, fresh head-on shrimp should still have antennae attached; shrimp without them were likely frozen.



Besh said shrimp should smell "fresh and briny from the sea." Perform a "sniff test" at the counter, if you like. If the store refuses, try an old Julia Child trick: Buy the shrimp, open the package right there and complain, loudly, if unsatisfied.



Buy shrimp with the shells still on; use them to make a shrimp stock for use in recipes. "Shrimp shells have more flavor than the actual shrimp meat itself," Besh said. Here's his simple recipe: "Toast the shells in olive oil, add onion, garlic and celery. Cover with water and cook 45 minutes."



Frozen shrimp can be as good as fresh, Besh said. He prefers shell-on shrimp because they're less prone to freezer burn. He also prefers to thaw the shrimp himself when he's ready to use them, rather than buy thawed shrimp at the market.



Avoid precooked shrimp, Besh said. "I can't control it. I'm at the whim of someone else cooking my food."



Develop a relationship with a reputable fish dealer who cares about the freshness and quality of the product.



Source: Ralph Brennan's New Orleans Seafood Cookbook



wdaley@tribune.com
Kanye West speaks at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York on Aug. 28, 2016. (Charles Sykes / Invision)

South Side rapper Kanye West returned home to Chicago this weekend and joined Kid Cudi on stage during his Aragon Ballroom show Saturday.

The pair performed Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1, off Wests The Life of Pablo" album, at the Uptown venue. West was also spotted at a Harold's Chicken Shack on the South Side. His visit to Chicago comes days before the 10th anniversary of the death of his mother Donda West, a former Chicago State University English department chairwoman who died Nov. 10, 2007 after undergoing cosmetic surgery.

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West last performed in the Chicago area in October 2016 as part of his Saint Pablo Tour. He canceled the remainder of the tour in November 2016 while battling health issues and hasn't toured since.

Wests wife, Kim Kardashian West, was supposed to visit Chicago last month for Chicago Ideas Week but she canceled the appearance because of scheduling issues.

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Meanwhile, Cudi is scheduled to perform at the Aragon again Sunday at 7:30 p.m. as part of his Passion, Pain and Demon Slayin Tour.

tswartz@tribpub.com

Twitter @tracyswartz

[ Here's what Kim Kardashian West did instead of appearing at Chicago Ideas Week ]

[ Kim Kardashian West cancels Chicago Ideas Week appearance ]

[ Kanye West fans plan to honor his mom on day Taylor Swift drops album ]
The board of directors of Writers Theatre said Sunday that they have engaged "an experienced human resources consultant" to investigate a claim of sexual harassment made against the Glencoe theater's co-founder and artistic director, Michael Halberstam.

In the statement, the theater said Halberstam had agreed to "fully cooperate" with the investigation, which it said was made "in accordance with existing policies at Writers." The statement further indicated that neither the staff nor the board of the theater would have any further comment on the matter.

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Reached Sunday morning, Halberstam said he had "nothing further to add."

The complaint was made against Halberstam, 51, by Tom Robson, an assistant director and dramaturg for the Writers Theatre production of "Crime and Punishment" in 2003 and now an associate professor in the School of Theatre & Dance at Millikin University in Decatur. In a series of more than a dozen tweets posted Nov. 2, Robson alleged inappropriate behavior during the rehearsal process for that production, which was directed by Halberstam.

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"He spent much of that rehearsal process sexually harassing me, verbally and physically," alleged one of Robson's tweets. Robson said he was a "23-year-old unpaid intern" at the time.

Robson said Sunday he had "no further comment." He added he was currently in rehearsal with his students and wanted "to focus his energies on them."

Halberstam, a longtime presence in the Chicago theater community and the driving force behind the new Writers' Theatre building in Glencoe, which opened wth great fanfare in 2016, currently is directing the Writers Theatre production of "The Importance of Being Earnest," which begins performances Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the theater said that production was continuing as scheduled.

Chris Jones is a Tribune critic.

cjones5@chicagotribune.com

[ A Red Orchid announces 'Traitor' cast ]

[ 17 shows to see now ]

[ Theater openings Nov. 3-9 ]
Police investigate the scene of a shooting at a Wal-Mart store in the Thornton Town Center shopping plaza in suburban Colorado. (Marc Piscotty / Getty Images)

Most shoppers crouched behind checkout counters or bolted toward the back exit. But as a gunman fired inside a Wal-Mart store in a Denver suburb, some patrons took a more defensive approach: They grabbed their own guns.

They were the proverbial good guys with guns that gun rights advocates say have the power to stop mass shootings.

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But police in Thornton, Colo., said that in this case the well-intentioned gun carriers set the stage for chaos, stalling efforts to capture the suspect in the Wednesday night shooting that killed three people.

None of the armed civilians fired their weapons, and the suspect managed to flee the store.

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Police began combing through store security camera footage to identify him and determined whether he had an accomplice.

Once the building was safe. we started reviewing that [surveillance video] as quickly as we could, Victor Avila, a spokesman for the Thornton Police Department, told reporters.

But the videos showed several people in the store with their guns drawn. That forced detectives to watch more video, following the armed shoppers throughout the store in an effort to distinguish the good guys from the bad guy, Avila said.

Investigators went back to ground zero several times as they struggled to pinpoint the suspect, he said.

Five hours after the shooting, police identified 47-year-old Scott Ostrem as the gunman. He was arrested Thursday morning.

The assessment by police that armed civilians hampered their investigation is being embraced by gun control advocates, who argue that more guns on the scene of a shooting add up to more problems.

Especially civilians with weapons  it does nothing but possibly cause more chaos and harm, said Tom Sullivan, who became a gun control advocate after his 27-year-old son, Alex, was killed along with 11 other people by a gunman who opened fire inside a movie theater in Aurora, Colo., in 2012.

He said he resents suggestion that those deaths could have been prevented if more movie-goers had been armed.

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On the other side of the debate, Dudley Brown, president of the National Assn. for Gun Rights, said the conclusions by police in the Wal-Mart shooting are misguided.

This is a part of the job of police  to investigate what happened, not highlight that patrons were legally armed, he said. In that situation, what are people supposed to do? Lay down on the floor and draw chalk marks around themselves?

Id rather be armed with a gun and not need it, than to be not armed and be in a situation where one is needed, he said.

The National Rifle Assn. did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Gun rights advocates point to cases such as that of a Chicago Uber driver who in 2015 shot and wounded a gunman who opened fire on a crowd.

But studies suggest such cases are rare.

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In a 2014 FBI report, researchers examined more than 100 shootings between 2000 and 2012 and found that civilians stopped about 1 in 6 active shooters  usually by tackling the gunman, not shooting him.

Maria Haberfeld, a professor of police science at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, said using a gun for self-defense should be a last resort.

If their life is in immediate danger and they cannot run or hide, then they can move into the fighting mode and use their weapons, she said.

Bystanders shouldnt pull their weapons unless theyre members of law enforcement, or used to be, she said, because without training they cant properly assess the situation and could end up causing more deaths.
Jose Godinez, 32, of Oak Forest, is accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a young female relative over four years. (Cook County Sheriff's office)

A judge denied bail Saturday to a southwest suburban man accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a young female relative over four years.

Jose Godinez, 32, of Oak Forest, is charged with predatory criminal sexual assault. He was arrested Nov. 2.

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For four years, Godinez repeatedly engaged in a number of sexual acts with the girl, according to a police report.

Godinez, a chef, admitted that he made sexual contact with the girl  but said it was only one time, and only because he thought she was his wife, prosecutors said Saturday in court.

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"It just happened," he was said to have told investigators.

The pattern of assault initially began when other adults were not present in the home, a prosecutor said Saturday.

Though a police report indicated this was Godinez' first arrest, Judge Stephanie K. Miller denied bail, saying Godinez was a real and present threat to the community. Godinez was ordered to have no contact with the victim, her family or anyone under the age of 18. He was expected to return to court early next week.
A Rockford police officer on the force for less than a year and a another man died early Sunday morning following a scuffle during a traffic stop and a car crash two blocks away, police officials said.

Jaimie Cox, 30, made a traffic stop near East State Street and Dawn Avenue in Rockford about 1 a.m. Sunday before making a "brief radio transmission indicating he needed assistance," police Chief Dan O'Shea said at a news conference.

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Rockford officers responding to the scene found Cox, who was critically injured, near a single-vehicle crash about two blocks north of the initial traffic stop, O'Shea said. Officers also found another man dead inside a vehicle. Police identified him as Eddie Patterson, 49. It is believed he is from Rockford, police said.

The preliminary results of the investigation indicate that Officer Cox was involved in a scuffle during the traffic stop that resulted in the officer becoming entangled by the suspect vehicle, OShea said during a news conference Sunday afternoon.

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Officers began first aid on the scene then rushed Cox to OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, where he was pronounced dead, O'Shea said.

It was not clear why Cox made the initial traffic stop.

About 1:20 a.m., Rockford police said on Twitter that officers were at a "scene of a shooting involving an officer." O'Shea initially would not say whether anyone was shot. The later statement from the department said it is believed Cox fired his weapon.

"The investigation is still ongoing and very active," O'Shea said. "We do not believe we have any public at risk at this point. The area is still blocked off from the incident. The detectives are out there working ... As far as suspects, we dont feel the public is in jeopardy right now."

Several details remained unclear.

O'Shea said Cox was not wearing a body camera but he declined to say if officials were reviewing a dash camera from the squad car. OShea also would not say if Cox died of gunshot wounds, where Cox was found after the car crash or if a weapon was found in Patterson's truck. OShea also declined to say how Cox became entangled in the vehicle.

OShea said he does not believe anyone else was involved in the incident.

Cox joined the Rockford department in December 2016, a city spokeswoman said.

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OShea described the loss of Cox as "beyond difficult" for the department. About 25 police officers stood in the back of the room during Sunday afternoons press conference.

OShea described the newly minted officer, who is married, as a great kid who previously worked as an officer for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and was in the Army National Guard.

"Words don't describe (what we are feeling)," O'Shea said. "It's beyond difficult. We are all family, and it hurts."

"I am emotionally spent," said Theo Glover, police chief of the Rockford Park District. "A family member has been taken away (from us) trying to be there for the public.

Cox was part of the Army National Guard deployed from 2008 to 2009 to Nangarhar Province in Afghanistan, said Lt. Col. Brad Leighton, a spokesman for the Illinois National Guard.

Cox joined the National Guard in 2004 and was honorably discharged in 2010, Leighton said. He received the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge. He was also awarded the Illinois National Guard Abraham Lincoln Medal of Freedom Ribbon.

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Coxs Delta Company, 1st Battalion of the 178th Infantry was based out of Woodstock and was part of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

The company experienced a lot of fighting overseas, Leighton said. Three soldiers from the company were killed when a bomb went off while they were traveling past Kot, Afghanistan, with a reconstruction team. A fourth person died from a non-combat injury.

During the deployment, 18 soldiers from the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team died.

Leighton described Cox as a good soldier, and he said it's always difficult learning a former soldier died.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family," Leighton said.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources declined to comment Sunday.

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OShea said the Rockford department has received an outpouring of support. "We are overwhelmed and grateful for the support we have received here and throughout the nation."

OShea said the Winnebago-Boone County Integrity Task Force has been brought in to assist the investigation.

Marilyn Hite Ross, chief of the criminal bureau of the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office, said the task force is activated any time there is a shooting when it is believed an officer discharged his weapon and an individual is injured.

Well-wishers have been dropping off condolence cards and doughnuts to the officers dealing with the loss throughout the day.

"It's inspiring to see the men and women of our Rockford Police Department come together and the citizens come together to support them," Rockford Mayor Thomas McNamara said. "Knowing an officer put service above self (is humbling). I have deep appreciation for him and all of the officers who are part of our family.

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Yellow police tape surrounded roughly three blocks of Dawn Avenue from East State to Turner Street, which is a residential area.

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"We hate to hear things like this happen, unfortunately it does happen, said Jerry Holloway, who lives near the crime scene. It's a quiet neighborhood. There's usually not much going on. Everyone minds their own business.

Coxs fellow officers escorted his body to the Winnebago County Coroners Office around 6:30 a.m., according to a video posted to the departments Facebook page. Autopsies were pending for both Cox and Patterson.

We are deeply saddened by the death of Officer Jaimie Cox, Gov. Bruce Rauner said in a statement. He paid the ultimate price while working to keep our communities safe. My thoughts and prayers are with his family as they find a way to cope with this tragic loss.

Chicago Tribunes Elvia Malagon contributed.

Cherney is a Chicago Tribune reporter. Girardi is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News

echerney@chicagotribune.com
Protesters gather in Federal Plaza in Chicago for an anti-Trump rally Nov. 4, 2017. According to a Facebook post about the event, it was hosted by the Refuse Fascism and Degenerate Artists Against Fascism organizations. (Erin Hooley/Chicago Tribune) (Erin Hooley/Chicago Tribune)

More than 100 protesters marched in a light rain through Chicago's Loop to Trump Tower on Saturday, part of demonstrations in more than a dozen cities scheduled nearly a year after President Donald Trump's election.

The protestors, who carried signs reading "The Trump/Pence Regime MUST GO!" first rallied at Federal Plaza, at Adams and Dearborn streets, then marched north on State Street. They were outnumbered by uniformed police officers, many on bicycles, who lined the entire route.

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A group called Refuse Fascism called for rallies Saturday in more than 20 cities. Speakers at the Chicago rally said they hoped the protests would build until millions of Americans took to the streets in opposition to the Trump administration.

The demonstration came almost a year after thousands of protesters marched through the city in the days after Trump became president-elect last November.

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Edmondo Lupieri, a Loyola University theology professor, was among the marchers Saturday. Lupieri, who is Italian by birth, said he became an enthusiastic U.S. citizen after moving to the United States during the Obama administration but has become deeply worried about the direction Trump is taking the country.

"What is happening now is so horrible," he said, citing Trump's moves on climate change and other issues. "I don't understand why so many people don't see what is happening with this country that was the most democratic country on the Earth."

Lupieri said Trump reminds him of Silvio Berlusconi, the twice-convicted former Italian prime minister, but Lupieri said Trump is "more dangerous" because he is the head of the world's last superpower.

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Protesters gather on a rainy Saturday at Federal Plaza in Chicago for an anti-Trump rally Nov. 4, 2017. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune)

"It hurts me to see people want to blow up a whole country or not want to help a country," said marcher April Stevens, 37, of Hyde Park, referring to Trump's comments on North Korea and his administration's reaction to Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, since it was devastated by Hurricane Maria in September.

"If we love our country that we live in, we've got to be out here every day."
OMAHA, Neb.  A Nebraska man has been sentenced to four years in prison for sending prostitutes to strip on his neighbor's front porch dozens of times over a three-year period.

The Omaha World-Herald reports that 45-year-old Douglas Goldsberry of Elkhorn was sentenced Friday in Douglas County District Court after pleading no contest in September to pandering.

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Authorities say Goldsberry hired prostitutes to bare their breasts and strip on his neighbor's porch while he watched from his house.

The family with two small children reported that women had shown up as many as 75 times since 2013, exposing themselves and sometimes kicking the door and yelling for payment.

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Goldsberry also has been indicted in federal court for possession of child pornography and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
In this May 14, 2012, photo, King Salman, left, speaks with his son, now Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, as they wait for Gulf Arab leaders ahead of the opening of Gulf Cooperation Council, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Hassan Ammar / AP)

They seemed untouchable. The head of a huge construction conglomerate. A prince who led Saudi Arabia's elite national guard. A billionaire investor who was one of the richest people in the world.

But in one breathtaking stroke, the men were detained by the Saudi authorities in a purge that began Saturday night and swept up some of the most powerful and recognizable names in the country, including members of the Saudi royal family, cabinet ministers, titans of media and industry and former officials. The detainees included Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, the wealthy investor who owns major stakes in such companies as Twitter and Citigroup, according to an associate of his family.

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On Sunday, Saudi officials cast the arrests as the first shot in a battle against the country's notorious and deeply rooted corruption, and part of a broader effort by the country's young and ambitious crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, to refresh the stagnating Saudi state.

For others, though, the detentions seemed more like the continuation of a process that had been accelerating over the last two years: the ruthless consolidation of power by the crown prince before his father, King Salman, dies or abdicates the throne. That process - which included eliminating critics and rivals, but also elite figures who presided over independent power centers - amounted to a radical restructuring of the Saudi order, analysts said.

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"Mohammed bin Salman wants to destroy the game of checks and balances," said Stephane Lacroix, a professor of political science at Sciences Po in Paris and the author of Awakening Islam: The Politics of Religious Dissent in Contemporary Saudi Arabia. The goal was "autocratic monarchy," Lacroix said. "No fiefdoms that could counter his decisions."

The detentions came at a time of political, social and economic upheaval in Saudi Arabia, an absolute monarchy that has become one of the Trump administration's closest Middle East allies. At the center of the storm is the 32-year old crown prince, often referred to by his initials, MBS, who is widely seen as the architect of the kingdom's increasingly assertive policy initiatives at home and abroad.

Saudi leaders have embarked on a widely publicized drive to modernize the ultraconservative kingdom, relaxing social restrictions and liberalizing its oil-dependent economy. Last week in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, a lavish conference that was intended to encourage international investment featured robots as well as planned, futuristic megaprojects.

Saudi Arabia has also adopted an increasingly muscular and confrontational posture in the Middle East that has focused on combating the influence of Iran, the kingdom's archrival. Over the last two years, the Saudis have led a military campaign in neighboring Yemen against a rebel group that Saudi officials regard as an Iranian proxy force.

The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemeni civilians and is effectively at a stalemate: On Saturday, the rebels, known as the Houthis, fired a ballistic missile that reached Riyadh - their deepest strike yet inside Saudi territory, and a sign that the conflict was not nearing an end.

Saudi Arabia has also led a group of Arab states in a boycott of Qatar, a neighboring Persian Gulf country, in a rift that has sharply divided the Trump administration's closest Arab allies. And on Saturday, Lebanon's prime minister announced his resignation while in Saudi Arabia, in what appeared to be an attempt by the Saudi leadership to confront Iranian influence in Lebanon.

Analysts said the detentions on Saturday were part of an intensifying drive to centralize power under the crown prince. The effort has included sidelining potential challengers from rival branches of the royal family, and a crackdown on dissidents, including clerics, over the past few months.

The officials detained Saturday included Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, head of the elite Saudi national guard and a favored son of King Abdullah, who died in 2015 and was the predecessor of the current king.

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Miteb "was important because he was the only prince who remained inside the government who could potentially oppose MBS," said Lacroix. With Miteb's removal from his post on Saturday, Prince Mohammed had "finished the job of excluding all the competing royal factions," he said.

The reasons for Alwaleed's arrest were not immediately clear. The prince, who is the founder of the business conglomerate Kingdom Holding and one of the world's most prominent investors, had been supportive, at least publicly, of the Saudi leadership, including its controversial intervention in Yemen's civil war.

His detention - along with a number of other business tycoons -- suggested that the Saudi leadership was sending a message that something fundamental had changed, Lacroix said.

In the past, Saudi Arabia "would allow the existence of powerful people or fiefdoms, as long as they remained loyal in the general sense," he said. "It's not about loyalty anymore. Mohammed bin Salman doesn't want to allow the existence of those fiefdoms."

But Hesham Alghannam, a Saudi political analyst and a nonresident fellow at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, said that Saudi citizens were demanding fundamental change, including strong anti-corruption measures.

"People need to see that there is accountability," he said. "The immediate goal is to boost domestic and international confidence in the Saudi economy."

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Beyond that, he said, "we are witnessing a move from a patriarchal system to a modern system with a new social contract."

A royal decree, carried Saturday on the website of the Saudi state news agency, said the crown prince would lead a new committee that had been granted broad powers to root out public corruption, including the ability to issue arrest warrants, impose travel bans and freeze bank accounts.

But the scale of the challenge from corruption defied easy solutions, since it was "essentially a structural feature of the economy" in Saudi Arabia, according to Christian Henderson, a professor at Leiden University in the Netherlands who specializes in the economies of the Middle East.

He described a complex ecosystem in which royal family members often benefit from state contracts, and then distribute wealth to their own patronage networks. "Trying to tackle corruption and ensuring that this doesn't eat into your legitimacy, and the stability of the regime, is very difficult," he said, adding that the detentions appeared to be part of a political purge, rather than aimed at curbing graft.

"If you interested in encouraging investment, this seems a strange way of doing it," he added. "Making these sudden moves. I don't think its going to do much to create confidence."
SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas  A man dressed in black tactical-style gear and armed with an assault rifle opened fire inside a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing 26 people and wounding about 20 others in what the governor called the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history. The dead ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old.

Authorities didn't identify the attacker during a news conference Sunday night, but two other officials  one a U.S. official and one in law enforcement  identified him as Devin Kelley. They spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss the investigation.

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The U.S. official said Kelley lived in a San Antonio suburb and didn't appear to be linked to organized terrorist groups. Investigators were looking at social media posts Kelley made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon.

Kelley received a bad-conduct discharge from the Air Force for allegedly assaulting his spouse and child, and was sentenced to 12 months' confinement after a 2012 court-martial. Kelley served in Logistics Readiness at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico from 2010 until his discharge, Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek said.

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At the news conference, the attacker was described only as a white man in his 20s who was wearing black tactical gear and a ballistic vest when he pulled into a gas station across from the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, about 30 miles southeast of San Antonio, around 11:20 a.m.

The gunman crossed the street and started firing a Ruger AR rifle at the church, said Freeman Martin, a regional director of the Texas Department of Safety, then continued firing after entering the white wood-frame building, where an 11 a.m. service was scheduled.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe D. Tackitt Jr., whose territory includes Sutherland Springs, said there was likely "no way" for the church congregation to escape once the shooting started.

"You've got your pews on either side. He just walked down the center aisle, turned around and my understanding was shooting on his way back out," said Tackitt, who said the shooter also carried a handgun but that he didn't know if it was fired.

Tackitt described the scene inside the church as "terrible."

"It's unbelievable to see children, men and women, laying there. Defenseless people," Tackitt said. "I guess it was seeing the children that were killed. It's one thing to see an adult, but to see a 5-year-old ..."

As he left, the shooter was confronted by an armed resident who "grabbed his rifle and engaged that suspect," Martin said. A short time later, the suspect was found dead in his vehicle at the county line.

Several weapons were found inside the vehicle and Martin said it was unclear if the attacker died of a self-inflicted wound or if he was shot by the resident who confronted him. He said investigators weren't ready to discuss a possible motive. Martin said 23 of the dead were found in the church, two were found outside and one died after being taken to a hospital.

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The man who confronted Kelley had help from another local resident, Johnnie Langendorff, who told KSAT TV that he was driving past the church as the shooting happened. He didn't identify the armed resident but said the man exchanged gunfire with the gunman, then asked to get in Langendorff's truck and the pair pursued as the gunman drove away.

Langendorff says the gunman eventually lost control of his vehicle and crashed. He says the other man walked up to the vehicle with his gun drawn and the suspect did not move. He stayed there for at least five minutes, until police arrived.

"I was strictly just acting on what's the right thing to do," Langendorff said.

Gov. Greg Abbott called the attack the worst mass shooting in Texas history.

"There are no words to describe the pure evil that we witnessed," Abbott said. "Our hearts are heavy at the anguish in this small town, but in time of tragedy, we see the very best of Texas. May God comfort those who've lost a loved one, and may God heal the hurt in our communities."

Among those killed was the church pastor's 14-year-old daughter, Annabelle Pomeroy. Pastor Frank Pomeroy, and his wife, Sherri, were both out of town when the attack occurred, Sherri Pomeroy wrote in a text message.

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"We lost our 14-year-old daughter today and many friends," she wrote. "Neither of us has made it back into town yet to personally see the devastation. I am at the charlotte airport trying to get home as soon as i can."

Federal agents swarmed the small rural community of a few hundred residents, including ATF investigators and the FBI's evidence collection team.

Alena Berlanga, a resident of nearby Floresville, known for its annual peanut festival, said everyone knows everyone else in the sparsely populated county.

"Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," Berlanga said.

Church member Nick Uhlig, 34, wasn't at Sunday's service, said his cousin, who was 8 months pregnant, and her in-laws were among those killed.

"We just gathered to bury their grandfather on Thursday," he said, shaking his head.

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President Donald Trump, who was in Japan, called the shooting an "act of evil" and said he was monitoring the situation.

Later Sunday, two sheriff's vans were parked outside the gate of a cattle fence surrounding the address listed for Kelley on the rural, western outskirts of New Braunfels, north of San Antonio.

Ryan Albers, 16, who lives across the road, said he heard intensifying gunfire coming from that direction in recent days.

"It was definitely not just a shotgun or someone hunting," Albers said. "It was someone using automatic weapon fire."

The church has posted videos of its Sunday services on a YouTube channel, raising the possibility that the shooting was captured on video.

In a video of its Oct. 8 service, a congregant who spoke and read Scripture pointed to the Oct. 1 Las Vegas shooting a week earlier as evidence of the "wicked nature" of man. That shooting left 58 dead and more than 500 injured.

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Until Sunday, the deadliest mass shooting in Texas had been a 1991 attack in Killeen, when a mentally disturbed man crashed his pickup truck through a restaurant window at lunchtime and started shooting people, killing 23 and injuring more than 20 others.

The University of Texas was the site of one of the most infamous mass shootings in modern American history, when U.S. Marine sniper Charles Whitman climbed the Austin campus' clock tower in 1966 and began firing on stunned people below, killing 13 and wounding nearly three dozen others. He had killed his wife and mother before heading to the tower, one victim died a week later and medical examiners eventually attributed a 17th death to Whitman in 2001.

Associated Press writers Sadie Gurman and Eric Tucker in Washington, Nomaan Merchant in Houston, Diana Heidgerd in Dallas, Michael Balsamo in Los Angeles and Paul J. Weber in New Braunfels, Texas, contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump promised to cut taxes for the middle class, but some would end up paying more under the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act," according to a report released Friday night by Congress' Joint Committee on Taxation, the official scorekeepers tasked with determining how much any tax legislation would add to the debt and how it would impact the poor, middle class and wealthy.

The Trump administration says it has a "bright line test" that the president won't support any tax bill that does not give the middle class relief on their taxes. The "Tax Cuts And Jobs Act" that House Republicans released Thursday appears to violate that vow, at least for some middle-class taxpayers.

The JCT found that the GOP bill would add nearly $1.5 trillion to the debt over the next decade and that, on average, families earning between $20,000 and $40,000 a year and between $200,000 to $500,000 would pay more in individual income taxes in 2023 and beyond.

JCT does not explain why these families see an increase, but it is likely that it's in part because some tax credits aimed at helping the middle class expire in 2023, including the Family Flexibility Credit. Republicans are currently debating whether to extend this credit, but that would require revenue from somewhere else. Some are banking on Congress not allowing it to expire when the time comes. Upper middle class families are also losing popular tax breaks like the state and local income tax (SALT) deduction, which may explain why they get higher tax bills.

It's possible that other families will also see their tax bills jump under the plan. JCT only reports what happens to the average taxpayer in each income bracket. Experts across the political spectrum, including the Tax Policy Center, plan to release more detailed reports in the coming days showing what happens to large and small families, rich and poor, and those that claim big medical deductions under the GOP plan.

House Republicans argue that the JCT analysis undercounts the benefits to the middle class.

"The purpose of tax reform isn't just to lower taxes for struggling families - it's also to make our economy boom again," said the Republican-led House Ways and Means Committee in a statement Saturday. "Unfortunately, JCT's analysis omits the economic effects of tax reform in their distributional tables. This means that the JCT analysis misses the bigger picture."

But Democratic tax experts say most of the benefits go to the richest Americans.

"JCT's estimates show that this bill is heavily tilted toward the wealthy," says Lily Batchelder, a tax law professor at New York University and former member of President Barack Obama's National Economic Council.

Batchhelder used the JCT analysis to look at who gets the biggest income boost from the GOP plan. She found that millionaires would see their after-tax incomes rise by 2.2 percent after a decade, and that is without factoring in how wealthy families benefit for the elimination of the estate tax. Families earning $50,000 to $70,000 - the middle of the middle - would see only a 0.6 percent rise, and families earning $20,000 to $40,000 get no benefit at all.

Trump and congressional Republicans argue that business tax cuts would also help middle class because companies will create more jobs and pay workers more.

The Tax Foundation, a right-leaning think tank, found that the GOP bill would result in almost a million more full-time jobs and that wages would rise for many workers.

"The larger economy and higher wages are due chiefly to the significantly lower cost of capital under the proposal, which is mainly due to the lower corporate income tax rate," the Tax Foundation wrote in a report Friday.

JCT also took a close look at what happens to people's incomes after taking into account the business tax cuts. JCT found that more Americans would be better off, but some families, especially in the $20,000 to $40,000 range would still see tax increases after 2023. JCT assumes about a quarter of the tax savings that businesses receive would end up in the pockets of workers because of higher wages. Wealthier families also benefit from higher stock dividends and changes to small businesses taxes.

There are winners and losers in any tax bill. In general, large families and those that currently take a lot of deductions for medical expenses or state and local taxes are hurt the most by the changes in the GOP plan. Some are already calling it a hit to "blue states" since a lot more people in states like California, Connecticut, New York and New Jersey earn upper middle class incomes and benefit heavily from the state and local tax deduction.

House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., has emphasized that a true middle class family - a family of four earning $59,000 a year - would pay $1,182 less in taxes in 2018 than they would this year. But David Kamin a tax professor at New York University, modeled what would happen to that family over the next decade and found that even that model family would end up paying more in tax by 2024.
After a petition calling for an end to a culture of sexual harassment in the Illinois Capitol, legislative leaders have now hired a legislative inspector general. (Nancy Stone/Chicago Tribune)

Illinois lawmakers are hustling to make amends for the disgraceful disclosure that a sexual harassment complaint against a state senator sat untouched in a binder for nearly a year. The job of legislative inspector general  vacant since December 2014, meaning there was nobody to review complaints and decide whether to investigate them  was hurriedly filled in a closed-door meeting Saturday afternoon.

The new IG will work through a backlog of 27 complaints that languished while the office was staffed by a part-time executive director whose job apparently was to put those complaints in the binder. It might as well be a wastebasket.

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Some members of the Legislative Ethics Commission, which adjudicates the findings of the IGs investigations when theres an IG in place, were surprised to learn the complaints were stacking up. Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie, told the Daily Line there have been no reports of ethics violations while the office sat empty. House Speaker Mike Madigan said some complaints had been forwarded to commission chair Sen. Terry Link, D-Waukegan, who hotly denied it. Rep. Chad Hays, R-Catlin, accused Madigan of thwarting efforts to fill the IGs job.

Hiring an IG suddenly became an emergency as Madigan moved to contain an unfolding scandal that began with a petition calling for an end to a culture of sexual harassment in the Capitol. The speaker quickly introduced a bill that would amend a state ethics law to prohibit and punish sexual harassment by government officials and lobbyists. At a public hearing, victim rights activist Denise Rotheimer accused Sen. Ira Silverstein, D-Chicago, of making unwanted advances over 18 months. Rotheimer had told Senate President John Cullerton, who forwarded her complaint to the empty IGs desk, which is how it ended up in that binder.

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These gaping deficiencies will supposedly be addressed with the passage of Madigans bill and the hurry-up hiring of a temporary IG. Oh, and maybe a law to extend the one-year statute of limitations on those two- and three-year-old complaints.

Lets not kid ourselves. The legislative inspector general is toothless by design. Thomas Homer, the first to hold the job, investigated more than 150 complaints from 2004 to 2014. Only four of them resulted in a finding of misconduct: Two legislative staffers were disciplined for doing campaign work on the taxpayers dime; another was suspended for 30 days (though Homer recommended firing her) for refusing to cooperate in an investigation of a questionable legislative scholarship award. In the only finding against a lawmaker, Homer determined that then-Sen. Suzi Schmidt, R-Lake Villa, engaged in conduct unbecoming a legislator in a series of domestic incidents at her home. The law provides no sanctions for that violation.

No lawmaker was found to have acted improperly in that legislative scholarship racket. Or the scandal over public officials clouting friends and family into the University of Illinois. Or the Metra patronage scam behind the attempted hush-money buyout of the CEO who wouldnt let Madigan tell him who to hire. Nothing.

Why? Because Illinois ethics laws are full of escape hatches, with no meaningful sanctions and no public oversight. The legislative code of conduct literally contains a disclaimer saying its provisions are intended only as guides to legislator conduct and not as rules meant to be enforced by disciplinary action.

A frustrated Homer pleaded publicly for stronger ethics laws in a six-page retirement letter in 2014. Among his suggestions: Lawmakers should be prohibited from voting or taking action on matters involving themselves, their relatives or their clients. Conflicts of interest should be disclosed in annual economic reports similar to those required of judges. State agencies and universities should be required to report contacts made by lawmakers who try to influence hiring or admissions. Findings of legislative misconduct should be made public. That code of conduct should be mandatory, and violators should be fined and/or censured.

Instead of acting on Homers recommendations, lawmakers let his office sit empty for three years. Now, theyre in a big hurry to get it up and running again to rid the Capitol of sexual harassers.

That wont get the job done. The new IG cant police legislative misconduct until lawmakers revoke the free pass theyve given themselves. They should dust off Homers farewell letter and get to work.
A performance at the opening ceremony of the third Vietnam-Japan Culture

and Trade Exchange in Can Tho city on November 3rd (Photo: VNA)

The three-day event, co-organised by the Can Tho chapter of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and the Consulate General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City, is part of the activities to celebrate 45 years of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties in 2018.



The festival offers an ideal platform to promote the beauty of the country and people of Japan to Can Tho citizens and vice versa, as well as to strengthen exchange activities between the two countries companies and attract more Japanese investment in the Mekong Delta region as a whole and Can Tho in particular, thus contributing to tightening the fine relationship between Vietnam and Japan.



According to Deputy Director of VCCI Can Tho, Nguyen Phuong Lam, this years Vietnam-Japan festival promises to be an interesting destination, accommodating a scale of 120 pavilions imbued with cultural and festive features of both Vietnam and Japan, showcasing products of various types in an array of industries, including technology, electric machinery, household electric appliances, fashion, handicraft and fine arts, cosmetics and trade.



[Hoi An to run Vietnam  Japan cultural space]

In addition, the programme also features unique performances by traditional and modern arts troupes coming from the two countries. Visitors will have a chance to enjoy artistic firework displays and moving films of Vietnam and Japan, alongside learning Origami and the art of Japanese tea, dress themselves in a Kimono or Yukata, and disguise themselves as a Samurai or a Ninja.



Kazunori Hosoya, Deputy Consul General of Japan in HCM City, expressed his optimism about the outlook of the Vietnam-Japan relationship, stating that the increasing number and efficiency of trade promotion and cultural exchange activities between the two countries are a vivid evidence for his belief.



In 2016, Vietnam welcomed over 740,000 Japanese tourist arrivals, while Japan received around 230,000 Vietnamese visitors to the country.



In Can Tho alone, four Japanse-financed projects have been completed since 2013, with a total capital of more than VND7 billion (USD308,000)./.
A Lake Zurich Police officer was released from Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington Sunday after being injured during a traffic stop.

Police Sgt. Brad Hoops said the crash happened around 12:30 a.m., when the police officer and an assisting officer in a second squad car were stopped behind a motorist who was pulled over for a traffic stop at Wooded Ridge Drive and Route 12.

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Another vehicle, a 2009 Ford Flex driven by a Wauconda man, crashed into the squad car of the assisting officer, pushing it into the squad car of the officer making the stop, who was sitting in the driver's seat, Hoops said.

No details were provided about the extent of the officer's injuries, other than they were not life-threatening. Hoops said the officer was released from the hospital hours after the accident.

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"The backup officer was not injured, as he was away talking to the motorist," Hoops said.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office cited Hector G. Marin, 54, of the 600 block of Minerva Avenue in Wauconda, for failure to reduce speed to avoid a crash and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, Hoops said.

Yadira Sanchez Olson is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.
President of Switch Lanes, Anthony McIntyre, moderates a forum on young men and guns on Saturday, Nov. 4 in Waukegan. (Sarah Velasco / Pioneer Press )

Reasons why some turn to picking up guns were discussed by a panel of community leaders during a forum hosted by Switch Lanes at the Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Waukegan on Saturday.

Former gang member Anthony McIntyre runs the Switch Lanes organization, which tries to steer young gang members away from crime through intervention.

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On Saturday, McIntyre had more than 10 guest panelists, including Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran, Waukegan Police Deputy Chief Gabe Guzman and Sara Knizhnik of Moms Demand Action, to speak to a crowd he said was smaller than he had hoped.

Close to 50 people attended.

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As the moderator, McIntyre began by posing the question of whether guns on the streets are really the problem the community faces, or are deeper issues behind gun crimes.

Jennifer Witherspoon, who oversees programming at the Lake County jail, kicked off the discussion by answering, "I state unequivocally that it's deeper than that."

High poverty, poor education and no male role models are all reasons Witherspoon believes young men are turning to crime on the streets.

Easy access to guns only exacerbates that problem, Knizhnik said.

She suggested ways people can change that by reminding those in the audience to call their government representatives in support of an upcoming Senate bill called the Gun Dealer Licensing Act, which would regulate gun dealers more stringently by making sure inspections are carried out regularly at gun businesses, among other things.

Knizhnik also put out an invitation to join the group, which works to demand action from legislators to establish common sense gun reform.

The organization has chapters in all 50 states, and began as a grassroots movement in response to the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings in 2012.

"We're extremely effective in Lake County. What's missing right now are members of your community," Knizhnik told the audience.

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Posing a different view was Waukegan activist Keith Turner, who spoke out against more legislation for gun dealers and owners, and instead blamed gun violence on individuals.

"Personal accountability ultimately is the problem," Turner said, adding that guns are inanimate objects.

Turner said focusing on legislation that makes legal gun sales stricter, "will only affect people who can legally purchase a gun," not the young men who are getting guns illegally to use to commit crimes, Turner said.

The issue quickly moved to racism, and many on the panel and in the audience agreed that a legal system that in the past has disproportionally jailed black fathers, taking them out of the home, is to be blamed, at least partially, for the lack of male role models.

"The single greatest common denominator for making society's problems is the absence of a nuclear family," Curran said.

Lake County Board member Vance Wyatt said it's true that there aren't many black male role models to look up to, even in the community.

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"If we have no one to look up to, no one to aspire to be like, that's how you get the school-to-prison pipeline," Wyatt said.

Taking the issue of racism a step further, civil and criminal attorney Jed Stone was adamant that there is no easy answer to the question McIntyre posed, but as someone who has been representing young men who commit gun crimes for 40 years, he believes racism definitely plays a part in the cause.

"The people who are getting shot are poor, black, brown, and the reason why our legislature doesn't respond is because people don't care; they're expendables," Stone said. "It's time we recognize that race is an issue in America."

Due to rain during the event, McIntyre said some were watching through social media live recordings of the discussions.

Midway through the discussion, McIntyre told the panel he was getting many texts from viewers upset that Guzman referred to men who commit gun crimes as "thugs" and were offended by the term.

Others in the audience agreed that labels were offensive, and created a wider rift between police and community.

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"Shame on you," Stone told Guzman.

"Thugs are getting guns from each other," Guzman had said earlier in the conversation.

Later he defended his comments.

"My viewpoint of gang members is that they are thugs. If that offends you, I apologize," Guzman said. "But people who shoot others are thugs."

Guzman added that he didn't know what the youth in Waukegan had to deal with, but he's open to learn and said he welcomes any invitation for dialogue.

"Show me the other side, because my perspective is one-sided," Guzman said.

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Waukegan school board member Anita Hanna spoke up to say she was disappointed to look around the room and see that, "those that need to be here are not here."

School board member Brandon Ewing also attended and many times tried to speak but was unable to, as the panel grew to add more people.

During the back and forth from panelist and audience, McIntyre gave a warning about the contents of a folder he passed around with graphic photos of gun-shot wounds on dead bodies of men and children.

McIntyre reminded the room that the goal of the forum was to come up with solutions. He said more jobs and more opportunities for education are ways in which Switch Lanes is working toward a better community.

Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham spoke last and said the children of Waukegan are the entire city's responsibility.

Growing up without a father, he knew other parents in the neighborhood were looking out for him, and they made sure his mother knew about any trouble he got into, Cunningham said.

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"When a mother and a father aren't in the house, the community should step in," Cunningham said.

McIntyre resolved that Switch Lanes would continue to focus on education, economic development, entrepreneurship and legal justice, to target vulnerable young men in the city.

He said in January the organization will start to offer computer literacy classes at their office at 2424 Washington St.

Yadira Sanchez Olson is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.
A Valparaiso man was killed in a car accident in rural Washington Township Saturday afternoon.

Porter County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman Sgt. Jamie Erow said in a release issued Saturday evening that Porter County officers were dispatched to a two-car accident at State Road 2 and County Road 450 East at 2:43 p.m.

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The initial investigation indicated that a blue 2005 Chevy Impala driven by Bruce Evers, 65, was traveling north on CR 450, Erow said. As Evers pulled into the intersection, he was hit on the driver's side by a truck traveling eastbound, according to the release. Steven Ray Poort, 29 and of Westville, was driving the truck.

Eastbound and westbound traffic on SR 2 has the right of way at the CR 450 intersection; a stop sign controls the traffic, Erow said.

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Erow said Evers died on impact, while his passenger, Jacob Evers, 19,also of Valparaiso, was taken to Porter Regional Hospital complaining of pain. Poort was uninjured.

Erow said routine toxicology tests are pending.

SR 2 in the area of CR 450 was shut down until after 5 p.m. in both directions as Porter County's Accident Reconstruction Team investigated, Erow said. Washington Township Fire, Porter EMS, the Porter County Coroner's Office and Green's Towing assisted, she said.

Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
All votes in the CO-3 election won't be counted until the end of this week
Booths installed at the Vietnam-China Trade Fair 2017 (Source: baomoi.com)



The event, which was jointly held by the Peoples Committee of Lang Son province and the Ministry of Industry and Trade, is the largest-ever trade fair in Lang Son province, attracting thousands of visitors.



The fair themed 'Connectivity, Cooperation, Mutual Development features products and services in various areas from enterprises at home and abroad at more than 300 pavilions, including over 30 ones from Chinese enterprises.



The event, which runs until November 8th, provides enterprises with a chance to seek cooperation opportunities and expand market to domestic provinces and localities in China, contributing to the strengthening of relationships between enterprises and peoples of the two countries.



Nguyen Cong Truong, Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee and head of the organising board, said that the trade fair is one of the activities within the framework of the national trade promotion programme in 2017.



This is the fourth fair of its kind held in Lang Son under a cooperation agreement on rotationally organising the annual trade fair in Vietnams Lang Son province and Chinas Guangxi province./.
Peking University [China.org.cn]

Since 2015, the Chinese government has indicated it wants a number of universities to reach "double first-class" status by 2050 -- meaning to create world-class universities supporting first-class disciplines.

On September 21, the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and the National Development and Reform Commission finally released their list of the 42 universities and 465 disciplines slated for additional support.

Many mainland Chinese students seek higher education overseas, so this ambitious plan is meant to try and keep more of them on home soil. More importantly, however, is the wish to become a global educational superpower.

However, is throwing money at already fairly well-resourced universities in affluent regions the way to achieve this? Eight of the privileged universities are located in Beijing, four more in Shanghai, with a smattering of additional institutions predominantly found on the east coast and in major urban centers.

None of the preferred institutions are located in provinces and regions struggling economically to keep up with China's rapid development. Guangxi, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shanxi, and Tibet will all be missing out on the list of sponsored universities, although there are universities in these areas on the list of sponsored disciplines. Potentially, this could lead to an even larger divide between the richest and poorest communities.

Boosting the educational attainment of China's domestic students and the research prowess of its universities are laudable goals, but this takes more than money.

Visiting foreign scientists looking around some of the country's top universities, for example, often come across sophisticated equipment being under-utilized compared to similar equipment at their home institutions, frequently at higher-ranked but more poorly resourced universities abroad.

China has seen similarly ambitious drives to climb the worlds research rankings, such as in the 1990s, specifically through the 211 and 985 programs. Results were mixed, given that only two of its top universities -- Peking and Tsinghua in Beijing -- feature consistently among the worlds top-ranked institutions, although Shanghai's Fudan and Jiaotong universities are also making rapid strides.

This, therefore, begs the question whether the "double first-class" initiative is realistic in the face of ever increasing international pressure. Although "world class" is ill-defined, let us assume that this implies a global ranking among the top-200 institutions.

Depending on ones favorite ranking list, there are about seven Chinese institutions that can currently call themselves world-class. Does the government really expect that 35 of the top universities in other top nations worldwide will simply yield and let Chinese universities take over? It's a safe bet to assume the competition will fight their corner tooth and nail!

With sustained government support, it is likely that the Chinese higher education system will manage to secure more seats at the top table, but real progress requires far more than just financial incentives.

In 2011, the World Bank released a study entitled "The Road to Academic Excellence: The making of world class research universities." Its authors concluded that academic talent and an inquisitive nature -- among both faculty members and students -- financial resources, adequate facilities, unrestrained scientific enquiry, and academic freedom all had to be present from the start.

And this is where some of the current tension occurs. Speaking from a Western perspective, part of the problem at student level is the approach to teaching in the pre-university educational system. This is predominantly based on the Confucian system, where the teacher is always right.

Needless to say, this stifles innovation and suppresses students' inquisitive minds. I have spent the past eight years teaching at Peking University. This experience has shown me that it takes even good students a long time to shed the Confucian harness to confidently discuss their opinions with their professors.

Research at Chinese universities is often utilitarian. By contrast, its overseas competitors more frequently operate from a purely inquisitive, bottom-up approach. By all current measures, that approach -- perhaps with some degree of guidance driven by the availability of research funds -- appears quite productive and successful in achieving world-class status.

In the current climate of ambitious higher education reform, this seems like an opportune time to completely rethink China's approach to higher education to make it truly competitive at the international level. There clearly is no shortage of high-level ambition and talented people. We will have to wait and see how this is converted into practical achievements.

Richard de Grijs is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/RicharddeGrijs.htm
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Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation Saturday, claiming that it stemmed from a "rejection of Iran's political over-extension in the region."

"I declare my resignation from the premiership of the Lebanese government, with certainty that the will of the Lebanese is strong," Hariri said in an unexpected move in a televised statement he read from the Saudi capital Riyadh.

He stressed that the "country would be able to overcome political influence exerted by internal and external forces."

Hariri blasted Iran's interference in the region, arguing that the "Islamic Republic has a desire to destroy the Arab world and has boasted of its control over the decisions of Arab capitals."

"Iran's hand would be cut off," Hariri said, adding that "Lebanon would not play a role in destabilizing the region."

He also implicated Hezbollah in what he views as Iran's race to regional domination.

"Hezbollah was able to impose a reality in Lebanon by force of arms, and their intervention causes us great problems with our Arab allies," he said.

Hariri also drew a comparison between the political situation in Lebanon today and in 2005.

"The atmosphere in Lebanon is similar to the situation before the assassination of Rafik Hariri," Hariri said, adding he had feared for some time that he might be assassinated.

"When I took office, I promised you that I would seek to unite the Lebanese, end political division and establish the principle of self-sufficiency, but I have been unable to do so. Despite my efforts, Iran continues to abuse Lebanon." he said.

"Lebanon is a great country, governed by laws and protected by one army and their weapons. We reject any weapons outside the legitimate authority of the Lebanese state. I thank all those who worked with me and placed their trust in me," Hariri added.

Hariri's speech was widely broadcast on local television stations.
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General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong(R) meets with visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in Hanoi, Vietnam, Nov 3, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

Vietnam and China have pledged to seize the opportunities brought about by China's Belt and Road Initiative to achieve common development and common prosperity.

The pledge came when General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met with visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi separately.

In his meeting with the Chinese foreign minister on Friday, Nguyen Phu Trong congratulated Xi Jinping on his re-election as the general secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the elevation of the Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era into the party's guiding principles.

Nguyen Phu Trong said his country will learn from China's successful experiences to further push forward the development of its own socialist cause.

He said the forthcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Vietnam shows that China attaches great importance to the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries and Vietnam is willing to work with China to further deepen cooperation between the two sides in all fields.

For his part, Wang Yi said Chinese President Xi Jinping, while meeting with Hoang Binh Quan, special envoy of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong days ago, noted that remaining true to the original aspiration and keeping the mission firmly in mind also apply to the development of China-Vietnam relations, both sides shroud view the China-Vietnam relations from a higher vantage point and a deeper level and firmly promote the building of a community of shared future.

The two countries should elevate the bilateral ties to a new high and open a new chapter for the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries by building a community of shared future, Wang said.
The meeting between Vice Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee

Vo Thi Dung (R) and Orestes Llnanes Mestre, deputy head of Cubas Committee

for the Defence of the Revolution (Photo: VNA)

The local official congratulated Cuba on the attainments during the five years of updating its socio-economic development model. She stressed that Vietnamese people always keep in mind the solidarity and precious support that Cuba has given to Vietnam throughout history.



HCM City hopes for stronger cooperation with Cuba in biotechnology, health care, education and tourism. It also wants to increase exchanging experience in economic management and market mechanism with the Latin American nation, she added.



[HCM City leader seeks stronger economic ties with Cuba]

The authorities and people of HCM City pledge to support Cubas reform and development efforts, she said, adding that they will do their best to help reinforce the faithful friendship between the two countries.



At the meeting, Orestes Llnanes Mestre said despite geographical distance, Cuban and Vietnamese people share a number of similarities in terms of the revolutionary fighting spirit. He described Cuba as a Vietnam in Latin America and Vietnam as a Cuba in Asia.



The revolutionary spirit of former generations and the special friendship between the two Parties, States and peoples need to be popularised among young Cuban and Vietnamese people, thereby contributing to bilateral relations, he added./.
The 30th session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee concludes at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Nov 4, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) closed its bi-monthly session Saturday, adopting a new law on public libraries, revisions to several laws, and decisions on reforms.

Zhang Dejiang, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, presided over the closing meeting, as well as a meeting attended by the chairman and vice chairpersons beforehand.

Zhang urged members of the NPC Standing Committee to study and implement the spirit of the 19th Communist Party of China (CPC) National Congress and push forward relevant legislation work.

"The NPC Standing Committee will firmly support the centralized and unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at the core and completely implement Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era," he said.

New Library Law to promote reading

The new law aims to promote the development of public libraries and help boost reading among ordinary Chinese.

The law asks the governments to increase input in public libraries, listing it in their budget and development plans.

Libraries are pushed to apply modern technology including digitalizing content and improving online services, better protecting ancient books and promoting traditional culture.

Libraries will be punished if hosting or allowing others to host activities undermining state security and the public interest. Those directly responsible for the offences will face penalties.
It is not a bad thing for us, that the route known as the Goldene Strae or the Golden Road as we will get to know it- has escaped the attention of so many. It has been spared being overrun by hordes of tourists and as you will discover the
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The Chinese military will be absolutely loyal, pure, reliable, and resolutely follow the orders of Central Military Commission Chairman Xi Jinping, China's highest military authority has said.

The CMC recently issued a document on fully implementing the chairperson's responsibility system in the People's Liberation Army.

The amendment to the CPC Constitution clarified that the chairperson of the Central Military Commission assumes overall responsibility for the work of the commission and that the CMC is responsible for Party work and political work in the armed forces.

This complies with the realistic requirement to ensure the CMC fulfills its responsibility for Party self-supervision and self-governance.

Fully implementing the system is crucial to the fundamental direction of military construction, as well as building a strong nation with a strong military in the new era, the document said.

It is also related to the country's long-lasting peace and security, and the future of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The military has to support the responsibility system in politics, thought, organization, institutions and behavior. The entire military has to be "absolutely loyal, absolutely pure, absolutely reliable, resolutely follow Xi's orders, be responsible to Xi, and let Xi rest assured".

The document came amid Xi's visits to various military departments and related events.

On Friday, Xi, along with other CMC members, visited the PLA's joint combat command center in Beijing. On Thursday, the CMC promoted Zhang Shengmin  the 59-year-old top anti-corruption official in China's armed forces  to the rank of general.

On Oct 25, a day after the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, Xi held the first executive meeting of the Central Military Commission. A day later, Xi appeared at a meeting of top level military leaders, calling on them to work hard to enforce discipline in the armed forces.

Military officers welcomed and embraced Xi's remarks on improving the military's capabilities in preparing for and fighting wars in the new era.

"We must carve the word 'war' into our hearts, and be prepared to fight at any moment," Cui Jiabin, a brigade commander of an aviation unit, told Xinhua News Agency.

"We have to fuse the duties of preparing and training for war into our minds, and be a part of our consciousness," he said.

Xinhua contributed to this story.
US President Donald Trump (L, Front) speaks to the media before boarding Marine One departing the White House for Joint Base Andrews, in Washington DC, the United States, on Nov 3, 2017. Trump started his Asia trip on Friday to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. [Photo/Xinhua]

WASHINGTON - US National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster said Thursday that US President Donald Trump looks forward to his upcoming visit to China and is ready to work with Beijing to promote peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

China is "an immensely important part of ... regional security as well as protecting and advancing the systems that have benefitted all of us," McMaster told reporters.

"These are really the rule-based security, economic, political and diplomatic organizations and systems that emerged after the bloodiest war in human history in the previous century," he added. "We have to really work hard to preserve and advance what has lifted so many people out of poverty, and what has prevented great-power conflict for 70 years. We cannot take it for granted."

"So I know the president is committed to working with China, with President Xi in particular, and with all leaders in the region, to make sure that for the next 70 years, we enjoy a degree of prosperity and security we've enjoyed over the past 70 years," he said.

Trump will start his 12-day Asia trip on Friday to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. He will participate in a string of multilateral engagements like the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in the last two legs of the trip.
BEIJING - Premier Li Keqiang will visit the Philippines and attend a series of high-level meetings including the 12th East Asia Summit from Nov 12- 16 in the Philippine capital Manila.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made the announcement on Sunday.

Hua said that during Li's stay in Manila, he will also attend the 20th China-ASEAN (10+1) leaders' meeting, and the 20th ASEAN-China, Japan and Republic of Korea (10+3) leaders' meeting.

Hua said Li's tour is invited by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. The Philippines is the chair of ASEAN this year.
General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong(R) meets with visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in Hanoi, Vietnam, Nov 3, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

HANOI - Vietnam and China have pledged to seize the opportunities brought about by China's Belt and Road Initiative to achieve common development and common prosperity.

The pledge came when General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met with visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi separately.

In his meeting with the Chinese foreign minister on Friday, Nguyen Phu Trong congratulated Xi Jinping on his re-election as the general secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the elevation of the Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era into the party's guiding principles.

Nguyen Phu Trong said his country will learn from China's successful experiences to further push forward the development of its own socialist cause.

He said the forthcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Vietnam shows that China attaches great importance to the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries and Vietnam is willing to work with China to further deepen cooperation between the two sides in all fields.

For his part, Wang Yi said Chinese President Xi Jinping, while meeting with Hoang Binh Quan, special envoy of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong days ago, noted that remaining true to the original aspiration and keeping the mission firmly in mind also apply to the development of China-Vietnam relations, both sides shroud view the China-Vietnam relations from a higher vantage point and a deeper level and firmly promote the building of a community of shared future.

The two countries should elevate the bilateral ties to a new high and open a new chapter for the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries by building a community of shared future, Wang said.
RIYADH - Saudi Arabia has arrested 11 princes and 38 sitting and former ministers and deputy ministers over corruption charges, Al Arabiya local news reported on Sunday.

The arrest orders were made by a panel Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud formed on Saturday, headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Among the arrested princes is billionaire Prince Waleed bin Talal who runs businesses all over the world. Owners of top regional TV channels and networks are also among the arrestees.

The charges against the arrestees vary from signing illegal armed deal, money laundering, embezzlement, accepting or giving bribes and exploitation of power. More arrests are expected to take place in the coming days, local media reported.

The panel also announced that it is reopening the file of the 2009 Jeddah deadly floods and investigating the coronavirus issue, also known as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome virus, or MERS virus.

The panel has the right to investigate, arrest, ban from travel, freeze accounts and portfolios, track funds and assets of individuals involved in corruption practices, the report said.

It was formed to eliminate exploitation by some to illicitly accrue money, King Salman said in his decree.

The wave of arrests, first of its kind, paves the way for new Saudi Arabia with intolerant approach against corruption. It also gets ready for the country towards post-oil era with the focus on economic reforms and diversity, and major business projects.

Last month, the crown prince announced the launch of NEOM project, a planned megacity that may cost over 500 billion US dollars over the coming years.

NEOM's land mass will extend across the Egyptian and Jordanian borders, rendering it the first private zone to span three countries, aiming at transformation of the kingdom into a leading global hub through the introduction of value chains of industry and technology.
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On 3 November 2017, the Evening Standard and its website published a signed article by Ambassador Liu Xiaoming entitled "China is entering a new era and the world will be better for it ". The full text is as follows:

China has just concluded the 19th Party Congress, where General Secretary Xi Jinping outlined from a historical and global perspective where China is standing and where it is heading. My personal take on this landmark meeting is that as our socialism with Chinese characteristics enters a new era, growth in China is going to demonstrate four salient features.

First, China will maintain steady growth. The Congress sets out several goals with a specific time frame, namely a moderately prosperous society by 2020, basic socialist modernisation by 2035 and a great modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious and beautiful by the middle of this century. This means an annual growth of more than 6.3 per cent from 2018 to 2020, a mid-to-high rate that will satisfy the need to maintain domestic development and at the same time drive the global economy forward.

In fact, over the past five years, China's growth has contributed more than 30 per cent of global growth, and China's investment and trade created 15 million jobs worldwide every year, including 180,000 jobs in the countries along the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Maritime Silk Road routes.

Meanwhile, China is clearly aware of the potential systemic financial risks and is taking counter-measures to guard against them. We are strengthening financial monitoring, curbing the increase in local debt and de-leveraging state-owned enterprises. We are improving state-owned asset management to prevent state asset drainage. We are introducing a negative-list approach with regard to market access to encourage fair competition and thwart monopoly. A China that maintains steady growth will contribute to the prosperity and stability of the world.

Second, China will focus on the quality of its growth. High-speed growth is now giving way to high-quality growth, and China will seize this moment to press ahead with supply-side reform, advance industrial transition, speed up structural upgrading and facilitate innovative development in order to build a modern economic system.

With a booming advanced manufacturing sector and with the industries moving up the value chain, China will find new ways to boost growth, through high-end consumption, innovation, green and low-carbon technology, sharing economy, modern supply chain and human capital services. Other significant aspects of China's economic modernisation include the internet, AI and big data.

However, growth will amount to nothing if it comes at the expense of the environment. China recognises this and will encourage green finance, energy efficiency, environmental protection, clean production and clean-energy industries. We will establish agencies to manage state-owned natural-resource assets and monitor ecosystems. We will strengthen environmental control on water, air and land pollution and bring polluters to account. High-quality growth in a major country with a population of 1.3 billion will be key for sustainable development in the world.

Third, China advocates inclusive growth. Our main task now is to address unbalanced, inadequate development in order to meet its people's need for a better life as well as for greater democracy, the rule of law, justice, security and a better environment. China believes in putting people first and wants well-rounded development for every individual and social progress in all respects. The Chinese dream means equal opportunities - and that means no one is left behind.

Inclusive growth is now our overriding task. Every citizen must be able to get a sense of personal fulfilment, happiness and security from the nation's development. To ensure that, China will make its pension system and medical insurance system more extensive and inclusive, covering both urban and rural residents. We will provide more affordable housing and increase investment in higher education and vocational schools. A China committed to inclusive growth will provide the world with a huge market of enormous potential.

Lastly, China's growth will be win-win for the world. It will be 40 years next year since China adopted the policies of reform. For four decades, China has pursued development through reform, opening up and win-win co-operation. This will remain unchanged. China will open up even more to the world by allowing greater access to the services sector, enhancing intellectual property law protection, trying out free trade ports and advancing the Belt and Road Initiative. Later, Shanghai will host the first International Import Expo.

Looking ahead, China hopes to play an even more important role in global economic governance, economic globalisation, trade liberalisation and common development. And as we do so, we seek co-operation not confrontation with other nations; we want win-win outcomes, not zero-sum games. We will not take the old trajectory where "power leads to hegemony" but blaze a new trail of win-win co-operation where everyone has a stake in decision-making and a share of the benefit.

History is the best teacher. During the most difficult times in 1940, Winston Churchill said: "It is victory. Victory at all costs - victory in spite of all terrors - victory, however long and hard the road may be ... that mankind shall move forward toward his goal." Seventy-seven years on, in response to the challenges facing the world, President Xi Jinping said: "We should not give up on our dreams just because the reality around us is too complicated; we should not stop pursuing our ideals just because they seem out of our reach. We call on the people of all countries to work together to build a community of shared future for mankind."

At the 19th Congress, China shared its story and its wisdom, and contributed its solutions. This is how the Congress will be remembered.
Emergency personnel responded to a fatal shooting at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Tex., on Sunday. [Photo/Agencies]

SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas  A man opened fire inside a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing multiple people and wounding others before being "taken down", authorities said.

Authorities said a man walked into the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs and began shooting, killing multiple people and wounding others.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt told the Wilson County News that the shooter had been "taken down," but it's not known how the shooter died.

Authorities haven't said how many were killed or wounded, but a Wilson County commissioner, Albert Gamez, told cable news outlets that emergency officials told him more than 20 people were slain and more than 20 others were wounded, though those figures hadn't been confirmed.

Video on KSAT television showed first responders taking a stretcher from the church to a waiting AirLife helicopter. Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, KSAT said.

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds. She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen.

A woman who lives about 10 minutes away from Sutherland Springs in Floresville and was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said that everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected, and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

US President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan, where he is on a trip to Asian nations, that he was monitoring the situation following the shooting.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott called the shooting an "evil act" and promised "more details" from the state's Department of Public Safety.

Sutherland Springs is 30 miles (48 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio.

AP
As a Chinese living and working in the United States, daylight saving time (DST) is one of those things, for good or bad, that amaze me. The other would be the absence of a metric system that makes it hard for me to tell my height and weight in feet and pounds, and the rendering of the temperature in Fahrenheit.

Nevertheless, it's a pleasant feeling on Sunday to gain an extra hour when DST ends at 2 am, at which time the clocks are set back one hour. The time on one's iPhone and computer just resets automatically.

It makes sense that DST enables people to fully utilize the daylight of different seasons. But I am also curious how many people would miss the train or flight in the US due to the sudden change, especially when places like Hawaii, Puerto Rico and most parts of Arizona don't observe it.

I did not realize that DST is also a controversial issue in the US. When many attribute it to Benjamin Franklin as early as 1794, Michael Levin, a New York Times bestselling author, wrote on Fox News on Saturday that when Franklin first suggested it, he was in Paris and meant it as a joke.

The US adopted DST during World War I, and in the ensuing years, President Franklin D. Roosevelt implemented year-round DST during World War II. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Uniform Time Act that allowed states and territories to opt out of DST.

Levin was calling for an end to DST, including citing a Times article in 2014, as Swedish researchers found a 5 percent increase in the risk of heart attacks right after DST began, along with an increase in traffic accidents, workplace injuries and suicide rates.

"The problem is that while our body clocks can slowly adjust to seasonal changes in the amount of daylight, the sudden change when DST begins throws off our body rhythms," he wrote.

Levin certainly was not alone. There is plenty opposition online to DST, including a site calling for people to sign a petition.

The debate has been complicated by conflicting study results as whether DST actually saves energy, as most people believe is the rationale to spring forward and fall back their clocks once a year.

DST is observed only in most areas of North America and Europe and some areas in the Middle East. Most areas of Asia and Africa do not implement DST. That means roughly 70 percent of the countries and 80 percent of the world's population do not observe DST.

China adopted DST in 1986 in the belief that it would conserve energy. Unlike today, China, where there is an overcapacity in power generation, energy shortages were a serious issue back then.

So at 2 am on May 4, 1986, the clock was switched forward to 3 am. The DST that year ended at 2 am on Sept 14, the second Sunday of the month.

The good news, according to reports, is that there were no major accidents in the transportation sector due to DST, despite complaints about the inconvenience caused.

The bad news is that places in western China, such as Chengdu, Kunming, Nanning and Urumqi, did not report any energy-saving. Part of this is due to the fact that China observes one unified time, Beijing Time, in contrast to the four different time zones in the continental United States.

Other complaints about DST, such as a disruption in sleep and nightlife, also came in from South Chinas Guangdong province.

However, relevant central government department data still show a significant saving of electricity in the 133 days of DST in 1986. And there was even a call to extend DST from three months to six months, from the last Sunday in March until the last Sunday in September.

Faced with a controversy, China's State Council, the government cabinet, announced a suspension of DST in 1992, telling localities to adjust their work hours accordingly in order to optimize the daylight and save electricity.

Contact the writer at chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com
A road near the attack site is blocked by police in Sutherland Springs of Texas, the United States, Nov 5, 2017. Twenty-six people were shot dead when a gunman opened fire at a church during Sunday services in Sutherland Springs, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said on Sunday. [Photo/Xinhua]

HOUSTON -- At least 26 people were killed after a gunman opened fire at a church during Sunday services in Sutherland Springs in the U.S. state of Texas, Governor Greg Abbott said on Sunday.

"Unfortunately I'm sad to tell you that at this moment of time there are 26 lives that have been lost. We don't know that number will rise or not," Abbott said.

The shooting attack in the church was the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history, he added.

Most of the victims, ranging in age from 5 to 72 years old, have not been identified although the deceased included the 14-year-old daughter of pastor Frank Pomeroy, the church leader told the press.

The shooting happened at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, approximately 35 km southeast of San Antonio.

A man walked into the church at around 11:30 a.m. (1730 GMT) on Sunday and opened fire at the crowd of people.

As he left the church, a local resident grabbed his rifle and engaged with the suspect, Texas public safety officer Freeman Martin said.

The car of the suspect was found nearby later with the suspect dead inside. It remains unclear if the suspect was self-inflicted a gunshot wound or was shot with gunfire by local residents who engaged him.

"The suspect has not been completely identified. He was believed to be a young white male, maybe in his early 20s," Martin said, adding that investigation has been going on with the aid of the FBI and other departments.

While police have surrounded the area, heart-wrenching relatives and neighbors stood outside awaiting news from inside the church.

Some 20 injured people were being treated at local hospitals, authorities said.
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.
Rotary International has long emphasized providing clean water by drilling water wells wherever needed in the world.

Cleveland Rotary has embraced this goal by donating $1,000 from both the Rotary Club and the Rotary Interact Club at Cleveland High School.

The Interact Club's well is in Nicaragua; the Cleveland Rotary well location has not been selected as yet.

Guest speaker David Standlee of the Huntsville Rotary Club is the Water Wells to Nicaragua Chairman for District 5910. He praised the dedication of both clubs to the Rotary commitment.

Cleveland Rotary also celebrated the Paul Harris Fellow Award given to Rotarian Kevin Weldon, superintendent of Tarkington ISD, for his dedication to the community.
20,000 vehicles under the sea: Inside the Felicity Ace disaster When the Felicity Ace caught fire and sank, it went down with $400 million in Lamborghinis,...

Greg Abbott calls for investigation of Harris County elections The governor alleges paper ballot shortages primarily happened in the county's Republican...
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Get out your warm gear and your cameras. There's going to be snow in Dayton on Dec. 9.

Sound crazy? Not so much considering it's snowed in Dayton the last two years, all of it on the grounds of the Dayton Community Center in time for the Annual Spirit of Christmas Celebration. This year will be no different.

Chamber officials are bringing the wildly popular festivity back for Texas children who have never had fun in the white stuff.

Frolicking in the white snow always draws squeals of excitement and seems to be a hit for the young and old alike.

Saturday, Dec. 9, is full of activities for those looking to get into the spirit.

The festivities begin bright and early for the healthy bunch at the 5K Fun Run and the Kidz Mile.

Registration for both events is at 7 a.m. The kids running in their race begin at 8 a.m. Their race treks around the Community Center. The adult 5K begins promptly after the kids and includes a larger route that includes FM 1409, Texas 146 and back to the Community Center.

All participants are encouraged to dress up as Santa or run in your holiday attire.

Cost for participation is $25 for adults and $15 for kids 17 and under.

There is also a group fee of five for $100.

Medals will be given for first, second, and third in the men's, women's and kids divisions.

Haven't signed up yet? No problem. Dayton Chamber of Commerce executive director Paula Moorhaj said runners can sign up on the day of registration.

She also said they are still seeking additional sponsors for the event.

If running isn't your cup of tea, shop till you drop at the Nutcracker Market inside the Community Center. The market opens at 11 a.m. and runs through 9 p.m.

"If there's booth space available, it's $20 for a regular space and $25 with electricity," she said.

To reserve and get the size of a space, please call Tammy Alexander at 936-258-7621.

There is no entry fee into the Nutcracker.

"Pretty much everything is free except for the Fun Run and any products you buy at the Nutcracker," Moorhaj said.

At 6 p.m., the annual Christmas Light Parade kicks off will wind through the neighborhood next to the Community Center.

Call Tammy Alexander at the Dayton Police Department if there's an interest in entering a float in the parade. The route has not been finalized just yet, but the Dayton News will print it the week before.

At the close of the parade, the community will gather promptly in front of the Community Center around the large Christmas tree. The lighting ceremony kicks off another round of festivities at 7 p.m.

"We'll have a snow and ice field," she said, "with real snow for the kids to play in."

Most of the activities will be on the side of the Center. There will be guest appearances by the Dayton High School choir, caroling throughout the evening.

"We'll have a train ride, hay ride, games, balloons, face painting and much more," she said.

The committee has also planned ornament decorating, cookie decorating inside the Community Center.

The event is sponsored by the city of Dayton and local businesses. The Dayton Chamber of Commerce hosts the events.

No Christmas festivities could be complete without a visit from the jolly guy in red.

Moorhaj said Santa was sent an invitation to attend and has already responded and confirmed his presence.

"He will be here to take photos with children and make his list for his gig on Christmas Eve," she said.

She encouraged parents and families to bring their cameras for their photos with Claus.

There will be free hot dogs, popcorn, and hot chocolate while they last.

The Dayton Community Center is located at 801 S. Cleveland Street.

"We hope everyone will come out and enjoy the festivities," Moorhaj said.
A 36-year-old man who rented a room through Airbnb was allegedly murdered by three men who lived in the home, police in Australia say.

Local media reported the victim was Ramis Jonuzi, a Melbourne man who was using Airbnb to find temporary accommodations while seeking more permanent housing. The Airbnb he found, located in Brighton East, was reportedly $30 a night.

But the "energy" in the house didn't feel right, Jonuzi told a friend, and he planned to cut his stay short. He packed up to leave on Oct. 25 but, according to Australian newspaper The Age, he was attacked on the front lawn by the home's three occupants, raped and murdered.

According to BBC News, paramedics responding to the scene found Jonuzi suffering from heart failure. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.

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Jonuzi's cause of death was not released.

MORE: California family missing in Brazilian jungle found safe

Victoria police announced they arrested three men in connection with the crime; they were identified by local media as Craig Levy, 36, Ryan Smart, 37, and Jason Colton, 41.

"We have removed this listing from our platform and will fully cooperate with law enforcement on their investigation," Airbnb said in a statement issued to the Washington Post. "There is no place on Airbnb for such an abhorrent act, which violates everything our global community stands for."

Levy, Smart and Colton are expected to appear in court on March 22.
A pedestrian is dead after a Saturday night hit-and-run in north Houston.

A 60-year-old man was walking in the street in the 900 block of Marcolin around 7:45 p.m. when a vehicle crashed into him then fled, according to Houston police.
A Willis man was sentenced to life in prison Friday for his role in a bank robbery late last year.

Montie Eugene Graham Jr., 36, was found guilty of aggravated robbery for robbing about $7,800 from a BBVA Compass Bank at 1000 N. Loop 336 on Dec. 20. Sixty-seven $2 bills were among his loot.
Woodforest National Bank has been nationally recognized by the American Bankers Association Foundation for its Wealth Building through Homeownership program with a 2017 Community Commitment Award. The award was given to Woodforest for its efforts in the Affordable Housing category and will be presented during ABA's annual convention in Chicago Oct. 17.

Entries were divided in to six categories including affordable housing, community and economic development, financial education, economic inclusion, protecting older Americans and volunteerism. Award winners were chosen by a field of nationally-recognized experts.

Woodforest's Wealth Building through Homeownership program, created in November, 2016, expands down payment assistance (DPA) through a first-of-its kind private-public venture with Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) to encourage low-to-moderate income (LMI) homeownership through an innovative $10 million loan agreement that increased access to DPA and closing cost funds. In the first five months, the program with TDHCA created over 1,500 new homeowners, with more than 81 percent of homeowners being LMI, representing over $250 million in new mortgages. The effectiveness of the program was also buoyed by Woodforest expanding housing counseling capacity across Texas through both direct homeownership education as well as providing scholarships through NeighborWorks America to Housing Counseling Organizations to prepare for the Dodd-Frank Housing Counseling Certification.

"Research indicates a down payment can be one of the biggest hurdles for a potential homeowner. By lending TDHCA $10 million in affordable, long term, and reusable capital, TDHCA was able to increase the amount of funds available to Texas borrowers for zero percent down payment and closing cost assistance loans and offer a lower rate on their first mortgage; thus reducing the cost of home ownership. Since Woodforest is not a traditional mortgage lender, we wanted to find an effective solution to help people afford a home," said Doug Schaeffer, Executive Vice President-CRA Director for Woodforest National Bank. "This program has had a tremendous direct impact in our communities. We are proud to lead the charge in finding new and innovative ways to grow homeownership in low- and moderate-income communities across Texas. Woodforest is currently syndicating the next round of financing and encourages interested community banks and minority depository institutions to participate in this innovative program. Interested parties can contact our Community Development team at the information provided below."

"In a public/private structure the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs works with Woodforest National Bank to fund down payment assistance, making stable and affordable home ownership possible for low, very low and moderate income Texans. In addition to the benefit to these homeowners, it helps ensure Texas communities of a more stable workforce and provides essential financing for Texas' homebuilding industry," said Tim Irvine, Executive Director of TDHCA. "This isn't a win/win. It's a win/win/win/win!"

"Wealth Building through Homeownership Program demonstrates Woodforest's strong and passionate commitment to bettering the lives of its customers and local community," said Rob Nichols, ABA President and CEO. "Their work embodies the mission of the Community Commitment Awards and they are a truly well-deserved recipient."

About Woodforest

Celebrating over 35 years of community banking service, Woodforest National Bank has successfully stood among the strongest community banks in the nation, proudly offering unsurpassed quality customer service since 1980. Woodforest currently operates over 700 branches in 17 states across the United States. For more information about Woodforest National Bank visit www.woodforest.com.
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Four suspects are in custody after taco stand and restaurant robberies sparked a high-speed chase ending in a crash Sunday morning outside a west Houston Baptist church.

Afterward, police searched the accused robbers' wrecked car and found cash, stolen property, cell phones, three handguns, a shotgun and an entire ATM.

"We have no idea where that came from," said Houston police Sgt. Stephen Hendrie.

The robbery crew started their violent night just after 3 a.m. when they hit up Truluck's and Ruchi's, robbing victims near both eateries, according to authorities.

Police at the taco stand in the 6400 block of Westheimer passed along a description of the alleged robbers and their car to other officers, who later spotted the suspects speeding along Interstate 10 headed east.

Patrol officers tried pulling them over, but the fleeing foursome ignored the lights and sirens and refused to stop, running red lights along the feeder road. After a 15-minute high-speed pursuit, the suspects wrecked their car at a sharp turn near Interstate 10 and Loop 610 in front of the First Baptist Church.

Undeterred, the four accused robbers bailed out and starting running.

"Every suspect was caught during the foot chase," Hendrie said. "These are very violent criminals that luckily were taken off the street tonight by some very professional officers."

It was not immediately clear what charges they would face and police had not released names as of early Sunday.

When they searched the car, police found a cache of possibly stolen items along with the mysterious ATM. It's not clear how the suspect managed to remove an entire ATM or where it came from, as no money machines were immediately reported missing.

"We'll figure it out," Hendrie said. "There's more investigating going on."

Although no one was injured in the wreck, Hendrie highlighted the possible risk of high-speed chases.

"Every pursuit is dangerous, but we did it safely," he said.

Nationwide, between 300 and 400 drivers, officers and bystanders die every year during police pursuits, according to federal data.

In 2016, the Houston area saw at least 13 chase crashes in 13 weeks, leaving six people dead and nine injured, according to a Houston Chronicle analysis at the time.

Earlier this year, two suspects died following a chase after a hit-and-run in north Houston in July. Less than two weeks before that, two Houston police officers wrecked their patrol vehicles while chasing a car thief, who also ended up in a crash after a 10-mile pursuit. That same month, a suspect landed in the hospital after a chase ended in a dramatic crash in the southwest part of the city.

"This could have been a very tragic scene," Hendrie said of Sunday's chase. "I can assure you that these violent criminals are held accountable for their actions."
When Harris County voters go to the polls Tuesday, they will decide dozens of bond issues and other matters that municipal utility districts, or MUDs, have placed on the ballot.

But understanding what they're voting on could be challenging for MUD residents.

The Crosby MUD in eastern Harris County, for example, is asking voters to approve the creation of a "defined area," but the ballot measure doesn't explain what that is and the answer isn't an easy one.

The Mount Houston Road MUD, which serves a community about 10 miles north of downtown Houston, wants to sell more than $100 million in bonds. The district mailed a one-page information sheet to residents, but it doesn't have a website for detailed documents to be posted. The district also won't release phone numbers for its board of directors.

Tuesday's election, the first since Hurricane Harvey flooded several MUDs in the Houston area, renews questions about the transparency of special purpose districts, which include municipal utility and water districts.

In Harris County, nine MUDs and one water control and improvement district have 25 issues on the ballot. They're asking voters to authorize $826 million in bond sales for water, sewer and drainage systems, as well as roads, parks and refinancing. Voters in three districts will elect board members.

MUDs are highly popular among Texas developers, who hold great sway over how they're created and benefit from their ability to issue tax-exempt bonds and levy property taxes to cover infrastructure costs.

But for residents of the districts, it can be difficult to find out who's in charge. MUD board members are not required to live in the communities they represent, and board meetings often are not held in the districts. Instead, MUD boards frequently meet in the offices of their law firms in downtown Houston  during the afternoon, when many residents are working.

Turnout in MUD elections is typically very low. Four years ago, the percentage of registered voters who cast ballots on MUD issues in Harris County ranged from 3 per cent to 16 per cent.

"People are worried and concerned that government doesn't work for them, and if they can't put a face and a name to it, then it makes it even more remote," said Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston. "In that way, it's not surprising that people don't participate in this process. They don't understand what's happening."

Supporters of MUDs and other water districts say they are the best form of government because they are close to the people.

"Providing for a means of local control to shorten the permit and development processes is one of the many ways MUDs reduce the cost of development (while still providing quality municipal infrastructure) and hence reduce the costs of new homes in Houston's suburbs," wrote Barton Smith, an emeritus economics professor at the University of Houston, on the web page of the trade group representing water districts.

Robert Fivecoat, president of the Crosby MUD board of directors, wouldn't talk about Tuesday's ballot issue. He referred questions to the district's attorney, Jon Pfennig.

Voters are being asked to approve the creation of a "defined area" and authorize the district to sell $15 million in bonds for improvements there. By designating 193 acres that have been annexed to Crosby MUD as a "defined area," the district can charge a higher property tax rate there, Pfennig said.

Plans call for 450 single-family homes to be developed by Castlerock Homes and the property owner, Murff Family Land LLC. Home owners would pay the district's existing property tax rate  $1,500 per $300,000 of assessed valuation.

They would pay additional taxes to repay bonds sold to reimburse the developers for putting infrastructure such as water and sewer pipes in the "defined area." The added property tax would be $2,370 per $300,000 of assessed valuation, according to a report by the district's engineering firm.

Altogether, homeowners in the newly developed area would pay the MUD $3,870 per $300,000 of assessed valuation.

Pfennig said the board of directors for the district, which was created in 1965 by the state legislature, wants the new homeowners to pick up the full tab for the infrastructure that will benefit them.

Without a "defined area," Pfennig said: "You'd have to pass that cost to your existing taxpayers, and the board has determined they don't want to do that because it raises the taxes."

Mount Houston Road MUD wants voters to allow it to sell $121 million in bonds - $48.5 million for projects and $73 million to refinance existing bonds. The proceeds would be used to "rehabilitate and repair" 40-year-old water, sewer, and drainage systems, said Julianne Kugle, an attorney with the Houston law firm SKLaw, the district's general counsel.

The district, which serves about 1,200 single-family homes, included a one-page information sheet about the ballot issue in residents' water and sewer bills. Kugle said only a few residents had questions. The information sheet includes the phone numbers for SKLaw and the district's operator, Marlon Ivy & Associates.

But residents with questions for the board members  who are elected officials serving four-year terms -- will have some work to do to get answers.

The state agency that reviews requests by MUDs to sell bonds has an online database that lists board members, but districts can provide the phone number of their law firm rather than board members' work or home phone. That's the case with the Mount Houston Road MUD board.

Board members are paid $150 for each day of "necessary service," up to $7,200 per year. Directors also can receive reimbursement for travel and other expenses.

Then-state Comptroller Susan Combs tried unsuccessfully in 2013 to get the legislature to pass a bill requiring MUDs and other water districts to post budget and long-term debt data on the web.

Kugle said the district has decided not to have a web page, in part because it has had limited operating funds but also because no one has asked for one. She said board agendas and minutes are e-mailed to 15 to 20 residents who have attended monthly meetings. Information also has been posted on the homeowners' association web page and nextdoor.com, she added.

"We feel like we are getting the word out better that way than having a website that no one visits that costs $10,000 to set up and maintain," Kugle said.
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Latest details (as of 8:30 p.m.)

Officials have identified the man who killed 26 people inside the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs as Devin Kelley, 26.

About 20 people were also wounded in the shooting, various Wilson County commissioners told mySA.com.

Those killed range in age from 5 to 72 years old.

Authorities said Kelley, dressed in tactical gear, began the shooting spree outside the church. He then walked inside and continued shooting, before fleeing in a vehicle.

Authorities found him dead with a gunshot wound in neighboring Guadalupe County, officials said.

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Now Playing: Latest updates: Sutherland Springs church shooting Video: San Antonio Express-News

Earl Seesengood, 68, lives about eight miles south of Sutherland Springs, near Stockdale. Several of his friends are members of First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, so he spent his night traveling to the hospital and community building to pray for the victims and their families.

One of his good friends, whom he requested not be named, lost eight relatives Sunday morning. The victims span generations, from children to grand children to great grand children. Seesengood was with the group that delivered the news to the poor man.

"You just can't get your mind wrapped around something like that," he said.

Seesengood's own daughter is a nurse, and her husband is a paramedic in Seguin. Once news of the shooting broke, Seesengood and his daughter first traveled to Floresville Memorial Medical Center.

"She jumped in and started helping in the ER, and I just start praying for some of the people," Seesengood said.

He's spoken with some of the "handful" of survivors, who told him Kelley was spraying bullets inside the church and also shooting people in the head, execution style. Only about 60 people were present at the church during the shooting, according to Seesengood, so the majority of the people inside were killed or injured.

"Everybody always asks 'Why?' But the reality is that we live in a times where there is no why, other than the person has an issue or grudge or he wants to vent against anyone, anywhere,"Seesengood said. "It's a sad state of affairs."

Amanda Mosel's 13-year-old goddaughter was gunned down in the shooting. With tears in her eyes, the 34-year-old stood outside the Sutherland Springs Community Building where citizens gathered following the shooting.

"From what I've heard, someone just walked in and started shooting," she said.

Mosel said she "sadly" didn't attend church this morning, but the church is one she's attended.

"There's maybe 50 of us," she said. "It's a small, tight-knit church."

Devy Collins, 53, said one of the church pastor's children was killed. The pastor and his wife were out of town when the shooting occurred.

The wounded were taken to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio and to area hospitals, a local official said.

A young man standing outside the hospital, his head bandaged and his right arm taped from where an IV had been put in, said he had been wounded in the shooting and that this father had been killed.

His mother was in another hospital. He declined to talk but expressed faith that they would pull through with God's help.

At least 10 victims were transported to Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville, said spokeswoman Megan Posey. She could not speak to their age or gender, but said there are multiple victims with gunshot wounds, and some have had to be taken by helicopter to a different treatment center.

According to a Twitter post, University Hospital's trauma team is caring for nine of the patients from the Sutherland Springs shooting, 4 children, 5 adults. The hospital reported one more victim is on the way.

RELATED: Greg Abbott calls church shooting 'evil act'

A Sutherland Springs resident who lives near the church said the gunshots sounded like "somebody was banging a piece of wood" and she wasn't sure what the loud noises were at first. She heard a rapid succession of "pop-pop-pop" sounds, then a pause, then another burst of pops. The pattern kept repeating itself. She looked at the church but saw no activity.

Minutes later, police cars swarmed through the neighborhood.

"I'm shocked by it," said the neighbor, who declined to provide her name. She's lived in Sutherland Springs for nearly 20 years and enjoyed the community's quiet, friendly atmosphere. "It's really unbelievable," she said.

The Texas Rangers within the Texas Department of Public Safety is the lead investgating agency, assisted by law enforcement officers from Wilson County, Bexar County, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, among others.

RELATED: Community mourns children killed in Sutherland Springs church shooting

"We're looking at a pretty horrific scene that'll take several days to process," one official said.

Lawmakers spoke out on the shooting on social media.

U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, said: "Terrible news coming out of Sutherland Springs, TX. I'm monitoring developments and am praying for the shooting victims."

President Donald Trump also took to Twitter to express condolences for victims.

"May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan," he said.

The church is southeast of San Antonio between La Vernia, Floresville and Stockdale off Texas 87 at 216 4th Street.

Sutherland Springs is about 21 miles east of Downtown San Antonio and according to the latest data has a population of about 643.

Staff writers John Tedesco, Sig Christensen, Chris Quinn and the Associated Press Contributed to this report.
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AUSTIN -- Texas Democrat Julian Castro confirmed Sunday he is seriously considering running for president in 2020 and former state Sen. Wendy Davis left open the possibility she will take another run at running for governor in 2018.

"I might," Castro told more than 350 people at a political conference near the University of Texas on Sunday morning. Davis' comments came at the same event.

Castro, the secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development under President Barack Obama, said the country needs a very different president than what is in office now and he will spend 2018 weighing a bid. He said the country needs someone "fundamentally honest" in the White House.

"We've had too much lying out of the White House," Castro said.

In an interview with the Houston Chronicle after the event, Castro unloaded more criticism of the Trump Administration.

"This administration is a disaster on so many issues," Castro said. "This just is not working. He's completely in over his head."

It's some of the strongest comments Castro has made yet on the prospects of running in 2020. Castro, the former San Antonio mayor, was rumored to be on Hillary Clinton's short list for a running mate in 2016 before she selected U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat.

The comments were made at a two-day conference organized by Voto Latino, a non-profit group that tries to promote civic engagement and voter participation in Hispanic communities.

Davis up for rematch?

At the same event, Davis meanwhile left open the possibility that she will be running for governor again in 2018.

The former state senator from Fort Worth said although she was defeated in 2014 by Gov. Greg Abbott, it was before voters knew how far right he would go in supporting legislation like SB 4, which she called the "show me your papers" law that threatens every citizen with brown skin. Supporters of SB 4 have said the legislation was to outlaw so-called sanctuary cities and allow local law enforcement to check the immigration status of people they pull over.

Davis made clear she's only considering it largely because other Democrats have failed to step forward to run.

"Because no one else is stepping forward," Davis said when asked by moderator Evan Smith of The Texas Tribune why she was not ruling it out.

She said Democrats have a shot "if we are able to field a candidate for governor."

Castro, pushed by moderator Evan Smith of The Texas Tribune, said his brother Joaquin Castro is 99 percent certain not to run for governor in 2018. Joaquin Castro himself has repeatedly said he will run for re-election to Congress in 2018.

Playing ball with GOP

Julian Castro also took Democrats in the Texas Legislature to task and made clear he has real problems with fellow San Antonian Joe Straus, the Republican Speaker of the House who announced last month that he will not seek re-election.

"The Democrats in this state  the Legislature  have been too willing to play ball with the Republicans," Castro said.

He noted most Democrats end up voting for the budget and some even considered voting for SB 4. He said Democrats in the Legislature need to be more strident in opposing Republicans.

It also SB 4 at the root of Castro's issues with Straus. While other Democrats celebrate him as having been a backstop against bad legislation, Castro questions why Straus let SB 4 get to the floor and pass.

"That has to be put on his record like everything else," Castro said.

Jeremy Wallace writes about state politics and government for the Chronicle. Follow him on Twitter at @JeremySWallace
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MEDINA, Ohio -- Makaela Kuhar and Kristiana Davis of the Medina County Career Center Key Club made a presentation on the Key Club International Thirst Project to the Medina Breakfast Kiwanis recently.

They informed the club members that more than 663 million people lack access to clean water. In some countries family members walk an average of 3.75 miles each day to fetch water. Every 21 seconds a child dies of water related diseases. Most of them die of parasite diseases in the dirty water in local rivers and streams.

To help combat this crisis Key Cub International has partnered with the Thirst Project. This nonprofit organization was started by seven former Key Club members from California. The project is now the largest youth led water improvement organization in the world.

The goal of the Thirst Project is to educate students about the water crisis and mobilize fundraising for global water projects.

Makaela who is the MCCC Key Club President asked the Medina Breakfast Kiwanis club to endorse the project and to consider donating $500 for a water well in Swaziland, the Key Club designated country for the project.

After the presentation the Kiwanis club voted to contribute $500 for a well. The Medina County Aktion club is also going to help with raising funds for the project.

Key Club members also received a $90 donation to buy necklaces and charms to sell to help raise funds for additional wells.

The MCCC Key club will be contacting the Key Clubs in Highland, Cloverleaf, Brunswick, Buckeye and Medina to secure their support for the project.

Anyone interested in more information on the project or to make a donation contact the Key Club at jtoddy@mcjvs.edu.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The carpenter framing a new home on your street. The ironworker erecting that massive office building downtown. The roofer hauling and laying shingle after shingle to repair a historic church. The road-crew worker filling potholes on the highway.

Construction workers in Ohio were seven times more likely to die of an opioid overdose last year than were workers in other professions, according to a Plain Dealer analysis that included records from more than 12,000 opioid drug overdose deaths in the state from 2010 through 2016.

Read how we analyzed this data at the bottom of this story.

As an industry, construction had the most deaths. Some singular occupations did stand out, however. Tree trimmers had an opioid overdose fatality rate higher than all the rest, putting them at the top of the list.

Opioid overdose deaths: Which jobs are at risk?

Most Ohio opioid deaths are from heroin or fentanyl now. But it's clear many started with a prescribed painkiller, one deceptively marketed as safe. That may be even more true for construction workers who have a high risk for on-the-job injuries and were often prescribed potent and long-acting opioids by state-supported workers' compensation doctors, or who got the pills, prevalent on work sites, from a co-worker as a way to work through the pain.

Ohio isn't the only place where the hard-hat-wearing working class is the hardest hit by the opioid crisis. Outside Boston, public health workers researching opioid-related deaths found that building and construction workers accounted for 42 percent of overdoses in a swath of suburbs. Like The Plain Dealer analysis, they used occupation information provided by family members and funeral homes on the death certificates.

There isn't a single reason that men in these skilled jobs are losing battles with addiction and dying so often; there are many.

Pain and pills

Construction work is physical. Swinging a hammer over and over for hours. Hauling beams and bricks and coils of wire. Or kneeling all day to smooth cement or lay bricks.

Tough, repetitive work wears down even the strongest bodies over time, often causing chronic lower back, shoulder and knee pain.

Until about 20 years ago, doctors could do only so much to help. People with chronic pain generally got only weak prescriptions. Stronger drugs, opiates such as morphine, were notorious for causing addiction. Doctors offered them only to patients in excruciating pain, from acute trauma or terminal cancer.

But then drug makers introduced new opioids, such as OxyContin, and told doctors they had addiction rates as low as 1 percent. Everyone seemed to come out a winner. Pharmaceutical firms could profit from the far larger group of Americans suffering from chronic pain. Doctors could offer relief to patients. And the workers were grateful, because in most construction jobs, there's no sick time. If you aren't on the job, you don't get paid.

Taking a pill to get through the day became routine for some, especially for those who had families to feed and mortgages to pay.

But, it turned out, addiction rates weren't around 1 percent. They were higher, as much as 12 percent.

Generally, four out of five people who try heroin started out misusing a prescription painkiller, whether prescribed by a doctor or obtained from another source, according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Why are certain jobs more at risk for opioid overdose deaths? Tell us what you know

Deceptive marketing leads to overprescription

The physical toll of construction work can be seen in the number of on-the-job injury claims filed with the state Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC) since 2010. Construction workers were about three times more likely than other workers to file.

And, in 2010, more than 80 percent of construction workers whose injuries were treated with medication were given narcotics, according to BWC data. Often got medications like Vicodin, Percocet and OxyContin, which are opiods or semi-synthetic opioids.

That was three years after several executives of Purdue Pharma, the pharmaceutical company that makes OxyContin, admitted in federal court that they misled doctors, regulators and patients about the potential for addiction and abuse.

A North Carolina construction worker, Johnny Sullivan, starred in one of the original videos Purdue Pharma produced, in 1998, to convince doctors to prescribe their drug for ailments like back pain.

"I got my life back," Sullivan says, standing on a construction site.

A decade later, Sullivan was unemployed and addicted to OxyContin. In 2008, he nodded out at the wheel of his truck, which flipped into a ditch, killing him instantly, his wife, Mary Lou Sullivan told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel in 2012.

In 2011, BWC reviewed its records of injured Ohio workers and found that 8,000 of them had been prescribed potentially addictive amounts of opioids. In 2012, BWC stopped covering OxyContin as a "first choice" for workers to treat injury-related pain. It soon started to limit what doses of other opioids doctors could prescribe to injured workers, and required those prescriptions be reviewed by a doctor after 60 days.

Nick Trego, who now manages BWC's clinical pharmacy operations, said that based on the bureau's consultation with addiction specialists, those workers were prescribed doses equivalent to 12 5 mg tablets of Vicodin a day for more than 60 days. The highest recommended dose for that medication is eight 5 mg tablets a day, according to prescribing guidelines.

Workers with prescriptions at that level or higher were likely to be physically dependent on opioids and experience withdrawal if their medications were cut off, Trego said.

"We have paid for long-term opioids for injured workers for a long time because that was, unfortunately, the standard of care," Trego said.

By the end of 2016, with those standards changing, the number of injured workers being "overprescribed" opioids dropped by about half to 4,100, according to BWC.

Still, even with that reduction, 73 percent of injured construction workers last year received a prescription for a narcotic painkiller. That is 13 percent of the prescriptions for all on-the-job injuries statewide.

We don't know how many of those injured workers became addicted. Or how many later switched to using cheaper heroin, or its deadlier synthetic cousin, fentanyl. Or how many of those workers have overdosed and died.

One way to find out would be to compare the state's lists of injured workers who were prescribed opioids, which is not a public record, to those who have died from overdoses of the medications and illicit drugs.

BWC has not done that, a spokeswoman said.

Trego acknowledged that some injured workers who were weaned or cut off from prescription opioids could have turned to illicit drugs.

Last October, BWC started to offer injured workers with open and active claims up to 18 months of addiction treatment if they had been prescribed opioids at a level that could cause dependence, and if the worker and their doctor agreed the treatment was necessary.

The treatment can include medical detoxification, as well as Medication Assisted Treatments (MATs) with relapse-prevention medicines such as methadone, buprenorphine or Vivitrol, in addition to in-patient or outpatient treatment.

However, fewer than 10 injured workers have received treatment through the new program. BWC says it is working to raise awareness about it among workers and treatment providers.

Adding injury to substance abuse

There are other reasons that construction workers may be unusually vulnerable to abuse of alcohol, drugs and opioids. Most are men, often young and white. Most went straight to work right after high school.

More than 275 Northeast Ohio roofers, carpenters, laborers, electricians, bricklayers and other construction workers died of a heroin or opioid overdose since 2010. All but one were men; 98 percent were white. Compared to other Ohioans, they were more than twice as likely to be divorced.

Some 15 percent of all construction workers nationally have a substance abuse disorder, compared to the general population of adults, where the national average is 8.6 percent, according to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

The workplace culture is primed with bravado, social drinking and drug use, said Eric Goplerud, a researcher who studies public health and substance abuse at the nonpartisan research organization NORC, at the University of Chicago.

"I worked construction... and at lunch you'd go out for a drink and after work you'd go out for a beer and a shot," Goplerud said. That was almost 40 years ago, he said, but the culture lingers.

Other industries, such as the restaurant, hotel and hospitality industries -- where people are paid to be around alcohol -- also have high risks of substance abuse, including opioids and cocaine.

But those workers "don't get hurt in the same way," Goplerud said.

Goplerud said he hasn't seen evidence that draws a direct line from construction work injuries to opioid overdose deaths.

But add the well-established shift to heroin and fentanyl among people who become addicted to opioids and "that could be what's driving the deaths," Goplerud said.

"I don't have any data on that. But anecdotally, I think that's probably the case."

Daniel Macklin, left, with his parents Linda and David in Little Italy at the Feast of the Assumption.

A perpetual cycle

Daniel Macklin, of Cleveland, was one of about 500 construction workers who died of opioid overdoses statewide last year.

Macklin got his GED at 18 and went straight to work doing union labor on construction and road jobs, according to his fiancee and family members. Lots of his friends did likewise; union jobs paid well for semiskilled labor, $20 or more an hour.

Early on, Macklin injured his leg and was taken to a hospital. As is routine for on-the-job injuries, he was tested for drugs.

He "popped" positive for marijuana, which he smoked recreationally on weekends. To keep his union job, he had to complete treatment for marijuana use.

There, his family said, he met a girl who introduced him to harder drugs and eventually heroin.

Macklin spent the next 19 years fighting his addiction to heroin. He tried treatment eight times. When he couldn't get into treatment, he'd sometimes use his own money to buy relapse-prevention medicines, such as Suboxone, which contains an opioid and naloxone together.

"I could taste his will to be sober," said Amy Darkovich, who was Macklin's fiancee when he died.

Only one of Macklin's stints in treatment was involuntary; he went as a condition of probation after he stole pain pills from a roommate.

Darkovich met Macklin when he was part of construction crew working on a home she rented in Little Italy. The two started talking and, after chatting on Facebook, they decided to meet again.

Macklin was fit and funny. He was guided by a strong faith in God. The two both came from big families.

On their first date, he told her, "I'm a recovering addict."

She told him she had serious medical problems.

"We shared our scary things and went from there," she said.

Darkovich said that since Macklin could no longer work as a trade laborer, he worked for what she called "fly-by-night" construction companies, doing roofing or carpentry work.

"It's the job you get when you are an addict," she said. "You can start late, after getting a fix in the morning, and you get paid in cash daily."

The work makes it hard to stay clean, she said. But Macklin managed to do it for stretches of time. Most of the other crew members used or were trying quit. Often someone on the crew paid for his own habit by dealing drugs to the others.

On the day Macklin died, he saw a doctor about the pain he felt from decades of physical labor. His body, especially his shoulders, ached from the repetitive motion of laying roof shingles.

The doctor recommended physical therapy, but wouldn't prescribe a non-narcotic medicine, gabapentin, that Macklin told him he'd had found helpful and had bought on the streets. Used to treat nerve pain, there's increasing concern the medication can be abused.

Macklin was working 12 hours a day and under a court order to attend treatment and Narcotics Anonymous meetings. Finding time for physical therapy seemed nearly impossible.

Darkovich didn't suspect that Macklin had relapsed or was thinking of using. "He was having a really good day that day," she said.

Later, though, as they chatted on their porch, he seemed distracted. He said he was going to take a "spirit walk" to clear his mind, something he learned in treatment.

Darkovich was on the phone with her mother when Macklin returned and went into their bathroom. She knocked on the door, then waited and knocked again. Sensing something was wrong, she broke down the door and found him collapsed on the floor with a needle in his arm.

One dose of Narcan can reverse a heroin overdose in some people. Macklin had four doses in a kit from Project Dawn. The paramedics had two more. All six failed to revive him. He'd shot up with fentanyl, strong and pure.

Macklin was 40 years old, the average age at which Ohio construction workers have died of opioid overdoses over the last seven years.

Getting out in front of the problem

The levels of opioid use and addiction among construction workers don't shock those who work in the industry.

"It is a very physical job," said Tim Linville, CEO of the Construction Employers Association, which works with more than 160 companies that employ trade workers on in Ohio. "And [workers] get wear and tear on their bodies over the years...It makes sense that the need for painkillers or to treat injuries is there."

In recent years, unions, employers and the administrators of the health and welfare plans they jointly manage, started to notice that powerful painkillers were among the top five medications prescribed to members along with others such as Lipitor, used to reduce cholesterol.

The health plans started to adopt new policies that included warnings on opioid use for pain relief and limited which medications and dosages would be covered, according to Linville and Dave Wondolowski, executive secretary of the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council, which represents more than 10,000 workers in 31 unions in Northeast Ohio. They said workers on union jobs undergo stringent drug testing when in apprenticeships, then annually and randomly as they work on their job sites.

A quarter of the worker pool is randomly given urine screens each month for drugs that include oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone and morphine, as well as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and benzodiazepines.

Wondolowski said those tests lower the risk of those who are misusing drugs being on union construction jobs.

Ohio's overdose data doesn't consistently indicate whether the construction workers who died were union trade laborers or nonunion construction workers before they died, though some who died had their trade union listed as their employer.

For those with substance abuse problems, Wondolowski said, the unions also offer treatment through employee assistance programs.

The programs can have an unintended consequence, some construction workers said. Once a person fails a drug test or asks for help with addiction, they are off the job. They can get treatment, but they won't get paid for union construction work while they do.

"I think we do a good job," Wondolowski said. "The key to this is education, and the continuance of discussion and dialog. We can't not talk about this and expect things to change."

Linville said construction and building trades industries were caught off guard by the mounting deaths, just like everyone else.

That opioid addiction often starts with painkillers has caused unions and employers to view and treat opioid use differently than recreational drugs, like marijuana or cocaine.

"Heroin might be a recreational drug, but it doesn't usually start that way," Linville said. "Often it starts as a prescription for a legitimate issues and you have to have compassion because of that."

Roofers are at a particularly high risk for opioid overdoses, according to a Plain Dealer analysis

Stricter rules to limit addiction

Among the first to sound the alarm about growing addiction among injured workers was Gary Franklin, medical director for the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

The most excessive use, he said, was among workers with low back pain, knee pain or other musculoskeletal injuries.

Not long after long-acting opioids were introduced to treat those injuries, Franklin, a research professor at the University of Washington, noticed the first opioid overdose deaths for injured workers in his state. Workers prescribed opioids for back pain were also ending up on disability in high numbers.

By 2010, there was a clear association between the prescriptions and overdose deaths.

The state changed its prescribing guidelines, lowering the doses allowed and the length of the treatment with opioids. Overdose deaths among injured workers dropped substantially, Franklin said.

Ohio was among a few states to follow Washington's lead to curtail opioid prescribing for injured workers, and more recently for the general public.

But overdose deaths have continued to climb in Ohio and nationally.

Franklin doesn't believe reducing the number of opioid prescriptions or dosages resulted in more overdose deaths by those who might have sought illicit drugs.

Those deaths were steadily rising before the prescribing laws and regulations were put in place, which many attribute to the introduction of pure and potent heroin mixtures including fentanyl and carfentanil.

The deaths, Franklin said, have continued to rise in states with and without more stringent rules.

It doesn't really matter whether injured workers were "cut off because insurers stopped covering it or [if] they started getting black tar heroin cheaper on the streets of Columbus," he said. "You are still going to have the same large swath of people on opioids chronically."

Lessons to learn

Two strategies are important moving forward, Franklin said.

Limit opioid prescriptions for people with sudden injuries or dental procedures, like tooth extractions.

Implement better therapies and treatment for chronic wear-and-tear job related injuries.

It takes only days or weeks for some patients to get addicted to strong opioid painkillers, the latest research from the CDC shows, with the likelihood of chronic use increasing after the third day and with higher doses and long-acting formulations.

"If someone is on opioids for more than three months, it's almost too late," Franklin said.

Opioid overdose deaths continue to rise for younger people under 30. Many of those people were prescribed opioids for so-called acute injuries, or trips to the dentist to get a tooth pulled, Franklin said.

Washington state changed its prescribing guidelines to address acute injuries, and in August, so did Ohio. Doctors and dentists now are only allowed to prescribe seven days of opioids for adults with short-term pain.

For the workers who construct our schools, bridges and roads, the long hours and wear and tear on muscles, joints, tendons ligaments won't go away.

But the cheap and easy route of using opioids to treat those ailments must be curtailed, Franklin said.

Opioids don't even work well to alleviate lower back or shoulder pain or knee pain for which construction workers and other physical laborers often have them prescribed, Franklin said.

Anti-inflammatory medications and non-opioid pain medications work far better, he said.

In July, the Ohio BWC took steps to discourage the use of spinal fusion surgery and opioid prescriptions for workers with lower back injuries, requiring that they first undergo at least 60 days of physical therapy, chiropractic care, rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications before considering surgery.

Studies, including one done at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, showed surgery and opioid treatment led to chronic opioid dependence and long-term disability, BWC officials said.

In Washington, where Franklin works, and at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, they are "betting the bank" on non-opioid options such as pain clinics and therapies that address not only the body but the mind and behaviors.

"That is the path forward," Franklin said.

How we analyzed opioid drug overdose occupation data.

The Plain Dealer analyzed drug overdose deaths in Ohio between 2010 and 2016. The database provided to us by the Ohio Department of Health included more than 16,000 overdose victims' occupations. The information included on death certificates is provided by coroners, medical examiners, family members and funeral homes. The occupation listed could be the person's job at the time of death or the job they worked the job before becoming addicted.

We used Bureau of Labor Statistics categories to classify the occupations and to see how many people worked in those occupations. Comparing that with how many people died told us which workers were at the highest risk for opioid overdoses.

Not all of the jobs in our database could be classified. Many of the dead were described as homemakers, disabled or unemployed. In more than 1,500 cases, the death certificate said that the victim's occupation was unknown.

Our estimates of death rates in each occupation are probably low, as they don't include people whose jobs were not identified on their death certificate.
CLEVELAND, Ohio - In her play "Well," Lisa Kron grapples with questions surrounding sickness and health.

Why, she wonders, do some people who are sick get well, but others never recover? She asks the same question about communities. What makes some vibrant places to live, but others in need of life support?

People with reasons to come together - to attend a street fair, to see a show, to learn how to draw - make a community healthier, she realizes.

"Well" just ended its run at Ensemble Theatre in the old Coventry School on Washington Blvd., the nerve center of a group trying to do just what Kron prescribes - strengthen the immune system of Cleveland Heights with a shot of arts and culture.

Trouble is, they don't have much time to do it.

As the debate surrounding the fate of the former elementary school continues with no end in sight, the clock is ticking for Ensemble and five other non-profits in the building. The organizations will have to leave once their lease agreements expire on June 30, 2018.

The property is catnip for developers because it's a stone's throw from the Coventry business district, the shops and eateries known as Cleveland's Greenwich Village. Whether they'll be peddling condo units or a CVS is anybody's guess.

Instead of searching for a new home, Ensemble's artistic director Celeste Cosentino and a team of activists decided they'd develop the property themselves. They've come up with an innovative plan to do it, a concept called Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Campus - short for "People Enhancing a Community's Environment." But so far, the city isn't biting.

One problem? The city doesn't own the property - Cleveland Heights-University Heights School District does.

According to school board member Eric Silverman, it costs about $125,000 a year to operate the building. That bill, plus the price of looming repairs, is why he said the School District is more than ready to sell the property to the city for $1.

Cleveland Heights isn't ready to pony up the buck - not without a developer, city manager Tanisha Briley explained in an email response. The argument is maddeningly circular. What about the proposed Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Campus development?

"We certainly appreciate their volunteer efforts to develop a creative plan for the site," Briley wrote. "The School District expects the City to solicit qualifications and proposals from developers as part of the process. The Coventry PEACE Campus plan is one idea and the City needs to determine if, how, and when we will solicit other ideas."

More than 100 residents packed a September meeting to learn P.E.A.C.E. project details and hear from Coventry School tenants including Lake Erie Ink, a creative writing program for area kids and teens, and Artful Cleveland, a nonprofit that moved in this past March, offering studio space to artists and art classes to the community, everything from origami to 3-D printing.

Together, the businesses, all helmed by women, provide jobs to nearly 200 people. And that's just a start. Without the threat of eviction, they expect more organizations to move in, generating rental income to cover operating expenses.

A village-scale housing development is also in the mix to add vitality to the Coventry strip and help pay for renovations to the aging building. Plans also call for expanding and enhancing the land's green space, making room for walking trails, art fairs and farmers markets.

Among those working to make the campus a reality is architect and urban designer Paul Volpe. The Cleveland Heights resident is the founder of City Architecture, the firm behind the celebrated restoration of League Park in the Hough neighborhood and the Third District Police Station on Chester Avenue, with its glowing marquee.

The P.E.A.C.E team isn't looking for direct financial support from taxpayers. But the proposal has gotten plenty of vocal support from citizens, many of whom flooded Vice Mayor Jason Stein's Facebook page to give their thumbs-up when he posted the idea for public comment.

Here's another idea - give P.E.A.C.E. a chance.

Cleveland Heights City Council meets 7:30 p.m. Monday, November 6 at City Hall Council Chambers, 40 Severance Circle, Cleveland Heights.
Jane Schierloh

Guest columnist Jane Schierloh lives in Shaker Heights.

My husband watched the recent 18-hour PBS documentary on the War in Vietnam. It has brought back memories of my participation in the Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam in November 1969.

I remember that my husband said, "I know you feel strongly that the war in Vietnam is a tragic mistake. The United Methodist churches in the Cleveland area have rented two Greyhound buses to take people to Washington, D.C. to protest the war. Why don't you go? I'll watch the kids."

And so I went -- one night on the bus to get to D.C.--one day of protest activities--one night on the bus back to Cleveland. It was an unforgettable experience.

The first night everyone on our bus talked and sang. We were too excited to sleep. We arrived in Washington at 5:00 a.m. at a huge staging area. Forty thousand people arrived from all over the United States. We were given precise instructions designed to keep this a peaceful and safe protest.

We paraded silently in single file down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. At each intersection there was an organizer identified by an arm band who made sure that we crossed the street safely.

Like all the others ahead of me, when I reached the front of the White House, I picked up a wooden placard with the name of a soldier who had died in the war. My soldier was from Ohio. I held the placard up high and called out my soldier's name to President Nixon (who understandably was not there that day.) Then I laid the plaque in a wooden coffin.

Our silent single-file march ended in front of the Capitol Building. I had visited Washington D.C. several times before as a tourist. But this time my feelings were different. I felt a part of the impressive government buildings I passed by. This was my government, and I was a part of it. It was a right and a privilege to be here.

In the afternoon, many of us walked to the National Cathedral. It was crowded. We sat on the hard marble floor and listened to speeches. I've forgotten the speakers and the speeches. What I remember is listening to Pete Seeger singing the Beatle's new song, "Give Peace a Chance."

In the late afternoon, our group went to Dupont Circle where we had been told our bus would be parked. To our surprise, a group of young protestors were demonstrating violently in front of a government building...and in front of our bus! The police were spraying the protestors with tear gas. We too were coughing and choking. Our bus driver had fled. Four or five men from our group were trying to push the bus away from the scene. I especially remember the Rev. Don Wolton, the director of Cleveland Metropolitan Ministry, pushing the Greyhound bus!

We found our bus driver a block away and took off for Cleveland on the all-night ride home. We didn't talk and sing as we had the previous night. We were exhausted. The bus driver turned the lights down low, and we slept all the way home.

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WASHINGTON - Tax overhaul legislation moving through Congress could incorporate repeal of the Obamacare individual mandate as deliberations on the issue continue, the chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives' tax writing committee said Friday.

Although a draft of the bill that the House Ways and Means Committee released Thursday didn't include that provision, the committee's chairman, Texas Republican Kevin Brady, said final decisions on the issue haven't been made.

Brady told a Politico event that tax writers will "work to improve" the bill as it moves through Congress, and repeal of an Affordable Care Act mandate that citizens maintain health insurance coverage is still under consideration.

The Affordable Care Act included a requirement that most Americans buy health insurance coverage to make sure that healthy people would be in the insurance pool, helping to reduce premiums for plans in the Obamacare marketplaces.

Those who don't comply face a variety of potential tax penalties. Some pay fees of $695 for each adult, and $347.50 for each child under 18 who isn't covered, with a maximum family charge of $2,085. Others pay 2.5 percent of their income, not to exceed the total yearly premium for the national Bronze plan sold through the marketplace. The law requires taxpayers to pay whichever option ends up costing more money.

Opponents of the law including President Donald Trump say it's unfair to require that people purchase insurance.

Wouldn't it be great to Repeal the very unfair and unpopular Individual Mandate in ObamaCare and use those savings for further Tax Cuts.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 1, 2017

Brady said that Trump "feels strongly" about including repeal in the tax reform package and has repeatedly asked him to do so.

"He's told me that twice by phone and once in person, and members have as well," said Brady, who said he's requested analyses of its fiscal ramifications.

Brady said repealing the individual mandate would have "pros and cons," and there are many factors to consider as the Ways and Means Committee finalizes its draft of the bill next week.

The Congressional Budget Office predicts that repealing the mandate would save around $400 billion that could be used for tax cuts, but would also result in higher insurance premiums and increased numers of people without insurance.

"Importing health care into a tax reform debate has consequences," said Brady. "Especially one where the Senate has yet to produce 50 votes on anything related to health care that I'm aware of."

"No decisions have been made," said Brady. "We're listening to members and certainly the president, as well."
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Former Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Lance Mason once had the potential to become a fine mayor of Cleveland. At least, I thought so.

Over lunch some 15 years ago, I suggested that he should consider tossing his hat into the ring, once he tired of the regular commute to Columbus, where he then served as a state representative. I remember Mason chuckling and demurring. But I pressed the issue.

I told him I believed there was a serious dearth of emerging political talent in Greater Cleveland. With his personable demeanor, work ethic and sharp intellect, I saw Mason going places. I just didn't see him going to prison for a violent crime. No one did.

Now, years after that lunch, and his 2015 guilty plea to domestic assault, Mason is again part of the Cleveland mayoral conversation for all the wrong reasons. He was hired to work for the city in August in the Department of Economic Development. The troubling question is why.

Why has Mason been given the opportunity to work for a city that already has a well-established awful track record for protecting abused women and children? The optics of his hiring aren't just bad. They're revolting.

When news broke last week that the administration of Mayor Frank Jackson had hired Mason as a business development administrator, Jackson forfeited credibility on the issue of public safety.

How can Jackson claim to care about the well-being of vulnerable women and children, and then hire a once-powerful politician who savagely beat his former wife in front of their two young daughters?

It's one thing for a serial killer to operate on Jackson's watch during his first term. The mayor had no way of knowing Anthony Sowell was collecting bodies, even though the convicted killer was dating Jackson's niece at the time.

It's one thing for a convicted sexual predator to abduct 14-year-old Alianna DeFreeze at an RTA bus stop this past January as she headed to school. Jackson had no idea that a sexual predator was actively hunting the area, even though the neighborhood literally teems with convicted sexual predators.

The Mason story is something completely different. Ignorance is not an excuse. Jackson knows well the severe violence Mason inflicted on his former wife. He knows the trauma that the once fine jurist exposed his two young daughters to, as they were forced to witness the public attack on their mother.

Jackson knows first-hand how violence has visited and ripped apart families all across this city. Yet an inexplicable blind spot allowed him to hire a violent felon as minority business development administrator for Cleveland.

This past May, as the mayoral primary heated up, Jackson belittled Zack Reed as a political "pimp." Reed took great offense at the description, but has shown surprisingly little ability to take the gloves off and engage in political hand-to-hand combat.

Now, with two days to go until Cleveland voters decide on the next mayor, Jackson has literally handed Reed a ready-made public safety issue. It probably won't be enough. Reed appears to be slipping inexorably toward the dustbin of Cleveland political history. But Reed still may have a Hail Mary in him.

Jackson demonstrated exceedingly poor judgment by hiring Mason who, in one tragic moment, destroyed his promising career and his family by demonstrating the violence of a pimp.

Do Cleveland voters care that Mason is back on the public dime?

Tuesday's vote might show. I suppose it can be considered a referendum on pimps.
WASHINGTON -- You know the big picture by now: The tax proposal unveiled by House of Representatives Republicans this week would nearly double the standard deduction, reduce tax rates for corporations and many families and limit some popular itemized deductions, such as those for property taxes and mortgage interest.

Many families, but not all, would see more money in their take-home pay. Yet while the bill's authors sell this as a way to simplify taxes and help the middle class, they have inserted some potentially controversial provisions -- not all related to simplification or similar rationales -- you may have missed.

Here are eight of them.

No more deductions for high health care expenses:

It has always been hard to claim a deduction for health care expenses -- that is, to reduce your taxable income by deducting what you had to spend on medical care. In fact, your medical expenses must exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income to take the deduction, or 7.5 percent of income if you're 65 or older.

The tax bill unveiled on Thursday would end the deduction entirely. Theoretically, people might not care because they could skip itemizing altogether and claim a larger standard deduction: $12,000 for an individual or $24,000 for a married couple. That's nearly double the current standard deduction.

But people with high medical costs who also lose the ability to deduct other expenses could lose, and AARP notes that the average Medicare beneficiary spends more than $6,000 a year on medical expenses, which is enough to wipe out any savings he or she would get from the tax bill's more generous standard deduction.

Both Ohio U.S. senators, Sherrod Brown (a Democrat) and Rob Portman (a Republican), were trying until now to keep the special deduction threshold for seniors, since it was temporary. Look for pushback on the tax bill's provision to end the deduction entirely. AARP opposes it already.

Freedom for churches to be overtly political:

Churches, synagogues and mosques are exempt from taxes, consistent with this country's founding tradition of separating government and religion. But they can risk losing their tax exemption if they get overtly political -- if, for example, they open their pulpits to overtly "vote-for-me" speeches and backed specific candidates.

The prohibition, codified in the 1954 Johnson Amendment, rarey leads to enforcement for violations, but supporters say it at least helps keep churches from becoming de facto wings of political parties or organizations.

Yet religious conservatives complain it violates First Amendment rights. Other critics say some churches skirt this prohibition anyway by participating in get-out-the-vote drives and discussing social issues in neighborhoods and towns where political passions and motives are thinly veiled.

The GOP tax plan would end the prohibition.

If the #JohnsonAmendment is repealed, tax-exempt churches could:

Campaign for candidates

Sell endorsements

Make campaign contributions https://t.co/vqZBZzv3re  Secular Coalition for America (@seculardotorg) November 2, 2017

More options for paying K-12 private school tuition:

Federal tax law already lets families put aside large sums of money in investment accounts for college. The initial contributions do not reduce a family's tax bill, but the investment earnings can be withdrawn tax-free to pay for tuition, room and board and books. There are no federal limits on contributions, although states have their own limits; one Ohio college savings plan, for example, puts the maximum contributions at $14,500 a year, with an aggregate limit of $445,000.

The tax bill unveiled Thursday would let families use these accounts, called 529 accounts, to pay for K-12 private school tuition. The mechanics of how this would work still must be determined. The proposal is consistent with President Donald Trump's and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos's desires to expand K-12 school choice, but public education advocates will fight it, saying it uses the tax code to weaken public education.

Unborn children count, too:

The tax bill's language on the tuition-savings plans had social critics take notice for reasons not entirely related to education. What was unusual was this language: "Unborn children allowed as account beneficiaries."

This means a mother expecting a child could set up a 529 plan for college or K-12 use. The bill even defines "unborn" as a "child in utero," which it then defines as "a member of the species homo sapiens, at any stage of development, who is carried in the womb.''

This leaves no doubt as to the meaning. But abortion rights activists see it as about much more than education. The language inserts the concept of "personhood," they say, a way to give rights to a fetus in a longer-range drive to restrict or outlaw abortion.

GOP #TaxReform doesnt do much to help familiesbut they DID sneak in language thats a roadmap to banning abortion. https://t.co/PEzrQJ6mpi  NARAL (@NARAL) November 3, 2017

Employer-paid tuition to count as additional income for the student:

Some companies encourage their employees to advance their educations by paying some or all of their tuition for college. The GOP tax plan sees value in that, too -- value as taxable income.

Until now, tuition and fees paid by employers was not considered to be a form of taxable income unless it exceeded $5,200. The tax bill presented Thursday would change that, with the value of all tuition treated as additional income for the employee-student, and therefore be taxed.

If a worker earned $40,000 a year, for example, and her employer paid for her to take a night course at college costing $3,000, her income for tax purposes would now be $43,000. In a new 12 percent tax bracket, she'd pay $360 more in income taxes. Her higher standard deduction would more than make up for that, but the break-even point can dissipate with each change like this.

A plan to make flipping a flop:

Ever wonder why some people buy or build a house, fix it up and stay in it for exactly two years (or rent it out for a year, then move back in for a year) before moving -- then do the same thing over again with their next house? Some might just enjoy new digs.

But there's a tax reason to do this, well-known to house flippers: If you live there for at least two years during a five-year period and then make a profit on selling, the first $250,000 in capital gains, or $500,000 for a couple, will be exempt from taxes.

The GOP tax bill would change this to restrict the capital gains avoidance to once every five years, and phase it down for incomes above $500,000.

Reducing the tax voltage on cars:

If you were asked to name the two coming trends in automobiles, you might say self-driving cars and electric vehicles. The government offers a tax incentive to go electric, with credits up to $7,500 for buyers, and car makers factor that in as they plan for the future.

The tax bill released Thursday would hit the brakes on that tax break, ending it entirely. Critics of the credit say the government shouldn't pick winners and losers in technology.

Making divorce pay:

When a couple divorces and one party pays alimony, the alimony payments are tax-deductible from the gross income of the spouse paying. To use a wisecrack, hey, at least you get a tax break. But the recipient then has to pay taxes on the income.

That would end under the new tax plan. It's in plain English on page 122 of the bill: "Repeal for deduction of alimony payments." The payer would pay taxes on all of his or her income and not be able to deduct the alimony. The recipient would get the money but not pay taxes on it.

This is a net win if you a) aren't in divorce court and b) are the government. As Business Insider points out, the spouse paying the alimony tends to make more money, so that could mean he (or she) is in a higher tax bracket. The tax writers say this could provide $8.3 billion for the government over the next ten years.

Yet we can't help but refer you to the Business Insider explanation, which shows how this would play out financially, pre- and post passage of the tax bill, with a couple named Bill and Alice -- and their divorce following Bill's affair with Carol.
Plans for Formula 1 to hold a second Grand Prix in the United States have received a setback from local residents in Northern California.

A number of groups across the country are believed to be making a bid to hold a race. It would sit alongside the existing event in Austin on the F1 calendar.

One such proposal is being considered by businessman William Yaos company WY2M, Inc. It has unveiled plans to build a track on farm land located on the edge of Santa Clara and San Benito County. It would be midway between San Jose and Laguna Seca.

San Juan Bautista is the closest city to the proposed site. Ten acres of the circuit would actually sit within city limits. But mayor Chris Martorana says that the plans are highly unlikely to get approved.

I think there is very little likelihood that the proposal will move forward at all," he told Forbes magazine.

"Placing a track directly adjacent to a town of fewer than 2,000 residents with infrastructure that barely meets their needs seems to me to be unworkable.

"The traffic issues associated with the influx of 250,000 spectators is impossible from where Im sitting."

"Our region is barely able to sustain the water needs of the current population and industry," he added.

"A track using millions of gallons a day, even for the limited number of operational days, is a pretty tough sell around here.

"At this point we havent heard anything from the proponents in weeks. I suspect its dead."

However, promoters WY2M, Inc.felt there was still life in the project.

"We are aware of the obstacles presented in developing this scale of a project in a small rural area," they said in a statement.

"We are currently working with the County Supervisors and their staff to further explore and look at the next steps to bringing the project forward.

The plans to bring Formula 1 to Silicon Valley also appear to face firm opposition from local residents.

This proposal would overwhelm our peaceful Mission town and destroy our quality of life, said Emily Renzel. She urged the Planning Commission to reject the proposal.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
There was just one problem with the aforementioned letter: It was a forgery leaked by posh MI5 agents . They had no love for the Labour Party, what with their higher taxes, workers' rights, and giving servants a ten-minute head start before hunting them on horseback. According to Foreign Office chief historian Gill Bennett, the letter was almost certainly created by Russian exiles who opposed the Bolsheviks. Now, we may never know who among the Conservatives passed the letter along to The Daily Mail , but one thing is clear: Some things never change, and The Daily Mail is those things' king.

3 Bolivia Was Overthrown By Nazis And Coke Traffickers

Klaus Barbie, a Nazi known as the "Butcher of Lyon," was lent a helping hand by the U.S. intelligence community as thanks for his assistance with their anticommunist efforts. Assuming the identity of Klaus Altmann, Barbie (yes, that is what we're going to call him for the entirety of this entry, for what we hope are obvious reasons), was secreted away to Bolivia in the '60s. He continued to serve evil there, teaching the lackeys of military dictators that electricity was the best way to torture people. So good.

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Come 1980, Bolivia was barreling toward democracy. The government-in-waiting promised to crack down on cocaine trafficking, a policy that didn't sit too well with Bolivia's cocaine traffickers. By this time, Barbie was "security consultant" to Roberto Suarez Gomez, Bolivia's "King of Cocaine." Barbie recruited an army of right-wing maniacs for Suarez, who fashioned themselves "the fiances of death" (we assume that sounds more badass in Spanish). Led by neo-Nazi Joachim Fiebelkorn, a close acquaintance of none other than Licio Gelli, the fiances (yes, that is what we're going to call them for the entirety of this entry, for what we hope are obvious reasons) would've been cut from a Bond film for being too over the top. There was a fugitive Italian terrorist, a white Rhodesian mercenary, and an aging SS veteran known for bludgeoning prisoners with the butt of his rifle. And, as if this story weren't ridiculous enough already, their main job was to stand around with bazookas and shoot down Colombian transport planes if they attempted to escape without paying.
New York actor-comic Chris Monty comes to the Downtown Cabaret Theatre in Bridgeport on Saturday Nov. 11 in a benefit for Mikeys Way Foundation, a Connecticut-based organization that helps pediatric cancer patients nationwide.

The evening will be hosted by Anna Zapp from The Anna & Raven Show on Starr 99.9. The opening act will be Kevin Israel.

A regular at New York comedy clubs, Monty was in the comedy film Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2, the HBO series Vinyl, as well as the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black. He has also served as the opening act for Joan Rivers, B.B. King and The Duprees and has headlined in Atlantic City, Las Vegas and Reno.

The foundation helps sick children to stay connected with friends, family, and school while taking their minds off their treatment.

According to the foundation: Mikeys Way was founded by Michael Mikey Friedman while he was undergoing his own treatment for a rare cancer. He experienced firsthand the isolation, boredom and fear associated with life-threatening illnesses and found electronics could be a strong diversion. When Mikey was offered a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, he used his wish for others. He was granted a shopping spree at Best Buy, and purchased thousands of dollars of electronics. He personally delivered them to the children at Yale-New Haven Childrens Hospital who were battling their own life-threatening illness.

He lost his battle with cancer in October 2008. Mikeys Way has gifted over 5,000 patients and support 43 hospitals nationwide, the foundation said.

Doors will open at 6:30 for early dining; guests are encouraged to bring picnics. Also, the Firehouse Grill food truck will be open outside the theater.

Downtown Cabaret Theatre, 263 Golden Hill St., Bridgeport. Saturday, Nov. 11, 8 p.m. $60, general seating. 203-873-0671.
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BRIDGEPORT  The Bridgeport Rescue Mission is asking individuals, civic and school groups, companies, churches and synagogues to collect frozen turkeys to provide more than 88,000 meals through the missions Thanksgiving fixings bags and the dinners served in its dining room.

Groups may also opt to give $20 for each virtual turkey they wish to donate.
BRIDGEPORT  Police have held several men suspected of stealing a car and cell phones on Sunday.

Capt. Roderick Porter said four men robbed a Honda Civic and cell phones from a victim around 1 a.m. on Bunnel Street. Police tracked the men to Milford, where Bridgeport and Milford police detained several suspects.
Iran said on Saturday the resignation of Lebanese prime minister Saad Hariri would create tension in Lebanon and the region.

Hariri accused Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world in his resignation statement earlier on Saturday.

"The resigning Lebanese prime minister's repetition of the unrealistic and unfounded accusations of the Zionists, Saudis and Americans against Iran is an indication that this resignation is a new scenario for creating tension in Lebanon and the region," Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said in a statement published on the ministry website.

"But we believe that the resistant people of Lebanon will pass this stage easily."

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In the immediate aftermath of Mays disastrous conference speech, a senior backbencher told me shes one more crisis from oblivion

On Wednesday, as Westminster reeled from the latest allegations of sexual impropriety, Theresa May finally decided to confront the storm engulfing British politics.

Preparing her keynote speech at the annual Spectator parliamentarian of the year awards, she inserted the following words.

I have made it a priority during my career to encourage a more diverse intake of MPs, as I know others have, too.

But we wont get that more representative Parliament if Westminster is not a safe and secure place for everyone who works there.

Parliament, of all places, should be somewhere that our most cherished common values  decency, respect, fairness and equality  are upheld fully and without exception.

A place where women and men can work free from the threat or fear of harassment, bullying or intimidation. We all have a responsibility to work together across parties to do everything necessary to make that a reality.

They were never delivered. A few hours later the Defence Secretary Michael Fallon had resigned, after being accused of improper behaviour towards Leader of the House Andrea Leadsom, and the crumbling dam separating the Cabinet from the scandal was swept away.

In the immediate aftermath of Mays disastrous conference speech, a senior backbencher told me shes one more crisis from oblivion. This morning the Prime Minister finds herself engulfed in the biggest parliamentary crisis of her premiership.

Last week, as I highlighted, it was the hypocrisy surrounding the Labour partys attitude to the politics of gender that was dominating the headlines.

But with staggering speed  and aided by what many Tory MPs regard as criminal incompetence by their party leadership  there is now serious discussion about whether the slew of allegations could precipitate the fall of Mrs May, or even her government.

It will ultimately be for the police, the Cabinet office and those in charge of the new regime of oversight to judge the scale and nature of the crimes perpetrated in the inappropriately named mother of parliaments.

And they will have a tough job, given the nature of reported offences ranges from rape all the way through to the disputed brushing of a knee. But Conservative MPs are not withholding judgment. They believe No10 has hung them out to dry.

Its a disgrace, one MP told me. Obviously all serious allegations have to be investigated. But its also the Prime Ministers job to defend her MPs and her party from unsubstantiated and malicious attacks. And shes failed to do it.

At the heart of Tory anger is the so-called Dodgy Dossier, a spread sheet of 44 Conservative MPs supposedly engaged in questionable activity.

To some this has been a valuable tool in shining a much needed spotlight on the dark crevices of SW1. To others it represents a cut and paste job of gossip and reheated rumour.

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Ive never heard the level of vitriol I encountered on Thursday morning as it emerged May had appointed key ally and former chief whip Gavin Williamson in Fallons place

History will judge who is right. But while its still being written, its worth bearing in mind the following. Had this document been presented at a time when the Government was not already paralysed, it would probably never have left the pages of social media.

In the New Labour era, as soon as it came to light that a large number of the relationships documented were consensual, and that a significant number of other claims were simply false, the dossier would have been swiftly killed.

But, incredibly, it appears no co-ordinated attempt was made to provide a central rebuttal of the many spurious claims. Ive been told Conservative central office believed it was the whips office job to respond. The whips thought it was Downing Streets. And No10 thought it was everyone but theirs.

Some may welcome this new age of transparency. But a number of those falsely named in the dossier were female researchers  the people our parliamentarians are now supposed to be protecting. And the argument they should be treated as acceptable collateral damage in a cleansing of the Augean stables is not washing with Tory backbenchers.

Gavin Williamson arrives at the Ministry of Defence after he was announced as the new British Defence Secretary on November 2

Of itself, the handling of the dossier would have been enough to call the Prime Ministers judgment into question. But it was then compounded by the swiftest and most disastrous reshuffle in modern political history.

Ive been working in and around politics for a quarter of a century. Ive never heard the level of vitriol I encountered on Thursday morning as it emerged May had appointed key ally and former chief whip Gavin Williamson in Fallons place, and Williamsons own closest friend Julian Smith as his replacement.

No sooner had Gavin Williamson taken up his post as Defence Secretary than rumours began sweeping Westminster that the former Chief Whip had decided to mount a coup. Not a political coup, but a full-blown military one. We all suddenly received this text saying, Gavin is setting up a group message so he is able to text all Conservative MPs. 'Further details to follow,  said a backbencher. We were all sitting there thinking, Whats he up to now? Is he going to start issuing military edicts?  It transpired that MPs had confused Gavin Williamson with Downing Street Chief of Staff Gavin Barwell. I half expected to hear tanks rumbling down Whitehall, said one alarmed MP. Advertisement

Theyre seen as parasites, one ex-Minister told me. By controlling intelligence they have massively manipulated and misled her. Its so unpopular many colleagues are saying they will happily pile in and oppose Brexit and defence cuts.

There is still a way she can get out ahead of all this. She is the nations most senior female parliamentarian. She worked in the financial sector throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Which is why this has now become an existential crisis for Mrs May.

Even for the most gifted politician, fighting on so many fronts would find them tested almost to destruction. A sex scandal. Brexit. A stuttering economy. Northern Ireland. The loss of her majority. The rise of Corbynism. But the Prime Minister does not possess those political gifts.

Theresa May does not need lectures from anyone about what its like for a woman to make her way in a world of male entitlement. She has experienced it first hand.

But she refuses to frame her response to the crisis in those terms. She wants to be judged on her merits, a close ally told me this week. She doesnt want to play the woman card.

Which, on one level, is admirable. But it may yet prove terminal.

Many are saying this is her biggest and probably last mistake, an MP told me as the fallout from the Fallon resignation reverberated around Westminster.

At the start of the week the working assumption was Theresa May was one crisis from oblivion. That crisis has now arrived with a vengeance.

Nervous Kemi leaves PM high and dry

The mystery of Theresa Mays catastrophic conference cough has finally been solved  and the blame for the debacle lies squarely on the shoulders of Kemi Badenoch.

It was all my fault, the newly elected Tory MP for Saffron Walden tells me. I was the last warm-up speech before the Prime Minister came on, and I got very nervous, so I kept drinking all the water. Then Theresa came on with her dry throat, and there was none left.

Dont worry, Kemi. When the Government falls, all will be forgiven.
During the reckoning of Westminster Weinsteins last week, Mrs Leadsom reported Sir Michael for making fruity comments to her back in 2011 or so

The revenge saga is all the rage. From Medea via Dr Foster and Liar to the new Nicole Kidman movie, The Killing Of A Sacred Deer  even to the suspension of Trumps Twitter account by a mischievous employee  we all find something irresistibly satisfying in seeing a nasty scumbag receive his comeuppance.

Which brings us, of course, to laffaire Andrea Leadsom, in the Whips Office, with her murder weapon: antique allegations of inappropriate remarks by Sir Michael Fallon.

I loved Dr Foster etc but I have to admit I find this episode of political Cluedo deeply unsatisfying. Before I explain why, a recap.

During the reckoning of Westminster Weinsteins last week, Mrs Leadsom reported Sir Michael for making fruity comments to her back in 2011 or so. Among them was him telling her he knew where she could put her cold hands to warm them up.

Now, there could well have been more such stuff to come out on Sir Michael, but its accepted that this Leadsom dossier was a proximate cause of the Defence Secretarys departure; Sir Michael was still standing after the historic battle of the Julia Hartley-Brewer knee, but he couldnt survive, in this fetid climate, being chucked under the bus by the Leader of the House, a Privy Counsellor, and a woman.

I dont deny that Pestminster has its share of sleazy, handsy, pervy older men. So do many workplaces. It has to stop. But were Sir Michaels offences  silly, frisky remarks  really worse than Mrs Leadsoms (fratricide of a long-serving Cabinet minister)?

I know Im supposed to accept that she was acting in the public interest. By turning whistleblower she was nobly helping the Government in its newest Augean task  ie stable-clearing the Commons of handsy old men.

Im afraid I dont buy it.

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I know Sir Michael a little, and although he is prone to bouts of heavy gallantry, particularly when the sun is over the yardarm, I cant imagine his remarks caused Mrs Leadsom, a 54-year-old mother-of-three, undue distress.

Anyway, if she couldnt brush off Sir Michael, and fight her own corner, how would a former wannabe leader of the party deal with a Putin, Trump or Berlusconi?

Let us, for the sake of argument, assume he had somehow upset Mrs Leadsom. Why did it take her six years for the former City battleaxe to find her inner snowflake and boo hoo about it?

I cant help thinking that Mrs Leadsom chose her moment like a team playing its joker in a pub quiz  to double her points. She thought she could scuttle a rival and goldplate her own precarious position in Government at the same time.

I know Sir Michael a little, and although he is prone to bouts of heavy gallantry, particularly when the sun is over the yardarm, I cant imagine his remarks caused Mrs Leadsom, a 54-year-old mother-of-three, undue distress

Unfortunately, Mrs Leadsom is not the sharpest knife in the drawer when it comes to political assassinations, as we know from her attempt to wound Mrs May in the battle for the Tory leadership last year, when she drew attention to her rivals tragic barrenness compared to her own blessed fruitfulness.

Look. Men do bad things to women. We all know that. I repeat, it has to stop. But what has been lost in this whole squalid revenge saga, and The Reckoning of younger females against older males, is this. Women do bad things to men, too. Even mums!

To me, Mrs Leadsom isnt so much a brave whistleblower but a common sneak, bent on revenge and advancement.

I cant help thinking on this Guy Fawkes day that Mrs Thatcher  a victim of a male plot herself when it came to her own downfall  would be turning in her grave to see the uncollegiate ruthlessness that undid her loyal servant Fallon.

I love a good bloody revenge saga as much as the next woman, but Mrs L has served her dish too cold, even for me.

You can't blame Ken for enjoying a Pffabulous view

Glad to see that Kenneth Branagh removed his hilarious prosthetic Poirot tache  that looked as if an Andean condor had settled on his upper lip  during his promotional spree for his Orient Express movie.

Glad to see that Kenneth Branagh removed his hilarious prosthetic Poirot tache

But only, it seems, so that it wouldnt obstruct his view when gazing down co-star Michelle Pfeiffers dress. And who can blame him? Pfeiffer is Pfifty-nine and simply Pffabulous.

BBC 1

The Corporations glee over poor Prue Leiths premature revelation of the Bake Off 2017 winner was unseemly.

Yes, Saint Mary Berry would have been at home in her country kitchen in Bucks preparing pheasant casserole on the day of the final, not trekking in Bhutan like Prue, but still. Had GBBO still been on the BBC and not Channel 4, would Auntie have cooked up such a faux fuss?

BBC 2

Weather forecasts are getting out of hand. Not content with endlessly telling the nation about the weather story or narrative, last Thursday I heard a Met Office broadcaster explaining that the plot over this weekend would be a bit slow-moving, as if pondering Proust. Leave the fiction to novelists and just give us the forecast, please!

BBC 3

The One Shows Alex Jones, 40, is paid 50,000 less than her co-presenter Matt Baker, 39. Eh? Que?? This shocks me far more than any Government Minister brushing a young ladys knee with his hand in a wine bar.
Sending his secretary to Soho to buy him sex toys made Tory Minister Mark Garnier the butt of jokes at the Spectator magazines Parliamentary Awards bash. Best of the bunch was from editor Fraser Nelson. Just for a moment I felt a new buzz about this Government. Sadly, one of Mark Garniers vibrators had gone off.

This is not the best time for a Tory politician to pick a fight with a Swedish feminist over sexual harassment. When Ashley Fox asked colleagues in the European Parliament to stop hitting Reply all on emails about the issue, he got both barrels from fellow MEP Soraya Post. It is amazing that in 2017 we can still see such examples of mansplaining, ranted Ms Post. Times have changed and we will not be dictated by your demands! Mr Fox is now back in his den.





When former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika let rip last week against male behaviour in Westminster, she failed to mention her most infamous brush with boorishness: actor Hugh Grant, left, called her a f****** a******* in a row about press regulation during the 2012 Labour Party conference. Ms Hazarika, chief of staff to Labours then deputy leader Harriet Harman, hit back, telling a humbled Mr Grant he was f****** rude. Thats the way to deal with it.

Scandal-hit former Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon may have tipped the Government into crisis with his resignation but the Tory Party still owes him a debt for cementing Margaret Thatcher in power. Fallons failure to win the Darlington by-election in 1983 by just 2,412 votes kept Labour leader Michael Foot in his job, and ensured a Tory landslide in that years General Election. Thatcher told Fallon she was forever grateful. The current occupant of No 10 is less enamoured

Junior Minister Caroline Nokes was the victim of a shocking newspaper sting after a tryst with a young male Tory lover in a London hotel in 2010. A mini-camera filming their romp fell from the ceiling and on to the bed. Nokes handed it to Conservative whips, who watched it and gave it to police.

Shenanigans in the Commons are nothing new. In 1988, Scots Labour MP Ron Brown was allegedly caught having sex in a Commons shower cubicle. He was later fined 1,000 by a court for damaging his mistresss flat and stealing her knickers. Red Ron claimed a moral victory and celebrated with champagne.

When Conservative MP Sir Nicholas Winterton slapped the bottom of indignant Labour MP Natascha Engel in the Commons tea room, he said he couldnt understand all the fuss. He got a much bigger slap on the rear when this newspaper caught him out abusing his expenses in 2009. Weeks later he announced he was quitting politics.
Behold my proposed new autumn look for women in politics. The black, I think, is flattering and it radiates an air of cool unapproachability. No Minister would put his hand on the knee of anyone dressed like this; indeed, hed have trouble finding her knee, or anything else.

Well, isnt this what you want, all you squawking flapping denouncers of groping men and inappropriate jokes?

You have lots in common with Militant Islamists on this subject. They, too, believe that all men must be assumed to be slavering predators.

And these beliefs lie behind the severe dress codes and sexual segregation which modern liberals claim to find so shocking about Islam.

Yet on this, it turns out that you agree with them. Any male action, any form of words you choose to disapprove of can and will be presumed to be guilty because, well, men are like that. The culprit will be ruined for ever.

Are you all off your heads? Do you have no sense of proportion?

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There is always the other solution, the niqab, the burka and the segregation of the sexes. But sanity, the best remedy of all, is obviously unlikely to return any time in the near future

The country is in the midst of its biggest constitutional crisis for a century, and wobbling on the precipice of bankruptcy.

The welfare system is about to melt down. And you think the most important thing in your lives is a hunt for long-ago cases of wandering hands, or tellers of coarse jokes? Yes, you do.

You have lost all touch with reality, and future generations will laugh at you. Alas, you are in charge now.

Take this, for example: Michael Fallon was one of the worst Defence Secretaries in history.

The Army is a skeleton, the Navy dead in the water, largely motionless and stripped of its most basic capacities.

The former head of the Navy, Lord West, is reduced to writing to the newspapers to try to point out the dangers, because nobody will listen.

But was Mr Fallon made to quit over that? No. Neither the political class nor their pals in the media class care about such things. He was driven from office because he is alleged not to be safe in mixed company.

In a way, this is very old-fashioned. Personally, I am a Victorian prude, though I try to keep it under control. I am still secretly shocked by coarse words, especially used in front of women or children.

I am dismayed to see on public display, on TV and in the street, and in normal conversation, things and events which would once only have been available to shamefully seedy men in shady back-street shops. I dont want to watch other people having sex.

I also experienced the 1960s and their aftermath, and saw the dreadful, often tragic things that happen when men and women abandon the old rules of fidelity and constancy, and wrongly imagine that total freedom leads to total happiness.

Since then, I havent been able to see why the wonderful new equality between men and women, which is one of the great changes for the better in our age, had to be mixed up with the militant destruction of marriage and the traditional family. I still dont.

But many of those who claim to seek female equality have another, much fiercer objective. They actually see men as the enemy, the patriarchy, to be overthrown by all means necessary, and replaced by a feminised society. They also see marriage as a machine for oppressing women. Their objectives moved a lot closer last week.

This is why many of those who said they wanted equality also sneered at restraint and manners. They claim now that they want the restraint and the manners back (though the suspicion lingers that much of the current fuss is aimed mainly at making all men look wicked and grubby).

But where are such restrained manners to come from in our liberated society? They were part of an elaborate code of courtship and respect which was learned by example in the married family, and has now completely vanished. In our post-marriage free-for-all, why should we expect either sex to be restrained? All thats left is the police or the public pillory of Twitter.

It was that old code which allowed us, unlike the Islamic world, to permit the happy mixing of men and women without black shrouds, veils and no-touching rules so strict that they even rule out a male-female handshake.

Now its gone, what are we to do instead? I am angered by the public denunciations now taking place, not because I believe or disbelieve them (how can we know?) but because they make trust impossible.

Andrea Leadsom, whose own bid for the Tory leadership was destroyed by what I still think was the unfair twisting of her words, should know better than to engage in such things.

Wise men at Westminster will in future go about with chaperones, record and film all conversations with the opposite sex, require women to sign consent forms before meeting them, and certificates of good conduct afterwards. Nothing else will keep them safe from claims that they momentarily applied a fleeting hand to someones knee.

Or there is always the other solution, the niqab, the burka and the segregation of the sexes. But sanity, the best remedy of all, is obviously unlikely to return any time in the near future.

There are REAL laws against smoking... maybe that's why kids switch to drugs

In secondary schools, illegal drug abuse is now more common than cigarette-smoking. Could this have something to do with the fact that the police (busy painting their nails) long ago stopped enforcing the law against drug possession?

And could it be connected with the generally defeatist theyll do it anyway attitude of schools and the media towards drugs?

By contrast, the Government tries quite hard to discourage cigarette-smoking, and uses the law to ban it in many public places.

Meanwhile, more bad news for the marijuana makes you nice and peaceful lobby. The disgusting, callous killer Ryan Gibbons, who twice ran over ex-Naval officer Mike Samwell with his own car in front of his wife, was revealed in his trial to be a cannabis user.

Eventually the facts may just undermine the billionaire PR campaign being run to portray this nasty drug as safe and good.

I refuse to watch The Crown, the Netflix series about the Queen, no matter how many friends tell me it is marvellous.

I suspect it is intended to damage the monarchy, and will grow nastier and more hostile as it continues.

My belief was greatly strengthened when its writer, Peter Morgan, publicly called the Queen a woman of limited intelligence.

I wonder what gives Mr Morgan, a fashionable republican, and so by definition not very bright, the authority to make judgments on Her Majestys IQ.

On a former council estate in the Thames Valley, I saw this rather desperate little poster stuck to a front door, and wondered what tale of persecution and plain fear, at the hands of callous youths, lay behind it.

Is it too late to stop the encouragement of the American Halloween in this country? For many it is a night of misery.

If you want to comment on Peter Hitchens click here.
It's that time of year - the days are becoming lighter and warmer - which means our favourite season is almost here.

We are all slowly getting into the summer spirit as salty beach days and day drinks crawl nearer and nearer.

With this in mind, FEMAIL have rounded up the ten best beach buys to accompany you on your summer adventures.

FEMAIL have rounded up the ten best beach buys to accompany you on your summer adventures

BEACH UMBRELLA $259

Sun protection is one of the most important things to be mindful of when it comes to the summer season.

An easy way to be sun smart when you're out of the water is with a beach umbrella.

This one by Louise Jones for Basil Bangs will help transport you to the tropics as you recline under the luscious canopy.

The layered print has some beautiful large leaves and delicate flowers, adding some greenery for your time on the sand.

This beach umbrella by Louise Jones for Basil Bags will help transport you to the tropics as you recline under the luscious canopy

MATCHING BIKINI - $120

When frolicking in the water you will want to stand out from the crowd and this is the perfect time to show off your best bikini.

As thoughts turn to summer and the promise of travel, its time to reconsider your holiday swimwear.

There are multiple brands selling cute and colourful designs.

Australian brand Tigerlilly are known for their statement pieces, and you can get on board with nostalgic prints and flattering swimsuits like this one.

Australian brand Tigerlilly are known for their statement pieces, and you can get on board with nostalgic prints and flattering swimsuits like this one

BEACH TOWEL - $99

One of the most important accessories you need for the beach is a towel to keep you dry and the sand at bay.

However, just because towels are practical doesn't mean that they have to be ugly.

This Roundie design, which is inspired by a town in Victoria, features white, blue and sand hues rolling into one another to tell the story of Lorne, where the bush meets the sea.

This Roundie design is inspired by a town in Victoria, with white, blue and sand hues rolling into one another to tell the story of Lorne, where the bush meets the sea

SMALL CLUTCH - $99

There will most likely be moments during the summer when you will be transitioning from the beach to the bar with no time to rush home.

One of the best ways to make that switch easier is with a statement clutch that can store some of your necessary make up items while also adding the 'wow factor' to your outfit.

Something like this beautiful and bright small canvas clutch from Camilla will have you standing out the crowd.

There will most likely be moments during the summer that you will be transitioning from the beach to the bar with no time to rush home and a clutch is the perfect companion

BEACH BAG - $275

One of the most practical items that all beach adventures require is a beach bag to store your personal items.

A great beach bag is not only ideal for when you decide to soak up some rays, they are also perfect for going to the markets or a quick grocery shop.

This bag from Helen Kaminski is made up of hand-braided Raffia palms which are naive to the tropical regions of Africa.

One of the most practical items that all beach adventures require is a beach bag to store all of your items and equipment

UNDERWATER CAMERA - $26.95

If you're off on holiday, chances are you're going to get close to some water, whether it's a hotel pool or the ocean.

It's also likely that you'll want to capture some snaps of your aquatic adventures  and most cameras won't thank you for getting them wet.

Luckily these days there are a variety of underwater cameras that allow you to capture your memories, such as this one from SunnyLife.

When on holidays or simply enjoying days by the beach there is a way to capture your memories without worrying about damaging your camera

STRAW HAT - $79

With the harsh Australian sun, summer calls for sun protection - but that doesn't mean this can't be done in style.

Boater hats are back in fashion. They're a must-have accessory that will keep you cool and stylish all at once.

This pastel pink straw boater from Lack of Color will take you from beach to drinks in a flash, and the pastel pink shade suits everyone.

Of course this accessory doesn't have to be limited to drinks and the beach as it would be perfect for the markets or even the races.

With the harsh Australian sun, summer calls for sun protection - but that doesn't mean this can't be done in style with a straw hat

PORTABLE SPEAKER - $29.99

With summer drawing closer it also means that beach parties will be rearing their little heads.

Music is a must when you're living it up on the shore, so a portable speaker will be the perfect companion.

If beach parties aren't your thing, these little devices can accompany your relaxed beach trips as you play your favourite chilled tunes.

These days there are plenty of these devices on the market, so you can find affordable portable speakers like this one from Cotton On.

Portable speakers often connect to phones through Bluetooth, making them even more compatible than Pisceans and Taureans.

Portable speakers are the perfect companion come summer time

BEACH CHAIR - $35

If lying down on the sand isn't your thing, there is always another option: the humble beach chair.

This will mean minimum sand contact, plus they are easy to transport so you can take your beach chair anywhere.

Brands like Target are now selling beach loungers that include an attached pillow to make your reclining even more relaxing.

If lying down on the sand isn't your thing then there is always another option: the humble beach chair

INSULATED BOTTLE - $7

When the days are hot and you are sweaty it is important to keep your hydration levels up - and the best way to do that is to ensure you have an accessible water bottle at all times.

One of the best ways to keep your water icy cool on those sweltering days is to buy yourself an insulated bottle so you don't have to worry about it heating up under the summer sun.

Stores like Kmart are selling inexpensive bottles in pastel shades.

When the days are hot and you are sweaty it is important to keep your hydration levels up - and the best way to do so is to ensure you have an accessible water bottle

Prices are only a guide and are subject to change.
Related Saudi Arabia says it intercepts missile close to capital

Egypt has condemned "in the strongest terms" a ballistic missile attack carried out from Yemen against Saudi Arabia, which the kingdom intercepted Saturday, the foreign ministry said.

Egypt said its "government and people stand by the Saudi government and people and back all measures the kingdom's government is taking to preserve its security and stability in the face of this violent assault," a ministry statement said early Sunday.

The missile was brought down by Saudi air defence forces near King Khaled Airport on the northern outskirts of the capital, Riyadh, and did not cause any casualties.

Saudi Arabia is leading a nine-nation coalition in carrying out bombings that started in March 2015 to fight Iran-allied Houthi rebels that have taken over the Yemeni capital Sanaa and other parts of the country during its civil war.

Cairo said such attacks against the kingdom, one of its closest regional allies, will "increase the resolve of the Arab coalition countries to restore legitimacy in Yemen."



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Imagine a skin routine without moisturisers or creams - instead your complexion has already been taken care of by a simple pill or powder you swallowed earlier.

This is the future of beauty, if you believe trend forecasters, who predict that global sales of ingestible beauty - stuff you swallow and eat, rather than apply - will reach AUD $8.5 billion by 2020.

'Nutricosmetics', as they are known, are the latest thing in skincare - a new generation of powders, pills and potions, which promise to make your skin, hair and nails glow - from the inside out.

FEMAIL spoke to two of the leading ladies in this beauty revolution, Carla Oates from The Beauty Chef, and Nicole Prasad, from ProPlenish, as well as previewing the products that promise to change your beauty regime forever.

'Nutricosmetics' are the latest thing in skincare - a new generation of powders, pills and potions, which promise to make your skin, hair and nails glow - from the inside out (pictured: Elle Macpherson and Carla Oates)

Trend forecasters predict that global sales of ingestible beauty - stuff you swallow and eat, rather than apply - will reach AUD $8.5 billion by 2020 (pictured: The Beauty Chef Collagen)

The Beauty Chef business came about in 2012, when Carla Oates, 44, came up with the idea for a beauty brand which comprises not only lotions, but also powders that you mix with water

When she tried to launch it originally, Carla (pictured) said that many of the traditional beauty stores found the idea 'left of field' as they didn't recognise the term, inner beauty

WHICH PRODUCT IS RIGHT FOR ME? * GLOW: According to Ms Oates, GLOW is the 'staple product' and the one she recommends everyone take each day. It is a 'nutrient-rich drinkable tonic that supports efficient digestion and a healthy gut, which gives skin radiance'. * BODY: 'Packed with three clean sources of bio-available plant proteins, super-fruits, vegetables, alkalising greens and probiotics, BODY is a supercharged superfood wellness meal supplement,' Ms Oates said. * CLEANSE: The CLEANSE product is designed to 'help to detox and purify your body on the inside, promoting smoother, clearer skin on the outside'. * HYDRATION: Ms Oates advocates this as a 'daily shot of extra nutritional support. HYDRATION combines organic coconut water, aloe vera and lemon myrtle to combat dry, dull skin, ageing and fine lines.' * COLLAGEN: 'This is specifically formulated to address skin firmness, fine lines, free-radical damage and ain skin maintenance.' * ANTIOXIDANT: Lastly, this product will 'repair and rejuvenate skin and boost overall skin radiance. This product is also great for cold and flu season.' Source: Carla Oates of The Beauty Chef. Advertisement

The Beauty Chef business came about in 2012, when Carla Oates, 44, came up with the idea for a beauty brand which comprises not only serums, balms and lotions, but also powders that you mix with water or put into smoothies.

The powders are packed with superfood ingredients like macqui berries, zinc and antioxidant-rich grape skins, which all help with inner and outer health.

While the range has a huge range of fans around the world now, it wasn't always that way, said Carla:

'I remember a buyer from a department store calling me and telling me how much she loved the GLOW powder, but there was no category in which to put it on the shelves,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

The products were deemed too 'left of field' to be stocked in major stores.

Fast forward five years, and The Beauty Chef is more popular than ever, being stocked at Net-a-Porter, Free People, Selfridges, Goop and Anthropologie - among others.

Meanwhile, more and more woman are realising that you can nourish your skin, nails and hair from the inside out:

'Each Beauty Chef powder is formulated for different skin and health benefits,' Carla told FEMAIL.

'So for example, Glow is for your glow - I call it your inner beauty best friend, Body is for your body, Cleanse is an alkaline detox aid and Antioxidant will help to support the immune system.

'Our products are lined with beneficial bacteria that help to balance digestive health,' she added.

'The skin is a great barometer of what's going on inside our bodies.

'Our gut is where 70 per cent of our immune system lies, where we metabolise hormones, neutralise pathogens, make detoxifying enzymes and where we make nutrients. Beauty really does begin in the belly.'

'Each Beauty Chef powder is formulated for different skin and health benefits,' Carla told FEMAIL; 'Our products (pictured) are lined with a beneficial bacteria'

'Our gut is where 70 per cent of our immune system lies, where we metabolise hormones, neutralise pathogens, make detoxifying enzymes and where we make nutrients,' Carla said

Carla's The Beauty Chef range isn't the only beauty brand delving into the world of ingestible products; ProPlenish's marine collagen (pictured) helps hugely with your skin, hair and nails

Carla's The Beauty Chef range isn't the only beauty brand delving into the world of ingestible products and nutricosmetics right now.

Nicole Prasad, from Proplenish, also aims for a more holistic approach to skincare with her collection.

The rise of ingestibles * Advances in science have contributed to the shift in attitudes towards ingestible beauty. Nicole Prasad, of ProPlenish, explained that in the case of collagen, science now proves that collagen cannot be absorbed effectively through the skin via a cream or a serum. So, in order for it to work effectively, it must be ingested. * Consumers have become more savvy with regards to the fact that diet has a huge part to play in skincare. * Scientific research backs up the idea that the gut is a second brain. Advertisement

'Understanding that the health of your hair, skin and nails is a reflection of your inner health is key,' she told FEMAIL.

'Outer beauty is often a reflection of one's inner health. By targeting nutritional deficiencies in the body, ingestible beauty products work by providing the nutrients needed to keep the body in optimal health.

'In some ways, ingestible products can deliver more effective long-term results than topical products, as they work from the inside out to address issues.'

ProPlenish offers a range of nutricosmetics, centring around marine collagen powders (from AUD $49.95) - which help to promote collagen production from within and smooths fine lines, while tightening the skin and evening out skin tone.

'Collagen is the most frequently occurring protein in the human body,' Nicole said.

'Unfortunately, our bodies' natural collagen production slows in our mid twenties, dwindles in our thirties and, by our fifties and sixties, has disappeared altogether.

'ProPlenish is formulated to make the marine collagen easy to absorb and digest, ensuring the collagen is transported into the dermis layer to stimulate collagen production from within.'

Meanwhile, Welleco's super elixir (pictured) alkalising formula is 'your daily beauty and wellness supplement to keep your skin looking young, radiant and blemish-free at any age'

The elixir super greens powder is made from 45 premium wholefood ingredients, and it encompasses, pre and probiotics, kelp, dandelion, pomegranate, grape seed and aloe vera

Welleco is one of the most pioneering ingestible beauty brands.

Made with the help of Australian supermodel, Elle Macpherson - who is known as The Body - their super elixir alkalising formula is 'your daily beauty and wellness supplement to keep your skin looking young, radiant and blemish-free at any age'.

The elixir super greens powder is made from 45 premium wholefood ingredients, and it encompasses, pre and probiotics, kelp, dandelion, pomegranate, grape seed and aloe vera.

Do ingestible beauty products work? FEMAIL tested out several ingestible beauty products, to find out which ones made an impact... The Beauty Chef's GLOW powder THE BEAUTY CHEF GLOW POWDER, $59.95 They say: 'This formula combines 24 carefully selected certified organic and naturally fermented ingredients (rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids and pre and probiotics), to nourish and enhance skin from the inside-out.' We say: 'I'm slightly biased with this one, as I've been using GLOW powder for around a year now, and swear I feel healthier. When mixed with water or into cereal, this powder is sweet tasting and great for the skin. Use sparingly and slowly at first, to get your gut used to taking probiotics. Worth the hype.' ProPlenish's marine collagen PROPLENISH MARINE COLLAGEN POWDER, $59.95 They say: 'Fight the effects of ageing faster and more comprehensively with this advanced beauty formulation containing pure marine collagen, vitamins, minerals and botanicals.' We say: 'This was easy to take as it hardly tasted of anything, and quick to yield results. If you're after an all-round health boost, look no further. Within a week, my nails were less split and my hair less dry.' WELLECO SUPER ELIXIR ALKALISING FORMULA, $45 Welleco's super elixir alkalising formula They say: 'A combination of 45 nutrients to maintain good nutrition & help restore your body's healthy pH balance'. We say: 'Made with the help of Elle Macpherson, I had high hopes for this one - and it didn't disappoint. My skin felt brighter and clearer, I was high in energy and felt all together healthier. If it's good enough for The Body...'. Advertisement

If you're looking to gulp your way into the world of probiotics, there is a supplement for everyone - and they'll give you the hair of a shampoo advert and the skin of a celebrity

If you're looking to gulp your way into the world of probiotics, there is also plenty more choice out there on the market right now.

From Adore Beauty to Fountain and Vida Glow, there's a supplement for everyone - and they all promise to give you hair glossier than a shampoo advert and the skin of a celebrity.

'Ingestible beauty is a real revolution, and I think it's come in part off the back of the wellness revolution,' Carla Oates told FEMAIL.

'I think women know more than ever that a healthy gut means healthy skin, and that good bacteria should be your best friend.'
Fashion fans are beside themselves after seeing a trailer for the December issue of British Vogue, the first under new editor Edward Enninful.

The 45-second film, released on Sunday, gives readers a taste of what they can expect from the fashion supremo's first editorial offering.

Shared on Instagram and YouTube, it appears to show behind-the-scenes clips from upcoming fashion shoots as well as words from Enninful himself.

The star-studded line-up includes London Mayor Sadiq Khan alongside fashion heavyweights Adwoa Aboah, Grace Coddington and Jourdan Dunn.

And after the new magazine boss shared the clip on social media, he was inundated with comments from excitable fans who declared it a triumph and said they couldn't wait to get their hands on a copy of the issue, which hits shelves on Friday November 10.

New Vogue editor Enninful takes the reigns from Conde Nast stalwart Alexandra Shulman, who edited the fashion bible for 25 years before announcing her departure in January

One wrote: 'Yes @edward_enninful we're ready & waiting roll on Friday!' while another gushed: 'For the first time in my life I want to go out and buy the #NewVogue.'

Born in Ghana and raised in London, Enninful takes the reigns from Conde Nast stalwart Alexandra Shulman, who edited the fashion bible for 25 years before announcing her departure in January.

Nicholas Coleridge, managing director of Conde Nast, the magazine's publisher said: 'Alex has been the longest-serving and most successful editor of Vogue in its 100 year history.'

One of her most famous coups was having the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, pose for the June 2016 cover - after revealing that Kate had initially turned down the request to be a Vogue cover star.

Good start: After the new magazine boss shared the clip on social media, he was inundated with comments from excitable fans who declared it a triumph and said they couldn't wait to get their hands on a copy of the issue, which hits shelves on Friday November 10

Fashion features director Sarah Harris edited the interim issue before handing over to Enninful, who holds an OBE for services to the fashion industry.

And despite rumours of an acrimonious shake-up at the Vogue offices, loyal readers can't wait to get their hands on Enninful's first issue - labelling him 'a breath of fresh air'.

Enninful, who grew up in London as one of six children, was scouted as a model age 16 and has gone on to become one of the most famous faces in fashion, counting Naomi Campbell as a best friend. He has a penchant for partying and is regularly seen at the hottest fashion events.

Enninful takes the reigns from Conde Nast stalwart Alexandra Shulman, who edited the fashion bible for 25 years before announcing her departure in January

Changing of the guards: Former Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman was described as 'the longest-serving and most successful editor of Vogue in its 100 year history'

The journalist was the youngest-ever fashion director for i-D magazine age 16 and has worked for Italian and American Vogue, and served as a consultant on major fashion campaigns, including Calvin Klein, Christian Dior and Dolce and Gabbana.

At the helm of W Magazine, he boosted ad pages by 16 percent in 2012.

The new editor, whose mother was a seamstress, was honoured at the British Fashion Awards in 2014 with the prestigious Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator, and he also won an OBE in 2016 for services to diversity within the fashion industry.

The December issue of British Vogue, on sale Friday 10th November
Tom Hardy's neighbours have blown their top over a chimney he put up without planning permission at his 3.4million home - but their objections went up in smoke.

The Dark Knight Rises star, 40, caused uproar when he erected the 'ghastly shiny tube' as part of a massive makeover of the Georgian pad in Richmond, south west London.

In a letter fired off to the local council, one resident wrote: 'This is a truly awful blot on the landscape of what has otherwise been a successful renovation of a house in an important part of Richmond.

'The chimney is an aberration and does nothing to enhance the house nor the surrounding area.'

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War of words: Hardy caused uproar when he erected the 'ghastly shiny tube' as part of a massive makeover of the Georgian pad in Richmond, south west London

Controversy: The Dark Knight Rises star caused uproar when he erected the 'ghastly shiny tube' (circled) as part of a makeover of the Georgian pad in Richmond, south west London

The Richmond Society added: 'For an 18th Century building, in the very heart of the town, to suffer the tasteless indignity of this out of character, out of scale chrome steel chimney is beyond belief.'

Tom lodged a retrospective application for permission for the 1m woodburning stove flue which was initially refused by planners at Richmond Council.

He then appealed against the decision before officials ruled it should be allowed under 'permitted development rights'.

Dunkirk star Tom and actress wife Charlotte Riley have previously been given the go ahead for side, rear and basement extensions.

Development: Dunkirk star Tom and actress wife Charlotte Riley have previously been given the go ahead for side, rear and basement extensions

The three-storey pad is a designated Building pf Townscape Merit and lies in a conservation area where neighbours include TV presenters Gabby Logan and Anthea Turner.

According to property website Zoopla, Tom paid 2.5million for the pad four years ago but it is now worth 3.4million.

MailOnline has contacted a representative for Tom for comment.
Iskra Lawrence knows just as well as anyone that the rise to success can take you to interesting places.

One of those rungs on the ladder was recently revealed after a fan was shopping for a Halloween costume and came across a familiar face smiling out from the front of some costume packaging.

The fan snapped a photo of the package and uploaded it to social media, sending it to Iskra and asking: 'Is this you?'

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A look back: Iskra Lawrence shared an image from early in her modeling career after a fan spotted her on the packaging for a policewoman Halloween costume

Smokey eye: Iskra shared the image on her Instagram story, joking 'you gotta start somewhere!'

The image on the costume shows a very young Iskra, smiling broadly in a white shirt, checkered tie and police constable hat.

Soon enough, Iskra not only confirmed that it was indeed her in the photo but shared it on her own Instagram story, writing: 'Yup! You gotta start somewhere!'

Iskra also congratulated the user on her 'great spot' and used the image as an opportunity to encourage her followers to: 'never give up on your dreams.'

Passing on the message: Iskra also took the opportunity to encourage her followers to 'never give up on your dreams

Going places: Iskra's career is going from strength to strength, with more than 3.8 million Instagram followers

As for Iskra's current career, she continues to go from strength to strength, recently getting into the holiday spirit in Aerie's festive new campaign.

The 27-year-old English beauty was among the Aerie models who traveled to Iceland to shoot the lingerie brand's 2017 holiday ad, which highlights the stars' natural beauty by remaining completely unretouched.

Footage from the shoot sees the models doing everything from cuddling in a lodge to petting horses  all while donning the brand's latest designs.

Holidays are here! Iskra recently led a cast of models in Aerie's festive new campaign

Getting cozy: The 27-year-old English beauty was among the Aerie models who traveled to Iceland to shoot the lingerie brand's 2017 holiday campaign

Getting into character: Iskra and another model posed for photos wearing headbands featuring reindeer ears

Iskra shows off her famous hourglass figure in a shimmery silver bralette, grey sweatpants, and a faux fur infinity scarf around her neck as she steps outside of the lodge to check out the morning sun.

The curvy star appears to be having a blast during the shoot, and she and another model can't stop laughing as they pose for photos wearing headbands featuring reindeer ears.

They are both sporting matching faux fur infinity scarves, red long-sleeve tops, boyshorts, and long socks while they happily pretend to be reindeer together.

Stunning: Curvy model Charli Howard said she 'made some amazing memories and friends' while filming the campaign in Iceland

Doing it all: The 26-year-old sported everything from sweatshirts and scarves to lace bralettes during the shoot

Triplets: Charli and two other models struck a pose on a brown leather couch while wearing matching red and white striped pajamas

In another shot, Iskra is kneeling on a bed while modeling a black knit cap, a black lace bralette, black and white flannel pajama pants, and a cozy off-white blanket over her shoulders.

Curvy model Charli Howard shared the holiday ad on her Instagram page, noting that she 'made some amazing memories and friends' while filming it.

As one of the stars of the campaign, Charli is seen modeling everything from a cornflower blue lace bralette and matching underwear to a baggy white sweatshirt and a red skit scarf.

At one point in the clip, she and two other models strike a pose on a brown leather couch while wearing matching red and white striped pajamas.

Cheeky: Some of the women showed off their backsides in festive underwear featuring holiday-inspired sayings, such as, 'Believe in your elf' and 'Dear Santa, I can explain...'

Au naturel: The photos from the shoot highlight the models' natural beauty by remaining completely unretouched

Winter is coming: Model Poppy Okotcha was photographed knitting while wearing a pale blue sweatshirt and a knit infinity scarf.

They first look primp and proper with their legs crossed, but soon they are throwing their arms and legs into the air while doing silly poses.

The entire campaign is designed to make you want to curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy some times with your friends and family.

Model Poppy Okotcha can be seen working on her knitting while wearing a pale blue sweatshirt and a knit infinity scarf.

And some of the women show off their backsides in festive underwear featuring holiday-inspired sayings, such as, 'Believe in your elf' and 'Dear Santa, I can explain...'
Here in our double- glazed, centrally heated world, you wouldnt think there was a place for the chunky knit.

But then, you could say that about log burners, sheepskins, woolly throws and fake fur  and theyre all more popular than ever.

The truth is that chunky knits are the fashion equivalent of log burners. They have hygge appeal (the Danish word for life-affirming cosiness). They press the same nostalgia buttons as oilskins and corduroy jackets, and remind us of winters in log cabins, lolling about in your boyfriends Aran sweater  even if you never had a boyfriend with an Aran sweater, let alone a cabin.

But most of all, the appeal of chunky knits is that they make us look smaller.

This week Shane Watson reveals how wearing oversize knitwear can give the illusion of a slimmer body. Pictured, Frills: Model Yasmin Le Bon in Winser London, 199

Admittedly, there are a lot of fashion items that will make you look slimmer than a giant sweater, but still, thats whats behind this fashion.

Women like the drowning-in-it feel of chunky knits; the way they make your legs look like sticks coming out of a lampshade; and the fact that their bulkiness makes us seem comparatively waiflike. We feel like Marilyn Monroe on the beach in her chunky belted wool cardigan. They make us feel secure and small. Some people will just want one to keep warm walking the dog.

Anyway, these big knits are topping the fashion charts, specifically high-necked, big-sleeved (as in ballooning, with cuffs that graze your fingertips), long-line (bottom-covering), wide-fit, slouchy, swamping sweaters.

The idea is to look like you are peeking out at the world from behind your turtleneck (you are wearing this grazing your chin), and you might be wrapped in a fat scarf, too.

The most fashion-forward designers, including Saint Laurent, are mad for polo-necks, but theres also a limitless array of knits on the High Street, from long belted cardigans to cropped applique sweaters and even ones with strategic laddering and holes.

Anything goes, as long as its unmistakeably oversized.

The knit is the main event. Wear with jeans or trousers, or a lean midi skirt and boots.

BIG JUMPERS: THE RULES Generally, the most flattering length is crotch-grazing. Much longer and youre into sweater dress territory.

Avoid bulky fold-over polo-necks. Opt for turtle or funnel necks.

Side vents will make the silhouette more forgiving, or go for ribbed wool over plain.

Pattern is hard to pull off. Stick to colour block or plain white or navy. Advertisement

At one end of the spectrum are the serious swampies: Zara has a bright-red cable-knit turtleneck (39.99, zara.com) that finishes half way down the thigh. Less of a statement, but still chunky, is H&Ms wool-blend jumper (34.99, hm.com), an Aran-ish knit, but crucially, only hip-grazing, so its easier to wear with a skirt.

The stores shorter polo-neck jumper with ultra-wide sleeves (34.99) ticks all the boxes if you want something on-trend, but not overwhelming.

For everyday wear, most of us will need less extreme options. Kin by John Lewiss oversize roll-neck jumper (69, johnlewis.com) is soft, unstructured, and totally plain (avoid anything cable or patterned if you want to wear these knits Monday to Friday) and, crucially, not too thick.

For something a bit smarter, French Connection does a blouson-sleeved black-and-white jumper (95, french connection.com), and Winser Londons burgundy ruffle knit (199, winserlondon.com) is equally office-friendly, worn over cropped black trousers.

The secret to staying cool is with a thin stretch top. British brand Me+Em has plenty of jersey layering pieces to wear under its slouchy box jumpers, including a chic cream-and-black Breton stripe (149), their version of a Guernsey (189) and a roomy polo-neck with cable sleeves (199, all meandem.com).

Cable all over adds inches, so a bit of detail is the answer.

Realistically, youre not going to be wearing your chunky knit for evenings out (unless its late fireworks), but you might be tempted by a swing-bottom sweater with fluted sleeves. Its all about roominess at the moment.

And if you are feeling hot just thinking about these sweaters, you can always cheat. Do as the fashion insiders do and get a Me+Em icon cable knit with a detachable snood (199).

That way, you get the best of both worlds.
Annie Sloan, 68, founded interiors company Annie Sloan Chalk Paint more than 25 years ago. She lives in Oxford with her husband, David, and has three children and two grandchildren.

My career as a decorative painter took off when I was about 40. I had written a book, was painting murals in grand houses and being invited to teach workshops abroad.

But I was also the mother of three small children. I had some help, as my husband worked long hours for Shell. But I was finding it harder and harder to be away.

I was 37 when I had my youngest and I didnt want to miss it all. I thought: I need something that will allow me to be at home, but also build on my interest in art and colour. I need a product.

Annie Sloan (pictured), is the founder of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. She was inspired to begin the company after searching for a range of high quality acrylic paints

I may not have thought of making paint if it hadnt been for a man I met while teaching in Holland.

I was complaining about the acrylic paint I was using, which was plasticky. I couldnt find the colours I wanted, either.

He knew of a family-run paint factory in Belgium and suggested I talk to them. That was my light bulb moment.

I launched my specially-made decorative paint with 12 colours in 1990. It was hard work getting the right mix, colours and absorbency, but it was worth it. I could be at home with the children, writing books and selling paint, which was perfect.

As the children got older, I was able to do more. Now, at 68, I run a company that has never been so big. We have 36 colours, a mail order business and a network of more than 1,700 independent stockists worldwide.

My middle son, Felix, 33, is our brand manager, his partner Lizzy runs digital marketing and my husband is a director. So family is still at the heart of the company.

From the sale of each litre pot of Annie Sloans new colour Lem Lem, 5 will go to Oxfam.
Born prematurely weighing just 1lb 1oz and barely bigger than his mothers hand, Flynn Parry had little chance of survival.

After arriving four months early and a week before the legal limit for abortion, he suffered serious medical problems and had to spend 18 weeks in hospital.

But Flynn fought hard for his life and came through the ordeal, becoming one of Britains youngest premature babies to survive. Now a lively toddler, he runs rings around parents Hoda Ali and Owen Parry.

How he's grown! Flynn Parry, now 15 months old and healthy, enjoys a cuddle with his mother Hoda Ali

Miss Ali, 36, who went into labour unexpectedly 23 weeks into her pregnancy, said Flynn was just over half the size of the average newborn when he was born last year  11 inches long compared to 20 inches.

His parents were told he had a slim chance of surviving even a day. Miss Ali said: Doctors said only one in six babies survived the night at his age. Even the one that lived only had a 50 per cent chance of surviving any further.

Flynn had to be swaddled in bubble wrap after birth to recreate the warm protection of his mothers womb and had to be put on a ventilator to help him breathe.

He then battled sepsis  potentially deadly blood poisoning  and suffered two brain bleeds.

He also developed a condition common among premature babies called retinopathy of prematurity, where the retinas detach from the back of the eye. At just 13 weeks he had laser surgery on his eyes. He also underwent other gruelling operations including one to remove a hernia at 17 weeks.

Holding on tight: Flynn, barely bigger than his mother's hand, clutches her finger

So fragile: Flynn's tiny foot a week after his birth, when he was fighting for his life

Miss Ali, who had to wait a week before she could even hold her son, said he fought every day, adding: A doctor told me, Hes a fighter, all premature babies are. It was true.

I didnt connect to him for about ten days after he arrived, though. He was just so, so small. I thought he looked like an alien or a baby bird. But she said the moment she could finally cuddle him was wonderful. Miss Ali, a customer services executive, also told how her waters broke as she arrived at an amateur dramatics rehearsal just days after returning from a trip to the Philippines with Mr Parry.

She was taken to University College London Hospital and given drugs to try to halt labour. But she gave birth on February 13 last year after just 30 minutes.

Following his incredible battle for life, Flynn, who was originally due on June 6, was finally allowed home from hospital on June 16  still small, but healthy. Miss Ali said its still not clear why she gave birth so early, but added: Walking out of hospital, we were so proud of our boy and everything hed battled. He really is amazing.

Flynn battled sepsis  potentially deadly blood poisoning  and suffered two brain bleeds

Flynn fought hard for his life and came through the ordeal, becoming one of Britains youngest premature babies to survive

Flynn with Miss Ali and his marketing executive father Owen Parry

Miss Ali and Mr Parry, a 25-year-old marketing executive, who live in Willesden Green in north-west London, said their son now loves trains, pizza and climbing, and has not experienced any developmental delays. The only consequence of his premature birth has been some damage to his eyes, which may mean he needs glasses. Miss Ali added: Its amazing to see him now. Hes come so, so far.

Babies born before 28 weeks are at risk of conditions including heart problems, brain bleeds, cerebral palsy, and sight and hearing problems. Those born before 22 weeks are thought to have almost no chance of survival because their lungs, heart and brain are not sufficiently developed.

The worlds youngest premature babies to survive are James Elgin Gill, born in Canada in 1987, and Frieda Mangold, born in Germany in 2012, both at 21 weeks.
A 15-minute blood test could slash the number of unnecessary antibiotics given to patients by 80 per cent.

Doctors in Liverpool, Derbyshire and the North East are already trialling the 12 finger-prick test, which tells a GP within a quarter of an hour whether a patient truly needs antibiotics for a chest complaint.

If rolled out nationally it could prove a badly-needed tool in the NHS battle against superbugs.

The test  which identifies whether a patient is suffering from a bacterial infection or a virus while they sit in the waiting room  changed a GP's decision in 48 per cent of cases, a pilot study found.

And it cut the number of unnecessary prescriptions given for respiratory problems by 80 per cent, according to the trial at a GP practice in Dronfield, North Derbyshire.

A 15-minute blood test could slash the number of unnecessary antibiotics given to patients by 80 per cent (stock image)

Experts fear that the overuse of antibiotics is driving a superbug epidemic that will kill more people than cancer by 2050.

A quarter of all antibiotics prescriptions  10million of the 40million given out each year - are not actually needed.

The more that antibiotics are used the more resistant bacteria become to them.

Superbugs are already breeding at a rapid rate, with increasing numbers of germs evolving to become untreatable with what were previously effective drugs.

Professor Dame Sally Davies, the Government's chief medical officer, last month said it is 'difficult for doctors to refuse' to give patients what they demand and warned of a 'post-antibiotic apocalypse' if the problem continues to grow.

The Government's former superbugs tsar, Lord Jim O'Neill, last year even called for GPs to be banned from prescribing any antibiotics at all by 2020 without a test proving they are needed.

His report warned that too often doctors prescribe antibiotics based on a 'guess' as to whether an infection is present, 'just in case'.

When Lord O'Neill wrote his report, no such test existed  with GPs having to wait two or three days for a lab report to confirm a bacterial infection.

But the new test, called FebriDx, cuts that wait to a matter of minutes.

Dr Miles Davidson, a GP at Stubley Medical Centre in Dronfield, trialled the FebriDx test on 21 patients complaining of acute chest infection.

The doctors made an initial diagnosis of bacterial infection in 12 of the 21 patients, and predicted a virus was causing the complaint in the other nine.

But the test showed the diagnosis was wrong in 48 per cent of cases.

Only four patients were shown to actually have an infection that would require antibiotics, one of whom was diagnosed with sepsis and rushed to hospital.

Seven patients were diagnosed with a virus  against which antibiotics are powerless  and 10 patients were shown to have no infection at all.

Dr Davidson, writing in the Journal of Infectious Diseases & Preventive Medicine, said: 'Acute respiratory tract infections are routinely managed based only on clinical symptoms and signs.

HOW DOES THE TEST WORK? The test works by tracking levels of two different proteins in the blood - C-reactive protein, a marker of bacterial infection, and myxovirus resistance protein A, which is appears when there is a viral infection. Each testing pack comes with a test card, on which a tiny spot of blood is placed. Within 15 minutes lines appear on a display panel, indicating whether a virus or bacterial infection is present. Advertisement

'Point-of-care diagnostic testing with the FebriDx test may help primary care GPs cost-effectively manage patients presenting with clinical evidence of an acute respiratory tract infection.

'FebriDx test results improved clinical management decisions and resulted in a significant reduction in antibiotic therapy without any subsequent testing related adverse events.'

The test works by tracking levels of two different proteins in the blood - C-reactive protein, a marker of bacterial infection, and myxovirus resistance protein A, which is appears when there is a viral infection.

Each testing pack comes with a test card, on which a tiny spot of blood is placed. Within 15 minutes lines appear on a display panel, indicating whether a virus or bacterial infection is present.

A separate study, of 370 patients in the US, found it was 92 per cent accurate for detecting bacterial infections and 84 per cent accurate for detecting a virus.

The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, found it was even more accurate at ruling out infections  correct 97 per cent of the time  meaning it could safely be used to rule out the use of antibiotics.

RPS Diagnostics, the US firm which makes the test will next week announce a major push to get the product into GP practices across the UK.

Dr Rob Sambursky, the medical director of FebriDx, will speak at the UK Diagnostics Summit in London on Wednesday.

He said: 'A combination of diagnostic uncertainty and both patient and parental pressures to prescribe antibiotics lead to unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and directly contribute to the growing antibiotic resistance crisis.

'What makes FebriDx unique is its ability to shift antibiotic stewardship into the outpatient setting by providing tangible results for patients within 15 minutes without any ancillary equipment.

'These rapid results facilitate patient and practitioner confidence in clinical management and therapeutic decisions that could lead to withholding antibiotic prescriptions as part of a watchful waiting strategy.'

Dame Sally last night said the development of such tests was 'critical'.

'Rapid diagnostics are critical to addressing drug resistant infections. To stop inappropriate prescribing, we need tools to determine quickly if someone has a viral or bacterial infection and whether an antibiotic is needed.

'So it is promising to see pilots being launched. But we also need to develop new treatments for humans and animals, improve surveillance across the world and get better at preventing infections before they happen.'

Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, chair of the Royal College of GPs, added: 'More and more evidence is emerging about the effectiveness of new point of care tests to help clinicians in their prescribing decisions, but we need to ensure that this is cost effective and efficient for surgeries if this is adopted widely.

'It is also important to note that some patients have an aversion to needles and won't want to have a 'needle prick test' done.

'We need more independent research about the practical use of these tests in UK general practice and the development of national guidelines about putting them into practice, alongside additional resource to purchase and maintain testing equipment if evidence supports their use.'
Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce are bringing a bit of Italian sparkle to Harrods' Christmas windows

It is the most wonderful time of the yearto visit Harrods. Youll be pressed to find anywhere in London that feels more festive than the department store covered head to toe in Christmas lights.

This year it is set to be more sparkly than ever thanks to a partnership with the kings of embellishment Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce (left). At Christmas, Harrods becomes even more beautiful and magical, a place where it seems easier to dream, says the design duo. Ogle at the Sicilian-inspired window displays and browse the in-store pop-ups for exclusive Dolce & Gabbana party pieces (right). Well be stocking up on panettone at the Italian indoor market. Until 28 December. Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, London SW1.

Dress, price on application, Dolce & Gabbana, exclusively at Harrods, harrods.com

Shoes, 645, Dolce & Gabbana, exclusively at Harrods, harrods.com

Bag, 1,300, Dolce & Gabbana, exclusively at Harrods, harrods.com

Yolkes day-to-night silk pyjamas have been cropping up on our lust lists since the loungewear brands launch four years ago. The new collection is expanding to include cotton designs  so now we can snap up the same gorgeous prints for half the price. Were sold. Pyjamas, 145, yolke.co.uk

Catch the last-ever fireworks tonight at the legendary Meadowbank Stadium. edinburghleisure.co.uk/news/fireworks. What to wear? A cosy coat plus a scarf that colour-coordinates with the display...

Scarf, 39, Miss Pom Pom, misspompom.com

Boots, 350, Sorel x Chloe, net-a-porter.com

We're popping these coffee-table treats on our Christmas wish list... English Myths & Legends by Alice Temperley (45, Thames & Hudson). Fashion Together: Fashions Most Extraordinary Duos on the Art of Collaboration by Lou Stoppard (55, Rizzoli). Donald: The Book by Donald Robertson (60, Assouline Publishing). To buy with reduced prices until 3 December, visit you-bookshop.co.uk or call 0844 571 0640, p&p is free on orders over 15
Jo and Sarah answer real questions from readers: to put your query, go to beautybible.com

Q My granddaughter, now 16, has thinning hair, particularly on the crown of her head. This is linked to a non-malignant brain tumour, which was diagnosed eight years ago. She has never been heard to complain or refer even to her disabilities, which include impaired vision, but I know she longs for luxuriant hair. I wonder if you could suggest any products?

A Were so sorry to hear about your granddaughters difficulties and she sounds quite wonderful: we all complain so much about things that don't really matter while she just gets on with something much more significant.

For more information follow Beauty Bible online here or on Facebook and Twitter

As you say in your longer email, it is not realistic to expect a miracle cure. However, the pharmacist at Victoria Health recommends the following products as the most likely to help. There have been some very encouraging results among users. One woman we know whose trademark thick mane was dramatically thinned by chemotherapy found this regime effective.

So the products we suggest are these:

Superior Hair by Food Science of Vermont, 26.50/90 capsules (30 days supply):

This natural supplement may help to combat hair loss in both women and men. It contains a combination of nutrients that help support hair strength, follicle health and the production of new hair growth and may also help reduce hair follicle cell death. So it may help to prevent hair loss and also encourage new growth. (You will see that the pharmacist has written an editorial about it on victoriahealth.com.)

Connect - Leave-In Treatment for Scalp & Hair by Phylia de M, 47/120ml:

This organic treatment helps to stop hair loss while strengthening existing hair. The brand Phylia de M, which was formulated by a scientist/herbalist on the west coast of America, is based round fulvic acid, a component of humus, the highly nutritious lay of the earth. A single fulvic acid molecule is capable of carrying 60 or more minerals and trace elements directly into our cells.

We know of some remarkable anecdotal evidence of the benefits of Connect. We do hope this will help your granddaughter.

Beauty Bible loves

Chanel Numeros Rouges, 30 for Rouge Allure and Rouge Allure Velvet and 26 for Rouge Coco Gloss.

Make-up artist Lucia Pica is impressing us with her highly creative innovations for Chanel  but this just might be our favourite yet: a curated collection of red lipsticks, with the perfect shade for everyone in what is turning out to be a Red Lipstick Season.

Chanel Numeros Rouges

There are two Rouge Allure shades and two new Rouge Allure Velvets (a little more matte). Two have warm undertones, two cool  and we suggest you have not only have a little word with a Chanel make-up artist on their counter to discover yours, but get him/her to demo on you to find your just-so shade.

Red lipstick scaredy-cats can opt instead for Rouge Coco Gloss in one of two sheerer shades: a bright coral and a deep, sexy red.

But do that and youll miss out on the limited edition, shiny red packaging for these new lipsticks.

Which would be a real shame because its GORGEOUS!!!
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi said in an interview with US news channel CNBC that Egypts World Youth Forum (WYF) is an opportunity for communication and dialogue between youth from around the world, presidency spokesman Bassam Rady said on Sunday.

El-Sisi gave the interview, which is yet to be aired, on the sidelines of the WYF in Sharm El-Sheikh. The interview tackled a number of issues including the economy, tourism, Egypts upcoming presidential elections and Egyptian-US relations.

The WYF, which is being held from 4 to 10 November, has attracted thousands of participants from around the world, with official delegations and youth representatives from various countries.

According to the official WYF website, the forum aims to send a message of peace, prosperity, harmony and progress to the entire world.

El-Sisi said in the interview that the forum is particularly significant for Egypt since more than half of Egyptians are youths.

"The WYF is an extension of the previous youth forums held in Egypt since November 2016," El-Sisi added, according to spokesman Rady.

The WYF was first announced in July during the National Youth Conference in Alexandria, which was also attended by El-Sisi.

El-Sisi pointed to the economic progress Egypt has achieved, which has been reflected in reports by a number of international economic institutions, as well as the improvement in the investment climate, especially with the recently approved investment law.

In June, the long-awaited investment law was ratified by the president. The law grants investors a number of incentives, including a 50 percent tax break on investments in underdeveloped areas, as well as government financial support in connecting utilities to new projects.

Egypt has been classified as the top investment destination in Africa by the Rand Merchant Banks report 'Where to Invest in Africa 2018.'

The Egyptian president also told CNBC that the tourism sector is improving after years of setbacks that scared away tourists since the 2011 uprising.

In the first nine months of 2017, Egypt's tourism revenues rose 211.8 percent year-on-year to $5.3 billion, according to Reuters.

On the upcoming presidential elections, El-Sisi said: "Electing the president is only by the Egyptian people's will, who have the right to choose their president".



The presidential elections are set to be held in May or June 2018.

El-Sisi concluded the interview by saying that since the election of US President Donald Trump, the US has shown understanding of the great challenges Egypt is facing, especially in confronting the threat of terrorism.

Trump and El-Sisi have on several occasions exchanged expressions of support and praise.

In an interview with the Saudi newspaper The Middle East, El-Sisi affirmed Egyptian-Saudi strategic relations, which have served to preserve Arab national security.

El-Sisi also said that Saudi policies have reflected wisdom and determination.

On Saturday evening, Saudi Arabia arrested dozens of princes and former government ministers as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe.

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In the aftermath of the Doklam crisis, India is now planning to develop more airfields in the eastern Ladakh area along the China border so that it can rapidly deploy troops in large numbers in case of any misadventure by the neighbouring state.

'In Ladakh, we have realised that deploying troops for a long time or throughout the year is not feasible. Harsh winters and rough terrain make the job all the more difficult.

'This is why we plan to develop airfields where we can deploy troops in large numbers using air assets,' a top defence source said.

The Indian Army had issued an operational alert during the crisis

An Indian army camp on the Pangaon-Leh road in Pangong, a disputed territory between India and China, on August 4, 2012 in Ladakh, in Indian-administered Kashmir

In the aftermath of the Doklam crisis, India is now planning to develop more airfields in the eastern Ladakh area along the China border

The Air Force is scouting airfields in the area from where the transport aircraft of the force can land and take off whenever required, the source said.

The Indian Army had issued an operational alert during the crisis, as part of which the troops had been deployed by it from the newly-raised mountain strike corps.

'Two brigades (6,000 troops) have already been withdrawn from there and sent back to their actual locations after we called off the alert about 10 days ago,' the source said.

It is understood that troops could not have been retained in the area due to the onset of harsh winters and beginning of snowfall, which would have completely blocked land routes and forced them to rely on air evacuation.

The deployment of an additional division meant the army had close to 20,000 troops in eastern Ladakh at the height of the crisis.

Standing guard

In normal conditions, it has only one division (Karubased 3 Infantry Division). As per inputs received by intel agencies, Chinese units are also withdrawing from their areas gradually.

The search for a new airfield is expected to revive the Indian Air Force's Nyoma airfield project that has been languishing for many years now, as it would be turned into a fully-fledged base where all types of transport aircraft can land.

The IAF had once landed its Antonov-32 aircraft at this airfield and has been trying to develop it as its base closest to the Chinese border in eastern Ladakh.

Since August, India and China have been engaged in a bitter stand-off

Sources said the IAF had also tried to look at Chushul for developing an airfield but it did not seem to be a viable project and is more interested in the development of Nyoma where the air strip was last used in the 1960s.

Nyoma is located at a height of 13,000 feet and India stopped using it after the war with China in 1962, but reactivated it in 2009.

India is also upgrading all of its seven Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs) in Arunachal Pradesh, some of which have already been activated.

IAF's C-130J Super Hercules planes have recently been landing there. However, these are not fully-fledged air bases but landing strips which can be used to drop off troops and supplies.

Some can be used for refueling fighter jets. The Arunachal ALGs were also deactivated after the 1962 war.

Since August, India and China have been engaged in a bitter stand-off on Bhutanese soil in Doklam as the Chinese were building a road to Jhamphiri which would have brought it very close to an area which separates the northeastern states from the rest of the country.
Going by India's rhetoric, one would imagine it was leading the fight against international terrorism.

Yet, when push comes to shove, the only weapon visible in the GoI's armoury appears to be that futile talk shop called the United Nations.

The Prime Minister and his diplomats go around the world demanding that Pakistan be sanctioned as a state supporting terrorism and the global community must unite to pass a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

Hafiz Saeed, leader of the banned organisation Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), speaks during a protest

India's megaphone diplomacy is aimed more at embarrassing China than anything else

India, of course, has studiously avoided declaring Pakistan a state sponsor of terror itself. It wants the US and others to do that.

Indeed, earlier this year, the Union Home Ministry said 'it will not be prudent to declare any country a terror state.'

Little effort

Likewise, India has done little to deal with terrorists like Hafiz Muhammad Saeed and Masood Azhar directly, but it is happy if they are designated in the UN list under the 1267 Committee.

In line with this, it was not surprising that the Indian media, reflecting the Modi government's stand, once again went ballistic over China blocking Masood Azhar from being designated by the 1267 Committee.

Actually, by itself, a designation by the Committee means little.

First, the designation is not about listing 'terrorists', but individuals and entities who aid the ISIL and al-Qaeda.

Just how much it has been misused is apparent from the fact that when it began, it listed all Taliban notables, but has now shifted them to another list because of the need to negotiate with the entity.

All designations are inherently political and not criteria based. In any case, the UN has yet to define what terrorism is.

Secondly, a designation under the Committee list does not do much for hardened terrorists.

All that happens is: a) their assets are to be frozen; b) states are called on to ban their entry or transit; c) no arms can be sold to them.

Activists from Jamaat-ud- Dawa Pakistan wave flags at a rally in Karachi

States are not asked to detain them or punish them in any other way. The 1267 list is mere tokenism as is obvious from the experience of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, who was put on the list in December 2008 in the wake of the Mumbai attack.

Barring some showcase periods of house arrest, little has happened to him.

People like Saeed and Azhar do not have to own property and neither would they be foolish enough to travel abroad.

Two UNSC lists

At present, the UN Security Council maintains two lists, one a consolidated 166-page list which includes the North Koreans, Houthi insurgents, Taliban officials, and a grab bag of terrorists, arms smugglers, drug kingpins, money changers and terror funders.

Lashkar-e-Toiba and Pakistan flags held in Kashmir during a 'Martyrdom Week' rally

The other 68-page list focusses on al-Qaeda and ISIL. This is where one can find the names of Hafiz Saeed, and top leaders of LeT, Jaish-e-Muhammad and Harkat-ul-Jihad Islami, along with ISIL and al-Qaeda notables.

The Security Council Resolution 1267 set up a Committee that originally called on the Taliban to obey the UN Security Council in turning over Osama bin Laden, and called on states to prevent their territory from being used for Taliban, froze its resources, and set up a committee to monitor the tasks.

Subsequent resolutions expanded its scope and authority to the point that it has become meaningless and seems important only to the government of India to score points against Pakistan and China.

Actually, there is more to the Modi government's stand than meets the eye. Instead of behind-the-scenes diplomacy which is usually adopted to seek listings, India has taken recourse to megaphone diplomacy which seems aimed more at embarrassing China than anything else.

Tough nut China

But China is a hard case and is not likely to react to such pressures. The question that needs to be asked is: Just why is the government so keen to put China off balance diplomatically.

In any case, whatever it is doing is hardly likely to lead to any significant results. The Jaish-e-Muhammad is already on the list as of 2001 and is none the worse for it.

Dealing with terrorism and terrorists requires a strategy of pre-emption through good intelligence, resilience in the face of terrorist attacks and deterrence through resolute counter-terrorist action.

Listing terrorists by a UN committee may have its place in the corridors of the UN headquarters, but in the hard-scrabble world of the fight against terrorism, only one thing matters  the ability to take them out physically, just as the US did with Osama Bin Laden and Anwar al Awlaki and scores of others.
Within two months in office India's new Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is planning a new fighter aircraft base for the IAF.

The likely location for the base in Gujarat is sufficiently close to neighbour Pakistan to allow an efficient and effective response.

The facility at Deesa, which is located in Banaskantha district, is near the border and is expected to bridge the aerial gaps in the state that already has major fighter bases in Jamnagar in Saurashtra region as well as Bhuj and Naliya in Kutch.

Union Defence Minister and BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman

'The IAF has been planning to set up a new airbase in Deesa in Gujarat which has been in the files for the last many years.

'Due to the new defence minister's push, the plan is now moving fast towards reality,' senior sources in the Air Force told Mail Today.

The officials said the plan to develop the base was discussed with Sitharaman during one of her first visits to Jamnagar after she took charge of the ministry in September.

A Mirage 2000 landing at Air Force Station, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

In the last few weeks, the proposal has moved swiftly and is expected to reach the Cabinet Committee on Security headed by the Prime Minister in the near future, the sources said.

The development comes less than a month after Air Chief BS Dhanoa declared that the IAF is prepared to fight a 'short and swift war' at a short notice and that the force has the capability of striking across the border if the government decides.

Sources said the new team in the defence ministry follows up all the long-pending proposals and suggestions that are brought to their notice during field visits.

The project to set up the base in Deesa, which has a civilian airfield, has been held back for a long time due to 'procedural issues' and has been discussed many times at the ministry-level in the past.

The need for creating a stronger presence of forces has been felt in view of the increasing economic activities on the Gujarat coastline including petroleum refineries and new ports being built.

This airbase would address the huge distance between the Barmer Air Force Station in Rajasthan and air force stations in Gujarat.

Officials say the facility would give the Air Force the capability to launch counter air campaign, counter surface force campaign and strategic air campaign in case of a war with Pakistan.

The IAF also has plans of using the airbase as a training centre for its rookie pilots and for operating its remotely piloted vehicles.

The Air Force has been working to plug gaps in the western sector with Pakistan in the last few years as it started operations from the Phalodi airbase under the south western air command a few years ago.

Recently assets including the SU-30MKI combat aircraft have been deployed under the command at the Jodhpur air force station along with new ground-based air defence systems on the western front.

Slowly but steadily, the Indian Air Force is preparing itself for a two-front war with both Pakistan and China as it has been developing airfields on both sides.

A Sukhoi Su-30MKI makes touchdown on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway near Bangarmau

On the Chinese side, the IAF has developed the Daulat Beg Oldie airfield in the eastern Ladakh sector while it is in the process of developing old advanced landing grounds in Arunachal Pradesh.

Some of the airfields have already been readied while some of them would be ready for use in the near future.

The force is also in the process of finding and developing more airbases in eastern Ladakh area to be able to airlift troops swiftly in case of a Chinese misadventure in border areas.
It might seem like something from the free-loving 1960s, but sharing can make a lot of sense when it comes to your finances. From sharing a mortgage, car journeys and even childcare, pulling together to increase purchasing power or reduce costs has never been more popular.

Inspiration: Peter Kay and Sian Gibson in the BBC comedy series Car Share

HOUSE BUYING

Rising house prices are forcing buyers to be more imaginative about how they get on to the property ladder. This can sometimes mean buying with a parent or sibling, or even purchasing with friends.

Sharing a mortgage with friends is no longer viewed as unusual with many mainstream banks and building societies willing to lend.

Although some will accept up to four unrelated people on a mortgage, most will only use the highest two incomes when determining how much they are prepared to lend. Hinckley & Rugby Building Society and Halifax are more flexible.

Jordan Ball, a 25-year-old programme manager for an aeroplane parts manufacturer, has just celebrated one year in the first home he bought with two friends in Luton, Bedfordshire.

By clubbing together and sharing mortgage repayments with Lloyd King and Connor Green, both also 25, Jordan has been able to take that often elusive first step on to the property ladder.

Home front: Jordan Ball, left, Connor Green and Lloyd King share a mortgage

Jordan says: We are all lucky to be in stable, well-paid jobs. Connor is a quality inspector for the same company Jordan works for while Lloyd works in computing. Jordan adds: We were renting together and when a house came on to the market in the same street we looked at the financial numbers to see if we could get a mortgage between us.

The three friends secured a 234,000 mortgage with Halifax, paying a six per cent deposit  almost 5,000 each  on the 249,000 asking price. They took a two-year fixed rate at 3.59 per cent. At about 1,183 a month between them the mortgage repayments come in at about the same as they were paying collectively in rent.

There is no way I could have bought on my own, says Jordan. This way I am not wasting money in rent. Hopefully, if property prices rise I will build up some equity. In time, when we are ready to move on, we shall be in a stronger financial position. We all plan to stay in the house for at least five years.

While buying with friends can make financial sense, borrowers must tread with caution. Consider taking legal advice to fully understand the implications of buying together.

Lenders will view all borrowers as jointly and severally liable for the mortgage. This means they can chase any  or all  parties for payments if mortgage arrears accumulate. Liability is not limited to the share that each borrower pays towards the mortgage each month.

Also, borrowers need to think about what they would do if one of them wants to sell before the others. David Hollingworth, mortgage expert at London and Country Mortgages in Bath, Somerset, says: If someone wants out in a house bought jointly, the others may be able to buy out the share, but if they cannot they would have to find another friend to buy into the property and take on the mortgage  or else sell. Talking about these scenarios at the outset should help avoid problems or conflict at a later stage.

HOLIDAY HOUSE SWAP

Homeowners can also share their home  and save money at the same time  through house swapping.

Thousands of homeowners swap properties every year in home-from-home holidays. Not only do you get a change of scene and try out living somewhere new, but as this is a home swap you will have built-in house-sitters looking after your property while you are away.

A number of websites, including Love Home Swap and Home For Exchange, enable homeowners to find suitable swaps beyond just family and friends  both at home and overseas.

This can work out far cheaper than booking holiday accommodation.

Remember to inform your home insurer as you may need to discuss getting extra cover for the period of the swap.

CAR JOURNEYS

Car-sharing has been thrust into the spotlight by comedian Peter Kays successful TV series Car Share.

But lift-sharing or car pools have been around for decades, helping commuters save on petrol costs and enjoy a more sociable trip to work.

The internet has enabled many more people to find suitable car shares, using them for lifts to work and also longer trips to see family and friends.

Journeymen: Ewan Steele, left, and Archie Turner

Websites including Liftshare.BlaBlaCar and GoCarShare  and their mobile phone apps  match up drivers with those looking for a lift.

There is usually no charge to register on these websites. Passengers pay a contribution to the driver to cover some of the fuel costs. Some look for regular journeys, such as the weekly commute to work, while others may need a one-off journey.

Drummond Gilbert is chief executive of GoCarShare. He set up the website to change the way people travel and use their cars  and it now has around 60,000 users.

Passengers pay a fee to the driver while the website takes a 15 per cent commission (from the driver). Some journeys advertised on the website include Manchester to Salisbury for 15 and Bournemouth to Stansted for 12.

Gilbert says: Drivers set their own prices although we have recommended fees based on mileage.

Archie Turner, 43, lives in rural Dorset. When he was stuck in traffic on his daily commute and saw a billboard advert for Liftshare which pointed out that 90 per cent of journeys are completed without a passenger, it struck a chord.

Archie went to the website, which is not-for-profit and applies no charge for users and takes no commission from drivers. He entered the details of his car journey and to his surprise fond a companion  Ewan Steele, 39, who, like Archie, lives in Bridport and travels an 80-mile round trip to work in Poole.

We emailed and then met up in a local pub  to check we would get along, says Archie, a purchasing manager for an aerospace company. We started sharing the car journey four days a week  and that was two years ago. It has halved the cost of our commute, it is better for the environment  and we have also become good friends.

Archie estimates he saves around 30 a week in petrol costs. He pays half the costs of Ewans fuel.

CHILDCARE

The high price of childcare can be a struggle for many households. Often it is a bigger expense than the rent or mortgage. For some, it is economical to halve the burden by sharing a nanny with another family. Known as a nanny share, the arrangement means you and another family share the costs and responsibilities of employing a nanny.

As well as sharing payment of the nannys wages, it also means you share the tax burden. As employers, the families are responsible for paying tax and employers National Insurance on behalf of the nanny.

Nanny shares can work in different ways to suit the families. The nanny may look after your child and another familys child at the same time, for example, working out of one or either of your homes. This will usually be the cheapest option as you can split the hourly pay rate. Expect to pay from around 10 to 15 gross per hour for a live-out nanny. In other cases the nanny may work for you for part of the week and the other family on other days.

Nanny share: The arrangement means you and another family share the costs and responsibilities of employing a nanny

Once your nanny is earning more than the annual tax-free income tax allowance of 11,500 (this is the nannys total earnings  not just what you pay the nanny) you must pay tax and National Insurance  although in a nanny share arrangement the tax liability is split with the other family, significantly reducing costs.

Specialist websites such as Nannytax, Nanny Paye and Paye For Nannies can help with the tax and administration of employing a nanny.

They can send payslips on your behalf, make payments to Revenue & Customs, sort out National Insurance contributions and set up a pension plan for your nanny (under auto-enrolment rules).

Costs and services vary. An annual subscription to Nannytax is 276, 179.99 with Nanny Paye and 138 with Paye For Nannies.

Graham Newton, chief executive at Nanny Paye, says: There are many benefits to a nanny share  not just the reduced tax. Your child will have the benefit of interaction with other children, you can share some of the administrative burdens and costs such as registration with Ofsted. If your nanny drives you can share petrol costs.

Check out playgroups and parent and baby activities for share requests. Post your details and requirements in local cafes or libraries to say you are looking for a similar family for a nanny share.
Horror stories of sexism in the corridors of power and in Hollywood are one thing.

But the all-pervading scourge of inequality is hitting women hard in their pockets as well  no more so than following divorce.

According to the latest women and retirement report from Scottish Widows, seven in ten divorcing couples do not discuss pensions as part of a settlement. And guess who loses out? Women.

Women are missing out to the tune of 5billion a year by ignoring pensions when thrashing out a settlement following a split, research shows

The insurers research  released at the Houses of Parliament last week (how appropriate)  is powerful stuff. It indicates that by ignoring pensions when thrashing out a settlement following a split, women are missing out to the tune of 5billion a year.

Women need to wake up to this vital part of the divorce equation as a matter of urgency. They are likely to have smaller pensions of their own because of the ongoing gender pay gap, maternity leave and career breaks.

Plus the fact they often work part- time and even in the new world of workplace pension auto-enrolment they can miss out because their earnings are too low to be included in the scheme. An anomaly that needs addressing immediately.

Pensions are often the biggest assets a couple have  since homes often have a mortgage that dilutes the value of bricks and mortar.

Pension sharing was introduced 20 years ago but often pots are not taken into account, says Nigel Shepherd, head of family law at legal firm Mills & Reeve.

He says some pensions can be complicated, especially those in the public sector, so legal and financial advice is vital  even though it is an extra cost in the divorce bills.

Women need to wake up to this vital part of the divorce equation as a matter of urgency

Scottish Widows states that just 22 per cent of married women would discuss pensions as part of a divorce. The insurer believes it should be compulsory for pensions to be included in divorce proceedings.

In the meantime, it wants the Government to lead the way in helping women better understand their pension rights in divorce negotiations.

Worthy research which all MPs and the Government should respond to favourably.

Smart meters

Public service advertising sometimes has its merits. I was brought up in awe of the Green Cross Code Man  stop, look, listen, think  and, touch wood, I have yet to get injured crossing a road.

But some of it is an utter waste of money. Cue to last Tuesdays Bake Off final on Channel 4 when the programme (already ruined by Prue Leith revealing the winner beforehand) was interrupted by an interminable advert which attempted to convince us why we should all opt for a smart meter.

The power of 10p advert, which dragged on for at least two and a half minutes (enough time for me to cook a soft boiled egg and do 50 press-ups), featured chef Ainsley Harriott preparing food for a group of bodybuilders, of all shapes and sizes and ages. His task? To see how many he could cook for by using just 10ps worth of energy  he managed to feed 14 of the 18 muscle-bound individuals.

Gaz and Leccy in TV adverts for smart meters

The advert was commissioned by Smart Energy GB, the outfit we pay for through higher energy bills, to promote the roll-out of smart meters. It is spending an astronomical 224million up to 2020 to persuade us to ditch our old meters in favour of new near real-time ones which also allow us to monitor our energy usage (a la Ainsley).

I dread to think how much the advert cost. We did ask Smart Energy GB the question but it chose not to say. Maybe 100,000  and that is before Ainsleys costs are factored in, as well as those of TV presenter Maya Jama and the muscly 18.

As our newspaper has highlighted in recent weeks, smart meters are not without their failings. They are not set up to allow users to switch suppliers (the only way to keep on top of energy bills) and have been known to malfunction. Some suppliers are also bordering on bullying tactics in getting customers to go smart.

We should be allowed to choose whether we want a smart meter or not. We do not need to be indoctrinated at our own expense.

What's the problem with smart meters? Smart meters can deliver accurate billing, so why are many people unhappy at having them fitted? Lee Boyce, Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert, discuss what's good and bad about smart meters in this excerpt from the This is Money podcast. Press play to listen to the smart meter discussion below, or listen (and please subscribe if you like the podcast) at iTunes, Acast and Audioboom or visit our This is Money Podcast page.

Insurance premium tax

Insurance premium tax is an invidious tax which is inescapable. It pushes up the cost of our home, motor, pet and travel insurance.

Since 2005 it has risen from six per cent to 12 per cent. Yet it could rise again in the Budget  possibly to 15 per cent. Such a move would be unfair and punish us all at a time of great uncertainty.
Who would be a bank boss? At one time, leading a high street bank would automatically command respect and guarantee a place in the ranks of the great and the good. Now every last one of the leaders of the Big Four is under fire.

Stuart Gulliver, who is stepping down in February as chief executive of HSBC, leaves behind him a string of multi-billion pound settlements for wrongdoing including a huge penalty in the US for money-laundering for drug barons.

Even as he prepares to clear out his plush office, the bank is facing yet another possible investigation into alleged illicit money transfers for the controversial South African business dynasty, the Guptas.

Now every last one of the leaders of the Big Four banks is under fire

At least Gulliver has managed to hang on to his job for a respectable length of time, having been in the hot seat since 2011. At Barclays, the chief executives throne has resembled the Red Chair on the Graham Norton TV chat show: the bank has had no fewer than five bosses since 2010.

It is entirely feasible that it will soon be six. City regulators are expected to rule shortly on the conduct of the incumbent, Jes Staley, who tried to unmask a whistleblower  a major no-no in post-crisis banking.

World-weary investors would like him to stay, but if the sanction from the Financial Conduct Authority and the language surrounding it is sufficiently harsh, he might have to sling his hook.

The most beleaguered bankers, however, are Antonio Horta-Osorio of Lloyds and Ross McEwan of RBS. Both men are suffering from a painful thorn in the side: armies of small and medium-sized firms claiming they have been brought low by unscrupulous past banking practices.

Horta-Osorio has been plagued by the HBOS Reading fraud, but the spotlight has switched to McEwan and his handling of the scandal over GRG, or Global Restructuring Group.

Most beleaguered bankers: Antonio Horta-Osorio of Lloyds, left, and Ross McEwan of RBS

An interim report by an independent investigator found that while not guilty of the most serious charges  of deliberately driving firms under  RBS had nonetheless been responsible for widespread mistreatment of its own customers.

Yet the bank is behaving as if it believes itself to be the real victim  of hostile politicians, of bogus victims, of a sceptical media and now even of the skilled person who carried out the FCA report.

McEwan recently complained he was tired of the bank being badmouthed and said firms could take it to court if they werent happy. Now he has written at some length to Treasury Select Committee chairwoman Nicky Morgan criticising the interim reports findings and methodology. The banks supporters also point to controversial elements in the action groups representing victims.

RBS is behaving as if it believes itself to be the real victim in investigation

Most people probably think action groups are public-spirited organisations waging a righteous David and Goliath battle. The reality is sometimes less black and white.

Such groups are often run by well-intentioned amateurs who may not be versed in good governance. Action groups are not overseen by City regulators and not everyone involved with them is a choirboy.

The presence of such people does not invalidate the cause, but it does give the banks an easy target. The PR firms and lawyers who make good money out of them bear a big responsibility to encourage action groups to run themselves in an unimpeachable way.

Yet out of this woefully imperfect situation there is a workable solution.

Consultations are about to start on extending the remit of the existing Financial Ombudsman Service so it can take on more small firms complaints. That is not the full answer to the problem.

What is really needed, as we have been campaigning for, is an independent tribunal or a separate turbo-charged Ombudsman  but it is a good first step.
One of the Citys most respected takeover advisers has issued a stark warning that Brexit could have an adverse effect on bids and deals.

US investment bank Greenhill, which is advising Tesco on its 3.7billion Booker group takeover, said conditions arising from Brexit could reduce the volume or size of mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and other strategic corporate transactions.

The alert came in annual accounts for the banks European and UK arms, signed off at the end of April but filed at Companies House last month.

Brexit warning: US investment bank Greenhill

Greenhill also warned that uncertainty around the outcome of negotiations with the EU could adversely affect European and worldwide economic and market conditions.

Former Tory party treasurer Lord Lupton stepped down as chairman of the banks London division this year after joining the board of Lloyds Banking Group, but remains an adviser.
Alicia Douvall

Former glamour model Alicia Douvall says the biggest financial mistake she ever made was relying on a man to provide for her, rather than standing on her own two feet.

Douvall, a plastic surgery addict who has spent more than 1million on cosmetic procedures, now runs her own skincare business  Douvalls  with daughter Georgia.

The pair have created a luxury range of natural and organic beauty products based on argan oil produced by female workers in Morocco who want to be financially independent from men.

Douvall has vowed never to work with a man again after being turfed out of her home with a six-week-old baby by a multi-millionaire boyfriend.

She was given just 48 hours to leave and ended up having to sell her belongings on eBay to put a roof over her head.

Now 38, she lives in Buckinghamshire with daughters Georgia, 22, and Papaya, five. Her ethical and ecologically friendly skincare range is available from douvalls.com.

What did your parents teach you about money?

That it is easier to make money than it is to keep hold of it. My dad was a businessman. He started off as a mechanic and electrician who went on to own garages and he also worked as a property developer.

My mum worked for him, helping with the accounts. My father made a lot of money and became a multi-millionaire. As a family, we had everything we wanted, including a boat, and went on nice holidays. But he would not just buy stuff for me  he believed in teaching me to negotiate. For example, he would always make me bargain for things I wanted to buy at car boot sales.

How much pocket money did you get as a child?

Just 15 a week when I was boarding at St Michaels Burton Park in Petworth, West Sussex. My parents sent me there from the age of nine because they thought it would be the best thing for me and my education. I appreciated the stability, but I also think I was too young to be away from home. It was not right for me.

I would save my pocket money and buy beauty products such as tanning tablets. I would also try to change my looks by dyeing my hair and tattooing my eyebrows.

Once, when I was 11, I saved up for a couple of months and bought a sunbed via a classified ad in Loot newspaper. It got shipped to the school. Looking back, it was a pretty stupid thing to have spent my money on. I got into a lot of trouble. I was not allowed a sunbed at school, it turned out.

When did you first start working as a model?

When I was 17. I wanted to do catwalk modelling, but because I was 5ft 6ins, I was not tall enough. So I had my first silicone implants and started modelling lingerie. Soon afterwards, I gave up on trying to become a fashion model and became a glamour model instead which was less competitive for a girl like me.

'Silly money': Alicia appeared briefly on TVs Celebrity Big Brother in 2015

Have you ever struggled to make ends meet?

Five years ago, I got myself in a bad position. I had my own company, Douvalls, and two of my clients went bankrupt at the same time, one owing me at least 50,000 and the other owing me 10,000.

I was living at my wealthy boyfriends place at the time and he was giving me an allowance and a car. He was worth hundreds of millions of pounds, but I would contribute to our living expenses when I could. For example, if I earned a 30,000 fee, I would give it to him. Then he finished our relationship and I had to be out of the property within 48 hours. So I literally had nothing.

My daughter, from a former partner, was just six weeks old. I had people coming after me suing for things I could no longer afford to pay for. I had to move into a bed and breakfast with my two kids and sold everything that had any value on eBay  designer dresses, jewellery, handbags, shoes and a Louis Vuitton luggage set.

I raised enough money doing that to be able to clear my debts, raise some cash and put down a 5,000 deposit on a rental home in Marylebone, Central London. I remember once thinking of going into Starbucks but realising I could not afford it. I was really poor with just a couple of suitcases to my name.

How did it feel when you sold everything you owned?

Amazing. To start with, I had to disconnect from material goods. But once I got rid of that attachment, I no longer cared. I knew the money I raised was going to feed my children and help me find a way out of the mess I was in. It was stressful, but when I moved into my new home, that place felt so good. I had managed to put a roof over my kids heads again.

Sell-off: Alicia put her Louis Vuitton set on eBay

Have you ever been paid silly money for a job?

Yes  when I have been on Celebrity Big Brother and Love Island. Both times I was kicked off early which I saw as a bit of a win. The sooner you get kicked off the better because you get paid the same amount for one week as you do if you last until week eight. I earned the most from Love Island. I was on it for a week and I received a six-figure sum.

What was the best year of your life in terms of money you made?

The late 1990s when I was doing Page 3, modelling for magazines and presenting on Playboy TV. At my peak I could earn 5,000 a week. But this year, my business has started to take off and I am looking forward to 2018 which I hope will be the best ever.

What is the most expensive thing you have ever bought yourself just for fun?

Plastic surgery. At one point, I had my ribs shaved, my brow shaved and because I wanted the biggest boobs in Britain some new implants especially made for me. It cost more than 40,000 in total. But whatever it cost, I paid it. I just wanted the surgery. In total, I have spent more than 1million on plastic surgery. I cannot even remember how many procedures I have had done. More than 400.

Alicia has invested all her savings - 20,000 - in her own argan oil business

What is the biggest money mistake you have ever made?

Relying on a man to provide for me instead of standing on my own two feet.

What is the best money decision you have made?

Investing in my argan oil skincare business. I invested all the savings I had  20,000  eight years ago and it has definitely paid off. I have recently signed a deal with a leading UK distributor and have just returned from launching my product range in America. It is going really well.

Do you save into a pension or invest in the stock market?

I have recently got a workplace pension to comply with new auto-enrolment regulations, but I do not invest in the stock market.

Do you own any property?

Not currently. I am renting a three-bedroom house in Buckinghamshire. I think there is a lot of uncertainty about how Brexit will affect the property market.

What is the one little luxury you like to treat yourself to?

I put 40 minutes aside every day to do yoga. It does not cost me money but making time to do it feels like a luxury when you have got a five-year-old and are running your own business.

If you were Chancellor, what would you do first?

I would make sure small businesses are looked after. They are the lifeblood of our economy. Business rates are ridiculously high.

Do you think it is important to give to charity?

Yes. My company raises awareness and money for breast cancer research and works with the Womens Cooperative in Morocco, which produces the argan oil for my products. The Cooperative gives local women fair wages and good working conditions so they can feed their children. That way, they can be financially independent. It is about empowering women.

What is your number one financial priority?

A roof over my head  and providing for my daughters.

Alicia Douvall was talking to Donna Ferguson
Sir Evelyn de Rothschilds latest business venture involves rows of bullion bars and stacks of financiers, as befits one of the foremost bankers of his generation. The unexpected part is, they are all made of chocolate.

His shop, R Chocolate in Belgravia, is a chocoholics nirvana.

The bullion bars are a bit like a posh Twix, consisting of all-butter shortbread with sea salt caramel on top, then coated with chocolate for 4 a pop, while the financiers are fruit and almond confections priced at 1 each.

There are chocolate hampers, chocolate biscuits, hot chocolate drinks, iced chocolate drinks, chocolate bars and chocolate elephants plus a range of Rothschild wines and champagnes to wash them down.

Good taste: Sir Evelyn and Lady de Rothschild at their Belgravia shop

Sir Evelyn spent most of his life in the service of the family bank. He became chairman of NM Roths-child in 1976 then in 1982 took the chair of Rothschild Continuation Holdings, the main company, where he remained until 2003.

So does he now prefer chocolate money to real money? I used to be a banker but Im glad Im not any more. I dont think banking is as amusing as it was and I dont think banks have behaved all that well, he muses, as his wife, Lynn Forester de Rothschild, 63, bustles around rearranging the already perfect displays.

Im mad about chocolate, arent you? Chocolate is a wonderful opportunity for people to be happy.

Apart from chocolate, the duo are philanthropists and pioneers of Inclusive Capitalism or making the system work for everyone, not just the super-rich.

One of his other big ideas is abolishing tax for nonagenarians  it seems churlish to point out he would be eligible himself in four years, but then its doubtful that it will be on Chancellor Philip Hammonds agenda for the Budget.

Once you reach the age of 70, the rate of tax should be reduced every five years. Then when you reach the age of 90, you should pay no tax at all. They should reduce the taxes on old people so they can be self-sufficient.

Once you reach the age of 70, tax should be reduced every five years

At the age of 86, Sir Evelyn has ostensibly retired but the shop, refurbished by his daughter Jessica a year ago, is clearly a passion.

It boasts of being established in 1931, which is not strictly true. It was, however, the year of his birth, and he does claim to have been born with a love of chocolate. We figured it wasnt a complete fib, says Lady de Rothschild. Well, they havent had me up for corruption, Sir Evelyn chimes in.

Chocolate was a rare luxury when he was a child during the war and afterwards when rationing remained in force.

Is the shop a way of reliving his childhood? Oh yes, very much. During the war my father was very kind and gave us his sweet coupons. In those days there was no chocolate, we had barley sugar.

Sir Evelyn was for many years a financial adviser to the Queen and suggests Her Majesty is a frugal soul. She was brought up during the war, with very careful ideas. If you had rationing, that had a big effect on your life, didnt it? All your life.

He was an usher at the Coronation, interjects Lady de Rothschild, excitedly.

R Chocolate in Belgravia is a chocoholics nirvana

Oh yes. They needed fine fellows in uniforms, but the joke was I had the wrong one. I went to Moss Bros because I didnt have a uniform and they made me a commodore overnight by mistake.

Did you actually go to the Coronation dressed as a commodore? gasps his wife. You could have been arrested.

Yeah. Well they were all drunk anyway. You had to get up at five in the morning to be on parade at Westminster Abbey at 7 oclock and they were all drunk when we arrived.

It clearly did no harm to his relations with the Royals.

Do you Tweet? Are you a Trump-ite? I think you are all Trump-ites

Prince Philip, me and King Hussein of Jordan, we started the interfaith group in 1986 for Christians, Jews and Muslims long before anyone else did. When he [the Duke of Edinburgh] was 86, he rang me up and said, Evelyn, I am too old, Ill have to stop. I didnt know what to say, so I said, Yes, Sir. 

Humorous reminiscence aside, the Rothschilds take their chocolate very seriously. For Lady de Rothschild, a British-American lawyer and businesswoman, it is all part of her belief in Inclusive Capitalism.

They buy organic chocolate from a company called Original Beans, which supports Les Femmes de Virunga  the worlds first women-led cacoa co-operative in Eastern Congo, launched late last year. The lives of some of the most oppressed women in the world, struggling to feed their families and put their children through school, are a stark contrast to the London shop, with its exquisite truffles and fancies. Lady de Rothschild, however, sees it as part of her mission.

If we can make the market work for the poorest, most oppressed women in the world, we are doing something really special.

There has been a loss of trust in politicians and business leaders and I think it is perfectly rational. People have seen the rich get richer and the middle-class stagnate.

Sir Evelyn's firm buys organic chocolate from a company called Original Bean

Aside from her marriage, Lady de Rothschild, who is chief executive of E.L. Rothschild, the holding company she founded with Sir Evelyn, is a power-player in her own right.

After training as a lawyer, she forged a successful career in the telecoms and media industry and has a clutch of directorships including at cosmetics giant Estee Lauder.

She has two adult sons by her second husband, who she divorced in 1993. She married Sir Evelyn in 2000, two years after their first meeting at the Bilderberg Conference, the annual chinwag for transatlantic powerbrokers.

The pair are unruly interviewees, because they wont sit still for long. They wander away to talk to the customers, including a couple of lads from Leicester, Greg and Lee, who have won a free afternoon tea in a competition.

We didnt expect to meet Sir Evelyn, he seems lovely, says Greg.

Sir Evelyn seems far more interested in asking questions than answering them. He wants to know what school I went to, which university, how much chocolate I eat a day, and where I come from and whether I use Twitter.

Do you tweet? Are you a Trump-ite? I think you are all Trump-ites.

Apart from chocolate, Sir Evelyns other great enthusiasms include elephants. He founded Elephant Family, a conservation charity, in 2002 with Mark Shand, the late brother of the Duchess of Cornwall, and the Rajmata of Jaipur. We look after Asian elephants. They are probably more intelligent than us.

Well maybe not you, he adds hastily, ever the gentleman.
Michael Heseltine has called for the creation of a sovereign wealth fund as part of a fundamental reappraisal of Britains industrial strategy.

The Conservative grandee said a state-owned investment fund could provide patient capital to back British industry and long-term infrastructure projects.

He has put forward the idea in a 75-page response to the Governments Industrial Strategy green paper.

Strategy: Lord Heseltine is calling for patient capital to help companies grow

Lord Heseltine said such funds are already used by successful economies such as Norway  which set up a sovereign fund to invest its North Sea oil wealth  and by the US.

A successful businessman himself, he added that a UK version is vital if we are to compete globally.

He said a fund could be financed through taxes before becoming gradually self-sustaining as investments paid dividends and made a return. In Germany a similar fund makes 2billion a year, he added.

Lord Heseltine said: This is about backing and investing in growing companies. A sovereign fund would create long-term, stable wealth.

The problem for the small, growing family business is that they need what is called patient capital. That is capital that will stay with them long-term.

Our present system very much relies on support from City institutions whose agenda is to make a quicker return or to float businesses on the stock exchange.

This is about creating a situation where there is someone who will invest in your business without then forcing you to sell, said the 84-year-old who co-founded the Haymarket publishing company.

Lord Heseltine said such funds are already used by successful economies such as Norway  which set up a sovereign fund to invest its North Sea oil wealth  and by the US

He said he regretted not pursuing the idea during his time in government. I wish wed done it in the 1980s when we had the huge resources of North Sea oil.

We should have put more of that into the support of long-term investment activity.

He said a similar investment proposition could be created using the assets of council pension funds. His wide-ranging report also included issues such as tackling Britains ailing education system and supporting winning firms and sectors such as pharmaceuticals.

He said the Government must be in the driving seat, adding: It is unrealistic to think that the private sector can lead the process.

Private firms must be invaluable partners but the power of Government and the scale of public resources is so pervasive that the leadership of the public sector has to be recognised.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi told Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri during a meeting in Cairo that Egypt rejects attempts at foreign interference in Lebanons domestic affairs, Egyptian presidency spokesman Bassam Rady said in a statement.

The statement is the first by Egypt on the situation in Lebanon after Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Al-Hariri announced his resignation on Saturday while in Saudi Arabia, citing fear for his life and accusing his foes, mainly Hezbollah, of political interference.

Rady said that the meeting included discussions on the latest developments in Lebanons domestic affairs, where Berri stressed the importance of reconciliation between Lebanons political powers, preserving the national interest and reaching political stability.

El-Sisi expressed Egypts support and its wish to see the preservation of peace and security in Lebanon, stressing the importance of averting internal tension as well as religious or doctrinal extremism.

The president added that he has confidence in the Lebanese factions ability to safeguard Lebanon.

Only the people of Lebanon should be the ones to reach a political formulation that satisfies them and accomplishes the interests of the Lebanese nation, the statement added.

Berri expressed his appreciation towards Egypt, praising the strong relationship between the two countries, adding that he hopes to see a boost in economic relations.

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Britain's care home industry is on the verge of a catastrophic funding crisis with dire warnings that the Government needs to urgently pump in an extra 1.5billion to stabilise the sector.

Industry insiders told The Mail on Sunday the crunch may come within the next 18 months as the cost of operating homes escalates and care fees paid by local authorities continue to fall short.

One of the industrys biggest operators, Four Seasons, has been described by experts as the canary in the coal mine as the cash crisis grows.

Care crisis: Industry insiders said the crunch may come within the next 18 months

The company is aiming to finalise an emergency agreement with creditors this month to make its huge debts more manageable.

Sources say Four Seasons hopes to pin down a standstill agreement after its owner Terra Firma admitted that the care group could no longer afford to pay interest on its debt.

A deal would allow Four Seasons to bypass a December 15 deadline on payments and press ahead with a plan for Terra Firma to write off debts while putting in 136million of backing in the form of property assets.

Analysts including rating agency Fitch have described Four Seasons debt as excessive.

Industry sources played down the prospect of closures at Four Seasons. But one executive working in the care sector said: There is no doubt a wider crisis is close. Its 12 months to 18 months away for some operations. But if there is a bad flu outbreak this winter that puts pressure on the NHS and care homes, it may be upon us sooner.

HC-One, the countrys biggest care home operator, is owned by Labour party donor Chai Patel.

A spokesman for the company said: We are disappointed at the continued lack of action from Government to address the severe financial strains on the wider social care sector. There is no question it is on the edge because of a lack of sustainable funding.

Crunch: Guy Hands runs Terra Firma, which owns care homes operator Four Seasons

Many residents of care homes have their fees paid from the public purse by local authorities and these payments are falling short by an average of about 100 per person per week.

William Laing at health care research specialist LaingBuisson said: Four Seasons is the canary in the coal mine. There is an annual shortfall in fees of about 1.5billion.

That sum would take funding to viable, sustainable levels.

Laing said it was unlikely the Government would act unless it was forced to do so as a result of people being turfed out of care homes and put on the street.

Rachael Maskell MP, who is on the All Party Group for Ageing and Older People, said: There is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed.

The Government is not putting enough security around the care sector. One big care company going down will break the whole system.

Sources familiar with the situation said Terra Firma, run by private equity baron Guy Hands, had made mistakes over the financial structure. But Four Seasons insists its homes are well run despite diminishing returns.

Four Seasons chairman Robbie Barr said last night: The capital restructuring we have proposed will provide certainty and continuity for our residents, patients and employees.

He added it would not lead to any closures and would lift the financial pressure on its homes.

Sarah Whitebloom is editor of OlderLivingMatters.net
Revered: David Hockneys sales were close to 12 million. Inset, A Bigger Splash

He is 80 years old but David Hockney  one of Britains best-known artists  is showing no signs of slowing down either creatively or financially.

A sell-out exhibition of his paintings, drawings, prints, photography and videos spanning six decades at Tate Britain earlier this year received rave reviews.

And accounts just filed for his company, David Hockney UK, for the year ending December 31, 2016, reveal booming sales of nearly 12million, up from 7.5million.

Profits after tax more than doubled to 2.7million and the shareholders funds now stand at 7million, up from 4.3million the previous year.

Yorkshire-born Hockney has donated paintings worth millions to his David Hockney Foundation (UK). He gave the Foundation $7.5million (5.7million) worth of art in 2016. In the previous year, he donated art worth an astonishing $52million.

The Foundation last year lent artworks to ten exhibitions around the world. There is a permanent free exhibition of his work in Saltaire, near his home town of Bradford, West Yorkshire.

Voted the most influential artist of the 20th Century in a poll of 1,000 British painters and sculptors, his most famous paintings include A Bigger Splash. Hockney now lives in Los Angeles.
The Citys top regulator is preparing to lay out new plans to help small firms tackle grievances with their banks.

The move by the Financial Conduct Authority marks a major milestone in The Mail on Sundays fight for an overhaul of the system, which leaves many companies high and dry if they are at loggerheads with a lender.

The FCA is proposing to extend the remit of the Financial Ombudsman Service to include more small businesses and will issue a consultation paper later this month.

The shake-up would give many entrepreneurs a new route to challenge banks, allowing them to avoid costly and lengthy legal battles.

Under fire: RBS chief Ross McEwan has been told to get his act together

The proposals are being drawn up at a time when FCA boss Andrew Bailey is frustrated by Royal Bank of Scotlands handling of firms complaints about its controversial GRG operation.

Liberal Democrat leader and former Business Secretary Vince Cable has now weighed in, blasting RBS boss Ross McEwan in letters to both RBS chairman Howard Davies and Nicky Morgan, chairwoman of the Treasury Select Committee.

GRG  or Global Restructuring Group  was the division of RBS that was meant to assist troubled businesses, but which has been accused of maltreating its own customers. Bailey last week told the Treasury Select Committee that McEwan needs to get his act together on the speed of handling gripes. The Select Committee is preparing to summon McEwan for a grilling.

Under current Financial Ombudsman rules, only individuals and micro-enterprises  firms with fewer than ten staff and less than 2million of annual turnover  can use the Financial Ombudsman.

The Mail on Sunday has been calling for a new tribunal-style system, or beefed up ombudsman, to help aggrieved small businesses.

Bailey would prefer to set up a new body to sort out disputes.

But this would need new legislation at a time when the Government is mired in Brexit. So the regulator believes extending the ombudsman is a positive first step.

McEwan was not at RBS during the GRG scandal. But Bailey has told the Select Committee he had blasted the bank for the slow rate it has handled firms complaints. The FCA chief also said it was unfortunate that RBS has not accepted criticism over GRG more readily.

Liberal Democrat leader and former Business Secretary Vince Cable has now weighed in, blasting RBS boss Ross McEwan

An interim report into GRG, published last month, cleared RBS of deliberately collapsing firms but found widespread failings.

McEwan has disputed that the bank was guilty of widespread inappropriate treatment of customers and claimed the report had come to misleading conclusions.

Heather Buchanan, of the all-party parliamentary group on banking, accused McEwan of splitting hairs about this report rather than addressing the substance.

She told The Mail on Sunday: We are so far in the hair-splitting zone we are in danger of forgetting there is a wealth of evidence based on internal documents that show a strategy to maximise profits for the bank at the expense of businesses. Consistently they (RBS) have tried to blame the victim.

Cable, in his letters to Davies and Morgan, has raised concerns about McEwans handling of the situation  in particular for accusing firms of badmouthing the bank. He urged Morgan to grill McEwan on whether he believes that RBS, which is still taxpayer-owned, is above criticisms for its failures.

Cable also suggested that the 400million set aside by RBS to pay to GRG victims is inadequate.

An RBS spokesman said: We await the letter from Vince Cable and will respond in due course.
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Once considered so important it was said that Aden would be held for as long as Britain remained great, the withdrawal of troops from Yemen, 50 years ago this month, marked the closing of another chapter on Britains colonial rule.

Following the Suez Canal crisis and the loss of more than 90 servicemen in then Southern Arabia, former soldiers deployed in Aden have said it was like 'the sun going down on the British Empire.'

Now with a hit BBC series, The Last Post, portraying the last days of British rule in Aden, real soldiers who were deployed there give an insight into what it was like serving in a region ravaged by gunfire, bombings and revolts.

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With a hit BBC series, The Last Post, portraying the last days of British rule in Aden, real soldiers who were deployed there give an insight into what it was like serving in a region ravaged by gunfire, bombings and revolts (soldiers patrolling the Radfan Mountains)

Aden, a port town in modern day Yemen, had once been a crucial anti-piracy station protecting lucrative shipping routes to British controlled India.

When Pan-Arab nationalism spread in the Fifties and Sixties, the National Liberation Army formed to oust Britain from of one of its few remaining footholds in the Middle East.

Thanks more to economic failings than military, Labour Prime minister Harold Wilson announced Britain would be pulling out of Aden in 1967, sparking widespread jubilation across the region.

Following heated fighting between warring factions and increased anti-British sentiment, elite soldiers from the Parachute Regiment were called in to cover the withdrawal of the troops from the South Arabian Peninsula.

While the BBC drama depicts Captain Nick Page readying himself to leave Aden to be replaced by a young and untried Captain Joe Martin, in real life Lieutenant Colonel Roger Jones, stepped into the fray to quell the insurgency.

Now 86, the then Major and the Support Company Commander for 1st Battalion Parachute Regiment, saw the conflict up close.

The TV version: While the BBC drama depicts Captain Nick Page readying himself to leave Aden to be replaced by a young and untried Captain Joe Martin (pictured right), in real life Lieutenant Colonel Roger Jones, stepped into the fray to quell the insurgency

 Slide me  Thanks more to economic failings than military, Labour Prime minister Harold Wilson announced Britain would be pulling out of Aden in 1967, sparking widespread jubilation across the region (left TV's Major Harry Markham, right a Paratrooper relaxing in Radfan Camp)

Following heated fighting between warring factions and increased anti-British sentiment, elite soldiers from the Parachute Regiment were called in to cover the withdrawal of the troops from the South Arabian Peninsula (Member of B Company, 1 PARA, Radfan Camp, Aden, 1967)

Telling his story to MailOnline, the retired soldier said: 'My Battalion, based in Radfan Camp, assumed responsibility for Area North, which included the main trouble spots of Al Mansura and Sheik Othman, as well as the vital points of RAF Khormaksar and the Aden Prison.

'Pre-tour training, and thorough reconnaissance on arrival enabled the Battalion to meet the operational needs immediately.'

The training was much needed as their first serious test came in under a week.

Intelligence reports on May 31 predicted a strike the following day designed to strike at the heart of paratrooper morale.

Jones explained that the Commanding Officer established eight observation posts dominating the heart of Sheik Othman with its main thoroughfares, police station and mosque.

 Slide me  Sergeant Alex Baxter in the BBC version (left) compared to real life soldiers on patrol around Radfan (right)

 Slide me  Lance Corporal Tony Armstrong jumping into action from The Last Post (left) while genuine soldiers enjoy a more peaceful afternoon inside camp

Telling his story to MailOnline, retired soldier Roger Jones said: 'My Battalion assumed responsibility for Area North, which included the main trouble spots of Al Mansura and Sheik Othman, as well as the vital points of RAF Khormaksar and the Aden Prison' (Down time in Radfan Camp where privates are playing cards using ammunition as poker chips)

In the early hours of the morning, a grenade attack outside the main mosque signalled the start of hostilities.

All observation posts came under sustained fire from close range, pinning the Paras down, Roger explained. It was a dire situation for the well-trained soldiers, who kept their nerve nonetheless.

But just before midday, the Paras were given their window of opportunity to strike back.

The main mosque broadcast instructions to the Arab gunmen to move positions, giving the men some respite and a chance to regroup.

In the early hours of the morning, a grenade attack outside the main mosque signalled the start of hostilities. All observation posts came under sustained fire from close range, pinning the Paras down, Roger explained. It was a dire situation for the well-trained soldiers, who kept their nerve nonetheless (a Paratrooper relaxed while carrying a bandolier with hundreds of rounds)

But just before midday, the Paras were given their window of opportunity to strike back. The main mosque broadcast instructions to the Arab gunmen to move positions, giving the men some respite and a chance to regroup (a Paratrooper conducting a stop and search, 1967)

This forced the gunmen to move back 300 yards. By the end of the day, 1 Para closely supported by C Squadron, Queens Dragoon Guards had established supremacy over Area North, which it maintained until relieved by the South Arabian Army four months later

'This was the turning point of this battle,' says Roger.

'The company commander took advantage of the pause to bring down heavy harassing fire on all known and potential positions.

'This forced the gunmen to move back 300 yards. By the end of the day, 1 Para closely supported by C Squadron, Queens Dragoon Guards had established supremacy over Area North, which it maintained until relieved by the South Arabian Army four months later.'

The day became to be known among soldiers within the Battalion, as 'The Glorious First of June'

The day became to be known among soldiers within the Battalion, as 'The Glorious First of June'. The hot and humid conditions in Aden proved demanding for even the toughest of soldiers

Soldiers repairing Radio Mast at Fort Walsh, Aden, 1967, their red flag waving, surrounded by sandbags to shield themselves from enemy sniper fire

Cpl Tom Speakman (Royal Signals) and Pte Kevin Bacon in 1967 under the searing Arabian sun

Not all battles proved so glorious however.

On June 18 1967, 18-year-old John McIntosh from Nairn in Scotland came under fire while on patrol in Al Qahira, along with his 1 Para comrades.

Though the patrol took cover and returned fire, Kalashnikov rounds from a second position found their mark, killing the young private.

As was protocol for the time, he was buried where he fell, remaining there to this day in Aden's Silent Valley.

Stuart Hepton, a private in Roger Jones' anti-tank platoon recalls how the announcement of Britain's withdrawal buoyed opposing forces already fiercely against British boots on the ground.

Members of 1 PARA at Beech Road Checkpoint, Aden, 1967

We were completely compromised by the government telling the world wed be leaving in a few months time. If you wanted to drop someone in it, that was the way to do it!

Their actions put everyones lives at risk, but there you are you have to cope with it.'

But amid the gun fights, check points and constant patrols, the soldiers also had to cope with the mundanities of everyday life in Aden.

It was 45 to 50 degrees centigrade heat and we went out there with no acclimatization,' explained Stuart.

'We went into Radfan camp which had little blast walls around each tent.

We had a bed, a mattress, a mosquito net and a little sheet - that was our sleeping accommodation. We put our suitcases under the bed and we kept our webbing on our person the whole time.

'We usually carried three magazines of twenty rounds, a bandolier of 50 rounds and also two or three 200-round belts of GPMG ammunition - in case things got hairy' explained Stuart Hepton (other Para soldiers aiming a machine gun)

We kept our water containers, these large canvas jugs attached to tent poles so we could have plenty of water whenever we needed it.

'Our daily routine was to get up at half five, wash and shave, we wore our webbing with our ammunition water, dressing and few rations.

We usually carried three magazines of twenty rounds, a bandolier of 50 rounds and also two or three 200-round belts of GPMG ammunition - in case things got hairy

'We kept our ID cards in our left breast pocket, we'd go to the armoury, withdraw our weapons, clean them and draw our ammunition.

'We usually carried three magazines, of twenty rounds, a bandolier of 50 rounds and also two or three 200 round belts of GPMG ammunition - in case things got hairy.'

1 Para was part of a reactive unit that would speed to any crisis at any time, prepared for combat. Meaning despite the long hours of nothingness, Stuart could be called at a moment's notice to defend his fellow soldier.

1 Para was part of a reactive unit that would speed to any crisis at any time, prepared for combat. Meaning despite the long hours of nothingness, Stuart could be called at a moment's notice to defend his fellow soldier

For their part, Britain dropped more than 3,000 heavy bombs and more than 2,500 rockets in a bid to pacify the guerrilla insurgency who used the Radfan Mountains for cover

He explained: 'Our daily routine would be use on either Quick Reaction Force (QRF)  ready to go anyway and do anything - where we would be stood by waiting to jump into our trucks should anything happen.

'Our trucks were called pigs because thats what they looked like from the front. You just got on this tube of metal with a few doors and seats and you trundled off to wherever the action was.

Every solider is Aden could tell you about their near misses and brushes with death and Stuart is no different.

Observing from the fortified police station he came under fire from anti-tank Blindicide missiles, exploding right beneath his feet.

Luckily, the Royal Engineer-built fortification did its job, protecting him from serious harm.

British Army, Navy and Air Force troops were deployed to Radfan to stabilise the region  though losses were still heavily felt

Things had become increasingly frantic in 1963 when, with an increasingly volatile region and warring political factions, a state of emergency was declared after a grenade attack on the High Commissioner of Aden, Sir Kennedy Trevaskis, killed one and wounded 50 others

The situation for Stuart and Roger was fraught, but it had been a long time coming for Britain.

With British Army, Navy and Air Force troops deployed, the young soldier Private McIntosh's death was one of more than 90 British servicemen killed during the Aden emergency.

The humiliation of the Suez crisis still fresh in Britain's psyche, losing Aden would be seen as a disaster for a nation coming to terms with its diminished role on the world stage.

Things had become increasingly frantic in 1963 when, with an increasingly volatile region and warring political factions, a state of emergency was declared after a grenade attack on the High Commissioner of Aden, Sir Kennedy Trevaskis, killed one and wounded 50 others.

British Army, Navy and Air Force troops were deployed to Radfan to stabilise the region  though losses were still heavily felt.

With British Army, Navy and Air Force troops deployed, the young soldier Private McIntosh's death was one of more than 90 British servicemen killed during the Aden emergency

145 Battery, 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery firing from the flight deck of HMS Albion, Aden, 1967

Such was the intense animosity felt towards the British in some quarters that when two SAS soldiers were killed in battle their heads were paraded across the border in celebration.

For their part, Britain dropped more than 3,000 heavy bombs and more than 2,500 rockets in a bid to pacify the guerrilla insurgency who used the Radfan Mountains for cover.

Once fresh boots were on the ground, aggressive patrolling was introduced covering the main thoroughfares in the volatile Sheik Othman and Al Mansura districts. Proscribed zones were established and British losses reduced.

Distinguishable by their maroon berets, Paras were considered the best soldiers the army and much needed to stem the warring factions who were taking aim at British helmets daily.

Once fresh boots were on the ground, aggressive patrolling was introduced covering the main thoroughfares in the volatile Sheik Othman and Al Mansura districts. Proscribed zones were established and British losses reduced (Paratroopers in Tented Camp, Aden, 1967)

Distinguishable by their maroon berets, Paras were considered the best soldiers the army and much needed to stem the warring factions who were taking aim at British helmets daily

With withdrawal on the way and British losses reduced thanks to successful ground operations, by 1967 soldiers received word that they were to be relieved of their duty.

There was considered enough indication that the NLF had the popular support to control an independent Yemen, so Britain's role in the handover of the land seemed ready.

On 24 September, 1 Para was relieved in their forward positions by the South Arabian Army, and the task of the British Forces changed - it was now to cover the evacuation of the base preparing to hand over responsibility to the future Yemeni government.

On 27 November, 1 Para marched out of Radfan Camp with heads held high. Led by the Corps of Drums, they marched down the main runway, and flew home to UK.

For their part, Britain dropped more than 3,000 heavy bombs and more than 2,500 rockets in a bid to pacify the guerrilla insurgency who used the Radfan Mountains for cover.

While the BBC series (pictured) has received rave reviews, nothing can truly match the real drama that the Parachute Regiment faced in modern day Yemen. It was the end 128 years of colonial rule and also the end of a unique tour, which is too often forgotten by the British public, but not by those who served in the searing heat of the Aden emergency

For their part, Britain dropped more than 3,000 heavy bombs and more than 2,500 rockets in a bid to pacify the guerrilla insurgency who used the Radfan Mountains for cover. Member of 1 PARA 'D' Company at Checkpoint Golf, Aden, 1967

Led by the Corps of Drums, they marched down the main runway, and flew home to UK.

Stuart said: We were there to ensure a peaceful hand over of Aden and give the people the chance to have their own government and make a good go of it. And thats what we did  we succeeded in our task

While the BBC series has received rave reviews, nothing can truly match the real drama that the Parachute Regiment faced in modern day Yemen.

It was the end 128 years of colonial rule and also the end of a unique tour, which is too often forgotten by the British public, but not by those who served in the searing heat of the Aden emergency.
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From a bombshell brunette devouring fairy floss to a woman riding a wheelie bin, race season in Melbourne is never dull.

With Melbourne Cup Day just around the corner, Daily Mail Australia has taken a look back at the most memorable characters from the spring carnival events over the past two years.

The most notable of them all is Karly Tsivoglou, a 20-year-old make-up artist who stole the hearts of thousands of adoring fans online when she was pictured with fairy floss hanging from her mouth as she walked across the grounds.

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From a bombshell brunette (pictured is Karly Tsivoglou) devouring fairy floss to a woman riding a wheelie bin and a grandmother stripping down to her undies, race season in Melbourne is never dull

With Derby Day and Melbourne Cup Day just around the corner, Daily Mail Australia has taken a look back at the most memorable characters from the past two years (pictured is Jade Jillings)

One of the biggest stars is grandmother Sue Bentley (pictured), who captured the attention of the nation when she was caught on camera whipping off her soaking wet white dress during a downpour at the 2015 Ladies' Day races

Sarah Finn, a 25-year-old Melburnian (pictured), was filmed pushing over a senior police officer

Ms Tsivoglou was attending Oaks Day, otherwise known as Ladies Day, with her friend Alice Woodfall, 19, and admitted many men had professed their love for her both on race day and since the pictures emerged.

'A few people claimed they were in love with me', Ms Tsivoglou, who is single, joked.

'But both Alice and I were getting a lot of positive compliments throughout the day,' she told Daily Mail Australia last year.

Ms Tsivoglou said she and her pal spent the day mingling with people, before the girls 'had a few glasses of champagne, put a few bets on and just enjoyed the sun.'

The 20-year-old said she found out about her internet stardom when she woke up the following day and discovered her social media accounts had been inundated with messages.

'I woke up this morning with so many messages and screenshots of the photos! I was honestly shocked!

'My social media accounts have been going crazy all morning!,' she added.

The stunning woman also garnered attention from KIIS 106.5 FM radio host Kyle Sandilands.

'Everyone here in the LA studio and in the Sydney studio are all talking about cotton candy girl, there's something about her,' he said on KIIS 106.5 on Friday morning.

'She looks amazing, she's got cotton candy hanging out of her mouth... it's all happening,' Kyle added.

Ms Tsivoglou (pictured) was attending Oaks Day, otherwise known as Ladies Day, with her friend Alice Woodfall, 19, and admitted many men had professed their love for her both on race day and after the pictures emerged

Ms Tsivoglou (pictured) said she and her pal spent the day mingling with people, before the girls 'had a few glasses of champagne, put a few bets on and just enjoyed the sun'

The 20-year-old (pictured) said she found out about her internet stardom when she woke up the following day and discovered her social media accounts had been inundated with messages

The stunning woman (pictured right) also garnered attention from KIIS 106.5 FM radio host Kyle Sandilands

Another star from last year's season is Jade Jillings, 23, who infamously clambered on top of a wheelie bin at the Melbourne Cup.

Her antics at Flemington made headlines after photos of her and her housemate Tyler Johnson were published.

The red-faced Jade and her housemate Mr Johnson, who was dressed in a beige suit in the photos, told The Project at the time that 'they were just having a laugh'.

Ms Jillings, who works as a horse trainer at Flemington, said she was embarrassed when the photos emerged, but joked that she was just having 'a wheelie good time'.

Her housemate echoed her sentiments, pointing out that they didn't cause any trouble.

'There was no trouble. We were having a good time. I feel like that's what racing is about. We didn't harm anyone.'

They even said their mums were 'proud' back home in their native New Zealand.

'Our mums agreed that 'they were just having a good time and didn't harm anyone,'' said Ms Jillings

Mr Johnson chimed in: 'Mum said 40 years ago she was dancing around at the races and snapped her ankles.

'They all said [it was] lucky there were no photographers back in their day.'

Another star from last year's season is Ms Jillings (pictured), 23, who infamously clambered on top of a wheelie bin at the Melbourne Cup

Her antics at Flemington made headlines after photos of her and her housemate Tyler Johnson (pictured together) were published

The red-faced Jade and her housemate Mr Johnson (pictured), who was dressed in a beige suit in the photos, told The Project at the time that they were 'just having a laugh'

Ms Jillings (pictured), who works as a horse trainer at Flemington, said she was embarrassed when the photos emerged, but joked that she was just having 'a wheelie good time'

Just across the grounds, 25-year-old Melburnian Sarah Finn was filmed pushing over a senior police officer.

Ms Finn was caught on video during the Melbourne Cup wearing a short blue dress sprinting up to the policeman in her black stilettos while he was speaking on the phone.

She then shoved Acting Superintendent Steven Cooper backwards into a bush, breaking his glasses, just moments before he was due to update the media on crowd behaviour.

In the footage the brunette could be seen turning back to the group who were filming the incident with a sheepish look on her face before being arrested by two other officers.

When asked by Daily Mail Australia whether or not she wished to comment on the race day incident, she simply replied: 'Nah, not right now.'

Speaking immediately after the incident, Act Spt Cooper told the waiting media: 'It was very odd behaviour. She just walked up to me and I thought, what is she doing? Is she just coming to say hello or something? Clearly not.'

Just across the grounds, 25-year-old Melburnian Sarah Finn (pictured) was filmed pushing over a senior police officer

Ms Finn (pictured) was caught on video during the Melbourne Cup wearing a short blue dress sprinting up to the policeman in her black stilettos while he was speaking on the phone

Ms Finn (pictured) then shoved Acting Superintendent Steven Cooper backwards into a bush, breaking his glasses - just moments before he was due to update the media on crowd behaviour

Ms Bentley (pictured), a mother of five, frolicked in the rain, with her fabulous 'Bridget Jones panties' on full display in 2015

One of the biggest stars that come to memory is grandmother Sue Bentley, who captured the attention of the nation when she was caught on camera whipping off her soaking wet white dress during a downpour at the 2015 Ladies' Day races.

Ms Bentley, a mother of five, frolicked in the rain, with her underwear on full display.

'I love Ladies' Day, it is a day to dress up like you do for no other occasion, it's about spending time with girlfriends and not having to worry about partners and kids, it's dressing up and being with the girls,' Ms Bentley told Daily Mail Australia.

'Girls always need girl time and what a great way to do it, even the trip in and home is fun.'

Torrential rain, strong winds and a 'tornado' were partly to blame for last year's spectacle - as it caused chaos among racegoers and inspired someone to dare an already soaking wet Ms Bentley $10 to strip down to her undies and run free.

'Girls always need girl time and what a great way to do it, even the trip in and home is fun,' she said (pictured)
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The numbers inked into Chino Ly's fingers represent the day he went inside, the portrait on the back of his head is his baby sister and the reference to 'betrayed' on his back is a nod to his biological father.

Chilling reminders of his past may be memorialised in the ink on his skin but the violent side that landed Ly an eight-year stint inside some of America's toughest prison's is no more.

The symbols on his skin have meaning, some he still likes, others he is ashamed of.

Melbourne tattooist Huynh 'Chino' Ly (pictured) has revealed how he turned his life around after prison

Ly was taken under the wing of experienced prisoners who tried to teach him that there was more to life than violence

He was sentenced to eight years in prison inside one of America's toughest jails and joined a gang to survive

He would use an ink gun made from materials he could source inside, began tattoo himself and other inmates

'On my fingers is the day I went in until the day I got out: 11/09/07 - 1/10/13, in the American format of month/day/year,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'The back of my head, I have a portrait of my baby sister and the star, that resembles the gang in prison with the word ''blastin''.

'On my back it says ''betrayed'', and the reason is mainly family issues, such as with my biological father and uncles.'

With regret he shares his distaste for the mark that reads 'f**k all my enemies' on his hand.

His tattoos are sprawled across his body and represent where he has been, the challenges he has overcome and the story of his journey.

Ly initially moved to Fort Worth near Dallas, Texas, from Australia for a fresh start but he quickly found himself immersed in a scene saturated by violence and guns.

The peak of his disgrace came when, in a heated argument over a girl, Ly sliced a man across the chest with a sword at 17 years old in a bid to scare his victim.

The peak of his disgrace was when he sliced a man across the chest with a sword and was told by police the man's death would be on Chino if his victim didn't make it

After setting himself up with the notoriously ruthless 'Tango Blast' Ly was officially a member of the biggest prison gang in Texas

He used the brotherhood to get through the tough times of prison before eventually finding his love for tattooing

'I felt the sword cut right through him,' he told the Herald Sun.

When the police arrested Ly he was told that if the man didn't survive he would be solely responsible for the death.

He was sentenced to eight years in prison for the offence and moved around different jail houses, rubbing shoulders with hardened criminals and seasoned offenders.

The Melbourne tattooist explained that the only way to survive behind bars was to become a member of a feared gang member.

The 27-year-old moved to Texas from Australia but soon became involved with into guns and violence

He began his sentence at transfer facilities in Abilene then in Brownfield and was moved between another two prisons after becoming involved in a race riot.

The pain he felt on his first night can't be described in words but knew his long-term survival would be best achieved aligning with a brotherhood.

After setting himself up with the notoriously ruthless 'Tango Blast' gang, Ly was officially a member of the biggest prison mob in Texas.

'They sold me this dream that we were there to take care of each other... but then you started to see more of the darker side and you realised people were just trying to use you.'

Chilling reminders of his past may be memorialised in the ink on his skin but the violent side that landed Ly an eight-year stint inside some of America's toughest prison's is no more

The Melbourne tattooist survived life in some of America's toughest jails by becoming a member of a feared gang

Battling depression with drugs he would fight anyone who tried to cross his path.

As punishment for fighting, he was once put in 24-hour solitary confinement for two months.

While at a low point, he found his talent for tattooing and, using an ink gun made from materials he could source inside, began tattoo himself and other inmates.

It almost pushed him to his limits, but he was able to keep going and persevere through, finally making it out the other side with a new outlook on circumstance.

Veteran inmates tried to teach him their ways, he turned his attitude around, focused on eating well and working out, before his state of mind began to flip.

After his release five years into his sentence when granted parole, Ly was sent back to Australia and handed over to the Federal Police.

Reminders of his past are memorialised in the ink on his skin but the violent side to Ly has surpassed

Ly moved to Melbourne after living in Brisbane with his father and began work as a tattoo artist

He was given a fresh start, and with only two suitcases, $500 cash, and a renewed sense of purpose, Ly headed for his father's in Brisbane where he stayed for a short time.

Ly next headed to Melbourne where he got a job at a tattoo studio, an art form he has now truly embraced and pursues passionately.

He is offering insight into his story in a hope to deter other youths from going down a similar path and wants to send a message that violence isn't the way forward.

'Gangs and crime are still an issue in Australia and here in Melbourne,' he said.

'I've made some bad decisions,' he admits. 'Now I'm ready to make some better ones.'
Andrew Coffey, a civil engineering student at Florida State University and a Pi Kappa Phi pledge, died at an off-campus chapter party

Police are investigating the death of a Florida State University fraternity pledge at a chapter party.

The Tallahassee police say no one has been arrested in the death of Pi Kappa Phi pledge Andrew Coffey at an off-campus house party that occurred between Thursday and Friday.

The 20-year-old Coffey was a civil engineering major from Pompano Beach.

The Tallahassee Democrat reports that officers were collecting alcoholic beverage bottles that were scattered on the home's porch as evidence.

Coffey was found unresponsive at about 10.25am the morning after the party, authorities say. Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

The fraternity has been suspended by its national organization pending the conclusion of the investigation.

No arrests have been made, nor suspects identified.

Coffey was found unresponsive the morning after a party, and was pronounced dead at the scene

The fraternity has been suspended following the death of Coffey (pictured at left)

Police say they are questioning multiple people in connection with the death.

Coffey's death came right as Parent's Weekend, during which parents are encouraged to visit students, occurred.

Florida State University released a statement that reads in part: 'We are overwhelmed with sadness any time we learn of the death of one of our students, and the FSU family provides extensive outreach to their family and friends as they mourn the loss of a young life.'

'Our thoughts and prayers are with the student's family and friends,' said Pi Kappa Phi in a statement to the Tallahassee Democrat.

Florida State University is in Tallahassee, the state's capital.
France is world renowned for its laid back and relaxed attitude, with the country playing host to dozens of nudist beaches, campsites and pools.

Yet now Paris has opened its first-ever naked restaurant where diners can dig into their food while completely naked.

The aptly named O'Naturel restaurant is located in the French capital's 12th arrondissement, on Rue de Gravelle, and had its grand opening this past Thursday. There is space at the restaurant for up to 40 diners, with meals starting at around 30.

Upon entrance, guests are asked to remove all their clothes and leave them in the restaurant's wardrobes.

The aptly named O'Naturel restaurant is located in the French captial's 12th arrondissement, on Rue de Gravelle

Yet passersby on the street are not able to catch a glimpse of patrons at the eatery as the view from the street is blocked off. Local residents seem relatively relaxed about the new establishment, with one saying: 'It doesn't bother me at all, or my neighbors.

'We don't see anything from the street. We know what's happening. It's not a massage parlour.'

Restaurant managers Mike and Stephane Saada told Le Parisien that they invited the Paris Naturist Association for their grand opening.

The Saanda's said: 'They've supported us from the beginning, and we reserved our first soiree for them.'

While it's the first nude restaurant in France, the concept is far from new around the rest of the world.

London's first nudist pop-up restaurant, Bunyadi, opened last year and is current fundraising in order to open for a second season.

Meanwhile Innato, located on Spain's Tenerife Island, has parts of its 'aphrodisiac menu' which are served on the waitstaff's nude bodies.

The restaurant had its grand opening on Thursday and can host up to 40 diners at a time
Half a month's rain is expected to lash parts of Victoria and New South Wales over the coming days, with the mercury only hitting a chilly 16C on Melbourne Cup day.

Maximum average rainfall in November is 81mm but more than half of that is expected to be dumped along the NSW east coast early this week.

Eastern Victoria could also get a drenching as we approach the 'race that stops a nation', with 25mm forecast by Tuesday, Nine News reports.

Eastern Victoria could also see a drenching as we approach the 'race that stops a nation', with 25mm forecast by Tuesday (Melbourne Cup pictured)

Previous Melbourne Cup years have been rained out before (Jennifer Hawkins pictured)

However, while the day itself won't be entirely rained out racegoers will endure teeth-chattering 16C temperatures.

It has already been an unusually cold start to November in other states across Australia.

On Saturday parts of Victoria experienced their coldest springtime morning in almost 50 years.

November is off to an unusually chilly start across Australia (Melbourne pictured)

On Monday there is expected to be wide-spread rain, weather map pictured shows the extent

It is the coldest weekend in Sydney in two months and the coldest November weekend in 11 years (Sydney pictured)

This comes as Tasmanians welcomed snow on the first day of the month in a trend that has caught on in Sydney where locals are currently experiencing the coldest weekend in 11 years.

According to weather experts from the Bureau of Meteorology in NSW the temperatures are well below average.

'The average maximum average temperature at Observatory Hill in November is 23.7C, so far today we haven't got higher than 17.3C,' a spokesperson for the bureau told Daily Mail Australia.

FORECAST: WEATHER AROUND AUSTRALIA SYDNEY Sunday: Min 15, Max 19. Showers Monday: Min 16, Max 24. Rain, windy Tuesday: Min 14, Max 20. Showers Wednesday: Min 15, Max 20. Possible shower Thursday: Min 13, Max 23. Cloudy BRISBANE Sunday: Min 20, Max 28. Showers Monday: Min 20, Max 28. Showers Tuesday: Min 20, Max 27. Showers Wednesday: Min 18, Max 24. Possible shower Thursday: Min 16, Max 24. Cloudy ADELAIDE Sunday: Min 10, Max 24. Showers Monday: Min 11, Max 22. Cloudy Tuesday: Min 12, Max 22. Cloudy Wednesday: Min 10, Max 24. Sunny Thursday: Min 12, Max 28. Sunny DARWIN Sunday: Min 26, Max 35. Showers Monday: Min 26, Max 35. Possible storm Tuesday: Min 26, Max 34. Possible storm Wednesday: Min 26, Max 34. Possible storm Thursday: Min 26, Max 34.Storm MELBOURNE Sunday: Min 7, Max 18. Partly cloudy Monday: Min 9, Max 17. Partly cloudy Tuesday: Min 10, Max 16. Possible showers Wednesday: Min 9, Max 19.Sunny Thursday: Min 8, Max 21. Cloudy CANBERRA Sunday: Min 6, Max 19. Showers Monday: Min 9, Max 18. Rain Tuesday: Min 4, Max 20. Showers Wednesday: Min 3, Max 20. Possible showers Thursday: Min 3, Max 25. Sunny PERTH Sunday: Min 16, Max 32. Sunny Monday: Min 17, Max 33. Sunny Tuesday: Min 20, Max 31. Possible showers Wednesday: Min 19, Max 30. Cloudy Thursday: Min 17, Max 29. Cloudy HOBART Sunday: Min 4, Max 16. Cloudy Monday: Min 6, Max 19. Possible showers Tuesday: Min 8, Max 16. Showers Wednesday: Min 8, Max 21. Cloudy Thursday: Min 10, Max 19. Cloudy Advertisement

And the weather isn't set to get any brighter until Monday, according to the expert, who explained the temperature usually only dips this low for one or two days of the month each year.

According to Weatherzone, Longerenong in rural Victoria saw it's coldest November night in 49 years on Friday with temperatures plummeting to 0.8C.

South Australians also woke to a crisp morning with temperatures of just 1.5C in Naracoorte  making it the coldest morning since June and the coldest November morning in 19 years.

In Tasmania the temperature is expected to drop from 10C on Saturday to just 4C overnight  and the mercury isn't expected to rise above 20 in the island state until Wednesday.

According to Weatherzone Longerenong in rural Victoria saw it's coldest November night in 49 years on Friday with temperatures plummeting to 0.8C (Melbourne pictured)

Rain is expected to continue lashing Sydney until Tuesday

And while the weather is expected to warm up on Monday it won't be any drier - with rain expected across Australia - with Perth the exception.

While the rain in Sydney is expected to fall across the weekend the major weather event will be on Monday.

And the rain won't just fall in Sydney - some parts of the state are expected to see more than 100ml, the average for the whole of October, early next week.

And the rain won't just fall in Sydney - some parts of the state are expected to see more than 100ml, the average for the whole of October, early next week

The downpour will be widespread - with most Australian cities seeing some rain over the next week - except Perth which will remain dry.

The weather should begin to clear on Tuesday afternoon with only scattered showers expected.

While the southern states shiver through the weekend temperatures in Brisbane, Perth and Darwin are expected to remain steady - with tops of over 30C.
The woman who was sent sexually explicit text messages by former Cabinet Minister Stephen Crabb backed him as Tory leader three years after the incident, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

Despite her experiences, Tosin Adedayo subsequently defended Mr Crabb over lewd texts he sent to another woman, saying the messages did not show he was pervy.

This newspaper can disclose that Ms Adedayo, a former aide to Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire, is the previously unidentified woman that Mr Crabb targetted with unforgivable texts after a job interview in Westminster in 2013.

Tosin Adedayo subsequently defended Mr Crabb over lewd texts he sent to another woman, saying the messages did not show he was pervy

Last week, a friend of Ms Adedayo  who was 19 at the time  accused the married Mr Crabb of an abuse of power over the messages, in which he said he wanted to have sex with her.

The disclosure came a year after married father-of-two Mr Crabbs Tory leadership hopes were dashed when similar explicit WhatsApp messages that he sent to another woman were revealed.

Approached by this newspaper at her home in South London, Ms Adedayo, now 24, said: I didnt get the job. I moved on. I got another job.

I didnt do anything wrong. If he did anything wrong, his name should be there, not mine. Thats it.

She declined to discuss the matter further.

Shortly after being turned down for the job by Mr Crabb, she was given a position by Mr Brokenshire.

Three years later, during the Tory leadership race of 2016, Ms Adedayo wrote on Twitter: If the Tory Party actually think about this, theyll choose Stephen Crabb for a fresh start.

She also defended him when someone said he wouldnt be a good leader because his lewd messages to another woman showed he was such a perv.

Ms Adedayo responded: I dont think he was pervy. [It] wasnt like the woman was a teenager, it was just unfortunate for him.

And in a further tweet she suggest that Crabb and fellow Cabinet Minister Sajid Javid should form a joint ticket for the Tory leadership.

Ms Adedayo, whose family roots are in Nigeria, stood as a councillor for the party in the London borough of Bexley in 2014.

She works for Interel, a Westminster-based public affairs group, and previously worked at a different public relations firm where her clients include the Scotch Whisky Association and Unilever food giants.

The University of London politics graduate was described in a recent profile as a libertarian, whose political views stemmed from her business owner parents who raised her to be self-reliant. She said: Ive had the opportunity to see what underpins each ideology. Ive been able to pick which of them matches my views and my outlook on life.

People should be free to aspire, to create wealth and they should have freedom of speech. No one should be hindered in any way by government regulations.

At university, I got involved in the Conservative Society and Right-wing think tanks. Its the circles that I move in.

She wanted to help the Tory Party to shake off its tough, posh, white, aristocratic image.

She said: Sometimes within those circles its a bit of a shock that Im black and Conservative, but people are coming round to the idea.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ihab Nasr presented the ambassadors of Germany, Italy and Holland with an official complaint over their 'blatant interference' in Egypt's internal affairs

Egypt's foreign ministry summoned the ambassadors of three western countries on Sunday to protest their recent statement criticisizing the detention of an Egyptian rights lawyer and calling for the respect of civil society groups, saying their statement on the issues was "unacceptable and a blatant interference in domestic affairs".

Egypts foreign ministry spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid said the envoys of Germany, Italy and Holland were summoned by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ihab Nasr, with the ambassadors of the UK and Canada to be summoned later.

According to Abu Zeid, Nasr presented the ambassadors with a "strongly worded official complaint" after the five countries issued a joint statement on 3 November expressing "deep concerns over the ongoing detention ... and detention conditions of human rights layer Ibrahim Metwally Hegazy, who has been detained pending investigation since September.

Nasr expressed his rejection of the fallacies included in the joint statement, calling on the ambassadors of Germany, Italy and Holland to be more accurate in describing the legal situation of Hegazy.

Nasr explained to the envoys that the lawyer was being held in relation to investigations being conducted by the prosecution, stressing the importance of respecting the country's legal procedures.

It is unfortunate that such a statement is issued by countries that support sovereignty and the separation of powers, the foreign ministry added.

The State Security prosecution has accused Hegazy of being a member of an illegal group, spreading false news, and establishing a fictitious group under the name of the Association of the Families of the Enforcedly Disappeared (AFED) to spread rumours.

Hegazy, one of the founders of AFED , was arrested on 10 September while on his way to Geneva to address the UN Working Group on forced disappearance.

He is also a researcher for the legal team representing the family of Italian researcher Giulio Regeni who was found tortured and killed in Cairo in February 2016. The Egyptian government has been conducting an investigation to identify Regeni's killers.

Hegazy's detention has been renewed.

The five countries also called on the Egyptian authorities "to ensure the freedom of civil society and the protection from torture that are enshrined in the Egyptian Constitution."

Abu Zeid said the ambassadors were informed of Egypts rejection of the false claims made regarding the status of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and allegations of torture in Egyptian prisons.

Nasr called on the ambassadors of the three countries not to be influenced by what he described as false information, and for their nations to avoid seeking to act as guardians over other nations.



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New York police are searching for group home resident, Andre Patton (pictured), 47, who is accused of fatally stabbing a deacon

New York police are searching for a group home resident who is accused of fatally stabbing a deacon Friday night.

Nassau County police said 70-year-old Patrick Logsdon was stabbed multiple times at the Anthony House in Roosevelt on Long Island, just east of New York City.

Andre Patton, 47, who is accused of stabbing Logsdon to death, fled the scene after the attack that took place just before 10.30pm.

Police said Patton is still on the run. Patton is also believed to be armed and dangerous.

Logsdon was pronounced dead at the scene, but no one else was injured. Logsdon was the program director and deacon of Anthony House, a transitional home for homeless men.

The home is run by the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

'He stabbed a 70-year-old man multiple times in a religious place that gives hope to those people who are going through substance abuse or homeless, so he's dangerous,' Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder told ABC 7.

Authorities said they believe Logsdon knew his killer. No information is available about anyone who could speak for Patton.

Nassau police said there is no information yet on the motive for the attack. However, authorities have been speaking with a witness who identified Patton as the suspect.

Detectives request anyone with information to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.

Nassau County police said 70-year-old Patrick Logsdon was stabbed multiple times at the Anthony House (pictured) in Roosevelt on Long Island, just east of New York City
Teenagers caught with cannabis will still be allowed to join the police after strict vetting rules were relaxed.

The controversial new guidance means recruits will no longer be automatically rejected if they have criminal convictions or cautions. Even an applicant who had served time in jail could be allowed to become a PC under exceptional circumstances.

The move comes after The Mail on Sunday revealed that Army recruits caught taking drugs during their basic training will be allowed to remain in the military.

Teenagers caught with cannabis will still be allowed to join the police after strict vetting rules were relaxed

The first nationwide vetting code of practice has been drawn up by the College of Policing standards body and approved by the Home Office. It admits that public confidence may be affected if an officer has a previous conviction or caution, and so there should be a presumption they will not be suitable to become a constable.

But specialist vetting officials must consider the nature and severity of the offence, the persons age at the time, and the length of time since the offence was committed to decide whether the applicant should be allowed in.

Detective Superintendent Jackie Alexander, College of Policing lead for external standards and integrity, said: You presume you wouldnt take people into those roles, but you would then take it on a case-by-case basis.

But specialist vetting officials must consider the nature and severity of the offence, the persons age at the time, and the length of time since the offence was committed to decide whether the applicant should be allowed in

She gave the example of someone given a cannabis warning at 17. If they applied to join the police at 19, having changed little in the intervening two years, they may not be allowed in.

But lets say the same 17-year-old is now 24... theyve gone on to get a degree, maybe theyve been working in a bank... You look at this person and they have moved on from that 17-year-old.

Research has found that more than 1,000 officers have criminal records but most were for minor driving offences or misdemeanours committed when young.
Kate was given the medal by Tuvalus honorary consul in Britain during a private ceremony at Kensington Palace

A tiny island thats rapidly sinking into the sea has won an unlikely claim to fame  becoming the first country to give the Duchess of Cambridge an honour.

The Duchess received her gong from the island nation of Tuvalu last week for raising awareness of climate change and to mark a joyous visit she and Prince William made to the isolated South Pacific atoll in 2012.

But as she is expecting her third child, the Duchess did not travel the 10,000 miles to be made a Member of the Tuvalu Order of Merit in person.

Instead, she was given the medal by Tuvalus honorary consul in Britain, Sir Iftikhar Ayaz, during a private ceremony at Kensington Palace.

The Duke of Cambridge also received the Polynesian nations highest order alongside his wife.

William and Kate visited Tuvalu  the worlds fourth-smallest country  in 2012 during the Queens Diamond Jubilee. Her Majesty is head of state there.

The Duchess received her gong from the island nation of Tuvalu last week for raising awareness of climate change and to mark a joyous visit she and Prince William made (above) to the isolated South Pacific atoll in 2012

During their visit, the Royal couple were garlanded with sea shells and carried on a throne by 25 islanders to a field where they danced the night away during what William described as an amazing evening.

Rising sea levels are the most pressing issue for the island which, even at its highest point, is only 13ft above the ocean.

The islands government believe that unless action is urgently taken on climate change, there will be no trace of it left in a matter of decades.

During their visit, the Royal couple were garlanded with sea shells and carried on a throne by 25 islanders to a field where they danced the night away during what William described as an amazing evening

The Queen officially approved the awards to her grandson and his wife.

The honour was created two years ago with the help of Major David Rankin-Hunt, who used to run the Royal Collection and is adviser to the hit Netflix series The Crown.

He designed the medal and had it made by the British firm Gladman & Norman.

Kensington Palace said the couple were honoured to receive the awards.
Douglas Goldsberry, 45, was sentenced to four years in prison for sending prostitutes to strip on his neighbor's porch

A Nebraska man has been sentenced to four years in prison for sending prostitutes to strip on his neighbor's front porch dozens of times over a three-year period.

Douglas Goldsberry of Elkhorn was sentenced Friday in Douglas County District Court after pleading no contest in September to pandering, The Omaha World-Herald reported.

Authorities say 45-year-old Goldsberry hired prostitutes to bare their breasts and strip on his neighbor's porch while he watched from his house and masturbated.

The family with two small children reported that women had shown up as many as 75 times since 2013, exposing themselves and sometimes kicking the door and yelling for payment.

The couple says sometimes their two young children would be awakened by the unwanted disturbance that also caused marital stress and affected their professional lives.

Goldsberry would masturbate while inside his kitchen (file photo above of his house) when the incidents would occur

'It's a really twisted and sick plot,' Deputy Douglas County Attorney Chad Brown told the World-Herald.

Brown said that Goldsberry called it 'a screening process' and would masturbate while watching the women from his kitchen.

'He derived pleasure out of how far he could control these women to see how far he could get them to go,' Brown said.

Goldsberry will serve less than two years in prison with credit for 177 days already served in jail.

However, Goldsberry also has been indicted in federal court for possession of child pornography and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

At the time of his initial arrest, the sheriff's office searched his electronic devices and found evidence of child pornography on his hard drives.
Alabama woodcutter Eric Gilbreath, 37, drove two hours and searched a woodland area in the middle of the night to find Serenity Dawn Sander, 3, who had gone missing in the woods behind her parents' house

An Alabama man who went out on his own to find a three-year-old girl after she was reported missing is being hailed a hero.

Serenity Dawn Sanders, 3, was reported missing in the woods near her parents' house in Dekalb County on Thursday around 7.30pm, WHNT reports.

Eric Gilbreath, whose son, Eric Jr, and Serenity share the same mother, got a call about the girl's disappearance around 1am on Friday.

'Your heart just falls out on the floor. My first thought was helping getting out there and looking,' Gilbreath told WHNT.

'I knew that I couldn't sit here in Cullman, knowing that my son's little sister was out there,' he told the Cullman Tribune.

Gilbreath, 37, drove his truck, after getting $100 from a kind friend for gas and an emergency spare tire, two hours from his Cullman home to Dekalb County, the Cullman Tribune reports.

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Gilbreath's son, Eric Jr, and Serenity (pictured) share the same mother. Serenity was taken to the hospital with minor scratches

Gilbreath said: 'Your heart just falls out on the floor. My first thought was helping getting out there and looking'

Upon arrival around 3.30am, the woodcutter walked for hours with a spotlight in to until he found her and her puppy around 6.45am.

At this point, Gilbreath himself had gotten a bit lost. But the pair managed to find their way out, and Gilbreath alerted the girl's mother to the rescue.

According to her mother's account, the puppy started running around the yard and into the woods while she was checking on dinner. The girl followed.

The puppy disappeared when Gilbreath found Serenity, and has not been found.

The girl was transported to a hospital with minor scratches. Gilbreath said she did not cry at all.
A top-secret SAS operation to stop Islamic terrorists returning undetected to Britain has been thwarted by the Government's refusal to install high-tech eye scanners at airports.

Over the last three months, SAS troops in Syria have recorded the iris measurements of hundreds of jihadis captured on the battlefield, to identify them in case they try to sneak back into Britain.

But while the United States is installing 125,000 iris scanners at its airports, the Home Office is refusing to use the technology at Britain's borders, even though it is considered the most accurate method of identifying terrorists.

Last night, security experts called for eye scanners to be used.

Over the last three months, SAS troops in Syria have recorded the iris measurements of hundreds of jihadis captured on the battlefield, to identify them in case they try to sneak back into Britain, but the UK Government is refusing to install eye scanners at its airports

Their warning follows MI5 chief Andrew Parker's announcement that Britain is facing an unprecedented threat from jihadis, with 850 expected to return to Britain from the warzone.

Raffaello Pantucci, of the Royal United Services Institute think-tank, said: 'Many jihadis are returning or travelling to the UK with deadly intent, while others will seek to recruit a new generation of terrorists to the cause.

'Therefore every high-tech advantage should be used to monitor their movements. Eye-scanning is by far the best method of identification as it is the most accurate and almost impossible to replicate.'

SAS sources have told The Mail on Sunday that elite British soldiers intercepted jihadis as they withdrew from areas of Syria where Islamic State has recently suffered heavy defeats, such as Raqqa. Troops recorded their iris measurements and eye-colour patterns, which are unique.

The scanners turned these eye patterns into 500-digit code numbers and added them to a database, which UK and US intelligence agencies intend to use to track jihadis around the world.

An SAS source said: 'We've witnessed a mass migration of jihadis from territories previously held by Islamic State.

An SAS spokesman said iris-scanning is a 'fast and fail-safe method of identifying bad guys

'As intelligence suggests that many of them remain committed to carrying out terrorist acts, it is important we know who they are and track their movements.

'Iris-scanning is a fast and fail-safe method of identifying bad guys. Given that we are scanning as many terrorists as we can here, it is a shame to learn that eye scanners are off the security agenda in the UK.'

While Donald Trump has ordered a rapid roll-out of eye scanners at US airports, the Home Office confirmed last night it has no plans to use the technology.

It remains committed to e-passports that hold more basic biometric data, despite problems since their introduction in 2006.

Between 2012 to 2016, funding for security at Britain's borders was cut by 19 per cent, while 1,000 border guards were axed.

These factors were blamed for the e-gates at UK airports  which work with the e-passports  frequently being closed.

Eye scanners were withdrawn from several major British airports in 2012 but the cost of producing the devices has since fallen.

The Home Office said: 'Iris recognition was decommissioned in 2012 when the support contract expired.

'A decision was made at the time not to replace the system because e-passport gates were being introduced and these could be used by a greater number of passengers.'
Customers have been complaining for months about the Australian government's NBN service, as the $36 billion project continues to be installed nationwide.

But poor connection might not be the fault of a shoddy system, but rather a cheeky species of bird.

According to NBN Co cockatoos have been sharpening their beaks on spare power and fibre cables set up in regional Australia, which has so far cost $80,000 to repair.

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According to NBN Co cockatoos (pictured) have been sharpening their beaks on spare power and fibre cables set up in regional Australia

A blog post uploaded by the telecommunications group said this wasn't an NBN-specific targeting and the birds have been terrorising our industry wires for decades.

'They are constantly sharpening their beaks and as a result will attack and tear apart anything they come across. Unfortunately, they've developed a liking to our cables,' said NBN Co's Build Project Manager Chedryian Bresland.

'You wouldn't think it was possible, but these birds are unstoppable when in a swarm. I guess that's Australia for you; if the spiders and snakes don't get you, the cockies will.'

The active wires in the NBN network are protected by a ribbed plastic casing but the spare cables remain unprotected and have become the cockatoos favourite brunch-time snack

The active wires in the NBN network are protected by a ribbed plastic casing but the spare cables, which have been hooked up for future use, remain unprotected and have become the cockatoos favourite brunch-time snack.

Eight towers have been rendered useless by the tropical birds and have been replaced by technicians at $10,000 a pop.

Special UV-stable cases are now being built on top of all the cables to prevent further mishaps in the future.

Eight towers have been rendered useless by the tropical birds and have been replaced by technicians at $10,000 a pop

Australias average internet speed of 11.1 megabits per second ranks 50th in the world, according to the most recent State of the Internet report by Akamai Technologies.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the NBN for comment.

Complaints have risen dramatically over recent months with customers complaining about the slow internet and that it's not being built fast enough.

NBN board member Michael Malone said that customers complaining about not being connected fast enough should have their internet installed last.
Ruthless Albanian criminals operating in Britain are kidnapping the elderly relatives of rival gangsters in a tactic that has been dubbed gransom.

Police leaders have revealed that they target the parents or even grandparents of other organised crime families, hold them hostage and demand cash, drugs or territory in return for their safe release.

Crime lords from the tiny Balkan state are so violent and remorseless that they have usurped traditional drug-dealing gangs across much of England, and are now sending huge sums of cash home hidden inside cars.

Kathryn Holloway, Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner said the Albanian crime gangs are 'utterly ruthless' even forcing some of the traditional gangs to 'melt away'

The National Crime Agency have conducted 400 operations against Albanian crime gangs

Albania is not part of the European Union and latest figures show there are only 32,000 Albanians living in Britain but a staggering 572 of them are in jail  almost one in 50.

Details of the gangs exploits were revealed to police chiefs and crime tsars at a conference in London last week.

Kathryn Holloway, the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner, told The Mail on Sunday: You cant imagine how ruthless they are. Some of the traditional gangs have melted away, faced with the sheer brutality of the Albanians. These are without doubt the most ruthless gangs the UK has ever seen. They are prepared to kidnap rivals for 200 debts.

They kidnap elderly relatives of rival gangs to use them to extort money, drugs and territory. It creates an enormous headache for British police.

She said the practice has become known as gransom.

Ms Holloway also told how police had discovered Albanian gangsters were moving vast amounts of cash out of the UK in specially adapted cars.

Earlier this year, Vladimir Cahani and his wife Ardita were caught trying to smuggle 130,000 through the Channel Tunnel in their vehicle.

When specially trained Border Force sniffer dogs searched their Audi at the terminal in Folkestone, they found the notes hidden inside the dashboard.

Earlier this year, the National Crime Agency warned: Albanian crime groups have established a high-profile influence within UK organised crime.

They are behind much of the supply of cocaine around the country and are also involved in human trafficking and prostitution.

The NCA has carried out 400 operations against their activities in the past year alone, targeting the car washes, nail bars and pop-up brothels where they force vulnerable compatriots to work.
A bus driver has narrowly avoided jail for causing a motorcyclist to crash into a wheelie bin after he ran him off the road.

Najeebullah Aryobi, 33, was angry Joshua Luke was riding 10km/h under the speed limit in front of his bus and pulled the finger at him on an Adelaide street.

The Afghan refugee lost his job and was handed an 18-month suspended sentence and three-year driving ban for the bizarre road rage incident in January 2015.

Bus driver Najeebullah Aryobi, 33, narrowly avoided jail for causing a motorcyclist to crash into a wheelie bin after he ran him off the road after he pulled the finger at him

Aryobi became frustrated with Mr Luke's slow driving and flashed his high beam lights at him, which the rider saw in his mirror.

Mr Luke was merely annoyed by this and accelerated so Aryobi could not overtake him when he moved into the right hand lane.

The bus tailgated him around a corner and Mr Luke became even more angry as he felt the bus was driving too close behind him.

'He began to swerve to indicate this, then he sped up to get further away, lifting his front wheel under acceleration,' District Court judge Simon Stretton said in sentencing.

That was when Mr Luke gave Aryobi the finger, which continued to escalate the situation.

Motorcyclist Joshua Luke broke two fingers on his right hand, partially degloved three fingers on that hand, and almost severed the second toe on his right foot in the crash

Aryobi was angry Joshua Luke was riding 10km/h under the speed limit in front of his bus

Mr Luke pulled over into a shopping centre to call a friend whose house he was driving to, then saw the bus catch up with him and made chase.

'[He] went to overtake you pulling over to the right side of the single lane road and gave you the finger as he overtook,' Judge Stretton said.

'At this you lost your temper and deliberately drove the bus towards him over to the right side of the road.'

Mr Luke accelerated past the bus while again extending his middle finger, but veered off the road to avoid the bus and crashed into a wheelie bin at high speed.

'The seriousness of that impact was obvious on the video and would have been obvious to you at the time,' the judge said.

Mr Luke broke two fingers on his right hand, partially degloved three fingers on that hand, and almost severed the second toe on his right foot in the crash.

The toe had to be completely amputated and his fingers needed multiple surgeries with wire installed to help the bones heal correctly.

The bus tailgated him around a corner and Mr Luke became even more angry as he felt the bus was driving too close behind him

Aryobi did not stop after the accident and continued on his route, taking the name of a passenger as a witness, and only pulled over on his return route when he saw police cars.

Judge Stretton said Aryobi 'acted out of sudden anger' and didn't mean to hurt Mr Luke but merely stop him from overtaking him, but said slammed his conduct.

'Your actions were dangerous and reckless. You left Mr Luke on a suburban street, alone and late at night, with no assurance he would be able to obtain help,' he said.

'Mr Luke accepts that due to his behaviour, including that he had his head turned toward you and was still giving you the finger when he came off the road, that he also contributed to the accident by his actions.'

Aryobi, whose wife, eight-year-old daughter and twin four-year-old son and daughter were still in Afghanistan, fled to Australia in September 2001.

His brother was killed during the war against the Taliban and Aryobi travelled from Kabul as a refugee through Pakistan and Indonesia, eventually making it to Australia.

The Afghan refugee lost his job and was handed an 18-month suspended sentence and three-year driving ban for the bizarre road rage incident in January 2015

He was 17 when he was granted a protection visa and later became an Australian citizen, finishing high school in Adelaide and going to TAFE.

After his arrest he was asked to quit his bus driving job he had held since 2010 and then moved to Melbourne where he got a factory job six months ago.

Aryobi pleaded not guilty to causing harm by dangerous driving and leaving an accident scene after causing harm, and was convicted at trial.

Judge Stretton noted he showed remorse for Mr Luke's injuries and gained 'some insight' into his crimes.

'This is serious offending. Your actions were clearly very dangerous and significantly contributed to the significant injuries of the victim,' he said.

'The issue is finely balanced,' he said of whether to send Aryobi to jail, but ultimately decided to suspend the sentence due to his clear record and remorse.
A Port Authority Police Officer was struck by a vehicle at JFK Airport in New York on Saturday.

The driver fled the scene of the incident while the officer was taken to nearby North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset with 'non-life threatening injuries,' according to a tweet posted by the PAPD.

Motive for the incident remains unknown.

A Port Authority Police Officer was struck by a vehicle at JFK Airport in New York City on Saturday.

The motorist was being questioned by police at the arrivals area near Terminal 8 when the driver sped off, hitting one of the officers, according to NBC 4 News.

Police said that they have identified the driver but have yet to release his or her identity.
Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi inaugurated on Sunday the World Youth Forum (WYF) in the country's South Sinai resort of Sharm El-Sheikh.

The forum, held from 4 to 10 November, has attracted thousands of participants from around the world, with official delegations from 52 states as well as youth representatives from 113 countries.

Before his opening speech, the Egyptian president called on participants to observe a minute of silence for the victims of terrorism and war all over the world.

In his speech, El-Sisi praised the Egyptian people for their "tireless work during recent years".

El-Sisi also said that the fight against terrorism should be considered a human right, as it threatens to destroy humanity.

The president said that Egypts organising of the international event is inspired by my sincere belief that dialogue is the only way to overcome challenges.

The Egyptian president stressed that the world is need of reassessing ideas and views that have led to a planet seized by wars and to achieve the dream of a world without extremists.

"Egypt, with its Pharaonic, African and Arab roots, will employ all its capabilities in carrying out its historical role in reshaping the ideas of peace and stability," El-Sisi added.

A number of state officials and youth representatives gave speeches during the opening session on Sunday evening, including the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme Achim Steiner, who attended on behalf of the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guiterres.

The forum aims to tackle topics of interest for both domestic and international youth, including global issues that concern young people, sustainable development, technology and entrepreneurship, civilisations and culture, creating future leaders, the Model United Nations (MUN), creating jobs for the youth and curbing irregular migration.

Throughout recent weeks, the forum was promoted through advertisements including billboards on major Cairo and Alexandria streets, as well as online ads under the hashtag We Need To Talk.

The forum was first announced in July during the countrys National Youth Conference in Alexandria.
Homeowners hoping to snatch up a house in Sydney's inner city will find themselves struggle to purchase anything for less than $1.2 million.

Just as reports began circulating that the housing market had started to cool it was revealed there are fewer than 80 properties listed within a 10km radius of Sydney's CBD priced below the $1.3million mark.

Those that are going for a steady $900,000, like a one-bedroom semi on Boundary Street in Darlinghurst, don't include parking and that property is described as 'well overdue a modern update,' the Sunday Telegraph said.

Terrace houses like this one in Newtown are selling for close to $1.8 million despite the fact they don't come with a parking space

Senior analyst of CoreLogic Cameron Kusher said that $1.2 million was now the cheapest price for a house within inner Sydney that could be considered homely.

'Most houses in the region are priced considerably higher. The average is closer to $1.8-1.9 million,' he said.

With so few properties being put on the market recently those that are, and could be considered liveable for the price, are snatched up by richer workers in the city or migrants.

Marrickville is another popular choice when it comes to staying close to the city - but you'll pay a fortune for the extra space

Its forced some homeowners to seriously consider moving to Newcastle, where they can be assured a larger house with backyard space for that kind of money

Others will be forced back into the suburbs of Tempe, Sydenham and Waterloo where they are in the direct flight path of Sydney Airport, where over 70 airplanes fly in and out of each day.

'A lot of the people who are buying in these suburbs are already homeowners who've had their homes for 10 years or more and have gained a lot of equity, which they can spend on their next home,' Mr Kusher said.

Its forced some homeowners to seriously consider moving to Newcastle, where they can be assured a larger house with backyard space for that kind of money.
The turmoil over the Westminster sex scandal has intensified plotting to replace Theresa May as the Tory leader, rebel backbenchers have told The Mail on Sunday.

Sources say that a disastrous week for Mrs May has led to a significant increase in the number of Tory MPs who want the Prime Minister to announce her resignation.

One, who had previously refused to add his name to the rebels list, said: The time is coming.

The new threat came as friends leapt to the defence of Dover MP Charlie Elphicke, who was suspended by the Conservative Party on Friday after they referred unspecified serious allegations about his conduct to the police.

The turmoil over the Westminster sex scandal has intensified plotting to replace Theresa May as the Tory leader, rebel backbenchers have told The Mail on Sunday

The new threat came as friends leapt to the defence of Dover MP Charlie Elphicke, who was suspended by the Conservative Party on Friday after they referred unspecified serious allegations about his conduct to the police

One said he had been thrown to the wolves while his constituency association chairman said he was innocent until proved guilty.

Downing Street hoped that it had killed off any coup last month after it revealed former Tory chairman Grant Shapps had been the chief rebel in charge of assembling a list of MPs who wanted Mrs May to go, and marshalled a string of loyal MPs to go on the airwaves to attack him.

But by the end of this weekend, the Shapps rebels expect the number of dissenting Tories to reach the mid to late 30s.

One ringleader said last night a colleague had told him, my God, you were right all along, and added that he should have put his name on the list earlier.

No. 10 hoped it had killed off any coup last month after it revealed ex-Tory chairman Grant Shapps had been the chief rebel in charge of assembling a list of MPs who wanted Mrs May to go, and marshalled a string of loyal MPs to go on the airwaves to attack him

The danger point for Mrs May comes when the figure reaches 48: if that number of MPs write to backbench 1922 Committee chairman Graham Brady requesting a leadership contest, then one is triggered automatically.

Previously loyal Tory MPs have been dismayed by Mrs Mays week from hell in which Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon was forced to resign over his behaviour towards women  only for Mrs May to infuriate large sections of the party by handing his job to her inexperienced Chief Whip Gavin Williamson.

The crisis comes amid deep Cabinet splits over a range of policy issues. Even before the sex scandal  which could lead to the further erosion of Mrs Mays majority if MPs are forced to resign  the next two months were going to be fraught with danger for the PM.

She faces knife-edge votes over the The EU Withdrawal Bill, which paves the way for Brexit, while feuding with Chancellor Philip Hammond over his Budget on November 22.

Guiding the rebels calculations is the prospect of the Government falling and Jeremy Corbyn winning a subsequent Election  and whether keeping Mrs May propped up in office makes that more or less likely.

Previously loyal Tory MPs have been dismayed by Mrs Mays week from hell in which Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon (above) was forced to resign over his behaviour towards women  only for Mrs May to infuriate large sections of the party by handing his job to her inexperienced Chief Whip Gavin Williamson

Mr Shappss plan was to monitor a list of May rebels, and offer to give No 10 feedback  share the number of names secretly with them to show her tenure was unsustainable  rather than allow letters to fly in ad hoc to Mr Brady.

But the rebel leaders say Mrs May has made the situation more dangerous by flushing out the coup, because some MPs are sending letters to Mr Brady instead of joining the list. By tradition, the chair of the 1922 Committee will not reveal how many letters he has received.

A source said: By attacking the coup, and trying to shield Theresa from the truth, they have driven some MPs down the letters route.

Mrs May was also warned by a senior Tory that the Cabinet had only itself to blame for the sex scandal. MP Charles Walker said it had been sparked by the Tories decision to attack Labour MP Jared OMaras historic abusive outbursts on social media.

He said: If the expenses crisis taught us anything it was that it is unwise to make political capital out of other peoples discomfort.

Mr Shapps last night declined to comment.
The US government was so fearful of having its aircraft manufacturing facilities attacked during World War II, they crafted a whole neighborhood to disguise their activities.

New photos reveal that the US Army Corps of Engineers along with aviation company Boeing fabricated an entire community near Seattle, constructing a complex that spanned over 1.7 million square feet.

After Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the military wanted to have a secure facility to build aircraft carriers in order to help with the war effort, according to online publication 99percentvisible.

Boeing's massive Plant 2 was camouflaged under an entire fake suburb during WWII

The land was purchased for $1 from a local truck driver in the Seattle area and spanned 1.7 million square feet

US concerns of attack following Pear Harbor led the Army Corps of Engineers to build the town

With the help of Hollywood set designer John Stewart Detlie, the town featured fake streets, sidewalks, grass, trees, fences and cars

The old facility, Plant 1, had become outdated and ill-equipped to construct jet-fighters at a faster pace

The town's camouflage was never tested, with the Allies finally defeating the Axis powers towards the end of 1945.

Purchasing the land from a local truck driver for the paltry sum of $1, the Boeing Company began construction on the faculty, called Plant 2, in early 1942.

The old facility, Plant 1, had become outdated and ill-equipped to construct jet-fighters at a faster pace.

The new facility would streamline the process, using assembly-line technologies to speed up production.

In a matter of a few short months, Plant 2 began churning out jet fighters like B-17 Flying Fortresses, B-29 Superfortresses, B-47 Stratojets, B-52 Stratofortresses and other aircraft through and beyond the war.

The town, which was constructed with the help of Hollywood set designer John Stewart Detlie, featured fake streets, sidewalks, grass, trees, fences, cars and homes over a span of 23 acres.

But just below the faux neighborhood, 30,000 men and women were hard at work constructing airplanes at a rate of 300 per month.

Luckily, the town's camouflage was never tested, with the Allies finally defeating the Axis powers towards the end of 1945.

The factory remained in use until the end of the Cold War, and was finally demolished in 2010.

The new facility would streamline the process, using assembly-line technologies to speed up production

In a matter of a few short months, Plant 2 began churning out jet fighters like B-17 Flying Fortresses, B-29 Superfortresses and other aircraft

Just below the faux neighborhood, 30,000 men and women were hard at work constructing airplanes at a rate of 300 per month
A top young woman Conservative activist was last night named as the inspiration for the sex spreadsheet which has rocked Westminster.

Commons researcher Sarah-Jane Sewell, 27, had bitter personal experience of political bullying when she was targeted by Tatler Tory Mark Clarke  a key Election aide to David Cameron. Mr Clarke received his nickname after he was tipped as a future Cabinet Minister by the society magazine.

Ms Sewell, who has also worked as a radio presenter and make-up and perfume adviser, told an official inquiry into Mr Clarkes activities that she had been the victim of human bear-baiting on social media by Mr Clarke and his acolytes.

She quit as deputy chairman of Conservative Future, the partys youth wing, in 2014, accusing vicious Clarke and his allies of having besmirched her reputation.

Activist Sarah-Jane Sewell (far right) on the campaign trail with Boris Johnson

Ms Sewell, who chairs the partys Conservative Young Women group and works as an assistant to Tory MP Matthew Warman, is said by sources to have played a key role in warning young Commons researchers about the dangers of harassment by politicians in Westminster.

She was targeted by Mr Clarke and his cronies after falling out with him in the run-up to road trip campaigns during the 2015 General Election, which Mr Clarke helped to oversee.

In her resignation letter she said: I have been besmirched in the most abhorrent fashion and have little doubt that others would be subject to similar treatment from those who act with impunity. Ms Sewell said she had been viciously ridiculed by Clarke.

A source said: Sarah is seen as a hero for the way she stood up to Clarke, and her colleagues are determined that a similar culture should not be allowed to flourish in the Commons itself.

Ms Sewell denies contributing to the list of sexual allegations against more than 40 Tory MPs, or being aware that the details could be leaked, saying yesterday: I am definitely not the author and I dont know who is.

A redacted version of the spreadsheet first appeared on the internet last Sunday, but uncensored copies were soon being passed around Westminster by MPs, researchers and journalists. It is believed to have been drawn up by a group of young Tory researchers concerned by reports of sexual harassment by their employers.

Mr Clarke was banned for life from the party after claims that he was involved in bullying that led to the suicide of young Tory Elliott Johnson in 2015. Ms Sewell gave evidence to an official inquiry into the claims last year.

Mr Clarke has denied all allegations levelled against him.

'Dirty Dossier' circulated on the internet by friend by crony of shamed Mark Clarke

The notorious sex spreadsheet was leaked on to the internet by a crony of Tatler Tory Mark Clarke  and it includes names and allegations involving people linked to the scandal, writes Simon Walters and Glen Owen.

Despite furious denials from many of the MPs on the list, Andre Walker, a London-based journalist, put the full, unredacted file on an American website.

Mr Walker was heavily involved in the Tatler Tory scandal, which erupted after party activist Elliott Johnson committed suicide and left a letter blaming Mr Clarke for bullying him.

'Tory Tatler' Mark Clarke (left) with ex-researcher Andre Walker (right)

Mr Walker was a close ally of Mr Clarke: shortly before his death, Mr Johnson became embroiled in a furious bust-up with Mr Walker.

During the row  which Mr Johnson secretly recorded  Mr Walker could be heard calling Mr Johnson a f****** ****head for falling out with Mr Clarke. The incendiary tape was sent to a Tory official on the day of Mr Johnsons death. One of the Tory MPs mentioned on the list is Morecambe MP David Morris, who is falsely claimed by the spreadsheets authors of having had an affair with researcher Alexandra Swann. But he, too, had crossed the path of Mr Walker.

Before he became a journalist at the Commons, Mr Walker worked as researcher for Tory Mr Morris. Last year, the MoS revealed that Mr Morris believed he had been the victim of a fake photo stitch-up by Mr Walker, after a picture appeared in a newspaper of Ms Swann apparently sitting on his knee in a London club.

Friends of Mr Morris said the Tory whips had told him that they suspected Mr Walker of doctoring the picture to make it look as if he was having an affair. Mr Morris and Ms Swann both denied that any affair took place.

One of the MPs friends said: Alexandra was not sitting across his knee like that, so the picture was clearly a Photoshop job. Those arent Davids hands  his right index finger is crooked and an inch shorter than it should be from a bad break years ago. And surely in the mirror, Davids hair should be parted on the left?

Ms Swann, then 23, who worked with Mr Walker in Mr Morriss Commons office, also believed the image was doctored  although she cleared Mr Walker of blame.

Mr Walker recently had his pass to work as a journalist in the Commons withdrawn over claims of misconduct. He denies any allegations of bullying against him or of doctoring the picture.

My 'affair' in the sex spreadsheet? Total nonsense

Theodora Dickinson has denied the claims

A female Tory activist linked in the sex dossier to an MP targeted in a Tatler Tory blackmail plot last night described suggestions they had an affair as total nonsense. Theodora Dickinson, campaigns manager for Hammersmith and Fulham Tories, is named alongside ex-Minister Robert Halfon.

Her name appears next to that of Alexandra Paterson, a former lover of Tatler Tory Mark Clarke. Ms Paterson went on to have an affair with Mr Halfon. In 2015, The Mail on Sunday told how allies of Mr Clarke were accused of trying to blackmail Mr Halfon by filming him leaving Londons East India Club with Ms Paterson.

The dossier entry for Mr Halfon says: Inappropriate with female researchers and Alexandra Paterson + Dickinson at East India Club. Ms Dickinson said: It is totally untrue to suggest I had an improper relationship with Mr Halfon.

Mr Halfon, who is married, said he was ashamed of his affair with Ms Paterson. Mr Clarke denies any wrongdoing.
New Zealand's newly elected Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reiterated an offer to take 150 refugees from offshore centres in her first meeting with Malcolm Turnbull.

Flying across the Tasman for her first bilateral meeting with the Australian leader, Ms Ardern stepped off the plane in Sydney with a smile on her face on Sunday morning.

Ms Ardern's relationship with Australia has been controversial since her election with Foreign Minister Julie Bishop labeling the 37-year-old New Zealand leader as 'untrustworthy'.

Fronting the media at Kirribilli House on Sunday, Mr Turnbull didn't shut the door on the offer from Ms Ardern to resettle the refugees, saying they had engaged in 'strong talks'.

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New Zealand's newly elected Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reiterated an offer to take 150 refugees from offshore centres in her first meeting with Malcolm Turnbull (pictured)

Despite the offer to take 150 refugees from the Manus Island (pictured) and Naura centres back on the table, Mr Turnbull said his government would not be accepting it

In response to the offer to take refugees from Manus Island and Naura, Mr Turnbull said his government's focus was foremost on a deal between Australia and the U.S.

'In the wake of that, obviously we can consider other ones,' he said

Among other topics of conversation between the two leaders were terrorism, North Korea and the Pacific.

Offering praise for the recently elected leader, Mr Turnbull dubbed the knowledge of Ms Ardern on the Pacific as 'second to none'.

'We have so much to learn from NZ, there are so many areas where NZ's... do a lot of things very efficiently,' he told the press conference.

Some 600 asylum seekers and refugees have barricaded themselves in the Manus Island complex, which officially closed last Tuesday.

Offering praise for the recently elected leader, Mr Turnbull dubbed the knowledge of Ms Ardern on the Pacific as 'second to none'

Some 600 asylum seekers and refugees have barricaded themselves in the Manus Island complex, which officially closed last Tuesday

Those inside claim they will be attacked by PNG locals if they move to an alternative unfenced accommodation.

Ms Ardern has reiterated the NZ offer, first made under John Key's government to the Gillard government in 2013 and rejected many times since.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten U-turned on Labor's stance on Friday, saying the plan had similarities to the US resettlement deal to take 1250 people.
Michael Fallons Tory enemies in the Upper House have already held secret talks on how to stop him joining them if, as expected, he steps down as an MP at the next Election

Tory peers will try to block disgraced former Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon from getting a peerage in revenge for the embarrassment he has caused the Government.

A group of Lords say it would be outrageous if he benefited from the custom whereby nearly all senior Ministers can expect a seat in the Lords once their Cabinet and Commons careers are over.

Fallons Tory enemies in the Upper House have already held secret talks on how to stop him joining them if, as expected, he steps down as an MP at the next Election, when he will be nearly 70. Some think he could be forced to quit as MP for Sevenoaks in Kent even sooner.

One Tory peer said: It doesnt matter what grand title Fallon were to choose for himself if he came here, he would always be known as the Tory Lord Groper. It would be an insult to all those he has abused and would do little to restore our reputation with the public.

Three Labour Cabinet Ministers who served in Tony Blairs government  Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon, Trade Secretary Stephen Byers and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw  all reportedly had peerages blocked after being linked to cash for access allegations.

Sir Michaels downfall came three years after The Mail on Sunday revealed that he was accused of calling journalist Bryony Gordon a slut in a bar  which he denied.

We also disclosed how Sir Michael faced questions over a separate incident in 2013 in which his Commons minder intervened to get him away from a Russian blonde after he gatecrashed a party.

Sir Michael reportedly spent a large part of the evening with a tall, young woman in a figure-hugging skirt believed to be a Russian student.

Some reports said he was swaying and touched her. His aide, Tory MP Therese Coffey, was said to have moved in and split them up. Sir Michael rejected the claims.

A group of Lords say it would be outrageous if Fallon benefited from the custom whereby nearly all senior Ministers can expect a seat in the Lords (stock photo)

This newspaper has also established that Sir Michaels behaviour was reported to Tory whips around the same time.

One well-placed source said: Fallons reputation for drinking and behaving improperly to women has been an open secret in Westminster for a long time.

'The whips knew about it but preferred to do nothing. The more powerful he became, the more reluctant they were to do anything about it.

A veteran Tory MP said: Fallon has a small group of friends but he has ridden roughshod over more colleagues than most.

Not everyone will feel a great degree of sympathy for him.

GAY CLAIM 1: Cameron's shock question about Fallon's sexuality David Cameron once shocked his advisers at Downing Street by asking whether Sir Michael Fallon was gay, The Mail on Sunday understands. The former Prime Minister raised the issue before appointing Sir Michael to his MoD job in July 2014, after hearing rumours about his friendship with another Tory MP. Mr Cameron was assured that the claim was baseless Westminster gossip. An ally of Mr Camerons said: When Michael was appointed, there was a lot of chatter  it is, after all, a very sensitive position  but it was about men, not women. However, David was assured that it was all just mischief-making. Advertisement

GAY CLAIM 2: Ex-Chief Whip's outburst against Brexit rebel Gove New Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson once falsely claimed his Cabinet colleague Michael Gove had had a gay affair. During the turmoil surrounding last years EU referendum, then Chief Whip Williamson said in Downing Street that Gove had had a homosexual relationship with his personal and political ally Dominic Cummings, the chief strategist of the Leave campaign in the EU referendum. Both Gove and Cummings are happily married with children and this newspaper understands the allegation was baseless. When the MoS confronted Mr Williamson about the claim at the time, he said: I do not comment on malicious rumours. Advertisement

Leadsom didn't want Minister's lewd joke to leak (but DID want his job)

By Simon Walters and Glen Owen for The Mail on Sunday

Andrea Leadsom was last night at the centre of a growing Tory civil war over Sir Michael Fallons shock resignation, after critics claimed she had been angling to take over his job as Defence Secretary.

Mrs Leadsom, the Leader of the Commons, told No 10 on Tuesday that Sir Michael had made a string of inappropriate remarks when they were both members of the Treasury select committee, including a crude joke about where she could warm her hands.

Sir Michael quit on Wednesday night, after admitting his behaviour had fallen below the high standards of his position, but fundamentally denies making the remark.

Now Mrs Leadsoms critics in the party claim she secretly harboured ambitions to move to the Ministry of Defence, implying that it was her motivation for informing Downing Street.

Andrea Leadsom, the Leader of the Commons, told No 10 on Tuesday that Sir Michael had made a string of inappropriate remarks when they were both members of the Treasury select committee, including a crude joke about where she could warm her hands

But allies of Mrs Leadsom have hit back by saying that when she met Mrs Mays aides, she said she did not want her information to be taken any further  and certainly not leaked.

Mrs May triggered a furious backlash in her party by handing Sir Michaels job to Chief Whip Gavin Williamson  an inexperienced member of Mrs Mays small inner circle.

MPs accused Mr Williamson of knifing Sir Michael to land the job for himself. Speculation has swirled about the reasons for Sir Michaels departure: yesterday it was claimed that No 10 had been presented with details of an alleged sexual assault by him in the hours before he resigned.

Tory MP Anna Soubry said the Prime Ministers team was confronted by a person with great courage who set out allegations against Sir Michael on Wednesday.

Sir Michael said the claim was not true and libellous. The Mail on Sunday has previously revealed that Sir Michael had allegedly called journalist Bryony Gordon a slut in a bar.

Sources close to him confirmed he had been drinking and had apologised after using a wrong term, but denied he called her a slut.
Jeremy Corbyns union ally Len McCluskey was dragged into the Westminster political sex scandal last night after a senior aide was accused of mocking a female union activist a femme fatale from Walsall. belittling

A leaked letter reveals allegations of degrading sexual harassment against Unite director of education Jim Mowatt, a close ally of Mr McCluskey and a former flatmate of Labour deputy leader Tom Watson.

The claims have been made by Left-wing Unite activist Kate Bradley, 23, and arise from the unions bitter leadership contest earlier this year between Mr McCluskey and anti-Corbyn candidate Gerard Coyne.

Ms Bradley says that Mr Mowatt belittled her and treated her like an airhead at the official count in London in April, with these taunts:

Does your mother know youre wearing make-up?

She doesnt have a boyfriend, I thought not.

Jeremy Corbyns union ally Len McCluskey was dragged into the Westminster political sex scandal last night after a senior aide was accused of mocking a female union activist a femme fatale from Walsall

Ive heard about you femmes fatales from Walsall.

According to the leaked letter, seen by The Mail on Sunday, Ms Bradley says Mr Mowatts femme fatale remark was aimed at not only my make-up but also my attractiveness, which made me feel unsettled and objectified.

Ms Bradley, who writes for revolutionary socialist website RS21, says she was talking to Mr Coyne about their shared West Midlands roots when all of a sudden Mr Mowatt interrupted me and asked, Youre too young to wear make-up, arent you?

I was shocked so I asked, Im sorry, what? He added, Does your mother know youre wearing make-up? I had no idea how to respond, and so I said, I dont know what youre on about, Im 37.  Ms Bradley said it was an intended arch riposte to ageist Mr Mowatt.

She adds: He replied, unperturbed, Ive heard about you femme fatales from Walsall. I left the room in discomfort a few minutes afterwards.

Ms Bradley says her ordeal continued when she returned an hour later. Mr Mowatt inexplicably asked, Are you going outside to touch up your make-up? and said from across the room, Look, shes always on the phone to her boyfriend. I looked up and said, I dont have a boyfriend, to which he replied something along the lines of, Oh, I thought not.  She says she left in fury.

In her complaint Ms Bradley says: Whether or not I was wearing make-up is irrelevant to my role as observer at the Unite count. It certainly has nothing to do with Mr Mowatt. He was paying more attention to my appearance than to what I had to say.

She adds it was shameful. for him to butt in on a private conversation with a comment on my appearance, trivialising what I was saying in front of others and making me feel self-conscious for the rest of the day.

He had no right to refer to my age or make-up

He had no right to refer to my age or make-up. As an adult living and working in London, my mother has no say in my cosmetic choices. Implying I was going to touch up my make-up seemed to suggest I was concerned with petty things during a momentous, politically significant election. Women should be able to wear make-up without it being used to disparage them.

She says the comment about phoning her boyfriend was particularly distasteful  it assumed my relationship status and sexuality. He depicted me as an easily distractible, air-headed young woman who struggles to keep her attention on the politics at hand.

It is not the first time that I have received sexist comments in Left-wing spaces. There should be no place for sexist and ageist attitudes in our union.

Ms Bradley says Mr Mowatt later apologised for his disrespectful and sexist comments  but called for action from the union to stop him making similar sexist comments to other women and get him to attend anti-sexism training lessons.

Last night she said: While sexism pervades society at every level these incidents will continue. But in this case Unite dealt with my complaint professionally and sympathetically.

A Unite spokesman said last night: In addition to an apology, Ms Bradley also requested that the complaint rests on Mr Mowatts file and that he attends equality training. These actions have happened and been carried out by Unite.
The eldest son of a convicted terrorist has become a certified New York City firefighter.

Omar Ahmed Sattar, 30, was one of 279 firemen and women who graduated from the Fire Department of New York Academy last month, the New York Post reported Saturday.

Sattars father, Ahmed Abdel Sattar, was convicted by federal authorities in 2005 of soliciting crimes of violence and conspiracy to murder Jews.

He is currently serving a 24-year prison sentence in the federal penitentiary in Marion, Illinois.

Authorities said that Ahmed Abdel Sattar, 58, was an associate of the late radical Egyptian cleric Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman.

Abdel-Rahman was the blind cleric who masterminded the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center.

Omar Ahmed Sattar (above), 30, was one of 279 firemen and women who graduated from the Fire Department of New York Academy last month

Omar Sattar's mother posted a photo of her son on Facebook wearing FDNY gear

Six people died in that attack.

Abdel-Rahman and his co-conspirators were also convicted of plotting to bomb New York landmarks, tunnels, and bridges.

Abdel-Rahmans lawyer, Lynne Stewart, and another accused terrorist, Mohammed Yousry, were tried and convicted alongside Abdel Sattar.

Abdel Sattar, the Egyptian-born immigrant who worked as a postal employee in his hometown of Staten Island, was also tried by the government for issuing a fatwa, or Islamic edict, which called for the killing of Jews.

Abdel Sattar has long maintained his innocence. He said the charges against him were part of a conspiracy orchestrated by the former Egyptian president, Hosni Mubarak.

The Mubarak government, which ruled Egypt for decades until it was forced out by the Arab Spring in 2011, jailed its Islamist political opponents at home.

Sattars father, Ahmed Abdel Sattar, was convicted by federal authorities in 2005 of soliciting crimes of violence and conspiracy to murder Jews. He is currently serving a 24-year prison sentence in the federal penitentiary in Marion, Illinois

Abdel Sattars son, Omar, wrote a letter to the sentencing judge asking for leniency for his father.

I know that he did not commit any crimes or plan to, the son, who was 18 years old at the time, wrote.

I feel that an injustice has been done. My father is a man of honesty and kindness, he wouldnt attempt to hurt anyone or even think about it.

Yes, he has views, like so many people, but his views were just that and nothing more.

Omar Sattar told the Post that becoming a New York City firefighter was a dream come true.

This is what I have always wanted to do. This is who I have always wanted to be. I have always admired firefighters, he said.

Omar Sattar said that he has admired firefighters ever since he saw one rescue his familys missing cat after his familys apartment caught on fire when he was just eight years old.

One of the firefighters standing in the street overheard, walked over and asked who was missing, Sattar said.

My mother replied, Our cat, and he went up and found her hiding under a bed and brought her down, he said.

Authorities said that Ahmed Abdel Sattar, 58, was an associate of the late radical Egyptian cleric Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman (above). Abdel-Rahman died in February 2017

Abdel-Rahman was the blind cleric who masterminded the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. Six people died in that attack

I remember being impressed and in awe of what just happened.

I respect FDNY members, and I am humbled to have this opportunity to be a part of this incredible Department.

The FDNY is a family that always supports each other, and now I am living it.

It means the world to me to be here. When I look back on my career as a firefighter, I want to know that I did the best I could with the opportunity I was given.

His mother, Lisa Sattar, has long defended her husband as a man with morals and values.

She once accused the owner of a local restaurant of firing Omar and his brother because of their race in 2004.

My son Omar decided to go straight to the boss and ask him to his face why they were fired, she wrote.

Well, the truth came out in front of customers and other employees: My wife died on 9-11, every time I look at you I think of my wife and I dont want you working here!

Omar Sattar will be assigned to Engine Company 282 in Borough Park, Brooklyn  an area with a large population of Orthodox Jews.

The Post quoted a number of FDNY employees who said they did not agree with allowing Omar Sattar to become a fireman because of the unfettered access that firefighters have to hospitals, crimes scenes, and other official areas.

But an FDNY spokesperson said: Omar Sattar will be judged on the merits of Omar Sattar.

John Palombo, whose father, Frank, was one of the 343 firefighters killed in the World Trade Center terror attacks of 2001, also graduated with Omar Sattar last month.
The stream of allegations about sexual misconduct by politicians at Westminster has become a rising tide, and with Theresa May already in trouble, there is the real prospect that a Government with such a slim majority could fall.

Mrs May has already lost a Defence Secretary, the Deputy Prime Minister, Damian Green, appears to be in trouble and by-elections are now a realistic prospect.

Sex scandals are nothing new in Britain, a country which, after all, has had David Lloyd George as one of its most notable Prime Ministers, a man known as The Goat.

Westminster is facing a crisis which could even lead to the collapse of the current government

Theresa May, pictured, is in trouble and there is a prospect her Government could fall

In 1993, John Major launched is ill-judged 'Back To Basics' campaign which led to ridicule after several of his ministers were found to be engaged in various acts of sex or corruption

Regrettably, they have become an expected part of the warp and weft of political life, the most notable being the Profumo scandal of the 1960s, when it emerged that the War Minister had been sharing a party girl called Christine Keeler with a Soviet spy.

But there are plenty of more recent and vividly remembered examples, in particular the series of sexual scandals that ensnared the Government of John Major.

No doubt he regrets it now, but in 1993 he used his Party Conference speech to proclaim a Back to Basics campaign. He had intended to promote the common decencies rather than anything more prudish. The interpretation was left to others, however, as one after another of his MPs were exposed to accusation and ridicule. It was a series of sex and corruption cases that did much to bring the Government to a close.

Perhaps it is no surprise that, for all the very obvious dangers, our MPs do not seem to have learnt their lesson. Westminster, after all, is a strange and isolated place.

It is also dominated by excessive drinking. Parliament floats on a sea of alcohol served in discount bars, where MPs repair while waiting for interminable votes.

Politicians, very often from provincial backgrounds, find themselves stuck hundreds of miles from their partners.

Yes, it would be naive to ignore the fact that some of the young men and women at the heart of the furore are the equivalent of groupies, seeking to advance their own journalistic or political careers.

Some MPs, meanwhile, seem to believe that the aphrodisiac of power gives them the right to lay their straying hands wherever they like. No one working in the Commons should be subject to boorish sexual bullying, let alone criminal behaviour.

It has become glaringly obvious that the mechanisms for policing the professional conduct of politicians are tokenistic and inadequate. And, more seriously still, that Westminster itself is in some ways profoundly unsuitable as a place where our collective future is to be determined.

John Profumo's political career ended in disgrace following a sex scandal

There is a wider social context to the current maelstrom  a weariness to national life along with challenges to the established order, just as in 1963 when Profumo was exposed. It is an unflattering mirror on modern British life. We have become crude as a society, and we have lost our way in a chaos of ignorance and levity. Today the country, like Parliament, is drunken, sexually louche, and tawdry  and obsessed with electronic screens which allow innuendo and rumour to take wing. The online mobocracy has become a serious threat.

These are rapidly changing times and they threaten danger to Britains place in the world, so there could hardly be a worse moment for the Government to be trapped looking inwards, imprisoned within the crumbling walls of the Palace of Westminster.

Instead, our leaders should be looking outwards, thinking strategically about where the country wants to be in 50 years time. At the very least, we need a new relationship with the European Union. Business people who employ millions of us need to be confident that the country has a direction as they make huge investment decisions.

But beyond that, and more significantly still, the tectonic plates of world power are shifting. America, the guarantor of Western wealth and stability, is being steadily supplanted by a more assertive China, whose $1 trillion One Belt, One Road master plan is already funding rail and sea links that will eventually connect Europe with Chinas rich industrial heartlands.

Strategically, China thinks in the long term; we do not.

The countries with which we hope to trade in future  whether it is Malaysia or New Zealand  are already in Chinas pocket. The same applies to several of the poorer countries of southern Europe.

Some MPs, meanwhile, seem to believe that the aphrodisiac of power gives them the right to lay their straying hands wherever they like

Putin's assertive Russia is acting like a universal spoiler. Erratic Donald Trump threatens war with North Korea or Iran, seemingly at any time. Should Britain sail along in Trumps stormy slipstream? Surely we should reposition ourselves in this new multi-polar world.

All this coincides with a massive technological shift towards automation and robotics, a new industrial revolution that is likely to render swathes of our workforce as superfluous as carthorses.

Its logic means that many young people may graduate straight into a life of retirement. Hundreds of occupations look set to disappear, unless one is, for example, a hairdresser. The human factor will still count for haircuts.

My new book  The Best Of Times, The Worst Of Times: A History Of Now  shows just how challenging this new environment is.

What original thoughts does the new Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, a former Chief Whip with no discernible experience in this field, have about how to structure our Armed Forces for an age in which information may be the most important weapon in future cyberwars?

What original thoughts does the new Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, a former Chief Whip with no discernible experience in this field, have about how to structure our Armed Forces for an age in which information may be the most important weapon in future cyberwars?

What strategic perspective does Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson bring to the new order, given that his mind seems focused on his own ambition and the next joke, mostly at the expense of foreigners? And what amid all of this is Theresa May doing to ensure we get a grip?

The current crisis should be an opportunity to focus a divided Conservative Party on the challenges that really count  the questions about our place in the world, and how we are to find one. This is what absorbs our competitor nations.

We, meanwhile, are an international laughing stock, a Parliament frozen in fear and a society on the edge of a nervous breakdown.
Eleven princes and 38 government ministers have are being held in 5-star hotels

He owns London's Savoy and has shares in Twitter, Apple and Time Warner

According to local reports, Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal is one of the men arrested

According to local reports, Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal is one of the men who has been detained

Dozens of princes and former government ministers have been arrested in Saudi Arabia hours after an anti-corruption commission was formed.

Officials in the kingdom has frozen the bank accounts of 11 princes and 38 former government ministers, deputies and businessmen who are being held in five-star hotels across the capital, Riyadh, in the anti-corruption sweep.

Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal - who is one of the richest men in the world and owns the British capitals top hotel the Savoy - is one of the men who has been detained.

The Saudi information ministry also stated the government would seize any asset or property related to the alleged corruption, meaning Londons Savoy hotel could become state property in the kingdom.

The accounts and balances of those detained will be revealed and frozen, a spokesman for Saudi Arabias information ministry said.

Any asset or property related to these cases of corruption will be registered as state property.

Those detained are being held in five-star hotels across the capital, Riyadh, in the anti-corruption sweep.

Reports suggest some of the detainees are being held at the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh.

A royal court official, Badr al-Asaker, on Sunday appeared to confirm the arrests on Twitter, describing a 'historic and black night against the corrupt'.

The powerful heads of the Saudi National Guard, an elite internal security force, and the navy were also replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves in the kingdom.

The Savoy hotel in London which is owned by one of the men arrested in the anti-corruption sting

Prince Charles (left), flanked by Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal (second left), his wife Amira delivers a speech during a tour at the official re-opening of the Savoy Hotel in London, on November 2, 2010

Prince Alwaleed is one of the Middle East's richest people, with investments in Twitter, Apple, Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation, Citigroup, the Four Seasons hotel chains and most recently in ride sharing service Lyft.

He's also known for being among the most outspoken Saudi royals, long advocating for greater women's rights.

He is also majority owner of the popular Rotana Group of Arabic channels.

The government has so far only announced that an anti-corruption probe was launched, with state-linked media reporting that dozens of princes and ministers were detained without releasing their names.

In June this year, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was appointed to the role after his father, King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, decided to depose former Crown Prince Muhammad bin Naye.

Earlier this evening, ahead of the arrests, Prince Mohammed established the anti-corruption commission by royal decree

The king also ousted Prince Miteb bin Abdullah from his post as head of the National Guard overnight.

The prince is reportedly among those detained in the sweep, as is his brother, Prince Turki bin Abdullah, who was once governor of Riyadh.

Both are sons of the late King Abdullah, who ruled before his half brother King Salman.

Saudi Twitter accounts released several other names of those arrested, such as Alwalid al-Ibrahim, a powerful Saudi businessman with ties to the royal family who runs the Arabic satellite group MBC; Amr al-Dabbagh, the former head of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority; Ibrahim Assaf, the former finance minister; and Bakr Binladin, head of the Saudi Binladin Group, a major business conglomerate.

Last night, ahead of the arrests, Prince Mohammed established the anti-corruption commission by royal decree.

An aviation source has said that security forces had grounded private jets in the Red Sea city of Jeddah, potentially to prevent any high-profile figures from leaving.

'The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history,' said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University,' they said.

'The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shockwaves through the domestic and international business community.'

Prince Alwaleed has made several appearances on CNBC to give investment advice.

Last month he was on the network predicting bitcoin was a 'speculative bubble that would soon implode'.

The 32-year-old crown prince, often known as MBS, has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom

The arrests come less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business titans to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his economic reform drive for a post-oil era.

The 32-year-old crown prince, often known as MBS, has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom with a series of bold moves including the decision allowing women to drive from next June.

Already viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major levers of government, from defence to the economy, the prince is widely seen to be stamping out traces of internal dissent before a formal transfer of power from his 81-year-old father.

It comes hours after Saudi Arabia hit and destroyed a 'ballistic missile' northeast from its capital Riyadh after it was launched from Yemen.

The missile was destroyed near Riyadh's King Khaled international airport and was said to be of 'limited size'.

No injuries or damage were reported.
Bahrain is ordering all its citizens in Lebanon to "leave immediately" after the country's prime minister resigned in a sudden televised address, citing Iranian meddling in Lebanese and regional affairs.

Bahrain's Foreign Ministry issued the order Sunday afternoon. It says Bahraini citizens are banned from traveling to Lebanon, as well.

Bahrain is a bellwether nation for the Saudi Arabia-dominated Gulf Cooperation Council to announce sanctions and travel bans, usually targeting countries seen as close to Iran.

GCC member states banned travel to Lebanon in 2016 after Lebanon's Foreign Minister refused to condemn mob attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.

Prime Minister Saad Hariri upended Lebanese politics with his surprise resignation Saturday, which he delivered from Saudi Arabia. He is yet to return to Lebanon.



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Tory MP Esther McVey will be at the centre of the party's drive to survive the Westminster scandal.

As the new Deputy Chief Whip, the former GMTV presenter will be expected to stamp out the sexist attitudes of the party's more traditionalist MPs.

And she has the perfect partner on whom to practice: fellow Tory MP Philip Davies, regarded as one of the most unreconstructed males in Westminster.

Ms McVey, who was appointed as part of the reshuffle which saw chief whip Gavin Williamson replace scandal-hit Sir Michael Fallon as Defence Secretary, is in a relationship with Mr Davies  a man deemed so 'sexist' by feminists, a candidate from the Women's Equality Party stood against him in the General Election.

Divorced Mr Davies, who is 45 but could pass for a decade older, and Ms McVey  she's 50 but could pass for a decade younger  have been a feature on the Westminster scene for several years, sharing a flat and attending parties together.

As the new Deputy Chief Whip, Esther McVey will be expected to stamp out the sexist attitudes of the party's more traditionalist MPs

Mr Davies excels at winding up the opposite sex. Last year, he was accused of trying to foil a bill against domestic violence in Parliament by speaking for an hour and 20 minutes about how it was 'sexist against men', 'political correctness' and 'virtue signalling'

Glamorous Liverpudlian McVey, who won George Osborne's old seat Tatton in June after two years out of the Commons, will lend a rare dash of glamour to the whips' office, responsible for enforcing party discipline and ensuring that the Government wins key votes.

She first shot to national renown in 1999 with a glamorous photoshoot and an appearance on the cover of Hello! magazine.

Ms McVey, who became an employment Minister shortly after entering the Commons for Wirral West in 2010, is hugely popular on the Tory right and has been tipped as a future leader.

She has remained unmarried because, she said, she had 'never found anyone to wind her biological clock'.

Glamorous Liverpudlian McVey, who won George Osborne's old seat Tatton in June after two years out of the Commons

Mr Davies, however, excels at winding up the opposite sex. Last year, he was accused of trying to foil a bill against domestic violence in Parliament by speaking for an hour and 20 minutes about how it was 'sexist against men', 'political correctness' and 'virtue signalling'.

He also gave a speech at an event for Justice For Men And Boys (J4MB)  an anti-feminist political party  in which he complained about men who pandered to 'militant feminists' and 'zealots' and criticised the drive for 'so-called equality'.

He contrasted the campaigns to increase the number of women on company boards and in Parliament with the 'deafening silence' over increasing the number of men who have custody of their children.

He also argued that the justice system favours women by sending fewer to prison and not making them wear uniforms.

He said: 'The feminist zealots really do want women to have their cake and eat it. They fight for their version of equality on all the things that suit women but are quick to point out women need special protections and treatment on other things.'

His remarks led Labour to call for Theresa May to withdraw the whip from Mr Davies on the grounds that 'he has open contempt for women' and his views were 'prehistoric'.

The J4MB party  which issues awards for 'lying feminist' and 'whiny feminist' of the month  once published an article titled '13 reasons women lie about being raped'.

Its 2015 Election manifesto suggested men should receive their pension before women because they work harder and die younger.
President Donald Trump has said he expects to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin at an Asian economic summit next week.

'I think it's expected we'll meet with Putin, yeah,' Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Japan on Saturday.

'We want Putin's help on North Korea, and we'll be meeting with a lot of different leaders.'

It comes amid strains over sanctions against Moscow, the Syria conflict and the investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign.

Trump said that he expects to meet Russian leader Vladimir Putin. He is pictured addressing troops at an air base near Tokyo on Saturday

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump emerge from their limousine and greet the press before departing for a 12-day Asia trip

Trump made the comments before touching down in Japan, where he is scheduled to discuss economic and security issues with regional partners on a 12-day tour of the Far East.

From there he'll go to South Korea, China and Vietnam, the country in which he will likely meet with Russia's Vladimir Putin.

One of the biggest concerns for America and its Asian allies is North Korea, with tensions soaring since Trump assumed the presidency in January.

Trump told reporters, however, that his issues rest squarely with the government in Pyongyang.

'I think they're great people,' Trump said of North Korean citizens.

'They're industrious. They're warm, much warmer than the world really knows or understands. They're great people. And I hope it all works out for everybody.'

The Kremlin on Friday said talks were under way to set up an encounter at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Danang, Vietnam, from Nov. 8-10.

'It (the meeting) is indeed being discussed,' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. 'It's hard to overestimate the importance and significance for all international matters of any contact between the presidents of Russia and the United States.'

U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Russia's President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany July 7, 2017

Putin and Trump first met at a G20 summit in Hamburg in July when they discussed allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. election last year but agreed to focus on better ties rather than litigating the past.

Trump leaves behind a spate of scandals behind, including the indictment of his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort.

The final leg of Trump's trip will be spent in the Philippines, where he will attend the U.S.-ASEAN and East Asia summits and meet for the first time with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

Trump made the comments as relations between Moscow and Washington have soured since allegations of Russian meddling in the November general election began to surface.

Trump in August grudgingly signed off on new sanctions against Russia, a move Moscow said ended hopes for better ties. Putin ordered Washington to cut its embassy and consular staff in Russia by more than half.

Tensions have also flared over the conflict in Syria.

If the Trump-Putin meeting comes about, it would come as investigations in Washington over alleged Russian meddling in the presidential election and possible collusion by the Trump campaign yielded its first indictments.

U.S. special counsel Robert Mueller's office this week unveiled charges against former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort, Manafort associate Richard Gates and campaign foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos. Manafort and Gates pleaded not guilty while Papadapoulos pleaded guilty.

The Wall Street Journal also has reported that U.S. authorities have enough evidence to charge six members of the Russian government in the hacking of Democratic National Committee computers during the 2016 campaign.
Asian property investors have been accused of exploiting a loophole in the law by getting younger relatives to study in Australia so they can buy homes.

Industry Super Australia (ISA) revealed foreign investors were taking advantage of the rule which allowed temporary residents, including foreign students, to buy property.

The ISA report said the loophole was pushing up prices in an already overstimulated and overpriced market.

Asian property investors are accused of exploiting a loophole in the law by getting younger relatives to study in Australia so they can buy homes (file picture of a house viewing)

ISA chief economist Stephen Anthony

ISA chief economist Stephen Anthony urged the government to prevent foreigners from buying all existing property, forcing them to invest in only new developments.

'It would direct all foreign investment in residential real estate to expanding supply,' the report said, according to the Herald Sun.

'Purchases of existing properties often just add to overheated property markets in the most highly desirable localities.'

The ISA report exposed a link between loan activity, the sale of existing houses in Sydney and the number of foreign students coming to the city to study.

Chinese real estate investment rose from about $1 billion to $32 billion in the past six years, while foreign student enrolment soared (file picture of a house viewing)

Chinese real estate investment rose from about $1 billion to $32 billion in the past six years, while foreign student enrolment soared.

The ISA report suggested the government encourage foreigners to live in regional areas, in an effort to control the overheated property market.

'A work and study permit system that rewarded new arrivals for settling in regions away from hot property markets would be a very obvious enhancement,' it said.

Treasurer Scott Morrison said strict rules for foreign investors were already in place, and were recently further tightened.

The ISA report suggested the government encourage foreigners to live in regional areas, in an effort to control the overheated property market

Treasurer Scott Morrison said strict rules for foreign investors were already in place, and were recently further tightened (file picture of a house viewing)

He said the government put a limit on foreign ownership in new developments in the 2017/18 Federal Budget and tightened rules to ensure foreign investors did not escape capital gains tax.

Mr Morrison also said an annual charge was introduced for foreign investors who bought residential property and left it vacant.

'The government has also ordered the sale of more than $134 million worth of illegally acquired properties,' he said.
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Despite fears that protests by anti-Trump demonstrators in over 20 cities would be hijacked by violent anarchists, authorities said that the rallies came and went peacefully on Saturday.

The organizers of the protest, a group known as Refuse Facism, called for millions to take to the streets on Saturday in an effort to remove the Trump administration from power.

Doomsday scenarios of mass violence and chaos, which were promoted by right-wing media outlets like Fox News, did not come to pass, according to authorities.

In Los Angeles, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of downtown to denounce President Donald Trump and his administration.

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Police stop a pro-Trump supporter confronting demonstrators during a protest calling for the end of the administration of US President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence in Los Angeles on Saturday

Demonstrators from the Refuse Fascism movement hold up a flag likening Trump to Adolf Hitler

An anti Trump protester (left) confronts a counter protester and Trump supporter during This Nightmare Must End: the Trump/Pence Regime Must Go! protest in downtown Los Angeles

Anti-Trump protesters dress up in traditional Russian garb while holding signs denouncing Trump and Pence in Los Angeles on Saturday

Pro-Trump supporters march as they try to disrupt demonstrators from the Refuse Fascism movement

A protester is taken into custody by Los Angeles Police Department. There were only two arrests made on Saturday in LA

LAPD officers on bicycles managed to form a wedge separating anti-Trump protesters from scores of Trump supporters in Pershing Square

Police are seen above removing a pro-Trump supporters from the anti-Trump protest in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday

Anti-Trump demonstrators hold signs denouncing the president during the rally in Los Angeles

Right-wing media outlets like InfoWars promoted conspiracy theories about a possible 'civil war' being planned by protesters

The protests on Saturday bore little resemblance to the stormy days immediately following Trump's election night victory a year ago this week

Los Angeles witnessed five days of massive protests in which hundreds of thousands took to the streets. Nearly 500 people were arrested during that week

Trump's candidacy and his presidency have been polarizing elements of America's contemporary political climate

A demonstrator holds up a picture of Trump with the words 'Idiots Rule' written across his face during the protest in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Police Department said that two people were arrested during the demonstrations.

LAPD officers on bicycles managed to form a wedge separating anti-Trump protesters from scores of Trump supporters in Pershing Square.

The police deployed hundreds of officers on the streets of downtown in the morning hours leading up to the demonstration, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The protests on Saturday bore little resemblance to the stormy days immediately following Trump's election night victory a year ago this week.

Anti-Trump demonstrators are seen marching down University Place in the Greenwich Village section of New York City on Saturday

A person in a Guy Fawkes mask marches with people participating in a protest in New York

Policemen on motorbikes guard the procession down 7th Avenue in Manhattan on Saturday

Anti-Trump demonstrators gather for a second rally against the president at Washington Square Park in Manhattan on Saturday

A demonstrator with a bullhorn chants slogans against President Trump during a march in New York City on Saturday

Rallies took place in at least 22 other cities nationwide, including Minneapolis, Austin, San Francisco, and Cincinnati

Los Angeles witnessed five days of massive protests in which hundreds of thousands took to the streets. Nearly 500 people were arrested during that week.

In New York City, hundreds took to the streets for similar anti-Trump protests that were largely peaceful.

Demonstrators gathered in Times Square for a rally and then continued south on Broadway for a second protest in Washington Square.

There are no reports of any arrests made, according to WPIX-TV.

In Chicago, over 100 protesters marched to Trump Tower on Saturday, some of them carrying signs which read 'The Trump/Pence Regime MUST GO!'

The demonstration was peaceful, as no arrests were made, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Other demonstrations were held in at least 22 cities, including Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Honolulu, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle.

Right-wing media outlets like Alex Jones' InfoWars began spreading conspiracy theories that 'antifa' anarchists were planning to ignite a civil war.

Despite fears that the demonstrations would turn violent, there were no reported arrests made by the New York Police Department

Refuse Fascism vowed earlier this week to continue the protests 'day and night' in nearly two-dozen cities until their demand is met: the removal of Trump's 'regime'

'RefuseFascism.org called for non-violent protests to begin on Saturday in cities and towns across the country to raise the single demand: This Nightmare Must End: The Trump/Pence Regime Must Go!' the group said in a statement on its website

Demonstrators also brought signs to the protest. The man on the right is holding a sign depicting Trump locked in a kiss with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The word 'traitor' is written underneath

The group said it hoped to emulate a series of popular demonstrations in South Korea that began in October 2016, culminating in the impeachment of that country's president months later in March

An NYPD officer is on duty during the demonstration. In Chicago, over 100 protesters marched to Trump Tower on Saturday, some of them carrying signs which read 'The Trump/Pence Regime MUST GO!'

A speaker addresses the crowd of protesters in Times Square. The procession then moved south toward Washington Square Park

Others made wild claims including the supposed plans by demonstrators to behead white people in town squares.

Refuse Fascism vowed earlier this week to continue the protests 'day and night' in nearly two-dozen cities until their demand is met: the removal of Trump's 'regime'.

'RefuseFascism.org called for non-violent protests to begin on Saturday in cities and towns across the country to raise the single demand: This Nightmare Must End: The Trump/Pence Regime Must Go!' the group said in a statement on its website.

'The plan is for these protests to continue every day until this demand is met,' the statement continued.

The group said it hoped to emulate a series of popular demonstrations in South Korea that began in October 2016, culminating in the impeachment of that country's president months later in March.

'Our protest must grow day after day and night after nightthousands becoming hundreds of thousands, and then millionsdetermined to act to put a stop to the grave danger that the Trump/Pence Regime poses to the world by demanding that this whole regime be removed from power,' organizers wrote.

Antifa, short for anti-fascist, are a coalition of far-left radicals who advocate 'direct action' against their ideological opponents, who in the past have included outright neo-Nazis as well as Trump supporters.

Homeland Security and the FBI have deemed antifa 'domestic terrorists'.

But one Refuse Facism organizer has scoffed at the idea that the November 4 protests will be marked by violence.

'It's absurd. Calling for a civil war?' Andy Zee told the Washington Post. 'Pick a date for a civil war? Honestly, what do you say to this?'

Zee described the goal of the demonstrations: 'Impeachment, the 25th Amendment - they will determine the means and ways when it becomes clear there is a tremendous crisis of confidence.'

The organization is engaged with a broad coalition of groups, including the Revolutionary Communist Party.
A disabled teenager has enjoyed the night of his life at his Year 12 formal after a local radio host agreed to attend the special event with him.

When Cooper Henseleit called up Gold Coast radio station Hot Tomato last week and asked host Emily-Jade O'Keefe to be his date for the night she simply couldn't say no.

But while 18-year-old Cooper's dream came true, it created a slight problem given he had already invited another special needs classmate to be his date for the big night.

Keen to resolve the love triangle, Ms O'Keefe called on her radio colleagues Flan and Christo to accompany the other girl, Olga, with the group of five arriving together at the Mudgeeraba Special School's event.

Disabled teenager Cooper Henseleit (right) has had his dream come true after radio host Emily-Jade O'Keefe accompanied him to his Year 12 formal

The 18-year-old had already invited classmate Olga (front) to the Mudgeeraba Special School event, so Ms O'Keefe asked her colleagues Christo and Flan to join her at the Year 12 formal

Sharing heartwarming photos of the group to social media, Ms O'Keefe said it was an 'honour' to be at the special school formal with her fan.

'What an Honor to be Cooper Henseleit's date for his school formal... I think we both scrub up quite nicely!' Ms O'Keefe posted.

As the pair stood together and posed for photos prior to the event, it was seemingly impossible to wipe the smile from Cooper's face.

Speaking to local paper the Gold Coast Bulletin she said that despite regularly being invited to celebrity-filled events, the special school formal was one she'd remember.

'Cooper called up the station which took a lot of guts,' Ms O'Keefe said.

'He said he was a big fan (of me), and also of the media in general, he knows the names of all the TV journalists and presenters... I just couldn't refuse.'

Ms O'Keefe told how when Cooper saw her: 'He put his hands to his mouth and was jumping up and down telling me I looked beautiful'

Ms O'Keefe's radio colleagues Christo and Flan accompanied Cooper's classmate Olga to the event

With his tie picked to match Ms O'Keefe's pink dress, after posing for photos the pair rode in style to the formal - but not before Cooper laid on the charm.

'He put his hands to his mouth and was jumping up and down telling me I looked beautiful,' Ms O'Keefe said.

'If only my husband looked at me the way Cooper did!' she laughed.
A woman has been left 'disgusted' after opening her McDonald's order to discover that someone had taken a bite out of it.

Laura stopped at McDonald's in Ashmore, on the Gold Coast, after work on Saturday night, hoping to get a quick meal for herself and her son.

She claims to have waited in the drive-thru bay for 15 minutes as the crew 'put extra lettuce on her burger,' before hotcakes with sausage inside and the burger were delivered.

The picture shows the hotcakes and burger with a distinctive chop out of each of them, bites which Laura claims were not her own

Her son, who had requested the hotcakes, opened his meal and apparently asked 'Mum, did you take a bite of my hotcakes?'

'I said "of course not", I don't even like them. I unwrapped the rest [of the meal] and this is what I found! Ewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww,' Laura wrote in a post that has since been uploaded to the official McDonald's page.

The picture shows the hotcakes and burger with a distinctive chop out of each of them, bites which Laura claims were not her own.

Her son, who had requested the hotcakes, opened his meal and apparently asked 'Mum, did you take a bite of my hotcakes?'

Ashmore Mcdonald's manager Ashley said they had received a call from Laura at 9am on Sunday morning.

'I'd like to believe none of my crew members would do this. We'll have to report it as an incident and send that paperwork onto head office.

'But I also offered to check the cameras to see whether we could see a crew member eating the meal,' she said.

Laura stopped at McDonald's in Ashmore (pictured), on the Gold Coast, after work on Saturday night, hoping to get a quick meal

Social media commenters were disturbed by the image with some people even suggesting reasons why it happened.

'Back in the medieval times they used to test the food for the queens and kings to make sure it isnt poisoned...maybe this is what happened,' one person said.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted McDonald's for comment.
The only way to locate and destroy with complete certainty all components of North Korea's nuclear weapons program is through a ground invasion, American military planners said on Saturday.

That blunt assessment from the Pentagon is in response to a letter from two Democratic congressmen asking about casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea.

Rear Adm Michael J Dumont of the Joint Staff offered the assessment in response to a letter from Reps Ted Lieu of California and Ruben Gallego of Arizona.

Dumont noted that the US is evaluating North Korea's ability to target heavily populated areas of South Korea with long-range artillery, rockets and ballistic missiles.

He also pointed out that Seoul, the South's capital with a population of 25 million, is just 35 miles from the demilitarized zone.

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The only way to locate and destroy with complete certainty all components of North Korea's nuclear weapons program is through a ground invasion, American military planners said on Saturday. North Korean ruler Kim Jong-un is seen in the above file photo

The amount of casualties would differ depending on the advance warning and the ability of US and South Korea forces to counter these attacks, he said.

'A classified briefing would be the best place to discuss in detail the capability of the US and its allies to discuss capabilities to counter North Korea's ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and eliminate North Korea's nuclear weapons located in deeply buried, underground facilities,' he said.

Military officials would be happy to join 'the intelligence community to address these issues in a classified briefing,' he said.

In a joint statement issued Saturday, 15 Democratic lawmakers and one Republican- all military veterans - called the assessment that a ground invasion would be required to destroy the North's nuclear arsenal 'deeply disturbing' and that such an action 'could result in hundreds of thousands, or even millions of deaths in just the first few days of fighting.'

'It is our intent to have a full public accounting of the potential cost of war, so the American people understand the commitment we would be making as a nation if we were to pursue military action,' the lawmakers said.

They also said the Trump administration 'has failed to articulate any plans to prevent the military conflict from expanding beyond the Korean Peninsula and to manage what happens after the conflict is over.'

'With that in mind, the thought of sending troops into harm's way and expending resources on another potentially unwinnable war is chilling. The President needs to stop making provocative statements that hinder diplomatic options and put American troops further at risk,' they said.

President Donald Trump ramped up his tough rhetoric against North Korea when he arrived in Japan on Sunday, saying that the United States and its allies are prepared to defend freedom and that 'no dictator' should underestimate US resolve.

President Donald Trump (left) kicked off a 12-day Asian trip and is looking to present a united front with Japan against North Korea through meetings with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (right) amid heightened tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile tests

Trump kicked off a 12-day Asian trip and is looking to present a united front with Japan against North Korea through meetings with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe amid heightened tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile tests.

He told reporters on Air Force One en route to Asia that North Korea would figure prominently in discussions during the trip. He also singled out trade, which he said had been 'badly handled' in the region for years.

Trump has rattled some allies with his vow to 'totally destroy' North Korea if it threatens the United States and his dismissal of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a 'rocket man' on a suicide mission.

'No dictator, no regime, no nation should ever underestimate American resolve,' Trump told hundreds of cheering US and Japanese troops in camouflage uniforms gathered at Yokota Air Base, just west of Tokyo, soon after he arrived.

'Every once in a while, in the past, they underestimated us. It was not pleasant for them, was it?' said Trump, who wore a leather bomber jacket as he addressed the troops.

North Korea's recent actions, including several missiles that overflew Japan and Pyongyang's sixth and largest nuclear test, have raised the stakes in the most critical international challenge of Trump's presidency.

Recent drills over South Korea by two US strategic bombers have further raised tensions.

'We will never yield, never waver and never falter in defense of our freedom,' Trump said.

He told reporters earlier on Air Force One that a decision would be made soon on whether to add reclusive North Korea to a list of state sponsors of terrorism.

His administration also planned to take a different approach to dealing with the issue after years of what he termed 'total weakness', although he did not give any details.

'We want to get it solved. It's a big problem for our country and the world, and we want to get it solved,' he said.
After Alec Baldwin vowed to take a hiatus from Twitter on Saturday, he got into a harsh exchange with celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain and his girlfriend, actress Asia Argento, over the Harvey Weinstein scandal.

The actor, who appeared once again on Saturday Night Live's cold open to impersonate President Donald Trump amid the latest controversy, was criticized by Argento and Bourdain for implying that one of Weinsteins alleged rape victims, Rose McGowan, was wrong to accept a financial settlement rather than press criminal charges because it 'delayed justice'.

During his appearance as Trump on SNL, Baldwin - as Trump - made a joke about Weinstein.

'What an idiot that Harvey Weinstein is. He could have gotten away with all of it if he had just gotten himself elected president,' Baldwin's Trump said.

The reference was to the multiple sexual harassment allegations made by at least a dozen women against Trump.

Argento was one of the first women to come forward in an interview with The New Yorker magazine and accuse Weinstein of orally raping her.

Bourdain is the host of the popular CNN travel and food show Parts Unknown.

Alec Baldwin (seen left with wife Hilaria) vowed to take a hiatus from Twitter on Saturday  but not before he got into a harsh exchange with celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain and his girlfriend, actress Asia Argento (right), over the Harvey Weinstein scandal

Baldwin was criticized by Argento and Bourdain for implying that one of Weinsteins alleged rape victims, Rose McGowan (seen above on October 27 in Detroit), was wrong to accept a financial settlement rather than press criminal charges because it 'delayed justice'

Baldwin has also been criticized for acknowledging that many in Hollywood had heard rumors for decades about Weinstein's alleged rape of McGowan. Baldwin and Weinstein are seen in this 2007 file photo

Hey @AlecBaldwin you're either a complete moron or providing cover for your pals and saving your own rep. Maybe all three, Argento tweeted on Saturday.

In an interview with PBS on Friday, Baldwin, 59, admitted hearing a 'rumor' McGowan had been raped by Weinstein but doing nothing about it along with the rest of Hollywood.

He said it was 'for' McGowan to prosecute it and later said it was an 'issue' that victims of sexual harassment were sometimes silenced by cash settlements because it thwarted the course of justice.

'You heard the rumor that he raped Rose McGowan. You heard that over and over. We have heard that for decades.

McGowan took a $100,000 settlement from Harvey Weinstein over an alleged incident in a hotel room in 1997. The pair are pictured in 2007

On Friday, Baldwin, 59, said it was down to McGowan to pursue her case against Weinstein and admitted he and others heard rumors about the mogul's alleged attack on her for 'decades' but nothing was done to address it

Rose McGowan responded to his interview furiously saying it was proof 'everyone knew' and 'no one cared' that she had been raped

'But what happened was that Rose McGowan took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him. And it was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case,' he said.

McGowan, who has led an unrelenting commentary on the Weinstein sexual assault scandal since it erupted last month, responded furiously to his remarks.

'Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more,' she said.

Announcing his Twitter hiatus before his spat with Argento and Bourdain, Baldwin said it was 'never his intention' to 'blame the victim' and said that his 'heart goes out' to anyone affected by sexual harassment.

Explaining why no one else spoke up, he said it was because it remained an unproven rumor and argued that 'everyone' in every type of industry gives colleagues and employers 'the benefit of the doubt'.

After Argentos tweet, Baldwin responded on the Twitter account he uses for his foundation.

Argento was one of the first women to come forward in an interview with The New Yorker magazine and accuse Weinstein of orally raping her

Bourdain is the host of the popular CNN travel and food show Parts Unknown

If you paint every man with the same brush, youre gonna run out of paint or men, Baldwin responded to Argento.

Bourdain came to his girlfriends defense, tweeting to Baldwin: You are really too dumb to pour piss out of a boot.

Baldwin fired back at Bourdain, tweeting: You should stick to eating worms and keep your mouth shut.

Baldwin then blocked both Bourdain and Argento. He called the star chef a self-seeking liar.

Argento tweeted: Ive been blocked on Twitter by Alec Baldwin. I wear this medal with pride.

Earlier on Saturday, when Baldwin announced he would refrain from tweeting in response to the backlash over his comments about McGowan and Weinstein, Argento tweeted: So Alec Baldwin is taking a hiatus from Twitter to meditate about his words on Rose McGowan and gender equality. We wont miss you bully boy.

Baldwin addressed the scandal on Twitter on Saturday afternoon and signed off from social media

The bully boy reference was from comments Baldwin made on Thursday when he acknowledged bullying and mistreating women.

Baldwin made the comments while receiving an award from The Paley Center for Media on Thursday, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Argento's claims were published last month in a New Yorker expose which came within hours of a separate, equally shocking piece, by The New York Times which included allegations against Weinstein by Hollywood darlings Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie.

In her comments to The New Yorker, Italian-born Argento, 42, told how Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her after luring her to an empty room at the Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc in the South of France in 1997.

Nearly two weeks after the New Yorker article, McGowan went public with her own rape allegations against Weinstein.

McGowan accepted $100,000 from Weinstein in 1997 after an alleged encounter in hotel room.

It was part of an agreement that the case would not be prosecuted further but was not an admission of guilt on Weinstein's part, according to The New York Times which viewed a legal document detailing the agreement.

After a handful of women aired claims that Weinstein had either harassed or raped them at the start of October, McGowan claimed on Twitter that she had been raped by 'HW'.

She did not use his name but said she told Amazon studio head Roy Price about the attack and said nothing was done to help her.

Amidst the controversy, Baldwin appeared on Saturday Night Live's cold open to reprise his portrayal of President Donald Trump. He is seen above alongside SNL cast member Alex Moffat, who is playing former campaign chairman Paul Manafort

Price has been fired by Amazon in light of separate claims he sexually harassed a lesbian TV producer.

On Saturday, McGowan's fans supported her criticism of Baldwin and his remarks.

'Finds a way to blame women. Not rapist,' said one.

'Leave it to Alec Baldwin to perpetuate the victim blaming. Now it's Rose McGowan's fault that Harvey Weinstein kept assaulting women.'

'The money is NOT the reason they don't speak out and Alec Baldwin is victim blaming,' another quipped.

Baldwin's fans defended him, saying his comments were not aimed at the victims and that he was offering a wider commentary on the mere existence of such cash settlements as those he described.

Bourdain and McGowan were spotted in New York on Thursday after enjoying a friendly dinner date

'Mr Baldwin is not blaming anyone. He's pointing out that women are cornered to accept these settlements,' said one.

Weinstein is hiding out in Arizona where he may be arrested any day and extradited to New York to face charges.

The NYPD announced this week that it believed it had credible and sufficient evidence to issue a warrant for his arrest.

He is also being investigated in London and Los Angeles over separate sexual assault and harassment claims.

The exposure of Weinstein by The New York Times and New Yorker last month has led to an avalanche of accusations against other men across Hollywood and in other industries.
A House Husbands actress has opened up about the time a director saw her being sexually harassed on set but asked her to ignore it to finish the scene.

Anna McGahan was preparing to film an intimate scene with a co-star when he allegedly made 'continual' and highly 'sexualised' comments that were not welcome, she told the Brisbane Times.

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting the allegations relate to her role in House Husbands.

A House Husbands actress has opened up about the time a director saw her being sexually harassed on set but asked her to ignore it to finish the scene (on the set of House Husbands - Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting these allegations relate to this set)

The incident occurred in full view of the rest of the crew, but because the director didn't want to slow down production, he insisted she put it out of her mind.

'The director came up to me and said, "I can see what's happening, but we have to get the shot. Can you just get through this?".'

McGahan insists that she's experienced similar harassment across television and theatre sets alike.

McGahan insists that she's experienced similar harassment across television and theatre sets alike

It comes down to, she claims, a culture of predatory behaviour and normalising sexualisation, 'particularly of women.'

'When the Weinstein stuff came out it was very obvious straight away that the women in the Australian industry were resonating with it, asking when will it be exposed here, or will it be exposed,' she said.

The 29-year-old said that even though the callous comments were being said in front of everyone, and she was visibly 'distressed', no one offered to help her lodge a formal complaint.

The 29-year-old said that even though the callous comments were being said in front of everyone, and she was visibly 'distressed', no one offered to help her lodge a formal complaint

'This was how it was addressed: "We can't do anything about it," she said.

'And everyone felt helpless, even the men on that project.'

A survey by Actors Equity revealed McGahan's experience is not an uncommon one: Forty per cent of participants reported direct experiences of sexual harassment, bullying or misconduct.

McGahan's claims come in the wake of disgraced Hollywood figure Harvey Weinstein being accused of sexually assaulting and harassing female stars.

A number of other male actors, including House of Cards star Kevin Spacey, have also been accused of sexual harassment.
Saturday Night Live took to mocking the Trump White House once again, using a spoof of Demi Lovato's hit song 'Confident' to poke at the administration.

The sketch takes a look into the mind of White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders as she struggles to answer questions from the press after a week of tough news for the administration.

'Ok, good morning guys... Halloween's over but I still see some of you guys are still in your journalist costumes,' Sanders, played by Aidy Bryant, jokes to reporters, who greet her with groans and eye rolling.

The sketch takes a look into the mind of White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders

The Trump administration has had a tough week following the indictment of Paul Manafort

Reporters grill Sanders, asking how the White House can continue to deny a link between the Russian government and the President

'In a minute, I'm going to tell you guys a six-minute riddle about taxes but first I'm going to take some questions.'

Bryant's character is then asked about the recent indictment of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort, who is accused of conspiring against the United States and money laundering.

The White House has been under a mountain of scrutiny since the election of Donald trump in November

'Wow, ya'll are obsessed with this, it's freakin' lame,' Sanders says in frustration.

The reporter continues to grill her, asking how the White House can continue to deny a link between the Russian government and the President.

Suddenly, the audience is whisked inside the Press Secretary's imagination, where she tells the White House reporters that she's 'the boss' and 'runs the show.'

The fantasy shows Sanders destroying her White House podium with an ax and dancing seductively atop a desk as she lies flat a picture of her father, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.

Returning back to reality, Sanders begins to give a non-coherent answer, insisting that Manafort was a 'carny,' making his way 'through town for one night only.'

The audience is whisked inside the Press Secretary's imagination, where she tells the White House reporters that she's 'the boss' and 'runs the show

The fantasy shows Sanders destroying her White House podium with an ax and dancing seductively atop her desk

The same reporter then asks: 'Are you actually comparing the campaign manager to a carny making their way through town?'

Apparently feeling more 'confident,' Sanders replies: 'That's gonna be a hell-ya from me... and I would just like to add that you can suck my...'

The fantasy continues, with Sanders telling the media to go 'stuff it' with their thought of her being a 'puppet' for the administration.

Reality and fantasy collide at the end of the skit, with Sanders singing the lyrics to 'Confident' while dressed in a leotard in the White House press room.

Shocked and confused reporters are left asking the secretary if she's actually singing during a briefing.
Lebanon's president will not accept the resignation of prime minister Saad al-Hariri until he returns to Lebanon, palace sources said on Sunday, delaying for now politically difficult consultations on his successor.

Hariri left Lebanon for Saudi Arabia on Friday and resigned on Saturday in a televised statement that took the Lebanese political establishment by surprise.

He cited an assassination plot against him and criticised the regional role of Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah however Lebanon's army said on Sunday it had not uncovered any plot.

The move has thrust Lebanon back into the arena of regional rivalry between Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia, an ally of Hariri, and Shia Muslim Iran, which backs Hezbollah.

President Michel Aoun, a political ally of Hezbollah, will wait to accept or reject Hariri's resignation until he returns to Lebanon to explain his reasons, sources at the presidential palace said.

Saudi-owned newspaper Asharq al-Awsat cited unnamed sources close to Hariri as speculating that he would probably remain outside Lebanon because of the security threat against him.

Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh sought to calm fears the political turmoil unleashed by Hariri's bid to resign would hit Lebanon's already fragile economy, issuing a statement to reaffirm the stability of its currency, which is pegged against the U.S. dollar.

In Lebanon's sectarian system the president must be a Maronite Catholic, the prime minister a Sunni and the speaker of parliament a Shia. Hariri is Lebanon's most influential Sunni politician.

His father, Rafik al-Hariri, was prime minister after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war and was assassinated in a car bombing in 2005.

A U.N.-backed tribunal has indicted five Hezbollah members for the killing but the group denies any involvement.

Saudi media have published reports of a plot to assassinate Hariri in recent days, but all of Lebanon's main security branches have said they have no information about such a plot.

A Saudi minister said on Saturday that Hariri's personal security detail had "confirmed information" about the plot. Thamer al-Sabhan said in an interview with a Lebanese TV station on Saturday that there are "threats against the prime minister and the Kingdom is keen for his security".

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Australia Zoo and dozens of homes in Beerwah, near the Sunshine Coast, have come under threat from a massive bushfire.

A 'prepare to leave' warning was issued by Queensland Fire and Emergency Saturday afternoon as the fire raged from Irwin Road towards Fraser Road.

Helicopters were also called in to protect around 30 homes on Foley Road, according to the Sunshine Coast Daily.

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Dozens of homes in Beerwah, near the Sunshine Coast, have come under threat from a massive bushfire

The fire was believed to have started near Steve Irwin Way and come close to Australia Zoo (stock picture)

Around 4pm firefighters had taken preventative measures to wet down houses in the fires path as it began to burn back.

Four crews also remained at Australia Zoo to attend to potential threats from any spotfires that could spark up.

Earlier in the day three enclosures at the zoo that were the closest to the fire were evacuated with a spokesperson stating they were taking 'all necessary precautions'.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Service Inspector Bernie Massingham told News Corp about 10 crews were using 'very, very conservative back-burning operations to halt the fire.

Four crews remain at the Zoo to attend to potential threats from any spotfires that could spark up after some animal enclosures were evacuated (stock image)

A 'prepare to leave' warning was issued by Queensland Fire and Emergency Saturday afternoon as the fire raged in forestry from Irwin Road towards Fraser Road

Helicopters were also called in to protect around 30 homes on Foley Road, with one waterbomber remaining on scene, according to the Sunshine Coast Daily

The Watch and Act warning currently in place stated residents in the area should be ready to enact a bushfire survival plan or be prepared to leave the area.

'Fire crews are working to contain the fire but firefighters may not be able to protect every property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door,' the alert read.

It also warned people in the area to be aware of the air quality, as plumes of black smoke were pictured in the sky.

The fire was believed to have started from a care fire near Steve Irwin Way before spreading quickly.

Temperatures in the area reached peaks in the high 20s Saturday, with winds up to 20km/h potentially fanning flames.

Around 4pm firefighters had taken preventative measures to wet down houses in the fires path as it began to burn back

Plumes of black smoke were pictured in the sky with warnings to people in the area to be aware of the air quality
An Australian man who was arrested in Bali for allegedly carrying marijuana in his suitcase is now being denied medication by police, his lawyer revealed.

Joshua James Baker was taken from his cell to the Sanglah hospital, where his psychiatric medication is being withheld to 'test the reaction and see if he really is mentally ill'.

According to news.com.au, his lawyer Pande Putu Maya Arsanti was not informed that her client was being moved or that he was being denied access to his medicine.

Joshua James Baker (pictured) is facing up to fifteen years behind bars in an Indonesian jail

The Australian man was arrested in October 8 and is facing fifteen years in prison if convicted

The 32-year-old was arrested on October 8 for allegedly carrying 28 grams of marijuana mixed with tobacco and 37 Diazepam pills in his suitcase.

He has been officially declared a suspect on drug possession charges, which could see him behind bars for up to fifteen years if he is convicted.

Mr Baker told police that he purchased the tobacco from a friend in Cambodia and had no idea that it was mixed with marijuana.

The 32-year-old has claimed that he did not know his tobacco had been mixed with marijuana

Police claim they also discovered 37 Diazepam anti-depressant pills in Mr Baker's luggage

Ms Arsanti has been fighting to have her client freed on mental illness grounds, and is now extremely concerned for Mr Baker's well-being.

'Police have tried to stop his medication so that they know the reaction,' she said, expressing concerns for her client's health as well as the health and safety of those around him.

'He has an extreme headache. His mood is very bad. He always says, "I have a headache, it hurts. Why did they bring me here",' Ms Arsanti said.

In addition, his local psychiatrist Dr Denny Thong who has treated him for 'mental disturbance' since 2015 is no longer permitted to see him or give him medication.

Ms Arsanti said that Mr Baker had been 'stressed' and unable to remember recent events during his interrogation.

He also didnt recall when he was arrested and had to be reminded of the date, and the interrogation eventually had to be halted on medical grounds.

Mr Baker, from Mt Isa in North Queensland, escaped from police custody before being caught

Mr Baker previously evaded Balinese police for 10 hours by allegedly escaping from a toilet window as they watched TV after he was arrested at the airport.

He reportedly escaped custody while the police 'were too excited watching television' and caught the taxi to a fake home address to throw off the authorities.

The Queensland native was finally detained by police after he managed to borrow a staff member's phone at a nearby mini-market before he got a taxi to visit a friend,The West reported.
Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia is refunding almost 10,000 customers after illegally charging their children a $60 departure tax for almost seven years.

Travellers flying from Darwin to Bali were wrongly slugged the Passenger Movement Charge between December 2010 and September 2017.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has confirmed AirAsia would be refunding 9,700 customers, a total of $582,000, who were illegally charged for child passengers younger than 12.

AirAsia has admitted to illegally slugging 9,700 customers an additional $60 departure tax

Bali belly: AirAsia will have to cough up for illegally charging customers flying to Kuta

'Some AirAsia customers have been incorrectly charged for a levy of up to $60 that did not apply. Affected customers should contact AirAsia to obtain a refund for that charge,' ACCC deputy chairman Dr Michael Schaper said.

The competition regulator says AirAsia had emailed affected customers but is urging those who haven't been contacted to notify the airline via its website.

The Malaysian budget carrier was alerted to the situation after Darwin traveller Thomas Sawyer contacted the Northern Territory News in September.

'I'm particularly pleased because I spent 12 months trying to get people to fix this before I went to the NT News for help,' he said, adding Darwin-based Turnbull government minister Nigel Scullion and federal Labor MP Luke Gosling did nothing about it.

AirAsia is refunding a total of $582,000 to almost 9,700 customers charged a departure tax

Dr Schaper said Air Asia acted quickly to rectify the error and would provide refunds within 21 days.

As reported in September, AirAsia's Indonesia branch had been charging a $60 departure tax for children travelling from Darwin and Perth.

The airline had admitted to Daily Mail Australia, via an AirAsia Indonesia spokesman, the $60 fee had been 'levied in error' to kids flying out of Darwin.

The airline promised in September to refund all those who were unfairly charged the $60 tax.

'AirAsia acknowledges that this charge has been levied in error and is identifying passengers who may have been affected,' the AirAsia spokesman said.

'A mechanism for providing refunds is being established and affected guests will be informed of how they can obtain their refund.'

The airline said it was 'liaising with the relevant authorities on the tax remittance and will comply accordingly with any directions.'

The sun has set on AirAsia illegally charging kids a $60 departure tax from 2010 to late 2017

Rival airline Jetstar shows a detailed breakdown of fares, taxes and fees - clearly revealing that adult tickets cost $60 more than children due to the inclusion of the Passenger Movement

Meanwhile, AirAsia's breakdown of fares, taxes and fees for a similar flight show no difference in price between adult and children tickets. AirAsia have since rectified the error

A breakdown of fares, taxes and fees shows no difference in price between an adult and a child with the AirAsia website, while rival airline Jetstar is $60 cheaper for kids.

Mr Sawyer claimed he approached AirAsia for an explanation, but was simply told to send in the details of his purchase.
A senior firefighter has been arrested as police investigate reports of thieving from the Grenfell Tower site.

Met Police is investigating claims that significant amounts of cash was stolen from homes in the aftermath of the tower block fire in North Kensington, London.

Fire investigation teams and police forensics have been visiting the gutted building for months following the blaze which killed at least 80.

It is understood that the senior firefighter arrested by police is a 50-year-old from a brigade based outside of the capital.

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Metropolitan Police is investigating claims that cash was stolen from homes in the aftermath of the fire (pictured, the charred remains of the tower block) in North Kensington, London

Fire teams and forensics have been visiting the building for months after the blaze which killed at least 80 (there is no suggestion that any of those pictured and involved in the investigation)

The Sun on Sunday reports that his hotel room was searched by officers and that he was questioned on suspicion of theft.

He was released pending further investigation last night and vehemently denies the accusation.

The first of the thefts is believed to have taken place just six days after the inferno broke out on June 14.

A source told the newspaper: 'The suspicion has always been the thief worked in some capacity for the emergency services.

'A senior fireman was arrested a few weeks ago. It caused shock.'

Met Police said that initial investigations show the senior firefighter did not have access to the site during the time that the thefts are thought to have taken place.

Yesterday, a factory owned by the maker of Grenfell Tower's cladding panels caught fire in the middle of the night in an 'accidental blaze'.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service was called to the production plant of Arconic in Exeter just before 1.30am on Saturday.

Met Police is investigating claims that significant amounts of cash was stolen from homes in the aftermath of the tower block fire in North Kensington, London

Police said the senior firefighter did not have access to the site during the time that the thefts took place (there is no suggestion that any of those pictured and involved in the investigation)

The US firm produces the Reynobond PE panels, used as one component of the west London block's cladding system during a refurbishment.

It is suspected that the material, which is coated in aluminium but has a plastic, flammable core, helped fuel the blaze in June.

It comes after a serial conman admitted to pretending his family died in the Grenfell Tower fire to obtain around 12,500 meant for the victims.

Anh Nhu Nguyen claimed his wife and son were killed in the disaster and was photographed beside the Prince of Wales when he met survivors.

As part of his deceit, Nguyen spun a cruel tale to family liasion officers, describing in detail how he lost sight of his family in the smoke-clogged stairwell, police said.

But while a major recovery operation was under way on June 15, the fraudster was actually nine miles away at a housing charity, according to prosecutors.

He posed as a victim of the blaze for almost two weeks and was given around 12,500 from charities and Kensington and Chelsea Council.
An Australian woman who worked alongside Scientology founder L Ron Hubbard for years is set to release a second tell-all account of her experiences.

Janis Gillham Grady, 61, who was born in Melbourne and now lives in Las Vegas, has revealed that as a child, she spent about six hours a day for almost eleven years serving Hubbard.

Ms Grady told 7NEWS that friends and families are being 'forced to disconnect' as people who have left the church are 'cut off from those trapped inside'.

A 13-year-old Janis Grady walks behind Scientology leader and founder, L Ron Hubbard (right)

Ms Grady, now 61, is set to release a second tell-all book about her time serving L Ron Hubbard

Ms Grady has urged high-profile celebrities like Elizabeth Moss (right, with former celebrity Scientologist Leah Rimini) to inform themselves and help reform the church from the inside

Ms Grady's mother Yvonne Gillham-Jentzsch was responsible for setting up the first Scientology 'Celebrity Centre' in Los Angeles.'

She was also responsible for recruiting John Travolta into the church, but says that celebrities back then were treated very differently than today.

'The Scientologists are shutting themselves away from the real world when they should be embracing the real world and reaching out to it,' she said.

Grady's mother Yvonne Gillham-Jentzsch (right) set up the first Scientology 'Celebrity Centre'

While many celebrities have walked away from Scientology, Ms Grady believes that the key to reforming the controversial religion lies with those who are still inside, such as Elizabeth Moss.

'They need to get on the internet and see the stories that have been going on and do something about it because they're the ones who can,' Ms Grady said, adding that anyone with the power to reform the religion is 'on the inside'.

In her new book, Ms Grady emphasises Hubbard's total control over his followers, recalling that both she and her father Peter Grady were 'imprisoned and chained by the church for minor transgressions'.

'It was part of how justice was issued in those days,' she explained. 'Hubbard issued it and people accepted it'.

Ms Grady said that her father Peter (far left) was 'imprisoned and chained' for minor offences

She also voiced concerns that the way the church treats its followers has worsened since Hubbard's death in 1986 - she claims that current leader David Miscavige is a lot more 'intense' and demanding.

Miscavige has faced accusations of mistreatment and abuse, including from ex-Scientologist Jeff Hawkins who accused him of physically assaulting him five separate times.

Ms Grady has also personally spoken out on previous occasions about the abuse she witnessed, and how it eventually forced her to quit Scientology for good.

David Miscavige (front left) worked directly under Hubbard and took over as leader in 1986

Miscavige has faced accusations of mistreatment and abuse from several ex-Scientologists

The Church of Scientology refused 7 News's request for an interview, issuing a statement rejecting Ms Grady's claims.

'Ms Grady was expelled from the Church of Scientology in 1990 due to her own breaches of her ecclesiastical obligations,' the statement says.

'She was expelled from the religion in 1990 and has been out of the Church for nearly three decades. She is in no position to comment on the status of the Church today.'

The Church rejects claims made by Ms Grady (pictured on board the Scientology ship Apollo)

Janis Grady pictured aboard the current Church of Scientology ship 'The Freewinds' in 1988

Ms Grady has also said that it is 'ludicrous' for Scientologists to attack her.

'For them to attack me, they're attacking themselves since I was born in Scientology, raised by Scientology parents and then raised by Hubbard himself as a teenager.'

Her first book about life as a second generation Scientologist is titled 'Commodores Messenger: A Child Adrift in the Scientology Sea Organization', and the sequel is due out in 2018.
A Labour MSP has today revealed she was sexually assaulted by a senior male colleague at a party.

As a sexual harassment scandal engulfs politics, Monica Lennon said she was groped at a social event four years ago in front of a room full of people.

Ms Lennon, 36, is the most senior UK politician to claim she has been a victim of a sexual assault since the scandal began to emerge in the last fortnight.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn addressed the growing scandal in a speech, warning 'warped' Westminster must be reformed - including inside Labour.

Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry has called for a 'step change' in the treatment of women following the wave of sleaze allegations sweeping Parliament.

Today's revelations come after Labour MP John Mann warned up to 12 MPs could be forced to resign and trigger by-elections.

Monica Lennon today revealed she was sexually assaulted by a senior male colleague at a party (file image)

She told Sunday Mail: 'It happened at a Labour Party social event in 2013, before I was an MSP. It was a private function, a room full of people.

'A man, who was a senior figure in the party, touched me in a manner that some would say is 'handsy'. He was sitting next to me when he groped me, in full view of other people.

'I don't want to go into the full details but he touched my body, in an intimate way, without invitation or permission. This shouldn't happen to anyone.

'It's possible at least half a dozen people saw exactly what happened.

'One man, who at the time was a Labour politician, joked to everyone in earshot, 'That's your fault for coming over here and getting him all excited'.

'A few days later I ran into another man who had seen what happened and he made a jokey reference to it.

'The underlying message was clear, the whole thing was to be treated as a joke.'

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn addressed the growing scandal in a speech, warning 'warped' Westminster must be reformed - including inside Labour.

Ms Lennon has become the third member of Labour to claim a lack of help, following Bex Bailey and Ava Etemadzadeh last week.

She also said that having made an initial complaint to the Scottish Labour Party, she decided not to progress with it because she felt she would not be believed.

Ms Lennon was a South Lanarkshire councillor when the alleged incident happened.

She was elected to Holyrood in 2016 and is now the party's spokeswoman on inequalities.

Ms Lennon told the newspaper she chose to speak out to highlight that sexism is rife in politics, not just at Westminster and Holyrood.

At a speech to Labour's North West regional conference, Mr Corbyn said: 'Labour is committed not just to challenging a warped and degrading culture in Westminster, and across society, but to overturning it.

'This week we appointed a leading barrister to investigate if and how the party got it so painfully wrong in the case of Bex Bailey.

'We are not afraid to turn the spotlight on ourselves.

'And we are now appointing an independent organisation to offer confidential advice and support to anyone affected by sexual harassment in our party, an additional first step for reporting complaints and to guide and support complainants through our procedures.'

Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry (pictured today on Sky News) has called for a 'step change' in the treatment of women following the wave of sleaze allegations sweeping Parliament

Mr Corbyn has faced criticism for appointing now-suspended Labour MP Kelvin Hopkins to the shadow cabinet after allegations against him had surfaced.

Mr Hopkins 'categorically' denied claims of inappropriate conduct.

Asked about Mr Hopkins' appointment, Ms Thornberry told Sky News' Sunday with Niall Paterson: 'You can draw whatever conclusions you want at this stage but I am not in a position to be able to comment on these matters in detail because they are under investigation.

'Well I'm sorry, but that's what you're getting, so I'm happy to go, but I'm here to try and give you such assistance as I am able to, but I am not going to talk about internal discussions at the moment, where there is an investigation going on.'

She went on: 'I want to make sure that my party, that this sort of behaviour does not happen in my party. I am ashamed of what's been going on and I want us do something about it.'
Gordon Brown has claimed the UK was 'misled' over Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction and the Iraq War was unjustified.

The former prime minister has revealed top-secret US intelligence casting serious doubt over the dictator's destructive capabilities existed in 2002 but was not shared with Britain during the 'rush to war'.

Mr Brown, who was Chancellor at the time of the 2003 invasion, said the documents showed Britain was not just 'misinformed' about Iraq's weapons programmes.

Tony Blair has always insisted he ordered British troops to war in good faith on the basis of the best intelligence available. The Chilcot Inquiry stopped short of accusing Mr Blair of lying but said intelligence was not properly used.

Gordon Brown (file image) has claimed the UK was 'misled' over Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction and the Iraq War was unjustified

The former prime minister has revealed top-secret US intelligence casting serious doubt over Hussein's (pictured in 2006 during his post-invasion trial) destructive capabilities existed in 2002 but was not shared with Britain during the 'rush to war'

Mr Brown reveals the existence of the 'crucial' US Department of Defence papers in his his new autobiography.

The ex-PM writes: 'When I consider the rush to war in March, 2003 - especially in light of what we now know about the absence of weapons of mass destruction - I ask myself over and over whether I could have made more of a difference before that fateful decision was taken.

'We now know from classified American documents, that in the first days of September 2002 a report prepared by the US Joint Chiefs of Staff's director for intelligence landed on the desk of the US defence secretary, Donald Rumsfeld.

'Commissioned by Rumsfeld to identify gaps in the US intelligence picture, it is now clear how forcibly this report challenged the official view.

'If I am right that somewhere within the American system the truth about Iraq's lack of weapons was known, then we were not just misinformed but misled on the critical issue of WMDs.

'Given that Iraq had no usable chemical, biological or nuclear weapons that it could deploy and was not about to attack the coalition, then two tests of a just war were not met: war could not be justified as a last resort and invasion cannot now be seen as a proportionate response.'

Mr Brown reveals in his book that Donald Rumsfeld, then the US Defence Secretary, asked for and received reports on gaps in intelligence in 2002, before the war

Tony Blair (pictured with wife Cherie at a dinner this week) has always insisted he ordered British troops to war in good faith on the basis of the best intelligence available

He added some form of international action was appropriate due to Saddam's continued failure to comply with UN resolutions.

The UK was part of the coalition led by the US which invaded Iraq after American president George W Bush and Tony Blair accused the dictator of possessing weapons of mass destruction and having links to terrorists.

As chancellor, Mr Brown said his only official role was to find funds for the war.

After an inquiry lasting seven years, the Chilcot Report found the former Iraqi dictator posed 'no imminent threat' at the time of the invasion of his country in 2003, and the war was unleashed on the basis of 'flawed' intelligence.

Mr Brown said British intelligence which he and Mr Blair saw in 2002 suggested a capability, if not a production programme, of weapons of mass destruction.

However, the top-secret US report is said to have conceded that knowledge of the Iraqi nuclear weapons programme was based largely - perhaps 90% - on analysis of imprecise intelligence.

Britain went to war alongside then US President George W Bush on the basis of intelligence which wrongly claimed Iraq was armed with weapons of mass destruction

In his latest book My Life, Our Times - due for release on Tuesday - Mr Brown claims the paper suggested previous assessments relied 'heavily on analytic assumptions' rather than hard evidence and even refuted the country's capability to create weapons of mass destruction.

He added: 'I was told they knew where the weapons were housed. I remember thinking at the time that it was almost as if they could give me the street name and number where they were located.

'It is astonishing that none of us in the British government ever saw this American report.'

One month after Rumsfeld's confidential paper, President Bush went on record for the first time with the assertion that Iraq 'possesses and produces chemical and biological weapons' and was 'seeking nuclear weapons'.

It is not known who - if anyone - in the US administration had seen the dossier.
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They are the last remaining heroes of the glorious Few, whose daring and bravery saved Britain from Nazi tyranny.

Of the dwindling band of men, who were part of the near 3,000-strong aircrew who served with the RAF Fighter Command between July 10 and October 31 1940, just eight surviving members of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association remain.

Many of the men were still teenagers or in their early 20s when they repelled Hitler's Luftwaffe in what may be the most important battle this country has ever fought.

There are just eight surviving members of the glorious Few, the RAF servicemen who fought in the Battle of Britain and saved the country from Nazi invasion

Nearly 3,000 aircrew served with the RAF Fighter Command between July 10 and October 31 1940. Many were teenagers when they climbed into the cockpit and at the time the average life expectancy for British pilots was just four weeks

Heroes: Battle of Britain pilots posed for a photo with Prince Charles at Clarence House in London. Left back: Sqn Ldr Tony Iveson, Wg Cdr Dick Summers, Luiz Flower, Wg Cdr Bob Foster, Prince of Wales, Sqn Ldr Wellum, Flt Lt Ronald Smyth, Flt Lt William Walker. Front, Fg Off Ken Wilkinson, Wg Cdr TNeil, Flt Lt Owen Burns, Sqn Ldr Graham Leggett, Wg Cdr Terry Kane, Flt Lt Richard Jones, Sqn Ldr Nigel Rose. Today, only Sqn Ldr Wellum and Wg Cdr T Neil are with us

The men took to the skies in Spitfires, Hurricanes, Blenheims, Beaufighters and Defiants in the summer of 1940 to fend off the Nazis. They shot down plane after plane to hold off an invasion and provide a platform for the Allies to win the war

Flight Lieutenant Maurice Hewlett Mounsdon (left, while serving in the RAF) and Wing Commander Thomas Francis Neil (right) are among eight of the brave Few still with us today

Flight Lieutenant William Terence Clark (left) and Wing Commander Paul Caswell Farnes (right) fought in the Battle of Britain and are still alive today

The average life expectancy for British pilots at the time of the battle was just four weeks.

Three of the pilots, Flight Flight Lieutenant Ron Smyth, 96, Squadron Leader Stuart Nigel Rose, 99, and Flight Lieutenant Philip Anthony Loweth, 96, have died in the last two months.

Hurricane pilot Mr Loweth, of Exeter, died on September 7.

Mr Rose passed away on September 10 and was laid to rest in his home town of Hay-on-Wye, Herefordshire.

To mark his burial a Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight performed three flypasts over St Eignon Church.

Mr Smyth, who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, died at his home in Shrewsbury on October 26.

This leaves just eight men left, according to the Association, which represents RAF veterans.

Their website lists Flight Lieutenant William Terence Clark, Wing Commander John Francis Durham Elkington, Wing Commander Paul Caswell Farnes, Squadron Leader J. S. Hart, Flight Lieutenant William Robert Kent Hughes, Flight Lieutenant Maurice Hewlett Mounsdon, Wing Commander Thomas Francis Neil and Squadron Leader Geoffrey Harris Augustus Wellum as the last heroes still with us today.

Squadron Leader Geoffrey Harris Augustus Wellum, pictured here speaking to Prince Charles following a service to mark the 77th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, is one of eight members of the Few still alive today

Three of the pilots, Flight Flight Lieutenant Ron Smyth, 96, Squadron Leader Stuart Nigel Rose, 99, and Flight Lieutenant Philip Anthony Loweth, 96, have died in the last two months

Flight Flight Lieutenant Ron Smyth, 96, (pictured left aged 85 and right while serving in the RAF) who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, died at his home in Shrewsbury on October 26

Squadron Leader Stuart Nigel Rose, 99, passed away on September 10 and was laid to rest in Hay-on-Wye, Herefordshire. To mark his burial a Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight performed three flypasts over St Eignon Church

During the Battle, Sir Winston Churchill said: 'Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few'

The men took to the skies in Spitfires, Hurricanes, Blenheims, Beaufighters and Defiants in the summer of 1940 to fend off the Nazis.

They shot down plane after plane to hold off an invasion and provide a platform for the Allies to win the war.

Survivors were awarded the Battle of Britain clasp.

During the Battle, Sir Winston Churchill said: 'The gratitude of every home in our island, in our empire, and indeed throughout the world, goes out to the British airmen who, undaunted by odds, unwearied in their constant challenge and mortal danger, are turning the tide of the world war by their prowess and by their devotion.

'Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.'

When the Battle of Britain was over, 544 RAF pilots and aircrew had made the ultimate sacrifice.

John Pulver, managing director of the Battle of Britain Historical Society, told the Sunday Express: 'It is very sad that these heroes are dying out and taking their stories and memories with them.

'They gave so much for us all.

'They turned the tide of the war and what they did was up there with great British victories, such as the Battle of Waterloo.'
Fighting for his sight: Muhammed Nawshad Kamal

Police last night arrested a 16-year-old boy after a pizza delivery driver was sprayed in the face with acid by schoolboys who tried to steal his moped.

Muhammed Nawshad Kamal, 32, is likely to lose his sight after the vicious attack in Walthamstow, east London on Thursday.

The teenagers, who were riding their own moped, allegedly tried to steal his 2,500 scooter before carrying out an almost identical acid attack 30 minutes later.

And last night, police arrested a 16-year-old boy on suspicion of GBH and he remains in custody at an east London police station.

It comes after detectives arrested a 14-year-old boy on suspicion of GBH the day before. He has now been released under investigation.

Mr Kamal, who has lived in Britain for eight years after moving here from Bangladesh, had just dropped off a pizza when he was approached by two teenagers who demanded the keys to his scooter at 6pm on Thursday.

When he refused, he was sprayed with acid. Screaming in agony, Mr Kamal desperately banged on the door of the house he had just delivered to.

But his customers refused to open the door while his attackers continued to drench him in acid on their doorstep.

Their attack was only halted when a woman in a car nearby called for help. Within minutes, firemen and police arrived and poured water over Mr Kamal, who was struggling to breathe after inhaling the liquid.

A source close to the investigation said: 'He had his helmet open and it went in his eyes and nose.'

The attack comes days after Scotland Yard Commissioner Cressida Dick said she was shocked at the 'extraordinary' surge in moped crime. In the year to September there were more than 19,385 'moped-enabled' crimes in the capital, an average of 53 a day.

A takeaway delivery driver is fighting for his life and will probably be left blind after he was sprayed in the face with acid in an attempted robbery in Walthamstow

The victim, 32, was attacked by two suspects on a moped who tried to steal his scooter yesterday as the acid attack menace continues to plague the capital

Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Henderson said the victim's injuries were shocking and added: 'It is likely that he will lose sight in both eyes.'

Yesterday friends of the victim described his horrific injuries. Imran Rumel said: 'I have been to see him in hospital and he is in a terrible state ... I don't know if he will ever see again.'

A Scotland Yard Spokesman said: 'Both arrests relate to an incident in Walthamstow.

'At about 6pm on Thursday, November 2 on Walpole Road, Walthamstow, a fast food delivery driver, was approached by two men on a scooter as he delivered a pizza to an address.

Tough new laws to clampdown on acid attacks Tough new laws could see criminals twice caught with corrosive substances without good reason handed an automatic prison sentence of at least six months. The rise of acid attacks has forced ministers to tighten laws and the proposed 'two strikes' rule would be similar to the laws around knives. The Government also said it had plans to create a new offence of possession of a corrosive substance in public without a good or lawful reason. As it stands, corrosive substances are treated as offensive weapons and possession of them carries a maximum four-year prison sentence. Advertisement

'They demanded he hand over his keys, and when he refused a struggle followed, before the suspects produced a corrosive substance and sprayed him in the face.

'The victim, a 32-year-old man, was wearing a helmet with the visor was up and received substantial injuries to his eyes and face.

'The suspects left on their moped, leaving his behind. One wore a white helmet and one a black one.

'Officers attended along with the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

'The victim was treated at the scene with water and taken to an east London hospital.

'He remains in hospital in a critical condition after inhaling the substance, and may lose the sight in both eyes. Police are continuing to appeal for information.'

Police believe the same gang struck again at 6.30pm the same day in Tottenham in another attempted robbery a mile and a half away.

A second delivery driver who is also 32 was approached by two men on a scooter who attempted to rob him and sprayed acid in his face.

The driver was also treated in hospital, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Mr Henderson said: 'This attack has left a man fighting for his life... it is imperative we arrest those responsible.'
Furious Australia Post customers have called for the sacking of a postman who was caught on video throwing parcels into van 'without a care in the world'.

The postal worker was filmed in Melbourne tossing packages and parcels over his shoulder from a trolley into the van, without watching what he was doing or looking to see where they landed.

'This is what we pay Australia Post for!' fumed Glenn Burr, who posted the video shot outside Arena post office to his Facebook page.

'Not a care in the world with our packages just throw them in and don't even look where they land... I hope your packages arrive safety [but they won't] through Australia Post care.'

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Customers have slammed an Australia Post driver for carelessly tossing parcels into the van

The man tosses the parcels over his shoulder without looking as he unloads the mail trolley

Dozens of other customers have also unloaded on Australia Post, writing, 'This sh*ts me to tears. This is probably the d*ckhead that broke more than half the things I bought from America'.

Another wrote: 'They say when you put 'handle with care' on your parcel, that it doesn't mean it's going to! I do cookies and I have to wrap them up real good.

'Hope there's nothing too important in there!'

'It's disgusting that our parcels are treated this way! This is a disgrace! Shame and no wonder...' commented another customer.

'Wow. Thought I seen some boxes with fragile stickers on them. Not a good look Aus Post!', read one comment, while another called on Australia Post to 'pick up [act] because this is disgraceful.'

Some took to calling the worker names, including 'incompetent fool', 'a**hole' and 'piece of sh*t', while others blamed Australia Post for outsourcing to independent and incompetent third party workers.

'It's disgusting that our parcels are treated this way! This is a disgrace!' complained one person

After seeing the video, people have called on Australia Post to 'pick up its act' and fire the man

A few commentators did defend the postman, writing that it is the responsibility of the sender to make sure that they their packages correctly.

'This worker did nothing wrong. If people don't pack their parcels properly, they can't expect them to arrive safely,' wrote one sympathetic woman.

'I hope Australia Post has the sense to see that, and this video doesn't cause him any trouble.'

A few commentators defended the employee, saying senders need to pack parcels properly

Australia Post have responded: 'This is clearly not in line with our safe handling procedures'

Australia Post have responded to the video, saying that they have been sent the same footage multiple over the last couple of days, and they are currently looking into the situation and attempting to track down driver.

'This is clearly not in line with our delivery and safe handling procedures and we have begun an investigation into this incident,' an Australia Post spokesperson said.
Reserves have been climbing since Egypt signed an agreement for a three-year $12 billion loan with the IMF in November 2016

Egypt recorded its highest level of foreign reserves in its history, the Central Bank of Egypt announced Sunday.

In an official statement reported by the state-owned MENA agency, the bank said that reserves climbed from $36.535 billion at the end of September 2017 to $36.703 billion at the end of October.

At the end of July, foreign net reserves jumped to $36.036 billion, hitting pre-2011 levels for the first time since the 25 January uprising, with international net reserves increasing $4.7 billion in July alone.

The reserves have been climbing since Egypt signed an agreement for a three-year $12 billion loan with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in November 2016, shortly after the country's decison to float its currency.



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A man with a firearm was arrested this morning after apparently opening fire in central Oslo.

Police said on Twitter that the man, in his 20s, was detained behind Oslo's downtown Domkirke cathedral.

Witnesses called police shortly after 9 a.m to alert them to a man walking around downtown Oslo with a weapon and firing with live ammunition.

The gunman was arrested behind Oslo's cathedral after walking through the Norwegian capital and firing

One told Norwegian news site VG he saw the 'very young man' heading for the church.

'I heard three shots and then he went down to the church,' they said. 'He walked around here.'

The gunman was threatened with the use of firearms by armed officers after initially refusing to hand over the weapon, said police operations manager Rune Hekkelstrand.

Officers were seen outside the church's entrance this morning after Tweeting that a shop front had 'damage that may stem from shots'.

Norwegian media reported that police were deployed throughout the city.

The man apparently shot at buildings in Stortorvet square and VG said at least one shop window had a bullet hole.

Nobody was injured in the shooting.
An 11-month-old baby boy was the sole survivor of a devastating car crash which killed her mother and her boyfriend.

Jason Thomas, 23, was behind the wheel when he lost control of the black Peugeot 206 at around 3.15am on Saturday morning.

His girlfriend, Naomi Carter, 18, was in the passenger seat and also died from her injuries on Swansea Road in Trebanos, south Wales.

Her son, Brogan Wathan was saved by his baby seat when the car smashed into a lamppost on the street.

Jason Thomas (left) and his girlfriend Naomi Carter (right) both died when the Peugeot 206 Mr Thomas was driving hit a lamppost

Mr Thomas (pictured), from Swansea, was driving his Peugeot 206 when he lost control of the vehicle

Miss Carter was in the car with her baby son (pictured) who survived the horrific crash near Swansea

A 23-year-old man, who was driving a black Peugeot 206, and an 18-year-old woman, who was a passenger in the front seat, both died from their injuries

It is believed Mr Thomas, from Swansea, had recently started a relationship with Miss Carter and he has a child of his own and he was not the 11-month-old boy's father.

The black Peugeot was travelling between Naomi's home in Clydach, Swansea, to Jason's home in the village of Trebanos, when it left the road.

Brogan suffered a non-life threatening head injury in the accident and was being treated in hospital where relatives were at his bedside.

A tribute from Mr Thomas' family said he was a much loved son, brother grandson, nephew and uncle 'and had earlier this year become a new dad.'

It added: 'He was so kind and would literally do anything to help anyone. He was a highly sensitive, emotional and thoughtful person but also knew how to enjoy himself.

'Jason became a dad to Freya in May and was besotted with his beautiful baby daughter.

'It's such a tragedy to lost two such young people suddenly and in the prime of their lives, Jason and Naomi will never be forgotten.'

The couple's friend, Melissa Bath, 22, posted a heartbreaking message on Facebook after hearing the devastating news.

She wrote: 'Can't believe what happened! RIP Jason Thomas and Naomi Carter, such a shock! Thinking of the family at this time.

'Grew up with the both of you can't believe god has taken two innocent people away.'

She added: 'Little Brogan has lost a lovely mum, she was totally devoted to him.

'He was saved because he was well strapped into his car seat but he has a nasty bump to his head.'

Ms Bath, a bar tender, added: 'Naomi lost her dad when she was very young and it had affected her growing up.

'But when Brogan arrived at the end of last year it changed her outlook and she was so happy.

'She was fun and bubbly and enjoying being a mum. She was so proud of Brogan.

'I have known Jason even longer, we were in primary school together, and he was a loveable lad.

'He and Naomi were back and for with each other a few years ago but their new relationship only began about a month ago.'

Miss Carter (pictured) was in the vehicle with her baby son when the car crashed at 3.15am

The crash happened at around 3.15am on Saturday, November 4 on Swansea Road in Trebanos, Swansea

The car was travelling south towards Clydach when it lost control and crashed into a lamppost

Melissa said there was 'huge relief' that baby Brogan had survived the crash and was expected to make a full recovery.

She added: 'It is heartbreaking - I hope his father Billy can have him full-time now.'

Evelyn Davies, the auntie of Mr Thomas, told Wales Online: 'The whole family are devastated. We are gobsmacked. It's so close to home.

'His parents live near where the crash happened. I can't get over it. He is a well known, popular character in the area, everyone knows Jason.'

A woman, who asked not to be named, told the website she was woken by the sound of the crash near her home.

She said: 'I was the one who pulled the baby out of the car. I'm pretty shaken up at the moment. I don't know the couple, but it's awful what's happened.'

South Wales Police are investigating the way the car was being driven before the crash in Trebanos, Swansea, South Wales.

A South Wales Police spokesman said: 'The car lost control and collided with a lamppost.

'We are appealing for witnesses to the collision or the manner of driving of the vehicle.'

Locals say the crash happened on a dangerous stretch of road and a petition had been handed to Neath Port Talbot calling for traffic calming measures.

Clydach councillor Paulette Smith said: 'My heart goes out to all the family and friends who are affected by this.

'An investigation needs to be made on the dangers of that road - too many people are involved in car accidents there.'
The famous Savile Club in Mayfair is scrapping its 150-year tradition of only accepting men by allowing a member to stay after having a sex change.

The man, who is in his 30s, is believed to be married with two young children and has been told he can remain at the exclusive club because he joined as a man.

Some of its famous members include Lord and British composer Andrew Lloyd-Webber and British author John le Carre.

It was founded by a prestigious group which included famous writers Rudyard Kipling and Henry James.

The famous Savile Club in Mayfair (left) has a policy of only letting men join the private members club (right, inside)

The famous club in London (pictured) was founded by a prestigious group which included writers Rudyard Kipling and Henry James

The governing committee at the Brook Street-based club in London ruled the member can stay once their transitioning process has completed.

Their decision to let the man remain as a member has now raised questions for other organisations which insist on accepting either just men or just women.

It is believed to to have been welcomed by within the club, according to the Sunday Telegraph.

Former MP for Harlow in Essex, Jerry Hayes, has been a member at the club for many years and said it would be 'unfair' to expel him.

He told the newspaper: He's not joining as a woman, he joined as a man.

'It would be unfair for a terrific, friendly guy to expel him from the club just because he's become a woman. That was never considered.'

The governing committee at the club (pictured) voted and agreed the member can stay

Current famous members at the club on Brook Street (pictured) include Andrew Lloyd-Webber

Mr Hayes, who is now a practising barrister, continued: 'The rule is no woman can apply to join the Savile Club.

'This is not at all setting a precedent for who can become a member because this individual applied to join as a man.

'Other members have been perfectly fine about this. I've heard no dissent.'

In 2008, former Prime Minister David Cameron resigned from the oldest gentleman's club in London, White's, because its policy did not allow women to join.

Women are currently allowed to visit the club as guests of members but requests to admit females have been rejected in the past.
This is the millionaire antiques dealer who has been charged over the death of a seven-year-old girl who was found dying at a 1million house.

Robert Peters, 55, was led away from the scene after the youngster - who was known to him - was rushed to hospital after the incident in Raynes Park, south west London.

He was charged with attempted murder and it will now be up to CPS whether the charge is upgraded to murder.

In Wimbledon Magistrates' Court on Saturday, the defendant spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during a four-minute hearing.

Robert Peters, 55, (pictured) was led away from the scene in handcuffs by police and charged with attempted murder

This is the house where a girl was found dying on Friday. Mr Peters, 55, was led away from the home

This is the leafy and quiet road in south west London on which the incident occurred on Friday

Peters, who is originally from West Yorkshire, was wearing a grey jumper when he entered no plea to a single charge of attempted murder.

It is believed Peters is a specialist in Chinese porcelain and runs a business with his twin brother Richard in Kensington Church Street, west London.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear next at Kingston Crown Court on December 1.

Neighbours said Peters had only moved the area recently and the property was bought in February for almost 1million.

According to figures on Companies House, Peters has a business assets worth 1.3million.

A neighbour, who didn't give his name, told MailOnline: 'We're very shocked, you can't imagine anyone murdering a seven-year-old girl.

'It's tragic. I have spoken to him four or five times and he struck me as a reasonable and decent sort of chap.

'There was nothing that would make you say he was a bit of a wrong 'un or nasty.'

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, described arriving home as emergency crews dealt with the developing situation.

The man said: 'I had been taking my kids to school, I turned into this road and thought it was strange because the cop cars were driving on the wrong side of the road.

A doll sits in the window of the house from where the antics dealers was led away on Friday

A police car is seen outside a house in Wimbledon where a seven year old girl was found seriously injured on Friday who has since died

Police say it will be up to the CPS to upgrade the charge to murder now the girl has died

'They were all double-parked, you couldn't get down further than my house really.'

His twin Richard lives in Tel Aviv, Israel, while his third sibling, Paul, is involved in an antiques business in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

Neighbours said Roberts had lived in the area for less than a year.

One said: 'From the little we found out about him over the time he has been here, he has an antiques business with his brother somewhere.

'The people who were selling it told me it was bought outright cash.

'I have spoken to him two or three times. He seems a perfectly reasonable guy, a normal guy, but we could not make out what his family arrangements were.

'His car used to disappear, others used to be there, other cars would come and go.'

A pumpkin was left on the concrete outside the 1million south west London home after Halloween

Shocked neighbours said Roberts had lived in the area for less than a year

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, described arriving home as emergency crews dealt with the developing situation

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: 'Police and London Ambulance Service were called at 8am on Friday, November 3 to an address in Blenheim Road, SW20.

'A seven-year-old girl was found at the scene suffering critical injuries. The girl was taken to a south-west London hospital where she died on Saturday, 4 November 4.

'Her next of kin have been informed. A post-mortem examination will be held in due course.

'A man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. The man is known to the victim. No other suspect is sought by police in connection with the incident.'
Hollywood star Russell Crowe has slammed Australia for refusing New Zealand's offer to resettle 150 refugees stranded on Manus Island and Nauru.

The actor hit back at his critics, who are furious he has used his high profile to criticise Australia's border protection policies on the same day New Zealand's new Labour Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited Sydney.

'If one of the men on Manus was your brother, your uncle, your father...your son...,' the New Zealand-born actor tweeted on Sunday.

'The world is watching Australia and we look like a**holes.'

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New Zealand-born actor Russell Crowe is angry Australia hasn't considered NZ's refugee offer

The Hollywood actor used Twitter to slam those who disagree with him on Manus Island policy

Crowe also doubled down on his Twitter critics who accused him of being uninformed on the issue.

'Go ahead write stupid articles, send me abuse, call me naive. Doesnt change that what Australia has done to these men on Manus is appalling,' Crowe said.

His social media spat came as Ms Ardern visited Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at Kirribilli House on Sydney Harbour and renewed her nation's offer to accept 150 refugees from Manus Island, in Papua New Guinea, and Nauru.

'New Zealand holds an obligation generally to make sure that we maintain our obligations to the United Nations to take refugees,' she told reporters on Sunday morning.

New Zealand's Labour PM Jacinda Ardern renewed her refugee offer during a visit to Sydney

New Zealand's newly elected Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reiterated an offer to take 150 refugees from offshore centres in her first meeting with Malcolm Turnbull (pictured)

An uncomfortable looking Mr Turnbull said his government had to first consider its refugee-swap deal with the United States.

'In the wake of that, obviously we can consider other ones,' he said.

Adding to the drama, right-wing former Liberal immigration minister Kevin Andrews called on his own side of politics to consider New Zealand's offer.

'We should give consideration to what New Zealand is offering,' he told Sky News on Sunday.

Despite the offer to take 150 refugees from the Manus Island (pictured) and Naura centres back on the table, Mr Turnbull said his government would not be accepting it

'The reality is we have an intractable problem at the present time.

'Yes, the United States are going to take some of these people but theres still a large number there.'

However, Mr Andrews said Australia should only accept New Zealand's offer to take the refugees provided 'it doesnt become a backdoor entry via New Zealand to Australia.'

Ms Ardern's relationship with Australia has been controversial since her election with Foreign Minister Julie Bishop describing the 37-year-old New Zealand leader as 'untrustworthy' after an MP from her own Labour Party delved into former deputy PM Barnaby Joyce's dual Kiwi citizenship status.

Jacinda Ardern (left) and Malcolm Turnbull (right) had body language moments on Sunday

Howard government immigration minister Kevin Andrews says NZ deal should be considered

Fronting the media at Kirribilli House on Sunday, Mr Turnbull didn't completely shut the door on Ms Ardern's offer to resettle the refugees, saying they had engaged in 'strong talks'.

Some 600 asylum seekers and refugees have barricaded themselves in the Manus Island complex, which officially closed last Tuesday following a Papua New Guinean Supreme Court ruling in April.

Those inside claim they will be attacked by PNG locals if they move to an alternative unfenced accommodation at nearby Lorengau.

Some 600 asylum seekers and refugees have barricaded themselves in the Manus Island complex, which officially closed last Tuesday

Ms Ardern has reiterated the NZ offer, first made under John Key's centre-right National government to Australia's previous Labor government in 2013.

This was in the same year it declared, under former prime minister Kevin Rudd, that no asylum seeker on Manus Island would ever be settled in Australia.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten softened Labor's stance on Friday, saying the plan had similarities to the US resettlement deal to take 1,250 people.
The daughter of an Australian convicted murderer has opened up about what her life has been like as the child of a killer.

Renee McBryde was born the daughter of double-murderer Michael Caldwell and bravely opened up about discovering the dark secret in an interview with 60 Minutes.

The mother-of-three told how she was horrified to learn she was 'conceived just at the time he committed one of the murders'.

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Renee McBryde (left) and Samantha Bryan (right) whose fathers are convicted murderers have opened up about what their lives have been like as the children of killers

Ms McBryde said she first learned the reason for her father's absence from her life at just six years old when she was told he was not working at Cottee's Cordial but was in jail.

But it wasn't until she was in her teens and working on a school project that the true nature of his horrific crimes became apparent.

Her father Michael Caldwell was 19 and working as a prostitute when he was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Greek Consul General Constantine Giannaris and schoolteacher Peter Parkes.

'I couldn't tell anybody because I had his blood running through my veins. It was tough I couldn't be myself,' Ms McBryde said.

Ms McBryde (pictured) said she first learned the reason for her father's absence from her life at just six years old when she was told he was not working at Cottee's Cordial but was in jail

Ms McBryde's father Michael Caldwell (pictured) was 19 and working as a prostitute when he was sentenced to life in prison for a double murder

Caldwell killed Greek Consul General Constantine Giannaris and schoolteacher Peter Parkes and has had little to do with Ms McBryde since his release

Another woman, Samantha Bryan also opened up about discovering she was the child of English schoolgirl killer Ian Huntley.

Her father was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2002 for the murders 10-year-old Soham schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman.

The girls had been at a barbecue at one of their homes in Cambridgeshire when they went out to buy some sweets, with their bodies recovered two weeks later.

However, Ms Bryan said there has never been any doubt she is 'nothing like' her father referring to him simply as 'a sperm donor'.

Despite her lineage, Ms Bryan said she is not ashamed of who she is, a sentiment echoed and backed up by research.

Ms McBryde (seen around the time she found out her father was injail) is now working in child protection and married to her husband John, with whom she shares three children

'I couldn't tell anybody because I had his blood running through my veins. It was tough I couldn't be myself,' Ms McBryde said

Ian Huntley was jailed for killing schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman is Soham

The death of the two girls, pictured in their Manchester United shirts, sparked national outrage in the UK

Forensic psychiatrist Dr Jeremy O'Dea told host Liz Hayes there is 'no clear generational transmission of murder' either as a behaviour or gene.

'There's been very few people who are children of those who have been convicted of murder who go on to murder themselves,' he said.

Both woman are eager to get on with their lives, with Ms McBryde working in child protection and married to her husband John, with whom she shares three children.

She has not had a relationship with her father since meeting him after his release from jail.

Meanwhile, Ms Bryan was adopted by her mother's husband in 2009 and stated in a recent English documentary that Huntley 'will never deserve to be called dad.'

Another woman, Samantha Bryan (left) also opened up about discovering she was the child of English school-girl killer Ian Huntley, who was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the murders 10-year-old Soham schoolgirls Holly Well and Jessica Chapman
A burglary victim led police to the man who robbed her house by scratching him on the neck and trapping vital DNA evidence under her fingernails.

Annie-Laure Promonet, 42, from Watford, hatched her plan after discovering a man inside her flat trying to steal her laptop in July this year.

She tackled the burglar, tearing away his hoodie and digging her nails into his neck - collecting evidence that led police straight to serial offender Marvyn Mulvey, 40.

Jailing Mulvey for seven-and-a-half years on Friday, Deputy Circuit Judge Graham Arran praised Ms Promonet's bravery, saying she 'showed a very cool head'.

Annie-Laure Promonet, 42, from Watford, led police to burglar Marvyn Mulvey, 40, after scratching him on the neck to trap his DNA under her fingernails

French-born Ms Pomonet, who has lived in this country for 15 years, told the court how she fought with Mulvey after discovering him inside her flat on July 22.

Speaking outside court Ms Promonet, who works as an internal sales co-ordinator, said: 'Why did I do what I did? I think it was because I didn't have time to think.

'I had come home from the shops that afternoon and realised because I couldn't see my laptop that someone had been in my home.

'Then I heard a noise behind me and realised someone was in hallway of the building. I went out and he was making his way towards the front door with a bag. I just ran after him and grabbed him and pulled him back into my flat.

'I didn't have time to think that it was a dangerous thing to do. Maybe if I'd had just a few more seconds to think about it I wouldn't have done it, but I knew he had my laptop in the bag and I wanted to get it back.'

Prosecutor Richard Jones told the court that Ms Promonet succeeded in pulling Mulvey from the outside hallway back into her flat and to the kitchen.

He said 'negotiations' began with the brave householder pleading for the return of her laptop.

'She said he could have anything, but her laptop which was her life,' said Mr Jones.

He said a struggle then took place as Ms Promonet held onto Mulvey and the bag he was holding as best she could.

At one point Mulvey, who had been released from a previous prison sentence just days earlier, grabbed an empty wine bottle and used it to strike the woman over the back of the head and body.

The prosecutor said Ms Promonet continued to struggle with her attacker and realised the importance of gathering a trace of his DNA.

'She made it her aim to scratch him to obtain his DNA. She did that and was right,' said Mr Jones.

Ms Promonet told how she fought with Mulvey in the hallway of her Watford flat in July after discovering him inside trying to take her laptop

Deputy Circuit Judge Graham Arran jailed Mulvey for seven-and-a-half years at St Albans crown court on Friday while awarding Ms Promonet 350 for her bravery

The court heard Mulvey had chalked up 25 previous convictions and his first burglary conviction had been in 1992. Four years later he had been convicted of burglary with intent to rape and attempted rape.

He committed more burglaries over the years and in 2015 had been jailed for four years and six months for two offences of burglary, going equipped and escaping from lawful custody.

He had only just been released from that sentence when in July this year, homeless and penniless, he broke into Ms Promonet's flat.

The court was told that after fleeing from her home that afternoon, Mulvey had managed to find himself accommodation with the help of a homeless charity based in Rickmansworth Road in Watford.

But within weeks police had the results of the fingernail scrapings taken from Ms Promonet and a DNA match for Mulvey. He was soon traced and arrested.

In a letter to the judge Mulvey had penned, he told how he was sorry for what'd done and said 'Drugs and crime is all I have ever known.'

He said he was desperate to change his ways and added: 'I can only pray that poor lady recovers enough to put it all behind her. What I have put her though, no one should have to go though.'

On Friday he appeared at St Albans crown court and pleaded guilty to burgling Annie-Laure's ground floor flat in Watford town centre on the afternoon of July 22 this year as well as assaulting her occasioning her actual bodily harm.

He asked for 18 offences to be considered, 17 of which were residential break-ins.

Meanwhile the judge ruled that Ms Promonet should be given 350 out of public funds for her bravery.

She will be presented with her award at a ceremony at the crown court in the next few months.
A white woman jailed for luring vulnerable youngsters into the clutches of an Asian sex gang has been attacked after fellow inmates 'found out what she's in for'.

Carolann Gallon - called Chucky by friends - was a key member of a paedophile group who abused hundreds of girls in Newcastle.

The 23-year-old was the only female to be jailed as part of a major probe into the gang and was originally locked up alongside notorious serial killer Rose West at HMP Low Newton in County Durham.

Sex trafficker Carolann Gallon has been attacked behind bars after fellow prisoners found out about her sickening crimes

Carrolann Gallon's father, Jimmy, who has lost both of his legs to diabetes, claims his daughter was a victim of the gang and did not deserve a prison sentence

Former steel worker Mr Gallon has 17 children with four different women. He said other prisoners found out about his daughter's crimes and attacked her

As revealed by MailOnline, her fellow prisoners had discussed attacking Gallon due to the sickening nature of her crimes.

She was moved almost 150 miles away to Cheshire's HMP Styal, according to Chronicle Live, where she was assaulted last week.

Her father Jimmy Gallon said: 'People have found out what she's in for and she's getting grief.

'She got moved from one place to another because she was getting picked on, then she rang me saying she had been assaulted by someone in there.

'She cries every time I speak to her. It's awful for me because I feel so helpless.

'She's my daughter and I just feel like there's nothing I can do for her.

(Top row left to right) Abdul Sabe, Habibur Rahim, Badrul Hussain, Abdulhamid Minoyee, Jahanger Zaman, Monjur Choudhury, (middle row left to right) Taherul Alam, Hassan Ali, Nadeem Aslam, Mohammed Azram, Yassar Hussain, Saiful Islam, (bottom row left to right) Eisa Mousavi, Prabhat Nelli, Mohibur Rahman, Nashir Uddin, Redwan Siddquee and Carolann Gallon, who have been found guilty following Operation Shelter

Gallon has reportedly been attacked inside HMP Styal (pictured)

'I really miss her but my hands are tied. It's just heartbreaking for me.'

Mr Gallon, who has lost both of his legs to diabetes, claims his daughter was a victim of the gang and did not deserve a prison sentence.

The former steel worker has 17 children with four different women and said she went off the rails as a teenager.

The decision to charge Gallon was taken by the UKs senior law officer the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Gallon, jailed for six years, was the only female to be sentenced as part of Operation Shelter, Northumbria Police's wide-ranging investigation into sexual exploitation in Newcastle.

Newcastle Crown Court was told the Asian gang would prey on vulnerable young women, luring them to depraved 'parties' where they would be drugged and raped.

Gallon pleaded guilty to three counts of trafficking for sexual exploitation after a court heard she left one victim - who had learning disabilities - in the hands of rapist Abdulhamid Minoyee.
Paul Row, 52, died in his flat at the Sir Oswald Stoll Mansions on Fulham Road

Furious families have torn into a military charity amid claims two veterans died in its care and were left decomposing in their flats.

Paul Row, 52, and John Hiscott, 32, both passed away in their flats at the Sir Oswald Stoll Mansions on Fulham Road, London, in the past year.

Their families have been left furious by the Stoll Foundation's reaction to their concerns that the charity had not checked up on the veterans for days while they died in their homes.

The state in which Mr Row, who died in February, and Mr Hiscott, who died in May, were found suggest they had been dead for days before being found.

In both cases, the families were told they were unable to see their loved one because the veterans' bodies had decomposed too badly.

The Charity Commission has now raised a compliance case - the stage of gathering information before a formal investigation would be launched, though the charity has denied any wrongdoing.

Mr Row completed tours in Canada, Cyprus and Northern Ireland during his time in the 1st Royal Anglian Regiment.

As a result of his time in the military, post-traumatic stress disorder took its toll after he was discharged due to a crippling knee injury.

Mr Row's sister Jane Row told MailOnline the flat was freezing cold and that the window was open when she arrived having become worried about her brother.

She said: 'We haven't heard anything from anyone, and we just want recognition.

'No officials have contacted us, nobody from Stoll has contacted us.

'We'd just like for something positive to come out of this. They obviously haven't learned their lesson from the first time because it happened again.

'Something just needs to be done, because I wonder how many other times this has happened.'

Paul Row, 52, and John Hiscott, 32, both passed away in their flats at the Sir Oswald Stoll Mansions on Fulham Road, London, in the past year

Mr Hiscott was in the charity's care having attempted suicide in 2002 just a week away from completing his second training phase to join the Blues and Royals regiment, according to the Telegraph.

His mother Judy Hiscott told the paper her family spent a week worrying about her son and desperately tried to get in touch with them.

After they called the office a third time, four hours later Mr Hiscott's body was found.

Mrs Hiscott told the Telegraph: 'A gentleman called my husband's phone and the conversation literally was "we've broken into the flat, your son's dead, the police will be visiting".

John Hiscott, 32, who died in his flat at Sir Oswald Stoll Mansions on Fulham Road, London

'And we've had no contact with them since. No condolences, nothing.'

Mr Row was found to have died of a heart attack.

There will be no inquest as a result, but Mr Hiscott's death is to be probed in January.

The time of his death coincided with a heat-wave in the UK.

Mr Hiscott's family were also denied access to their loved one's body following the death.

A spokeswoman from the commission told MailOnline: 'As we highlighted in a recent report, charities set up to help veterans, who can be vulnerable members of our society, must make their care and protection an absolute priority.

'They should have in place robust safeguarding policies and ensure they are followed in practice.

'We will be contacting the trustees of the Sir Oswald Stoll Foundation to seek more information on concerns that have been raised with us regarding the running of the charity to determine whether we need to take any regulatory action.'

The commission said it was not yet a formal investigation and that concerns were raised by a third party.

Ed Tytherleigh, CEO at Stoll, told the Telegraph claims the men lay for days following their death were 'false and not supported by the evidence'.

He claims his staff saw Mr Row on 'multiple occasions' before his death, including the day before he died.

Having reviewed the cases, he said he was 'satisfied that at all times' the charity acted appropriately and said everyone at Stoll were 'deeply saddened' by the passing of 'cherished tenants'.
Sacked Catalan President Carles Puigdemont

Sacked Catalonian leader Carles Puigdemont has turned himself in to Belgian police after Spain issued an arrest warrant for him and four ex-ministers.

Belgian prosecutors, who have a European arrest warrant from Spain for Puigdemont and four of his associates, said those wanted handed themselves in this morning and that their cases will be heard by judge in Brussels this afternoon.

A spokesman for the Brussels' prosecutor's office, Gilles Dejemeppe, said the five presented themselves to federal police and have been in custody since 9am local time.

He said that they have not been arrested and that Mr Puigdemont and the four ex-ministers would be heard by an investigative judge on Sunday afternoon.

The judge will have to decide what the next steps are within 24 hours. They could vary from arrest and imprisonment to conditional release.

A Spanish National Court judge issued warrants for the five separatist politicians on suspicion of five crimes, including rebellion and embezzlement, on Friday, a day after the same judge sent another eight former Catalan Cabinet members to jail without bail while her investigation continues.

A ninth spent a night in jail and was freed after posting bail.

Puigdemont wrote in Dutch in his Twitter account on Saturday that he is 'prepared to fully cooperate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain'.

Belgian state prosecutors were examining international arrest warrants issued by Spain for the ousted leader of Catalonia and other members of his disbanded Cabinet.

Puigdemont and four of his ex-ministers fled to Belgium this past week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to impede the region's illegal declaration of independence.

Federal prosecutors in Belgium said on Saturday that they were studying the warrants and that they had shared them with city counterparts in Brussels.

Spokesperson of Brussels Federal prosecutor Gilles Dejemppe gives a press briefing in Brussels, Belgium

General Coordinator of the Democratic European Party of Catalonia (PDeCAT) Marta Pascal speaks during the National Council meeting held to define the party's position regarding Catalan regional elections on 21 December in Barcelona, Spain

pokesperson of Brussels Federal prosecutor Gilles Dejemppe (centre) gives a press briefing in Brussels, Belgium, after Carles Puigdemont turned himself in

Sacked Catalan President Carles Puigdemont makes a statement in this still image from video calling for the release of 'the legitimate government of Catalonia', after a Spanish judge ordered nine Catalan secessionist leaders to be held in custody pending a potential trial over the region's independence push, in Brussels, Belgium

Independence supporters protest against the judge order on Catalan leaders to be held in custody in jail pending trial on November 2, 2017 in Barcelona, Spain

The separatist party of deposed Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont, who is facing an arrest warrant issued by Spain, said Sunday they wanted him as candidate for regional elections on December 21.

PDeCAT spokeswoman Marta Pascal told party members: 'We want president Puigdemont to be the person who leads the big offensive we will carry out on the 21st at the polls.'

However, Puigdemont's lawyer in Brussels had previously said that his client plans to fight extradition to Spain without requesting political asylum.

Legal experts estimate that the process from arrest to extradition, including appeals, could take as long as two months before Puigdemont would be sent back to Spain.

That delay could give Puigdemont time to influence, and even participate from afar, in the snap regional election called by Spain's government for Catalonia on December 21.

While Puigdemont remains absconded in Europe's capital, back in northeastern Spain political forces are hurriedly jockeying for position to start a campaign that promises to be as bitter as it is decisive to Spain's worst institutional crisis in nearly four decades.

While pro-union parties try to rally support to win back control of the regional parliament in Barcelona, pro-secession parties are debating whether or not to form one grand coalition for the upcoming ballot.

Parties have until Tuesday to register as coalitions or they must run separately. Puigdemont weighed in on the debate Saturday, backing his center-right Democratic Party of Catalonia's push to form one pro-secession bloc.

Catalan ex-regional president Artur Mas, the first leader to harness the political momentum for secession, told Catalan public television on Sunday that he backed a fusion of parties for the December vote.

But, he said, the main goals must be to recover the self-rule of the region and the release of the jailed separatists, not another immediate attempt to culminate the independence drive.

'Under these exceptional circumstances that our country is going through, don't we have to substitute the normal and logical competition for the cooperation we all need?' Mas said.

'If we add the issue of independence, we won't get as many people to support us.'

The separatist majority of Catalonia's Parliament ignored repeated warnings from Spanish authorities and voted in favor of a declaration of independence on October 27.

The next day, Spain's central government used extraordinary constitutional powers to fire Catalonia's government, take charge of its administrations, dissolve its regional parliament and call a regional election.

Spain's Constitution says the nation is 'indivisible' and that all matters of national sovereignty pertain to the country's parliament.

In all, Spanish prosecutors are investigating 20 regional politicians for rebellion and other crimes that could be punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Another two leaders of pro-secession grassroots groups are also in jail while an investigation continues into suspicion of sedition.

Hundreds of pro-secession Catalans gathered in town squares across the region Sunday to put up posters in support of independence and to demand the release of the jailed separatists.

Thousands of people took to the streets of Bilbao despite the rain to support Catalonia

Demonstrators carrying both Basque and Catalan flags walked side by side in the rain

The demonstrators marched peacefully through the centre of the city despite the heavy rain

Demonstrators in Barcelona described the jailed Catalonian ministers as 'political prisoners'

Trade unionists joined the demonstration in Bilbao which criticised Article 155 of the Spanish constitution which gave Madrid power to take over the Catalonian institutions

'People came today because we want to send a message to Europe that even if our president is still in Brussels and all our government now is in Madrid jailed, that the independence movement still didn't finish and people are still striving to get independence in a peaceful and democratic way,' said 24-year-old protester Adria Ballester in Barcelona.

The grassroots group Catalan National Assembly has also called for a strike on Wednesday and a public protest on Saturday.

Fueled by questions of cultural identity and economic malaise, secessionist sentiment has skyrocketed to reach roughly half of the 7.5 million residents of Catalonia, a prosperous region that is proud of its Catalan language spoken along with Spanish.

Puigdemont and his fellow separatists claim that an illegal referendum on secession held on October 1 that polled 43 percent of the electorate and failed to meet international standards gives them a mandate for independence.

Barcelona fans unfurled a banner calling for justice at the Camp Nou during last night's game

Demonstrators said Article 155 of the Spanish constitution was anti-democratic

Spain faces various groups who want various forms of independence from Madrid
The objects, from the Islamic and Pharaonic eras, are currently being examined at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo's Tahrir Square

Egypt's Ministry of Antiquities has received a collection of 400 stolen and illegally smuggled artefacts returned to Egypt by the government of Sharjah.

The collection of Egyptian artefacts was seized by the Sharjah police in the United Arab Emirates and sent back to Cairo upon the order of Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammad Al-Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

According to a ministry statement, Egypt's Minister of Antiquities Khaled El-Enany "appreciates the initiative launched by his highness Sheikh Al-Qasimi and the UAE authorities, which highlights his support for culture and preserving Egyptian heritage, a matter that reflects the strong and good relationship between the two countries."

El-Enany added that, once the artefacts have been unpacked and documented, they will be put on display in a special exhibition at the ministry.

Shaaban Abdel Gawad, director-general of the ministry's Antiquities Repatriation Department, told Ahram Online that the objects are very valuable, most of them dating back to the Pharaonic period and some belonging to the Islamic era.

He said they include the following: a collection of painted false doors carved in stone; copper statuettes of ancient Egyptian deities such as Isis and Osiris; a collection of amulets made of faience; and udjat eyes made of copper and decorated with blue glass.

Fragments of diorite statues in the shape of sphinxes are also among the collection.

The artefacts are currently being examined and documented at the Egyptian museum, said Abdel Gawad.

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The National Trust has been accused of 'desecrating' a Cornish beauty spot which featured in BBC series Poldark by installing health and safety barriers.

Locals were left furious after the Trust decided to install metal grates and wire fences around several sites on the 'tin coast' near St Just in Penwith, West Cornwall.

The barriers were put up amid fears that an increase in tourist numbers, driven by the success of the BBC series, could lead to injuries and accidents.

Locals in Cornwall have reacted with fury after several landmarks along the tin coast, including High Bal mine (pictured), were covered with health and safety barriers

The National Trust, which manages the site, said the barriers were put up to ensure the safety of visitors. There has been a spike in numbers since BBC series Poldark became popular

In September emergency services found themselves involved in a six-hour rescue operation after a visitor from Wales fell down a disused mine shaft.

But critics claim the National Trust is ruining the landscape including nearby Levant mines, which has UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Mary Warren, 70, said: 'They have no respect for the locals and certainly none for the buildings - it's health and safety gone mad.

'Generations have come to no harm, because we are not country bumpkins, as a lot of people think. Anyone with a jot of common sense would know better than explore obvious danger sites.

'So, because of idiots, the National Trust have violated an historic site. I don't usually get so angry at things - it's live and let live.

'As someone who has lived here all my 70 years, and whose grandfather and great grandfathers, for generations, worked in Levant and Geevor and even Crowns - I'm angry at the mindless vandalism.'

The National Trust has faced a backlash after the installation of pay-and-display parking machines at the site, which prompted a spate of vigilante vandalism.

High Bal mine has featured in the BBC series, which largely takes place on the Cornish coast

The tin coastline provides much of the backdrop for the series, and has renewed interest among tourists who are now flocking there

The site at Levant is particularly sensitive as it was the scene of one of Cornwall's worst ever mining disasters, when 31 men lost their lives in 1919.

Large metal grills have been placed across mine shafts and safety fencing has blocked off archways with stunning views of the coastline.

It comes after tourist Andrew Williams, 51, from Penarth in Wales, sparked a rescue operation on September 24 after he tumbled down a mine shaft and suffered hip and leg injuries. He had called for more to be done to protect sightseers.

Regular visitor Ruth Bettie said: 'I want to see it in its natural state, as close as possible to how it used to be when the mines were operational.

'I do not want to see some twee 'chocolate box' presentation that resembles a Poldark theme park.

'I think that what the National Trust has done here is vandalism and desecration.

'I think it's the nanny state gone mad. It's an old mining area - there will be mines.'

In September emergency services had to spend six hours rescuing a Welsh tourist who fell down a mine and hurt himself, leading to calls for the safety measures

And regular visitor Jon Woodward hit out at the charity's 'sheer insensitivity.'

He said: 'As someone who first visited the area 45 years ago, my perception is that the NT 'work' at Levant has destroyed the special ambience of a truly unique site in a very short timeframe.

'There is barely a year I don't walk that stretch at least once - and now it has been ruined for me.

'The sheer insensitivity of the scheme in putting a Disney-style stamp on the 'visitor experience' is quite astonishing.'

A spokesman for The National Trust said: 'We're committed to allowing people to safely access Cornwall's unique mining landscapes that are in the care of the National Trust.

'We use traditional methods of protection where possible, such as Cornish Hedging, or industrial solutions like wire rope or steel.

'We take a Risk Assessment based approach to the work we do and try to ensure it is proportionate.

'The safety works at Levant are unfinished and contractors will be returning to complete them shortly.'
Pauline Hanson likened Australia's alcohol taxes to rape after she landed back in Brisbane from India.

During a stopover in Singapore, the One Nation leader used a rather controversial comparison to slam the difference between duty-free prices and what Australians pay after tax for beer and spirits.

'I'm just in transit at Singapore looking forward to being home,' she told her 214,000 Facebook followers on Sunday. 'Anyone want some duty free?

'It's times like this you realise how much money the government are reaping (or raping, depending on which way you look at it) from Aussie consumers on alcohol.'

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Pauline Hanson is embraced by One Nation's sole Queensland parliament MP Steve Dickson

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson told her supporters alcohol excise was like 'rape'

While travellers are able to bring in up to 2.25 litres of alcohol into Australia duty free, pure alcohol is taxed at more than $34 a litre if full-strength beer is sold in a 48-litre keg.

Beer sold in small containers, such as bottles, attracts excise of close to $49 a litre.

However, Senator Hanson didn't mention Australia's excise during a media conference at Brisbane airport on Sunday with her supporters.

Instead, she used her parliamentary study trip to India, which is home to 1.3 billion people, to hammer her message about the need for Australia to cut back its annual immigration intake.

Pauline Hanson (pictured with former One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts) drank champagne last year to celebrate Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential race

Pauline Hanson has little political baggage as she is greeted by supporters at Brisbane airport

'It was a fantastic trip going to India but just to open up my eyes and why we have to stop further immigration in this country until we get our construction and everything right,' she said.

She was greeted by One Nation's only MP in the Queensland parliament Steve Dickson, a defector and former minister from the Liberal National Party.

Her arrival came a day after a Galaxy poll showed her party's support had risen from 15 per cent to 18 per cent during the past three months.

Backing for the major parties had fallen since the January 2015 election, with the LNP dipping to 32 per cent and Labor down to 35 per cent.

With polls showing no major party having a majority following the November 25 Queensland election, One Nation may end up with the balance of power to choose who forms the next state government.
Oma Holloway and Michael Catlyn were in line at the Strand Cafe located in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, when they saw the alleged offenses on Tuesday

A Brooklyn cafe has come under intense criticism after they were accused of passing out candy only to white children on Halloween.

Oma Holloway and Michael Catlyn were waiting in line at the Strand Cafe located in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, when they saw the alleged offenses on Tuesday afternoon.

They claim to have seen a singular employee dismiss three groups of black children dressed up in costume and accompanied by adults while trick-or-treating.

When an older white woman came in with two white kids, the male employee reached behind the counter and pulled out a glass jar.

Inside were individually wrapped cookies that the man then hastily gave to the children.

Catlyn, 54, said to the New York Daily News: 'I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I was thinking there is no way this is happening right now.'

He and Holloway - who are both members of Community Board 3 - then confronted the employee who attempted to apologize in broken English.

They (Holloway left and Catlyn right) claim to have seen a singular employee dismiss three groups of black children dressed up in costume and accompanied by adults while trick-or-treating

When an older white woman came in with two white kids, the male employee reached behind the counter and pulled out a glass jar

The duo left the establishment and Holloway would then go on to post about the incident on his Facebook.

Soon after, people took to the establishment's Google and Yelp pages and wrote scathing reviews, bringing Strand Cafe's rating down below two stars on both.

And on social media, people blasted the cafe for the racist action.

One user said: 'They're trying to whitewash our neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Do not patronize The Strand Cafe on Nostrand Av between Hancock n Halsey.'

'Welcome to #StrandCafe,' added another along with a picture of terrorist group the Ku Klux Klan.

'D**n brooklyn. Be sure to let everyone know to NOT patronize Strand Cafe at Nostrand Ave in Bed-Sty,' said another.

One user said: 'They're trying to whitewash our neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Do not patronize The Strand Cafe on Nostrand Av between Hancock n Halsey'

'Welcome to #StrandCafe,' added another along with a picture of terrorist group the Ku Klux Klan

'D**n brooklyn. Be sure to let everyone know to NOT patronize Strand Cafe at Nostrand Ave in Bed-Sty,' said another

Protesters gathered in front of the store, hanging signs that read 'Trick or Treat? Treats for 'SOME'. Tricks for "OTHERS".'

On Sunday, someone claiming to be the owner of Strand Cafe took to social media to offer some insight into what they called a 'misunderstanding.'

Just wanted to clarify that the incident happened in my absence. A manager was also on sick leave. The person responsible was a part time employee in status of a trainee,' they said in the Facebook post.

'He was a very new guy who is 18 years old and who recently came to this country and was working at my cafe for only 10 days. All these is absolutely not an excuse for his behavior and is not what myself or other employees of cafe stand for.

'I would also like to clarify that myself- Im an Asian & Brown who was raised in this country with multi-culture, and I believe in equivalent freedom of rights for every single human being.

On Sunday, someone claiming to be the owner of Strand Cafe took to social media to offer some insight into what they called a 'misunderstanding'

He then went on to add that he had met with leaders in the community so that he could explain before offering his apologies again

The owner went on to add that they did not condone discrimination and that they fired the employee responsible.

He then went on to add that he had met with leaders in the community so that he could explain before offering his apologies again.

They added: 'Once again on behalf of my caffe and other employees l deeply regret and apologize to everyone who was hurt and would like to assure you that this will never ever happen again.

'Everyone is welcome to my strand cafe with equal respect. I wish you all the best.'

Holloway confirmed that the meeting took place on her Facebook

Holloway confirmed that the meeting took place on her Facebook.

'It was a productive meeting and action has been taken by the owner and other entities. The owner apologized,' she said.

'We (Community Board 3) will be issuing a statement by Monday about the incident and next steps. As we move forward, we want to send a clear message to ALL businesses that discrimination of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our community.'
One of Casey Anthony's former lawyers was convicted of cocaine trafficking in court on Friday.

Todd Macaluso was found guilty of an international cocaine distribution conspiracy after plotting to fly a plane-full of the drugs from Ecuador to Honduras, according to the New York Daily News.

The jury deliberated for just over an hour before announcing the guilty verdict in a Brooklyn federal court.

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One of Casey Anthony's former lawyers Todd Macaluso (pictured comforting Anthony in 2009) was convicted of cocaine trafficking in court on Friday

Prosecutors have said the 55-year-old had planned to fly more than 3,000 pounds of cocaine on his Falcon 10 plane.

Once the drugs reached Honduras he was planning on smuggling them into the United States, prosecutors have said.

The drugs were valued at roughly $13million, and Macaluso would have gotten $185,000 in return after the drop-off was complete, federal agents claim.

Though it is unclear how much time Macaluso faces now that he has been convicted, drug trafficking charges can result in sentencing anywhere from three years to life in prison.

Prosecutors have said the 55-year-old had planned to fly more than 3,000 pounds of cocaine on his Falcon 10 plane. Once the drugs reached Honduras he was planning on smuggling them into the United States, prosecutors have said. He is pictured in 2015

Macaluso's lawyer Michael Gold told the Daily News his client was 'disappointed with the verdict but looks forward to being vindicated in future proceedings.' Macaluso is pictured in 2015

The disbarred lawyer was arrested in Haiti last November.

At the time he was out of jail on a supervised release after being convicted for defrauding clients in California.

Authorities first noticed the suspicious activities last October while investigating trug traffickers who were trying to use a plane registered in the states.

Carlos Almonte Vasquez and Humberto Osuna Contreras, co-defendants with the former lawyer, said they met Macaluso in Port au-Prince in early November to plot out how to pull of the drug smuggle.

'Macaluso described, in the presence of both Almonte Vasquez and Osuna Contreras, the structure of the subject aircraft, stating that it could hold 1,500 kilograms of cocaine,' Detective Alexander Sosa of the DEA task force said.

All three men were flown to MacArthur Airport in Long Island to be arraigned, and were denied because it was believed they were flight risks.

Macaluso's lawyer Michael Gold told the Daily News his client was 'disappointed with the verdict but looks forward to being vindicated in future proceedings.'

Macaluso worked as Casey Anthony's lawyer in 2009 and 2010. A year later she was found not guilty of murdering her two-year-old daughter Caylee

He worked as Anthony's lawyer for roughly a year in 2009 and 2010. In 2011 the Florida woman was acquitted of murdering her two-year-old daughter.

Anthony was first charged with killing Caylee in 2008 when a family member reported that they hadn't seen the toddler in over a month, and thought the mother's car smelled like a dead body.

The toddler's skeletal remains were found in December in a trash bag in the woods near the family's home, and it is thought she died after duct-tape placed over her mouth caused her to suffocate.
Islamic State terrorists will try to launch terrorist attacks in the West with military-grade weapons from the Middle East, a retired police commander from Sydney says.

Mark Murdoch, who last week retired as the New South Wales Police Force's assistant commissioner for counter-terrorism, said more terrorist attacks in Australia were imminent despite the best efforts of authorities.

'Every day that passes we're another day closer to the next terrorist attack,' he told The Australian.

'As sure as night follows day we're going to experience another attack somewhere.'

Mark Murdoch predicted ISIS would try to export military-grade weapons as Islamic State lost ground in Syria (rebel fighters near Aleppo pictured in February)

Retired assistant police commissioner Mark Murdoch said another terrorist attack is imminent

He predicted IS terrorists would export military-grade weapons from war zones in Syria in a bid to launch new attacks in the West, as ISIS increasingly loses territory in the Middle East.

In late July, four men were arrested in raids across Sydney in connection with an alleged plot to smuggle an improvised explosive device on to an Etihad Airways flight out of Sydney bound for Abu Dhabi.

If executed, this would have killed 412 people on board Boeing flight EY 451, which left Australia on July 15.

Mr Murdoch said Islamic State terrorists were likely to try and replicate this foiled alleged plot, involving military-grade explosives from Turkey concealed inside a meat grinder.

The retired police commander predicted terrorists would try again to smuggle military grade explosives on to a plane, following an alleged foiled Ethihad Airlines plot in July

Two of the men arrested over that plot, Khaled and Mahmoud Khayat, are the brothers of a man who fought in Syria with Islamic State.

NSW has suffered from three terrorist-related deaths, and a terror-related murder charge, since 2014.

Lindt cafe manager Tori Johnson and barrister Katrina Dawson died at the end of a 16-hour siege in Sydney at the hands of Iranian-born Man Monis in December 2014.

Less than a year later, in October 2015, 15-year-old gunman Farhad Jabar killed accountant Curtis Cheng outside police headquarters in Parramatta after reportedly visiting a mosque.

In April, two boys aged 15 and 16 were charged with allegedly stabbing Caltex service station worker Zeeshan Akbar at Queanbeyan, near Canberra, after reportedly being inspired by Islamic State.
One unlucky motorist was forced to call the RAC after his antique automobile gave up the ghost

More than 450 vehicles set off from Hyde Park, London, this morning to drive the 60 miles to Brighton

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Hundreds of vintage cars today took part in the Bonhams' London to Brighton Veteran Car Run on Sunday.

More than 450 vehicles set off from Hyde Park this morning to drive the 60 miles to the East Sussex town as motoring enthusiasts flocked to the capital's streets to watch.

But not everyone made it all the way.

One unlucky motorist was forced to call the RAC after his antique automobile gave up the ghost while others were also spotted having difficulties.

Now in its 121st year, the rally is the longest-running motoring event in the world.

The event commemorates the Emancipation Run of 14 November 1896 which celebrated the speed limit for 'light locomotives' being raised from 4 mph to 14 mph.

Until 1896, the law had required a man with a red flag to walk ahead of all cars, which meant they could not exceed walking pace.

To be eligible to enter, cars must have a pre-1905 registration. Vehicles must reach the Brighton finish line by 4.30pm to qualify for a medal.

Celebrity drivers taking part include Charley Boorman, driving a 1904 Rover 8 hp from the British Motor Museum, and BBC presenters Chris Evans and Alex Jones.

Fancy seeing you here: Two men don masks of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they cross Westminster Bridge in their black vehicle

Going nowhere fast: Mechanics from the RAC help a man whose antique car has broken down

It's going to be a long way to Brighton! Two women wait for help after their car breaks down during the rally

Oops: Participants crossing Westminster Bridge are forced to stop after their car breaks down

And they're off! Charlie Boorman and Damon Hill tear up the Red Flag to start The Bonham's Vintage car Run from Hyde Park Corner

Full steam ahead: Participants drive through Wellington Arch as crowds gather to watch

Fun for all the family: More than 450 vehicles set off from Hyde Park this morning to drive the 60 miles to Brighton

Taking in the sights: Participants cross over Westminster Bridge in London as they take part in the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

Clear the slow lane! A vintage car crosses Westminster Bridge in central London during the Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

Tight squeeze: Now in its 121st year, the rally is the longest-running motoring event in the world

Oh la la! These vintage car enthusiasts impressed with their French model, which sported a Tricolore

Travelling back in time: Motoring enthusiasts from across the country braved the chilly weather to watch the antique automobiles as they weaved through the streets of the capital

Not again! Another car breaks down passing over Westminster bridge and gets a push start from bystanderss Bonhams London To Brighton Veteran Car Run

One of the first: One pair drove the 1897 Bergmann down the Mall past Buckingham Palace

All smiles: Participants cross over Westminster Bridge in London as they take part in the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

Travelling in style: Len Brownm, Harrods's curator of historic vehicles with the Harrods 1901 veteran Pope Waverley electric car in Hyde Park ahead of the annual Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

Old meets new: A passenger in a bright green vehicle films the spectacle on their smart phone

What a beauty! A man passes over Westminster Bridge in his blue and yellow vehicle at sunrise

Bit misty this morning? These passengers wrapped up warm as they make their way through Hyde Park during the 60-mile rally

What a view: Passengers take in the stunning views of central London as they make their way (slowly) across Westminster Bridge

Traditional: Now in its 121st year, the rally is the longest-running motoring event in the world

Holding up traffic: The vintage cars weaved their way through central London traffic at a considerably slower pace

On the road again! This pair braved the cold in a stunning open-top blue and gold car as they travel through Hyde Park

Steampunks dream: Some fans really got into the spirit by dressing in period attire for the occasion

On the road: Car-lovers took to the road for the legendary car showcase, which sees some of the oldest vehicles drive a 60 mile route from London to Brighton

Iconic: The cars drove a route which started at Hyde Park Corner and passed a slew of London landmarks

Pedal to the medal: One history fan chose a more unconventional vehicle, riding a penny farthing

Good to go! BBC presenter Chris Evans gave a friend a high five before hitting the road
Justyna Sobieraj recruited brides to take part in sham marriages so immigrants could remain in the UK

A woman who recruited brides to take part in sham marriages so immigrants could remain in the UK has been jailed for seven years.

Justyna Sobieraj masterminded multiple fake marriage ceremonies to ensure non-EU nationals could stay after their visas had expired.

Sobieraj, 37, was responsible for recruiting brides to take part in the bogus weddings in Southampton, Hants, and Winchester.

In two cases, Sobieraj, from Southampton, had her plans thwarted by immigration officers who turned up at the offices on the day of the weddings and shut down the ceremonies.

Sobieraj was sentenced to seven years in prison at Southampton Crown Court after admitting conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration.

She was sentenced alongside Kamila Grzymala - one of the brides whose marriage ceremonies she organised.

Grzymala, 34 and from Southampton, was sentenced to two years for conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and two years for bigamy - with both terms suspended for two years.

Sobieraj has been jailed for seven years masterminded multiple fake marriage ceremonies. Eric Asante (right), helped with the scam and was sentenced to eight years

A third defendant Eric Asante, 47 and from London, who helped Sobieraj arrange the string of sham marriages, was sentenced to eight years in his absence when he failed to attend the hearing.

Part of the hearing related to a separate three-week trial, at which Asante and Sobieraj were convicted of assisting unlawful immigration.

Judge Gary Burrell QC said Sobieraj had been 'seduced' by the prospect of financial gain.

Turning to Grzymala, he added: 'You have been extremely stupid.'

Speaking after the case, immigration officer Nick Jupp said: 'These marriages were a way for Sobieraj and the 'brides' to line their own pockets.'
Two brutal killers who put pillowcases over the heads of British expat grandparents before throwing them off a bridge into a fast-flowing river have been jailed for life.

Roger and Christine Solik had emigrated to start a new life in South Africa but were murdered by two men for resisting as they were robbed of 112, a TV, DVD player and some alcohol.

Father-of-four Roger, 66, and wife Christine, 57, were abducted from their home in a robbery and had their legs tied and bound.

Their bodies were later found in the Izinga River, some 45 miles from their home where they had moved to after leaving Abercynon, South Wales, in the 1980s.

Roger and Christine Solik (pictured) were brutally murdered by armed robbers on their farm

A post mortem found Mr Solik - who suffered from Parkinson's Disease - died from being suffocated.

Mrs Solik, 57, suffered multiple stab wounds but was still alive when she entered the water - and died from drowning.

Brian Ndlovu, 38, and Thulani Moses Mthembu have both been jailed for life for the murders of the couple.

Ndlovu admitted murdering the Welsh couple at Pietermaritzburg High Court and was sentenced to two life sentences, as well as 10 years for kidnapping and 15 years for house robbery at their home about 100 miles from Durban.

Brian Ndlovu (pictured) admitted murdering the Welsh couple at Pietermaritzburg High Court and was sentenced to two life sentences, as well as 10 years for kidnapping and 15 years for house robbery at their home about 100 miles from Durban.

Mthembu, 43, denied the killings on February 17 this year, but was found guilty and handed the same sentence as his accomplice.

Ndlovu told the court in a statement how he and Mthembu waited for the Soliks to go to bed before breaking into their home at The Bend estate in Lions River.

He said: 'Once certain that the occupants were asleep I broke open the window leading into the dining room of that house.

'We made our way up the stairs in an attempt to locate the bedroom.'

Ndlovu said they woke the couple and demanded money, but was told there was none in the house and began looting the property before taking a TV, a DVD player and bottles of alcohol.

He said it was Mthembu who then stabbed Mrs Solik after she began 'resisting' the intruders.

He said: 'We tied their hands as well as their legs together, placed pillowcases over their heads and loaded them into the boot of their vehicle.

'We then decided to get rid of them. We drove to Impendle and threw them off the bridge of the Inzinga River into the river.'

Ndlovu said both men used the couple's bank card to withdraw R2,000 (112.60) and split it between them.

State advocate Zithulele Nxumalo described the killings as 'callous and brutal in the extreme.'

The Solick's son, Gregory, described his family's experience since the murders as 'disorientating, painful and beyond comprehension.'

He said in a statement read in court: 'How does anyone express publicly the devastation of their private loss?

'What facts could ever help anyone understand the emotion of knowing your parents were fished from out of a river; one of them broken and caught on a branch, the other bloated and eaten by crabs?'

Christine (pictured) was found a day before her husband Roger

He praised his parents for the 'rich life' they had built for themselves after moving from 'humble beginnings' in the south Wales valleys.

He said: 'They will be remembered, and not by the way they were taken but by the way they lived.

'For the rich life that they built from humble beginnings and for the family they made.'

The couple initially emigrated on a two-year visa but decided to stay.

Christine returned to Wales just a month before the killing for the funeral of her father Glyn.

At the time, their children said: 'They were totally devoted to each other, and to our family, which has always remained extremely close even as we have moved to different parts of the country.

'While the loss of our parents has shattered our hearts, the generous spirit with which they lived and loved the world will never leave us. We will always remember them for this, their gift to the world.'

Speaking after the sentence, Kwa-Zulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commissioner, Maj Gen Langa, said: 'We hope this will give closure to the family who lost their loved ones in a brutal matter.

'I congratulate the investigative team who persistently pursued the matter and gathered enough evidence and ensured that justice prevailed.'
Boris Johnson and two other British foreign ministers have been targeted by agents being probed by FBI agents looking into alleged collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign, it was claimed today.

The FBI has named economist George Papadopoulos and Maltese academic Joseph Mifsud as crucial to their investigation.

The Observer today revealed paperwork suggesting contact between Mr Johnson, former Foreign Office ministers Alok Sharma and Tobias Ellwood.

Boris Johnson (pictured in London this week) and two other British foreign ministers have been targeted by agents being probed by FBI agents

The FBI has named economist George Papadopoulos (left) and Maltese academic Joseph Mifsud (right) as crucial to their investigation into links between Russia and the Trump campaign

Mr Sharma told the paper he had met Mr Mifsud a 'couple of times', including at a fundraising dinner at which Mr Johnson was due to attend.

An email from Mr Misfud to a colleague said he expected to meet with Mr Johnson at the event. Mr Sharma denied introducing him to the Foreign Secretary at the event.

Mr Papadopoulos is recorded as having met with Mr Ellwood at the UN general assembly in September 2016, during the US election campaign.

FBI indictments named the two men as potential links between Donald Trump's White House campaign and the Kremlin.

Labour deputy leader Tom Watson demanded the Government spell out the full extent of any contact between ministers and the two men.

He told the Oberserver: 'We're starting to have a much clearer picture from America of how the Russian state sought to influence the US election and I think there are multiple questions to be asked about how and in what ways the Russian state may have been exerting influence in British politics.

'Given the gravity of the allegations against Mr Papadopoulos, the government should make public any meetings these two individuals had with British officials and what was discussed.'

Labour MP Ben Bradshaw, who has led calls for investigations into Russian influence on UK politics, added: 'If Mr Papadopouloss role was as junior as Trump has been claiming, I would be surprised that a minister as senior and experienced as Mr Ellwood would agree to meet him.'

Labour deputy leader Tom Watson demanded the Government spell out the full details of any contact between the two men and ministers

A Foreign Office source said: 'The foreign secretary has not knowingly met this person, planned to meet this person, or indeed ever heard of this person before.'

Mr Johnson was asked about Russian interference in Britain last week and said 'I haven't seen a sausage'.

Mr Sharma said: 'I did not introduce him to Boris Johnson and I don't think anyone else did either.'

According to FBI documents Mr Papadopoulos had made multiple contacts through his Mr Mifsud dubbed the 'London professor'  with 'high-level Russian officials'.

Mr Ellwood's meeting occurred after Mr Papadopoulos had discovered in April that the Russians had 'dirt on Hillary [Clinton]' in the form of 'thousands of emails' but before WikiLeaks started publishing her emails in October.
In a sit-down interview with journalist Sharyl Attkisson, President Trump explained what led to his decision to accept Paul Manafort's resignation from his presidential campaign.

'Well, I think we found out something about he may be involved with all  with certain nations, and I don't even know exactly what it was in particular,' Trump said on Attkisson's Full Measure program. 'But there was a point at which we just felt Paul would be better off  because we don't want to have many potential conflicts.'

Manafort quit the Trump campaign on August 19, 2016, after a number of reports questioned his business dealings, including work he did for a Russia-aligned political party in Ukraine.

In a new interview, President Trump explained why Paul Manafort was pushed to resign from his campaign, noting there were concerns he had 'conflicts' with 'certain nations'

Before leaving for Asia, President Trump (left) sat down with journalist Sharyl Attkisson (right) and talked about his relationship with Paul Manafort

Paul Manafort was indicted on Monday having received tens of millions of dollars for his lobbying work and keeping the cash in offshore accounts

President Trump (left) noted numerous times to Sharyl Attkisson (right) that Paul Manafort only worked for him for a short time. Manafort did work for the Trump campaign for a little under five months

That work was front and center in the 31-page, 12-count indictment unsealed last Monday, which alleged that Manafort and his deputy, Richard Gates, received tens of millions of dollars for this work and funneled it through offshore accounts, to finance a lavish lifestyle.

Talking to Attkisson at the White House last week, before departing on his Asia trip, the president explained how Manafort came on board his presidential campaign.

'Well, it was a friend of mine who was a businessman  a very successful businessman and a good person, and you know, Paul was not there very long,' Trump explained.

When asked if he wanted to identify the person, the president declined.

'Well, I don't want to get him involved, he's a private person,' Trump explained.

Politico, however, identified the individual as Tom Barrack, in an article written in May.

Barrack, a real estate investor, is a longtime friend of Trump's who was chairman of the President Inaugural Committee.

Through Barrack, Manafort reached out to the Trump campaign in February of 2016 and by March was hired to do unpaid work.

Manafort was promoted in May to campaign chairman, with the expectation that he would help Trump win the delegate fight at the forthcoming Republican National Convention in Cleveland.

He had absorbed much of the campaign manager's work by June when Trump decided to fire Campaign Manager Corey Lewandowski, though found himself out of a job two months later.

'What people don't mention Paul was not there for a very long period of time,' Trump argued about the just under five months Manafort worked for the campaign.

Mentioning again that he was concerned about Manafort's conflicts, Trump added, 'I could have kept him longer. I don't think anybody would have complained.'

Trump also pointed to Manafort's previous political work when explaining why he hired him.

'Look, look people don't realize Paul Manafort worked for Ronald Reagan,' Trump said. 'He worked for Bob Dole, I think the firm was involved with many people, I don't have to mention names, but I heard they were involved with John McCain, he's an honorable guy, they were involved with many people, many, many people.'

'This was a firm that was well known in Washington for years,' the president continued. 'And represented many, many big people, politically-speaking, and Ronald Reagan being No. 1, so the reputation I always felt was very good and I had him for a short period of time, he was only there for a very finite period of time.'

Trump then added that he thought the whole thing was a shame.

'But, you know, I feel badly for him because I always found him to be really a very nice person,' the president said.
Organisers say the cat show, which began in 2011, is getting bigger each year

The news that Essi, a fluffy Persian, and Besso, a traditional Siamese, had clawed their way past the competition to secure the titles of Miss and Mr Cat at a Cairo cat show last week quickly went viral both on traditional and social media, provoking a mixture of scrutiny and sarcasm.

Last Fridays cat show, organised by the Egyptian Cat Club, is not the first of its kind in Egypt, however.

This years show was actually the fourth to be held, one of the shows main organisers, Nagla El-Masry, told Ahram Online, adding that it is getting bigger each year.

It was El-Masry who brought the idea of cat shows, and cat contests, to Egypt, having visited several while living in the Netherlands.

After returning to Egypt and starting her own cattery, she decided to bring the cat show to Egypt, and together with some others from the Egyptian Cat Club, she held the first show in 2011, and organised a national breed registry at the same time.

This year, 36 cats participated in the show and its contests, and El-Masry said that people came from as far as Alexandria to display their pets and their products. The three contest judges came from Russia and Ukraine.

There are no estimates for the total number of cats in Egypt, whether pets or strays, but one look at the streets attests to their popularity and presence.

What is measurable, however, is the reach of pet products.

According to official statistics agency CAPMAS, in a four-month period in summer 2016, Egypt spent $52 million on importing pet food, primarily dog and cat food.

El-Masry said the show is a popular event with cat-related businesses.

Pet supply companies sponsor the cat show because they want to showcase their products; also cat owners and breeders show their cats if they want to sell them there, she explained.

Our main target is exotic cats, mostly if not all Persian cats, she said, adding that Egypt is a top exporter of Persian cats to the Gulf. Although there are no official figures on the number of cats exported from Egypt, a quick glance at Facebook shows dozens of pages specialized in exporting both local baladi cats and Persian cats.

A cat which participates in the show and wins in our contests gets higher prices if its owners want to sell them, El-Masry said, describing how the price of Miss Cat rises as soon as the cat wins the title.

Despite the success of the cat show, El-Masry had some reservations about the media coverage the event received, and the mocking comments it garnered from some social media users.

Some outlets published photos from the event ridiculing it and attacking the cat-owners, who are respectable people, mostly housewives, she told Ahram Online.

Nevertheless, El-Masry said that she and her team have not been put off by the furore, and plan to hold another event in March.

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Kirsty Noden (pictured), 32, has not been seen since the New Year

A man accused of murdering his lover after she vanished nearly a year ago had his trial pushed back so investigators can look into claims she is living in South Africa.

Kirsty Noden, 32, has not been seen since the New Year, and her partner Dean Lowe is accused of her murder - but says she is alive and living abroad.

The couple were living together in Marazion, Cornwall, when Kirsty vanished in January.

But it was not until May 18 that she was reported missing by friends and family.

Kirsty, also known as Kirby, is described as white, of heavy build and 5ft 8in with dark brown hair and a northern accent.

Lowe, 32, was due to stand trial on December 11 at Truro Crown Court but it has been pushed back until April 2018.

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said: 'Kirby is known to have visited local charity shops and churches. She owned two Staffordshire bull terriers.

'Kirby is described as about 5ft 8in tall, with dark coloured straight hair, and of larger than average build. She is described as polite and generous.'

Lowe, of Marazion, denies the murder of Kirsty, who had links to Torquay, Merseyside, Ellesmere Port and Crewe.

He claims that Kirsty was still alive and had moved to South Africa, a court heard.

Judge Mrs Justice May agreed to the new timetable and extended custody time limits during a hearing at Exeter Crown Court which Lowe did not attend.

He is currently being treated at a psychiatric unit after being transferred from Exeter Prison under the mental health act. He was remanded in custody.
Jasmine Teed, 18, was arrested for child endangerment when her two-year-old boys were found Thursday in Adela, Iowa just around 9am

A teen mom from Iowa faces charges after her two children were found near a busy highway, roaming the streets naked.

Jasmine Teed, 18, was arrested for child endangerment when her two-year-old boys were found Thursday in Adela, Iowa just around 9am.

According to witnesses that told police, a man was seen herding the boys back to his house near Highway 6.

The two boys had no clothing when they were seen in the 43 degree weather.

Calls were made to the kids home but no one answered.

According to Police Chief Robert Shepherd, police had difficulty waking Teed who was found in her bedroom.

He added that the mother was 'unaware' that the children had been missing.

The 18-year-old was taken to Dallas County Jail but was but paid the $2,000 bond after she was charged with two counts of aggravated misdemeanor child endangerment charges.

'The defendant did not provide adequate supervision of her two-year-old children and they were in substantial risk of injury being that close to a busy highway,' a police report said.

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According to Police Chief Robert Shepherd, police had difficulty waking Teed who was found in her bedroom

The 18-year-old (right) was taken to Dallas County Jail but was but paid the $2,000 bond. Police called the Department of Human Services and made a referral and now an investigation is underway

It added that the children were at 'substantial risk of injury being that close to a highway and being naked with an air temperature of 43 degrees.'

Police called the Department of Human Services and made a referral and now an investigation is underway.

Another child was said to be in the home and placed with Teed's mother and grandmother.

'After hearing from the witnesses, it was very clear the potential for a tragic outcome was there,' Shepherd said in the news release, according to KCCI.

'We are fortunate there were no injuries.'
A group of 40 Chinese tourists was attacked and robbed in Paris by four suspects armed with tear gas, according to China's embassy.

The tour group had just returned from a shopping trip in the French capital at around 8.20pm on Thursday evening.

But when they made it back to the car park of the Kyriad Hotel they were jumped by the gang who sprayed tear gas at them.

The group then sprinted off with nine bags filled with shopping - including luxury items, according to Xinhua.

The Chinese Embassy in Paris (pictured) contacted the authorities in France and urged them to track down the suspects

A hotel worker told Le Parisien: 'I heard screams, and when I looked out the window, I saw two people assaulting a Chinese guide, and I saw others using tear gas against the tourists.

'For an hour, it was absolute panic. Many of the tourists asked me to hide their bags.'

It is unclear whether any of the tourists were injured but it is believed two of the group complained about feeling sick before returning to China the following day.

The Chinese Embassy contacted the authorities in France and urged them to track down the suspects.

It also urged Chinese tourists to remain vigilant following the attack on Thursday and described the security situation in France as being 'grim'.

The Embassy said: 'The greater Paris region has reported a series of violent muggings and attacks against Chinese tourists and Chinese-French.'

When they made it back to the car park of the Kyriad Hotel in Paris (pictured) they were jumped by the gang who sprayed tear gas at them

Police in Paris have now launched an investigation.

The Xinhua report said police in Paris had confirmed an investigation was under way.

It comes a year after Chinese tourists were attacked in Aubervilliers, northern Paris, in August 2016.

The incident is reminiscent of the attack on a group of 27 Chinese tourists in the northern Paris suburb of Aubervilliers in August last year.
Special Counsel Robert Mueller has gathered enough evidence to charge President Trump's ex-National Security Advisor Michael T. Flynn and his son Michael G. Flynn, NBC News has learned.

Citing sources close to the investigation, NBC reported Sunday that investigators are speaking to multiple witnesses over the next few days to gather more information about the elder Flynn's lobbying work.

Investigators are interested in whether Flynn laundered money or lied to federal agents about his overseas contacts, three sources close to the investigation told the network.

NBC News is reporting that Special Counsel Robert Mueller has gathered enough evidence to charge Michael Flynn (right) and his son Michael G. Flynn (left)

Special Counsel Robert Mueller (pictured) has enough evidence to indict Michael Flynn and his son, NBC News reported Sunday

Michael Flynn served as National Security Adviser until February 13, 2017, meaning he was in a White House position for under a month

National Security Advisor Michael Flynn (center) is photographed during his short White House tenure along with Trump adviser Stephen Miller (left) and Jared Kushner (right), the president's son-in-law who also works at the White House

Michael Flynn (center) is photographed leaving a meeting at Trump Tower during the presidential transition along with his son, Michael G. Flynn (right), who was fired from the transition for tweeting about the Pizzagate conspiracy theory

Michael T Flynn (center) sits among administration officials including (from left) Vice President Mike Pence, John Kelly, who's now the president's chief-of-staff, and Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law who serves as a senior adviser

Michael G. Flynn responded to the news report by tweeting out a photo that showed his father Michael Flynn (second from right) sitting three seats away from Special Counsel Robert Mueller (left) as the two men testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee in 2013

The younger Flynn also made this comment Sunday morning, suggesting 'social justice warriors' were harassing him after he tweeted out a video of a girl being hit by a police officer labeled '"Gender Equality" Has Been Achieved at the University of Miami'

Additionally, Mueller's team is looking into whether Flynn tried to get rid of a rival to Turkish President Recep Erdogan for a fee of millions of dollars.

Sources told NBC that Flynn's son, Michael G. Flynn, could be indicted separately or with his dad.

The younger Flynn worked with his father, including doing work on the Trump campaign, where the elder Flynn was the GOP candidate's main national security adviser.

President-elect Trump fired the junior Flynn from the transition team after Michael G. Flynn used Twitter to spread the Pizzagate conspiracy theory, which involved Hillary Clinton and her Campaign Chairman John Podesta running a child trafficking ring out of the basement of a D.C. pizza restaurant.

The restaurant doesn't have a basement and the story is a lie.

The NBC report provides more evidence that Mueller's team is working at a quick pace, as it's been just under a week since investigators unsealed the indictments of President Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his deputy Rick Gates.

Additionally, on Monday, investigators revealed that an unpaid foreign policy adviser for the Trump campaign, George Papadopolous, had pleaded guilty to lying to federal officials.

Two sources told NBC that the elder Flynn said he would cooperate with investigators in order to help his son.

The senior Flynn had held a White House position for less than a month, resigning on February 13  making him the first high-profile official to go.

Flynn mischaracterized a conversation he had with Sergey Kislyak, the now former Russian ambassador to the United States, telling Vice President Mike Pence he had never discussed sanctions, when he did.

Now former acting Attorney General Sally Yates, a holdover from the Obama administration, warned White House counsel Don McGahn that Flynn's statements were so misleading he could have opened himself up to Russian blackmail.

In a statement from Trump, the president said he decided to let Flynn go as 'a matter of trust.'

The special counsel's office did not respond to NBC's request for comment.

Michael G. Flynn responded to the report by posting a Getty images photo of his father, who was the Defense Intelligence Agency director, sitting three seats away from Mueller, who formerly headed the FBI.

The photo was taken at a 2013 Senate Intelligence Committee hearing where CIA Director John Brennan, Director of National Intelligence James Clapper and Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research Philip Goldberg also testified.

'A picture worth a thousand words.....go nuts with your comments...,' the young Flynn tweeted.

He had also tweeted out a video that noted '"Gender Equality" Has Been Achieved at the University of Miami,' which showed a young woman being whacked by a cop after she swatted him, as she was being carried by police out of a sporting event.

'So glad this cop didn't hold back,' the junior Flynn commented.

Upon seeing some of the responses, he added, 'The SJW are out in full this morning,' using the acronym for Social Justice Warriors, an anti-liberal dig.

'[T]he disappointment on your faces when I dont go to jail will be worth all your harassment...,' he added.

The elder Flynn hasn't tweeted since September, when he tweeted out a link to his legal defense fund.
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This is the horrifying moment a Siberian tiger attacked a young female zookeeper in full view of visitors.

The big cat, called Typhoon, sprang on the keeper at Kaliningrad Zoo, in Russia, after its cage was accidentally left open while she brought food to the animal.

But her life was saved as shocked onlookers shouted and threw stones at tiger until it backed away.

Some men even lifted a table and chairs from a nearby cafe, hurling them over the fence to distract the predator so the keeper could escape.

A female zookeeper in Russia is lucky to be alive after she was badly mauled by a male tiger while taking it food. Part of the animal's cage was accidentally left open, allowing it to attack

Horrified visitors watched as the animal, a 16-year-old male named Typhoon, dragged the girl to the ground and began attacking her. The incident took place at Kaliningrad Zoo, in Russia

Guests managed to distract the big cat by throwing stones, stick, and a table and bench from a nearby cafe into the enclosure, allowing the keeper to escape

The unnamed woman zookeeper, from Kaliningrad, was badly mauled but was rushed to hospital is expected to survive.

Alarming pictures show the woman on her back on the ground with the tiger on top of her, seemingly about to go in for the kill.

But at this point, the zoo visitors' screams, shouts and stone-throwing distracted the big cat, which has never previously attacked a keeper.

The commotion alerted other visitors who ran to join the hero onlookers saving the woman who was able to run to a secure part of the compound.

'The girl's face face was bleeding,' said one account based on the accounts of witnesses.

'She screamed and tried to fight off the animal.'

Other zoo employees were not present at the moment of the surprise attack, and it was down to the Russian visitors to save the keeper.

The Siberian tiger - the largest cat in the world - was supposed to be contained in another part of its compound when the woman brought its food.

But there was clearly a problem and the cat - described as 'elderly' - was able to attack.

A spokesman praised the visitors.

After the keeper escaped zoo staff arrived and sedated Typhoon (file image) and a criminal investigation has been launched

Typhoon was born in captivity in Chelyabinsk Zoo in 2001 before being moved to Kaliningrad. Keepers say he has no history of attacking staff, but was described as 'bad tempered' and 'aggressive'

'The animal entered the enclosure when the keeper was there,' said a statement. 'The tiger attacked the human.'

'Visitors with their shouting, stones and other improvisation managed to distract the animal. This allowed the zoo employee to hide in a back room.'

It was even visitors who called an ambulance.

Later zoo staff arrived at the scene and shot a sedative into the tiger.

A local health ministry spokesman said: 'The patient was delivered to the hospital with multiple wounds to the body and limbs.

'She is conscious, her condition is assessed as stable but critical. There is no threat to her life.'

The woman is in intensive care at a hospital in Kaliningrad, a Russian region wedged between the NATO and EU countries of Poland and Lithuania.

A criminal investigation has been opened.

The tiger was reported to be 'stressed' after the attack, but will not be destroyed despite tasting human blood, said Russian zoo officials.

Contrary to earlier reports, the big cat was not sedated after almost killing the keeper, as eyewitnesses had claimed.

'The animal, which also suffered a lot of stress, is in its enclosure,' said a zoo statement.

'No measures will be taken against him. The predator is not being blamed for its attack on the keeper.

'This is the first time in the history of the zoo that a tiger attacked a man,' said a spokesman for the zoo.

'An official investigation was launched to find out the reasons for the tragedy in the zoo.'

A spokesman said: 'The Siberian tiger is a territorial animal. Protecting its territory is its natural instinct.

'This animal acted in full accordance with its instinct. It was not aggression. It was the defence of its territory.'

The Siberian tiger was born on 1 July 2001 in Chelyabinsk Zoo and was later moved to Kaliningrad Zoo. He turned 16 this year.

In the wild such tigers - a critically endangered species - have a life expectancy of 15 years.

'Typhoon has never before shown any aggression to zoo staff,' said a source.

But today the animal was 'bad tempered' and 'aggressive'.
Jeremy Corbyn today defended his decision to promote an MP to the shadow cabinet after they had been accused of sexual harassment.

Kelvin Hopkins was briefly made shadow culture secretary last summer while the Labour leader was fighting off a mass walkout by his MPs.

Mr Corbyn today admitted he had been aware of the allegations against Mr Hopkins but said the case had been closed after a reprimand was given.

The allegations - that Mr Hopkins 'rubbed his crotch' on activist Ava Etemadzadeh and that he sent suggestive texts - resurfaced this week amid a sexism storm sweeping Westminster.

As the claims were looked at a second time, Mr Corbyn suspended Mr Hopkins from the Labour Party and launched a full investigation.

Jeremy Corbyn (pictured today in Blackpool) has defended his decision to promote an MP to the shadow cabinet after they had been accused of sexual harassment

Labour MP Kelvin Hopkins (pictured left) has been suspended from the party over allegations of harassment. Ava Etemadzadeh, 27 (pictured right) has said she initially complained to the whips' office about Mr Hopkins around three years ago

Mr Hopkins, 76, has been MP for Luton North since 1997 and served as Jeremy Corbyn's shadow culture secretary last summer.

Speaking at a regional conference in Blackpool today, Mr Corbyn insisted his decisions had be right on both occasions.

He said: 'I was aware he was reprimanded and I was also made aware that was the end of the matter.'

'He had been reprimanded, the case had been closed, I thought it was reasonable to appoint him for a very short time to the shadow cabinet.'

Asked why the case had been re-opened, Mr Corbyn said: 'It has been reopened, obviously there will now be an investigation on this, that is on-going.

'I made a decision to put him into the shadow cabinet for a short time. I thought that was the right thing to do.

'Now the case has been reopened, it will be looked at again. He has been suspended from party membership which is a decision I took immediately when I heard the later revelations.'

Monica Lennon today revealed she was sexually assaulted by a senior male colleague at a party (file image)

Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry (pictured today on Sky News) has called for a 'step change' in the treatment of women following the wave of sleaze allegations sweeping Parliament

Asked if his decision was wrong in hindsight, Mr Corbyn said he 'could not comment on hindsight'.

He added: 'He made a good contribution while he was there.'

Mr Hopkins strongly denies the allegations levelled against him.

In other developments inside Labour today, a Labour MSP has revealed she was sexually assaulted by a senior male colleague at a party.

As a sexual harassment scandal engulfs politics, Monica Lennon said she was groped at a social event four years ago in front of a room full of people.

Ms Lennon, 36, is the most senior UK politician to claim she has been a victim of a sexual assault since the scandal began to emerge in the last fortnight.

Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry has called for a 'step change' in the treatment of women following the wave of sleaze allegations sweeping Parliament.

Today's revelations come after Labour MP John Mann warned up to 12 MPs could be forced to resign and trigger by-elections.
Chris Evans has stepped out in public for the first time since a former workmate who accused him of sexual harassment was told the incident would not be investigated.

The BBC star was seen laughing and joking with his wife, Natasha Shishmanian, and two children, Noah and Eli, at the Bonham Vintage Car Run in Hyde Park.

The car fanatic was among those in attendance as thousands of classic motors set off from London to Brighton as part of the annual fundraiser.

It comes a couple of days after the BBC was under fire for its refusal to investigate claims of sexual harassment and bullying by Radio 2 star Evans.

The BBC star was seen laughing and joking with his wife, Natasha Shishmanian, and two children, Noah and Eli (left), at the Bonham Vintage Car Run in Hyde Park

Chris Evans has stepped out in public for the first time since a former workmate who accused him of sexual harassment was told the incident would not be investigated

It comes a couple of days after the BBC was under fire for its refusal to investigate claims of sexual harassment and bullying by Radio 2 star Evans

A former colleague of the DJ detailed claims that the ex-Top Gear host used to flash his genitals at the woman after taking his morning bath, 'sometimes touch himself' and even grabbed her breasts over a two year period.

Yet the complainant was told by a senior executive that there would be no probe into the incidents as they did not take place while Mr Evans was employed by the BBC.

Mr Evans was questioned by police last year after the woman alleged he exposed his erect penis to her on Channel 4's The Big Breakfast in the 1990s.

The 51-year-old strongly denied all allegations and said that he was the victim of a witch-hunt.

Chris Evans (left) pictured naked with his penis out backstage on TFI Friday in the 1990s. Mr Evans (right) pictured today at Radio 2 studios

The car fanatic (left, and right, with his family) was among those in attendance as thousands of classic motors set off from London to Brighton as part of the annual fundraiser

The Radio 2 host is alleged to have tried to encourage a female colleague to have an affair with him while he was married to Carol M

But a woman who claims to be the victim of Mr Evans's alleged indecent exposure detailed her account in an email to BBC Director-General Lord Hall.

In her email seen by The Sun, she claims that while Mr Evans was still married to Carol McGiffin, he would expose himself 'daily'.

She added: 'Often, he would walk in naked following his morning ritual of taking a bath... and sometimes touch himself.

'On one occasion, he grabbed my breasts.'

The female complainant added after she rejected Mr Evans, he started a campaign of bullying upon the woman and 'actively turned other crew members against me' which led her to become increasingly isolated.

Her email finished: 'Even though this didn't happen while Mr Evans was at the BBC, the Weinstein case demonstrates that abuse of any kind must be dealt with regardless of where and when.'

Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen said he was 'appalled' that the BBC had tried to 'sweep these very serious allegations under the carpet'.
Celebrity chef Todd English and members of his Plaza Hotel Food Hall staff are being accused of sexual harassment.

Gabrielle Eubank filed a complaint in a Manhattan court claiming 57-year-old English and several staff members at his eatery gave her unwanted hugs and repeatedly kissed her on the cheek.

Eubank, who worked as a server at the posh eatery, claims that on May 17 she was working a party when English 'who appeared to be intoxicated, began hugging Ms. Eubank and kissing her on the cheek repeatedly,' according to court documents.

Her complaint was filed against The Plaza Hotel and English is not named as a defendant.

Celebrity chef Todd English and members of his Plaza Hotel Food Hall staff are being accused of sexual harassment. The complaint against the 57-year-old chef was filed by server Gabrielle Eubank

Eubank filed a court complaint against 57-year-old English (above) and several staff members at his eatery alleging the chef gave her unwanted hugs and repeatedly kissed her on the cheek

'Mr. English then began flagrantly propositioning Ms. Eubank on the floor, saying she was 'sexy' and that he's 'surprised you're still single.' Mr. English then attempted to kiss Ms. Eubank on the lips, forcing her to turn away at the last moment,' papers read.

She claims that his come-on was nearly as horrific as the cook who told her that he had 'a tiny burrito for you.'

This comes after a lawsuit was filed in August by six female former and current employees, including hospitably coordinator Dana Lewis and hostess Crystal Washington, who claim they are forced to endure 'rape culture' at the Food Hall.

'Female employees [at the Food Hall] are forced to endure a culture of a different type  rape culture,' the court document reads.

This comes after a lawsuit was filed in August by six female former and current employees, including hospitably coordinator Dana Lewis and hostess Crystal Washington, who claim they are forced to endure 'rape culture' at the Food Hall

The document suggests that male staffers are sexually suggestive with several items including,pens, cucumbers, and bananas.

They have been known to tell female colleagues, 'I want to take you to the back and fk the st out of you,' court documents state.

'This institutional culture of sexual harassment, which starts at the very top, is ignored and tolerated by human resources and hotel managementthe very people charged with ensuring the wellbeing of hotel employees,' the plaintiffs said in a statement.

In a statement sent to DailyMail.com, The Plaza confirmed that English 'is not a named party defendant in the pending litigation, and that English does not employ the individuals taking action against the hotel.'

DailyMail.com has requested comment from English.

The chef English and his wife Olivia, who he met in culinary school, divorced in 2002. The couple have three grown-up children Isabelle, 20, Oliver and Simon.

He was engaged to Erica Wang in 2009 but the wedding was called off.
Kapil Dogra, pictured, admitted in court that he had been on his way to buy class A drugs when he saw the young woman leaving a railway station

A man who raped an 18-year-old girl after grabbing her while she was on the phone to her boyfriend and dragging her into woodlands has been jailed for 13 years.

Kapil Dogra admitted in court that he had been on his way to buy class A drugs when he saw the young woman leaving a railway station.

Her boyfriend heard the beginnings of the attack and his panicked girlfriend pleading for him to call the police before the line went dead.

The 'remorseless' 35-year-old denied one count of rape, two counts of assault of a female by penetration, and one count of causing a female to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity.

A spokesman for the Crown Prosecution Service said: 'Dogra grabbed her, placed his hand over her mouth and threatened to stab her before switching off her phone.

'He then dragged her into a wooded area where he raped and sexually assaulted her. Dogra was later identified by DNA and CCTV footage.'

Dogra, of High Street, Addlestone, Surrey, was convicted at Reading Crown Court following the incident, which took place in Datchet, Berkshire.

He was jailed for 13 years and will be on licence for two years after his release.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: 'At around 10.20pm on 12 April 2017, Dogra approached his victim, a woman in her late teens, in London Road after she had left Datchet railway station.

'He grabbed her and took her to a wooded area of land at the junction of Major Farms Road, Ditton Road and London Road where he then raped and sexually assaulted her.

'Dogra admitted in court that he travelled from Staines to Datchet to buy Class A drugs when he happened across the victim as she left the station

'Following an investigation by officers, Dogra was arrested on April 18, and was charged the following day.'

Investigating officer Detective Constable Sara Harrison said: 'At no point during the trial did Dogra show any remorse for the terrible ordeal he put his victim through, which meant the victim had to face her attacker in court

'The victim has been extremely brave throughout this process and I commend her for standing up to her attacker and I hope his sentence will help her move on.

'This incident came as a great shock to the community of Datchet and I would like to thank residents for their support during our investigation especially those who came forward as witnesses and those who provided CCTV evidence.'

Adrian Foster, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern CPS said: 'This was a planned, targeted and violent stranger rape committed by a man, who is clearly extremely ruthless, predatory and dangerous.

'This prosecution would not have been possible without the courage of the victim, who was willing to support proceedings. The physical and emotional impact on her of the abhorrent actions of Dogra is impossible to quantify.

'I hope that the conviction and today's sentence will offer her some comfort. Our thoughts are very much with her at this time.'
Socialite Jocelyn Wildenstein was arrested again early Sunday morning in New York along with her fiance after a fight inside her luxury apartment at the Trump World Tower.

The 72-year-old woman, who is famous for her plastic surgery cat-like enhanced features, and 50-year-old Lloyd Klein were having dinner when a plate that was left inside the oven shattered after accidentally overheating around 1am, TMZ reported.

For whatever reason, the incident sparked a heated argument between the couple that quickly turned physical.

Wildenstein, who has been dubbed 'catwoman', claims that 50-year-old Klein pushed her to the ground, which caused bruising to her arm and neck.

Klein claims that Wildenstein viciously scratched him on the forehead, causing a cut.

They both apparently sought treatment at a nearby hospital and were both charged with misdemeanor assault.

Busted again: Socialite Jocelyn Wildenstein was arrested again early Sunday morning in New York along with her fiance Lloyd Klein after a fight inside her luxury apartment at the Trump World Tower. They are pictured together above in August

The 72-year-old woman, who is famous for her plastic surgery cat-like enhanced features, and 50-year-old Lloyd Klein were having dinner when a plate that was left inside the oven shattered after accidentally overheating around 1am

This is not their first run-in with the law as they've been arrested several times for fighting.

Last December, they were involved in a blazing late night argument that resulted in Wildenstein getting arrested for scratching Klein's face and chest.

Klein escaped by bundling her into a closet but, wrongly believing she was trapped, she called the police herself, igniting a tabloid storm in the process.

Shocked Klein would face the ignominy of arrest himself when, days later, police accused him of pushing her when he went back to collect his belongings.

The pair were banned from going within 1,000 yards of one another or communicating by phone, email or text but Wildenstein said they continued to message in secret - like 'naughty schoolchildren' in the back of class.

Authorities dropped all charges after they both insisted the incident was blown out of all proportion and they were still in love.

'The fight was just one night. It could have destroyed our relationship but it didn't,' Wildenstein said told DailyMail.com in August.

The incident sparked a heated argument between the couple that quickly turned physical. Wildenstein claims that Klein pushed her to the ground, which caused bruising to her arm and neck. Klein claims that Wildenstein scratched him on the forehead, causing a cut. They both sought treatment at a nearby hospital and were both charged with misdemeanor assault

Last December, they were involved in a blazing late night argument that resulted in Wildenstein (left in court) getting arrested for scratching Klein's face and chest (right)

'We were not supposed to speak directly afterwards but he sent me sweet messages through friends.

'I think the police made too much out of the incident. The police officer put his fingers into my skin so deeply that he left me with a scar.

'But this is just the circle of life. Bad things happens, just like the car crash. You cannot erase them but we never change who we are.'

Back in August, the pair announced they were engaged after he bought the 32-carat diamond engagement ring and proposed at the Versace Mansion in Miami.

In September, the cash-strapped Wildenstein put her sprawling New York apartment back on the market after defaulting on her $4.5 million mortgage.

The 72-year-old had listed the 5,160-square-foot Trump World Tower apartment in Midtown East for $11 million.

But the pair made up and back in August announced they were engaged after he bought the 32-carat diamond engagement ring and proposed at the Versace Mansion in Miami

The property - located at 845 United Nations Plaza - failed to sell for its $12.9 million asking price through a different agent earlier this year.

Wildenstein snapped up adjoining apartments in 2001 before buying a third and knocking them into one giant pad that takes up nearly the entire 51st floor.

The divorcee spent millions of dollars on plastic surgery to make her look cat-like and once explained that she wanted the surgery to make her eyes look more feline.

She paid around $6 million for all three but borrowed millions more to upgrade the eight-bedroom, six-bathroom residence and deck it out in an opulent art deco interior.

Wildenstein became the world's most infamous divorcee in 1999 when she landed a then-record $2.5 billion settlement

Court documents obtained by DailyMail.com in September showed Wildenstein had defaulted on the $4.5 million mortgage she took out 10 years ago on the apartment.

Her exasperated creditors have tried to slap foreclosure papers on the famed socialite, but the feline-featured debtor has been dodging them.

Concierge and security staff at the glitzy high rise have also refused to help and threatened to call police on anyone who tries to drop off the paperwork.

The bank's surveillance operatives had even resorted to staking out the premises but on both occasions failed to spot Wildenstein.

In a separate legal action, DailyMail.com earlier revealed that Trump World Tower itself was also chasing her for $81,332 in unpaid common charges dating back to November 2014.

Wildenstein became the world's most infamous divorcee in 1999 when she landed a then-record $2.5 billion settlement from her late ex-husband, the art dealer Alec Wildenstein.

But she's been candid about her depleted finances in recent interviews, accusing her ex-husband's family of cutting off her multi-million dollar annual maintenance.
Five ISIS militants were killed in a targeted air strike, military sources said.

Dramatic footage shows the terrorists' Egyptian desert hideout being obliterated by an army missile.

The strike on Thursday came hours after the militants had attempted to attack a military checkpoint in north Sinai.

Dramatic footage shows the terrorists' Egyptian desert hideout being obliterated by an army missile

The terrorists had been spotted by soldiers guarding the spot, who opened fire prompting them to flee.

Fighter jets were then sent out to locate them and found them regrouping at their hideout.

Video filmed from one of the planes showed a missile hitting one of the buildings, sending a huge fireball into the sky.

An army spokesman told the Egyptian Independent that six other ISIS militants were injured and two buildings and vehicles were destroyed in the blast.

Egyptian forces have been battling the terror organisation since 2014 and have recently launched a large-scale military campaign in Sinai Province.

The operation has seen several leading terror figures killed.

Video filmed from one of the planes showed a missile hitting a building at the hideout, sending a huge fireball into the sky

Vehicles destroyed by the blast which took place in the Egyptian desert on Thursday

ISIS has now lost almost all of the territory it claimed back in 2014 as it swept through the Middle East in a lightning offensive which established it as the world's most powerful terrorist group.

Most of the area it now controls is sparse desert which runs from Sukhna in Syria to a few miles west of Baiji in Iraq.

The territory is largely uninhabited except for the cities of Mayadin and Al-Bukamal which sit along the Euphrates river, and several smaller surrounding towns.
Charles Manson continued his life of crime behind bars after being locked up in 1969, as it has been revealed that the former cult leader has had more than 100 infractions during his time in prison

Charles Manson continued his life of crime behind bars after being locked up in 1969, as it has been revealed that the former cult leader has had more than 100 infractions during his time in prison.

And those infractions range from things as minor as refusing to save to as serious as battery on an inmate with a weapon or possession of a hacksaw blade.

Sources in the California Department of Corrections gave the rap sheet to TMZ, and said that lately he has turned himself around.

According to the source, the 82-year-old murderer hasn't had a violation since February 29, 2016, when he was found in possession of a cell phone.

They said that he's become a 'model prisoner,' and believe that has something to do with his old age and potential health complications.

And those infractions range from things as minor as refusing to save to as serious as battery on an inmate with a weapon or possession of a hacksaw blade. He is pictured being taken to jail in 1969 by a group of police officers

Sources in the California Department of Corrections gave the rap sheet to TMZ , and said that lately he has turned himself around and become a 'model prisoner,' likely due to old age and health issues. HE is pictured in 1969 during a preliminary hearing

However some of his more than 100 infractions while in jail are very serious, and include things like assaulting staff members, trafficking narcotics, threatening to kill a police officer and possessing a cell phone. He is pictured left in 1989 and right in 2011

SOME OF CHARLES MANSON'S INFRACTIONS WHILE IN PRISON October 1972 - Refusal to shave July 1973 - Assault on staff January 1975 - spitting and threatening staff June 1977 - Striking an officer July 1978 - Assault on correctional officer April 1983 - Possession of marijuana July 1985 - Possession of a hacksaw blade February 1993 - Assault and battery on non-prisoner July 1993 - Possession of a stabbing instrument April 1995 - Trafficking Narcotics September 1995 - Threatening to kill a police officer March 1999 - Battery on an inmate with weapon December 2003 - Possession of a deadly weapon June 2009 - Possession of a wristwatch June 2015 - Refusal to provide urine sample February 2016 - Possession of a cell phone

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Some of his other infractions during his time behind bars as a convicted murderer include assault on staff members in July 1973, trafficking narcotics in April 1995 and threatening to kill a police officer in September 1995.

Manson has been behind bars for more than four decades after being locked up in 1969 when he and members of his cult, which he called 'the family' went on a murderous two-day rampage.

He and three of his followers, Susan Atkins, Patricia Krenwinkle and Leslie Van Houten killed seven people, including pregnant actress Sharon Tate, Abigail Folger, Wojciech Frykowski, Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, Steven Parent and Jay Sebring.

He had ordered his family members to slaughter Tate, who was eight-and-a-half months pregnant, and three of her friends at her home above Beverly Hills.

Stephen Parent was a fifth unfortunate victim that night. He had driven to the property to see if caretaker William Garreston wanted to buy his AM/FM Clock radio, and had stayed on for a beer at the guest house. He was shot multiple times when he wound down the window at the electric gate as he left.

The following night the Family butchered small business owners Leno and Rosemary La Bianca, in their home in Los Angeles.

The murders were carried out in upscale, mostly white neighborhoods of Los Angeles in order to blame the crimes on African Americans, in the hope of sparking what he termed a 'Helter Skelter' race war.

During the trial he was convicted of leading a cult in which disaffected young people living in a commune followed his orders and were ultimately turned into killers.

Manson has been behind bars for more than four decades after being locked up in 1969 when he and members of his cult, which he called 'the family' went on a murderous two-day rampage

He and three of his followers, Susan Atkins (left), Patricia Krenwinkle (center) and Leslie Van Houten (right) killed seven people, including pregnant actress Sharon Tate, Abigail Folger, Wojciech Frykowski, Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, Steven Parent and Jay Sebring

Manson, Atkins, Krenwinkle and Van Houten were convicted of murder and initially sentenced to death for the killings.

Manson, who was not actually present but ordered the killings, applied for parole in 2012 but was denied release and is not eligible to apply again until 2027.

He was hospitalized earlier this year suffering from intestinal bleeding.
Rand Paul says he has received 'overwhelming support' following an injury after his neighbor allegedly attacked him while he was mowing the lawn of his Kentucky home.

The senator posted on his Twitter account Sunday that he and his wife were grateful for the support.

'Kelley and I appreciate the overwhelming support after Fridays unfortunate event. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.' he tweeted.

Kentucky State Police said in a news release Saturday that Paul suffered a minor injuries when 59-year-old Rene Boucher assaulted him at his Warren County home in a gated community on Friday afternoon.

The release did not provide details of the assault or the nature of Paul's injury. In a statement, Paul spokeswoman Kelsey Cooper said the Republican senator is 'fine.'

The statement said Paul was 'blindsided' by the assault but she did not provide further details.

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Rand Paul says he has received 'overwhelming support' following an injury after his neighbor allegedly attacked him while he was mowing the lawn of his Kentucky home (left pictured with Trump in October)

Neighbors said Rene Boucher and Paul share a corner adjacent to their homes and have been in the midst of a feud. Boucher was arrested on Saturday and released on $7,500 bond

The senator posted on his Twitter account Sunday that he and his wife were grateful for the support (above)

Neighbors told local TV station WAVE that the pair share a corner adjacent to their homes and have been in the midst of a feud.

Boucher allegedly ran onto Paul's property and tackled him from behind.

Kentucky State Police said in a news release Saturday that Paul suffered a minor injury when 59-year-old Rene Boucher (above) assaulted him at his Warren County home on Friday afternoon

According to the arrest warrant the Republican politician suffered injuries to his face and had trouble breathing because of a blow to the ribs.

The FBI is also investigating to see if the assault is politically motivated. Online records state that Boucher's party affiliation is Democrat.

Boucher, of Bowling Green, is charged with fourth-degree assault with a minor injury.

Boucher was released on $7,500 bond and has a court date scheduled for Thursday.

An automated phone system at the jail did not provide access to lawyer information for Boucher.

Online real estate sites say Paul's home is worth around $500,000.

In a statement, Paul spokeswoman Kelsey Cooper said the Republican senator (above) is 'fine'

It is believed Boucher is an acquaintance of Paul's.

Boucher (above) is an anesthesiologist and pain specialist who developed a product called Therm-a-Vest

The charge of fourth-degree assault is a Class A misdemeanor and he could face up to a year in prison.

According to the Bowling Green Daily News, Boucher is an anesthesiologist and pain specialist who developed a product called Therm-a-Vest.

It is a cloth vest partially filled with rice that is supposed to help with back pain.

He once marketed the product on the QVC shopping channel.

In May, Boucher posted on his Facebook page about Trump 'bullying' NATO leaders and an article about and Congressman Greg Gianforte assaulting The Guardians Ben Jacobs in Bozeman, Montana.
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The mass shooter who opened fire during Mass inside a Texas church killing at least 26 - including eight members of one family - has been identified as a 26-year-old former Bible study teacher who was dishonorably discharged from the US Air Force for assaulting his wife and child.

Devin Patrick Kelley, a married father, walked into the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, dressed in black, tactical gear with a ballistics belt and an assault rifle, and began shooting, according to local law enforcement sources.

The attack only stopped when Kelley, of New Braunfels, a suburb of San Antonio, was confronted by local hero Stephen Willeford, 55, who shot him through a gap in his body armor as the gunman tried to leave the church. Kelley fled in his car, lost control in his vehicle and was found dead inside.

At least 26 people were killed in the shooting, but the death toll is expected to climb, authorities say. Victims include a two-year-old girl and the 14-year-old adopted daughter of the pastor.

Eight members of one family, including a eight-months-pregnant mother and three of her children were killed, a community leader and relative told CNN, without revealing their identities. The Connally Memorial Medical Center said 'multiple' victims are being treated.

Last night, San Antonio police raided Kelley's home with K9 and bomb squad units, along with agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives unit and FBI.

Horrific new details of the attack have started to emerge with police saying there was likely 'no way' for congregants to escape. Wilson County Sheriff Joe D. Tackitt Jr. said: 'He (Kelley) just walked down the center aisle, turned around and my understanding was shooting on his way back out. It's unbelievable to see children, men and women, laying there. Defenseless people.'

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Devin Patrick Kelley (pictured left, and in a mugshot from a previous crime) walked into the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, dressed in full combat gear, and began shooting, according to local law enforcement sources

The shooting happened at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs (pictured), where around 50 people usually attend service, according to local reports

Investigators work at the scene of a deadly shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, Sunday

Texas state troopers erect a barricade to control traffic near the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs after the fatal shooting

A victim is evacuated from the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs after the massacre on Sunday afternoon

Kelley was a US Air Force veteran and former Bible studies teacher but his Facebook page, which has been deleted by the FBI, reveals he had a worrying fascination with weaponry.

He'd recently shared a photo of an AR-15 style gun on Facebook with the caption: 'She's a bad b***h.'

The 26-year-old was married to Danielle Shields, and they appear to have a child together. She was previously a teacher at the First Baptist Church.

Kelley lived at his parents home with his wife and child and neighbor Mark Moravitz told ABC News he would sometimes hear gunshots coming from near that house late at night.

The gunman's ex-mother-in-law, Michelle Shields, also appears to have been a parishioner at the church and was friends on social media with the pastor's wife.

It is not clear whether they were at the church at the time of the shooting.

A LinkedIn account which appears to be Kelley's states that he joined the US Air Force after graduating New Braunfels High School in 2009. The Pentagon confirmed he was an airman 'at one point,' but did not release further details.

He worked in logistics and supply in the Air Force until he was kicked out for assaulting his wife and their child. Kelley was court-martialled for two counts of assaulting his spouse and kid, and received 12 months 'confinement' and a dishonorable discharge in 2014, CBS reported.

Mourning: Local residents embrace during a candlelight vigil for victims of a mass shooting in a church in Sutherland Springs, Texas

Grief: Hundreds gathered to pay respect to those killed in the massacre. Many held candles aloft as they staged the moving vigil

Prayers: A man raises his right hand and bows his head along with others who gathered to pay respect to those killed in the mass shooting

Kelley then volunteered as a teacher for Bible studies at Kingsville First Baptist Church, according to his LinkedIn which shows him posing which a young child. He was reportedly employed by Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort in New Braunfels and licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety as a security guard at the time of the shooting.

Former classmates described him as 'creepy', 'crazy' and an 'outcast' who had recently started preaching about atheism and picking fights on social media. However, local law enforcement say he had a relatively clean criminal record, with just a traffic offenses in recent years.

Police are now investigating the possibility that Kelley was in a local militia group.

What we know about the shooter

Named as Devin Patrick Kelley, 26-year-old white male, of New Braunfels, a suburb of San Antonio,

Was found dead in a crashed car after a brief chase following the shooting

Was dressed in all black, tactical gear with a ballistics belt and multiple weapons in his car

Fired outside the church, then went into the church and continued to fire

Resident near the church intervened, and knocked the gun out of Kelley's hands, then chased him in his car

Kelley showed off an AR-15 rifle on Facebook recently

Served in the military in 'cargo, demand and supply and distribution' but was dishonorably discharged

Was married and believed to have taught a Bible studies at Kingsville First Baptist Church

The first of Kelley's 26 victims have been identified in the wake of the shooting. They include Annabelle Pomeroy, whose father - First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy - had been out of town during the attack. The grieving dad told ABC he's lost 'one beautiful girl, and a 'special child.'

More than 20 people have been killed inside a Texas church - including a two-year-old child - after a gunman dressed in full combat gear opened fire during the morning service before cops shot him dead. First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy's (right with his wife Sherri) 14-year-old adopted daughter, Annabelle (left), is among the dead

Sunday school teacher Karla Holcolmbe and her husband Bryan also died in the rampage, their family confirmed. A local resident says their pregnant daughter-in-law was also killed

Crystal Holcombe (left) was married to Bryan and Karla Holcombe's son John (right) and had been at church with her inlaws when she was shot dead

Mother-of-four, Joann Ward (pictured), is said to have died in the wake of the shooting, according to her family

Sisters six-year-old Brooke (left) and eight-year-old Emily Garza (pictured, right, sitting on the right, next to her sister Rihanna) were killed in the shooting according to her family. Nine-year-old Rihanna (sitting next to Emily had her glasses shot off her face but survived

Bryan Holcombe had been standing in for Frank Pomeroy as pastor when Kelley opened fire. Witnesses say he was the first victim to be struck by the shooter's gunfire.

'Bryan was filling in,' the witness, who did not want to be named, told DailyMail.com. 'He was walking up to the pulpit when he was shot in the back.

'He was an awesome Christian,' they added.

He was killed, alongside his wife of 25 years, Sunday school teacher Karla Holcombe, as well as their daughter-in-law Crystal, a mom-of-five who was eight-months-pregnant, local residents reported. There are reports that three of Crystal's children were also killed.

'The family is just devastated,' the witness added.

The couple ran a canvas repair shop before retiring and had attended the church for 25 years.

'My father was a good man and he loved to preach. He had a good heart. They knew where they were going. Theres peace in that,' their son Scott Holcombe told the Herald-Tribune.

Mother-of-four Joann Ward and three of her children were also shot. Family have since told the Dallas News that Joann and two of her daughters, six-year-old Brooke and eight-year-old Emily have died.

Kelley, who was reportedly married, had recently posted a photo of an AR-15 style gun on his Facebook page with the caption: 'She's a bad b***h'

Kelley, (pictured in his yearbook photo, left and right, as a teenager) 26, of New Braunfels, a suburb of San Antonio, fled in his SUV but crashed near county lines

Police have not yet released a motive for why Kelley, (pictured recently) opened fire at the church

Ward's five-year-old stepson Ryland, who was shot four times, is still in hospital after undergoing emergency surgery. The mom's eldest daughter Rihanna, nine, had the glasses shot off her face but escaped injury by hiding under a pew as shots rang out.

Footage from Ksat showed families weeping as they waited to discover if relatives were victims.

Authorities say that Kelley had turned up ready for combat on Sunday morning.

The gunman was spotted moments before the shooting, at around 11.20am, at a Valero gas station, 'dressed in all black, tactical gear, wearing a ballistics belt'.

In a press conference, Texas Department of Public Safety Regional Director Freeman Martin, said Kelley had then 'crossed the street to the church, exited his vehicle and began firing on the church. He moved to the right side of the church and continued to fire, and entered the church and continued to fire.'

But as he left the church, Willeford risked his life to stop him.

'A local resident grabbed his rifle and engaged the suspect,' Martin said. 'The suspect dropped his rifle, which was a Ruger assault type rifle, and fled from the church. A local citizen pursued the subject at that time.'

Willeford, who has no military experience, didn't hesitate when came face to face with Kelley, and shot him in between Kelley's body armor, hitting him in his side.

Texas gunman was a 'creepy outcast' who 'preached his atheism' online before killing 26 Former classmates say Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, who stormed First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs in Texas and opened fire on Sunday, was 'creepy', 'crazy' and 'weird'. Patrick Boyce, who attended New Braunfels High School with the killer, told DailyMail.com: 'He had a kid or two, fairly normal, but kinda quiet and lately seemed depressed. 'He was the first atheist I met. He went Air Force after high school, got discharged but I don't know why. 'I was just shocked [to hear the news]. Still havent quite processed how he could have done that.' Nina Rose Nava, who went to school with the gunman, wrote on Facebook: 'In (sic) in complete shock! I legit just deleted him off my fb cause I couldn't stand his post. 'He was always talking about how people who believe in God we're stupid and trying to preach his atheism' Christopher Leo Longoria replied: 'I removed him off FB for those same reasons! He was being super nagtive (sic) all the timd (sic).' Michael Goff added: 'He was weird but never that damn weird, always posting his atheist sh** like Nina wrote, but damn he always posted pics of him and his baby - crazy.' Nava added to DailyMail.com: 'I went to school with him. We had a few conversations here and there. It's not something I expected from him. 'He was an outcast but not a loner. He was popular among other outcast. I haven't spoke to him since high school.' Another former classmate, who asked to remain anonymous, told DailyMail.com: 'I grew up going to school with him... Always creeped me out and was different.' She said she moved away from the area while she was in junior high and lost touch with a lot of people. However, Kelley recently commented on one of her Facebook posts. 'I said I just want to move back to Texas,' she said. 'And he said something along the lines of "Texas isn't any better". Pretty much said he didn't like Texas. 'I think he had one kid, she/he is still a baby. He was married but I don't know to who. It's crazy to think I grew up with him. Same town. Same school. Same classes. 'He was different in school and creeped me out but never would I have thought he would do such a horrific thing.' A former friend wrote on Facebook: 'It's scary to know this psychopath has been in my house. I can't believe I was friends with this guy and I literally would stay the night at his place when we were kids.' He added: 'I ended up distancing myself from him in high school after he got in an argument with me in school and he tried punching me several times. Dude was crazy man.' Cord Eubank Brown wrote on social media: 'I cannot believe this. I went to high school with this maniac. 'There were people I knew who stayed away from this guy for many reasons, which all make sense now. He just requested me on facebook recently.' Advertisement

The 26-year-old had dropped his Ruger assault rifle and climbed in an SUV to flee the scene.

Another local resident, Johnnie Langendorff, had stopped at the gas station across the street to get breakfast when he noticed the gun fight at the church.

He says he saw Kelley leave the church as he was being pursued by Willeford.

When Kelley took off in his car, he says Willeford came over to him, told him what was going on and said that they needed to chase after him.

Langendorff agreed, and the two started speeding at 95mph to catch up to the suspect. All the while, Lagendorff was on the phone to dispatch, letting officers know their location.

As they approached a sharp curve in the road, near the 307 and 539, in Guadalupe County, he said Kelley appeared to lose control and his car swerved off the road.

'It's like he just gave up. He just kind of went off in the ditch, hit a hay bale from what I could see and then he just never moved after that. He didn't get out. He didn't try anything. Nothing.

'When he hit the ditch the gentleman that was with me got out, rested his rifle on my hood and kept it aimed at him - telling him to "Get out, get out". There was no movement there was none that. They guy didn't put up a fight or anything like that

'Once police showed up they moved me and the gentleman back and then everybody showed up and they took action,' Lagendorff said.

Cops found Kelley dead inside, along with multiple weapons and possible explosives. It's still unclear how he died.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr said that at least 27 people have been killed in the shooting, but the death toll is expected to climb

Law enforcement officials stand next to a covered body at the scene of the fatal shooting

Martin said that law enforcement gave tracked down the suspect, who went off the road and crashed near county lines. Pictured is the suspect's car which was found with multiple weapons inside it

Stephen Willeford, 55, (left) and Johnnie Langendorff (right) have been praised as heroes after they were able to stop Texas gunman Devin Kelley's rampage

Langendorff, who pursued the suspect, kissed his girlfriend as he was picked up from the scene where the suspect died near the intersection of FM 539 and Sandy Elm Road in Guadalupe County

Footage from the scene shows Johnnie Langendorff's truck, circled, still on the road. He said after Kelley swerved off the road, he'd put his vehicle in park while the neighbor got his gun ready

'We are not sure if it was self inflicted or if he was shot by a local resident,' said Texas Department of Public Safety Regional Director Freeman Martin.

San Antonio police also raided Kelley's home on Sunday evening, with K9 and bomb squad units, along with agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives unit and FBI.

Martin said that 23 found dead inside the church, and another two bodies were recovered from outside the building. Another person, who was taken to hospital, died while receiving treatment.

The first responders on the scene were from local churches who began receiving texts from family and friends about the shooting.

Injuries range from minor to very severe, while victims were aged from five-years-old to 72.

It's not yet clear how many were in church at the time of the shooting but Martin said some escaped unhurt.

First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy told ABC that his 14-year-old adopted daughter is among the 26 dead. She 'was one very beautiful, special child,' the pastor said. His wife, Sherri Pomeroy, said her husband was out of town at the time of the shooting.

Amanda Mosel's 13-year-old goddaughter was gunned down in the shooting. With tears in her eyes, the 34-year-old stood outside the Sutherland Springs Community Building where citizens gathered following the shooting.

She said she was sad she skipped church this morning, but she normally attends that sermon. 'It's a small, tight-knit church,' she said.

A young man standing outside the Brooke Army Medical Center told MySA.com that he had been wounded in the shooting and that this father had been killed. His mother was in another hospital.

Many of the dead remained inside the small rural church Sunday evening, as crime scene investigators worked to reconstruct the scene.

'My heart is broken,' Gamez said. 'We never think where it can happen, and it does happen. It doesn't matter where you're at. In a small community, real quiet and everything, and look at this, what can happen.'

At least 24 others were injured in the horrific shooting, including four kids from the same family.

Local residents and family members of the victims gathered for a candlelight vigil outside the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs on Sunday evening

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott participates in a candlelight vigil for the victims of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Sunday

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott embraces a woman during a candlelight vigil held for the victims of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott consoles Ann Montgomery, a Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church, during a candlelight vigil

Mourners attend a candle light vigil after a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church after the massacre

Annabell Pomeroy, (left) the 14-year-old daughter of the church pastor, was the first victim identified in Sunday's shooting. Five-year-old Ryland Ward, (right) the stepson of feared-dead mother-of-four Joann Ward, was shot four times and is in surgery

It is believed to have been the worst shooting at a place of worship in American history.

Authorities declined to officially name any of the deceased victims on Sunday evening, as they worked to secure the crime scene and notify victims' families.

'We don't know names of any of the victims at this time because we're still trying to work the crime scene,' said Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt.

Residents of the community gathered for an emotional candlelight vigil on Sunday night as the names of the victims began to emerge.

'I've known her since she was about eight years old,' resident Gloria Rodriguez Ximenez told CNN of the 14-year-old pastor's daughter who died.

Carrie Matula (left) embraces a woman after a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday. Matula said she heard the shooting from the gas station where she works a block away

Photos show families tearfully praying outside their community building as they wait to see if their family and friends are safe

People gather near First Baptist Church following a shooting on November 5, 2017 in Sutherland Springs, Texas

'There's no words to describe how wonderful people they are - Christian. It's just a small Christian town, everybody knows each other, everybody supports each other,' she said.

A woman wrote on Facebook that she saw the man flee the scene in his vehicle before crashing it not far from her daughter's house.

San Antonio Police Department reportedly sent in their bomb squad to investigate an SUV abandoned in Guadalupe County, near Sutherland Springs, which is believed to have belonged to the shooter, News 4 San Antonio reports.

Police could not give an exact number of victims shot in the attack, but witnesses said they heard as many as 20 shots fired. It appears that almost everyone in the church during the service was shot.

Dana Fletcher, who owns a store in Sutherland Springs, told CNN: 'It's just awful...there were emergency responders everywhere.'

Neighbors in the area said they may have heard the shooter reload multiple times. Another witness at the scene said a two-year-old was also shot in the attack.

President Donald Trump sent his condolences to the Sutherland Springs community as he continues to monitor the situation from Japan

First Lady Melania Trump also shared this tweet following the shooting. 'Our hearts are with #Texas'

Ivanka Trump also tweeted after learning about the tragic shooting

Texas Sen Ted Cruz tweeted: 'Keeping all harmed in Sutherland Springs in our prayers and grateful for our brave first responders on the scene'

Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement following the shooting. 'While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act,' he wrote and tweeted

Chelsea Clinton also sent her condolences to the families affected by the tragic shooting

Sutherland Springs is a rural community in Wilson County, Texas, that's made up of about 400 people. It's located about 30 miles southeast of San Antonio. There are 11 hotels in the area, and there used to be a 52-floor facility, but it closed in 1923.

Texas Congressman Vicente Gonzalez told MSNBC that officials said they 'won't have final numbers until probably a few more hours'.

He said that based on what he knew, he did not believe the incident was related to terrorism, but 'was some kind of other incident that has to do with the church or the community'.

Carrie Matula, who works at a gas station near the church, told MSNBC that she heard 'semiautomatic gunfire' and looked to see what was going on.

'I never thought it would happen here,' Matula said. 'This is something that happens in a big city. I would never have thought this would have taken place here. It's just too tight a community. It doesn't make sense.'

Sutherland Springs is a community of about 400 people 30 miles southeast of San Antonio. Some residents fear that the gunman is someone they know becuase their community is so small

The shooter was killed after the brief foot chase into Guadalupe County, according Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office spokesman Robert Murphy. But it's still unclear if the gunman shot himself or was taken down by authorities

Law enforcement officers gather in front of the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs

Witnesses said a man 'in full gear' walked inside the church (pictured) and opened fire just before 11.30am

President Donald Trump, who is visiting Japan, sent his condolences to the Sutherland Springs community.

'Victims and their families were in their sacred place of worship. We cannot put into words the pain and grief we all feel,' he said in a televised statement from Japan, urging everyone to 'stand strong, oh so strong.'

'In dark times such as these, Americans do we what do best and we pull together. We lock hands and we joins arms. Through the tears and through the sadness we stand strong.'

He went on to say that the worst mass shooting in Texas history is a 'mental health problem at the highest level'.

Speaking at an event with the Japanese prime minister in Tokyo on Monday, Trump described the gunman as a 'very deranged individual.'

Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement following the shooting.

'While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

'I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss.'

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a statement: 'The thoughts and prayers of all Texans are with the people of Sutherland Springs as tragic reports come out of First Baptist Church.'

'Please join Angela and me as we pray for those impacted by this horrific shooting,' Paxton said.

Police (pictured) could not give an exact number of victims shot in the attack, but witnesses said as many as 20 shots were fired

The shooting took place at the churchl, which is located about 30 miles from San Antonio. Sutherland Springs is a community of about 400 people

Texas Sen Ted Cruz tweeted: 'Keeping all harmed in Sutherland Springs in our prayers and grateful for our brave first responders on the scene.'

'It's something we all say does not happen in small communities, although we found out today it does,' said Joe Tackitt, the sheriff of Wilson County, which includes Sutherland Springs, in a press conference.

Photos show families tearfully praying outside their community building as they wait to see if their family and friends are safe.

There were at least six helicopters called in to transport victims to the hospital.

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said 'multiple' victims were being treated for gunshot wounds.

She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen. Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center.

The University Health System also said in a tweet that their 'trauma team is caring for nine of the patients from the Sutherland Springs shooting, 4 children, 5 adults, + 1 more patient on the way'.

Special agents from ATF's Houston Field Division, San Antonio Field Office were also on the scene along with the FBI.

Special agents from ATF's Houston Field Division, San Antonio Field Office are on the scene along with the FBI

There were at least six helicopters (pictured) called in to transport victims to the hospital
Heir to the Saudi throne Crown Mohammed bin Salman (pictured) has arrested 49 people as part a bid to consolidate power

The heir to the Saudi throne is tightening his grip on power with an 'anti-corruption' sweep, arresting dozens of traditionalist figures in a bid to modernise the kingdom.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was barely known outside Saudi Arabia before his father became king of the leading oil exporter in 2015.

But since being lined up as the next leader, the 32-year-old has made monumental changes as part of a drive to promote 'moderate and tolerant Islam' in the strictly religious country.

Early today a newly-formed anti-corruption committee arrested 49 people, including 11 princes, four ministers and dozens of former ministers.

Among those detained in five-star hotels in the capital Riyadh is billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal - who is one of the richest men in the world and owns the British capital's top hotel the Savoy.

The arrests mainly involve traditionalist figures, who are loyal to the kingdom's ultra-conservative branch of Sunni Islam Wahabbism.

Detaining them will help the prince with his plans to revert Saudi Arabia to a more 'moderate Islam' and 'eradicate the remnants of extremism very soon', plans he described to the media late last month.

The 32-year-old (pictured) is trying to modernise the conservative kingdom by purging traditionalists and bringing in new laws that allow women to drive and attend sports games

He is very popular with young Saudis, who make up 70 per cent of the population, and says he wants to promote a 'life in which our religion translates to tolerance'.

His modernisation plans have included lifting the ban on women drivers and investmenting $500billion (381billion) in a new city and business zone.

The proposals, grouped under the name Vision 2030, also feature plans for the partial privatisation of the state oil company, Saudi Aramco, and the creation of the world's largest sovereign wealth fund.

Cinemas are also soon expected to return to everyday Saudi life after music concerts were reintroduced.

Among those detained are former finance minister Ibrahim al-Assaf, a board member of the Saudi Aramco oil company, economy minister Adel Fakieh, former Riyadh governor Prince Turki bin Abdullah and former head of the royal court Khalid al-Tuwaijiri.

According to local reports, Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal is one of the men who has been detained in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's 'anti-corruption' sweep. The billionaire owns the Savoy Hotel in London

The Savoy hotel in London which is owned by one of the men arrested in the anti-corruption sting

Another key arrest is Bakr bin Laden, chairman of the Saudi Binladin construction group, and brother of 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden.

The country's national guard Minister Prince Miteb bin Abdullah and navy commander Admiral Abdullah bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Sultan have also both been replaced with no explanation.

After news of the sweep broke, the Saudi information ministry stated the government would seize any asset or property related to the alleged corruption, meaning London's Savoy hotel could become state property in the kingdom.

'The accounts and balances of those detained will be revealed and frozen,' a spokesman for Saudi Arabia's information ministry said.

Few people had heard of Mohammed bin Salman before his father Salman (pictured) was made king in 2015

'Any asset or property related to these cases of corruption will be registered as state property.'

Those detained are being held in five-star hotels across the capital, Riyadh, in the anti-corruption sweep.

Reports suggest some of the detainees are being held at the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh.

A royal court official, Badr al-Asaker, on Sunday appeared to confirm the arrests on Twitter, describing a 'historic and black night against the corrupt'.

The powerful heads of the Saudi National Guard, an elite internal security force, and the navy were also replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves in the kingdom.

Arrested: Bakr bin Laden (pictured), chairman of the Saudi Binladin construction group, and brother of 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden was detained as part of MBS's purge of Islamist traditionalists

Saudi National Guard Minister Mutaib bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz (pictured right with Prince Charles) has been replaced with no explanation

Prince Alwaleed is one of the Middle East's richest people, with investments in Twitter, Apple, Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation, Citigroup, the Four Seasons hotel chains and most recently in ride sharing service Lyft.

He's also known for being among the most outspoken Saudi royals, long advocating for greater women's rights.

He is also majority owner of the popular Rotana Group of Arabic channels.

The government has so far only announced that an anti-corruption probe was launched, with state-linked media reporting that dozens of princes and ministers were detained without releasing their names.

In June this year, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was appointed to the role after his father, King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, decided to depose former Crown Prince Muhammad bin Naye.

Prince Charles (left), flanked by Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal (second left), his wife Amira delivers a speech during a tour at the official re-opening of the Savoy Hotel in London, on November 2, 2010

The king also ousted Prince Miteb bin Abdullah from his post as head of the National Guard overnight.

The prince is reportedly among those detained in the sweep, as is his brother, Prince Turki bin Abdullah, who was once governor of Riyadh.

Both are sons of the late King Abdullah, who ruled before his half brother King Salman.

Saudi Twitter accounts released several other names of those arrested, such as Alwalid al-Ibrahim, a powerful Saudi businessman with ties to the royal family who runs the Arabic satellite group MBC; Amr al-Dabbagh, the former head of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority; Ibrahim Assaf, the former finance minister; and Bakr Binladin, head of the Saudi Binladin Group, a major business conglomerate.

Last night, ahead of the arrests, Prince Mohammed established the anti-corruption commission by royal decree.

An aviation source has said that security forces had grounded private jets in the Red Sea city of Jeddah, potentially to prevent any high-profile figures from leaving.

'The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history,' said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University,' they said.

'The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shockwaves through the domestic and international business community.'

Prince Alwaleed has made several appearances on CNBC to give investment advice.

Last month he was on the network predicting bitcoin was a 'speculative bubble that would soon implode'.

The 32-year-old crown prince, often known as MBS, has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom

The arrests come less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business titans to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his economic reform drive for a post-oil era.

It comes hours after Saudi Arabia hit and destroyed a 'ballistic missile' northeast from its capital Riyadh after it was launched from Yemen.

The missile was destroyed near Riyadh's King Khaled international airport and was said to be of 'limited size'.

No injuries or damage were reported.
Millions of recently leaked documents revealed that Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has significant business ties to a President Vladimir Putin's son-in-law, while Russia funded Facebook and Twitter investments through an investor possibly connected to Jared Kushner.

The newly disclosed 13.4 million documents, called the Paradise Papers, have revealed secrets of more than 120 politicians worldwide including the secretive dealings of the Queen and the world's biggest businesses after being published by news organizations around the world on Sunday.

The files expose the ways that the rich and powerful are protecting their wealth using a web of offshore accounts. The documents were leaked to the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, which is the same publication that obtained last year's Panama Papers.

The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists led a worldwide effort with 96 media organizations who went through the documents to report on their contents.

Among those implicated, the documents show that Ross failed to clearly disclose his interests with Putin's immediate family while he was being confirmed for his cabinet position with Trump's administration.

A massive data leak has revealed that Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross (above) has significant business ties to a Russian oligarch and President Vladimir Putin's son-in-law

Donald Trump's commerce secretary (pictured behind the US President) is revealed to have a stake in a firm that deals with Russians who are under sanctions

The newly disclosed documents, called the Paradise Papers, also reveal that two Russian state institutions with close ties to Putin funded substantial investments in Facebook and Twitter via an investor of Jared Kushner (above), President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior White House advisor

Ross, who is a billionaire industrialist, retains an interest in Navigator Holdings, a shipping company that was partially owned by his former investment company, according to NBC News.

One of the most crucial business relationships Navigator has is with a Russian energy firm that is controlled by Putin's son-in-law and other key members of Putin's close inner circle.

During his confirmation process, not many of the details about his financial holdings were disclosed, but they are now revealed in the trove of millions of internal documents of Appleby, which is a Bermuda-based law firm.

When he became commerce secretary, Ross shed multiple holdings, but held onto his stake in Navigator.

But as commerce secretary, he could come under fire since he oversees U.S. trade policy.

He told NBC News in a statement that he recuses himself from potential conflicts of interest, and has typically supported sanctions against Russian businesses.

Navigator makes millions of dollars shipping resources from major client Sibur, The New York Times reported.

The top leadership at Sibur includes Putin's friend, Gennady Timchenko, who has been sanctioned by the U.S., along with Putin's son-in-law Kirill Shamalov.

Ross's spokesman told the Times that he never met any of Sibur's oligarch bosses. The spokesman also said that Navigator's contract with the company was signed before the billionaire industrialist joined its board in 2012.

The files include allegations that the Queen's private estate secretly invested huge sums of cash in tax havens

However, records show in November 2011 Ross' company bought into Navigator, which was several months ahead of it chartering its first ships for Sibur.

'Sibur was not under sanctions at the time the contract was signed and is still not subject to sanctions,' spokesman James Rockas told the Times.

The documents reveal a connection between Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law and White House advisor, and Yuri Milner.

About a year after Milner's funds had sold their Facebook and Twitter shares, Milner invested some of his family's money in a company co-founded by Jared Kushner.

Those investments were made through Yuri Milner, a Russian technology magnate who holds a stake in a company that's co-owned by Kushner.

Back in July, Kushner said during a closed-door Senate Intelligence Committee meeting that he never 'relied on Russian funds to finance my business activities in the private sector.'

The father-of-three is currently ensnared in the Russia investigations over a meeting he held at Trump Tower in New York City back in June 2016 where he met with a Kremlin-connected Russian lawyer.

TWO FIRMS RUN BY THE RUSSIAN STATE INVESTED IN FACEBOOK AND TWITTER Two firms run by the Russian state made massive investments in Facebook and Twitter  through a business contact of Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner, say the papers. The revelation shows that Russia made millions out of the American internet giants, and will fuel mounting concerns about how Russian president Vladimir Putin has made use of the influential social media firms - including to influence the result of the US election last year. Paradise Papers documents show that Russias state-run VTB Bank and the state-run gas and oil corporation Gazprom ploughed money into the key US social media companies around six years ago VTB put 120m into Twitter shares, and Gazprom went through a series of investment bodies to help amass Facebook shares worth an astonishing 625m. Rather than openly buying the shares in their own company names, both Russian state companies were purchased indirectly with the help of investment funds managed by ex-pat Russian technology tycoon Yuri Milner. Potentially embarrassingly for US president Donald Trump - who continues to deny growing claims of Russian entanglement in his ultimately successful election campaign  Milner holds a share in a firm part-owned by Jared Kushner, who is both Trumps son-in-law and a senior White House advisor. Russian computer mogul Milner, born and educated in in Moscow before stints at a US university and the World Bank in Washington DC, worked with the Russian government in 2009 on making public services available online. He was personally invited to invest in Facebook by the social networking sites founder Mark Zuckerberg, and soon put some 120m of his own money into the firm. Zuckerberg was even a guest at Milners wedding in California in 2011. Milner has lived permanently in America since 2014  but the investment fund he operates, DST Global, has used money from investors including the VTB Bank in Moscow. The leaked documents show VTB put 120m into offshore fund DST Investments 3  registered in the Isle of Man  which was used to buy 11m Twitter shares in 2011, which amounted to up to 2 per cent of the company. They are understood to have grown by up to 170m in value just two years later. Meanwhile Gazprom, the Russian gas and oil giant, controlled an investment fund called Kanton Services based in the British Virgin Islands. Kanton owned the majority of a fund called DST USA II  again believed to be directed by Milner. And DST USA II bought more than 50 million Facebook shares, a holding of more than three per cent. They rose to a value of 625m  a billion dollars  before ultimately being sold at a profit. According to the Guardian newspaper, Milner said he knew the names of investors but could not reveal all of them under a confidentiality agreement. But he did accept VTB had been among those involved, and that it was Russian government-controlled. Milner three years ago invested around 500,000 in an online property investment fund for the super-rich set up by Jared Kushner and his brother Joshua in New York. Kushner says his stake is worth around 15m  but initially failed to declare his interest in the company when he joined the White House team after Trumps victory last year. Speaking to the Guardian about the tangled investments, Facebook spokeswoman Vanessa Chan said the shares previously ultimately owned by Gazprom had been sold five years ago, and rejected the notion of a lack of due diligence. A spokesman for Twitter denied any wrongdoing had occurred. Advertisement

He attended that meeting alongside his brother-in-law Donald Trump Jr. and Paul Manafort, who was just indicted by the special counsel as part of his lobbying work for pro-Russian interests in Ukraine.

The documents also name White House economic czar Gary Cohn, and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, and includes allegations that Queen Elizabeth's private estate secretly invested huge sums of cash in tax havens.

The duchy - which was set up in 1399 to generate a financial return from the reigning monarch - holds investments via funds in businesses including off-licence chain Threshers and retailer Brighthouse.

But now the estate stands accused of using offshore private equity funds in the Cayman Islands that shield UK investors from paying US tax on their holdings.

Among the more bizarre revelations in the documents is that U2 frontman Bono used a company based in Malta to invest in a Lithuanian shopping center.

Among the more bizarre revelations is that U2 frontman Bono used a company based in Malta to invest in a Lithuanian shopping centre

The singer bought a share of Nude Estates which went on to purchase the Ausra mall shortly after it opened in 2007.

Five years later the business was transferred to a company in Guernsey called Nude Estates 1.

Bono's spokeswoman told the Guardian: 'Bono was a passive, minority investor in Nude Estates Malta Ltd, a company that was legally registered in Malta until it was voluntarily wound up in 2015.

'Malta is a well-established holding company jurisdiction within the EU.'

Bono - real name Paul Hewson - has been fawned over by world leaders since he began touring the globe calling for more Third World aid and debt relief.

More figures are set to be named during the coming week as more documents are released with the Paradise Papers.

The world's top financial institutions are still reeling from last year's enormous Panama Papers data leak revealed how Vladimir Putin's inner circle and a 'dirty dozen' list of world leaders were using offshore tax havens to hide their wealth.

A host of celebrities, sports stars, British politicians and the global rich were implicated in that release.

The 11million files contained more data than the amount stolen by former CIA contractor Edward Snowden in 2013.


Tory donor Lord Ashcroft today denied allegations he hid in the toilet to avoid questions about his offshore investments - claiming he just needed 'a pee'.

The former Conservative Party deputy chairman was filmed by a Panorama journalist after he was named in the controversial Paradise Papers.

He can be heard repeatedly saying 'dear dear dear' as he is followed around last month's Tory conference before heading to the toilet.

Last night Lord Ashcroft, who has an estimated fortune of 850million, faced a torrent of online abuse over the exchange and responded by repeating his words 'dear dear dear'.

When asked if he was hiding from the journalist he said: 'No hiding..went in ...had a pee..and walked out'.

Tory donor Lord Ashcroft today denied allegations he hid in the toilet to avoid questions about his offshore investments - claiming he needed 'a pee'.

He refused to speak to the BBC's Richard Bilton when quizzed at the Tory Party Conference about having tens of millions in offshore account Punta Gorda Trust

Lord Ashcroft repeatedly said 'dear dear dear' when he was asked questions about his tax affairs and denies hiding in the toilet

Newly leaked documents from the Paradise Papers have revealed the billionaire kept continued to avoid paying tax despite Parliament's efforts to make peers pay their full share.

Tory donor Lord Ashcroft refused to answer questions about his offshore tax activity and hid in a toilet, when confronted by a Panorama journalist

The Conservative Party donor was domiciled in Belize for tax purposes when it was widely believed he had given up his non-dom status to pay tax, the explosive papers have shown.

He refused to speak to the BBC's Richard Bilton when quizzed at the Tory Party Conference about having tens of millions in the offshore Punta Gorda Trust.

He led Mr Bilton through the conference hall, at one point holding his hand, repeatedly muttering 'dear, oh dear, oh dear' under his breath.

While most Britons have to pay tax on everything they earn, privileged non-doms are only taxed on the income they earn in the UK.

When questioned, Lord Ashcroft, who has donated millions to the Conservative party and is still hugely influential in British politics, refused to comment.

He denied any 'impropriety or wrongdoing' when asked questions about his non-dom status in 2010.

When Lord Ashcroft entered the House of Lords in 2000, Parliament tried to force the controversial peer to pay the full amount of British tax.

He promised to become a permanent resident in the UK, which would have meant giving up his status as a UK resident whose full-time domicile is out of the country.

William Hague, who was then leader of the Conservative Party at the time, told Parliament that Lord Ashcroft becoming a peer would 'cost him [Lord Ashcroft] and benefit the Treasury tens of millions of pounds a year in tax'.

Yet Lord Ashcroft, who was ranked the 74th richest person in the UK by the Sunday Times Rich List 2015, managed to convince officials that he should be allowed to become a long term resident of the UK rather than becoming a permanent resident.

This slight distinction meant that Lord Ashcroft was able to retain his non-dom status in Belize, where he once served as the nation's ambassador to the United Nations.

Between 2000 and 2010, he racked in payments of around 150m from his offshore trust in Bermuda - meaning he sat in the Lords as a non-dom, not paying tax on these payments.

Lord Ashcroft's admission in 2010 that he was still a non-dom led to a major political controversy and the introduction of legislation designed to force anybody who sits in Parliament to pay full British tax.

After Lord Ashcroft told the BBC in May 2010 he was going to become 'a fully taxed person in Britain', it was widely reported he had given up his non-dom status.

The Conservative Party also gave such an indication on 7 July that same year.

However, documents seen by the BBC's Panorama, reveal 'his true domicile is Belize'.

The new law, the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act, had not specified that non-dom MPs and peers would have to give it up the status - only that they be 'treated as domiciled in the UK' by the tax authorities.

He led Mr Bilton all the way through the conference, at one point holding his hand, repeatedly muttering 'dear, oh dear, oh dear' under his breath

Therefore Lord Ashcroft had to pay full British tax while in Parliament but as soon as he quit the Upper Chamber in May 2015, he then returned to his non-dom status, entitling him to all its privileges.

It is suggested that Lord Ashcroft managed to work around the new law and continue to avoiding tax on his worldwide income between 2010 and 2015.

The day before the new law came into place on 31 March 2010, Lord Ashcroft's offshore trust brought shares worth 33.9m from one of his companies.

In messages exposed by the leaks, his advisers mention there would be 'capital gains tax implications' but also that he is 'not domiciled in the UK at the moment' - meaning it could have been liable to capital gains tax had it not gone through that day.

It appears while he was in the House of Lords between 2010 and 2015, Lord Ashcroft did not take any payments from his offshore trust.

A week after leaving the House of Lords in March 2015, Lord Ashcroft sold shares worth 11.2m. If he had been a sitting peer, he would have been liable to paying capital gains tax but because he was treated as a non-dom he could legally avoid paying tax.
Rose McGowan fired back at Alec Baldwin on Sunday morning after the Trump-impersonator said she 'delayed justice' against the disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein.

'Wee little baby man had a wittle baby tantrum cos he wants to protect rapist,' the 44-year-old wrote on Twitter in response to his remarks.

'You're sooo liberal, you scum bucket.'

The comments came after Baldwin made comments that seemed to victim-blame McGowan for the Weinstein Scandal on Friday in an interview with PBS Newshour. In the fallout from the comments he made the decision to take a hiatus from Twitter.

Baldwin said McGowan 'delayed justice' when she 'took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him. It was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case.'

He was swiftly criticized by actress Asia Argento and Anthony Borurdain for implying that she was wrong to accept the settlement rather than press criminal charges.

Argento was one of the first women to come forward in an interview with The New Yorker magazine and accuse Weinstein of orally raping her. Bourdain is the host of the popular CNN travel and food show Parts Unknown.

Rose McGowan fired back at Alec Baldwin on Sunday morning after the Trump-impersonator said she 'delayed justice' against the disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein

'Wee little baby man had a wittle baby tantrum cos he wants to protect rapist,' the 44-year-old wrote on Twitter in response to his remarks

During an interview with PBC Newshour on Friday Baldwin made a comment seemingly victim-blaming Rose McGowan. He said she 'took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him. It was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case.' Later in the interview he said that action 'delayed justice'

He was swiftly criticized by actress Asia Argento and Anthony Borurdain for implying that she was wrong to accept the settlement rather than press criminal charges

Rose McGowan responded to his interview furiously saying it was proof 'everyone knew' and 'no one cared' that she had been raped

Hey @AlecBaldwin you're either a complete moron or providing cover for your pals and saving your own rep. Maybe all three, Argento tweeted on Saturday.

In an interview with PBS on Friday, Baldwin, 59, admitted hearing a 'rumor' McGowan had been raped by Weinstein but doing nothing about it along with the rest of Hollywood.

He said it was 'for' McGowan to prosecute it and later said it was an 'issue' that victims of sexual harassment were sometimes silenced by cash settlements because it thwarted the course of justice.

'You heard the rumor that he raped Rose McGowan. You heard that over and over. We have heard that for decades.'

'But what happened was that Rose McGowan took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him. And it was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case,' he said.

McGowan, who has led an unrelenting commentary on the Weinstein sexual assault scandal since it erupted last month, responded furiously to his remarks.

'Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more,' she said.

McGowan, who has led an unrelenting commentary on the Weinstein sexual assault scandal since it erupted last month, responded furiously to Baldwin's remarks

Baldwin has also been criticized for acknowledging that many in Hollywood had heard rumors for decades about Weinstein's alleged rape of McGowan. Baldwin and Weinstein are seen in this 2007 file photo

Baldwin then got into a Twitter spat with Asia Argento and Anthony Bourdain, eventually blocking them

Before Argento responded Baldwin, likely realizing the magnitude of his comments, announced he would be taking a hiatus from his personal Twitter account.

The 59-year-old said it was 'never his intention' to 'blame the victim' and said that his 'heart goes out' to anyone affected by sexual harassment.

Explaining why no one else spoke up, he said it was because it remained an unproven rumor and argued that 'everyone' in every type of industry gives colleagues and employers 'the benefit of the doubt'.

After Argentos tweet, Baldwin responded on the Twitter account he uses for his foundation.

If you paint every man with the same brush, youre gonna run out of paint or men, Baldwin responded to Argento. He later blocked her from his personal account.

Bourdain came to his girlfriends defense, tweeting to Baldwin: You are really too dumb to pour piss out of a boot.

Baldwin fired back at Bourdain, tweeting: You should stick to eating worms and keep your mouth shut.

Baldwin then blocked both Bourdain and Argento. He called the star chef a self-seeking liar.

Argento tweeted: Ive been blocked on Twitter by Alec Baldwin. I wear this medal with pride.

Argento tweeted: Ive been blocked on Twitter by Alec Baldwin. I wear this medal with pride

Argento was one of the first women to come forward in an interview with The New Yorker magazine and accuse Weinstein of orally raping her

Baldwin addressed the scandal on Twitter on Saturday afternoon and signed off from social media

Earlier on Saturday, when Baldwin announced he would refrain from tweeting in response to the backlash over his comments about McGowan and Weinstein, Argento tweeted: So Alec Baldwin is taking a hiatus from Twitter to meditate about his words on Rose McGowan and gender equality. We wont miss you bully boy.

The bully boy reference was from comments Baldwin made on Thursday when he acknowledged bullying and mistreating women during his time in Hollywood.

Baldwin made the comments while receiving an award from The Paley Center for Media on Thursday, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Argento's claims against Weinstein were published last month in a New Yorker expose which came within hours of a separate, equally shocking piece, by The New York Times which included allegations against the mogul by Hollywood darlings Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie.

In her comments to The New Yorker, Italian-born Argento, 42, told how Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her after luring her to an empty room at the Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc in the South of France in 1997.

Nearly two weeks after the New Yorker article, McGowan went public with her own rape allegations against Weinstein.

McGowan accepted $100,000 from Weinstein in 1997 after an alleged encounter in hotel room.

It was part of an agreement that the case would not be prosecuted further but was not an admission of guilt on Weinstein's part, according to The New York Times which viewed a legal document detailing the agreement.

After a handful of women aired claims that Weinstein had either harassed or raped them at the start of October, McGowan claimed on Twitter that she had been raped by 'HW'.

She did not use his name but said she told Amazon studio head Roy Price about the attack and said nothing was done to help her.

Price has been fired by Amazon in light of separate claims he sexually harassed a lesbian TV producer.

Amidst the controversy, Baldwin appeared on Saturday Night Live's cold open to reprise his portrayal of President Donald Trump. He is seen above alongside SNL cast member Alex Moffat, who is playing former campaign chairman Paul Manafort

Bourdain and McGowan were spotted in New York on Thursday after enjoying a friendly dinner date

On Saturday, McGowan's fans supported her criticism of Baldwin and his remarks.

'Finds a way to blame women. Not rapist,' said one. 'Leave it to Alec Baldwin to perpetuate the victim blaming. Now it's Rose McGowan's fault that Harvey Weinstein kept assaulting women.'

'The money is NOT the reason they don't speak out and Alec Baldwin is victim blaming,' another quipped.

Baldwin's fans defended him, saying his comments were not aimed at the victims and that he was offering a wider commentary on the mere existence of such cash settlements as those he described.

'Mr Baldwin is not blaming anyone. He's pointing out that women are cornered to accept these settlements,' said one.

Weinstein is hiding out in Arizona where he may be arrested any day and extradited to New York to face charges.

The NYPD announced this week that it believed it had credible and sufficient evidence to issue a warrant for his arrest.

He is also being investigated in London and Los Angeles over separate sexual assault and harassment claims.

The exposure of Weinstein by The New York Times and New Yorker last month has led to an avalanche of accusations against other men across Hollywood and in other industries.
Mia Harrison, 4, drowned in a public swimming pool as her mother held a friend's baby

A four-year-old girl who drowned in a crowded public swimming pool slipped below the water as her mother held a friend's baby.

Mia Harrison was found motionless in the children's pool at Orange Aquatic Centre, in NSW's central west, at about 3.35pm on Saturday.

The young girl didn't know how to swim and reportedly drowned 'in a matter of seconds', despite being surrounded by friends and family.

Her distraught mother Mekaela thanked the actions of lifeguards, who desperately worked to revive Mia before she was rushed to hospital and pronounced dead.

'Accidents happen. Nobody is to blame. I would not wish any other parent to go through this, it's impossible to understand how horrific it is,' Ms Harrison told the Daily Telegraph on Sunday.

'It was very crowded with lots of children and adults around.'

Mia Harrison was found motionless in the children's pool at Orange Aquatic Centre, in NSW's central west, at about 3.35pm on Saturday

Mia, who hated putting her head under water, was due to start kindergarten next year at a local primary school and had a 'heart of gold'.

Ms Harrison pleaded with other parents to teach their children to swim as early as possible to avoid suffering the same tragedy as her.

'If I can save one other child by telling parents not to take your eyes off them for one second, and teach them to swim as soon as you can, when they are babies - if I can stop this from happening for anyone else, that's one tiny thing I can take from this.'

A family member took to Facebook to defend Ms Harrison and ask the public for time to grieve properly.

'There were five adults and four children (and a) baby in the pool ... she was very looked after and the pool was overcrowded so please, before you judge the parents, think about how the parents are feeling right now,' she wrote.

Mia, who hated putting her head under water, was due to start kindergarten next year at a local primary school and had a 'heart of gold'

Orange Mayor Reg Kidd visited the grieving family on Sunday.

'The thoughts and prayers of Orange City Council and the whole community are with the family,' he said.

'The Aquatic Centre is a strong and supportive community of hundreds of swimmers, staff, parents, children and the elderly who come to the pools for sport, fitness and fun every week.

'Everyone who has swum at the Orange pool can imagine the sadness and grief the family and our staff are feeling today. Today is a time for offering that support.

Mr Kidd said staff were being offered personal support.

Police from Canobolas Local Area Command have commenced an investigation into the incident and are speaking to witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage.

The pool posted about the incident on Facebook to say they would be reopening the premises on Monday morning.

A report will be prepared for the coroner as investigations continue.
Parents are outraged after learning students in grade 2 are shown pictures of genitals, grade 3 the clitoris, and grade 4 being taught about gay couples in school.

Sex education in Victoria's primary schools came under fire from Opposition education spokesman Tim Smith this week, who said he was approached by parents and family groups about the appropriateness of the classes.

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia on Monday, Mr Smith said some of the concepts and images shown to children, as young as seven, 'belong in an X-rated movie'.

Mr Smith said some of the concepts and images shown to children as young as seven, belonged 'in an X-rated movie'

'Sex education is vital but there are certain aspects of the program that are age inappropriate, totally over-the-top graphic and just unnecessary,' he said.

'Some of this stuff belongs in an X-rated movie, and for seven and eight-year-olds to be exposed to this material is totally inappropriate. Just let kids be kids.

'You have to let parents decide when to have those conversations with children, when they're ready and in the manner they feel appropriate.'

Mr Smith said the 'hyper-sexual' material was the difference between sex education and 'sexuality education'.

The Catching on Early: Sexuality Education for Victorian Primary Schools program shows students in grade 2 drawings of male and female genitalia.

The program goes into more detail in grade 3, featuring drawings of circumcised and uncircumcised penises, the clitoris and the prostate.

Grade 4 students explore same sex couples, pregnancy and contraception.

Grade 4 students in Victoria reportedly explore same sex couples, conception and contraception

The Catching on Early: Sexuality Education for Victorian Primary Schools program features drawings of male and female genitalia in grade 2 (stock)

One father said his daughter who was in grade 2 at a Victorian primary school grew uncomfortable around her male classmates after she was shown drawings of genitalia in class.

'She didn't want to go swimming because the boys had their tops off. We never had a problem before and then all of a sudden she did,' he told the Herald Sun.

The sex education program divided different associations.

The conservative Australian Family Association called for a review of the program, with President Terri Kelleher branding the images used 'very explicit, very graphic', and 'not appropriate'.

Education Minister James Merlino also defended the program, which was introduced in 2011 under the Liberal government

Parents Victoria executive officer Gail McHardy disagreed.

She said the program was 'normal and healthy' and students were otherwise exposed to much more explicit materials outside of the classroom.

'There is no shame in any of this teaching material. To suggest otherwise is wicked and potentially detrimental to students' health and well-being,' she told the Herald Sun.

Education Minister James Merlino also defended the program, which was introduced in 2011 under the Liberal government.

Mr Merlino questioned Mr Smith for his opposition, saying it appeared he was more interested in overhauling the sex education program than he was in the school system itself.
A real estate agent in South Australia got a little more than he hoped for in the way of visitors this weekend - an inspection by a koala.

Stuart Costello of Magain Real Estate thought he'd finished for the day when he caught the adorable animal checking out the Belair home.

'It was towards the end and he was standing on the back balcony - he wandered up through the backyard, through the carport, to the front yard where he stopped for a bit and then headed up a tree,' Mr Costello told The Advertiser.

Real estate agent Stuart Costello got a shock when a koala (pictured) turned up at the house

Mr Costello said the koala wandered 'to the front yard where he stopped for a bit'

'It was spot-on timing. It is what you go to Belair for - the nature, and it was nice way to see what you get first-hand,' he added.

Mr Costello posted the video of the koala browsing the home to his Facebook page with the caption 'Good turn out at my Belair open today - including this legend'. The video has since been viewed more than 2,500 times.

The real estate agent said it's not the first time he's known of an Australian native animal to turn up at an open inspection.

'It happened to a colleague of mine recently,' he said.

'He was selling a home at Aldinga Beach when a kangaroo jumped in off a vineyard, bounced around for a bit and then jumped away,' Mr Costello added.
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Thousands of masked protesters marched through the streets of central London for the annual Million Mask March.

Angry demonstrators wearing Guido Fawkes masks, made popular by the cult film V For Vendetta, took to the streets around Westminster chanting pro civil liberty and anti-establishment songs.

Fireworks were let off along the route of the march from Trafalgar Square and beyond Parliament and College Green, while others held up bright red flares and one person was even photographed burning an American flag.

Thousands of protesters gathered in London for the annual Million Mask March which took place in the capital this evening

Demonstrators burn the American flag at the protest in central London. Some chanted 'Tory scum' and other anti-establishment slogans

The event was the annual march which is organised by notorious hacking collective Anonymous, held on November 5 every year.

Protesters were given a strict route between Trafalgar Square and Whitehall by police for the march and ordered to take place between 6pm and 9pm. Warnings were projected onto nearby buildings, informing marchers they would be arrested and prosecuted for breaching the conditions outlined by police.

They yelled 'Tory scum' as they set off flares and fireworks near famous London landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Downing Streets and the Houses of Parliament.

One firework was shot across the green near Parliament Square, towards the status of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Another of the demonstrators wearing a black Guido Fawkes mask was confronted by at least four police officers as he held up a green flare.

At least 18 protesters were arrested at the event, with the majority held on public order offences, a Metropolitan Police spokesman said.

Police immediately arrested one man for lighting a flare outside parliament while another was arrested for confronting officers near Downing Street.

The march has been marred in recent years by violent scenes of protesters and police clashing, yet pubs along the route remained open.

A police officer holds up a knife that is believed to have been found on a protester near the fortified barriers near Downing Street

Some protesters wearing Guido Fawkes masks turned up to the march with Antifa flags and banners an scaled Nelson's column in Trafalgar Square

This protester, wearing a mask of Theresa May, held up a banner urging the prime minister to not let US president Donald Trump into the UK

Flares were let off along the route which took place between Whitehall and Trafalgar Square. Prior to the march, a post on the Facebook event page said that 'police are not your friends'

Fireworks were let off along the route of the march from Trafalgar Square and beyond Parliament and College Green, while others held up bright red flares and one person was even photographed burning an American flag

Protesters took placards with them to the demonstration to protest against the state of the world and the perceived erosion of civil liberties

A protester sits on one of the lions in Trafalgar Square, London, during the Million Mask March bonfire night protest organised by activist group Anonymous

Protesters demonstrate in Trafalgar Square, London, during the Million Mask March bonfire night protest organised by activist group Anonymous

The Metropolitan Police were dispatched to the scene wearing full riot gear in case of the event that things were to turn violent

Helicopters were dispatched for the event and police in riot gear were deployed in eventuality that the event were to turn sour.

Prior to the march, a post on the Facebook event page said that 'police are not your friends'.

It continued: 'We have seen the abuses and malpractice of this government, and governments before it.

'We have seen the encroaching destruction of many civil liberties we hold dear, we have seen the pushes to make the internet yet another part of the surveillance state.

'We have seen the Government's disregard for migrants, for the poor, the elderly and the disabled, we have seen the capital, profit and greed of the few put before the wellbeing of the many and we say enough is enough.'

The protest took place near the Houses of Parliament and virtually brought Westminster and the surrounding area to a standstill

Police struggle to contain crowds along the march route while others hold up their camera phones and Palestinian flags

It finishes: 'The Government and the 1% have played their hand. Now it's time to play ours. Expect us.'

At the march, protesters Mili Carnevale, 32, from Buenos Aires in Argentina, joined the crowds to protest with her partner Nano Pilota from Madrid, said the event was 'quieter than normal'.

Pilota added: 'It's very calm. I've not seen any violence. I'm not sure why that is.'

One police officer, who worked at last year's march, described the attendance as 'pitiful'.
Donald Trump said Monday in Japan that America has 'a lot of mental health problems,' responding to a mass-shooting massacre in Texas that claimed at least 26 lives.

And he asked: 'Who would ever think a thing like this could happen?'

A similar church massacre struck a Charleston, South Carolina church in 2015, just a day after Trump launched his White House bid. Nine people died in that attack.

'The tragedy in South Carolina is incomprehensible,' he tweeted at the time.

On Monday he parried a question about gun control during a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, saying that based on preliminary reports the Texas assailant, Devin Patrick Kelley, was a 'very deranged individual' who had 'a lot of problems over a long period of time.'

'We have a lot of mental health problems in our country, as do other countries. But this isn't a "guns" situation,' he said.

Just last week he tweeted that a jihadi's terror attack in New York City was carried out 'by a very sick and deranged person.' Sayfullo Saipov is charged with plowing into cyclists and pedestrians in a rented pickup truck, killing eight.

The president has called for him to be convicted and sentenced to death.

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Donald Trump said Monday in Japan that America has 'a lot of mental health problems,' responding to a mass-shooting massacre in Texas that claimed at least 26 lives

A 26-year-old man opened fire during Sunday services inside a Texas church killing at least 27, including a two-year-old child

Trump spoke during a joint press conference with Shinzo Abe, the prime minister of Japan

The president also reiterated his desire for fewer barriers to legal gun ownership, suggesting that he was glad an armed Texan shot Kelley, 26, as he fired on worshipers.

Devin Patrick Kelley walked into the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, dressed in full combat gear, and began shooting; Trump called him 'very deranged'

'Fortunately somebody else had a gun that was shooting in the opposite direction,' Trump said. 'Otherwise it would have been  as bad as it was  it would have been much worse.'

The president had said earlier in the day that the shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas was 'an act of evil' that brought 'pain and grief' to the entire United States.

The president was scheduled to speak to business leaders at the Tokyo home of U.S. Ambassador William Haggerty. But instead the occasion's energy shifted to the mass-casualty scene being investigated 6,400 miles away.

'This act of evil occurred as the victims and their families were in their place of sacred worship,' Trump said in the morning to reporters whose video feed flickered in and out back in the U.S.

Trump said in Tokyo that he had already spoken with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, shown seated, who addressed members of the media about the shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas

President Trump said Monday morning in Tokyo that a Texas church shooting was an 'act of evil' that brought 'pain and grief' to the entire nation

CONSOLER-IN-CHIEF TRUMP ON THE TEXAS CHURCH SHOOTING President Trump spoke Monday morning at the Tokyo home of U.S. Ambassador William Haggerty: 'Let me begin today by addressing the horrific shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and families of today's horrible attack. This act of evil occurred as the victims and their families were in their place of sacred worship. 'We cannot put into words the pain and grief we all feel, and we cannot begin to imagine the suffering of those who lost the ones they so dearly loved. Our hearts are broken, but in dark times  and these are dark times  such as these, Americans do what they do best: We pull together. We join hands, we lock arms, and through the tears, and through the sadness we stand strong, oh so strong. 'My administration will provide its full support to the great state of Texas and all local authorities investigating this horrible crime. I have spoken just a few minutes ago with Governor Abbott and we offer our thanks to the first responders, the FBI, all of the many people involved, both federal and otherwise. 'Ultimately they stopped the suspect and rendered immediate lifesaving aid to certain victims of the shooting. 'I will continue to follow the developments closely. All of America is praying to God to help the wounded and the families of the victims. We will never, ever leave their side. Ever.' He added remarks later during a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe: 'I also want to take a moment to continue sending our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences to the victims of the horrific assault on a church in a beautiful area. So sad. 'Sutherland Springs, Texas. Such a beautiful, wonderful area with incredible people. Who would ever think a thing like this could happen? So I want to send our condolences, the condolences of our first lady. 'In tragic times, Americans always pull together. We are always strongest when we are unified. To the wounded and the families of the victims, all of America is praying for you, supporting you, and grieving alongside of you.' Trump then parried a question about gun control during the press conference: 'I think that mental health is your problem here. This was a very -- based on preliminary reports, a very deranged individual, a lot of problems over a long period of time. We have a lot of mental health problems in our country, as do other countries. 'But this isn't a guns situation. I mean, we could go into it, but it's a little bit soon to go into it. But fortunately somebody else had a gun that shooting in the opposite direction. otherwise it would have been  as bad as it was  it would have been much worse. But this is a mental health problem at the highest level. 'It's a very, very sad event. It's a  these are great people and a very, very sad event. But that's the way I view it.' Advertisement

'We cannot put into words the pain and grief we all feel, and we cannot begin to imagine the suffering of those who lost the ones they love.'

'But in dark times  and these are dark times  such as these, Americans do what they do best: We pull together,' he said

Trump told the American public that 'through the tears and through the sadness, we stand strong  oh, so strong.'

The president said he had spoken with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott already, 'and we offer our thanks to the first responders, the FBI, all of the many people involved, both federal and otherwise.'

'All of America is praying to God to help the wounded and the families of the victims,' he said. 'We will never, ever leave their side. Ever.'

Japanese Prime Minister offered his condolences later in the day, saying as a bilateral meeting got underway: 'I'd like to express my heartfelt condolences and sympathy for your loss, and also for those who lost their lives and those who were hurt in the shooting incident in Texas this morning.'

'I understand that you are facing a very difficult time at this moment, and I'd like to express our heartfelt solidarity with the United States,' he said.

WHO INDEED? Trump asked of the Texas church shooting, 'Who would ever think a thing like this could happen?'  forgetting that there was another gun massacre just two years ago at a church in Charleston, South Carolina (pictured)

Just last week Trump attributed a New York City terror attack to a 'sick and deranged' man whom he later said should be executed

Trump said that 'in dark times such as these, Americans do what they do best: We pull together'

Trump tweeted about the mass casualty shooting in Texas around 5 a.m. Tokyo time, telling the American people he was monitoring the situation from abroad

Earlier on Sunday Trump tweeted support for the people of a small Texas town reeling from the day's bloodshed. A little past 5:00 a.m. local time in Japan, the president said he had been briefed on the mass casualty shooting.

'May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas,' Trump wrote. 'The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.'

He was joined by first lady Melania Trump who tweeted an hour later, 'Our hearts are with #Texas,' as other elected officials chimed in.

Twenty-seven people were gunned down Sunday at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, a hamlet near San Antonio, including the pastor's 14-year-old daughter.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders told reporters the president had been briefed several times early Monday morning in Japan.

'Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the friends and families affected,' Huckabee Sanders said. 'May God comfort them all in this time of tragedy.'

President Trump sent out an early a.m. tweet on Monday asking that 'God be with the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas'

Vice President Mike Pence sent prayers to the victims from he and his wife, Karen

First lady Melania Trump, who is traveling with President Trump through Asia this week, also sent out a message about Texas early Monday morning from Japan

Both of the state's senators chimed in on Twitter with Republican Sen. Ted Cruz sending prayers and thanks to first responders

Republican Sen. John Cornyn asked Americans to say a prayer to the congregation that was affected

House Speaker Paul Ryan called the reports coming out of Texas 'devastating'

Huckabee Sanders also said that the president had spoken with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott earlier in the morning, which was still Sunday afternoon in the Lone Star State.

Abbott, who already had to shepherd his state through a large-scale natural disaster in Hurricane Harvey, now has a mass-casualty shooting on his hands.

'While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send out sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act,' Abbott said in a statement. 'I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss.'

Abbott also tweeted that he was heading to the community Sunday afternoon.

Both of Texas' senators  Republican Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn  asked the American people for prayers.

'Keeping all harmed in Sutherland Springs in our prayers and grateful for our brave first responders on the scene,' wrote Cruz.

'Truly heartbreaking news in #Sutherland Springs. Please say a prayer for First Baptist congregation, first responders & the community there,' Cornyn said.

And both first daughter Ivanka Trump and Chelsea Clinton, a former first daughter, tweeted out messages.

'God bless the people of Sutherland Springs, TX. Our country's hearts are breaking for the victims & their families. We love & are with you!' Ivanka Trump wrote.

Chelsea Clinton alluded to other mass shootings, including Sandy Hook and Pulse nightclub, when sending good wishes to the community.

'No one should have to worry about loved ones in a house of worship, a nightclub, a school or at a concert. #SutherlandSprings you're in my heart,' Clinton wrote, using the heart emoji.

Former first daughter Chelsea Clinton alluded to other mass shootings - like Las Vegas, Sandy Hook or the Pulse nightclub shooting - when sending out her message

First daughter Ivanka Trump, a senior White House aide, sent out a message of support for the people of Sutherland Springs

Maryland's Gov. Larry Hogan labeled the shooting 'pure evil.'

'The First Lady & I are praying for the victims of this horrific shooting in #Texas. May God bless & lift up their families,' Hogan tweeted.

Vice President Mike Pence also used the word.

'Karen & I send prayers to victims & their families in TX.We grieve w/ you & stand w/ resolve against evil. Thank you to the first responders,' he said.

House Speaker Paul Ryan, a Republican from Wisconsin, called the reports coming out of Texas 'devastating.'

Rep. Dina Titus, a Nevada Democrat who represents Las Vegas wrote, 'As we continue to grieve in our own community, Las Vegas now mourns for the victims and families in #Sutherland Springs.'

It's been one month and five days since gunman Stephen Paddock rained bullets over those attending the Route 91 Harvest music festival on the Las Vegas strip, killing 58 people and wounding 489 others.

Rep. Dina Titus, a Democrat who represents Las Vegas in Congress, said her community mourns for Sutherland Springs as well. Vegas had its own mass casualty shooting on October 1

Sen. Dianne Feinstein released a statement saying she was 'horrified' by the Texas shooting and bemoaning the fact that Congress didn't act after last month's Las Vegas shooting

Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California, mentioned the Las Vegas shooting in her statement about the Texas shooting.

'This latest mass shooting comes just one month after the countrys deadliest mass shooting, and were still trying to garner support for even the most basic steps to reduce gun violence,' Feinstein pointed out.

It was Feinstein who introduced legislation to ban bump stocks, a gun accessory that increases one's firepower that Paddock used in his Las Vegas assault.

For a brief minute it looked like a piece of gun control legislation that could get passed, as Republicans didn't object to it outright. But enthusiasm soon fizzled.

'When will this end? When will we decide that we cant accept massacres in our places of worship, schools, or at concerts?' Feinstein asked. 'When will we actually do something about it?'

Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat from Connecticut, who had Sandy Hook elementary school in his district when he was in the House of Representatives, assailed the gun lobby in his statement.

He said the 'impotent helplessness' that the American people feel every time a mass shooting occurs is a 'fiction created and methodically cultivated by the gun lobby.'

SEN. CHRIS MURPHY LASHES OUT AT GUN LOBBY AND LAWMAKERS The paralysis you feel right now  the impotent helplessness that washes over you as news of another mass slaughter scrolls across the television screen  isnt real. It's a fiction created and methodically cultivated by the gun lobby, designed to assure that no laws are passed to make America safer, because those laws would cut into their profits. My heart sunk to the pit of my stomach, once again, when I heard of today's shooting in Texas. My heart dropped further when I thought about the growing macabre club of families in Las Vegas and Orlando and Charleston and Newtown, who have to relive their own day of horror every time another mass killing occurs. None of this is inevitable. I know this because no other country endures this pace of mass carnage like America. It is uniquely and tragically American. As long as our nation chooses to flood the county with dangerous weapons and consciously let those weapons fall into the hands of dangerous people, these killings will not abate. As my colleagues go to sleep tonight, they need to think about whether the political support of the gun industry is worth the blood that flows endlessly onto the floors of American churches, elementary schools, movie theaters, and city streets. Ask yourself  how can you claim that you respect human life while choosing fealty to weapons-makers over support for measures favored by the vast majority of your constituents. My heart breaks for Sutherland Springs. Just like it still does for Las Vegas. And Orlando. And Charleston. And Aurora. And Blacksburg. And Newtown. Just like it does every night for Chicago. And New Orleans. And Baltimore. And Bridgeport. The terrifying fact is that no one is safe so long as Congress chooses to do absolutely nothing in the face of this epidemic. The time is now for Congress to shed its cowardly cover and do something. Advertisement

'[D]esigned to assure that no laws are passed to make America safer, because those laws would cut into their profits,' Murphy stated.

He said his heart sunk when he heard the news of the Texas shooting.

'My heart dropped further when I thought about the growing macabre club of families in Las Vegas and Orlando and Charleston and Newtown, who have to relive their own day of horror every time another mass killing occurs,' he wrote.

Murphy said these types of killings aren't 'inevitable,' pointing to countries around the world that don't have America's gun problem.

'As my colleagues go to sleep tonight, they need to think about whether the political support of the gun industry is worth the blood that flows endlessly onto the floors of American churches, elementary schools, movie theaters, and city streets,' he said.

'Ask yourself  how can you claim that you respect human life while choosing fealty to weapons-makers over support for measures favored by the vast majority of your constituents,' Murphy added, asking Congress to 'to shed its cowardly cover and do something.'
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A mother-of-four and her two young daughters, a 14-year pastor's daughter, Sunday's stand-in preacher, his wife, their eight-months-pregnant daughter-in-law and three of her five children are among the 26 victims shot dead in the Texas church massacre.

Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, of suburban San Antonio, opened fire on parishioners at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, killing dozens and injuring at least 20.

The first victim to be identified was Annabelle Pomeroy, whose father - First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy - had been out of town during the attack. The grieving dad told ABC he's lost 'one beautiful girl, and a 'special child.'

Bryan Holcombe had been standing in for Frank Pomeroy when Kelley opened fire. Witnesses say he was the first victim to be struck by the shooter's gunfire.

'Bryan was filling in,' the witness, who did not want to be named, told DailyMail.com. 'He was walking up to the pulpit when he was shot in the back.

'He was an awesome Christian,' they added.

He was killed, alongside his wife of 25 years, Sunday school teacher Karla Holcombe, as well as their eight-months-pregnant pregnant daughter-in-law Crystal, a mom-of-five, local residents reported. Three of Crystal's five children - Emily, Megan and Greg were also killed.

'The family is just devastated,' the witness added.

Bryan and Karla ran a canvas repair shop before retiring and had attended the church for 25 years.

'My father was a good man and he loved to preach. He had a good heart. They knew where they were going. Theres peace in that,' their son Scott Holcombe told the Herald-Tribune. Their son Marc Daniel Holcombe and his infant daughter Noah were also named among those mindlessly gunned down.

Mother-of-four Joann Ward and three of her children were also shot. Family have since told the Dallas News that Joann and two of her daughters, six-year-old Brooke and eight-year-old Emily have died.

Ward's six-year-old stepson Ryland, who was shot four times, is still in hospital after undergoing emergency surgery. The mom's eldest daughter Rihanna, nine, had the glasses shot off her face but escaped injury by hiding under a pew as shots rang out.

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Annabell Pomeroy, the 14-year-old daughter of the church pastor, was the first victim identified in Sunday's shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas on Sunday. Her mother said having fun at the pool was her favorite thing

Sunday school teacher Karla Holcolmbe and her husband Bryan also died in the rampage, their family confirmed. A local resident says their pregnant daughter-in-law was also killed

Mother-of-four, Joann Ward, (left) is said to have died in the wake of the shooting alongside Crystal Holcolmbe (right), the daughter-in-law of Karla Holcolmbe and her husband Bryan

Sisters six-year-old Brooke (left) and eight-year-old Emily Garza (pictured, right, sitting on the right, next to her sister Rihanna) were killed in the shooting according to her family. Nine-year-old Rihanna (sitting next to Emily had her glasses shot off her face but survived

The victims ranged in age from five to 72, with two killed outside the church, 23 killed inside, and one person who died after medical transport, officials said.

Kelley also died after he was confronted and pursued by an armed hero citizen.

And 34-year-old Amanda Mosel told MySA that her 13-year-old goddaughter was killed during the shooting. She said she was sad she skipped church this morning, but she normally attends that sermon. 'It's a small, tight-knit church,' she said.

Many of the dead remained inside the small rural church Sunday evening, as crime scene investigators worked to reconstruct the scene.

Authorities declined to officially name any of the deceased victims on Sunday evening, as they worked to secure the crime scene and notify victims' families.

'We don't know names of any of the victims at this time because we're still trying to work the crime scene,' said Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt.

Residents of the community gathered for an emotional candlelight vigil on Sunday night as the names of the victims began to emerge.

Law enforcement officials work near the scene of a fatal shooting at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas on Sunday afternoon, where the flags in front of the church have been lowered to half-staff

Mourners participate in a candlelight vigil held for the victims of the fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland

Friends and family of the victims gathered in prayer outside the Community Center in Sutherland Springs on Sunday

'I've known her since she was about eight years old,' resident Gloria Rodriguez Ximenez told CNN of the 14-year-old pastor's daughter who died.

'There's no words to describe how wonderful people they are - Christian. It's just a small Christian town, everybody knows each other, everybody supports each other,' she said.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr Told CNN that the death toll is expected to climb.

'My heart is broken,' Gamez said. 'We never think where it can happen, and it does happen. It doesn't matter where you're at. In a small community, real quiet and everything, and look at this, what can happen.'

A woman wrote on Facebook that she saw the man flee the scene in his vehicle before crashing it not far from her daughter's house. She said he then ran on foot and was pursued by police.

The shooter was killed after the chase into Guadalupe County, according Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office spokesman Robert Murphy.

Six-year-old Ryland Ward, the stepson of feared-dead mother-of-four Joann Ward, was shot four times and is in surgery

Annabelle Renee Pomeroy (left) was the first victim named in the shooting at a Texas church on Sunday morning. She is the 14-year-old daughter of the church's pastor Frank Pomeroy (pictured right with his wife Sherri Newman Pomeroy)

First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy (pictured inside the church a prior Sunday) said that his 14-year-old daughter Annabelle, who was killed in the shooting, was 'one beautiful girl, and a 'special child'

Bryan and Karla Holcombe, who attended the church for 25 years and ran a canvas repair shop before they retired, are also among the 26 dead in the church shooting rampage

Crystal was married to Bryan and Karla Holcombe's son John (pictured with her) and had been at church with her inlaws when she was shot dead

Crystal Holcombe, pictured center, the daughter-in-law of Bryan and Karla Holcombe, was among those killed, along with three of her five children, all pictured left, Emily (standing tallest), Megan and Greg. Her husband John (right) and their other two children, survived the massacre

Dana Fletcher, who owns a store in Sutherland Springs, told CNN: 'It's just awful...there were emergency responders everywhere.'

Neighbors in the area said they may have heard the shooter reload multiple times. Another witness at the scene said a two-year-old was also shot in the attack.

Sutherland Springs is a rural community in Wilson County, Texas, about 30 miles southeast of San Antonio that's made up of about 400 people. Some residents fear that the gunman is someone they know because their community is so small.

Texas Congressman Vicente Gonzalez told MSNBC that officials 'won't have final numbers until probably a few more hours'.

He added that 'apparently the shooter was not from the area, he was from outside of that area'.

Gonzalez said that based on what he knew, he did not believe the incident was related to terrorism, but 'was some kind of other incident that has to do with the church or the community'.

Friends and family of the victims wait anxiously outside the Sutherland Springs community center for news of loved ones

Families gather at the community center awaiting news about victims of the churc shooting in Sutherland Springs

Carrie Matula (left) embraces a woman after a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday. Matula said she heard the shooting from the gas station where she works a block away

Members of the FBI are seen working the crime scene at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs on Sunday

President Donald Trump sent his condolences to the Sutherland Springs community as he continues to monitor the situation from Japan, while Texas governor Greg Abbott condemned the shooting as an 'evil act'

Carrie Matula, who works at a gas station near the church, told MSNBC that she heard 'semiautomatic gunfire' and looked to see what was going on.

'I never thought it would happen here,' Matula said. 'This is something that happens in a big city. I would never have thought this would have taken place here. It's just too tight a community. It doesn't make sense.'

President Donald Trump Tweeted his condolences to the Sutherland Springs community, and said he will monitor things from afar during his trip in Japan.

'God bless the people of Sutherland Springs, TX. Our country's hearts are breaking for the victims & their families. We love & are with you!' Ivanka Trump tweeted after learning of the shooting.

Chelsea Clinton also shared her condolences on Twitter on Sunday evening, writing that nobody should have tow worry about their loved ones when they are in 'house of worship, a nightclub, a school or at a concert,' referencing other mass shootings in the country such as Las Vegas, Orlando and Sandy Hook.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement following the shooting.

'While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

'I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss.'

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a statement: 'The thoughts and prayers of all Texans are with the people of Sutherland Springs as tragic reports come out of First Baptist Church.'

'Please join Angela and me as we pray for those impacted by this horrific shooting,' Paxton said.

Texas Sen Ted Cruz tweeted: 'Keeping all harmed in Sutherland Springs in our prayers and grateful for our brave first responders on the scene.'

Photos show families tearfully praying outside their community building as they wait to see if their family and friends are safe.

There were at least six helicopters called in to transport victims to the hospital.
Genocide is a word which should be always be used with care. Random atrocities, however horrible, certainly do not constitute genocide.

Genocide is carefully planned.

According to the United Nations, genocide comprises 'acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group'.

That is why the savage and deliberate massacre of more than one million Cambodians by the dictator Pol Pot in the Seventies was genocide.

The methodical killing of 7,000 Bosnian Muslims in Srebrenica in 1995 was genocide.

So was the horrific slaughter of several thousands of Yazidis in Iraq by Islamic State three years ago.

And, of course, the term applies to the Holocaust, when the Nazis eliminated six million Jews during World War II.

Rohingya refugee receive bananas from a Bangladeshi volunteer after crossing from Myanmar into Bangladesh. More than 600,000 Rohingya have arrived in Bangladesh since a military crackdown in Myanmar in August triggered an exodus

Today, on the bloodstained border between Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) and Bangladesh, the world is witnessing genocide again.

Shamefully, it is being presided over by Aung San Suu Kyi, the Oxford-educated leader of Myanmar who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 in recognition of her lifelong battle for freedom. Even more disturbing, world leaders are doing nothing to stop it.

Myanmar is a former British colony which got independence in 1948 and is the world's 40th largest nation, sharing borders with India, China, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos.

In 1962, the country fell under the control of a brutal military dictatorship. It was toppled thanks to the huge courage of Suu Kyi, who led Myanmar to free elections two years ago.

During the past few days, I have spoken to numerous survivors of the savage  and brutally calculated  onslaught unleashed by Myanmar's largely Buddhist army on its minority Muslim population.

More than 600,000 Muslims from the country's Rohingya ethnic minority have fled for their lives across the border to Bangladesh in the past ten weeks.

Every day, thousands more arrive and each has a heartrending story to tell. These traumatised refugees describe how the Myanmar army burnt their homes.

They recount stories of an orgy of killing and rape and of mass graves. In a hideous twist, they also relate how their military persecutors were egged on by Buddhist monks, betraying their principles of not harming any living thing by savagely trying to wipe out their religious rivals.

Though the oppression of the Rohingya has gone on for two decades, the latest outburst of mass killing was sparked on August 25, when a terrorist group claiming to represent the Rohingya struck at Myanmar security posts.

A Rohingya refugee child is pictured carrying another as they cross from Myanmar into Bangladesh

True, these attacks took place, but were easily repulsed. They certainly do not justify attacking hundreds of thousands of defenceless Rohingya villagers over recent weeks.

As a journalist, I've reported from Darfur, where thousands of men, women and children were slaughtered in Western Sudan in 2003 in the civil war as rebels accused the government of oppressing black Africans in favour of Arabs.

I've witnessed the reign of terror of death squads in Iraq and, in 2010, I visited a Nigerian village where bodies lay rotting in wells or buried in shallow graves  a result of the terrifying religious hatred between Christians and Muslims.

But none of these compared with the widespread or systematic killing that is happening in Myanmar.

Shamefully, the genocide is being presided over by Aung San Suu Kyi (pictured), the Oxford-educated leader of Myanmar who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, writes Peter Oborne

It is no exaggeration to say that this is one of the most heinous crimes of the 21st century.

Critics say that the evidence appears overwhelming, that the Myanmar government is intent on the annihilation of the minority population of Rohingya Muslims.

They say this is part of a policy of ethnic cleansing which has also meant that the minority has been denied citizenship and was mostly forced to live in ghetto-like camps.

When Suu Kyi came to power in 2015  having spent years behind bars and under house arrest for her defiance of the military regime  her country's Rohingya population was estimated at just over one million.

Today, there are probably 300,000 left  the rest are dead or have fled across the border, a perilous journey over mountains and through forests.

They are frequently forced to hide in ditches, water-tanks and paddy fields. If found, they are killed.

Survivors simply cannot understand why the world will not intervene and come to their rescue.

'Please help us,' one old man asked as the rain poured down on his temporary home. 'Please tell our story to the world.'

On my arrival at the Balukhali refugee camp a few miles from the Myanmar border, I was braced for horrific accounts. Yet what I heard was infinitely worse.

Survivors spoke of an atrocity at Tula Toli, a Rohingya village in western Myanmar.

Early in the morning on August 30, around 150 government soldiers and 100 Buddhist civilians appeared on foot in the north of the village.

Using rocket-launchers, the troops began setting houses on fire. Terrified villagers fled the flames.

Rohingya refugees line up to receive humanitarian aid in the Balukhali refugee camp near Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh

As they ran, soldiers began shooting with what witnesses say were semi-automatic rifles.

Tula Toli lies between jungle and a gushing river. As villagers attempted to run for the jungle, a line of Buddhist civilians from non-Muslim villages holding long swords blocked their path.

The only place to go was the riverbank. Soon, the entire village had gathered on a large sandbank on the river's edge. That was the signal for the real killing and savagery.

Abdullah, a village mullah, estimates fatalities at around 1,500 people, including his wife and five of his six children (one married daughter escaped unharmed as she was living in another village).

He and around 15 other what he calls 'stronger people' swam the river and hid in a cemetery. From there, 40 yards away, they watched the horrific scene unfold.

Abdullah says he witnessed soldiers separate the Rohingya into three groups: men, young women (including girls as young as five) and old women or, as Abdullah chillingly described them 'those who are not so beautiful'.

Some villagers lay down to try to prevent themselves being forced into groups. It was no use.

The soldiers opened fire. 'All the young men were shot at once,' recalls Abdullah. 'It took less than ten minutes.'

When the firing was over, the soldiers walked over to the pile of bodies to check for survivors. If they saw signs of life, they hacked them to death with a machete.

After a five-minute pause, in which they did not reload, the soldiers opened fire on the old women.

Every day, thousands more Rohingya refugees arrive and each has a heartrending story to tell, writes Peter Oborne

'They put blankets on the piles of dead bodies, then they poured on petrol and just lit a fire on the piles of the bodies,' Abdullah recalls. 'And while there was a big flame, they throw the small children  while still alive  onto the fire.'

Abdullah says he saw the commander of the military sitting silently observing his troops as they went about their butchery.

This suggested that the soldiers were acting under prior orders.

But what happened next, according to Abdullah, was even worse.

The soldiers took the defenceless young women  a total of about 100  to the edge of the forest.

Then they dragged them in groups of five or six back to the village, forcing them into the houses not yet burnt.

Abdullah was too far away to spot his family, but he knew that his wife and daughters were in these groups.

There followed a period of three hours' silence.

Rohingya refugees wait at a temporary shelter after crossing the border from Myanmar to Bangladesh this week

Abdullah describes seeing the womenfolk put inside houses as a stream of soldiers went in and out.

He could not see what was happening inside, but it takes no imagination to guess. Rape.

At the end of the three hours, Abdullah says the houses were set on fire, with the young women inside.

He could hear them screaming. Just seven were able to run to safety, although they had been badly beaten and burnt.

Abdullah never saw his wife or daughters again.

The soldiers went down to the river and dug a large hole into which, with the help of non- Muslim villagers, they dumped the bodies.

Only a few very young children were still alive. Witnesses say that some, too, were then burnt alive, others thrown into the river.

At 4.30pm, Abdullah set off on the three-day walk across the border to Bangladesh where, ten days later, he met up with his married daughter.

I was unable to establish the truth of Abdullah's account by travelling to Tula Toli myself.

Rohingya refugees cross the Naf River at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border in Palong Khali, Bangladesh

This is because the Myanmar army won't allow foreign observers into areas where, euphemistically, they say 'clearances' are taking place.

However, other survivors, as well as independent international observers, have confirmed the basic facts of his terrible story.

Abdullah's testimony fits the wider pattern of atrocities which have taken place in Rohingya areas in the past ten weeks.

Other refugees told me how tens or hundreds have been killed in their villages during the state-sponsored terror.

Mohammed, a betel leaf seller, says soldiers attacked his village of Dar Gyi Zar and he witnessed 'more than 100 dead bodies'.

From his hiding place in the forest, he then saw soldiers gather up corpses and burn them. They then put the remains in bags and threw them into the river.

Again and again, I heard the same stories about the epidemic of killing and rape of the Rohingya.

The truth is something dark and terrible is taking place in Myanmar  and, disgracefully, world leaders are turning a blind eye.

Experts have been warning that a genocide is underway for some time. Two years ago Queen Mary's University in London issued a prophetic report, Countdown to Annihilation: Genocide in Myanmar, which explains that the persecution of the Rohingya Muslims should be seen as genocide and not as ethnic cleansing, or anything else

Matthew Smith, of the human rights group Fortify Rights, which has warned of an impending genocide for years, told me: 'The death-toll is horrific. It is much larger than anybody has estimated.'

He pointed out the Myanmar government had not allowed in outsiders to make a record of casualties: 'There's normally a reason for that. That's not a good sign.'

Chillingly, Mr Smith says: 'We may not have seen the worst of it. There is a distinct possibility we shall see more mass killing in the coming weeks.'

That is why the world must respond now. Britain  which ruled the country for more than 120 years from 1824  has urged the UN Security Council to discuss reports of mass civilian deaths. Otherwise, London's response has been utterly pathetic.

The Left-wing British Establishment which has lionised Aung San Suu Kyi for years is also complicit with her silence.

However, her supporters point out  correctly  that the army is largely outside her control, and the true responsibility lies with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the commander-in-chief of Burma's armed forces.

Yet Suu Kyi must shoulder huge blame and is guilty of falsely claiming the 'clearances' ceased on September 5. She has also asserted that the brutal military response has been justified by attacks on Myanmar security command posts by Rohingya terrorists in August.

One reason for the feeble international response may be a fear of offending China, Myanmar's regional protector.

At the very least, targeted sanctions must be placed on the military chiefs. The UN must as an imperative send a fact-finding mission to Myanmar to establish the truth of what is happening.

Above all, Aung San Suu Kyi must be persuaded to speak out against the killings  and if she refuses, she should be stripped of her Nobel Peace Prize.

There is still enough time to stop Myanmar's remaining 300,000 Rohingya from meeting the same fate as the doomed villagers of Tula Toli.

Victims' names have been changed to protect identities.
Three police officers have been injured after trying to break up an out-of-control party in Western Australia.

One officer was allegedly struck in the head with an axe handle and another was hit in the face with a full beer can, 9 News reported.

A senior constable was also assaulted in the brazen attack which was all caught on camera.

At least two officers can be seen with blood dripping from their faces

Police were called to a disturbance on Carbine Street in Orana, Albany on Thursday. They then followed a man wanted for questioning to a property on Flemington Street.

The officers were confronted when they tried to enter the house to talk to the man.

Shocking footage of the attack shows officers being pushed to the ground in the backyard, before the clash moves to the front of the property.

At least two officers can be seen with blood dripping from their faces.

One person was also tasered (pictured) during the incident

Shocking footage of the attack shows officers being pushed to the ground in the backyard

One person was also tasered during the incident. Throughout the ordeal a woman can be heard screaming at the officers.

Two men, Justin Brian Woods, 21, and 19-year-old Albany man Lincoln Colbung have been charged with assault following the incident.

The three police officers were taken to hospital and have since been released.
Bookmaker William Hill has been accused of sexism for offering bonus bets to new gamblers - but only if they are male.

The promotion sent to its mailing list last week offered $150 to any member who convinced a friend to sign up, but specified it was for 'male clients only'.

Billed as an 'exclusive referral promotion', punters got $200 if they were referred and created an account and deposited $50.

William Hill accused of sexism for offering $150 bonus bets to punters who get new gamblers to sign up to the bookmaking giant - but only if they are male

The person who referred them would in turn receive $150 in bonus bets, described as a 'great way to receive some bonus money for the Melbourne Cup weekend'.

The gender requirement didn't appear in the terms and conditions and its inclusion in the email was understood to be decision of an individual employee.

Bookies like William Hill are plagued by punters signing up with wives, girlfriends, mothers and sisters to collect free bets from referrals.

Billed as an 'exclusive referral promotion', punters got $200 if they were referred and created an account and deposited $50

The men-only policy was likely an attempt to prevent such practices, though would be hard to police in practice.

The promotion was slammed by industry peak body Responsible Wagering Australia as 'beyond unacceptable', in a statement to the Daily Telegraph.

It said William Hill, run by gambling mogul Tom Waterhouse after he sold his self-named business to the British giant in 2013, was the only agency not to sign up to its code of conduct.
The number of Australians with gonorrhea has surged by 63 per cent in the last five years as a new report reveals more straight men are being diagnosed with STIs.

The University of NSW's Kirby Institute's latest look into STIs and blood-borne viruses shows diagnoses of gonorrhea and syphilis are increasing while the most common sexual disease in Australia is chlamydia.

The report revealed a large increase in young straight city-dwellers being diagnosed with sexually transmitted disease over the past five years.

Associate Professor Rebecca Guy at UNSW called for support of prevention ideas (stock picture)

Associate Professor Rebecca Guy at UNSW said people needed to be more aware of the dangers of unprotected sex.

'Up until recently, gonorrhea had been uncommon in young heterosexual people living in major cities,' she told the Sydney Morning Herald.

'Rising rates in this group highlight the need for initiatives to raise awareness among clinicians and young people about the importance of testing,' she said.

Regionally gonorrhea had risen by 15 per cent and across remote areas a drop of eight per cent was found.

Around three-quarters of the 23,887 people diagnosed with gonorrhea in 2016 were men.

Chlamydia is the most common STI in Australia with young people the most affected. Three quarters of people diagnosed with the infection were aged between 15 - 29.

Diagnoses of gonorrhea and syphilis are up and most common STI in Australia was revealed as chlamydia (stock picture)

Cases of gonorrhea were seven times worse across the indigenous population and Torres Strait Islanders, and three times as much than non-Aboriginal citizens for chlamydia.

In the past five years, there was a 25 per cent increase in the notification rate of hepatitis C diagnoses in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population however the rate in the non-Indigenous population remained stable.

The chief executive of the Australia Federation of AIDS Organisations, Darryl O'Donnell, said this alarming rate needs to be addressed.

'The sad reality is that for HIV transmission, the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians is widening,' he said.

The organisation has called for the federal government to invest $15 million a year into incentives to close the discrepancy.
Evgeny Klyucharev pictured outside court

A Russian tycoon and his socialite wife dropped a theft claim against their chauffeur when they realised the businessmans seedy life of prostitutes and drug abuse would be exposed.

Evgeny Klyucharev and Veronica Chou  a close friend of Princess Beatrice and the Duchess of York  accused the driver of stealing an irreplaceable 167,000 diamond ring.

However, under questioning, the man told police he was selling the gem on behalf of Mr Klyucharev, suggesting it was needed to raise quick cash.

He accused his boss of racking up bills on call girls and the party drug GHB.

In court, Mr Klyucharev told a judge it was normal in his circles to use 5,000-a-night prostitutes and his wife  now a mother to young twins  knew about it.

But when the couple, who have homes in London, New York and Hong Kong, realised their private affairs would be raked over in public they abandoned the case and jetted off overseas.

The claims will be an embarrassment to 32-year-old Miss Chou, who is also a friend of Ivanka Trump. Once named one of Asias most powerful businesswomen to watch, Miss Chou is the daughter of textiles billionaire Silas Chou.

Chauffeur Irfan Zayee was due to go on trial last week accused of stealing the diamond ring and selling it to a jeweller in Finchley, north London, in March 2016.

During three days of legal argument, a judge was told the 6.29-carat graded emerald cut diamond was sold before turning up in New York. Thanks to its unique character, experts saw it had been flagged as stolen and it was returned to the Chou family in May.

Mr Klyucharev's wife Veronica Chou with her close friend Princess Beatrice

Blackfriars Crown Court heard Mr Zayee was charged with theft and fraud but would make counter claims against his employers of 23 years in his defence, including evidence of Mr Klyucharev regularly using escorts and party drugs such as GHB, known as liquid ecstasy.

It was claimed his wife was concerned at him driving and playing with their children while under the influence of drugs. Mr Zayees barrister, Dominic DSouza, said there were 130 pages of phone messages demonstrating how Mr Klyucharev would ask his chauffeur to order sex workers. Some date back to 2014 and others included concerns from Miss Chou about her husbands behaviour.

Mr DSouza said Mr Klyucharevs sexual activities were so prolific it may very well be hes had so many prostitutes hes forgotten whos who. There are videos of Mr Klyucharev in various stages of GHB intoxication, he added. They are salacious and embarrassing  He should see these messages and videos and reconsider what he says. He says in his social circles its acceptable to do this.

Mr Klyucharev, was summoned to confirm the texts and video footage were genuine.

Texts: Chauffeur Irfan Zayee

The businessman, who lives in Knightsbridge, west London, admitted it was all true.

Judge Sally Cahill QC said: His statement suggests it is normal in his circles to have relationships with other women, none of it would come as a surprise to his wife and he accepts he regularly uses the services of escorts with the knowledge of his wife and obtained these services with the help of your client [Mr Zayee].

But when the couple were told the information would form part of the trial they withdrew their witness statements.

Prosecutors then offered no evidence allowing Mr Zayee to walk free from court.

Genevieve Reed, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: There has been a change of heart from the complainants in light of the material  I confirm [Mr Klyucharev] accepts it is him in the videos and who sent the messages.

The couple were not in court to hear the case collapse as they left to take a private jet to Texas. Mr Zayee said: My only comment is thank God for my barrister.
Comedian Chelsea Handler has drawn criticism for a tweet blaming Republicans just hours after a mass shooting in Texas.

Handler tweeted on Sunday afternoon: 'Innocent people go to church on Sunday to honor their God, and while doing so, get shot in killed. What country? America. Why? Republicans.'

At least 27 are feared dead after a gunman stormed into the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday morning, among them the pastor's 14-year-old daughter.

Comedian Chelsea Handler has drawn criticism for a tweet blaming Republicans just hours after a mass shooting in Texas

The shooter died after a pursuit by an armed hero citizen, and his identity and motive had not been made public when Handler weighed in blaming Republicans.

The gunman was later identified as 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelley of suburban San Antonio.

Political finger-pointing and debates over gun laws have long been part of the aftermath of high-profile shootings in the US, but many took issue with Handler's quickness to politicize the horror shooting.

'This is new low from the left. Sad time in our country and you decide to take a cheap shot,' responded Omar Navarro, a Republican candidate for Congress in California.

'Conservative Christians were the ones targeted! Good grief! What the heck is wrong with you?' replied Twitter user @apurposefulwife.

'Chelsea handler is two years away from screaming "I'll get you my pretty" from a broomstick. That chick is LONELY and MEAN,' wrote fellow comedian Owen Benjamin.

Handler is the host of a weekly talk show on Netflix.
A woman's body has been found floating in Sydney Harbour near the Opera House after she fell off a ferry.

Police responded to an incident following reports of a body in the water on Monday morning.

The ferry was on its way to Manly from Circular Quay when it stopped near Garden Island after reports someone fell overboard, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

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Police responded to an incident following reports of a body in the water on Monday morning

A body has reportedly been found floating in Sydney Harbour near the Opera House

The ferry was on its way to Manly from Circular Quay when it stopped near Garden Island after reports someone fell overboard (stock image)

Tim Stephens who was on board the ferry said: 'The Manly Ferry just stopped near Fort Denison.

'We heard some shouting and then I went down the back. I heard a guy on the boat saying that a woman might have jumped or fell into the harbour.'

Police confirmed a woman's body was found floating near Garden Island by a member of the public at about 9am.

'A woman was found floating in the water near Garden Island,' Police told Daily Mail Australia.

'She (woman) was retrieved by a member of the public and transferred to a NSW Police water vessel.

'The water police were met by paramedics at a nearby wharf however the woman was unable to be revived.'

Police confirmed a woman's body was found floating near Garden Island by a member of the public

A woman's body has been found floating in Sydney Harbour near the Opera House after she fell off a ferry (stock image)

The death is not being treated as suspicious.

Images from the scene show a police boat searching the area.

For confidential support 24/7 call LifeLine Australia on 13 11 14.
A beguiling cast of characters including Bollywood and Hollywood stars, models, entrepreneurs, politicians and environmentalists took part in the most exotic wacky race for the Travels To My Elephant competition last week.

The race, from the cities of Jodhpur to Jaipur in Rajasthan, was in aid of Elephant Family, a charity set up by the Duchess of Cornwalls late brother, Mark Shand.

It aims to save the Asian elephant and its migratory corridors.

The race included ex-Vogue boss Nicholas Coleridge and Ruth Powys who was Shands girlfriend at the time of his tragic death in 2014

Travelling in 80 pimped-up tuk-tuks, chakdas and jeeps, racers included Shands nephew Ben Elliot, who organised the race, Richmond MP Zac Goldsmith, ex-Vogue boss Nicholas Coleridge and Ruth Powys who was Shands girlfriend at the time of his tragic death in 2014.

On day three, when they were all encouraged to dress up in traditional Indian clothes, Coleridge was particularly amused, writing: If a group of Indian travellers came to Britain to help save, say, the red grouse, and drove around the country in London taxis, Routemaster buses, on penny farthings and in traditional London Ubers, would it be considered odd if they dressed up as Charles Dickens or in bowler hats and pinstripes?

I can finally solve the year-long mystery of the glamorous brunette whos joined actor Charles Dance at a series of celebrity events  its BBC presenter Zeinab Badawi.

The pair were first spotted together in August 2016 at Sadlers Wells Theatre in London but Zeinab, was merely described as a mystery lady.

I can finally solve the year-long mystery of the glamorous brunette whos joined actor Charles Dance(left) at a series of celebrity events  its BBC presenter Zeinab Badawi(right)

At the time, Game Of Thrones star Charles, 71, would only say they were very good friends.

A year on, and my spy spotted Zeinab, 57, leaving the Everyman cinema in Belsize Park arm-in-arm with Charles after watching the thriller Wind River.

They may be sticking to their just friends claim, but Im told the pair were rather affectionate as they cosied up in the cinema.
Daisy Lewis was left shocked and upset after Tatler magazine described her as loud in bed in its Little Black Book

Appearing on a list of the most selectable delectable eligibles in Britain should be a compliment for anyone  but not actress Daisy Lewis.

The Downton Abbey star was left shocked and upset after Tatler magazine described her as loud in bed in its Little Black Book.

The magazine was forced to issue an apology yesterday after Daisy hit out at the society bible for its misogynistic description of her on the annual list of singles with mesmerising beauty and brilliant brains.

The article in the December issue says: As Daisy is quite small, you might be tricked into believing shes quiet. LOL. She isnt.

'This actress is loud. Which makes her fun at a party. And in bed. Probably.

After catching sight of the edition, Daisy tweeted her astonishment on Friday: Im really shocked and upset by this.

But thankfully Im loud enough to say it. Does anyone at Tatler read the news? #misogyny #loudwomen.

She told me last night: It seemed a bit archaic but I dont think they meant to be mean.

The article in the December issue says: As Daisy is quite small, you might be tricked into believing shes quiet. LOL. She isnt'

I found it inappropriate in the current climate. It reminded me of a lads mag. It was supposed to be witty and I dont want to be the fun police but at the end of the day, women are all in this together and it felt cheap and not funny.

'It felt like school bullying. I cant let that kind of stuff fly. This could affect my profession.

Tatler apologised unreservedly on Twitter yesterday and announced it will be publishing a full apology in its next issue.

Tibbs Jenkins, Tatlers social editor, told me: Daisy is an old friend of mine. I know shes complained on Twitter and shes spoken to me personally about it. We are all cool now. I didnt mean to be rude.

Tatler apologised unreservedly on Twitter yesterday and announced it will be publishing a full apology in its next issue. Pictured: Daisy as Sarah Bunting in Downton

The faux pas by one of the oldest magazines in the world comes as Hollywood and Westminster have been engulfed in sexual harassment scandals, shining a light on how women are treated and spoken about.

The article sparked uproar on Twitter. One angry reader said: Christ Daisy thats such sexist crap. Tatler should apologise and go on a course.

Another added: Utterly appalled. What hope do we have if magazines FOR WOMEN are treating women so poorly.

Tatler is famous for its irreverent humour, but sometimes it can backfire. The magazine was criticised in 2013 for a three-page spread on the best society breasts, which compared the cleavages of 34 famous women from Princess Eugenie to TV presenter Clare Balding.

And now on Today it's payback time...

I've unearthed a revealing exchange between Today stalwarts Sarah Montague and John Humphrys which could explain Sarahs shock departure from the Radio 4 show.

I've unearthed a revealing exchange between Today stalwarts Sarah Montague and John Humphrys which could explain Sarahs shock departure from the Radio 4 show

To celebrate Todays 60th anniversary, Sarah was filmed quizzing her colleague  the pair are pictured above  and the exchange was rather awkward.

At one point, John claimed there was no difference between them, prompting Sarah to hit back: Well, theres a few hundred thousand pounds worth, John  a barb about his far superior salary. Ouch!
They showed there are no hard feelings between them when they caught up for lunch last week.

And now Lisa Wilkinson's husband Peter FitzSimons has recalled the 'odd' experience of seeing his wife meet up with her former 'on-air husband' Karl Stefanovic after she sensationally left the Today show.

On Sunday, the 56-year-old said he felt the pair displayed 'great chemistry' even though the cameras were no longer pointing at them.

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'It was an odd thing': Peter FitzSimons reflects on what it was like to see his wife Lisa Wilkinson catch up for lunch with Karl Stefanovic after she quit the Today show

'It was an odd thing to briefly be a blowfly on the wall as my missus met up with her former 'on-air husband' for lunch for the first time since their decade-long partnership was broken up,' he wrote in his column for the Sydney Morning Herald.

'What was most interesting to me was to observe close-up, how - despite the fact they are entirely different characters - they still have the great chemistry that powered them through those ten extraordinarily intense years.'

Peter admitted there will likely be 'thousands' of opinions on the nature of Lisa, 57, and Karl's, 43, relationship.

But he said the pair do in fact share a friendly relationship, which is 'really something' after working together for a decade.

A fly on the wall: The 56-year-old said on Sunday he felt the pair displayed 'great chemistry' even though the cameras were no longer pointing at them

No hard feelings? Lisa and Karl stepped out for lunch together on Tuesday at a Sydney harbourside cafe

'It's really something': Peter admitted there will likely be 'thousands' of opinions on the nature of his wife's relationship with Karl, but said the pair do in fact share a friendly relationship

'Let the record show - and I'd suggest this is fairly rare for relationships of that intensity, under that kind of scrutiny and pressure - they come out of it still genuinely liking each other a great deal,' he wrote.

Lisa sensationally left the Nine Network last month and reports suggest her main reason was a lack of pay parity with Karl.

Lisa and Karl stepped out for lunch together on Tuesday at a Sydney harbourside cafe and Lisa, who will join Channel Ten's The Project next year, took to Instagram to share the experience.

Former colleagues: The high-profile duo spent a decade on air together, before Lisa's shock resignation last month

'Two adventurers who came to an end': Peter shared to Twitter a shot of the pair from the lunch, holding up his book, Burke and Wills

'The best lunch today with this guy...' Lisa captioned the photo, as she leaned her head in towards Karl's.

Lisa was glowing, wearing a cream blouse and gold hoop earrings, while Karl wore a blue suit and white shirt.

Peter also shared to Twitter a shot of the pair from the lunch, holding up his book Burke and Wills.

He captioned the shot: 'This is the story of two intrepid adventurers who came to a surprising end. And Karl and Lisa discussed it over lunch today!'
The Harvey Weinstein scandal opened the door for women and men of all stripes to address the problem of sexual assault and harassment in Hollywood.

And actress Uma Thurman added her voice to the conversation in a now-viral interview she did with Access Hollywood in mid-October.

The statuesque stunner, who worked with Weinstein and his Miramax production company seven times, explained why she's taken her time to make a statement, telling the show 'Ive been waiting to feel less angry.'

Asia Argento, who was one of the first actresses to publicly accuse the shamed movie mogul of assault, shared the video with her Twitter followers on Saturday.

The Italian actress paired the clip with a tweet that read: 'Dear #UmaThurman may peace be with you and your soul. We need your strong voice, it truly is commanding.'

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Uma Thurman told Access Hollywood she's been 'waiting to feel less angry' before speaking about the problem of sexual assault in showbiz during a now-viral interview clip from October

The Kill Bill star spoke with Access Hollywood about the scandals during the October 18 screening for her new film The Parisian Woman.

Asked what she thought about women in show-business speaking out against 'inappropriate behavior' in the workplace, Uma said 'I think it's commendable.'

Though the Boston native appeared calm, her frustration was palpable as she took a deep breath and told the NBC show, 'I dont have a tidy soundbite for you.'

She chose her words carefully as she continued: 'I have learned, I am not a child and I have learned that when Ive spoken in anger, I usually regret the way I express myself.'

The five-foot-11 beauty said 'Ive been waiting to feel less angry,' adding, 'When Im ready, Ill say what I have to say.'

A working relationship: The stunner worked with Weinstein (above in 2016) and Miramax on seven different projects, including the Quentin Tarantino hits Kill Bill and Pulp Fiction

No comment: Though Uma was calm and collected at the event, her frustration was palpable as she took a deep breath and told the NBC show, 'I dont have a tidy soundbite for you'

Solidarity! Asia Argento, who was one of the first actresses to publicly accuse the shamed movie mogul of assault, shared the video on Twitter Saturday along with a message

The Italian actress paired the clip with a tweet that read: 'Dear #UmaThurman may peace be with you and your soul. We need your strong voice, it truly is commanding'

The tall, blonde talent's oft-collaborator Quentin Tarantino also opened up about Weistein's behavior in October, admitting: 'I knew enough to do more than I did.'

The director said that that he first learned about the Hollywood power player's habit for harassment when his then-girlfriend Mira Sorvino told him she had an incident with Harvey.

'There was more to it than just the normal rumors, the normal gossip. It wasnt secondhand. I knew he did a couple of these things.'

Dozens of women -- 93 by one count -- have accused the Oscar-winning producer of offenses ranging from sexual harassment to rape dating back to the 1980s.
She is the only daughter of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

And Paris Jackson is using her celebrity pedigree to call attention to social issues, including America's political climate and the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

The 19-year-old opened up to Stellar on Sunday about her dedication to being an outspoken activist and a role model, as well as first-ever trip to Australia.

Vocal: Paris Jackson is using her celebrity pedigree to call attention to social issues, including America's political climate and the health of the Great Barrier Reef

Paris, who spoke out against 'Nazi, white supremacist jerks' in the wake of the Charlottesville riots at the VMAs this year, said she is adamant about staying positive.

'I've been trying to have a more optimistic outlook on our country's current situation,' she offered.

'It's also not productive to be doing what I am doing in the activism world if I'm led by fear, anger or resentment. It's about being ruled by love and being love,' she said.

Focused: Paris, who spoke out against 'Nazi, white supremacist jerks' in the wake of the Charlottesville riots at the VMAs this year, said she is adamant about staying positive

The teenager recently returned to Los Angeles after a humanitarian trip to hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico, which she told the magazine 'put a lot into perspective'.

She also works extensively with her late godmother Elizabeth Taylor's AIDS Foundation in Malawi.

The socially-conscious beauty shared how important it is for her to be a 'role model that parents are okay with their kids looking up to'.

Dedicated: The socially-conscious beauty shared how important it is for her to be a 'role model that parents are okay with their kids looking up to'

'I went through a lot of self-hatred in my younger days, but I'm happy as well as proud of myself to say that I'm growing out of that and growing into love,' she said.

Paris's profile is set to rise even further thanks to a breakout role in next year's Gringo, directed by Nash Edgerton and starring his brother Joel Edgerton.

She is headed to Australia, where her parents were married in November 1996, for the first time to attend the Emirates Melbourne Cup on Tuesday.
She lost her beloved father Colin to cancer last December.

And actress Sheridan Smith has recently reflected on her challenging year following her father's death.

In a self-titled one-off special set to air on ITV on Sunday, the 36-year-old actress will speak out on her past year, admitting: 'I lost my mind a bit.'

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Sad loss: Tragic loss: In a self-titled one-off special set to air on ITV on Sunday, Sheridan Smith, 36, will speak about her past year, including her father's loss to cancer

However, the 36-year-old insists that she has become 'stronger' as a result of her tragic loss: 'Everyone can relate, because everyone has been through that type of thing. You cant choose when it happens but you come out the other side stronger.'

Viewers will see Sheridan perform songs from her new album, as well as Gnarls Barkley's Crazy - as an acknowledgement of her past struggles.

'I wanted it to be a little cheeky wink to my meltdown last year,' she said. 'I cant ignore it, youve probably read about it.'

In a discussion with comedian Alexander Armstrong, the English actress said she is looking to settle down with someone who favours her father.

Canny musician: In the show Sheridan perform songs from her new album, as well as Gnarls Barkley's Crazy - as an acknowledgement of her past struggles

In a recent interview with the Sunday Times Magazine, she spoke about her troubles with coming to terms with her father's death: 'My life was falling apart. And I didnt tell anyone'.

Her anxiety and insecurity became worse as her career took off, as she feared she wasn't good enough.

'I was totally terrified that I was going to come unstuck, that I couldnt hold these feelings of insecurity in much longer without it coming to a head.'

Time out: Sheridan's battle with stress and exhaustion, as well as struggling to deal with her heartbreaking loss forced her to temporarily pull out of her role in the West End production of Funny Girl last year

Her battle with stress and exhaustion, as well as struggling to deal with her heartbreaking loss forced her to temporarily pull out of her role in the West End production of Funny Girl last year.

But the Cilla star made a brave return to TV as she filmed new ITV drama Clean Break this month.

In the series she stars as office cleaner Sam, who struggles with an on-line gambling addiction.
She has the familiar fiery hair, similar piercing eyes  and the same vaulting ambition as her famous father had at her age.

This is Boris Beckers daughter Anna Ermakova, and she reveals in todays You magazine how at 17  the age Boris was when he first won Wimbledon  she intends to take the modelling world by storm.

In an exclusive interview that accompanies her first British photoshoot, Anna admits she has a lot to learn, saying: When I first walked down a catwalk, I told myself, Stop squinting, walk straight and try not to fall down. 

This is Boris Beckers daughter Anna Ermakova, and she reveals in todays You magazine how at 17  the age Boris was when he first won Wimbledon  she intends to take the modelling world by storm

She is now the age Boris was when he first won Wimbledon. He is pictured in Frankfurt yesterday

And she has been warned about the dangers of the profession from her mother, former model Angela Ermakova.

Anna says: She tells me not to let the craziness of modelling go to my head, and to always think first and act afterwards.

Anna also reveals shes bilingual, speaking Russian and English, although not the native German of her father, pictured below when he too was 17.
She's always possessed a sensational figure.

And despite welcoming her first child just five months ago in May, the 26-year-old reality star proved she'd snapped straight back into shape as she flaunted her phenomenal physique the Gym King launch at Impossible bar in Manchester on Saturday night.

The Love Island star looked smitten with her boyfriend Luis Morrison, 23, shortly after they rekindled their romance as they partied with the likes of Alex Bowen and Vicky Pattison's ex-boyfriend Alex Cannon.

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Sexy mama: Despite just giving birth in May, Cally Jane Beech, 26, flaunted her toned abs in a very racy pvc black bralet at the Gym King launch event in Manchester on Saturday night

The brunette beauty looked sensational as she teamed her racy bralet with a pair of eye-catching geometric patterned trousers.

Sporting a low waist, the star's stylish ensemble showed off her sensational toned abs and tiny waist.

She accessorised with some complementing nude peep toe heels and a matching clutch bag.

Brunette beauty: Sporting a low waist, she wore her racy top with a pair of eye-catching geometric patterned trousers which showed off her sensational toned abs and tiny waist

Posed: Cally accessorised with some complementing nude peep toe heels and a matching clutch bag

Back together: Cally Jane recently rekindled her romance with Luis Morrison, 23 - who she shares daughter Vienna with - and the pair have been more loved-up than ever

Love Island contestant from 2016 Alex Bowen also made an appearance at the Gym King launch.

The 24-year-old reality star flaunted an abstract patterned shirt in black and grey, complete with dark trousers and high top trainers.

Bowen was pictured posing with reality star Vicky Pattison's ex Alex Cannon who also attended the event.

Cannon, who also appeared in this year's Big Brother, opted for a suave grey longline jacket, white tank top and dark chinos.

Dapper: 2016 Love Island contestant Alex Bowen, 24, also made an appearance flaunting a patterned shirt in black and grey, complete with dark trousers and high top trainers

Say cheese: Alex Cannon, who also appeared in this year's Big Brother, opted for a suave grey longline jacket, white tank top and dark chinos as he is pictured with Alex Bowen

Cally Jane recently rekindled her romance with boyfriend Luis Morrison and have been more loved-up than ever.

They looked smitten when they enjoyed a night out at The Living Room bar in Manchester last month, confirming their reconciliation.

The Love Island duo, who fell in love on the 2015 edition of the reality show, went hand-in-hand for what marked one of their first public appearances together since their split.

Loved-up: The Love Island duo, who fell in love on the 2015 edition of the reality show, went hand-in-hand last month for what marked one of their first public appearances together since their split

Cally and Luis - who raise baby daughter Vienna together - certainly looked delighted with their decision to get back together following a difficult few months.

The duo, who split in July, were spotted looking happier than ever in each other's company at Bijou nightclub last months, fuelling speculation they were back together.

Their display came after sources revealed the hunk was 'spending quality time' with the brunette beauty in a bid to 'get their relationship back'.
An explosive week of Halloween episodes ends in a bang as Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick) will give into temptation and cheat on his fiancee Honey (Emma Barton) in Monday's EastEnders episode.

After their daughter Janet's shocking car accident, Billy and Honey had a heated argument in the hospital resulting in Honey ordering Billy to leave.

Billy turns to Tina Carter (Luisa Bradshaw-White) for support and shares a passionate kiss without knowing that Tina is in fact the cause of his daughter's accident and accidentally ran her over.

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Unlikely pairing: Billy Mitchell will give into temptation and cheat on his fiance Honey Mitchell with Tina Carter in Monday night's EastEnders episode

Both Tina and Billy went through a tough time during EastEnders' week long of Halloween episodes.

Tina experienced a traumatic mugging at knife point with two men dressed as clowns in the cash to carry car park, when she went to buy alcohol.

Shaken up, she drove back the the Queen Vic accidentally running over what she though was Dot's pet cat Dave.

To her horror, Tina later found out it was in fact Billy and Honey's daughter Janet, who went missing during the kids Halloween party at Jack's.

Didn't see that coming: Billy turns to Tina for support and shares a passionate kiss without knowing that Tina is in fact the cause of his daughter's accident and accidentally ran her over

Billy and Honey relationship hit the rocks at the hospital as Janet shocked her parents in revealing how she can't feel her legs, leading to more medical tests for the youngster.

The anxious parents struggles to cope and Honey stays with son William which prompted Billy to accuse Honey of favouring him over Janet who has Downs Syndrome.

A devastated Billy shares his worries about Janet never being able to walk again with an emotional Tina.

Emotional: Janet shocked her parents in revealing how she can't feel her legs, leading to more medical tests for the youngster

Guilty conscience? Tina is devastated by her actions and is a shoulder to cry on for Billy who has no idea about her car accident or mugging at knife point

Meanwhile, Abi Branning finally revealed to her sister Lauren that she was in love her with deceased fiance Steven Beale and also pregnant with his baby.

A stunned Lauren is first betrayed by her sister's actions as Abi confesses her underdying for Steven and unborn child.

Lauren slaps Abi and the pair fight over Steven's ashes causing them to scatter all over the bathroom floor.

Sister trouble: Abi Branning finally revealed to her sister Lauren that she was in love her with deceased fiance Steven Beale and also pregnant with his baby

Both Lorna Fitzgerald who plays Abi and Jacqueline Osborne who plays Lauren have confirmed they will be leaving the soap by Christmas.

Whether they will be leaving the square together or a part in unknown but it is sure to be explosive.

Friday night's episode hinted Abi may consider moving in with her mum Tanya as Lauren suggested she could help support her with the new baby.
Angelina Jolie vamped it up in a leggy LBD for Deadline Hollywood's seventh annual The Contenders event in West Hollywood on Saturday.

The Oscar winner easily defied her 41 years in the black-knit turtleneck mini-dress and matching leather booties selected by stylist Jen Rade.

The divorced mother-of-six also rocked a red pout and dark aviator sunglasses with her perky ponytail at the Directors Guild of America Theater.

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Strutting her stuff: Angelina Jolie vamped it up in a leggy LBD for Deadline Hollywood's seventh annual The Contenders event in West Hollywood on Saturday

Angelina benevolently greeted her waiting Los Angeles-area fans outside the venue by signing autographs and posing for selfies.

Jolie has been single since legally separating from third husband Brad Pitt a year ago after two years of marriage and three children - Shiloh, 11; and twins Vivienne & Knox, 9.

If anyone can commiserate with the former Hollywood wild child it's Mudbound actress Mary J. Blige, who's still divorcing ex-manager Martin 'Kendu' Isaacs after 13 years of marriage.

Joining the Special Envoy for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees was her longtime friend and co-screenwriter, Loung Ung wearing a sleeveless black dress.

Skinny Minnie! The Oscar winner easily defied her 41 years in the black-knit turtleneck mini-dress and matching leather booties selected by stylist Jen Rade

Brunette bombshell: The divorced mother-of-six also rocked a red pout and dark aviator sunglasses with her perky ponytail at the Directors Guild of America Theater

Her public: Angelina benevolently greeted her waiting Los Angeles-area fans outside the venue by signing autographs and posing for selfies

Selfie time: Jolie has been single since legally separating from third husband Brad Pitt a year ago after two years of marriage and three children - Shiloh, 11; and twins Vivienne & Knox, 9

Angelina met the 47-year-old human rights activist 16 years ago and together they adapted her 2006 memoir First They Killed My Father into a Netflix film currently streaming.

During the awards season Q&A, Jolie announced that her fifth directorial effort is Cambodia's official entry for next year's Academy Awards best foreign film category.

'If I may, we Cambodians don't consider Angie a Western woman,' Loung told moderator Pete Hammond.

'She's ours and she's been a citizen since 2005 - and before that, she was Cambodian in spirit.'

Hey girl! If anyone can commiserate with the former wild child it's Mudbound actress Mary J. Blige (L), who's still divorcing ex-manager Martin 'Kendu' Isaacs after 13 years of marriage

Reunited: Joining the Special Envoy for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees was her longtime friend and co-screenwriter, Loung Ung wearing a sleeveless black dress

Gal pals: Angelina met the 47-year-old human rights activist 16 years ago and together they adapted her 2006 memoir First They Killed My Father into a Netflix film currently streaming

Smiles: Angelina warmly embraced Loung as the pair celebrated the film

Ung said: 'We clicked right away - she was really, really authentic. She really hates it when I gush about her in public, but she's a really cool person!'

Ung added: 'We clicked right away - she was really, really authentic. She really hates it when I gush about her in public, but she's a really cool person!'

The By the Sea director's 16-year-old son Maddox (born Rath Vibol) received an executive-producing credit for the genocide drama and her 13-year-old son Pax shot still photography for it.

'Every Cambodian person in this film knew someone who was affected by the war and they came back to do this for their loved ones,' Angelina explained.

'During the war, artists were killed because of their influence. Having the artists come back to paint the sets and act the scenes was so inspiring. You're not sad about the story, but your proud of what this country can do creatively.'

Congrats! During the awards season Q&A, Jolie announced that her fifth directorial effort is Cambodia's official entry for next year's Academy Awards best foreign film category

Candid: Loung told moderator Pete Hammond (L): 'If I may, we Cambodians don't consider Angie a Western woman. She's ours and she's been a citizen since 2005 - and before that, she was Cambodian in spirit'

Radiant: Angelina showed off her radiant complexion and alabaster skin as she chatted

Brunette beauty: Angelina was the epitome of beauty as she waxed lyrical about the production

Power duo: Angelina joined a stunning Mary, who was clad in a neon jumpsuit, at the glittering event

Family affair: The By the Sea director's 16-year-old son Maddox (3-L) received an executive-producing credit for the genocide drama and her 13-year-old son Pax (4-L) shot still photography for it

At the helm: The Khmer-language drama currently holds a 89 percent critic approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a 72 percent approval rating on MetaCritic, and a 7.3/10 on IMDb

The Khmer-language drama currently holds a 89 percent critic approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a 72 percent approval rating on MetaCritic, and a 7.3/10 on IMDb.

The Kung Fu Panda 3 actress will soon begin production on the sequel to the hit Disney villain origin story Maleficent.

But first, Jolie executive-produced the Afghanistan-set animated feature The Breadwinner, which hits US theaters November 17 and UK theaters May 25.

Nora Twomey's flick, based on the 2001 novel by Deborah Ellis, centers on a headstrong girl who disguises herself as a boy to provide for her family after her father gets arrested.
She earned a handshake from the baking maestro in 2016 for her four-tier meringue cake during the seventh series of the Great British Bake Off on BBC.

And newly-engaged Candice Brown, 32, was pictured in jovial spirits as she welcomed an a kiss from married TV judge Paul Hollywood, 51, outside a hotel at the after-party for the Pride of Britain Awards in London.

In photos exclusively obtained by The Sun, the baker - who announced her engagement to fiance Liam Macauley last week - was spotted 'toying' with Paul's ear and shared a friendly kiss at the Grosvenor House Hotel - before they went on to enjoy cosy drinks.

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Friendly: Newly engaged Candice Brown, 32, and GBBO's Paul Hollywood, 51, were spotted sharing a kiss in pictured obtained by The Sun - before they went onto enjoy drinks (pictured)

Sensational: Earlier on in the evening, the GBBO pair looked to be in great spirits as they posed at the Pride of Britain Awards in London on Monday

A source told the publication that the baking pair were sitting outside the bash, sipping on champagne while Paul - who previously had an affair with his American Baking Competition's co-star Marcela Valladolid in 2013 - draped a blanket over Candice's shoulders.

With the alcohol flowing, the pair were seen enjoying a friendly chat as they conversed into the early hours of the morning at the table.

An onlooker said told the publication: 'Paul and Candice were outside together for hours and obviously had a lot of catching up. They were very relaxed, laughing and chatting.

'Paul was cracking a lot of jokes which Candice lapped up. He seemed to be paying for all the champagne. There were lots of people inside but Paul and Candice seemed happy enough on their own.

The party's not over! A source told the publication that the baking pair were sitting outside the bash, sipping on champagne while Paul draped a blanket over Candice's shoulders

Catching up: The pair were seen enjoying a friendly chat as they conversed into the early hours of the morning at the table

Post-awards: In photos obtained by The Sun, the This Morning baker - who announced her engagement to fiance Liam Macauley last week - was spotted 'toying' with Paul's ear at the Grosvenor House Hotel

An onlooker said told the publication: 'Paul and Candice were outside together for hours and obviously had a lot of catching up. They were very relaxed, laughing and chatting'

'Paul was cracking a lot of jokes which Candice lapped up': The pair were reportedly getting on like a house on fire

Adding: 'It raised a few eyebrows that they were cosying up together but people were saying they were the only Bake Off stars there.'

While their friendly appearance turned heads, the GBBO alumni - who's other halves Alexandra and Liam didn't seem to attend the soiree - left separately with Paul stepping into a chauffeur-driven car at 1.30am and Candice hailed a taxi, according to The Sun.

A representative for the pair, who was also present at the drinks, tells MailOnline: 'Following The Mirror Pride of Britain Awards last Monday, seven of us including Paul and Candice were seated outside waiting for cars home. The photograph was taken as Paul was saying goodbye to each of us.'

Candice's outing comes after she announced her engagement to Liam Macaulay last Sunday, following one very memorable false alarm.

Sharing the news with HELLO! magazine in a new engagement shoot, the gorgeous baker said she was 'feeling very lucky' following an 'amazing' year.

It was added: 'It raised a few eyebrows that they were cosying up together but people were saying they were the only Bake Off stars there'

Leaving: While their friendly appearance turned heads, the GBBO alumni - who's other halves Alexandra and Liam didn't seem to attend the soiree - left separately with Paul stepping into a chauffeur-driven car at 1.30am and Candice hailed a taxi

Three's not a crowd! The Bake Off stars were keen on continuing the party alongside pal Stacey Solomon

Unwinding: It was clear that Candice and Paul were having a great time as they laughed and joked their way into the night

Winner: The former PE teacher won the seventh series of the Great British Bake Off on BBC last year

'I get emotional' she said. 'Because it's been such an amazing year. I feel very lucky. I've had such incredible opportunities  GBBO opened so many doors  and to top it off he puts a ring on it.'

And despite prompting speculation of a surprise engagement in late 2016, Candice revealed that the proposal was everything she'd been waiting for.

She told the story of how Liam, who she's been with since 2012, took them back to the spot where they had their first date in Bedfordshire and pulled a ring from the glove compartment of his car.

Exciting: Candice's outing comes after she announced her engagement to Liam Macaulay last Sunday, following one very memorable false alarm

Busy girl: The star says that she has had an 'amazing' year, which makes her emotional to think about

Candice recalled: 'He reached into the glove compartment, got out the ring, got down on one knee and said, "I love you, you are my world. Will you marry me?"

Liam continued: 'So I proposed in a car park. But it really meant something to us. Candice just cried for five minutes before she could say, "Yes!"'

Candice won Bake Off in 2016, on its former BBC One home, earning a handshake from Paul Hollywood for her four-tier meringue cake and impressing former judge Mary Berry with a humdinger of a showstopper.

Something to pout about! Candice shared the news almost a year to the day since winning the Great British Bake Off (here in July)

Meanwhile, it was announced that she joined the line-up for the rebooted Dancing On Ice, which is set to kick off next year.

The baking supremo said of her signing: 'It's nerve wracking. I start my training today. I take my first steps on the ice later on. My friends call me Bambi on Ice and that's just normal day to day!'

The confirmation comes days after in was revealed Love Island star Kem Cetinay, Bucks Fizz songstress Cheryl Baker and Corrie's Brooke Vincent are all set to star on the show, which came off air in 2013.
He's reportedly living alone in a rented house close in a bid to save his 23-year relationship with wife Lisa Armstrong.

And Ant McPartlin, 41, who recently came out of rehab for drug addiction, paid his marital home a visit on Saturday after it was emerged he is staying just a few streets away from his 6million mansion where Lisa, 41, lives.

In pictures obtained by The Mirror a bearded Ant was spotted collecting his pet dog Hurley from the couple's West London home on Saturday, spending a quarter of an hour there before leaving with the labrador.

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Temporary home visit: Ant McPartlin, 41, paid his marital home a visit on Saturday after it was emerged he is staying just a few streets away from his 6million mansion where Lisa lives



While Ant continues to wear his wedding ring, Lisa has been pictured without hers in recent weeks, fuelling fears over their relationship.

Despite flying off soon for Australia where he will front I'm A Celebrity, the star is said to living away from Lisa, in a 1.6million rental home registered in the name of a private company.

And paying his marital home a temporary visit, Ant was wrapped up warm to shield himself from the British chill in a navy jacket and jeans.

He completed the look with a pair of trainers and a baseball cap as he sauntered into the residence to collect his dogs.

Ruff life: In pictures obtained by The Mirror a bearded Ant was spotted collecting his pet dog Hurley from the couple's West London home on Saturday, spending a quarter of an hour there before leaving with the labrador

Troubles: While Ant continues to wear his wedding ring, Lisa has been pictured without hers in recent weeks, fuelling fears over their relationship

Separate: Despite flying off soon for Australia where he will front I'm A Celebrity, the star is said to living away from Lisa, in a 1.6million rental home registered in the name of a private company

While he wasn't pictured with wife Lisa, he later emerged having changed into a pair of shorts and carried his leg brace in his arms.

He popped on a pair of shades as he walked his dog, who he collected from his wife Lisa, to the car.

An onlooker who saw Ant arrive at the marital home early yesterday morning told the newspaper: 'He seemed a little apprehensive, then he and the guy went in.

'He was unshaven and had black bags under his eyes. After he left, Lisa came out a few minutes later looking tired.'

Casually clad: Ant was wrapped up warm to shield himself from the British chill in a navy jacket and jeans

Low-key: He completed the look in a baseball cap as he sauntered into the residence to collect his dog

Taking it off: While he wasn't pictured with wife Lisa, he later emerged having changed into a pair of shorts and carried his brace in his arms

Heading back to his: He popped on a pair of shades as he walked his dog, who he collected from his wife Lisa, to the car

Adding: 'They both looked really sad. I feel so sorry for them both. They look like they're having such a hard time.'

Earlier on in the day, Lisa had been spotted cutting a casual figure as she walked their two dogs.

Going make-up free with her locks tied up into a slick bun, Lisa embarked on her low-key outing with her dogs and companion.

Not long after, Strictly Come Dancing make-up artist Lisa left in a people carrier  and was thought to be on her way to the BBC studios for last night's dance show.

An onlooker who saw Ant arrive at the marital home early yesterday morning told the newspaper: 'He seemed a little apprehensive, then he and the guy went in'

It was continued: 'He was unshaven and had black bags under his eyes. After he left, Lisa came out a few minutes later looking tired

Chilling: Earlier on in the day, Lisa had been spotted cutting a casual figure as she walked their two dogs

Natural look: Going make-up free with her locks tied up into a slick bun, Lisa embarked on her low-key outing with her dogs and companion

Difficult year: According to the Daily Star last month, Lisa was reportedly 'upset' with Ant, who previously admitted he had put his wife 'through hell with mood swings and depression' during his battle, and that the pair are spending increasing amounts of time apart

According to the Daily Star, last month, Lisa was reportedly 'upset' with Ant, who previously admitted he had put his wife 'through hell with mood swings and depression' during his battle, and that the pair are spending increasing amounts of time apart.

A source told the newspaper: 'She's had a rough year. And she's made it clear it's because of Ant. They've hardly been seen in public together since he came back from rehab a month ago.'

Ant and Lisa, who wed in 2006, have spent long spells apart, including eight weeks when he went into rehab for drug and alcohol dependency in June.

He had become hooked on prescription pills after a botched knee op in 2015.

The couple were separated again when he jetted off to LA for another spell of recovery five weeks ago. And within days they will be on different continents for another four weeks as the much-loved Geordie flies to Australia with pal Dec.

In happier times: Ant and Lisa, who wed in 2006, have spent long spells apart, including eight weeks when he went into rehab for drug and alcohol dependency in June

Tough times: Ant had become hooked on prescription pills after a botched knee op in 2015

Speaking after leaving rehab in August, the TV presenter credited wife of 11 years Lisa, for her 'amazing' and continued support throughout his troubles, after admitting he had put his partner'through hell with mood swings and depression' before seeking treatment.

Lisa and Ant fell for each other after meeting while performing on the Smash Hits tour in Newcastle in 1994.

Ant was 18 and one half of music act PJ and Duncan  alongside pal Dec.

Lisa was just 17 and part of the band Deuce. They pair dated for 12 years before finally tying the knot in 2006.

They married at a country church in Taplow, Bucks, in front of more than 150 friends and family, with Dec the best man.
He's the flamboyant son of Richard 'Dickie' Wilkins that loves to party.

And on Saturday, Christian 'Prince' Wilkins was showing exactly how he likes to get down as he attended Derby Day in Melbourne with BFF Andrew Kelly.

The 20-year-old looked to be enjoying himself at at Flemington Racecourse and was spotted kicking off the day by popping a bottle of Moet & Chandon champagne.

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Gettin down'! 'Prince' Christian Wilkins parties it up at Derby Day on Saturday as he popped a bottle of champagne to start the day

Looking towards the camera and smiling widely, the Sydney socialite seemed to be in his element.

Dressed in his trademark quirky style, he opted for a 70-inspired maroon floral jumpsuit.

Punters gathered around to watch Christian open the bottle.

Wearing a black trench coat draped over his shoulders, his signature long blonde locks were straightened, and flowed down his shoulders and chest.

Following his initial celebration, he was then joined by Andrew.

What an outfit! Dressed appropriately outrageous for the event, the son of Richard 'Dickie' Wilkins looked to be in his element

BFF: He was then joined by BFF Andrew Kelly, who took over social media duties for the pair

Their jam! The pair danced to Azealia Banks international hit '212' at the racecourse and appeared to be in good spirits as they sang along to the controversial lyrics

Otherwise known by his Instagram handle as thebookofjudas, Andrew wore a lacy black vest and a black blazer.

His headpiece, rabbit ears attached to a flat cap, broke with traditional racewear.

By this time Christian had changed out of his outfit, trading his jumpsuit in for a white tuxedo contrasted with a black tie, and a matching mini Akubra.

Holding glasses of champagne as they danced to Azealia Banks international hit '212' at the racecourse, the pair appeared to be in good spirits as they sang along to the controversial lyrics.

'SQUAD': Quickly joined by stunning Australian model Natalie Roser, the pair then posed in a group photo

The pair were joined by stunning Australian model Natalie Roser, and they posed for a photo together - which they emblazoned with the word 'SQUAD' in capitals when they shared it to Instagram.

Dancing into the wee hours of the morning, Christian and Andrew looked to be having a great time.

Christian and Andrew, who regularly attend events all over Australia together, share a close bond and often even share each others clothes on occasion.
He announced he will be leaving Hollyoaks as the resident bad boy Warren Fox in a dramatic upcoming episode in November.

But it seems Jamie Lomas won't be away from the small-screen for long as reports suggest the soap star could be heading into the jungle for this year's I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

Bosses are said to be hopeful a jungle romance could be on the cards for the single television hunk, according to The Sun.

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'They are hoping sparks will fly with one of the single girls': Hunky Jamie Lomas is set to 'head into the jungle for I'm A Celeb' as he announced he will be leaving Hollyoaks (pictured with ex-wife Kym Marsh)

A source told the publication: 'Jamie is a good looking single guy so they are hoping sparks will fly with one of the single girls in the camp.

'There will be plenty of gorgeous girls in there he could end up hitting it off with.

'And the bosses know viewers love a jungle romance.'

MailOnline has approached Jamie Lomas and I'm A Celeb's representatives for comment.

Revealed: The actor announced he will be leaving Hollyoaks as the resident bad boy Warren Fox in a dramatic upcoming episode in November

A bevy of single women including Made In Chelsea's Georgia Toffolo, The Saturdays' Vanessa White and reality star Charlotte Crosby are tipped for the line-up.

Jamie is single following his divorce from Coronation Street beauty Kym Marsh.

The former flames, who share daughter Polly, were married in a romantic ceremony in 2012, but they parted ways for good in 2014.

A chance of love? Bosses are said to be hopeful a jungle romance could be on the cards for the single television hunk

The actor is best known for his role as Warren Fox in the British soap Hollyoaks, a part he is set to love and leave once again in an upcoming episode.

He first played the resident bad boy from 2006 until 2011 and he made a comeback when he reprised his role five years later in May 2016.

But the soap star revealed he made the decision to leave the show once again as he would like to try his hand at other things.

He made the admission on a television appearance on This Morning in November.

Limelight: Jamie is best known for his role as Warren Fox in the British soap Hollyoaks, a part he is set to love and leave once again in an upcoming episode

The actor divulged: 'Just to try other things really. I like to go in and have a little time there then come out and try something else. Maybe I'll go back in time.'

Prior to Hollyoaks, the British actor's acting portfolio also boasts of small roles on television shows Casualty and Heartbeat in 2005.

In June 2013, the star also joined Albert Square for a stint on EastEnders as the newcomer Jake Stone.
It may have been a night honoring Star Wars creator George Lucas.

But Kim Kardashian managed to steal the spotlight like plans for the Death Star.

The 37-year-old reality star gave fellow attendees quite the eyeful as she showed up shirtless under a suit at the LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night.

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Wow factor: Kim Kardashian gave fellow attendees quite the eyeful as she showed up shirtless under a suit at the LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night

Work it! The star oozed body confidence as she posed up a storm in her flesh-flashing ensemble

Her cleavage was on full display at the event as she went without a top and braless while strutting her stuff down the pink carpet.

She wore a plain black suit featuring a large lapel along with matching strappy stilettos.

The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star's blonde locks were worn down in a middle-part.

Showing off: The 37-year-old reality star's cleavage was on full display at the event as she went without a top and braless while strutting her stuff down the pink carpet

Showing her style: She wore a plain black suit featuring a large lapel along with matching strappy stilettos

Loving it: Kim cut a sensational and stylish figure on the red carpet

Angles: The star posed up a storm on the red carpet, ensuring to show off her figure from all angles

She let her natural looks shine with complimentary make-up topped off with a swipe of shiny nude lip.

The stunner was not alone at the gala as she was joined by Kris Jenner.

The 61-year-old momager looked good in an all-black outfit consisting of a silk jacket, top, and trousers.

Gorgeous: She let her natural looks shine with complimentary make-up topped off with a swipe of shiny nude lip

Blondes have more fun! Her lighter locks effortlessly tumbled down one side

Style queen: Kim, who posed up a storm in towering strappy black heels, ensured to stick to an all-black colour scheme

All night long: Once inside the event, Kim continued to show off her incredible outfit

She teamed the look with black open-toed heels and let her youthful looks shine with minimal make-up.

Her signature short brunette pixie cut was worn down and disheveled as she proudly posed with her second born.

The fundraiser event honored filmmaker George Lucas and artist Mark Bradford.

Not taking any risks! Kim kept her hand in front of her to avoid revealing too much

Two peas in a pod: She was joined by her eternally glamorous mum, Kris

They've got front: Kris also ensured to put on an eye-poppingly busty display

Momager: Kris Jenner looked good in an all-black outfit consisting of a silk jacket, top, and trousers

Matchy matchy: The mother-daughter duo both wore all-black

LACMA trustee Eva Chow and Leonardo DiCaprio have co-chaired the event for a seventh straight year. It was also presented by Gucci.

The annual gala is the Los Angeles County Museum Of Art's premiere fundraiser which attracts A-listers every year.

Proceeds from the benefit will go toward the museum's film initiatives in addition to art acquisitions, future exhibitions, and educational programming.

Documentation: Kim also shared a picture of her ensemble on Instagram stories
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Salma Hayek, Amy Adams, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley all blew away the competition in blue-hued Gucci gowns at the LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night.

The 51-year-old Oscar nominee showcased her sensational 5ft2in hourglass figure in a single-sleeved glittering sapphire-sequin number selected by stylist Annabelle Harron.

The Mexican-American beauty certainly had VIP access to the Italian luxury brand (and sponsor of the bash) thanks to her husband Francois-Henri Pinault, whose Kering company owns the label.

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Terrific trio: Salma Hayek (L), Amy Adams (M), and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (R) all blew away the competition in blue-hued Gucci gowns at the LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night

The Beatriz at Dinner actress and the 55-year-old French billionaire were enjoying a red carpet date night out without their 10-year-old daughter Valentina.

43-year-old Amy flaunted her cleavage in a spaghetti-strapped turquoise creation featuring a red-bow pattern, which was selected by stylist Petra Flannery.

The five-time Oscar nominee wore her strawberry blonde locks sideswept in waves and posed with her tuxedo-clad husband Darren Le Gallo, whom she wed in 2015 after 14 years (and seven-year-old daughter Aviana).

30-year-old Rosie's double-bowed periwinkle Gucci gown featured metallix straps and was selected by stylist Cher Coulter.

Mamacita: The 51-year-old Oscar nominee showcased her sensational 5ft2in hourglass figure in a single-sleeved glittering sapphire-sequin number selected by stylist Annabelle Harron

Gorgeous: Salma proved to be incredibly eye-catching in her attire, which was completed with dangling earrings and a midnight blue clutch

Still going strong! The Mexican-American beauty certainly had VIP access to the Italian luxury brand (and sponsor of the bash) thanks to her husband Francois-Henri Pinault, whose Kering company owns the label

Crimson pout: 43-year-old Amy flaunted her cleavage in a spaghetti-strapped turquoise creation featuring a red-bow pattern, which was selected by stylist Petra Flannery

Date night! The five-time Oscar nominee wore her strawberry blonde locks sideswept in waves and posed with her tuxedo-clad husband Darren Le Gallo, whom she wed in 2015 after 14 years (and seven-year-old daughter Aviana)

Dapper: Darren looked undeniably handsome in a slick black suit, which he completed with a crisp white shirt and bow-tie

Fashionista: Amy accessorised with a boxy red clutch

It's hard to believe it's only been five months since the British beauty welcomed her first child - son Jack - with her fiance, the Fate of the Furious action star Jason Statham.

The museum soiree was in honor of artist Mark Bradford - famed for his grid-like abstract painting collages - and four-time Oscar nominee George Lucas, accompanied by second wife Mellody Hobson.

The 73-year-old Star Wars creator was supported there by his Jedi Luke Skywalker aka Mark Hamill wearing well-worn Oxfords alongside his wife of 39 years, Marilou York.

Two-time Oscar winner Jane Fonda easily defied her 79 years in a shoulder-baring, long-sleeved black lace gown and peep-toe pumps selected by stylist Tanya Gill.

Gift-wrapped: 30-year-old Rosie's double-bowed periwinkle Gucci gown featured metallix straps and was selected by stylist Cher Coulter

New mother: It's hard to believe it's only been five months since the British beauty welcomed her first child - son Jack - with her fiance, the Fate of the Furious action star Jason Statham

Like a professional! Rosie used her prowess as a model to work her angles on the red carpet

Pals; Rosie looked in her element as she posed with pregnant Behati Prinsloo

Men of the hour! The museum soiree was in honor of artist Mark Bradford (L) - famed for his grid-like abstract painting collages - and four-time Oscar nominee George Lucas (R), accompanied by second wife Mellody Hobson

Longtime couple: The 73-year-old Star Wars creator was supported there by his Jedi Luke Skywalker aka Mark Hamill wearing well-worn Oxfords alongside his wife of 39 years, Marilou York

Evergreen: Two-time Oscar winner Jane Fonda easily defied her 79 years in a shoulder-baring, long-sleeved black lace gown and peep-toe pumps selected by stylist Tanya Gill

Guardians of the Galaxy's Zoe Saldana looked rosy in a white massive-sleeved top and black velvet maxi-skirt selected by stylist Petra Flannery.

The half-Dominican, half-Puerto Rican 40-year-old was escorted by her husband of four years, Italian artist Marco Perego, with whom she has three sons - Zen, 8 months; and twins Cy & Bowie, 2.

Also rocking red floral detailing were Oscar winner Jared Leto in a three-piece black suit and Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn in a sheer flounced Gucci dress and red clutch.

Naomi Campbell was as welcome as the sunshine in her fabulous fringed single-strapped light yellow gown selected by stylist Patrick Mackie.

Lovely Latina: Guardians of the Galaxy's Zoe Saldana looked rosy in a white massive-sleeved top and black velvet maxi-skirt selected by stylist Petra Flannery

Bloomin' beautiful! Two flowers rested on her shoulders - making for a statement look

Four years strong! The half-Dominican, half-Puerto Rican 40-year-old was escorted by her husband, Italian artist Marco Perego, with whom she has three sons - Zen, 8 months; and twins Cy & Bowie, 2

Smitten: Marco could't take his eyes of his woman

In bloom: Also rocking red floral detailing were Oscar winner Jared Leto (L) in a three-piece black suit and Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn (R) in a sheer flounced Gucci dress and red clutch

Werk queen! Naomi Campbell was as welcome as the sunshine in her fabulous fringed single-strapped light yellow gown selected by stylist Patrick Mackie

Lasting appeal: The nineties supermodel easily defied her 47 years wit hher glowing, contoured make-up and signature middle-parted mane of raven locks

The nineties supermodel easily defied her 47 years wit hher glowing, contoured make-up and signature middle-parted mane of raven locks.

Scandal stunner Kerry Washington showcased her long train in a Gucci teal-and-black striped gown selected by stylist Joseph Cassell Falconer.

The 40-year-old mother-of-two's frilly frock also featured a Victorian neckline, which she accessorized with Neil Lane jewelry including a metallic bow tie.

Make-up artist Carola Gonzalez made sure the two-time Golden Globe nominee was camera ready while hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew made her lob sleek and side-parted.

All smiles: Scandal stunner Kerry Washington showcased her long train in a Gucci teal-and-black striped gown selected by stylist Joseph Cassell Falconer

Three angles: The 40-year-old mother-of-two's frilly frock also featured a Victorian neckline, which she accessorized with Neil Lane jewelry including a metallic bow tie

Glam squad: Make-up artist Carola Gonzalez (L) made sure the two-time Golden Globe nominee was camera ready while hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew (M) made her lob sleek and side-parted

Couples: Four-time Oscar-winning filmmaker Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (L) suited up with wife Maria Eladia Hagerman, while Call Me by Your Name hunk Armie Hammer (R) looked dashing with wife Elizabeth Chambers

Bump in the night! Namibian model Behati Prinsloo - who's expecting her second child with The Voice coach Adam Levine - flaunted her growing bump in a green-patterned Chinese mini-dress

Four-time Oscar-winning filmmaker Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu suited up with wife Maria Eladia Hagerman, while Call Me by Your Name hunk Armie Hammer looked dashing with wife Elizabeth Chambers.

Namibian model Behati Prinsloo - who's expecting her second child with The Voice coach Adam Levine - flaunted her growing bump in a green-patterned Chinese mini-dress.

Oscar nominee Melanie Griffith attended the LACMA bash with her nepotistically-privileged daughter Dakota from her first marriage to Don Johnson.

The 60-year-old Disaster Artist actress sported a nineties choker with her black gown while the 28-year-old Fifty Shades stunner took the plunge in a pink Gucci dress selected by stylist Kate Young.

Family affair! Oscar nominee Melanie Griffith (L) attended the LACMA bash with her nepotistically-privileged daughter Dakota (R) from her first marriage to Don Johnson

Dangly-earring duo: The 60-year-old Disaster Artist actress sported a nineties choker with her black gown while the 28-year-old Fifty Shades stunner took the plunge in a pink Gucci dress selected by stylist Kate Young

Striking: Dakota was hard to miss in her gorgeous down and dangling earrings

Cleavage alert: Another mother-daughter duo partying side-by-side Saturday was sex tape star-turned-reality star Kim Kardashian West (L) and her calculating momager Kris Jenner (R) both in black pantsuits

Twinning: The 37-year-old Calabasas socialite went bra-less beneath her Tom Ford for Gucci suit while the 61-year-old grandmother sported a bustier beneath her silk embellished suit

Expecting baby #3 with surrogate: Hairstylist Chris Appleton coiffed Kim's platinum blonde extensions and make-up artist Ariel Tejada made sure she was contoured and ready for her close-up

Taking no risks: Kim put her hand in front of her waist to risk a wardrobe malfunction

Giving Kim a run for her money! Kris also ensured to flaunt her busty assets in a plunging ensemble

Mane attraction: Kim's blonde locks effortlessly tumbled down her side

Another mother-daughter duo partying side-by-side Saturday was sex tape star-turned-reality star Kim Kardashian West and her calculating momager Kris Jenner both in black pantsuits.

The 37-year-old Calabasas socialite went bra-less beneath her Tom Ford for Gucci suit while the 61-year-old grandmother sported a bustier beneath her silk embellished suit.

Hairstylist Chris Appleton coiffed Kim's platinum blonde extensions and make-up artist Ariel Tejada made sure she was contoured and ready for her close-up.

Fashion designer Eva Chun Chow also transformed the LACMA party into a family affair beside 23-year-old daughter Asia, a Columbia University grad-turned Lione Model.

Mother-daughter bonding: Fashion designer Eva Chun Chow (R) also transformed the LACMA party into a family affair beside 23-year-old daughter Asia (L), a Columbia University grad-turned Lione Model

Nocturnal animals: Designer-turned-director Tom Ford (L) and Lady Bird actor Timothee Chalamet (R) both ditched the traditional tux for navy-blue velvet creations

Throwback! The blast from the past award of the night definitely went to a sequin Gucci-clad Jami Gertz, best known for her work in eighties fare like The Lost Boys, Less Than Zero, and CBS' Square Pegs

Newly brunette! AHS: Cult starlet Billie Lourd - who lost mother Carrie Fisher and grandmother Debbie Reynolds last year - wore a roomy pink-and-black gown selected by stylist Jamie Mizrahi

Designer-turned-director Tom Ford and Lady Bird actor Timothee Chalamet both ditched the traditional tux for navy-blue velvet creations.

The blast from the past award of the night definitely went to a sequin Gucci-clad Jami Gertz, best known for her work in eighties fare like The Lost Boys, Less Than Zero, and CBS' Square Pegs.

AHS: Cult starlet Billie Lourd - who lost mother Carrie Fisher and grandmother Debbie Reynolds last year - wore a roomy pink-and-black gown selected by stylist Jamie Mizrahi.

Two gentlemen looking especially dapper without neckties were R&B belter Usher in a classic tux with tails and Empire co-creator Lee Daniels in a slightly lighter suit.

Hands in pockets: Two gentlemen looking especially dapper without neckties were R&B belter Usher in a classic tux with tails and Empire co-creator Lee Daniels in a slightly lighter suit

Attendees: Transgender IMG Model Hari Nef (L) went full-on Marie Antoinette in her Gucci gown, shoe designer Tamara Mellon (M) suited up in black, and Twilight alum Mia Maestro (R) sported pink-lace Gucci

Paired off: Two more couples attending the bash were Atlanta Hawks Vice Chair Grant Hill (2-L) with wife Tamia and Disney CEO Bob Iger (R) with his second wife Willow Bay

#still #lacma @realgranthill #tamia #granthill A post shared by Tamia Hill (@realtamiaworld) on Nov 4, 2017 at 6:14pm PDT

Last but not least: The Goldbergs' Rowan Blanchard (L) wore a bizarre gown, Monegasque heiress Charlotte Casiraghi (M) wore Gucci, and the Mummy's Annabelle Wallis (R) took the plunge in a white jumpsuit

Transgender IMG Model Hari Nef went full-on Marie Antoinette in her Gucci gown, shoe designer Tamara Mellon suited up in black, and Twilight alum Mia Maestro sported pink-lace Gucci.

Two more couples attending the bash were Atlanta Hawks Vice Chair Grant Hill with wife Tamia and Disney CEO Bob Iger with his second wife Willow Bay.

Last but not least were the lovely trio - The Goldbergs' Rowan Blanchard in a bizarre gown, Monegasque heiress Charlotte Casiraghi in Gucci, and the Mummy's Annabelle Wallis in a white jumpsuit.

Work it! Fashion designer Tamara Mellon worked her style credentials in a plunging sequinned top and statement coat

Pink to make the boys wink! Tali Lennox looked flawless in a Victorian-inspired pink lace dress

Wow: The number fell in effortless frills and sports chic black hems and bows
She is one of Sydney's most stylish socialites.

And Terry Biviano took her talents to Melbourne on Saturday, where she turned heads in a classy monochrome ensemble for Derby Day.

The 42-year-old was a vision in white as she expertly posed for photos while braving chilly temperatures at Flemington Racecourse.

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Fashionist: Sydney socialite Terry Biviano took her talents to Melbourne on Saturday, where she turned heads in a classy monochrome ensemble for Derby Day

The stunning brunette channeled old school Hollywood in the ensemble, in which she added a wide-brim hat and billowing white scarf to amp up the luxe factor.

She matched the oversize gold buttons on the jumpsuit with the gold chain detail of her clutch, gold accent on her fascinator and simple gold earrings.

The mother of one flaunted her lithe figure and elegantly served up a hint of cleavage in the otherwise modest outfit, wearing her namesake shoe line.

Classic: The stunning brunette channeled old school Hollywood in the ensemble, in which she added a wide-brim hat and billowing white scarf to amp up the luxe factor

Taking to Instagram earlier in the day, the shoe designer shared a black and white snap as she prepared to head out for the star-studded affair.

She paid tribute to celebrity stylist Michael Azzollini, whose other Derby Day clients included Shanina Shaik and Real Housewives of Sydney star Victoria Rees.

The high-profile WAG also made sure to show appreciation to milliner Suzy O'Rourke and luxury brands Bulgari and Lexus.

Elegant: Taking to Instagram earlier in the day, the shoe designer shared a black and white snap as she prepared to head out for the star-studded affair

Terry later shared a photo with husband Anthony Minichiello, 37, with the former NRL star looking dapper in a charcoal grey suit.

She showed off her flawless makeup by Sanaz Fakhra, which included defined brows, a brown eye shadow palette and a pop of red lip.

She captioned the backseat selfie: 'Arriving in style.'
He famously walked off stage after just two songs in November 2016 and cancelled the rest of his Saint Pablo Tour shortly after.

And Kanye West has finally returned to the stage after nearly a year.

The 40-year-old rapper came out as a surprise guest at former protege Kid Cudi's concert in Chicago on Saturday night.

Resurrection: Kanye West came out as a surprise guest at former protege Kid Cudi's concert in Chicago on Saturday night

No beef here: No doubt fans were astonished to see Yeezus appear as the two had feuded last year

No doubt fans were astonished to see Yeezus appear as the two had feuded last year.

Kanye came out to perform his hit Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1 as the crowd went wild.

The two then seemed to signal that there was no ill will between them as they hugged at the end of the surprise performance.

Just weeks before walking off stage in Sacramento during his Saint Pablo Tour in 2016, West ranted against 33-year-old Cudi.

Big reveal:Kanye came out to perform his hit Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1 as the crowd went wild

Back in the day: In September of last year, the Jesus Walks hitmaker told Cudi to 'never mention' him during a gig in Tampa, Florida

In September of that year, the Jesus Walks hitmaker told Cudi to 'never mention' him during a gig in Tampa, Florida.

West was referring to Cudi's tweets criticizing 'the fake ones' and calling out West and Drake.

Another tweet from Cudi read, 'Ive been loyal to those who haven't been to me and that ends now. Now im your threat.'

All good: The two then seemed to signal that there was no ill will between them as they hugged at the end of the surprise performance

West signed Cudi to his G.O.O.D. Music label in 2008. Cudi left the label three years ago.

West said he felt 'disrespected' and 'hurt,' while also telling Cudi 'I birthed you.

The husband of Kim Kardashian was then forced to cancel his tour weeks later.

Kanye then checked into a psychiatric hospital as a result of the breakdown and had not appeared on stage again until the surprise gig in Chicago.
He's one of Australia's most successful male modelling exports who has worked for the likes of Tom Ford, Givenchy, Chanel and Hugo Boss.

And it seems as though Jarrod Scott's global stardom continued on Saturday night, as he was photographed posing alongside Hollywood great's Eddie Redmayne and David Gandy.

Looking incredibly dapper for the OMEGA event in Venice, the 28-year-old suited up in a black and white ensemble.

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Living the good life: On Saturday, Jarrod Scott flaunted his dapper looks in a suit and bow-tie for a OMEGA event in Venice

Held at the Palazzo Pisani Moretta, Jarrod rocked a fitted white shirt underneath his white suit jacket.

Keeping his look fresh, the model teamed his jacket with black pants.

Completing his outfit with a black bow tie, Jarrod seemed to forget his socks.

Good lookers: Looking like quite the stud, Eddie donned a matching navy suit and styled his hair into a short but voluminous up-do

Movember? Sporting a fresh stubblesque complexion, the face of Roberto Cavalli was seen with a slight mustache

Keeping his feet bare, he slid into some brown loafers.

Sporting a fresh stubble, the face of Roberto Cavalli was seen with a slight moustache.

Joining him for the evening events was British actor Eddie Redmayne.

Twinning: Leaving fans confused, Jarrod was also seen posing alongside UK supermodel David Gandy who looked eerily similar to him

Looking like quite the stud, Eddie donned a matching navy suit and styled his hair into a short but voluminous up-do.

Leaving fans confused, Jarrod was also seen posing alongside UK supermodel David Gandy who looked eerily similar to him.

Both brunettes were in black pants and white suit jackets with their hands in their pockets.

The muscular hunk, who is based in New York, has starred in campaigns for brands like Calvin Klein and GQ.

Last year, he told Daily Telegraph: 'I'm not fazed by having my face in the spotlight 24/7.'

Loving it: 'I'm not fazed by having my face in the spotlight 24/7'




She's the Fleetwood Mac front woman who's long been considered the Queen of Rock n Roll.

But that didn't stop Stevie Nicks from coming up against Australia's notoriously tough immigration laws thirty years ago.

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph on Sunday, the 69-year-old superstar recalled travelling Down Under on a tourist visa back in 1986.

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Visa drama: On Sunday, Stevie Nicks told the Daily Telegraph that she was once nearly banned from Australia after taking to the stage with pals Bob Dylan and Tom Petty whilst in the country on a tourist visa

The plan was to accompany her rock star friends Tom Petty and Bob Dylan who were performing on tour.

Merely along for the ride, Stevie herself had no intention of taking to the stage, stating: 'I got to have fun just being a fan and had one of the most amazing months of my life,'.

However, during Tom and Bob's Sydney show, the music icon joined the pair on stage to sing Knocking On Heavens Door and Like a Rolling Stone - much to the enjoyment of the crowd.

Visa breach! Stevie pictured with Tom and Bob at the 1986 concert in Sydney where she breached the terms of her visa

Music icon: Not even Stevie's star power impressed the notoriously strict Australian border authorities

But, Stevie's sensational cameo didn't impress the authorities - as it breached the terms of her tourist visa.

She revealed to The Telegraph: 'I was told by the Australian government I would never be allowed back in the country, not with Fleetwood Mac, not by myself as a solo artist, not as a tourist if I did that again.'

'I couldnt even stand on stage to play a tambourine. So that was that,' she added.

Grief: In the interview Stevie also opened up about the recent death of her close friend Tom Petty (pictured together in 1981)

Stevie has subsequently returned to Australia several times since the incident, and is currently on her 24 Karat Gold tour.

In the interview, Stevie opened up about the recent death of her close pal Tom Petty, who died suddenly of a cardiac arrest last month at the age of 66.

She revealed she is yet to start the grieving process for her beloved friend.
She's best known for her role as Jane Harris on Australian soap Neighbours.

And even though she quit the series way back in 1989, Annie Jones says that she still gets recognised to this day.

Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, the now 50-year-old actress recounted being recognised by some English guests at a mutual friend's wedding recently.

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Still famous! Actress Annie Jones says she's still recognised for her role as Jane Harris on Neighbours almost thirty years after leaving the series

'They were all 'oh my god, what are you doing here?' remembering me from those days,' she laughed.

She added: 'It's still very, very popular in the UK.'

Annie first joined the iconic series in 1986 as the geeky Jane 'Plain Jane Superbrain' Harris.

Famous faces: Annie's most memorable storyline was her romance with Guy Pearce

Wow: The actress originally auditioned for the role of Charlene Mitchell, but that part was won out by Kylie Minogue

She originally auditioned for the role of Charlene Mitchell, but that part was won out by Kylie Minogue.

The blonde beauty briefly returned to Neighbours in 2005 for a 20th anniversary special.

During her time on Neighbours, Annie won the Logie Award for Best Actress in 1989.

In recent years, she's enjoyed guest spots on hit dramas like Wentworth and Winners & Losers.
She recently had fans in stitches after recalling an embarrassing drunken incident while hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live.

But Jennifer Lawrence was back to business on Saturday as she attended Deadline Presents The Contenders 2017 event in Los Angeles.

The 27-year-old actress rocked a chic ensemble as she attended the event to discuss her most recent film mother! showing just a hint of her taut abs in the stylish look.

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Big Screen star: Actress Jennifer Lawrence showed a hint of her taut abs in a stylish ensemble as she attended Deadline Presents The Contenders in Los Angeles

Jennifer rocked a simple white crop top under a structured grey checked coat, along with ripped boyfriend jeans to edge up the style.

The glam up the look, the Hunger Games star topped it off with a pair of studded stiletto heels and a red velvet choker necklace.

Rocking a classic black smoky eye, Jennifer kept her blonde bobbed tresses in loose waves for the event, which celebrates films that are set to be hot commodities in the upcoming awards season.

Fashion queen: Jennifer rocked a white crop top with a chic grey checked coat and relaxed jeans as she attended the event to discuss her most recent film mother!

Superstar: The Oscar winner finished her look with studded pointed toe stiletto heels

Gorgeous: Jennifer kept her blonde tresses loosely waved for the appearance, rocking a simple smoky eye

Stunning: Jennifer revealed that she does not read into the polarizing reception towards mother! as she feels proud of her work in the film

Committed: Jennifer revealed this was the most immersed she had ever got into a role

Speaking about the Darren Aranofsky-directed thriller, Jennifer revealed that she does not read into the films polarizing reception, as she felt it was the most immersed she had ever got into a role.

The Oscar winner said: 'It's an assault, but I think it's necessary. I'm proud of us, and I'm proud of Darren for writing and conceiving it.'

'I had to find a place of staying mentally healthy with this bizarre job in all sorts of ways, and if I had to be sad all day, or feel intense emotional pain all day, I wouldn't do this.

'I've never lost myself [in a character] before this movie. I couldn't get my brain in order.'

Big fans: Jennifer was spotted signing autographs for fans as she exited the event

Contender: Jennifer discussed mother! at the event which celebrates films that could be big awards contenders in the coming weeks

Jennifer was also spotted signing autographs for fans as she made her exit from the event, ahead of a break from the big screen until next year.

The star's next film will be the espionage thriller Red Sparrow, directed Hunger Games director Francis Lawrence, set for release in March 2018.

In the sleek thriller, Jennifer plays a Russian spy who considers become a double agent after falling for a CIA officer, played by Joel Edgerton.
She's one of Australia's most successful exports who's taken Hollywood by storm.

And after a short stay, on Sunday, Melissa George was spotted at Sydney airport ready to catch a flight back to LAX.

Sporting the same ensemble she was seen in when she arrived, the 41-year-old walked through the terminal with designer luggage worth approximately $33,000.

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Jetting off: On Sunday, Melissa George was spotted at Sydney airport ready to catch a flight back to LAX

Melissa donned a casual and comfortable ensemble in a matching cream tracksuit.

Keeping extra warm, the former Home And Away star added an earth-toned scarf around her neck.

The stunner kept chic with similarly coloured grey sneakers.

Fresh: Melissa donned a casual and comfortable ensemble in a matching cream tracksuit

Stunner: Melissa's casual looks comes after she dressed up to the nine's for yesterday's Flemington Derby Day

Accessorising her basic look, Melissa carried designer bags, including a Goyard overnight bag which costs upwards of $2,600 and a chic Hermes Kelly bag assumed to cost approximately $30,000.

Donning a fresh makeup free complexion, the star hid her eyes behind a uniquely shaped pair of sunglasses.

Melissa's casual looks comes after she dressed up to the nine's for yesterday's Flemington Derby Day.

Inspo? On Saturday, the Aussie soap star-turned-Hollywood actress donned a Parisian inspired ensemble

On Saturday, the Aussie soap star-turned-Hollywood actress donned a Parisian inspired ensemble.

Leaving fashion critics torn, Melissa's look saw a combination of sheer and patterned fabrics.

Resembling Little Bo Peep with her large wide-brimmed hat, she paired her racing look with bizarre sheer gloves and a mismatched handbag.
She's the former Home And Away star who now calls Los Angeles home.

And on Friday, Samara Weaving looked every inch the Hollywood star as she attended the premiere of her latest film Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.

Flaunting her lean and toned physique, the 25-year-old turned heads in showstopping metallic number.

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Rising star! On Friday, Samara Weaving looked every inch the Hollywood star as she attended the premiere of her latest film Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Samara wore a designer Prabal frock for the event held at Neuehouse in Hollywood Los Angeles.

The midi-length shimmery frock was colour blocked with black panels.

Keeping with her metallic look, the actress sported similar coloured strappy tie-up heels.

Beauty: Samara wore a designer Prabal frock for the event held at Neuehouse in Hollywood Los Angeles

Stunner: Donning a fresh and luminous complexion, Samara's deep-set blue eyes were made the focal point of her look

Donning a fresh and luminous complexion, Samara's deep-set blue eyes were made the focal point of her look.

With thick lashes and a sweep of blush, a dark toned pink lip finished off her glam.

Samara's signature blonde hair were also styled out in loose waves for the event.

Completing the look: Samara's signature blonde hair were also styled out in loose waves for the event

Making waves in Hollywood: The horror film isn't the only thing Samara has been working on

With a shoulder-length cut, her locks were effortlessly parted onto one side.

And the horror film isn't the only thing Samara has been working on.

Making waves in Hollywood, the rising star is set to appear in the new Showtime series called SMILF.
She's the Australian actress who skyrocketed to the top of Hollywood's A-list.

But on Sunday, Naomi Watts left Tinseltown behind as she arrived at Sydney Airport.

The 49-year-old looked her usual stylish self in a comfortable black blazer and matching skinny jeans.

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Down Under! Naomi Watts swapped Tinseltown for Australia as she arrived in Sydney Airport on Sunday

The blonde beauty added a tailored white shirt and black fedora, and capped off her casual-meets-chic look with a pair of white sneakers.

It's unclear if the acclaimed actress is back Down Under for a film, or if she's simply heading home to visit family.

Naomi recently signed on to star in the The Wolf Hour, which has been described as a 'Hitchcockian thriller.'

Stylish: The 49-year-old looked her usual stylish self in a comfortable black blazer and matching skinny jeans

This year, the starlet has enjoyed success on the small screen in the Twin Peaks revival and the Netflix drama Gypsy.

She recently shot her next project, which is a take on the iconic Shakespeare character Ophelia from Hamlet.

Ophelia stars Daisy Ridley as the titular character while Watts plays Queen Gertrude and Clive Owen takes the role of King Cladius.

Successful! This year, the starlet has enjoyed success on the small screen in the Twin Peaks revival and the Netflix drama Gypsy

She famously broke into Hollywood with her role in David Lynch's arthouse hit Mulholland Drive.

She was later nominated for two Academy Awards.

The first was for 2003's 21 Grams, and her second nomination was for The Impossible in 2012.
He's the former Puberty Blues star who announced his girlfriend had accepted his proposal earlier in the year.

And it appears as though Tyler Atkins has since tied the knot with his unidentified lady love.

Taking to Instagram, the 32-year-old actor shared a close-up of his partner's face along with a cryptic caption.

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Married! After proposing to his mystery fiance in September, it appears as though Puberty Blues star Tyler Atkins has tied the knot

When translated from Hindi, the spiritual star's words read: 'I am sorry to say that this is the name of the person'.

Finishing off the lengthy post, Tyler used the hashtag #mywifey.

The photo saw Tyler's lady wearing a traditional head piece in a make-up free selfie which pushed fans to send their congratulations to the happy couple.

Wedding of the year! The photo saw Tyler's lady wearing a traditional head piece in a make-up free selfie which pushed fans to send their congratulations to the happy couple

Traditional ceremony: With a series of shot's on Tyler's Instagram page wearing traditional garments, it is believed the union took place earlier in the week

With a series of shot's on Tyler's Instagram page wearing traditional garments, it is believed the union took place earlier in the week.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Tyler for further comment.

The alleged marriage comes after the actor took to his social media account in September to announce he had proposed to his girlfriend.

Secret wedding: The alleged marriage comes after the actor took to his social media account in September to announce he had proposed to his girlfriend

Engaged: The attached photo saw his mystery women wearing a sapphire stone diamond ring on her ring finger, the same colour as his gown he's been seen in over the past few days

Moved on: Tyler is a former model-turned-actor who has been linked to a string of beautiful women over the years including Paris Hilton and Home And Away alum Samara Weaving

'I took YOU to my fav little spot in La and asked for you to join me in this blessed journey as we merge together with the ONE and become 1 soul in 2 bodies,' he wrote in the long post.

The attached photo saw his mystery women wearing a sapphire stone diamond ring on her ring finger, the same colour as his gown he's been seen in over the past few days.

Tyler is a former model-turned-actor who has been linked to a string of beautiful women over the years including Paris Hilton and Home And Away alum Samara Weaving and Demi Harman - who he split from in 2014.

Now living in Los Angeles, Tyler is a devotee of Sikh-based yoga and according to his Instagram bio describes himself as 'Drug, Meat and Alcohol free'.
She's the Australian actress who shot to fame after appearing opposite Heath Ledger in the 2006 drama Candy.

And more than a decade on, Abbie Cornish is still garnering praise for her powerful performances.

On Friday night, the blonde beauty, 35, stepped out in Los Angeles for the premiere of her critically-acclaimed new drama, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.

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Turning heads: Abbie Cornish stepped out in Los Angeles for the premiere of her critically-acclaimed new drama Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri on Friday night

The movie won top prize at September's Toronto Film Festival, possibly helping to put a smile on stunning Abbie's face as she posed on the red carpet.

Co-starring Oscar-winner Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson and Game of Thrones favourite Peter Dinklage, the film follows the mother of a murdered teenager who rents public billboards to pressure police into solving the crime.

For the glitzy premiere, Abbie opted for an unusual ensemble that included a sheer crocheted top complete with frills at the neck and sleeves.

Stunning: One of the dress's frills dipped down the chest creating a V shape and accentuating the beauty's bust.

One of the frills dipped down the chest creating a V shape and accentuating the beauty's bust.

The top was tucked into a dark ruffled skirt that reached well below the beauty's knees.

Completing her vampish outfit, Abbie added a pair of black strappy heels as well as black nail and toe polish.

Chic: The screen siren parted her hair on the side, giving her look a distinct element of Old Hollywood glamour.

All star cast: At the event Abbie was seen smiling alongside co-star Sam Rockwell (right) and the film's writer/ director Martin McDonagh (centre)

The screen siren opted to sweep her blonde lucks up into a bun, and parted her hair on the side, giving her look a distinct element of Old Hollywood glamour.

At the event Abbie was seen smiling alongside co-star Sam Rockwell and the film's writer/ director Martin McDonagh, best known for his 2008 hit In Bruges.

The stunner was last seen in the big budget disaster movie, Geostorm.
She's the former FHM centerfold who found fame on reality TV before leaving the bright lights of television behind to work as an events manager.

But on Sunday, Zilda Williams proved that she's still got her glamour model curves after she stripped down to an itsy-bitsy bikini that could barely contain her eye-watering E-cup cleavage.

The 34-year-old documented her busty day at the beach on social media, ensuring that her loyal followers were treated to almost every inch of her sun-kissed physique.

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Busting out! Zilda Williams struggled to keep her E-cup assets contained when she hit the beach on Sunday

In one particularly saucy image, the former Bachelor babe showcased her derriere in a G-string that was pulled so high it almost looked uncomfortable.

However, Zilda later took to Twitter to set the record straight on the skimpy swimsuit bottoms.

'This bikini is more comfortable than it looks...' she tweeted. 'I promise!'

Is that dental floss or a thong? In one particularly saucy image, the former Bachelor babe showcased her derriere in a G-string that was pulled so high it looked almost uncomfortable

'This bikini is more comfortable than it looks...' she tweeted. 'I promise!'

A fan then responded, confessing that they'd seen her on the Gold Coast over the weekend, but were too intimidated to approach her in person.

'Saw you yesterday on the goldie but was to starstruck and shy to say hello [sic],' the fan admitted.

'Cute!!!' Zilda responded. 'Hahaha. I don't bite.'

'I was too starstruck to say hello!' A fan told Zilda on Twitter that they had seen her out partying on the Gold Coast, but were too shy to approach her

The busty star was recently rumoured to join the cast of the upcoming Bachelor spin-off, Bachelor in Paradise.

However, she appears to have turned down the racy reality series after finding love with toy boy Keith Frazer, who is seven years her junior.

The genetically-blessed pair have been spotted partying all over Sydney and the Gold Coast since meeting in a nightclub a few months ago.

No thanks! The busty star was recently rumoured to join the cast of the upcoming Bachelor spin-off, Bachelor in Paradise, but appears to have turned it down after finding love in real life
She delightedly announced the birth of her first child earlier this week.

And Ferne McCann, who shares her newborn with ex-boyfriend Arthur Collins, 25, who is currently on trial for his participation in an acid attack in a London club, has now unveiled the name of her bundle of joy on Instagram on Sunday.

'I thought today would be the perfect day to tell you all her name...meet Sunday,' the former TOWIE star, 27, captioned the sweep snap, which was met with a mixed response from her fans.

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'Meet Sunday' Ferne McCann, 27, has unveiled the name of her baby girl after giving birth to her first child earlier this week

Exes: The former TOWIE star, 27, shares the child with her ex-boyfriend Arthur Collins, who is currently on trial for his participation in an acid attack in a London club

The lovely snap saw Ferne planting a kiss on her little girl's head as she got cosy on a chair.

With her hair tied up into a high ponytail and donning a plunging grey top and legging, Ferne proved to be in mummy mode as she doted over sweet Sunday.

While she appropriately announced her daughter's name on a Sunday, for further impact Ferne also had bunting with her name spelled out above her name.

Her name, inspired by the last day of the week, caused a strong mixed reaction on social media - with many praising it while others weren't too sure.

'Beautiful name': The sweep snap was met with a mixed response from her fans. Many left praising comments under the snap

'I feel sorry for the baby': However, others expressed that they weren't too fond of the name

Baby love: On Thursday, Ferne revealed in an Instagram post that she has welcomed her first child. She shares her baby girl with ex-boyfriend Arthur Collins

Taking to Instagram on Thursday, the reality starlet revealed she had welcomed a daughter a week before her due date as she shared a first snap of the newborn.

She wrote: 'Welcome to the world my darling. Didnt expect to see you a week early. Im so in love & bursting with pride. Its a girl [sic].'

Ferne first confirmed she was pregnant with Arthur's child in April, two days after he was arrested on suspicion of carrying out the acid attack.

Arthur was arrested and charged with 14 counts of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and one count of throwing corrosive fluid on a person with intent to do grievous bodily harm.

Bumping along: Ferne first confirmed she was pregnant with Arthur's child in April, two days after he was arrested on suspicion of carrying out the acid attack

He is currently standing trial alongside Andre Phoenix, 21, for the alleged acid attack where more than a dozen people were injured at the Mangle E8 nightclub in Dalston, east London, on April 17.

Arthur admits to throwing the acid but claims he had snatched the bottle out of another man's hand and threw it, believing he planned to spike someone else's drink.

He was arrested several days after the incident hiding in an unfurnished flat in Northamptonshire.

Arthur denies five counts of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent and nine counts of actual bodily harm (ABH) against 14 people. Andre denies four counts of GBH and two counts of ABH.

Tough times: Arthur was arrested and charged with 14 counts of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm and one count of throwing corrosive fluid on a person with intent to do grievous bodily harm

Ferne and Arthur dated over the summer of 2016 but split before rekindling their romance in March this year.

The reality star called an end to their relationship a month later after learning of the acid attack, but just days before had admitted she wanted to marry him and revealed that they had already been discussing their future wedding.

She previously revealed she was 'initially shocked' by her pregnancy, and was 'devastated' by the events that had unfolded with her former flame.

Shocked: Ferne previously revealed that she was 'initially shocked' by her pregnancy, and admitted she was 'devastated' by the events that had unfolded with her former flame but vowed to do the best for her baby

Congrats! Her former TOWIE co-star Gemma Collins rushed to send well wishes on social media

Happy days: Her I'm A Celeb jungle pal Vicky Pattison also gushed over the baby, penning: 'his is the best news I've had in AGES!! My beautiful friend @fernemccann has had her baby girl!! My darlin, I am beyond happy for you! So much love gorgeous! Can't wait to meet the princess!'

Speaking to OK! magazine, she divulged: 'Initially I was devastated. What I had planned and was getting excited about had disappeared in a matter of moments.

'It was so hard to deal with what happened, but then I realised it was not about me but about my child. Ill do my best for my baby.

Admitting it had been a harrowing time for her, Ferne explained that her hormones had added to her emotional state, as she said: 'There are times I feel emotional.

'Not in a negative way, like I'm feeling really sad, but my hormones are all over the place. But I never feel lonely as I have my baby.

'I thoroughly intend to bring up my baby as a single mum like many other women have done in the past. And I will do my best for this baby as a single mum.'

Independent: Ferne revealed that she does not want to be labelled a 'single mum' and explained that she was feeling stronger than ever in the lead up to the birth

She later told the publication that she does not want to be labelled a 'single mum', however, as she explained that she was feeling stronger than ever in the lead up to the birth.

Ferne declared: 'Im being strong because I have to think about my baby. The whole process of being pregnant has made me a much stronger person.

'They say what doesnt kill you makes you stronger and it really is true. I feel like Ive developed a new armour this year.

'I dont like the term single mum and I dont want to be addressed as that because I dont think you should be labelled. To me, Im going to be a mum like anyone else, but just in a different situation. It shouldnt define you.

Split: Ferne and Arthur dated over the summer of 2016 but split before rekindling their romance in March this year. The reality star called an end to their relationship after learning of the acid attack

'But yes, I have done this whole pregnancy on my own, but at the same time Im so not alone  Ive got such a great support network with my mum, sister and friends Ive not felt alone or been alone once during this pregnancy.

When Ferne announced her pregnancy, two days after Arthur was arrested, she explained she was going to do all she could to have a 'healthy and happy child'.

She told MailOnline: 'Ferne is in no way seeking sympathy for her situation and is determined to do all she can to have a happy and healthy child and face the challenges of being a single parent with all her energy,' her statement read.

'Her thoughts are with the victims of the horrific attack on Easter Monday.'
He supposedly raised a few eyebrows on Monday when he was spotted sharing an 'intimate kiss' with 2016 Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown.

But Paul Hollywood was all smiles as he appeared on Sunday Brunch to promote his newest cookbook.

The normally steely-eyed GBBO judge, 51, was in an incredibly jovial mood as he chatted with hosts Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer on the hit Channel 4 show.

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Cheery: Paul Hollywood was all smiles as he appeared on Sunday Brunch to promote his newest cookbook

Reunion: The appearance came after Paul supposedly raised a few eyebrows on Monday when he was spotted sharing an 'intimate kiss' with 2016 Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown

Baking pro Paul couldn't help cracking a beaming grin as he waxed lyrical about his baking adventures, clad in a fitted blue shirt adorned with a poppy.

The silver fox later impressed recently axed Strictly Come Dancing contestant Simon as he whipped up a delicious baklava.

The appearance came after newly-engaged Candice, 32, was pictured in high spirits as she welcomed an a kiss from the married TV judge outside a hotel at the after-party for the Pride of Britain Awards in London.

In photos obtained by The Sun, the baker - who announced her engagement to fiance Liam Macauley last week - was spotted 'toying' with Paul's ear and shared a friendly kiss at the Grosvenor House Hotel - before they went on to enjoy cosy drinks.

Happy: The normally steely-eyed GBBO judge, 51, was in an incredibly jovial mood as he chatted with hosts Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer on the hit Channel 4 show

Chatty: Baking pro Paul couldn't help cracking a beaming grin as he waxed lyrical about his baking adventures, clad in a fitted blue shirt adorned with a poppy

What he does best: Paul looked excited as he prepared to whip up a frenzy in the kitchen

A source told the publication that the baking pair were sitting outside the bash, sipping on champagne while Paul - who previously had an affair with his American Baking Competition's co-star Marcela Valladolid in 2013 - draped a blanket over Candice's shoulders.

With the alcohol flowing, the pair were seen enjoying a friendly chat as they conversed into the early hours of the morning at the table.

An onlooker said told the publication: 'Paul and Candice were outside together for hours and obviously had a lot of catching up. They were very relaxed, laughing and chatting.

'Paul was cracking a lot of jokes which Candice lapped up. He seemed to be paying for all the champagne. There were lots of people inside but Paul and Candice seemed happy enough on their own.

Baking banter: The silver fox later impressed recently axed Strictly Come Dancing contestant Simon as he whipped up a delicious baklava

Star-studded: He joined Scarlett Moffatt and Johnny Vegas on the show

Adding: 'It raised a few eyebrows that they were cosying up together but people were saying they were the only Bake Off stars there.'

While their friendly appearance turned heads, the GBBO alumni - who's other halves Alexandra and Liam didn't seem to attend the soiree - left separately with Paul stepping into a chauffeur-driven car at 1.30am and Candice hailed a taxi, according to The Sun.

A representative for the pair, who was also present at the drinks, tells MailOnline: 'Following The Mirror Pride of Britain Awards last Monday, seven of us including Paul and Candice were seated outside waiting for cars home. The photograph was taken as Paul was saying goodbye to each of us.'

Winner:The appearance came after newly-engaged Candice, 32, (above in summer 2016) was pictured in high spirits as she welcomed an a kiss from the married TV judge outside a hotel at the after-party for the Pride of Britain Awards in London

Leaving: While their friendly appearance turned heads, the GBBO alumni - who's other halves Alexandra and Liam didn't seem to attend the soiree - left separately with Paul stepping into a chauffeur-driven car at 1.30am and Candice hailed a taxi

Candice's outing comes after she announced her engagement to Liam Macaulay last Sunday.

Candice won Bake Off in 2016, on its former BBC One home, earning a handshake from Paul Hollywood for her four-tier meringue cake and impressing former judge Mary Berry with a humdinger of a showstopper.

Meanwhile, it was announced that she joined the line-up for the rebooted Dancing On Ice, which is set to kick off next year.

The baking supremo said of her signing: 'It's nerve wracking. I start my training today. I take my first steps on the ice later on. My friends call me Bambi on Ice and that's just normal day to day!'
He's had a tough year following his split from wife and longterm love Angelina Jolie.

But it seems Brad Pitt has emerged from his heartbreak feeling - and looking - better than ever.

The handsome star looked back to his old self as he swung by the 2017 LACMA Art + Film Gala on Saturday night in honor of Mark Bradford and George Lucas.

The 53-year-old movie star looked youthful and debonair as he modeled a crisp black Gucci suit.

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Swanky: Brad Pitt looked youthful and debonair Saturday night, swinging by the 2017 LACMA Art + Film Gala in honor of Mark Bradford and George Lucas

Hobnobbing: For his part, Brad was without a tipple, having given up drinking

Gucci presented the evening's event, which was held at LACMA - the Los Angeles County Museum Of Art.

Brad clashed a white dress shirt elegantly against an orange, green, grey, black and pale yellow striped tie, rounding out the getup with black dress shoes.

He stood for a photo with artist Thomas Houseago, Thomas' wineglass-holding wife Muna El Fituri and the gala's co-chair Eva Chow.

For his part, Brad was without a tipple, having given up drinking.

Only the best: The 53-year-old movie star, who until late last year was half of the legendary power couple Brangelina, modeled a crisp black Gucci suit

Quartet: He stood for a photo with artist Thomas Houseago (left), Thomas' wineglass-holding wife Muna El Fituri (second from right) and the gala's co-chair Eva Chow (second from left)

As he told the summer issue of GQ this year: 'But me, personally, I can't remember a day since I got out of college when I wasn't boozing or had a spliff, or something.'

He theorized 'that a lot of it is, um - cigarettes, you know, pacifiers. And I'm running from feelings. I'm really, really happy to be done with all of that.

'I mean I stopped everything except boozing when I started my family. But even this last year, you know - things I wasn't dealing with.

'I was boozing too much. It's just become a problem. And I'm really happy it's been half a year now, which is bittersweet, but I've got my feelings in my fingertips again.'

Not his best: A gaunt and lonesome Brad is seen shortly after his marriage ended

Long hair, don't care: Brad with his ex Angelina Jolie in 2013

After 11 years as a couple, Angelina Jolie filed for divorce from Brad last September.

Though they had been publicly a couple since 2005 - when Brad infamously left his first wife Jennifer Aniston for Angelina - Brangie waited to marry until 2014, holding the ceremony at their Chateau Miraval in the South Of France.

They are the parents of six children, three of whom are adopted and three of whom Brad and Angelina conceived together.

When she split from Brad last year, Angelina enlisted the services of divorce-lawyer-to-the-stars Laura Wasser, as TMZ reported at the time.
She recently shared a series of snaps from her latest sunny holiday in Tenerife.

But temperatures went up another notch as Gemma Collins posted a sultry snap with Instagram followers on Sunday.

With heavy red lipstick and expertly contoured foundation, the 36-year old looked unrecognizable as she posed in a satin textured plum bra and white overlay.

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Sexy selfie: Gemma Collins wowed her social media followers as she posted a sultry snap in a satin textured plum bra and white overlay shirt, which also featured a vintage glam makeup look

The TOWIE star gave her followers a peep at her lingerie as she covered parts of her torso in a white blouse - cheekily unbuttoned around her bust.

With her blonde locks worn in soft beach waves, Gemma oozed glamour as she pouted in classic crimson red lipstick, heavy bronzer and false lashes.

And her fan base were overwhelmingly surprised as she stepped up her appearance - with one commenting: 'She looks f**king incredible here!'.

Another impressed fan raved: 'What a woman!'

'What a woman': Her fan base were overwhelmingly surprised as she stepped up her appearance

He's missing out: One even linked her picture to ex and co-star James 'Arg' Argent: 'God Arg would be kicking himself not having you in his life... your look great xxx' (sic)

Not approving: However, a fan criticised the plus side fashion designer for using image enhancers

One even linked her picture to ex and co-star James 'Arg' Argent: 'God Arg would be kicking himself not having you in his life... your look great xxx' (sic).

However, a fan criticised the plus side fashion designer for using image enhancers: 'You clearly don't look like that. You say you are happy and want to teach others to love who they are yet put up a picture with 100 filters'.

Gemma's latest social media update follows her holiday post in Tenerife on Friday, as she seemed to be taking some time out for herself on Friday.

Relaxed: Gemma seemed keen to get away after being rejected by her former flame Arg, which viewers painfully witness during Wednesday's TOWIE

Stunning: The blonde showcased her curved physique in the skintight black swimsuit in a sassy Instagram snap

The reality TV star looked incredible in the curve-tastic black swimsuit, telling fans that she was just 'loving life'.

In the relaxed video, Gemma told her fans: 'Hi everyone this is a Friday message from me. I hope youre all loving life right now in the UK. But Im just chilling here on my sunbed loving life. Ill be back soon!'

Gemma also posted a separate snap of her sunbed body clad in a skintight black swimsuit with the caption 'Holidays! Defo gonna bring out a curve swim wear range next year!'

Gemma was feeling the heartbreak on Wednesday on TOWIE after she was rejected by her ex-flame Arg, taking to Instagram to share a series of snaps with ex-flame James 'Arg' Argent, in which she shared gushing captions about the end of their romance.

In heartbreaking scenes, Gemma admitted that nothing would 'complete her life' more than a relationship with Arg - but while many viewers claimed she was 'too good' for him, others urged the pair to get back together.

Way back when: TOWIE's Gemma Collins was not deterred following Wednesday's airing as she took to Instagram to share a series of snaps with ex-flame James 'Arg' Argent, in which she shared gushing captions about their romance

After the scenes aired, she took to Instagram to share a series of incredibly sweet snaps of the couple dating back six years, some of which they were seen kissing, sunbathing and cosying up during sun-drenched holidays.

The stunning star has made no secret of her recent feelings for the hunk, who she dated on and off for seven years, yet she seemed content on the conclusion of the romance as she posted an array of lengthy captions.

She penned: 'Guys we all have to shut the book in life just happy times reflecting on that you just have to say goodbye too but just happy memories... We all started out together 6 years ago and noone outside the Towie bubble will get it...

Back then: The stunning star has made no secret of her recent feelings for the hunk, who she dated on and off for seven years, yet she seemed content on the conclusion of the romance as she posted an array of lengthy captions

'I do love Towie and my friends on the show always its been a journey we have all learnt and grown since the show stated our lives have changed sometimes you just cling on to memories...

'ps I am NOT LEAVING the show I want to get married on Towie and share it all with you... Happy times... It was nice whilst it lasted but a girls gotta move on Im just a hopeless romantic at heart always and I wont change...

'Happy memories... just wanted to share some memories tonight with you all but you do have to let go #newbeginingsahead... So young back then I was 30 in this picture but felt 15 life was just so different back then'.

Happy days: 'I do love Towie and my friends on the show always its been a journey we have all learnt and grown since the show stated our lives have changed sometimes you just cling on to memories'

Sad times: 'I adore him, and he's very fond of me. But unfortunately Arg isn't confident enough in himself to own his feelings for me, he's in denial,' she added




Paul Hollywood shared a farewell kiss with former Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown after a night out at the Pride of Britain Awards on Monday evening.

The 51-year-old, who frequently rewards high-achieving bakers with an affirmative handshake on the Channel 4 show, appeared to fix his gaze on the 32-year-old before leaning in for a kiss.

In pictures originally published by The Sun, Paul cups the back of her head as he kisses her goodbye following a night out at the Grosvenor House Hotel event.

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Pictured: This is the moment married Paul Hollywood and newly-engaged Candice Brown locked lips after the Pride of Britain Awards on Monday

Baker Candice, who announced her engagement to Liam Macauley last week, was also seen toying with Paul's ear as they relaxed at the table.

The stars were letting their hair down after making a glamorous red carpet appearance at the event earlier on in the evening.

Paul and Candice, who were said to be the only stars from the show at the after-party, enjoyed each other's charming company until the early hours of the morning.

Farewell! As the television judge bid Candice a tender goodbye, the 51-year-old fixed his gaze on the 32-year-old before he leaned in to smooch the 2016 GBBO champ

A source told The Sun that the baking pair were sitting outside the bash where they sipped on champagne.

The insider also revealed Paul - who previously had an affair with his American Baking Competition's co-star Marcela Valladolid in 2013 - draped a blanket over Candice's shoulders.

Since the release of the photos, the cooking champion broke her silence as she declared the smooch was a 'goodbye peck'.

Smooch: Cosy pictures show Paul cup the back of the former GBBO champion's head as he kissed her goodbye following a fun-filled evening at the Grosvenor House Hotel

Cosy: Baker Candice, who announced her engagement to Liam Macauley last week, was also seen toying with Paul's ear as they relaxed at the table

Revealed: The GBBO duo enjoyed each other's charming company until the early hours of the morning as they perched at the table

Posting on Twitter, she wrote: So invisibility cloaks are real. I was so sure you were there all night too!! Stacey Solomon, Shelagh Fogarty.

No kisses or hugs hello or goodbye from now on - handshakes or waves only!

Stacey saw the humorous side as she told her one million fans she had also been happy to receive a goodbye kiss from Paul.

Sharing two tearful laughing emojis, Stacey wrote: 'Well I was the the entire time no intimate kisses from where I was standing just a goodbye peck! I got one too.'

Candice added: 'Whatttt you got a goodbye peck too? Remember handshakes and waves from now! Lovely to see you beautiful lady x' (sic)

Going strong: The Great British Bake Off stars were said to be the only stars from the show at the after-party

'You got a goodbye peck too?' Since the release of the photos, the cooking champion broke her silence as she declared the smooch was a 'goodbye peck'

They are close: The stars put on a friendly display as they posed up a storm together for a cosy selfie earlier on in the evening

Revealed: The insider also claimed the television judge draped a blanket over Candice's shoulders as the evening unfolded

Broadcaster Shelagh Fogarty also jumped to her defence following the reports by The Sun, posting: I and three others were at that table and no such intimate thing happened. Fizz was nice tho.

A spokesman for both Paul and Candice said what was pictured was an innocent kiss on the cheek, and that it was untrue to describe it as an intimate kiss.

Following The Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards, seven of us, including Paul and Candice, were seated outside waiting for cars home. The photograph is of Paul saying goodbye to each of us, she said in a statement.

A Great British (Bake Off) reunion! The Great British Bake Off star looked delighted to be reunited with television host Paul outside the hotel at the after-party

Of the pair, an onlooker told The Sun: 'Paul and Candice were outside together for hours and obviously had a lot of catching up. They were very relaxed, laughing and chatting'

Great fun: Paul and Candice were joined by close pals at the Grosvenor Hotel after The Pride of Britain Awards

Of the pair, an onlooker told The Sun: 'Paul and Candice were outside together for hours and obviously had a lot of catching up. They were very relaxed, laughing and chatting.

'Paul was cracking a lot of jokes which Candice lapped up. He seemed to be paying for all the champagne.

'There were lots of people inside but Paul and Candice seemed happy enough on their own.

'It raised a few eyebrows that they were cosying up together but people were saying they were the only Bake Off stars there.'

Dapper: The married hunk dressed to catch the eye in a two-piece dark blue suit, accessorised with a patterned tie and white shirt

Fabulous fun! The television judge was pictured in high spirits as he proved to be a social butterfly at the after-party

Delightful: Paul worked his irresistible charm and good looks as he mixed with the great and the good of the showbiz world

While their friendly appearance turned heads, the GBBO alumni - who's other halves Alexandra and Liam didn't seem to attend the soiree - left separately with Paul stepping into a chauffeur-driven car at 1.30am and Candice hailed a taxi, according to The Sun.

A representative for the pair, who was also present at the drinks, tells MailOnline: 'Following The Mirror Pride of Britain Awards last Monday, seven of us including Paul and Candice were seated outside waiting for cars home. The photograph was taken as Paul was saying goodbye to each of us.'

Candice's outing comes after she announced her engagement to Liam Macaulay last Sunday, following one very memorable false alarm.

Sharing the news with HELLO! magazine in a new engagement shoot, the gorgeous baker said she was 'feeling very lucky' following an 'amazing' year.

Sensational: Earlier on in the evening, the GBBO pair looked to be in great spirits as they posed at the Pride of Britain Awards in London on Monday

The party's not over! A source told the publication that the baking pair were sitting outside the bash, sipping on champagne while Paul draped a blanket over Candice's shoulders

Catching up: The pair were seen enjoying a friendly chat as they conversed into the early hours of the morning at the table

An onlooker said told the publication: 'Paul and Candice were outside together for hours and obviously had a lot of catching up. They were very relaxed, laughing and chatting'

Three's not a crowd! The Bake Off stars were keen on continuing the party alongside pal Stacey Solomon

Unwinding: It was clear that Candice and Paul were having a great time as they laughed and joked their way into the night

Winner: The former PE teacher won the seventh series of the Great British Bake Off on BBC last year

'I get emotional' she said. 'Because it's been such an amazing year. I feel very lucky. I've had such incredible opportunities  GBBO opened so many doors  and to top it off he puts a ring on it.'

And despite prompting speculation of a surprise engagement in late 2016, Candice revealed that the proposal was everything she'd been waiting for.

She told the story of how Liam, who she's been with since 2012, took them back to the spot where they had their first date in Bedfordshire and pulled a ring from the glove compartment of his car.

Exciting: Candice's outing comes after she announced her engagement to Liam Macaulay last Sunday, following one very memorable false alarm

Busy girl: The star says that she has had an 'amazing' year, which makes her emotional to think about

Candice recalled: 'He reached into the glove compartment, got out the ring, got down on one knee and said, "I love you, you are my world. Will you marry me?"

Liam continued: 'So I proposed in a car park. But it really meant something to us. Candice just cried for five minutes before she could say, "Yes!"'

Candice won Bake Off in 2016, on its former BBC One home, earning a handshake from Paul Hollywood for her four-tier meringue cake and impressing former judge Mary Berry with a humdinger of a showstopper.

Something to pout about! Candice shared the news almost a year to the day since winning the Great British Bake Off (here in July)

Meanwhile, it was announced that she joined the line-up for the rebooted Dancing On Ice, which is set to kick off next year.

The baking supremo said of her signing: 'It's nerve wracking. I start my training today. I take my first steps on the ice later on. My friends call me Bambi on Ice and that's just normal day to day!'

The confirmation comes days after in was revealed Love Island star Kem Cetinay, Bucks Fizz songstress Cheryl Baker and Corrie's Brooke Vincent are all set to star on the show, which came off air in 2013.
Party girl Charlotte Dawson took to Instagram on Sunday to hilariously reveal she had broken her teeth, after falling over abroad.

The Celebs Go Dating star admitted that she fell over her heels whilst enjoying her holiday on to the Greek Islands.

The 24-year-old returned to the UK to and shared a funny snap of her in a dentist chair on Instagram, while being treated for her chipped teeth.

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Partying too hard: Charlotte Dawson, 24, admitted that she fell over her heels whilst enjoying her holiday on to the Greek Islands on Instagram on Sunday

Sharing her experience with her 336,000 followers, the reality star posted the witty before and after picture from her night out.

She captioned: 'Beltin before & after that chaz... Just a heads up to people travelling to the Greek islands, don't fall over in ur heels n knock your teeth out on Greek grids and have to travel to different islands to get ombre teeth...'

'Only me this could happen to ffs!!! thank the chuffin lord to @dentalexcellenceukfor sorting me out when I got ome'.

Just hours later, Charlotte posted another snap and showed off her results and fixed teeth after landing back in the UK as she flaunted her dashing smile to the camera.

Just hours later: Charlotte posted another snap and showed off her results and fixed teeth after landing back in the UK as she flaunted her dashing smile to the camera

The incident happened shortly after Charlotte transformed into Catwoman for this year's Halloween celebrations at the Plaza Hotel in London on last Saturday.

Painting the town red, Ex On The Beach beauty channeled Halle Berry's character when she flaunted her gravity-defying cleavage in a plunging PVC jumpsuit.

Reality star Charlotte showcased her hourglass curves and svelte figure in the form-fitting costume for the night's festivities.

Going for sexy vibes, she framed her eyes with an intricate lace Venetian-inspired mask which boasted of diamante gems.

As a make-up artist, the television sensation knew how to put the drama into her features with a slick of scarlet lipstick and deft touches of eyeliner.

Getting into the Hallo-queen spirit! Charlotte transformed into Catwoman for this year's celebrations at the Plaza Hotel in London last Saturday

Painting the town red: The 24-year-old Ex On The Beach beauty flaunted her gravity-defying cleavage in a plunging PVC jumpsuit

Blast from the past! Charlotte was channeled Halle Berry's iconic Catwoman look (Halle pictured in the movie poster for the 2004 film)

Roar! The stunner prowled around the streets of the British capital and proudly showed off her feisty nature

The Manchester born beauty proved to be playful as she toyed with her glossy brunette locks.

Charlotte prowled around the streets of the British capital and proudly showed off her feisty nature.

Adding to her height, the daughter of British comedian Les Dawson stood tall in her sky-scraper high platform heels.

What a minx! The Manchester born beauty showed off her playful side as she toyed with her glossy brunette locks which were styled for the maximum choppy layered effect

Sexy vibes: The Celebs Go Dating hopeful framed her eyes with an intricate lace Venetian-inspired mask which boasted of diamante gems

Charlotte was in the good company of dating expert Nadia Essex who dazzled in a thigh-skimming playsuit.

The Celebs Go Dating manager drew further attention to her limbs when she put on a fashion parade in thigh-high boots.

Nadia also got into the Halloween spirit when she accessorised with a sparkling gold masquerade mask which perfectly framed her face.

The claws are out! The Manchester born beauty winked to the cameras as she flaunted her svelte figure in the sexy jumpsuit

While she failed to find love on the set of Celebs Go Dating this year, the MTV personality appears to have founded a blossoming friendship with the dating guru.

On Friday, the star sparked romance rumours that she is giving love a second go with her former flame Matt Sarsfield.

Charlotte shared a cosy Instagram picture of herself in the arms of the rugby player hunk with the caption: 'Finders keepers.'

Great time! Charlotte was in the good company of dating expert Nadia Essex who dazzled in a thigh-skimming playsuit

For life: While Charlotte failed to find love on the set of Celebs Go Dating this year, she appears to have founded a blossoming friendship with the dating guru

Fans flooded the post with excited comments about their possible reunion, with one saying: 'Very lucky man. Look after that one she's a bloomin keeper.' (sic)

An insider revealed the beauty was left heartbroken when the couple parted ways earlier this year in February.

At the time, a source told The Sun Online: 'Charlotte is convinced Matt is the one for her, shes been planning years ahead and it all seemed like Matt was of the same mind, but things have become difficult.

Close bond: The pair looked closer than ever as they held hands when they left the glamorous venue in London
He's the handsome TV vet whose romance with brunette beauty Kendall Bora has blossomed over the last year.

And according to insiders, Dr. Chris Brown could be set to walk down the aisle with his girlfriend.

'They're both at the stage in their lives when they want to settle down,' a friend of the 38-year-old hunk told Woman's Day.

Wedding bells for the Bondi Vet?Friends claim Dr. Chris Brown could pop the question as he and girlfriend Kendall Bora are 'want to settle down'... as the hunk searches for a bigger house

And Chris is said to be readying himself for married life as he searches for a new, bigger house in Sydney's eastern Suburbs.

Kendall, who is a TV producer, is said to have recently moved in with the TV hunk.

'She moved out of her Bondi rental as she spent all her time at Chris' place anyway,' the friend told the publication.

The magazine also speculates that Chris will pop the question in South Africa while filming the fourth season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

Love is in the air: Kendall and Chris met in 2016 and their relationship has gone from strength- to-strength since

Chris acts as host of the jungle reality show and he and Kendall met on its set in 2016.

The couple went public with their romance while attending a friend's wedding in the Hunter Valley in March.

Chris has previously been vocal about his desire to have a family, and admitted age isn't a worry.

Moving on: Last month Chris sold his three bedroom Bondi home for a staggering $4.5 million, he more than doubled his return on his initial investment, after purchasing the property for $1.92 million in 2010

'She moved out of her Bondi rental as she spent all her time at Chris' place anyway' TV producer Kendall is said to have recently moved in with her Bondi Vet boyfriend

'When the time is right, the time is right,' the Bondi resident told The Daily Telegraph.

'I don't worry about my age. I think about the 25-year-old me and he wasn't very wordly,' he added.

Last month Chris sold his three bedroom home for a staggering $4.5 million, he more than doubled his return on his initial investment, after purchasing the property for $1.92 million in 2010.

'They're both at the stage in their lives when they want to settle down,' a friend of the 38-year-old hunk Chris Brown told Woman's Day




The Boys and Group categories went head-to-head on Saturday night's instalment of the X Factor.

But now it was the Girls and Overs turn to showcase their vocal talent as they continued this week's theme Viva Latino on Sunday with hopeful Kevin Davy White stealing the show with his rendition of Santana ft. Rob Thomas' 1999 hit Smooth.

Leaving all four judges on their feet, the Frenchman couldn't contain his happiness as the crowd raised the roof with their booming cheers following his performance - which included him playing the electric guitar.

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Stealing the show: Hopeful Kevin Davy White stole the show with his rendition of Santana ft. Rob Thomas' 1999 hit Smooth

Left speechless, Sharon exclaimed over the roaring cheers: 'You are a class act. Oh my Lord, you took this whole thing into a while new direction... unbelievably cool. Took my breath away.

While Louis added: 'It was smooth, it was cool. For me you are the real deal, a class act and probably the act.'

Despite wowing the judges, Simon couldn't help but jeer his mentor Nicole, insisting: 'I remember someone on my right being a bit sulky when they got this category.

Before continuing: 'I just loved every moment of it it was authentic and you Kevin as a person, there's something really kind about you, something really good, this show needs people like you.

'For me this was your best performance of the entire competition.'

Standing ovation: The performance left all four judges - Louis Walsh, Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger and Simon Cowell - on their feet

Electric: The Frenchman couldn't contain his happiness as the crowd raised the roof with their booming cheers following his performance - which included him playing the electric guitar

Speechless: Left speechless, Sharon exclaimed over the roaring cheers: 'You are a class act. Oh my Lord, you took this whole thing into a while new direction... unbelievably cool. Took my breath away

Kicking off the show was last week's prize fright champion Grace Davies, who wowed the crowd with British artist Anne-Marie's Ciao Adios.

Showcasing her dance moves, the blonde - who admitted she wanted 'to have fun on the stage' - got the crowd on their feet with the uptempo number.

Despite leaving mentor Sharon Osbourne on her feet, the Blackburn's cover didn't completely satisfy judges Nicole Scherzinger, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh.

Nicole shared: 'Wow Grace, what a great way to open the show today. Fart, I didn't know I was first, I love that song.

'For me, I would have loved to have see you enjoy it more... you sounded amazing'

Smooth: While Louis added: 'It was smooth, it was cool. For me you are the real deal, a class act and probably the act'

Getting the party started: Kicking off the show was last week's prize fright champion Grace Davies, who wowed the crowd with British artist Anne-Marie's Ciao Adios

Hitting the right notes: Showcasing her dance moves, the blonde - who admitted she wanted 'to have fun on the stage' - got the crowd on their feet with the uptempo number.

Satisfaction: Despite leaving mentor Sharon Osbourne on her feet, the Blackburn's cover didn't completely satisfy judges Nicole Scherzinger, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh

While Simon first commented on her performance the previous week, he added that it wasn't her at 'her best' but was happy to see her versatility.

'I wanted to say how much I loved your performance,' he began. 'This is not you at your best, I think you showed you had fun. I still think you're going to be here next week but it was nice to see that side of you.'

However, Louis gushed: 'I love it. It's the sign of a true artist... for me it was perfect.'

As her mentor Sharon added: 'You sailed through it, you're always at ease. It makes us at ease... I thoroughly enjoyed your personality and it was fun.'

Versatility: While Simon first commented on her performance the previous week, he added that it wasn't her at 'her best' but was happy to see her versatility

Wow: Next up for the Overs was Tracy Leanne Jefford with Jennifer Lopez's Ain't Your Mama

Next up for the Overs was Tracy Leanne Jefford with Jennifer Lopez's Ain't Your Mama.

Looking sensational, the mother-of-two - who was visited by her two children -donned a strapless jumpsuit with gold button detail and front leg slits as she belted out the pop hit.

Impressing the judges, Sharon gushed: 'Tracy Leanne, I love your sassy-ness, I love your spirit. You bring so much to the stage everytime. I love the song choice.'

While Louis added: 'You are living the dream and everytime I meet you back behind the stage you can't believe your here... it worked for me.'

Chic: Looking sensational, the mother-of-two - who was visited by her two children -donned a strapless jumpsuit with gold button detail and front leg slits as she belted out the pop hit

Sass: Impressing the judges, Sharon gushed: 'Tracy Leanne, I love your sassy-ness, I love your spirit. You bring so much to the stage everytime. I love the song choice'

Respect: Before Simon added: 'I have a lot of respect and admiration for you. Without going into too much to know what you've gone through... you come out here and that's why I use the word respect. 'You had presence tonight, this has gone way better than I thought for you'

Before Simon added: 'I have a lot of respect and admiration for you. Without going into too much to know what you've gone through... you come out here and that's why I use the word respect.

'You had presence tonight, this has gone way better than I thought for you.'

However, her mentor Nicole appeared to well up with pride for her spectacular performance as she insisted she's an 'inspiration'.

'I'm so proud of you, you relate to so many women out there,' she said. 'You put your dreams aside for your children and we get to go on that journey with you.

Hopeful: Girls hopeful Rai- Elle Williams performed Sean Paul's Bailando which left both Sharon and Nicole on their feet

Thrilled: Speaking as she gave her a standing ovation, Poison hitmaker Nicole shared: 'Give it to us again, that's what this weekend is all about. That was so good, you made us work up a sweat watching you. You're a little star baby girl'

Sunshine: And her mentor Sharon weighed in: 'What kind I say because they've all said it for me. You're a ray of sunshine'

'Your such an inspiration to women out there and I'm so proud to have you on my team.'

Girls hopeful Rai- Elle Williams performed Sean Paul's Bailando which left both Sharon and Nicole on their feet.

Speaking as she gave her a standing ovation, Poison hitmaker Nicole shared: 'Give it to us again, that's what this weekend is all about. That was so good, you made us work up a sweat watching you. You're a little star baby girl'.

While music manager Louis added: 'Nobody gives more than you... you've got it all going on.'

Absent from last week's festivities, Simon said: 'I thought you were amazing last week and didn't get enough credit. You got this, this is music is in the charts... You've embraced it week after week... everything I love about you.

Happy: Meanwhile, teenager Hollie Tandy performed smash hit Despacito which tested her linguistic skills

'Love': Leaving Nicole stunned, the popstar commented: 'Are you sure you're from Yorkshire? Are you sure yo're not from Puerto Rico? That whole song was in Spanish. I love that song'

And her mentor Sharon weighed in: 'What kind I say because they've all said it for me. You're a ray of sunshine.'

Meanwhile, teenager Hollie Tandy performed smash hit Despacito which tested her linguistic skills.

Leaving Nicole stunned, the popstar commented: 'Are you sure you're from Yorkshire? Are you sure yo're not from Puerto Rico? That whole song was in Spanish. I love that song.'

While music mogul Simon left Hollie reeling as he began his comments 'I'm going to be honest' before praising for her song choice.

Having fun: While music mogul Simon left Hollie reeling as he began his comments 'I'm going to be honest' before praising for her song choice

Best: 'Last week, I thought you were good not great,' he said. 'This song has done so much for you... This was one of the best tonight'

'Last week, I thought you were good not great,' he said. 'This song has done so much for you... This was one of the best tonight'.

Wowing the judges with her energetic performance of Jennifer Lopez's Let's Get Loud, Alisah Bonaobra showed her feisty side in a sequin mini dress.

Nicole commented: 'You become this fierce beast, wild animal on the stage. You shut it down tonight, you're a little firecracker.' Louis was left stunned: 'Amazing energy tonight... it was fantastic'.

However, Simon wasn't completely impressed by her high-octane performance as he received boos for his commentary about wanting to find out who she wants to be as an artist.

All that glitters: Wowing the judges with her energetic performance of Jennifer Lopez's Let's Get Loud, Alisah Bonaobra showed her feisty side in a sequin mini dress

Firecracker: Nicole commented: 'You become this fierce beast, wild animal on the stage. You shut it down tonight, you're a little firecracker.' Louis was left stunned: 'Amazing energy tonight... it was fantastic'

Criticism: However, Simon wasn't completely impressed by her high-octane performance as he received boos for his commentary about wanting to find out who she wants to be as an artist

Closing the show, Matt Linnen performed Ricky Martin classic Livin La Vida Loca much to Sharon's delight as she explained: 'I'm so happy somebody covered that song this weekend. I think it worked really well.'

'It was a bit of a risk this week,' Louis added. 'It looked like Tom Hardy singing a Ricky Martin, you'll get the women's vote at home.'

Once again, Simon shared his distaste but this time for Matt's production of performing in a box which left Nicole red-faced.

Nicole hit back: 'Ladies, were you looking at the box? That's called being creative and being artistic and he's breaking through that box.'

Rounding up: Closing the show, Matt Linnen performed Ricky Martin classic Livin La Vida Loca much to Sharon's delight as she explained: 'I'm so happy somebody covered that song this weekend. I think it worked really well'

Lookalike: 'It was a bit of a risk this week,' Louis added. 'It looked like Tom Hardy singing a Ricky Martin, you'll get the women's vote at home'

Sunday night's show saw Rak-Su and overs' Kevin Davy White going head-to-head to win this week's prize - a studio session with hitmaker Savan Kotecha.

After performing their original track Dimelo, the four-piece chatted to show host Dermot O'Leary and were thrilled with their effort.

The shared: 'Even better the second time around, even Simon was clapping.'

Following their energetic performance, Frenchman Kevin sang his heart out again to Smooth which left his mentor Nicole Scherzinger dancing and singing along as he impressed with his guitar playing skills.

While Rak-Su's hit was riding high in the iTunes chart, it was Kevin who ended up winning over the public and earning the money-can't-buy prize.

Energy: Sunday night's show saw Rak-Su and overs' Kevin Davy White going head-to-head to win this week's prize - a studio session with hitmaker Savan Kotecha

Sunday night's show comes after Simon was forced to bow out of the X Factor's first live shows last weekend after he fell down the stairs at his London mansion and suffered a concussion.

Although on the mend following his terrifying slip, the 58-year-old couldn't escape being the butt of numerous jokes on Saturday night's show as host Dermot O'Leary, 44, playfully teased him about his accident.

After introducing the judges to their seats and asking them about this week's Viva Latino theme, Dermot hilariously mocked Simon about his fall as he asked him to introduce his first act, Jack and Joel, to the stage.

What a tease: Simon Cowell, 58, couldn't escape being the butt of numerous jokes on Saturday night's show as host Dermot O'Leary, 44, playfully teased him about his accident

Introducing the music mogul, Dermot made a cheeky reference to noughties band and his recent slip in a quip: 'He's a big fan of music but for some reason recently he's really gone off Steps? Don't know why though'.

But Simon took it all in his stride as he replied smiling: 'I was waiting for that'.

Later chatting to the judge, Dermot teased Simon once-again as he shared: 'After the week he had, he's really just wishing that he lived in a bungalow.'

Joking: After introducing the judges to their seats and asking them about this week's Viva Latino theme, Dermot hilariously mocked Simon about his fall as he asked him to introduce his first act, Jack and Joel, to the stage

Previous: Britain's Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon was ushered in as a replacement mentor last Sunday with the last-minute manoeuvre caming after Simon fell down the stairs and got a concussion - sparking 'panic' among contestants

Unimpressed this time around, the father-of-one asked: 'Is there going to be a joke like this everytime?' To which Dermot playfully nodded.

Meanwhile, Cowell's return comes after he dramatically missed last weekend's debut live shows after falling down the stairs in his London mansion and suffering a concussion.

And on Friday the music mogul was pictured reprising his judging role while sporting a faded bruise on his neck as he gave his category, the Groups, some words of advice during rehearsals.

The star was stretchered out of his London mansion to hospital in a neck brace after the accident while going to get a cup of hot milk to help him fall asleep.
They were married during a glitzy affair in Sydney in June 2006.

And Nicole Kidman is reportedly planning to renew her vows with Keith Urban in a decidedly more low-key ceremony in Hawaii.

The 50-year-old actress popped the question for a second time to her husband on his recent 50th birthday, according to Woman's Day.

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Big plans: Nicole Kidman is reportedly planning to renew her vows with Keith Urban in a low-key ceremony in Hawaii

A 'source close to the couple' shared with the magazine Nicole proposed to Keith 'to do something special' for his 50 birthday on October 26.

The Hollywood A-lister has allegedly chosen her birthplace of Hawaii as the setting for the intimate wedding.

'She's hoping this second wedding will only make them stronger,' a 'friend' of Nicole's described.

'She's hoping this second wedding will only make them stronger,' a 'friend' of Nicole's described

'She wants the day to be even more special than their first wedding - especially as their girls will be there, too,' they added.

The lovebirds met in 2005 at G'Day LA, a Hollywood event honoring Australians, and were married a year later.

They have two daughters together, Sunday Rose, nine, and Faith Margaret, six, and live in a sprawling estate in Nashville.

Family ties: They have two daughters together, Sunday Rose, nine, and Faith Margaret, six, and live in a sprawling estate in Nashville

Nicole has never been hesitant to shower Keith with public affection, and has been particularly effusive about her husband recently.

For his 50th birthday, she shared a tender photo of the pair on Facebook and called him 'the greatest man in the world'.

'Keith says to me, "You stay raw and sensitive, and I'll buffer things for you," which is a beautiful offering,' she revealed in an interview days after her social media post.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Keith and Nicole's representation for comment.

Adoring: Nicole has never been hesitant to shower Keith with public affection, and has been particularly effusive about her husband recently

'Keith says to me, "You stay raw and sensitive, and I'll buffer things for you," which is a beautiful offering,' she revealed
Their relationship has been heating up since they were went public with their romance in late September.

And Sofia Richie showed off her perfect bikini body as she holidayed in Mexico with beau Scott Disick on Saturday.

The teen beauty, 19, wore a black string bikini which flaunted her ample assets as she stretched out in the sunshine on Sunday.

Vac cay time: Sofia Richie, 19, shows off her perfect bikini body as she suns herself with Scott Disick in Mexico on Sunday

In great shape: High cut at the waist, her bikini highlighted her trim, toned figure

High cut at the waist and with a thong bottom, it highlighted her trim, toned figure and peachy posterior, with Sofia clearly in fantastic shape.

Her bleached blonde hair was worn tied up in a practical bun style as she relaxed.

The daughter of Lionel Richie and her 34-year-old beau were seen relaxing side by side on loungers.

Father-of-three Scott, who wore red swimming trunks, chatted away to his youthful companion, who kept herself occupied with an iPad.

Sunshine seeker: The teen beauty wore a black string bikini

Weekend lounging: The model jetted off to Los Cabos on a private jet on Friday

Bronze beauty: Sofia got a head-to-toe tan in a barely-there thong swimsuit

The two jetted off to Los Cabos on a private jet on Friday.

Sofia shared a snap of her large Hermes Birkin bag and Scott's Louis Vuitton backpack to her Instagram story.

Meanwhile Scott posted a photo to Instagram showing off the plane.

Despite the happy scenes, sources tell People, the relationship is 'starting to fizzle.'

Tickled pink! Scott was colorful in pink shorts

Toweling off: The couple appeared to have taken a dip together

Couple time: The 19-year-old daughter of Lionel Richie and her 34-year-old beau were seen relaxing side by side on loungers

Despite the happy scenes, sources tell People, the relationship is 'starting to fizzle'

The magazine's source added that 'they're starting to argue more' and that it's 'bothering Sofia.'

People's insider said that the teenager thought Scott 'would be more serious about their relationship' but she's getting 'more frustrated with him as time goes on.'

Adding: 'Everything everyone has been telling her to look out for, she's starting to see for herself.'

On Sunday's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Scott shocked when he revealed he would have another baby 'artificially' with ex-partner Kourtney Kardashian, 38.

Not so good: The magazine's source added that 'they're starting to argue more' and that it's 'bothering Sofia'

Bun in the sun! Her bleached blonde hair was worn tied up in a practical bun style

Stormy weather? It's said that the teenager is frustrated because she thought Scott 'would be more serious about their relationship' and she's getting less patient 'with him as time goes on'

Wow: On Sunday's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Scott shocked when he revealed he would have another baby 'artificially' with ex-partner Kourtney Kardashian, 38

Chatty: When asked by close friend Malika Haqq during Sunday's episode of KUWTK ' if the pair would have another child he said: 'Yeah'

Scott already has three children with the reality star , Mason, seven, Penelope, five, and Reign, two, with his former on/off partner, but has admitted he would be open to the possibility of expanding their brood once again, despite the pair not being a couple.

When asked by close friend Malika Haqq during Sunday's episode of KUWTK ' if the pair would have another child he said: 'Yeah.'

Malika then probed further by asking: 'Wait, would you donate or is this like a strict you gotta lay it down?' to which Scott responded: 'Whatever she wants but probably just do it like artificially just so it's like not weird.'

Later, in a confessional, Scott admitted his 'biggest focus' in life is his children, and said it was 'nice' not to have 'false hope' that his relationship with Kourtney - who is now romancing toyboy Younes Bendjima, 24, could take off again.

Brood: Malika then probed further by asking: 'Wait, would you donate or is this like a strict you gotta lay it down?' to which Scott responded: 'Whatever she wants but probably just do it like artificially just so it's like not weird'

Candid: Later, in a confessional, Scott admitted his 'biggest focus' in life is his children, and said it was 'nice' not to have 'false hope' that his relationship with Kourtney - who is now romancing toyboy Younes Bendjima, 24, could take off again.

Father: He said: 'I definitely think that Kourtney's got a lot of built-up anger towards me, but at the end of the day, we have three kids together. That's not going to change. 'My biggest focus now is learning how to really, legitimately move on and think about doing a lot more with my kids without Kourtney' (above with daughter Penelope)

Former couple: Kourtney also admitted in a previous episode of the E! reality series that she would consider having another baby with Scott if the 'situation was right' (pictured in 2011)

He said: 'I definitely think that Kourtney's got a lot of built-up anger towards me, but at the end of the day, we have three kids together. That's not going to change.

'My biggest focus now is learning how to really, legitimately move on and think about doing a lot more with my kids without Kourtney. It's kind of nice in some sense that there's no more false hope. It's just another transition in a very weird part of being together and not being together.'

Kourtney admitted in a previous episode of the E! reality series that she would consider having another baby with Scott if the 'situation was right'.

She said: 'I feel like I would [have another baby with him] if the situation was right. "But that doesn't mean, like, tomorrow, guys. So don't get any ideas.'

Another break: Just weeks ago, Sofia and Scott jetted off to Milan and Venice, Italy for a brief holiday

iVacation: The blonde played around on an iPad while relaxing in the sun

Sunday funday: The two had plenty to talk about

Posted! The social media star shared a snap of her large Hermes Birkin bag and Scott's Louis Vuitton backpack on Instagram before their trip

Flying high! Before jetting off, Scott Meanwhile posted a photo of their private plane on Instagram

Sofia and Scott went public with their romance in late September, however they were linked as far back as May.

In September, they spent time together during a romantic trip to Miami.

Scott and the teen enjoyed a PDA filled trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico at the start of October.

Just weeks ago, Sofia and Scott jetted off to Milan and Venice, Italy for a brief holiday.

South of the border, west of the sun: The vacation-happy couple also enjoyed a PDA filled trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico at the start of October
Tracy Leanne Jefford has become the fourth contestant eliminated from The X Factor.

The mum-of-three found herself in the last two acts alongside girls' hopeful Rai-Elle Williams after her performance of Jennifer Lopez's Ain't Your Mama didn't hit the right note with viewers.

Becoming one of the most memorable contestants on the show, the Middlesex native - who wowed the judges with her rendition of The Shirelles' Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow at the room auditions - was left stunned as she missed out on chance to take to the stage next week.

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Gone: Tracy Leanne Jefford has become the fourth contestant eliminated from The X Factor

While host Dermot O'Leary admitted he was 'gutted' at her elimination, her mentor Nicole Scherzinger insisted that she was the 'heart of the show'.

Opening up about her shock exit, she said: 'Well I am privileged to make the second week. Because I have had the bestest week. I will not stop, I will keep going and going and going until I reach the top.'

Sunday night's show saw Rak-Su and overs' Kevin Davy White going head-to-head to win this week's prize - a studio session with hitmaker Savan Kotecha.

After performing their original track Dimelo, the four-piece chatted to show host Dermot O'Leary and were thrilled with their effort.

The shared: 'Even better the second time around, even Simon was clapping.'

Winner: While Rak-Su's hit was riding high in the iTunes chart it was Kevin who ended up winning over the public and earning the money-can't-buy prize

Happy: Sunday night's show saw Rak-Su battling it out with to win this week's prize - a studio session with hitmaker Savan Kotecha

Following the energetic performance, Frenchman Kevin sang his heart out again to Smooth which left his mentor Nicole Scherzinger dancing and singing along as he impressed with his guitar playing skills, leaving them on their feet once again.

While Rak-Su's hit was riding high in the iTunes chart it was Kevin who ended up winning over the public and earning the money-can't-buy prize.

Next up knowing their fate on who was saved by the public and surviving another week was teenager Hollie Tandy, followed by her category mate Alisah Bonaobra - who cried with happiness. While overs Matt Linnen smiled as his name was called out next.

Emotional: Becoming one of the most memorable contestants on the show, the Middlesex native - who wowed the judges with her rendition of The Shirelles' Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow at the room auditions - was left stunned as she missed out on chance to take to the stage next week

Hugging it out: Tracy Leanne shared a hug with her mentor Nicole following her exit

The fifth act through to next week was Grace Davies who shuck her head in disbelief while an emotional Rai-Elle Williams held her mentor Sharon close, waiting for her name to be announced.

It elimination comes as the Girls and Overs turn to showcase their vocal talent as they continued this week's theme Viva Latino on Sunday with hopeful Kevin Davy White stealing the show with his rendition of Santana ft. Rob Thomas' 1999 hit Smooth.

Leaving all four judges on their feet, the Frenchman couldn't contain his happiness as the crowd raised the roof with their booming cheers following his performance - which included him playing the electric guitar.

Stealing the show: Hopeful Kevin Davy White stole the show with his rendition of Santana ft. Rob Thomas' 1999 hit Smooth

Left speechless, Sharon exclaimed over the roaring cheers: 'You are a class act. Oh my Lord, you took this whole thing into a while new direction... unbelievably cool. Took my breath away.

While Louis added: 'It was smooth, it was cool. For me you are the real deal, a class act and probably the act.'

Despite wowing the judges, Simon couldn't help but jeer his mentor Nicole, insisting: 'I remember someone on my right being a bit sulky when they got this category.

Before continuing: 'I just loved every moment of it it was authentic and you Kevin as a person, there's something really kind about you, something really good, this show needs people like you.

'For me this was your best performance of the entire competition.'

Electric: Leaving all four judges on their feet, the Frenchman couldn't contain his happiness as the crowd raised the roof with their booming cheers following his performance - which included him playing the electric guitar

Speechless: Left speechless, Sharon exclaimed over the roaring cheers: 'You are a class act. Oh my Lord, you took this whole thing into a while new direction... unbelievably cool. Took my breath away

Kicking off the show was last week's prize fright champion Grace Davies, who wowed the crowd with British artist Anne-Marie's Ciao Adios.

Showcasing her dance moves, the blonde - who admitted she wanted 'to have fun on the stage' - got the crowd on their feet with the uptempo number.

Despite leaving mentor Sharon Osbourne on her feet, the Blackburn's cover didn't completely satisfy judges Nicole Scherzinger, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh.

Nicole shared: 'Wow Grace, what a great way to open the show today. Fart, I didn't know I was first, I love that song.

'For me, I would have loved to have see you enjoy it more... you sounded amazing'

Smooth: While Louis added: 'It was smooth, it was cool. For me you are the real deal, a class act and probably the act'

Getting the party started: Kicking off the show was last week's prize fright champion Grace Davies, who wowed the crowd with British artist Anne-Marie's Ciao Adios

Hitting the right notes: Showcasing her dance moves, the blonde - who admitted she wanted 'to have fun on the stage' - got the crowd on their feet with the uptempo number.

Satisfaction: Despite leaving mentor Sharon Osbourne on her feet, the Blackburn's cover didn't completely satisfy judges Nicole Scherzinger, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh

While Simon first commented on her performance the previous week, he added that it wasn't her at 'her best' but was happy to see her versatility.

'I wanted to say how much I loved your performance,' he began. 'This is not you at your best, I think you showed you had fun. I still think you're going to be here next week but it was nice to see that side of you.'

However, Louis gushed: 'I love it. It's the sign of a true artist... for me it was perfect.'

As her mentor Sharon added: 'You sailed through it, you're always at ease. It makes us at ease... I thoroughly enjoyed your personality and it was fun.'

Versatility: While Simon first commented on her performance the previous week, he added that it wasn't her at 'her best' but was happy to see her versatility

Wow: Next up for the Overs was Tracy Leanne Jefford with Jennifer Lopez's Ain't Your Mama

Next up for the Overs was Tracy Leanne Jefford with Jennifer Lopez's Ain't Your Mama.

Looking sensational, the mother-of-two - who was visited by her two children -donned a strapless jumpsuit with gold button detail and front leg slits as she belted out the pop hit.

Impressing the judges, Sharon gushed: 'Tracy Leanne, I love your sassy-ness, I love your spirit. You bring so much to the stage everytime. I love the song choice.'

While Louis added: 'You are living the dream and everytime I meet you back behind the stage you can't believe your here... it worked for me.'

Chic: Looking sensational, the mother-of-two - who was visited by her two children -donned a strapless jumpsuit with gold button detail and front leg slits as she belted out the pop hit

Sass: Impressing the judges, Sharon gushed: 'Tracy Leanne, I love your sassy-ness, I love your spirit. You bring so much to the stage everytime. I love the song choice'

Respect: Before Simon added: 'I have a lot of respect and admiration for you. Without going into too much to know what you've gone through... you come out here and that's why I use the word respect. 'You had presence tonight, this has gone way better than I thought for you'

Before Simon added: 'I have a lot of respect and admiration for you. Without going into too much to know what you've gone through... you come out here and that's why I use the word respect.

'You had presence tonight, this has gone way better than I thought for you.'

However, her mentor Nicole appeared to well up with pride for her spectacular performance as she insisted she's an 'inspiration'.

'I'm so proud of you, you relate to so many women out there,' she said. 'You put your dreams aside for your children and we get to go on that journey with you.

Hopeful: Girls hopeful Rai- Elle Williams performed Sean Paul's Bailando which left both Sharon and Nicole on their feet

Thrilled: Speaking as she gave her a standing ovation, Poison hitmaker Nicole shared: 'Give it to us again, that's what this weekend is all about. That was so good, you made us work up a sweat watching you. You're a little star baby girl'

Sunshine: And her mentor Sharon weighed in: 'What kind I say because they've all said it for me. You're a ray of sunshine'

'Your such an inspiration to women out there and I'm so proud to have you on my team.'

Girls hopeful Rai- Elle Williams performed Sean Paul's Bailando which left both Sharon and Nicole on their feet.

Speaking as she gave her a standing ovation, Poison hitmaker Nicole shared: 'Give it to us again, that's what this weekend is all about. That was so good, you made us work up a sweat watching you. You're a little star baby girl'.

While music manager Louis added: 'Nobody gives more than you... you've got it all going on.'

Absent from last week's festivities, Simon said: 'I thought you were amazing last week and didn't get enough credit. You got this, this is music is in the charts... You've embraced it week after week... everything I love about you.

Happy: Meanwhile, teenager Hollie Tandy performed smash hit Despacito which tested her linguistic skills

'Love': Leaving Nicole stunned, the popstar commented: 'Are you sure you're from Yorkshire? Are you sure yo're not from Puerto Rico? That whole song was in Spanish. I love that song'

And her mentor Sharon weighed in: 'What kind I say because they've all said it for me. You're a ray of sunshine.'

Meanwhile, teenager Hollie Tandy performed smash hit Despacito which tested her linguistic skills.

Leaving Nicole stunned, the popstar commented: 'Are you sure you're from Yorkshire? Are you sure yo're not from Puerto Rico? That whole song was in Spanish. I love that song.'

While music mogul Simon left Hollie reeling as he began his comments 'I'm going to be honest' before praising for her song choice.

Having fun: While music mogul Simon left Hollie reeling as he began his comments 'I'm going to be honest' before praising for her song choice

Best: 'Last week, I thought you were good not great,' he said. 'This song has done so much for you... This was one of the best tonight'

'Last week, I thought you were good not great,' he said. 'This song has done so much for you... This was one of the best tonight'.

Wowing the judges with her energetic performance of Jennifer Lopez's Let's Get Loud, Alisah Bonaobra showed her feisty side in a sequin mini dress.

Nicole commented: 'You become this fierce beast, wild animal on the stage. You shut it down tonight, you're a little firecracker.' Louis was left stunned: 'Amazing energy tonight... it was fantastic'.

However, Simon wasn't completely impressed by her high-octane performance as he received boos for his commentary about wanting to find out who she wants to be as an artist.

All that glitters: Wowing the judges with her energetic performance of Jennifer Lopez's Let's Get Loud, Alisah Bonaobra showed her feisty side in a sequin mini dress

Firecracker: Nicole commented: 'You become this fierce beast, wild animal on the stage. You shut it down tonight, you're a little firecracker.' Louis was left stunned: 'Amazing energy tonight... it was fantastic'

Criticism: However, Simon wasn't completely impressed by her high-octane performance as he received boos for his commentary about wanting to find out who she wants to be as an artist

Closing the show, Matt Linnen performed Ricky Martin classic Livin La Vida Loca much to Sharon's delight as she explained: 'I'm so happy somebody covered that song this weekend. I think it worked really well.'

'It was a bit of a risk this week,' Louis added. 'It looked like Tom Hardy singing a Ricky Martin, you'll get the women's vote at home.'

Once again, Simon shared his distaste but this time for Matt's production of performing in a box which left Nicole red-faced.

Nicole hit back: 'Ladies, were you looking at the box? That's called being creative and being artistic and he's breaking through that box.'

Rounding up: Closing the show, Matt Linnen performed Ricky Martin classic Livin La Vida Loca much to Sharon's delight as she explained: 'I'm so happy somebody covered that song this weekend. I think it worked really well'

Lookalike: 'It was a bit of a risk this week,' Louis added. 'It looked like Tom Hardy singing a Ricky Martin, you'll get the women's vote at home'

Sunday night's show comes after Simon was forced to bow out of the X Factor's first live shows last weekend after he fell down the stairs at his London mansion and suffered a concussion.

Although on the mend following his terrifying slip, the 58-year-old couldn't escape being the butt of numerous jokes on Saturday night's show as host Dermot O'Leary, 44, playfully teased him about his accident.

After introducing the judges to their seats and asking them about this week's Viva Latino theme, Dermot hilariously mocked Simon about his fall as he asked him to introduce his first act, Jack and Joel, to the stage.

What a tease: Simon Cowell, 58, couldn't escape being the butt of numerous jokes on Saturday night's show as host Dermot O'Leary, 44, playfully teased him about his accident

Introducing the music mogul, Dermot made a cheeky reference to noughties band and his recent slip in a quip: 'He's a big fan of music but for some reason recently he's really gone off Steps? Don't know why though'.

But Simon took it all in his stride as he replied smiling: 'I was waiting for that'.

Later chatting to the judge, Dermot teased Simon once-again as he shared: 'After the week he had, he's really just wishing that he lived in a bungalow.'

Joking: After introducing the judges to their seats and asking them about this week's Viva Latino theme, Dermot hilariously mocked Simon about his fall as he asked him to introduce his first act, Jack and Joel, to the stage

Previous: Britain's Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon was ushered in as a replacement mentor last Sunday with the last-minute manoeuvre caming after Simon fell down the stairs and got a concussion - sparking 'panic' among contestants

Unimpressed this time around, the father-of-one asked: 'Is there going to be a joke like this everytime?' To which Dermot playfully nodded.

Meanwhile, Cowell's return comes after he dramatically missed last weekend's debut live shows after falling down the stairs in his London mansion and suffering a concussion.

And on Friday the music mogul was pictured reprising his judging role while sporting a faded bruise on his neck as he gave his category, the Groups, some words of advice during rehearsals.

The star was stretchered out of his London mansion to hospital in a neck brace after the accident while going to get a cup of hot milk to help him fall asleep.
He's the ex boyfriend of Olivia Newton-John who is suspected of faking his own death after he didn't return from a fishing trip in June 2005.

And now a team of investigators are claiming they have tracked down Patrick McDermott and he is alive and well in Mexico, according to reports from New Idea.

A photograph recovered from a Mexican campsite last month by US media agency Coleman-Rayner is said to show a shirtless Patrick lounging alongside a woman.

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Mystery solved? Olivia Newton-John's missing lover (pictured) has allegedly been'found in Mexico' more than 12 years after he disappeared during a fishing trip

The man in the image bares a striking resemblance to the American cameraman, who owed thousands of dollars in backdated child support payments for son Chance at the time of his disappearance.

Top private investigator Charlie Parker supports the theory, saying he believes the undated photograph most likely shows Olivia's former partner of nine years.

'The widow's peak is exact. The eyes are very similar and the ears extend down on the head the same distance. I believe it is him,' he told New Idea, adding that it is a '90 per cent match'.

Patrick would be 60-years-old - roughly the same age the man in the photograph appears to be.

He was declared dead in 2008, despite not one of 22 passengers on board fishing boat Freedom seeing him go overboard in San Pedro, California.

Private detective Philip Klein - who was hired by Dateline in 2009 to track Patrick down - said it was 'concluded beyond reasonable doubt' that Patrick is alive.

Photo evidence? New Idea reported that a photograph recovered from a Mexican campsite last month, by US media agency Coleman-Rayner, allegedly shows a shirtless Patrick lounging alongside a woman

However, photographic 'evidence' remained elusive until the latest discovery found on a noticeboard at a campground in Sayulita, on the western coast of Mexico.

Locals reported Patrick first stayed there after he allegedly escaped from the US more than 12 years ago, according to New Idea.

Friends of Olivia said she will be relieved to finally learn of the alleged fate of her former lover, after being left in the dark all these years.

'Olivia will be shocked that it has finally come to an end, and that she can finally say "Yes, he's alive",' a source told the publication.

'But, in saying that, she has her own battles to fight at the moment - she'll want to just forgive him and move on,' the source added, referencing the Grease star's ongoing battle with cancer.

Olivia said last year that Patrick's disappearance was 'very hard' and still wondered whether he was alive.

Is he still out there? The man in the image bares a striking resemblance to the American cameraman (pictured), who owed thousands of dollars in backdated child support payments for son Chance at the time of his disappearance

'He was lost at sea and nobody really knows what happened': It was initially believed that Patrick may have drowned after falling from the boat during the overnight fishing trip off the coast of San Pedro, California (pictured the Freedom boat Patrick was on)

What happened? Patrick disappeared during a fishing trip off the coast of San Pedro. There have been several reports of sightings in Sayulita in Mexico

'Consumed': When asked by reporter Karl Stefanovic whether she still thinks about the disappearance, Olivia said while she still wonders, it doesn't consume her life like it once did

In an interview with Australia's 60 minutes earlier this year, the star admitted she has struggled to accept both his disappearance and claims he faked his death.

She explained: 'It was very hard, he was lost at sea and nobody really knows what happened.

When asked by reporter Karl Stefanovic whether she still thinks about the disappearance, Olivia said while she still wonders, it doesn't consume her life like it once did.

'It's human to wonder. Those are the things in life you have to accept and let go because whenever you go through difficult times there are always those concerns but...'

She paused and added: 'I live on.'
He's one of Australia's most well-known breakfast TV hosts.

But David 'Kochie' Koch has revealed he was almost fired in his first year hosting Sunrise.

In an interview with New Idea on Monday, the 61-year-old finance journalist claimed he wasn't well liked because of his outspoken personality.

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'I was almost fired': David 'Kochie' Koch reveals he was almost sacked from Sunrise for being 'too opinionated'

'After a year, the then managing director of Seven approached the board to get me fired because they thought I was too opinionated,' he told the publication.

'Thankfully, I'm still here!'

David was only supposed to be filling in for three months following the cancer diagnosis of former host Chris Reason, but has now spent 15 years at the show's helm, a period which has seen Sunrise shoot to the top of breakfast television ratings.

'15 years ago when we started, we were 10 per cent of the Today show's audience, and we reeled them in in 18 months,' he said.

'Thankfully, I'm still here!' Despite almost being fired, Kochie has now spent 15 years at the helm on Sunrise. hosting the program alongside David Beretta, Samantha Armytage, Natalie Barr and Edwina Bartholomew (pictured, left to right)

'You've got to make people think and laugh': Kochie has been credited with helping Sunrise to move in a more family-friendly direction

'Plus, at breakfast, you can't be beige - you've got to make people think and laugh.'

Co-hosting the program with Melissa Doyle before her departure in 2013, he now sits alongside Samantha Armytage, with the pair becoming one of the most recognised TV duos in Australian show business.

Good times: Kochie co-hosted the program with Melissa Doyle (pictured, left), before her departure in 2013

Building the program from virtually no viewers over his long tenure, Kochie and Melissa helped to move the program away from a hard news style format and transform it into a family-friendly show that appeals to a wide audience.

Sunrise's rivalry with the Today show on Channel Nine has been well-documented over the years, with ratings between the two often only differing in viewers as low as 50,000.

David has been married to wife Libby since 1979, and the pair are parents to four children - Alexander, Brianna, Samantha, and Georgina.
England's Mark Stoneman plays a shot as Western Australia XI's Calum How (C) keeps wicket during a two-day Ashes tour match against England at the WACA in Perth on November 4, 2017

Mark Stoneman and James Vince were in the runs but skipper Joe Root was dismissed cheaply as England made a solid start to their Ashes tour in Perth on Saturday.

Stoneman hit 85 off 113 balls while Vince compiled 82 off 129 balls as the tourists reached 349 for six at the close of the first day after winning the toss in their two-day game against a Western Australia XI.

But Root fell for just nine and experienced opener Alastair Cook was out on the second ball of the innings in setbacks for the England team ahead of the Ashes series.

Root looked annoyed when he was given out caught behind when it looked like the ball had flicked his leg rather than his bat.

Stoneman fell 15 runs short of his century when he was picked up at second slip as he attempted to drive paceman Lance Morris.

That ended a 153-run stand for the second wicket with Vince, who was caught at mid-wicket off Aaron Hardie.

"It was good to get that time in the middle," Stoneman said.

"There was enough there to keep the opening bowlers interested with the new ball and there's that bit of extra bounce here, which always has the catchers in play.

"It was nice once we got through that new-ball period to settle in and get into some rhythm.

"Cook and Root are the bankers -- it's a shame for them on a personal note but it gave other guys the chance to get time in the middle."

Vince had a charmed life and gave three chances in his knock on 47, 63 and 67, twice at slip by Nathan Coulter-Nile and once at mid-wicket from a pull.

Dawid Malan and Gary Ballance spent valuable time in the middle with Malan scoring 56 and Ballance 51, before they both retired to give others further down the order batting practice.

Malan was impressive in his time at the wicket. He stroked his first delivery through mid-off for four, and looked fluent on front and back foot and disciplined outside off stump.

Jonny Bairstow (36) and Chris Woakes (25) guided the tourists to stumps.

It was an underwhelming start to the Ashes tour for former captain Cook, who was out for a first-ball duck to Ryan Harris the last time he played at the WACA Ground back in 2013.

Cook prodded at a good ball from Ashes Test pace aspirant Coulter-Nile just outside the off stump and nicked to wicketkeeper Calum How.

Coulter-Nile proved a handful for Stoneman and Vince in his opening spell before they settled into the groove.

Coulter-Nile, who finished the day with one for 43 off 16 overs, is attempting to force his way into the Australian squad for the first Test against England, starting in Brisbane on November 23.

England decided to field 13 players in the tour match, with only Steven Finn (jarred left knee), Moeen Ali (side strain) and back-up wicketkeeper Ben Foakes missing from the 16-man touring squad.
Saudi Arabia arrests 10 princes and dozens of former ministers following a political crackdown in September as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (pictured), set to be the first millennial to occupy the Saudi throne, cements his grip on power

Saudi Arabia arrested 10 princes and dozens of former government ministers on Saturday, reports said, in a major purge immediately after an anti-corruption commission was established.

Separately, the powerful heads of the Saudi National Guard, an elite internal security force, and the navy were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves in the kingdom.

The developments follow a political crackdown in September as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, set to be the first millennial to occupy the Saudi throne, cements his grip on power.

"Arrest of 10 princes and dozens of former ministers in Saudi Arabia," Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported, citing unnamed sources.

The news of the arrests came soon after the anti-corruption commission, headed by Prince Mohammed, was established by royal decree.

Saudi news websites said Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal was among those arrested, but there was no official confirmation. The prince was not immediately reachable for comment.

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets in the Red Sea city of Jeddah, potentially to prevent any high-profile figures from leaving.

"The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shockwaves through the domestic and international business community."

The arrests come less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business titans to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his economic reform drive for a post-oil era.

The 32-year-old crown prince, often known as MBS, has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom with a series of bold moves including the decision allowing women to drive from next June.

Already viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major levers of government, from defence to the economy, the prince is widely seen to be stamping out traces of internal dissent before a formal transfer of power from his 81-year-old father King Salman.

In September the authorities arrested about two dozen people, including influential clerics, in what activists denounced as a coordinated crackdown.

Analysts said many of those detained were resistant to Prince Mohammed's aggressive foreign policy that includes the boycott of Gulf neighbour Qatar as well as some of his bold policy reforms, including privatising state assets and cutting subsidies.

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It was unclear what prompted Republican Senator Rand Paul's neighbor to allegedly tackle him from behind

Republican Senator Rand Paul suffered minor injuries after being attacked at his home in the southern state of Kentucky by a neighbor who tackled him from behind, according to a news report Saturday.

State troopers arrived at Paul's home in Warren County on Friday afternoon in response to a report of an assault and arrested 59-year-old Rene Boucher, Kentucky State Police said in a statement.

"Upon their arrival, it was determined that Rene Boucher had intentionally assaulted Paul, causing a minor injury," the statement said.

Boucher was charged with one count of fourth degree assault.

According to an arrest warrant obtained by Politico, Paul was tackled from behind by his neighbor Boucher, who admitted to his role in the attack.

Paul was seeking medical attention for a "possible rib injury" that caused difficulty breathing, and bleeding from cuts around his mouth, the warrant said.

"Senator Paul was blindsided and the victim of an assault," Paul spokeswoman Kelsey Cooper told Politico. "The assailant was arrested and it is now a matter for the police. Senator Paul is fine."

It was not known what prompted the attack.

Paul, 54, ran an unsuccessful bid last year to be the Republican nominee for the White House.

The politician with libertarian leanings stresses individual rights and privacy, and was a key "no" vote in sinking a plan by his party to overhaul president Barack Obama's health care reforms.
Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of senior figures as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (pictured) consolidates power

Saudi Arabia pursued a sweeping purge of the kingdom's upper ranks on Sunday, saying it would freeze the accounts of dozens of princes, ministers and a tycoon arrested as the crown prince cements his hold on power.

Prominent billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal was among the princes arrested late Saturday, a government source told AFP, immediately after a new anti-corruption commission headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was established by royal decree.

Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves through the kingdom.

The dramatic shake-up comes at a time of unprecedented social and economic transformation in ultra-conservative Saudi Arabia, as Prince Mohammed steps up his reform drive for a post-oil era.

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported that 11 princes, four current ministers and dozens of ex-ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into old cases such as floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009.

The government official gave AFP a list of 14 of the most high-profile names including Prince Al-Waleed, ranked among the richest men in the world.

The information ministry separately said the bank accounts of those arrested will be "frozen" and any assets related to the corruption cases will be registered as state property.

Saudi Arabia: key members of the ruling dynasty

"The suspects are being granted the same rights and treatment as any other Saudi citizen," attorney general Sheikh Saud al-Mojeb said in a statement, adding that a number of investigations had been initiated.

"A suspect's position or status does not influence the firm and fair application of justice."

- 'A new era' -

Shares in Kingdom Holding, 95 percent of which is owned by Prince Al-Waleed, fell sharply as the Saudi stock exchange opened Sunday after reports of his arrest.

In a statement Kingdom Holding said it was "aware" of Saturday's developments but insisted that it was "business as usual" after the chief executive of the company was assured of support from the government.

Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan said the crackdown "heralds a new era and policy of transparency, clarity and accountability".

The kingdom's top council of clerics also lauded the anti-corruption efforts as "important", essentially giving religious backing to the crackdown.

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets at airports, possibly to prevent high-profile figures from leaving the country.

There was fevered speculation on social media that the arrested figures were being held at Riyadh's Ritz Carlton, a palatial hotel originally planned as a palace for guests of the royal family.

The hotel appeared to be closed off to the public on Sunday and its website said the property was fully booked.

Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal (pictured) was among those arrested, Saudi news websites said though there was no official confirmation

In another development, state television announced the death of Prince Mansour bin Moqren, the deputy governor of Asir province and son of a former crown prince, in a helicopter crash near the southern border with Yemen. It did not reveal the cause of the crash.

The purge comes less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business leaders to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his reform drive that has shaken up the kingdom.

"The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal... would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community," Ulrichsen told AFP.

- Meteoric rise -

The crackdown follows a wave of arrests of influential clerics and activists in September as the 32-year-old prince, often known as MBS, consolidates his hold on power.

The latest purge in Saudi Arabia saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah (pictured) sacked as the head of the National Guard, an elite internal security force

Analysts said many of those detained were resistant to Prince Mohammed's aggressive foreign policy that includes the boycott of Gulf neighbour Qatar as well as some of his bold policy reforms, including privatising state assets and cutting subsidies.

The latest purge saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah sacked as the head of the National Guard, an elite internal security force. His removal consolidates the crown prince's control of the kingdom's security institutions.

To analysts, Prince Mohammed's meteoric rise has seemed almost Shakespearean in its aggression and calculation. In June, he edged out a 58-year-old cousin, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, to become heir to the throne.

A picture taken on November 5, 2017 show men at a cafe in the Saudi capital Riyadh

Already viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major levers of government, from defence to the economy, the prince is widely seen to be stamping out traces of internal dissent before a formal transfer of power from his 81-year-old father King Salman.

At the same time, he has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom with a series of bold moves including the decision allowing women to drive from next June.

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Bitcoin has been a game changer in more than just the currency markets, as more business students going into the finance industry are studying bitcoin's "blockchain" technology which is expected to be applied to many sectors

US business schools are beefing up training in the software that underlies digital currency bitcoin, a technology expected to be a game changer in many industries.

The move makes sense as more students seek careers in financial technology, or "fintech," which has captivated leading Wall Street banks and been called "the most important technology since the internet."

In January, the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley will offer its first ever course in blockchain software.

The Haas school, which is near San Francisco and Silicon Valley, will handpick 60 students from the departments of business, engineering and law and split them into groups of six to explore possible applications of the technology.

"When people think about blockchain they think about cryptocurrencies," said Haas school lecturer Greg LaBlanc, who sees the technology as potentially disrupting many sectors.

"We believe it will have the biggest impact on contracting, logistics and supply chains, healthcare, public administration, assets clearing, property, transactions," he said.

"Pretty much every function of businesses are going to be affected by this."

- 'Very transformational' -

Blockchain runs by recording transactions as "blocks" that are updated in real time on a digitized ledger that can be read from anywhere and does not have a central recordkeeper.

It was originally developed as the accounting method for bitcoin. But while that cryptocurrency remains controversial with some players in finance, bankers increasingly see exposure blockchain as a must.

Blockchain is "something we are very optimistic about," JPMorgan Chase chief financial officer Marianne Lake said on a conference call last month.

Newer technologies could be "very transformational for the financial services industry and we are forward-leaning and optimistic about that," Lake added.

The technology, which lets users trace items back through their supply chains, also could offer a means to limit tainted food problems, or to guard against "blood diamonds" that come from a war-ravaged area.

In finance, blockchain could be used to permit parties to check the solvency of counterparties, significantly reducing costs.

Training students for that function and other evolving roles in finance is altering curricula at universities and shifting how students structure their programs.

Students who wish to work in trading must learn how to code, while bankers need to understand algorithms and big data to be able to attract new clients and devise strategies for fast-changing markets.

- Traditional skills still required -

"Anyone who is coming into the financial industry is expected to have some skills in technology," said Stephen Daffron, a founder of Motive Partners, a private equity firm specializing in fintech investment.

"If they don't understand how to evaluate a company that tries to employs blockchain, then they won't probably be a good fit for us," said Daffron, who lectures at the Yale School of Management.

Barbara Hewitt, senior associate director in the career services office at the University of Pennsylvania, home to the Wharton School, also noted the rising interest in new skills and technology.

"I increasingly see students opting to explore technical minors, such as in computer science, to be well prepared for the growing use of technology in many fields," she said.

But if exposure to fintech has become more important to hireability, traditional skills such as accounting, mathematics and understanding of economics remain the top criteria for recruiters, the schools say.

Companies "want people with strong technical skills, people with management skills," said Abigail Kies, assistant dean of career development at Yale.

At Yale, about 20 percent of 2016 graduates found jobs in finance, according to figures supplied by the university.

Fritz Foley, a finance professor at Harvard Business School said jobs in this sector still "require strong analytical abilities, an understanding of institutional details, and good judgment."

"These requirements have not changed as innovations have occurred."
Paul Manafort was put under house arrest this week on money-laundering charges

President Donald Trump said he fired Paul Manafort as his campaign chairman to avoid "potential conflicts" with "certain nations," according to excerpts of an interview released Saturday.

Manafort and his associate Rick Gates were placed under house arrest this week on money-laundering charges linked to an investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller.

The charges relate to allegations that the then Republican presidential candidate's campaign colluded with Russia in the runup to the November 2016 election.

The US Congress is also conducting three separate investigations into the allegations, which have dogged Trump since his election and which he has strongly denied.

Asked who recommended Manafort manage the campaign, Trump said "it was a friend of mine who was a businessman -- a very successful businessman and a good person, and you know, Paul was not there very long."

"I think we found out something about (how) he may be involved with all -- with certain nations, and I don't even know exactly what it was in particular," he told Sharyl Attkison's syndicated television show "Full Measure"

"But there was a point at which we just felt Paul would be better off -- because we don't want to have many potential conflicts," he added in the show which airs in full on Sunday.

Trump said he has no current plans to fire Mueller.

"Well, I hope he's treating everything fairly, and if he is, I'm going to be very happy, because when you talk about innocent, I am truly not involved in any form of collusion with Russia," he said.

"Believe me, that's the last thing I can think of to be involved in."

The president said he was not aware of any plans to be questioned by the special counsel.

"As far as I'm concerned, I haven't been told that we're under investigation, I'm not under investigation."

Manafort and Gates have pleaded not guilty to charges that they allegedly hid millions of dollars gained from work with Ukrainian politician Viktor Yanukovych and his pro-Moscow political party.

A separate plea deal revealed that campaign foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos had lied about contacts with Russians.

Another advisor, former Navy officer and investment banker Carter Page, admitted he had met with Russian government officials in 2016.
A handout from Lebanese photo agency Dalati and Nohra on November 3, 2017 shows Saad Hariri (R) meeting the Iranian Supreme Leader's adviser Ali Akbar Velayati (2nd-R)

Saad Hariri's resignation from Lebanon's premiership has raised fears that regional tensions were about to escalate and that the small country would once again pay a heavy price.

Analysts said the Saudi-backed Sunni politician's move on Saturday to step down from the helm less than a year after forming a government was more than just the latest hiccup in Lebanon's notoriously dysfunctional politics.

"It's a dangerous decision whose consequences will be heavier than what Lebanon can bear," Hilal Khashan, a professor of political science at the American University of Beirut, said.

Hariri announced his resignation in a broadcast from Saudi Arabia, accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of taking over his country and destabilising the entire region.

Hezbollah is part of the government, but the clout of a group whose military arsenal outstrips that of Lebanon's own armed forces is far greater than its share of cabinet posts.

For years now, Lebanon has been deeply divided between a camp dominated by the Shiite Tehran-backed Hezbollah and a Saudi-supported movement led by Hariri.

"Hariri has started a cold war that could escalate into a civil war, bearing in mind that Hezbollah is unmatched in Lebanon on the military level," Khashan said.

The rift in Lebanon's political class led to the assassination in 2005 of Hariri's father Rafik, an immensely influential tycoon who made his fortune in Saudi Arabia.

- Iran-Saudi flare-up -

Investigations pointed to the responsibility of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah.

Other political assassinations in the anti-Hezbollah camp ensued, then a month-long war between the powerful militia and neighbouring Israel, as well as violent internal clashes that harked back to the dark days of the 1975-1990 civil war.

Twelve years on, Lebanese politics remain just as toxically sectarian and the threat of another flare-up very real. Hariri even said on Saturday he feared going the way of his father.

His resignation came in a context of high tension between Saudi Arabia, once the region's powerhouse, and Iran, which has played an increasingly prominent political and military role in the region recently.

On Friday, Hariri met Iran's most seasoned diplomat, Ali Akbar Velayati, before flying to Saudi Arabia and resigning from there via a Saudi-funded television network.

"The timing and venue of the resignation are surprising... but not the resignation itself," said Fadia Kiwane, political science professor at Beirut's Saint Joseph University.

"The situation is developing rapidly and we're at a turning point... there could be a deadly clash between Saudi Arabia and Iran," she said.

"In that event, the two main camps in Lebanon will clash too."

Over the past few weeks, a Saudi minister, Thamer al-Sabhan, has unleashed virulent attacks against Hezbollah on social media.

- New war with Israel? -

"The terrorist party should be punished... and confronted by force," he wrote last month.

Other than just an internal conflict, analysts also do not rule out an external attack on Hezbollah, be it by Saudi Arabia directly or by the Shiite militia's arch-foe Israel.

"Hariri is saying 'there is no government any more, Hezbollah is not part of it'... and he is thus legitimising any military strike against Hezbollah in Lebanon," Khashan said.

Israel and Hezbollah fought a devastating war in 2006, and Israeli politicians have ramped up the rhetoric lately, warning that its military was prepared for war with Lebanon.

Any new war damaging key infrastructure would have a disastrous impact on a country already weakened by ballooning debt, corruption and the demographic pressure from a massive influx of Syrian refugees.

As soon as the news of Hariri's resignation broke, many Lebanese took to social media to voice their fears of a return to violence.

"After Hariri's resignation, a war will be launched against Lebanon," wrote one of them, Ali Hammoud, on Twitter.

On the streets of Beirut, even those who had little sympathy for Hariri expressed concern.

"We're headed for the worst," said one shop owner.
More than 40,000 homes were destroyed as heavy rains and 130 km/h (80 mph) winds tore through the region, leaving 27 dead and 22 missing, according to Vietnam's disaster management office

At least 27 people have died and nearly two dozen are missing after Typhoon Damrey barrelled into Vietnam, authorities said Sunday, damaging tens of thousands of homes and submerging highways days before the country welcomes world leaders to the APEC summit.

The storm, which made landfall on Saturday, is the worst in decades to strike the country's southern coastal region, an area normally spared the typhoons that usually hit further north.

More than 40,000 homes were damaged as heavy rains and 130 kph (80 mph) winds tore through the area, leaving 27 dead and 22 reported missing, according to the disaster management office.

Coastal Khanh Hoa province, home to the popular white sand Nha Trang beach, was hardest hit with 16 dead and 10 injured, the government said.

Residents were forced to wade through knee-deep floodwaters, as toppled electricity poles and trees blocked roads

More than 30,000 people, including foreign tourists, were evacuated from the area ahead of the storm.

Photos showed residents wading through knee-deep floodwater, as toppled electricity poles and trees blocked roads.

Some 300 ships were wrecked, according to the government, while local authorities said Phu Yen province's Tuy Hoa city had never suffered such devastation before.

There were also reports of minor damage around 500 kilometres north in Danang, the coastal city which will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit next weekend.

A local resident told AFP strong winds and rain had torn down signs promoting the APEC gathering, which will bring together leaders including US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping.

It will be Trump's first visit as president to the Southeast Asian nation.

"Now city people are joining hands with authorities to clean up the mess to make the city look nicer for the APEC week," said Tran Huy, as dark clouds loomed above.

An hour's drive south in Hoi An, an atmospheric port city and popular stop on Vietnam's tourist circuit, a local resident said floodwater was up to 1.5 metres in some parts of town.

"Water has started to rise in the Old Quarter," resident Dinh Thi Xuan Hoa told the state-run VNExpress, referring to a section of the city recognised as a World Heritage site for its architecture.

"Foreign tourists were transferred by boats to hotels in higher area," she added.

The spouses of some APEC leaders are scheduled to pay a visit to Hoi An next week, according to the culture ministry.

Soldiers fix the damaged roof of a local home in the central province of Quang Ngai after Typhoon Damrey hit central Vietnam

Vietnam has been pummelled by a dozen major storms since the start of 2017, with at least 240 people reported dead or missing in floods and landslides.

Some 80 were killed in the weeks after Typhoon Doksuri battered central provinces in September, destroying thousands of homes and triggering severe floods.

The World Bank said natural disasters have killed more than 13,000 people and caused more than $6.4 billion in property damage to Vietnam over the past two decades.
A series of North Korean missile tests has stoked tensions over its banned weapons programme

The only certain way to locate and secure all North Korea's nuclear weapons sites would be via a US ground invasion, the Washington Post reported Saturday, citing a letter from Pentagon officials sent to US lawmakers.

It said the letter, reportedly written by the vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff, noted that such a conflict could prompt Pyongyang to deploy biological and chemical weapons.

The report detailing the prospect of war on the Korean peninsula comes as President Donald Trump embarks on a nearly two-week Asia tour, with the North's nuclear and missile program expected to top the agenda.

The US Defense Department sent the letter in response to a request from two members of Congress for details regarding "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea" for US and allied forces in Japan, South Korea and Guam as well as civilians, the Post said.

Tensions have soared over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs in recent months, goaded by Trump and Pyongyang leader Kim Jong-Un's fiery exchanges of insults and warnings of conflict.

On Saturday, North Korea welcomed Trump to the region by threatening to increase its nuclear arsenal and saying the idea of talks was "daydreaming," according to the state-run KCNA news agency.

Neither the US president nor his fierce rhetoric were mentioned in the letter, the Post said.

It did however say the military backs the current US approach -- led by state department chief Rex Tillerson -- to wield economic sanctions and apply diplomatic pressure on the North as a means of discouraging its nuclear ambitions.

The Post reported that a statement from 16 lawmakers -- all but one of them Democrats -- obtained along with the Pentagon letter said the "assessment underscores what we've known all along: There are no good military options for North Korea."
Conservative Australian premier Malcolm Turnbull (R) turned down Wellington's offer to resettle refugees as he met his centre-left New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern (L) for the first time Sunday in Sydney

Australia Sunday snubbed New Zealand's renewed offer to resettle 150 refugees held at remote Pacific camps, despite the closure of one detention centre in Papua New Guinea which has triggered a stand-off between detainees and the authorities.

Canberra has been forced on the defensive by the move from Wellington's new government, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull saying Australia would instead prioritise a similar deal with the US to resettle refugees in America, despite slow progress.

The issue re-emerged when the conservative Australian prime minister met his centre-left New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern for the first time Sunday in Sydney.

Pressure to resettle refugees increased after the Australian centre on PNG's Manus Island was shut Tuesday after the nation's Supreme Court ruled it unconstitutional.

About 600 detainees are refusing to leave citing safety fears if they move to transition centres where locals are reportedly hostile.

But conditions in the camp are deteriorating with limited food and water and electricity cut off, with the United Nations warning of a humanitarian emergency.

Under its tough immigration policy, Canberra sends asylum seekers who try to reach Australia by boat to two camps, in Manus and Nauru, and they are barred from resettling in Australia.

Australia has struggled to move the refugees to third countries such as Cambodia or PNG.

"The offer is very genuine and remains on the table," Ardern told reporters after meeting Turnbull.

But the Australian leader replied that while he appreciated the offer -- first made by Wellington in 2013 -- "we are not taking it up at this time".

"We have an arrangement with the United States... so we want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements and then in the wake of that, obviously we can consider other ones," he said at the joint press conference.

"So the priority now is the US arrangement."

Under the American deal -- struck with previous US president Barack Obama and bitterly criticised by his successor Donald Trump -- just 54 refugees have been accepted with 24 flown to the US.

The agreement had envisaged resettling up to 1,250 refugees from Manus and Nauru to America, but the vetting process has been slow.

Turnbull said his government had successfully stopped the arrival of asylum seeker boats and cited fears the people-smuggling trade could be restarted.

"Many of those people smugglers were trying to get people to New Zealand," he added.

However, Australia has come under fire from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, with a spokesman in Geneva Friday calling on Canberra to move the men from Manus to Australia and criticising the offshore asylum processing policy as "unsustainable, inhumane and contrary to its human rights obligations".

"We urge the governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea to fully respect their human rights... and to enter into a dialogue with the men to ensure these rights are duly respected, protected and fulfilled," the spokesman added.

Despite widespread criticism, Canberra has defending its policy as stopping deaths at sea after a spate of drownings.
Relatives of Aldrin Castillo, an alleged drug user killed by unidentified attackers, grieve inside the funeral ambulance in Manila on October 3, 2017

Catholic bishops on Sunday led thousands of Philippine worshippers in calling for an end to killings in President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war as they urged police and troops to stop the violence.

The killing of three teenagers in August triggered rare public protests against Duterte's anti-drugs campaign, with rights groups accusing him of committing crimes against humanity in a crackdown that has claimed thousands of lives.

The Catholic Church, which counts 80 percent of Filipinos as followers, has been one of the leading critics of the war on drugs and has launched campaigns to stop the killings, including one starting on Sunday dubbed "Heal Our Land".

The church organised a mass and procession along a historic Manila highway called EDSA, where a bloodless popular revolt ended the iron rule of dictator Ferdinand Marcos in 1986.

About 3,000 people -- including opposition lawmakers, students and church groups -- joined the event, according to police. They carried candles and placards reading, "Stop the Killings. Start the Healing".

"Peace to you in the armed forces and the police. Stop the violence and uphold the law," Archbishop Socrates Villegas, the president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, said at the mass.

"If we do not stop the killings, there will be a punishment for a nation that kills its own people."

Duterte, 72, won elections last year after campaigning on a law-and-order platform and since then police have reported killing more than 3,900 "drug personalities".

Duterte's spokesman on Sunday said he did not condone extrajudicial killings, adding the government was investigating another 2,243 deaths in unsolved "drug-related" cases.

"The president himself made a clear stance that any violation committed by the police during operations would be dealt with accordingly," Harry Roque said.

Critics say that Duterte's frequent public pronouncements on the drug war have been direct incitements to kill.

Villegas said the killings tested the nation and cited the case of 17-year-old student Kian Delos Santos, who died in a police anti-drug raid in August.

"Please stop. I still have a test tomorrow," Villegas quoted Delos Santos as saying following witness accounts that he had begged for his life.
Members of Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudan's controversial counter-insurgency unit, show on November 5, 2017 in Khartoum sacks of hashish that were captured in the state of South Darfur a week earlier

A controversial Sudanese counter-insurgency unit said Sunday it had seized 19 tonnes of hashish in war-torn Darfur, in one of the largest hauls ever reported in Sudan.

Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF), usually used to crush rebels in the country's conflict areas, seized two vehicles loaded with hashish after a gunfight with smugglers in the state of South Darfur last week.

On Sunday, the security forces showed tonnes of seized cannabis to reporters at an RSF camp in Khartoum.

Dozens of blue plastic sacks full of hashish were on display, while some was spread out on a carpet in the compound of the camp.

"On Tuesday, October 31, our troops clashed with a gang of smugglers when we ambushed them," RSF spokesman Abdulrahman al-Jaali told reporters.

"We captured their chief... and seized two vehicles loaded with 189 quintals (19 tonnes) of hashish."

The RSF unit ambushed the smugglers after intercepting their telephone communication with another gang in Khartoum, indicating that the seized drugs were bound for the capital, he said.

"This hashish is usually grown in South Sudan and also comes from Ethiopia, and these days it is also grown in Radoum (in South Darfur)," police General Hashim Ali said at the press conference.

In recent years the Sudanese media has regularly reported security forces seizing hashish and other narcotics, but the latest seizure is clearly one of the biggest-ever hauls reported in the east African country.

Officials have acknowledged an overall rise in drug trafficking and consumption across the country in recent years, especially among young people.

Global rights groups accuse RSF of human rights abuses in areas where it is fighting rebels like Darfur, Blue Nile and South Kordofan.

The three conflict zones have witnessed intense fighting between government forces and rebels for years that has left tens of thousands of people killed and millions displaced.
Damage in the eastern Syrian city of Deir Ezzor during a military operation by government forces against Islamic State group jihadists on November 5, 2017

A car bombing by the Islamic State group killed at least 75 displaced civilians who had fled fighting in eastern Syria, a monitor said Sunday, as the cornered extremists try to defend their last strongholds.

Syrian government troops meanwhile moved closer to the border town of Albu Kamal, the last urban zone still held by IS jihadist holdouts in Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The regime's forces "progressed rapidly" and are 15 kilometres (nine miles) from the town, the Britain-based monitor said.

Saturday's attack in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor killed "at least 75 displaced civilians including children" and wounded 140, said Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman.

The scale of the attack showed that despite losing vast swathes of territory it held in Iraq and Syria, the jihadist group is still capable of mounting deadly attacks.

Syria: attack on civilians in region of Deir Ezzor

Abdel Rahman said "a new convoy of displaced people joined the gathering at the time of the attack".

The displaced had fled battles in the province, where Russian-backed Syrian regime forces and the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), are fighting the jihadist group in separate offensives.

The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources on the ground inside Syria for its information, reported Saturday that dozens had died in the bombing.

Fighting across Deir Ezzor province has sent thousands of civilians fleeing for their lives, some straight into the desert.

Saturday's attack came a day after Russian-backed government forces seized Deir Ezzor city from the jihadists.

IS, which in 2014 declared a "caliphate" spanning territory in Iraq and Syria roughly the size of Britain, has also lost most of the territory it once controlled in neighbouring Iraq, including second city Mosul.

- Fight for Albu Kamal -

On Friday, Iraqi forces retook the border town of Al-Qaim, also on the Euphrates river.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi plants an Iraqi flag in Al-Qaim on November 5, 2017, after troops retook the border town from the Islamic state group

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Sunday toured Al-Qaim and raised the national flag in the town centre.

The jihadists who have lost most of the territory they once controlled are now confined to a small stretch of the Euphrates Valley border area, which was at the heart of IS's so-called caliphate.

The US-led coalition has estimated that around 1,500 jihadists are still in the area.

Syrian regime forces have intensified their assault on IS in the area in a bid to seize Albu Kamal close to the Iraq border.

According to the Observatory, Iraqi militiamen have fought alongside Iraqi regime forces in the area.

Civilians caught in the fighting have tried to escape.

- Hundreds of thousands fleeing -

Aid group Save the Children estimates that some 350,000 people have fled the recent fighting in the oil-rich province, half of them children.

Syrians displaced from the city of Deir Ezzor arrive on the outskirts of Raqa on October 11, 2017

Some of those displaced had sought refuge in a desert area controlled by the SDF, a Kurdish-Arab alliance, on the eastern bank of the Euphrates where Saturday's bombing took place, the Observatory said.

It was not the first attack attributed to IS and targeting civilians fleeing Deir Ezzor.

On October 12, a car bombing in the northeastern province of Hasakeh killed at least 18 people, including displaced people and Kurdish security forces, the Observatory said.

The jihadists have been repeatedly accused of targeting those attempting to flee during fighting.

The United Nations on Thursday said the group had executed 741 civilians in the battle for the Iraqi city of Mosul, accusing it of "indiscriminate targeting of civilians trying to flee the city".

Despite being driven out of large parts of Deir Ezzor, IS still controls 37 percent of the province and its fighters are deployed on the eastern side.
Map of Iraq locating northern city of Kirkuk, where a number of people were killed in a suicide attack Sunday

A twin suicide attack killed at least six people Sunday in the centre of Iraq's disputed Kirkuk city, a security official said.

The attackers struck near a former police station used by Saraya al-Salam, a Shiite paramilitary force led by powerful Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, the official said on condition of anonymity.

Twelve people were also wounded in the two explosions, about 15 minutes apart.

The first attacker blew up an explosives-rigged car, followed by the second, who used an explosive belt, the official added.

The attack struck Atlas Street, a key shopping area in the heart of the city of a million residents.

Sadr's force, formerly known as the Mahdi Army, is part of the Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary alliance that has battled both the Islamic State group and Kurdish forces.

Iraqi security forces backed by the Hashed in mid-October seized oil-rich Kirkuk province from Kurdish peshmerga forces in the wake of a Kurdish independence vote held in defiance of Baghdad.

Kurdish media have since accused the Hashed, an alliance composed mainly of Shiite militias, of carrying out a campaign of retribution against Kurdish civilians.
This handout photo from the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia taken and received on November 5, 2017 shows a rescue worker helping an elderly woman cross a flooded street in Bukit Mertajam, Penang

Five people have been killed and over 3,000 evacuated after a storm triggered serious flooding Sunday in Malaysia's Penang, with the state's historic capital under murky brown water.

The army was deployed to provide help after a torrential downpour lasting for 15 hours sparked the worst inundations in the northern state for years.

Hundreds of houses across the state were flooded, many trees were toppled and roads cut off, disaster officials said.

Many streets in the state capital George Town on Penang Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site which attracts hordes of foreign and domestic tourists, were submerged in deep dirty water.

Officials said the floodwaters reached up to 12 feet (3.5 metres) and submerged houses in low-lying areas, with pictures showing cars almost entirely under water and victims being rescued in boats.

"Floodwater quickly inundated our house, destroying everything inside. This is the worst flood we have ever experienced," housewife Ramlah Awang, who was forced from her home in the town of Perai, told national news agency Bernama.

The five killed consisted of four elderly people who drowned and a Bangladeshi man crushed by a falling tree, the agency said.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the storm was probably associated with Typhoon Damrey in Vietnam, which left 27 people dead and nearly two dozen missing.

Britain's Prince Charles and his wife Camilla are due to visit Penang on Tuesday as part of a tour of Malaysia.

Penang's fire and rescue department said a total of 3,365 people had been forced from their homes as of Sunday evening and taken to shelters.

The worst-hit area was Seberang Perai Tengah district on the mainland, with almost 2,000 people forced to flee.

The state is divided between Penang Island and several districts on the mainland.
Sculptures are displayed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo during the "Night of Art" exhibit on October 28, 2017

Egypt has recovered 354 archaeological objects that were seized by authorities in the United Arab Emirates, the antiquities ministry in Cairo said.

Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed al-Qasimi, ruler of the emirate of Sharjah, had ordered the pieces returned to Egypt after police captured them, the ministry said Saturday.

It did not provide any details on where or how the pieces were recovered, or from whom.

Antiquities Minister Khaled El-Enany inspected the pieces at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo on Saturday, it said, adding that they would be placed on display in a "special exhibition".

The recovered pieces include antiques from the Pharaonic era and some from Islamic times, it said.

Among them are a pottery container carrying the name of Ramses III, who ruled Egypt around 3,000 years ago, and several bronze statues depicting Egyptian gods including Isis and Osiris.

They also include tombstones from the Islamic era.

Egypt, a rich source of archaeological treasures, regularly announces the recovery of stolen artefacts.

It has long campaigned for the return of precious artefacts which it considers stolen and which are housed in European museums, such as the Nefertiti Bust in Berlin.
Saudi Arabia's powerful young Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman seen in a picture provided by the Saudi Royal Palace on August 15, 2017

Since his emergence in June as crown prince of the world's oil superpower, Mohammed bin Salman, 32, has set his sights firmly on economic, social and religious reforms in the ultraconservative kingdom.

The young and dynamic prince, known by his initials MBS, has already overseen the most fundamental cultural and economic transformation in the modern history of the Gulf state, half of whose 31-million population is aged under 25.

At an investor summit in late October, MBS pledged a "moderate" Saudi Arabia, long seen as an exporter of a brand of puritanical Islam espoused by jihadists worldwide.

"We will not spend the next 30 years of our lives dealing with destructive ideas. We will destroy them today and at once," said the prince, who has sidelined powerful clergy who have long dominated public discourse in Saudi Arabia.

In September, a royal decree said women would be allowed to drive.

Some conservative clerics -- who for years staunchly opposed more social liberties for women -- have backpedalled and come out in favour of the decree allowing them to drive.

Under the crown prince, the kingdom is also expected to lift a public ban on cinemas and has encouraged mixed-gender celebrations -- something unseen before.

The government has also set up an Islamic centre tasked with certifying the sayings of the Prophet Mohammed in a stated bid to curb extremist texts.

The government appears to have clipped the wings of the once-feared religious police -- long accused of harassing the public with rigid Islamic mores -- who have all but disappeared from big cities.

In tandem with reforms, Prince Mohammed has been shoring up power and over the summer carried out a wave of arrests in a crackdown on dissenters, including influential clerics and some liberals who could block his path.

- Sweeping crackdown -

On the business front, the prince was named head of a new anti-corruption commission, established by royal decree, late Saturday.

Immediately after, 11 princes, including prominent billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, and dozens of current and former ministers were arrested, in a sweeping crackdown seen as consolidating the crown prince's hold on power.

MBS is the architect of a wide-ranging plan dubbed Vision 2030 to bring social and economic change to Saudi Arabia's oil-dependent economy.

Among his most prominent positions is chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, which coordinates economic policy. Mohammed also chairs a body overseeing state oil giant Saudi Aramco.

He also holds the post of defence minister more than two years into a Saudi-led military intervention in neighbouring Yemen.

In a dramatic announcement on June 5, Mohammed bin Salman was named to replace his cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, as heir to the Saudi throne. He had been second-in-line since early 2015.

Born on August 31, 1985, MBS graduated in law from Riyadh's King Saud University, and the dark-bearded prince with a receding hairline is the father of two boys and two girls
A file photo from February 18, 2014 of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal attending a cultural festival in Riyadh

Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal -- the billionaire who has been released after nearly three months in detention -- has been dubbed the "Warren Buffett of Saudi Arabia" for his vast business interests.

No stranger to controversy and headlines, Prince Al-Waleed was the most high-profile detainee among 350 suspects rounded up since November 4 under a sweeping anti-graft campaign and held at Riyadh's luxury Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

He is the latest in a series of detainees to be freed from the hotel, as the campaign launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman draws to a close.

Ranked among the richest men in the world, the 62-year-old investor is the grandson of two of the Arab world's most prominent figures: King Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia, and Riad al-Solh, Lebanon's first prime minister.

Prince Al-Waleed first burst into the business-meets-politics scene in the late 1980s, when he began building what was to become a global empire of banks, luxury hotels and media holdings.

Over the next decade, the prince cultivated an image as a canny investor, a proponent of Saudi modernisation and, eventually, a staunch critic of Donald Trump.

In 2015, he slammed Trump on Twitter for his rhetoric during the US presidential campaign, calling him a "disgrace to America" and urging him to drop out. In response, Trump ridiculed him on Twitter as a "dopey prince".

Prince Mohammed, Saudi Arabia's future king, has since become a close ally of Trump.

On the surface, the cousins appear to share the same views, both supporting increased rights for women in the kingdom. But reports of intense rivalry between the two have also long featured in royal circles.

Prince Al-Waleed's arrest sent shock waves across a host of companies that count him as a major investor.

The Kingdom Holding Company -- in which the prince has a 95 percent stake -- owns The Savoy in London, the Fairmont Plaza and the famed George V hotel in Paris.

- A taste for luxury -

The prince, known for having a taste for luxury, has also invested in Lyft and Twitter.

Forbes estimates his worth at $18.7 billion, landing him in position number 45 on its list of billionaires last year.

He is also an active philanthropist who donates, by his own account, millions of dollars each year to charities.

An arch defender of women's rights in a country where women face a raft of restrictions, and an outspoken proponent of political reform, the prince has never made a secret of his views.

A vocal supporter of the five pillars or tenets of Islam, he has nonetheless blamed Saudi tradition for holding women back from advancing in society. He has said he once financed the flight training of an aspiring Saudi woman pilot.

The businessman spent his college years in upstate New York and northern California, earning a bachelor's degree in business from Menlo College in Silicon Valley and a master's degree in social science from Syracuse.

He first appeared on Forbes' list of billionaires in 1988, one year after the annual list was first published.

In line with his reputation as a lover of the press, Forbes said it was the prince himself who had first contacted the magazine.
Relatives mourn at the family home of Maslih Shabir in the southern Gaza Strip October 31, 2017, during his funeral after he was killed alongside other Palestinians the day before in an Israeli operation to blow up a tunnel stretching into Israel

Israel's army said Sunday it is holding the bodies of five Palestinian militants found after it blew up a tunnel last week stretching from the Gaza Strip into its territory.

Israeli media said they would most likely be retained as bargaining chips to retrieve the bodies of soldiers believed to be held by the strip's Hamas rulers.

The military stressed that the Palestinian bodies were found in Israeli territory following the operation to blow up the tunnel that left at least 12 militants dead.

It did not say what conditions it would place on their return.

"We are indeed in possession of those bodies of five terrorists," military spokesman Jonathan Conricus told AFP.

"All were killed or died inside Israeli territory, not in the Gaza Strip."

Israel blew up the tunnel on October 30 after monitoring it for some time, saying it had no choice but to act after "the grave and unacceptable violation of Israeli sovereignty".

Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip, has used such tunnels to carry out attacks in the past.

Two of the 12 dead belonged to the military wing of Hamas, with the other 10 from Islamic Jihad, which said Friday that the bodies of five of them remained trapped in the tunnel.

Israeli public radio's veteran military affairs reporter, Carmela Menashe, said Sunday evening that the bodies held by the army "are indeed the missing which Islamic Jihad spoke of and wanted returned".

"Israel is determined not to return them until it gets some kind of information on the missing Israelis," she said.

The remains of two Israeli soldiers killed in the 2014 Gaza war are thought to still be in the coastal territory.

Three Israeli civilians, all said to be mentally unstable, are also believed to have entered Gaza and to be held by Hamas.

- Islamic Jihad rejects 'blackmail' -

Islamic Jihad said Sunday it would take no part in any exchange deal.

"We will not accept the occupation blackmailing us and using the issue to obtain information about the Israeli prisoners," a spokesman said.

Hamas spokesman Fawzy Barhoum said in a statement that in taking the bodies Israel was strengthening the Islamic group's will to fight.

"This will only increase our determination to uphold the option of resistance and to continue to possess and develop all tools to defend our people," he wrote.

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman brushed off arguments that humanitarian law demanded that an enemy should be allowed to bury its dead.

He said the decision on what to do with the bodies would be taken by Israel's security cabinet, on which he sits.

"This is not a legal issue, this is a political and security issue, and if there is disagreement it will be resolved in the security cabinet and not in any other forum," he said on Israeli television.

"Our position is that this is a bunch of terrorists which came to murder and slaughter Jews and we don't owe them anything, especially when they are holding the bodies of our citizens."

Indirect negotiations led to a 2011 deal which saw Israel release more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for soldier Gilad Shalit, who had been held for five years.
Zimbabwe first Lady Grace Mugabe, 41 years younger than her husband, has become increasingly active in public life in what many say is a political grooming process to help her eventually take the top job

President Robert Mugabe's wife on Sunday said she is ready to succeed her husband as tensions rise in Zimbabwe's ruling party over who will take over from the country's ageing leader.

"I say to Mr Mugabe you should ... leave me to take over your post," she said in an address to thousands of indigenous church followers at a stadium in Harare.

"Have no fear. If you want to give me the job give it to me freely," Grace Mugabe said.

Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who had been touted as a possible successor to the 93-year-old Mugabe, has recently fallen out with him.

On Saturday the president threatened to fire Mnangagwa, accusing him of fanning factionalism to garner support ahead of a party special congress due in December.

Amid party divisions over who should become leader -- an event only likely to occur when the incumbent dies -- Grace Mugabe, 52, said the party will soon change its constitution to allow a woman to be vice president.

The move would likely see her replace Mnangagwa and pave the way for her to succeed her husband, who is Africa's oldest president and has ruled the former British colony for 37 years.

Mnangagwa was appointed vice-president in 2014, taking over from Joice Mujuru -- who was axed after Grace Mugabe launched a campaign accusing her of plotting to topple the president.

Mugabe's wife on Sunday also accused Mnangagwa of a dark past of clandestine plots, including planning to stage a coup around the time of Zimbabwe's independence in 1980.

"In 1980 this person called Mnangagwa wanted to stage a coup. He wanted to wrestle power from the president. He was conspiring with whites. That man is a ravisher," said Grace Mugabe.

Despite his advanced age and concerns over his health, Mugabe has refused to name a successor.

He has been endorsed as his partys candidate for next years election.
President of the Democratic Republic of Congo Joseph Kabila attends a meeting in Pretoria, South Africa in June 2017

The Democratic Republic of Congo announced Sunday that much delayed elections to replace President Joseph Kabila would take place in December 2018, but the opposition demanded the longtime leader step down sooner.

Elections were due to take place this year under a deal whereby Kabila would leave office but repeated wrangling has hobbled the process.

The election commission said "direct voting" will take place on December 23, 2018, covering presidential, legislative, regional and local elections, said Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) official Jean-Pierre Kalamba.

But the Congolese opposition said the timeframe was not acceptable, insisting that Kabila quits by the end of this year.

"We reject the (CENI) calendar... what interests us right now is the departure of Kabila by December 31, 2017," said Augustin Kabuya, spokesman for the main opposition Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS).

The electoral commission said provisional results of the presidential election would not be published until a week after the voting, on December 30 2018, with definitive results not issued until January 9, 2019.

The new president will then take office on January 12, 2019, CENI said.

- 'Prolonging the people's misery' -

That calendar is based on "rationalisation of the electoral system so as to reduce the costs," said CENI chief Corneille Nangaa.

But senior opposition figure Moise Katumbi dismissed the plan.

"This predatory regime wants to prolong the instability and misery of the people," Katumbi said.

"We do not accept this fantasy calendar. Stop. Kabila must go," he tweeted, demanding a transitional administration without Kabila with elections in January.

Tensions have been running high in the central African nation of DR Congo since Kabila failed to step down on the expiry of his second and final term last December.

The electoral commission had previously said that there would be no vote before early 2019, mainly because of the problems of completing an electoral roll in the troubled central region of Kasai.

Sunday's announcement came 10 days after a visit by US ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley who called for DR Congo elections next year.

"This calendar was drawn up under pressure from the international community and Congolese civil society," said Nangaa.

Britain, France, the EU and the UN, as well as Washington , had been among those calling for months for an announcement on election dates.

Haley, in a stark message during her visit to Kinshasa, said that "for every day which goes by without holding elections, a woman is raped, a child has an unwanted pregnancy, children are inducted by armed groups".

Uncertainty has bred fear of a new eruption of political violence in a vast, poor country already battling with ethnic divisions and violence in its east.

Demonstrations have been banned or widely repressed since September 2016.
Leaks show US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has business ties to a shipping firm linked to Vladimir Putin's inner circle

US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has business ties to a shipping firm linked to Vladimir Putin's inner circle, leaked documents showed Sunday.

Ross, a billionaire investor, holds a 31 percent stake in Navigator Holdings through a complex web of offshore investments detailed in leaked documents from a law firm examined by nearly 100 news organizations as part of an international collaboration.

The 79-year-old reduced his stake when he took public office, according to public filings.

Navigator Holdings runs a lucrative partnership with Russian energy giant Sibur, which is partially owned by Putin's son-in-law Kirill Shamalov and Gennady Timchenko, the Russian president's friend and business partner who is subject to US sanctions.

The US imposed sanctions on Russian entities and individuals following its annexation of Crimea and aggression in Ukraine.

While there is no evidence Ross acted illegally, the documents -- part of millions of documents dubbed the Paradise Papers obtained from offshore law firm Appleby -- raise questions about whether his investments undermine the US measures.

Ross's private equity firm has been the biggest shareholder in Navigator. His personal share of the firm's stake was reduced when he took office in February, but the commerce chief's investment is still valued at between $2 million to $10 million, according to his security filings and government ethics disclosure.

The New York Times reported that Ross's stake in Navigator has been held by companies in the Cayman Islands. His wealth, estimated to exceed $2 billion, is said to be tied to similar arrangements in various tax havens like the Cayman Islands.

"Secretary Ross was not involved with Navigator's decision to engage in business with Sibur, a publicly traded company, which was not under sanction at the time and is not currently," said James Rockas, a Commerce Department spokesman.

"Moreover, Secretary Ross has never met the Sibur shareholders referenced in this story and, until now, did not know of their relationship."

He added that Ross recuses himself from matters focused on transoceanic shipping vessels, "but has been supportive of the administration's sanctions against Russian and other entities."

The investments emerged as part of the Paradise Papers leak by the US-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which was behind the 2015 Panama Papers release.

The latest haul contains 13.4 million documents mainly from Appleby, an offshore law firm with offices in Bermuda and beyond.

The files were first obtained by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, and shared with the ICIJ and partner media outlets.
Police block a road in Sutherland Springs, Texas, after a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church (rear)

A black-clad gunman armed with an assault rifle opened fire on a small town Texas church during Sunday morning services, killing 26 people and wounding 20 in the latest mass shooting to shock the United States.

Authorities did not identify the gunman, saying only that he was a "young white male, maybe in his early 20s," who was wearing a bulletproof vest and found dead in his vehicle after being confronted by a local resident.

Exactly five weeks after the worst shooting in modern US history, the latest tragedy prompted an outpouring of condolences, led by US President Donald Trump.

The victims, who ranged in age from five to 72, were gunned down at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, a rural community of about 400 people located 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio.

Deadly church shooting in Texas

The gunman fired outside at the church before entering the building and continuing to spray bullets, said Freeman Martin, regional director of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

"As he exited the church, a local resident grabbed his rifle and engaged that suspect. The suspect dropped his rifle, which was a Ruger AR assault-type rifle, and fled from the church. Our local citizen pursued the suspect at that time," Martin said.

Law enforcement later found the gunman dead in his car, which had crashed, on the Wilson-Guadalupe county line. It was not clear if he had committed suicide or was shot by the resident who had confronted him.

Multiple weapons were found in the car, which was processed by bomb technicians.

"We have multiple, multiple crime scenes. We have the church, outside the church. We have where the suspect's vehicle was located," said Martin.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott comforts a local resident at a candlelight vigil following the mass shooting inside the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas

"We have been following up on the suspect and where he's from. We have Texas Rangers at all the hospitals locating those and interviewing those who were injured."

US media outlets identified the shooter as a 26-year-old veteran who had faced a court-martial and was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force in 2014.

US Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek told AFP that the man had served in the logistics readiness at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, from 2010 until his discharge.

- Victims -

"There's so many families who have lost family members. Fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters," Governor Greg Abbott said, warning the toll could rise.

"The tragedy, of course, is worsened by the fact that it occurred in a church, a place of worship, where these people were innocently gunned down. We mourn their loss, but we support their family members."

Police block a road in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on November 5, 2017, after a mass shooting at the the First Baptist Church (rear)

The wounded had been transported to various hospitals with "injuries that vary from minor to very severe," Martin said.

The dead included the 14-year-old daughter of pastor Frank Pomeroy, the church leader told ABC News.

Annabelle Renee Pomeroy "was one very beautiful, special child," her father said.

Frank Pomeroy had been in the neighboring state of Oklahoma at the time of the shooting, and was driving back to Texas after the tragedy.

People attend a candlelight vigil following the mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, that left 26 people dead

Other victims, some of whom were evacuated by helicopter, included a six-year-old boy named Rylan who was in surgery after being shot four times, his uncle told CBS News. A two-year-old was also shot and wounded, The Dallas Morning News reported.

A spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center in nearby Floresville said the hospital received eight patients with gunshot wounds. Four were transferred to San Antonio.

- Trump vows 'full support' -

Police formed a perimeter around the area. Tearful relatives and neighbors stood outside, nervously awaiting news from inside the traditional, white-frame church.

Agents from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were headed to Sutherland Springs, the agencies said.

President Donald Trump, who is traveling in Asia, said "our hearts are broken."

"This act of evil occurred as the victims and their families were in their place of worship," he said in Tokyo.

"We pull together, we join hands, we lock arms and through the tears and through the sadness, we stand strong."

The president promised his administration's "full support" to the investigation.

Police block a road in Sutherland Springs, Texas on November 5, 2017, after a mass shooting a church nearby

As with so many other shootings before this one, Democrats pounced on the occasion to renew calls for gun control, a hot button issue in a country that holds the right to bear arms as almost sacred.

In denouncing the "act of hatred," Trump's predecessor Barack Obama said: "May God also grant all of us the wisdom to ask what concrete steps we can take to reduce the violence and weaponry in our midst."

The shooting comes just over a month after a gunman in Las Vegas fired down from a hotel room onto an outdoor concert, killing 58 people and wounding hundreds. It was the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history.

And a little more than two years ago, white supremacist Dylann Roof entered a historically black church in Charleston, South Carolina, and shot nine people to death.
Protesters in France last week carried signs urging Apple to "pay your taxes" in a reference to its dispute with EU authorities over back taxes

New revelations Monday from the "Paradise Papers" shed light on Apple's tax avoidance strategy which shifted profits from one fiscal haven to another as well as loopholes employed by Nike and Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton.

They are the latest disclosures from a trove of documents released by the US-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) concerning secretive offshore deals that have proved deeply embarrassing.

According to documents cited by the New York Times and BBC, the offshore legal services firm Appleby helped the iPhone maker shift tens of billions of dollars from Ireland to the Channel Islands when it appeared to face a tougher stand on taxes by Dublin.

The report said Apple transferred funds to the small island of Jersey, which typically does not tax corporate income and is largely exempt from European Union tax regulations.

Apple did not immediately respond to an AFP query on the report but told the New York Times it follows the law in each country where it operates.

At a 2013 congressional hearing, Apple chief Tim Cook denied the use of "gimmicks" to avoid taxes. The company is now facing an EU demand for some $14.5 billion in taxes based on a ruling that its tax structure in Ireland amounted to illegal state aid.

- Hamilton's jet -

Mercedes' British driver Lewis Hamilton could not be reached for comment on leaked documents on how he avoided taxes on a private jet

The BBC and Guardian newspaper reported Hamilton avoided paying taxes on his private jet using an elaborate scheme now under investigation by British tax authorities.

The leaked documents showed the driver received a 3.3 million ($4.4 million, EUR3.7 million) tax refund in 2013 after his luxury plane was imported into the Isle of Man -- a low-tax British Crown Dependency.

Representatives for Hamilton could not be reached by AFP for comment.

A separate report appearing in France's Le Monde said Nike used a loophole in Dutch fiscal law to reduce its tax rate in Europe to just two percent compared with a 25 percent average for European companies.

The tax savings came from Nike's use of an offshore subsidiary which charged royalties to the company's European subsidiaries, the report said.

- Trump official's Russia ties -

Leaks show US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has business ties to a shipping firm linked to Vladimir Putin's inner circle

Separately, the documents showed the Russian connection of US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross through a complex web of offshore investments.

They revealed Ross's 31 percent stake in Navigator Holdings partnership with Russian energy giant Sibur, which is partially owned by Putin's son-in-law Kirill Shamalov and Gennady Timchenko, the Russian president's friend and business partner who is subject to US sanctions.

The cabinet member's ties to Russian entities raise questions over potential conflicts of interest, and whether they undermine Washington's sanctions on Moscow.

The US imposed sanctions on Russian entities and individuals over the annexation of Crimea and the crisis in Ukraine.

The billionaire investor told Bloomberg on Monday he was not intending to hold onto his stake: "I've been actually selling it anyway but that isn't because of this."

On Monday, Russian politicians played down the leaks, saying the deals mentioned were legal and not politically motivated.

In a statement reported by Russian news agencies, Sibur voiced its "amazement at the politically charged interpretation in some media of ordinary commercial activity."

Earlier reports highlighted offshore holdings of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and a top fundraiser for Canada's prime minister.

The documents showed around 10 million ($13 million, 11 million euros) of the queen's private money was placed in funds held in the Cayman Islands and Bermuda, as first reported in Britain by the BBC and the Guardian newspaper.

Theresa May's spokesman said the British prime minister "wants people to pay the tax that they owe," while cautioning that holding offshore investments was not an automatic sign of wrongdoing.

"We have been clear that avoidance and evasion is never acceptable," he said, ahead of the British parliament discussing the Paradise Papers on Monday.

A spokeswoman for the Duchy of Lancaster, which provides the monarch with an income and handles her investments, said: "All of our investments are fully audited and legitimate."

The documents also suggest that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's top fundraiser and senior advisor Stephen Bronfman, heir to the Seagram fortune, moved some $60 million (52 million euros) to offshore tax havens with ex-senator Leo Kolber.

The 13.4 million documents were first obtained by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, and shared with the ICIJ and partner media outlets.

The findings were described as a "scandal" by European Economics Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici.

"In light of these shocking revelations, I call on member states to rapidly adopt a European tax haven blacklist, as well as other dissuasive measures," he said in Brussels.

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United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over the resignation of Lebanese premier Saad Hariri

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres expressed concern Sunday over the resignation of Lebanese premier Saad Hariri, calling for security and stability.

Hariri, a protege of Riyadh, on Saturday announced his surprise resignation in a broadcast from the Saudi capital. He cited the "grip" of Iran -- an ally of Shiite group Hezbollah -- on the country, and also said he feared for his life.

"The secretary-general is concerned by news of the offer of resignation of Lebanon prime minister Saad Hariri," Guterres spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

"He hopes all sides will focus their efforts on supporting the continuity of Lebanon's State institutions, in adherence with the constitution and safeguarding the country's security and stability.

"The United Nations remains committed to supporting the security, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon."

Iran has denied interfering in Lebanese internal affairs.

Hezbollah is the only organization in Lebanon to have retained its weapons after the end of the 1975-1990 civil war.
CONYERS, Ga. (AP) - Last November, election officials in a small Rhode Island town were immediately suspicious when results showed 99 percent of voters had turned down a noncontroversial measure about septic systems.

It turned out an oval on the electronic ballot was misaligned ever so slightly and had thrown off the tally. The measure actually had passed by a comfortable margin.

The scary part: The outcome might never have raised suspicion had the results not been so lopsided.

In this Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 photo, Renee Phifer, Rockdale County board of elections assistant director, left, demonstrates a new voting machine at a polling site to Kelly Monroe, investigator with the Georgia secretary of state office in Conyers, Ga. Last summer, a security expert came across a gaping hole in Georgia's election management system. The revelation prompted a lawsuit seeking to compel Georgia to toss all of its touchscreen voting machines and replace them with a system that provides a paper record of every ballot cast. Georgia is one of five states where no such record exists. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

Amid evidence that Russian hackers may have tried to meddle with last year's presidential election, the incident illustrates a central concern among voting experts - the huge security challenge posed by the nation's 10,000 voting jurisdictions.

While the decentralized nature of U.S. elections is a buffer against large-scale interstate manipulation on a level that could sway a presidential race, it also presents a multitude of opportunities for someone bent on mischief.

With a major election year on the horizon, the Homeland Security Department has been working with states and counties to shore up their election systems against tampering.

States vary widely in what they are doing to tighten security. Colorado and Rhode Island have adopted more rigorous statistical methods for double-checking the votes, while others are making or weighing changes to their voting technology.

"Always, there's been a hypothetical. But clearly, now it is a real threat," said Noah Praetz, election director for Cook County, Illinois. "The fact that we now have to defend against nation-state actors - Russia, China, Iran. It's a very different ballgame now."

Last year, Homeland Security disclosed that 21 states' election systems had been targeted by Russian hackers. There was no evidence they actually penetrated the systems. Experts likened the activity to a burglar jiggling a doorknob to see if it is locked.

In the U.S. - from presidential races down to school board contests - elections are run to a very large degree by local governments, usually counties. County election offices across the nation oversee some 109,000 polling places and more than 694,000 poll workers, and rely on a patchwork of voting technology, such as optical scanners and touchscreens.

Small counties are less likely than the larger and wealthier ones to have cybersecurity expertise and the latest technology.

"The proverb that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link is certainly applicable to our efforts to secure elections," Brian Hancock, director of the testing and certification division for the U.S. Election Assistance Administration, said in a blog on his agency's website.

After the "hanging chad" debacle in Florida threw the 2000 presidential election into confusion, Congress designated $3 billion to help states modernize their election systems.

But those machines are now more than 10 years old. A 2015 study by the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University Law School found that more than 40 states were using machines that were no longer being manufactured, and some election officials had to go onto eBay to find replacement parts, including modems to connect to the Internet.

In September, Virginia banned touchscreen voting machines in next week's closely watched gubernatorial election because of security concerns. Several counties had to scramble to buy replacements.

Georgia, one of five states where voting machines produce no paper trails, is testing out new ones during municipal elections in Conyers, an Atlanta suburb. Voters enter their choices electronically and are then given a paper copy. If the paper looks correct to them, they feed it into a machine that counts their vote.

"This is a wonderful step forward," said James Cabe, a 37-year-old college instructor from Conyers. "I like looking at a piece of paper and verifying that it's the vote I cast."

Georgia officials have estimated it could cost over $100 million to adopt the machines statewide.

In January, Homeland Security designated the nation's election systems "critical infrastructure," on par with the electrical grid and water supply.

A 27-member council has been formed with representatives from federal, state and local governments. The group held its first meeting last month in Atlanta, and a key priority is establishing a process for sharing intelligence.

"It would take a substantial effort to impact our elections, and one that we think is very hard to do," said Bob Kolasky, the acting deputy undersecretary at Homeland Security overseeing the program. "And we are going to make it harder to do."

One step is to provide security clearance to a top election official in each state. So far, 23 states have signed up. The department also has been working with 30 states and 31 local governments to scan their networks for vulnerabilities and provide cybersecurity recommendations.

That's welcome news in places like the Rhode Island town of North Kingstown, population 22,000.

As the polls closed there last fall, Town Clerk Jeannette Alyward checked the state's election night website: Only five people had voted to create a $2 million loan program for septic systems.

Something had to be wrong. By the next day, state officials figured out the ballots weren't being read properly by the machinery because of the bad oval. It was nothing intentional, but it was unsettling - and became more so amid continuing news about Russian hacking.

"I have a lot of confidence in our state system, but could it happen here?" Aylward asked. "Anything could happen."

___

Follow Christina Almeida Cassidy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/AP_Christina .

In this Oct. 19, 2017 photo, Investigators with the Georgia secretary of state office look over instruction material for new voting machines being tested at a polling site in Conyers, Ga. Last summer, a security expert came across a gaping hole in Georgia's election management system. The revelation prompted a lawsuit seeking to compel Georgia to toss all of its touchscreen voting machines and replace them with a system that provides a paper record of every ballot cast. Georgia is one of five states where no such record exists. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

In this Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 photo, Kelly Monroe, investigator with the Georgia secretary of state office, left, takes a look at a new voting machine being tested at a polling site in Conyers, Ga. Last summer, a security expert came across a gaping hole in Georgia's election management system. The revelation prompted a lawsuit seeking to compel Georgia to toss all of its touchscreen voting machines and replace them with a system that provides a paper record of every ballot cast. Georgia is one of five states where no such record exists. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

In this Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 photo, Poll manager Carol Dubal, left, talks with Kelly Monroe, investigator with the Georgia secretary of state office, as they look at a new voting machine being tested in Conyers, Ga. Last summer, a security expert came across a gaping hole in Georgia's election management system. The revelation prompted a lawsuit seeking to compel Georgia to toss all of its touchscreen voting machines and replace them with a system that provides a paper record of every ballot cast. Georgia is one of five states where no such record exists. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

In this Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 photo, a new voting machine which prints a paper record sits on display at a polling site in Conyers, Ga. Last summer, a security expert came across a gaping hole in Georgia's election management system. The revelation prompted a lawsuit seeking to compel Georgia to toss all of its touchscreen voting machines and replace them with a system that provides a paper record of every ballot cast. Georgia is one of five states where no such record exists. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
PITTSBURGH (AP) - A man charged with killing a University of Pittsburgh student in her off-campus apartment is back in Pennsylvania after extradition from South Carolina.

Allegheny County spokeswoman Amie Downs confirmed Friday that 21-year-old Matthew Darby was in the county jail. Authorities allege that Darby used a claw hammer and two knives Oct. 8 to kill 20-year-old Alina Sheykhet, his ex-girlfriend, before fleeing.

He was arrested in Myrtle Beach after a witness reported him tampering with a window at a residence three days after the Pittsburgh slaying. He pleaded guilty to loitering and false information counts. Darby is also accused of assaulting a teenage girl days before the slaying.

Defense attorney David Shrager has called the charges "serious" but said his client didn't want to discuss them over the phone.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - The Latest on a report Kentucky GOP House Speaker Jeff Hoover has settled a sexual harassment allegation with one of his staffers (all times local):

8:15 p.m.

Kentucky's Republican House speaker says he has no plans to resign and is more resolved than ever to continue in his leadership position despite a report that he settled a sexual harassment case outside of court with a member of his staff.

FILE - In this Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017 file photo, Kentucky Speaker of the House Jeff Hoover speaks at the 137th annual Fancy Farm picnic in Graves County, Ky. Kentucky's House Republicans will meet privately to discuss the future of House Speaker Jeff Hoover after the state's largest newspaper reported the GOP leader settled a sexual harassment claim outside of court with a member of his staff, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017. (Kat Russell/The Paducah Sun via AP, File)

Jeff Hoover said in a statement he was disappointed Republican Gov. Matt Bevin called for him to resign on Saturday. Bevin held a news conference earlier in the day where he called for the resignation of any elected official who has settled sexual harassment allegations. Bevin did not mention Hoover by name.

Hoover accused Bevin of "grandstanding" and said Bevin has not asked for his side of the story. Hoover said he thinks Bevin wants him to resign because he has disagreed with him publicly in the past.

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5 p.m.

Kentucky's Republican governor has called for the immediate resignation of any elected official who has settled sexual harassment allegations.

Gov. Matt Bevin held a news conference on Saturday at the state Capitol days after the Courier-Journal reported Republican House Speaker Jeff Hoover had settled a sexual harassment allegation outside of court with one of his staffers.

Bevin did not mention Hoover's name and he would not answer questions from reporters. But he seemed to refer to the allegations when he said they have not been denied and have been corroborated by other sources. He also indicated the allegations involve multiple elected and unelected officials, but he would not identify them.

Asked if he wanted Hoover to resign, Bevin said "you heard me" as he left the rotunda.

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4:10 p.m.

Republican leaders of the Kentucky House of Representatives say they plan to hire a law firm to investigate a report that the House speaker settled a sexual harassment claim outside of court with one of his staffers.

A news release from the GOP leadership on Saturday says they did not consult House Speaker Jeff Hoover, but have informed him of the decision.

The Courier-Journal published a report earlier this week relying on anonymous sources to say Hoover had settled a sexual harassment claim with a staffer in his office. Hoover met with House Republicans privately Friday but told them he could not comment about the settlement.

GOP leaders say Hoover has the support of the caucus. But at least one Republican lawmaker has called for Hoover's resignation.
TOKYO (AP) - The Latest on President Donald Trump's trip to Asia (all times local):

3:40 p.m.

President Donald Trump and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe are waxing poetic about their round of golf together.

President Donald Trump, center, waves as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, right, and he finish playing golf at Kasumigaseki Country Club, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in Kawagoe, Japan. Trump is on a five country trip through Asia traveling to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

The two leaders played Sunday with Japanese professional Hideki Matsuyama at a championship golf course outside of Tokyo.

Trump posted a brief video on Twitter. He wrote: "Playing golf with Prime Minister Abe and Hideki Matsuyama, two wonderful people!"

Abe also chimed in on Twitter. He said: "A round of golf with a marvelous friend (President Donald J. Trump), full of spirited conversation."

Trump and Abe will have dinner tonight with their wives.

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2:45 p.m.

U.S. first lady Melania Trump and her Japanese counterpart, Akie Abe, visited a pearl boutique in Tokyo's posh Ginza shopping district while their husbands played golf.

The first ladies received a presentation on the history of pearl diving at Mikimoto, Japan's top pearl jewelry maker.

A pair of female pearl divers showed up at the store, dressed in white diving suits and goggles.

Women have traditionally played a key role in Japan as pearl divers, known as "ama" or ocean woman.

Several hundred people showed up outside the store to take photos of the first ladies' motorcade.

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2:25 p.m.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is writing that he welcomes President Donald Trump "from the bottom of my heart."

Shinzo posted a photo on Twitter on Sunday of the two leaders at the Kasumigaseki Country Club outside Tokyo. He wrote "we are having a business lunch over hamburgers."

The two men ate lunch and then went to play 9 holes of golf.

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12:40 p.m.

President Donald Trump says he's looking forward to golfing with Japan's prime minister and one of the country's top professional golfers.

Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday that Hideki Matsuyama (hih-DEH'-kee maht-soo-YAH'-mah) is "one of the greatest players" and is probably the "greatest player in the history of Japan."

Trump is having lunch with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (shin-zoh AH'-bay) and Matsuyama on Sunday before a round of golf.

The president, who is an avid golfer, says Matsuyama is a "long ball hitter" and "if I come back and say I was longer than him, don't believe it."

Trump golfed with Abe in Florida in February. Abe presented Trump with a top-level driver by Japanese maker Honma soon after Trump won the presidency last November.

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12:15 p.m.

President Donald Trump and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe are meeting on a championship golf course outside of Tokyo.

Trump and Abe shook hands and the U.S. president could be heard telling Abe that the scenery on the Kasumigaseki golf course is "beautiful."

They posed for photos and were to have lunch with Japanese golfer Hideki Matsuyama (hih-DEH'-kee maht-soo-YAH'-mah) before all three play nine holes of golf.

As they entered the dining room, Trump and Abe signed a white hat that said: "Donald and Shinzo: Make Alliance Even Greater." It was a tribute to the U.S.-Japan friendship and a play on Trump's "Make America Great Again" campaign slogan.

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12:05 p.m.

President Donald Trump says the U.S.-Japan alliance is a testament to the "transformative power of freedom."

He observes that two countries that once waged war are now friends and partners in pursuit of a better world. That was an oblique reference to joint efforts by Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to pressure North Korea to give up its pursuit of nuclear weapons.

Trump addressed service members at Yokota Air Base near Tokyo after arriving in Japan, the first leg of his five-nation tour of Asia.

Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, drew the U.S. to enter World War II.

Trump also told the service members that they are the greatest threat to tyrants and dictators who prey on the innocent.

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11:15 a.m.

President Donald Trump is calling Japan a "treasured partner and crucial ally" as he kicks off a tour of Asia.

Trump addressed service members at Yokota Air Force base outside Tokyo immediately after arriving in Japan on Sunday morning. He thanked Japan "for welcoming us and for decades of wonderful friendship between our two nations."

Trump and first lady Melania Trump were welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd. The president was given a bomber jacket. He quickly put it on after removing his suit jacket and said: "I like this better."

Trump also told the service members that he wanted to "celebrate your achievements."

Japan is the first stop on Trump's five-nation tour of Asia.

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11 a.m.:

President Donald Trump is using the first moments of his Asia trip to denounce North Korea as "a big problem" that must "be solved."

Trump told reporters traveling with him to Japan on Air Force One on Sunday that "there's been 25 years of total weakness" in dealing with the North.

Some regional analysts have speculated that Trump's presence in Asia may prompt North Korea to take provocative action, such as carrying out a missile test.

When asked about that possibility, Trump said: "We'll soon find out."

The president also said he'll go into his meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping (shee jihn-peeng) on equal footing. He said Xi is "is viewing us as very, very strong."

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10:49 a.m.

President Donald Trump says it is "expected" that he'll meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of an upcoming summit in Asia.

Trump told reporters on Air Force One en route to Japan on Sunday that he "will want Putin's help" in dealing with the North Korea nuclear crisis.

The president added that he'll be meeting with a number of world leaders to discuss how to pressure North Korea.

Trump and Putin could cross paths twice during the president's lengthy Asia trip: first at a summit in Vietnam and later in the Philippines.

The leaders previously met along the sidelines of a summit in Europe this summer.

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10:37 a.m.

President Donald Trump has arrived in Japan, the initial stop on his first official visit to Asia.

Trump landed Sunday at Yokota Air Force base in Fussa, outside Tokyo.

The president will address service members before he meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (shin-zoh AH'-bay). The leaders will play a round of golf with Japanese golfer Hideki Matsuyama (hih-DEH'-kee maht-soo-YAH'-mah) before Trump and first lady Melania Trump meet Abe and Abe's wife, Akie, for dinner.

Trump arrived in Japan after stopping in Hawaii, where U.S. military leaders briefed him on North Korea's nuclear threat. Trump also paid his respects at the Pearl Harbor memorial.

Japan is the first stop on Trump's five-nation Asia tour. The president will also visit South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines.

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9:45 a.m.

President Donald Trump says he is looking forward to his arrival in Japan.

Trump is tweeting Sunday about his trip through Asia, which starts in Japan. He says: "I am landing shortly. Can't wait to be with our GREAT MILITARY. See you soon!"

Trump is flying from Hawaii to Japan to begin his 12-day, five-country Asia trip. He will kick off with an event at Yokota Air Base.

This is Trump's most grueling and consequential trip abroad. He's set to make his case to Asian allies and rivals about the need to counter North Korea's nuclear threat.

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8 a.m.

President Donald Trump is embarking on his most grueling and consequential trip abroad. And he's set to make his case to Asian allies and rivals about the need to counter North Korea's nuclear threat.

It's a 12-day, five-country trip, and it comes at a precarious moment for Trump.

It's just days after his former campaign chairman was indicted and an adviser pleaded guilty as part of an investigation into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian officials.

The trip is an important international test for a president looking to reassure Asian allies worried that Trump's "America First" agenda could cede power in the region to China.

They're also rattled by his bellicose rhetoric about North Korean's Kim Jong Un. The North's missile arsenal threatens the capitals Trump will visit.

U.S. first lady Melania Trump, right, and her Japanese counterpart Akie Abe pose for photographers upon arrival at Mikimoto Ginza Main Store at Ginza shopping district in Tokyo Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (David Mareuil/Pool Photo via AP)

First lady Melania Trump, center, and President Donald Trump, background, greet guest on the tarmac as they arrives at Yokota Air Base, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in Fussa, on the outskirts of Tokyo, Japan. Trump is on a five country trip through Asia traveling to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

U.S. President Donald Trump, left, meets with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe upon the arrival at the Kasumigaseki Country Club in Kawagoe, near Tokyo, Japan, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. President Trump arrived in Japan Sunday on a five-nation trip to Asia, his second extended foreign trip since taking office and his first to Asia. (Franck Robichon/Pool Photo via AP)

President Donald Trump holds up a hat that he and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe signed that reads "Donald and Shinzo, Make Alliance Even Greater" at Kasumigaseki Country Club, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in Kawagoe, Japan. Trump is on a five country trip through Asia traveling to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippians. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

U.S. President Donald Trump puts on a military jacket as he meets the US troops at the U.S. Yokota Air Base, on the outskirts of Tokyo, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. President Trump arrived in Japan Sunday on a five-nation trip to Asia, his second extended foreign trip since taking office and his first to Asia. The trip will take him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and Philippines for summits of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

President Donald Trump speaks at a hanger rally at Yokota Air Base, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in Fussa, Japan. Trump is on a five country trip through Asia traveling to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippians. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

U.S. President Donald Trump, right, and first lady Melania Trump, left, wave on their arrival at the U.S. Yokota Air Base, on the outskirts of Tokyo, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. President Trump arrived in Japan Sunday on a five-nation trip to Asia, his second extended foreign trip since taking office and his first to Asia. The trip will take him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and Philippines for summits of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). (Kazuhiro Nogi/Pool Photo via AP)

Air Force One, with U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump onboard, arrives at the U.S. Yokota Air Base, on the outskirts of Tokyo, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. President Trump arrived in Japan Sunday on a five-nation trip to Asia, his second extended foreign trip since taking office and his first to Asia. The trip will take him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and Philippines for summits of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump board Air Force One at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Hawaii, Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, to travel to Yokota Air Base in Fussa, Japan. Trump begins a five country trip through Asia traveling to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippians. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
NEW YORK (AP) - When Deontay Wilder finally took off the gold mask he wore into the ring, he displayed a fierce scowl.

That look never disappeared from his face as he knocked out the only man who'd ever gone the distance with him.

Wilder sent Bermane Stiverne to the canvas three times in the opening round to defend his WBC heavyweight title Saturday night at Barclays Center.

A referee pulls Deontay Wilder away from Bermane Stiverne after Wilder knocked out Stiverne during the WBC Heavyweight World Championship fight Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in New York. (AP Photo/Kevin Hagen)

"So much frustration, it just seemed like my career, it's been crazy . so many guys using PEDs," Wilder said. "I just want to prove that I am the best. I know I am the best, but I wanna prove I am the best."

There wasn't much question of that in the Showtime card that ended in spectacular fashion.

The 32-year-old Wilder jabbed through much of the first round while Stiverne, who hadn't fought in two years, moved slowly and cautiously around the ring. Suddenly, Wilder lashed out with a huge right that felled Stiverne (25-3-1).

Already, Wilder was celebrating, but Stiverne got up. Unwisely, it turned out, because another big right as part of a flurry of punches sent the 38-year-old challenger back down.

At that point, Wilder climbed atop the ropes in a neutral corner, shouting at Stiverne's trainer to end things.

When they didn't, another right and then a mammoth left hook sent down the challenger for the final time with his "Alabama Slammer."

"One champion, one face, one name, he goes by Deontay Wilder," the WBC champ said.

Wilder won the belt from Stiverne in 2015 in a 12-round decision. He repeatedly insisted Stiverne would go down and out early in this one.

Wilder kept his word.

He is 39-0 with 38 knockouts.

Wilder now can set his sights on something he has been promising throughout 2017: unifying the heavyweight belts. He wants England's Anthony Joshua, the WBA/IBF champ, sometime next year, and was busy issuing challenges after disposing of Stiverne.

"I've been waiting on that fight for a long time now," he said. "I declare war upon you. Do you accept my challenge?

"I know I'm the champion, I know I'm the best. Are you up for the test?"

This was Wilder's sixth defense, and his most ferocious. Stiverne, who last fought on Nov. 14, 2015, outpointing Derric Rossy, never had a chance. He was a substitute for Jose Ortiz, who failed a drug test.

Stiverne did not land a punch and never should have bothered showing up.

Earlier, Sergey Lipinets won a unanimous decision over Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF junior welterweight title, a decision that was lustily booed by the crowd of 10,924 at Barclays Center.

In a bout featuring lots of action but lots of missed punches, the 28-year-old Lipinets of Kazakhstan won despite dealing with a cut on the forehead that bled for the final six rounds. He won 118-111 on one judge's card and 117-111 on two others even though Kondo, fighting outside of his native Japan for the first time, carried much of the action in the second half of the bout.

The AP scored it 115-113 for Lipinets, who is 13-0. Kondo fell to 29-7-1, losing for the first time in nine fights.

"The head butt really impaired my vision and it led to me walking into some stupid shots," Lipinets said.

Shawn Porter pummeled Adrian Granados for most of 12 rounds in a lopsided fight. There were more clinches in the first round of that fight than in the entire Lipinets-Kondo matchup.

Porter is in line for another welterweight championship opportunity; he held the IBF crown in 2013-14. He improved to 28-2-1 in a bout that had little style, but plenty of action. The judges all had it 117-111 for Porter.

"He gave me a little trouble here and there," said Porter, who wants a rematch with WBA champ Keith Thurman, who beat him at Barclays Center last year. "I hurt my left hand in the sixth round, but I kept using it. I had to use my jab. It took a toll on me and by the 10th round I just couldn't throw it anymore."

Granados is now 18-6-2.

In what was billed a heavyweight eliminator, Dominic Breazeale (19-1, 17 KOs) stopped Eric Molina after eight rounds. Molina, exhausted after taking a battering in the eighth, had his arms hanging over the ropes when the round ended. A ringside doctor then stopped it.

Molina (26-5) previously has lost to both Wilder and to WBA-IBF champion Anthony Joshua. Breazeale also has lost to Joshua.

"Deontay is who I want to face," Breazeale said.

Deontay Wilder celebrates after knocking out Bermane Stiverne in the first round of the WBC heavyweight title boxing bout Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in New York. (AP Photo/Kevin Hagen)

A referee aids Bermane Stiverne after Deontay Wilder knocked him down during the first round of the WBC heavyweight championship fight Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in New York. (AP Photo/Kevin Hagen)

A referee aids Bermane Stiverne after Deontay Wilder knocked him down during the first round of the WBC heavyweight title boxing bout Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in New York. (AP Photo/Kevin Hagen)

Officials aid Bermane Stiverne after Deontay Wilder knocked him out during the first round of the WBC heavyweight title boxing bout Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in New York. (AP Photo/Kevin Hagen)

Deontay Wilder paces the ring before a boxing bout against Bermane Stiverne for the WBC heavyweight title Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in New York. Wilder knocked out Stiverne in the first round. (AP Photo/Kevin Hagen)
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) - Saudi Arabia's heir to the throne is overseeing an unprecedented wave of arrests of dozens of the country's most powerful princes, military officers, influential businessmen and government ministers - some potential rivals or critics of the crown prince now consolidating his power.

Among those taken into custody overnight Saturday in the purported anti-corruption sweep were billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, one of the world's richest men with extensive holdings in Western companies, as well as two of the late King Abdullah's sons.

The arrest of senior princes upends a longstanding tradition among the ruling Al Saud family to keep their disagreements private in an effort to show strength and unity in the face of Saudi Arabia's many tribes and factions. It also sends a message that the 32-year-old crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, has the full backing of his father, King Salman, to carry out sweeping anti-corruption reforms targeting senior royals and their business associates, who have long been seen as operating above the law.

FILE- In this Sunday, March 7, 2010 file photo, Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal al-Saud attends the speech of King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud of Saudi Arabia, at the Saudi Shura "consultative" council in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of princes and former government ministers, including a well-known billionaire with extensive holdings in Western companies, as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe, further cementing King Salman and his crown prince son's control of the kingdom. A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's Kingdom Holding Company told The Associated Press that the royal was among those detained overnight Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File)

Reports suggested those detained were being held at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, which only days earlier hosted a major investment conference that the crown prince attended with global business titans. A Saudi official told The Associated Press that other five-star hotels across the capital were also being used to hold some of those arrested.

The Ritz Carlton had no availability for bookings until Dec. 1, 2017 - a possible sign that an investigation of this scale could take weeks. Marriott International said in a statement that it is currently evaluating the situation at the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, but declined to comment further, citing privacy concerns.

A Saudi government official with close ties to security forces said 11 princes and 38 others were being questioned. The official spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

The surprise arrests were immediately hailed by pro-government media outlets as the clearest sign yet that Prince Mohammed is keeping his promise to reform the country, wean its economy from its dependence on oil and liberalize some aspects of the ultraconservative society.

The kingdom's top council of clerics issued a public statement overnight saying it is an Islamic duty to fight corruption - essentially giving religious backing to the high-level arrests.

It's unclear if the U.S. had any advance word of the arrests. President Donald Trump's son-in-law and White House adviser Jared Kushner and others made an unannounced trip recently to Riyadh. Earlier on Saturday, Trump said he spoke to King Salman, though the White House readout of that call did not include any reference to the impending arrests.

The Saudi government says the arrests are part of a wider effort to increase transparency, accountability and good governance - key reforms needed to attract greater international investments and appease a Saudi public that has for decades complained of rampant government corruption and misuse of public funds by top officials. Surprise moves reshaping the kingdom, however, are likely to worry investors.

Among those reportedly taken into custody were two sons of the late King Abdullah: Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, who Saturday evening was ousted from his post as head of the prestigious National Guard tasked with protecting the Al Saud family, and Prince Turki bin Abdullah, who was once governor of Riyadh.

Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne, though he has not been thought of recently as a challenger to Prince Mohammed.

Saudi Twitter accounts released several other names of those arrested, including Alwalid al-Ibrahim, a Saudi businessman with ties to the royal family who runs the Arabic satellite group MBC; Amr al-Dabbagh, the former head of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority; Ibrahim Assaf, a former finance minister, and Bakr Binladin, head of the Saudi Binladin Group, a major business conglomerate.

Analysts have suggested the arrest of once-untouchable members of the royal family is a clear sign that the crown prince is sidelining potential rivals for the throne.

Meanwhile, the Saudi-owned, Dubai-based satellite news channel Al-Arabiya reported that a helicopter crash Sunday in the kingdom's south killed Prince Mansour bin Murquin and seven others. Prince Mansour was the son of Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz, a former intelligence director and a one-time crown prince of the kingdom. Authorities gave no cause for the crash.

The young Crown Prince Mohammed has risen from near obscurity to become Saudi Arabia's most talked about and powerful prince in less than three years since his father ascended to the throne. The prince's swift rise to power has unnerved more experienced, elder members of the royal family, which has long ruled by consensus, though ultimate decision-making remains with the monarch.

The moves in Saudi Arabia mirror those in China, where President Xi Jinping has used corruption charges "as a battering ram to consolidate his own power and authority," said John Hannah, the senior counselor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, an Iran-skeptic think tank in Washington whose hawkish geopolitical views often coincide with the kingdom's.

Hannah said Prince Mohammed has "latched onto corruption as a way to consolidate his power and remake the regime in his image," purging those who might be resistant.

It is not clear what Prince Alwaleed or the others were being investigated for.

Without naming those arrested, the Attorney General's office said "the suspects are being granted the same rights and treatment as any other Saudi citizen." The statement did not disclose specific details about the investigation, but stressed that no assets have yet been frozen and that individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's Kingdom Holding Co. told the AP that the royal was among those detained. The senior employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of repercussions, said security bodies informed him of the arrest.

Prince Alwaleed's many investments include Twitter, Apple, Citigroup, and the Four Seasons hotel chain. He is also an investor in ride-sharing services Lyft and Careem. He was once a significant shareholder in Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation, but sold much of those shares in 2015.

The prince, pictured sometimes on his 85-meter (278-foot) super-yacht in the Mediterranean, is among the most outspoken Saudi royals and a longtime advocate of women's rights. He is also majority owner of the popular Rotana Group of Arabic channels.

After word of his arrest, his company's stock dropped 7.6 percent in trading Sunday on the Saudi stock exchange.

An earlier crackdown this year on perceived critics of the crown prince included clerics and lesser-known princes.

In July, Prince Mohammed's most formidable challenger to the throne, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, was plucked from the line of succession and ousted from his post as interior minister, overseeing internal security. This laid the groundwork for the king's son to claim the mantle of crown prince.

Prince Mohammed's gambles have not always succeeded . A yearslong war he has overseen as defense minister against Iranian-allied rebels in Yemen has not made the kingdom safer.

As news was unfolding about the anti-corruption probe, Saudi Arabia said late Saturday it had intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen at Riyadh International Airport, on the outskirts of the capital.

"The dismissals and detentions suggest that Prince Mohammed rather than forging alliances is extending his iron grip to the ruling family, the military, and the national guard to counter what appears to be more widespread opposition within the family as well as the military to his reforms and the Yemen war," James M. Dorsey, a Gulf specialist and senior fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, said in an analysis of the shake-up.

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Associated Press writer Abdullah al-Shihri reported this story in Riyadh and AP writer Aya Batrawy reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. AP writers Jon Gambrell and Fay Abuelgasim in Dubai, Jonathan Lemire aboard Air Force One and Maggie Michael in Cairo contributed to this report.

FILE - In this July 16, 2008 file photo, Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal waves at the Elysee Palace prior to lay the cornerstone of the new Islamic art rooms of the Louvre museum in Paris. Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of princes and former government ministers, including a well-known billionaire with extensive holdings in Western companies, as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe, further cementing King Salman and his crown prince son's control of the kingdom. A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's Kingdom Holding Company told The Associated Press that the royal was among those detained overnight Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017. (AP Photo/Francois Mori, File)

FILE - In this July, 23, 2017 file photo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman poses while meeting with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Jiddah, Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Saturday, Nov. 11 2017, removed a prominent prince who headed the National Guard, replaced the economy minister and announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee. (Presidency Press Service/Pool Photo via AP, File)

FILE - In this Oct. 23, 2008 file photo, Prince Miteb bin Abdul Aziz, son of Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud, leaves the equestrian club following a horse racing competition in Janadriyah in the outskirts of the Saudi capital Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The king ousted one of the country's highest-level royals from power, relieving Prince Miteb bin Abdullah of his post as head of the National Guard. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File)

FILE - In this Oct. 23, 2008 file photo, Prince Miteb bin Abdul Aziz, son of Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud, salutes as leaves the equestrian club following a horse racing competition in Janadriyah in the outskirts of the Saudi capital Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The king ousted one of the country's highest-level royals from power, relieving Prince Miteb bin Abdullah of his post as head of the National Guard. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File)
CAIRO (AP) - A prominent Nubian activist arrested in Egypt last month for taking part in a peaceful protest has died in detention, a lawyer and a long-time friend said on Sunday, in a case likely to fuel debate on medical care in Egyptian prisons and the widespread use of lengthy detention without trial or formal charges.

They said Gamal Sorour, a businessman in his early 50s, died Saturday; reports conflicted on whether he died in his place of detention in the southern city of Aswan or shortly after his arrival at a hospital. Police in Aswan said he died soon after he arrived at the hospital.

Sorour, who has had long-term health issues and underwent life-saving surgery several years ago, suffered a diabetic coma on Saturday.

His death was reported by prominent rights lawyer Ragia Omran, who saw him last week during a court hearing in Aswan, and his longtime friend and fellow activist, Haggag Oddoul.

Dozens of mourners attended Sorour's funeral Sunday in the central Cairo district of Abdeen, home to a large Nubian community.

Sorour was among 25 Nubians arrested in Aswan in early September for staging a peaceful Nile-side protest. They were demanding the return of Nubians to their ancestral lands, from which they were evicted in the 1960s to make way for the lake behind the High Dam on the Nile. The detained Nubians now face accusations of taking part in an unauthorized demonstration, inciting protest and disrupting public order.

If convicted, they could face up to five-year terms in prison.

The evacuation of Nubians in the 1960s was the third in southern Egypt since the early 20th century. The other two were also because of dam construction on the Nile.

Sorour participated in the 2011 uprising against longtime ruler Hosni Mubarak and, according to Oddoul, was a philanthropist who generously gave to Nubians in need in both Cairo and southern Egypt.

"After all he has done for his country, he has died while incarcerated with many others by authorities. Many honorable people died before him and many will do after, so long as our country is oppressed," Oddoul, who authored nine books on the plight of the Nubians, wrote on his Facebook account.

Nubians complain they are subjected to discrimination by authorities because of their dark skin tones and indigenous language. They suspect that authorities see them as a security threat and are mindful of any sign of secessionist sentiments among their ranks. A constitution adopted in 2014 gives the government 10 years to resettle the Nubians in dry parts of their ancestral lands, but they complain that no steps have yet been taken to achieve this goal.

Sorour's death is likely to renew debate about prison conditions in Egypt, where authorities have arrested thousands of people, mostly Islamists, in recent years as part of a widespread crackdown on dissent. Many have been held for years without charges or trial.

"Sadly, Gamal Sorour is not the first or last detainee to die while in custody," Omran, a member of the state-sanctioned National Council for Human Rights, wrote on Facebook. "Medical negligence in police stations, prisons and detention centers is a daily occurrence, despite widespread campaigns calling for proper health care for detainees, which is a basic right."
PERTH, Australia (AP) - James Anderson took 4-27 but England's other front line bowlers failed to fire as their two-day tour match against a Western Australia XI ended in a draw Sunday.

Anderson was the top performer in the England attack, which bowled out the young local selection for 342 in reply to their own first innings of 349-6 declared.

He claimed his four wickets in 13 overs but Stuart Broad finished with 1-64 from the same number of overs and Chris Woakes took 0-53 from 15. Craig Overton took 2-70 and Mason Crane 2-75.

Opener Josh Philippe top-scored for Western Australia with 88 from 92 balls and Clint Hinchcliffe made 75.

On Saturday, two of England's key batsmen failed to take advantage of time in the middle ahead of their Ashes series against Australia. Alastair Cook was out for a duck to the second ball of the match, bowled by Australia test reject Nathan Coulter-Nile, and captain Joe Root fell for nine.

There were sound performances from other members of the top six. Mark Stoneman made 85, James Vince 82 while Dawid Malan and Gary Ballance also hit half centuries.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - Bahrain ordered its citizens in Lebanon to "leave immediately" Sunday after the country's prime minister resigned in a sudden televised address, citing Iranian meddling in Lebanese and regional affairs.

Bahrain's Foreign Ministry said citizens were banned from traveling to Lebanon, as well.

Bahrain is a bellwether nation for the Saudi Arabia-dominated Gulf Cooperation Council and often the first to announce sanctions and travel bans, usually targeting countries seen as close to Iran.

In this photo released on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 by Lebanon's official government photographer Dalati Nohra, showing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, right, meets with Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Hariri resigned from his post Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017 during a trip to Saudi Arabia in a surprise move that plunged the country into uncertainty amid heightened regional tensions. (Dalati Nohra via AP)

GCC member states banned travel to Lebanon in 2016 after Lebanon's Foreign Minister refused to condemn mob attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.

Prime Minister Saad Hariri upended Lebanese politics with his surprise resignation Saturday.

He delivered it in a televised address from Saudi Arabia, leading his supporters and detractors in Lebanon to speculate he received orders to step down from Saudi Arabia, widely seen as his patron. He is not believed to have returned to Lebanon.

Hariri became prime minister in late 2016 in a coalition government that included the Shiite militant group Hezbollah, one of Saudi Arabia's chief detractors in the region. He could not have formed a government without the group, which operates its own militia freely in Lebanon. Hezbollah and its allies have been given veto power in Lebanese politics since Hezbollah forces seized the streets of Beirut in brief clashes in 2008. Their political bloc controls the largest shares of seats in Lebanon's parliament.

Hezbollah was founded with Iranian support in 1982 to resist the Israeli invasion of Lebanon and has since emerged as a regional power in its own right.

It is fighting alongside Iranian advisers and militias in the civil war in neighboring Syria, providing crucial support to President Bashar Assad's forces as a crackdown on anti-government demonstrations morphed into full-fledged war.

Dozens of rebel factions in Syria are or have been backed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Saudi Arabia's gulf allies.

Lebanon, once one of the key flashpoints of the Saudi-Iran rivalry, officially declared itself neutral with respect to the Syrian war. But Hezbollah fighters poured into Syria, angering Saudi Arabia.

Assad and his Iranian-supported allies are now firmly in command of the war in Syria, in a humiliation to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf.

In this photo released on Friday, Nov. 3, 2017 by Lebanon's official government photographer Dalati Nohra, Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, right, meets with Ali Akbar Velayati, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, center, at the government House, in Beirut, Lebanon. Hariri resigned from his post Saturday, Nov 4, 2017 during a trip to Saudi Arabia in a surprise move that plunged the country into uncertainty amid heightened regional tensions. (Dalati Nohra via AP)
GRIFFIN, Ga. (AP) - In a Nov. 5 story about the cold-case slaying of Timothy Coggins in Georgia, The Associated Press reported erroneously that Sandra Bunn worked as a Spalding County detention officer until her arrest, and that Gregory Huffman was also a detention officer and later a police officer in nearby Milner. The story should have said that Huffman was a Spalding County detention officer until his arrest and that Lamar Bunn was a police officer in Milner and previously worked for the Spalding County Sheriff's Department.

A corrected version of the story is below:

Slaying that haunted family for decades now linked to racism

When 23-year-old Timothy Coggins was found dead and disfigured beside a Georgia highway in 1983, the young black man's family and neighbors whispered that his killing may be linked to racism

By DON SCHANCHE JR.

Associated Press

GRIFFIN, Ga. (AP) - When 23-year-old Timothy Coggins was found dead and disfigured beside a Georgia highway in 1983, the young black man's family and neighbors whispered that his killing may be linked to racism.

"It was always mentioned, and it was always suspected," said his niece, Heather Coggins, who still lives not far from where he was killed.

Now, more than three decades later, authorities say, it's been confirmed.

A Georgia district attorney says Timothy Coggins was killed for "socializing with a white female." Prosecutor Ben Coker told a judge Wednesday that Coggins was dragged behind a truck through the woods, news outlets reported. Arrest warrants say he was stabbed and sliced to death and suffered "severely disfiguring" wounds.

A break in the cold case came in mid-October, when local and state law enforcement officials announced the arrests of five longtime local residents on charges stemming from the slaying. All five are white; two worked in law enforcement.

Spalding County Sheriff Darrell Dix was emphatic about the motive during an Oct. 13 news conference in Griffin, about 40 miles south of Atlanta.

"Based on the original evidence recovered in 1983 and new evidence and interviews, there is no doubt in the minds of all investigators involved that the crime was racially motivated, and that if the crime happened today it would be prosecuted as a hate crime," he said.

Two men are charged with murder: Frankie Gebhardt, 59, and Bill Moore Sr., 58. Arrest warrants accuse them of stabbing and slicing Coggins to death and giving him "seriously disfiguring" wounds.

Moore and Gebhardt were just a year or two older than the victim, and Heather Coggins says she believes her uncle was acquainted with them. But she said the rest of the family didn't know them.

"This is the first time we've heard their names and seen their faces," she said in a recent interview.

Three other suspects - Sandra Bunn, 58; her son Lamar Bunn; and 47-year-old Gregory Huffman - are charged with obstructing the investigation. Huffman worked as a Spalding County detention officer until his arrest, when the sheriff fired him. Huffman is charged with revealing the identity of a confidential informant who was being used against Gebhardt. Lamar Bunn previously worked for the Spalding County Sheriff's Department and was a Milner police officer at the time of his arrest.

Officials haven't detailed the suspects' connections with each other, but court records show Sandra Bunn sued Gebhardt in 2003 to have him evicted from a property she owned. Gebhardt has been convicted in the past of aggravated assault and criminal damage, both felonies, along with multiple misdemeanors, records show.

Coker said he will seek indictments in December but hasn't decided whether to seek the death penalty against Gebhardt and Moore.

Heather Coggins was just 6 years old when her uncle was killed, but she still tears up at how his slaying wracked her large extended family, longtime residents of the community, with "uncertainty, heartbreak, fear."

She remembers her uncle as "just a fun person. If anything, I remember just the joy, the playfulness of him." He didn't finish high school and had no regular job but worked for his stepfather, a plumber and carpenter in Griffin.

He loved the R&B music of Frankie Beverly and loved to dance.

But his life ended in horrific violence.

A 1983 article in the Griffin Daily News said his body was found by hunters in a field not far from a highway in the Sunny Side community a few miles north of Griffin. He wasn't immediately identified.

"He had been worked over with a knife pretty well," an investigator told the newspaper - stab wounds in the back, punctured lungs and defensive wounds on his arm.

Heather Coggins said that when investigators passed around the unknown victim's photo to the local community, Timothy Coggins' own mother didn't recognize her dead son, but Heather's mother, the victim's oldest sister, said: "No, that's Tim."

His mother was burdened by his slaying until she died in February 2016. She called out his name on her death bed, Heather Coggins said.

"I really don't think my grandmother ever recovered from losing her son ... not because of his death, but because of the uncertainty of who did it," she said. "She felt like justice wasn't done."

In July, authorities announced that the Georgia Bureau of Investigation had new information.

Seeking to bolster that new lead, the sheriff issued a July 24 news release, imploring witnesses to step up.

"We understand that over the years those suspected of being involved in the murder of Timothy Coggins have threatened and intimidated potential witnesses," he said. "We believe that there are people with pertinent information regarding this case that are still out there and we are asking them to come forward."

As witnesses did so, he said, they told investigators "they had been living with this information since Coggins' death but had been afraid to come forward or had not spoken of it until now."

Heather Coggins said the family won't rest easy until those responsible for killing him are convicted. But she said they are deeply grateful to the sheriff, the GBI and other officials who didn't give up on solving her uncle's killing.

"We're totally thankful that someone has been arrested," she said. "We're grateful because that didn't happen for 34 years."

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Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this story.
BLANDING, Utah (AP) - The rural Utah city of Blanding, one of the last "dry" communities in the Mormon-majority state, will ask voters Tuesday whether to allow beer and wine sales in town for the first time in more than 80 years.

Even though most locals are Mormon and their faith teaches its members to avoid alcohol, some restaurant and hotel owners say the city of 3,500 people needs to accommodate drinkers and the influx of tourists.

"I think that we shouldn't be imposing our standards on other people," said Sharon Guymon, a restaurant owner pushing for the change after years of customer complaints, including tourists sometimes storming out of her steakhouse after being denied a glass of wine.

FILE - In this June 23, 2016, photo, a sign is shown near Blanding, Utah. The rural Utah city, one of the last "dry" communities in the Mormon-majority state, will ask voters Tuesday whether to allow beer and wine sales in town for the first time in more than 80 years. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)

Opponents of alcohol sales, like longtime resident and health department inspector Rick Meyer, said the prohibition is key to the city's character and public safety.

"You don't see anybody drunk walking up and down the streets," Meyer said.

Blanding is a waypoint for visitors traveling between Denver, southern Utah's national parks and the Grand Canyon. It's a conservative community that bills itself as the "Base Camp to Adventure," on vast desert landscapes nearby, much of which is controlled by the U.S. government. The town itself has been a hotspot in decades-old debates over who controls land in the West, including the newly declared Bears Ears National Monument.

Besides worries about public safety and health, residents opposed to alcohol sales say the prohibition may curb visitors flocking to the area to see the new monument and prevent Blanding from turning into Moab, the red rock outdoor recreation mecca about an hour north that many in Blanding see as an out-of-control tourist trap.

"We want to be able to control the tourism a little more," said pharmacist Dana Nielson. "Once alcohol is available, that opens it up for all these huge motels and everything. Especially again, with the Bears Ears situation as it is."

Dallin Redd, owner of a hardware store and a supporter of allowing alcohol sales, said he worries broad opposition in town to the monument may persuade residents who would have otherwise voted for alcohol sales to decide to keep it dry.

"People are pretty nervous about the monument coming in and they don't like to see a lot of change," he said.

City officials say the town has been dry since the 1930s. Talk of repealing the prohibition has bubbled up periodically since then, including a 1983 city-commissioned opinion poll of residents that found overwhelming support for keeping the ban.

"It's probably time to see if the opinion has changed," said Joe Lyman, a city councilman and the only candidate running for mayor in Tuesday's election.

Many residents appear to be keeping their opinions to themselves.

Robert Ogle, a city councilman who suggested the question on alcohol sales be put on the ballot this year, said he's shocked there's been almost no public debate.

"I thought this would be a tinderbox," Ogle said. "No one has said anything."

The debate follows similar ones in other dry communities. Last year voters in the village of Ephraim, Wisconsin's last dry municipality, lifted its ban on alcohol sales.

Around the country, nine states have entire counties that are dry, while at least a dozen states have some dry municipalities, according to the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association.

Utah doesn't have any dry counties and only has about half a dozen dry communities, mostly small towns, according to Utah's Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control spokesman Terry Wood.

If Blanding votes to allow alcohol sales they would likely start in summer 2018, according to city manager Jeremy Redd.

Redd notes that residents and visitors who drink can already work around the city's ban because a convenience store 3 miles outside of town sells beer and a state-run liquor store is about 20 miles away.

Still, locals say visitors are surprised and sometimes angry at their sober options in Blanding.

In her restaurant, Guymon offers several varieties of non-alcoholic beer just so she can offer visitors a taste of what they're used to.

And Guymon still may be prohibited from serving alcoholic drinks if the ban is lifted. A preschool sits across the street from her restaurant so she'd likely violate state rules about serving alcohol that close to schools.

Lyman, the city councilman, said even if the town votes to stay dry, he thinks attitudes toward alcohol are relaxing and the town will eventually allow it.

"If it's not now, then it will be 10 years from now," he said. "And I think 10 years after it changes, we'll look back and say it wasn't that big of a deal."

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Follow Price on Twitter at https://twitter.com/michellelprice

In this May 10, 2017, photo, shows a sign just outside of town welcomes visitors to Blanding, Utah. The rural Utah city, one of the last "dry" communities in the Mormon-majority state, will ask voters Tuesday whether to allow beer and wine sales in town for the first time in more than 80 years. (Michelle L. Price/Associated Press)

In this May 10, 2017, photo, shows street signs advertise attractions in downtown downtown Blanding, Utah. The rural Utah city, one of the last "dry" communities in the Mormon-majority state, will ask voters Tuesday whether to allow beer and wine sales in town for the first time in more than 80 years. (Michelle L. Price/Associated Press)
MILAN (AP) - Last-place Benevento threatened a major shock in Turin before Juventus eventually fought back to win 2-1 Sunday and close the gap on leader Napoli in Serie A.

Benevento had not picked up a single point in its previous 11 league games - the worst start in the division's history - but took a surprise lead through Amato Ciciretti in the 19th minute.

That lead lasted nearly 40 minutes before Gonzalo Higuain leveled. Juan Cuadrado scored what was to prove the winner in the 65th.

Juventus' Juan Cuadrado celebrates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Juventus and Benevento at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5 2017. (Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)

"We went behind with the only shot we allowed our opponents, but we kept our heads. It seemed like a cursed match, the ball didn't want to go in, but we managed to turn it around," Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri said.

"The season is long, we have to maintain the speed of a cruise ship because too many ups and downs are not positive. It will be a battle right until the final day."

Juventus moved into second spot, a point behind Napoli, which was held 0-0 at Chievo Verona.

Inter slipped to third, two points behind Napoli, after drawing 1-1 at home to Torino.

Lazio was four points behind after its home match against Udinese was postponed because of heavy rain in the Italian capital.

Juventus was expected to sweep aside bottom Benevento and celebrate this week's 120th anniversary of the club's foundation.

The hosts hit the woodwork twice early on as first Douglas Costa's shot was palmed onto the upright by Alberto Brignoli and then another effort from the Brazilian came off the crossbar.

Benevento had scored just four goals all season but it took the lead when Ciciretti curled a stunning free kick around the wall and into the bottom left corner.

Juventus wasted several chances before eventually finding the equalizer in the 57th. Blaise Matuidi headed Mattia De Sciglio's cross back to Higuain, who volleyed into the top right corner.

And the Bianconeri turned the match around completely eight minutes later when Cuadrado met Alex Sandro's cross from the left with a downward header at the far post.

___

NO WAY THROUGH

Napoli dropped points for only the second time this season, unable to find a way past a solid Chievo team in a 0-0 stalemate.

Maurizio Sarri's team was eager to bounce back from Wednesday's 4-2 defeat to Manchester City and almost certain Champions League elimination.

Napoli goalkeeper Pepe Reina was out with a back injury, with Luigi Sepe making his first Serie A appearance for the club since 2009.

Sepe was almost embarrassed on the hour mark when Ivan Radovanovic spotted him off his line and tried his luck from 60 yards (meters) out, but the goalkeeper scrambled back to reach the ball from under the bar.

Napoli struggled to carve out opportunities although Jose Callejon fired narrowly wide and Chievo goalkeeper Stefano Sorrentino pulled off good saves to deny Marek Hamsik and Lorenzo Insigne.

The only other time Napoli has failed to score in a game since February was in a goalless draw against Inter last month.

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PACKED STANDS

Inter had to come from behind to draw 1-1 against Torino and maintain its unbeaten start to the season.

More than 70,000 fans were at San Siro for the lunchtime match.

But they were left stunned when Iago Falque gave Torino the lead on the hour mark, surging between two defenders before blasting the ball into the near bottom corner from the edge of the area.

Joel Obi missed a great chance to double Torino's lead before substitute Eder fired in the equalizer when Mauro Icardi headed down Ivan Perisic's cross to the Italy forward.

Inter almost won the match two minutes from time but Matias Vecino's effort from distance crashed off the crossbar.

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OTHER MATCHES

Roma set a Serie A record with its 12th consecutive away victory as it won 4-2 at Fiorentina.

Gerson scored twice, his first goals for Roma, but Fiorentina leveled twice through Jordan Veretout and Giovanni Simeone.

Kostas Manolas and Diego Perotti netted after the break.

Cagliari beat relegation-threatened Hellas Verona 2-1 to move six points above the drop zone.

AC Milan plays at struggling Sassuolo later Sunday, after Spal's match at Atalanta.

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More AP Serie A coverage: https://apnews.com/tag/SerieA

Juventus' Juan Cuadrado, right, celebrates with teammate Gonzalo Higuain after scoring the second and decisive goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Juventus and Benevento at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5 2017. (Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)

Juventus' Gonzalo Higuain celebrates scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Juventus and Benevento at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5 2017. (Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)

Juventus' Gonzalo Higuain, right, scores a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Juventus and Benevento at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5 2017. (Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)

Benevento's Amato Ciciretti, second from left, celebrates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Juventus and Benevento at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5 2017. (Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)

Benevento's Amato Ciciretti, right, scores a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Juventus and Benevento at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5 2017. (Alessandro Di Marco/ANSA via AP)

Napoli's Dries Mertens, left, kicks the ball during a Serie A soccer match between Chievo and Napoli at the Bentegodi stadium in Verona, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (Filippo Venezia/ANSA via AP)

Napoli's Allan, right, and Chievo'ss Perparim Hetemaj vie for the ball during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Chievo and Napoli at the Bentegodi stadium in Verona, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (Filippo Venezia/ANSA via AP)

Chievo players celebrate a scoreless draw at the end of the Italian Serie A soccer match between Chievo and Napoli at the Bentegodi stadium in Verona, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (Filippo Venezia/ANSA via AP)

Inter Milan's Eder, right, celebrates with teammate Mauro Icardi after scoring the equalizer during an Italian Serie A soccer match between Inter Milan and Torino, at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Torino's Iago Falque celebrates after scoring during an Italian Serie A soccer match between Inter Milan and Torino, at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Inter Milan's Mauro Icardi gestures during an Italian Serie A soccer match between Inter Milan and Torino, at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Roma's Gerson celebrates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Fiorentina and Roma at the Artemio Franchi stadium in Florence, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. (Maurizio Degl'Innocenti/ANSA via AP)
CAIRO (AP) - The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by Saudi Arabia's crown prince is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually unstoppable rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who just three years ago was little known among a cadre of older and more experienced princes.

Founded in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, the kingdom has to date had six kings - all of whom are sons of the founding father who died in 1953. None of them took the helm at the vast, oil-rich kingdom before the age of 50. The current monarch, King Salman, was 79 when he came to the throne nearly three years ago.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - whose shock moves on Saturday night pointed to a bold attempt to consolidate his power through purported anti-graft measures - would be the first from his generation to become king, shifting power from the sons of the kingdom's founder, King Abdulaziz, to that of a grandson.

FILE - In this undated file photo, King of Saudi Arabia Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, seated, poses with his son and Crown Prince Saud in Saudi Arabia. The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman late Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually certain rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who, in another first, is succeeding his father. (AP Photo, File)

For decades, power has been passed from brother to brother, but Prince Mohammed would inherit the throne from his father. The prince is already also defense minister and oversees all aspects of the country's economy, planning, reforms and security.

Just a few months ago, his prospects for the throne were less certain.

Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, a seasoned royal, was first in line to the throne. But King Salman ousted him from the line of succession and stripped him of his role as counterterrorism czar and interior minister.

This left the king's son, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with seemingly few rivals for the throne.

Earlier in his reign, King Salman had removed his half-brother Prince Muqrin from the line of succession. By April 2015, Salman had appointed Prince Mohammed bin Salman as second-in-line to the throne, giving him the title of deputy crown prince, a move that surprised many senior and more experienced members of the ruling family.

In theory, the selection of a crown prince once a new king ascends to the throne has been the duty of the "Allegiance Council," a body formed in 2007 by the late King Abdullah and made up of the sons and prominent grandsons of the founding King Abdulaziz. However, its role, and how much say it's had, in the flurry of changes since 2015 has been limited.

Despite some efforts at consensus, Saudi Arabia remains an absolute monarchy where all major decision making rests with the king.

But even if there is disagreement, the royal family has long followed a tradition of speaking with one voice, particularly on issues of succession, in order to appear united in front of Saudi Arabia's powerful tribes and clergy. The arrests of prominent princes appears to have upended the ways in which the royal family handles internal disputes, but will also spotlight the crown prince as a bold reformer determined to modernize the conservative kingdom that is home to Islam's holiest shrines.

FILE - This May 30, 2017 file photo, shows Saudi Crown Prince and Defense Minister Mohammed bin Salman, (MBS), in Moscow's Kremlin, Russia. The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by MBS late Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually certain rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who, in another first, is succeeding his father. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin, pool, File)

FILE - In this Monday, May 14, 2012 file photo, Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) waits for Gulf Arab leaders ahead of the opening of Gulf Cooperation Council summit, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by MBS late Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually certain rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who, in another first, is succeeding his father. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File)

In this Wednesday, June 21 , 2017 photo released by Al-Ekhbariya, Mohammed bin Salman, (MBS) newly appointed as crown prince, left, kisses the hand of Prince Mohammed bin Nayef at royal palace in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by MBS late Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually certain rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who, in another first, is succeeding his father. (Al-Ekhbariya via AP, File)

FILE - In this May 14, 2012 file photo, King Salman, left, speaks with his son, now Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, (MBS), as they wait for Gulf Arab leaders ahead of the opening of Gulf Cooperation Council, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by MBS late Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually certain rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who, in another first, is succeeding his father. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar, File)

FILE- This May 13, 2015 file photo, shows then Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef during a meeting with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office of the White House, in Washington. The surprise dismissal and arrest of dozens of ministers, royals, officials and senior military officers by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman late Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, is unprecedented in the secretive, 85-year-old kingdom. But so is the by-now virtually certain rise to the throne of a 30-something royal who, in another first, is succeeding his father. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)
BEIRUT (AP) - The head of Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah says the country's prime minister, Saad Hariri, was forced by Saudi Arabia to resign.

Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah in a speech Sunday urged patience after Hariri resigned suddenly in a televised address from the Gulf kingdom a day earlier.

Nasrallah accused Saudi Arabia of drafting Hariri's resignation letter and forcing him to read it on Saudi TV. He even asked whether Hariri is being held against his will.

Nasrallah's broadsides against Saudi Arabia have only grown harsher as the rivalry deepens between the Gulf kingdom and Iran over wars in Syria and Yemen. Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of its men to fight in Syria, is supplied and financed by Iran and seen as its proxy in Lebanon.
NEW YORK (AP) - Tapings for "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" have been cancelled all this week following the death of the talk show host's mother.

NBC said Sunday that repeat episodes will be shown from Monday to Friday.

A spokeswoman for Fallon said his mother, Gloria Fallon, died Saturday at a New York City hospital with her son and other family by her side. She was 68.

FILE - In this May 23, 2017 file photo, Jimmy Fallon attends the SeriousFun Children's Network Gala at Pier Sixty in New York. A spokeswoman for Fallon said Gloria Fallon, mother of "Tonight Show" host Jimmy Fallon, died Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, at a New York City hospital with her son and other family by her side. She was 68 years old. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP, File)

Fallon told The Associated Press through his spokeswoman that he lost his "biggest fan."

"The Tonight Show" had canceled its episode Friday, following reports of a family matter.

Gloria Fallon had attended the taping of her son's first night hosting "The Tonight Show" in 2014. Jimmy Fallon has also featured his mom in the show's hashtag segment, #MomQuotes.
KINSHASA, Congo (AP) - Congolese election officials say a long-awaited presidential election will take place in December 2018.

National independent election commission president Corneille Nangaa announced the plan on Sunday.

Congo has seen widespread anger over President Joseph Kabila's refusal to relinquish power after his mandate ended in December 2016 without an election being held.

The election commission had recently said elections could not take place until 2019, citing deadly violence in the Kasai region and logistical hurdles.

The leader of Congo's largest opposition party has said he would agree to delay the vote until June 2018 provided Kabila steps down at the end of the year and is replaced by a transitional government.

It was not immediately clear whether key members of the opposition would accept the new proposed date.
NEW YORK (AP) - Newly leaked documents show that Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, the Trump administration's point man on trade and manufacturing policy, has a stake in a company that does business with a gas producer partly owned by the son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

According to records obtained by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, Ross is an investor in Navigator Holdings, a shipping giant that counts Russian gas and petrochemical producer Sibur among its major customers. Putin's son-in-law Kirill Shamalov once owned more than 20 percent of the company, but now holds a much smaller stake.

Commerce Department spokesman James Rockas said Ross "never met" Shamalov and has generally supported the Trump administration's sanctions against Russia, according to the ICIJ report. Rockas added that Ross has withdrawn from matters related to transoceanic shipping vessels and has met the "highest ethical standards."

FILE - In this Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, file photo, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross appears before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform to discuss preparing for the 2020 Census, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Newly leaked documents show that Ross has a stake in a shipping company that does business with a gas producer partly owned by the son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the International Consortium of Journalists. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

The details are likely to add to the questions about ties between Russia and the Trump administration, connections that for months have shadowed the White House and are a focus of an investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller. Yet it wasn't immediately clear how many partners Ross might have or what the profit-sharing agreement might be.

ICIJ disclosed the Ross holding as part of reporting on 13.4 million records of offshore entities in tax havens leaked to German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung. The newspaper then shared the records with ICIJ and a network of more than 380 journalists in 67 countries. The New York Times is its U.S. partner in this inquiry.

The Times reported on the Ross holding on Sunday.

It wasn't immediately clear exactly how much of Navigator, which is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Ross personally owns. ICIJ reported that Ross and other investors own four Cayman Island entities that in turn own 31.5 percent of Navigator, a stake worth $176 million at Friday's closing stock price.

Ross' stake in Navigator is likely a small fraction of that. In financial disclosure forms he filed with the government this year, Ross valued his holdings in the Cayman Island entities, which include other companies besides Navigator, at no more than $10.1 million.

Sibur contributed 8 percent to Navigator's revenue last year, according to reports filed with securities regulators. Russia's energy sector is largely controlled by individuals with ties to state actors, including Putin.

Much of the new trove of files includes bank statements, emails and loan agreements from Appleby, a law firm that helps set up offshore dummy companies and trusts. Appleby told the ICIJ that there is "no evidence" that it has done anything wrong.

Other records came from Asiaciti Trust, a family-run offshore specialist based In Singapore, and from 19 corporate registries maintained by governments in jurisdictions that draw the wealthy seeking privacy.

Big investments in two U.S. tech companies from a Russian government bank and Russian energy giant have also come to light.

The ICIJ reported that Silicon Valley investor and Russian citizen Yuri Milner got $191 million from VTB Bank, and invested that money in Twitter. The leaked records also show that a financial subsidiary of Russian energy company Gazprom funded a shell company that invested in a Milner-affiliated company that held roughly $1 billion in Facebook shares shortly before its 2012 initial public offering.

Milner told the ICIJ that he was unaware of any involvement by the Gazprom subsidiary in any of his deals and that none of his investments has been related to politics.

Milner has also invested in a tech-savvy real estate fund that was co-founded by Trump adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner called Cadre. Milner told the ICIJ that he used his own money for the investment.

Sunday's revelations follow last year's release of records from a Panama-based firm involved in setting up offshore accounts. That disclosure triggered investigations in several countries, the resignation of the prime minister of Iceland and ouster of the leader of Pakistan. The Panama Papers also revealed that close associates of Russia's leader Putin had been using the dummy accounts abroad to store their wealth, including a close Putin friend who had $2 billion of offshore assets.

There are legitimate reasons for setting up offshore accounts, but lax regulation and anonymity in some jurisdictions make it easy to launder money, evade taxes and avoid regulatory scrutiny. Critics of the widening gap between the super-wealthy and the rest have seized upon the use of tax havens as revealed in the Panama Papers as evidence of a crisis, and governments have promised to crack down.

In the case of Ross, the ICIJ reported Navigator's Russian customer, Sibur, has ties to Putin in addition to his son-in-law.

A big shareholder is Gennady Timchenko, who was targeted by the U.S. and other Western nations for sanctions after Russia's invasion of the Ukrainian region of Crimea in 2014. A few months later, the U.S. barred banks from providing long-term financing to a gas company belonging to another large Sibur shareholder, Leonid Mikhelson. Mikhelson has also been sanctioned by the Treasury Department for propping up Putin's rule.

Sibur itself was not targeted by the U.S. sanctions, but the Bank of America and the Royal Bank of Scotland reportedly backed away from doing business with the company.

The Russian gas producer last year contributed $23 million to Navigator's revenue, an increase of more than 40 percent in two years

___

Associated Press writers Jake Pearson in New York and Eric Tucker contributed to this report.

___

This story has been corrected to show the name of the organization is the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.
MEXICO CITY (AP) - Researchers were thrilled to have captured one of the few remaining vaquita porpoises, but announced Sunday that the adult female died after a few hours in captivity in a floating pen, raising questions about the last-ditch effort to enclose the world's smallest porpoises to save them from extinction.

Critics, and even supporters of the international rescue effort, knew the plan was full of risks: The small marine mammals native to Mexico's Gulf of California have never been held in captivity, much less bred there.

But with estimates of the remaining population falling below 30, the international team of experts known as Vaquita CPR felt they had no choice. In late October, researchers captured a vaquita calf but quickly freed it because it was showing signs of stress and was too young to survive without its mother.

FILE - In this July 8, 2017 file photo, a young woman with the World Wildlife Fund carries a papier mache replica of the critically endangered porpoise known as the vaquita marina, during an event in front of the National Palace in Mexico City. Researchers in Mexico were thrilled to have captured one of the few remaining vaquita porpoises on Saturday, Nov. 4, but the adult female died after a few hours in captivity in a floating pen, raising questions about the last-ditch effort to enclose the world's smallest porpoises to save them from extinction. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File)

On Saturday, the team felt its luck had turned when it caught a female in reproductive age. Mexico's environment secretary, Rafael Pacchiano, tweeted a photo of the vaquita in a net sling late Saturday, saying: "This is a great achievement that fills us with hope."

The vaquita was taken to a protected floating pen in the Gulf of California in the hopes that it would survive, and possibly breed if more vaquitas could be captured.

But on Sunday, the team said, "Veterinarians monitoring the vaquita's health noticed the animal's condition began to deteriorate and made the determination to release."

"The release attempt was unsuccessful and life-saving measures were administered," the team wrote. "Despite the heroic efforts of the veterinary team, the vaquita did not survive."

"The entire rescue team is heartbroken by this devastating loss" wrote the team, which is using U.S. Navy-trained dolphins to help find the elusive species in the upper Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez. "The risk of losing a vaquita during field operations was always acknowledged as a possibility, but it was determined that it was unacceptable to stand by and watch the vaquita porpoise disappear without a heroic attempt at rescue."

If it proves impossible to safely capture vaquitas, experts say an all-out effort will be needed to save them in their natural habitat. Vaquita populations have been decimated by illegal nets used to catch totoaba fish, whose swim bladder is prized in China.

"We are deeply saddened to learn that the vaquita captured on Saturday has died. We are confident that the experts involved in the capture did their best," said Alejandro Olivera, the Mexico representative for the Center for Biological Diversity. "However, this should be a reminder for the Mexican government that 'Plan A' should never be forgotten. To truly protect these incredible little porpoises, the Mexican government must once and for all get deadly gillnets out of the vaquita's habitat."

Mexico has moved to ban gillnet fishing in the area, mounted a campaign to confiscate nets, and is trying to stop illegal fishing. But given the enormously high prices that totoaba swim bladders fetch on the black market, fishermen have used go-fast boats and stealth tactics that are hard to stop.

The environmental protection unit of the federal Attorney General's Office said Sunday that authorities had seized four miles (6.4 kilometers) of nets, 5 metric tons of shrimp, and one shrimp boat as part of enforcement efforts in the second half of October. Authorities also seized three smaller boats and four vehicles.
WESTMINSTER, Calif. (AP) - A California man who eluded capture for two years before being arrested has been sentenced to more than 34 years in prison for stealing about $3 million in a real estate fraud scheme.

Thomas Tarbutton was extradited to the U.S. in 2013 following his detention in Panama as he attempted to fly from Brazil, where he was living, to Costa Rica.

The 58-year-old Newport Beach man was convicted last year of 40 felony counts, including grand theft and securities fraud, involving 11 victims.

The Orange County Register reports Tarbutton was sentenced Friday.

Prosecutors say Tarbutton solicited money from private investors for clients looking for loans from non-bank lenders. The investors thought they were funding mortgages that would yield quick profits, but in some cases the loans fell through and Tarbutton pocketed the money.
Sales of beer in Britains pubs, bars and restaurants have fallen by the biggest margin for five years, figures show.

Around 35 million fewer pints were sold in the three months to September compared with the same quarter last year  a fall of 3.6%, said the British Beer and Pub Association.

The organisation warned that pubs will keep on closing if the trend continues, blaming sky high business rates.

Beer

Cutting beer tax would support your local pubs and community. Ask your MP to support #CutBeerTax today! https://t.co/atZzAxsIVC pic.twitter.com/aVWLQlf0Gp  British Beer & Pub Association (@beerandpub) October 3, 2017

Chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: When the Government was cutting or freezing beer duty from 2013-15, sales of British beer stabilised, after years of steep decline.

With sales down this quarter, following the Budget tax hike, urgent action from the Chancellor is needed.

Beer has had a 39% tax rise in the past decade. With tax rates 14 times higher than in Germany, these levels are unsustainable.

We need fair taxes for British beer, so that brewers and pub operators can invest in thriving pubs, and take advantage of new opportunities to export more beer around the world as we leave the EU.
Willoughby Court produced a sketchy jumping display but at least got the job done on his chasing debut at Huntingdon.

Much is expected of Ben Paulings six-year-old this season after he claimed victory in the Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

And though he eventually won the 188Bet-sponsored novices chase over two and a half miles, Willoughby Court looked far from the finished article.

Cheltenham Festival hero Willoughby Court wins on chasing debut at Huntingdon

Early mistakes, most notably at the third fence, were exacerbated by a tendency to jump to his left. He even looked fleetingly beaten approaching the penultimate fence as runner-up Casablanca Mix and The Unit jumped into contention. But Willoughby Court responded nicely under Nico de Boinville and the 2-5 favourite crossed the line with a length and a quarter in hand.

Willoughby Court (2-5f) makes a winning chasing debut @Huntingdon_Race despite a few scrappy leaps. Results  https://t.co/7iJOPsdIyZ pic.twitter.com/ME7u4uPsjU  Racing TV (@RacingTV) November 5, 2017

Pauling said: There are a lot of positives to be taken. I think there is a huge amount improvement to come and, in all honesty, that is a good thing.

He has got round and he hasnt fallen. We will go home and we have got plenty to work with but it is good to see the engine is still there.

We will definitely go left-handed next time out and we wont be rushing back right-handed at the moment. The two-and-a-half-mile Grade Two at the Hennessy meeting would be our next port of call.

There will be plenty of people queuing up to take him on now. I invite them to come and have a go. These good horses are there to be taken on. It is never going to be an easy season for him but he has started and won. Im thrilled.

The @benpauling1 trained and @NdeBoinville ridden Willoughby Court after making a winning chasing debut @Huntingdon_Race pic.twitter.com/6chWteDHjj  Graham Clark (@GrahamClark85) November 5, 2017

De Boinville added: It took a while to get there, and it didnt look pretty early doors, but he has done it. He has warmed up to it in the end.

There is so much more to come from him. He has gone down to those first few fences as if he has never a seen a fence in his life before.

He has got bags of potential and ability. He will get there.
 ,          
Anarchist protesters wearing Guido Fawkes disguises brought their anti-capitalist message to the heart of London for the annual Million Mask March.

Thousands of people, including those sporting the famous stylised vizard popularised in the cult film V For Vendetta, chanted pro-civil liberty and anti-establishment slogans as Westminster ground to a virtual halt.

Police maintained a heavy presence outside key locations such as Downing Street, with Scotland Yard enforcing restrictions over the scale and location of the protest following ugly scenes in previous years when bloodied activists clashed with officers.

(David Mirzoeff/PA)

The event, organised by the notorious hacking collective Anonymous, is held on November 5 every year.

Police imposed conditions on the march, limiting it to a three-hour period between 6pm and 9pm on a prescribed route between Trafalgar Square and Whitehall.

A post on the events Facebook page ahead of the march, which warned activists that "police are not your friends", read: We have seen the abuses and malpractice of this government, and governments before it.

(David Mirzoeff/PA)

We have seen the encroaching destruction of many civil liberties we hold dear, we have seen the pushes to make the internet yet another part of the surveillance state.

We have seen the Governments disregard for migrants, for the poor, the elderly and the disabled, we have seen the capital, profit and greed of the few put before the wellbeing of the many and we say enough is enough.

It finishes: The Government and the 1% have played their hand. Now its time to play ours. Expect us.

(Isabel Infantes/PA)

One masked activist, who gave his name as Bob, a steeplejack from Grantham in Lincolnshire, said: I come every year because I believe in the movement.

I believe people need to wake up and see whats happening in the world.

The governments dont work for the people, they work for the businesses.

Asked about the violent exchanges which marred previous demonstrations in the capital, the activist  who said he trusts social media as his primary head source  said: I dont want anybody to get hurt, Id prefer that.

There are always one or two people who piggyback this movement  theyre the instigators.
Alvaro Morata ended a six-match scoreless streak with a decisive header as Chelsea claimed a morale-boosting 1-0 Premier League win over Jose Mourinhos Manchester United.

Morata, a United target last summer, found space to head in Cesar Azpilicuetas cross as Chelsea remained nine points behind Manchester City, who second-placed United now trail by eight.

Mourinhos United side have lost on all three visits to Stamford Bridge and the win gave Conte a welcome boost after the chastening loss at Roma.

Alvaro Morata scores a header for Chelsea

Full-time: Chelsea 1-0 Man Utd @AlvaroMorata's brilliant header secures the three points for the Blues!



WHAT A WIN! #CHEMUN pic.twitter.com/mXENjy3WQM  Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) November 5, 2017

What they said

I need to work in front of the goal really ... Good performance of the team i like this  #CHEMUN #Bluesfamily   T.Bakayoko14 (@TimoeB08) November 5, 2017

: I was very happy because we beat a strong team like Manchester United. To have this type of performance and to see this spirit, for sure Im pleased.

: We are worried, but there are 18 teams more worried than us. Eight points in the Premier League, there is still a lot to play (for).

Tweet of the match

Star man  NGolo Kante

Returned from a six-match absence with a hamstring injury and Chelsea were immediately a different team.

Moment of the match

Moratas goal. The striker found space and headed into the top corner to show why his signing was such a coup for Chelsea, who had appeared to favour Romelu Lukaku.

Data point

GOAL Chelsea 1-0 Man Utd (55 mins)



Alvaro Morata powers a header past David De Gea from Cesar Azpilicueta's perfect cross#CHEMUN  Premier League (@premierleague) November 5, 2017

Five - Cesar Azpilicueta has provided the assist for five of Moratas goals this season.

Player ratings

: Thibaut Courtois: 7 (out of 10), Cesar Azpilicueta: 8, Andreas Christensen: 7, Gary Cahill: 7, Davide Zappacosta: 6, NGolo Kante: 8, Tiemoue Bakayoko: 6, Marcos Alonso: 6, Alvaro Morata: 8, Cesc Fabregas: 7, Eden Hazard: 6.: Antonio Rudiger (for Zappacosta, 66 minutes): 6, Danny Drinkwater (for Fabregas, 79): 6, Willian (for Hazard, 87): 6.

: David De Gea: 7, Eric Bailly: 6, Phil Jones: 5, Chris Smalling: 6, Antonio Valencia: 6, Nemanja Matic: 6, Ander Herrera: 6, Ashley Young: 6, Henrikh Mkhitaryan: 5, Marcus Rashford: 5, Romelu Lukaku: 5.: Anthony Martial (for Mkhitaryan, 62): 6, Marouane Fellaini (for Jones, 62): 5, Jesse Lingard (for Young, 78): 6.

Whos up next?

West Brom v Chelsea (Premier League, November 18)

Manchester United v Newcastle (Premier League, November 18)
LONDON, Nov 2 (Reuters) - Kazakh miner Kaz Minerals said the government of Kyrgyzstan had suspended operations at its Bozymchak gold and copper mine on Thursday for three months.

The London-listed company said it did not know why the operations had been suspended and the Kyrgyz government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"The group believes that Bozymchak is in compliance with its obligations and is in discussions with the relevant authorities to recommence operations as soon as possible," Kaz Minerals said in a statement.

A source familiar with the situation pointed to political disputes between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Some Kyrgyz leaders have accused Kazakhstan, a bigger and wealthier neighbour in central Asia, of interfering in its Oct. 15 election after Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev met a Kyrgyz opposition presidential candidate.

Kaz Minerals operates several copper mines in Kazakhstan as well as Bozymchak in Kyrgyzstan.

Bozymchak produced 7,000 tonne of copper cathode and 38,000 ounces of gold bar in 2016.

Kaz Minerals on Thursday kept its 2017 copper production guidance at 250,000-270,000 tonnes.

Shares of the company fell more than 3 percent after news of the shutdown. (Reporting by Radhika Rukmangadhan and Arathy S Nair in Bengaluru, and Zandi Shabalala in London.; Editing by Mark Potter)
BEIJING, Nov 5 (Reuters) - China will expand a pilot project for anti-graft supervision reforms nationwide next year that will consolidate existing corruption agencies, state-run news agency Xinhua reported, as President Xi Jinping expands his signature policy drive.

Xinhua said in a report published late on Saturday China's top legislature adopted a decision calling for new supervisory commissions to be set up by the People's Congresses at provincial, city and county-levels to "supervise those exercising public power".

Xi's signature anti-graft drive has jailed or otherwise punished nearly 1.4 million Communist Party members since 2012. The leader, who began his second five-year term in October, has vowed to maintain the "irreversible" momentum of the campaign to root out corruption.

China aims to pass a national supervision law and set up a new commission at the annual parliament meetings early next year. The new National Supervision Commission will work with the Communist Party's anti-graft body, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, expanding the purview of Xi's anti-graft campaign to include employees at state-backed institutions.

Xinhua said the commissions to be set up nationwide under the China legislature's new directive will have the power to investigate illegal activities such as graft, misuse of authority, neglect of duty, and wasting public funds.

The commissions will have the ability to conduct searches, freeze assets and detain suspects as part of those efforts, the Xinhua report said. (Reporting by Se Young Lee; Editing by Paul Tait)
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Military forces were deployed on Sunday to help thousands of displaced people in Malaysia's northern state of Penang, officials said, as floodwater rose from more than 24 hours of incessant rain.

At least 2,000 people had been evacuated and 80 percent of the state was hit by typhoon-like winds and heavy rain, chief minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement.

He said floodwater had risen to 3-4 metres (10-12 feet). Lim also warned in a Facebook post that more rain was expected and advised residents to stay at home.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the National Security Council was coordinating with police and the military to assist flood victims after a request for assistance from Penang.

Hundreds of trees were toppled and roads were submerged, leaving many areas practically paralysed, Malaysian news agency Bernama reported. At least two people had been killed, it said.

"We remain fearful that there may still be untoward incidents because of the strong winds, the like of which have never been experienced before, and flash floods might recur," Lim told reporters in Penang, according to Bernama.

Hundreds of people had been placed in temporary shelters after their homes were flooded or destroyed by the storm. (Reporting by Praveen Menon; Editing by Paul Tait)
MANILA, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Philippine immigration authorities freed four East Timor delegates after holding them for 12 hours at Manila airport in a security clampdown ahead of the ASEAN and East Asia Summit next week.

The four East Timorese were allowed into the Philippines but authorities kept their passports until a formal order is issued clearing their entry, said Rhoda Viajar, media relations of the ASEAN Civil Society Conference/ASEAN People's Forum.

Immigration authorities said the four were held upon arrival on Saturday morning because they could not explain the purpose of their travel and were "not able to establish financial capacity for the visit".

"The civil society conference organizers understand the more stringent security measures being implemented due to the upcoming ASEAN summit," Viajar said. She said they "remain concerned about the possibility of similar incidents upon the arrival of many more participants from other countries".

Since 2005, ASEAN leaders have held a dialogue with the region's top civil society groups to listen to development concerns and address critical issues such as poverty, health and education.

Philippines security forces are deploying nearly 60,000 army and police personnel during the Nov. 10-14 ASEAN and East Asia Summit to ensure the safety of 19 world leaders and thousands of delegates from 10 Southeast Asian nations and 10 other dialogue partners, including U.S. President Donald Trump.

"We have not monitored any real and direct threat in the national capital region, but we are not complacent," national police chief Ronald dela Rosa told reporters after reviewing security preparations on Sunday.

"There could be threats but we are ready and we are up to the challenge."

Police will deploy 400 mobile patrol cars, 200 motorcyles, 22 armoured vehicles and 100 bomb-sniffing dogs to ensure the security and safety of leaders, officials and delegates to the biggest regional summit in Manila this year.

Some areas will be completely locked down, such as where heads of state and governments will hold meetings. Main roads running from the former U.S. air force base about 90 kms north of Manila to the venues will be partly closed.

Interior Undersecretary Catalino Cuy said there was no plan to jam mobile phone signals to prevent potential crude bomb attacks because this would cause inconvenience for state officials and security personnel. (Reporting by Manuel Mogato; Editing by Mark Heinrich)
In Sri Lanka all woes lead to Diyawanna Oya

That is a loose translation of what the 12th Century French theologian Alain de Lille said about the Eternal City. We in current Sri Lanka too have a similar sentiment, but one hundred and eighty degrees removed from what De Lille quoted.

All roads lead to Rome was about medieval times.

All Woes lead to Diyawanna-Oya, is strictly our own.

Now let me add some meat to the matter, some spice too, just to make it more palatable to the reader who like me, is totally dependent on the print and electronic media to gather what is happening in this beleaguered country of ours.

It is all about how decisions are made and objections are raised when the rulers elected to rule meet, argues and run the country like no other from the power-house that is Parliament.

Lets start with the lead story of the tableau from the Parliament, the mysterious and mind-boggling mega-buck deal of the Bond Scam.

Part one has been completed and the honourable gentlemen, appointed by the President himself, have concluded their fact-finding.

Tom, Dick and Harry were called to be interrogated. Tom and Harry came and Dick refused to honour the invitation citing legalities coined by ultra-expensive legal-eagles

defending him.

Thereby hangs a tale will be a fitting quip for this soap opera and we have to await God Father Part II to see how the wind will blow and who will be found guilty and who will be punished and who will be whistling Dixie and walking out scot-free.

"Tom, Dick and Harry were called to be interrogated. Tom and Harry came and Dick refused to honour the invitation citing legalities coined by ultra-expensive legal-eagles defending him "



How justice would prevail would be the best yardstick to measure the validities of our governing system. We still have hope as it was the President who changed the tide and clipped the wings of those who would have flown away. It is interesting indeed to see how justice will prevail.

Of course, the ruling powers seem to be submerged to their very necks in this bond debacle. If not, why would someone step down from his lofty ministerial pedestal and resign saying goodbye to the pomp and pageantry simply because he didnt remember the rent he paid for a top-of-the-range luxury condominium?

It will be interesting to see how the cookie crumbles when the bond scam returns for the second round and hits the headlines again. Knowing Diyawanna-Oya there will be no surprises if they gather a few cans of weather-shield and white-wash the whole sorry story.

It has been done before and that too, many a time by the political hierarchy of Diyawanna-Oya. Mind you, there is no one party that is guilty, it is a recurring embarrassment that has been practised by many who ruled the roost of power.

Next on the agenda is SAITM and GMOA plus the University students, who are caught in the middle of a muddle that is rooted deeply in Diyawanna Oya.

I am sure each party involved have their axes to grind and I do not know enough about this battle royal to point fingers. But one thing is sure as the day that dawns; The entire cabaret was orchestrated by various figure-heads from Parliament wrapped in all colours of politics.

The direct damage in its entirety is suffered by the students, be they from local Universities or from those attached to SAITM.

"The election fever is crawling in like a weed clogged wave "



But the broth had been brewed at Diyawanna-Oya and all political parties associated in the melee are guilty of their vociferous voices or their politically motivated silence.

The nett result of this scramble is a tragedy for the young. The local University students protest march and get water hosed and their SAITM counterparts rot in limbo, submerged, bewiled in the hole they fell into due to no fault of theirs. Wonder whos to blame?

A few days ago I was at the Mattala Airport to give an aviation talk to 27 graduate management trainees attached to the Civil

Aviation Authority.

It was a great interaction for an ancient pelican like me to teach young bright minds some things I knew of aviation. Here I was in Mattala and I did have a good look at the international airport. The four-lane highway leading to an impressive terminal building, where four flights a week operate flown by Fly Dubai.

That is the simplified sum-total of this hitherto under-utilized facility. It is an old drum beat I am playing regarding the redundancy of this airport.

The stupidity of it all is astounding, directly linked to Diyawanna-Oya in its creation. I have never seen such desolation in an airfield. Not a single aeroplane in the sky and not a single aeroplane on the ground. I only saw a mangy dog aimlessly wailing on the parking apron. He was the sole visible occupant of the international airport. This is a mortal sin committed by the previous regime.

What about now? For more than two years Mattala has come under the current rulers and absolutely nothing has been done to initiate some form of activity to keep the airport functioning. It is more like the beggars open wound that is kept festering to advertise the plight.

See what the previous lot did, the colossal mistake and we are inundated with the debts, another repeated drum beat that we hear often.

Either way, it is the same Diyawanna-Oya that is singularly responsible for this merry-go-round of mistakes in aviation.

I have not even touched on Mihin Air and SriLankan. Let us leave that for another day. I saw the one paper reporting that Diyawanna Oya has angrily woken up and wants to sack the Chairman and board members running the national carrier.

Not a bad idea if the Diyawanna-Oya sacked themselves and left the airline to manage its own affairs.



Now we have the mega-battle of Parliament about to explode!

The changing of the Constitution. All the knights in shining armour are lined up on the banks of the Diyawanna Oya to fight unto death in defending Junius Richards once upon a time Bahubootha Viyawasthawa, as one ex-president scoffed it.

Some want to kill the people who vote to change it and some want to bomb them and even juvenile JRJ has risen from the shadows and spoken defending his grandfathers not so grand legacy. Who am I to comment on this heavy-weight battle that is looming in the horizon? The stakes are high whichever way you look at it and those in power want a change and those in opposing benches want things to remain the same. That is the essence of the argument from the proletarian point of view. Of course, on the sidelines are various cheering squads with vested political interests, casting votes more for safeguarding their piece of the parliamentary pie than the validity or invalidity of the countrys current constitution.

That is Diyawanna-Oya for you. 70 years of betraying the trust of the people of this beautiful land and dragging the entire country into a quagmire totally and solely created by politics and politicians.

The election fever is crawling in like a weed-clogged wave. January is supposed to be the local government polls and that to be followed by the provincial version and whether it is Parliamentary or Presidential next is anybodys guess.

Candidates are getting ready to fix their halos and tune their harps to fly in angelic fashion to their constituencies to make their mythological promises whilst canvassing for votes.



Come 2020 we will elect a new President. Who would that be is a million-dollar question. Who governed best or who will govern best are scale-less measurements without valid answers.

We hear names being mentioned, but which candidate will represent which party is a hard call at this stage of the election game. Of course, the defending champion is sure to be there, wonder who his opponent or opponents would be?

There will definitely be wild card entries too and they sure would take the contest to a different level. New faces, clean slates, and the people may vote for a change like they did in 2015.

All depends on what happens between now and the day of judgement in 2020. Will we see some positive changes in the interim? People are starved for justice. People plead, if not for total eradication, at least a visible reduction of the unabated and wanton corruption. The majority hope for at least a semblance of change for the better at Diyawanna Oya and its disgusting modus operandi that has frustrated the average Sri Lankan man and woman, who have lost faith in political democracy. Apart from natural disasters such as floods and landslides every other calamity, the Lankan citizenry face is firmly root-caused at Diyawanna-Oya. That is the covenant we have received from the day of independence.

Isnt it time that something changed?
I was interested to visit a courthouse when I heard that there is a list fixed with time to call up cases in courts in Timor-Leste where we hardly found such schedules in the Sri Lankan court system.

I was given the opportunity to visit the Dili District Court in Timor-Leste recently by the Judicial System Monitoring Programme (JSMP) which is a leading non-governmental organisation in accountability, and strengthening the Rule of Law. I was accompanied by JSMP staff members Ms. Eurosia de Almeda and Mr. Jose Moniz.

The Judicial structure of Timor-Leste consists of a Court of Appeal and four District Courts. The Court of Appeal hears appeals brought from the District Courts. Timor-Leste utilizes a civil law system and is developing its own courts system. There is no separation as criminal and civil courts and hence all cases go through the same system: first through District Courts, and then to the Court of Appeal.

The Supreme Court of Justice, constitutionally to be the highest court, is not yet established. The Penal Procedure Code includes all rules for the procedure as well as evidence and sentencing. There is no death penalty in Timor-Leste and the highest punishment being a term of 30 years of imprisonment.

Entering the courthouse was very easy, where there was no security checking and as a human rights activist and regular visitor to Sri Lankan courthouses, I found a friendly atmosphere there.

From the entrance, I felt the differences between the two environments as back in Sri Lanka where I often accompany the victims to courts. In Sri Lanka we have witnessed on many occasion where ordinary people are virtually harassed and victimised by the security personnel from the time they enter the court premises. They are scolded by the security guards and the Police officers for simple reasons.

"Ordered to put up a public notice to say that people entering the court premises should wear only white, and the Police officers on guard were instructed not to allow anyone to enter the court house without the white attire. "



There was no dress code to enter the Dili District Court. Then I recalled how a Sri Lankan Magistrate charged and remanded a woman coming to court in a coloured dress. The Magistrate had ordered to put up a public notice to say that people entering the court premises should wear only white attire, and the Police officers on guard were instructed not to allow anyone to enter the court house without the white attire.

I was also not permitted to enter the High Court of Kandy many times for not wearing fully white attire. Women wearing trousers or jeans are strictly prohibited in High Courts.

It was as the dress code was given the priority over the delivery of justice in Sri Lankan court system. After entering the court I saw how the cases were lined up and scheduled for trials.

The schedule included the time, case number, Judges, brief description of the case and very few people were seated outside until their cases were called. There was no rush at all, as the trials were fixed according to the time.

In Sri Lanka, litigants need be in court by 9.00 a.m. and are hardly aware as to how long they got to wait until their cases are heard.

Dili District Court comprised 04 hearing rooms and we entered one courtroom where there was a domestic violence case was taken up. In Timor-Leste, every victim is assisted by a Public Prosecutor and every accused is assisted by a Public Defender (defence lawyer). The Judges lead the evidence and not by the Public Prosecutor or Public Defender. The Judge directly speaks with the victim, accused and other witnesses.



It was really surprising to see the nature of leading evidence. The Judge spoke gently with the victim and allowed the victim to explain. Then I remembered how our victims are further victimised during the trials as often the defence counsel raise their voices and humiliate the victims.

In Sri Lanka, there had been instances where victims of rape are indirectly labelled as prostitutes by some defence counsels at the beginning of the trials.

This particular case was called that day when I was in Dili District Court in Timor-Leste for more clarification and the Judgment was scheduled to be delivered the

following week.

After this case was over we entered another hearing room where there were 3 Judges on the bench as the case was a more serious one. It was a domestic violence case.

Domestic violence is considered as a serious crime in Timor-Leste. The Judges led the evidence from the accused and then the wife (the victim) was called for evidence. The accused was called for evidence once again for more clarifications. Considering the evidence the Public Prosecutor on behalf of the victim, made his comments and requested the Judges to impose a 6-year jail term to the accused.



The Public Defender made his remarks to the Judges and pleaded the Judges for a lenient punishment as the accused, the husband happened to be the breadwinner of the family.

The trial was concluded in one day and the Judgment was scheduled to be delivered within a week.

In Sri Lanka, cases are more often being postponed rather than taken up for trials. Generally, it will be at least 03 months of interval in between two calling dates. There had been instances where more than 12 years is taken to complete a trial and I recalled how a rape victim had to go to courts for 15 years to get Justice done and I accompanied her to courts since 2005.

Many journalists were there and taking notes of the case and the trial process is being monitored by various parties including NGOs. I learnt that some cases take time to complete the trial but it should not exceed 02 years and if so it will be a controversial and bad remark.

The delay of Justice could be questionable by the monitoring parties. Therefore I felt the importance to have a strong Judicial monitoring system in a country to establish the Rule of Law.

I found that the Judicial System Monitoring Programme (JSMP) in Dili Timor-Leste is doing a tremendous job in trial monitoring, analysing and making recommendations. It has given an enormous impact and contributes to the development and improvement of the Judicial System to ensure a transparent and proper functioning court system.





JSMP has monitored several important cases involving high-level state authorities including the corruption cases involving the former Minister of Finance and the former Vice Minister of Health.

In addition to observing the justice sector, JSMP also continued to observe the National Parliament.

I felt the difference and remembered the stressful situation (going out of the court) in Sri Lanka. In this court system of Timor-Leste anyone can witness the trials, can take notes, can speak to each other (softly without disturbing the proceeding) even you could use the mobile phone in silent mood inside the court.

Furthermore, microphones are fixed for each party and everyone could hear the conversations very clearly. In Sri Lanka often we dont hear anything that is spoken in the court and the cases are postponed without a proper explanation given to the parties.

No one can take notes inside the court or cannot read even anything related to the case. In the beginning of my journey with the victims I have been scolded several times by security guards and the police officers for reading the case file and taking notes while I was accompanying the victims, and now I understand that is strictly prohibited in the Sri Lankan court system. We are not allowed to speak inside the courthouse even for an emergency.

Crossed legs or crossed arms are strictly prohibited. We should remove the battery from our mobile phones when entering the Kandy High Court if not we need to keep our mobile phone at the security check.

Once a man was allegedly given an eight-month jail sentence for yawning inside the Mount Lavinia Magistrates Court in Sri Lanka while the court was in session.

I remember once the mother of a raped girl whom I accompanied to High Court of Nuwara Eliya had to take off her shoes to the command given by a Police officer, reasoning it create a noise and it disturbs the court hearing. The poor mother was barefooted during the entire trial in such a cold weather and I felt guilty that I could not oppose this rude action and I might have been charged for contempt of court if I argued with the Police officer.

Once our director Fr. Nandana Manatunga had to intervene and make a complaint to the Court Registrar to get permission to enter the High Court of Kandy as a mother of a political prisoner was not allowed to enter the courthouse to witness her own sons hearing.

"In spite of welcoming the valuable recommendations made by the UN Special Rapporteur, the former Minister of Justice Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe condemned and objected the report."



There are bundles of stories how our Judicial System treat the ordinary people, that I have experienced during my 12 years of journey with the victims of torture and rape by accompanying them to various courts in many parts of the country. With all these feelings of differences of the Judicial Systems in the two countries I came out of the courthouse and then I was surprised to see the Judge, whom I saw in the 01st trial was waiting for his car standing at the exit of the courthouse which was very unusual in our context.

A report prepared by the former UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Monica Pinto, on her mission to Sri Lanka from April 29 to May 7 in 2016, at the 35th session of the UN Human Rights Council, was highly critical of the Sri Lankan Justice System.

During the visit, the Special Rapporteurs met relevant ministers, government officials, members of the judiciary, the Attorney-General, lawyers, the National Human Rights Commission, civil society members, and victims and their families.

In addition to the visit in Colombo, Ms. Pinto and her team visited Anuradhapura, Jaffna and Kandy. Our organisation, the Human Rights Office got the privilege to organize the meeting with Ms. Pinto to meet the civil society members and victims in Kandy.

The report disclosed the political mess and the crisis of the administration of justice and given extremely valuable recommendations for reforms that would benefit the nation.

In spite of welcoming the valuable recommendations made by the UN Special Rapporteur, the former Justice Minister allegedly condemned and objected the report.

Justice Minister, delivering a statement in Parliament, said the UN must act with responsibility when appointing top officials. He further said the report by the Special Rapporteur was harm ful to Sri Lankas Sovereignty and the Special Rapporteur was misled by non-governmental organisations when compiling her report.



The minister said the Government has sent its response to the report through the Foreign Ministry to the UN.

It is the governments duty to have identified these problems and taken the necessary steps to have them corrected. It is this type of practical problems that the UN Special Rapporteur is referring to and such type of recommendations should have been welcomed, by the Government if it was concerned with improving this most backward system of administration of justice that exists in the country. Timor-Leste is a young nation gaining independence in 2002 from the occupancy of Indonesia and working its development towards the Rule of Law, respecting the Constitution and the law, and the recognition of international law.

Timor-Leste has ratified a significant number of international treaties and conventions since 2002 and has adopted the customary principles of International law in their own legislative process.

Sri Lanka has bounded by ratifying 13 major international treaties and conventions since 1980 including ICCPR and ICESR.

The practical significance of ratification is an indication of a Governments commitment to safeguarding human rights and upholding the international order. Ratification assures the people of a country that current and future administrations will be subject to a continuing international obligation to guarantee specific and fundamental human rights, no matter who is in power. Also, ratification helps to strengthen domestic human rights protection by providing standards and benchmarks for national law and practice, engaging the expertise monitoring and making recommendations.

Sri Lanka is a country that has been always proud of its history as a Nation but hardly adopts the best practices from other countries. Timor-Leste being a young nation achieved tremendous progress since gaining independence in 2002 and suffered some of the worst atrocities of modern times in their struggle for self-determination.

Therefore, Sri Lanka, Let us learn from Timor-Leste and lets make a change in the system that respects and safeguards the dignity of all persons and build a nation that establishes the Rule of Law.

Lucille Abeykoon is human rights defender from Human Rights Office  Kandy and organisation working for the victims of human rights violation. This report was made following the recent visit to Dili District Court in Timor-Leste.

Some highlighted issues addressed by Ms. Pinto
Rev. Jacome Gonsalves used the oriental languages to usher the Christian era in the island

At a time when the Catholic Church is contemplating to bestow the Blessed hood on the Christian writer scholar Rev. Jacome Gonsalves, who lived in the then Kandyan Kingdom during the reign of King Narendrasinghe, it is necessary to find the reasons for the background he qualifies for this treatment in his saintly life and his commitment to genius skills as man of letters.

When St. Joseph Vaz visited this island during King Narendrasinghes rule in the beginning of the 18th Century, Rev. Vaz wanted an erudite scholar to support his missionary work here, a reputed scholar missionary from India who had a Doctorate in letters, a linguist and a poet of excellence, consented to join the mission initiated by St. Joseph Vaz.

Rev. Gonsalves had easily grasped the indigenous languages in use in the subcontinent and was familiar with the indigenous cultures and native practices.

He accordingly agreed to migrate to take up this challenge to put the Christian Latin literature, music and drama translated into local languages.

First, he studied the native languages. The language was the vehicle on which the communication could reach out to the folk.

Its command and the flow mattered in the process. He took instructions from the Buddhist prelates in Malwatte, Kandy during the cordial courtship that prevailed during this period that experienced a renaissance in writing.

He trained translators in native languages and compiled books and copied them and distributed to parishes created by his guru St. Joseph Vaz.



This was how he started parish assignments and introduced order and discipline in parishes with regard to devotion. He made smooth accessibility to the holy mysteries of the universal Church through his ecclesiastical translations, music composition, drama performances and publications thereafter in the national languages.

Thereby he laid the national foundation for the indigenous Church for the Catholics of Sri Lanka. He simplified the ecclesiastical teachings and mysteries of divinity and regulated them into prayers and composed songs for ordinary lay people in parishes.

He translated the Hymn Joy to the world as Devindu Upanneya Sathuni which remained close to the hearts of many Catholics during Christmas time.

He made the story of Universal creation and the ages beyond so simple in his song Arambhya.

They even went to the extent of creating passion play and drama which quickly absorbed into the Catholic culture which later contributed to the advancement of drama and nadagam in the island.

He laid the foundation for the Catholic culture with his composition of drama and song which was a novel experience to indigenous cultures based on Buddhist and Hindu literature.

As much as Arahant Mahinda updated the Buddhist culture prevailing in the island, Rev. Jacome Gonsalves in his term here in the 18th century laid the foundation for an Asian Christian Cultural set up for the local Catholics. Perhaps he could have been influenced by the Christian culture and literature that existed during the Portuguese regime proved by local authors like Alagiyawanna Mukaveti of the Kotte period.

He borrowed them and updated the letters. It was only after three centuries the Vatican realised the importance for a Church for Asia which has its roots and heritage mixed with indigenous cultures existing in the huge continent.

"His remains lie at the altar of Bolawatte Church where he spent his last days. Even to this date, eminent scholars like Professor Sunil Ariyarantne have a soft corner for his literary productions..."



There were such missionaries in the East who contributed to this transformation of the Roman Church to the needs of Asia. Now there is no turn back, things have improved on the march to the creation of a regional Church divorced from Roman traditions for its survival. He studied native languages specially educated himself with letters from the Buddhist Sangha in Malwatte, Kandy, and was able to update the Christian heritage needed for this island.

His remains lie at the altar of Bolawatte Church where he spent his last days. Even to this date, eminent scholars like Professor Sunil Ariyarantne have a soft corner for the literary productions of Rev. Gonsalves which he interprets as a source of inspiration to the Sinhala Language and Literature. He opened a new Chapter of progress in the use of the Sinhala Language which is strange to its culture in which it developed and originated.

He translated the Psalms and Ecclesiastes from the Bible and proved that the native languages could engineer different cultural backgrounds. He was followed in contemporary times by scholars like late Rev. Dr. Don Peter, Rev. Marcelline Jayakody, Rev. Ernest Porutota, Rev. Molligoda or Rev. Aba Costa in our times who dreamt the vision of Rev. Gonsalves.

As in a short narration of the late Rev. Gonsalves late Rev. Dr. Dom Peter describe him the way he has sacrificed long hours burning oil in the dark parish room in consecutive nights during that time clothing himself in a long cassock to protect from mosquitoes to accomplish his mission for a local Church. He was so native that even the Kandyan Kings were not feeling uncomfortable with the alien tendencies as a priest in the hill country.

Therefore calling him Blessed would not seem something foreign to the people of this country.
The employees of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) today charged that there was a covert move by the Indian Oil Company (IOC) to fraudulently dump a substandard stock of 30, 000 metric tons of petrol in the domestic market, which was rejected as substandard.

While admitting that there was a 20% shortage of petrol supply in the domestic market due to a rejection of a stock of 30, 000 metric tons of petrol the said however, the CEYPETCO said it would manage to supply the full demand of petrol.

Minister Ranatunga made an appeal to motorists to use petrol sparingly until new stocks arrived and not to panic over the shortage.

The rejection of 30, 000 MTs of petrol due to quality failure at the laboratory tests has caused panic among motorists and long queues of motor vehicles were seen at filling stations islandwide in the last couple of days.

The General Secretary of the Ceylon Petroleum Common Workers Union (CPCWU) D. G. Rajakaruna said CEYPETCO prohibited the pumping of a shipment of 30, 000 metric tons of oil imported by the IOC on October 15 after it was found that the shipment was not up to the quality.

The IOC gave an undertaking to CEYPETCO that the rejected shipment would be replaced with a fresh stock of petrol by October 30, which it failed to comply with. The IOC on October 27 simply said it could not replace the rejected stock with a new stock that led to the shortage, Mr. Rajakaruna said.

Mr. Rajakaruna told the Daily Mirror that the next shipment of petrol was due at Colombo Port by Wednesday (8) and it would reach filling stations by late Thursday.

We have valid reasons to believe that there is something fishy in this whole affair. The rejected shipment is still berthed at the Trincomalee harbour. We dont know for what purpose.

We have also information that the IOC management has met top officials of the Petroleum Resources Development Ministry, probably to woo them to agree to reaccept the rejected shipment. We also have no answer as to why the IOC suddenly said it could not replace the rejected petroleum shipment on time as promised with a fresh stock that created the shortage of petroleum in the market, Mr. Rajakaruna added.

He said the crisis clearly manifests the necessity of CEYPETCO maintaining a buffer stock sufficient for at least one month of petroleum products as opposed to current two weeks of buffer stock.

To have a sufficient buffer stock, the CYEPETCO needs a minimum of 15 tanks from Trincomalee tank farm. But the Government has failed to obtain at least ten tanks even after the Cabinet approval was granted to transfer ownership of 15 tanks to CEYPETCO.

We are highly worried on the ability of the IOC that has only 20% of market share to cripple the domestic petrol market in this manner, Mr. Rajakaruna lamented.

He also said the Government must immediately find an investor to upgrade and modernise the Sapugaskanda oil refinery, which is at its last stage of operation and produces only the half of the full capacity.

Mr. Rajakaruna in a letter to Petroleum Resources Development Minister Arjuna Ranatunga requested to conduct an inquiry on the suspicious behaviour of the IOC and its refusal to replace the rejected shipment of petrol on time and take punitive action if found the IOC had acted in a sabotaging manner. (Sandun A Jayasekera)
Jacquelin Alcius co-founded a business accelerator and incubator in the city of Cap-Haitien, Haiti, soon after the country was left devastated by an earthquake in 2010.

We saw a need to spread entrepreneurship  people needed work, he said.

Alcius has spent the last month in Charlottesville, shadowing staff at the University of Virginia i.Lab Incubator and the Community Investment Collaborative to learn about ways new businesses in the area are raising capital.
WASHINGTON  Heres how area members of Congress voted on major issues in the week ending Nov. 3.

House

Medicare cost controls. The House on Nov. 2 voted, 307 for and 111 against, to abolish a panel of health experts from outside the government that was created by the Affordable Care Act to help control Medicare costs. The GOP-drafted bill (HR 849) would eliminate the 15-member Independent Payment Advisory Board, which is not yet in operation. The IPAB is empowered to propose cuts in payments to Medicare providers if they are needed to keep per-capita Medicare costs from exceeding projections. Congress would need supermajority votes by both chambers to override the panels recommendations. The board is barred from actions that would ration care, change Medicare co-payment or deductible levels or raise premiums levels.

A yes vote was to send the bill to the Senate.

Voting yes: Tom Garrett, R-5th; Dave Brat, R-7th.

Independent probe of Russian election meddling. Voting 230 for and 193 against, the House on Nov. 2 blocked a Democratic attempt to force floor debate on a bill (HR 356) now in committee that would establish an independent commission for investigating what U.S. intelligence agencies and the office of Special Counsel Robert Mueller say was Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign. Had Democrats prevailed on this vote during debate on H Res 600, they would have had an opportunity to bring the bill to the floor.

A yes vote opposed floor debate on the Democratic-sponsored bill.

Voting yes: Garrett, Brat.

Forest management on public lands. Voting 232 for and 188 against, the House on Nov. 1 passed a bill (HR 2936) that would ease environmental laws to allow commercial logging to be used more extensively to prevent wildfires on Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service land. Backers said that by waiving the National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act, the bill would enable timber companies to clear wider expanses of fire-damaged trees and diseased and combustible undergrowth. Foes of the bill said congressional budget cuts have depleted agency budgets for preventing and suppressing wildfires on federal land.

The bill also would exempt lawsuits challenging federal forest-management actions from the Equal Access to Justice Act. Under that law, the government is required to pay the attorneys fees and expenses of plaintiffs with relatively low net worth who prevail in litigation against U.S. agencies. The law has proved especially beneficial to environmental groups that successfully sue agencies over their land-management policies.

A yes vote was to send the bill to the Senate.

Voting yes: Garrett, Brat.

Mandatory arbitration v. court access. Voting 189 for and 232 against, the House on Nov. 1 refused to strip HR 2936 (above) of a pilot program under which lawsuits filed against U.S. Forest Service policies would be resolved by mandatory arbitration rather than judicial proceedings in federal court. Arbitration typically is conducted by mediators under rules that limit discovery and prohibit meaningful appeals of the final ruling, which is binding on both sides.

A yes vote was to remove mandatory arbitration from the bill.

Voting no: Garrett, Brat.

Renewal of CHIP. Voting 242 for and 174 against, the House on Nov. 3 passed a GOP-drafted bill (HR 3922) that would extend the Childrens Health Insurance Program through fiscal 2022 and other health programs including community health centers through fiscal 2019. The bills 10-year, $18 billion cost would be paid for by offsets including cuts in Affordable Care Act preventive-care outlays and increases in Medicare premiums for the top 1 percent of taxpayers. Democrats said it was wrong for the bill to weaken the ACA and Medicare in order to finance health insurance for children in low-income families.

Now providing care to 9 million children, CHIP is a federally funded, state-run discretionary spending program designed mainly for families that are not poor enough to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford adequate private health insurance for their children.

A yes vote was to send the bill to the Senate.

Voting yes: Garrett, Brat.

Senate

Barrett for federal appeals judge. Voting 55 for and 43 against, the Senate on Oct. 31 confirmed University of Notre Dame law professor Amy Coney Barrett, 45, for a judgeship on the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Republicans praised Barrett as a distinguished professor whose rulings will stay within the bounds of settled law. Democrats said she is an academic without judicial experience and criticized her conservative views on LGBT and womens reproductive rights.

A yes vote was to confirm the nominee.

Voting yes: Tim Kaine (D).

Voting no: Mark R. Warner (D).
The controversial letter, whose veracity is yet to be proved, contained the details of vacancies in the Corporation and had requested the CPM district secretary to provide the candidates.
Oil ministry has identified 11 more producing oil and gas fields of the state- run firm for handing over to private firms to raise output.

New Delhi: Nearly 25 years after ONGC's prime discovered oilfields were privatised, the oil ministry has identified 11 more producing oil and gas fields of the state- run firm for handing over to private firms to raise output.

The ministry is approaching the Cabinet to allow private companies take 60 per cent stake in producing oil and gas fields of national oil companies, ONGC and OIL, with the view that they would raise production above the baseline estimate.

As many as 15 fields - 11 of Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and four of Oil India Ltd (OIL) - with cumulative inplace reserve of 791.2 million tonnes of crude oil and 333.46 billion cubic metres of gas have been identified, sources privy to the development said.

These include Kalok, Ankleshwar, Gandhar and Santhal - the big four oilfields of ONGC in Gujarat. All of these fields are in blocks or areas that were given to the national oil companies on nomination basis and the current policy does not allow private firms taking equity stake in a nomination block.

So, a change in policy is required for which the ministry is approaching the cabinet, the sources said. The policy currently allows giving out of participating interest (PI) or a stake to a private company only in the blocks or areas awarded in open auctions under New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) since 1999.

However, only exploration acreage was auctioned under global bidding in such rounds. All areas prior to that were given to ONGC and OIL on a nomination basis.

A baseline based on current oil and gas production from the 15 identified fields would be set and private companies taking 60 per cent equity stake would get only the incremental volumes, sources said.

The fields would be auctioned and any firm committing the maximum capital investment within 10 years of the contract award and the largest share out of its net revenue to the government would be awarded the field.

The 15 fields selected are out of review of 202 fields operated by the national oil companies. The fields chosen are ones that hold reserves of 20 or more million tonnes of oil equivalent (MT OE) and have crossed the half-way mark on a score (indicative of poor field performance) combining exploration index, current recovery and production decline rate in the last three years.

Of the 202 fields, 141 are either less than 10 years of age or had shown some positive change in the year-on-year production rate.

As many as 44 fields of ONGC and OIL have been identified for production enhancement work through Technical Services Model where technical tie-ups would get the 'tariff' that they bid as a return for increasing the output 'over the baseline production' for 10 years initially.

Sources said the ministry is unhappy with the near stagnant oil and gas production and believes giving out the discovered fields to private firms would help raise output as they can bring in technology and capital.

It has been tasked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to cut oil import dependence by 10 per cent by 2022 over 77 per cent dependence in 2014-15. The dependence has only increased and is now over 80 per cent.

The privatisation is repeat of the infamous round in 1992-93 when medium sized discovered fields like Panna/Mukta and Tapti oil and gas field in the western offshore was given to now defunct Enron Corp of the US and Reliance Industries.

As many as 28 fields were then awarded. Under this regime, ONGC was made licensee and given an option to farm-in 40 per cent of stake.

The controversial privatisation under the then oil minister Satish Sharma had resulted in a CBI inquiry.
Bengaluru: Confederation of All India Traders on Sunday suggested that the Centre ask traders, whose turnover is up to Rs 100 crore annually, to file form GSTR-3B on a monthly basis rather than quarterly basis.

"It is suggested that the Centre can ask traders, whose turnover is up to Rs 100 crore annually to file form GSTR3B on a monthly basis. They should be asked to pay tax monthly on a self-assessment basis," CAIT President B C Bhartia told PTI over phone from Nagpur.

His statement comes in the wake of GSTN, a portal for real-time tax return filing under GST, running into a technical snag. Bhartia suggested that the GST Council take a cue from the Maharashtra government, which he said had asked dealers to pay VAT on a monthly basis to save them from 'harassment.'

Bhartia also said that since GST is a compliance-driven law led by technology, the designer should have discussed all this with the respective ministries.

The GST council should have considered that there were enough number of competent human resources available, who would ensure compliance.

The government should have constituted an inter-ministeri inter-ministerial group to ensure each ministry plays its due role to ensure ease in GST compliance, he said.
The funds have been mobilised for business expansion, refinancing of debt, working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes.

New Delhi: Indian firms mobilised over Rs 36,000 crore through issuance of shares to institutional investors during April-September period of the current fiscal, a 13-fold rise from the year-ago period.

As per the latest data available with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), capital garnered by the listed companies through the Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) route stood at Rs 36,653 crore in the first six months of 2017-18.

In comparison, firms had mopped-up Rs 2,818 crore in April-September period of 2016-17.

The capital garnered by the listed companies in the first six months of 2017-18 is also four times the total amount raised in the entire 2016-17, which stood at Rs 8,464 crore.

The funds have been mobilised for business expansion, refinancing of debt, working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes. QIP is an alternative mode of resource raising available for listed companies to raise funds from domestic market.

In terms of numbers, 16 issues were witnessed in the first six months of the current fiscal as compared to 9 during the same period of the previous financial year.
Rumour has it that Sushant Singh Rajput and Kriti Sanon have rekindled their relationship. From what we hear, the two met after a short break at Sushants home, where the Bareilly ki Barfi actress visited him.For a while now, the couple had decided to stay away from the limelight, following the release of Raabta.

Earlier this week, Kriti tried to meet Sushant away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi. She quietly parked her car away from Sushants building in order to avoid attention and tiptoed to his house. It was clear that she did not want the photographers to click them together or give away a hint that she was driving into his building, informs our source. Kriti and Sushant were last seen along with Kritis sister Nupur, when the three of them had dinner together. The two were visibly agitated when they were snapped by the shutterbugs.
New Delhi: Ranveer Singh, who plays Alauddin Khilji in one of the most anticipated films of the year, 'Padmavati,' bid farewell to his character by wrapping up his portion for the saga.

The 32-year-old actor, who plays the character of the most powerful ruler of the Khalji dynasty, took to his Twitter handle and posted his portrait as Khilji with blood stains on it.

The picture was captioned, "And it's a wrap! Goodbye Alauddin. 1 year and a few weeks later, I bid thee farewell. May your restless soul find its peace... #Khilji"

And it's a wrap!

Goodbye Alauddin. 1 year and a few weeks later, I bid thee farewell. May your restless soul find its peace... #Khilji pic.twitter.com/Q958NazuJC  Ranveer Singh (@RanveerOfficial) November 4, 2017

The movie is based on Rani Padmini, a legendary Hindu Rajput queen, mentioned in 'Padmavat', an Avadhi language epic poem written by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi in 1540.

According to Padmavat, she was the wife of Ratan Sen (called Rawal Ratan Singh in later legends), the Rajput ruler of Mewar.

In 1303, Alauddin Khilji, the Turkic ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, laid siege to the Chittor Fort in Rajputana.

Rani Padmini is said to have committed jauhar (self-immolation) along with all the other women of the city to protect their honour.

The men of the city stormed out in a final mortal sally to kill as many enemies before falling.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's epic saga, 'Padmavati', has been embroiled in controversies with Rajput Karni Sena objecting to the film's release.
Karan Johar is currently set to roll three films  Kesari, with Akshay Kumar on the Battle of Saragarhi, a superhero movie Brahmastra with Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Amitabh Bachchan, and the Sairat remake with Ishaan Khattar and Jhanvi Kapoor. However, one more movie in her repertoire is set to be a biopic.

And its going to be one about flight lieutenant Gunjan Saxena.

Gunjan, along with flight lieutenant Srividya Rajan, were Indias first women to fly choppers and evacuate injured Indian soldiers from Kargil 18 years ago. They braved enemy fire in northern Kashmir for this.

Gunjans brother and father too were in the army, and the combat aviator  now married to an IAF chopper pilot  was awarded the Shaurya Chakra. Shes also one of the 25 women to form the first batch of IAF trainee pilots, and hence makes for an interesting story.

Karan, who is also partaking as a producer in many women-oriented films like the Alia Bhatt-starrer Raazi, is now looking to cast the right girl for the role. Karan will not direct the film himself, says a source.

 Sanskriti Media
Hyderabad: Rachakonda police commissioner Mahesh Bhagwat on Saturday ordered an inquiry on the reports that Saroornagar inspector S. Lingaiah was using a home guard for body massage at the inspectors home.

An alleged video of the home guard massaging the inspector went viral on Saturday. The commissioner also issued orders attaching the inspector to the commissionerate and appointed Mr N. Prakash Reddy, DCP (Admin), Racha-konda, to inquire into the incident and submit a report at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the inspector denied the charges saying the videos are fabricated and had never used personnel for his personal use. The person in the video in circulation is clearly not me and I do not have a habit of consuming alcohol also, the inspector said. Home guard Saida Nayak, on Saturday claimed that the inspector had been forcing him to massage his body at his home.  While I massage his body, he would consume alcohol sitting in the chair, said Nayak while talking to media.

For a fair inquiry, the inspector is attached to the head quarter with immediate effect and based on the report, further action will be initiated against him, said an official source from Rachakonda. Meanwhile, the inspector claimed that home guard Nayak was initially deputed to Saroornagar police station, but he was on medical leave after he met with an accident two months ago. Later he obtained a passport and moved to the commissionerate.
Tamil Nadu cartoonist G Bala was arrested in Chennai and taken to Tirunelveli. (Photo: Facebook)

Chennai: A Chennai-based cartoonist G. Balakrishnan, 36, alias Bala, was on Sunday arrested by the Tirunelveli police for a cartoon critiquing the state government over the death of a family, who self-immolated at the Tirunelveli collectors office on October 23 alleging inaction by authorities over their usury complaint.

All four of the family, including two children, died in the incident. The cartoon in contention depicts the Nellai Collector, Chief Minister and the Superintendent of Police naked and covering their private parts with wads of cash while closing their eyes to a child burning in front of them.

The cartoon was posted on his Facebook page, a day after the tragedy which shook the conscience of the state.

Tirunelveli district Collector Sandeep Nanduri filed a complaint with the district crime branch towards the end of October. An FIR was registered on November 1 by the Tirunelveli police who reached the city on Sunday to arrest Bala.

Several plainclothes policemen barged into Balas residence in Peripanchery near Kovur in Chennai and secured him even as his family members confronted and questioned their identity. Police also secured hard drives from his computer.

Balas arrest condemned

Police said that Bala was booked under sections 501 (printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory) of the IPC and Section 67 (punishment for publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of the IT Act.

Balas arrest was condemned by civilians and politicians alike. The cartoon has now gone viral with people sharing it on social media while questioning whether they would also be held for sharing it.
Holger Eric is a resident of Berlin, who had come to visit Agori Fort when the incident took place. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

Sonebhadra: A German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj railway station in the district, police said on Sunday.

The incident comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agra's Fatehpur Sikri.

Holger Ereek was allegedly beaten by railway contractor Aman Kumar on Saturday after which the station master informed the police.

Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwari said that the accused has been arrested.

However, the railway contractor alleged that when he greeted Ereek by saying "welcome to India", he hit him.

The victim refused to talk to the media.

However, Additional Director General (Law and Order), Anand Kumar said, "There have been previous complaints against the German national. His visa had expired and passport impounded earlier."

"Complaint lodged from both sides. Some people complained about the German national earlier too. I think he has some depression issues," Anand Kumar added.

On October 22, a Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), were chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple was quoted as saying in a media report that they were strolling near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youth started following them and later attacked.

The couple said as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones, the report said.

All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

The couple were also offered a free stay in 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons.
2 militants were killed on Saturday as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along LoC in Uri. (Representational Image | PTI)

Srinagar: Two militants were, on Saturday, killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district.

The operation is still in progress.

"An infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector and two terrorists have been killed," an Army official said here.

Further details are awaited.
According to the Law Panel, torture has not been defined in the Constitution or in other penal laws of the country.

Hyderabad: Two decades after India signed the UN Convention against Torture, it now appears the Centre is ready to ratify it.

The government is ready with the Prevention of Torture Bill. An earlier version was passed by the Lok Sabha in 2010 and then referred to the Rajya Sabha which asked for certain amendments. The Bill lapsed with the dissolution of the 15th Lok Sabha.

The Law Commission of India in its 273rd report has recommended that the Centre it enact the Prevention of Torture Bill, which makes public servants responsible for custodial torture.

The Law Commission said, Torture has been a contentious issue having a direct bearing on the right to life and liberty of an individual. It said it was is of the opinion that such heinous acts must be curbed through strong legislation providing stringent punishment, which will act as a deterrent.

According to the Law Panel, torture has not been defined in the Constitution or in other penal laws of the country.

Prof. Murali Karanam, who teaches law, said that though torture was not defined in the Constitution, the Supreme Court has implied a right against torture by way of interpretation of Article 21 which deals with right to life and liberty.

The Commission has noted that though India has signed the Convention against Torture, it is yet to be ratified. Not ratifying the convention may lead to difficulties in cases involving extradition, as foreign courts may refuse extradition or may impose limitations, in the absence of an anti-torture law in line with the convention, while granting extradition.

The Law Panel in its draft Bill annexed to the Report, recommended imprisonment for up to 10 years with fine for the public servant who is found guilty of torture, besides providing compensation to the victims by amending the Criminal Procedure Code.

The Commission said that where death of any person is caused due to torture, the person committing the offence shall be punishable with death or imprisonment for life and shall also be liable to a fine.

According to the draft Bill prepared by the law panel, a plaint against torture should be probed by an officer not below the rank of deputy superintendent of police or the corresponding rank in any investigative agency as would ensure independent probe under the supervision of the superintendent of police.

Activists seek probe unit

The Law Commission of Indias recommendation that a law against torture be introduced has been welcomed by civil rights activists.

Mr D. Suresh Kumar of the Civil Liberties Committee, and an advocate in the Hyderabad High Court, said that the constitution of an independent agency to probe cases of torture by the state will give confidence to citizens.

Most cases of police torture are organised on the directions of the political executive, and it is an open secret in our country that political bosses are dependent on the police and so always try to shield police excesses, he said. He said that the prohibition of torture is a part of customary international law and is a part of jus cog-ens (compelling laws).

Mr Lateef Mohammed Khan, chairman of the Civil Liberties Monitoring Committee, said that only a stringent law, which will deter law enforcing agencies, will prevent custodial torture, which is rampant in the country.

Prof. Murali Karanam, who teaches law, felt that investigation by the police of torture cases which involve police personnel will not yield any result.

He said that the first level of filter was investigation of crimes of police by themselves and shutting the cases.

He explained that in 2014 as many as 47,774 complaints of torture were received against the police out of which 42 per cent were termed false and closed. The gravity of this cover up is clear when we realise that only 5.8 per cent of cases against citizens are sealed as false, he stated.
Hyderabad: Renuka, a Class 10 student of Kasturba Girls Residency School, attempted suicide by jumping from the second floor of her four-storey hostel on Wednesday. The student was rushed to a private hospital in Shamshabad by hostel officials.

She said her maths teacher Madhavi had scolded her in front of her friends. Out of 30 students, she failed only me. She keeps scolding me in front of my peers. I could not take the humiliation.

Her parents were notified only on Sunday. The medical bills were being handled by the teacher who had asked her to not inform her parents. The school denied the allegations and said Renuka was unable to cope with academic pressure.
Hyderabad: The Telangana state government is all set to create history by providing 24x7 uninterrupted, free power to farmers across the state on a trial basis from Monday.

The trial will be held for five or six days, and the scheme will be launched formally from March-April 2018.

Farmers are currently getting nine hours of free power. Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao said on Sunday that his dream of supplying quality and uninterrupted power to farmers at no cost was on the verge of becoming a reality.

The Chief Minister met TS Genco CMD D. Prabhakar Rao on Sunday and told him to ensure that the 24-hour free power supply begins by March-April 2018.

Mr Prabhakar Rao said that when the experimental supply is started on Monday night, he wants estimates to be done and feedback monitored in all the districts, all sub stations, divisions, transformer-wise and every minute should be monitored for the next five to six days. There will be a review of the six-day performance to see how 24-hour free supply can be sustained on a permanent basis. Though some states are supplying free power to farmers, nowhere is the supply for the full 24 hours.

TS needs 2,000 MW more for free supply

After the formation of Telangana state in 2014, the government had extended the six-hour free power supply to nine hours.

As the Chief Minister ordered 24-hours free power later, the power department has spent `12,000 crore to strengthen the distribution and supply network. Round-the-clock power was successfully supplied on an experimental basis to the old Medak district on June 17 this year, and also to the old Karimnagar and Nalgonda districts on June 18.

There are 23 lakh pump sets in the state, of which 9.58 lakh are in these three districts alone. That is 43 per cent of the pump sets in the state, with a maximum demand of 9,500 MW. The power was procured and supplied.

To supply 24-hour power to more than 23 lakh pump sets additionally, the requirement will be for an additional 1,500-2,000 MW.
Hyderabad: Telangana Joint Action Committee chairman Prof. Kodandaram said the TJAC was seriously considering a proposal to launch a political party before the 2019 Assembly elections to take on the undemocratic regime of the TRS.

Speaking at the extended steering committee meeting of the TJAC here, Prof Kodandaram said, This is a proposal which is being considered seriously. If the situation continues in the state, we will have to think seriously about launching an alternative political force.

TJAC leaders and activists, who attended the meeting in large numbers from all the districts, demanded that a party be launched as a strong alternative to the TRS. They said no political party had the strength to dethrone the TRS.

Speaking to the media later, Prof. Kodandaram said, We will intensify our agitations against the state government for its failure on agriculture and employment. Farmers suffered huge losses on account of spurious seeds, adverse weather conditions and lack of minimum support price. Students did not get jobs as government has failed to fill lakhs of vacancies.

He said the TRS would hold round-table meetings in all districts to create awareness among the people on these issue and build a movement against the TRS government.

The government is misusing police machinery against us. We have not witnessed such a heavy police restrictions even when Seemandhra rulers ruled us. The TRS government is not allowing us to tour districts to take up any programme. We are illegally detained, Prof. Kodandaram said.
Hyderabad: Hectic political activity is being witnessed in the Old City with the parties are getting ready for elections that could be held next year against their scheduled date of March-April 2019.

Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) cadres are excited with party chief Asaduddin Owaisi visiting colonies and neighbourhoods in municipal divisions along with local legislators, corporators and officials of government departments.

On-the-spot decisions are being taken by Mr Owaisi when it comes to improving civic amenities like drinking water lines, roads and drainage lines, said an MIM legislator.

The next day, the representation is being sent to the official concerned with a recommendation to use MPLAD funds or the MPs budget, said a party source.

Mr Owaisi, who is always on the move across the country, is now moving around the localities to get an insight into developmental other public issues.

MIM floor leader and legislator Akbaruddin Owaisi went around his Chandranyangutta constituency last month and opened a party office at Bandlaguda.

The TRS are also trying to show its presence in the Old City and its extension areas. Deputy Chief Minister Mohd Mahmood Ali recently attended a programme at Shaheennagar where several youngsters joined the TRS. The party leaders, according to sources, are planning more such programmes in the Old City.
Hyderabad: AICC Telangana state incharge R.C. Kunthia on Sunday asked professionals to speak the truth about the issues confronting the country like demonetisation, faulty implementation of GST and falling growth rates so that the people will get a proper perspective.

He said the silence of intellectuals and professionals would be a blot on the parliamentary form of democracy and the nation would suffer.

Mr Kunthia was speaking at the All India Professional Congress conference here on Sunday. South India Professional Congress co-ordinator Dr J. Geetha Reddy, who presided over the programme appealed to professionals to join the Congress so that their intelligence is properly channelled.

She announced the appointment of TPCC general secretary Dasoju Sravan as president of the Professional Congress for Telangana state.

TPCC president N. Uttam Kumar Reddy appealed to professionals to join the Congress and save democracy which was under threat under the BJP and TRS governments. He said the professionals had remained associated with the Congress for decades but had drifted to the BJP and Mr Narendra Modi in 2014.

He said they had realised the true colours of Mr Modi and had started returning to the Congress fold. He said there was no organisation to take up issues concerning professionals.

He accused Mr Modi and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao of throttling democracy and dismantling democratic institutions. Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy said the TS Assembly was being misused to carry out propaganda of government schemes and the Opposition was not getting time to express its views. He said the misuse of Assembly has put the democratic set-up in grave danger. A similar situation prevailed at the national level, he said.

Congress will prioritise problem-solving: Uttam

TPCC president N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Sunday promised that the Congress, after coming to power in 2019, would give priority to resolving problems being faced by tribals. Despite several sacrifices, tribals had failed to get justice.

He said though the STs traditionally supported the Congress, they were lured by promises made by the TRS in 2014. Their dreams were shattered as the Chandrasekhar Rao regime placed the community on the non-priority list.

Addressing a meeting organised by the Lambada Hakkula Porata Samithi at Nagarjunasagar, the TPCC chief said ST communities had lost thousands of jobs and seats as the quota had not been increased from six to nine per cent in proportion with their population. This could have been done with an executive order, he said.

Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy said the TRS government had failed to constitute SC and ST commissions and had weakened the mechanism set up to deal with issues concerning Dalits and tribals.

He referred to the Khammam market yard incident where chilli farmers belonging to the ST communities were arrested and hand-cuffed because they demanded remunerative prices.

He said the government had failed to set up the steel plant at Bayyaram which could have provided jobs to hundreds of tribals.Leader of Opposition in the Assembly K. Jana Reddy said the Congress would raise the issues of the community in the Assembly session.
Hyderabad: TPCC president N. Uttam Kumar Reddy came down like a tonne of bricks on the Central and state governments, accusing them of acting against farmers interests that has resulted in the country facing a serious agrarian crisis.

Inaugurating the newly-constructed Congress party office at Mothe in Suryapet district in the evening, Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy promised all help to the farming community in the event of the Congress forming the government after the next elections.

The TPCC president said TRS government has been claiming that it has fulfilled its promise to waive farm loans, but the last instalment has still not reached banks and has not deposited in farmers accounts.

Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy said if that Chief Minister talk about bailing out farmers from debt, one fails to understand why 3,000 farmers in the state committed suicide in the last three years.

He said Congress will raise the paddy procurement price to Rs 2,000 per quintal, chilli price to Rs 12,000 per quintal besides also increasing the stipend for the unemployed youth in the state to Rs 3,000 per month.

The TPCC president demanded the state government to explain why it was not supplying irrigation water to Mothe mandal though the Congress government had sanctioned the project.
There is euphoria in ruling party circles about the 30-place jump India has made in the World Banks Ease of Doing Business Index ranking. At a function in New Delhi to celebrate this on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went to the extent of saying that EODB showed the Ease of Good Life. If this seems a little hyperbolic, World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva appeared no less enthusiastic about Indias prospects after this rare achievement, and suggested that by 2047  meaning in 30 years time  when India celebrates 100 years of Independence, it would have become a higher-range middle-income country. Its not clear if Ms Georgieva is an economist with a background in the complexity of India, but if she is she didnt reveal what data and what projections had moved her to go that far.

This is the 15th edition of EODB rankings by the World Bank in which two cities each from 190 countries are chosen to assign ranks, and India has risen from being 130 on the list to 100. Its this that the government is crowing about as a singular achievement and a result of working very hard and bringing about structural changes in the economy.

Just Mumbai and Delhi were chosen to study the vastness of India by World Bank officials and the study was completed before GST came to be implemented in July. So in what way it can be said to speak for the current fiscal year remains unclear. Moreover, the loud celebration glosses over the results of crucial EODB parameters.

For example, India is ranked 156 out of 190 countries in the matter of starting a business; on enforcement of business contracts we are at 164; on obtaining construction permits we languish at 181; and on registering property India figures at number 154. Is this anything to gloat over?

On the other hand, in the Human Development Index report released in May this year, we dropped down one position to number 130 out of 188 countries, well below our Saarc neighbours like Sri Lanka and the Maldives, and are in the same range as Congo, Namibia and Pakistan. Yet, the World Bank CEO believes we are on track to be a high-revenue middle-income country  which is more than that can be said for several countries of Europe  in three decades, say by the time children of a young Indian of reproductive age prepare to enter primary school.

This seems about as credible as the governments oft-stated claim that the income of farmers will double in the next five years, and by then every Indian will be sleeping in his/her own home, not on pavements or in cowsheds. Posterity may hold us guilty of recording development only by soundbites.
His clicks prove that he is slightly unconventional  its not always you see aerial 360 degree photographs brimming with life and beauty.

Prasanth Chandran cant get enough of globetrotting. Every year, he goes on at least three international journeys, at times solo, or with his family. A digital marketing professional in Kerala, he is passionate about capturing life and culture in various parts of the world in his camera. His clicks prove that he is slightly unconventional  its not always you see aerial 360 degree photographs brimming with life and beauty.

I do not manipulate my photos. I love to experiment with my camera and click using multiple exposure technique. 40 to 60 images are superimposed and stitched sometimes. Being an avid traveler, I love to shoot landscapes, he reveals.

Another favourite subject of his is photographing sparks from a spinning ignited steel wool. For clicking spherical panoramic shots, he has his imported gears  his Sony A7R2 and 360 degree cameras, which are not much popular here. One of the 30 Google-certified photographers in the country, Prasanth also owns a contributor license to Getty images.

Of all his journeys so far, the most memorable one has been two years back to first nuke victim land Hiroshima. The visit to the A-bomb dome, the only structure that was left standing at the epicenter of the blast, is preserved as ruins. A whole new city has resurrected around it. The visitors are greeted with badges and souvenirs. That was a memorable sight  an iconic dome  a reminder of the biggest tragedy that struck mankind  standing amidst a city that literally rose from the ashes, he recalls.

The landscapes of Thailand, Laos and Cambodia have wooed him. Unlike Europe, which he calls a city of structures, South East Asian countries have a special charm  of greenery, a peculiar culture with lots of similarities with Indian culture and lifestyle. There are several temples there. Everywhere around, it is beautiful frames and sights that would never satiate ones passion for photography. I would be going back there again, theres lot more to click, he says.

In India too, sights never stop wooing. Leh, Ladakh, Hampi to lesser-known spots like Chellarkovil near Thekkady, he has gone everywhere with his best friend  his third eye, the camera.

A
Martha ODonovan, who appeared in court in the capital Harare, was charged with subversion as well as undermining or insulting Mugabe, now 93. (Photo: AFP)

Harare: A 25-year-old American journalist charged with attempting to overthrow Zimbabwes President Robert Mugabe, on account of an alleged tweet that described the ageing leader as selfish and sick, was remanded in custody Saturday after denying the accusations.

Martha ODonovan, who appeared in court in the capital Harare, was charged with subversion as well as undermining or insulting Mugabe, now 93.

The arrest of ODonovan and the seizure of her laptop in a dawn raid at her apartment on Friday, came just weeks after the government appointed a cyber security minister tasked with policing social media.

Prosecutors said that on October 11, ODonovan posted a message on Twitter under username @matigary which said: We are being led by a selfish and sick man. The tweet was illustrated with a photo showing the Zimbabwean president with a catheter device.

Our client is vehemently denying both charges, her lawyer Obey Shava said, adding that ODonovan would apply for bail on Monday at the High Court.

ODonovan works for Harare-based Magamba TV, which describes itself as a leading producer of cutting edge political satire and comedy. Its content goes out on YouTube.

Human rights lawyers on Friday had said the arrest was linked to a retweet which did not mention Mugabe by name but referred to a goblin whose wife and step-son bought a Rolls-Royce.

Mugabes stepson with his wife and first-lady Grace, is thought to have recently imported two British-built Rolls-Royce vehicles, according to local media reports.

But a charge sheet read in court on Saturday referred to the different post on Twitter that specifically mentioned Mugabe.

The US embassy said on Friday that it had been in contact with ODonovan and her legal counsel.

The cyber-security ministry was created in Mugabes latest cabinet reshuffle last month which also saw his deputy Emmerson Mnangagwa being stripped of his justice portfolio.

The new ministry is seen by rights groups as an attempt to clamp down on social media in the run up to next years election.

Some use the internet to fight us and implement what they say is regime change, Mugabe said on Saturday while commissioning a community information centre in the southern city of Bulawayo while ODonovan was appearing in court.

Mugabe has already been named by his ruling ZANU-PF party as its presidential candidate for the 2018 poll.
Part of a file from the CIA, dated Oct. 10, 1963, details "a reliable and sensitive source in Mexico" report of Lee Harvey Oswald's contact with the Soviet Union embassy in Mexico City, that was released for the first time on Friday, Nov. 3, 2017, by the National Archives. (Photo: AP)

Washington: Newly released government documents regarding John F Kennedys assassination say allegations that Lee Harvey Oswald was connected to the CIA were totally unfounded.

A 1975 CIA memo says a thorough search of agency records in and outside the United States was conducted to determine whether Oswald had been used by the agency or connected with it in any conceivable way.

The memo said the search came up empty. The memo also said there was also no indication that any other US agency used Oswald as a source or for recruitment.

The National Archives released another 676 government documents related to the assassination on Friday  the third public release so far this year. Under law, all the documents were to be disclosed to the public last week.

Most of the latest release comprises 553 records from the CIA that previously were withheld in their entirety. There also are records from the Justice and Defense departments, the House Select Committee on Assassinations and the National Archives.

University of Virginia historian Larry Sabato complained that many of the documents in the latest release were still heavily redacted. He tweeted about a 144-page record, titled Material Reviewed at CIA headquarters by House Select Committee on Assassinations staff members, that had writing on only a handful of pages.

President Donald Trump has ordered the release of all records related to the assassination, and they are expected to be made public on a rolling basis during the next three to four weeks. He also directed agencies to take another look at redactions and withhold information only in the rarest of circumstances.

One record showed how US officials scrambled after the assassination to round up information about Oswalds trip to Mexico City weeks earlier. Officials wondered whether Oswald had been trying to get visas at the Soviet and Cuban embassies in Mexico City in order to make a quick escape after assassinating the president.

A CIA message sent Nov. 24, 1963  two days after Kennedy was killed  said an important question that remained unsolved was whether Oswald had been planning to travel right away or return to the US and leave later.

The message said that although it appeared Oswald was then thinking only about a peaceful change of residence to the Soviet Union, it is also possible that he was getting documented to make a quick escape after assassinating the president.

Another record dated April 11, 1964, recounted a visit to the CIA by three staff members of the Warren Commission, which was set up to investigate the assassination.

The memo said the staff members indicated that Thomas Mann, former ambassador to Mexico and then-assistant secretary for inter-American affairs, still has the feeling in his guts that (Cuban leader Fidel) Castro hired Oswald to kill Kennedy. They said, however, that the commission has not been able to get any proof of that.

Also in the latest release was a 20-page FBI analysis of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. dated March 12, 1968  a month before he was assassinated on April 4, 1968. One section alleges that King was attracted to former members of the Communist Party in America. It notes that two previous aides were party members and eight others, who helped shape Kings organization in its early stages, had communist affiliations.

The analysis said that in the early 1960s, the Communist Party was trying to get a black labor coalition to further its goals in the United States. It referenced a May 1961 issue of a communist newspaper that stated, Communists will do their utmost to strengthen and unite the Negro movement and ring it to the backing of the working people.

The FBI said King and his organization were made-to-order to achieve these objectives.

The FBIs surveillance of King is well-known and the analysis includes several pages about his sexual life. One document said a black minister who attended a workshop to train ministers in February 1968 in Miami expressed his disgust with the behind-the-scene drinking, fornication and homosexuality that went on at the conference.

Throughout the ensuing years and until this date, King has continued to carry on his sexual aberrations secretly while holding himself out to public view as a moral leader of religious conviction, the FBI report said.
The US Defense Department sent the letter in response to a request from two members of Congress for details regarding expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea for US and allied forces in Japan, South Korea and Guam as well as civilians, the Post said. (Photo: AFP/Representational)

Washington: The only certain way to locate and secure all North Korea's nuclear weapons sites would be via a US ground invasion, the Washington Post reported on Saturday, citing a letter from Pentagon officials sent to US lawmakers.

Read: Trump arrives in Japan with vows to totally destroy North Korea

It said the letter, reportedly written by the vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff, noted that such a conflict could prompt Pyongyang to deploy biological and chemical weapons.

The report detailing the prospect of war on the Korean peninsula comes as President Donald Trump embarks on a nearly two-week Asia tour, with the North's nuclear and missile program expected to top the agenda.

Read: N Korea sends out fresh warning as Trump embarks on 5-nation Asia trip

The US Defense Department sent the letter in response to a request from two members of Congress for details regarding "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea" for US and allied forces in Japan, South Korea and Guam as well as civilians, the Post said.

Tensions have soared over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs in recent months, goaded by Trump and Pyongyang leader Kim Jong-Un's fiery exchanges of insults and warnings of conflict.
Texas: A man dressed in black tactical-style gear and armed with an assault rifle opened fire inside a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing 26 people and wounding at least 16 others in what the governor called the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history.

The dead ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old.

Authorities didn't identify the attacker during a news conference Sunday night, but two other officials - one a US official and one in law enforcement - identified him as Devin Kelley. They spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they weren't authorised to discuss the investigation.

The US official said Kelley lived in a San Antonio suburb and didn't appear to be linked to organised terrorist groups. Investigators were looking at social media posts Kelley made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon.

In a brief statement, the Pentagon confirmed he had served in the Air Force "at one point." Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek said records show that Kelley served in Logistics Readiness at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico from 2010 until his discharge. The date of his discharge and the circumstances under which he left the service were not immediately available.

At the news conference, the attacker was described only as a white man in his 20s who was wearing black tactical gear and a ballistic vest when he pulled into a gas station across from the First Baptist Church around 11:20 am.

The gunman crossed the street and started firing a Ruger AR rifle at the church, said Freeman Martin, a regional director of the Texas Department of Safety, then continued firing after entering the white wood-frame building, where an 11 am service was scheduled. As he left, he was confronted by an armed resident who chased him. A short time later, the suspect was found dead in his vehicle at the county line, Martin said.

Several weapons were found inside the vehicle and Martin said it was unclear if the attacker died of a self-inflicted wound or if he was shot by the resident who confronted him. He said investigators weren't ready to discuss a possible motive for the attack.

He said 23 of the dead were found dead in the church, two were found outside and one died after being taken to a hospital.

Addressing the news conference, Gov. Greg Abbott called the attack the worst mass shooting in Texas history. "There are no words to describe the pure evil that we witnessed in Sutherland Springs today," Abbott said.

"Our hearts are heavy at the anguish in this small town, but in time of tragedy, we see the very best of Texas. May God comfort those who've lost a loved one, and may God heal the hurt in our communities."

Among those killed was the church pastor's 14-year-old daughter, Annabelle Pomeroy. Pastor Frank Pomeroy, and his wife, Sherri, were both out of town in two different states when the attack occurred, Sherri Pomeroy wrote in a text message to the AP.

"We lost our 14 year old daughter today and many friends," she wrote. "Neither of us has made it back into town yet to personally see the devastation. I am at the charlotte airport trying to get home as soon as i can."

Federal law enforcement swarmed the small rural community of a few hundred residents 30 miles southeast of San Antonio after the attack, including ATF investigators and members of the FBI's evidence collection team.

At least 16 wounded were taken to hospitals, hospital officials said, including eight taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center. Another eight victims were taken to Connally Memorial Medical Center, located in Floresville about 10 miles from the church, including four who were later transferred to University Hospital in San Antonio for higher-level care, said spokeswoman Megan Posey.

Alena Berlanga, a Floresville resident who was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said everyone knows everyone else in the sparsely populated county.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," Berlanga said. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected."

Regina Rodriguez, who arrived at the church a couple of hours after the shooting, walked up to the police barricade and hugged a person she was with. She said her father, 51-year-old Richard Rodriguez, attends the church every Sunday, and she hadn't been able to reach him. She said she feared the worst.

Church member Nick Uhlig, 34, wasn't at Sunday's service, but he said his cousins were at the church and that his family was told at least one of them, a woman with three children and pregnant with another, was among the dead.

"We just gathered to bury their grandfather on Thursday," he said, shaking his head. "This is the only church here. We have Bible study, men's Bible study, vacation Bible school. Somebody went in and started shooting."

President Donald Trump, who was in Japan, where he was on an Asian trip, called the shooting an "act of evil" and said he was monitoring the situation.

"We're shocked. Shocked and dismayed," said state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, a Laredo Democrat whose district includes Sutherland Springs, a rural community known for its peanut festival, which was held last month. "It's especially shocking when it's such a small, serene area. These rural areas, they are so beautiful and so loving."

Later Sunday, two sheriff's vans were parked outside the gate of a cattle fence surrounding the address listed for Kelley on the rural, western outskirts of New Braunfels, north of San Antonio, preventing a group of waiting journalists from entering. Officials from the Comal County Sherriff's Office and the Texas Rangers declined to comment or say if they had raided his home.

Ryan Albers, 16, who lives across the road said he heard intensifying gunfire coming from that direction in recent days.

"It's really loud. At first I thought someone was blasting," Albers said. "It had to be coming from somewhere pretty close. It was definitely not just a shotgun or someone hunting. It was someone using automatic weapon fire."

The church has posted videos of its Sunday services on a YouTube channel, raising the possibility that the shooting was captured on video.

In a video of its October 8 service, a congregant who spoke and read Scripture pointed to the October 1 Las Vegas shooting a week earlier as evidence of the "wicked nature" of man. That shooting left 58 dead and more than 500 injured.

Until Sunday, the deadliest mass shooting in Texas had been a 1991 attack in Killeen, when a mentally disturbed man crashed his pickup truck through a restaurant window at lunchtime and started shooting people, killing 23 and injuring more than 20 others.

The University of Texas was the site of one of the most infamous mass shootings in American history, when US Marine sniper Charles Whitman climbed the Austin campus' clock tower in 1966 and began firing on stunned people below, killing 13 and wounding nearly three dozen others. He had killed his wife and mother before heading to the tower, one victim died a week later and medical examiners eventually attributed a 17th death to Whitman in 2001.
North Korea's recent actions, including several missiles that overflew Japan and Pyongyang's sixth and largest nuclear test, have raised the stakes in the most critical international challenge of Trump's presidency. (Photo: AP)

Yokota Air Base: US President Donald Trump arrived in Japan on Sunday defending his tough rhetoric on North Korea, saying discussions on Pyongyang will figure prominently in talks with other Asian leaders as tensions rise over its missile and nuclear tests.

Trump, at the start of a 12-day Asian trip, is looking to present a united front with Japan against North Korea through meetings with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe amid heightened tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile tests.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Asia, Trump said a decision would be made soon on whether to add the reclusive state to a list of state sponsors of terrorism.

His administration also planned to take a different approach to dealing with the issue after years of what he termed "total weakness".

"We want to get it solved. It's a big problem for our country and the world, and we want to get it solved," he said.

"And there's been 25 years of total weakness and so we're taking a very much different approach," Trump said, without giving any details.

Trump has rattled some allies with his vow to "totally destroy" North Korea if it threatens the United States and his dismissal of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a "rocket man" on a suicide mission.

North Korea's recent actions, including several missiles that overflew Japan and Pyongyang's sixth and largest nuclear test, have raised the stakes in the most critical international challenge of Trump's presidency.

Recent drills over South Korea by two US strategic bombers have further raised tensions.

Trump also said he plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his trip, the longest Asian tour by any US leader since George H.W. Bush in 1992.

"I think it's expected that we will meet," he said. "We want Putin's help on North Korea."

Trump will seek a united front with the leaders of Japan and South Korea against North Korea before visiting Beijing to make the case to Chinese President Xi Jinping that he should do more to rein in Pyongyang.
Trump told Fox News this week that it was possible he would meet Putin during his Asia trip. (Photo: File)

Moscow: There is no cooperation between Russia and US on North Korea for the time being, the RIA news agency cited Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying on Saturday.

There is no cooperation so far. Only periodic exchanges of views, he said. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump may meet at an Asian economic summit in Vietnam next week.

Peskov said there was a great probability that the two would discuss the situation on the Korean peninsula if such a meeting was held.

Trump told Fox News this week that it was possible he would meet Putin during his Asia trip.

Read: US ground invasion only way to locate N Koreas nuclear assets: reports

We may have a meeting with Putin, he said. And, again  Putin is very important because they can help us with North Korea. They can help us with Syria. We have to talk about Ukraine.

Relations between Moscow and Washington have soured further since Putin and Trump first met at a G20 summit in Hamburg in July when they discussed allegations of Russian meddling in the US election, but agreed to focus on better ties.

Read: Trump arrives in Japan with vows to totally destroy North Korea

Tensions have risen over the conflict in Syria, after Russia vetoed a United Nations plan to continue an ongoing investigation into chemical weapons.

A Syria settlement is being discussed for the agenda of a possible meeting between the two presidents, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by RIA, adding it was in their common interest to have enough time to discuss the issue.

Somehow or another it requires cooperation, Peskov said.
The Ahmedabad crime branch officials on Saturday arrested one of the accused in the 2002 Akshardham temple terror attack case as he arrived at the city airport.



Ajmeri Abdul Rashid, one of the 28 absconding accused in the case, had apparently relocated to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He was picked by the crime branch sleuths from near the airport as he returned to the city 15 years after the sensational attack on the temple.

Crime branch DCP Dipen Bhadran said that Rashid had planned and helped banned terror organisation Lashkar-e-Toiba to carry out the attack.

Rashid is said to be the key conspirator and financier of the attack, which took place on September 24, 2002, inside the temple premises. Nearly 32 people, including 28 visitors, were killed and 80 others injured in the attack. The terrorists had used automatic weapons and hand grenades. Three commandos, including one from the NSG and a constable from the State Reserve Police, were also killed.

Follows PM's visit

Rashid's arrest comes 48 hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the silver jubilee celebrations of the temple. During the specially created light and sound show, there was a presentation on the 2002 attack, depicted to be a dark day for the temple, which has withstood several challenges, including the killer temblor of January 26, 2001.

Earlier, Rashid's brother Aadam Ajmeri and two others were awarded capital punishment in the case. However, it was struck down by the Supreme Court, and all the three were acquitted in 2014.

Three other convicts was also let off by the apex court, and investigating agencies were pulled up for not carrying out the probe properly.


He did not share any further details.



Earlier, the Army said two militants were killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district.

Security forces today foiled an attack by the Pakistani Border Action Team (BAT) near the Line of Control in Uri sector of Kashmir, killing two militants.Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid said a possible tragedy was averted BAT action bid foiled by Army and JKP (Jammu and Kashmir Police). Two terrorists killed in Dulanja Uri. No casualty on our side. Possible tragedy averted, the DGP wrote on Twitter.
The Uttar Pradesh government today sought to allay fears that introduction of NCERT books in madrassas in the state will disturb the course structure of the Islamic educational institutions.



At the same time, the government maintained that "dakiyanusi" (conservative) education system cannot ensure "progress of an individual, a state or the country".

"The Uttar Pradesh government has no intention of disturbing the course structure of the madrassas or change them. But, the fact remains that 'dakiyaanusi' education system cannot ensure progress of an individual, a state or the country," Minority Welfare Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary told PTI here.

In the age of technology, no engineer, doctor, scientist or civil servant has come from madrassas, he said.

"We want employment-oriented education and technical education to be imparted in the madrassas across the state," he said.

At present, syllabus of madrassas does not have adequate content of history and culture, he said, adding, "We are planning to introduce history, geography and Sanskrit as additional subjects. This will be implemented from the next academic session."

There are 19,000 recognised madrassas in the state.

The minister said, "The books will be of NCERT and UP Board as well. However, this is still in planning stage. The books are in Urdu, some of which will are already available in the market. The basic aim is an attempt to integrate madrassa education with the mainstream education system."

On October 30, the Yogi Adityanath government decided to introduce NCERT books in madrassas in Uttar Pradesh, apart from making mathematics and science compulsory at intermediate levels in these schools.

The steps are intended to make madrassa students more competitive by providing them contemporary and quality education, according to Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma.

"The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to introduce National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) books in the madrassas in order to make students studying there to come on a par with children of other schools," Sharma recently said.

Of the 19,000 recognised madrassas in the state, 4,600 are partially-funded, while the number of 100 per cent funded madrassas in the state is 560.

The Uttar Pradesh government had on August 18 launched a website related to madrassas and orders were issued to upload all relevant information pertaining to the managing committee of the institutions, teachers, students and other information by September 15.

It then extended by 15 days the deadline till September 30, as there were some technical issues.

The September 30 deadline was then extended by 15 days so that all the madrassas in the state can register themselves on the government website.

So far out of the 19,000 madrassas, as many as 16,686 madrassas have furnished all the relevant details, Chaudhary said.
Saudi Arabia arrested 11 princes, including a prominent billionaire, and dozens of current and former ministers, reports said, in a sweeping crackdown as the kingdom's young crown prince consolidates power.



Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves in the kingdom.

The crackdown was reported immediately after a new anti-corruption commission, headed by powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was established by royal decree late Saturday.

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported that the princes, four current and dozens of former ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into old cases such as floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009.

State-run Saudi Press Agency said the commission's goal was to "preserve public money, punish corrupt people and those who exploit their positions".

Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal was among those arrested, Saudi news websites said though there was no official confirmation. The prince was not reachable for comment.

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets in Jeddah, possibly to prevent any high-profile figures from leaving.

Meanwhile, the kingdom's top council of clerics tweeted that anti-corruption efforts were "as important as the fight against terrorism", essentially giving religious backing to the crackdown.

"The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community," Ulrichsen told AFP.

The purge comes less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business titans to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his economic reform drive for a post-oil era.

It follows a wave of arrests of influential clerics and activists in September as the 32-year-old prince, often known as MBS, cements his grip on power.

Analysts said many of those detained were resistant to Prince Mohammed's aggressive foreign policy that includes the boycott of Gulf neighbour Qatar as well as some of his bold policy reforms, including privatising state assets and cutting subsidies.

The latest purge saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah sacked as the head of the National Guard, an elite internal security force. His removal consolidates MBS's control of the kingdom's security institutions.

To analysts, MBS's meteoric rise has seemed almost Shakespearean in its aggression and calculation. In June, he edged out a 58-year-old cousin, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, to become heir to the throne.

At the time, Saudi television channels showed the bearded MBS kissing the hand of the older prince and kneeling before him in a show of reverence. Western media reports later said that the deposed prince had been placed under house arrest, a claim strongly denied by Saudi authorities.

Already viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major levers of government, from defence to the economy, the prince is widely seen to be stamping out traces of internal dissent before a formal transfer of power from his 81-year-old father King Salman.

At the same time, he has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom with a series of bold moves including the decision allowing women to drive from next June.

Foreign diplomats predict MBS, set to be the first millennial to occupy the Saudi throne, could well be in control of Saudi Arabia for at least half a century.
The dearness allowance of judges of the Supreme Court and the 24 high courts has been increased even as proposals to give them a salary hike are pending approval of the Union Cabinet.



In a letter to the secretary-general of the apex court and registrars general of the high courts last month, the department of justice in the law ministry said that the DA of the judges has been revised to 139 percent with effect from July 1 "at the same rates (139 percent as are admissible to the members of the all-India service".

The letter pointed out that according to the revised rates, central government employees continuing to draw their pay in the pre-revised pay scale as per the Sixth Pay Commission are entitled to the DA at the rate of 139 percent which was revised from 136 percent.

The judges have been given the DA hike based on the 6th Pay Commission as two bills to provide them the benefits of the Seventh Pay Commission are pending approval of the Union Cabinet.

The bills are likely to come up for Cabinet's consideration in the coming days and would be tabled in Parliament in the Winter Session.

While one bill deals with salary and allowances of the Supreme Court judges, the other deals with the salary of the high court judges.

During a hearing last week on a case relating to grant of washing allowance to apex court staff and officers, a bench of justices J Chelameswar and S Abdul Nazir had reportedly asked Additional Solicitor General P S Narasimha about the salary of judges of the Supreme Court and high courts which was to be brought on par with Seventh Pay Commission recommendations for central government employees.

In 2016, the then Chief Justice of India T S Thakur had written to the government seeking a hike in salaries of the Supreme Court and the high court judges on the basis of the recommendations made by a committee of judges which was set up by the CJI to look into the issue of salary and emoluments.

Sources in the government said the issue is under active consideration and a bill to amend The High Court and the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Act may come up in the Winter Session of Parliament.

Government functionaries said the quantum of the hike will not be as recommended by the judges' committee. They said the hike in pay packets would be applicable from January 1, 2016.

The judges' committee recommended a pay hike of Rs 2.8 lakh for Supreme Court judges, Rs 2.5 lakh for high court judges.

A Supreme Court judge at present gets Rs 1.5 lakh a month in hand after all deductions from salary and allowances. The CJI gets a higher amount than this, while the judges of the high court get a lesser amount. This amount does not include the rent-free residences provided to the judges while they are in service.

After the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission, the matter was already under the consideration of the government.

While the approved strength of judges in the apex court is 31, it is 1,079 in the 24 high courts. There are several vacancies.
Laptops and washing machines were bought out of a whopping Rs 29,000 crore fund meant for the welfare of construction workers and less than ten percent spent on the actual purpose.



Terming this as a "shocking" and "extremely distressing" state of affairs, the Supreme Court has said the funds, collected by the government through a cess under the construction workers law, were being "frittered away" and diverted, instead of being spent on the welfare of the beneficiaries.

While making these observations, a bench of Justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta have directed the Union Labour Secretary to appear before it on November 10 "to understand how the act was being implemented and why it was being misused, if not abused."

The "astonishing" details were given in an affidavit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) that the funds meant for construction workers' welfare were spent to buy laptops and washing machines for them, that shocked the Supreme Court.

The apex court had earlier asked the CAG to file a report on how crores of rupees meant for welfare of construction workers was being spent.

It was hearing a PIL filed by NGO, National Campaign Committee for Central Legislation on Construction Labour, which has alleged that the statutory cess levied on real estate firms for the welfare of construction workers was not being utilised properly as there was no mechanism to identify the beneficiaries for extending the benefits.

Asserting that there should be no further exploitation of construction workers by the states or welfare boards, the top court observed that the CAG has revealed a "shocking state of affairs" with regard to the utilisation of the cess collected under the Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996.

"For example: we have been shown expenditure having been incurred for payment of entry tax/value added tax; expenditure incurred for purchase of washing machines for construction workers; expenditure incurred for purchase of laptops for construction workers etc. This is really astonishing," the bench noted in its order.

"It is quite obvious from the above that the amounts are just being frittered away, if not defalcated by the concerned welfare boards," it said.

"Apart from the above, we find that huge amounts have been spent towards administrative expenses while the statute permits only five per cent expenditure towards administrative expenses," it said.

The top court observed that the law was "being misused" as the beneficiaries, who were construction workers, were not given benefits they are entitled to and the money collected was being diverted to the labour welfare boards or the state governments for other purposes.

"We may note that huge amounts have been collected in the region of Rs 29,000 crore and not even 10 per cent has been spent for the benefit of construction workers. The amounts, whatever has been spent, appear to have been spent for the purposes other than for the benefit of construction workers," it said.

Observing that this must be rectified at the earliest, the bench sought the presence of the Secretary of the Union Labour Ministry before it on November 10 to understand how the act was being implemented and why it was being misused, if not abused, to the detriment of the construction workers.

The court had in 2015 expressed displeasure over non- utilisation of a whopping Rs 26,000 crore (the amount then) by the Centre and various state governments, saying "it cannot get worse than this."
The only certain way to locate and secure all North Korea's nuclear weapons sites would be via a US ground invasion, the Washington Post reported Saturday, citing a letter from Pentagon officials sent to US lawmakers.



It said the letter, reportedly written by the vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff, noted that such a conflict could prompt Pyongyang to deploy biological and chemical weapons.

The report detailing the prospect of war on the Korean peninsula comes as President Donald Trump embarks on a nearly two-week Asia tour, with the North's nuclear and missile program expected to top the agenda.

The US Defense Department sent the letter in response to a request from two members of Congress for details regarding "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea" for US and allied forces in Japan, South Korea and Guam as well as civilians, the Post said.

Tensions have soared over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs in recent months, goaded by Trump and Pyongyang leader Kim Jong-Un's fiery exchanges of insults and warnings of conflict.

On Saturday, North Korea welcomed Trump to the region by threatening to increase its nuclear arsenal and saying the idea of talks was "daydreaming," according to the state-run KCNA news agency.

Neither the US president nor his fierce rhetoric were mentioned in the letter, the Post said.

It did however say the military backs the current US approach -- led by state department chief Rex Tillerson -- to wield economic sanctions and apply diplomatic pressure on the North as a means of discouraging its nuclear ambitions.

The Post reported that a statement from 16 lawmakers -- all but one of them Democrats -- obtained along with the Pentagon letter said the "assessment underscores what we've known all along: There are no good military options for North Korea."
A Sikh mayoral candidate in the US has been labelled a terrorist in slanderous flyers left on car windshields only days before the election, according to a media report.



The flyers targeting Ravinder Bhalla, the first Sikh to hold elected office in New Jersey, were placed on car windshields on Friday night, New York Daily News reported.

They have a photo of New Jersey Councilman Bhalla. In red letters above him, the flyers read: "Don't let terrorism take over our Town!", it added.

The report alleged that the leaflets appear to be a modified version of mailers sent out by another Hoboken mayoral candidate, Mike DeFusco. The original flyers accused Bhalla of having a potential conflict of interest.

Officials in New Jersey are condemning flyers that paint the Sikh politician running for the mayor of Hoboken as a terrorist.

DeFusco condemned the altered flyers in a statement.

"Today I spoke out not only against the racist, disgusting flyers targeting Ravi Bhalla that appeared last night and was made to look like it came from my campaign, but also against the rest of the hate that has been shamefully displayed throughout this race," DeFusco said.

DeFusco said he has also been the victim of hateful rhetoric accusing him of being a part of a "crime family" and attacking his sexuality, the report said. He would be Hoboken's first gay mayor, if elected.

Bhalla, in a statement, described the terrorism flyers "troubling." "We won't let hate win in Hoboken," he said.

"I want to use this incident as an opportunity to affirm to each other and our children the value of living in a diverse community where we are judged by the content of our character - not by the colour of our skin or how we worship," Bhalla said in the statement.

Senator Cory Booker posted a photo of the flyers to his Twitter account. He called it "vile" and "hateful" and said, "We all must condemn bigotry & hate!"

Six candidates are vying to replace outgoing Mayor Dawn Zimmer in the election on Tuesday.

The flyers appeared days after racist campaign mailers attacking two Asian school board candidates in Edison evoked the campaign slogan of President Donald Trump and claimed Chinese and Indian residents are "taking over" the town.
Digital payment companies have seen a substantial jump in their business as a result of the government's measures towards promoting cashless transactions post demonetisation last year.

These firms are likely to further consolidate their business with more incentives for digital transactions.

"In the last 12 months, we saw over 3 times growth. Before demonetisation, we were processing monthly transactions of Rs 3,000 crore, which now stands at Rs 6,800 crore across all our verticals," Atom Technologies Managing Director and CEO Dewang Neralla said.

The major contributor to this growth was online payments business, he indicated.

"Our focus has been largely on the education, travel ticketing financial services, C2G payments and cable and wireless industries and we have seen all-round growth both in terms of enrolments as well as transactions.

"Payment processing volumes have grown three times to what they were since demonetisation and we still continue to see a healthy growth of around 20% on a month on month basis in transactions in our online payment gateway," he said.

The company is targeting to bring into the fold over 10 lakh merchants over the next few months, it said.

Globally, this is seen as an exciting time for fintech, especially payment processing.

According to the Payments Council of India, the growth rate of the digital payments industry, which was earlier in the range of 20% to 50%, has accelerated post demonetisation to 40% to 70%.

"However, demonetisation is just one of the milestones towards our country's cashless journey and not the final destination. It conveyed a strong psychological message to our countrymen that cash is not welcome and digitisation of cash is inevitable. This also resulted in doubling of the number of PoS machines in just one year...," Payments Council of India Chairman Navin Surya pointed out.

However, he said, for further accelerating this growth momentum and moving towards a less cash economy, both the government and regulators need to continue efforts.

"...seamless access to payments network and other critical payments infrastructures like Unified Payment Interface (UPI) and Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), among others ...will make sure that incentives continue to grow for digital transactions. These critical steps can drive our current industry growth of 10% transactions to 50% in the next 5 years," he added.

According to Bhavik Vasa Chief Growth Officer, EbixCash, post-demonetisation, the rhetoric has now changed from bank versus non-bank or wallet versus bank, with the industry witnessing an increased mindshare for its digital and cashless journey.

"At Ebix ItzCash we now have more than 2 lakh retail touch points across the country, our ability to be an omnichannel player, has helped us clock a growth of 35% to 40% across sectors," Vasa said.

Most digital players in the industry have made multi-fold investments in the sector in the last one year in infra, brand, marketing, creating awareness.

Ebix Inc CEO Robin Raina has further committed $ 200 million for investments and growth in India.
The world wants India to show the path to other countries and is looking at it with hope, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said on Sunday.



Bhagwat was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the new building Sewa-Sadan of Sewa Bharti Samiti-Rajasthan.

The RSS chief said said the world is "fed up of experiments" and has expectations from India that it will lead the world.

The world is looking at the east, towards India and China but there are doubts about China and the world is looking at India with a hope. The world wants India to lead, Bhagwat said.

For this, he said, there is a need to push good works within the country so that the nation can become a world leader in good works and deeds.

He said sewa or the service to people, society and the nation is something which should be done instead of publicising it. The service should be done and not just highlighted, he addded.

Bhagwat said the RSS is also engaged in serving people and society. The work of the Sangh is of service or sewa.The service is done and not seen, he said.

Referring to the aid India provided to Nepal at the time of the massive earthquake in 2015, Bhagwat said technology has bridged the gap and it takes little time to reach out to those who are in need of help.

Addressing the function, Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said there is a need to enhance social harmony, which has seen a decline in recent years, in the state by the way of sewa.

She said the government has undertaken works of renovating temples and protecting historical monuments in the state.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested suspected Islamic State (IS) terrorist Abu Zaid from the Mumbai Airport, a top police official said on Sunday.



Zaid was arrested on Saturday on his arrival from Saudi Arabia. "Abu Zaid, suspected IS terrorist was arrested by the ATS team from Mumbai Airport yesterday (Saturday) after he came from Saudi Arabia," ADG (Law and order) Anand Kumar told reporters here.

He said Zaid was residing in Riyadh and formed a social media group to allegedly radicalise youths and lure them to the IS.

"He will be brought to Lucknow on a transit remand and will be produced in the court. We will take him into police custody for interrogating him," the ADG said.

In April, the ATS had arrested four suspected IS terrorist Umar alias Nazim, Ghazi Baba alias Muzammil, Mufti alias Faizan and Jakawan alias Eihtesham. Zaid's name had cropped up during interrogation.

"They used to talk via an application on the internet and Zaid was their ideologue," the ADG said.
The parliamentary committee on external affairs plans to submit a comprehensive report on Sino-Indian ties next year, and is currently looking at the "extremely topical" Dokalam issue, panel chairman Shashi Tharoor has said.



Tharoor said the panel wanted to take a comprehensive look at the India-China ties by understanding their trade and political relations, cooperation in international bodies and the Chinese attitude on India's membership bid for the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), on terrorism and Pakistan among other aspects.

Right now the panel is looking at Dokalam because it is extremely topical, the former minister of state for external affairs told PTI.

"Just as this year we submitted to Parliament a report on Indo-Pakistan relations, similarly for next summer we want to submit a report on Sino-Indian relations," he said.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs held two meetings on the Dokalam situation last month.

At the first meeting where the members of the panel were briefed by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had raised questions on media reports of Chinese action in the Dokalam area, a member present at the meeting had said on the condition of anonymity.

The second meeting was briefed by Jaishankar, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra.

The 73-day face-off between Indian and Chinese troops in Dokalam started on June 16 after the Indian side stopped the construction of a road by the Chinese Army. According to the external affairs ministry, the two forces "disengaged" on August 28.

On the Dokalam standoff, Tharoor said if the Chinese had stopped doing something that had triggered the reaction from India, then "clearly we had achieved something".

"If on the other hand, the stoppage is purely temporary and two weeks later they have started again, which is what we want to find out (during panel meetings), then there is some doubt as to whether the original portrayal of the incident as an Indian victory was accurate or not," the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram said.

Tharoor said for the preparation of the report on Indo- Pak ties, submitted in August this year, the panel had five or six hearings.

"Some with the foreign secretary alone, some with the foreign and defence secretaries and the military people, some with the commerce ministry, some with individual experts...We got everyone's view and we put it into a comprehensive report. So our approach on China will be the same," he said.

On the government's foreign policy, Tharoor said there was no doubt that relations with Pakistan were at a "pretty bad low" and with China, they were "not much better".

"In both the cases we have come down a long way from the kind of bonhomie that characterised these relationships at different phases in the last decade, including during Mr Modi's initial years of prime ministership," he said.

"In fact, with Pakistan, one can truly accuse the government of inconsistency because there have been so many ups and downs," he added.
At least nine persons were drowned in Ganga on Sunday when a group of locals from Fatuha in Patna district went to Raghopur (in Vaishali) to take a holy dip. The locals had boarded a boat to cross over the Ganga.

In a related incident, three persons were drowned in Bagmati river at Samastipur when the boat carrying 30 passengers capsized midway.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who expressed grief over the two tragedies, has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the family of those who died.
Police forces recruited close to two lakh people in 2016, but the vacancies still constituted around 22%, a latest government report has said.



While the sanctioned strength for police forces in states have risen to 24.66 lakh in 2016, there are only 19.26 lakh people in place leaving a gap of 5.38 lakh or 21.8%.

The number of vacancies is down from 5.49 lakh in 2015 when there were 22.80 lakh sanctioned positions. There were 17.31 lakh personnel in 2015 as against 17.21 lakh personnel in 2014 and 17.22 lakh in 2013.

The 'Data on Police Organisations 2017' report released recently showed that there is some improvement in the strength of police forces compared to previous years as 1.94 lakh were added in 2016. In earlier years, the increase was in thousands only.

However, the vacancies among constables and head constables that accounts for 81% of the total vacancies has dampened the efforts to drastically improve the police-population ratio. Of the vacancies, the highest is in constabulary - 4.36 lakh vacancies as compared to 4.73 lakh in 2015.

As per the sanctioned strength, India will have 193 police personnel for every one lakh population, while it has only 151 as of now with the vacancies. The standard set by the United Nations is way above at 220 police per lakh population. In 2015, the actual police-population proportion was 137 policemen for one lakh people.

Uttar Pradesh continued to have the highest number of vacancies, but the situation has worsened in the biggest state. While there were 1.81 lakh vacancies in 2015, it now has risen to 2.14 lakh.

Karnataka has something to cheer as the vacancies have come down to 2,3910 from 39,276 in 2015. In 2014, there were 33,307 vacancies.

West Bengal, ranked second, has vacancies of 38,580, up from 2015's 33,630. Bihar, Gujarat and Jharkhand were other toppers.

In the state intelligence apparatus, there is a vacancy in 10,828 posts compared to 9,486 the previous year. The report said 90% of these vacancies are in the lower ranks between constables and inspectors.

There are 8,156 vacancies as against 5,361 in the Special Task Forces (STF) formed in the states to fight insurgents and terrorists. While the sanctioned strength is 29,801, the actual strength is 21,645.
Infosys, which had abandoned its plans to set up a sprawling campus near the airport, has now found a place in Hebbal.



It will move into a 1.77 lakh sq ft facility at Karle Town Centre.

Infosys is India's second largest IT services company, with its headquarters in Bengaluru.

The new centre will accommodate 1,600 engineers, sources familiar with the development told DH. Construction is in progress.

In 2014, Infosys had announced it would expand and set up a campus in north Bengaluru. It began buying land directly from sellers for its campus.

After acquiring a major portion of the 300 acres on which it had planned its campus, the company had second thoughts.

It then cancelled its plans, citing poor road connectivity and inadequate water supply.

Emerging IT hub

Ramadas Kamath, Infosys executive vice-president, declined to comment on the development.

Hebbal is emerging as a new IT hub, with the presence of Manyata Tech Park, and several companies setting up business in adjoining Sahakarnagar.

The state government is planning a transport hub at Hebbal. The area boasts good housing and healthcare. It is easy to access by road, and is well connected both to the city and the Kempegowda International Airport.

Infosys works from a huge campus at Electronics City. It also has offices at Manipal Centre on Dickenson Road, Equinox on Hosur Road, Mohan Chambers in JP Nagar, and Gold Hill Supreme Software Park in Begur.

The company has said it would fulfill its hiring commitment for the current fiscal.

Though headquartered in Bengaluru, the largest Infosys campus is in Pune, with a sitting capacity of 33,000 employees.

If executed, the project near the airport would have given Infosys its largest campus in Bengaluru.

Karle Group is setting up Karle Town Centre with an investment of about Rs 10,000 crore. It is spread over 96 acres, and provides amenities for a special economic zone.

The Karle Group is catering to companies shifting to north Bengaluru, its director Sudarshan Karle told DH.

"Karle Infra is developing Karle Town Centre for mixed use in the future capital of Bengaluru. It will help innovators and new-age entrepreneurs," he said.








Cow meat is not exported from Uttar Pradesh and no one can have the audacity to do so, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said today.

The UP chief minister asserted that even cruelty to a bovine could lead a person behind bars not to talk of killing cows.

Addressing an event organised here by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's Gauraksha Vibhag (cow protection wing), Adityanath said, "It is absolutely wrong and incorrect to say that the largest volume of cow meat is exported from Uttar Pradesh. Not an iota of cow meat can be exported from UP. No one can have the audacity of doing so, as it is banned in UP."

Adityanath said that his was the first government in the state to put a ban on on illegal abattoirs.

"If any person indulges in cruelty to cows (leave aside talking of killing of cows), he will find himself behind bars," Adityanath, a priest-turned-politician said.

Grazing land for cattle has been identified in UP and we have initiated drives to free encroached grazing land, he said.
Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami is expected to seek central assistance in the aftermath of intense monsoon rains from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be on a day-long visit.

Modi, taking part in a couple of events in the city on Monday, will arrive in the morning and will be received at the airport by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Secretariat sources said.

The Prime Minister will then leave on a helicopter to INS Adyar, where Palaniswami would apprise him on the damages caused by the floods and seek funds to carry out relief efforts.

Amid tight security, Modi will then proceed to Madras University Centenary Hall to preside over the 75th anniversary celebrations of Tamil daily 'Dina Thanthi'.

Police sources at the headquarters said 10,000 policemen have been deployed as part of the security measure. Traffic diversions have also been made near the Marina Beach, they added.

After the function, Modi will attend the wedding celebrations of an IAS officer in the Prime Minister's Office at Raja Annamalaipuram. He will also hold consultation meetings with BJP state unit president Tamilisai Soundararajan, Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan, Rajya Sabha member L Ganesan and other senior functionaries.

The Prime Minister will leave for Delhi later in the day.
Catalonia's sacked separatist leader Carles Puigdemont and four of his former ministers turned themselves in to Belgian police on Sunday after Spain issued a warrant for their arrest.



The five, who face accusations of rebellion and sedition in Spain, are due to appear later Sunday before a judge who will decide within 24 hours whether to detain or release them.

It is the latest dramatic development in the crisis unleashed by the Catalan separatists' push to break away from Spain that sent shockwaves across Europe.

Puigdemont and his allies fled to Belgium last Monday after Spain sacked the Catalan executive and imposed direct rule on the once semi-autonomous region following the declaration of independence by the parliament there last month.

"They were taken into custody at 9:17 am (0817 GMT)," said Gilles Dejemeppe, a spokesman for Belgian prosecutors.

Only the five, their lawyer and an interpreter will be present at Sunday's hearing.

Puigdemont wrote on Twitter on Saturday that he and his colleagues - Meritxell Serret, Antoni Comin, Lluis Puig and Clara Ponsati - would "cooperate" with the Belgian authorities.

Spain issued European arrest warrants on Friday after Puigdemont and his allies ignored a summons to appear before a judge on allegations linked to the move to declare Catalonia an independent republic.

The judge in Madrid had on Thursday put Puigdemont's deputy and seven other deposed regional ministers behind bars because of a risk they would flee.

Puigdemont, 54, insists that Catalonia earned the right to declare independence following a banned referendum last month and has described his detained colleagues as "political prisoners".

He said he was not convinced by guarantees of a fair trial back home, denouncing the "enormous pressure and political influence on judicial power in Spain".

The judge could "refuse to hand over Puigdemont if there is a proven serious risk to his fundamental rights," said Anne Weyembergh, president of the Institute of European Studies of the Free University of Brussels.

She said the court would need to see evidence of criminal offences before executing the warrant.

But cases of refusal are rare, according to several lawyers interviewed by AFP.

Puidgemont, who still describes himself as Catalan "president," has also said he is willing to run as a candidate in the December 21 snap regional election called by Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy to "restore normality" to Catalonia.

Related reports, Page 13
The idea of restricting private buses to the margins of the city has again taken root with a proposal sent by the traffic police a year ago coming under serious consideration of the Transport Department.



Sources said the department has held a series of meetings and is likely to take a decision very soon. Private buses from different parts of the state and from outside enter the city from six main roads, adding to traffic congestion.

The department also has the task of finding alternative terminal points for such buses.

"Every day, about 8,000 private buses enter the city and the equal number exit the city. On special occasions and festival days, their number goes up. This has led to heavy congestion on many roads, inconveniencing the local traffic.

"Based on these observations, we had sent a proposal to the Transport department," said Additional Police Commissioner of Police (Traffic) R Hithendra.

The officer said the Transport department officials have now expressed interest in the proposal.

"The transport minister is interested in implementing the proposal. So, we are discussing the steps needed to be taken before we restrict the traffic," he added.

Hithendra also said that private buses have become a nuisance due to parking rule violations by the drivers.

"We have registered over 10,000 complaints against private buses for parking rule violations. But their drivers have not learnt lessons. We receive regular complaints from the public on the issue. We had explained all the issues in our proposal," he said.

An official in the Transport department said they were planning to provide parking facility near Basaveshwara Bus Station in Peenya for buses coming from Kalaburagi, Dharwad, Bidar, Vijayapura, Davangere, Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada and Haveri districts as well as Goa and Maharashtra.

"Similar facilities need to be created at Electronics City for buses from Tamil Nadu, at Kengeri for buses from Mysuru, Mandya and Kerala and at Baiyappanahalli or

K R Puram for buses coming from Tirupati and Kolar. We have sought expert opinion in this regard," he said.
At least 20 people are dead after a shooting at a Texas church on Sunday, US media reported.



ABC News cited a law enforcement official as saying 20 were killed and 30 wounded in the shooting.

Other media outlets were citing unnamed officials who gave death tolls as high as 27.

The shooting took place at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, a small community about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio, reports said.

The shooter was reportedly killed.
People from Donegal seeking a return of payments made to Irish Water can now use a dedicated refunds website page www.water.ie/refunds as the government legislation necessary to enable the refunding of household water charges progresses through the Oireachtas.

Customers can also contact Irish Water on 1850 448 448 if their address has changed and they have yet to update their details.

It is important to note that if a customers address or personal details have not changed that they will not have to contact Irish Water to get their refund. Refunds will made via cheque to the account holder at the address they provided to Irish Water.

Payments are being made by cheque because this is the quickest and most efficient means of payment, which also provides the highest level of security by ensuring that only the account holder can lodge the cheque and Irish Water can cancel any cheques sent to incorrect addresses or individuals. Cheques also ensure that Irish Water will not need to have account holders bank account details and customers can be very clear that at no time will anyone from Irish Water contact them looking for those details.

Speaking in advance of the start of refunds, Head of Customer Operations for Irish Water, Eamon Gallen said:

The two big questions that customers have is how much they will receive and when they will receive it. Household customers can be assured that they will receive the full amount they paid, and customers will shortly be able to check online exactly how much they are due and when there are likely to receive their refund.

"Irish Water have been working in the background for several months to ensure that refunds will be ready to go as soon as we are authorised to do so by government. Our priority is to ensure that those who paid their household charges get their refund as quickly and efficiently as possible. This is why I would urge any customers who have not informed us of a change of address to do so now so that their details are up to date and there is no delay in issuing their cheque.
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A birds-eye view of Houston County shows a lot of undeveloped property, much of it taxed well below its fair market value.

The Alabama Legislature passed an act in 1978 enabling farm and timberland to be valued based on how it is being used, not what the use might be if the property were sold or developed.

Each year the Alabama Department of Revenue gathers data to put into a formula used to calculate the current use value and distributes the information to county tax assessing officials.

Current use value is usually far below market value  the estimated price the property would fetch at a fair voluntary sale.

Owners interested in obtaining current use valuation make an application with the county assessing official. If granted, the yearly tax on property appraised at more than a million dollars can be less than $100.

Examples can be found along U.S. 84 in west Dothan. According to information on Houston Countys online parcel maps, the former Sony property near Woodburn Drive has an appraised value of more than $2.4 million but the tax for 2017 is $47.61.

Compare that to nearby Flowers Hospital, a community health care provider where the building and land are appraised at more than $41 million and the tax due this year is nearly $287,000.

Tractor Supply Company and Walmart Neighborhood Market were built near Buckingham Drive adjacent to undeveloped wooded property. The Tractor Supply Co. land and building is valued at more than $2.2 million and the Walmart property appraisal exceeds $3.2 million.

More than $15,000 in taxes are due this year on the Tractor Supply property and Walmart owes more than $22,000, yet the taxes due on the undeveloped parcel appraised at more than $4.5 million is $58.65.

Alabamas effective property tax rate is the second-lowest in the nation, behind Hawaii. The revenues used to operate state government come mainly from tax collections, licensing fees and federal aid, not property tax.

Some property is exempt from taxes, from public lands and fairgrounds to nonprofit and charitable organizations.

Promoting economic development is the goal of community planners and developers. Developed land is taxed at a higher value than undeveloped land, which brings more revenue to local governments and the state.

Current tax policy in Alabama, for better or worse, is part of the funding formula.

The tax system

Alabamas system of property tax exemptions and abatements didnt evolve overnight.

Philip Mixon, associate professor of economics at Troy University, said the reason they started was the South could not compete with the North for industrial jobs.

Federal programs were tried but if youre dealing with a federal program youre having to deal with the North, so most of those got shot down.

Then they came up with ways to get industries to come to the South. By getting industries to build here and not have to pay property taxes, state and local governments reaped other benefits from the jobs created and the resulting increase in business activity.

That was the rationale behind the tax abatements, Mixon said. I liken it to a scholarship given by a university. That money never actually existed, they just waived the tuition.

Mixon said property tax abatements are probably the least objectionable incentive he has seen. A plant may be valued at $2 million but without the abatement it wouldnt have been built.

That being said, if you start giving money away or building infrastructure for someone, like building a factory or something, then taxpayers actually do have to pay, he said. It literally just came about as the easiest way to entice someone without having to do anything.

To Mixon, the funniest thing now is that everyone is doing it.

When Hyundai came to Montgomery, Hyundai had roughly the same incentive package to go to Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, he said. They just picked Alabama.

If a location has an extremely high property tax it would make a difference, but most of the time property rates dont determine where a company will locate.

County commissioners are kind of afraid to not do it because if they dont do it somebody else will, Mixon said. I dont know how much it actually helps to bring in someone but I can see where it would actually push someone away.

Most of the tax benefits a company is going to receive are probably more from the state than the locale, he said.

The state taxes more so they have more tools at their disposal to throw at companies, Mixon said. Most locales are going to have tax abatement as their main tool.

Increasing revenues

Local governments looking to increase property tax revenues can raise the millage rate or promote the development of property so it is taxed at a higher assessed value.

Voters in Dothan and Houston County have been historically adverse to property tax hikes. The last referendum on the subject in 2003 was defeated 80 percent to 20 percent.

The value of property in the county has risen over the years and so have the revenues. Total ad valorem taxes collected in Houston County increased all but three years from 1974 to 2015, the last year for which final figures are available.

To give an idea of how revenues have grown, collections jumped from about $2.5 million in 1974 to $11.7 million in 1984, $19.5 million in 1994, $28.1 million in 2004 and $42.7 million in 2014.

Still, if undeveloped properties were taxed closer to their assessed value it would mean more revenues for government entities.

The formula used to establish current use value takes several factors into account.

Agricultural and forest properties are given a productivity rating ranging from good to non-productive based on the soil group. A lower rating means a lower current use value, so even unproductive land can qualify as farm and timberland.

When farm and timberland is developed for subdivisions, shopping centers, industrial sites and other uses, taxes due on the property increase. When industries are granted abatements, governments see it as a good deal because they see increases in payrolls and other impacts from development.

Matt Parker, president of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, said starting in the 1950s things evolved and changed in more states. Northeast companies used to come down here for cheap labor, cheap land and low taxes, he said, but now thats transitioned and the incentives have changed.

The Tax Incentive Reform Act of 1992 ended the abatement of educational taxes tied to sales, use and property tax.

We want to grow but weve got to fund our education system, Parker said. That was a reform that was in the best interests of Alabama, our school system and our workforce development efforts because training is key as well.

The state offers a variety of incentives, including investment and jobs credits.

Under the Alabama Reinvestment & Abatements Act, new facility and expansion benefits include sales and use tax abatement of non-educational sales and use taxes on construction materials, equipment and other capitalized costs.

Existing facilities that are refurbished, upgraded or placed back in service can get the same benefits, plus a utility tax abatement for increased utility services for up to 10 years.

The act also provides property tax abatement for up to 20 years of the non-educational portion of property tax. Dothan commissioners have authorized 20-year abatements on several projects in the last few years, including agreements with Commercial Jet, International Beams and Wayne Farms.

The Alabama Renewal Act includes incentives to stimulate economic growth through new job creation, capital investment and increased cargo shipping, plus incentives to provide a source of funds for site preparation and public infrastructure needs of existing industrial sites.

Youre in a whole other arena of incentives beyond the basic sales and use tax and ad valorem abatements, Parker said.

Added value

In the push to upgrade incentives and industrial codes, the state looked at emerging sectors that could add value to Alabamas economy. Parker said it helped entice some companies to get into other sectors.

Basic manufacturing was what we are, but we evolved to be more global, he said.

Low ad valorem taxes have advantages and disadvantages.

If you could push a magic button and just recalibrate how we fund government, education and our basic services, you would probably build a model where you are a little more ad valorem heavy because thats providing more stability and consistency with the economy versus the sales tax which is more cyclical, Parker said.

To a certain degree property tax rates are a local decision.

The masses are still being educated in public schools so they need to be strong for any communitys viability and growth, Parker said.

When businesses make a location decision for a project, they consider factors such as geography, distribution, natural resources and labor.

Alabama Industrial Development Training can help provide the labor force a business is looking for, but having sites that are move-in ready is often a high priority.

About 80 to 85 percent of the projects are looking for existing buildings, Parker said. You could be in the right market area but because of a companys timeline you could lose a project because you dont have an available building.

If a business needs a water or sewer line or an industrial access road, there are programs available to lower the cost.

Parker said the incentive package is fairly basic but effective.

Its focused on meeting their needs to make sure that theyre in a good competitive situation for startup because when you start up a company youre not going to make money instantaneously, he said.

Incentives often have a built-in accountability matrix to make sure the projects produce.

What weve always tried to do is listen to the clients needs, do everything within our powers and our resources to meet their needs, Parker said.

As for sites like the former Sony property, time can bring renewal. Parker said the area is becoming a commercial corridor and the property is in a position to regain its high place on the tax rolls.

With new investment that number will go up, Parker said.
The death has occurred of Mr. Michael Hodgers of Cloonanna, Knockbridge and formerly Castle Heights and Oliver Plunkett Park. Michael passed away peacefully on October 3rd surrounded by his loving family.

Michael was the son of Patrick and Mary Kate Hodgers (nee McArdle) and lived all his life in Dundalk. Michael was one of ten children and was predeceased by brothers, Vincent, Oliver, Johnny and Thomas, sisters Kathleen, Theresa, Bridie, Frances and Molly, niece , Maureen and great-grandchild, Hannah.

After attending De La Salle primary and secondary school, Michael started work in Clarks shoe factory. He later met the love of his life Anne Coburn at a Valentines Night dance and the couple married in 1957.

Tragedy struck the Hodgers family with the sudden death of Anne on Saint Stephens Day in 1978. However, within a short space of time Michael took early retirement in order to concentrate on looking after his family.

Over the following 40 years Michael filled the role of mother and father to his son and seven daughters with a calm and influential manner, lovingly supported by his and Annes siblings and a small circle of close family friends.

Michael took great comfort in his strong faith with a quiet devotion to Our Lady, travelling to Knock on an annual pilgrimage and to Lourdes with the Armagh Diocese on a number of times.

An unassuming and quiet gentleman, Michael had many pastimes and hobbies. He was a keen amateur astronomer with extensive knowledge of the solar system. He was very well read and had the ability to converse knowledgeably on many topics with both young and old.

He volunteered with Dundalk Civil Defence and was involved in training and overseeing the safe preparation of training sites for authentic exercises and manoeuvres. He also taught in the Civil Defence those who intended to sit the Firemans Examinations and was very well known for his dedication and attention to detail in preparing his trainees to pass their examinations.

Michael was also a life-time member and fundraiser for Gael Linn, an organisation dedicated to the Arts through the Irish language and was affectionately referred to by many as the Gael Linn man.

Michael was a loving father and Granda to all. His children, grandchildren and later his great-grandchildren were always a central part of his life and he took great pride and enjoyment in their company, their achievements and accomplishments.

While a pioneer all his life, Michael still had great time for family occasions, never once forgetting a birthday or celebration in the family. He was just as comfortable attending birthday parties, weddings, christenings and large family gatherings as he was sitting quietly reading or listening to his records. Michael also had a great love of opera and classical music and enjoyed attending the theatre on occasion.

Michael passed away surrounded by his family in Blackrock Abbey Nursing Home, where he spent the last six months of his life and to whom the family extend their warmest thanks for the kindness, dignity and compassion Michael received in their care.

Michael will be greatly missed and remembered with love by his daughters, Martina, Bernadette, Marie, Annette, Catriona, Conchita, Margaret and son, Gerry. Michael will be especially missed by his 25 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, Edel, nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, friends and neighbours.

After reposing at the home of his daughter Conchita, Michaels remains were taken to Saint Nicholas Church for Funeral Mass. Burial followed in Saint Patricks cemetery.

The celebrant was Fr. Gerry Campbell PP who offered a warm and personal sermon. Items symbolising Michaels life were brought to the altar by grandchildren Ben and Corey Hodgers, Anne Clarke and Orla Smith. These included his Irelands Own magazine, his harmonica, his Civil Defence medal, a vinyl record to represent his collection and a framed poem, much loved.

The Offertory gifts were presented by daughters Martina and Margaret. Prayers of the Faithful were read by grandchildren, Aiden Heslin, Alicia Seidou, Edel Coleman, Ryan Bellew and Leanne Ludlow.

Readings were done by son Gerry, nephew Brendan Hodgers and grandson Ciaran Hodgers. A touching letter from Michaels grandson who recently moved to Australia was read out by close family friend Elaine Maguire.

Music was provided by Saint Nicholas Church Choir. A poem to recall the qualities of Michael as a father-in-law was written by his son-in-law Frankie and read at the graveside.

Months Mind Mass will be on Sunday November 5th at 12 noon in St. Nicholas Church.

May he rest in peace.
A reward is being offered for information leading to the recovery of 14 cattle stolen from a shed in Ravanny, Co Louth on Saturday evening.

According to the IrIsh Farmers Journal, the animals worth 17,000 were all red 18-month old Limousins crossed with Charlaois.

The Irish Farmers Journal says that the owner, Farmer Tom Kirk, received a call from a neighbour shortly after 7pm on Saturday to tell him that cattle were missing from his yard, located between Dundalk and Carrickmacross.

It was found that 14 animals worth an estimated 1,200 to 1,300 each had been stolen from several pens in his shed, where the feed barriers had been lowered.

Interviews with neighbours revealed that a lorry drove by with its lights off around 6pm.

Mr Kirk is offering a 1,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of the livestock.

Anyone with such information can contact Ardee garda station on 041-6853222
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(Photo:  Peter Kenny / Ecumenical News)World Council of Churches communications director Marianne Ejdersten (L) and Beatrice Fihn, executive director of ICAN (International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons) during a media conference at the Ecumenical Center in Geneva after it was announced ICAN had won tbe 2017 Nobel Peace Prize.

The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons says it will work tirelessly in coming years to ensure the full implementation of the nuclear ban treaty it assembled, despite a lack of support from nuclear powers.

Beatrice Fihn, executive director of ICAN, said at an Oct. 6 media conference at the headquarters of the World Council of Churches in Geneva, "It is a great honor to have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2017 in recognition of our role in achieving the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons."

Opening the conference, WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fyske Tveit said, "It is a very important day for moral standards in the word. It should be obvious that there should be no nuclear weapons...As people of faith we must say this together."

The WCC general secretary is a Norwegian Lutheran and he said, "I look forward to the day when my government will sign the treaty."

The Norwegian Nobel Committee had earlier honoured the Geneva-based group "for its work to draw attention to the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any use of nuclear weapons and for its ground-breaking efforts to achieve a treaty-based prohibition of such weapons."

Fihn said that the agreement, was adopted 7 July with the backing of 122 nations at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

ICAN has existed for 10 years and is a coalition of 400 non-governmental organizations in 100 countries having different church and faith groups in it. The WCC is one of its partners along with many civil society organizations.

A STAFF OF FOUR

The ICAN headquarters in Geneva has a staff of four people.

Fihn spoke of the victims of the only two nuclear bombings the world has experienced in 1945 in Japan noting that the prize is a tribute to them.

"It is a tribute also to the survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki  the hibakusha  and victims of nuclear test explosions around the world, whose searing testimonies and unstinting advocacy were instrumental in securing this landmark agreement," said Fihn.

She noted, "The treaty categorically outlaws the worst weapons of mass destruction and establishes a clear pathway to their total elimination. It is a response to the ever-deepening concern of the international community that any use of nuclear weapons would inflict catastrophic, widespread and long-lasting harm on people and our planet."

None of the five permanent members of the Security Council, however, signed the treaty nor did any states known to have nuclear weapons or any member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Asked by a journalist if the lack of a signature from any of the five permanent Security Council members and other nuclear states was divisive for the world, Fihn replied, "It is the nuclear powers that are dividing the world."

She said that the, "majority of the world does not have nuclear weapons and nuclear weapons do not bring peace and stability" while noting that people on the Korean Peninsula and Japan "do not feel particularly safe."

'POWERFUL ALTERNATIVE'

Fihn said, "The treaty offers a powerful, much-needed alternative to a world in which threats of mass destruction are allowed to prevail and, indeed, are escalating."

The Nobel committee statement, read by committee chairwoman Berit Reiss-Andersen, was also ready at the Friday media conference, read by the WCC general secretary.

Tveit read: "through its inspiring and innovative support for the U.N. negotiations on a treaty banning nuclear weapons, ICAN has played a major part in bringing about what in our day and age is equivalent to an international peace congress."

The aim of the treaty to delegitimize nuclear weapons and to make them illegal, said Fihn.

"We hope that this treaty will provide space for those states that have not signed this treaty," said Fihn, noting that the treaty will enter into existence when 50 states have signed it.

"We will use the treaty to put pressure on states that have said they will never sign it...It does change things when the rest of the international community declares them illegal...It will take time, but we will get there."
(Photo:  Sean Hawkey/WCC)Thousands of climate activists from across the world took to the streets of Bonn on Nov. 4 just before the start of the UN climate conference COP23 that start in Bonn Germany on Nov. 6, 2017.

The World Council of Churches, ACT Alliance and Lutheran World Federation that represent more than half a billion Christians worldwide are issuing a united call for action on climate justice, which they describe as the largest call of its kind in history.

In a joint video message released on Nov. 5, leaders of the three organizations called upon the decision makers at COP23 to follow up on the Paris Agreement to enable accountable and ambitious action.

"We must act together for climate justice", said Rudelmar Bueno de Faria, general secretary of ACT Alliance.

"Experts from many of our members will be advocating at COP to ensure that the outcomes reflect the needs and the rights of the most vulnerable".

COP23, the UN Climate Change Conference, begins on Monday Nov. 6 in the German city of Bonn and will be presided over by Fiji.

Climate change is a reality that needs to be addressed said Rev. Martin Junge, Lutheran World Federation general secretary.

"We hear the stories. We hear the pain, we hear the struggle", he said.

Nations have a lot to figure out at COP23 said the Scientific American.

Cara Horowitz, co-executive director of the Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law says the 2015 Paris accord "was a landmark agreement," said the publication.

"But it left many of the details about [implementation] still to be negotiated."

At COP 23, country representatives will work out the nitty-gritty of how to execute the accord, which will ultimately determine its long-term success. "This is quite a consequential meeting," the Scientific American quoted Barry Rabe, a professor of public policy at the University of Michigan as saying.

"It represents an important early test of [nations'] resolve to honor what they agreed on in Paris," he said.

WCC general secretary, Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, said, "Let us take this opportunity again in COP23 to make decisions that lead us in the right way. It is about who is affected today, who is living in livelihoods that are threatened by what is happening."

With special support for the people of Fiji, the three ecumenical leaders expressed their commitment to continue walking together with their churches and people.

They said they wish to address urgent questions and challenges on climate change in Pacific islands region and to advocate that climate finance is secured to enable developing countries to adapt, mitigate and address loss and damage.
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Accenture, IBM, TCS are hiring students from Christ Universitys Department of English Studies The department is focusing on providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to fit industry

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Delhi HC directs MCD to respond to plea to fill teachers vacancies, school infrastructure The petition seeks details of vacancies filled in various disciplines
Kourtney Kardashian and Younes Bendjima dressed up as Bonnie and Clyde on Halloween. During their outing at a Halloween party in Los Angeles earlier this week, they each shared a photo of their outfits on Instagram.

While the photo was one of a few from Kardashian, 38, who shared images of 24-year-old Bendjima on her social media pages in the past, Bendjima's Halloween photo of Kardashian marked the first time that his own fans and followers witnessed them being Instagram offiical.

"Coming soon to a bank near you," Bendjima wrote in the caption of his Instagram photo on Nov. 1.

"Lets get money now, we can fall in love later," Kardashian said in the caption of the same photo, which was shared on her own page on the same day.

Kardashian and Bendjima's outing this week came just days after the longtime reality star brought the boxer turned model as her date to the launch of her new clothing line. As fans will recall, Kardashian posed on the red carpet for photos before being joined inside by her boyfriend of several months.

Since Kardashian and Bendjima confirmed they were dating earlier this year while on vacation in France, where his mother resides, the couple has been faced with rumors of engagements and pregnancies but so far, they all appear to be false.

Kourtney is not ready to have a baby with Younes, a source told Hollywood Life last month. While she would be pleasantly surprised if she were to have his baby, its just too soon. They are still learning about each other.

Kourtney loves being a mom and enjoys having a big family, the source continued. She is fortunate enough that she can provide for a large family and she has not ruled out having more kids one day.

As Kardashian's relationship with Bendjima continues, so does her drama with her former boyfriend, Scott Disick. As fans will recall, Kardashian and Disick share three children, including 7-year-old Mason, five-year-old Penelope, and two-year-old Reign.

Disick, 34, is currently dating 19-year-old model Sofia Richie.

To see more of Kourtney Kardashian, her sisters, including Kim and Khloe Kardashian and Kendall and Kylie Jenner, tune into new episodes of Keeping Up With the Kardashians season 14 on Sunday nights at 9 p.m. on the E! Network.
Hi members<

Need a suggestion !

I am a telecom Professional with 11+ Year experience and was granted 189 few days back.

I just need to know do i need to do some specific certification(Like ITIL, Prince 2 etc.) which can help me to get a job or my Experience of MSS/MGW can fetch me a job
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Yes this is a widespread and fairly intractable problem, largely owing to the in effectiveness of the wardens and police that are incapable of enforcing regulations, and the majority of 'hunters' who practice the sport without following the regulations. It doesn't not last all year however and the best approach (in our experience is calling the police and wardens to introduce them to those breaking the rules. They will stand around for hours discussing how far 500m actually is have a coffee etc, but at least whilst they are discussing, they are not then hunting. Slowly as pressure groups continue to collect evidence, there are some movements towards enforcement, but this is still a problem.
You can try the "usual sources" and see what there is in your line of work. As we've noted before on the forum here, the French tend to hire based on what it is you are qualified to do - as in academic or training credentials - and may look slightly askance at a "jack of all trades" or someone who says they are willing to do "anything." (But, as they say, "your mileage may vary.")



Otherwise, you may want to consider both your qualifications and your reasons for choosing to move to Rennes and see if you can figure out a way to capitalize on those factors to perhaps create your own employment - something like teaching or tutoring in English perhaps. You'll need some level of French (or a friend who can help you) to get through the registration processes, but that's more or less part of the "game" of getting yourself established here in France.

Cheers,

Bev
Hey all,



Anyone can recommend a secure and safe B&B or house to rent in La Union near the beach areas? Reasonable rates, etc...



I've read a lot of reviews, but always worth hearing from well-traveled folks who've experienced it first hand if you know what I mean.



Thanks for any input.
Hey guys,



I've been thinking about moving to Thailand recently as I've begun earning good money online and want to live affordably. I'm 19 and a huge gamer, spending a lot of my free time on WoW and a few other games.



I'm curious to know if anybody who lives in Thailand has experience with gaming over there, and whether its doable or a total nightmare, due to the ping issues with connecting to servers on the other side of the world. I know some people might think its a dumb thing to ask about, but its a hobby of mine and its what I love to do, so I thought I'd find out.



Thanks!
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For 15 years, Mimis Barbacoa has held down its post in a shopping mall with a Little Caesars Pizza, a Chicago bagel shop, a Vietnamese pho place, a halal market and a Shipleys Donuts. If thats not a food community, I dont know what is.

Mimis does barbacoa and much more every Tuesday through Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tacos: For barbacoa this good, Ill forgive the fact that they charged 25 cents each for onions and cilantro on top of the $2.80 base price and who knows how much for the avocado I didnt ask for. What I do know is that three modest tacos and a Coke set me back $12.50.

Price aside, theres a reason Mimis puts barbacoa right there in the name. It was dense and fatty and rich, with cheek meat in short fibers that clung together for big chewy bites with extraneous seasoning kept at a minimum.

The counter guys go-to taco was bean, cheese and bacon. Heres why: Lots of melted cheddar, beans with big bacon flavor and crisp bacon with even bigger bacon flavor. The base model is $2. Add 50 cents each for two slices of bacon.

The carne guisada was every bit as big and beefy as the barbacoa, but the gravy tasted like the bottom of an overheated pan, possibly the price you pay  on top of the regular $3.95  for getting here a half-hour before closing time.

Tortillas: Mimis gets its corn and flour tortillas from an outside supplier, and it makes a difference. But not in a good way.

Salsa: The pair of squeeze-bottle salsas verdes go from damn hot to nuclear hot, with no room for flavor through the fire.

Location: 10918 Wurzbach Road, Suite 134, 210-558-6008, Facebook: @MimisBarbacoa

Rating: A solid neighborhood option

Follow the complete 365 Days of Tacos series at ExpressNews.com/Tacos. Get 365 Days of Tacos sent to your inbox. Sign up here.

msutter@express-news.net

Twitter: @fedmanwalking
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Heres a look at some of the nations deadliest mass shootings since 2012:

Oct. 1, 2017: A gunman identified by authorities as Stephen Paddock opened fire on an outdoor music festival on the Las Vegas Strip from the 32nd floor of a hotel-casino, killing 58 people and wounding more than 500. SWAT teams with explosives then stormed his room and found he had killed himself.

June 12, 2016: Gunman Omar Mateen opened fire at an Orlando, Florida, nightclub, killing 49 people. Mateen later was killed in a shootout with police.

Feb. 25, 2016: Cedric Ford, 38, killed three people and wounded 14 others at a lawnmower factory where he worked in the central Kansas community of Hesston. The local police chief killed him during a shootout with 200 to 300 workers still in the building, authorities said.

Feb. 20, 2016: Jason Dalton, 45, is accused of randomly shooting and killing six people and severely wounding two others during a series of attacks over several hours in the Kalamazoo, Michigan, area. Authorities say he paused between shootings to make money as an Uber driver. He faces murder and attempted-murder charges.

Dec. 2, 2015: Syed Rizwan Farook, 28, and Tashfeen Malik, 27, opened fire at a social services center in San Bernardino, California, killing 14 people and wounding more than 20. They fled the scene but died hours later in a shootout with police.

More for you Map shows more than 30 new mass shootings since Oct. 1

Oct. 1, 2015: A shooting at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, left 10 people dead and seven wounded. Shooter Christopher Harper-Mercer, 26, exchanged gunfire with police, then killed himself.

June 17, 2015: Dylann Roof, 21, shot and killed nine African-American church members during a Bible study group inside the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Police contend the attack was racially motivated. Roof has been sentenced to death in the shootings.

May 23, 2014: A community college student, Elliot Rodger, 22, killed six people and wounded 13 in shooting and stabbing attacks in the area near the University of California at Santa Barbara campus. Authorities said he apparently shot himself to death after a gunbattle with deputies.

Sept. 16, 2013: Aaron Alexis, a mentally disturbed civilian contractor, shot 12 people to death at the Washington Navy Yard before he was killed in a police shootout.

July 26, 2013: Pedro Vargas, 42, went on a shooting rampage at his Hialeah, Florida, apartment building, gunning down six people before officers fatally shot him.

Dec. 14, 2012: In Newtown, Connecticut, an armed 20-year-old man entered Sandy Hook Elementary School and used a semi-automatic rifle to kill 26 people, including 20 first-graders and six adult school staff members. He then killed himself.

Sept. 27, 2012: In Minnesotas deadliest workplace rampage, Andrew Engeldinger, whod just been fired, pulled a gun and fatally shot six people, including the companys founder. He also wounded two others at Accent Signage Systems in Minneapolis before taking his own life.

Aug. 5, 2012: In Oak Creek, Wisconsin, 40-year-old gunman Wade Michael Page killed six worshippers at a Sikh Temple before killing himself.

July 20, 2012: James Holmes, 27, fatally shot 12 people and injured 70 in an Aurora, Colorado, movie theater. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

April 2, 2012: Seven people were killed and three were wounded when a 43-year-old former student opened fire at Oikos University in Oakland, California. One Goh was charged with seven counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, but psychiatric evaluations concluded he suffered from long-term paranoid schizophrenia and was unfit to stand trial.
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Two high-altitude surveillance planes the state bought for more than $15 million to help secure the Mexican border are regularly circling over San Antonio, according to records and interviews, but details about exactly what theyre doing are scarce.

The Swiss-built Pilatus aircraft are each equipped with more than $1 million in high-definition cameras, capable of capturing images night and day, clear enough that they can show the color of someones shirt from two miles overhead. Pilots are guided by powerful mapping software that can superimpose addresses and parcel data over the live video, which can be streamed in real-time by Department of Public Safety officials on the ground.

Public flight records show that after the border, San Antonio is the urban area most heavily circled by the two planes, which collectively spent time on at least 52 days so far this year flying above San Antonio neighborhoods, many of them on the East Side and West Side.

The San Antonio Police Department initially denied knowledge of the planes or using them in any joint surveillance operations with the state and thus said it had no records of why the planes would be flying over San Antonio. But on Friday an SAPD spokesman said there had been a misunderstanding, and that SAPD has been working regularly with the aircraft. SAPD Lt. Jesse Salame said the planes have helped search for suspects such as in the case of the 2016 shooting of SAPD Detective Benjamin Marconi, and also assist the citys Violent Crimes Task Force. But the department didnt provide any numbers on how many cases have been assisted by the planes, the result of the assistance or any other details.

For its part, DPS officials say one of the planes helped recently in an unspecified federal human trafficking case in San Antonio. DPS said the planes can be used to support local law enforcement in manhunts, locating missing persons, disaster reconnaissance, search and rescue, tracking vehicles during pursuits and more but, again, the agency would not provide any details, such as the number and type of cases it has assisted, what agencies requested that assistance and results of the flyovers.

Since the purchase, the planes activity has received little public scrutiny. But the aircraft  which can reach an altitude of 30,000 feet  are in the air roughly half the days in the year, flying at night, during the day and on weekends, according to public flight records.

This map displays where one of the two Department of Public Safety-owned planes flew between Jan. 1 and Oct. 29 of this year. Due to time zone differences, dates are approximate. Source: FlightRadar24.com Credit: Annie Millerbernd

This map displays where one of the two Department of Public Safety-owned planes flew between Jan. 1 and Oct. 29 of this year. Due to time zone differences, dates are approximate. Source: FlightRadar24.com Credit: Annie Millerbernd

While most missions are still tied to monitoring the border, the planes work has shifted since 2014 to include more criminal patrols, DPS records show.

Since January, the older Pilatus  based in San Antonio  has made trips to the Rio Grande Valley, but spent time during at least 40 days flying or circling above the Alamo City, according to public flight records. While the trips varied in length, from less than an hour to more than three, pilots focused on the Southeast Side of the city. As of mid-September, 18 out of 96 San Antonio homicides occurred in City Council District 3 on the Southeast Side, followed by 17 homicides in District 2 on the East Side.

On Thursday, the plane took off just after 9 p.m. Over two hours, it made more than 20 circles over downtown San Antonio.

The newer plane, based in Edinburg, spends more time at the border, where it is stationed. Still, that plane circled San Antonio on more than a dozen days this year, also focusing on the Southeast Side of the city and some on the West Side, near South Zarzamora and U.S. 90. Residents there have complained of rising crime and petitioned the city for a police storefront substation, but theres no indication that the planes were brought in specifically to address their concerns.

Privacy concerns

In response to a question about privacy protections, Salame said, When the plane is out looking, its probably narrowly tailored to a specific subject or a specific area.  I dont think they are out randomly looking in peoples backyards and their swimming pools.

DPS said the planes cameras arent always rolling.

The camera is not immediately turned on simply because the aircraft is airborne, the agency said in a statement. There is a difference between the camera simply being activated, the camera recoding and the video footage being retained.

DPS spokesman Tom Vinger said later that the planes imaging systems, which have thermal capabilities, only tape significant events that could be used as evidence or for training purposes.

While the video is public under the Texas Public Information Act, DPS has not fulfilled a San Antonio Express-News request for records related to the Pilatus planes. The agencys legal department agreed to let the Express-News view some of the records in person, but never set a date for a viewing and has not responded to repeated requests over the past several weeks.

Privacy experts said the public should know about use of the technology, which is often deployed by police forces across the country without a warrant, a court order or notice to the local community, said Chris Calabrese, vice president of policy at the Center for Democracy and Technology.

If a local community doesn't know that surveillance is happening, can we really be comfortable with that? he said.

DPS wouldnt say directly whether it gets warrants for any of the flights, but said the planes fly mostly in high altitudes, which is considered a public place.

There is no expectation of privacy when the individual is in plain view of others in a public place, Vinger said. Also, the quality of the image-capturing equipment is not typically sufficient enough to identify a persons face.

Use of the planes over San Antonio wouldnt require sign-off from the police chief or the City Council, Salame said.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg had no comment, a spokesman said.

Drones versus planes

DPS bought the first plane in 2012 and the second in 2016 with money that lawmakers approved for securing the border. While the aircraft frequently fly along the Rio Grande Valley, public flight records show they also spend time circling over cities hundreds of miles away, including San Antonio, Houston and Austin.

Border crime does not stop at the border, Vinger said. It is routine for DPS to assist other agencies to combat criminal activity. Our aircraft will go where there threats and crime are located.

Still, experts said a drone could do much of that work at a fraction of the cost.

Putting a plane in the air to try to identify the next burglar or the next shoplifter, I really think thats overkill, said Alex del Carmen, executive director of the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice and Strategic Studies at Tarleton State University.

Vinger countered that drones and planes arent interchangeable.

Their missions and capabilities are not comparable. There are also numerous limitations placed on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles by the FAA, Vinger said.

The Pilatus PC-12 NG Spectre planes are two of more than 20 DPS aircraft. The two planes are among the most expensive, purchased for roughly $7.4 million and $8.1 million each.

It costs the department an average of $474 to fly the plane for one hour, including insurance and hanger expenses, according to 2016 fiscal year records. Fuel for one plane has cost the state more than $150,000 annually. The older Pilatus plane flew more than 600 hours over about 180 days last year, according to agency flight logs.

Salame said the city doesnt pay for use of the plane, just as it wouldnt pay for troopers who assist with local needs.

Some lawmakers questioned why the state is pumping millions of dollars into the two aircraft, while they said other needs such as public education and health care are being underfunded.

This is a perfect example of why we need metrics on every dollar spent on border security, said Sen. Jose Menendez, D-San Antonio. Thats what the taxpayers deserve, because if they have therapeutic needs, or are in classrooms that are overcrowded, they deserve to know.

But Rep. Phil King, R-Weatherford, who chairs the House Homeland Security and Public Safety Committee, touted the benefits of the Pilatus planes. They can stay airborne for more than seven hours, far longer than any other aircraft in the DPS fleet, making them a versatile asset for crime-fighting or search and rescue, he said.

They can be deployed anywhere, King said. But their primary function is to work human and drug trafficking near the border.

Who knew what when

Initially, SAPD said it had no record of the plane and does not conduct any type of joint surveillance utilizing Texas Department of Public Safety assets such as fixed-wing aircraft.

But Salame said Friday that had been bad information and wasnt properly verified before getting released. Often times, he said, details about the use of outside equipment is known only by those SAPD officials involved in the operation.

Theres a number of things we use on a daily basis that are loaned to us by other agencies, Salame said.

Tracking tail number N243TX during the last week of October Source: FlightRadar24.com

At a news conference last week, Police Chief William McManus said he didnt know how long the planes have been flying for the task force.

The Bexar County Sheriffs Office had initially denied coordinating with the planes, too. Thursday, a spokeswoman for the sheriff also said there had been a misunderstanding and the office has indeed used the aircraft. She declined to give more detail about what they do and directed all further questions to DPS, which said the Bexar County Sheriffs office provides a tactical flight officer who rides on state aircraft during joint missions, including the Pilatus, Vinger said.

Other missions

Outside San Antonio, DPS said the planes flew during Hurricane Harvey as an airborne command and control platform directing other aircraft in the area, monitored the tops of buildings in Dallas when five city police officers were killed in 2016, helped track an airplane to Llano County where more than 200 pounds of marijuana were seized and assisted in rescuing illegal immigrants in distress.

Some state legislators were surprised to learn the plane has been assisting other law enforcement agencies hundreds of miles from the border.

I think taxpayers deserve an authentic understanding of where their tax money is going, said Rep. Mary Gonzalez, D-Clint, who sits on the House Appropriations Committee.

One expert said the planes can be beneficial for traffic surveillance and search and rescue, because they can cover a wide area quickly.

People will say, is it worth the expense? All I can say is how much is one life worth? said Tom Mijares, a criminal justice professor at Texas State University.

But others questioned whether the high-dollar planes are the best to use for those purposes. The Department of Homeland Security, for example, uses planes primarily for investigation as opposed to patrolling the border, said Victor Manjarrez Jr., who spent more than 20 years with the U.S. Border Patrol and now works at the University of Texas-El Paso.

It just sounds like someone got nice-to-have equipment, instead of got-to-have, he said.

Staff writer Emilie Eaton and data journalist Anne Millerbernd contributed to this report.

About the data: Data for this story was collected from FlightRadar24.com, a website that provides real-time flight information, between August and October 2017. FlightRadar24 uses multiple receivers to pick up the signal that aircraft transmit and then triangulates the aircrafts position. At least four receivers have to pick up a signal for the aircraft's position to appear. There are circumstances in which a signal was not received in these data, but they are limited. Some data arent available on FlightRadar24.com and were provided directly to the Express-News. The planes' tail numbers are N219TX and N243TX.





amorris@express-news.net
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Come practice and learn Gongfu Tea With Us! Or just Sample Amazing Teas for Free! All This Amazing Information, Knowledge, and Training is Provided Graciously by george jaw and the Las Vegas Tea Club! Thank you! ... Tea culture in China differs from that of Europe, Britain or Japan in its preparation methods, tasting methods and the occasions for which it is consumed. Chinese Tea Ceremony is also called the Chinese Art of Tea, is a cultural activity involving the ceremonial preparation and presentation of the process of brewing tea. The manner in which it is performed, or the art of its performance is shown in the tea ceremony. The spirit of the Chinese Tea Ceremony is described as he(, jing, yi, zhenwhich mean peace, tranquility, enjoyment and truth. Monks felt they could exhibit philosophical concepts through tea service. It is for that reason that the underlying philosophies of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism all can be appreciated in a Chinese Tea Ceremony. Tea services are still employed today by many scholars, intellectuals, learners as a way of self-cultivation. Over time, people recognized the health benefits of tea but also its overall enjoyment. Tea ceremonies could be seen in both Chinese imperial celebrations and ordinary people's lives. ... Gongfu Tea Ceremony Most of Asia-produced teas (China, India, Sri Lanka, nepal, Taiwan, Japan, Korea etc) are required to brew the Gongfu way. "Gongfu", not Kungfu, means a process of accumulated skills and experiences combined. The Gongfu Tea Ceremony, is a specific style of Chinese Tea Ceremony. Originated from South China, based on local tea characteristic and how tea is processed, southern area people developed and created Gongfu Tea Ceremony which uses smaller tea pots and matching teaware, accessories to brew and serve tea threw a particular set of brewing steps to create delightful savoring experiences. The experiences of savoring the tea, as a result of Gongfu Brewing, shall be an obvious difference from that of western style brewing. The standard held to measure a good Gongfu Brewing is to maintain consistent flavor (density, aroma, flavor) of tea soup across multiple steepings(brewings). This involves 3 key elements, i.e., 3 Ts : temperature(of the water), Tea (amount), Time (of each brewing) and the skills to keep these 3 elements perfect in harmony for a particular tea being brewed. The skills of brewing requires technical knowledge of the tea and artistic training of movement forms. So does the service area of the tea ware and accessories requires sensible and artistic arrangement of each component. To make both brewing and tasting experience both simplistic, natural, tasteful, delightful, and relaxing. Benefits of learning Gongfu Tea Ceremony: - Better, Healthier Life Style - Natural and Healthy Beverage - Wide Range of Health Benefits: Lower Blood Pressure, Cancer Prevention, Weight Control, Lower Cholesterol Level, Digestive help, just to name a few. - Better Mannered, Improved People and Family Relationships. - Self-Cultivation and Perfection - Mind Calming and much more. - George Las Vegas Tea Culture Institute - "Small Tea Gathering, Big World Within", est. 2010

Join us on our journey with Tea!

An outlet for assimilating oneself

with tea cultures from around the world!

We bring you Beautiful single-origin teas.

Teas reflecting the territory and people that produce them;

like a gallery for Tea.
Last year we had a lot of good quality  we had nearly all of the hay in the top two grades with a bit of the third grade  whereas on our system with five grades this year weve got a lot more in the grade 2 and 3, and more hay in grade 4 and 5 as well, so a lot more mid-grade and lower-grade compared to last year.
However, it is critical the government understands that while it remains open, inclusive and consultative with us, it has our 100 per cent support for taking all the time it needs to fix all the challenges we face, including the structure of the ESL and Rural Fire Service.
Mr Murray said they had been happy with the consultation process before its introduction but many of our members  who are fairly active in the industry  heard nothing about it until they received mail in their letterboxes.
Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan speak "20 times a day".

Mark Wright

The 30-year-old television presenter - who has recently relocated to America to co-host the US show 'Extra' - has admitted him and his 30-year-old wife meet up more often than people know about, and even if they are not in the same country they speak multiple times throughout the day.

Speaking about his relationship with the 'Our Girl' actress - who has recently been filming for the BBC One programme in South Africa, Nepal and Malaysia - to The Sun Online, the former 'The Only Way Is Essex' star said: "We speak 20 times a day. We see each other more than people know. I've flown there. She's flown here.

"She's my wife - the most special person in the world to me."

And the dark-haired hunk is well aware other males "fancy" his spouse, but he is not threatened by anyone else because he knows him and the former 'Coronation Street' star will be "together forever".

He continued: "I know men fancy her. It makes me feel good. The one thing people need to know for sure is we're going to be together forever."

The couple have been plagued with rumours their relationship is on the rocks but Michelle has silenced the naysayers, and she thinks the fact people can't comprehend her marriage and love life is still going strong is "a slight degree of sexism".

Speaking previously, the brunette beauty said: "It's been hard enough being away anyway, but then to contend with all that. It just comes from nowhere.

"I don't understand how a couple can't have their separate careers, and why can't a newly married woman go off and do her job and a husband go off and do his? I don't understand why that's a negative. It should be celebrated.

"I'd say there is a slight degree of sexism to it. I always think it's good we've got our own careers. He's put all his effort into that and I'm putting all my effort into this. And for me, I just find it really exciting."
Ben Affleck has been opening up about playing Bruce Wayne, aka Batman in Justice League in a recent London press junket, with the actor saying it was fun to have a kind of dry wit and play a more traditional version of the superhero than he did in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

Justice League is right around the corner

Speaking at the event, he explained: Batman, who is by nature, not necessarily anti-social, but [pretty much] a loner, and in this movie hes thrust into the role of not only having to work with people but bring them together and convince them to come in and try to be some kind of gel with Wonder Woman to hold all of that community effort together and that was a really interesting thing to play for me, and it also does take us to a more traditional version of Batman in the Justice League comics and his role with the Justice League vs the less traditional version in Batman v Superman where he was blinded by rage and wanted to take on Superman.

So, it was a lot of fun for me, I also got to have a kind of dry wit, I got to play off Ezra [Miller], which was a lot of fun because hes so funny and Bruce is always on the verge of exasperation. It was fun to show some other colours for sure.

Miller of course is taking on the role of Barry Allen in the film, otherwise known as The Flash, and will be joining the Justice League alongside Afflecks Batman, Gal Gadots Wonder Woman, Ray Fishers Cyborg and Jason Momoas Aquaman, as well as the rumoured returning Superman, played by Henry Cavill.

Forced to work together whether they like it or not, the group will tackle one of the most dangerous threats to planet earth in the form of Steppenwolf and his army of Parademons, all of whom are searching for a trio of Mother Boxes scattered around the globe. Whether or not theyll be able to get the job done however remains to be seen

Justice League comes to cinemas across the UK on November 17, 2017.

by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk

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Nicole Scherzinger knows a thing or two about making a hit record, and the former Pussycat Doll and current judge of The X Factor recently spoke to Britains OK! Magazine about what shes learned throughout the years.

Nicole Scherzinger returns to The X Factor tonight (Nov 5)

She explained: Ive become more relaxed about things, thats for sure. Ive learnt that its important to be authentic because thats what separates you from everyone else. Thats one of the reasons Im taking so much time to release new music. It has to come from a truthful and honest place because the industry is so over-saturated at the moment.

Artists such as Sam Smith and Adele are those that resonate with audiences, she says, because of how open they are about their personal life through their music.

The comments come after Nicole asked Pride of Britain winner Moin Younis to be her VIP guest at the live final of The X Factor a little later this year.

At 17-years-old, Moin suffers with Epidermolysis bullosa, which makes his skin blister and tear whenever its touched. He won the Teenager of Courage Award for his work as an ambassador for the Acorns Childrens Hospice in Birmingham, and has amassed a string of celebrity friends on social media thanks to his selfless work.

Meanwhile, Nicole will now be preparing for her category to take to the stage in tonights live X Factor show (November 5). Last week, her Wildcard act Talia Dean was sent packing, so shell be hoping to hang on to her three remaining artists  Kevin Davy, Matt Linnen and TracyLeanne Jefford.

By the end of the night, one of her three acts, or one of Sharons four remaining girls will be sent away from the competition, whilst the act out of all seven artists with the highest amount of votes will go into a prize fight against last nights winner Rak-Su, for the chance to join a renowned producer in the studio and make a single.

by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk

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Debbie McGee has won the hearts of millions watching at home on this years Strictly Come Dancing, with the star this week earning a perfect score of 40 alongside professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice following their Tango to Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas.

Debbie McGee is impressing on Strictly Come Dancing

Following the show, Debbie took to social media to thank Giovanni, saying: This is a week I will never forget. You have given me my sparkle back.

As the widow to Paul Daniels who passed away last year, there are of course the usual rumours of romance between Debbie and her dance partner, but she said in recent interview with Bella: We have a great working dance partnership and we really love each other as human beings, so I can see why people want to say there is something going on.

She added: We have great chemistry and love dancing together. But theres nothing going on.

Though she has legions of fans, there are those unimpressed by Debbie being a part of the show, because of her previous training as a ballet dancer at the Royal Ballet School from the age of 16. She later joined the Iranian National Ballet before appearing on The Paul Daniels Magic Show and striking up her relationship with the magician.

Still, despite all of that, Debbie and Giovanni remain the strong favourites to win the show, alongside Alexandra Burke and Aston Merrygold, with This Morning presenter Ruth Langsford the favourite to go home after this weeks performances. Still, with such a strong fanbase, we wouldnt be surprised if somebody else was sent packing and Ruth lived on to dance another week!

You can see the results from this weeks Strictly Come Dancing in tonights show at 7.15pm on BBC One.

by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk

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The value of garments and footwear exported by Cambodia in the first nine months of the current year have crossed the $5 billion mark, as per the date released by the ministry of commerce. Apparel exports fetched $4.9 billion and accounted for 63 per cent of the total $7.7 billion exports made the by the southeast Asian nation in January-September 2017.

The value of garments and footwear exported by Cambodia in the first nine months of the current year have crossed the $5 billion mark, as per the date released by the ministry of commerce. Apparel exports fetched $4.9 billion and accounted for 63 per cent of the total $7.7 billion exports made the by the southeast Asian nation in January-September 2017.#

In terms of percentage, however, footwear exports witnessed a sharp rise of 43.3 per cent and earned $636 million for Cambodia during the nine-month period.

The value of garments and footwear exported by Cambodia in the first nine months of the current year have crossed the $5 billion mark, as per the date released by the ministry of commerce. Apparel exports fetched $4.9 billion and accounted for 63 per cent of the total $7.7 billion exports made the by the southeast Asian nation in January-September 2017.#

Despite a surge in minimum wages during the past few years, the increase in value of Cambodian garment and footwear exports can be attributed to the preference enjoyed by the Kingdom under Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) and Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status. Both GSP and MFN give duty-free access and/or lower tariffs for Cambodian goods.

The value of garments and footwear exported by Cambodia in the first nine months of the current year have crossed the $5 billion mark, as per the date released by the ministry of commerce. Apparel exports fetched $4.9 billion and accounted for 63 per cent of the total $7.7 billion exports made the by the southeast Asian nation in January-September 2017.#

European Union continues to be the biggest market for Cambodian products, followed by the US and Japan. (RKS)

The value of garments and footwear exported by Cambodia in the first nine months of the current year have crossed the $5 billion mark, as per the date released by the ministry of commerce. Apparel exports fetched $4.9 billion and accounted for 63 per cent of the total $7.7 billion exports made the by the southeast Asian nation in January-September 2017.#

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
White Oak Commercial Finance, among the nation's leading lenders to the middle market, has awarded a $15 million factoring facility to Mias Fashion, an innovative leader in the full package apparel manufacturing and global sourcing. Since 1999, Mias Fashion has efficiently produced high-quality products for many of the countrys leading brands and retailers.The company is headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, CA with global operations in South Korea, Mexico and Vietnam. The $15 million line of credit secured against accounts receivable and inventory will be used to facilitate growth and provide additional access to working capital. WOCF is the sole lender.

White Oak Commercial Finance, among the nation's leading lenders to the middle market, has awarded a $15 million factoring facility to Mias Fashion, an innovative leader in the full package apparel manufacturing and global sourcing. Since 1999, Mias Fashion has efficiently produced high-quality products for many of the country's leading brands and retailers.#

Peter Ahn, president and CEO of Mias Fashion said, "During the tough retail market condition, WOCF stepped above the rest with an innovative funding structure. With the facility provided by WOCF, Mias Fashion is able to entertain new opportunities to expand our business.""As innovative companies require more creative financing solutions beyond what traditional banks are able to offer, they are increasingly turning to WOCF for their borrowing needs," said Robert Grbic, president and chief executive officer, WOCF.Grbic added, "For decades our California office has provided access to financing to wholesalers, manufacturers and importers serving the retail sector. Deals like this are a testament to our seasoned team, our ability to identify value in companies, and our innovative products that adapt to market conditions."WOCF, formerly Capital Business Credit, was acquired by White Oak Global Advisors, on behalf of its institutional clients in late 2016. Today WOCF has over $300 million of assets deployed with office locations in New York, Charlotte, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and Shanghai. (SV)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Anybits, New Altcoin Exchange that Provides Online Tool for Users to Freely Trade Between a Number of Different Virtual Cryptocurrencies, has Launched its Service to the Public

DUBLIN, IRELAND / ACCESSWIRE / November 5, 2017 / Proudly introduced at Blockchain & Bitcoin conference in Kiev, Ukraine earlier in October, Ireland-based Anybits is an exchange platform for the most popular cryptocurrencies and digital funds such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Dash, Ethereum, and many more.

Powered and managed by established and reputable crypto-to-fiat exchange, Bitsane.com, Anybits is the fastest-growing, real-time altcoin trading platform with a constantly growing list of supported crypto assets.

Anybits has been designed for optimal accessibility, ease-of-use, and compatibility across all mobile devices for trading whenever and wherever. Deposits and withdrawal on the platform are instantaneous; transactions are lightning fast and users' registrations are intuitive and simple.

Users on the platform can enroll in a generous affiliate program that offers them up to 50% referral commission. They will also be provided with margin trading and portfolio diversifying investment options when the platform fully launches.

In order to properly secure users' funds, Anybits uses cold storage to protect funds and transactions. Users can also set up additional security measures for their accounts.

Anybits' extensive suite of comprehensive APIs allows developers to seamlessly develop and integrate their own cryptocurrency trading platforms.

For a limited time only, Anybits offers FREE trading with no transaction fees till the end of 2017. To take advantage of this offer, use the following promotion code at the time of registration: H9F27D1V

Learn more about Anybits at - https://anybits.com

Media Contact



Contact Name: Aidas Rupsys

Contact Email: support@anybits.com

Location: Dublin, Ireland

Disclaimer: Anybits is the source of this content. Virtual currency is not legal tender, is not backed by the government, and accounts and value balances are not subject to consumer protections. This press release is for informational purposes only. The information does not constitute investment advice or an offer to invest. ROI cannot be guaranteed. Readers are urged to make investment decisions at their own discretion and the company will not be responsible for the outcome of such decisions. This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations they are based on will occur.

SOURCE: Anybits
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The first container of Hass avocado produced in Colombia has left for the United States after 12 years of negotiations between the two countries. The president of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos, celebrated the shipment of the first 34 tons, which left by ship from the seaport of Cartagena. The shipment is expected to arrive at the port of Long Beach, in California. The opening of the U.S. market for the Colombian Hass avocado represents the highest Santos' administration achievement for the agricultural sector due to the level of sanitary demand and the size of the market. 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.
CHICAGO (dpa-AFX) - United Continental Holdings Inc. (UAL) is considering replacing older wide-body planes with new Boeing Co. (BA) 767 jets, the Wall Street Journal reported. Boeing stopped making the passenger version of the twin-aisle plane three years ago but recently increased production of models converted for use as military refueling tankers and freighters. Now the aerospace giant is looking at ways to restart production of a passenger 767 to meet emerging demand from airlines seeking to replace aging jets in the next several years, the journal reported citing people familiar with Boeing's plans. The focus is on reviving the 767-300ER, the most popular version of the jet family which can seat about 200 passengers. This would also help satisfy demand before the company launches a new twin-aisle jet in the middle of the next decade, the report said. Boeing recently established a program office for its proposed new midsize airplane-dubbed the 797 by some in the industry-but hasn't definitively decided to build the plane. 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.
Harish Kalyan and Raiza Wilson, two of the most neutral, non-controversial candidates from the recently-concluded season of Bigg Boss Tamil, are teaming up for an untitled Tamil movie which will be directed by Elan.

In a brief chat with Firstpost, Harish Kalyan, who is currently busy shooting for another untitled project, said, "It was not a pre-planned idea to cast Raiza and I to cash in on the Bigg Boss popularity. The makers had actually auditioned some 30 actresses before Raiza. So, after they zeroed in on me, Raiza was selected through a proper audition conducted by the team. Now, since I know her very well, I think I'll be pretty comfortable working with her."

Talking about the project, Harish said, "It's a feel-good rom-com set in the backdrop of a city. A proper urban story with a strong emotional core. We are going on floors in another ten days. I play a lower-middle-class youngster in the film."

In one of the special episodes of Bigg Boss Tamil, actress Anjali visited the sets and conducted a few contests for the inmates. Harish Kalyan sang the famous 'Saaindhu Saaindhu' track from filmmaker Gautham Menon's Nee Thaane En Ponvasantham, originally sung by Yuvan Shankar Raja and composed by Ilaiayaraja to impress Anjali. He was declared the winner of the contest too, for his incredible singing. Now, Yuvan has been signed to compose music for Harish-Raiza's project. An elated Harish said, "It's a dream-come-true moment for me. I've been a huge fan of Yuvan sir's music from my teenage days. My master Sadhanandham was a keyboard player and guitarist for Ilayaraja sir, and he was also the programmer for Yuvan sir. I've listened to all of his work, and I admire him a lot."

Firstpost also caught up with Raiza, who is all set to make her first appearance as a lead actress with this film. "I was called in for an audition; I flew down from Bengaluru and attended it. After a couple of days, I received a call saying I'm selected," said Raiza, who was last seen in a brief role as Kajol's manager in the Dhanush-starrer Velai Illa Pattathari 2.

When asked her about what made her sign up for the project, Raiza said, "It's a very young and peppy script. The story is very alive. This generation's youngsters can completely relate to the film, which is void of any cliches. It's quite contemporary. The story-telling will be completely real; it is not fake at all."

Raiza said she liked her character in the film very much because it's full of vim and vigour. Raiza, who has been in touch with all her Bigg Boss contestants, says the show has changed her a lot as a person. "I've become more mature, and I'm taking everything step by step. Now, I'm wise about the decisions I make in my life. Earlier, I used to live in my comfort zone. Even in the show, I was the same. But after being there for very long, I learnt to get out of my comfort zone. Now, I'm able to deal with any situation that's thrown at me, instead of complaining or thinking negative about it. When you become a strong human being, you automatically handle your situations in a strong manner. I'm now quite involved in my surroundings, and I have become very attentive," said Raiza when asked about the important takeaways from the reality show.

Director Elan, who is currently waiting for the release of his debut directorial Graghanam, a supernatural crime thriller starring Krishna and Chandran, is helming the project. The movie, which is on the verge of pre-production, is bankrolled by Rajarajan's K Productions. The first look of the film will be released in a week's time.
The New York City Police Department said on 3 November that it had a credible narrative from an unidentified woman who has made a rape allegation against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein and was gathering evidence for a possible arrest warrant.

Reuters requests for comment from Weinsteins representative and his lawyer were not immediately answered.

New York City Police Department Deputy Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce told a news conference that the alleged victim put forth a credible and detailed narrative.

We have an actual case here, Boyce said. He said the police department became aware of the accusation on 25 October.

Boyce said it was a seven-year-old case and we have to move forward gathering evidence. He said that because Weinstein was out of state the police department would need a court-ordered warrant for any arrest.

More than 50 women have claimed that Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them over the past three decades. Weinstein has denied having non-consensual sex with anyone. Reuters has been unable to independently confirm any of the allegations.

Boyce said police had spoken to the woman and we found corroboration along the way.

He said the NYPD was working on the case with the Manhattan district attorneys office. Right now he (Weinstein) poses no threat to anybody in New York City. Hes out of state. So its a continuing investigation, Boyce told the news conference.

Earlier on 3 November, in response to media reports, Joan Vollero, a spokeswoman for Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr., told Reuters, A senior sex crimes prosecutor is assigned to this investigation, and the Office has been working with our partners in the NYPD since the new allegations came to light.

Police in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and London have also said they are investigating sexual assault allegations against Weinstein but no charges have been brought against him.
Rahul Jain's debut Machines is a compelling, deceptively simple cinematic essay on the dehumanising effects of labour, set in a cloth factory in Gujarat. Having won awards and acclaim at film festivals from Zurich and Thessaloniki to Sundance and Mumbai, the documentary is screening at the Dharamshala International Film Festival this weekend. We caught up with the 26-year-old debut filmmaker at his family home in Delhi just after Diwali, to talk about privilege and inequality, shielding ourselves from our environment, capitalism and the creative process.

You grew up in Delhi.

Yes, till the age of 15. In Pitampura. By the time I left India, we were in GK II. And then while I was gone, my family moved to Geetanjali Enclave. And then a few years ago, we moved here [to the South Extension house].



Do you have plans of moving back here?

I have actually moved back. Though I'm travelling a lot, and it has been difficult to be here and meditate for my next film. I went out today for a few hours, and it was very depressing. But I guess that's what I'm looking for. [laughs]

Yes, I read that your new project is about environmental pollution. Is this also a fieldwork trip  given that Diwali now inaugurates the pollution season in Delhi?

It is, kind of. But very privileged and protected. I think the suffusion of politics and art is a relatively recent thing, maybe 100-150 years. Since the Renaissance artists have had this problem of how to represent anything an invisible force: the greatest of those would be God. To look at a poison does not suggest what that poison can do.

So why does the visual representation matter then?

This is something I struggle with. But this is where the human comes in. It is life that interprets matter around it. Otherwise matter is just matter. If I can somehow manage to excavate and provoke certain kinds of reactions from a wide intersection of the population of the city... I don't experience the city the way an average person here would, by needing to walk around. When I went to school in a non-AC school bus, maybe I did. But now, with air conditioning, for example, the more you avoid the genie outside, the more the genie outside keeps growing. It's a Catch-22, something that I'm really confused and scared about  as much as one can be with a level of comfort that allows you to ignore your surroundings.

It's more and more possible to shield yourself from the environment. Once you begin, there seems no end.

Yes, the thickness of the barriers between you and the world keep growing, the more you avoid the world outside. I don't really know how to communicate that fear to people for whom that fear is not up to their necks at the moment. I don't know if this blindness is a socio-economic problem. This is going to affect all of us. Maybe the richest will dig into mountains and hide themselves inside, but that won't really be life, would it?

But even people not in that position seem not to see what it is doing to them, and worse  what they're doing to it. In my very middle-middle class Delhi neighbourhood, families hoarded fireworks and lit them after midnight. That  not relief  was the response to the Supreme Court ban on firework sales. It seems like everyone wants to assume the role of victim.

Every single book that I've read about climate change or global warming, the first chapter talks about denial. Of course there's pollution outside, but the real pollution is inside our heads, which is causing us to not perceive the magnitude of the behemoth we are facing, we are causing. Carbon is a solid but we have managed to transmute it into a gas.

The other thing is slow violence. As a five-year-old, there was something fascinating about explicit, extreme contrasts  if the punch doesn't have the dishoom-dishoom sound, we might experience it less. It's easy to kill creatures in a video game. Like that virtual violence, the pollutants we are generating remain virtual or fictional  till they hit us. Maybe an animal feels more when they see a chrysanthemum growing in January instead of April. How do you generate that foreboding, the terror of what that means? To depict that is a big representational challenge.

What you just said about denial and our comforts making us deny our role reminded me of one of the strongest scenes in Machines: where the factory owner says he keeps the labourers' salaries low because they would spend the extra money on bidis or alcohol. That is class blindness and denial. The other thing I remember is that in an interview you gave, you mentioned that you wanted to capture the stench of ammonia in the factory  which takes us back to depicting the invisible.

I'm just a very olfactory person. I am very moved by smell. I even choose my partners by it. I am wary of it, but I use it in my art as well. But films are nonetheless a two-dimensional medium. You get sound and image, you have make do with that, but I try to generate a kind of synaesthesia.

I believe that you first visited the factory in Machines when you were a small child. What stayed with you from then?

Sense perceptions. A child doesn't have the language to articulate the world, they can only feel. I was three feet tall and there were all these sweaty people, very big. And the machines were very big. It was one of my foundational experiences to have seen that, even though I was only a tertiary participant. As a child, I was a ghost there. My whole life it was brewing, I think. Then three things happened. First I was given a warning that I would get kicked out [of film school] if I didn't make something. But I didn't identify or relate with anything in my immediate environment.

Where was that?

In Valencia, which is 40 miles from Los Angeles. Very white and very dull. Then I was googling for inspiration and googled '25 Greatest Photographers Ever' and came across Sebastian Salgado's book called Workers. I was hypnotised. It literally took me back to my exaggerated perspective, that of a child. Also around the same time in 2013, the Rana Plaza incident in Bangladesh happened, where a garment factory collapsed and over a thousand people passed away. This was also one of the catalysts that brought this into the zeitgeist.

I could have made this film in a bread factory or a Pepsi factory. I mean, the whole world is built on slavery of some kind or another. But the earliest rhetorics of working class conditions and anthropology of workers was articulated for some reason in textile mills.

Yes, true. So did you work out why the cloth matters? I mean, there is an obvious visual contrast between these reams of fabric and the often meagrely-clothed men working to create them...

Yes. Which some of the girls in my school in California found really hot. Though I wasn't at all eroticising them in that way.

How old were you when you started shooting?

Twenty-two. It took me three years to finish the film. I'm 26 now. That time I had, when I was studying other things, was helpful. I didn't have a producer for the longest time. It wasn't very expensive at first: I had my own equipment, my best friend from film school, Rodrigo Trejo Villanueva, agreed to be my cinematographer, and we have a synergy. I'm somebody who worries a lot, but he didn't give a f**k about important deadlines. I learnt patience from him. It's the most basic fact of meditation: to calm down and not be tremored by 20 different ideas. When we lose our anally-retentive postmodern sense of control, that's when we can let go. I do believe that creativity needs a kind of looseness  your mind needs to free itself of the tautness of deadlines, and be relaxed enough to make wild juxtapositions in your head.

You don't ever appear in the film.

In films, just like in life, what you don't see is as important as what you see. Of course the film is brought to the audience from my perspective. But my presence would be a barrier, or filter. It would take away the urgency of the words spoken. I wanted viewers to feel they were being directly addressed.

There is one scene towards the end, where the crowd of labourers outside ask you what you've come to do, whether you actually want to help, or will you also just go away like politicians do. What did you say?

I didn't really have any answers. But I told the workers what I was doing.

And what was the response?

They thanked me. Some of them said, that's really kind of you, that you're trying to understand what we're going through. Some of the others were just happy that someone had pointed a camera at them for the first time in their lives. These people come from a place of thinking nobody cares about them. So for anybody to be curious about their situation, about their being, is almost a phenomenon. But we're humans and we respond to empathy. Also I communicated with them the kind of privilege I come from, and the fact that I've never earned a single penny in my life, and that I'm studying.

That's a difficult thing to do.

Absolutely. You really have to be vulnerable. Sometimes a worker would ask me, yeh camera kitne ka hai, and I could not bring myself name a figure that would equal 20 years of his salary in that factory. So I would just say, it's very expensive.

That is also the basic question that drove me to make this film: not knowing why there is this inequality. In many places the illusion of equality is much more present. Here in India it stares back at you.

So are you back in India for good?

Well, at least as long as I'm working on my next project, the documentary on pollution. It's depressingly inside my head still. I need to put pen to paper.

Did you write a script for Machines?

[Shakes his head to indicate no].

But you want to write a script for this film?

No, I just want to see my thought process tangibilised [sic]. Writing things down helps. I mean my father still takes notes, and he's one of the most successful men I know. And he went to school till Class Eight.

You started out going to engineering school in the US. How long did you last?

Six months.

But the science that you studied, seems to survive in your concerns, and in your metaphors.

I came to art very late. Until the age of 20, I had never met an artist. But I had met scientists. And businessmen and lawyers and doctors.

You're just back from the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. Any thoughts on current cinema in India? Do you watch Indian films?

I'm going to watch a Bollywood film with my family tonight, and I know that every part of my brain will be screaming 'I want to get out of here'. We are a film-watching country, but it can't be about the numbers. It's about what sorts of film we're watching; what films it is assumed we want to see. The formula [of producing commercial cinema] works on the same principle as Amazon or Netflix, which is to say that the machine is supposed to be able to predict what you would like. But it is a machine making that decision, and a machine can only create based on what has been made before. How then will anything new ever get created?
Los Angeles police are investigating after three women reported being sexually assaulted by actor Danny Masterson in the early 2000s. The actor currently stars in The Ranch, a Netflix show. The streaming giant released a statement to The Huffington Post saying, We are aware of the allegations and the subsequent investigation, and will respond if developments occur.

The probe was launched after three women came forward and reported they were sexually assaulted by Masterson in the early 2000s, Officer Drake Madison, a Los Angeles police spokesman, said on 3 November. He declined to provide any further details, citing the ongoing investigation.

The 40-year-old actor is best known for his role as Steven Hyde on That 70s Show, which aired from 1998 until 2006.

A representative for Masterson, who has not been charged with a crime, denied the allegations in a statement on 3 November, saying one of the accusers was his longtime girlfriend who continued to date him after the alleged incident.

The alleged incident occurred in the middle of their six-year relationship, after which she continued to be his longtime girlfriend, the statement said.

Masterson's statement also said another one of the accusers had brought the same allegations to the LAPD about 14 years ago but police determined the claim had no merit.
Vir Das appeared on Conan OBriens late-night show Conan to remind America that there were things happening in the world beyond Donald Trump. The actor-comedian delivered a 5-minute monologue talking about India, Canada, Catalonia, Japan and the current socio-political scenario in these countries.

The comedian is known to be rather disapproving of the President of The United States and never fails to make jokes that are conspicuously critical of him. True to form, he humourously pulls up America for being so dependent on Indians for everything from their Ubers to their satellites. He also sheds light on Canada and how it is probably the only country which is not facing any sort of crisis at this point.

Not sparing Donald J Trump's reckless Twitter habit, he also comforts the audience members by telling them that, "The world has 7.3 billion people. Twitter has only 300 million active users. So, every time Donald Trump tweets something insane, 97% of the world hasn't read that sh*t." He also gives everyone a piece of his mind on Catalonia's "Spexit" and how Japan and America would be allies in the future.

Although short, his 5-minute gig manages to make to make the audience and O'Brien burst into laughter multiple times with his comic timing and hilarious takes.

Watch the video here:
New Delhi: A 58-year-old man was arrested for his alleged involvement in a burglary at the Aam Aadmi Party office at Rouse Avenue in central Delhi, police said on Sunday. The incident happened on Friday when a vagabond, identified as Mohammad Qazim, stole canopies from the office, they said.

A case was registered on Saturday, the police said, adding that the accused was identified on the basis of a CCTV footage shared by a complainant with the police.

An officer privy to the probe said that the face of the accused was not visible in the footage. However, on the basis of the physical appearance of the accused, five to six people were rounded up and Qazim was nabbed from Kamla Market, he said.

Twenty-two-year-old Surtan, a scrap dealer, was also arrested for buying the canopies sold to him by Qazim.

#BREAKING -- Theft in Aam Aadmi Party's office in New Delhi on November 3 | @rupashreenanda with more details pic.twitter.com/Tu5m7y3NEx  News18 (@CNNnews18) November 5, 2017

Earlier on 12 October, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's blue WagonR car was stolen from outside the Secretariat and was found abandoned in Ghaziabad two days later.

On 13 October, Kejriwal had written to the Lieutenant Governor, saying the theft of his car pointed towards the rapidly "deteriorating" law and order situation in the national capital.

The WagonR car was registered in the name of AAP and was being used by the party's media coordinator Vandana. It was earlier used by Kejriwal.

Even after Kejriwal became the chief minister in December 2013, he refused to use an official car and preferred his old WagonR.

In December last year, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia's office in Vinod Nagar area of his Patparganj constituency in east Delhi was burgled, with the thieves decamping two computers, a letter pad, hard disk, documents and the digital video recorder of a CCTV camera among others. The burglars had entered the premises by breaking the lock of the office.

With inputs from PTI
You dont have to be a foreigner to get hassled and harassed at our tourist spots.

On Sunday, a German tourist was thrashed in Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra just days after a Swiss couple were beaten up at Fatehpur Sikri.

There is no doubt that the intimidation one faces at tourist spots and even places of worship has grown a lot more hostile.

Not long ago, when we visited these places, the annoyance was financial.

The poor and indigent, infants in their arms, plucked at your sleeves and begged for money: All according to script.

Then, some 'guides' shooed them awayall part of the show folksand were duly thanked and rewarded.

Even if you were going for a loved one's last rites and wracked with grief, the mob did not spare you.

Beaten by the fates, you simply handed out fistfuls of coins and notes and mindlessly spread your generosity.

The tout element still survives, but now has an added layer of organised 'goondaism' which hopes to provoke visitors.

It's just too much a stretch for one to believe that the Swiss couple was kissing in public just when the ruffians happened to be passing by. It's hard to fathom that the aggressive postures of the goons didn't dissuade the couple from their expression of ardour.

Picture this: Two foreigners in a foreign land being watched by angry bullies and saying: Forget about that, let's just carry on kissing.

One thinks not.

Then we have Aman Yadav, the man accused of assaulting the German national at a railway station in Uttar Pradesh.

Yadav was reportedly incensed after the German did not respond to his purported greeting of "Welcome to India". This offended Yadav's sensibilities to such an extent that he felt obligated to preserve our national honour by beating up the tourist.

Have we not walked past men of hissing such messages: You want foreign exchange? Hotel room? Girls? Drugs? Good time?

They come closer and closer, until they're practically in your face, nudging, pushing and making you feel like you're cornered.

But should we expect any better?

After all, in 2016, Tourism Minister Mahesh Sharma said foreign women should not wear skirts or walk alone at night in the countrys small towns and cities. "For their own safety," he said, while discussing tourist security in Agra. He said this in 2016. Which goes to show our mindset.

Let's stop pretending these self-styled crusaders of righteousness and probity are anything but integral members of a gang that often includes taxi drivers, cops and guides. Women travellers have it even worse and are literally heckled from the time they arrive till the time they leave.

Such as the tourists who were assaulted at Alleppey beach, Kerala, in 2014 after they attempted to prevent locals harassing female visitors.

It is indeed sad that global travel websites such as hippieinheels.com and worldnomads.com actually offer tips on Indias top tourist scams.

Our tourist spots are traps. And they're getting worse.

Whether one goes to pray or simply to contemplate life, to turn the pages of history or simply enjoy nature's bounty, it is the baseness of man that one has to watch out for.

Incredible India, this is not.
Do I contradict myself?

Very well then I contradict myself;

(I am large, I contain multitudes.)

 Walt Whitman

Raya Sarkar has brought us a list, setting the creeds and schools in abeyance, and we will not understand what they did until it has all been done. This list comes in the epoch of the leaks  "Unlike societies in the 1970s, our social body is defined by leaks; everything leaks, from surveillance tapes, wire tapes, nudity on a remote beach, books, music to medicinal drugs and lives. It comes also in the era of new technologies of sex. In this, the list should not surprise us.

All we need to know about the list, for now, is that it is a crowd-sourced list naming alleged sexual harassers in academia. Further, some of the names in the list are the leaders of postcolonial theory which also determines the most dominant feminism in India. The list liberates women from the terror of men and the demand for submission to the postcolonial norms in the academia. In this, the list reveals the critical-ised state of feminism.

All we need to know for now is that Sarkar is 'they' since we do not give a damn about what anyone was born as. This 'they' is not Whitmans multitudes but something different which indicates the passion for the future which  this time it is of everything  is already here. They and their list are showing us something beyond sex, death, and the little fascisms in the name of "the left".

Critical-ised feminism and its necessary line of descent

The list has elicited bitter responses, and more lists have appeared. These incoherent sounds of a broken internal milieu  the lists, casteism, more and more pronouns, territorial shouts, threats, curses  are the only ones a critical-ised movement can make, like the tattered skin of an old drum. These paranoid gestures  checking the locks, tough postures out of a vacant power, camping into caste ghettos, territorial markings, dirt wars  are all that an organism in a foreign milieu can make. This is feminism at its critical limits or the birthing moments of critical feminism.

Critique is the activity of passing something  an organism, a system, a society  through a sieve to find the distinct powers within it, and then to find the limits of these powers. Critical is, in mathematical terms, the point at which a curve changes direction, either up or down. We know too well that when the hospital tells us that he is in a critical condition he will not return from this state the way he was earlier; he may come back either as better or as worse, but never the same.

A critique was at home in the concept of "feminism" since its beginning. This beginning though came too late in the history of the concepts of politics, even later than racism. The division of people into men and women in a hierarchy, determined by the concept patriarchy  of which we still have not understood everything  was to be opposed. The opposing concept which would reverse the hierarchy was named feminism, and it was destined to remain in a relation of dependency with patriarchy.

Feminism made the division in people explicit and made us aware of the hierarchy which held men superior to women. It soon became an epistemology, the science of how we come to know some things to be what they are. Feminist epistemology allowed us to see the investment of male enabling values in most human institutions and even in our language.

As feminism was brought into contact with anti-racist epistemology it was forced to see that feminism was predominantly a white peoples theory with their point of view of the world. This meant that if white women were in charge of due process they could be trusted to be first white and then women. That the division between people into black and white is more powerful than the division between men and women. This forced a division in the feminist process, into white and black feminism so that white women will not speak for and sell the voices of black women. This is also the moment at which what is called identity politics entered feminist politics.

This gesture of a division was imitated by postcolonial theory. Postcolonial feminism was necessitated by the understanding that first-world women were first first-world and then women. Now, postcolonial feminists spoke for postcolonial women. These divisions were also about taking territories and concentrating power.

Power is the ability to decide how people should or should not behave, to make the laws which define regular behaviours, to negotiate between men and women, to speak for the many and to be symbols of cool activities.

Postcolonial theory and postcolonial feminism too concentrated power in the hands of a few women in the subcontinent. They held that universal human rights, class struggle and progressive institutions were, in truth, invested with first-world enabling values. Postcolonial epistemology aimed to expose the continuation of colonial ways of seeing and speaking about the third-world people even after formal decolonisation. It aimed to let these people speak for themselves in a non-universal language, through non-European epistemic categories. It aimed to let these people speak from out of their own histories and traditions.

But, it is evident that all postcolonial women do not have the same epistemology and power. Muslim women are not in the same position as Hindu women. Dalit women (the pejorative term subaltern, like the term Harijan, should be rejected) do not have the powers upper caste women have. South Indian women are not equal to North Indian women. Women of the North East are not as visible as the women of the North West. It was clear from the history of the feminist process thus far that it ought to yield to more divisions  Islamic feminism, upper caste feminism, Dalit feminism, Dravidian feminism, etc.

However, of these divisions, the one between upper caste and lower caste feminism is more significant since caste is the determinant of all relations in the subcontinent. Caste is the codified racism which defines the social order in the subcontinent.

It might be objected that racism is a colonial construct, but we too can object saying that after all caste inspired racism and the construction of race greatly. Casteism refers to the discriminative, eliminative and oppressive racist practices of the upper castes against the "lower castes". It cannot ever designate the lower castes since the upper castes are the creators and the regulators of caste laws historically. In symmetry, postcolonial theorists cannot be called colonialists by the colonialists.

In the story of the modern style of politics in the subcontinent starting with the anti-colonial struggle that resulted in the Union of India, the upper castes spoke on behalf of the lower castes and have held power. This trend continues in postcolonial theory and feminist struggle in the subcontinent too. The argument should come as no surprise to postcolonial feminists that like the first-world women who are first first-world, upper caste women are first upper caste. And that postcolonial epistemology suppresses the anti-caste consciousness and struggle which sees tradition, nation, and postcolonialism differently.

Now, Sarkars list has brought this division into something which must be addressed and it has also forced the barely contained casteism in academic and public spaces to become visible. Like the divisions between white and black feminisms, and that between first-world and postcolonial feminisms, the apparent division between upper caste and lower caste feminism too is about more than feminism.

Sex, death and due process

There are two primary accusations against Sarkar: 'they' is destroying the unity of the feminist movement and that they are violating the norms established by due process and possibly endangering men who are likely innocent.

In the societies of the subcontinent, women were expected to commit suicide to protect their honour/modesty/shame before a sexual crime was to occur or after the crime. Legend and Bollywood maintained this expectation. We see this relation between sex and death extending to men who have been accused of sexual misconduct and harassment too as in the recent case of the activist Khurshid Anwars media trial or a kind of listing, and suicide. There have been other such incidents in India and elsewhere before Sarkar appeared on the scene. Sarkar in a few statements and the list indicates that the intention is to be liberated from this power held over sex and death.

Prominent feminists such as V Geetha and Priyamvada Gopal have commented on the insufficiency of "due process" in most situations. That the list was irresponsible was refuted by Karuna Nundy who equated this gesture with civil disobedience. It is likely that there will be more lists until all of us are included in them, then animals and plants, and even stones. Lists should not make anyone kill themselves. They are meant as a map for navigation as Nehmat Kaur points out.

When a man accused of stabbing another does not have to kill himself and the woman who was stabbed does not find it necessary to kill herself in order to protect her honour it appears that harassment, molestation, and crime with the adjective sex points towards death.

Perhaps, this is the power invested in sex, in the nomenclature of sex offences, its policing and trial, that it is a matter of life and death. It is important to think about the history of the separation of sex from one domain into another; for example, from the domain of caste laws which decides who can have sexual relations to biological domain and eugenics. This isolation of sex from other relations of power has a history.

Eroticism and technologies of sex

The technical determination of sex in order to separate it from reproduction began early with contraceptives in the ancient worlds of Egypt and Greece. The effective separation of sex from reproduction became possible only in the 20th century with industrial production of contraceptives and their political deployment by Margaret Sanger, and it gained the possibility of art, as anticipated by the works Marquis de Sade. This recent separation allowed the power over sex to change hands from family and religion to social organisations and the state. The separation of sex from reproduction was soon followed by the separation of gender from birth through technological assignment of gender.

In the recent decades, gender has become a technologically assignable physical condition which can eventually be more than man, woman and in-between. We do not yet know the possibilities involved in gene editing. Gender can be given as yet unknown regularities by those who are creative. Gender can be an art.

With Viagra and the related developments, sex as an art has been separated from sexual desire. There are already devices of remote sexual engagement, including long distance kissing devices and hence the possibility of contactless sex. Soon implantable devices, 3D printed body parts, also for sexual art, will be industrially produced. The Future of Sex Report authored by Jenna Owsianik and Ross Dawson claims that by 2024 people will be able to be anybody with anybody.

Corresponding to these developments, technolog-ised policing of sexual activities to prevent crimes are available. One of the difficult problems of philosophy, the meaning of consent and will, is being solved through consent apps such as We-Consent. Even these apps may not resolve the problems entirely as they can also be coercive in enforcing what had been agreed before commencing sex. The recording of sexual acts being made mandatory is not entirely unimaginable in this era of continuous surveillance. However, it is already possible to separate a sexual crime such as rape from legality through the invention of sex robots with variable settings for resistance.

And corresponding to the increase in penal and political attention on sexual activities, the possibility of sex without human to human contact is increasing. It is conceivable that soon humans will not be able to engage in human to human sexual contact without the concern about one kind or the other of sexual offence being committed at least accidentally. It is perhaps not a terrible development that ours could be one of the last of generations to experience human to human contact and practise the already too dangerous act called sex.

A politics of love and affirmation

Harassment inside institutions takes not only sexual but equally other forms which also remain shrouded in complicit silence. Both are made possible by the power of social status that regulates peoples interaction. Students and research scholars are forced to perform menial domestic chores and even unacknowledged research work for teachers. Research directions and publications which are counter to the established norms are suppressed through cliques. There are as yet no guidelines and no "due process" to redress this exploitation that also occurs on caste lines within institutions. It must concern us that a charge regarding sexual harassment seems so legible while the charge regarding caste discrimination remains questionable.

The tone and the reactions from traditionalist feminists to the list are disturbing and threatening. There are lists given of what Sarkar and her friends are or are not  Dalit, queer, American, Indian, Hindu fascist agent, liar, a hoax. These intimidating gestures are aimed at young men and women of all castes and religions, who are anti-caste and seeking new possibilities in politics. They further reveal the politics of sex and death.

The reactions against the list are also fascist in their language, 'if you are not with us you are with evil'. This, ironically, is similar to the language of 'anti-national' used by the Hindu right for anyone who opposes it. A wave of repression by this Hindu right government started in IIT Madras against Ambedkar Periyar studies circle. It reached Hyderabad where Dalit students were attacked for protesting the death penalty to Yakub Memon and the disruption of the screening of Muzaffar Nagar Baqi Hai, and for supporting autonomy for Kashmir.

The Pune film institute was next.

Then Dalit students in JNU celebrated Mahishasura Martyrdom Day, which provoked the sharpest reaction from the then HRD minister, but, all this receded before the nationalism debates in JNU. These were compiled into a book whose introduction admits that the teach-in had "glaring absencesof themes from the North East, the minority communities of Indiatoo little discussion of the virulent communalist and divisive legacies of which we are an heir. Did the inaugural moment of the JNU struggle, Afzal Guru and the Kashmir issue, retreat into the background? Was the somewhat muted struggle with the Dalit struggle of the Hyderabad Central University also not a sign of failure?

The JNU protests brought intelligent and articulate voices from the left in Shehla Rashid Shora, Umar Khalid, and Kanhaiya Kumar. Perhaps the voices and concerns which were eclipsed by "JNU protests" are rising again.

Sarkar has been insinuated by many including Partha Chatterjee and Nivedita Menon to have been working for the Hindu right by targeting the academics of the Left and destroying the possibility of defeating the Hindu right. However, Menon herself, the leading opponent of the list, has spoken ambivalently with respect to the Hindu Right. When she was accused by ABVP of making a statement against the Indian governments position on Kashmir in her lecture, she denied it and claimed that I never said anything about Kashmir being illegally occupied by India. Defending herself before the Hindu Right, she opposed Hindutva to Hinduism and wrote, "Hinduism as a heterogeneous set of religious practices, that have cultural roots and deep meaning, which I respect as I do all religious practices". In the same essay, Menon accused the Hindu Right of not showing sufficient respect for "the views" of Savarkar who coined the term Hindutva, which she opposes: "Savarkar, was, in fact, opposed to caste discrimination but modern day Hindutvavaadis dont read him or respect his views".

One feels certain terror imagining a time in which all the 'views' of Savarkar are realised including his idea of national pride, To keep up the purity of the nation and its culture, Germany shocked the world by her purging the country of the Semitic races  the Jews. National pride at its highest has been manifested here.

What is troublesome about these remarks is that both Hindu religion, temple entry movements, and the Hindu right politics were invented at the same moment in reaction to colonial census circulars in the last century which would have otherwise reduced the upper castes of India into a religious minority. It is pertinent that we should not distinguish between Hinduism, casteism, and Hindutva-vaad which are all to be annihilated.

In spite of all the viciousness in the air, there is also the generosity of a revolutionary embrace in this event of the list. In moments of disruption such as this, it is possible to imagine and invent new forms of politics, alliances, responses, responsibilities. If Sarkar  it should not matter who they are or what castes they are or whether they are  and their friends who are already charting new directions choose to, they could also create futures which are based on love which disobeys the laws of caste, religion, and class. They could begin the schooling  which descends from the ancient Greek Schole, which meant leisurely creation  in loving, seeking forgiveness, forgiving, wooing, accepting rejections, consoling one another in sorrow, caring. It should never take an oppositional stand to Menon and what her generation has consolidated and represents.

Instead, there is room for everyone in this world to create new alliances to dissolve identities; to take new territories of thought; gift each other new ideas of togetherness; to give birth to what is more than nations and passports; create systems and epistemologies which remain open to reason; experiment in language to make poems which send love across languages; through care, make skins permeable to let in pains and joys of all  Dalit, Kashmiri, Adivasi, American, feline, White, canine, Bahujan, gymnosperms, Black, stones, Pakistani and forests.

In this era of technological explosion all of you are  you know who you are  already worlds away from the fantasies of postcolonial gossips riding their bullock carts calling out to the subalterns to get out of the way. You are already a gathering in the form of a conch shell from which the matter of the world is murmuring its invitation to create an animal which can relieve the human. You are also suffering the weight of unprecedented crises which are descending.

(Divya Dwivedi and Shaj Mohan are philosophers based in the subcontinent)
At least nine people, including five children, drowned in two incidents in Vaishali and Samastipur districts of Bihar today, police said. Further, four people are said to be missing.

The incident comes close on the heels of a tragic incident on the banks of the Ganga in Bihar. On Saturday, three pilgrims were killed and over a dozen others were injured in a stampede on the banks of the river in Begusarai district. According to Live Hindustan, all three deceased were women.

Sadar Deputy Superintendent of Police Mithilesh Kumar on Saturday said the incident occurred in a narrow lane next to Simaria ghat, where thousands of pilgrims gathered for the holy dip on the occasion of Kartik Purnima.

Immediately after the incident, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar announced an ex gratia of Rs four lakh for the kin of those who lost their lives.

On the occasion of 'Kartik Purnima', starting on Saturday, hundreds and thousands of Hindu devotees take a holy dip in the river Ganga. Pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan travel miles to be part of the festivities.

Kartik Purnima is a major festival in north India which celebrates the arrival of Lord Vishnu as Matsya (fish) on earth. The festival is also celebrated as Dev Diwali  the festival of the gods.

With inputs from agencies
Mumbai: Voicing concern over violation of height norms around city airport, the Bombay High Court has said authorities will have to make a choice between "saving lives of air passengers and life savings" of those living in such buildings.

However, it said that razing buildings violating height norms was not a solution.

A bench of Chief Justice Manjula Chellur and Justice NM Jamdar made the observation while hearing a PIL filed by activist Yashwant Shenoy, seeking action against structures around the airport that violate height rules.

The high court said authorities will have to make a choice between "saving lives of the thousands of air passengers, and the life savings of a few thousand people" who own such buildings or flats.

In the hearing earlier this week, CJ Chellur said the court could not pass orders directing demolition of such buildings and structures all at once.

"Demolishing everything is not the solution. What will happen to residential buildings that are occupied currently but violate height norms? Who will take the responsibility for the occupants, provide them alternate accommodation?" CJ Chellur asked.

"What does the DGCA propose to do on this?" she sought to know.

The bench said authorities must come up with a "better solution."

On previous hearings, another bench of the high court had directed the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to identify and issue notices to all such structures that were found to be contravening the height norms.

In April this year, another bench had directed the DGCA and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to raze around 110 buildings and structures that violated height norms and created obstacles around the approach area of the airport.

At the time, it had also directed the DGCA to issue notices to another 317 structures that had been identified by authorities as obstacles in a survey carried out between 2015 and 2016.
New Delhi: The alleged medical negligence by Safdarjung Hospital in wrongly declaring a newborn as dead in June this year has led the Delhi High Court to direct the Centre to order a probe into the incident.

The infant was brought back to the hospital and put on a ventilator, but died after 36 hours, the court noted in its order.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru also found "disturbing" the manner in which the infant was handed over to the parents

It directed the Ministry of Health, represented by central government standing counsel Monika Arora and advocate Kushal Sharma, to set up a three-member committee to enquire into the incident.

The panel shall comprise the health secretary or his nominee who is not below the rank of Joint Secretary, the Additional Director General Health Services and the Medical Superintendent of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, the court said.

It said that the committee shall submit a report within eight weeks.

The court also said that the committee would be at liberty to call any staff or doctors of the hospital for the purposes of the enquiry and they will have to fully cooperate with the panel.

Apart from that the court also directed Safdarjung Hospital's medical superintendent to hand over all the documents related to the infant to the parents and to retain a copy for the perusal of the committee.

It also said that the parents can make a complaint to the Delhi Medical Council against the alleged medical negligence by the hospital.

With these directions, the court listed the matter for further hearing on 3 January 2018.

According to the petition filed by the parents, the incident occurred on 18 June this year when the baby was born four months prematurely.

The baby was born at 5.45 am, but at 6.00 am the same day the parents were informed that the infant has passed away and the body was handed over in an envelope for the last rites, the petition said.

However, a few hours later, while taking the infant for cremation, it was noticed that the baby was gasping for breath and was rushed back to the hospital.

The hospital provided oxygen to the baby, but the infant did not survive for more than 36 hours, the petition has said.

Apart from seeking an inquiry into the incident, the parents have sought compensation for the trauma suffered by them and also action against the doctors and staff concerned.
Two militants were killed as the Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Sunday morning. The operation is still in progress.

"An infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector and two terrorists have been killed," an army official said in Srinagar, according to PTI.

#BREAKING -- Infiltration bid foiled in Uri sector of Jammu & Kashmir. 2 terrorists have been killed, operations underway pic.twitter.com/nJjBnGuyvH  News18 (@CNNnews18) November 5, 2017

Earlier on Saturday, in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, one policeman was killed after militants attacked a patrol party.

The deceased was among the two personnel who sustained injuries during the attack. "Militants fired upon a naka party of police near Rajpora police station in Pulwama, resulting in injuries to two of our personnel," Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police SP Pani had told PTI.

The injured constables  Abdul Salam and Munir Ahmad  were rushed to a hospital for treatment and their condition was stated to be stable. However, one of them died later.

In Shopian district also, on the same day, militants attacked a camp of Jammu and Kashmir Police's Special Operations Group with a grenade but it exploded in the compound without causing any damage, the police said on Saturday.

On 24 September, a militant was killed in an encounter with security forces in Uri area near the Line of Control in Baramulla district.

An army official had said that the search operation had turned into an encounter after the militants opened fire on the security forces.

With inputs from PTI
Bengaluru: The Income Tax Department (I-T)has summoned Karnataka energy minister DK Shivakumar and his family members to appear before it on Monday in connection with searches conducted at his properties in August for alleged tax evasion.

Shivakumar, his wife, mother and other family members have been summoned for questioning as part of a routine process following the searches, I-T department sources said. Shivakumar, the state's power minister, had already appeared before I-T officials in August and last month.

A close aide of the minister confirmed the fresh summons to the minister.

"Yes, yes. The Income Tax Department has summoned our sir (D K Shivakumar) and his family members, including mother and wife," the aide told PTI.

The I-T department on 2 August conducted searches at various properties linked to Shivakumar, who had hosted 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at a resort on city outskirts to forestall alleged attempts by the BJP to poach them ahead of the then Rajya Sabha polls.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi's political secretary Ahmed Patel was seeking re-election in the poll. He eventually won.

The searches had kicked up a political row with the ruling Congress alleging misuse of the I-T department by the central government to target its leaders.
New Delhi: Union minister Kiren Rijiju has assured Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha chief Poonam Mahajan of severe action against the killers of Gowhar Hussain Bhat, the BJYM's district president in Shopian in Kashmir, saying that the guilty won't be spared.

The BJYM, in a statement, termed the attack on the youth leader "cowardly" and said that terrorists cannot stop the youth of Kashmir from choosing prosperity and development over hatred and terror.

It said that Mahajan had spoken to Ahmed's family and expressed solidarity on behalf of the BJP and its youth wing, the BJYM.

She met Rijiju, the minister of state for home affairs who assured the security of BJYM activists and leaders in the state. "The minister also assured Poonam Mahajan that the murderers of Gowher Hussain Bhat won't be spared and would be dealt most severely", the statement said.

Hussain,a resident of Bongam area in Shopian, was found murdered with his throat slit in Kiloora region of South Kashmir on 2 November.
Itanagar: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday visited forward army posts in remote Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh bordering China to take stock of the defence preparedness.

The minister, in her maiden visit to the state, was accompanied by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command Lieutenant General Abhay Krishna and other senior Army officers.

She was briefed on the situation and defence preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Defence Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Sombit Ghosh said in a release.

Sitharaman, who arrived in the state on a two-day visit on Saturday, interacted with the troops at forward army posts at Kibithu in Anjaw district and lauded their dedication to the service and their efforts in such a remote and inhospitable terrain, he said.

She also visited the key air force base in Chabua in Tinsukia district of neighbouring Assam, where she was received by Senior Air Staff Officer (HQ), Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar and Air Commodore George Thomas.

The minister took stock of the operational preparedness and infrastructure development at the base, the release said.

The strategic base presented a static display of the combat assets to the minister, which included the Sukhoi 30MKI fighter aircraft and advanced missiles.

She also interacted with Air Force personnel.

Sitharaman had yesterday inaugurated the Buddha Mahatsava at Bomdila in West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh and held a security meeting with Chief Minister Pema Khandu in Itanagar.
New Delhi: External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said on Sunday that the Kenyan Police have regretted an incident in which a Kenyan national of Indian origin was killed, and underlined that the Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family.

In a series of tweets, the minister said, "I have received the report from Indian High Commission in Nairobi. The deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin. Kenyan security forces were conducting anti terror operations on the building across Shah's residence."

The security forces returned the fire resulting in Bunty's death. Kenyan Police have regretted the incident. /4  Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 5, 2017

Swaraj said, "Bunty thought this was an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air. The security forces returned the fire resulting in Bunty's death. Kenyan Police have regretted the incident."

Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. /5  Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 5, 2017

The Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family, the minister said and offered her condolences to the bereaved family. Swaraj's response came after she was approached by a netizen on the Twitter seeking her help in the matter.
Cartoonist G Bala has been arrested for a caricature of Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswamy, the Tirunelveli police commissioner and the collector, according to a report in ANI.

In the cartoon, Bala reportedly criticised the chief minister and the government for their inability to prevent a family from committing suicide in Tirunelveli.

According to News18, the report was filed against the cartoonist for 'defaming' the chief minister and showing him in a bad light.

The post garnered over 38,000 shares on Facebook and was also widely shared on Twitter under the hashtag #NellaiFamilyAblaze.

A top government official told the Indian Express that taking notice of the cartoon, Tiruneveli District Collector Sandeep Nanduri reported the matter to the chief secretary and the director general of police (DGP) ordered Bala's arrest. The 36-year-old cartoonist was then arrested in Chennai by a special Tirunelveli District Crime Branch Police team led by an inspector, a police release said

A case has been registered against Bala under Section 67 of the Information Technology Act and Section 501 of the Indian Penal Code (printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory), News18 reported.

DMK leader Manu Sundaram told News18 that this incident was an attempt to quash free speech and silence critics.

He also said that AIADMK was acting as a BJP proxy in Tamil Nadu and it was an attempt to hide their unpreparedness after the rains that affected the region.

Following the arrest, the Chennai Press Club has announced a demonstration in the state capital on Monday.

Unable to bear harassment by a moneylender, a labourer, his wife and two children set themselves ablaze in front of the Tirunelvelli Collectorate office on Monday. They were admitted to hospital with severe burn injuries and later passed away.

Isaki Muthu and his family were being pressured by a moneylender who wanted more money over the principal and interest on a loan, Muthu's brother told reporters.

According to police, Muthu borrowed around Rs 1.40 lakh from a loan shark at a heavy rate of interest. Despite paying back Rs 2 lakh, the moneylender was pressing for more and threatened Muthu.

Muthu earlier petitioned the police and district collector to save his family, his efforts were in vain. The family then took this extreme step.

Following this incident, the police have arrested three persons, including the financier and his wife, in connection with the incident. After the incident, Palaniswami said the state had in 2003 enacted a legislation against the charging of exorbitant interest rates by money-lenders. He has directed the district collectors and police officials to act swiftly on any complaint related to usury.

With inputs from PTI and IANS
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Sunday arrested Abu Zaid, an Islamic State suspect from Mumbais international airport, said media reports.

We have arrested a terror suspect Abu Zaid from Mumbai airport: ADG (LO) Anand Kumar pic.twitter.com/iMZP3RUfAr  News18 (@CNNnews18) November 5, 2017

Abu Zaid is believed to be an Islamic State ideologue and was returning to Mumbai from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Anand Kumar, Uttar Pradesh Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) told the media on Sunday. He said Zaid was residing in Riyadh and formed a social media group to allegedly radicalise youths and lure them to Islamic State.

Uttar Pradesh ATS arrested an ISIS suspect Abu Zaid from Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/9BZttTl34b  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

"He will be brought to Lucknow on a transit remand and will be produced in the court. We will take him in police custody for interrogating him," the ADG said.

In April, the ATS had arrested four suspected Islamic State terrorist Umar alias Nazim, Ghazi Baba alias Muzammil, Mufti alias Faizan and Jakawan alias Eihtesham. Zaid's name had cropped up during interrogation. "They used to talk via an application on the Internet and Zaid was their ideologue," the ADG said.

According to Times Now, Zaid is believed to have run an Islamic State network involving several youths from Western Uttar Pradesh while staying in Dubai. The report added that the police had been tracking his movements.

On 25 October, three men with suspected links with the Islamic State terrorist group were arrested in Kannur district of Kerala. The trio, who had left the state years ago, were suspected to have visited Syria and reportedly received training from the terror outfit, the police had said. They were arrested based on evidence obtained after examining their phone calls.

On 26 October, Gujarat ATS officials had arrested two suspected Islamic State operatives  Mohammad Kasim Stimberwala from Ankleshwar and Ubed Ahmed Mirza from Surat. They were accused of conspiring to spread terror in Gujarat and the rest of the country through lone wolf attacks.

With inputs from PTI
A German tourist was beaten up by a man in Uttar Pradesh's Sonabhadra after he ignored his greetings, media reports said on Sunday. The police later took the accused into custody, ANI reported.

A German national has been beaten up at Sonbhadra railway station. Police have arrested the accused, investigation underway pic.twitter.com/6PE1EXEKjc  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

The man Holger Eric got down at Robertsganj railway on his way to Agra Fort. But at the station, he was beaten up by a man named Aman Yadav, NDTV reported. However, Yadav blamed Eric for hitting him when he greeted him "Welcome to India". He added that the German national also spat on him.

I am innocent, the German national punched me when i said 'welcome to India' to him. He even spit on me: Aman Yadav,arrested accused pic.twitter.com/PrcO2gudIw  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

This is the second major attack on foreign tourists in Uttar Pradesh in the last two weeks. On 22 October, a Swiss couple, Quentin Jeremy Clerc and Marie Droz, from Lausanne were attacked with stones and sticks by a group of youths in Fatehpur Sikri.

According to news reports, the couple was strolling near the railway station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group started following them and later attacked them. The couple said that as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones.

The couple was brought to New Delhi's Apollo Hospital after the attack.

Rajendra Prasad, a neurosurgeon at Apollo Hospital, had said that Droz had suffered a fracture in the arm. He had also said that the Swiss national may have had suffered hearing impairment after the attack.

After the attack came to light, the Uttar Pradesh government came under fire from the Centre. The Uttar Pradesh Police arrested five youths from Fatehpur Sikri. Three out of the five arrested were underage boys, reports said.

The Yogi Adityanath government also ordered the rounding up of anti-social elements around the historical monuments in and near Agra.

More than 50 'lapkas' or touts who target foreign visitors at Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, and the Taj Mahal were rounded up. They were booked for harassment and disturbing public peace and sent to jail.

Senior Superintendent of Police Amit Pathak said that information centres were being planned at the monuments where tourists will get help from Tourism Police. A booklet will be published giving full details of distances and fares.

With inputs from agencies
New Delhi/Lucknow: A NTPC boiler blast victim, brought to Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi after suffering extensive burns in the accident in Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli, died on Saturday as his condition deteriorated, said hospital officials. The toll has now risen to 36.

Identifying the deceased as Santosh Kumar, 40, a senior doctor from the hospital said he had suffered 90 percent burns.

Santosh Kumar was among the nine injured brought to the Safdarjung Hospital in the first lot late on Thursday. Later three more injured during the incident were admitted to the hospital's burns ICU.

At the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), six patients suffering burn injuries during the incident have been admitted. Most of them have suffered extreme facial injuries.

In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, who returned from his Mauritius visit earlier on Saturday, met the injured in the blast.

Visiting the injured at the King George's Medical University, the Civil Hospital and the Sanjay Gandhi Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, he enquired from the doctors about the condition of the severely injured labourers and directed doctors to ensure that they got the best treatment.

The chief minister also asked officials accompanying him to ensure that the ex-gratia to the families of the dead and financial assistance for the injured reaches them promptly and without any hassle.

The massive explosion took place in state-owned power plant's Unchahar town unit on the Lucknow-Allahabad Highway on Tuesday. Many were trapped when the boiler burst and a huge ball of dust rose, making the rescue operations difficult.
Lucknow: Cow meat is not exported from Uttar Pradesh and no one can have the audacity to do so, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Sunday.

The UP chief minister asserted that even cruelty to a bovine could lead a person behind bars, not to speak of killing cows.

Addressing an event organised by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's gauraksha vibhag (cow protection wing), Adityanath said, "It is absolutely wrong and incorrect to say that the largest volume of cow meat is exported from Uttar Pradesh. Not an iota of cow meat can be exported from UP. No one can have the audacity of doing so, as it is banned in UP."

Adityanath said that his was the first government in the state to put a ban on on illegal abattoirs.

"If any person indulges in cruelty to cows (leave aside talking of killing of cows), he will find himself behind bars," Adityanath, a priest-turned-politician said.

Grazing land for cattle has been identified in UP and we have initiated drives to free encroached grazing land, he said.
Bhopal: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday called upon his party workers in Madhya Pradesh to prepare the ground for "uprooting" the "corrupt" BJP government in the state.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh in November-December next year.

Kejriwal accused Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of indulging in massive corruption and misrule.

The Delhi chief minister was addressing a convention  the 'Shankhnaad Rally'  at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan in Bhopal.

AAP workers, who had gathered from across the state, responded with a huge applause after Kejriwal asked them about contesting the 2018 state Assembly polls.

"The BJP has been ruling Madhya Pradesh for the last 14-15 years. The time span is sufficient for making a new Madhya Pradesh. But, can you point out a single achievement of Shivraj Singh Chouhan during this period," the AAP supremo asked the gathering amid slogan shouting.

He claimed that all the sections of the society, including teachers, farmers, students, women, traders, scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), were facing problems in the state.

"Shivraj sucked Madhya Pradesh like a mango. What is happening in Madhya Pradesh was happening in Delhi as well. But, the situation there has changed now.

"The power tariff in Madhya Pradesh is the costliest in the country, despite it being a power-surplus state. On the other hand, the Delhi government purchases electricity from Madhya Pradesh and supplies it to the citizens at one-third of the rates in MP," Kejriwal said.

He added that while the electricity bill for 200 units would come to Rs 1,370 in Madhya Pradesh, it would be for Rs 462 in Delhi.

Taking a swipe at Chouhan over the Vyapam scam, Kejriwal said Madhya Pradesh had earned notoriety for the entire episode and added that 40 young people were killed following this massive corruption.

"The young students, aspiring for a good life, were killed in the Vyapam scam, though officials and leaders were responsible," he alleged.

Kejriwal claimed that corruption had reduced in Delhi after the AAP government took charge.

"A report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), an agency of the BJP-led central government, has said that corruption has reduced by 81 percent in two-and-a-half years in the Delhi government, while graft has increased by 67 percent in three years in the central government," he said.

Claiming that the success rate of the students of government schools in the national capital had gone up compared to the private schools, Kejriwal said, "If you want cheap electricity, good government schools, health facilities and a corruption-free Madhya Pradesh, you will have to fight."

Referring to his government's achievements in developing the school infrastructure and in the health sector, the AAP leader sought to know that if Delhi could be developed in the last two-and-a-half years, why was Madhya Pradesh not developed in 14 years.

He said the BJP and Congress were hobnobbing with each other in Delhi, where the people had found an alternative in the AAP.

"The work done in Delhi in the last two-and-a-half years has never happened in any city of the country in the last 70 years," Kejriwal claimed.
Ahmedabad: With the high-stake Assembly polls approaching in Gujarat, BJP chief Amit Shah held separate meetings with key party leaders and workers from the southern, central and northern regions of the state.

Shah, who has been camping in Gujarat since Saturday to strategise for the upcoming polls, held meetings with the BJP workers of Valsad, Navsari and Dang districts at the Tata Hall in Navsari town of south Gujarat in the morning.

In the afternoon, the BJP president guided the party workers and leaders of the tribal-dominated Panchmahal and Dahod districts in Godhra town.

In the evening, Shah reached Himmatnagar town in north Gujarat to hold meetings with the party workers of Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts, said a BJP release.

The BJP chief was engaged in similar deliberations with the party workers from Kutch, Morbi, Surendranagar, Bhavnagar, Botad, Amreli and Ahmedabad city.

He is scheduled to meet the BJP leaders and workers of the remaining districts and cities in the state till 9 November, the release added.

The 182-member Gujarat Assembly will go to the polls in two phaseson December 9 and 14and counting of votes will be taken up on 18 December.
Himachal Pradesh, which has seen regular swapping of power between rivals Congress and the BJP, including its earlier avatars, is now witnessing a one-horse race with chief minister Virbhadra Singh waging a lonely and losing battle for his party.

While a host of top BJP leaders, led by prime minister Narendra Modi, have been leading the partys campaign and getting a warm response, 83-year old six-time chief minister Virbhadra Singh is the only star campaigner for his party. Even the party vice-president Rahul Gandhi, who appears to be concentrating on Gujarat, has kept away from the hilly state. He is scheduled to address a couple of election rallies in the system during the last two days of campaigning.

In contrast, Modi has addressed nearly half a dozen election rallies and has actually decided to address more such rallies than those planned for him. Even before the announcement of elections he had visited the state and had addressed a massive gathering at the historic Ridge in Shimla.

Among other party star campaigners who have been frequenting the state are union finance minister Arun Jaitley, union home minister Rajnath Singh, union health minister JP Nadda, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and a host of other senior leaders from the region.

Interestingly a few Congress leaders who were assigned election duties in Himachal, remained confined to their hotel rooms in Shimla. Whats the point in addressing an election rally if there are few people to listen to you? confided a senior former minister.

But credit is due to the old war horse of the Congress, Virbhadra Singh, popularly called 'Raja' (of the erstwhile state of Rampur Bushhar), who addresses four to five rallies each day in various parts of the state. At times he travels by helicopter but mostly hits the road as he tells his audiences, which are impressive, that the BJP government at the Centre has sealed all his funds on trumped up charges of corruption and irregularities in Income Tax accounts. He tells the people that the Centre has unleashed the IT department, the Enforcement Department as well as the CBI to probe just one case. The plea finds resonance in Himachal where his supporters think that the amount in question, Rs 4-5 crore, was petty enough for the Raja to indulge in corruption.

Yet he is fighting with his back to the wall. His current tenure has not been outstanding, though he likes to be called the builder of modern Himachal and the law and order situation has taken a big hit. A particular gangrape involving a school going girl at Kotkhai a few months ago had led to much criticism of governance. It was alleged that sons of highly influential persons were involved in the gangrape, but the state police had arrested some innocent workers from outside the state. Subsequently a CBI inquiry was ordered and it arrested the investigation officers, led by an IGP, for arresting innocents and killing one of them in police custody.

BJP can expect to fare much better in the state also because the adverse impact of demonetisation and the roll-out of GST is comparatively much less in Himachal than in Gujarat and other states. The reason is simple: Himachal is not known for its trading community. Commercial activities and production of goods is also restricted. It has thus remained largely insulated from the impact of GST. Besides the Centre has recently extended tax concessions for Himachal a few months ago.

The most influential community, and thus one of the major factors, in Himachal elections are the government employees. Almost all families in Himachal have one or more members in the state government and one of the biggest ambitions among the youth is to land a government job. They are also a restless tribe and want a change of government every time to extract more concessions. Thus the two parties had been shown the revolving door every time since the state was granted full statehood in 1971.

And with the BJP led NDA at the Centre, the Himachali voters, particularly the employees, would find the BJP more attractive. In any case the party has promised much more perks for them if it forms the next government.

No wonder the BJP and its leaders are all charged up. Prime minister Modi is leading the charge and calling the Congress a termite which must be destroyed. I havent come here to ask you to make BJP win. I have come here to ask you to give it a 3/4th majority. He goes on to urge the masses to come out in huge numbers to vote for the BJP. Ek bhi polling booth aisa nahi hona chahiye jahan Congress roopi deemak bacha ho, he says (There should not be even a single election booth where termite-ridden Congress could survive).

Himachalis shall have to wait for over a month to wait for the results together with those of Gujarat Assembly elections but the writing on the wall is unambiguous.
Bhubaneswar: The opposition BJP on Sunday lodged a complaint against ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Scheduled Caste Cell chief accusing him of making public the identity of the Koraput gangrape survivor.

A team led by BJP state secretary Dilip Mallick filed a complaint at the Mahila police station in Bhubaneswar demanding action against Convenor of BJD SC Cell, Bishnu Das, alleging that he had made the rape survivors identity public.

Mallick alleged that Das had disclosed the name and address of the minor girl in a report, besides making her identity public at a press meet. Disclosing details about gangrape survivor was a criminal offence and it amounted to the violation of the Supreme Court's guidelines, he said.

Denying the allegations, Das said he had never made the name and identity of the rape survivor public and that he had simply mentioned the place where the incident had taken place.

Congress also intensified its stir on the issue. A Congress delegation led by Koraput MLA, Krishna Chandra Sagaria submitted a memorandum to Governor SC Jamir seeking his intervention for giving justice to the rape survivor.

The Congress is demanding immediate arrest of the accused, free treatment for the girl in a reputed private hospital in Bhubaneswar, a judicial probe into the incident, release of her medical report and Rs 50 lakh compensation.

The party workers, who staged a sit-in near Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar on 2 November, vowed to continue their stir till the 14-year-old survivor gets justice.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President, Prasad Harichandan alleged that the state government was shielding the accused.

The minor girl from a remote village in Koraput district was allegedly raped by four men near Kunduli on 10 October. In her statement to the police, she had claimed that the accused were in combat uniforms.
New Delhi: The CPM has accused the BJP-RSS of pumping crores of rupees into poll-bound Tripura to fund "violent activities" in the state.

Tripura, which is slated to go to polls early next year, has been witnessing violent confrontations between tribals and non-tribal groups.

The CPM has published a booklet titled "Tripura -people first model" to "project the true picture regarding the conspiracy of the BJP against the state government".

"The BJP-RSS has unleashed a divisive incendiary policy of fomenting divisions between tribals and non-tribals in the state and pumping crores of rupees to fund violent activities," the CPM booklet alleged.

"The BJP has grabbed the position of the main opposition in many states without winning a single seat in the polls and has also used the CBI and Income-Tax department to threaten and blackmail political parties," the CPM alleged and added that the same old tactics will not work against Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar.

The Left party alleged that the "BJP-RSS is trying to create ethnic discord in a sensitive border state".

Despite the violent tactics of the BJP, the Left Front government in Tripura is following a "people-oriented development policy framework", it said.

The booklet also listed achievements of the Tripura government in various fields.

The CPM said the "people of Tripura will undoubtedly foil the BJP-RSS conspiracy and defeat the politics of hate and protect the bonds of unity and harmony".
Ahmedabad: Ahead of the most crucial Gujarat Assembly election, the sentiment of the people of the state is caught somewhere between two extreme schools of wishful thinking  one believes that Congress is winning after 32 years of exile and the other thinks that there is no way Gujarat can dump Narendra Modi, either as the chief minister or as the prime minister.

Ironically, though neither of the two schools wants to go wrong. Those who think Congress will win dont want to take any chances and could be heard saying 'well there may be some hidden undercurrent for Modi'. Those who think that BJP will win are only a little more optimistic, though they too dont want to take any chances and could be heard saying 'well nobody is against Modi, the teething problems of GST and demonetisation are history'.

Any which way, the central theme is not Gujarat, it is Modi and his policies as the prime minister. The Gujarat Assembly Election 2017 is arguably a referendum of sorts on India 2019. While there is nothing new in saying this, it is also about one man who is preparing his ground for 2019 on the toughest turf: Rahul Gandhi.

He is addressing Gujarat, but en route to Gujarat, he is looking at India. He is trying his best and pulling out stops, but understands that if he loses Gujarat it is not a big deal compared to how it is for Modi. But if Congress makes BJP huff and puff for a victory in its prised invincible state, he sure has something to work on.

So, what exactly is Gandhi doing? First and foremost Gandhi understands that he is not a match to Modi or his high-pitched practised oratory, his connect with the people, his event management skills and the BJPs organisational prowess.

So, he has to create a contrast. Gandhis campaign strategy through his three-day sojourns to three regions in Gujarat has been to emerge as a simple, friendly person who is actually a common man. This was Modis favourite theme that he was not actually a chief minister but a common man, like a pradhan santri. Similes and coinages are Modis specialty something which Rahul is probably trying to emulate with Gabbar Singh Tax for GST.

Albeit Rahul is not ascribing any such coinages to himself  again to create the contrast  but he uses taunts as he tells the crowds that a Congress government will listen to your mann ki baat and "not enforce our mann ki baat".

After he returned from Rae Bareli to check on the victims of the NTPC blast midway through his three-day South Gujarat campaign, Gandhi called Congress leaders Ashok Gehlot, Ahmed Patel, Bharatsinh Solanki, Shaktisinh Gohil, Arjun Modhwadia, Siddharth Patel and others at a local restaurant, Giriraj Restaurant, in industrial town Vapi for dinner. And the restaurant was not vacated for him, many others continued with their food at the crowded noisy place.

"We did not invite him to join for dinner at the restaurant, he called us. It so happened that he prefers to stay at the Circuit House and he checked in there, and we all, me Ashok Gehlot others, stayed at a hotel. Gandhi asked a waiter at the guest house about a restaurant close by and he suggested Giriraj, so he sent us a message that we go there for dinner," recalls former state Congress president Arjun Modhwadia talking to Firstpost.

"This is nothing. When we were travelling in central Gujarat, just after he had finished a public meeting in Bodeli (tribal area in Chhota Udepur district), he said chai peete hain and we stopped at a typical roadside highway dhabha. He had pakodas and wafers there, Lalji Desai, a grassroots Congress worker, who is part of the organisation during Gandhis election campaign, recalls.

Modhwadia says, "This was a thatched rural tea joint. He stopped the bus and got down first, then we followed."

He continued, "We were travelling to Vyara (tribal town in Tapi district (60 kilometres from Surat) in his campaign bus on the night of 1 November when Gandhi got the news of the Rae Bareli incident. He was to stay at the Vyara Circuit House and proceed to Surat airport the next morning but we decided that he should stay at The Taj in Surat since it is closer to the airport.

"At The Taj, we booked a suite for him and we all took normal rooms. When Gandhi saw it, he immediately refused the suite and said he would stay in a normal room like others."

He is scarcely seen taking the chartered chopper but prefers regular flights and takes the economy class with his laptop bag hanging on his shoulders. "On a recent trip, he came by Indigo and left by SpiceJet," a party leader said.

According to Desai, it has often happened that when there is no scheduled flight, Gandhi would stay put at night and take the next flight in the morning. "At the airport, I have seen him taking the common gate to enter," he adds.

The mode of the campaign also seems to have been strategically planned to ensure that his drawbacks of oratory and approach, unlike the heft and flamboyance of Modi, are contrasted by his simple and mild demeanour. Through all his three three-day regional sojourns, which itself is new, the strategy was to have personal street corner interactions and chatting up with people and fewer public meetings since addressing the far sitting crowd is something he is still picking up.

"Going to people instead of calling them to you through crowd mobilisation is better," says a party insider. "When you cant better your opponent by something he is adept at and also overdoes it, you try to create a contrast," he smiled.

It is a state election campaign, but Rahul goes straight at the Modi government as though it is 2019 and tries to hit where it hurts the most  GST, demonetization, unemployment, Patidars, farmer distress and price rise.
Dharamshala: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Congress leader Virbhadra Singh on Sunday urged the Election Commission to ensure proper security of VVPAT machines from the day of voting for the Assembly polls on 9 November till 18 December, the date of counting of votes.

Expressing his faith in the poll panel, he said the period between voting and counting is long, assurance for proper safety of the machines is required.

Voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) is a machine which dispenses a slip with the symbol of the party for which a person has voted for. The slip drops in a box but the voter cannot take it home.

Commenting about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches in poll-bound Himachal Pradesh, Singh said the language being used by Modi does not match with the dignity of the chair and that from this, one can imagine the standard of his party too.

Describing the Himachal Pradesh election as a "one-sided" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress of running away from the battlefield and said it had nothing left to do but grieve in the coming days.
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Modi is scheduled to attend the first 'Jansabha' in Kangra at 1 pm on Saturday followed by Sundernagar at 3 pm.

"Today, the Congress party has lost faith in its own candidates. It has accepted it cannot win an election on its own," said Narendra Modi at the rally.

Narendra Modi said the world is taking notice of India at every step. "Modi is not the reason for it but the 150 crore Indians standing behind him," said the prime minister.

'India being lauded world over, not because of Modi'

Electricity is indispensable today. Be it for mobile phone charging or watching TV, we need it. Imagine how it must be for people who have never seen it in the 21st century. 15,000 villages have been electrified today," said Narendra Modi.

Modi talks about his rural electrification drive , says 15,000 villages electrified so far

Speaking of his Ujjwala Yojana, Modi said the mother using fire wood stoves inhales smoke worth 400 cigarettes. "To benefit them, we have opened the government coffins and decided to provide free gas connections," said the prime minister

"9 crore youth, mothers and sisters have been given money as a loan without any collateral to the banks under Mudra Yojana has led to empowerment of the youth and honing their entreprenuerial skills," said Modi.

"Tourism, spiritual tourism, infrastructure, electricity - give us an opportunity and we'll serve Himachal Pradesh well," says Modi batting for BJP.

Maximum development in Himachal Pradesh when BJP was in power at Centre and the state, says Modi

"These elections are about forming a government but building a 'Bhavya' & 'Divya' Himachal," Narendra Modi said in Sundernagar. "At the time of the Congress, the country was discussing how much it had been in the past. Now, it discusses how much it will become," he added. He slammed Congress, saying the public will not believe Congress even in the coming 100 years. "The public has elected me in 2014 to fight against corruption," Modi asserted, saying that his party will find all those who steal from the nation. He also said that Congress is worried over his future actions against benaami properties, and is trying to mislead people about the same.

Narendra Modi congratulated the efforts his party made for the middle class in the state. He said that the party workers have made efforts to distribute 27 crore LED lights. Through this initiative, savings worth Rs 400 crore were made this year in Himachal, Modi stated. "We want to change lives in villages in India be it roads, railways, air, highways. We want to work for Himachal," he said about his party's outlook for Himachal Pradesh. He also spoke about the pradhan mantri saubhagya yojana and other health benefits that BJP has strived for in the state.

At 11 am, Modi is expected to address a rally in Una, before moving to Palampur at 1 pm. His final rally will be at Kullu at 3 pm.

On Saturday, PM Modi hinted at a crackdown on benami properties, and said the Congress is worried as such assets of its leaders will not be spared in his governments action.

Narendra Modi's Sunday rallies come a day before Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi will visit the state. Rahul will be addressing rallies in Paonta Sahib, Chamba, and Nagrota in Kangra district, The Indian Express noted.

Ahead of Modi's rally at Palampur on Sunday, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawarchand Gehlot visited the site to oversee the preparations.

At a rally in Kangra on Saturday, Modi likened the Congress to termites and exhorted the people to finish it off by handing over three-fourths majority to the BJP in the 9 November Assembly election.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala on Thursday dubbed the Modi government as "anti-hill states" and said it failed to fulfil its poll promises. Prime Minister Narendra Modi abolished the special category state status to Himachal Pradesh in 2015, he claimed.

In the last 20 years, there has not been a single election where I have not been involved. But this is an unprecedented elction. I know where the wind is blowing.A storm is raging here against corrupt Congress.

"This is the first time that we need to say that the election has been fought and won by the people of Himachal Pradesh. People here are ready to teach Congress a lesson," Modi said in Una.

"People used to loot the treasury in the name of subsidies. In the past, 57,000 crore used to get leaked due to rampant corruption in implementing subsidies. Now our policy has stopped the leak. The leaders in Congress cannot bear this, so they are attacking me," Modi said in Una.

Narendra Modi took potshots at former PM Rajiv Gandhi's statement that one rupee ends up as 15 paise when it reaches villages. Modi said Rajiv was such a doctor who diagnosed the problem of corruption but did not do anything about it. He added that he has made sure that the whole of 100 paise now goes to the pockets of the poor.

"They took the credit for making the law but did not implement," Modi said.

"They are worried that their property will be confisticated, so they are perotesting on 8 November. Benami property raised property prices and dashed the dreams of the common man," Modi said. Modi also slammed Rajiv Gandhi and his successors for not acting on the benami property law for at least 30 years.

"After demonetisation, at least three lakh companies came under the scanner. We did a sample survey of 5,000 companies and saw that they at least transacted Rs 4,000 crore worth of black money. I can only imagine what will happen if we look the transactions of all the companies," Modi said.

"This country has warmly welcomed GST(Goods and Services Tax) as it has immensely benefited the transport sector. Truck movement between the states has gained pace," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.

After Narendra Modi said that the jawans are being attacked by stone pelters in the Kashmir Valley, Omar Abdullah took to Twitter to criticise him.

"Now our policy has stopped the leak. The leaders in Congress cannot bear this, so they are attacking me."

"People used to loot the treasury in the name of subsidies. In the past, 57,000 crore used to get leaked due to rampant corruption in implementing subsidies," Modi said in an election rally at Una.

"Congress has the habit of spending leisure time in power. But BJP is a party with a difference. Shanta Kumar, our first CM, spent his tenure in providing water to people in the hills," Modi said.

"Congress leaders look to loot as much as they can when they come to power. But there are people of Himachal, who will decide how to punish them," Modi said at his rally in Palampur.

Prem Kumar Dhumal is known for his contribution towards promoting tourism in the state. These elections are not about who will form the government or who will become the chief minister, but are about transforming lives of people in Himachal Pradesh," Modi said in Palampur.

Narendra Modi reiterated his committment to build houses for every Indian by 2022. he praised the middle class for driving the country's economy. "They live with honesty and integrity. They follow all rules. But if the government does not listen to them what will happen to them. So we are offering many schemes to help tjhem," he added.

Modi said that ever since his government has come to power, the prices of the LED bulbs have reduced. This, he believed, has helped the middle class to save a lot of money. "We reduced the prices of LED bulbs from Rs 300-400 to jsut Rs 40-50," Modi said.

Reiterating that he will continue fighting corruption, Modi said that the Congress will burn the effigies of him because their corrupt practices have come to a halt. Modi added the Congress cannot fathom the fact that a poor mother's son, a chaiwala, is now the prime minister. "They always thiught that it is their sole right to occupy the post."

"My fight against corruption will continue. I am not afraid of Opposition burning my effigies or protesting against me. For the Congress, corruption is its only identity. After its defeat in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the Opposition is frightened that it will be wiped out in 2019 as well as 2024 polls," Modi said.

Not frightened of my effigies being burnt, says Modi

Giving the slogan of pehle matdaan phir jalpaan, Modi urged the common man of Palampur to vote en masse for the BJP. He said that the state should teach the Congress a lesson.

Congress is frightened it will be wiped out of 'dev bhoomi'

Congress is left with nothing and can only mourn its decline, says Modi

"Seeding Aadhaar cards with bank accounts have eliminated middlemen and subsidies now reach the beneficiaries directly," the prime minister said.

"Deference of the Women's Reservation Bill is BJP has gone back on its primary manifesto promise for women. And it was only the beginning," he said.

"Once hailed as nation builders' by PM Modi, the already marginalised Indian women have been most brutally betrayed by the BJP government," the chief minister said attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) central government in a series of tweets.

Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh on Sunday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not moving the stalled Women's Reservation Bill, accusing him of betraying the "nation builders".

As political parties of all shades pursue the 50,25,541 legitimate voters for electing 68 representatives to the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, some 14,000-odd votes hold special significance, not for their numbers but for defining the future status of about 1,20000 Tibetans, living in India, as refugees. But the decision to grant voting rights to people of Tibetan origin born in India, taken after long-drawn detailed procedures that took 3 to 4 years, according to Pushpendra Rajput, Chief Electoral Officer, Himachal Pradesh, has divided the community.

Modi said that he has a sense of responsibility towards Himachal Pradesh and would help the state by developing it. Modi, who was the BJP incharge for Himachal Pradesh in the late 90s, said that during his stay in the hill state, he never thought he could come to the state as the prime minister.

People in Himachal Pradesh will not only vote to elect BJP but also to punish the corrupt Congress government, Modi said. "There is an opportunity to give three-fouth majority government to Himachal Pradesh. Such a strong mandate will help state to develop further," Modi said.

"I am not responsible for the praise that India is receiving. It is all because of the 125 crore Indians that India is shining in the world," the prime minister said. When foreign leaders meet me, they do not meet me but the 125 crore Indians, he added.

If the youth need to be lead a good life, then such evils need to be tackled. Modi also said that the various mafias in the state are "danav" (monsters) for the dev bhoomi.

"Corruption was not a major disease 70 years back. There were no such evils even when India was under British rule. So who is responsible for corruption? Who brought communal, caste and social disharmony in India? It is the Congress. Don't you think the party needs to taught a lesson?," Modi said.

During Indira Gandhi's rule, the then Union minister Yashwantrao Chavan recommended the scrapping the Rs 100 notes. However, Indira did not approve the idea. "If we want to win elections, do not bring such ideas," Modi claimed Indira told Chavan. Modi claimed that Indira prioritised party over nation by deciding to not pursue note ban.

As political parties of all shades pursue the 50,25,541 legitimate voters for electing 68 representatives to the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, some 14,000-odd votes hold special significance, not for their numbers but for defining the future status of about 1,20000 Tibetans, living in India, as refugees. But the decision to grant voting rights to people of Tibetan origin born in India, taken after long-drawn detailed procedures that took 3 to 4 years, according to Pushpendra Rajput, Chief Electoral Officer, Himachal Pradesh, has divided the community.

Modi said that he has a sense of responsibility towards Himachal Pradesh and would help the state by developing it. Modi, who was the BJP incharge for Himachal Pradesh in the late 90s, said that during his stay in the hill state, he never thought he could come to the state as the prime minister.

People in Himachal Pradesh will not only vote to elect BJP but also to punish the corrupt Congress government, Modi said. "There is an opportunity to give three-fouth majority government to Himachal Pradesh. Such a strong mandate will help state to develop further," Modi said.

"I am not responsible for the praise that India is receiving. It is all because of the 125 crore Indians that India is shining in the world," the prime minister said. When foreign leaders meet me, they do not meet me but the 125 crore Indians, he added.

If the youth need to be lead a good life, then such evils need to be tackled. Modi also said that the various mafias in the state are "danav" (monsters) for the dev bhoomi.

"Corruption was not a major disease 70 years back. There were no such evils even when India was under British rule. So who is responsible for corruption? Who brought communal, caste and social disharmony in India? It is the Congress. Don't you think the party needs to taught a lesson?," Modi said.

Congress and corruption can never separate from each other: PM Modi in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh pic.twitter.com/cznKT9ZGYo

During Indira Gandhi's rule, the then Union minister Yashwantrao Chavan recommended the scrapping the Rs 100 notes. However, Indira did not approve the idea. "If we want to win elections, do not bring such ideas," Modi claimed Indira told Chavan. Modi claimed that Indira prioritised party over nation by deciding to not pursue note ban.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the Congress has conceded defeat in Himachal Pradesh as its senior leaders have "run away" from campaigning in the state leaving Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh to his fate.

At a rally in Kangra, the state's largest and politically key district, he launched a stinging attack on the Congress over corruption, likening the party to termites, and exhorted the people to finish it off by handing over a three-fourth majority to the BJP in the 9 November Assembly polls.

The alleged corruption of the Congress and his government's pro-poor development works were the central theme of Modi's two election meetings.

He vowed to continue fighting corruption, claiming that it had angered the opposition party which was observing "black money day" on November 8, the first anniversary of demonetisation decision.

The prime minister said the Congress has run away from the battlefield conceding defeat in the 68-member Assembly.

"Elections are a few days away and senior leaders generally do an intensive campaign in these last few days... It seems Congress leaders have left (Chief Minister) Virbhadr Singh to his fate. It seems they have not only left him to his fate but rather hung him by his fate," he said.

Why such a revenge the Congress is inflicting on him at such an age, Modi said sarcastically. Singh is 83.

Lashing out at the Congress over corruption in the UPA government as also the party dispensation in the state, he said its "sins" speak to the people, who will not trust it on the issue of honesty for 100 more years.

While most states have accepted his request to do away with interviews for Class III and IV posts, the Himachal government has not, he said, accusing it of breeding corruption in the name of interviewing candidates.

Not only senior leaders of the opposition party but even its next generations of leaders have been infected with this disease, he said.

"Their rotten mindset and rotten work culture will set rot in India's democracy," he said, asking the people to punish the party in the polls.

The Congress was now reduced to propping up rebels against the BJP to create instability in the state following polls but the saffron party was getting huge support, he said.

"The Congress will not improve until you punish it severely," he said, claiming that it will not be seen even through a "microscope" following the poll results in Himachal Pradesh as is the case with it in Bihar and UP.

He said the state had progressed most when Prem Kumar Dhumal was its chief minister and Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the prime minister as the central government pumped in money which Dhumal used effectively for development of the hill state.

Modi said he and Dhumal, who is the party's chief ministerial candidate, will take Himachal to new heights of development, adding that its infrastructure and tourism sectors needed a boost.

Seeking votes for a "commoner" like Dhumal, he asked the people to vote out "royals", a reference to Singh.

He cited his government's move to provide cooking gas cylinders to poor households, Mudra scheme to boost entrepreneurship, its decision to cap prices of medicine and medical equipment like heart stents, reducing cost of LED bulbs and other measures to showcase its pro-poor and pro- development credentials.

Himachal had received more rail and road projects from his government at the Centre than it had received in many years before, he said, adding that development is solution to all problems.

Modi is scheduled to address a rally each at Palampur, Kullu and Una tomorrow.

Counting of votes in the Assembly polls would be held on 18 December.

With inputs from PTI
Reiterating his government's committment to fighting corruption, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the government won't spare those holding benami properties.

Speaking at a rally in Himachal Pradesh's Una, Modi slammed the Congress party for keeping the Benami property law in cold storage for over thirty years.

"They are worried that their property will be confiscated, so they are protesting on 8 November. Benami property raised property prices and dashed the dreams of the common man," Modi said.

Notably, Modi had also raised the issue of benami properties in his rally at Kangra on Saturday.

Modi also took potshots at the Opposition for holding protests on 8 November to mark the first anniversary of the demonetisation drive.

"They want to hold black money day. But people of India will hold anti-black money day." Modi said.

Modi took potshots at former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, reminding the public of his famous statement that only 15 paise out of the one rupee from New Delhi ends up reaching the villages.

"Rajiv was such a doctor who diagnosed the problem of corruption, but did not do anything about it," Modi said while sarcastically asking as to who could have stolen the rest of the money.

Modi added that he has made sure that the whole of 100 paise now goes to the pockets of the poor.

Modi criticised the Congress governments of the past for abusing the subsidy system, adding that at least Rs 57,000 crore used to be lost to corruption in the system.

"Now our policy has stopped the leak. The leaders in Congress cannot bear this, so they are attacking me," Modi said.

Modi reiterated his support for demonetisation and said that at least his government is taking steps to tackle the problem of black money, unlike the Congress.

"After demonetisation, at least three lakh companies came under the scanner. We did a sample survey of 5,000 companies and saw that they transacted at least Rs 4,000 crore worth of black money. I can only imagine what will happen if we look the transactions of all the companies," Modi said.

Stating that no businessman ever raised any issue against the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Modi said that the government is ready to look into the issues raised by the various stakeholders.

Modi said that the simplified law has benefited the transport sector in the country. "Truck movement between the states has gained pace," Modi added.

Modi said that this year's elections are special as everybody knows which way the wind is blowing, in an apparent dig at the Congress.

Have never seen such enthusiasm for BJP that I am witnessing this time in HP. Its a one-sided contest: PM Modi in Una #HimachalElections2017 pic.twitter.com/Oicsxs4cxO  ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2017

Modi also claimed that the Congress has already accepted defeat and that it will be an one-sided contest this time.

Mujhe iss chunav mein ek baat ka dukh rahega, mazaa nahi aa raha hai, kyunki Congress maidan chhod kar bhaag gayi hai: PM #HimachalElections pic.twitter.com/aHvoexHzq4  ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2017

After Una, Modi arrived at Palampur in Kangra district, where he continued to fire salvos at the Congress party.

Modi said that the Congress will be burning his effigies on 8 November because their corrupt practices have come to a halt.

"My fight against corruption will continue. I am not afraid of the Opposition burning my effigies or protesting against me. Corruption is the Congress' only identity. After its defeat in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the Opposition is frightened that it will be wiped out in 2019 as well as 2024 polls," Modi said.

Modi said that the Congress cannot fathom the fact that a poor mother's son, a chaiwala, is now the prime minister. "They always thought that it is their sole right to occupy the post," he said in an apparent dig at the Gandhi family.

"Congress leaders look to loot as much as they can when they come to power. But the people of Himachal will decide how to punish them," Modi said urging people to vote for BJP. He added that with people's blessings, BJP will form the government after 18 December.

Modi praised the leadership of former chief minister Shanta Kumar and said, "When the Congress comes to power, it is only interesting in swindling money. But BJP is a party with a difference. Shanta Kumar, our first chief minister, spent his tenure in providing water to people in the hills." Modi also praised the party's chief ministerial candidate Prem Kumar Dhumal for his pioneering role in developing tourism in Himachal Pradesh. "Prem Kumar Dhumal is known for his contribution towards promoting tourism in the state. These elections are not about who will form the government or who will become the chief minister, but are about transforming the lives of people in Himachal Pradesh." Modi said.

Modi reached out to the middle class in Himachal Pradesh and reiterated that his government is committed to provide housing to each and every Indian by 2022. Praising the middle class for driving the country's economy, Modi said, "They live with honesty and integrity. They follow all rules. But if the government does not listen to them, who will? So we are offering many schemes to help them."

Modi said that ever since his government came to power, the prices of the LED bulbs reduced. This, he believed, has helped the middle class to save a lot of money. "We reduced the prices of LED bulbs from Rs 300-400 to just Rs 40-50," Modi said.

Modi last rally for the day was in Kullu, the popular hill station in the state. Continuing his attack against the Congress, Modi urged the people of the state to punish the ruling dispensation in Himachal Pradesh. "People in Himachal Pradesh will not only vote to elect BJP but also to punish the corrupt Congress government," Modi said, adding, "A strong mandate will help state to develop further," Modi added. Modi added that the party is responsible for several social evils which became a part of post-Independent India. "Corruption was not a major issue 70 years back. There was no such evils even when India was under British rule. So who is responsible for corruption? Who brought communal, caste and social disharmony in India? It is the Congress. Don't you think the party needs to taught a lesson?," Modi said.

Modi said that if today's youth are to lead a good life, then such evils need to be tackled, adding that the various mafias in the state are "danav" (monsters) for the "dev bhoomi". Modi claimed that the idea of demonetisation was also pitched to former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who rejected the idea fearing electoral losses.

Elections in Himachal Pradesh will take place on 9 November. Counting of votes will take place on 18 December 2017.
New Delhi: The parliamentary committee on external affairs plans to submit a comprehensive report on Sino-Indian ties next year, and is currently looking at the "extremely topical" Doka La issue, panel chairman Shashi Tharoor has said.

Tharoor said the panel wanted to take a comprehensive look at the India-China ties by understanding their trade and political relations, cooperation in international bodies and the Chinese attitude on India's membership bid for the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), on terrorism and Pakistan among other aspects.

Right now the panel is looking at Doka La because it is extremely topical, the former minister of state for external affairs told PTI.

"Just as this year we submitted to Parliament a report on Indo-Pakistan relations, similarly for next summer we want to submit a report on Sino-Indian relations," he said.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs held two meetings on the Doka La situation last month.

At the first meeting where the panels members were briefed by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had raised questions on media reports of Chinese action in the Doka La area, a member present at the meeting had said on the condition of anonymity.

The second meeting was briefed by Jaishankar, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra.

The 73-day face-off between Indian and Chinese troops in Doka La started on 16 June after the Indian side stopped the construction of a road by the Chinese Army. According to the external affairs ministry, the two forces "disengaged" on 28 August.

On the Doka La standoff, Tharoor said if the Chinese had stopped doing something that had triggered the reaction from India, then "clearly we had achieved something".

"If on the other hand, the stoppage is purely temporary and two weeks later they have started again, which is what we want to find out (during panel meetings), then there is some doubt as to whether the original portrayal of the incident as an Indian victory was accurate or not," the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram said.

Tharoor said for the preparation of the report on Indo-Pak ties, submitted in August this year, the panel had five or six hearings.

"Some with the foreign secretary alone, some with the foreign and defence secretaries and the military people, some with the commerce ministry, some with individual experts...We got everyone's view and we put it into a comprehensive report. So our approach on China will be the same," he said.

On the government's foreign policy, Tharoor said there was no doubt that relations with Pakistan were at a "pretty bad low" and with China, they were "not much better".

"In both the cases we have come down a long way from the kind of bonhomie that characterised these relationships at different phases in the last decade, including during Mr Modi's initial years of prime ministership," he said.

"In fact, with Pakistan, one can truly accuse the government of inconsistency because there have been so many ups and downs," he added.
New Delhi: Raising questions over the propriety of top Union ministers being on the board of directors of a private firm, Communist Party of India Marxist leader Sitaram Yechury on Sunday demanded the resignation of these ministers.

"Unanswered questions galore. Brazen conflict of interest. The ministers involved have no right to continue in government. They must resign," Yechury wrote on his Twitter handle, embedding the link to an expose by "The Wire."

News website "The Wire" on Saturday ran a story that detailed how India Foundation, a think tank being run by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval's son Shaurya Doval and BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav has top ministers as directors and relies on financial support from foreign and Indian corporates, some of which have dealings with the government.

Shaurya is also a partner in a financial services firm that specialises in "transactions and capital flows between the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) and the emerging Asian economies", the story said.

The India Foundation has Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha and Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar among its directors.

"Government of India is being compromised by these ministers in a way which is totally unacceptable. If this is not corruption, then what is?" Yechury said.
Nagpur: Union minister Ramdas Athawale's RPI(A), an NDA ally, will observe the first anniversary of demonetisation on 8 November as the "white money day".

Athawale said he has planned the initiative to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for targetting black money through 'notebandi' last year, wherein high value currencies of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 were withdrawn from circulation.

While Opposition parties had announced that they will observe the first anniversary of the note ban as the 'black day', the BJP had said it will be the "anti-black money day".

Athawale said his party will hold programmes near statues of BR Ambedkar in Maharashtra on 8 November to mark the "white money day".

He said the RPI(A) will hold the Vidarbha Rajya convention in Nagpur on 10 November.

"We have invited leaders of all the political parties, including the BJP that support the cause of carving out separate Vidarbha out of Maharashtra, to attend the convention," the Minister of State for Social Justice said.

Hailing the note ban, the Dalit leader said even Ambedkar had suggested a "change in currency every ten years".

Athawale said RPI(A) will extend support to the BJP in Gujarat Assembly polls next month.

He appealed to Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani and Patidar quota spearhead Hardik Patel to support the ruling BJP and not the Congress in the elections.

"I am ready to act as a mediator between them (Hardik Patel and Mewani) and the state government on the issue of quota," he said.

Athawale said Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi should give suggestions on implementation of GST instead of criticising it, as the party was part of its conceptualisation.

"Complaints of traders on GST will be addressed by the GST council," he said.

Athawale reiterated that BSP chief Mayawati should embrace Buddhism "if she is a true follower of B R Ambedkar and is serious about fulfilling the dream of late Kanshiram".
Lucknow: The war of words has escalated among political parties in Uttar Pradesh ahead of urban local body polls with the BJP saying that rival parties were waging a battle to keep their electoral identity intact while the Congress asserted that the ruling party will be wiped out in the polls.

The state will witness civic polls in three phases from 22 November, making it the first electoral test for the ruling BJP, which stormed to power in the Assembly elections earlier this year with a massive mandate.

Launching an attack on rivals, UP Dairy Development Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary said, "Rival political parties in the state are waging a war in the urban local bodies polls to save their electoral and political identity".

"Rival parties also want to give proof that they are alive, and hence decided to contest urban local bodies elections on party symbols. But, they will not be able to stop the lotus from blooming across Uttar Pradesh," he said.

He exuded confidence that the BJP will sweep urban local body elections.

"In the 2012 Assembly elections, when BJP won only 47 seats, the party had bagged 10 out of 12 mayoral seats in the state in the urban local body polls. So, this time with an overwhelming tally in the UP Assembly, we are confident that we will come out with flying colours," Chaudhary told PTI.

Reacting to Chaudhary's statement, the Congress said: "BJP will be wiped out from the state."

UP Congress spokesperson Ashok Singh said, "Congress has always been contesting elections on party symbols. We have won elections in the past as well. Last time, we won the Bareilly mayoral polls. The BJP should stop exhibiting dual face and character. In this urban local body polls, the BJP will be wiped out from the state."

Samajwadi Party spokesman Sunil Singh Sajan said voters will decide who will survive and who will perish.

"In the past seven months, the Yogi Adityanath government has failed to deliver on the promises it had made in the Assembly election," he charged.

"This is a statement stemming out of sheer fear of losing the (urban local bodies) elections. The urban voters in the state have made up their mind to teach a lesson to the BJP in the urban local bodies elections."

As per the poll schedule, 24 districts will go to polls on 22 November, while 25 districts on 26 November, and 26 districts on 29 November.

Counting of votes for 16 nagar nigams, 198 nagar palika parishads and 438 nagar panchayats will be done on 1 December, he said.

Nearly 3.32 crore voters will be eligible to cast their votes at 36,269 polling booths and 11,389 polling stations.
Beijing: China on Sunday reacted cautiously to a proposal by the Trump administration for a working-level quadrilateral meeting with India, Japan and Australia, saying Beijing hopes that it would not target or damage a "third party's interest".

The US was looking at a "working-level" quadrilateral meeting in the near term with India, Japan and Australia and offer countries in the Indo-Pacific region an alternative to predatory financing or unsustainable debt, the State Department had said last month.

The proposal was, however, seen by China as an attempt to counter its influence in the region.

Reacting to it, the Chinese Foreign Ministry hoped that such an arrangement will promote mutual trust among countries in the region and not harm its interest.

"China hopes the collaboration among relevant countries could comply with the trend of times, which refers to peace, development, and cooperation and shared benefits, and also conform to the prospects of the regions and nations for common security and development," the ministry said in a written response to a query from PTI in Beijing.

"We hope it would be beneficial for improving the mutual trust among countries and regions, at the same time safeguarding and promoting peace, tranquillity, and prosperity within the area, without targeting or damaging a third party's interest," it said.

State Department's Acting Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice G Wells had said, "As we explore ways to deepen and try to inculcate some of the values  freedom of navigation, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, transparency  obviously, Australia would be a natural partner in that effort as well".

The freedom of navigation is mostly referred to unhindered movement of ships and flights in the disputed South China Sea as China claims most of the busy trade route through which goods worth over $5.3 trillion pass every year.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the resource-rich area.

The US has been periodically sending naval ships and planes to assert the freedom of navigation, much to the chagrin of China.

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono said earlier that Tokyo would propose a "top-level dialogue with the US, India and Australia" to promote free trade and defence cooperation across the Indian Ocean.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is expected to bring up the same issue during his meeting with US President Donald Trump who is currently visiting Tokyo.

The US President would arrive in Beijing on a three-day visit from 8 November.

Besides the proposed grouping, President Xi Jinping is expected to discuss with Trump, America's new South Asia policy piling up pressure on China's close ally Pakistan over terror safe havens and Japan's proposal to jointly work out an alternative Silk Road plan with the US and India to counter China's multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which includes $50 billion CPEC.

India has opposed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as it traversed through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The quadrilateral idea has drawn criticism from state-run Chinese media.

Although Wells refuted reports that the move is aimed at containing China, statements by other senior US officials sound suspicious, an article in Global Times said recently.

Wells said that the mechanism will offer countries in the Indo-Pacific region an alternative to predatory financing or unsustainable debt, while US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson recently rebuked China for being an irresponsible international actor prone to predatory economic policies, the article said.

"Investment and trade are an important means to promote world economy. If the US, Japan, Australia and India can coordinate and support infrastructure construction and economic development of Indo-Pacific countries, they are more than welcome. But if they try to incorporate values into economic issues and display prejudice and hostility toward other countries, they will not bring stability to the region," it added.
Dubai: Bahrain urged its citizens to avoid travelling to Lebanon and advised those already in the country to leave immediately for their safety.

"Due to the current conditions and developments in Lebanon, the foreign ministry asks citizens present in Lebanon to leave immediately and exercise extreme caution," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

It warned its citizens to avoid travelling to Lebanon "for their own safety and to avoid any dangers they might encounter".

It gave no further details on the nature of any threat. Its warning came a day after Lebanese prime minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation.

Speaking from the Saudi capital Riyadh, Hariri cited Iran's "grip" on the country and threats to his life.

His surprise withdrawal from a government that also includes Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah risked plunging the already fragile country deeper into turmoil.

Manama has declared Hezbollah a terrorist group and repeatedly accused it of involvement in violent attacks in the tiny Gulf kingdom.
Beirut: Lebanons Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri resigned on Saturday, saying he believed there was an assassination plot against him and accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world.

His resignation, a big surprise to Beiruts political establishment, brought down the coalition government and plunged Lebanon into a new political crisis.

It thrust Lebanon into the front line of a regional competition between Sunni Saudi Arabia and Shiite Iran that has also buffeted Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Bahrain. A Saudi government minister said Hariri was in Riyadh to ensure his safety.

Hariri, who is closely allied with Saudi Arabia, alleged in a broadcast from an undisclosed location that Hezbollah was directing weapons at Yemenis, Syrians and Lebanese.

In comments directed at Iran, he said the Arab world would cut off the hands that wickedly extend to it.

Hariris coalition, which took office last year, grouped nearly all of Lebanons main parties, including Hezbollah. It took office in a political deal that made Michel Aoun, a Hezbollah ally, president, and was seen as a victory for Iran.

The resignation risks exacerbating sectarian tensions between Sunni and Shiite Muslims and returning Lebanon to paralysis in government.

An official at the US State Department said it was following the situation closely and noted that Hariri had been a strong partner in building strong national state institutions and in the war on terror.

The official added the United States expects an orderly political process in Lebanon and will remain supportive of the legitimate institutions of the Lebanese state.

It was not immediately clear who might succeed Hariri, Lebanons most influential Sunni politician.

The prime minister must be a Sunni in Lebanons sectarian system. Aoun must appoint the candidate with most support among MPs, who he is expected to consult in the coming days.

We are living in a climate similar to the atmosphere that prevailed before the assassination of martyr Rafik al-Hariri. I have sensed what is being plotted covertly to target my life, Hariri said.

Rafik al-Hariri was killed in a 2005 Beirut bomb attack that pushed his son Saad into politics and set off years of turmoil. A UN-backed tribunal has charged five Hezbollah members over the killing. Hezbollah denies involvement.

The Saudi-owned pan-Arab television channel al-Arabiya al-Hadath reported that an assassination plot against Hariri was foiled in Beirut days ago, citing an unnamed source.

Saudi Arabias gulf affairs minister Thamer al-Sabhan said in a television interview that Hariris personal security detail had confirmed information of a plot to kill him.

Lebanons internal security force said in a statement on the reports that it had no information about the matter.

Hariri said Hezbollah and Iran had brought Lebanon into the eye of a storm of international sanctions. Iran was sowing strife, destruction and ruin wherever it went and he accused it of a deep hatred for the Arab nation.

Aouns office said Hariri had called him from outside Lebanon to inform him of his resignation. He has postponed a visit to Kuwait and directed military and security agencies to maintain stability, it said.

Hariri flew to Saudi Arabia on Friday after a meeting in Beirut with Ali Akbar Velayati, the top adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Afterwards, Velayati described Hariris coalition as a victory and great success.

Tussle for influence

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, will address Hariris resignation in a televised speech on Sunday, Hezbollah-affiliated media reported.

A member of Hezbollahs central committee, Sheikh Nabil Kawouk, accused Riyadh of being behind Hariris resignation, saying in a speech reported by Lebanons al-Jadeed television: God protect Lebanon from the evil of Saudi Arabias reckless adventures.

Walid Jumblatt, the leader of Lebanons Druze minority, said Lebanon was too weak to bear the consequences of Hariris resignation, saying he feared political and economic fallout.

We cannot afford to fight the Iranians from Lebanon, he told Reuters, advocating an approach of compromise with Hezbollah in Lebanon while waiting for regional circumstances to allow Saudi-Iranian dialogue.

Irans Foreign Ministry said Hariris departure was a plot to create tension in Lebanon and the region.

Hariris resignation was done with planning by Donald Trump, the president of America, and Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, said Hussein Sheikh al-Islam, adviser to Irans supreme leader.

Sabhan, the Saudi minister, echoed the language of the Lebanese politician saying in a tweet: The hands of treachery and aggression must be cut off.

Israeli politicians also used Hariris resignation to criticize Iranian influence in Lebanon. His words are a wake-up call to the international community to take action against Iranian aggression, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

Economic risks

Hezbollahs close ties to Iran and its support for Syrian president Bashar al-Assad in his war with rebels have been a major source of tension in Lebanon for years.

Beirut has adopted a position of disassociation from the conflict, but this has come under strain with Hezbollah and its allies pushing for a normalization of ties.

Since taking office, Hariri had worked to garner international aid for Lebanon to cope with the strain of hosting some 1.5 million Syrian refugees.

The governments collapse complicates preparations for next years parliamentary elections, Lebanons first since 2009.

Finance minister Ali Hassan Khalil told Reuters there was no danger to Lebanons economy or its currency.

Joseph Torbey, head of the Association of Banks in Lebanon, said there was no risk to monetary stability because the central bank had large reserves and there was confidence in Lebanese banks.

Lebanon has one of the worlds highest ratios of debt-to-GDP and last month passed its first budget since 2005, one of the few achievements of the coalition government.

The United States is considering new sanctions on Hezbollah, as part of a tougher stance against Iran and its allies, that Lebanese politicians have fretted could hurt the economy.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Saturday removed a prominent prince who headed the National Guard, replaced the economy minister and announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee.

The Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya news channel also reported late Saturday that 11 princes and dozens of former ministers were detained in a new anti-corruption probe headed by the kingdom's powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was also named to oversee the new committee.

Al-Arabiya reported that the committee is looking into devastating and deadly floods that overwhelmed parts of the city of Jiddah in 2009 and is investigating the Saudi government's response to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus that has killed several hundred people in the past few years.

Meanwhile, the kingdom's top council of clerics issued a statement saying it is an Islamic duty to fight corruption  essentially giving religious backing to the high-level arrests being reported.

The government said the anti-corruption committee has the right to issue arrest warrants, impose travel restrictions and freeze bank accounts. It can also trace funds, prevent the transfer of funds or the liquidation of assets and take other precautionary measures until cases are referred to the judiciary.

The royal order said the committee was established "due to the propensity of some people for abuse, putting their personal interest above public interest, and stealing public funds."

Saudi nationals have long complained of rampant corruption in government and of public funds being squandered or misused by people in power.

The 32-year-old crown prince has been seeking to attract greater international investments and improve the country's reputation as a place to do business. It's part of a larger effort to diversify the economy away from dependence on oil revenue.

The king ousted one of the country's highest-level royals from power, removing Prince Miteb bin Abdullah as head of the National Guard. He was replaced by Prince Khalid bin Ayyaf al-Muqrin, who had held a senior post with the guard.

Prince Miteb's father was the late King Abdullah, who also had led the National Guard and had transformed it into a powerful and prestigious force tasked with protecting the ruling Al Saud family, as well as important holy sites in Mecca and Medina, and oil and gas sites.

Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne. His ouster as head of the National Guard essentially sidelines one of the most formidable rivals to the current crown prince, who has amassed enormous power in less than three years since his father, King Salman, ascended to the throne.

It comes just three months after Prince Mohammed bin Nayef was ousted from the line of succession and from his post as interior minister, overseeing internal security.

With the two princes now sidelined, control of the kingdom's security apparatus is now largely centralized under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is also defence minister.

The monarch also replaced Minister of Economy and Planning Adel Fakeih with his deputy, Mohammad al-Tuwaijri.

Admiral Abdullah Al-Sultan was also sacked as commander of Saudi Naval Forces and replaced by Admiral Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Ghifaili.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile over Riyadh after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, with debris landing inside the capital's international airport, officials said.

Residents in Riyadh reported a loud bang near the airport after the missile, the firing of which was claimed by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, was shot down yesterday, but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life.

The attack underscores the threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen, increasingly spilling across the border since a Saudi-led coalition began its military intervention in 2015.

"This evening a ballistic missile was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom," the Saudi Press Agency quoted coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki as saying yesterday.

"The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas... Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries," he added.

Civil aviation authorities said the airport was functioning normally and that flights were operating as scheduled.

Yemen's Shiite Houthi rebels, who fired the missile from Yemeni territory more than 1,200 kilometres from Riyadh, said they were targeting the airport, according to the Huthis' Al- Masirah television channel.

Saudi Arabia led a 2015 intervention in Yemen to prop up the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi after the Houthi rebels forced him into exile.

But two years later, the kingdom appears to be in a quagmire.

Hoping for a quick victory against what it saw as Iranian expansionism in its back yard, Riyadh has so far been unable to remove the Houthis from Yemeni capital Sanaa.

Aside from occasional missiles, Saudi territory has also been hit repeatedly by the rebels' cross-border incursions, raising fears the conflict could drag out yet further.

In July, a ballistic missile fired from Yemen was shot down close to Mecca, a month before the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Islam's holiest site.

In the frontier provinces of Jizan and Najran, thousands of mortar rounds and crude rockets have hit schools, mosques and homes.

Thousands of residents have been evacuated from border towns across the southwest to create a buffer zone.

Saudi Arabia does not officially disclose military fatalities, but state media has frequently featured funeral notices for "martyred" soldiers.

United Nations-backed talks have failed to broker a political settlement to end the fighting in Yemen, which has left more than 8,600 people dead since the coalition intervened.

A cholera outbreak has claimed more than 2,100 lives in Yemen since April as hospitals struggle to secure supplies amid a coalition air and sea blockade.

The United Nations has warned that Yemen now stands on the brink of famine.
London: Mosques in Britain refused to perform the last rites of Salman Abedi, the suicide bomber who blew himself up at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester earlier this year, killing 22 victims.

The remains of the 22-year-old were flown to Tripoli in Libya, the country of his origin, where the burial was conducted, according to The Sun.

But he was still reportedly denied an Islamic burial ceremony.

"After Manchester mosques refused to bury the remains of terrorist Salman Abedi, British authorities allowed his family to move him to Libya, where he was buried in Tripoli," claims Noman Benotman, of anti-extremist think tank Quilliam.

Abedi grew up in Britain and is thought to have visited the North African country from where his parents had emigrated regularly in the last six years.

Libya is a hotspot for the Islamic State terror network and Abedi is believed to have been trained in bomb-making by an Islamic State explosives expert, a former car mechanic from the West Midlands region of the UK.

The news of his burial emerged as another media report claims the UK's intelligence officials missed key warnings that could have put the Manchester bomber under surveillance as a "high-priority" target.

The Sunday Times reports that the failure to act properly on the intelligence emerged in an MI5 internal review sent to UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd.

"There were a few calls made regarding several bits of intelligence which, if judged differently at the time, would have turned Abedi into a high-priority case," an intelligence source is quoted by the newspaper as saying.

"And when a target is judged a high priority, you should place them under surveillance. The greater the threat, the more resources you deploy for surveillance," he added.

The detailed analysis of all intelligence received in the build-up to the Manchester attack on 22 May is understood to focus on information passed to an MI5 regional office.

While the information was not considered of high significance when received, it was judged upon reassessment to be enough to have raised serious alarms about Abedi.

It had emerged last week that Libyan authorities are processing a request from Britain to extradite the younger brother of the bomber, Hashem Abedi, to question him on his role in aiding the attack at Manchester Arena.

Salman Abedi blew himself up at the end of the Grande concert in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Britain.

The 22 victims included seven children and more than 500 people were injured, with 112 people needing hospital treatment after the attack and 64 suffering "very serious" injuries.
Newly leaked documents show that Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, the Trump administration's point man on trade and manufacturing policy, has a stake in a company that does business with a gas producer partly owned by the son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

ICIJ disclosed the Ross holding as part of reporting on 13.4 million records of offshore entities in tax havens leaked to German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung. The newspaper then shared the records with ICIJ and a network of more than 380 journalists in 67 countries. The New York Times is its U.S. partner in this inquiry.

The details are likely to add to the questions about ties between Russia and the Trump administration, connections that for months have shadowed the White House and are a focus of an investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller. Yet it wasn't immediately clear how many partners Ross might have or what the profit-sharing agreement might be.

Commerce Department spokesman James Rockas said Ross "never met" Shamalov and has generally supported the Trump administration's sanctions against Russia, according to the ICIJ report. Rockas added that Ross has withdrawn from matters related to transoceanic shipping vessels and has met the "highest ethical standards."

According to records obtained by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, Ross is an investor in Navigator Holdings, a shipping giant that counts Russian gas and petrochemical producer Sibur among its major customers. Putin's son-in-law Kirill Shamalov once owned more than 20 percent of the company, but now holds a much smaller stake.

It wasn't immediately clear exactly how much of Navigator, which is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Ross personally owns. ICIJ reported that Ross and other investors own four Cayman Island entities that in turn own 31.5 percent of Navigator, a stake worth $176 million at Friday's closing stock price.

Ross' stake in Navigator is likely a small fraction of that. In financial disclosure forms he filed with the government this year, Ross valued his holdings in the Cayman Island entities, which include other companies besides Navigator, at no more than $10.1 million.

Sibur contributed 8 percent to Navigator's revenue last year, according to reports filed with securities regulators. Russia's energy sector is largely controlled by individuals with ties to state actors, including Putin.

Much of the new trove of files includes bank statements, emails and loan agreements from Appleby, a law firm that helps set up offshore dummy companies and trusts. Appleby told the ICIJ that there is "no evidence" that it has done anything wrong.

Other records came from Asiaciti Trust, a family-run offshore specialist based In Singapore, and from 19 corporate registries maintained by governments in jurisdictions that draw the wealthy seeking privacy.

Big investments in two U.S. tech companies from a Russian government bank and Russian energy giant have also come to light.

The ICIJ reported that Silicon Valley investor and Russian citizen Yuri Milner got $191 million from VTB Bank, and invested that money in Twitter. The leaked records also show that a financial subsidiary of Russian energy company Gazprom funded a shell company that invested in a Milner-affiliated company that held roughly $1 billion in Facebook shares shortly before its 2012 initial public offering.

Milner told the ICIJ that he was unaware of any involvement by the Gazprom subsidiary in any of his deals and that none of his investments has been related to politics.

Milner has also invested in a tech-savvy real estate fund that was co-founded by Trump adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner called Cadre. Milner told the ICIJ that he used his own money for the investment.

Sunday's revelations follow last year's release of records from a Panama-based firm involved in setting up offshore accounts. That disclosure triggered investigations in several countries, the resignation of the prime minister of Iceland and ouster of the leader of Pakistan. The Panama Papers also revealed that close associates of Russia's leader Putin had been using the dummy accounts abroad to store their wealth, including a close Putin friend who had $2 billion of offshore assets.

There are legitimate reasons for setting up offshore accounts, but lax regulation and anonymity in some jurisdictions make it easy to launder money, evade taxes and avoid regulatory scrutiny. Critics of the widening gap between the super-wealthy and the rest have seized upon the use of tax havens as revealed in the Panama Papers as evidence of a crisis, and governments have promised to crack down.

In the case of Ross, the ICIJ reported Navigator's Russian customer, Sibur, has ties to Putin in addition to his son-in-law.

A big shareholder is Gennady Timchenko, who was targeted by the U.S. and other Western nations for sanctions after Russia's invasion of the Ukrainian region of Crimea in 2014. A few months later, the U.S. barred banks from providing long-term financing to a gas company belonging to another large Sibur shareholder, Leonid Mikhelson. Mikhelson has also been sanctioned by the Treasury Department for propping up Putin's rule.

Sibur itself was not targeted by the U.S. sanctions, but the Bank of America and the Royal Bank of Scotland reportedly backed away from doing business with the company.

The Russian gas producer last year contributed $23 million to Navigator's revenue, an increase of more than 40 percent in two years

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Associated Press writers Jake Pearson in New York and Eric Tucker contributed to this report.

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This story has been corrected to show the name of the organization is the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.
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Getting 200,000 miles of useor morefrom a vehicle is an impressive feat, but its not impossible. Owners should be aware, though, that as a vehicle approaches that milestone, many of its components will start to wear out.

Youll see some warning signs, or red flags. Pay attention to them and you can avoid the double whammy of being stranded and slapped with an expensive, unexpected repair.

To help out owners trying to reach that 200,000-mile mark, we compiled estimates of the expenses involved to fix these common problems. Using a 2010 Toyota Camry with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, located in northern New Jersey, as our model car, we used the free Consumer Reports Car Repair Estimator to determine the costs. Powered by CRs partner RepairPal, it provides regional estimates for repair work; your actual costs may differ. Remember to shop around for the best deals.

These repairs are ordered from the most expensive to the least expensive to complete.

1. Brakes

What are the warning signs? A spongy or sinking brake pedal can be a sign of a failing brake master cylinder, says CR's chief mechanic, John Ibbotson. If you live in the snow belt, make sure to check the hard brake lines for rust or weak spots.

Can I do it myself? Unless youve worked on brakes with someone else (like helping a parent years ago), this is a job for a qualified mechanic.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? In the worst-case scenario, youll have a brake failure and end up in a crash. In the best scenario, youll wear the brake pads down to their metal backing plates, resulting in poor braking performance and a loud metal-on-metal noise when you try to stop the car.

CR's best advice: You should have your brakes checked regularly and change the brake fluid as recommended in the owners manual. Dont do the work yourself unless you are absolutely confident in your ability.

2. Mechanical Components Reaching the End of Life

What are the warning signs? Even the strongest original parts can wear out. Dont go cheap on replacement parts in order to save a few bucks, Ibbotson says. If you replaced worn parts with substandard knockoffs, they might be on their way to failure much sooner than the original equipment. Slow cranking of the engine can be a sign of a failing battery or alternator.

Can I do it myself? If you're mechanically inclined and used to working on cars, you can probably replace the alternator and maybe the power steering pump. But its best to have a mechanic handle the steering rack.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? If your alternator fails, your car has no way of charging the battery. Eventually the vehicle will leave you stranded, either from a lack of battery voltage or because you wont be able to start it. A bad power-steering pump means it will get more difficult to turn the wheels. Ignoring the steering rack can be dangerous because you might lose the ability to steer.

CR's best advice: Dont mess around with steering components; get them handled ASAP. And don't ignore a bad or failing alternator. Note that some premium parts may come with a lifetime warranty, so be sure to ask when buying.

3. Noisy Exhaust System

What are the warning signs? You can tell that your exhaust system is reaching the end of its life because your car will get increasingly louder, Ibbotson says. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and should be repaired at the first sign.

Can I do it myself? No.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? Exhaust fumes will eventually enter the vehicle and could make occupants ill.

CR's best advice: You should have a mechanic or a muffler/exhaust shop do the repairs. And dont go with cheap catalytic converters; they probably wont last very long and youll be back in the same situation in a couple of years.

4. Electrical Components Beginning to Fail

What are the warning signs? Dont be surprised if features such as power windows, windshield wipers, and even the instrument panel go on the fritz, Ibbotson says. The gremlins can be frustratingly difficult to trace.

Can I do it myself? The door and window components can be handled by a home mechanic who has experience working on cars. The windshield parts are trickier to work on, but it's still something a competent amateur mechanic can handle. But the oxygen sensors should be replaced by a professional mechanic.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? You may not be able to lock or unlock your door or raise and lower the windows if you ignore those components. Your windshield will be messy and difficult to see through if you dont fix the washer pump or wiper motor.

CR's best advice: Keeping the windshield clean isnt just an appearance issue, its a safety one, too. Get that handled ASAP. The door and window components are somewhat less importantunless you cant lock your car manually or the windows are stuck open in the winter!

5. Moisture Buildup

What are the warning signs? If it seems that the inside of your windshield is always fogging up or you are mysteriously losing coolant, its likely that the heater core is starting to fail.

Can I do it myself? No.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? You'll notice poor defrosting capability that results in decreased visibility. If left for too long, it can result in the engine overheating, leading to engine damage.

CR's best advice: Even the smallest pinholes will cause interior fogging, Ibbotson says. Its most likely going to be an expensive repair, because the heater core is under the dashboard. Use a high-quality replacement unit to avoid having to repeat the repair again too soon.

6. Outdated Shocks and Struts

What are the warning signs? Does your car bounce up and down as you drive down the road? You may need new shocks or struts, Ibbotson says. Uneven tire wear is also an early indicator of this.

Can I do it myself? Not unless you own a lot of tools, are very handy, and have plenty of time. Make an appointment with a mechanic.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? You'll experience poor or dangerous handling, and you could wind up with excessive and uneven tire wear.

CR's best advice: Get it done as soon as you notice the warning signs in order to avoid any safety issues.

7. Failing Radiator

What are the warning signs? A failing radiator or thermostat can cause the engine to run too hot or eventually overheat, Ibbotson says. Low fluid levels in the coolant reservoir could indicate a leak in the radiator, engine, hoses, or all three.

Can I do it myself? No.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? An engine that runs too hot can overheat, damaging the internal parts. This could result in the engine failing, forcing you to get a replacement.

CR's best advice: Routinely check and top off your vehicles coolant, especially before long road trips. If the fluid level looks low or you see the engine temperature is often very high, make an appointment with a mechanic as soon as possible.

8. Oil Consumption and Leaks

What are the warning signs? Increased oil consumption is common in older cars, so dont panic if your car seems thirstier the older it gets. But if you think youre topping off the oil too much, it could be a sign of a bigger leak.

Can I do it myself? An oil and filter change can be done by most competent home mechanics who have the proper tools. But it usually isnt worth the savings to do it yourself because you still have to dispose of the oil. If you think there's a leak or the oil light has come on in your car, immediately check the oil level. Then take the vehicle to a professional to find out what's wrong.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? Oil lubricates the engine parts and helps dissipate heat. So running out of oil will result in the internal engine parts contacting each other directly and wearing out prematurely. Never changing the oil will result in the engine seizing; if that happens, it will have to be replaced.

CR's best advice: Routinely check and top off your vehicles oil between changes, especially before long road trips.

9. Spark Plugs That Haven't Been Changed

What are the warning signs? If you havent changed the plugs in 100,000 miles of use, the engine runs rough and misfires, or you have trouble starting your car, you should replace the spark plugs. Buying the right kind and getting the right service can make all the difference.

Can I do it myself? While spark plugs come pre-gappedthat is, there's the appropriate amount of space between the center and side electrodes of the plugyou have to use a special tool to make sure they are gapped to your cars requirements. If it isnt gapped properly, the plug wont make a spark to ignite the gas. Make sure you buy the right type of plug for your make and model at an auto-parts store. With cars built before the 1990s, you can probably do the job yourself. But with most newer models, Ibbotson recommends having the dealer or a certified repair shop handle it.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? You might see your fuel economy and engine performance get worse.

CR's best advice: If maintained well, spark plugs can last 100,000 miles. By the 200,000 mark, you could be overdue for installing a third set of plugs. Make an appointment with your dealer or a trusted mechanic to have the work done.

10. Rust

What are the warning signs? It starts with paint that looks like it has bubbles forming. Once you see even a little bit forming around the wheel wells, hood, trunk, or suspension mounting points, there could be a serious problem beneath the surface.

Can I do it myself? No.

Whats the cost? It depends on the extent of the damage. If you have rust, get several competing estimates on the work.

What happens if I ignore the red flag? You can patch surface rust, but that will only slow down the problem. Replacing body panels on a 200,000-mile car can be expensive. At this point, the clock has started ticking on how much longer youre going to keep the car.

CR's best advice: Have a professional repair shop check to see whether its surface rust or there's a structural weakness that will make your car less safe in a crash.

Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright  2017, Consumer Reports, Inc.
Gloria Fallon, mother of The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon, died Saturday at a hospital in New York City of an undisclosed illness. She was 68 years old.

A spokeswoman for the host told the press that she died in a hospital surrounded by her son and other family. Fallon himself told The Associated Press through his spokeswoman that he lost his biggest fan. The news comes just after Fridays broadcast of the late-night talk show was canceled on Nov. 3 for an undisclosed family matter.

Deadline reports that, in light of the news, "The Tonight Show" will not air for the week of November 6-10. Repeat episodes will reportedly air during its time slot.

"On behalf of everyone at NBC, we extend our deepest condolences to Jimmy and all his family at this time of enormous loss. Our hearts go out ti Jimmy and everyone else whose lives were so touched by Gloria Fallon's love, kindness and support," the network told the outlet in a statement.

Since the news broke, fans and celebrity friends alike have taken to social media to share their condolences with the comedian, who often used his mother for a segment called #MomQuotes on the show. Gloria Gallon even attended the taping of her sons first night hosting the famed talk show in 2014.

Mom is the first audience and the best. Remembering Jimmy Fallon and his family in our prayers today, wrote The Late Show host Stephen Colbert, who lost his mother in 2013 while hosting his own show on Comedy Central.

Heartbroken for your loss, wrote Brooklyn Nine-Nine star Terry Crews.

So very sad to hear about @jimmyfallons mum, Gloria, wrote Terri Irwin. She must have been a beautiful soul because her son has such a kind and loving heart.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
After dining at an Outback Steakhouse in Ohio with some of her team and her daughter Luna, Chrissy Teigen left her waitress an insanely generous tip. Model, cookbook author, and mother Teigen tipped 21-year-old Mikayla Scott $1,000 on the receipt of her $193 meal.

I was so nervous I was going to do something wrong, the Outback waitress told Dayton.com. People kept saying you are going to get a fat tip. I was like Oh my god, praise the Lord.

Scott told the publication that the 31-year-old Teigen, whose husband John Legend is an Ohio native, ordered a glass of pinot grigio and many appetizers, including the Steakhouse Quesadilla and one of the models well documented favorite menu items, the Bloomin Onion.For her main dish she enjoyed a crispy chicken sandwich.

Scott reportedly shared the tip with her co-workers and plans to use her share for car repairs.
A picture of a hunter grinning broadly with a dead snow leopard slung over his shoulders has prompted a now-viral online petition calling for him to be brought to justice.

American trophy hunter Hossein Golabchi, nicknamed Soudy, is seen in a photo that has been circulating on social media, posing with the dead endangered animal with two shots in its hind leg. Golabchi, who is originally from Iran, is believed to have killed the animal in central Asia.

The online petition has drawn over 104,000 supporters since it was posted last week  only 6,000 away from its goal of 110,000 signatures.

MOOSE HUNTER SLAMS FACEBOOK CRITICS WHO CALLED HER 'DISGUSTING'

The Care2 petition was launched by Amanda W. of TERA International (Tiger Exotic Animal Ranger Awareness), an organization focusing on the preservation of exotic animals. Amanda started the petition on International Snow Leopard Day 2017 in hopes that by International Snow Leopard Day 2018 [Golabchi] is brought to justice, the petition says.

Amanda points out in the petition that, There's nowhere in the entire Western Hemisphere (and the rest of the world) that allows anyone to go into Central Asia to 'trophy hunt' a snow leopard.

"It is illegal to own their body parts or their beautiful fur and importing their remains into the United States is a federal offence, the petition continues.

Golabchi has reportedly killed hundreds of animals across six continents. He also authored a book, Obsessed! in 2008, which details his snow leopard single-minded obsession that took [him] more than four decades to fulfill.

Amanda is aiming to make an example of the prolific rare cat trophy hunter and author for fear that these magnificent cats will vanish forever," the petition reads.

The snow leopard has been on the endangered species list since 1972 because of over poaching. Only between 3,500 and 7,000 snow leopards are thought to be left in the wild, with the population decreasing. About 600 to 700 of the animals are in zoos around the world, according to Defenders of Wildlife statistics.

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The supporters mirror Amandas feelings, with one commenting, He needs to be the example and needs to be in prison.

However, in an update to the petition Amanda wrote that she has been contacted with concerns that the hunt may have happened too long ago to be prosecutable. The hunt reportedly happened sometime in the early 2000s or 1990s.

Though she refutes this concern saying, to our knowledge there is no statute of limitations on international wildlife crime.
Virginia will elect a new governor Tuesday. If Republican candidate Ed Gillespie can defeat Democratic Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam for the position now held by a term-limited Democrat, his victory would be prime proof for Republicans across the country that the conservative movement is alive, well and on the ascendency.

Both former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama have toured the state raising money for the candidate of each of their parties. President Trump regularly tweets support for Gillespie and attacks Northam. A flood of other politicians, journalists and commentators have suddenly taken an interest in the governors race as well.

It is no secret that in the past few years conservatives have been deeply worried about how changing demographics and a coarser discourse could affect the conservative movements future appeal. These worries were further amplified last year as many Republicans in Washington and beyond were concerned about how President Trumps rash statements at times would affect the GOPs appeal to Hispanic-Americans, women and other demographic groups.

However, on Election Day last year many of those doubts were temporarily put to rest as Donald Trump scored stronger than expected support among all these groups, according to exit polls. Yet many still worried that this was just an exception in an overall downward trend for Republicans.

Virginia is a strong test case for the Republican Partys future appeal because it is a state that has for so long been out of the reach of conservatives. A diverse state in nearly every way, no Republican has won statewide since 2009, with a steadily declining share of the vote since then.

In last years presidential race, Hillary Clinton carried the state with nearly 50 percent of the vote and President Trump received just over 44 percent.

As one of the Virginia GOPs statewide Electoral College members and a campaign official on the Trump campaign in the state, I got to see and participate firsthand in the efforts to help President Trump win in Virginia  sadly, to no avail.

However this year looks different. Republicans are still energized by the extraordinary victory of President Trump and congressional Republicans last year, as well as the string of special election wins this year. Recent polling has also shown positive signs for Gillespie, with a Hampton University poll a few days ago showing him up 8 points over Northam.

Gillespie, a former Republican National Committee chairman and White House counselor for President George W. Bush, has run an incredible campaign in Virginia. He has combined the inclusive and aspirational Reagan-Bush approach  as represented by his slogan For ALL Virginians  with strong concern for the working-class voters who were so essential to President Trumps victory nationwide.

While reaching out to ethnic communities and business leaders in Northern Virginia, Gillespie has also toured rural and Appalachian Southwest Virginia to talk about the opioid crisis and providing economic opportunity for those employed in industrial jobs.

If Gillespie loses, it would show that Virginias extremely lopsided political demographics remain difficult to overcome.

But if Gillespie wins, Republicans across the country may find that the strange coalition weve built in Virginia is a new and lasting one for our modern era. It is a coalition that that can help Republicans nationwide in reinvigorating the conservative movement and ending much of the establishment versus grassroots infighting that has characterized Republican politics in recent years.

Ive personally worked tirelessly on Gillespies campaign over the past two years, serving on his Jobs and Economic Growth Policy Working Group as well as several other roles from the early primary campaign until now. I know he and his pro-growth and inclusive leadership style will allow him be an excellent governor for Virginia.

Furthermore, Gillespie can be an inspiration for conservatives across the nation looking for a leader whose style other Republicans can follow to victory.

The conservative movement is in need of bold leaders, and hopefully in a few days we here in Virginia will be electing a truly extraordinary one.
Donna Brazile, the former interim chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee, is in search of absolution. In a cloyingly self-pitying article for Politico Magazine excerpted from her upcoming book, she reveals the extent to which the DNC willingly surrendered control of the organization to Hillary Clintons campaign well before Clinton became the partys presidential nominee.

In the article, Brazile scolds her predecessors at the DNC and scolds President Obama and his allies for allowing the partys fundraising apparatuses to atrophy. But most of all, she attacks Hillary Clinton.

Brazile alleges that the joint fundraising agreement the DNC signed with the Clinton campaign in August was unethical, a claim disputed by DNC Chairman Tom Perez. And she confesses to being disturbed by her inability to confirm that the DNC was not trying to throw the primary to Clinton.

Finally, Brazile reveals that she knew all along that the polls couldnt be trusted, even if the Democratic Partys elected representatives and pollsters had no idea. I found a lack of enthusiasm for her (Clinton) everywhere, she confessed to Bernie Sanders alone.

Brazile could endure the shame of secretly relaying Democratic primary debate questions to Hillary Clinton when the Clintons were the powers that be. But those days are over. Now its Bernie Sanders party, and Brazile is surely hoping her offering to the new overlords will be satisfactory.

Its not necessary to buy every detail of Braziles account to see the writing on the wall. When asked about Braziles confessional and whether that meant that the primary was rigged against Sanders, progressive darling Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., replied flatly, yes.

This is no country for a Clinton.

Braziles self-serving effort to expose the Democratic Partys skeletons is a step toward recovery. It demonstrates that the partys efforts to avoid conducting an autopsy on its failed effort in the 2016 election can only be suppressed for so long.

Democratic lawmakers and party insiders have gone to great lengths to ensure that any postmortem on the 2016 race is kept under wraps. But rather than controlling the direction in which the partys post-2016 debate will flow, the Democratic Party has inadvertently let activists and pollsters perform the dissections on the partys 2016 corpse.

A study conducted by the Democratic political research firm Global Strategy Group, for example, found that the Democratic Partys base voters actually did turn out to vote. But the problem for Democrats was that many of them turned out to vote for Donald Trump.

Those Obama-Trump voters, in fact, effectively accounted for more than two-thirds of the reason Clinton lost, the report said.

Another study conducted by the super PAC Priorities USA learned that voters in swing states, including many Democrats, thought the Democratic Party was more likely than the GOP to favor the wealthy, and voted accordingly.

Its all rather confusing and often conflicting. Now, nearly a year later, the Democratic Party is awash in competing narratives. In a comprehensive New York Times Magazine piece, Robert Draper examines a party at war with itself  not over policy, but over tone and tactics.

For example, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel helped engineer a Democratic takeover of Congress in 2006 by hunting for conservative Democratic prospects to run in conservative districts.

When I was recruiting candidates, Id get yelled at, Emmanuel confessed. Why is he getting all these sheriffs and military guys? Its because they were running in red districts!

Emmanuel is still getting yelled at. Progressive Change Campaign Committee founder Stephanie Taylor attacked Emanuels 50-state strategy for, of all things, only being able to maintain control of the House for four years. Had the party run true-blue progressives in those red districts, she said, the Democrats might have enjoyed more lasting success.

The impulse to impose ideologically progressive homogeneity on the Democratic Party is evident in how the progressive activist base responded to Virginia Republican gubernatorial candidate Ed Gillespies foray into immigration-related issues.

Gillespies decision to make the matters of the MS-13 gang and sanctuary cities an issue in the Virginia gubernatorial campaign has offended the sensibilities of his Democratic opponents. They claim, correctly, that MS-13s presence in Virginia is, while not negligible, numerically modest. They add that there are no sanctuary cities in Virginia.

To even raise this issue is to inflame cultural tensions toward no higher purpose than dividing the electorate against itself and stoking racial anxieties. But it wasnt until the Democratic candidate for governor, Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, confirmed that he would sign an anti-sanctuary city bill if one crossed his desk that the progressive left truly revealed its capacity for inchoate rage.

Northam caves to opponents racist ads on sanctuary cities, the progressive blog Think Progress barked.

Ezra Levin, one half of a team of activists lauded in Politico as responsible for crafting the playbook for stonewalling the Trump presidency, attacked his favored candidate, writing that parroting Gillespies hateful xenophobia is despicable.

The Nations Washington editor, George Zornick, mourned the Northam campaigns validation of Gillespies racist narrative.

The activist organization Democracy for America went a step further and dubbed the Northam campaign itself a racist organization.

This isnt political analysis; its a primal scream. Moreover, it has blinded progressives to the fact that local candidates know best how to appeal to their constituents.

A Monmouth University survey released Oct. 17 found Gillespies message on crime and immigration resonating with voters. Gillespies image on crime had improved markedly over the course of one month, coinciding with a decline in overall support for Northam.

This is a game of inches right now, so any small advantage counts," said Monmouth pollster Patrick Murray.

Northams struggles are indicative of a broader problem with a party that has outsourced agenda-setting to the activist base. Longtime Democratic pollster Stanley Greenberg recently warned his party that the Democratic brand is weakening and the opportunities the party could enjoy in 2018 will be forfeited if Democrats do not develop a concise agenda.

Greenberg advised Democrats to hammer away on the GOPs failure to preserve access to health insurance, preserve entitlement programs, or protect the little guy from abuse. Greenbergs firm found that the message that tests best with voters is a familiar one: Trickle-down has failed and the richest need to pay their fair share of taxes.

The dirty secret is that the Democratic Partys activist base is not animated by messages like these. The activists get out of bed in the morning ready to do cultural battle with pro-Trump forces, not over economic issues but cultural concerns. And they, not Stanley Greenberg, are writing the Democratic Partys talking points.

Say what you will about the GOPs 2012 autopsy, at least the Republican Party engaged in an open display of introspection in the wake of a humiliating defeat. The autopsy galvanized a Republican activist base resentful of what it saw as the false elite consensus around diversity and immigration, and vowed to show the party leaders why they were wrong.

Perhaps mindful that Donald Trumps nomination represented a repudiation of that Republican autopsys recommendations, Democrats have opted to pass on the public self-flagellation. In the process, though, theyve only hastened the same reckoning that Republicans endured.

The Democratic activist class does not trust its elite representatives; they were sold out to by an opaque and corrupt party. They do not share their representatives enthusiasm for road-worn talking points about Reaganomics. They see the rise of Trump as an urgent threat, but their representatives do not appear to share their burning apprehension.

Democrats didnt make anything better by performing the autopsy on Hillary Clintons 2016 prospects behind closed doors. Now, instead of controlling events, events are in control of them.
When President Trump visits Beijing on his Asian trip now in progress, China is expected to roll out the red carpet. But Chinese leaders are spooked. President Trump is the first American president to sanction a Chinese bank for helping North Korea evade U.S. and United Nations economic sanctions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will no doubt flatter his American guest, hoping that President Trump prefers the image of a successful summit to a confrontation over sanctions. But President Trump should not fall for it.

With North Korea on the brink of being able to strike the U.S. with a nuclear missile, President Trump must increase pressure on Pyongyang and its enablers, especially Beijing.

China has responded well to U.S. pressure so far. For example, it issued a banking directive prohibiting financial transactions with North Koreans and another directive prohibiting North Korean businesses in China and joint ventures. But this is not enough.

China accounts for an estimated 90 percent of North Korean trade, giving it significant economic leverage. And according to the U.N., China imported $182 million of North Korean coal in August and September this year, despite its February pledge to stop the practice.

If Beijing cannot implement its own coal restriction, we should not trust that it will act against its own citizens who help North Korea evade economic sanctions. President Trump should tell Xi as much.

While the two leaders should project a cordial relationship in public, President Trump should warn Xi in private that Washington will move forward with robust sanctions targeting Chinese companies and banks that facilitate North Koreas evasion of sanctions.

Chinese entities that strengthen North Koreas economy by getting around sanctions undermine the American policy of financially isolating North Korea. That isolation is key to gaining leverage as a means to prevent a military conflict.

Xi knows whats coming. The Trump administration has already sanctioned Chinese and Russian facilitators of North Koreas sanctions evasion, and in September sanctioned 26 overseas representatives of North Korean banks.

These actions are a clear warning shot to Beijing that Washington is widely expected to target additional Chinese nationals and banks that play a key role in these illegal schemes.

The Trump administration should take a page from the Iran sanctions playbook and issue fines against Chinese banks for failing to identify North Korean transactions  similar to the $12 billion in fines issued from 2012 to 2015 against European banks for Iran sanctions violations.

President Trump is also visiting Japan, where Prime Minister Shinzo Abe solidified his supermajority in recent elections.

Abe declared North Korea as one of Japans two national crises. And in a sign that Washington fully backs Abes North Korea policy, President Trump will meet with families of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea. At minimum, the visit will shine a spotlight on Pyongyangs abhorrent human rights record.

President Trumps itinerary also includes South Korea. His relationship with President Moon Jae-In has not always been an easy one, because of differences in whether to confront or engage the North Korean regime of dictator Kim Jong Un. However, North Koreas provocations have drawn the U.S. and South Korea closer.

U.S. military assistance has also strengthened ties with South Korea. Seoul has deployed a U.S.-supplied Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) ballistic missile defense system to defend against North Koreas missile program. The North Korean human rights issue offers another area of commonality with Moon, who was a human rights lawyer.

If President Trump plays his cards right, he will discourage South Korea from drawing closer to Beijing. China already agreed to suspend its sanctions against South Korea in exchange for a commitment that Seoul will not deploy additional THAAD launchers, participate in a U.S. regional missile defense, or enter into a trilateral defense alliance with Japan. The China-South Korea detente could erode American leverage with Beijing.

More broadly, President Trump must seize the opportunity on this trip to build a multilateral coalition outside the U.N. of likeminded countries (South Korea, Japan, Australia, Britain, France and Germany) that commits to increasing pressure on North Korea.

This group of nations should focus on identifying additional networks ripe for coordinated sanctions actions. It should also target North Korean shipping by declaring that all vessels linked to North Korea can be inspected under U.N. and international law.

Amidst all of this, President Trump should be prepared for new North Korean missile tests during his time in the region. Kim Jong Un wants to remain in the spotlight.

But no matter what Pyongyang launches, Trumps message must be consistent: denuclearization is Americas vision for the Korean Peninsula. The United States must not accept anything less, given North Koreas egregious history of nuclear, chemical and missile proliferation.
The 279 firefighters who graduated from the New York City fire department's academy last month include the son of a firefighter killed on 9/11  and the son of a terrorist.

Rookie firefighter Omar Ahmed Sattar, 30, is the eldest son of Ahmed Abdel Sattar, who was convicted in 2005 of soliciting crimes of violence and conspiracy to murder Jews.

The elder Sattar, now 58, was a seemingly mild-mannered postal-service worker raising his family in Staten Island. Behind his peaceful facade, the court found, he was an Islamist extremist who used his home as a communications hub to further the schemes of Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman, the blind Muslim cleric who masterminded the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, which killed six, as well as failed plots to blow up other New York City buildings and tunnels.

Ahmed Sattar, also known as Abu Omar and Dr. Ahmed, was tried along with Rahmans radical defense lawyer, Lynne Stewart, and another accused terrorist, Mohammed Yousry.

According to federal charges, he and a co-conspirator in 2000 published a fatwa, or Islamic ruling, in Rahmans name, calling for the killing of Jewish civilians.

He and cohorts also tried to use the Oct. 12, 2000, al Qaeda bombing of the USS Cole, which killed 17 US sailors, to extort the US into freeing Rahman from prison, court papers say.

'Witch hunt'?

A Web site set up in Ahmed Sattars defense, ahmedabdelsattar.org, says that the Egyptian immigrant had deep roots in America and that he studied the Quran and became an opponent of the murderous Hosni Mubarak regime in Egypt.

It says Ahmed Sattar lived a clean life and blames the charges against him on a witch hunt by New York Zionists.

In a letter to the sentencing judge, Omar, then an 18-year-old student at the College of Staten Island, begged for leniency.

I know that he did not commit any crimes or plan to. I feel that an injustice has been done. My father is a man of honesty and kindness, he wouldnt attempt to hurt any one or even think about it, Omar wrote.

Yes, he has views, like so many people, but his views were just that and nothing more.

Omar, who has two younger brothers and a sister, said his father raised his kids well.

Most importantly, he wanted us to be good children and then grow up to be better adults, he wrote. I will forever hold his lessons in my heart, and I thank god every day for the father I have.

Manhattan federal Judge John Koeltl sentenced Ahmed Sattar to 24 years in prison. He is serving time in the federal penitentiary in Marion, Ill., which once held Mafia godfather John Gotti.

A dream come true

In a statement to The Post, the young fireman did not mention his father, but described how his new job is a dream come true.

This is what I have always wanted to do. This is who I have always wanted to be. I have always admired firefighters, he said.

"This is what I have always wanted to do. This is who I have always wanted to be. I have always admired firefighters."  Omar Ahmed Sattar, 30, rookie firefighter in New York City

He recalled when, as an 8-year-old, he came home from school to find his family standing outside their charred apartment, heartbroken over the fate of their missing cat, Tootsie.

One of the firefighters standing in the street overheard, walked over and asked who was missing, Sattar recalled.

My mother replied, Our cat, and he went up and found her hiding under a bed and brought her down, he said.

I remember being impressed and in awe of what just happened.  I respect FDNY members, and I am humbled to have this opportunity to be a part of this incredible Department. The FDNY is a family that always supports each other, and now I am living it. It means the world to me to be here. When I look back on my career as a firefighter, I want to know that I did the best I could with the opportunity I was given.

Omars mother, Lisa, defended her husband online as a man with morals and values. She also complained that Omar and a brother were victims of illegal discrimination when the owner of a local restaurant fired them as busboys in July 2004.

My son Omar decided to go straight to the boss and ask him to his face why they were fired, she wrote. Well, the truth came out in front of customers and other employees: My wife died on 9-11, every time I look at you I think of my wife and I dont want you working here! 

Lisa Sattar, along with her three other adult children, attended family day at the FDNY Academy on Randalls Island last month. She posted a Facebook photo of Omar in his FDNY jacket marked SATTAR.

On graduation day, she posted photos of Omar accepting his probationary firefighter certificate from Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro and holding it up.

I am so proud of you my son. May Allah bless you and keep you safe, she wrote.

Another graduate, another father

Also graduating that day was John Palombo, whose firefighter dad, Frank, was killed in the World Trade Center terror attacks that claimed 343 Bravest on Sept. 11, 2001. Last year, Johns brother Thomas also joined the FDNY.

The department assigned Sattar to Engine Co. 282 in Borough Park, a heavily Orthodox Jewish neighborhood.

An FDNY spokesman would not say whether the department knew of the elder Sattars criminal record when it hired the son.

All individuals  prior to appointment as a firefighter  must pass a comprehensive background check, said the spokesman, Frank Dwyer.

Officials noted that Omar Sattar worked for the city Sanitation Department for three years before joining the FDNY.

Several FDNY employees who learned of Sattars family history are concerned, saying uniformed firefighters have virtually free access to hospitals, crime scenes and other official areas.

Others were incredulous.

They should hire Osama bin Ladens son and put him in the same firehouse, one cracked.

Another recalled Kevin Shea, a firefighter with Manhattans Rescue Co. 1, who raced to the 1993 WTC bombing. While trying to reach a victim, Shea fell 45 feet into a pile of rubble, breaking bones. His leather helmet was credited with saving his life. Shea later searched for survivors at Ground Zero.

If he passed the background check, we cant hold him accountable for the sins of the father. You gotta give this kid a fair shot."  Joseph Giacalone, retired NYPD sergeant, adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice

But Joseph Giacalone, a retired NYPD sergeant and adjunct professor at CUNYs John Jay College of Criminal Justice, said sons or daughters of criminals can, and do, serve with distinction.

This will probably be the first time weve hired someone with a family history of terrorism, Giacalone said.

But he added, If he passed the background check, we cant hold him accountable for the sins of the father. You gotta give this kid a fair shot.

Said FDNY spokesman Jim Long, Omar Sattar will be judged on the merits of Omar Sattar.
The Commerce Department on Sunday pushed back on published reports that Secretary Wilbur Ross has a stake in a company connected to Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he did not previously disclose to lawmakers.

According to records obtained by the International Consortium of Journalists, Ross is an investor in Navigator Holdings, a shipping giant whose customers include Russian gas and petrochemical producer Sibur.

Putins son-in-law Kirill Shamalov once owned more than 20 percent of the company, but now holds a much smaller stake.

A Commerce spokesman told Fox News on Sunday that Ross was not involved with Navigators decision to engage in business with Sibur, a publicly traded company, which was not under sanction at the time and is not currently.

The spokesman also said Ross, the Trump administrations point man on trade and manufacturing policy, never met Shamalov, and generally has supported the Trump administrations sanctions against Russia, while recusing himself from matters focused on transoceanic shipping vessels.

Still, the published reports by news agencies including NBC and the BBC likely will raise more questions about whether those associated with Trump are connected to Russia, amid special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into whether both sides colluded to influence the 2016 White House race.

Yet it wasnt immediately clear how many partners Ross might have or what the profit-sharing agreement might be. The reports also indicated there was no sign Ross broke any disclosure rules.

ICIJ disclosed the Ross holding as part of reporting on 13.4 million records of offshore entities in tax havens leaked to German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung.

The newspaper then shared the records with ICIJ and a network of more than 380 journalists in 67 countries. The New York Times is its U.S. partner in this inquiry. The Times earlier reported on the Ross holding.

In concealing his interest in these shipping companies  and his ongoing financial relationship with Russian oligarchs  Secretary Ross misled me, the Senate Commerce Committee, and the American people. Secretary Ross financial disclosures are like a Russian nesting doll, with blatant conflicts of interest carefully hidden within seemingly innocuous holding companies, said Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., in a statement to Fox News. The Commerce Departments Inspector General must open an inquiry immediately. Only after a thorough investigation can the American people be sure that Secretary Ross really has their best interests at heart  and that he hasnt prioritized his own personal profits or those of Vladimir Putin or his Russian business partners.

It wasnt immediately clear exactly how much of Navigator, which is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Ross personally owns. ICIJ reported that Ross and other investors own four Cayman Island entities that in turn own 31.5 percent of Navigator, a stake worth $176 million at Fridays closing stock price.

Ross stake in Navigator is likely a small fraction of that. In financial disclosure forms he filed with the government this year, Ross valued his holdings in the Cayman Island entities, which include other companies besides Navigator, at no more than $10.1 million.

Sibur contributed 8 percent to Navigators revenue last year, according to reports filed with securities regulators. Russias energy sector is largely controlled by individuals with ties to state actors, including Putin.

Much of the new trove of files includes bank statements, emails and loan agreements from Appleby, a law firm that helps set up offshore dummy companies and trusts. Appleby told the ICIJ that there is no evidence that it has done anything wrong.

Other records came from Asiaciti Trust, a family-run offshore specialist based in Singapore, and from 19 corporate registries maintained by governments in jurisdictions that draw the wealthy seeking privacy.

Big investments in two U.S. tech companies from a Russian government bank and Russian energy giant also have come to light.

The ICIJ reported that Silicon Valley investor and Russian citizen Yuri Milner got $191 million from VTB Bank, and invested that money in Twitter. The leaked records also show that a financial subsidiary of Russian energy company Gazprom funded a shell company that invested in a Milner-affiliated company that held roughly $1 billion in Facebook shares shortly before its 2012 initial public offering.

Milner told the ICIJ that he was unaware of any involvement by the Gazprom subsidiary in any of his deals and that none of his investments has been related to politics.

Milner also has invested in a tech-savvy real estate fund that was co-founded by Trump adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner called Cadre. Milner told the ICIJ that he used his own money for the investment.

Sundays revelations follow last years release of records from a Panama-based firm involved in setting up offshore accounts. That disclosure triggered investigations in several countries, the resignation of the prime minister of Iceland and ouster of the leader of Pakistan. The Panama Papers also revealed that close associates of Russias leader Putin had been using the dummy accounts abroad to store their wealth, including a close Putin friend who had $2 billion of offshore assets.

There are legitimate reasons for setting up offshore accounts, but lax regulation and anonymity in some jurisdictions make it easy to launder money, evade taxes and avoid regulatory scrutiny. Critics of the widening gap between the super-wealthy and the rest have seized upon the use of tax havens as revealed in the Panama Papers as evidence of a crisis, and governments have promised to crack down.

In the case of Ross, the ICIJ reported Navigators Russian customer, Sibur, has ties to Putin in addition to his son-in-law.

A big shareholder is Gennady Timchenko, who was targeted by the U.S. and other western nations for sanctions after Russias invasion of the Ukrainian region of Crimea in 2014. A few months later, the U.S. barred banks from providing long-term financing to a gas company belonging to another large Sibur shareholder, Leonid Mikhelson. Mikhelson has also been sanctioned by the Treasury Department for propping up Putins rule.

Sibur itself was not targeted by the U.S. sanctions, but the Bank of America and the Royal Bank of Scotland reportedly backed away from doing business with the company.

The Russian gas producer last year contributed $23 million to Navigators revenue, an increase of more than 40 percent in two years.

Fox News' James Rosen and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Donna Brazile's scathing review of Hillary Clintons failed 2016 presidential campaign sent more shock waves this weekend through the Democratic Party, with members eager to bury the Clinton era ahead of Tuesdays key Virginia governors race and other upcoming elections.

Those telling me to shut up  I tell them, 'Go to hell.' Im gonna tell my story, Brazile, who ran the Democratic National Committee during the 2016 White House race, on Sunday told ABCs This Week.

Brazile roiled the political world on Thursday when she published excerpts in Politico of her upcoming book that detailed a 2015 money deal between the Clinton campaign and the DNC that made winning the partys presidential nomination nearly impossible for any other Democratic candidate.

NBC News published a memorandum Saturday detailing the joint-fundraising agreement that shows the Clinton camp would have input on such key DNC decisions as hiring and spending, in exchange for helping the group with its roughly $20 million debt.

The memo also made clear that other potential candidates could enter into a similar agreement with the DNC.

But Brazile suggested Sunday that the authority the Clinton camp had under the agreement went beyond standard joint-fundraising agreements and that a separate, undisclosed deal also existed.

I could not control the purse strings of the Democratic Party, she said. I become chair, and I'm trying to write a check for something that I raised money (for.) And they're like, 'You have to get that signed off on from Brooklyn.' This wasnt a standard joint fundraising agreement.  They had separate memo of understanding.

A review Saturday by The Washington Post of the book -- Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-ins and Breakdowns that Put Donald Trump in the White House -- resulted in former Clinton campaign staffers penning an open letter, disputing Braziles accusations that the campaign was tone-deaf to middle-class voters, acted with a false sense of inevitability and in the closing weeks had the odor of failure.

According to the review, Brazile, who is African-American, also said she felt the campaign treated her like a slave and that she considered replacing Clinton with then-Vice President Joe Biden, after Clinton passed out during a 9/11 memorial ceremony in New York City.

We were shocked to learn the news that Donna Brazile actively considered overturning the will of the Democratic voters by attempting to replace Hillary Clinton, campaign members, including Robby Mook, John Podesta and Huma Abedin, in part said in the letter. We are pretty tired of people who were not part of our campaign telling the world what it was like to be on the inside.

To be sure, the scathing criticism of one long-standing Democrat on other members of her own party comes at a bad time -- days away from the Virginia gubernatorial race featuring Republican Ed Gillespie against Democratic Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam.

The RealClearPolitics polls average shows Northam now leading by 3 percentage points, essentially a dead heat, after leading by nearly 7 points just weeks ago.

Donna Brazile going off the reservation right now is bad for Democrats, Republican strategist Rory McShane told Fox News on Sunday. But weve seen this before in off-year elections like in Georgia and South Carolina, where Democrats believed theyd win. This is just the latest case of no message, no organization, no leadership.

Tom Perez, the new DNC chairman, on Saturday, after The Post review of Braziles book, rushed to assure Democrats that he would clean up the groups mess ahead of the next presidential election cycle.

While weve made remarkable progress since last November, we still have a long way to go, he said in a statement. I am more committed than ever before to restoring voters faith in our democratic process because even the perception of impartiality or an unfair advantage undermines our ability to win. That is unacceptable. To that end, the new DNC under my leadership is committed to the task of making sure that our 2020 nominating process will be unquestionably fair and transparent.

Liz Smith, who was a spokeswoman for Martin OMalley, another 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, on Saturday told Fox News Americas News Headquarters: I know Donald Trump and Republicans would like to use Hillary Clinton as a whipping boy. But shes in our past. We are moving beyond her.
House Speaker Paul Ryan expressed outrage Sunday about recent revelations that Democrat Hillary Clintons 2016 presidential campaign cut a deal with the Democratic National Committee that effectively eliminated any potential primary challengers chances of winning the party nomination, saying, this takes the cake.

Weve all said the Clintons live above the law, the Wisconsin Republican told Fox News Sunday." But this takes the cake.

The Clinton campaign in 2015 reportedly made a deal with the DNC to give the cash-strapped group money -- including a purported $1.2 million down payment -- in exchange for being able to have input over such key decisions as hiring, spending and strategic research.

The revelations came to light last week when former interim DNC Chairwoman Donna Brazile, in Politico, highlighted the plan in excerpts from her upcoming book.

A copy of the joint-funding agreement, which other Democratic candidates, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., also could have used, was published this weekend by NBC News.

Trump has suggested the FBI or the Justice Department investigate the matter.

Ryan on Sunday suggested the Federal Election Commission should investigate.

You can understand why the Democrats are mad about this, he also said. They should be. Ive never seen anything like this.

Ryan, in the wide-ranging interview, also expressed optimism for the tax-reform plan that congressional Republicans released last week.

I feel very good about it, he said about the plan and its path to President Trumps desk for signature.

Ryan said the GOP-controlled House is on track to pass the bill by Thanksgiving, with the GOP-controlled Senate to follow in about a week.

He also acknowledged that the House this past summer passed a measure to repeal and replace ObamaCare, only to have the effort fail in the Senate. And he argued the tax-reform plan will be better, more coordinated.

We did things differently this time because of the health care experience, Ryan told Fox News. We worked for the Senate ahead of time, from the summer on, to put this bill together, to basically create a framework of this bill: House, Senate, and the White House, and launch this thing together, and be very coordinated.

He also left the door open that a final version of the plan could indeed include ending the so-called individual mandate in ObamaCare, which requires Americans to purchase health-care insurance or face a tax penalty.

We have an active conversation with our members and a whole host of ideas on things to add to this bill, Ryan said. And thats one of the things thats being discussed.
At least four Kentucky lawmakers, and the chief of staff of the states House speaker, are linked to a confidential settlement of a sexual harassment case, according to a published report.

News of the settlement deal, reported last week by the Louisville Courier-Journal, prompted Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin to hold a news conference Saturday, at which he called upon every individual in the Statehouse linked to a sexual harassment settlement to resign.

Bevin mentioned no names, but said the scandal involved multiple events and multiple people.

I am calling ... for the immediate resignation of every individual who has settled a sexual harassment case who is party to trying to hide this type of behavior, Bevin said.

"I am calling ... for the immediate resignation of every individual who has settled a sexual harassment case who is party to trying to hide this type of behavior."  Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin

The Republican stressed that the allegations have not been denied and that they were not isolated to a single person or a single event but involve multiple events and multiple people.

The Courier-Journal initially reported that House Speaker Jeff Hoover, a Republican, had settled a sexual harassment claim outside of court with one of his staffers.

Then on Saturday, the newspaper reported that the settlement involved three other lawmakers as well as Hoovers chief of staff.

The newspaper identified the others as Reps. Jim DeCesare of Rockfield, Brian Linder of Dry Ridge and Michael Meredith of Brownsville, all Republicans, and chief of staff Ginger Wills, citing sources with knowledge of the deal.

As Bevin was leaving the news conference, a reporter asked if the governor wanted Hoover to resign.

You heard me, Bevin said.

Hoover said Saturday that he has no plans to resign, and he accused the governor of "grandstanding," the Courier-Journal reported.

Hoover has refused to confirm or deny the settlement. But in a private meeting with House Republicans, Hoover said he was "legally" prohibited from talking about it and said he had asked for forgiveness from his family, according to Republican state Rep. Wesley Morgan who attended the meeting.

Saturday, House GOP leaders issued a news release saying they planned to hire a private law firm to investigate the allegations. The leaders said they had not consulted Hoover about the decision, but had told him about it. The release said the investigators would have the power to subpoena witnesses.

"Speaker Hoover, as of now, has the support of the Republican caucus to remain in his leadership position," according to a statement attributed to Speaker Pro Tem David Osborne, Majority Leader Jonathan Shell, Majority Whip Kevin Bratcher and Majority Caucus chairman David Meade. "And we reserve the right, based on the results of the investigation, to revisit the status of anyone involved, including Speaker Hoover."

But Hoover does not have the support of all Republican lawmakers. Morgan, the Republican state representative from Richmond, posted on his Twitter account that Hoover should resign immediately. He accused Hoover and other Republican leaders of conspiring to hide allegations of sexual harassment, including threatening whistleblowers "with loss of employment and physical intimidation."

Morgan told the Courier-Journal that he doesnt care if he gets run out of politics for speaking up.

"I'm not going to go along to get along," he told the newspaper Saturday. "And if people have been guilty  I'm saying IF people have been guilty of doing these things  they have no place in state politics."

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Twitters internal security is in the spotlight after a rogue employee briefly deactivated President Donald Trumps account on Thursday.

The social media site said that the account was taken down by a customer support employee during their last day with the company.

Amazing. That this could happen to a President's account demonstrates Twitter has poor insider threat controls and indicators, tweeted Micah Zenko, a foreign policy and national security analyst at international affairs institute Chatham House.

WHAT TWITTER'S 280-CHARACTER LIMIT COULD MEAN FOR PRESIDENT TRUMP AND US POLITICS

Matt Tait, a senior cybersecurity fellow at the Robert Strauss Center, tweeted a series of satirical comments on the incident but warned that the employee involved could be in legal hot water.

What if someone had hijacked the President's Twitter and issued policies for DHS or DOD that the department wasn't aware it had to implement?, he tweeted.

What if the Twitter employee had tweeted about some ongoing terror case and jeopardized it?, he wrote, in another tweet.

TRUMP MAKE FIRST TWEETS AS PRESIDENT

What if the Twitter employee tweeted a video of him assaulting a media organization or a political opponent? Imagine the damage to the dignity of the office, Tait tweeted.

Tait also suggested that the rogue employee could face charges under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA). Going to be boring and say the Twitter employee who deleted Trump for 11 minutes should get an attorney and get ready for CFAA charges, he tweeted.

Technologies such as artifical intelligence are being touted as a way for companies to gain visibility into their employees working practices. Questions will also inevitably be asked about Twitters employee vetting processes.

TRUMP'S TWITTER: COULD HACKERS WREAK HAVOC FROM THE WHITE HOUSE?

Twitter says that it is conducting a full internal review into the deactivation of the Presidents Twitter account. When contacted by Fox News, Twitter declined to comment beyond its initial tweets.

The President himself addressed the situation early Friday. My Twitter account was taken down for 11 minutes by a rogue employee. I guess the word must finally be getting out-and having an impact, he tweeted.

Trump, who has more than 41 million followers on Twitter, turned his @realDonaldTrump account into a powerful political weapon during his run to the White House. Experts, however, have warned that hackers could potentially use the same account to wreak havoc.

JAMES COMEY'S 'SECRET' TWITTER ACCOUNT REVEALED

Trumps Twitter account has already been hacked, albeit briefly, in 2013, when an unknown attacker tweeted out an offensive lyric by rapper Lil Wayne. "My Twitter has been seriously hacked---and we are looking for the perpetrators," tweeted Trump, in response to the incident.

The brief deactivation of Trumps Twitter account on Thursday also sparked amusement on social media, with some people hailing the rogue employee as a hero.

TWITTER SUSPENSION: HERE ARE A FEW ACCOUNTS THAT HAVE BEEN DEACTIVATED

Dear Twitter employee who shut down Trump's Twitter: You made America feel better for 11 minutes. DM me & I will buy you a Pizza Hut pizza, tweeted Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu.

This story has been updated to clarify the tone of Matt Tait's tweets.

Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers
Theyve gone from fighting for $15 to fighting allegations of abusive behavior toward women.

Another two union bigwigs from the nations second largest union, the Services Employees International Union (SEIU) have been accused of sexual misconduct and abusive behavior toward female staff members. The resignation of Kendall Fells  a top national leader for the unions Fight for $15 minimum wage campaign  and the firing of SEIU Detroit leader Mark Raleigh comes on the heels of the controversial resignation of chief strategist of Fight for $15, SEIU Executive Vice President Scott Courtney resigning amid allegations against him of sexual misconduct.

These personnel actions are the culmination of this stage of the investigation which brought to light the serious problems related to abusive behavior towards staff, predominantly female staff, an SEIU spokeswoman said to Bloomberg.com.

This brings the total number of ousted SEIU officials of abuse allegations to four. Along with Courtney, Fells and Raleigh, Caleb Jennings, head of the Fight for $15 Chicago chapter was fired last week after he was accused of misconduct and abusive behavior.

Hollywoods skeletons may be falling out of the closet, but the movie industry is certainly not alone, Luka Ladan, communications director at the Center for Union Facts said to Fox News. Despite talking the talk on sexual harassment, the SEIUs walk has exposed female employees to terrible consequences. Perhaps the union should clean up its glass house before throwing stones at other employers.

According to a recent report from BuzzFeed News, current and former SEIU staffers have come forward and said that complaints about top-level Fight for $15 staff was an open secret, and that no action ever was taken on filed complaints.

Last month, Courtney, who had a history of dating subordinates, was suspended following his marriage to a union employee. The union was forced to launch an investigation into potential violations of an anti-nepotism policy. They also formed an external advisory group, which includes Cecilia Munoz, former White House Domestic Policy Council director; Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Womens Law Center; and employment attorney Debra Katz, founding partner of law firm Katz Marshall & Banks.

Officials for SEIU did not immediately return requests for comment.
A Nebraska man has been sentenced to four years in prison for sending prostitutes to strip on his neighbor's front porch dozens of times over a three-year period.

The Omaha World-Herald reports that 45-year-old Douglas Goldsberry of Elkhorn was sentenced Friday in Douglas County District Court after pleading no contest in September to pandering.

Authorities say Goldsberry hired prostitutes to bare their breasts and strip on his neighbor's porch while he watched from his house.

The family with two small children reported that women had shown up as many as 75 times since 2013, exposing themselves and sometimes kicking the door and yelling for payment.

Goldsberry also has been indicted in federal court for possession of child pornography and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Three women are accusing a New York millionaire of rape and violence after enticing them to visit his swanky penthouse in Manhattan.

In a lawsuit filed in Brooklyn on Thursday, Howard Rubin, 62, a successful businessman on Wall Street, was accused by three women of rape and such severe physical abuse that at least one needed surgery afterwards, the New York Daily News reported.

Rubin has reportedly worked for companies such as Bear Stearns and Merrill Lynch and was featured in the books, Liars Poker and the Big Short.

When the women visited the apartment, which allegedly had a room with devices and other BDSM-type instruments designed solely to harm victims, they claim they were drugged and taken to a sex dungeon where they were bound and gagged and eventually raped, the Daily News reported.

HARVEY WEINSTEIN SPOTTED IN DISGUISE AT PHOENIX RESTAURANT: REPORT

One victim alleged Rubin told her, Im going to rape you like I rape my daughter, the paper said.

They also claimed that Rubin physically abused them, including one woman who said he shocked her with a cattle prod before he assaulted her, the report said.

A different woman reportedly alleged that he beat her so severely that her breast implant flipped and Rubin paid her $20,000 for surgery to fix it.

Rubins lawyer, Lifat Schnur, was also listed as a defendant and was alleged to have drafted non-disclosure agreements to prevent the women from speaking of their encounters.

A representative for Rubin and Schnur insisted that the allegations were 100 percent untrue and said the lawsuit was full of lies intended to extort Mr. Rubin, the Daily News said.

Two of Rubins associates were named in the suit as well for allegedly helping him attract women to visit the apartment under what they claim were false pretenses, such as a photo shoot or companionship, according to the New York Daily News.
A woman in Oklahoma claimed that the T-Mobile employee who was fixing her phone stole some of her pictures from it.

The woman told police that she brought her iPhone to a T-Mobile location in Oklahoma City to get fixed, Fox 59 reported. But after she got it back, she realized that not only had messages been sent from it, but the messages had been deleted.

She said she noticed on her watch that there were some messages sent from her phone, that were no longer showing as sent from her phone, Sgt. Megan Morgan of the Oklahoma City Police said.

The watch, which was connected to her phone, showed that the messages had been sent. But the proof of their existence was deleted, Fox 59 reported.

HUNDREDS OF IPHONE X STOLEN FROM UPS TRUCK

When she opened those up, she realized that they were some explicit photos that she had on her phone that appeared to have been sent to another phone. And she did not send these messages, Sgt. Morgan said.

Police said that the employee, Jesus Cardenas, sent the pictures to his own phone and tried to get rid of the proof.

This person just abused the power that he was given by her presenting him the phone, Morgan said. He obviously went in there and took advantage of the situation.

Cardenas was arrested and charged with nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images and receiving and concealing stolen property, Fox 59 reported.
A South Texas judge has pleaded not guilty to charges alleging he tried to run another vehicle off the road and pointed a gun at its occupants.

The Corpus Christi Caller-Times reports state District Judge Guy Williams was indicted Friday on two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Williams is free on a $25,000 bond.

According to police, a woman called 911 on April 28 and told dispatchers the driver of a Mercedes, later identified as Williams, allegedly attempted to run her car off the road.

In a statement, Williams' attorneys, Terry Shamsie and Lisa Greenberg, say he is innocent and asked people not to rush to judgment.

Police say Williams was accused of hitting a Jeep in 2013. No charges were filed.

___

Information from: Corpus Christi Caller-Times, http://www.caller.com
A Michigan man could face up to four years in prison if convicted of animal cruelty charges after about 70 cows were found dead on his farm.

Keith Edwin Huck Jr., 61, of Cohoctah Township, faces misdemeanor charges related to failing to bury animals and failure to license a dog, the Livingston Daily Press & Argus reported.

A warrant for Huck was issued Oct. 25, the newspaper said.

When authorities visited the farm, Three pigs and five cows were recovered alive and approximately 70 cows were found dead, Livingston County Prosecutor William Vailliencourt said.

Court records suggest that Livingston County Animal Control may have begun an investigation in May, the newspaper reported.

Click here for more from the Livingston Daily Press & Argus.
At least 26 people were killed and 20 wounded in Texas after a gunman dressed in tactical gear opened fire at a church outside San Antonio on Sunday, investigators confirmed.

Multiple sources speaking to Fox News identified the gunman as 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelley. The mass shooting unfolded around 11:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, which is about 30 miles southeast of San Antonio.

Investigators said at a news conference Sunday evening that the victims ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old. One official said about 20 people were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to "very severe."

Sunday's massacre is the deadliest church shooting in modern U.S. history. It is also, according to Gov. Greg Abbott, the deadliest mass shooting in Texas history.

A possible motive was unclear. Kelley lived in a suburb of San Antonio and didn't appear to be linked to organized terrorist groups, a U.S. official told The Associated Press. The official said investigators were looking at social media posts Kelley may have made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show a semiautomatic weapon.

A spokesperson with the U.S. Air Force confirmed to Fox News that Kelley served in the military branch at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico from 2010 until a bad conduct discharge in 2014.

He was court-martialed in 2012 for assaulting his wife and child, and when he was discharged received 12 months of confinement and a reduction in military rank.

"It is horrible," Wilson County Commissioner Larry Wiley told Fox News of the massacre. "It appears someone walked in and started shooting."

Around 11:20 a.m., Kelley arrived at a Valero gas station across from the First Baptist Church dressed in black tactical gear and a ballistic vest. He crossed the street and started firing a Ruger AR rifle at the church, officials said. He entered the building and kept shooting.

He was confronted by an armed nearby resident who chased after him. Kelley was later found dead, roughly five miles away in Guadalupe County, according to Wiley. It's unclear whether Kelley was killed by police or the armed resident, or from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

"We have accepted a multiple number of patients from the shooting," Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville, 15 miles from the church, told Fox News.

Some victims were transported to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, KSAT reported.

Officials said 23 people were found deceased in First Baptist Church, while two were found dead outside. One person who was transported to a hospital later died.

One of those killed was 14-year-old Annabelle Pomeroy, the church pastor's daughter.

The FBI is investigating the shooting, in addition to multiple other agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The San Antonio Express-News reported police were checking the gunman's home for explosives following the shooting.

The church's layout would've made it difficult for churchgoers to flee a shooter who came through the front door, according to a congregant attending a vigil at the church Sunday night.

The church was described as having only small exits on the side and in the back, according to Hunter Green. He said if a gunman came through the front door, people "wouldn't have had anywhere to go."

Neighbors of Kelley's told The Associated Press they heard gunfire coming from his direction in recent days.

"It's really loud," 16-year-old Ryan Albers said. "It was someone using automatic weapon fire."

Another neighbor, who argued hearing gunfire in the area is not uncommon, said they had heard gunfire coming from across the street, but couldn't be sure if it was from Kelley's property.

Attorney General Paxton told Fox News that "people never think" a shooting like this can "happen in their communities."

"In a small town ... I can imagine that these people are devastated. And everyone in the community is going to ... have some type of close relationship" to those either killed or injured at the First Baptist Church. He added it's "hard to justify why anyone would do this."

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," Alena Berlanga, who lives 10 minutes outside of Sutherland Springs told The Associated Press. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected."

President Trump, speaking from Tokyo during his trip to Asia, called the shooting an "act of evil," and added: "Through the tears and through the sadness, we stand strong."

Earlier, he tweeted: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

Gov. Abbott said in a statement that "While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act."

"I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss," the statement read.

Sutherland Springs has a population of about 400 residents.

Sunday's shooting comes just over a month after 58 people were killed and hundreds injured on Oct. 1 after a gunman opened fire on a country music festival in Las Vegas.

Fox News' Robert Gearty, Jake Gibson, Rick Leventhal, Lucas Tomlinson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Bystanders, including two teenage boys, were praised as heroes after they pulled two people from a car in California over the weekend as flames engulfed the vehicle.

Alex Schrier and Jeffrey Bounds, both 16, were driving home Friday evening in Cote de Caza in Orange County when they spotted the vehicle on fire, the Orange County Register reported. The car was tipped on its side and flames were shooting out of the hood.

We didnt see any other cars around so we assumed no one called 911, Schrier told the Orange County Register. We didnt know if it was going to explode or not.

As I got closer I could see the flames getting closer and closer to the main part of the car and I heard someone screaming," Bounds added.

The teenage boys attempted to break the cars sunroof with a small rock. An unidentified man then helped break through the glass with a larger rock.

The three good Samaritans pulled the trapped passengers, a man believed to be in his mid-20s and woman in her mid-40s, just moments before the vehicle started to just blow up.

Honestly, Ive never been more scared, Bounds told the newspaper.

The man and the women were taken to the hospital shortly after. The woman suffered head and shoulder injuries while the man had minor injuries.

Its unclear what caused the car to go up in flames. Orange County Fire Authority tweeted out two videos showing the large blaze.

All three of them played a role to save those people, OCFA Capt. Steve Concialdi told the Orange County Register. Alex had to call 911 to get our resources there so the fire doesnt spread and become a bigger problem. And the other two, they did what they should do.
An Illinois police officer died Sunday morning after he was seriously injured from a scuffle with another man during a traffic stop, police said.

The officer, identified as Jaimie Cox, was conducting a traffic stop about 1 a.m. Sunday when he called for extra assistance, Rockford police chief Dan OShea said in a news conference on Sunday. Rockford police initially wrote on Twitter that officers were responding to a shooting involving an officer.

O'Shea said Cox got into a scuffle with the man during the traffic stop that caused him to be entangled in the suspects vehicle.

Cox fired his gun during the incident. The other man, identified as Eddie Patterson, was found dead inside his car from a single vehicle crash, according to O'Shea. The car crash was about two blocks away from the initial traffic stop.

The 30-year-old officer, who was with the department since December 2016, was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. He died later that morning.

The cause of death for Cox and Patterson have not been released.
Two small Iowa children were found wandering naked in the street while their mother was asleep, authorities said.

Jasmine Cheyenne Teed, 18, was arrested and charged with child endangerment after cops entered the apartment to find her asleep in a bedroom, the Des Moines Register reports. Officers had to shake her in order to wake her up.

Officers responded to the apartment after receiving a call about unsupervised children wandering around outside.

The temperature was 43 degrees when Teed's 2-year-old twins were discovered, police said, adding that the children risked serious injury by wandering outside.

After hearing from the witnesses, it was very clear the potential for a tragic outcome was there, Adel Police Chief Gordy Shepherd said in a Friday news release. We are fortunate there were no injuries.

PAROLE BOARD DENIES EARLY RELEASE FOR MOM OF SLAIN TODDLER

The twins are now with Teeds relatives.

Magistrate Donna Schauer approved an order of protection on Friday, stating that Teed may have no contact whatsoever with the two children or the relatives they are staying with.

Teed reportedly told authorities she is unemployed and earned between $600 and $800 over the last year.

The Iowa Department of Human Services has opened its own investigation into Teed, police said.
A North Carolina man is accused of using an ice cream truck in October to lure and sexually assault at least two young boys, according to police.

Isam Fathee Mohamed Rahmah, 51, of Durham, faces charges of first-degree kidnapping and indecent liberties with a child, Durham police said in a news release Friday.

Rahmah surrendered to authorities late Friday and is being held on a $1 million bond, according to Durham County records.

Authorities said two boys reported being sexually assaulted by Rahmah inside the truck in separate incidents, which happened in late October, FOX 8 reported.

The truck, a red Ford van, had pictures of Popsicles on the side and back and would frequently be seen in the neighborhood.

Its frightening. You dont ever want to hear anything like this, a mother who wished to remain unnamed told WNCN.

Another neighbor told the television station he bought ice cream from Rahmah before, and believes the 51-year-old might live in the truck.

There were bags of clothes. He has covers and he has chips and everything," Christian Aguilar said. "He always drives by here on Saturday and Sunday."

Rahmah is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The journalism department at New York University told the school it was cutting its ties to NYU's Abu Dhabi campus over two professors being denied work visas by the United Arab Emirates, as well as the school's handling of the situation.

The majority of senior faculty at the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute sent a letter to NYU President Andrew Hamilton saying they were dismayed that journalism professor Mohamad Bazzi and Middle East politics professor Arang Keshavarzian had been denied visas. Bazzi wrote about his experience in The New York Times in September, saying officials in the U.A.E. haven't given a reason for his visa denial.

The Nov. 2 letter said that while they "have the utmost respect for our faculty colleagues and students at NYU Abu Dhabi," that "since a member of our faculty has been prohibited from teaching at NYU Abu Dhabi, the Carter Journalism Institute is not prepared to continue its relationship with NYUAD."

The letter said while no reason for the denial had been given, if it was because of religious reasons, over both professors being of Shiite Muslim origin or because of their writing and research, "it would represent a significant threat to academic freedom on that campus." The U.A.E. is majority Sunni Muslim.

They also said they were disappointed in Hamilton's handling of the situation, with his not speaking out publicly about the situation.

NYU spokesman Matt Nagel said the school shared faculty concerns over the visas being denied, but "that refraining from participating in the academic life of NYU Abu Dhabi misses the mark. Doing so only punishes our fellow students and faculty at NYUAD, who had no hand in the visa denials. Moreover, we believe that the presence of NYU in Abu Dhabi contributes to the diversity of ideas there, and that the NYUAD project should be a source of pride to the University."
In the wake of a mass shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, in which at least 20 are feared dead, President Donald Trump and other lawmakers reacted on social media.

Trump said that FBI and other law enforcement are on the scene, while Vice President Mike Pence wrote that he stands "against evil." First Lady Melania Trump also posted her thoughts on Twitter.

Ivanka Trump tweeted that America's "hearts are breaking" for the victims.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz expressed support for the "brave first responders" on the scene.

Sen. John Cornyn of Texas asked his Twitter followers for their prayers.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wrote on Twitter: "Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response."

House Speaker Paul Ryan tweeted that reports out of Texas are "devastating."

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley tweeted as well.

Former Texas Governor and current Secretary of Energy Rick Perry also sent his condolences online.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell offered his thoughts on behalf of himself and his wife, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao.
The Uzbekistan native accused of carrying out a deadly New York City terror attack was brainwashed, his sister said on Friday as she pleaded for President Trump to give her brother a fair trial.

Umida Saipova, 27, told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in a telephone interview that she believed her brother was brainwashed and that she and her family had a normal conversation the day before Sayfullo Saipov plowed a rented Home Depot truck into a popular bike path in lower Manhattan, killing eight people and injuring 12 others.

"We don't know who has brainwashed him," Saipova said in Uzbek to the radio station. "We don't know his circumstances. We don't know. Perhaps he's become part of some organized group."

"I don't know, honestly, how long it will take for his head to get rid of that poison, but I'm sure he will come to his senses, God willing, she added.

"I spoke with him by the phone a day before," Saipova said. "He was in a good mood. It was a usual, good conversation."

PROSECUTORS SAY NYC TERROR ATTACK SUSPECT 'CONSUMED BY HATE,' ASKED FOR ISIS FLAG

The suspect's sister said she wanted to travel to the U.S. to speak to her brother in person and to learn what drove him to carry out the terror attack. When asked about President Trumps tweets calling for the death penalty for Saipov, she said the family was hoping for a fair trial.

"We don't think he should be given the death penalty immediately," Saipova told RFE/RL. "We are hoping for a fair trial. We are ready to go there [to the U.S.], if it's possible, to talk to him."

The 29-year-old man was said to be consumed by hate and a twisted ideology when he attacked pedestrians on Oct. 31, federal prosecutors said last Wednesday. The "lone wolf" suspect told investigators from his hospital bed, recovering from a gunshot wound to his stomach, that he was inspired by ISIS videos and plotted the attack a year ago. Saipov was charged with providing material support to a terrorist group and committing violence and destruction of motor vehicles.

NYC TERROR SUSPECT SAYFULLO SAIPOV: WHO IS HE?

A propaganda arm of the Islamic State group on Thursday called Saipov a "soldier of the caliphate." Saipov jumped out of his truck and yelled Allahu akbar  meaning God is great in Arabic  after he crashed the vehicle into a school bus. Investigators found knives in the truck and a handwritten note, which included Islamic religious references and the phrase, "Islamic Supplication. It will endure," FBI agent Tamber Tyree said on Wednesday.

Prosecutors also said the suspect had 90 videos and 3,800 photos saved on one of his two cellphones. Many of the materials found were ISIS-related propaganda pieces that included images of prisoners being beheaded, shot or run over by a tank.

Saipova said her mother visited Saipov twice in the U.S. and didnt see any sign of radicalization during those visits.

"My mother says she didn't notice any sign of [radicalization] when she visited him in the U.S. twice," she said. "My mother said she would have brought him back to Uzbekistan had she noticed anything."
A man opened fire on a church in South Texas on Sunday, killing several people and wounding others.

Authorities haven't released the name of the attacker or said how many people he killed in the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, but a Wilson County commissioner, Albert Gamez, told cable news outlets he was told it was more than 20 killed and more than 20 wounded, though those figures hadn't been confirmed.

The county sheriff, Joe Tackett, told the Wilson County News that the gunman had been "taken down."

Here's a look at some of the nation's deadliest mass shootings since 2012:

 Oct. 1, 2017: A gunman identified by authorities as Stephen Paddock opened fire on an outdoor music festival on the Las Vegas Strip from the 32nd floor of a hotel-casino, killing 58 people and wounding more than 500. SWAT teams with explosives then stormed his room and found he had killed himself.

 June 12, 2016: Gunman Omar Mateen opened fire at an Orlando, Florida, nightclub, killing 49 people. Mateen was later killed in a shootout with police.

 Feb. 25, 2016: Cedric Ford, 38, killed three people and wounded 14 others at a lawnmower factory where he worked in the central Kansas community of Hesston. The local police chief killed him during a shootout with 200 to 300 workers still in the building, authorities said.

 Feb. 20, 2016: Jason Dalton, 45, is accused of randomly shooting and killing six people and severely wounding two others during a series of attacks over several hours in the Kalamazoo, Michigan, area. Authorities say he paused between shootings to make money as an Uber driver. He faces murder and attempted-murder charges.

 Dec. 2, 2015: Syed Rizwan Farook, 28, and Tashfeen Malik, 27, opened fire at a social services center in San Bernardino, California, killing 14 people and wounding more than 20. They fled the scene but died hours later in a shootout with police.

 Oct. 1, 2015: A shooting at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, left 10 people dead and seven wounded. Shooter Christopher Harper-Mercer, 26, exchanged gunfire with police, then killed himself.

 June 17, 2015: Dylann Roof, 21, shot and killed nine African-American church members during a Bible study group inside the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Police contend the attack was racially motivated. Roof has been sentenced to death in the shootings.

 May 23, 2014: A community college student, Elliot Rodger, 22, killed six people and wounded 13 in shooting and stabbing attacks in the area near the University of California, Santa Barbara, campus. Authorities said he apparently shot himself to death after a gunbattle with deputies.

 Sept. 16, 2013: Aaron Alexis, a mentally disturbed civilian contractor, shot 12 people to death at the Washington Navy Yard before he was killed in a police shootout.

 July 26, 2013: Pedro Vargas, 42, went on a shooting rampage at his Hialeah, Florida, apartment building, gunning down six people before officers fatally shot him.

 Dec. 14, 2012: In Newtown, Connecticut, an armed 20-year-old man entered Sandy Hook Elementary School and used a semi-automatic rifle to kill 26 people, including 20 first-graders and six adult school staff members. He then killed himself.

 Sept. 27, 2012: In Minnesota's deadliest workplace rampage, Andrew Engeldinger, who had just been fired, pulled a gun and fatally shot six people, including the company's founder. He also wounded two others at Accent Signage Systems in Minneapolis before taking his own life.

 Aug. 5, 2012: In Oak Creek, Wisconsin, 40-year-old gunman Wade Michael Page killed six worshippers at a Sikh Temple before killing himself.

July 20, 2012: James Holmes, 27, fatally shot 12 people and injured 70 in an Aurora, Colorado, movie theater. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

 April 2, 2012: Seven people were killed and three were wounded when a 43-year-old former student opened fire at Oikos University in Oakland, California. One Goh was charged with seven counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, but psychiatric evaluations concluded he suffered from long-term paranoid schizophrenia and was unfit to stand trial.
After each massacre, survivors and witnesses have echoed the words no more  yet mass shootings have continued to plague the U.S.

In fact, shootings only have continued to increase over the past few years.

Wednesdays shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School is the third deadliest shooting in modern U.S. history to take place within the past five months.

Its also the 25th fatal shooting at a U.S. elementary, middle or high school since  and including  Columbine in 1999.

Heres a look back at the 10 deadliest shootings that the country ever has seen as the nation mourns yet another tragedy.

Las Vegas, Nev.  Route 91 Festival, 58 killed

Authorities say gunman Stephen Paddock fired at the Route 91 Harvest Festival concert on the Las Vegas Strip from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino on Oct. 1, 2017, killing 58 people and wounding more than 520 others.

It was the deadliest shooting in modern U.S. history, police said. Twenty-one victims were shot in the head, 36 died with chest and back wounds and one died of a gunshot to a leg, according to a coroners report.

SWAT teams who stormed Paddocks room discovered the 64-year-old dead of a self-inflicted gunshot to the mouth, the report adds.

Orlando, Fla.  Pulse nightclub, 49 killed

Omar Seddique Mateen killed at least 49 people and wounded more than 50 others when he opened fire in Pulse, a gay Orlando nightclub, on June 12, 2016. Mateen eventually was killed by police after a standoff.

That was the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history prior to the Las Vegas attack.

Blacksburg, Va.  Virginia Tech, 32 killed

Virginia Tech student Seung-Hui Cho fatally shot 32 people in two locations of the schools Blacksburg, Va., campus in April 2007, before killing himself with a bullet to the head.

Many of the victims had defensive wounds, indicating they tried to shield themselves from the gunfire, but there was no evidence that Cho struggled with any of the people he killed.

Virginia Techs response to the shootings by the mentally ill student caused schools nationwide to review security protocols.

Newtown, Conn.  Sandy Hook, 26 killed

On Dec. 14, 2012, Adam Lanza, 20, shot his mother dead in her home, then drove to Sandy Hook Elementary School and fatally shot 20 children, between the ages of 6 and 7.

Lanza also murdered school personnel, killing a total of 26 people, before committing suicide.

In fewer than 11 minutes, twenty first-grade pupils and six adults had lost their lives, a police report released after the massacre reads.

Sutherland Springs, Texas  First Baptist Church, 26 killed

On Nov. 5, 2017, gunman Devin Patrick Kelley opened fire at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

He killed 26 people, including an unborn baby, and injured another 20.

Kelley, 26, died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after he was shot and chased by two men who heard the gunfire at the church and chased after him in a vehicle.

Investigators said the attack appeared to stem from a domestic dispute involving Kelley and his mother-in-law, Michelle Shields, who sometimes attended services at the church. Kelly sent several disturbing text messages to Shields prior to the shooting.

I suggest you dont test my resolve, read one of several texts.

That wasnt the first time Kelley became violent.

In New Mexico, he was kicked out of the Air Force following a court-martial in 2012 for abusing his first wife and reportedly hitting her child hard enough to fracture his skull. In Colorado, he was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty after someone saw him punch a dog several times.

And in Texas, sheriffs deputies were called to his parents house after his girlfriend told a friend he was abusing her.

You had to walk on eggshells around him all the time because youre afraid of saying something to upset him, Shields told the San Antonio Express-News months after the attack.

Killeen, Texas  Lubys Cafeteria shooting, 23 killed

George Jo-Jo Hennard, an unemployed merchant seaman, shot and killed 23 people and wounded 27 others during the lunchtime rush at Lubys Cafeteria in Killeen, Texas, on Oct. 16, 1991.

Hennard killed himself shortly after the rampage.

During the attack, Hennard reportedly targeted women, whom he called vipers.

San Ysidro, Calif.  McDonalds, 21 killed

On July 18, 1984, James Huberty, 41, fatally shot 21 people and injured 19 others in and around a McDonalds restaurant in San Ysidro, Calif. Among the dead were children and teenagers.

Huberty later was killed by a SWAT sniper.

Parkland, Fla.  Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, 17 killed

A shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, left at least 17 people dead and 15 wounded on Feb. 14, officials said.

The shooting suspect, who was identified as 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz, had been expelled for disciplinary reasons.

The alleged gunman carried an AR-15 rifle and had countless magazines, Broward Sheriff Scott Israel said.

An Instagram page apparently belonging to Cruz showed pictures of guns and knives.

One student told WJXT that everyone predicted the shooting and some teachers acknowledged there were warning signs. However, Superintendent Robert Runcie said he was not aware of any specific warnings the school district had received regarding the shooter.

San Bernardino, Calif., 14 killed

On Dec. 2, 2015, husband and wife Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik opened fire at a holiday party in San Bernardino, Calif., killing 14 people and wounding 22 others.

After the shooting, the couple was shot by more than two dozen police officers more than 40 times combined, and killed.

Autopsies found that Farook was shot 27 times, and Malik was shot at least 15 times.

Austin, Texas  University of Texas, 14 killed

On Aug. 1, 1966, University of Texas engineering student Charles Whitman climbed to the schools iconic clock tower and opened fire.

Whitman, a former Marine who had earlier murdered his mother and wife, killed 14 and wounded 31 before he was gunned down by police.

Whitman fired at people from his perch on the tower for more than an hour.



The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A gunman opened fire in a shooting at a Texas church on Sunday.

The incident took place in Sutherland Springs, which is 30 miles southeast of San Antonio.

Below are other church shootings you should know about.

Sutherland Springs, Texas  Nov. 5, 2017

Gunman Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, opened fire at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, according to authorities, killing 26 people.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas, President Donald Trump tweeted during his trip to Asia. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.

Fresno, Calif.  Nov. 5, 2017

Two people were shot in the St. Alphonsus Church parking lot, the Fresno Bee reported.

TWO SHOT, ONE FATALLY, OUTSIDE CHURCH IN FRESNO

Father Dominic Rajappa told the Fresno Bee that morning mass had just ended, and churchgoers were leaving when gunfire broke out.

Manuel Garcia, 64, shot his 61-year-old wife Martha Garcia, who had filed for divorce, and her 51-year-old boyfriend, police told KFSN. Martha Garcia died and her boyfriend wasn't expected to live, the station said.

Authorities discovered Manuel Garcia dead at a home after apparently shooting himself, KFSN reports.

Antioch, Tenn.  Sept. 24, 2017

One person was killed and six others were injured in a September shooting.

Police have said that 25-year-old Emanuel Samson, masked and wearing a tactical vest, fatally shot a woman who was walking to her vehicle, and then entered the rear of Burnette Chapel Church of Christ and shot six other people, walking silently down the aisles with a .40-caliber handgun.

Samson has been charged with murder in the incident.

Charleston, S.C.  June 15, 2015

Nine people were killed in a shooting at the historically black Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

White supremacist Dylann Roof, 23, has been on federal death row since earlier this year, after a jury convicted him of dozens of charges including federal hate crimes and obstruction of the practice of religion in the shooting deaths of nine Bible study attendees.

Knoxville, Tenn.  July 27, 2008

Gunman Jim D. Adkisson opened fire at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Church. Adkisson pleaded guilty in 2009 to killing two people and wounding six others at the liberal church, which he had called a "den of un-American vipers" in a suicide letter.

A judge sentenced Adkisson to life without parole on two counts of first-degree murder and six of attempted murder.

Brookfield, Wis.  March 12, 2005

Gunman Terry Ratzmann, 44, fatally shot seven people and hurt four at a church service in a hotel before killing himself, the Associated Press reported. The church pastor and the pastor's 16-year-old son were among those killed.

A prosecutor, the AP reported, said in 2005 that Ratzmann "felt the church, particularly the pastor, was responsible for some of the issues Mr. Ratzmann was dealing with  depression, employment issues, financial issues."

Fort Worth, Texas  Sept. 15, 1999

Larry Gene Ashbrook killed seven people and hurt seven others at the Wedgwood Baptist Church, and later took his own life, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported.

Fox News Robert Gearty, Jake Gibson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A New York public school teacher has been suspended after outraged parents accused her of distributing materials on gender identity that were inappropriate for seventh-graders.

The health teacher at Cambridge Central School, north of Albany, was suspended with pay Tuesday after a parent told other parents on Facebook live that his 11-year-old son brought home a packet of information about sex change operations that included graphic sexual definitions, WRGB-TV reports.

The parent, Sirell Fiel, posted the video on Monday. As of Sunday morning, it had been viewed more than 683,000 times.

Genital reconstruction surgery. Fiel says in the video. Is that really something an 11-year-old kid should be learning and knowing about? No. I dont think so.

The station quoted Fiel as saying, It should not be allowed or tolerated. Period. Its not your right to take the innocence of my kid like that at that  age.

The Glen Falls Post Star identified the suspended teacher as Jacqueline Hall. She could not be reached for comment, the paper reported.

Her troubles began when she brought in a member of the Pride Center of the Capital Region, an LGBTQ group, to speak to her 7th grade and 10th grade students on Monday, the paper reported.

The speaker brought with her a four-page handout for seventh-graders that listed LGBTQ terminology. The handout asks students to match terms like homophobia, intersex, polyamory, pansexual, bisexual and cisgender to their definitions, according to the paper.

Acting on Fiels complaint, school officials determined that the speaker also gave the students a more detailed 42-page handout on transgender issues that was meant only for the 10th graders.

I have no problem with the school talking about diversity, the paper quoted Fiel as saying in a report published Tuesday. Gay kids are out there, and the kids need to know about it. But the problem I have is that it went so in-depth. Thats too much for 11- and 12-year-olds.

The speaker was supposed to come back to the school Tuesday. Superintendent Vince Canini told parents in an email that the speaker was subsequently uninvited.

The paper reported Friday that the principal knew about the speaker but hadnt seen the materials or approved them for the students to see.

The paper also reported that the 42-page handout included definitions for a list of words that included transgender, homosexual, homophobia, gay, bisexual, lesbian and coming out.

That handout also includes a page titled "The Genderbread Person."

I would like to again stress that the topic of gender identity was never of concern, Canini told the paper. The graphic common terms and definitions were. The two are totally separate but have blurred into one which is not the case.

The paper also interviewed the Pride Center of the Capital Regions president and CEO Martha Haven, who said her group has been going to schools for 12 years and no one has objected.

Transgender kids are coming out younger and younger, Haven said. If you love kids, you want them to have the most information possible. If a parent has a problem with the presentation, thats the parents problem.

Fiel said in a second video to parents on Wednesday that he was pleased the school was addressing his concerns.

Its blown into something way beyond what I thought it would be, he said. Its awesome. Im glad I could bring awareness to everybody because it needed to be done.
A Virginia teenage girl who was allegedly abducted last month by a self-proclaimed MS-13 gang member was reported missing again on Sunday, police said.

Sinahi Aguilar-Cruz, 16, of Woodbridge, was last seen at her house in Prince William County about 11:30 p.m. Saturday, police said on Sunday. They added that Aguilar-Cruz was believed to be endangered and is in need of assistance, WJLA reported.

Aguilar-Cruz is described as a teenage girl with black hair and brown eyes.

Details about the girls disappearance have not been released, but she was previously reported missing in October.

Roberto Medrano-Segovia, 21, allegedly abducted Aguilar-Cruz when they got into a fight at a party, according to WJLA. Medrano-Segovia pulled out a knife and threatened partygoers while proclaiming he was a member of the notorious vicious street gang MS-13, police said.

Medrano-Segovia left the party, then came back with his associates and forced Aguilar-Cruz into a car with him. Police caught the two people later that day, who both initially lied about their identities.

The Trump administration has made it a "priority" to combat the Central American gang operating in the U.S. There are an estimated 900 to 1,100 MS-13 gang members in Virginia, Maryland and the Washington, D.C. region, the Washington Post reported.
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The Latest on President Donald Trump trip to Asia (all times local):

9:45 a.m.

President Donald Trump says he is looking forward to his arrival in Japan.

Trump is tweeting Sunday about his trip through Asia, which starts in Japan. He says: "I am landing shortly. Can't wait to be with our GREAT MILITARY. See you soon!"

Trump is flying from Hawaii to Japan to begin his 12-day, five-country Asia trip. He will kick off with an event at Yokota Air Base.

This is Trump's most grueling and consequential trip abroad. He's set to make his case to Asian allies and rivals about the need to counter North Korea's nuclear threat.

___

8 a.m.

President Donald Trump is embarking on his most grueling and consequential trip abroad. And he's set to make his case to Asian allies and rivals about the need to counter North Korea's nuclear threat.

It's a 12-day, five-country trip, and it comes at a precarious moment for Trump.

It's just days after his former campaign chairman was indicted and an adviser pleaded guilty as part of an investigation into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian officials.

The trip is an important international test for a president looking to reassure Asian allies worried that Trump's "America First" agenda could cede power in the region to China.

They're also rattled by his bellicose rhetoric about North Korean's Kim Jong Un. The North's missile arsenal threatens the capitals Trump will visit.
Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Saturday removed a prominent prince who headed the National Guard, replaced the economy minister and announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee.

The Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya news channel also reported late Saturday that 11 princes and dozens of former ministers were detained in a new anti-corruption probe headed by the kingdom's powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was also named to oversee the new committee.

Al-Arabiya reported that the committee is looking into devastating and deadly floods that overwhelmed parts of the city of Jiddah in 2009 and is investigating the Saudi government's response to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus that has killed several hundred people in the past few years.

Meanwhile, the kingdom's top council of clerics issued a statement saying it is an Islamic duty to fight corruption essentially giving religious backing to the high-level arrests being reported.

The government said the anti-corruption committee has the right to issue arrest warrants, impose travel restrictions and freeze bank accounts. It can also trace funds, prevent the transfer of funds or the liquidation of assets and take other precautionary measures until cases are referred to the judiciary.

The royal order said the committee was established "due to the propensity of some people for abuse, putting their personal interest above public interest, and stealing public funds."

Saudi nationals have long complained of rampant corruption in government and of public funds being squandered or misused by people in power.

The 32-year-old crown prince has been seeking to attract greater international investments and improve the country's reputation as a place to do business. It's part of a larger effort to diversify the economy away from dependence on oil revenue.

The king ousted one of the country's highest-level royals from power, removing Prince Miteb bin Abdullah as head of the National Guard. He was replaced by Prince Khalid bin Ayyaf al-Muqrin, who had held a senior post with the guard.

Prince Miteb's father was the late King Abdullah, who also had led the National Guard and had transformed it into a powerful and prestigious force tasked with protecting the ruling Al Saud family, as well as important holy sites in Mecca and Medina, and oil and gas sites.

Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne. His ouster as head of the National Guard essentially sidelines one of the most formidable rivals to the current crown prince, who has amassed enormous power in less than three years since his father, King Salman, ascended to the throne.

It comes just three months after Prince Mohammed bin Nayef was ousted from the line of succession and from his post as interior minister, overseeing internal security.

With the two princes now sidelined, control of the kingdom's security apparatus is now largely centralized under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is also defense minister.

The monarch also replaced Minister of Economy and Planning Adel Fakeih with his deputy, Mohammad al-Tuwaijri.

Admiral Abdullah Al-Sultan was also sacked as commander of Saudi Naval Forces and replaced by Admiral Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Ghifaili.
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A Japanese whose mother was abducted by North Korean agents in 1978 when he was a baby has high hopes that President Donald Trump's outreach will draw public attention to the issue.

Japan says North Korea abducted at least 17 of its citizens in the 1970s and '80s to train its spies to pass as Japanese. North Korea allowed five to visit Japan in 2002, and they stayed instead of returning to North Korea.

Trump is expected to meet with some relatives of the abductees during his Tokyo visit Monday.

Koichiro Iizuka tells The Associated Press he hopes to be part of the meeting. He says he doesn't believe information from North Korea that his mother and seven other abductees had died.
Brussels prosecutors said Sunday that ousted Catalan president Carles Puigdemont and four ex-regional ministers were taken into custody to start the process of their possible extradition to Spain.

The five presented themselves to federal police at around 9 a.m. local time, Brussels prosecutor's office spokesman Gilles Dejemeppe said. He said that they haven't been arrested and that Puigdemont and the four members of his disbanded Cabinet will be heard by an investigative judge later in the day.

The Belgian judge will have to decide within 24 hours what comes next for the five separatist politicians wanted in Spain on suspicion of rebellion for pushing through a declaration of independence for the northeastern Catalonia in violation of Spain's Constitution.

Dejemeppe said the judge's options range from "refusal to execute the European arrest, arresting the people involved, releasing them on conditions or under bail." He said if they are arrested then they will be sent to jail as the extradition process continues. Dejemeppe said that the entire process from arrest to extradition, could take more than 60 days.

That delay could give Puigdemont time to participate, albeit from afar and in largely a symbolic capacity, in the snap regional election called by Spain's government for Catalonia on Dec. 21.

A senior official of Puigdemont's party, the center-right Democratic Party of Catalonia, said on Sunday that the party wanted Puigdemont to repeat as its candidate. Spanish government spokesman Inigo Mendez de Vigo has said that any politician can run in the election unless he or she has been convicted of a crime.

Puigdemont and the four ex-ministers fled to Belgium this past week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to quash the region's illegal secession claim.

A Spanish National Court judge issued warrants for the five absconded lawmakers on suspicion of five crimes, including rebellion, sedition and embezzlement, on Friday, a day after the same judge sent another eight former Catalan Cabinet members to jail without bail while her investigation continues. A ninth spent a night in jail and was freed after posting bail.

Puigdemont wrote in Dutch in his Twitter account on Saturday that he was "prepared to fully cooperate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain."

Puigdemont's lawyer in Brussels had previously said that his client plans to fight extradition to Spain without requesting political asylum.

Political forces in Catalonia are hurriedly jockeying for position to start a campaign that promises to be as bitter as it is decisive to Spain's worst institutional crisis in nearly four decades.

While pro-union parties try to rally support to win back control of the regional parliament in Barcelona, pro-secession parties are debating whether or not to form one grand coalition for the upcoming ballot.

Parties have until Tuesday to register as coalitions or they must run separately.

Catalan ex-regional president Artur Mas, the first leader to harness the political momentum for secession, told Catalan public television on Sunday that he backed a fusion of parties for the December vote. But, he said, the main goals must be to recover the self-rule of the region and the release of the jailed separatists, not another immediate attempt to culminate the independence drive.

"Under these exceptional circumstances that our country is going through, don't we have to substitute the normal and logical competition for the cooperation we all need?" Mas said. "If we add the issue of independence, we won't get as many people to support us."

An opinion poll published by Barcelona's La Vanguardia newspaper Sunday forecasts a tight electoral race between parties for and against Catalonia ending century-old ties with the rest of Spain.

The poll predicts that pro-secession parties would win between 66-69 seats. They won 72 two years ago. Sixty-eight seats are needed for a majority.

Catalonia's Parliament defied Spanish authorities and voted in favor of a declaration of independence on Oct. 27. The next day, Spain's central government used extraordinary constitutional powers to fire Catalonia's government, take charge of its administrations, dissolve its regional parliament and call a regional election.

Despite fears that there would be massive resistance to the intervention, the takeover by Spanish authorities has gone smoothly.

Spain's Constitution says the nation is "indivisible" and that all matters of national sovereignty pertain to the country's parliament.

In all, Spanish prosecutors are investigating 20 regional politicians for rebellion and other crimes that could be punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Another two leaders of pro-secession grassroots groups are also in jail while an investigation continues into suspicion of sedition.

Hundreds of pro-secession Catalans gathered in town squares across the region Sunday to put up posters in support of independence and to demand the release of the jailed separatists.

"People came today because we want to send a message to Europe that even if our president is still in Brussels and all our government now is in Madrid jailed, that the independence movement still didn't finish and people are still striving to get independence in a peaceful and democratic way," said 24-year-old protester Adria Ballester in Barcelona.

The grassroots group Catalan National Assembly has also called for a strike on Wednesday and a public protest on Saturday.

Fueled by questions of cultural identity and economic malaise, secessionist sentiment has skyrocketed to reach roughly half of the 7.5 million residents of Catalonia, a prosperous region that is proud of its Catalan language spoken along with Spanish.

Puigdemont and his fellow separatists claim that an illegal referendum on secession held on Oct. 1 that polled 43 percent of the electorate and failed to meet international standards gives them a mandate for independence.
Flash floods caused by hours of torrential rain killed at least five people in Malaysia and the military deployed on Sunday to help rescue displaced people, Reuters reports.

About 3,000 people had been evacuated and housed in temporary shelters as nearly 80 percent of Penang was hit by typhoon-like winds and heavy rain, its chief minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement to Reuters.

Floodwaters had reportedly risen 10 to 12 feet and Lim warned on Facebook that more rain was expected.

Troops fanned out in Penang to rescue stranded flood victims and also to clear blocked routes and clean up.

Hundreds of trees were toppled and roads were submerged in Penangs historic capital of George Town, leaving many areas largely paralyzed. The Malaysian state news agency said five people had been killed due to the floods.

We remain fearful that there may still be untoward incidents because of the strong winds, the like of which have never been experienced before, and flash floods might recur, Lim told reporters in Penang earlier on Sunday, according to Bernama.
The head of Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah says the country's prime minister, Saad Hariri, was forced by Saudi Arabia to resign.

Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah in a speech Sunday urged patience after Hariri resigned suddenly in a televised address from the Gulf kingdom a day earlier.

Nasrallah accused Saudi Arabia of drafting Hariri's resignation letter and forcing him to read it on Saudi TV. He even asked whether Hariri is being held against his will.

Nasrallah's broadsides against Saudi Arabia have only grown harsher as the rivalry deepens between the Gulf kingdom and Iran over wars in Syria and Yemen. Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of its men to fight in Syria, is supplied and financed by Iran and seen as its proxy in Lebanon.
When Dan Sullivan was 9 months old, a neurologist told his parents he was brain-damaged and might never read, speak or even walk.

More than 25 years later, the young man with the same laughing eyes and dimples graduated with honors from the University of Richmond. It took him eight years to get his bachelors degree, but he and his family are so thrilled with his accomplishment, no ones quibbling over the time involved.

You have proven everybody wrong, Mr. Sullivan, his mother, Kathy, said recently, proudly patting him on the back.

Dan Sullivan was born with lissencephaly, a rare brain disorder that results in cerebral palsy and epilepsy. The surface of a normal brain is covered with wrinkles and folds, but he has a smooth brain.

Theres no functionality on the left side of his brain, which controls the physical and mental aspects of the right side of his body. As a result, he walks with a limp, has no use of his right arm and had frequent seizures until about seven years ago.

He does all his typing with his left hand, which made those term papers a nightmare, his mother said.

Organization and time management dont come easily to the 26-year-old Spotsylvania County resident. He can follow a list, but not compile it, and he needs more time to complete tasks.

Its not like Im not working, he said. It just takes me longer.

DAN THE MAN

While Dan Sullivans story is one of success and perseverance, it also illustrates how it takes a village to get someone with special needs through public school and college.

No one appreciates that more than his father, David.

There have been a lot of people who have been involved with Daniel to get him where he is today, he said, adding that no one has been a bigger advocate than his wife.

His parents and teachers refer to him as Daniel, but he prefers the shortened version of his name.

Dan the man, said his younger sister, Ryan.

Dan Sullivan started preschool as a 3-year-old at Smith Station Elementary School in Spotsylvania County. His first teacher, Jen Stearns, has kept in touch with him over the years and attended his graduation party in June. Betty Gentry, her aide in class, was too sick to be there, but she continues to refer to him as her prince.

I am so proud of him, I will always remember him, Gentry said.

Stearns was new to teaching when the blond boy with a huge smile and cute dimples entered her class. When he started having seizures, she had no experience with the condition, and she and his mother learned everything they could.

Since then, Stearns has taught many others with neurological disorders and is grateful to his family for being so open and collaborative with me as they started on their journey, she said.

I feel like weve journeyed together through some amazing life moments, said the teacher, who currently works at Grafton Village Elementary School in Stafford County, and I cant wait to celebrate the next one.

ITS NOT A RACE

From preschool until his graduation from Courtland High School in 2009, Dan Sullivan had an Individualized Education Program, or IEP plan, that spelled out his therapies and special requirements.

With each new teacher, Kathy Sullivan presented a notebook filled with descriptions of lissencephaly, warning signs of seizures and the types of cerebral palsy. She listed his strengthspeople pleaser, task-oriented and spiritedalong with his weaknessesfrustrates easily, not self-monitoring and low self-esteem.

At his graduation party, his fifth-grade teacher, Pam Bolen, returned to the Sullivans the faded blue folder about Dan that she kept for years.

It was a mini Bible for him, she said.

The family faced a different scenario when Dan Sullivan started classes at Germanna Community College in fall 2009.

While he gravitated toward science and historyand dont get him started on Greek mythology, the Roman Empire or the American Civil War unless you want an earfulhe despised math and English.

He tried to juggle a full workload at first, and that turned out to be as much of a nightmare as typing term papers with one hand. Carol Baetz, an enrollment specialist at Germanna and friend of Kathy Sullivan, encouraged him to work at his own pace.

Its not a race, she told him. Colleges dont look at how quickly you get your degree.

THIS IS WHO I AM

After he failed a few classes, the Sullivans agreed to limit their college student to two classes per semester. And he went during the summer to stay on track, his mother said.

Baetz and Win Stevens, Germannas coordinator of disability services, helped put together a list of accommodations for him. They lined up a scribe if he needed one to take notes, or a quiet place for him to take his tests.

It took six years for him to get his associates degree.

Baetz watched Dan Sullivan excel in academicsand beyond. Instead of quietly accepting whatever was given him, he became his own advocate and sought classes and teachers that best matched his personality and learning style, she said.

The student also accepted something about himself that he hadnt wanted to face when he was younger. He realized he has a particular disability that he will never be able to get over, so its best to be upfront with people about it and work through it.

This is who I am, but in a good way, a positive way, he said. I dont think of my disability in a bad way because there are a lot of people who are worse off than I am.

OUT OF HIS SHELL

After Germanna, Dan Sullivan heard about a University of Richmond program that seemed custom-made for him. Called the School of Professional and Continuing Studies, its a two-year program for students who want to get their bachelors degree while taking one class at a time, every Friday night and Saturday.

At the time, classes were held at Germanna, and family members and friends took turns shuttling him to sessions because he cant drive. He takes a lot of heavy-duty medicine to keep the seizures at bay.

For most of the program, he was the youngest member of the class, and the only male. But once more, the community around Dan Sullivan embraced him, and the older women in class were protective of him, said fellow student Debbie Everhart.

When he would get up to give a presentation, he would have, like, stage fright, she said. But if we would start to ask him questions, then that gave him a comfort level, and he was able to come out of his shell.

He and Sheryl Smalley, whos 48, became study partners because they understood each others limitations. She suffered a brain injury after a car accident in 2015, and he often went over information, especially history, with her to make sure that she got it.

He was determined, he did very well, and hes a very smart man, she said.

Oddly enough, Dan Sullivan graduated from high school with Smalleys daughter and from college with her. Hes become one of Smalleys best friends.

He always will be, hes just a great guy, she said, adding shes thrilled others will know his story. I really want his accomplishments to be known because hes worked really hard.
ON OUR fourth day in New Jersey, where wed gone for a family wedding, my companion, Lou, said something that summed up the whole visit.

As soon as he opened his eyes that Sunday morning, he exclaimed: Can you believe all the great food?

But before we get to that, let me say the fellowship was just as fine and the wedding venue was as beautiful as the late October weather. As much as Lou dreaded making the five-hour trek northbecause after decades of Beltway commutes, he no longer can tolerate the crazy driving that traffic congestion seems to spawnhed be the first to say it was worth the trip.

The drive wasnt nearly as bad as we imagined, and of the four states we traversed, traffic was the worst in Virginia.

By no means did we travel the farthest. Guests came from points north, south and west, including Connecticut, Florida and Wisconsin.

All roads led to a country club on the Jersey Shore, where Lous nephew stood up and said, I do. The newly wedded John and Melissa Fennekohl had been together more than 10 years: Their romance started in high school, then continued while each went to separate colleges and embarked on careers.

So its no wonder the family asked guests to post wedding thoughts and photos under #finallyFennekohl.

And, what a celebration it was. Somewhere was a sign posted that said, Eat, Drink and Be Married, and the three-day event certainly lived up to that billing.

The Thursday night rehearsal dinner included five courses at an Italian restaurant, each serving somehow as good, or better, than the one it preceded.

Before the sit-down dinner of steak, chicken or fish at the wedding reception, guests could not only help themselves to the typical appetizer trays, but they could also make their own mini Philly cheesesteaks.

During the open house the day after the wedding at the home of Lous sister and brother-in-law, Annamaria and John, there was always something sumptuous on the banquet table.

It started with deli meats, cold salads and chicken wings and concluded with some of the best Chinese food ever. We enjoyed a sampling of the leftovers for days afterwards, and I hate to say this, but I dont think Ill ever meet another General Tso as delightful.

In addition to the great food, the wine, liquor and champagne flowed freely. There were enough potent potables to fill an entire Jeopardy! board.

I heard the groomsmen chanting, Blue, Blue, Blue, during the rehearsal dinner and had no idea they were calling for a drink of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch Whisky. For others who arent familiar with Blue, its an exquisite blend, an unrivaled masterpiece, according to a website I checked.

A bottle was on sale at one site for $179, if youre interested.

For years, Lou has been saying that people in the Northeast, especially the Big Apple, believe they do everything bigger and better than the rest of the world. After the weekend of wedding wonders, I might be inclined to agree.

Or maybe stuff just tastes better when someone else cooks itor pays for it.

Im not a drinker, so the free-flowing liquor and Merlot didnt speak to me as it did to someone else I know. I was more interested in what chocolate had to say, and I got an earful from the German chocolate cake, the chocolate-chip coffee cake and the peanut butter-chocolate fudge-like bars made by the local judges wife.

But in my mind, the creme de la creme of the whole weekend came at the reception. After wedding cake was served at each table, guests were invited to, not a dessert bar, but a dessert ROOM, where each glass table and shelf was loaded with wine glasses or champagne flutes filled with brownies or cake bites, combined with pudding or whipped cream and topped with cherries.

I dont know about you, but nothing says true love to me like chocolate mousse.
Stafford High Schools SkillsUSA officers attended the State Leadership Training Workshop at SkillsUSA National Leadership in Leesburg. The officers participated in workshops lead by the state director and state officer team. All earned their Virginia Statesman Award by demonstrating their knowledge of the organization and its protocols and practices. The officer team is pictured with their Statesman certificates: Reporter Kaitlin Baumgartner, Secretary Diamond Chick, Vice President Kevin Dreeke, President Nolan Englund, Historian Emerald Chick and Treasurer Jennifer Sprow. Advisors Angela Candela and Robert Jett accompanied their students, and Mrs. Candela renewed her Statesman at the workshop.
Voters in the Fredericksburg region will have a host of statewide and local candidates to choose from in Tuesdays highly anticipated election.

The race for governor between Democrat Ralph Northam and Republican Ed Gillespie is the main attraction, with many labeling it a referendum on Republican President Donald Trumps first year in office. It has devolved into a nasty campaign featuring attack ads tying Northam to MS-13 gangs and a child molester and Gillespie to the Enron scandal and white supremacists.

University of Mary Washington political science professor Stephen Farnsworth said the gubernatorial contest will go down in history as a race to the bottom.

Nasty attack ads give way to even more nasty attack ads, he said. Thats more or less what you have to say to get through the din of politics these days.

Farnsworth said he thinks the turnout will be comparable to the last gubernatorial election in 2013, when 43 percent of registered voters showed up to the polls. In the other statewide races, Democrat Justin Fairfax is up against Republican Jill Vogel to succeed Northam as lieutenant governor, and Republican John Adams faces Democratic incumbent Mark Herring for attorney general.

Fredericksburg-area ballots also will include candidates for School Board, Board of Supervisors, the House of Delegates and some constitutional offices. Virginians can view sample ballots by going to elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot and typing their addresses under whats on my ballot?

Absentee voting is already up from 2013 in GOP-dominated Spotsylvania and Stafford counties and in Fredericksburg, where Democratic candidates hold an advantage.

Theres clearly an energized element of the electorate that has real strong feelings one way or the other about Donald Trump, and those people are likely to turn out, Farnsworth said.

Spotsylvania had recorded 2,986 absentee ballots as of early Friday, up from 1,951 fours years ago. About 1,760 Stafford residents had voted absentee, nearly 300 more than the total in 2013. And 428 Fredericksburg residents had voted early, up nearly 100 from the last gubernatorial election.

Highlighting local races is the 28th District contest between Democrat Joshua Cole and Republican Bob Thomas to determine House Speaker Bill Howells successor. And longtime Republican Del. Mark Cole of Spotsylvania faces a trio of challengers in Democrat Steve Aycock, Green Party member Gerald Anderson and independent Amanda Blalock.

The 28th District includes parts of Stafford and Fredericksburg, while slices of Fredericksburg and Stafford, Spotsylvania and Fauquier counties make up the 88th District.

Both districts were drawn to elect Republicans, and Republicans continue to have the advantage, Farnsworth said.

But Democrat Jennifer Carroll Foy appears to hold an edge over Republican Mike Makee in the 2nd District, which includes parts of Prince William and Stafford counties. Makee replaced the original GOP nominee, who dropped out of the race in the wake of reports that he falsely claimed to have a masters degree.

Democrats can be very competitive in the 2nd, Farnsworth said. In an open seat contest, having to change horses in midstream puts you at a real disadvantage.

Republican Del. Mark Dudenhefer, who narrowly regained the 2nd District seat in 2015 after losing it to a Democrat two years prior, is not running for re-election. He opted instead to challenge incumbent Laura Sellers for a seat on the Stafford Board of Supervisors.

That race is one of four Stafford supervisor and two School Board seats being contested Tuesday. Spotsylvania has five contested county seats: three for supervisor, including a four-candidate race in the Berkeley District, and two for School Board.

Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
On October 31, 2017, Rex Allan Hoover, 75, of Sumerduck, Va., went to be with our Lord after a two year fight with cancer. Rex leaves behind his faithful and precious wife Patricia, his four children, his nine grandchildren, his great-grandson, his sister Ruth, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. For service details, see RexHoover.com
Greg Allan Lancaster, 59, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 1, 2017. A celebration of Greg's life will be held at noon on Saturday, November 11 at Hard Times Caf, 314 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Fredericksburg, 22401. Full obituary online at covenantfuneralservice.com.
A MARINE Corps unit is stranded. The surprise ambush came during a routine patrol and has left the Marines with little cover, dwindling ammunition, and even fewer options. Enemy forces are closing in. Under heavy fire, the Marines send a desperate call for air support.

Within moments the request is received at the nearest airbasean Air Force squadron of F-22 Raptors. Several of the jets are quickly scrambled and readied to assist the Marines. As soon as the Marines contact the pilots and provide enemy coordinates, its just a matter of time until a couple of F-22s scream overhead and quickly dispatch the enemy.

But theres a problemthe F-22 is a stealth fighter, and to enhance its covert capabilities, it was designed to limit outside radio contact. When in flight, the cockpit has minimal communications with other military assets. Because the pilots might not be able to talk to the stranded Marines, every member of that besieged unit could be lost.

The F-22s communications system is a prime example of what is known as a closed architecture system. These are computer systems that cannot be accessed or shared by other users.

The inability to integrate technology with computer software or hardware from one defense supplier to systems made by another supplieror even just to update an older systemcan sometimes hamper any advantages the modern applications might provide. That can prove deadly in todays war-fighting environment. Rapid communications and interoperability among military services are absolutely critical.

For the past 15 years, the Defense Department has been actively involved in fighting two wars. In that time, electronics and computing capabilities have continued to play ever-greater roles. Electronic attacks and countermeasures are a growing part of the 21st century battlefield.

A very competitive private industry does a phenomenal job of keeping the U.S. militarys technology far ahead of our adversaries.

The many companies and corporations that provide state-of-the-art equipment to our armed forces work hard and spend enormous sums of money on research and development. It is understandable that they want to keep their blueprints and schematics away from prying eyes.

Take, for example, developments in unmanned aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles. Their reconnaissance and surveillance abilities have made these devices invaluable tools in modern warfare.

Their use has saved countless lives and enabled military forces to gather far more data. But deploying these systems has proved problematic because the unmanned vehicles are developed by an array of different vendors.

If Company A makes drones for the Air Force and Company B makes an aquatic unmanned vehicle for the Navy, in a perfect world, the Navy should be able to request aerial drone assistance from the Air Force if the need arises or vice versa. But if each of these unmanned vehicles has its own components, that could limit the ability of the services to use the others capabilities.

The Defense Department is actively working to incorporate the idea of open architecturessystems that can be rapidly upgraded, modernized and interfaced with other systems. The Pentagon wants to see open architecture incorporated into all new systems under design.

On Oct. 19, I attended the Open Architecture 2017 Summit sponsored by the Defense Daily Network. The summit addressed the importance of developing and incorporating open, compatible systems into existing military platforms to increase readiness and capabilitieswithout also opening those systems to enemy interference.

Having been assigned to both joint U.S. military and NATO commands while I was on active duty with the Navy, I know the challenges that arise when military services speak their own languages and have their own sets of rules and regulations. The added burden of computer systems and weapons that cant communicate makes things even more complicated.

As Maj. Gen. Neil E. Nelson, deputy chief of Marine Corps Combat Development Command, told the audience at the summit, our military never wants to be in a fair fight. Troops on the battlefield and ships at sea need to be able to quickly access as much information as possible to retain situational awareness and advantage.

In other words, they need a communications framework that can integrate all hardware and software applications, whether they are newly developed or older, legacy systems.

Senior military officials are eager to incorporate open architecture as quickly as possible. Not only will doing so save time and lives, it can have a significant impact on financial costs as well.

And yet, again, sequestration, continuing resolutions, and Congress budget follies continue to hamper the Defense Departments ability to move quickly.

As the Pentagon continues to chafe under inadequate funding, China and Russia are spending massive amounts on electronic warfare research and development. One would think Congress would be anxious to remove the hobbles it has placed on the U.S. militarys ability to retain its technological edge.

Apparently, one would be mistaken.
PRESIDENT Donald Trump has not killed the Iran nuclear deal. Instead, he has asked Congress to fix its worst flaws.

Our lawmakers can and should work with Trump to redress the gaps in U.S. policy toward Iranand they can do so without violating the deal.

Some argue the U.S. should not mess with the deal because "it's working" and Iran is complying with its obligations. But the president's recent decertification of the accord was not based solely on a claim of Iranian non-compliance.

Rather, Trump argues that the sanctions relief Iran received through the deal has not been proportional to the security benefits gained by the United States. This issue requires serious consideration.

The agreement is fundamentally flawed because it lifts meaningful constraints on Iran's non-nuclear activities in the Mideast region without requiring any concessions from Iran outside its nuclear portfolio.

The deal lifts important international restrictions on providing advanced and offensive weaponry to Iran in just three years. It also provides Iran with significant financial relief without any constraints on how the money can be used.

The pact "calls on" but does not actually require Iran to limit its ballistic missile program. It does not mention the activities of Iranian proxies and armed forces throughout the region.

The deal's concessions to Iran would not pose such a serious threat to U.S. national security if Iran were a responsible regional actor or had begun to moderate its non-nuclear harmful behavior.

Indeed, the Obama administration apparently intended for the nuclear deal to lead the Iranian regime to voluntarily change its approach to regional activities.

Iran, however, has not indicated it will roll back its Middle East adventurism or its support for terrorism. It has only increased its involvement in regional conflicts, especially in Syria and Iraq, with the deployment of its own conventional forces and tens of thousands of proxies, including Lebanese Hezbollah.

The U.S. must confront and roll back Iran's increasing aggressiveness, and fear of undermining the deal must not stop America from doing what's right.

Nonetheless, immediately withdrawing from the deal would be unwise. The ideal outcome for the U.S. is one that retains the restrictions on the Iranian nuclear program while also curtailing Iran's other negative activities.

This is feasible. The deal does not constrain the U.S. or the international community from imposing additional sanctions or other pressure on Iran's ballistic missile program and regional activities. Iranian claims that new non-nuclear pressures would violate the deal should not deter the U.S. from imposing them.

Congress must work to extend restrictions on Iran's procurement of advanced weaponry well into the future. It should also develop additional forms of pressure to isolate Iran.

Most important, Congress should conduct these efforts in concert with our European allies and others willing to support the cause. Because Iran's ballistic missile program is central to its national security doctrine, the country is unlikely to agree to meaningful restrictions on these programs without substantial coercive measures.

Any solution to the shortcomings of the Iran deal most likely will entail an international effort to compel Iran to capitulate on some of its non-nuclear bad behavior.

American national security will be best served by recognizingand acting uponthe reality that the nuclear deal as written will not resolve the threats posed by Iran.
GROWING THE Virginia economy will create more jobs and generate more state revenue, which in turn will help solve the biggest problems now facing the commonwealth in the areas of transportation, education and health care. And the gubernatorial candidate most likely to advance economic growth in the state is Republican Ed Gillespie, which is why he has the FREE LANCE-STAR'S endorsement.

Throughout his campaign, Gillespie has emphasized the need for economic growth, pointing out that not so long ago, Virginia was the nations top business-friendly state. Its now in the bottom half at No. 31, according to the Tax Foundation.

And in January, the University of Virginias Weldon Cooper Center reported that during the last three years, more people have moved from Virginia to other states than have moved into the commonwealth.

To improve Virginias business-friendly ranking and to end the out-migration of residents with college degrees to neighboring states, Gillespie is proposing a 10 percent reduction in the state income tax that scales back futurenot currentspending, with $2 in tax relief for every $3 in increased spending.

Gillespie claims his proposal, which includes revenue triggers to protect core government services and the commonwealths AAA bond rating, will create 53,000 new jobs and increase state revenue by $3.4 billion.

Thats exactly whats needed to keep Virginia competitive with its neighbors and to allow it to invest more money in transportation infrastructure, public education and health care for low-income Virginians.

Gillespie, a lobbyist and former chairman of the Republican National Committee, was a counselor to President George W. Bush and the lead author of the GOPs historic 1994 Contract with America that helped the Republican Party gain control of Congress for the first time in four decades. His proposals are sensible and pragmatic.

On transportation, the Fredericksburg regions top issue, Gillespie supports a lock box for state transportation dollarsmeaning that money appropriated for transportation could not be redirected elsewhere. He also told the Free Lance-Star that his friendly relationships with President Trump and U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao will help him secure more federal highway funding, which is the only way the hotspots on Interstate-95 will get fixed in the near future.

Gillespie also favors the expansion of public charter schools in Virginia to give parents more choice in the education of their children, and keeping tuition at the commonwealths public universities affordable for state residents.

Unlike his Democratic rival, Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, Gillespie is not in favor of expanding Medicaid, because of its future cost increases. But he does favor a state compact that would allow insurance companies in Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia to offer plans in Virginia and vice versa, encouraging innovation and competition.

Attracting and keeping businesses in the commonwealth and growing Virginias economy should be the next governors top priority. Gillespie not only understands this, he is well-suited to the challenges ahead.
The Oct. 24 article in the Free Lance-Star titled Soon, you can study law like a president, was an interesting piece detailing the University of Virginias efforts to preserve the list of books Thomas Jefferson believed were important reads.

Though well-written, my main concern is the portrayal of a historic campus building called the Rotunda as the endpoint of an August torchlight rally by white nationalists.

This detail came seemingly out of nowhere and was irrelevant to the story. Though factually correct, the Rotunda represents much more than the events of this past summer. It is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site and as an architectural achievement that replicates the Pantheon in Rome. It is also the centerpiece in Mr. Jeffersons academic village.

Multiple other university buildings have been inspired by the Rotunda. There are countless other ways to describe this beautiful building other than a rallying point for hate speech.

Many Virginians have had the privilege to study, train, or work at U.Va. I am sure most, if not all, are offended that our beloved Rotunda is continuously identified with these recent events.

As Virginians, we need to move forward and not allow non-Virginians define one of our most recognizable buildings for intellectual thought and achievement.

Stephen Bakos

Spotsylvania
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A Pinch of Salt: The election is over, I think, so what now?
The long way to career entry : Refugees in Bonn need to be patient

Bonn Refugees who want to work in Germany, need to have a lot of patience. The way to career entry holds many obstacles, mainly of bureaucratic nature.

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Mustafa Shekho cannot afford impatience. One needs to wait. Thats Germany, says the 32-year-old from Syria, while smiling shyly and shrugging. Although the whole thing could have been handled so much faster. The apprenticeship position as elderly care nurse in the retirement home Nova Vita is secure for him. The residents greet the former intern and current mini-jobber by name - and Shekho, who studied law back home, knows: As elderly care nurse, his chances to get a job are high. And the job suits him.

But yet, the Kurdish Syrian can not start his apprenticeship in a sector in Germany which needs skilled personnel urgently. His secondary certificate was handed in to the authorities about six months ago, to be approved. And the elderly care college has currently no open spaces, despite an early enrolment.

You need a lot of patience, if you want to employ refugees, comments Shekhos boss, Ruth van den Elzen, director of the retirement home and the Leoninum hotel, on the bureaucratic requirements. For every internship, even if it only lasts one day, we need the okay of the foreign office. Although the collaboration with the official authorities like the employment agency and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce works well in general: There is an additional effort, which the company or institution needs to make.

Personality beats school results

Van den Elzen is convinced that the effort is worth the trouble though. On one hand the hotel director sees the integration of refugees as responsibility of the entire society. And on the other hand, she is depending on new opportunities in the difficult search for hotel and retirement home staff. Amongst the 18 apprentices in the hotel and retirement complex Leoninum there are two refugees. The personality of the applicants is much more important to us than their school results, she says.

But not everybody who has fled their home country is ready for a career entry. Angela Buren at the adult education center (VHS) helps language course participants to find jobs. Many refugees are traumatised, she has noticed. In many cases, a therapy makes more sense than a career plan. In Bonn, most open jobs are positions for highly qualified personnel. The more simple commercial and technical jobs are hard to get. Refugees need to have German language qualifications at at least B2 level to be able to start a job, which corresponds to approximately 1,000 language lessons. Particularly for the professional school, language knowledge is essential. Written German and technical terms are difficult for many refugees, says the expert.

Some employers took appropriate measures - for example the Telekom. In the past few months, we learnt that our standard application system does not work for refugees, says project manager Barbara Constanzo. Only very few are able to hand in an online application according to German standards. Thats why the personal impression counts, and why the Facebook profile isnt a criterion for exclusion either.

An internship at the Telekom lasts three to six months in all the companys departments. For many refugees, this is a valuable entry into the German professional life, says Constanzo. For some this unfortunately means that they have no chance to work in the same field as at home and that they have to realign.

An individual commitment of the employers is important

The Telekom also faces the bureaucratic obstacles when it comes to employ refugees. If a refugee needs to relocate for a job, the move brings with it a lot of difficulties, says the project manager. Many decisions of the authorities seem to be made on a case-by-case basis and are hard to predict. an individual commitment of the employers and volunteers is very important, says Constanzo.

Approximately 300 refugees have been working for the Telekom since 2015, most of them as interns, some as apprentices. The Post is even more committed: Since September 2015, 778 refugees did an internship at the Deutsche Post DHL Group. Mostly in the packing centres, the logistics company needs helpers.

Due to the often difficult route into a job or profession, the employment agency tries to get in touch with the refugees as early as possible. There seems to be a misunderstanding that we only look into the cases when the procedure for granting the right of asylum has already been finalised, says placement officer Jakob Hackenberg. But the information centres known as Integration Points are open to all refugees. This is where the educational process begins. Hackenberg explains: The circumstances of our employment market are completely unknown to many people and the trust in officialdom is very low after the experiences in the home countries. Particularly the dual apprenticeship system needs to be explained to refugees in detail. This system does not exist in their home countries, where usually only academic studies are considered reputable.

Depending on the home country, the employment agency says the preconditions differ when it comes to searching for a job: Syrians usually have a very good school education and speak English very well, young refugees from Eritrea though have no work experience because they have to join the army straight after school. People from Afghanistan arrive as illiterates without any education. But we are looking for work perspectives for those people too, says Hackenberg. But, he adds: it is a long journey.
Toronto, November 3, 2017 - Avalon Advanced Materials Inc. (TSX: AVL) (OTCQX: AVLNF) ("Avalon" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement today consisting of 3,215,000 flow-through common shares at a price of $0.145 per share and 4,800,000 non-flow-through units at a price of $0.12 per unit for gross proceeds of $1,042,175.

Each unit consists of one non-flow-through common share and one half non-transferable common share purchase warrant, with each whole warrant being exercisable to acquire one non-flow-through common share of the Company at a price of $0.16 for a period of 24 months from today.

In conjunction with this private placement Avalon paid finder's fees of $34,560 and issued 288,000 non-transferrable finder's warrants, with each finder's warrant being exercisable to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.15 for a period of 24 months from today. Pursuant to Canadian securities laws, the securities issuable under this private placement are subject to a hold period which expires on March 4, 2018.

The proceeds from this offering will be used to advance exploration work on the Company's Separation Rapids Lithium Project and for general corporate purposes.

This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "US Securities Act"), and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to US persons (as defined in Regulation S under the US Securities Act) absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration.

About Avalon Advanced Materials Inc.

Avalon Advanced Materials Inc. is a Canadian mineral development company focused on technology metals and minerals. The Company has three advanced stage projects, all 100%-owned, providing investors with exposure to lithium, tin and indium, as well as rare earth elements, tantalum, niobium, and zirconium. Avalon is currently focusing on its Separation Rapids Lithium Project, Kenora, ON and its East Kemptville Tin-Indium Project, Yarmouth, NS. Social responsibility and environmental stewardship are corporate cornerstones.

For questions and feedback, please e-mail the Company at ir@AvalonAM.com, or phone Don Bubar, President & CEO at 416-364-4938.

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to how the Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Private Placement. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "potential", "scheduled", "anticipates", "continues", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "scheduled", "targeted", "planned", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be" or "will not be" taken, reached or result, "will occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Avalon to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made. Although Avalon has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expected results described in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to market conditions, and the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses as well as those risk factors set out in the Company's current Annual Information Form, Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure documents available under the Company's profile at www.SEDAR.com. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Such forward-looking statements have been provided for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company's plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Avalon does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that are contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities law


Next Match: Charlotte 11/9/2017 | 7 P.M. Next Match Full Schedule Nov. 09 (Thu) / 7 P.M. Charlotte History

Outside hitterracked up a match-high 21 kills and led UTSA to a come-from-behind five-set win (23-25,20-25,25-20,25-21,15-10) against FIU on Sunday afternoon in Conference USA action. The win puts the Roadrunners on a four-match winning streak with an 11-13 overall record and a 9-3 C-USA showing.The sophomore from San Antonio was a force throughout the contest, as she delivered 59 of UTSA's 165 total attempts and added two blocks. Joining McCulloch in double-digits werewith 13,with 12 andwith 10.Defensively, the Roadrunners were directed by 20 digs from liberoand seven blocks from Teal and five blocks fromFIU (5-15, 3-9 C-USA) got off to a fast start, winning the first two sets by scores of 25-23 and 25-20, and it looked like the Birds were well on their way to ending their winning streak. However, UTSA got back on track in the third frame, behinds seven kills from McCulloch and three blocks from Slan. UTSA hit .256 and led 21-15 before FIU threatened with a 3-0 run to come within three. Back-to-back kills from McCulloch negated the comeback bid and sealed the set for the Roadrunners.After the two teams exchanged leads through the first 20 points of the fourth set, the Roadrunners took command with a 5-1 run to win the set and tie the match at two. McCulloch added another four helpers in the fourth stanza while Runjic dished out three with no errors for a .600 attack percentage.UTSA stayed resilient in the deciding frame, jumping out to 5-2 lead and never looking back. The Roadrunners collected the fifth set on a 5-0 run that featured four FIU attacking errors.UTSA will look to extend its four-match winning streak as it returns to the friendly confines of the Convocation Center. This week the Roadrunners welcome Charlotte on Thursday and Rice on Saturday.
The following column originally appeared as a blog post that paid tribute to Jim Clark. Clark, who was the longtime director of UNC-Greensboros MFA Writing Program and editor of the programs literary journal, The Greensboro Review, died on Oct. 30 at age 72.

Jim Clark and I worked an office away from each other for the past 15 years, and for 10 years before that, we were in the same building and saw each other dozens of times a day. Jim had a chair in his office, but no one ever sat there, for it was covered in books and papers. You were always welcome in his office for as long as you could stand.

Mostly we talked in the hallway, or he came and stood in my doorway and started right in on the trash-talking. He sometimes said, Good morning or Hey, but his standard greeting was something like, You ever watch much Gunsmoke when you were coming up?

If I admitted that I did (I did), Jim would remind me of a scene with a horse, from which I understood, an hour later, that I was being compared to a horse on a decades-old episode of Gunsmoke.

Jim hired me  at least he had a large hand in it  and I would be lying if I did not say that Jim is one of the biggest reasons Ive spent nearly my entire academic career at UNC-Greensboro. Stuart Dischell and I arrived the same year, and that day we arrived in August 1992, Jims job got a lot harder. He always had our backs.

He once said to me, For such a small guy, you got a big back.

Stuarts back is bigger than mine, I said, which was my standard reply from the beginning. Jim was so used to me coming to his office to ask why Stuarts poetry recruits got the Jarrell fellowship over our fiction folks, for instance, that once when he saw me coming he said, Its because I like Stuart better than I like you.

He led, as leaders do, not by word but by deed. He was the epitome of quiet and forceful.

To watch him in a meeting with administrators was to watch a man who understood the nuances of every response, every comment, every obfuscation. It is because of Jim that I know the word obfuscation.

I looked it up after 10 or so years of working with him because I wanted to know what to call that thing he did when I asked him a question I thought required a yes or no answer  for instance, Am I going to get to teach the Structure of Fiction in the fall?  and he would study me in his cockeyed way for a lot of seconds before he asked me if I liked sardines.

Jim was incredibly well read. He was not one to parade his erudition, which made him in the halls of academe just plain weird.

He could speak several languages  street, bar, working class, country, urbane, upper middle class, academic, erudite  or at least he understood all these languages. He liked to pretend to be a simple boy from Florida  the real Florida, the old Florida  but his tastes were wide and he had an amazing memory.

One day, when we were the only two up on the hall besides Terry Kennedy, who was working in his office with his headphones on so he would not have to listen to Jim and me talking trash, Jim and I discovered our mutual interest in the secret diaries of William Byrd of Westover. Jim stood in the hall reciting the more hilarious entries for a good 10 minutes.

Jim was a keen reader and an exacting editor. Not long after I arrived at UNCG, I decided I was going to mount an exhibit of past visiting writers in the rare book room of Jackson Library.

The exhibit required that I write a history of the program, which I did, but it was Jim, of course, who supplied the facts. He also edited it, and after I turned in the first draft Jim called me up  I was on vacation down at Topsail Island, a place both Jim and I revered  and said, Did you ever work as a promotional writer for the Jaycees? Is that what you did before you came here? Write ad copy for the Kiwanis Club? It was one of the few times I knew him not to obfuscate.

If Jim did not poke fun at me, I got nervous. He poked fun at everyone as a sign of affection and regard.

Jim and I shared a fondness for a certain kind of vernacular put-down I will call, because Ive never heard a name put to it, the negative adjectival.

When he wore a tie, I would call him the no-tie-wearing-est human on the planet. When I would turn over to him some bit of writing I was called to do over the years to promote the program, he would call me the no-semicolon-using-est sucker he had ever had an occasion to be bored by.

It was a supreme honor to be made fun of by Jim Clark. It meant  and it took me some years to understand this  that he thought you were mostly OK in his book.

His book was wide and deep and long, filled with the names of dozens of friends, former students, current students, people he met on the street years ago while ministering, administrators, yard and estate sale acquaintances, former drinking buddies, preachers, scavengers, cops, cooks, tattoo artists, filmmakers, provosts, chancellors, barkeeps, FBI agents, musicians, writers by the dozen and other assorted low and high lives.

To all of us, he was generous with his time and wit. And to me he was ever supportive, helpful and kind. I cannot imagine a Writing Program without Jim.

I cant imagine a world without Jim. I cant imagine walking down the hall to the copy machine and not passing his open door and seeing his office in characteristic disarray and, reared back in a chair, marking up some student paper in copious marginalia written in green felt pen, James Lester Clark, doing what he did for all of us, which was to make us better people, better writers, better community members, even if we were the no-oxford-comma-using-est layabouts he had ever encountered.

Ive talked to several people in the past day who loved Jim, and it seems we can only commemorate our loss by telling stories. Jim would want this.

He was, above all, a supreme storyteller. His way of handling difficulty, of dealing with turbulence, of settling differences, was to tell a story.

At some point, though, our recounting of Jim tales stops, and we attempt to tell each other what he meant to us. (Monday) night, Drew Perry said something of Jim so true, and so succinctly Clark, so genuinely Lester, that Ill let Drew have the last words:

He found the ones who wanted to be found.
GREENSBORO  In the moments before Sherrod Maurice Crum was gunned down in front of Four Seasons Town Centre, he had come face-to-face with a man who robbed him at gunpoint just months earlier.

Guilford County Assistant District Attorney Ashley Watlington-Sims revealed new details about the shooting during the first appearance of Tedrick Lithonia McClary on Friday.

McClary, 25, is charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of 34-year-old Crum on May 5.

Watlington-Sims told District Court Judge Tonia Cutchin that McClary had robbed Crum at gunpoint months before they saw each other shopping inside Four Seasons. The men began fighting inside the mall, the prosecutor said.

Surveillance video released by Greensboro police showed two men  one ostensibly being McClary  running out of the malls entrance near JCPenney.

Watlington-Sims said the men began to drive away with McClary in the passenger seat.

The prosecutor said thats when McClary spotted Crum coming out of the mall and opened fire.

Witnesses said they heard four to five shots echo through the mall sending many shoppers running for cover.

Others tried to help Crum until paramedics could arrive.

He was taken to an area hospital where he died.

What many didnt know until recently was that early on police developed McClary as a suspect based on witness statements and surveillance footage.

The May 5 shooting was a troubling time for the mall. It followed another incident less than three months earlier where another man was shot and killed. That case remains unsolved.

McClary spoke only once during his court appearance on Friday.

He sat in the Guilford County jail and communicated with Cutchin through a video feed. He wore a red jumpsuit and told Cutchin that an attorney visited him in jail.

Cutchin said McClary would remain in jail without bail.

The Four Seasons shooting isnt McClarys first brush with the law.

In 2013, he was arrested in Wilmington for an alleged drive-by shooting and in 2014 after police allegedly found 4,000 bundles of heroin and four stolen handguns at his house, which was also in Wilmington.

Greensboro police tracked McClary through seven jurisdictions in North Carolina, Virginia and Pennsylvania until he was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Philadelphia on Aug. 11.
Storm clouds may be gathering around the proposed, bankruptcy sale of Morehead Memorial Hospital to a recently-formed Florida partnership promising aggressive measures to cure what ails the Eden health care provider.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, a bankruptcy administrator and several major lenders have filed objections to last weeks decision by the hospitals board of trustees in favor of Empower iHCCs offer as highest and best bidder for all of the Eden medical systems assets.

The recently-formed Empower iHCC partnership, based in Miami, offered just less than $10.8 million in cash and $20 million in other considerations to beat out a competing proposal from the University of North Carolina Health Care system that included only $500,000 in cash for all Morehead assets.

But major lender Berkadia Commercial Mortgage criticized the hospitals board of trustees for picking Empower as the winning bidder and ranking the UNC system No. 2 rather than selling off the multi-building health system piecemeal for more money.

The hospitals board of trustees did not use sound business judgment in making it a top priority to keep the hospital system intact, rather than selling off assets to other, individual bidders for at least $11.2 million in cash, said attorneys for the major Morehead lender in court documents.

The issue comes to a head Monday afternoon when a hearing is scheduled in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for North Carolinas Middle District to either finalize the sale to Empower iHCC or take some other course of action.

Besides the hospital campus, Moreheads assets include a skilled nursing center, the Smith McMichael Cancer Center, the Wright Diagnostic Center and several other medical buildings.

Berkadia holds the unenviable position of being the Eden hospital networks largest lender, having loaned Morehead $40.6 million in December 2012  $32.6 million of which remains unpaid.

The debtor has not used sound business judgment in its acceptance of the offer of the successful bidder, Berkadias legal team said in its petition, referring to the debtor trustees acceptance of Empower iHCCs offer. The sum of the bids on separate sale assets, not being sold in bulk, was approximately $11.2 million.

Furthermore, a sale of the hospital, remaining real estate property and approximately $10.1 million in accounts receivable would yield even more value ...

Bidding on the hospitals various properties took place in a lengthy auction Oct. 30 that included individual rounds of bidding on six, separate combinations of properties with the last round of bidding the only one to include everything.

Empower iHCC and the UNC health system were the only bidders for the whole operation.

Options for treatment

Berkadia attorneys James Pulliam of Charlotte and Colin Bernardino of Atlanta said in their petition that instead of following bankruptcy law correctly, the trustees seemed more interested in protecting the whole hospital system as a going enterprise.

Although the debtors intentions are admirable, a (bankruptcy) sale is intended to maximize the value of a debtors assets for the estate, they said.

Hospital leaders have been clear that they want to keep the system intact as much as possible. They believe that the Empower group can do that or at least will make a sustained effort toward that end.

I think the goal for the board and the goal for me was to get us to a place where the incredible staff here that works miracles every day can continue to do that without the burden that has been weighing on them for years now, Morehead president and CEO Dana Weston said recently.

Hospital leaders filed for Chapter 11 reorganization July 10, saying they hoped to emerge from the process with new ownership and a clean financial slate. They said they were having trouble attracting a buyer or partner because of the hospital systems heavy debt load that approached $60 million.

The HUD complication

From that perspective, the HUD petition might be an even bigger roadblock to the Empower sale because the federal agency asserts in its objection that it has authority to stop the proposed deal in its tracks.

And the federal agency said in court papers filed Thursday thats what should happen unless the proposal is revised to better protect the American taxpayer.

Millions in tax dollars are on the line because HUD insured Berkadias 2012 loan to the struggling hospital system, meaning that the American people are holding the bag and must pay the lender however much of that $32.6 million cant be offset through the bankruptcy proceedings.

Morehead cannot point to any legal or equitable proceeding that would compel HUD to accept less than full satisfaction of the Berkadia note, a panel of federal lawyers representing the agency said in their Thursday objection.

A second opinion

Meanwhile, Empower iHCC partner Jorge Perez said Friday in a telephone interview that if the bankruptcy court gives his company the chance, he can turn the tables on Moreheads history of red ink.

This is an amazing facility which provides all the health care services a community could possibly need, said Perez, who is the linchpin in a variety of partnerships that have been buying up financially-distressed rural hospitals in states from Florida to Oklahoma. To be honest with you, after viewing this hospitals financials, I can see that it would not take much to put them over the top.

Although it was formed only several weeks ago, Perezs Empower iHCC is part of group of interrelated partnerships with headquarters in Florida, Georgia, Kansas City and elsewhere that focuses on buying and/or managing these troubled rural hospitals. They own or manage more than 15 hospitals in eight states including North Carolina, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Tennessee.

In North Carolina, partnerships affiliated with Empower own two hospitals: the LifeBrite Community Hospital of Stokes County that is centered in Danbury, and the Washington County Hospital in Plymouth about 200 miles east of Greensboro.

In addition, Perez said an affiliated group is working to resolve financial problems at another hospital closer to the Eden facility  Patrick County Memorial Hospital about 35 miles across the state line in Stuart, Va.

Empower envisions combining the trio of hospitals into a consortium that would aim to expand health care options across the regions rural outskirts, he said.

Morehead would serve as the flagship facility, he said.

Prophet and loss

But Perez comes to the Morehead transaction bearing the weight of what at least amounts to a hefty public relations problem. In each of the last two years, hes been associated with hospital rescue efforts that have veered off track with overtones of financial misconduct.

Most recently, one of his partnerships was flagged by the Missouri State Auditor for using a small, rural hospital in that state as a shell to bill insurance companies for lab work by numerous out-of-state lab testers with no logical connection to the acute-care hospital.

The auditor was highly critical of the practice that moved about $90 million in such charges through the hospital involving phlebotomists who were on the small, municipal hospitals payroll although they were located in other states.

In a telephone interview Friday, Perez said he had nothing to do with the Missouri hospitals troubles because he was only an investor in the partnership at the time the questioned conduct occurred. In the audits aftermath, he has been brought in to help that hospital get back on its feet and is in the process of buying out the other partner who was criticized in the audit, he said.

Perez did say, however, that his companys auditors examined the Missouri hospitals books in the wake of the auditors criticism and found nothing wildly amiss.

As far as we could see, it was all there, documented, he said.

In the other controversy, local leaders at a hospital in the small, Florida community of Graceville won a court order banning Perez and others from accessing its bank accounts after some members of their Peoples Choice Hospital management company were accused of misappropriating hospital funds.

But Perez has been depicted as a whistle blower in that case because he alerted local officials to the problems and signed an affidavit in court attesting to the wrongdoing.

In both the Missouri and Florida situations, Morehead leader Weston said that no evidence has emerged so far that Perez or any of his Empower associates did anything wrong, although the Eden hospitals attorneys and consultants, at the request of the board of trustees, continue to do due diligence on the winning bidder as they would with any buyer.

On the mend

Bidding on the hospitals various properties took place in a lengthy auction Oct. 30 that included individual rounds of bidding on six, separate combinations of properties with the last round the only one to include everything.

Only Empower and UNC submitted bids in that last round.

In addition to $10.76 million in cash, Empower agreed to keep the hospitals doors open for at least 10 more years; spend $18 million on Morehead buildings, equipment and other capital items over the next three years; and cover $1 million in administrative expenses and another $1 million in employee benefits.

On top of its $500,000 cash offer, UNC pledged to operate the hospital for at least five more years; invest $20 million in Morehead capital spending within two years after sealing the deal; and commit $700,000 to paid leave and other employee benefits.

Liberty Healthcare Management also made a major bid of $9 million in the second auction last week for a subset of Morehead assets that included the hospitals skilled nursing center.

First Citizens Bank & Trust later bid $1.3 million that day in two of the other auctions involving a total of three buildings, and Advanced Home Care also submitted an unsuccessful bid of $410,000 in vying for other hospital assets.

Morehead creditors First Citizens and Novant Health joined Bankruptcy Administrator William Miller in filing other objections to the sale in bankruptcy court. Millers office said it was protesting the sale to preserve his rights to keep contesting the sale later if the local board fails to make a solid case at Mondays hearing for selecting Empower as the winning bidder.

Moreheads lead bankruptcy lawyer, Thomas Waldrep of Winston-Salem, responded to the objections by disputing that HUD has authority to demand full repayment of the Berkadia loan and saying that Empower is offering a welcome lifeline to a hospital system in very dire financial straits.

The sound business justification for the proposed pre-confirmation sale is simple, Waldrep said in his fomal reply. The debtor has been experiencing a loss of revenue in recent years ... (Moreheads) cash flow projections demonstrate that it cannot operate much longer on projected cash from revenues.
The North Carolina State Board of Elections received one incident report involving a party-appointed poll observer on Election Day, and seven more during one-stop early voting. Election officials were on high alert for unruly observers after the board received reports of more than a dozen conduct violations during the May primary. Overall, the board received reports of 21 conduct violations during the general election, involving both observers and campaigners. They included 12 instances of alleged voter intimidation, one instance of possible voter interference and eight instances of potential election official intimidation. Campaigners were the most common perpetrators. Board spokesperson Patrick Gannon said there may be additional incidents that have not yet been reported.
Englands version, but close enough.

For reasons that clearly have nothing to do with menu consistency or health concerns, fast foods most revered side item spent years MIA from Taco Bells menu. The chain halfway corrected that oversight last year, when it started testing French fries, but only in the Southern California market. Soon, they could be hitting Taco Bells nationwide.

The development, as far as these usually go, is a weird one. It involves Blink-182s bassist Mark Hoppus and Twitter. Hoppus told followers earlier this week that rival Del Tacos fries were the main threat to his Bell loyalty. No doubt overjoyed at this godsend  a way to reach a captive teenage audience by merely replying  the chain responded with one sentence and an emoji that casually implied that Taco Bell French fries not only exist (or used to, briefly), but might even soon be on menus, in case, you know, his 3 million followers were curious:

Taco Bell is better than Del Taco but Del Taco has french fries so its a real Sophies Choice of fast food.  mark hoppus (@markhoppus) October 30, 2017

That just might change soon, Mark.   Taco Bell (@tacobell) October 31, 2017

Taco Bell tested them at the end of 2016 near the UC Irvine campus. They were run-of-the-mill for fast-food fries, except for the fact that they were being sold by a Tex-Mex chain. They came two ways  dusted with a habanero seasoning, or as cheese fries. This so-called loaded version already exists in other countries (Canadas verges on full-fledged poutine), but Americans will have to live with an iteration that basically recycles Nachos Supreme toppings: beef, nacho cheese, sour cream, and tomatoes.

That probably wont slow Hoppus down. He was thrilled by the news, enough to see how far his rock-star fame can still get him in the fast-food world:

Who has the best fries? My favorite is McDonalds. Speak your truth. I want friendships to crumble in my timeline.  mark hoppus (@markhoppus) October 30, 2017

Important question. After all, its the small things.     McDonald's (@McDonalds) October 30, 2017




Haiti - Politic : Official visit of the number 2 of the UN to the country





On Friday, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed began an official visit to Haiti (3 to 5 November) to reiterate UN support for the fight against cholera and to support a local development program for the country for Haiti to become an emerging country by 2030.



Mohammed, accompanied by Josette Sheeran, the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy and Government Officials, traveled to the Great South to inquire about the work underway in the Caravan of Change, following the damage caused by the passage of Hurricane Matthew in October 2016.



After the visit of some sites, including the cleaning of the Ravine du Sud https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21727-haiti-news-zapping.html that allows the Commune of Les Cayes and Camp-Perrin to reduce the risk of flooding, the Plant Propagation Center https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21531-haiti-environment-launch-of-a-central-nursery-in-camp-perrin.html and the Camp-Perrin Asphalt Plant https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-21657-icihaiti-politics-moise-visits-the-asphalt-plant-of-camp-perrin.html , Mohammed, during a joint press briefing in the city of Les Cayes, reiterated the full support of the United Nations to the process of development of Haiti initiated by the administration of President Moise. She took the opportunity to encourage all Haitians to work to consolidate the gains of institutional and political stability, while insisting on the mandate of the United Nations Mission of Support to Justice (Minujusth), which is to strengthen the Rule of Law through improving the functioning of justice.



In addition, during her stay, Mohammed attended a special meeting of the High Level Committee on Cholera at the Prime Minister's Official Residence, co-chaired by Prime Minister Jack Guy Lafontant and the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.



The Government of Haiti and United Nations representatives have jointly expressed their determination to achieve zero cholera transmission. They also expressed their commitment to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including improving access to water, sanitation and health care.



The Prime Minister and the Deputy Secretary-General, announced a commitment to work in close partnership to eliminate the transmission of cholera. They noted that achieving this ambitious goal and ensuring its sustainability will require the refinement of the current government plan for the elimination of cholera, linked to actionable steps and detailed costs. While cholera transmission has dropped dramatically from over 18,000 new cases per week at the onset of the epidemic to 250 per week this year, success will require more funding to maintain the highly effective work of emergency response teams, and commitment to the fight against cholera in the medium and long-term. In recognition of the fact that one single cholera death is one too many, the participants committed to updating the National Plan for the Elimination of Cholera to take advantage of the current window of opportunity and avoid a resurgence of cases.



"Regarding the technical support of the national drinking water supply and sanitation system, as mentioned by the President of the Republic in his meetings with the Deputy Secretary-General and the Secretary-General, on the sidelines of the 72nd session of the General Assembly last September, the Haitian government calls for a direct support to the national structures of public health, water and sanitation, to reinforce the State capacities "said the Prime Minister. "The Government and the people of Haiti feel strengthened in their confidence that the UN and the international community can raise the funding needed for the full implementation of the New Approach on cholera proposed by the Secretary General and adopted by the General Assembly, which cannot wait any longer"



The participants discussed the importance for the country to encourage foreign direct investment in sectors of water, sanitation and health, and in so doing, consolidating the progress made so far in the fight against cholera in Haiti.



According to last DINEPA data, 72% of Haitian population does not have access to adequate sanitation and 42% has not yet adequate access to safe water while access to health care services is limited.



Urging Member States and partners to provide comprehensive support, the Deputy Secretary General emphasized during the meeting that "addressing the root causes of cholera in Haiti is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, in the immediate term, we urgently require funding to ensure continued operation of the rapid response teams - failure to do so risks losing the gains achieved to date".



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21727-haiti-news-zapping.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21662-haiti-politics-moise-launches-the-work-of-the-caravan-in-the-city-of-les-cayes.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-21657-icihaiti-politics-moise-visits-the-asphalt-plant-of-camp-perrin.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21531-haiti-environment-launch-of-a-central-nursery-in-camp-perrin.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22597-haiti-news-zapping.html



HL/ TB/ HaitiLibre


















Protect Short Term Rentals on Hawaii Island

Change.org Petition (2,840 signatures as of Nov 5, 2017)

The Office of Mayor Harry Kim, is currently drafting a Bill that would effectively end vacation rentals on Hawaii Island, and is expected to be ready to move forward in a matter of weeks!

TVR's (Transient Vacation Rentals) are critical to Hawaii's economic well being and growth. There are less than 1000 hotel rooms in East Hawaii, and not many more in West Hawaii. Areas like Puna, Volcano, South Point, and Honokaa will suffer greatly without available tourist lodging. The island will be in jeopardy of losing large events such as Merrie Monarch and Iron Man to other locations that can accommodate the amount of people these events attract.

Thousands of Big Island residents open their homes up to guests from all over the world every day. Many of these people are supplementing fixed income for retirement or use it as a primary source of income. Allowing a Bill that would end these residents ability to make a living on their own property will only help further the economic crisis this Bill would create.

"TVR's are a vital and positive part of our communities on the Big Island. Our culture is becoming more transient and travel is becoming more accessible. TVRs allow people to rent their homes for a period of time and become world citizens by travelling and spreading Aloha. Vacation Rental businesses create jobs on this rural island where none previously existed. Guests are introduced to the spirit of Aloha....something they take back with them to their communities. The hosts pay their taxes which enriches our state. In the spirit of Aloha they endeavor to be good members of our communities, run their vacation rental businesses responsibly and live in harmony with our communities." -Jessica Gauthier

*Update 1* Many supporters have been reaching out to the County Council and there is a seemingly clear consensus that they are not the ones spearheading this Bill. A representative from Mayor Harry Kim's office read a copy of the Bill to the Rotary Club on Wednesday 10/25.

*Update 2* A concerned citizen reached out to the Mayors office and received this response from Donna Urban-Higuchi:

Mahalo for contacting Mayor Harry Kim and his staff! We understand your concern about the proposal to ban short term rentals on the Big Island. Currently, there is no legislation being introduced on short term rental bans. On the Big Island, when the owner of the house rents out a room and currently lives in the home then it is acceptable. Any legislations that will surface, will not prevent people from renting out a room in the house. Feel free to contact us should you need further assistance. We look forward to hearing from you.

This is a vague response that contradicts the Draft read to the Rotary club in Hilo on 10/25. If a Draft can be read to a non-governing group, it needs to be more transparent to the public.

We need your help today to help ensure the future of TVR's on Hawaii Island!

Link: Sign Petition

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President Trump & Melania Visit Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial 11/3/17

WELCOME PRESIDENT TRUMP & FIRST LADY MELANIA!

Aloha,

Yesterday, I had the privilege of being at the arrival of President Trump and First Lady Melania on their first visit to Hawaii, representing the thousands of Republicans like you from across Oahu. Mahalo to State GOP Chair Ostrov for putting together, literally at the last moment, the list of invitees.

It was great to have the opportunity to see our President in person and greet him with a warm welcome and Aloha! His warmth and sincerity was on full display as he interacted with the crowd of supporters. Especially, his interaction with our men and women in uniform, showing his sincere appreciation for their service.

Mahalo to Marissa Kerns and the Honolulu Tea Party, Mark Torreano and all the other patriots who were out showing their support for President Trump...carpe diem!!

Since being elected, our President has endured an endless onslaught of attacks from the left and career politicians. This hatred for our President has even made it here to the land of paradise and aloha! Unfortunately even some of our elected officials, like Trump-hating Representative Kaniela Ing, are stoking the flames of division.

While many critics follow and read our presidents tweets like angry zombies, let us Republicans focus on the positive things that have happened and build on those.

Arguably, President Trumps biggest three achievements have been filling a crucial Supreme Court vacancy, withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Paris Climate Accord, and dismantling various Obama-era unconstitutional regulations. Additionally, since his inauguration, our stock market has reached the highest point it's been at in years, our unemployment numbers are the lowest in 17 years, and our economy has greatly improved.

Our president also takes world leadership and defense of our nation extremely seriously. Dealing resolutely with the threats from North Korea, Iran, ISIS and China are always at the top of President Trumps priorities. He knows that Hawaii and our nation should not have to put up with ever-present threats to our safety and security. Thankfully, the failed Obama era of leading from behind is over.

Once again, it was an honor to be part of the welcoming committee which greeted President Donald J. Trump on your behalf. I shared as many memories from this day on our official Facebook page. Please be sure to follow our page and share posts that you like with your friends and family.

Our partys solution-oriented message of reform is a message worth sharing. Thats why your Honolulu County Republican Partys Strike Force is continuing our door-to-door canvassing across Oahu. If youd like to help, please donate to help defray our printing costs and/or volunteer to assist us in the effort to make it easier for Republican candidates to win elections in 2018 and beyond.

Mahalo again for allowing me to serve as your county chairman. With your kokua, well be able to start building a Republican majority in Hawaii which resembles the Republican majority across the nation and in our nations capitol.

Respectfully,

Brett Kulbis

Honolulu County Chairman

KITV: Some of President Trump's Hawaii supporters got to meet the commander-in-chief
Think employers and employees are on the same page when it comes to the value of benefits? Think again.



In fact, 57% of Australian employers believe their benefits packages are a major factor in worker attraction and retention, but only 36% of employees agree that their packages met their needs, according to the 2017 Willis Towers Watson Asia Pacific Benefits Trends Survey.



Moreover, it found the costs of benefits is listed as the number one employer challenge for the next three years by 72% of respondents.



David Rowell, Managing Director of Health and Benefits for Willis Towers Watson Australia and New Zealand, said that with a sixth of employers in Australia paying 20% or more of their payroll on benefits, this is an important cost to get right.



Even more extraordinary is that one in four employers in Australia dont know their level of spending on benefits, he said.



But the perception gap between employers and employees clearly needs to be addressed.



Employers need more insight into what their employees actually think and they need to improve their implementation and communication.



The research also found that 48% of employers rated wellbeing programmes of most importance to employees, compared to 41% who identified healthcare benefits.



Even though traditional health, disability and life insurance benefits continue to be the most prevalent, there is a move to broader benefits. Australian employers were asked if they offered or planned to introduce a range of expanded benefits over the next three years:
MORGANTON  A Connelly Springs man pleaded guilty to firing two shotgun blasts through the front of his brother and sister-in-laws residence before fleeing to Ecuador, according to a 25th District Attorneys Office press release.

Dean Allen Yancey, 63, of Connelly Springs, was sentenced to seven to 11 years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and two counts of discharging a weapon into occupied premises in Burke County Superior Court on Monday.

Yancey was given an additional suspended sentence of 29-47 months in prison, with 36 months of probation by Burke County Superior Court Judge Robert C. Ervin.

Yanceys conviction traces back to an incident where Burke County Sheriffs Office investigators were called to a residence May 1, 2013, in reference to a shooting, according to the release.

The investigation showed that Yancey pulled his truck up to the front of the residence of his brother and sister-in-law, who were inside watching television. Yancey fired two shots from a shotgun through the window of the home, missing the couple by inches, according to the release.

While on pre-trial release, Yancey fled to Ecuador for more than two years, according to the release, before being extradited back to Burke County with assistance from the United States Marshals Service.
HILDEBRAN  The town of Hildebran will expand its horizons and welcome the Pond View Apartment community in the near future.

The Pond View Apartment community will consist of nine one-bedroom units, 27 two-bedroom units and 24 three-bedroom units with a separate clubhouse building with amenities, including a fitness center, computer work stations and office facilities.

They are supposed to break ground on the apartments in the spring so hopefully by this time next year we'll be seeing some really nice results, Hildebran Mayor Virginia Cook said.

The apartment community will be located on Main Avenue East in Hildebran.

The investors were looking for something in the area of eastern Burke County, and I had the opportunity to talk to them, and I gave them a list of reasons for them to come to Hildebran, Cook said.

She said one of her selling points for the property on Main Avenue East was its close proximity to a doctor's office, pharmacy, post office and park.

There were so many positives for this area, Cook said. These apartments are going to be available to all types of people, all age ranges.

Cook said the town has been using Morganton as an example of how to grow Hildebran similarly.

Morganton has just made a tremendous impact on growth in the last four years, Cook said. Those folks have worked so hard.

Cook added that Hildebran needs similar growth, but not necessarily in population.

We want to have the same abundance of resources as Morganton has and be a place where people want to visit, Cook said. We are moving closer and closer to that.

Cook is thankful for more than the increase in revenue the apartment community will bring to Hildebran as well.

Other than the revenue, we will probably have an influx in population of younger people and families that are just starting out, Cook said. We want them to help maintain Hildebran and help it grow.

Hildebran has a large number of senior residents, she said, and she has enjoyed how current residents have been involved with the towns growth.

On the other hand, we do want to bring more children into the community, and this is a good start, Cook said. Its not always the monetary growth that we need; sometimes we need a growth in population.

Cook said she has heard some concern over the type of housing the apartment community will be offering and wants to set the record straight.

(The apartment community) is not low-income housing  this is going to be something really nice, but not astronomically high in price, Cook said.

This will be a nice stepping stone from apartment living to buying a house, and hopefully we will have housing opportunities in the near future to entice those to stay here in Hildebran.
HICKORY  This years City of Hickory Ward 5 race features a contest between one-term Councilman David Zagaroli and newcomer Matthew Maulding.

Zagaroli and Maulding discussed campaign platforms during a forum hosted by the Hickory Daily Record that can be viewed on the HDRs Facebook page.

The two men also gave brief statements during a forum held at Lenoir-Rhyne University that can be viewed on the Greater Hickory Jaycees Facebook page.

The following information and summary of the candidates positions is taken from the forum, public appearances and interviews with the candidates.

Voters will be able to make their choice on Tuesday.

Matthew Maulding

Age: 26

Occupation: Account administrator

Education: Some college

Time in Hickory: Almost 20 years

Vision/Platform: Maulding said the three biggest issues for his campaign are advocating for residents' interest with regard to the U.S. Highway 321 widening project, addressing the opioid problem, and youth recruitment and retention. Maulding hopes to bring a new, younger perspective to council.

Economic development: He said the city should invest in disinvested communities like Ridgeview, Westmont and West Hickory.

Bond project: He said bond money should be invested in under-invested portions of the city. It would be more effective to locate the business park closer to the city rather than on Startown Road, he said.

Youth recruitment/retention: He said citywide broadband could help ease the financial burden of younger people with debt. Also, the city should create a youth ambassador whose job is reaching out to and recruiting young people. Young people are more interested in management-type jobs than in textile or furniture jobs, he said.

Opioids: He said the city should establish a commission of residents, law enforcement officials and medical professionals, and learn from the work of community organizations that have been fighting the problem. Also, officials should work on diversion efforts to put addicts and abusers in treatment rather in jail.

Housing: He said the affordability of housing, and not just bringing in new developments, should be a key concern of housing policy in the city. Also, he agreed with Zagaroli that the ideal cost of housing is 20-25 percent of a persons income.

Representation: He said he would like to see more diversity on boards and commissions. Also, in many cases, it is the poorest and most vulnerable parts of town that are least represented. He would push to change the citys ward voting system, too.

David Zagaroli

Age: 75

Occupation: Ward 5 councilman since 2013; semi-retired, part-time purchasing agent

Education: Michigan State University, B.A., industrial design

Time in Hickory: 52 years

Vision/Platform: Zagaroli said the city has made a great deal of progress since 2008, and that there is more work to be done with the efforts the city has already initiated. Zagaroli has cited the creation of more housing and population growth as key areas of concern.

Economic development: He said Warren Woods Office of Business Development and Planning will help sell the citys assets both within the city and outside of the city. The city could be more proactive in going out and recruiting companies, too.

Bond Project: He said bond projects help the city both showcase existing amenities while also creating new ones for families and young people. The Park 1764 business park can lead to direct economic development.

Youth recruitment/retention: He said partnerships with fiber optics companies, Catawba Valley Community College and Lenoir-Rhyne University can help to attract and keep young professionals in the area.

Opioids: He said the city council should take a larger role in addressing the opioid problem than it has been by working through the schools and bringing a center for treatment in the area.

Housing: He said housing is a major concern, and the city is working to bring in affordable housing near CVCC and in other places. He said 20-25 percent of a persons income is an ideal amount to spend on housing.

Representation: He said the city needs more diversity on boards and commissions, but it can often be difficult finding people to serve. He was in favor of changing the ward voting system, but made no specific commitment on how it should be changed.
Vijay Rupani has been chief minister for less than two years but is facing the test of winning Gujarat for the first time since Prime Minister Narendra Modi moved to Delhi. In an exclusive interview to Hiral Dave, the soft-spoken Rupani explains how the BJP plans to address the challenges ahead of the assembly polls in December.

Is this the most challenging election for the BJP in the last two decades?

Every election brings its own challenges. In the elections held after Godhra (the train burning and subsequent riots of 2002), Narendrabhai (Modi) was called every name under the sun. In the next two elections, Patidar leaders in the BJP rebelled (six MLAs left in 2007 and in 2012 former CM Keshubhai Patel launched a new party, Gujarat Parivartan Party (GPP)). But we won every election because our intentions are clean. Gujarats interest is our priority.

Why has the Patidar community rebelled ahead of every important election since the BJP first came to power in 1995?

The Congress has no issue or agenda. So to take a shortcut, the party has tried to disturb Patidars who are the BJPs strongest supporters.

Why have all three emerging faces, Hardik Patel, Alpesh Thakor or Jignesh Mevani, moved close to the Congress?

Hardik is a Congress agent. Alpesh Thakors father is a Congress man and Alpesh was also in the Congress. He has now gone back to his old party. Mevani subscribes to communist ideology.

Is the BJP open to any of them?

So far, they have done only what the Congress wanted them to. They have cheated their community. The BJP will check their intentions if they ever express a willingness to join us.

When did you realise Hardik is a Congress agent?

We realised it on the very first day. For the 2015 Ahmedabad rally led by Hardik, Anandiben Patel (then CM) extended all support. But instead of ending the matter with the rally, Hardik sat on a dharna and demanded the CM personally visit him and assure him of reservation. That was also a dishonour to the CM post. Now he reportedly had a secret meeting with Rahul (Gandhi) in a hotel and was seen walking out with a bag. This is why the community leaders are now calling it a private agitation and not the Patidar agitation.

Do you think Patidar Aanamt Andolan Samitis demand for OBC status is genuine?

This matter is to be decided by the OBC commission. If they approach the commission and the commission recommends (reservation for Patidars), the government is willing to include them in the OBC list.

But there is still some resentment in the Patidar community.

There was some anger in the community two years ago. Now, all their issues have been addressed.

The BJP lost taluka panchayat elections in 2015. How is your preparation now?

Then, we suffered a loss in rural parts, not in cities. But after that, the BJP has won every rural election. We won more than 80% of some 10,000 gram panchayats that went to the polls with Patidar and OBC domination. That shows the communities are no longer with these leaders.

Are you saying that Hardik has lost the communitys support?

Hardik used to say he would not stop till the reservation demand is met. Has Congress given Patidars reservation? Then why is Hardik joining hands with them? As far as EBC reservation is concerned, BJP was the first to offer this. It later ran into legal trouble. Hardik had called our offer a lollipop. Now, he likes the lollipop offered by Congress.

People are seeing a new Rahul Gandhi. What is your opinion?

It is same old Rahul Gandhi and results (of the election) will prove this. His team has been trying to build a new image.

Rahul Gandhi has been raising issues of unemployment, GST and demonetisation. How are you going to tackle them?

He is spreading lies. If you see the figures, Gujarat has remained number 1 job provider since 2001. Gujarat with 9 unemployed youths per 1000 has the lowest rate in the entire country. The issue of GST implementation has been addressed.

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In Gujarat elections, the Patel-dominated Saurashtra region appears to be the ruling BJPs weak link in the state that will vote for a new assembly on December 9 and 14.

The influential Patidar community, which comprises farmers, diamond merchants and industrialists, is up in arms against the BJP over its demand for reservation in government jobs and education.

Patels account for 12% of Gujarats 60 million people and have traditionally supported the BJP. It will be a challenge for the Congress to convert their anger into votes.

But if it does, the Saurashtra region, which votes in the first phase and sends 48 legislators to the 182-member assembly, will see a tight contest between the two rivals.

A word of caution -- this is not the first time that the BJP finds itself in a corner in Saurashtra, which spans 11 districts.

In the 2012 assembly election, the BJP overcame a stiff challenge from its former chief minister Keshubhai Patel, who broke away to form the Gujarat Parivartan Party (GPP), to win 32 seats and eventually a fourth successive term.

The Congress ended up with 13 seats in Saurashtra, the GPP just two and the NCP one.

As of now, the Congress seems to have the first-mover advantage, given the response party vice-president Rahul Gandhis rallies have got in Gujarat.

His frequent visits to the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was the chief minister in 2012, and BJP chief Amit Shah are an indication that the Congress, out of power for 22 years, fancies its chances this time.

Ridiculing Rahul Gandhi or the Gandhi family repeatedly wont fetch you votes all the time. People have seen through this tactic that the BJP has used for 22 years, said Kirit Patel, a real estate agent, at Janta Nagar Chowk in Jetpur, about 70km from Rajkot.

Want a change

The Patels are broadly divided into two main sub-castes, Kadvas and Leuvas, and two smaller sub-castes, Chaudharys and Anjanas.

Though spread all over Gujarat, the Patidars have a big presence in Saurashtra, in western Gujarat, and in the north of the state and can influence the outcome in at least 60 constituencies.

They cite increased competition, unemployment, shrinking landholdings, lack of higher and professional education in support of their demand for reservation.

The quota demand has also catapulted Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (Paas) leader Hardik Patel to national prominence, emerging as a young hero willing to go to any extreme for the community.

At a pan shop near Janta Nagar Chowk, a group of villagers watched Gandhi on TV as he addressed a gathering at Valsad .

He talks sense and is raising the right issues, said Gautam, a Patel and the shop owner. The BJP talks about bullet trains but doesnt spell out how it will improve the existing rail network and roads. Vikas (development) is seen only on highways and not in villages, said Vijaybhai, a sweeper with the civic body.

Vijaybhai was some of the people who refused to share their second name with HT.

Hotchand Kakwani, a Sindhi and a cotton factory owner, Ramesh Tulsibhai Shravan, a Brahmin, and Girish, a Rajput, all of whom were Modi fans till recently, listed note ban, goods and services tax, rising prices, unemployment and farmer distress as reasons enough to oust the BJP.

Modi talks about Congress-mukt (Congress-free) Bharat but has been inducting all Congress discards into the BJP. Koi bhi corrupt vyakti jab BJP mei aata hai to uska shuddikaran hota hai (Does a corrupt person gets cleansed on joining BJP)? said diamond factory worker Dharamsinh at Karampur in Jasdan, about 60km from Rajkot.

Farmers, too, are unhappy. The common complaint is not getting a good price for their crops for many seasons.

Saurashtra is a major cotton and groundnut growing area of Gujarat. The state government in September announced Rs 900 as the procurement price for per 20kg of groundnut. Last year, the minimum support price was Rs 844 per 20kg.

But these are all election sops. Why didnt the government announce these steps earlier? We have been suffering for years, said Jilu Jakshibhai, a farmer in Jasdans Amrapara village.

The time for parivartan (change) had come, said Viram Jejriya, a farmer in Gundala village of Jasdan. Twenty years is too long a period for a party to rule a state.

Will Saurashtra be the bearer of parivartan Jejriya is talking about? We will have to wait for December 18, the counting day.

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A 10-year-old girls semi-naked body was found in a farm in Madhya Pradeshs Dewas district on Saturday, a day after she was reported missing, raising suspicion of her being abducted and sexually assaulted before her murder.

The girl who belonged to Sundrel village in Dewas had left her house on Friday afternoon to give tea to her father, but she never reached him, according to police.

A search for her yielded no result on Friday, but the next day, her body was found in a farm, with cloth in her mouth, and legs tied.

Kantaphod police station in charge, C L Katare said they suspected the girl was raped, but would wait for the post-mortem report to confirm the same.

Agitated over the murder and suspected rape, villagers staged a roadblock and demanded immediate arrest of the criminals. After police persuaded, they ended their agitation.
Get a bowl of popcorn, down the shades and settle in for one thrilling Sunday for we have curated a list of six fantastic -- but lesser known -- murder mysteries from Bollywood that will make for a nail-biting day. Give your Netflix connection some rest for these films not only keep you guessing who did it -- and we can assure you it will never be the butler -- but are atmospheric too.

And you also get a feel of the days when DNA sequencing and forensics will be of no help, when our wary investigator had to rely on his smarts and coincidences to solve the (almost) perfect murder. So, what made us bring up this list? Well, Ittefaq -- the Sonakshi Sinha and Sidharth Malhotra whodunit which is running in theatres and received good reviews. For those who came in late, Ittefaq is a remake of a 1969 film by the same name which had Rajesh Khanna and Nanda.

Enough of the talks, let the mystery unfold...

Mera Saya (1966)



Lawyer Ranjit Singh (Sunil Dutt) returns after the funeral of his wife (Sadhna), who died in his arms, to find her standing in the middle of the court room. She is accused of robbery but she claims innocence and the fact that she is the lawyers wife. How is that possible? The film was the second in Raj Khoslas mystery trilogy with Sadhana, the others being Woh Kaun Thi?( an adaptation of Wilkie Collinss novel The Woman in White) and Anita.

Dhund (1973)



Based on Agatha Christies play, The Unexpected Guest, the BR Chopra-directed film featured Ashok Kumar, Navin Nishcol, Zeenat Aman and Danny Denzongpa in lead roles. Thakur Ranjit Singh (Danny) is murdered and his wife Rani (Zeenat) claims she killed her husband. When a stranger enters the house and cops start investigating, there are ample hints that Rani may not be the killer.

Khamosh (1985)



Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the movie was about a film unit that arrives in Kashmir for shooting and one of the actresses mysteriously commits suicide. As the investigators and crew members try to solve the mystery, the bodies start piling up. The twists and turns in the narrative keep you on the edge and even scare you at times.

Kaun (1999)



Directed by Ram Gopal Varma and written by Anurag Kashyap, Kaun has just three prime characters played by Urmila Matondkar, Manoj Bajpayee and Sushant Singh. Most of the film is confined to the interiors of a house where everyone has a secret to hide. This one plays with your mind and the big twist leaves you startled.

Ugly (2014)



Written and directed by Anurag Kashyap, Ugly has one of the most shocking endings that not only stuns you but also leaves a bad taste in your mouth as you realise the climax exposes real human nature.

Drishyam (2013)



Originally made in Malayalam, the Jeethu Joseph film was remade in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Sinhalese and Hindi. While the murderer in the story was quite evident throughout the story, the mystery around the motive and flow of events keeps the audience hooked till the end.

Honorary mention: Ittefaq (1969)



Rajesh Khanna is the prime suspect in his wifes murder case and ends up in a house with another dead body. The mystery revolves around three people in the narrative and all of them could possibly be the culprit. Abhay decided to remake the classic with Karan Johar and Shah Rukh Khan as co-producers.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
Ranveer Singh stopped being Alauddin Khilji on Saturday. The actor, who is playing the most powerful king of Khalji dynasty that ruled over Delhi in Padmavati, finished shooting for the film and also tweeted about it. And its a wrap! Goodbye Alauddin. 1 year and a few weeks later, I bid thee farewell. May your restless soul find its peace #Khilji, the actor wrote.

In the evening, he was at alleged girlfriend Deepika Padukones home where the actress was celebrating the success of Padmavati trailer. She plays the titular Padmavati in the film. And with that appearance, Ranveer laid to rest yet another debate: if the two had broken up. The couple has been dating for a few years now but has never spoken about their relationship publically. This does not stop occasional rumours that speak about end of their relationship.

And it's a wrap!

Goodbye Alauddin. 1 year and a few weeks later, I bid thee farewell. May your restless soul find its peace... #Khilji pic.twitter.com/Q958NazuJC  Ranveer Singh (@RanveerOfficial) November 4, 2017

In this case, rumours started after Deepika showed up at the 3D trailer launch of Padmavati where none of the stars were supposed to be. The invite to the event didnt mention that any of the actors will be present. Soon after, Ranveer tweeted about being stung by a bee and how this is was the first day of rest of his life.

Thank you my dearest @deepikapadukone for a fun chilled evening #allaboutlastnight #fabulous @ranveersingh and #gorgeous @deepikapadukone #funtimes #laughter #positivity always @mmalhotraworld A post shared by Manish Malhotra (@manishmalhotra05) on Nov 4, 2017 at 8:30pm PDT

The appearance by Ranveer will go a long way in quelling the rumours. In fact, not only did Ranveer show up, he flaunted a rather French look too. Wearing a beret, straight hair and a pair of trendy glasses, he looked a long way from Khiljis look he has been sporting now. The beard and the long tresses were gone, revealing a rather chic cosmopolitan look.

Meanwhile, Deepika is in a rather celebratory mode and the raging controversy around Padmavati is not enough to dispel it. She is celebrating the record views the trailer of Sanjay Leela Bhansali has got as well as the positive word of mouth it is generating before its release. Deepika is in a celebratory mood. She is extremely happy to share this moment with everyone who is close to her. Wherever she has been going off late, be it events or other gatherings, people cannot stop raving about her beauty, grace and talent, a source told Indian Express.

And when the cine Padmavati calls, Bollywood comes calling. Others who were seen at the party include Karan Johar, Sidharth Malhotra, Sonakshi Sinha, Shah Rukh Khan, Sara Ali Khan, Jhanvi Kapoor, Punit Malhotra and Ishan Khattar
George H W Bush and his son George W. Bush did not vote for fellow Republican Donald Trump last year, says the author of a new book on the 41st and 43rd US presidents in which they open up about their disapproval of the man now occupying the White House.

The elder Bush voted for Hillary Clinton, while his son voted for neither Trump nor his Democratic challenger, or none of the above, said Mark K. Updegrove, who wrote The Last Republicans with the cooperation of the two Bushes. HarperCollins will publish the book on November 14.

In an interview with the New York Times, Updegrove said the elder Bush, 93, who served as president from 1989 to 1993, had an instinctive dislike of Trump though he did not know him personally.

HarperCollins will publish The Last Republicans on November 14.

In an interview during the 2016 presidential campaign, George H W Bush told the author that Trump was a blowhard, driven by a certain ego and lacking a commitment to public service.

The younger Bush, 71, who served in the White House from 2001 to 2009, believed candidate Trump lacked both humility and a necessary understanding of the presidency, Updegrove said in previewing the book about the relationship between the Bushes, written with the cooperation of the father and son.

During the campaign, George W Bush told the author that he feared he would turn out to be the last Republican elected president. At the time, I think he was concerned that Hillary Clinton would win, Updegrove told the Times.

But if you look at his values and those shared by his father and Ronald Reagan, they are very much in contrast to the values of the Republican Party today, in particular the platform that Donald Trump ran on, which is essentially protectionism and a certain xenophobia, said Updegrove, a historian who has written several books about the presidency.

Updegrove could not be reached for further comment.

The American people voted to elect an outsider who is capable of implementing real, positive, and needed change - instead of a lifelong politician beholden to special interests, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

If they were interested in continuing decades of costly mistakes, another establishment politician more concerned with putting politics over people would have won.

(L-R) Former US Presidents, Jimmy Carter, George H W Bush, George W Bush, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama attend the Hurricane Relief concert in College Station, Texas, on October 21, 2017. (AFP)

Like many Americans, George W Bush was surprised that Trump fared so well in last years Republican state primaries, where his brother Jeb, a former Florida governor, emerged as one of Trumps most frequent targets.

During the campaign, the billionaire real estate developer, a political novice, promised to drain the swamp in Washington, a vow that extended to the Republican establishment, which the Bush family epitomised.

The book follows a rare speech by the younger Bush in which he delivered a sweeping yet thinly veiled critique of the Trump administrations policies and the presidents blunt style.

The 43rd president decried bullying and prejudice in public life while defending open immigration and trade, two of the pillars of previous Republican administrations that have come under sustained attack by the new president.
Economic reforms such as GST could turn India into a high middle-income economy in 30 years, the World Bank said on Saturday. It credited the countrys extraordinary achievement of quadrupling per capita income to reforms taken in the last three decades.

Last week, India moved into the top 100 of World Banks Ease of Doing Business global rankings for the first time due to sustained business reforms over the past several years. The report had ranked India at 130 last year.

Speaking at Indias Business Reform event organised by the ministry of commerce and industry, World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva said: We have learnt that in reforms what pays off is persistence... what we are recognising in India is that this success today is to be turned into more energy in reforms for the future.

... And I have no doubt that when India hits another century, the century of Independence in 2047, most people in India would be the part of global middle class. India will be a high middle-income country, she said.

What is a high middle-income economy?

The World Bank considers countries of regions with a Gross National Income per capita between $3,956 and $12,235 as high middle-income economies. India currently falls in the lower middle-income category, recording a GNI per capita of $1,680 in 2016, according to World Bank data.

While lower income economies accounted for GNI per capita of $1,005 or less in 2016, lower middle-income economies were those between $1,006 and $3,955, and high income economies had $12,236 or more.

What is GNI per capita?

The UN terms Gross National Income as all value added by domestic producers, plus any product taxes (sans subsidies) that havent been included in output and the net income received from abroad.

GNI per capita is derived from the gross national income with respect to the countrys population, and can indicate the standard of living enjoyed by its average citizen.

The World Bank measures GNI per capita in US dollars by converting local currency using its World Bank Atlas method. Population estimates are also calculated by demographers of the 189-member group.

Where do other countries rank?

Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are among the countries listed as lower middle-income economies, along with India. China and Brazil are upper middle-income economies, while Nepal falls in the low-income category.

The high-income category has countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Norway and the UAE.

(With PTI inputs)
Dehradun:

Residents of Rishikesh are on an indefinite hunger strike protesting against a steep hike in the prices of medical procedures at the AIIMS Rishikesh that are several times higher than the rates at the AIIMS Delhi.

The AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) in Rishikesh was setup in 2012 with the aim of providing quality healthcare to local residents at reasonable rates.

On October 5, changed rates of medical or surgical procedures corresponding to that approved by the central government health scheme (CGHS) at all healthcare centres, were implemented.

The revised rates for medical procedures at the AIIMS in Rishikesh were approved by a standing finance committee under the Union health ministry, authorities at the premier hospital, said.

Activists, however, say that cancer patients admitted in the private and general ward at the AIIMS in Delhi pay 3,000 and 750 for radiotherapy are being asked to pay between 29,750 and 1, 32,314 for the treatment at the AIIMS in Rishikesh, which is nearly 4,000 times higher.

Similarly, for a normal delivery, which is free in AIIMS Delhi general ward and for which R 2000 charged in its private ward, the AIIMS Rishikesh is charging R 7500.

Calling the steep hike a huge blow to the people of Uttarakhand, a number of social organisations and activists have come together under the banner of #RightToHealth movement, and as part of which Praveen Singh, Ram Krishna Tiwari and Aadesh Chaudhary are sitting on an indefinite hunger strike outside the hospital.

A large number of patients come to the hospital for treatment not just from Rishikesh but also from remote Garhwal hills, so we are demanding an immediate rollback in the fee hike, said activist Praveen Singh, who alleged that the decision was taken to benefit private hospitals.

The hospital is also battling with shortage of doctors and staff and this (increase in rates) is nothing but a cruel move, which has left the common man helpless, he told Hindustan Times.

The AIIMS in Uttarakhand was set up to provide affordable medical treatment for a large number of people, especially those who come from the remote hill areas, said Mukesh Semwal, convener of the state unit of the Socialist Unity Centre of India.

The move will clearly force patients to seek treatment in private-run hospitals, which, ironically may be charging lesser than this (AIIMS increased rates), he said.

Harish Thapliyal, public relations officer at the AIIMS, Rishikesh, said the revised rates conforming to the CGHS rates were not applicable for below poverty line (BPL) patients.

Even for non-BPL patients, consultant doctors have been given powers to waive off the entire procedure cost on case to case basis, he told HT.

He further said that a meeting has been convened on November 5, where a final decision may be taken to rollback the changes partially or entirely, considering the peoples demand.

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The Uttarakhand government has hinted that they will stop admitting children to private schools under the Right to Education (RTE) Act from 2018-19 academic session, putting at stake future of nearly 1.7 lakh students.

This comes amid allegations that the central government provided only a part of the funds for such students for 2015-16 and nothing thereafter due to which the fund-starved states liability towards the schools has increased.

The state government has yet to reimburse nearly 4,000 unaided schools Rs 100 crore in cumulative dues  tuition and annual fee --- for the students they had admitted under the RTE Act. The Act mandates all private schools, excluding unaided minority schools, to reserve 25% seats for students coming from socially and economically backward classes.

We have to re-look at the RTE in the state, Bhupinder Kaur Aulakh, school education secretary told Hindustan Times Friday. She blamed the Centre for not releasing the funds for last two academic sessions.

Under the RTE Act, Centre contributes to states 65% of the cost of providing free primary education. For north-eastern states, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand it is 90%. The state government selects students and allots them private schools, where they are granted free admission. The state government then reimburses the schools at a fixed rate.

Sources claim that Uttarakhand government, which is already battling with severe fund crunch, may terminate the programme. The school education secretary has hinted at halting the programme, which is posing difficulties both for the private schools and also for the government, a senior officer, requesting anonymity, said.

The private schools too have threatened to strike off the admissions if they dues along with accrued interest were not cleared soon.

It is a difficult situation for private schools. They are already offering education to such students at a highly subsidised rate. The government owes some schools up to Rs 18 lakh, Prem Kashyap, president of Progressive School Association, an umbrella organisation of nearly 170 private schools, said.

Kasyhap said the schools have liabilities too. They have to pay salaries to teachers and staff, spend on infrastructure, and repay loans. If this continues, I am afraid we will be left with no choice other than to strike off the names of the students (already enrolled), he added.

The association members also met finance minister Prakash Pant, but to no avail. The school education department claims to have sent several letters to the Centre in the past, but they failed to yield a positive result.

We need to make modifications (to the Act) to secure the future of students, Aulakh said.

As per figures available with school education department, for the academic session 2015-16, Centre paid Rs 39.80 crore against the total expenditure of Rs 49.55 crore.

In 2016-17, Rs 81.89 crore was spent on providing education to children from underprivileged families. The Union government didnt provide any funds that year. With this, the total liability stands at Rs 91.64 crore. The department was yet to calculate the expenses incurred in academic session 2017-18. The cumulative dues are likely to exceed Rs 100 crore mark.

Incidentally, the number of children getting admissions under RTE quota too has seen a steady rise over the years. From nearly 83,000 such admissions in 2015-16, it has shot up to 1.7 lakh in 2017-18 and is likely to further rise in the next academic session.

As per the provisions of the RTE Act, Centre pays to school a monthly fee not exceeding Rs 1383 and an annual fee of Rs 2100 for uniform, meal and textbooks per child. Some schools even charge a nominal fee from such students.

The private school say the amount fixed by the government is too less as the actual monthly varies between Rs 2000- Rs 7000 depending on class. The average expense on uniform and textbooks is also in the same slab.

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Two men allegedly stole a cab drivers car on knifepoint and were speeding away when they crashed into a truck, killing one of them, at southwest Delhis Dhool Siras in Dwarka in the early hours of Sunday.

Police officials said they suspect the accident was caused by low visibility due to a shallow fog in the area at the time.

Police said the two accused, who were speeding, apparently panicked on hearing the siren of police patrol vans. In their rush, police said the alleged carjackers failed to see a truck in front of them and crashed into it.

While one of the accused died on the spot, the other suspect, who was wounded, fled by the time a police team arrived at the scene.

Shibesh Singh, deputy commissioner of police (southwest), said the carjacking and the accident were reported within a gap of five minutes. The accident spot was about a kilometre away from Gola Dairy Chowk in Dwarkas Sector 19, where the duo allegedly stole the Maruti Swift Dzire car from Chandar Pal, a native of Agra in Uttar Pradesh who lives in Dwarka.

Pal, a driver for app-based cab company Ola, was returning home after dropping a passenger in Gurgaon. He was near Gola Dairy Chowk when two men on a motorcycle signalled him to stop.

As Pal stopped, one of the accused asked to be dropped to Gurgaon. Pal refused the ride saying he was off duty and was returning home. An argument ensued between them which led to a scuffle. During the melee, one of the accused took out the cars keys while the other whipped out a knife threatening to kill Pal, said Singh.

The two then allegedly forced Pal to get out of the car. They then got in and sped away, leaving their motorcycle behind. Pal called the police control room at 12.23am and reported the carjacking.

The control room sent a message across wireless sets in the district and all police pickets in the region were alerted. A police team was on its way to meet the caller when another call reporting an accident in Dhool Siras area was received at 12.25am.

Another police team reached the accident scene where they found that the stolen Dzire car had hit a moving truck. Police said they found a critically injured man trapped between the front passenger seat and the dashboard of the car.

Rescue teams from fire department were informed. It took them more than half an hour to cut the car and take the man out. He was then rushed to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, where he was declared brought dead, said the officer. The truck driver had fled the accident spot, but later turned up at the police station, the officer added.

The DCP said the deceased man was identified as Ashish Dhanda from Mirchpur village in Haryanas Hisar. Dhanda was identified with the help of cellphone numbers and documents found in his pocket. We are collecting more details about him and verifying his antecedents to ascertain if he had a criminal background. Dhandas family has been informed and asked to identify and claim the body. They are on their way to Delhi, said Singh adding they are yet to nab the absconding second suspect, who is has not been identified so far.

Police said they are checking hospitals across Delhi and Gurgaon to find out if Dhandas associate has been admitted anywhere. The motorcycle left behind was traced to an address in north Delhis Majnu ka Tila. Its owner lived in a rented flat till four years ago. DCP Singh said they are probing if the bike had been reported stolen.

A case of armed robbery, causing death by negligence was registered at Dwarka Sector 23 police station. Efforts are on to nab the absconding suspect, he said.
New Delhi

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has proposed setting up its own aviation security training on the lines an institution being run in the United States (US).

The move, the force said, would help them keep pace with newer technology being adopted to improve security standards at Indias airports.

The Transport Security Administration (TSA) of USA currently operates a facility  TSA System Integration Facility (TSIF)  where it tests new technologies and trains its personnel.

According to CISF officials, research and analysis related to aviation security will be conducted and security personnel will be trained in latest technology at the proposed facility.

The CISF, which provides security at 59 of the 98 operational airports in the country, including Delhi, has prepared a report, Future Projection September 2017, where it has listed the requirement for aviation security in the next five years and also proposed creation of the dedicated training centre.

The report has been sent to the Union ministry of civil aviation and the ministry of home affairs for approval.

Over the next five years, the CISF must continue to develop new capabilities in order to meet the passenger demand for a seamless experience at airports. It is imperative that the force focuses on digital surveillance and new technologies. We have proposed a Centre for Excellence for Aviation Security Training (CETAS) where research, training and testing of new equipment can be undertaken, CISFs director general OP Singh said.

The centre will have aviation security and screener certification courses for CISF personnel posted at airports.

Other agencies will be allowed to register for the security training courses and the CISF will provide them certificates.

Nowadays, baggage scanning machines are installed at many places, but personnel handling such machines are not adequately trained. The centre may also be used to train such staff. Employees of airlines and the airport operator will also be trained as they play an important role in aviation security, said a CISF offical, who contributed to preparation of the report.

The CISF already runs aviation security training institutes in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Arakkonam (Chennai) and Hyderabad, where it imparts basic aviation security training, including screener certification courses (except at Arakkonam).

But there is an acute shortage of certified screeners at airports. The personnel monitoring the screen of baggage X-Ray machines need to be certified from any of the above CISF-run centres.

The centre may be utilized for conducting research and analysis of all past cases related to aviation security, like hijacking, sabotage, unlawful interference towards civil aviation, that have occurred worldwide and for preparation of case studies for taking suitable measures to mitigate such threats at Indian airports. The centre can be used to test new technologies and security gadgets, which can be introduced in aviation security, reads the report, accessed by Hindustan Times.

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The Delhi government has sought a CBI probe into the alleged DSSSB examination paper leak case and has demanded strict action against officers involved. Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia on Saturday wrote to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal urging him to immediately refer the case to the CBI as he alleged that the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) failed to take any action in the past.

The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) exam was held on October 29 for the appointment of primary teachers in schools run by municipal corporations. The paper was allegedly leaked on social media. Over 200 applicants had taken the test.

Attacking the DSSSB, which comes directly under the L-G, Sisodia said the incident was a serious case of corruption in the teacher recruitment process and that malpractices such as this have become a regular feature of the department.

While there have been instances of students being barred from exams, no action has been taken against any senior officer in the DSSSB despite multiple such instances, the minister wrote in the letter.

Strong action needs to be taken in this case, so as to give a clear message that the L-Gs office is not protecting the corrupt within the DSSSB, he added.

He also sought cancellation of the exam held on October 29 and demanded that the officials involved in conducting it be suspended so that they do not tamper with evidence.

Sisoda, who is also the education minister, said the government has already referred the issue to the L-G.

There have also been complaints of papers being set from a particular guidebook and servers being down at the time when documents have to be uploaded. All these issues have already been referred to the L-G, he said.
The Delhi High Court has ordered probe into an alleged medical negligence at Safdarjung Hospital in wrongly declaring a newborn dead in June this year. The infant was brought back to the hospital and put on a ventilator, but died after 36 hours.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru directed the ministry of health to set up a three-member committee to enquire into the incident. It said that the committee should submit a report within eight weeks.

The panel should comprise the health secretary or his nominee who is not below the rank of joint secretary, the additional director general health sevices and the medical superintendent of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, the court said.

The court also directed Safdarjung Hospitals medical superintendent to hand over all the documents related to the infant to the parents and to retain a copy for the perusal of the committee.

It also said that the parents can make a complaint to the Delhi Medical Council against the alleged medical negligence by the hospital.

According to the petition filed by the parents, the incident occurred on June 18 this year when the baby was born four months prematurely. The baby was born at 5.45am, but at 6am the same day the parents were informed that the infant has passed away and the body was handed over in an envelope for the last rites, the petition said.

However, a few hours later, while taking the infant for cremation, it was noticed that the baby was gasping for breath and was rushed back to the hospital. The hospital provided oxygen to the baby, but the infant did not survive for more than 36 hours, the petition has said.

Apart from seeking an inquiry into the incident, the parents have sought compensation for the trauma suffered by them and also action against the doctors and staff concerned.
Ten persons subjected two minors to third degree, forced them to sexually assault each other, and filmed the crime in west Delhi, following which two accused have been arrested, police said on Sunday.

An FIR was lodged against 10 persons under the Indian Penal Code for unnatural sex and other offences as well as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and two of them arrested late Saturday night, Delhi Police Special Commissioner and Chief PRO Dependra Pathak said.

The crime took place on October 26 in Rohini but came to light on Saturday when the boys families approached police after a video footage recorded by the accused went viral on social media.

Police said the boys, aged between 13 and 15, are friends and live with their families in Metro Vihar area in Holambi Kalan.

As one of the accused, Kanwar Singh, suspected one of them of involvement in theft at his residence, his men summoned the minor and held him hostage.

They beat him with leather belts and when he did not admit to the theft, the accused also called his friend, 15, forced both to strip, and tortured them for over five hours, police said.

Both were forced to perform sexual acts on each other, filmed in the process and threatened with uploading of the clipping on the Internet in case police was told about the crime, a senior police officer said.

The accused even put petrol and chilli powder on their private parts and burnt them with cigarettes.

The two boys were said to be in very bad condition and had since been admitted at Ambedkar Hospital in Rohini.
Tihar jail, one of the largest jails in the country with an inmate population of over 14,500, is set to get a state-of-the-art security apparatus,comparable to the best international practices followed in high security prisons.

The Delhi High Court has set up a high-level committee to suggest measures for enhancing security at Tihar as well as the Rohini and Mandoli jails.

The courts directions came on a petition, alleging that 47 inmates in Tihar jail were mercilessly beaten up by security personnel inside the prison and that their human rights were violated by the jail authorities.

The incident could not be recorded as only 19 CCTV camera out of the total 83 were operational in jail number three during that time.

The committee will give specific suggestions on preserving the CCTV footage and procuring and maintaining state-of-the-art top quality servers and IT infrastructure required for the purpose, a bench of justice S Muralidhar and justice IS Mehta said.

It directed the secretary of the ministry of home affairs to constitute the committee within 10 days. The committee, the court said, would comprise of a retired district judge of Delhi as the chairperson, a senior official of the National Informatics Centre and a senior official of Delhi Police, not below the rank of a deputy commissioner of police.

Considering that the capacity of the jail is around 6,000, it is plainly overcrowded by over 100%. It is undoubtedly a high security zone. It should be needless to emphasise that the proper functioning of CCTV cameras in Tihar jail complex, on a continuous basis, is an non-compromisable imperative, the court said.

The commitee will suggest the protocol to be followed for disaster management and recovery in the event of a crisis...There cannot be any excuse of budgetary constraints in undertaking the above exercise given the nature of the task, the court said.
The National Board for Wildlife has cleared an armed police forces hospital near the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in Delhi with a caveat that such huge institutes should not come up in the city because they add to the traffic woes and pollution load.

The Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Science (CAPFIMS) will share its boundary wall with the sanctuary that spreads over 19.57 sq km.

The Asola Bhatti Sanctuary, located on the southernmost tip of the Capital, has the last remnants of the Delhi Ridge hill range. It is home to a rich biological diversity with around 300 species of animals.

This will add to traffic and environmental burden on a highly polluted mega-city. Cant authorities think of constructing such institutions in B-class (tier-2) cities in the country? In future, such projects, which are not specific to Delhi, should not be constructed in Delhi, the NBWL  Indias apex body on wildlife - said in its general recommendations in its last meeting held in September.

The hospital would have a 500-bed general hospital, a 300-bed super specialty unit, a nursing college and a School of Paramedics. It will be built on the lines of the Armed Forces Medical College.

Delhi is already overpopulated and suffers from increasing pollution. Construction of such institute may result into visits by personnel of armed forces and their relatives. As a result, the traffic on Delhi roads, pollution in its air and the waste will increase, the recommendation said.

A committee headed by HS Singh, a member of the wildlife panel, visited the site in August and has proposed some measures that the institute need to take to prevent any impact on the sanctuary.

The agency concerned has been directed to deposit 2% of total cost of the project for undertaking soil-moisture conservation and improvement of wildlife habitat in the sanctuary, the committee recommended.

It has also been directed to come up with a thick green belt of native plant species to buffer air, sound and water pollution inside the sanctuary. The green belt would have to be kept out of public use.

The biomedical waste generated from the hospital should be disposed 5 km away from the boundary of the sanctuary. The boundary wall should be at least 10 feet high and be designed and constructed in such a way that no waste could be thrown over the wall into the sanctuary.

Exhaust fans, vents of air-conditioners should also not be directed towards the sanctuary, the committee said.

The ridge forests and its surrounding areas should be preserved and improved as lung of the mega-city, said one of the board members.
Last week, 25 bonded labourers, including children, were rescued from farmlands in Rajasthans Baran district. The rescued workers said they were lured from Madhya Pradesh with loans between Rs 500 to Rs 20,000 and the promise of work. But they were made to work on the fields without pay. Bonded and forced labour - where a person is made to work through the use of violence or intimidation or more subtle means such as accumulated debt - are some of the oldest forms of slavery in the world. According to the 2016 Global Slavery Index, India has the most slaves in the world. There are an estimated 46 million people enslaved worldwide with more than 18 million of them in India, the survey added. Unfortunately, the Indian government cannot verify these figures. But the labour ministry has drawn up plans to identify, rescue and help bonded labourers by 2030.

In reply to a Lok Sabha question, minister of state (independent charge) for labour and employment Bandaru Dattatreya, said that the Centre has adopted a three-pronged strategy for the abolition of the bonded labour system: First, the Constitution prohibits forced labour. It enacted the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, which empowers executive magistrates to exercise powers of judicial magistrate of first or second class for trial of offences. Vigilance committees at the district and sub-divisional levels have been prescribed to identify and rehabilitate bonded labourers. A centrally-sponsored plan --- Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labour --- is under implementation since 1978 under which the Centre and states contribute Rs 10,000 each for cases of rehabilitation.

Unfortunately, despite these measures, India has such large numbers of bonded labourers, thanks to poor enforcement of the four-decade-old bonded labour law, its under-resourced police and judiciary, and deep societal and economic inequities that still exist. The only way to reduce bonded labour is taking a preventive approach, by reducing the conditions that perpetuate bondage-like conditions by promoting decent work, and by removing possible elements of bondage and coercion in the worker-employer relationship. It also involves inter-state coordination mechanisms for migrant workers, including workplace improvements and linking them to social security schemes. Above all, efforts must be made to create a database of bonded labourers. It is not an easy task but would be first step towards their liberation and rehabilitation.
People in the developing world who are least responsible for causing the problem of climate change are most likely to suffer, Harsh Vardhan, Indias environment minister, said on the eve of the Bonn climate talks starting November 6, setting the tone for the Indian delegation.

He was speaking at the second day of the World Conference on Environment 2017 in Delhi. The two-day conference (Nov 3-4) was organised by the National Green Tribunal, Indias top environment court, in collaboration with United Nations Environment Programme, the Asian Development Bank, the Ministry of Environment and Forests and the Ministry of Water Resources.

The Conference of Parties (COP)-23 being held in Germany, is the second such gathering of world leaders after the signing of the Paris climate agreement at COP 21 in 2015, and the first since the US announced plans to withdraw.

The Bonn conference is the platform where the rulebook of the Paris agreement will be negotiated. The ministers comments suggest that the issue of climate justice, recognising the historical contribution of developed nations to climate change, will be front and centre at Bonn.

A rule book is important because the Paris agreement is not a legally binding treaty and only requires countries to set voluntary targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement relies on a robust reporting mechanism to track countries progress and to pressure them into action.

The divide between developed countries and developing countries has been the most polarising at the negotiations that are held under the aegis of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change signed in 1992.

Industrialised nations historically account for over 70 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for human-induced climate change. US is the largest contributor of carbon dioxide, the primary greenhouse gas.

Since the 1960s countries like China and India saw an uptick in emissions and have now emerged as the first and third largest contributors looking at yearly contributions. On a per capita basis however, India (1.9 Million Tonnes) was way behind the US (15.6 MT) and even China (7.4 MT) in 2016.

India has consistently argued that meeting the basic needs of its people is priority even if it means rising GHG emissions, and its development should not be hindered because its per capita emissions are much lower than developed countries.

An entitlement to equal per capita emissions recognises the fundamental equality of all people and their rights to economic growth even within a carbon constrained world, Harsh Vardhan said.

Globally, Donald Trumps decision to withdraw the treaty has been met with hostility because US continues to be the second largest annual emitter of GHG. India in particular was incensed that the US president chose to underscore the issue of funding for developing countries to mitigate and cope with climate change.

While highlighting Indias efforts to move towards a low carbon economy, like the promotion of renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, Harsh Vardhan noted that compensation of the developing countries by industrialised nations would be key.

India makes its participation contingent on receiving billions of dollars in foreign aid, Trump said in June. The US will continue to participate at the COP meetings because it cannot formally withdraw from the Paris agreement before 2020.

The Bonn negotiations will also clarify how mechanisms for transfer of resources between developed and developing countries will work.

It is widely recognised that climate change will disproportionately impact countries like India, where the resources available to mitigate climate change and combat related effects are limited. Low lying island nations like Fiji, which is co-hosting the Bonn talks, are at highest risk because their very existence is threatened by sea-level rise.

A UN emissions gap report released this week showed that the world is not on track to meet the central goal of the Paris agreement of keeping global temperature rise below 2 degrees Celsius, from pre-industrial levels.

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The elevated U-turn, constructed at Iffco Chowk to assist commuters travelling from Mehrauli-Gurgaon (MG) Road towards New Delhi, has been causing chaos and confusion at the junction as several commuters resort to using the unidirectional flyover as a bi-directional one and travel in the wrong direction to reach MG road and areas around it.

The flyover, which was opened to traffic on a trial basis on Wednesday, is part of a three-tier project planned by the Haryana government and the National Highways Authorities of India (NHAI) to ease traffic flow at three crucial junctions  Iffco Chowk, Rajiv Chowk and the Signature Tower junction.

Two-wheelers, three-wheelers and even heavy commercial vehicles have been operating on the flyover illegally from the Sukhrali side in order to take a shortcut towards MG Road.

Unaware of traffic violations, several commuters claimed they came within a whisker of meeting with an accident.

As a driver, I am aware of the need to avoid traffic violations and driving in the wrong direction on main roads. But how can someone drive in the wrong direction on a flyover? This smacks of gross negligence, Manish Sinha, a resident of Essel Tower, said.

I was driving on the flyover at night and an auto-rickshaw was coming from the opposite side. The headlight of the auto-rickshaw was turned off. I swayed my vehicle at the last moment to avoid a collision, which could have caused serious injuries. I am glad that I am safe, but others may not be so lucky. The authorities need to act, Kapil Shekhawat, a resident of Sukhrali, said.

Read I Gurgaon: Elevated U-turn on Delhi-Gurgaon expressway near Ambience Mall soon

While NHAI officials said that they will depute marshals at the flyover to tackle the issue, the traffic police promised a sterner approach.

Bi-directional driving on unidirectional flyover is a serious concern and officials have been alerted to tackle the issue and penalise those violating traffic norms. Traffic police officials will monitor the movement of vehicles on the flyover. For now, we have cautioned motorists to drive carefully on the stretch, Simardeep Singh, DCP (traffic), said.

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Harry Dreyfuss, son of actor Richard Dreyfuss, has claimed that he was molested by Kevin Spacey when he was 18 and his father was in the same room. The allegation marks the latest sexual harassment charges against Spacey, who has now been accused of sexual misconduct by more than 10 men.

Harry told Buzzfeed that his father was working on the play Complicit at the Old Vic with Spacey, and the two had gone to Spaceys apartment to run lines. Dreyfuss had met the actor once previous to the encounter, and described being nervous but excited when he met him for the first time.

The first time I met him, he put all my worries to rest. He saw me and his eyes lit up. He gave me such a warm smile, and instead of shaking my hand, he gave me a hug. Instantly, my young-man-perpetually-seeking-father-figures heart melted. All I remember thinking was youre so nice, Harry said.

After some time Harry ended up sitting next to Spacey on a couch while reading lines with Richard.

After a few minutes, he put his hand on my thigh... It took that long because it just never occurred to me that Kevin would be interested in me in the first place. He was an adult man, a hero of mine, my dads boss, none of which were categories on my radar for sexual interactions. Besides, I thought, surely he cant be coming on to me like this right in front of my dad. But his hand stayed there, Harry added.

He said he rose and moved to the other side of the couch, but, without missing a beat, Spacey followed.

According to Harry, his father did not notice the interaction because he was too engrossed with his script.

Harry again moved to a different side of the couch and, Once again Kevin followed me, sat down, and with considerable effort, slid his hand between my right hand and my right leg. Over the course of about 20 seconds, centimeter by centimeter, Kevin crawled his hand from my thigh over toward my crotch.

My mind went blank. Suddenly, he had completed his journey and now he had all of me in his hand. I stopped reading the script and my eyes went wide. I lifted up my head and faced him. Looking into his eyes, I gave the most meager shake of my head that I could manage.

Harry said he did not take any drastic action at that time as he was protecting his fathers career, and preventing his father from hurting Spacey. He also thought he was protecting any future prospects of working with Spacey.

Harry said it took him so long to come forward because for a long time, he saw his experience with sexual abuse as relatively minor.

A world in which powerful men are no longer allowed to feel safe to do this, or far worse. In retrospect, what disgusts me about Kevin was how safe he did feel. He knew he could fondle me in a room with my father and that I wouldnt say a word. He knew I wouldnt have had the guts. And I didnt.

It took less than a week for two-time Oscar winner Kevin Spacey to go from admired stage, TV and film star to a pariah, under investigation by the police and fired from his Emmy-winning role in House of Cards. Heres a look at key developments in his still-unfolding case.

Sunday, Oct. 29

In an interview with BuzzFeed, actor Anthony Rapp said he attended a party at Spaceys New York apartment in 1986, when he was 14. At the end of the night, an inebriated Spacey picked him up, placed him on his bed, and climbed on top of him, Rapp said. Rapp said the 26-year-old was holding him down tightly, but he was able to get away and left the apartment. Rapp said he was inspired to come forward in the wake of allegations swirling around Harvey Weinstein.

Monday, Oct. 30

Spacey posted on Twitter that he didnt remember the Rapp encounter. But if I did behave then as he describes, I owe him the sincerest apology for what would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior, he said. Spacey, who has fiercely protected his private life, had never disclosed his sexuality before but said Rapps story encouraged him to speak and he came out as a gay man. Many observers thought it was an odd time for Spacey to address his sexuality or was even an attempt to deflect blame.

Online firestorm

All day, Spacey faced condemnation from gay activists and fellow performers, including actor Zachary Quinto, comedian Wanda Sykes and musician Lance Bass, as well as the gay rights group GLAAD. Netflix and the House of Cards producer, Media Rights Capital, announced the show would end after the conclusion of season six (though they added that such a decision had been made before the allegations) and some show executives arrived in Baltimore, where the series is shot, to make sure actors and crew continue to feel safe and supported.

Tuesday Oct. 31

Mexican actor Roberto Cavazos wrote on his Facebook page that he encountered Spacey at the bar of Londons Old Vic Theatre, where Spacey was artistic director from 2004-15, and the actor tried to fondle him against his will. It was more common for this guy, when he was in the bar of his theater, grabbing whoever caught his attention, Cavazos wrote. I didnt stand for it, but I know some people who were afraid to stop it. In a statement, the Old Vic expressed deep dismay at the sexual assault allegations and said inappropriate behavior by anyone working at The Old Vic is completely unacceptable. Spacey did not respond to requests for comment. Tuesdays episode of the NBC drama This Is Us, which had initially referred to a Spacey film, was reedited to replace him with Christian Bale.

Thursday , Nov. 2

CNN reported that eight current or former House of Cards workers claimed that Spacey made the production a toxic workplace and one ex-employee alleged the actor sexually assaulted him. CNN reported that all of the people described Spaceys behavior as predatory. The report accused Spacey of allegedly targeting staffers who were typically young and male with nonconsensual touching and crude comments. More fallout came when Spaceys talent agency Creative Arts Agency said it was no longer representing Spacey, and his publicist also parted ways with the actor.

Friday, Nov. 3

London police said they had begun investigating an alleged 2008 sexual assault reportedly linked to Spacey. The Sun newspaper said the new allegation comes from a man who was in his early 20s at the time. In America, Netflix said it would cut all ties with Spacey, and will not be involved with any further production of House of Cards that includes him. The company also said it will not release the film Gore, starring Spacey, which was in post-production. In another blow to Spaceys wallet, a Dutch business forum canceled his headline appearance at their conference Nov. 29 in Rotterdam.
A German tourist who was allegedly beaten up by a railway employee at Roberstganj station on Saturday, attacked two policemen who were taking him to the government railway police (GRP) station in Mirzapur later that night, police said on Sunday.

While one of the cops was left with a bleeding nose, the other suffered bruises on his hands. The case has also taken a mysterious turn after it emerged that the tourist Holger Eriks passport was confiscated by the Himachal Pradesh police in Kullu after a brawl in 2016.

Inspector, government railway police (GRP), Samar Bahadur Singh said Erik attacked sub-inspectors Harikesh Ram Azad and Mithilesh Yadav with a cane which he picked up from the road when he was taken to GRP station in Mirzapur, 81 km from Robertsganj.

After Erik alleged that he was attacked by a railway employee in Robertsganj, the GRP brought him to Mirzapur. After getting off the vehicle, he attacked the policemen and tried to flee, Singh told HT.

The GRP men are clueless on why he attacked them.

The two policemen went to the government hospital for treatment only after handing Erik to GRP personnel at the police station, he added.

Since he is a foreign tourist, he is like our guest. Though the policemen were hurt, they decided not to register a case against Erik, he said.

On Sunday, he was taken back to Robertsganj for x-ray of his hand after he complained of pain. Singh said that Erik was handed over to superintendent of police Sonbhadra for further probe.

Earlier on Saturday, the middle aged German had alleged that a railway employee attacked him after he refused to talk to him.

However, the railway employee Aman Kumar refuted Eriks claim and said it was the tourist who slapped him and he only defended himself. Robertsganj is 120 kilometres from Varanasi.

GRP officials said Erik, a resident of Berlin, told them that he reached Robertsganj Friday night and checked into a hotel. He visited the Agori Fort  35 kilometres from Robertsganj  for research work.

The trouble began on his way back at the Robertsganj railway station.

I was waiting for a train to Varanasi when a man, who was later identified as railway section engineer Aman Kumar, came to me and asked where I was heading to and if I needed any support. When I didnt respond to Kumar, he manhandled me and slapped me repeatedly, Eric told the police.

Erik claimed he fell on the ground and suffered bruises on his hand. GRP sub-inspector Harikesh Ram Azad, who was the first to reach the spot, rushed the tourist to hospital for treatment and medical examination.

Erik has filed a complaint against railway employee Aman Kumar alleging that he manhandled him. We will register a case in this connection. Before that, we will seek details about Erik against whom a case was registered by Kullu police in Himachal Pradesh recently, Singh said.

I came to know about a police case against Erik when I asked him about his passport and visa. Instead of a passport, he produced a document given to him by Kullu police. The document revealed that a case was registered against Erik under Section 324 (voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapon) for attacking a person with a blunt object in Kullu on July 5, 2016. Later, the police deposited his passport and visa in the court of chief judicial magistrate in Kullu, he said.

We are trying to find out as to why Erik was visiting Robertsganj and adjoining areas without a passport and visa. A cross FIR has been registered in the matter under Section 323 (Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt) following complaints by Erik and Kumar, Singh said.

Aman Kumar claimed that the tourist was sitting alone at the station when he approached him and asked him if he needed any help.

Instead of taking my gesture positively, he started using abusive language and slapped me. I just defended myself. His allegations that I attacked him first are baseless, Kumar said.
Close on the heels of suspension of five police personnel and transfer of a city SP after a girl was gang raped near Habibganj railway station on Tuesday night, IG police Bhopal Yogesh Choudhary and SP, Railways, Bhopal Anita Malviya were shifted on Sunday.

The 2009 batch IPS officer Anita Malviya came under attack from the Opposition after electronic media highlighted a footage in which Malviya was seen laughing while talking to media persons on the gang rape incident. Opposition leaders and even BJP state spokesperson Rajneesh Agrawal had demanded action against Malviya.

The 1996 batch IPS officer Yogesh Choudhary was posted as SP in Bhopal about 8 years back on January 1, 2010.

Since then, he had been staying in Bhopal getting promoted as SSP, DIG and IG. The Opposition had demanded that those who had been staying in Bhopal for a long time be shifted.

Though the home department issued transfer orders of 10 IPS officers on Sunday including Yogesh Choudharys and Anita Malviyas, it didnt assign any reason to their transfers. However, Anita Malviyas and Yogesh Choudharys functioning came under scanner after the gang rape incident.

Notably, the gang rape victim and her father were made to run from one police station to another to lodge the report. The report could be lodged on Wednesday evening with Habibganj police station and later transferred to government railway police.

The gang rape rocked the state as it took place in middle of the city hardly 200 meters away from government railway police and RPF at Habibganj police station and it came only a few days after chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan talked of women empowerment in Madhya Pradesh being better than the USA.

Earlier, five police personnel including police officers in charge of 3 police stations were suspended.
One hundred and ninety seven countries are meeting in Bonn for the climate talks beginning Monday to discuss ambitious plans to halt global warming.

What are the Bonn talks?

The Bonn climate talks - officially the COP-23 - is the 23rd annual meeting of countries who are part of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

It is the second meeting of signatories to the Paris climate agreement signed in 2015. The agreement aims to limit the rise in average global temperatures by 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels.

Human-induced climate change is believed to have its roots in the industrial revolution and is largely caused by emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) like carbon dioxide. Limiting emissions of greenhouse gases is the most important way of checking rising temperatures.

Why is COP 23 important?

It is the first time signatory nations of the Paris climate agreement are meeting after the US announced its decision to withdraw. It is the first time a COP is being presided over by a small island nation, Fiji, the like of which are considered to be at highest risk from climate change impacts like sea level rise and coastal erosion. They have the most to lose hence small island nations have been at the forefront of demanding that the target be set at 1.5 degrees Celsius. But India and China are opposed to Fijis proposal to enhance Paris climate deal pledges.

The Bonn talks will see negotiations around the rules for implementing the Paris agreement. A rule book is important because the agreement is not a legally binding treaty and only requires countries to set voluntary targets for reduction of GHG emissions. The agreement relies on a robust reporting mechanism to track countries progress and to pressure them into action.

The Bonn negotiations will also clarify how mechanisms for transfer of resources between developed and developing countries will work.

Why is US withdrawal such a big deal?

Historical responsibility is one of the most divisive issues in climate negotiations. Industrialised nations have generated the largest quantity of GHG emissions since 1850, and US accounts for the highest amount of cumulative emissions of any country.

Since the 1960s countries like China and India saw an uptick in emissions and have now emerged as the first and third largest contributors looking at yearly contributions. However, the US continues to be the second largest annual emitter of GHG. On a per capita basis, India (1.9 million tonnes) was way behind the US (15.6 MT) and even China (7.4 MT) in 2016.

A withdrawal signals that the US does not acknowledge its role in creating the problem nor will it make efforts to curb its GHG emissions. It also means the superpower is not willing to help countries that will suffer from climate change impacts.

Read more: India and China oppose Fiji proposal to enhance Paris climate deal pledges

Why should India care?

Developing countries like India will suffer the most from the impacts of climate change. However the main concern for India is that limiting greenhouse gas emissions will interfere with its growth. India still relies on heavily polluting sources like coal to generate 59% of its power. But over 300 million people in India are still without electricity.

The outcome of climate negotiations potentially has the power to steer the trajectory of Indias development. Moving to low carbon sources of energy requires investment and government support. Some argue that the move to renewable energy sources is an economic opportunity that India can take advantage of.

India has consistently argued that developed countries have the responsibility to aid developing countries in this transition through financial contributions and technology transfer.

The Bonn talks are important since it is unclear what positions the US delegation will take. The US cannot officially withdraw from the agreement before 2020 so it still has a seat at the table. It will also be of interest for India to see how other countries will respond to the American withdrawal and whether others like the EU or China will be willing to step up and lead the climate dialogue.

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Ahead of the 23rd edition of Conference of Parties (COP-23) which begins in Bonn, Germany on Monday, Malavika Vyawahare speaks to Erik Solheim, the executive director of the United Nations Environment Programme, to understand why the talks are important for the world and for India in particular.

What are you watching out for during the Bonn negotiations?

Its a packed and a critical agenda  all aimed at advancing the implementation of the Paris Agreement. It will involve getting further into the details, and, as they say, the devil is in the detail! The agenda will cover everything from developing guidelines on emissions reductions, to issues like adaptation, transparency, the provision of finance, capacity-building and technology. As such, we need to develop a set of rule books. We also need to lay the groundwork for dialogue in 2018 that includes an increase of ambitions.

What does India bring to the table at Bonn, and what should it be negotiating for?

Firstly, I think India should use the conference to showcase the incredible progress that it has made in the past few years. India has really embraced climate action as an economic opportunity, and Im convinced its mastery of solar mega-projects will provide for huge export potential. Secondly, India brings an important moral dimension to the conference. Prime Minister Modi has described climate action as an article of faith, saying that inaction would be a crime against future generations. While the conference is grounded in practicalities and technicalities, its important to never lose sight of the moral dimension.

Thirdly, India is an important voice on climate finance, or the critical importance of developing nations being able to better adapt to climate change and to have the financial means to be able to do so. The issue of technology transfer is also of crucial importance for India.

The emissions report presented a bleak scenario. Are we even on track to meet the 2 degree Celsius target?

I think its still possible. The latest science from the Emissions Gap report tells us were at a turning point, in that global carbon emissions have stabilised. However, the numbers are still worrying. There is a big gap between the pledges by governments to cut greenhouse gas emissions and the reductions we need to avoid dangerous climate change. So at the moment we can say we are on the right track, but were not moving fast enough.

You have expressed hope that the US will meet its targets despite Donald Trump

Its still difficult to say. If we look at the business-as-usual scenario, the withdrawal is clearly a blow to our targets. At the same time, the positive mobilisation of individual states and cities, and major private players, continues to offer a source for optimism.

Finance remains a sticking point and will emerge as a bigger issue with the US pull-out. Why should developing countries stick to their targets?

The hard fact is that countries like India are living with the impact of climate change and they have to do what they can. India and Bangladesh simply cannot afford to sit on the sidelines and bear increased natural disasters such as floods and droughts. So they have to take what action they can, and also bring a moral voice to this process. The positive fact is that the nations who are taking action now are also seeing the economic bounties of doing so. Theyre taking a head start in building the sustainable, inclusive economies of the future.

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Actor Kamal Haasan on Sunday said he would float a political party and the first step would be the launch of a mobile app on November 7, his 63rd birthday, which would keep him in touch with fans and enable book-keeping.

At a function to mark the 39th anniversary of his fan/welfare club, the superstar confirmed his entry into politics, something he has been hinting at for the last many weeks.

Tamil Nadu continues to be politically volatile though it is almost a year since chief minister J Jayalalithaa died. The ruling AIADMK is battling factionalism that critics say has hit paralysed the government.

Haasan said the party would be launched in a calm manner and mobile app was the first step in the direction.

The actor seems to be following the funding model of Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party. His fans would contribute funds for the party and the mobile app would keep an account of the money collected, he said.

November 7 was not a day to cut cake and celebrate but a day to cut canals, said Haasan in an oblique reference to the recent flooding of Chennai.

Under attack over his Hindu-terror remarks, Haasan said jails would run out of place, if people were arrested for speaking the truth.

Terrorism is different from extremism. I dont preach my ideology to others. I am a rationalist. If you keep putting people who speak the truth behind bars then the number of jails will not be enough to keep them, Haasan said.

The actor said he was ready to take a beating but he was not a mridangam, a drum integral to Carnatic music, to be beaten again and again.

In a column for a Tamil magazine, the actor wrote that Hindu groups could no longer deny extremism in their ranks.

In the past, Hindu right-wing groups would not indulge in violence, but they would hold a dialogue with the opposite parties on their arguments. But this old tactic was defeated and what they started to do is use muscle power. They started indulging in violence, he wrote.

The right wing cannot challenge talk of Hindu terrorists because terror has spread into their camp as well.
The opposition BJP on Sunday lodged a complaint against ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Scheduled Caste Cell chief accusing him of making public the identity of the Koraput gang rape survivor.

A team led by BJP state secretary Dilip Mallick filed a complaint at the Mahila police station here demanding action against Convenor of BJD SC Cell, Bishnu Das, alleging that he had made the rape survivors identity public.

Mallick alleged that Das had disclosed the name and address of the minor girl in a report, besides making her identity public at a press meet. Disclosing details about gang rape survivor was a criminal offence and it amounted to violation of the Supreme Courts guidelines, he said.

Denying the allegations, Das said he had never made the name and identity of the rape survivor public and that he had simply mentioned the place where the incident had taken place.

Congress also intensified its stir on the issue. A Congress delegation led by Koraput MLA, Krishna Chandra Sagaria submitted a memorandum to Governor S C Jamir seeking his intervention for giving justice to the rape survivor.

The Congress is demanding immediate arrest of the accused, free treatment for the girl in a reputed private hospital in Bhubaneswar, a judicial probe into the incident, release of her medical report and Rs 50 lakh compensation.

The party workers, who staged a sit-in near Raj Bhavan here November 2, vowed to continue their stir till the 14-year-old survivor gets justice.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President, Prasad Harichandan alleged that the state government was shielding the accused.

The minor girl from a remote village of Koraput district was allegedly raped by four men near Kunduli on October 10. In her statement to the police, she had claimed that the accused were in combat uniforms.
The Central Bureau of Investigation will move the Supreme Court against the Kerala high court verdict giving a clean chit to chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan in SNC Lavalin scam, a 21-year-old corruption case even as the Congress claimed that there was a secret understanding between the BJP and the CPI (M) .

The CBI will move the petition in two weeks, said sources close to the investigating agency. After the high court verdict the CBI counsel had said that the agency would file an appeal in the Supreme Court. But with the CBI yet to do so more than two months after the high court verdict, the investigating agency has come under fire from the opposition Congress.

Leader of opposition in the assembly Ramesh Chennithala alleged that it was due to a secret understanding between the ruling CPI (M) and BJP. It is really intriguing the verdict came almost two months back. The CBI is not in a mood to challenge it. It shows there is a secret understanding between the CPI(M) and BJP, he said.

The case relates to the awarding of a contract to the Canadian power giant SNC Lavalin to renovate three hydel projects in which the state allegedly lost Rs 374 crore. Vijayan was the power minister when the accord was signed in 1996.

While giving a clean chit to the Chief Minister on August 23, the court also came down heavily on the CBI saying the CM had been made a scapegoat by the agency. It said he could be held accountable for loss to the exchequer and there was no evidence to prove that he made financial gains from the deal.

The CBIs silence for two months only raised more eyebrows.

However, the court had directed three senior officials of the state electricity to face trial. One of the accused, state electricity board chief engineer Kasturi Ranga Iyer, moved the apex court last week with a plea that he should also be discharged on the ground that all accused in the case own collective responsibility. He contended that it was a collective decision and officers cannot be made accountable for a political decision.

The case was handed over to the CBI in 2006 by then CM Ooomen Chandy of the Congress. In 2013 a special court had exonerated Vijayan which the CBI later challenged in the high court. His arch-rival in the party former CM V S Achuthanandan often used this case to embarrass him.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Himachal elections were a one-sided contest, stating BJP will definitely come to power.

The PM was addressing an election rally in Una on Sunday, before he headed to Palampur where he charged the Congress of being corrupt.

He later addressed a third public meeting in Kullu.

The hill-state will vote for new 68-member assembly on November 9.

The polls are crucial for the chief ministerial candidates for both parties --veteran Congress leader and incumbent chief minister Virbhadra Singh, 83, and BJPs Prem Kumar Dhumal, 73.

Below are the updates:

3:50pm: Our government is committed to build infrastructure, promote tourism in Himachal, says PM Modi

3:35pm: Himachal Pradesh needs to be free from 5 Mafias - Mining Mafia, Forest Mafia, Drug Mafia, Tender Mafia and Transfer Mafia, says PM Modi

3:32pm: No one can separate Congress and corruption, says PM Modi

3:26pm: The world is praising India today, says PM Modi

3:20pm: The third rally in Kullu has begun

2:10pm: BJP will definitely come to power in Himachal, says PM Modi

2:04pm: The fight against corruption wont stop now, says PM Modi.

2:00pm: We are following the mantra of vikas, says PM Modi

1:58pm: PM Modi says his govt started the campaign promoting LED lights. LED bulb, which would cost around Rs 300-350 during Congress rule, is now sold at Rs 40; we have helped reduce the price of LED bulbs, says PM

1:54pm: Crores of Indians still do not own a house. We want that by 2022, every Indian should have a house of their own, says PM Modi

1:48pm: People who have looted Himachal will be punished by the people of this country, says PM Modi

1:46pm: Corruption is the only identity of Congress party, says PM Modi

1:40pm: PM Modi is addressing his second rally in Palampur

12:22pm: If Congress will observe black day on Nov 8, this country will observe anti-black money day, says PM Modi

12:16pm: PM Modi says his government made a law on benami property after coming to power, slams Congress for not backing it

12:12pm: The country welcomed GST, says PM Modi

12:09pm: The future of our country depends on development. Only development is the solution to all the troubles, says PM Modi

12:06pm: We are working hard to improve tourism in Himachal Pradesh, says PM Modi

12:00pm: Ours is a government devoted to serve the people. The money we release, we ensure it is completely utilised for peoples welfare, says PM Modi

11:55am: Rajiv Gandhi was such a doctor who diagnosed the problem of corruption but did not do anything about it, says PM Modi

11:51am: Congress has run away from the battlefield. Himachal Pradesh elections is a one-sided contest, says PM Modi

11:50am: Storm is raging against Congress corrupt regime, says PM Modi

11:48am: Himachal elections are not being fought by a person or a party, but by the people of the state, says PM Modi

11:46am: Ive never seen an election like this in the past 20 years, says PM Modi

11:44am: Una is the land of gurus, says PM Modi

11:39am: PM Modis rally in Una begins

11:26am: This will be PM Modis third visit to Himachal in the past four days.

11:25am: The campaigning for assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh will end on November 7.
No other political figure has caught so much attention in Bengal and drawn diverse reactions as Mukul Roy, the once-No.2 of Trinamool Congress who joined BJP in New Delhi on Friday.

As television channels aired footage of Roy meeting BJP president Amit Shah and other leaders, CPI(M) apparatchiks in Bengal felt enthused, Congress was indifferent, and the Trinamool Congress silent  at least for 18 hours, until some state ministers, prodded by the media, made it clear that it would not affect Mamata Banerjee or Bengal politics.

The most interesting responses came from the Bengal BJP. Although its president Dilip Ghosh said at a press conference that Roy would play a big role in expanding the party, he made no attempt to hide the chemistry unfolding at the BJP state office.

Trinamool is a local party while BJP is a national entity. We have thousands of leaders. May be Mukul Roy was a prominent leader in Trinamool, but in BJP, there are many leaders of similar stature, he said.

What about scams?

For a party that has risen sharply in Bengal since 2011 and won three seats in the Assembly in 2016 for the first time (Ghosh himself was elected from Kharagpur), issues such as the Narada and Saradha scams had become crucial weapons against the seemingly unshakable Trinamool.

There was not a single public meeting in Bengal before or after the assembly polls where BJPs central leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Siddharth Nath Singh and Kailash Vijayvargiya didnt mention these scams. And, many of them even mentioned Roy who figures among the accused in CBI files, recalled a senior state BJP leader and mentioned one of Singhs famous one-liners: bhag Mukul bhag (run Mukul run).

This critical issue appears virtually useless all of a sudden, said a BJP district president. Also, we now have a leader whose son is the Trinamool MLA from Bijpur and a councillor at Kanchrapara municipality. Hope you can imagine how our workers and supporters will react to his presence at public meetings, he added.

He was referring to Mukul Roys son Subhranshu, who had reacted to his fathers move by reiterating his allegiance to Mamata Banerjee.

Several office bearers of the BJPs Bengal unit said most of the leaders were opposed to Roys induction.

Ideally I should delete my social media posts on Saradha and Narada scams in which Roy is an accused. It would be extremely embarrassing if someone shares those posts right now, a BJP general secretary told HT.

On Saturday, Dilip Ghosh went a step ahead. If Trinamool leaders and supporters want to join BJP, they are free to do so. They will come to me. Why should they need Mukul Roys help? he said during his visit to West Midnapore district.

Roy, too, had to grapple with questions from the media in Delhi. Asked about the scams, he said, Mention of name in an FIR does not make a person guilty. Let law take its own course.

Whose idea was it?

Vijayvargiya, the BJP national general secretary in charge of Bengal who played a key role in Roys induction, faced the same questions. CBI will do its work. If he is guilty, he will not be spared. Our Bengal unit decided to take him. So, how could we object? he said in Delhi.

In Kolkata, however, BJP leaders said the entire decision was taken by the central leadership which felt that Roy could engineer mass exodus from Trinamool.

The panchayat polls will reveal the actual picture, said a senior officer-bearer.

The Bengal unit of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the BJP, had earlier expressed reservation about Roy, local BJP leaders said.

The organisation did not comment on Roy after Fridays development.

We have full faith in the BJPs central and state leadership. We wont interfere. This is totally a political issue, Jishnu Basu, general secretary of the RSS in south Bengal, told HT.

CPI(M)s happy, Congress indifferent

Interestingly, CPI(M) leaders virtually welcomed the development saying that by switching sides, Roy has only proved them right.

We have been saying for long that BJP and Trinamool are partners in disguise. Now the truth is out in the open, said CPI(M) politburo member and Lok Sabha MP Md Salim, adding in jibe that it can be compared to the mobile number portability feature offered by telecom networks.

The service provider has changed. but the number remains the same, he quipped.

Congress, however, chose to remain aloof. State Congress president and MP, Pradip Bhattacharya wondered why the media was paying so much attention to Mukul Roy.

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The Narendra Modi governments ambitious vision for India envisages a country free of poverty, corruption, communalism, casteism and terrorism less than five years from now.

The vision is part of the New India at 2022 vision document prepared by NITI Aayog. A presentation by the federal think-tank vice chairman, Rajiv Kumar, to the conference of governors at New Delhi last month said the government aspires to free the nation of poverty and malnutrition by its 75th year of Independence. It also claimed that India will figure among the top three economies of the world by 2047, a century after throwing off the British yoke.

The New India at 2022 vision document listed demonetisation and the goods and services tax among the revolutionary measures adopted by the government to rid the country of corruption. Direct benefit transfers have resulted in savings of up to Rs 57,000 crore for the exchequer, Kumar said at the conference, which was attended by the governors of 27 states on October 12.

The vision document also spoke of e-governance based on the Aadhaar biometric system, contending that a surge in detection of benami properties will contribute to establishing a corruption-free society in five years.

Quoting Modi on creating a society free of tensions, the federal think-tanks document said increased spending on minorities in the last three years was likely to dispense with the scourge of communalism by 2022.
Pakistans Bahawalpur parliamentarians dont see outlawed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief, Masood Azhar as a terrorist and are reluctant to talk about him.

Hindustan Times spoke to three of five members of the National Assembly (MNAs) of the region, a few days after China blocked a United Nations resolution seeking to tag Azhar as a global terrorist.

India might view him as a terrorist but I have not seen any terror activities. It is not so easy to declare anybody a terrorist. India should focus on the terrorism it is unleashing on the Kashmiris, a members of the National Assembly said.

The sprawling headquarters of the terror outfit is located in Bahawalpur but Tariq Bashir Cheema, an MNA, told HT over the telephone that he has neither seen Azhar nor does he know where the Jaish headquarters are located.

India might view him as a terrorist but I have not seen any terror activities. It is not so easy to declare anybody a terrorist. India should focus on the terrorism it is unleashing on the Kashmiris, Cheema said.

Pakistans former advisor to the prime minister on foreign affairs, Sartaj Aziz, had confirmed that one of the calls made by terrorists who attacked the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot in January 2016, had been traced to the Jaish headquarters in Bahawalpur but Cheema said, come to Bahawalpur and help me find the headquarters. I have heard of Azhar from the newspapers but have never seen him.

All five MNAs belong to the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) but like most Pakistani politicians, they are wary of discussing terror groups  known to have deep connections with the powerful army and intelligence agency ISI.

Another MNA, Mian Najeebuddin Awaisi, was willing to discuss India-Pakistan relations in the context of China blocking the resolution, saying it should not impact ties between the neighbours but refused to discuss Masood Azhar.

I cannot speak to you about him over the phone, he said and disconnected the call. Awaisi did not answer subsequent calls.

Makhdoom Gillani, the third MNA, HT called, did not want to speak to an Indian journalist.

Cheema wanted India to forget about Azhar, who, he said, had been released in exchange for hijacked passengers in Kandahar in December 1999.

The JeM was born after Azhars release and is responsible for several fidayeen attacks in Kashmir.

Pakistan had sent a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to India after the Pathankot attack. It included an officer from the ISI.

A Pakistani daily, quoting unnamed JIT officers had reported that the team had concluded that India had staged the Pathankot attack. The India-Pakistan dialogue has been in the deep freeze since Pathankot and the subsequent attack at an army camp in Uri.

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Wednesdays boiler blast at NTPCs Unchahar plant, which claimed 32 lives, has brought the focus back on the disaster management projects in Uttar Pradesh.

While the state government had already approved the establishment of the State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) in April and created 535 posts to be filled through deputation, it has now decided to expedite the work on it.

The SDRF will ensure quick response, better coordination, speedy rescue and humane relief operation. The force will be equipped with latest gadgets, said Arvind Kumar, principal secretary, home, while talking to HT on Saturday.

Admitting that the NTPC blast has necessitated the urgency to set up an exclusive disaster relief force for UP, an official said the state government was studying the report on rescue and relief operation during the NTPC blast submitted by the Rae Bareli district magistrate.

Inputs from the report will be considered in chalking out a plan for better response and operation after such disasters, he said.

The CISF team stationed at the thermal power station, district police, district health department and staff of the local fire service station was pressed into rescue operation at NTPC on Wednesday. Later, the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) contingents were rushed from various locations.

For SDRF, the PAC has been made the nodal agency and assistance of central agencies is also being taken, said an official.

A full-fledged office is set to come up on a 60 acre land in Lucknows Sarojini Nagar area.

While the state government has allocated Rs 150 crore for the construction, around Rs 59 crore will be spent on equipment and Rs 5 crore on vehicles. Equipment and vehicles will be procured through e-tendering, said Satish Ganesh, IG, PAC.

The SDRF will also purchase satellite phones and fire proof jackets. Besides, it will be trained to handle chemical disasters as well, said Ganesh.

Interestingly, the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) too is planning to establish a permanent station in Lucknow.

It has moved a proposal to the state government for allotment of land for an office building in the city.

A 45-member NDRF team, equipped with latest equipment, will be deployed in the city to carry out rescue and relief work during natural calamities in Lucknow and neighbouring districts, said a home department officer.

Till completion of its building, the NDRF office is likely to function from the Home Guard complex.

Already, the NDRF has stationed its 11th battalion in Varanasi.

Alternately, the state government is working on a long term disaster management plan, where in all the state government departments will coordinate with each other to ensure the best of management during disasters.

The disaster management will be incorporated in development schemes as well as infrastructure development, said a senior state government officer.

Health minister, Siddharth Nath Singh, meanwhile, has directed the health department to keep doctors and ambulances on alert during such disasters.

The government-run hospitals have been directed to set up a separate wards for patients transported from calamity-hit areas, he said.

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Landless farmer Brunda Sahoos hopes soared early October when he saw lush green paddy crop standing on 15 acres he cultivated as a sharecropper. He told his family they could repair their house and marry off his daughter after selling the harvest.

But then a swarm of brown planthoppers struck. The green leaves turned orange-yellow. Sahoo, 51, tried fighting the insects, known to feed on rice plants, with pesticides. It didnt work.

Soon, the leaves were brown and plants bone dry, signalling the onset of hopper burn, a condition that kills the plant as the insect sucks the sap.

Sahoo knew his crop had no chance against the pest and neither did he.

On October 31, he set fire to his wasted crop at Kalapani village in Bargarh district, about 350km northwest of Odisha capital Bhubaneswar.

According to his family, it was a debt-ridden farmers desperate bid to catch the governments attention. The next day, Sahoo drank poison and died while being taken to hospital.

Farmers Alaya Jena of Sanakhemundi block in Ganjam district and P Nabin Kumar of Nuakhairpali village in Bargarh have done the same since then, unable to fend off the brown planthopper that Odisha farmers call Matia Gundi (brown insect that reduces crops to dust).

Jena died on Sunday, the fourth Odisha farmer driven to suicide this year by a pest attack.

On October 25, chief minister Naveen Patnaik announced a drought relief package for farmers in 15 of the states 30 districts. There was no mention of crops ravaged by pests.

On Sunday, the government acknowledged pests had hit crops in nearly 1.78 lakh hectares (1 hectare = 2.47 acre) across nine districts.

A brown planthopper. (International Rice Research Institute, Philippines)

State development commissioner and additional chief secretary, R Balakrishnan, reviewed the pest damage with district collectors. Pest attack is a natural calamity and affected farmers will be compensated as per Odisha relief code, he told HT.

Odisha farmers are familiar with the brown planthopper but the infestation is severe this season. Reports of farmers setting fire to paddy fields are coming in from the nine affected districts.

Sahoos elder brother, Nagat, also a sharecropper, or a tenant farmer who gives a part of the crop as rent, blames pesticides. We faced the pest onslaught successfully in 2015, but this year pesticides have been ineffective, he said.

Patnaik and his ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) are facing criticism from farmer bodies and opposition.

The agriculture department was late in sending subsidised pesticides to the states 314 blocks this year as discussions dragged on over a notification indicating price list of several farm products.

The notification that helps farmers get pesticides on 50% or even 100% subsidy was issued on November 1, the day Sahoo died.

The notification is usually ready by August. Even if delayed, we get it by September. But it came in very late this year, said an agriculture department official who did not want to be named.

Farmer Brunda Sahoos daughter, Preeti, outside her home. (Debabrata Mohanty/Hindustan Times)

Kalapani sarpanch and farmer Bhira Reddy said the pesticide might have been of inferior quality. The local dealers are stocking sub-standard pesticides manufactured by smaller companies in Chhattisgarh, he alleged.

The views were echoed by Sahoos daughter, Preeti. The pesticides failed to kill the insects, but killed my father, said the 18-year-old.

Bijay Sahoo, a pesticide dealer in Bargarh, said he had not compromised on the quality. I think the humid climate played a role.

Mayabini Jena, principal scientist and head of crop protection division of National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, said early action is the best bet against the brown planthopper. Once humidity and temperature increase, the female moths lay more than 100-150 eggs every day. If there is a delay in spraying of pesticides, it becomes difficult to control, she said.

To add to the problem, these insects populate the roots and in areas where farmers plant paddy very close to each other. It is difficult to spot such insects. Most farmers dont spray on the paddy roots where the insects thrive, Jena said.

The pest attack has dealt a body blow to farmers battling high input costs. Sharecroppers such as Sahoo often depend on local moneylenders who demand exorbitant rates of interest.

Sahoos son, Rajesh, admitted his father, too, was worried about money. Also, the pesticides and fertilisers were taken on credit from local traders who would have taken a share of the harvest in return, said Rajesh.

Sahoo would also have to give a bulk of the produce to the land owner as per their contract.

It is agriculture minister Damodar Rout who is responsible for the death of the farmers. Why were pesticides not supplied on time? asked Anant Padhi, president of Bargarh district Congress committee.

Odisha BJP chief Basant Panda demanded that Patnaik sack Rout, who faced criticism on Saturday for saying the government would not extend aid to farmers who set fire to their crops.
The dearness allowance of judges of the Supreme Court and the 24 high courts has been increased even as proposals to give them a salary hike are pending approval of the Union Cabinet.

In a letter to the secretary general of the apex court and registrars general of the high courts last month, the department of justice in the law ministry said the DA of the judges has been revised to 139% with effect from July 1 at the same rates (139%) as are admissible to the members of the all-India service.

The letter pointed out that according to the revised rates, central government employees continuing to draw their pay in the pre-revised pay scale as per the Sixth Pay Commission are entitled to the DA at the rate of 139% which was revised from 136%.

The judges have been given the DA hike based on the 6th Pay Commission as two bills to provide them the benefits of the Seventh Pay Commission are pending approval of the Union Cabinet.

The bills are likely to come up for Cabinets consideration in the coming days and would be tabled in Parliament in the Winter Session.

While one bill deals with salary and allowances of the Supreme Court judges, the other deals with salary of the high court judges.

During a hearing last week on a case relating to grant of washing allowance to apex court staff and officers, a bench of justices J Chelameswar and S Abdul Nazir had reportedly asked Additional Solicitor General PS Narasimha about the salary of judges of the Supreme Court and high courts which was to be brought on par with Seventh Pay Commission recommendations for central government employees.

In 2016, the then Chief Justice of India TS Thakur had written to the government seeking a hike in salaries of the Supreme Court and the high court judges on the basis of the recommendations made by a committee of judges which was set up by the CJI to look into the issue of salary and emoluments.

Sources in the government said the issue is under active consideration and a bill to amend The High Court and the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Act may come up in the Winter Session of Parliament.

Government functionaries said the quantum of the hike will not be as recommended by the judges committee. They said the hike in pay packets would be applicable from January 1, 2016.

The judges committee recommended a pay hike of Rs 2.8 lakh for Supreme Court judges, Rs 2.5 lakh for high court judges.

A Supreme Court judge at present gets Rs 1.5 lakh a month in hand after all deductions from salary and allowances. The CJI gets a higher amount than this, while the judges of the high court get a lesser amount. This amount does not include the rent-free residences provided to the judges while they are in service.

After the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission, the matter was already under the consideration of the government.

While the approved strength of judges in the apex court is 31, it is 1,079 in the 24 high courts. There are several vacancies.
Physical disability will no longer be grounds to prevent a person from becoming a doctor, bringing the curtain down on a two-decade-long battle between specially-abled students and Indias medical studies regulator.

The Medical Council of India (MCI) will now allow 21 categories of even severely disabled candidates to take next years graduate and post-graduate medical courses, a landmark shift in its policy after a severe stricture from the Supreme Court in August.

These include blindness, low-vision, hearing impairment, locomotor disability, dwarfism, intellectual disability, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy.

MCI secretary Reena Nayyar told Hindustan Times that a decision was made at the councils general body meeting on October 31 to implement in toto the countrys newly revised disability law.

The ministry of social justice and empowerment is in the process of framing rules to specify medical job roles for different categories of disability, she said.

Until now, the MCI allowed only candidates with below 70% disability of the lower limbs to study medicine, although the condition contravened all disability-related laws in the country, forcing such students to wage individual legal battles for admission to medical schools.

The council argued that people with severe disability were not good enough to study medicine.

In its October meeting, MCI members resolved that times had changed and with progress in science it did not make sense to bar disabled people from becoming doctors any more.

The MCIs decades-old stand barring physically challenged students from its courses reflected a wider apathy in Indian society towards the disabled and elderly who face difficulty in accessing everything from education to public transport.

Indias first disability law was written as late as 1995. It gave 3% reservation in education to people with seven kinds of disabilities, although the legislation was seen by many experts as inadequate. Worse, the law was more observed in the breach.

That law was strengthened and replaced by a new one this year, raising the quota for disabled people to 5% and the categories of disability by another 14.

It took a rap on the knuckles from the Supreme Court earlier this year for the MCI to finally come around.

In August, a student with thalassemia was allowed by the Supreme Court to take admission in a medical college. The court came down heavily on the MCI as well, asking it to implement the laws in letter and spirit to uphold social justice.

We constituted a committee headed by Dr Ved Prakash Mishra. The committee recommended complete implementation of the act, a top MCI official who attended the meeting said. The official was not authorised to speak to journalists.

The committee felt that such discrimination doesnt exit internationally so we should allow them in medical profession for the sake of social justice.

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Kerala-born nun Rani Maria Vattali, who was stabbed to death in 1995 in Madhya Pradesh, was on Saturday declared blessed, a sacred title in the Roman Catholic church order.

The Vaticans head of the Department for Cause of Saints, Cardinal Angelo Amato, declared Vattali blessed, a step below sainthood.

Cardinal Amato read out Apostolic (Popes) letter declaring her Blessed in Latin at a Holy Mass at Saint Paul Higher Secondary Schools ground in Indore.

The Blessed title is considered a prelude to beatification of sainthood as was the case with Mother Teresa, the Public Relations officer of Madhya Pradesh Catholic Church, Father Maria Stephen told PTI.

Cardinal Angelo Amato of Vatican City (centre) arrives to preside over a ceremony for beatification of Sr. Rani Maria in Indoor. (PTI Photo)

On February 25, 1995, Sister Rani was stabbed more than 50 times on a bus in Madhya Pradeshs Dewas district. The nun, then 41, was a member of the Syro-Malabar Franciscan Clarist Congregation.

Her attacker Samunder Singh was hired to kill the nun as some landlords in Indore were upset with her work on uplift of landless people, he said.

Singh was sentenced to life in prison by a court. His sentence was later commuted due to his good conduct in prison and he was pardoned by the nuns family, said Stephen.

Singh, who also attended the ceremony, recalled his actions, saying: At that time, I was in the grip of evil spirits because of which I did that job (killed the nun), he said.

Singh, released from jail in 2006, said, My life has changed. Now everyone in this world is part of my family. Sister Selmi (sister of the slain nun) and her relatives too are my family and their affection and love has totally changed my life.

Nuns attend a ceremony for beatification of Sister Rani Maria in Indoor. (PTI Photo)

The ceremony for beatification of Sister Rani Maria. (PTI Photo)

Sister Rani was born to Paili and Elisha on January 29, 1954, at Pulluvazhi in Kerala. She took her first vows in 1974 and was then assigned to Bijnor for mission Apostolate. After serving in Bijnor, she was transferred to Satna and later in 1992 to Udainagar, the MP Catholic Church said in a statement.

She was a champion for the poor and the marginalised, it said.

The nun began organising people who were exploited by moneylenders. Her self-help groups helped the poor and the downtrodden to break away from the clutches of the established money lending community, the release said.

She was threatened several times but she was not to be tied down and her initiatives won the hearts of poor tribals, the release said.

The process for Sister Ranis canonisation began when The Vatican gave its nod in 2003. She was declared a Servant of God in 2005 and in March this year, the orders came for her beatification.

From Sunday, she will be known as Blessed Sister Maria.
As many as seven people, including three woman teachers, were killed in two road mishaps in Haryana on Saturday.

Three teachers and a driver were killed after vehicles of two private schools collided with each other on Saturday morning. The incident occurred near Kalawas village in Hisar district when a bus of Guru Jambeshwar School and a Cruiser, a multi-utility vehicle (MUV), of Himalaya Public School.

Four people were killed and a dozen injured as a private bus overturned after hitting a bike near Piruwala village on Jagadhari-Bilaspur road in Yamunanagar district.

All the three victims were occupants of the Cruiser. They have been identified as science teachers Kusum and Jyoti, home science teacher Preeti and driver Sanjay. The police said they all died on the spot.

Four other teachers travelling in the Cruiser suffered injuries and were taken to the local civil hospital by the villagers. The police said the students travelling in the two vehicles escaped with minor injuries.

The police said a preliminary inquiry has revealed that the bus driver was speeding the bus amid dense smog in the green belt area and collided head with the Cruiser that was coming from the opposite direction. He fled the spot soon after the incident. He has been booked under Sections 279, 304A, 337, 338 and 427 of the Indian Penal Code.

Meanwhile, the family members of the deceased expressed their resentment against the school for keeping it open on Saturday, despite it being a gazetted holiday on the account of Gurpurb, the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.

The Haryana government had recently issued a circular to all schools warning them of strict action if they remained open on any gazetted holidays. The police said most schools in the area were found violating the government orders on Saturday.

Bus overturns after hitting bike in Yamunanagar

Four people were killed and around a dozen injured as a private bus overturned after hitting a bike near Piruwala village on Jagadhari-Bilaspur road in Yamunanagar district.

Police said the bus was carrying pilgrims, belonging to Bathinda district in Punjab, who were returning from Kapal Mochan Mela near Bilaspur in Yamunanagar.

The bus driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle after one of its tyres burst. The vehicle then hit a bike and got overturned.

Three of the deceased were local residents who were riding the bike. They were identified as Raj Kumar and Rahul of Leda Khas village and Rinku of Jatheri village of Yamunanagar district. The fourth victim was a bus passenger, identified as Charanjit Singh of Hari Raipur village of Bathinda.

Talking to Hindustan Times, Bilaspur police station in-charge Om Prakash said the police have booked the driver of the bus, Suraj Singh of Bathinda, under Section 304 A of the IPC. He has also received minor injuries in the incident. He added six of the injured have been admitted to the Yamunanagar civil hospital and others were discharged after first aid. The bodies of the deceased were sent for postmortem and their family members have been informed about the accident.
Jasprit Bumrah, who enjoyed another fruitful evening for India, said that things could have been different if Colin Munro didnt get a few reprieves.

India succumbed to a 40-run defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the second T20, with the Black Caps posting 196 thanks to Munros century.

The left-handed batsman was given three lives during his innings and made the Indians pay for it. His first reprieve came when he reached his fifty off Axar Patels bowling as a catch went through Shreyas Iyers hands at long on.

The second time he could have been dismissed was if Rohit Sharmas throw at the wicketkeepers end was more accurate.

He got lucky once again as Yuzvendra Chahal dropped a sitter when he was on 79.

READ | MS Dhoni very good, but we left ourselves with too much to get: Virat Kohli

In this format you are never surprised because on a given day, any batsman can give you a tough time. He (Munro) was a bit lucky as well, we dropped a few catches, said Bumrah, who was the only bowler to keep Munro on a tight leash and also finished as Indias most economical bowler.

Im not taking credit away from him, he played really well but things could have been different.

He added: It was a difficult wicket because when we were bowling with the new ball, it was coming onto the bat really well and they had a good start.

We were trying our best but Munro was also going berserk. We were just trying to create pressure but some days some your plans dont work but its okay.

READ | Virat Kohli becomes 2nd highest T20I run-scorer in India vs New Zealand 2nd T20

Bumrah had kind words for debutant Mohammed Siraj, who went for plenty of runs. As a bowler when you get hit, you learn. Its difficult because as a bowler, on this wicket it was challenging and for a new guy to come in against such opposition its difficult.

I was just trying to give him confidence. But this is how youll learn and youll come back. So, Im sure that the more he plays more, hell be better than before.

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Protests over controversial film Padmavati continues with the state Congress now demanding a ban on its screening if the film distorts history.

State Congress spokesperson and Jaipur district President Pratap Singh Khachariyawas said that Padmavati is a symbol of prestige and pride in Indias history. Padmavati along with 16,000 women from all religions committed Jauhar (mass self-immolation) and it shows womens sacrifice for prestige and pride. History wont be justified if the bravery and sacrifice Padmavati and Laxmi Bai are separated. Indias history is its heritage, he added.

On Friday, Chittorgarh observed a bandh to protest against the film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The bandh was called by Jauhar Smriti Sansthan, a research and social group.

Its the central and state governments duty to immediately ban the film if it distorts history. Union minister Smriti Irani is making such statements, which cannot be accepted. The movie will not be allowed to run if it undermines the sacrifice and bravery of Indian mothers, Khachariyawas said

He added that the government would be wrong if it feels that the movie could be screened after playing with peoples sentiments.

The Congress leader warned that if the film disturbs harmony, the government will be responsible for the lathi and bullets. It will disturb harmony if the film is banned after screening. Its is the governments duty to take the historians and protestors into confidence by showing them the film before its release. If the film distorts history it wont be allowed to run anywhere, he said.

Meanwhile, an order by Udaipur deputy superintendent of police, which went viral on social media, created confusion after it showed the film will not be screened in theatres. Udaipur SP Rajendra Prasad Goyal, however, denied releasing any order to stop the release of the film.

It was misunderstood. It was a simple order to maintain law and order in the city. No orders are given to stop the release of Padmavati in theatres, Goyal told HT.

Commenting on the issue home minister Gulab Chand Kataria said, If anyone is found disturbing peace, action will be taken.
BARMER:

The much awaited Jaisalmer-Bhabhar rail link project has been shelved by the Union railway ministry, said Union minister of state for railways Rajen Gohain said in a letter to the BJP parliamentarian from Barmer.

In the 2016-17 rail budget, the then Union railway minister Suresh Prabhu had sanctioned  5,000 crore for the project, which was considered as a big economic boost for the limestone industry in the desert region.

In 2012-13, the North Western Railway had conducted three surveys for the 339km-long rail link.

In October 2016, a MoU was signed between the railways, Rajasthan and Gujarat governments for laying a new railway line from Jaisalmer in Jodhpur division of the North West Railway to Kandla Port in Ahmadabad division of the Western Railway in Gujarat.

Barmer MP Sonaram Choudhary raised a question in Parliament in November 2016 about the status of the proposed Jaisalmer-Bhabhar rail link.

On September 27, in his reply to the question, Union minister of state for railways Rajen Gohain said in 2012-13, a survey was conducted for the rail link in which the project was found financially non-viable with 7.74% negative rate of return.

The railways have a long list of ongoing rail projects and since the project was not found financially viable due to which further consideration for sanctioning the project was not taken, Gohain said in the letter.

Considering the strategic importance of the project, the view of the defence ministry is vital, the minister said, adding that a proposal has been to the ministry for its consideration.

Until now the railways have not received any reply from the defence ministry.

In April, this year, chief minister Vasundhara Raje, too while signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the  43,129 crore Barmer oil refinery with the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd, demanded a rail connectivity between Barmer and Kandla port for transporting fuel and petrochemical products.

Choudhary said it is not possible for the railways scrap the project.

How can the railways scrap a project that the Prime Minister mentioned as an achievement during his recent visit to Rajasthan, said Choudhary.

I will soon meet railway ministry official to know about the status of the project.
KOTA: This is the first time that Trader Association of Rajasthans Baran town have decided to observe Black Day on the first anniversary of demonetisation, November 8, along with the opposition parties to protest against Modi governments demonetisation move.

With the day approaching near, the ruling party is gearing up for a nationwide celebration while the opposition party including Congress have announced to raise question on demonetisation by celebrating Black Day.

The president of the Baran Vyapar Mahasangh, Lalit Mohan Khandelwal said, After ruining the trade and traders by the decision of demonetisation last year (2016), the BJP has decided to celebrate demonetisation which is against the sentiments of the trader community. He added that the banning currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 has severely hit the economy of the country and has lead to economic slowdown with recession in trade.

Indian economy is an informal economy in which undeclared capital disappeared from the market demotivating traders from pursuing trade that adversely affected trade and business. Around 99% of the banned currency returned to the banks while the government incurred heavy expenditure on printing of new currency notes. So at the end, this calculated move achieved nothing, said patron of the Baran Vyapar Mahasangh, Devkinandan Bansal.

Traders of Baran Vyapar Mahasangh will wear black strips on the arms on November 8 as a mark of protest of demonetisation, he added.

Bansal said that there are 7000 traders associated with the Baran Vyapar Mahasangh.
Ittefaq

Cast: Sidharth Malhotra, Sonakshi Sinha, Akshaye Khanna

Director: Abhay Chopra

Rating: 3/5

Vikram Sethi (Sidharth Malhotra) is a London-based mystery writer. His last book hasnt done well, and he is under pressure to deliver a bestseller. He is in India to launch his next, but circumstances take a strange turn when his wifes body is discovered in a Mumbai hotel.

Its natural for the police, led by Dev Verma (Akshaye Khanna), to arrest Vikram after he flees the scene of the crime. But the man turns out to be a slippery customer -- he gives them the slip and scoots, again!

Vikram is nabbed a second time at the house of a total stranger, Maya Sinha (Sonakshi Sinha). Whats more, her husbands body is there too.

The police now face a problem of plenty. They have two bodies, two prime suspects and a number of secondary suspects in what once seemed like an open-and-shut case.

A remake of 1969 hit of the same name, Ittefaq uses Mumbais rain-prone environment as a suitable backdrop for the murder mystery. The hazy weather and closed spaces spread a canvas and bracket the audiences view. Its all very linear, so one neednt have a prior understanding of the relationships between the major characters.

A large part of the action takes place on staircases and inside dimly lit apartments. You know how claustrophobic city landscapes can get at times. Weird things happen in the middle of congested zones, and there are no witnesses despite the sea of people forever flooding the place. Notice how bodies keep turning up in locked apartments many a week too late?

Debutante director Abhay Chopra plays with our mind by not introducing many secondary story arcs in the plot. This technique makes us focus solely on the murders, with blinkers on.

From love to seduction and betrayal, Chopra uses every trick in the book. Akshaye Khannas cop is under pressure to solve the case within the stipulated period. It seems like an open-and-shut case at times, but what if the murders are not connected, or connected? What if all this is actually by chance (Ittefaq)?

Its not the butler did it kind of crime as the director gives ample hints of a logical conclusion through the 100-minute film. Anything less than a sensible conclusion would have amounted to shortchanging the audience. Luckily, that doesnt happen.

However, one major problem with Ittefaq is the lack of intensity. Sonakshi Sinha and Sidharth Malhotra take time in adjusting to their surroundings. That reminds me of Ram Gopal Varmas terrific psychological drama Kaun (1999), which worked mostly because of its lead cast. Ittefaq must have looked much better on paper.

Though Sinha continues to struggle with her part till the bitter end, Malhotra begins to hit the right notes after a while. That helps the film a great deal.

You know how investigative officers are used as storytellers in such films. Here, Khanna plays that role with ease, finesse and poise. He binds the story together.

Watch: Our Facebook Live discussion on Ittefaq, Ribbon

There are no songs to distract you, and the camera keeps hovering over the same locations. The idea is to give us a rear window through which you can see the action, but cant exactly understand its true nature.

The plot is not absolutely water-tight (the movie would have blown you away with its twists, if that was the case), but Chopra does put his resources to good use. Ittefaq tries its best to create intrigue, and doesnt give the audience a lot of time to think twice about a single event. That is its biggest achievement.

Ittefaq is a decent crime story that will keep you hooked, and guessing.

Interact with Rohit Vats at Twitter/@nawabjha

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The Bombay high court held that an application for the grant of a firearm licence could not be rejected merely on the ground that there is no threat to the life of the applicant.

A division bench lead by justice Shantanu Kemkar was hearing the case of Navi Mumbai resident Anuj Gupta, 29, who had approached the licencing branch of the Navi Mumbai police commissionerate seeking a firearm licence.

On March 3, the branchs senior police inspector rejected his application primarily on the ground that there was no threat to his life. Gupta appealed before an appellate authority, which upheld the licensing authoritys order.

The high courts bench struck down the order passed by licencing authority and the appellate authority. It held that both authorities ignored provisions of the Arms Act, 1959.

The bench added that the licencing authority could not have rejected the engineers application for the grant of a firearm licence merely because he failed to establish that there was a threat to his life.

Gupta said the authorities had the right to decide whether to grant a licence to a person, based only on provisions of the Arms Act. However, when a person contends that there is a threat to his life, the police cannot brush this aside in such a casual manner, as was the case with him.

He also argued that the licencing authority did not consider matters relevant under provisions of the Arms Act, its orders were arbitrary and liable to be struck down as the contradicted the law laid down by the high court in several of its judgements.

The bench found substance in his contentions. It has now remanded the matter back to the licencing authority for a fresh decision within four months.
Maharashtra medical education minister and senior BJP leader Girish Mahajan has come under fire from women activists and opposition parties who have demanded an apology from him after he advised a sugar factory to name its liquor brand after women for higher sales.

Mahajans faux pas came on Saturday when he was inaugurating the crushing season of Satpuda sugar factory in Nandurbar, about 300 km northeast of the state capital. Sugar factories often set up distilleries for the production of liquor from the molasses generated in the process of producing sugar.

Citing examples of the brands by some of the factories in western Maharashtra, the minister said the Satpuda factory should have named its liquor brand as Maharani instead of Maharaja. He said factories in Kolhapur and Sangli have named their liquor brands Julie, Bhingari and Bobby, and were doing good business.

His comments drew sharp reaction from activists and the opposition. Social activist Paromita Goswami ,of NGO Shramik Elgar, filed a complaint against the minister in Mul Police station in Chandrapur district of Vidarbha. She demanded the case be registered under sections 504 and 509 of IPC for public provocation and insulting the modesty of women. The police are checking the legal standing of the complaint before registering it.

Mahajan sought to control the damage, saying he would apologise for his first mistake in a political career spanning more than 25 years.

It was a statement made in a lighter mood in response to the complaint by the factory members about poor sales. I have personally seen the response to the brands of the factories run by senior politicians such as Shankarrao Kale and Kolhe in western Maharashtra. Having said that, I admit it was an unintentional mistake and I should not have said it. I am issuing an apology tomorrow, Mahajan told HT.

The womens wing of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) held a protest against Mahajan in Nashik and burnt his effigies. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also demanded an immediate apology by the minister.

It represents the mindset of male politicians and the way they view women. It is a shameful statement in a progressive state like Maharashtra which has the legacy of Mahatma Phule and Chhatrapati Shahu Mahraj. Mahajan should immediately apologise for the statement, Pratibha Shinde, social activist from Nandurbar, said.

Mahajan is no stranger to controversies. He had reportedly attended the wedding ceremony of a relative of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim earlier this year. He also invited criticism for attending a function meant for children with hearing and speech disabilities, with his revolver tucked at his waist, visible to everyone.
After holding protests and meetings with officials, residents from western suburbs have been preparing to move court against the elevated metro corridor 2B between DN Nagar and Mankhurd.

The residents petition comes after a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed last week by a socio-political activist and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member from Bandra.

According to the committee of activists and experts, who are demanding that the metro 2B line be made underground in Juhu and Bandra (West), citizen groups will be filing two PILs and individual writ petitions by next week.

Anandini Thakoor, trustee of H/W Federation, told HT that funds needed for the legal recourse are being collected through funding.

Residents of SV Road had also sent letters of appeal to PM Narendra Modi after carrying out a massive signature campaign that has gained at least thousands of supporters.

Gautam Rao, chairman of Gazdar Scheme Residents Trust, said, Schools, housing societies and religious institutions on SV Road are supporting the appeal for an underground Metro instead of an elevated one. About 20 groups have come forward to help financially.

BJP member Ajit Manyal, a Bandra resident himself, filed an PIL about a month ago, stating that an underground metro will allow future development.

I met with the authorities concerned and decided to go ahead with the PIL on my own. The hearing for the same may be held next month.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) officials stated the various technical reasons, including the high cost for an underground corridor, for going ahead with the commissioning of the elevated corridor from DN Nagar to Mankhurd in phases.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), which is facing a financial crunch in constructing the Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway, has decided to ask the Indian Air Force (IAF) to bear the cost of building four emergency airstrips on the proposed 701-km road. The MSRDC will write to the defence ministry seeking funding of Rs600 crore for the airstrips.

According to a senior MSRDC official, the IAF has expressed interest in having runways on the expressway. It has already cleared construction of airstrips on 12 of the 228 national highways. Emergency airstrips are important in case key airfields are rendered out of service during a war or in case of a natural disaster.

Countries known to have emergency airstrips on highways include China, Germany, Sweden, Pakistan, and Singapore. The strips would be a first in Maharashtra.

The official said airstrips on the expressway are not mandatory, however, if the IAF is keen on emergency airstrips then it should contribute to it. The estimated cost of a strip, with specific build parameter, is Rs150 crore. The IAF has shown interest in having airstrips, but we are very clear that the IAF should pay for the construction of these four runways, said a senior MSRDC official.

Apart from the cost of construction, the MSRDC official said additional infrastructure and the recruitment of staff to manage the 3-4km stretch is also the IAFs responsibility. These additional costs, too, have to be borne by the IAF because we are an engineering company and dont understand the technicalities of aviation, he said.

On October 24, 16 IAF planes performed breathtaking landings and touch-and-go manoeuvres on a stretch of the Lucknow-Agra Expressway. In May 2015, the IAF successfully landed a Mirage-2000 on the Yamuna Expressway near Mathura as part of its trials to use national highways for an emergency landing by fighter aircraft.

The proposed expressway is expected to have six lanes along with an two additional service roads. The entire corridor is expected to cut down travel time Mumbai and Nagpur to 10 hours from the current 16-18 hours.

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Last Monday, Shankar Mugalkhod (40), a resident of Kamathipura, got a call saying that a 55-year-old HIV positive woman needed urgent medical attention. Mugalkhod rushed to the womans house in his ambulance, admitted her to the nearest hospital and even paid for medicines. A resident of Khetwadi slum, the woman is double amputee waist-below and was experiencing breathless when Mugalkhod found her.

For the past 18 years, Mugalkhod, an ambulance driver, has been helping homeless, who either dont have a family or are have been abandoned, said doctors from major hospitals who have treated patients admitted by him.

Dr Lalit Anande, chief medical officer, TB Sewri Hospital, said Mugalkhod has been doing the social work without attracting attention.

He gets the poorest patients to the hospital, who are abandoned by their families and live on the streets in miserable conditions, Anande said.

Mugalkhod not only rushes to the aid of those in dire need of medical attention, but also performs final rites on those who succumb to their ailments.

Sachin Mayekar, mortuary assistant at Sir JJ Hospital, Byculla, said Mugalkhod has admitted at least 60 patients to the hospital in the past five years. He stays back till the treatment is initiated. An in case a patient dies, he performs the final rites.

Mugalkhod said a life of poverty, which he experience during his formative years, motivated him to help the destitute.

I have gone to bed hungry and have lived on clothes and footwear picked up from garbage bins, he said.

Initially, Mugalkhod would ferry patients to hospitals in cabs and auto-rickshaws. But soon he got an ambulance from Bombay Teen Challenge, a non-governmental organisation.

I pick up patients from the streets and slums. Some of them have wounds full of maggots. Some of patients are amputates and have gone for months without a bath. says Mugalkhod.

Mugalkhod said even cops seek his services in rushing people to hospitals and shelter homes.

He is always a phone call away. He gets a stretcher and takes these people to the nearest civic hospital, said inspector Taliram Patil from Nagpada police station. At times there is unbearable stench emanating from these patients, but it doesnt deter him [Mugalkhod] from helping them.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) declared its list of candidates for the upcoming Ghaziabad local body polls late Saturday night. The list includes two Muslim women who will be contesting elections from the two seats reserved for women.

The party on late Sunday night also stopped all speculation over several names doing rounds as prospective candidate for the post of city mayor. City unit president Ajay Sharma said that Asha Sharma, a former two-time councillor, was announced as BJPs mayoral candidate.

Asha Sharma has been a party worker for over 25 years and also been a former councillor. She had also been the Rashtriya Mantri of the partys women wing and now declared as our candidate for the seat of Mayor, Sharma added.

Parveen from ward Kaila Bhatta and Imrana from Mausam Vihar have been fielded. Both the wards have a dominant Muslim population and the incumbent House of municipal corporation has no BJP Muslim councillor.

These tickets are in line with the partys policy of Sabka saath sabka vikas. We have given representation to every community, said Ajay Sharma, city president, BJP.

Likewise, the party has also given a ticket to Rani Nafees Pasha, who will be contesting the chairmans seat from Dasna Nagar Panchayat.

I have been a ground worker with the BJP for the past 10 years. I command support from both Hindu and Muslim brotherhood. After the list was announced, people from both communities came to congratulate me. Therefore, other political parties accusing the BJP of not giving representation to Muslims is a gimmick. In fact, my groundwork has earned me a ticket, Pasha said.

Of the list of 100 wards, candidates for five wards, including Kaushambi are yet to be declared. The five wards put on hold are Sadarpur-Govindpuram, Prahlad Garhi, Shaheed Nagar, Krishna Nagar and Kaushambi.

Party sources said that these will be declared soon. Also, the party is yet to find a candidate as Kaushambi RWA (KARWA) has decided to field its own candidate this time, making it a difficult for other contesting candidates.

While the BJP has restored faith in a number of previous and present councillors, three of the present outgoing councillors failed to get tickets this time.

I will approach party leadership for the reason why I was not given a ticket despite the fact that I worked hard throughout my term. Some of those who have been given tickets are husbands or wives of present and former councillors, said Lovely Kaur, BJPs outgoing councillor from Ward 19.

The names of the 95 candidates include those of former councillors like Rajendra Tyagi, Praveen Chaudhary, Rajendra Titoria, Rekha Jain, Sundar Pal, Sanjeev Sharma and Neelam Bhardwaj, among others.

The party office bearers said that the name for the mayoral seat may be declared by late Sunday night. This seat has been reserved for a woman this time and was previously held by BJP candidates.

So far, the Rashtriya Lok Dal and Aam Aadmi Party have declared their mayoral candidates. The Congress declared Dolly Sharma as its mayoral candidate late Saturday night . She is the daughter of Congress city unit president Narendra Bhardwaj. Sources in the Congress said that she was earlier an active member of the youth wing of the party and has been a surprise candidate.

There is no dissent on her name being the daughter of Narendra Bhardwaj, clarified Harendra Kasana, partys district president.

Likewise, the Bahujan Samaj Party is also likely to declare its list of councillors and mayoral candidate by Sunday evening or Monday as filing of nominations will end on November 7.

The BSP nominees will be contesting on party symbol this time. This will instil enthusiasm among party workers and will also help party gauge its situation ahead of 2019 polls, said a party source.

During the last Assembly elections in UP, the BSP got a drubbing and could secure only 19 out of 403 seats. Its candidates failed to secure a win on any of the five seats in Ghaziabad.

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The Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) list of councillors for the local body polls has evoked dissent among party workers, a majority of them women. Hundreds of women raised slogans at the partys regional office at Nehru Nagar and accused the office bearers of favouritism and overlooking workers.

The BJP declared its list of candidates for the Ghaziabad municipal corporation elections late on Saturday night. Following the outburst by workers, the BJP office-bearers went into a huddle and locked themselves inside for a lengthy meeting.

The candidate selected from my ward fought against the party during previous elections but got the ticket at our cost, said Archana Singh, a party worker who was seeking a ticket from Chiranjeev Vihar-Avantika.

Neeru Sharma, another worker, said that tickets have been given to candidates of other backward castes (OBCs), even on general seats. Sharma alleged that the family members of senior party workers and leaders have been given preference.

The ticket has gone to the wife of a party leader who represents OBCs. She is a homemaker who has not taken part before but has been given preference due to her husbands association with the party, said Sharma, a party worker from Ward 78.

The dissenting party workers tried to meet the partys local office bearers and waited until the afternoon, but could not interact with them.

Virender Raghav, a party worker from Ward 22 of Daulatpura, had also applied for a councillors ticket but returned dejected on Sunday.

I have been a party worker and an active member for the last 30 years. I have spoken to all the leaders about being denied a ticket but the office-bearers said that nothing can be done now. The party ticket from my ward, for a seat of general category, is given to an OBC candidate, he said.

Manish Chaudhary, another aspirant who had applied for a ticket from Govindpuram-Harsaon, Ward 62, said, Ticket has been given to a candidate who we dont even know. The sitting councillor was also not given the ticket. The selected candidate has no history of association with the party. It is just because of blessings from higher-ups that the ticket has been allotted to him.

BJPs city president Ajay Sharma, however, said that the dissent among the party workers will be resolved. We will speak to them about their issues and listen to their complaints. As of now, the list is final, he said.

Sandhya Gupta from Ward 22 alleged that party workers have been sidelined and tickets have been given to oblige the near and dear ones of senior leaders.

The party workers said that overlooking their work may cost the party dear during the campaigning.

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A 25-year-old dalit woman has filed a case against her husband and in-laws alleging caste discrimination, dowry harassment and domestic violence.

A case under sections 498A, 323 and 406 of the IPC, sections 3 and 4 of Dowry Act, 1961, and section 3(1)(10) of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, has been registered against her husband and his parents.

The victims father said, My daughter was married to the man in June 2013. They got acquainted when they were working in an export company and wanted to get married. With the consent of parents on both sides, their wedding was solemnized. But since Day One, her mother-in-law was discriminating against her on caste lines. She did not allow her to even enter the kitchen.

We belong to Scheduled Caste and they were also informed before the wedding. Since he was their only son, his parents gave in to his demand and allowed him to marry my daughter, the womans father, a retired Central government employee, said.

The father said that at the time of their wedding, they gave the daughter a number of household items, gold, jewellery, a Swift Dzire car and cash as gifts. Soon after the wedding, her husband and in-laws started demanding more from us and started mentally and physically harassing our daughter, he said.

He said that since his daughter belongs to SC, the grooms parents got the newly-wed couple shifted to a rented accommodation in Vishwakarma Colony of Delhi.

In her complaint to police, the victim said, My husband left his job and the family was dependent on my earnings. He had mortgaged my jewellery and started pressurising me to register the car in his name. He even stole my ATM card and withdrew Rs55,000 from my account.

Due to continued harassment, in June 2015, the victim left her husband and has been living with her parents in Sector 51 in Noida. The man has not agreed to divorce her either, the police said.

The womans father said that in June 2015, she was unwell but her husband and in-laws did not take care of her, following which she moved back in with them.

Anju Teotia, the station house officer of womens police station, said, Based on her complaint, we have registered a case against the Delhi-based man and his parents under sections of the IPC, Dowry Act and SC and ST (prevention of atrocities) Act. The investigation is going on in the matter.
A peace process by its nature is a complex and tortuous journey. The Naga peace process --- now known as the Naga Framework Agreement --- has been criticised for the secrecy that surrounds it. The media is suspicious of the contents of the framework, which was signed between the rebel outfit NSCN(I-M) and the government of India on August 3, 2015. When the media is not privy to anything newsy, it tries to interpret things its way.

The Naga peace process is complex because there are many stakeholders, all of whom do not have a stake in peace. Those who believe that all the Nagas in Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are for peace are naive. Each group has its own idea of what the framework should be.

Getting disparate groups together to arrive at a consensus is not a runaway victory. If the process is speeded up to meet a deadline, it could become a half-baked mission. If it takes too long, it can turn the stakeholders cynical. Whoever is the interlocutor in a peace process has to be part psychologist and part strategist. Dealing with fragile egos and repeated claims of a unique history, which in contemporary times poses a new set of problems can be a trying experience.

What is the role of the media in a peace process? The media often believes it has the grasp to unravel the most complex of human problems. But at the best of times media is a victim to the tyranny of one-dimensional thinking. This smugness can spoil a peace process at a critical stage. The primary role of the media is to inform and educate.

First, they help to define the political atmosphere in which the peace process takes place. Second, the media has an active influence on the strategy and behaviour of the stakeholders. Third, it has an important influence on the nature of debate about a peace process. Fourth, the media can buttress or weaken the legitimacy of the stakeholders.

But peace-building is a slow process and often without drama. News is about events, not processes. When the media reports a process, it tends to make it simplistic because it does not consider itself a stakeholder but an onlooker. While August 3, 2015, was considered a major news event, the drama ended there. But when the media feels that a process has taken more time than what it should have, there is a propensity to give the story a negative aspect and cancel out the positives.

The media has the proclivity to sensationalise and give space to discordant voices. This is detrimental to the peace process as it could harden the stances of even those who had come around to supporting it. Even today there is a lot of kite flying about the territorial integrity of Manipur, if the peace process is wrapped up. These are intended to confuse and confound.

The interlocutor for the framework, RN Ravi, has had extensive discussions not just with the NSCN(IM) but also with the other armed groups and civil society organisations including the tribal Hohos. This constant pushing of the envelope to make the framework inclusive and comprehensive is something that has not been tried in the past. There is greater involvement of stakeholders in the Naga Peace Process today than ever before.

The media has incidentally not highlighted these positive developments. On the contrary, sections of the media have given voice to those with an agenda to radicalise even moderate voices. Sometimes leaders of different political groups could be the biggest spoiler to the peace process since they stand to gain by emotionally influencing their constituents that the process is not to their advantage. Consensus among the political leaders of Nagaland is critical to the peace process.

Professor Gadi Wolfsfeld in The Role of the News Media in Peace Negotiations: Variations over Time and Circumstance, says one of the most common premises of all peace negotiations is that it is imperative to keep the news media out because the greater the media involvement the more likely it is for the talks to fail.

I recall being part of a workshop organised by the International Red Cross on media tools for peace-building. I realised then that a hyperventilating media or an overly critical one could truncate the process.

Negotiations and peace processes rests on two important pillars. One is the tangible evidence of a commitment to peace on the part of the major combatants and second, the willingness of the combatants to pursue a negotiated settlement. Hence there is a symbiotic relation between negotiations and peace processes. But there are unforeseen variables, which could wreck this process. After all, as statesman Edmond Burke says, the social organism is more complicated than we can know.

Patricia Mukhim is editor, The Shillong Times, and former member, National Security Advisory Board

The views expressed are personal
On October 27, we celebrated the Infantry Day commemorating the first occasion when the armed forces were deployed to defend a free India, 70 years ago. What comes to my mind when I think of infantry and its qualities?

I visualise a rifle company in the forming-up place (FUP) waiting for the order to launch an attack. An anxious young company commander, though looking calm and composed, waits for the H-Hour (designated time to launch the assault). The men wait, apprehensive yet resolute, in the classic infantrymans stance, in the ready position. Ready to lunge up and attack or lie prone, hugging the ground to return fire.

The infantry must get priority for procurement of the latest weapons and equipment if it is to retain its decisive edge on the battlefields of the future.

As the appointed time arrives, quiet orders  Sangeen laga, aagey barh! (fix bayonets, move forward)  are given. The company moves forward in its assault formation, raising its battle-cry with fervour. And in the immortal words of orientalist Ralph Lilley Turner (he had served with the third Gorkhas in the World War 1), .and at the last, your unwavering lines disappear into the smoke and wrath of battle. Bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous.

Committed, as our army is to permanently defend the long frontiers and long-term counter-insurgency deployment, the infantry will always retain its pride of place. However, valorous and dedicated as our infantry is, all is not well with them. They occupy the lowest priority when it comes to up gradating weapons and equipment.

While the attention of our decision-makers is fixed on the procurement of big-ticket items, the infantry is crying out for a better assault rifle, personal load-carrying equipment, night-vision devices and even basic articles of modern warfare such as bullet-proof jackets.

Perceptions must change and the attitudes most evolve if our infantry is to retain its edge on the battlefield.

The Military In Peace Time

One reaction, particularly on social media, to the recent controversy over whether the army should undertake construction of civil works of a routine nature, has been, They might as well earn their pay, being unemployed during peace.

Nothing could be furthered from the truth! War is not only a hard business. It must be emphasised that there are no prizes for runners-up in conflict. The militaries train hard for war all year round in order to retain that decisive edge, that complete synergy of man, machine, doctrine and preparedness.

Our armed forces are no different. The annual training cycle consists of perfecting individual skills, collective exercises with units and formations and soldiers undergoing courses at schools of instruction. In an emergency, the defence services are always willing to shoulder whatever tasks are given to them. A wise and pragmatic political leadership will however ensure that training and preparation for war are not impaired.

Terrorists Weaknesses

A weakness for the fairer sex has led to the undoing of a large number of terrorists in Kashmir, both foreigners and the indigenous variety. Sometimes it is the penchant for multiple romances that leads to their doom, with a scorned woman giving up the insurgent to the security forces. Or the militants too frequent visits to a particular locality or house gets on the radars of intelligence agencies, which pursue these terrorists either through electronic surveillance, cultivating a source or inserting their own operative in the neighbourhood.

(Please write in with your narratives of war and military life to msbajwa@gmail.com or call/WhatsApp on 093161-35343; views expressed by the writer are personal)
Eleven persons were drowned in two separate incidents in Bihar, on Sunday.

Eight persons, including five children, were drowned in the Ganga at Mastana ghat in Raghopur riverine belt of Vaishali district on Sunday, while they were bathing in the river. Six bodies were fished out while two others were still missing till reports last came in.

All the deceased belonged to the same family.

In another incident, three women drowned in the Baghmati river in Samastipur district of north Bihar when a small boat carrying over 12 people capsised. While some people swam to safety, five others were rescued, deputy superintendent of police in-charge of Rosera sub-division, Ajit Kumar, said.

In the first inident, the victims had crossed the Ganga from Patna side of the river and gone to Raghopur side for a picnic. A few of them entered the river for a bath but apparently got stuck in the sand mounds and subsequently started drowning. In a bid to save them, others jumped into the river and all were drowned by the undercurrent of the river, locals said.

Chief minister Nitish Kumar condoled the deaths and announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh for next of kin of the deceased.

The bodies identified till Sunday evening were of Ranju Devi, 40, Choti, 7, Sahil , 10, Gautam , 11 and Rajni Kumari, 10. All the deceased hailed from Dariyapur in Fatuha sub-division of Patna district.

A boy and a girl were still missing and were believed to have drowned, too. Their bodies have not been recovered even though divers of the state disaster response force (SDRF) carried search operations till evening, reports said.

Patna district magistrate Sanjay Kumar Agrawal confirmed six deaths, adding, two more persons were also believed drowned.

Eight persons have been drowned in the incident. The administration has fished out six bodies and search is going on to recover the two other bodies, he said. The Patna DM, however, clarified the deceased were not drowned following any boat capsize, as initially reported

Sources said the incident at Mastana ghat took place around 10 am but locals got information about the incident only in the afternoon as the site of occurrence was located at a remote place and far from Patna.

Locals said there were no danger mark board put up at the drowning site, which is considered dangerous for swimming. They also said the divers reached the site of the incident late in the afternoon.

This is the second major incident of drowning in Patna district this year. On the Makar Sankranti day on January 14, 24 persons were drowned after their boat capizised in the river near Patna.

In case of the Samastipur incident, locals jumped into the river and fished out the bodies of the three women, aged between 20 and 30 years. All those on the boat were involved in the business of cattle-rearing. They crossed the river routinely to collect fodder, Rosera DSP in charge Kumar said.

The boat capsized near Madhurapur Dharmpur Ghat.

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Father of a 15-year-old girl was sent to two days in police custody remand after he was arrested under charges of molesting of his own daughter by the Bhosari police. He was produced in a special court on Saturday afternoon, said police sub inspector (PSI) RN Patil who is investigating the case.

The man was booked under Sections 7 and 8 of the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 at the Bhosari police station. Under Section 7 of POCSO, sexual assault is defined as touching of a child's genitals or making a child touch the offender's genitals without penetration. Section 8 of the act, upon conviction, draws a punishment of imprisonment for 3-5 years and fine.

The girl claimed that the indecent behaviour had been occurring for some time but she had not reported it. Her mother also realised recently that the girl had been going through harassment at the hands of the father, according to PSI Patil.

While the girl, who had no siblings, is a student of Class 10 at a local school, her mother is a housewife and the arrested man works in the private sector, according to PSI Patil. The girl claims that her father had been behaving indecently with her for the past month. The girl finally reported the incident to her mother and filed a complaint against her father.
Gurbaskh Kaur of Nawanshahr heaved a sigh of relief on Saturday after she returned home after three horrible months in Saudi Arabia, but the family of Paramjit Kaur of Nakodar is still worried as she is yet to arrive. External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had assured the family, in a tweet, that the woman will be back on Saturday.

The 39-year-old Paramjit of Gorsiya Nihal village in Jalandhar has allegedly been sold and being made to work against her wishes in Hail city of Saudi Arabia. Paramjit had gone there for a job as a domestic help on July 13 and contacted the family about her incarceration by her employer on August 21.

Naresh Kumar, a relative of Paramjit, said the people with whom Paramjit is living currently are demanding money that they had given to the agent.

I had a talk with Paramjit today. She said that she was being tortured there. We request Sushma Swaraj to help us in getting her back as soon as possible, Kumar said.

With Paramjit failing to come back despite Swarajs assurance, the family members are now worried about her safety.

Meanwhile, Ravinder Sharma (45), a retired captain from merchant navy who had been helping the family, again tweeted on Sunday to Sushma Swaraj inquiring about the whereabouts of Paramjit.

He tweeted that he has not been able to get any information from the Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia.

I tried to contact Indian embassy KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) still no information, Ravinder Sharma tweeted.

In an FIR lodged on September 7 after Paramjit contacted her family, her husband Malkeet Ram (45) alleged that travel agent Resham Bhatti of their village had promised a job to her in Saudi Arabia while claiming that his wife too worked there and that the family would get Rs 40,000 once she is settled there.

Bhatti was booked under Sections 370 (buying or disposing of any person as a slave), 420 (cheating) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Nakodar deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Mukesh Kumar said Bhatti is absconding and the police have issued a look-out circular (LOC) to all airports of India.
The Punjab and Haryana high court has stayed Panjab Universitys decision to cancel the enrolment of a woman scholar in a PhD course over alleged false sexual harassment complaint against the son of dean, students welfare (DSW, women).

The court, while staying the PU decision, observed that it would examine whether such a complaint should have been referred to an internal committee or to police by the vice-chancellor (V-C), whether a committee could have investigated the complaint and further whether the womans enrolment could have been cancelled by the varsity.

PUCASH found the complaint false and later on May 28, the PU syndicate took the decision to cancel the enrolment of the woman scholar and expelled her in June 2017.

The woman scholar in her complaint stated that on January 7 this year, when she and her friends relative were coming from the Sector-15 market, Dr Neena Kaplesh, who is the DSW (women) and her son Sahir Sharma verbally harassed them. She also alleged that the DSW obtained reconciliation statement from her by fraud.

She filed a complaint against Kaplesh to the V-C Arun Kumar Grover, who forwarded it to the PU Committee Against Sexual Harassment (PUCASH). The PUCASH found it false and later on May 28, the PU syndicate took the decision to cancel the enrolment of the woman scholar and expelled her in June 2017.

The high court (HC) while seeking response by February 23, 2018, has put on notice Panjab University, its V-C, syndicate, PUCASH chairman, DSW (women) Dr Neena Kaplesh, her son Sahir Sharma and syndicate member Pam Rajput.

The petitioners counsel, Sunil Nehra, had submitted that Grover did not act against Kaplesh, who fraudulently obtained the signatures of the petitioner. In spite of having no jurisdiction to act against the accused boy (as he was neither a student or employee), the V-C forwarded the complaint to the PUCASH, which probed the matter, even though it also did not have the jurisdiction, the court was told.

The woman has further alleged that the committee passed the order ex parte and even before the committee was to take a decision, the V-C had termed the complaint false in a senate meeting in March 2017.

Rajput, who is paternal aunt of Kaplesh, was present at the syndicate meeting besides the V-C, where the decision was taken, Nehra told court.
Weddings can be a tiresome affair with a plethora of arrangements to be made, right from a wardrobe makeover to assorting gifts. Pre-wedding photoshoots can help you capture these precious moments. While planning for such shoots, the location is as important as picking the right outfit. Here are the top seven locations from India and abroad chosen for couples to look their best for a pre-wedding photo shoot:

* Rajasthan

The land of deserts, Rajasthan has been extremely popular for pre-wedding photoshoots and for weddings. It is blessed with beautiful forts, palaces and minarets that provide an ideal setting for a traditional-themed pre-wedding shoot. Unique aesthetics and beautiful architecture make the state a photographers paradise, adding a lot of character to pre-wedding pictures. The state is also filled with love stories and ballads such as that of prince Dhola and princess Maru, which is often used as a theme for pre-wedding photo albums.

Seychelles boasts of azure blue waters and pristine beaches. (Istock)

*Seychelles

One of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world, Seychelles boasts of azure blue waters and pristine beaches that are a favourite with tourists. If you are looking for picture perfect postcard images during your photoshoot, head straight to this small and stunning central African nation that, based on its income from tourism, boasts of the highest nominal per capita GDP in Africa.

* Spiti

With snow-capped peaks and huge clouds providing the perfect contrast to bring out the warmth of the relationship, Spiti valley is gaining massive popularity among adventurous couples. The surroundings, apart from providing the ambiance for some unparalleled pictures, also allow the couple to explore the serenity of the upper Himalayas.

Thailand boasts of natural beauty and sprawling beaches. (Shutterstock)

* Andaman Islands

One of the earliest places where human habitation began in the Indian subcontinent, the Andamans have recently emerged as a great place for vacations. However, its potential as a pre-wedding photoshoot destination is unparalleled. From the white sand beach at Havelock Island to the lush green forest-lined beaches of Neil Island, there are numerous picturesque locations.

* Thailand

Thailand and its capital Bangkok have been immortalised in the hugely popular film, The Hangover II, as an ultimate bachelors party destination. However, it is also a great place to do a pre-wedding photoshoot with either the hustle and bustle of the city as a backdrop or the natural beauty, sprawling beaches and Buddhist monasteries. The place is great for night-time and futuristic photographs with a background of neon lights.

* Mauritius

Beautiful beaches such as the Ile aux Cerfs and the unique Seven Colored Earths are spots that are perfectly suited for pre-wedding photographs. Mauritius is also an affordable option to travel to for photoshoots.

* Kerala

Boasting of lush green coconut trees, beautiful beaches, great climate, food and people, Kerala is considered the ideal beach destination for a pre-wedding shoot. With huge catamarans and silver fish providing the ideal background, couples can make the best of the beautiful backwaters.

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Donna Brazile, the erstwhile interim head of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), had considered replacing 2016 presidential nominee Hillary Clinton with vice-president Joe Biden due to concerns about her health after she collapsed at a 9/11 memorial service, an upcoming book by the American political strategist says.

Brazile considered a dozen combinations before settling on Biden, with African American senator Cory Booker as his running mate, according to a Washington Post report on the book Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-ins and Breakdowns That Put Donald Trump in the White House. She also believed Biden and Booker would better connect with working class voters, a constituency not sold on Clinton.

But she didnt go through with it. I thought of Hillary and all the women in the country who were so proud and excited about her. I could not do this to them, she writes in the book.

Clinton had collapsed as she was leaving the memorial service, and the sequence of events was captured on video by a bystander. After being taken to daughter Chelsea Clintons apartment, she later emerged to pose for a picture with a girl in a weak attempt to allay fears about her health. Clinton said she was feeling great.

Not many were convinced, especially not Brazile. She had seen signs before. On September 9, Brazile saw Clinton looking wobbly on her feet backstage at a Manhattan gala and she seemed to have a rattled cough. She urged Clinton to consult an acupuncturist.

Again and again, I thought about Joe Biden, Brazile writes. No matter what my doubts and fears were about the election and Hillary as a candidate, I could not make good on that threat to replace her.

Biden was widely expected to run, until he decided not to.

However, doubts have been raised since the publication of the account if she could indeed have gone through with the process. The Washington Post said that Brazile, as interim chair, did not have the authority to replace the nominee unilaterally.

Hours after the publication of her account, 100 Clinton campaign issued a joint statement expressing concern. It is particularly troubling and puzzling that she would seemingly buy into false Russian-fueled propaganda, spread by both the Russians and our opponent, about our candidates health.

They went on to add that they did not recognise the campaign as portrayed by Brazile, who was not part of the team, in her book: We are pretty tired of people who were not part of our campaign telling the world what it was like to be on the inside of our campaign and how we felt about it.

Brazile, who headed the DNC from July 2016 to February 2017, said the campaign was too focused on data and had lost touch with voters. They knew how to size up voters not by meeting them and finding out what they cared about, what moved their hearts and stirred their souls, but by analysing their habits.

She called the campaign anaemic and said it had taken on the odour of failure.
At Vietnams Old Flames market, curious customers peruse love letters and pick through perfumes, candles and clothes -- relics from failed relationships put on sale by forlorn lovers.

Entrepreneurial exes meet once a month, bringing their baggage -- emotional and literal -- to a converted cottage on a leafy Hanoi street to find a new home for items they can no longer bear to look at.

Its also a means of moving on.

(After a breakup) Im very sad, I cant drink or eat... but after a while I pick myself up. The past is in the past, said Phuc Thuy, 29, who was selling clothes, purses and even a tube of toothpaste she acquired during a former romance.

The market has steadily grown since it opened in February, especially among Vietnams social-media obsessed youth, unabashed about sharing intimate details of their everyday lives.

People visit the ex lover's market in Hanoi. (AFP)

Young people are more open-minded and they want to share deeply and widely to overcome pain, without suffering alone, said founder Dinh Thang, as a visitor strummed love songs on a guitar nearby.

He started the market after a few bitter breakups left him with unwanted paraphernalia from a now extinguished passion.

He proudly displays love letters, heart-strewn birthday cards and sentimental scrapbooks from his ex as a reminder that such memorabilia need not be painful forever.

Hes also opened the doors to vendors selling new items, and is planning to duplicate the concept in Vietnams commercial capital Ho Chi Minh City next year.

For those who havent quite reached Thangs stage of emotional post-breakup enlightenment, hes set up a message board to pen notes to exes.

To all my ex-lovers, Im sorry because I feel like we never really knew each other, read one remorse-tinged message. Another was more succinct: IM FINE!!!

People look through greeting cards and old film cameras that are on display at a once-a-month ex lover's market in Hanoi. (AFP)

Thang hopes the market will make the topic of breakups less taboo in Vietnam, a conservative communist nation of 93 million where just a generation ago arranged marriages were more common.

Social attitudes have changed as the country has become increasingly globalised and as its vast young population -- more than 50% of the country is under age 30 -- embrace western dating norms.

That includes internet dating.

Many young people meet online, date online and break up online, said Bui Manh Tien, Youth Programme Officer at United Nations Population Fund in Vietnam.

Today, men and women are waiting longer to get married and divorce rates are also ticking up, according to official figures.

We dont want to give up our freedom too early and get tied to family responsibility when were young, we want to enjoy life before getting married, Tien, 25, added.

For some, the Old Flames market is simply a place to make new connections, romantic or otherwise.

I came here to meet people and to see the goods, explore why they used to be a very beautiful memory, said Tieu Khuy, before picking up a used copy of Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice.
Nepal on Sunday inaugurated a bridge built with Indias financial assistance of $430,626 on the Kaligandaki river near China border.

The bridge at Jomsom area in Mustang district not only provides direct motorable connectivity to people of Mustang but also benefits thousands of tourists and pilgrims visiting the famous Muktinath temple and upper Mustang for trekking, the Indian Embassy here said in a statement.

The newly-constructed Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) bridge was inaugurated by Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri.

Ambassador of India inaugurated RCC Bridge Over Kaligandaki River at Jomsom in Mustang District. More at: https://t.co/hIpv13Qvg7 pic.twitter.com/U31AqN4T6O  IndiaInNepal (@IndiaInNepal) November 5, 2017

India had extended a total of 44.5 million Nepali rupees ($430,626 or Rs 2.7 crore) as financial assistance for its construction as part of India-Nepal Economic Cooperation (INEC) programme, the statement said.

Prior to the construction of the RCC bridge, the old suspension bridge on the river Kaligandaki could not be used by motorists, it said.

People had to alight from their vehicles and took another vehicle from across the river to reach their destination, the statement added.

The INEC has an outlay of over 76 billion Nepali rupees with more than 554 large and small development projects completed or currently being implemented across the country in cooperation with the Nepal government.

The projects focus on the education, health and infrastructure sectors.
The cumulative total of the number of Indian students attending Canadian colleges and universities over the last year has crossed 100,000 for the first time, even as those admitted in 2017 could make for a record high.

According to data for study permit holders by country of citizenship from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Canada attracted 31,975 international students originating from India in 2015. That number rose to 52,890 by the end of 2016, and it had already reached 44,855 by August this year, making it a near certainty that the inflow of students will be another record by the end of 2017.

Part of the reason for the surge in Indian students opting for higher education in Canada is the somewhat immigrant-unfriendly signals from the Donald Trump administration in the US.

Premier institutions like the University of Toronto (UofT) are among those that have benefited from this significant rise. The varsity has seen a nearly two-third increase in students from India.

Its vice-president international Professor Ted Sargent said: I think theres real intent on the part of this government to reach out globally and to continue to make Canada a welcoming nation, including at a time when not every other nation in the world is sending that signal. At UofT, we are in this special situation  were in Canadas largest city, its incredibly multicultural and its an incredibly inviting city and were right at the heart of it.

When other nations are going the other way, its even further to our advantage, he said, referring to immigration.

Ted Sargent, vice-president international at the university. (Courtesy: University of Toronto)

Sargent is on his second visit to India, part of a university-wide approach that was introduced this year. We go in the fall to raise interest amongst Indian prospective applicants and then we go typically around March and we follow up with these students; hopefully helping them make their finally decision.

This strategy, he said was certainly new for us and represents an increased emphasis on India engagement.

Others who are involved in this sector of transnational movement of students have keenly observed this recent trend, as in the case of Ravi Jain, a leading immigration lawyer with the Toronto-based firm of Green and Spiegel LLP.

I have seen a huge interest in Indian students whether they are from Indian families based in India or in the Middle East. US policy is certainly influencing the choice of Canada over the US, he said.

Other than the prevailing nativism in the US, he said there was also the hard reality that it takes many years to transition to a green card (in the US) whereas in Canada, most of my permanent resident cases fly through in about four months.

And Canada seeks to make the most of this opening. As Sargent said: To put a positive lens on it, Canadas been a nation that celebrates multiculturalism, and that views immigration as a way to bring the best talent from around the world.

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Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, born in 1953, headed the Saudi Arabian National Guard, an elite internal security force originally based on traditional tribal units that was run by his father for five decades.

As the Sandhurst-trained preferred son of the late King Abdullah, he was once thought to be a leading contender for the throne.

He was also the last remaining member of Abdullahs Shammar branch of the family to retain a key position at the top of the Saudi power structure, after brothers Mishaal and Turki were relieved of their posts as governors in 2015.

That run in power ended on Saturday, when he was relieved of his post at the National Guard by a royal decree. King Salman appointed two new ministers on Saturday to key security and economic posts, replacing Prince Miteb bin Abdullah as minister of the National Guard by Khaled bin Ayyaf.

The Cabinet reshuffle helped to consolidate Prince Mohammeds control of the kingdoms security institutions, which had long been headed by separate powerful branches of the ruling family.

Prince Miteb, the preferred son of the late King Abdullah, was once thought to be a leading contender for the throne before the unexpected rise of Prince Mohammed two years ago.

Miteb had been in effective command of the force since his father became the countrys de facto leader in 1996, when King Fahd suffered a debilitating stroke, but was only officially named as its commander in 2010.

Hes very pragmatic. I think hes a lot smarter than people think he is. And hes very ambitious, said a diplomatic source in the Gulf.

Read | Drug addiction and intrigue: Why Saudi King ordered Mohammed bin Nayef to step aside for younger prince

His position was consolidated in 2013 when the National Guard was given its own ministry and he was named as minister.

The guard formed a power base for King Abdullah for decades as a sort of parallel army, serving as a bulwark against any possible military coup and providing the countrys powerful tribes with their main link to the government.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attends a graduation ceremony and air show marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of King Faisal Air College in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Reuters File Photo)

Its origins can be traced back to the kingdoms founder, King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, who led white-clad Ikhwan tribal warriors in conquering much of the Arabian peninsula in the first three decades of the 20th century.

After Ibn Sauds death, Saudi authorities transformed the Office of the Jihad and Mujahideen, which managed the Ikhwan and other tribal forces, into the National Guard.

It remains administratively distinct from the other two pillars of the Saudi security architecture, the ministries of interior and defence.

Tribal ties

The National Guard today runs military academies, housing projects and hospitals, and is a prodigious source of revenue for US military contractors who train its some 100,000 active members and 27,000 irregular volunteers.

The Vinnell Corporation, now a subsidiary of Northrup Grumman, has held contracts to modernise the institution for nearly four decades.

Miteb is well-liked by tribal leaders and, more important, by recruits who benefit from his largesse, wrote scholar Joseph Kechichian in his book Power and Succession in Arab Monarchies.

In less than fifty years, the Guard transformed a segment of the Saudi population from destitute tribal elements into well-off, well-armed, and well-trained recruits.

As commander, Miteb also inherited from his father the responsibility for the annual Janadariyah festival, which draws millions of Saudis each winter to celebrate the traditions, architecture and folklore of the kingdoms various regions.

Read | Saudi kings son plotted to oust his rival as crown prince

For many Saudis, the festival is a major expression of national pride, safeguarding a cultural heritage that is fast disappearing in the kingdoms rapidly modernising society. It is politically beneficial to be associated with it.

Prince Mitebs business interests are thought to include ownership of the prestigious Hotel de Crillon in the centre of Paris, which the French newspaper Le Figaro reported that he bought in 2010 for $354 million.

His father specifically instructed him to distance himself from excessive commercial activities, according to Kechichians book.

He is married to a daughter of Saleh Fustock, who hails from a Lebanese family and whose sister was one of King Abdullahs most important wives. Fustock owns Arab Builders for Trading, the local partner for Vinnell at the National Guard.

The prince is an avid equestrian and his son Prince Abdullah was part of the bronze-medal-winning Saudi equestrian team at the London Olympics in 2012.
Saudi King Salman appointed two new ministers on Saturday to key security and economic posts, removing one of the royal familys most prominent members as head of the National Guard and boosting the kingdoms young crown prince.

The king also announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman which Al Arabiya TV said had already detained 11 princes, four current ministers and tens of former ministers. The suspects were not named.

The cabinet reshuffle saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah replaced as minister of the National Guard by Khaled bin Ayyaf, while Economy Minister Adel Fakieh was removed in favour of his deputy Mohammed al-Tuwaijri, according to a royal decree carried by state-run media.

Prince Miteb, the preferred son of the late King Abdullah, was once thought to be a leading contender for the throne before the unexpected rise of Prince Mohammed two years ago. He had inherited control of the National Guard, an elite internal security force built out of traditional tribal units, from his father, who ran it for five decades.

Saudi Arabian Prince Miteb bin Abdullah at the Elysee Palace in Paris. (Reuters File Photo)

Prince Miteb was the last remaining member of Abdullahs branch of the family to hold a position in the upper echelons of the Saudi power structure.

What the cabinet shuffle does

The move consolidates Crown Prince Mohammeds control of the kingdoms security institutions, which had long been headed by separate powerful branches of the ruling family.

Prince Mohammed, the kings 32-year-old son, already serves as defence minister and was named heir to the throne in a June reshuffle that sidelined his older cousin, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who had also served as interior minister.

Read | Drug addiction and intrigue: Why Saudi King ordered Mohammed bin Nayef to step aside for younger prince

He has been responsible at the same time for running Saudi Arabias war in Yemen, dictating an energy policy with global implications and behind the plans for the kingdom to build a future after oil.

Prince Mohammed, who has pledged to go after graft at the highest levels, will now also head up the new anti-corruption body, which was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions, and freeze assets.

The homeland will not exist unless corruption is uprooted and the corrupt are held accountable, the royal decree said.

New economy minister

The countrys new economy minister, Tuwaijri, is a former Saudi air force pilot and former chief executive of HSBCs Middle East operations who has led the economy ministrys programme to privatise some $200 billion of government assets.

He replaces Fakieh, who served as the point man for the kingdoms wide-ranging economic reforms since his appointment as economy and planning minister in 2015.

A former food executive with a reputation for pushing through politically sensitive reforms, Fakieh had previously served as labour minister, health minister and mayor of Jeddah.

Fakieh faced down fierce opposition from the business community as labour minister when he established quotas for foreign workers to boost jobs for Saudis.

Read | Saudi kings son plotted to oust his rival as crown prince

Under Prince Mohammed, Fakieh led the development of a national transformation plan and privatisation drive launched last year to end the kingdoms vulnerability to an unpredictable oil market. His replacement comes as the kingdom makes adjustments to that plan, a process dubbed NTP 2.0.

The royal decree did not say whether Fakieh would hold any other government position. Former ministers often serve in advisory roles after leaving their posts.

The arrests

Al Arabiya television reported that the princes, four current and dozens of former ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009 and the deadly outbreak of the Mers virus some years ago.

State-run Saudi Press Agency said the commissions goal was to preserve public money, punish corrupt people and those who exploit their positions.

Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal was among those arrested, Saudi news websites said though there was no official confirmation. The prince could not be reached for comment.

According to a senior Saudi official who declined to be identified under briefing rules, those detained include: Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, chairman of Kingdom Holding

chairman of Kingdom Holding Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, minister of the National Guard

minister of the National Guard Prince Turki bin Abdullah, former governor of Riyadh province

former governor of Riyadh province Khalid al-Tuwaijri, former chief of the Royal Court

former chief of the Royal Court Adel Fakeih, Minister of Economy and Planning

Minister of Economy and Planning Ibrahim al-Assaf, former finance minister

former finance minister Abdullah al-Sultan, commander of the Saudi navy

commander of the Saudi navy Bakr bin Laden, chairman of Saudi Binladin Group

chairman of Saudi Binladin Group Mohammad al-Tobaishi, former head of protocol at the Royal Court

former head of protocol at the Royal Court Amr al-Dabbagh, former governor of Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority

former governor of Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority Alwaleed al-Ibrahim, owner of television network MBC

owner of television network MBC Khalid al-Mulheim, former director-general at Saudi Arabian Airlines

former director-general at Saudi Arabian Airlines Saoud al-Daweesh, former chief executive of Saudi Telecom

former chief executive of Saudi Telecom Prince Turki bin Nasser, former head of the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment

former head of the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment Prince Fahad bin Abdullah bin Mohammad al-Saud, former deputy defence minister

former deputy defence minister Saleh Kamel, businessman

businessman Mohammad al-Amoudi, businessman

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets in the Red Sea city of Jeddah, potentially to prevent any high-profile figures from leaving.

The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history, said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community, Ulrichsen told AFP.
A Sikh mayoral candidate in the US has been labelled a terrorist in slanderous flyers left on car windshields only days before the election, according to a media report.

The flyers targeting Ravinder Bhalla, the first Sikh to hold elected office in New Jersey, were placed on car windshields on Friday night, New York Daily News reported.

They have a photo of New Jersey Councilman Bhalla. In red letters above him, the flyers read: Dont let terrorism take over our Town!, it added.

The report alleged that the leaflets appear to be a modified version of mailers sent out by another Hoboken mayoral candidate, Mike DeFusco. The original flyers accused Bhalla of having a potential conflict of interest.

Yesterday, a flyer w/ word "terrorist" above a pic of me was circulated in Hob. Of course this is troubling, but we wont let hate win. pic.twitter.com/Ri9xrYF4Al  Ravinder S. Bhalla (@RaviBhalla) November 4, 2017

Officials in New Jersey are condemning flyers that paint the Sikh politician running for the mayor of Hoboken as a terrorist.

DeFusco condemned the altered flyers in a statement on Saturday.

Today I spoke out not only against the racist, disgusting flyers targeting Ravi Bhalla that appeared last night and was made to look like it came from my campaign, but also against the rest of the hate that has been shamefully displayed throughout this race, DeFusco said.

DeFusco said he has also been the victim of hateful rhetoric accusing him of being a part of a crime family and attacking his sexuality, the report said.

He would be Hobokens first gay mayor, if elected.

Bhalla addressed the terrorism flyers on Saturday, calling them troubling in a statement. We wont let hate win in Hoboken, he said.

I want to use this incident as an opportunity to affirm to each other and our children the value of living in a diverse community where we are judged by the content of our character - not by the colour of our skin or how we worship, Bhalla said in the statement.

Senator Cory Booker posted a photo of the flyers to his Twitter account. He called it vile and hateful and said, We all must condemn bigotry & hate!

My friend @RaviBhalla is running for Hoboken mayor. This vile hateful flyer was put out. I condemn it! We all must condemn bigotry & hate! https://t.co/3Wz5Io9kNZ  Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) November 4, 2017

Six candidates are vying to replace outgoing Mayor Dawn Zimmer in the election on Tuesday.

The flyers appeared days after racist campaign mailers attacking two Asian school board candidates in Edison evoked the campaign slogan of US President Donald Trump and claimed Chinese and Indian residents are taking over the town.
US President Donald Trumps former campaign manager Paul Manafort offered to post more than $12 million in real estate and life insurance assets and to limit his travel in a bid to avoid continued house arrest, according to court documents filed on Saturday.

Manafort, who ran Trumps presidential campaign for several months last year, and associate Richard Gates earlier this week pleaded not guilty to a 12-count indictment by a federal grand jury.

The charges include conspiracy to launder money, conspiracy against the United States and failing to register as foreign agents of Ukraines former pro-Russian government. They are part of Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation into alleged Russian efforts to tilt the 2016 election in Trumps favor and potential collusion by Trump associates.

In the Saturday court filing, Manafort offered to limit his travel to New York, Washington and Florida and pledged life insurance worth about $4.5 million as well as about $8 million in real estate assets, including a property on Fifth Avenue in New York that was identified by some media outlets as an apartment in Trump Tower.

US District Judge Amy Berman Jackson said on Thursday that initial bail terms would remain in place and set a bail hearing for Monday to consider changes. On Friday, she suggested a potential May 7 trial date.

Manafort and Gates are under house arrest, under unsecured bonds of $10 million and $5 million, respectively, which means they do not have to post the bail unless they fail to show up for court or violate other conditions.

Prosecutors have argued there is a risk of flight and both men are subject to electronic monitoring.

As part of the indictment, the special counsels office is seeking forfeiture of four of Manaforts properties in connection with money laundering charges.

Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, declined to comment on Saturday.

Manafort, 68, in the filing also explained why he had three different US passports, a fact noted by prosecutors. Manaforts lawyer, Kevin Downing, rejected suggestions that Manafort was a Jason Bourne character - referencing a fictitious, globe-trotting, rogue covert agent.

The facts are much more mundane, Downing wrote.

Manafort had two passports, including one for submitting to foreign governments to receive visas while traveling on the other, his lawyers said. He was issued a third passport because one had been lost and Manafort contacted passport services to advise them it was found.

Downing also wrote that funds Manafort had deposited in accounts on the island of Cyprus were legal and now had only nominal balances. Prosecutors said Manafort and Gates used numerous entities to transmit more than $18 million from Ukraine through Cyprus and eventually to the United States.

Federal prosecutors said in a court filing on Tuesday that Manaforts financial assets were substantial, but difficult to quantify because he listed figures on loan applications and other financial documents since 2012 that ranged from $19 million to $136 million.

The investigation has cast a shadow over the first nine months of the Trump presidency. For Manafort and Gates, a conviction on conspiracy to launder money alone could carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
The Islamic State group claimed a major attack on Yemens government bastion of Aden on Sunday which killed at least 15 people, wounded 18 others and sparked a hostage crisis.

IS and its extremist rival Al-Qaeda have taken advantage of the war between Yemens Saudi-backed government and the countrys Shiite Huthi rebels, who are allied with Iran, to bolster their presence across much of the south.

While Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has for years been the stronger presence in southern Yemen, IS has recently come forward to claim attacks on both the army and the countrys Shiites, whom it considers heretics.

IS claimed Sundays attack on the criminal investigations unit in an online statement released by its Aden and Abyan province, which said clashes were still ongoing.

Security officials in the southern province of Aden, where the Yemeni government is based, said an explosives-rigged car blew up outside the investigations unit, killing six officers on the spot along with the driver.

Around 30 gunmen then stormed the unit and freed around 50 detainees from their holding cells, some of whom took up arms to fight alongside the militants, according to a high-ranking official.

The security officials said a total of four suicide bombers blew themselves up during the attack, one of them targeting the convoy of Yemens chief of security.

The gunmen also took an unknown number of people hostage inside the unit on Sunday afternoon. Two policewomen were killed execution-style by the attackers, the official said.

By late afternoon, security officials said four policemen -- among them a colonel -- had been freed.

Earlier in the day, Yemeni security sources had said they suspected Al-Qaeda militants were behind the well-coordinated attack.

End of the calm?

The assault spells an abrupt end to a period of relative calm that has reigned in Aden, where the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has been based since it was driven out of the rebel-held capital Sanaa in 2014.

Yemens complex war, which pits the Saudi-backed Hadi government against former president Ali Abdullah Saleh and his Huthi rebel allies, has allowed AQAP and IS to flourish in the south of the country.

IS has not claimed a Yemen attack in almost a year. The group claimed responsibility for a December 18, 2016 attack in Aden that killed 48 and wounded 84 soldiers who had lined up to get their salaries.

While southern Yemen has long been the target of a drone war by the United States, which classifies AQAP as the radical networks most dangerous branch, Washington appears to have recently turned its aim towards IS as well.

In October, a US drone strike targeted what local officials said was an IS group in the central Bayda province -- the second known strike by Washington against the jihadists in Yemen.

The United States has ties to Yemeni special forces trained by the United Arab Emirates, a key member of the Saudi-led coalition, who have closed in on AQAP southern strongholds in recent weeks.

The UAE has played a key role in the Saudi-led military campaign to prop up Hadis government against both AQAP and the Huthis, who forced him into exile back in 2014.

More than 8,600 people have been killed in Yemen since Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the war in 2015 to support government forces, according to the World Health Organization.

Another 2,100 have died of cholera this year.

Long the poorest country in the Arab world, Yemen now stands steps away from an official declaration of famine, as war, displacement, and port and airport blockades leave its people struggling to secure food.

All parties in the Yemen war have drawn harsh criticism for their failure to protect civilians, but the Saudi-led coalition allied with the government has been singled out by the United Nations over civilian casualties.

In September, the UN Human Rights Council announced an agreement to send war crimes investigators to Yemen.

The UN humanitarian coordinator in Yemen, Jamie McGoldrick, in a statement on Sunday said he was horrified by the continuing violence
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Barbecue joints continue to open at a torrid pace in Texas and across the United States. Far from reaching "peak barbecue," Texans' appetites for smoked meats are rising faster than a George Springer home run in an Astros World Series game.

The genesis for most barbecue joints still comes from either the backyard or competitions. In the first example, a would-be pitmaster becomes obsessed with cooking barbecue at home on weekends, gets good at it and is inspired by family and friends to make the jump to opening a restaurant. Will Buckman of CorkScrew BBQ in Spring followed this path, for example.

Alternatively, an aspiring pitmaster may be part of a cooking team that participates in barbecue competitions. As the awards pile up, he becomes inspired to "go pro" and open a barbecue joint. Wesley Jurena of Pappa Charlies Barbeque took this road.

Recently, other avenues to smoked-meat success have opened. Truth BBQ in Brenham partnered with established, nonbarbecue restaurateur Johnny Carrabba and will open a Houston location on Washington, for instance.

And just in the past few months, pitmasters have teamed up with fine-dining chefs to announce restaurant concepts that combine smoked meats with kicked-up side dishes and other upscale cuisines.

Uber-pitmaster Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue in Austin last week announced a collaboration with celebrated chef Tyson Cole of the sushi-focused Uchi restaurant empire (which has a Houston outpost in Montrose). Located in Austin, Loro will be a Japanese-inspired smokehouse featuring grilled and smoked meats.

In an interview with the Austin American-Statesman, Cole noted an interesting parallel between sushi and barbecue in that both cuisines are prepared "a la minute" - they are both cut at the moment they are ordered to ensure the highest quality and freshness. It's just one example of how chefs and pitmasters are starting to see parallels between their corresponding specialties.

In Houston, the chef-pitmaster connection has been around for a while. Indeed, Ronnie Killen started out as a pitmaster before becoming a classically trained chef. After gaining national recognition for Killen's Steakhouse, he circled back to his roots and opened the acclaimed Killen's Barbecue in Pearland in 2013. His chef-pitmaster background later manifested in Killen's STQ, which combines the best techniques of a barbecue joint and a high-end steakhouse.

More recently, chef and pitmaster Patrick Feges announced a partnership with wife Erin Smith, who is also a classically trained chef, to open Feges BBQ in Greenway Plaza. Feges worked at barbecue-influenced restaurants such as Underbelly and Southern Goods, and spent a year working as a pitmaster at Killen's Barbecue.

Smith gained recognition as the chef at Plonk Bistro, ran the kitchen at the JW Marriott hotel downtown and most recently sharpened her sommelier skills at Camerata wine bar.

According to Smith, the chef-pitmaster fusion at Feges BBQ will focus on a diversity of dishes you might not otherwise find at a traditional barbecue joint.

"Barbecue can be heavy, and it's not something some people want to eat every day," she said in a statement. "Our goal is to have lighter, healthier options as well as enough variety to keep people coming back."

Certainly, not everyone will buy into this brave new world of fusion. Old-school joints such as Pizzitola's and newer craft-barbecue outlets such as Pinkerton's are filled with patrons who just want their Texas trinity of brisket, pork ribs and sausage.

Fortunately, in my experience, there is room for both old and new. As long as the traditional joints are open and thriving, let's see what these new chef-pitmaster collaborations can come up with.
The scandal over Harvey Weinstein's actions and the resulting #MeToo campaign have jump-started conversations about sexual harassment throughout society, including within the Houston theater community.

In a public Facebook post made Oct. 13, 4th Wall Theatre Company co-founder Philip Lehl wrote he had over the course of his career "heard stories of sexual harassment" in the city. The message prompted a barrage of responses from local theater professionals.

"Part of me saw it happening  and did nothing," one longtime local actor wrote in response to the post. "Many times I was scared of losing my acting job. It's the shameful part of my artistic life."

The Facebook thread didn't serve as concrete evidence of sexual harassment in Houston theater. The comments remained vague, suggesting rather that harassment in the modern day remains an "open secret," a risk and sometimes a reality that is never acknowledged openly but rather whispered about among trusted friends.

But several local theater artists in the thread implied that sexual harassment was something they knew happened in the industry, even locally, and that the topic remains taboo.

More Information #Notinourhouse To find out more about the #Notinourhouse movement of preventing sexual harassment in theater, visit notinourhouse.org. See More Collapse

"I still can not believe how quiet this town has been," another commenter wrote.

Currently, there is no established sexual harassment policy for the loosely connected web of theater troupes and actors that have no coordinated consortium. Nor are there well-known guidelines for how to prevent and respond to incidents of harassment - in other words, there often isn't an accepted "Human Resources" code of conduct that promotes a safe space.

But some local advocates suggest that a proactive stance on sexual harassment conversation could benefit Houston theater.

Lehl said Houston theaters should play an active role in creating safe spaces for artists.

He pointed to #NotInOurHouse, an advocacy group that unofficially established sexual harassment policies for smaller theater organizations in the wake of a sexual abuse scandal in Chicago.

In an investigative report published by the Chicago Reader in 2016, several women said that Darrell Cox, a well-respected director, abused young female actors physically and sexually under the guise of producing "dark and edgy" plays featuring violent sex scenes.

The #NotInOurHouse hashtag began as a response to the scandal, asking theaters to adopt the Chicago Theatre Standards, an unofficial 30-page document listing guidelines to create a safe space for artists and everyone involved in a theatrical production.

"I think we have the same need," Lehl said.

4th Wall Theatre Company co-founder Kim Tobin-Lehl agreed.

"There is no structure (to report an incident), and that is the problem," she said. "The real issue is, we have a culture of not believing women, or disregarding women as hysterical or asking for too much. We've created a dynamic where women are expected to adhere to a kind of abuse, and it's 'get tough' or put up with it."

The #NotInOurHouse initiative is targeted primarily at non-equity theater companies. Equity theater companies hire artists under the national unions, such as the Actors' Equity Association, which have established, enforceable guidelines for how to treat artists - though AEA's language on harassment is, to some advocates, very limited.

Smaller organizations that can't afford to hire artists under union contracts lack specific guidelines on the artist-company relationship. Laura Fisher, co-founder of #NotInOurHouse, said the document establishes a culture of professionalism. Acting as more than a piece of paper, it's a strong message sent to both men and women that sexual harassment isn't tolerated.

Theater artists have risks unique to their industry. They are often asked to kiss, engage in simulated sex scenes, be naked on stage and simulate violence. Because the industry operates on an economy of reputation, Tobin-Lehl said, it can be especially difficult for women to talk about abuse for fear that retaliation from the accused could lead to diminished career opportunities.

The #NotInOurHouse guidelines ask participating companies to spend part of the first day of rehearsal of each production reading the Chicago Theatre Standards. It broadly categorizes harassment as including whistles, suggestive comments in general and requesting sexual favors with implied promises of reward or threats of punishment.

These guidelines also define sexual harassment, suggest resolution paths for artists with complaints and designate to whom to address them. Every person has a copy of a contact sheet with designated liaisons. The stage manager, director, artistic director and board of directors is listed on the contact sheet, with recommendations on whom to call to report sexual harassment depending on the seriousness of the case.

The definitions of harassment are broad - even unintentional or general comments can make a female colleague feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

New York-based director Rachel Dart, who founded an anonymous survey called the Let Us Work Project, said artists typically stay silent because they're afraid of retaliation. They have instead created an informal whisper network in which friends warn each other of abusers and secretly avoid working with them.

"People are afraid of the legal consequences," Dart said. "Even to name any identifying details is scary. People can take sides, say we're making it up." Dart has firsthand experience with sexual harassment. When she reported the incident, the man was fired from the specific production, but he didn't go anywhere. He was hired again and again for shows at the same theater. Dart warned her friends against working with the man. She was forced to turn down a job offer from the theater because she knew she'd have to work with her harasser again.

When she saw Chicago mobilize in 2016, she was inspired to start her own advocacy project to help other artists in her same situation. She founded Let Us Work, an anonymous survey for theater artists to share their experiences with sexual harassment. It was just one effort to break the silence.

"Many people who respond go to great pains to obscure the theater where they worked. No one wants to get in any trouble," Dart said.

Tobin-Lehl agreed that a document like the Chicago Theatre Standards could help change a culture that can silence victims of abuse.

"If the environment isn't safe, nobody feels like they're allowed to say it," Tobin-Lehl said.

If an advocacy group existed in Houston, she said, it could be "a place for someone to talk about real sexual abuse, to seek advice on where to find legal counsel. A safety net of confidence. Something like that would have been helpful in my 20s."

Theater companies in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and other cities are considering adopting similar standards to #NotInOurHouse, said Fisher. She said no Houston theater companies have contacted her, but welcomes the opportunity to bring the program to Houston.

"This is a piece of American culture starting to say no to people who feel that one of the benefits of power is the ability to abuse people," Fisher said.
WASHINGTON - The White House on Saturday disparaged the legacies of the only two living Republican presidents to precede Donald Trump, after reports that both men castigated Trump in interviews last year and refused to vote for him.

Former president George H.W. Bush mocked then-candidate Trump as a "blowhard" and voted for a Democratic president, while the younger Bush worried aloud that Trump would destroy the idea of a Republican president in all but name, according to "The Last Republicans," which is scheduled to go on sale later this month.

The White House responded after quotes from the book were published on Saturday, entering an extraordinary war of words involving three presidents from the same party.

"If one Presidential candidate can disassemble a political party, it speaks volumes about how strong a legacy its past two presidents really had," the White House wrote to CNN. It called the younger Bush's decision to wage war on Iraq "one of the greatest foreign policy mistakes in American history."

The book's author, Mark Updegrove, interviewed the Bushes last year - long before Trump's inauguration - and found neither wanted to see what they described as a coarse, populist campaigner become president.

"I don't like him," George H.W. Bush told Updegrove before the election, according to the book. "I don't know much about him, but I know he's a blowhard. And I'm not too excited about him being [our] leader."

A month earlier, Trump had famously cited himself as his own best foreign policy adviser. "Because I have a very good brain and I've said a lot of things," said the candidate, who had no diplomatic or military experience.

Upon learning this, Updegrove wrote, George W. Bush thought to himself: "Wow, this guy really doesn't understand the job of president."

Those comments came as Trump neared the Republican nomination for president, having vanquished most other contenders, including another member of the Bush family, former Florida governor Jeb Bush, whom Trump repeatedly mocked as "low energy."

George W. Bush didn't expect Trump to win the general election, Updegrove told CNN in an interview about his new book.

"When Trump started to rise, I think he became concerned because he saw this populism of Donald Trump getting in the way of America's position in the world," Updegrove said.

As he watched Trump's campaign, the younger Bush feared he - Bush - would "be the last Republican president," said the author, who founded the National Medal of Honor Museum this year, after several years as director of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum.

"And it wasn't just about Hillary Clinton becoming president," he said. "It was because Donald Trump represented everything that the Bushes abhorred."

Trump stood for rudeness, international isolationism and weak leadership in the eyes of the Bushes, according to Updegrove - reservations echoed by many establishment Republicans. In September, George W. Bush gave speech in which he didn't mention Trump but lamented these same vices - and politics that "seems more vulnerable to conspiracy theories and outright fabrication."

But Trump, who has made more than 1,300 false or misleading claims in less than a year and almost constantly insults his many rivals, did win the presidency.

It is rare in the modern political era to see former presidents to openly criticize their successors.

But "this is all different with Donald Trump," said presidential historian Douglas Brinkley.

"It allows us to understand how much a renegade Trump is in the Republican Party," he said. "Trump represents the outsider, and the Bush family are quintessential insiders."

The Bushes have despised Trump for decades, Brinkley said, citing reports that the elder Bush snubbed Trump as his running mate in the 1992 election.

Trump had his turn in 2016, when he ridiculed Jeb Bush out of the race and campaigned against George W. Bush's decision to wage war in Iraq.

"No Democrat has criticized the war in Iraq with as much anger as Donald Trump," Brinkley said. "How can George W. Bush resurrect his post-presidency career when the sitting president is telling everyone every day how awful he is?"

So the historian wasn't surprised to see Trump's old campaign feuds embroil his White House in 2017, though he had to think back more than half a century to cite a comparable example. (President Truman once said soon-to-be-president Eisenhower knew no more about politics "than a pig knows about Sunday.")

And not only did the Bush presidents lament the prospect of a Trump presidency in 2016 - Updegrove wrote that they also shunned their party's nominee on Election Day.

"I voted 'None of the Above' for president," the younger Bush told the author, according to his book.

The elder Bush said he voted for Trump's rival Hillary Clinton, a Democrat.

In a statement to The Washington Post, Trump's press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders did not repeat the White House's direct attacks on the Bush legacies from earlier in the day. But, she wrote, if voters "were interested in continuing decades of costly mistakes, another establishment politician more concerned with putting politics over people would have won."

A Bush family spokesman answered questions about Updegrove's book and the White House statement with a simple reply:

"No comment, but thanks."

The three other living ex presidents - all Democrats - have expressed their own issues with Trump since he launched his campaign, and in some cases continuing into his presidency.

While still president, Barack Obama made his opinion clear not long before Election Day, in a campaign speech for Trump's rival Hillary Clinton.

"This is somebody who vilifies minorities, vilifies immigrants, vilifies people of Muslim faith, makes fun of Americans with disabilities," Obama said. (He didn't mention that Trump had also been going after him for years.)

"Do you want somebody to be your voice who on tape brags about how being famous allows him to get away with sexual assault?" Obama asked the crowd. "Who calls women 'pigs,' or 'dogs,' or 'slobs' and grades them on a scale of one to 10?"

When Trump won the election, Obama's tone quickly changed.

He urged the country to put aside political differences and root for the new president's success, and left Trump a nice handwritten letter, wishing him" the very best as you embark on this great adventure" and offering what help he could give.

The truce didn't last long. Not two months into his presidency, Trump made baseless accusations that Obama wiretapped him at Trump Tower during the election. And Obama regularly attacks Trump administration policies - if not the man himself.

"It's certainly frustrating that we have to mobilize every couple of months to keep our leaders from inflicting real human suffering on our constituents," he said at a fundraiser in September, as he fought Trump's effort to repeal his administration's health-care policies.

Trump doesn't appear to be any chummier with former president Bill Clinton, whose wife he defeated in the 2016 race. Clinton and Trump were in a public spat as recently as December - each accusing the other of general ignorance.

Of all the former presidents, the one Trump once called "the worst President in the history of the United States" has lately been kindest to him.

In an interview with the New York Times last month, Jimmy Carter accused the media of being "harder on Trump than any other president certainly that I've known about." He said if the United States had receded as a global leader under President Trump, it had already been doing so for many years.

Carter even said he'd offered his services to the Trump administration.

But as the Times wrote, the ex-president had harsher words for another successor, Obama, perhaps signaling one way or another, the era of presidential friendliness is over.

- - -

The Washington Post's Philip Rucker contributed to this report.
Kevin Spacey, still reeling from explosive allegations of sexual misconduct, has been banished from the last season of the Netflix original series "House of Cards."

Netflix has announced that it is cutting ties with the actor, saying in a brief statement that the streaming company "will not be involved with any production of 'House of Cards' that includes Kevin Spacey."

The news is the latest in a cascading fallout following allegations that Spacey had made sexual advances toward actor Anthony Rapp more than 30 years ago, when Rapp would've been 14 and Spacey would've been 26.

In a two-paragraph statement posted on social media at midnight Monday, Spacey did not only apologize for the encounter, which he said he did not remember; he also came out as gay, outraging members of the LGBT community who accused the actor of trying to deflect serious allegations of sexual misconduct against a minor.

Within the next 48 hours, Netflix and Media Rights Capital, the production company in charge of "House of Cards," condemned Spacey's alleged actions, announced that the upcoming sixth season of the series will be its last one and suspended production "until further notice."

Creative Artists Agency and publicist Staci Wolfe announced on the same week that they are dropping Spacey as a client, the Los Angeles Times reported.

And CNN published a story about more allegations against the 58-year-old actor. Eight current and former employees of "House of Cards" told CNN that Spacey had engaged in a pattern of sexual harassment, making the show's set a "toxic" work environment. A former production assistant accused Spacey of sexually assaulting him.

This prompted Netflix to drop Spacey altogether. Netflix said in its statement Friday that it will work with Media Rights Capital "during this hiatus time to evaluate our path forward as it relates to the show," and that it will not release the film "Gore," which stars Spacey and was in postproduction.

Netflix has said that the decision to end "House of Cards" after Season 6 was made months ago, although the announcement came right after Rapp's explosive allegations were published Sunday by BuzzFeed.

Rapp told BuzzFeed that the incident happened after a party at Spacey's apartment in 1986. He told BuzzFeed that Spacey picked him up, placed him in bed and climbed on top of him.

"I came forward with my story, standing on the shoulders of the many courageous women and men who have been speaking out, to shine a light and hopefully make a difference, as they have done for me," Rapp said on Twitter. "Everything I wanted to say about my experience is in that article, and I have no further comment about it at this time."

In a response a few hours after the BuzzFeed story was published, Spacey said he was "beyond horrified" to hear the encounter, which he said "would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior."

"This story has encouraged me to address other things about my life," he wrote. "I have loved and had romantic encounters with men throughout my life, and I choose now to live as a gay man. I want to deal with this honestly and openly and that starts with examining my own behavior."

The Washington Post was unable to reach a representative for Spacey. Earlier this week, Wolfe, Spacey's former publicist, told media outlets that the actor is "taking the time necessary to seek evaluation and treatment."

Spacey, who had received multiple Emmy nominations for his portrayal of Frank Underwood, a ruthless politician who forced himself into the presidency, is the latest Hollywood figure to be accused of sexual advances.

Dozens of actresses have gone public with allegations that Hollywood producer and former studio executive Harvey Weinstein either sexually harassed or assaulted them. Explosive reports by the New York Times and the New Yorker detailed previously undisclosed allegations of harassment and criminal sexual abuse that spanned several years. The Washington Post found three more similar cases.

Weinstein in now under criminal investigation.

Media figures, including former NBC analyst Mark Halperin, former New Republic publisher Hamilton Fish, former New Republic literary editor Leon Wieseltier and former NPR chief editor Michael Oreskes, all have recently resigned from their positions amid allegations of sexual harassment.
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Dee Coleman wishes more had changed.

She was just a 30-something sales representative for Xerox when she attended the National Women's Conference in Houston in 1977.

The 73-year-old plans to participate again this weekend as events kicked off for the 40th anniversary conference at the University of Houston. The conference, which will be held Monday and Tuesday at the university, will feature workshops on women's issues, a discussion with Gloria Steinem and a march to embrace the #MeToo movement.

"I still can't believe we're fighting for the same old stuff," said Coleman, who came from Alabama for the gathering.

Coleman was one of 2,000 delegates during the original gathering. The 1977 conference, which was supported by federal funds, included more than 30,000 participants. Delegates voted on 26 policy planks concerning women's rights and delivered them to Congress and the president in a report called "The Spirit of Houston."

A trio of University of Houston professors decided to hold the conference again in 2017, and the Houston Women's March organization joined in partnership.

"We're part of the legacy and influence resulting from the 1977 conference, and we're continuing the work undertaken by the delegates and the suffragettes and the people asking for equality," said Robin Paoli, founder of Houston Women's March. "You've heard it said, 'If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.' Women have been on the menu for far too long with men at the table making decisions about them."

More Information For more information or to register for the conference, visit https://1977women.eventbrite.com More information For information or to register for the conference, visit https://1977women.eventbrite.com See More Collapse

Sara Youngdahl was just a teenager when she ventured to the conference with her mother, Pat, who attended as a delegate from Arkansas.

The mother-daughter duo both remember feeling excited to gather with female leaders from all over the country.

"This was a dramatic moment," recalled Pat, now 90. "We were really full of hope (about) how things were going to be for women."

Sara, now a 54-year-old attorney in Houston, plans to carry on the tradition again this weekend by attending the conference with her 17-year-old daughter, Olivia. She hopes her daughter will feel inspired seeing other powerful women together.

Youngdahl also will be a part of a dialogue dinner at St. John's United Methodist Church on Sunday evening, where the original 26 policy planks will be discussed. Participants will evaluate the planks to see how much progress has been made in areas of health care, education and employment and to discuss what new injustices they should focus on.

Minority voices

On Saturday, Coleman made calls inside a Heights-area business, making sure people sign up for health insurance by the deadline under the Affordable Care Act. The calls were a part of a phone bank event tied to the conference.

Coleman remembers wanting to attend the original gathering because of her role as president of National Organization of Women in Montgomery.

She had several issues on her mind she wanted to discuss, including the conditions of women's prisons and health care. The single mom to two daughters also was the first African-American president of her chapter, and she wanted to make sure minority women had their voices heard.

"There was no way that we were not going to be a part of it," Coleman said. "Whatever they needed to call it, whatever they needed to do, it needed to be all inclusive."

Alternative conference

During the gathering in 1977, a counterconference with about 15,000 attendees was held 5 miles across town. It was led by conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly. The Youngdahls are still amused by Schlafly's stance today.

"Phyllis Schlafly was a very powerful women, very independent and very outspoken but still advocating for all the things that she wasn't," Sara said. "It's really a contradiction if you think about it."

The Youngdahls are amazed that some discussions are still continuing now. The Equal Rights Amendment, which was a hot-button issue at the conference, still does not have enough ratifications from each state. The legislation has been reintroduced to Congress every session since 1982.

"Clearly, we've taken a step back with Trump," Sara Youngdahl said. "It's very hard to see how going forward what will happen as he chips away at the progress that we've made. It's obviously an unknown. It doesn't look too promising."

Despite the decades that have passed, Coleman wants women to know progress has been made. She feels there are some key issues still at stake concerning threats to women's health care and reproductive rights.

"I just remind them how long we've been doing this," Coleman said. "Just tell them what it was like before. Remember, we weren't allowed to have credit in our names. Remember we weren't allowed to have abortions."
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When Becky Campbell says how many children she has, she doesn't just count her three sons.

Campbell, 58, founded the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund in October 2003 while her youngest son was deployed to award college scholarships to fallen soldiers' children and provide support to Gold Star spouses and disabled veterans.

"We want our veterans and their families to know they're appreciated," she said. "We want them to know there's someone here who cares."

To date, the nonprofit has helped over 700 veterans, spouses and children - all counted among her kids.

As part of the city of Kemah's three-day Salute to Military Service and First Responders, Campbell - "Ma," as some families call her - brought 86 veterans from around the country to the Kemah Boardwalk for a weekend getaway, something many military families sorely need, she said. The festivities come a week ahead of Veterans Day.

"It's our way of showing them that we're grateful for their service, and it's a way to get them out of that type of environment, where they're in physical therapy or they're depressed," Campbell said.

Of the 121 individuals in the United States who die by suicide every day, 20 are veterans, according to the Department of Veteran Affairs. The number is alarming but not surprising, Campbell said. When veterans come home to a civilian population who doesn't understand what they've seen, what they've gone through - or worse, who openly detest them - the toll can become insurmountable, she said.

"I have vets calling me at 1:30 a.m., they're suicidal," Campbell said.

Sponsored by CFSRF, the city of Kemah and Landry's Inc., the weekend-long event featured parades, displays, rescue and police demonstrations, military vehicle exhibits, speeches from local officials thanking veterans for their service and a parachute demonstration from the Army's Golden Knights Parachute Team.

"These families are happy here," said Gary Rodriguez, 60, a member of CFSRF. "They forget what they've been through."

Cesar Martinez, 47, came to Kemah on a whim. The retired Army explosive ordinance disposal technician has lost count of how many times he's been deployed - it's six or maybe seven. Martinez lives at Fort Sam Houston while his prosthesis is built; he lost his left arm a few years ago when a driver smashed into his Harley Davidson only three days after he bought it.

"But," he said. "I'm sill alive."

Martinez suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety from his 24 years in the Army. The event is a chance to decompress and connect with other soldiers and veterans - people who really understand him.

"It's hard," he said. "When you come back and no one knows what you're thinking or what you're going through, they really can't help you."

Campbell's son, Specialist David A. Campbell of the 82nd Airborne, was killed by a drunk driver in 2009. After being a support system for hundreds of people for six years, Campbell shut down, leaning on those who had leaned on her for so long.

"It's like somebody ripped your heart out and buried it 20 feet in the ground," Campbell said. "And you can't find it."

Instead of drowning in her grief, she said, Campbell turned it into productivity. Since its inception, CFSRF has given away $3.8 million in scholarships and monetary support to any veteran or family who applies.

Initially, the money for the foundation's general fund came from Campbell's own pocket. In early 2004, Campbell left her job at a security company to devote her time to manning the only phone - her own - and managing social media accounts, printing brochures and canvassing neighbors for donations.

In the years of peaking patriotism following the invasion of Iraq, patrons found the fund online when searching for ways to donate to nonprofits that benefit families of troops deployed overseas.

"They were showing our fallen soldiers on TV," Campbell said. "People cared."

But, Campbell said, the coffers are emptying.

CFSRF closed its West Virginia chapter this year, laying off its only employee there - a part-time administrative assistant - when the money for her salary dried up.

The dip in donations, she said, is likely due to the increasing unpopularity of the United States' overseas conflicts and started around 2011, when President Barack Obama began withdrawing troops from the Middle East. The rising number of controversies involving misuse of funds by military nonprofits is also contributing to the deficit.

"We didn't have the money," Campbell said. "He was pulling people out, but we still have boys out there. There's no media coverage, and people don't care."

Even if the nonprofit is unable to send Gold Star children to college or help a widow pay for a tuneup on her car, Campbell will never stop answering the phone.

"I wish I'd named this organization 'Count on Me,'" Campbell said. "Because they can always count on us. We'll always be here."
One wonders why Democrats, across the nation, are seemingly determined to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

One wonders, additionally, why their counterparts in Texas are somehow even more fatalistic than that.

Let's consider the political landscape, nearly a year after the 2016 elections raised some questions about the radical, world-altering experiment in which all Americans live.

Republicans, having endorsed Donald Trump's bid for the presidency, remain mostly committed to what was once an alluringly non-falsifiable premise, that the man is capable of being a good president. And, in fairness, perhaps he is. At least half a dozen Texans, judging from my inbox, are convinced of that. Many others are satisfied that Trump is, at least, not Hillary Clinton. But at the beginning of the month just 38 percent of Americans, according to Gallup's tracking poll, approve of his presidency on that basis.

The rest of us, or as some would put it, the majority of us, have perhaps noticed a number of incipient issues with Trump's administration, or underlying pathologies of the party that put him in power, or both. Republicans, certainly, seem to have cottoned on to the dysfunction. This week came the news that two of the most powerful Republicans in Texas's congressional delegation - Jeb Hensarling of Dallas and Lamar Smith of an interestingly squiggly district that spans parts of San Antonio, Austin, and the Hill Country - will join Joe Straus, the speaker of the Texas House, in early and unforced retirement.

Yet Democrats are strangely reluctant to capitalize on the opportunities now obviously at hand. Some are doubling down on the idea that Republican voters, as opposed to some of the leaders who represent them, are "deplorables."

Others are warring amongst themselves, re-litigating not just the results of their 2016 presidential primary but the methods by which Clinton won it. On Thursday, CNN's Jake Tapper asked Elizabeth Warren, the senator from Massachusetts, if she agreed with the notion that it had been "rigged."

"Yes," replied Warren, who is considered a contender for the Democratic nomination in 2020.

A few notables

Most puzzling of all, though, is how little the Democratic Party is doing in Texas. Individual candidates, to be sure, are storming the ramparts; the most notable is Beto O'Rourke, the U.S. representative from El Paso, who is challenging Ted Cruz for a seat in the Senate. And some of the congressional primaries are, frankly, oversubscribed.

But from an institutional point of view, there's one race that matters far more than any of the others, and the party's attitude toward it can best be described as desultory.

Jeffrey Payne, a Dallas-based businessman, plans to challenge Greg Abbott's bid for re-election as governor. Houston's Andrew White, son of the late former Gov. Mark White, announced last week that he might do the same. I mean no disrespect to either of them when I say that neither of them has ever been elected to anything, nor does either have any particular name identification statewide. That being the case, Democrats should be nervous. They still have time to recruit a top-tier candidate for the race that is effectively, though not technically, the top of the ticket. Not much time, though; Dec. 11 is the filing deadline.

The reasons for that, in this case, are obvious enough that anyone who follows Texas politics should be able to recite them. In 2014, Abbott defeated the Democratic candidate, Wendy Davis, in a 20-point landslide. This year's legislative session - and the special session that followed - took a toll on his reputation among capitol observers, but his approval rating remains comparatively high. According to the most recent polling from the University of Texas/Texas Tribune, 48 percent of Texans approve of Abbott's job performance; just 36 percent said the same for the lieutenant governor, Dan Patrick.

Don't assume defeat

More generally, it is widely assumed that in 2018, Republicans will once again carry Texas's statewide elections, and probably without really having to try.

Still, at the risk of being pedantic, the latter assumption is reflective of the assumption from which it is derived. Granted, if Republicans are going to win the elections, there is no clear reason for Democrats to try. To assume that defeat is inevitable, however, is often to guarantee that it will be. This is a lesson that Texas Democrats have stubbornly refused to learn, despite testing the proposition at hand for most of my adult lifetime.

Their collective torpor is striking, though, under the circumstances. Texas is one of the few states where Democrats made real inroads in 2016, and they are positioned to do so again this time. Trump carried the state by nine points, barely half of Mitt Romney's margin in 2012. Texas Republicans would like to dismiss those results as a fluke, and perhaps they were. But Trump's election was preceded by a slew of similarly pyrrhic wins at the state level; his supporters in Texas include Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and Attorney General Ken Paxton. It was followed by the 85th Legislature, which was special enough in its own right; the actual special session that Abbott called, in its aftermath, was the civic equivalent of a black eye.

No internal divide

Texas Democrats, meanwhile, have largely avoided the discord that is plaguing the national party. Not having bothered to compete over the past 20 years, they can't exactly double down on the messages known to have backfired. And the state party isn't wracked by a serious internal divide; Clinton, who won the Texas primary in 2008, did so by 30 points this time.

And what Texas Democrats are failing to realize, perhaps, is that even if Republicans are predestined to win again, they can't afford to give up on the gubernatorial race. The state's governing party isn't governing as well as it might be lately; that's in part because you have a certain set of electoral incentives if you win the general by 20 points, and it's not the same set you have if you win it by five. The Democratic downballot is languishing, without a clear standard-bearer in the state's marquee race.

And Republicans aren't actually predestined to win anything, even in Texas. It might seem that way, after 20 years of one-party rule. But the past few years have been more eventful than most. So the only people who would cite that as an excuse, if the Texas GOP emerges from the midterms unscathed, are the people who will need one - and Texas Democrats will, if they don't even try.
Latest details (as of 8:30 p.m.)

Officials have identified the man who killed 26 people inside the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs as Devin Kelley, 26.

About 20 people were also wounded in the shooting, various Wilson County commissioners told mySA.com.

Those killed range in age from 5 to 72 years old.

Authorities said Kelley, dressed in tactical gear, began the shooting spree outside the church. He then walked inside and continued shooting, before fleeing in a vehicle.

Authorities found him dead with a gunshot wound in neighboring Guadalupe County, officials said.

RELATED: Police searching for explosive devices at home of Sutherland Springs church shooter

Now Playing: Latest updates: Sutherland Springs church shooting Video: San Antonio Express-News

Earl Seesengood, 68, lives about eight miles south of Sutherland Springs, near Stockdale. Several of his friends are members of First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, so he spent his night traveling to the hospital and community building to pray for the victims and their families.

One of his good friends, whom he requested not be named, lost eight relatives Sunday morning. The victims span generations, from children to grand children to great grand children. Seesengood was with the group that delivered the news to the poor man.

"You just can't get your mind wrapped around something like that," he said.

Seesengood's own daughter is a nurse, and her husband is a paramedic in Seguin. Once news of the shooting broke, Seesengood and his daughter first traveled to Floresville Memorial Medical Center.

"She jumped in and started helping in the ER, and I just start praying for some of the people," Seesengood said.

He's spoken with some of the "handful" of survivors, who told him Kelley was spraying bullets inside the church and also shooting people in the head, execution style. Only about 60 people were present at the church during the shooting, according to Seesengood, so the majority of the people inside were killed or injured.

"Everybody always asks 'Why?' But the reality is that we live in a times where there is no why, other than the person has an issue or grudge or he wants to vent against anyone, anywhere,"Seesengood said. "It's a sad state of affairs."

Amanda Mosel's 13-year-old goddaughter was gunned down in the shooting. With tears in her eyes, the 34-year-old stood outside the Sutherland Springs Community Building where citizens gathered following the shooting.

"From what I've heard, someone just walked in and started shooting," she said.

Mosel said she "sadly" didn't attend church this morning, but the church is one she's attended.

"There's maybe 50 of us," she said. "It's a small, tight-knit church."

Devy Collins, 53, said one of the church pastor's children was killed. The pastor and his wife were out of town when the shooting occurred.

The wounded were taken to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio and to area hospitals, a local official said.

A young man standing outside the hospital, his head bandaged and his right arm taped from where an IV had been put in, said he had been wounded in the shooting and that this father had been killed.

His mother was in another hospital. He declined to talk but expressed faith that they would pull through with God's help.

At least 10 victims were transported to Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville, said spokeswoman Megan Posey. She could not speak to their age or gender, but said there are multiple victims with gunshot wounds, and some have had to be taken by helicopter to a different treatment center.

According to a Twitter post, University Hospital's trauma team is caring for nine of the patients from the Sutherland Springs shooting, 4 children, 5 adults. The hospital reported one more victim is on the way.

RELATED: Greg Abbott calls church shooting 'evil act'

A Sutherland Springs resident who lives near the church said the gunshots sounded like "somebody was banging a piece of wood" and she wasn't sure what the loud noises were at first. She heard a rapid succession of "pop-pop-pop" sounds, then a pause, then another burst of pops. The pattern kept repeating itself. She looked at the church but saw no activity.

Minutes later, police cars swarmed through the neighborhood.

"I'm shocked by it," said the neighbor, who declined to provide her name. She's lived in Sutherland Springs for nearly 20 years and enjoyed the community's quiet, friendly atmosphere. "It's really unbelievable," she said.

The Texas Rangers within the Texas Department of Public Safety is the lead investgating agency, assisted by law enforcement officers from Wilson County, Bexar County, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, among others.

RELATED: Community mourns children killed in Sutherland Springs church shooting

"We're looking at a pretty horrific scene that'll take several days to process," one official said.

Lawmakers spoke out on the shooting on social media.

U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, said: "Terrible news coming out of Sutherland Springs, TX. I'm monitoring developments and am praying for the shooting victims."

President Donald Trump also took to Twitter to express condolences for victims.

"May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan," he said.

The church is southeast of San Antonio between La Vernia, Floresville and Stockdale off Texas 87 at 216 4th Street.

Sutherland Springs is about 21 miles east of Downtown San Antonio and according to the latest data has a population of about 643.

Staff writers John Tedesco, Sig Christensen, Chris Quinn and the Associated Press Contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump is not a favorite in the extended Bush household. Former President George H.W. Bush considers him a "blowhard," only interested in feeding his own ego. Former President George W. Bush, his son, thinks Trump fans public anger and came to office without any understanding of the job.

And both worry that Trump has blown up a Republican Party that they spent two lifetimes building, a party that was once committed to removing boundaries to trade and immigration, promoting democracy and civil society and asserting a robust U.S. leadership role in the world.

A new book on the two Bushes who served in the White House provides a glance at their apprehension over Trump's rise to power and what it means for the country. The first book ever written with their cooperation about their relationship, it also opens a window into the only father-and-son tandem to hold the presidency since John Adams and John Quincy Adams.

In "The Last Republicans," Mark K. Updegrove chronicles an era that feels almost dated in today's reality-show politics, when the Republican establishment controlled the party and Washington, and when a single family could occupy the presidency and vice presidency for a combined 20 years.

More Information White House responds The White House responded after quotes from the book were published on Saturday, entering an extraordinary war of words involving three presidents from the same party. "If one Presidential candidate can disassemble a political party, it speaks volumes about how strong a legacy its past two presidents really had," the White House wrote to CNN. It called the younger Bush's decision to wage war on Iraq "one of the greatest foreign policy mistakes in American history." Washington Post See More Collapse

Neither of the two Republican former presidents voted for Trump - the father voted for Hillary Clinton and the son voted for "none of the above," as he told Updegrove.

Indeed, at one point during the 2016 presidential campaign, the younger Bush confided to the author, "I'm worried that I will be the last Republican president."

'I don't like him'

That inspired the title of the book - which will be published Nov. 14 by HarperCollins - as a quote that seemed to carry a double meaning.

"At the time, I think he was concerned that Hillary Clinton would win," Updegrove, the author of several books on the presidency, said in an interview. "But if you look at his values and those shared by his father and Ronald Reagan, they are very much in contrast to the values of the Republican Party today, in particular the platform that Donald Trump ran on, which is essentially protectionism and a certain xenophobia."

In discussing Trump, the elder president was blunter. "I don't like him," Bush said in May 2016. "I don't know much about him, but I know he's a blowhard. And I'm not too excited about him being a leader." Rather than being motivated by public service, Bush said, Trump seemed to be driven by "a certain ego."

The younger Bush was more circumspect but also clearly disapproving. The Bushes felt stung by Trump's ground-burning attacks that helped destroy the campaign of Jeb Bush, the son and brother of the presidents.

"You can either exploit the anger, incite it," George W. Bush told Updegrove, "or you can come up with ideas to deal with it." Jeb, he said, came up with solutions, "but it didn't fit with the mood."

"If you're angry with the powers that be," he added, "you're angry with the so-called establishment, and there's nothing more established than having a father and brother that have been president."

When Trump entered the race, George W. Bush thought he would not last, and he was surprised by the real estate developer's success at capturing the nomination. Still, he was not impressed.

When Trump declared that "I'm my own adviser," Bush thought he did not understand the presidency. He also lamented Trump's lack of humility. "As you know from looking at my family, it is a certain heritage, that's what they expect, and we're not seeing that" in Trump.

Persuaded them to talk

The release of the book comes weeks after the younger Bush delivered a speech seen as a rebuke of Trump's approach to the presidency and the world.

Addressing a conference in New York, Bush decried what he called the "nativism" of today's policies and the "casual cruelty" of today's politics. Without mentioning Trump by name, Bush said "bigotry seems emboldened" and "our politics seems more vulnerable to conspiracy theories and outright fabrication."

Updegrove, the former director of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum and now the founding chief executive of the National Medal of Honor Museum, got to know both Bushes in recent years and persuaded them to talk with him for a book on their relationship, a subject they had been allergic to while their political careers were still active.

No father-son rivalry

The two men disputed Shakespearean assumptions about father-son rivalries and insisted they remained close throughout the younger Bush's presidency, despite suspicions about a rift over the Iraq War.

But George W. Bush's parents were clearly disturbed by the influence of Vice President Dick Cheney and neoconservative advisers.

The elder Bush, Updegrove reported, counseled his son to consider "shaking up the ticket" in 2004, meaning to replace Cheney as his running mate - just as the younger Bush suggested to his father about Vice President Dan Quayle in 1992. Like his father, the son disregarded the advice.

Barbara Bush, the wife of one president and mother of another, told Updegrove that she believed Cheney changed because of his health troubles, including a heart attack followed by a stent operation shortly after the 2000 election.

"I do think he was different," she said. "I think his heart operation made a difference. I always liked him, but I didn't like him so much for a while because I thought he hurt George. I wasn't that fond of him. I think he pushed things a little too far right."
CARACAS, Venezuela - Venezuela's government has released two prominent opposition activists it has held for more than a year without trial, one of them a Spanish citizen, as President Nicolas Maduro looks to ease international pressure following months of unrest.

Yon Goicoechea and Delson Guarate were freed late Friday night from a Caracas jail but continue to be bound by restrictions on their movement and speech, according to lawyers' co-op Foro Penal.

"I'm free," Guarate wrote in a concise message posted on his Twitter account.

Maduro's government has been releasing about 15 jailed opponents per week since consolidating its power after the election of a constitutional assembly in July, according to Foro Penal.

Opposition leaders backed by several foreign governments have been demanding for more than a year the release of political prisoners as a pre-condition for talks with the government. But Alfredo Romero, head of Foro Penal, said the latest releases are a face-saving measure by Maduro aimed at appeasing his foreign critics now that the protest movement blamed for more than 120 deaths has subsided.

Romero said the number of jailed activists in Venezuela had barely surpassed 100 when Maduro took office in 2013, but that number skyrocketed to 676 at the height of anti-government protests against the constitutional assembly in July.

After the latest releases, around 360 people remain jailed, he said.

"This isn't a negotiation with the opposition about getting something in return," Romero said. "It's about the high political cost of having such an elevated number of political prisoners."

There was no immediate reaction from the government.

Goicoechea, 32, had been a leader of student protest movements before leaving Venezuela in 2013 to study at Columbia University. He returned home in 2016 to help organize a recall referendum against Maduro, but the effort was cut short when he was stopped in his car by the Sebin intelligence police and later accused on television by socialist party leader Diosdado Cabello of transporting explosives.

He was given Spanish citizenship while detained.

Guarate, the mayor of a small town in Aragua state, was arrested on the eve of a demonstration in Caracas in 2016 on suspicions of terror financing and conspiracy.
This is not the happy ending.

Streets that were underwater weeks ago became a parade route for Friday's celebration. Houston schools that struggled to reopen after Hurricane Harvey canceled their classes to join in a citywide revelry. You weren't dreaming: The Astros really did win the World Series.

But when you wake up on Monday morning, it will just be another day in the story of Houston after Harvey. Families will still be living in temporary homes. Addicks and Barker dams will remain among the most dangerous in the country. The Houston Ship Channel will still be vulnerable to a destructive storm surge.

And in Washington, the representatives who proudly donned Astros blue and orange last week will remove their hats and jerseys and reveal their true colors: They simply aren't willing to fight to get Houston the same sort of robust funding package that followed Hurricanes Katrina or Sandy.

After the confetti is swept from the streets and the Astros-induced high returns from low-Earth orbit, all of us will have to face the startling reality that Houston is not on path to a full recovery. Like a broken leg that was never properly set to heal, Houston may get back on its feet, but we'll be stuck with a noticeable limp - a weakness that never goes away. Infrastructure plans will linger on the shelf. Flood prevention needs will be postponed. Neighborhoods will remain vulnerable in the next big storm.

Our city heard all sorts of politicians' promises to rebuild bigger, better, stronger than ever back when the Cajun Navy was running rescue missions and the George R. Brown Convention Center housed thousands of Houstonians. Then Harvey fell from the headlines, and the rhetoric was never matched by action. Our seawall moment - the opportunity for transformative change - is passing by with discomforting speed.

Gov. Greg Abbott's request for a federal $61 billion plan to "future-proof" flood-prone areas from the next deluge has already gotten stuck in the Washington muck.

"As a result of the administration and the House, frankly, kicking the can down the road, and keep promising us the next time, the next time, the next time, it's going to be a challenge to make sure we get what Texas needs and deserves," U.S. Sen. John Cornyn said last week. That's a harsh assessment from our state's senior senator and the No. 2 Republican in the Senate.

Take this message to heart: Houston, we've been abandoned. Our city suffered the single costliest disaster in U.S. history, and two months later it has become little more than a national footnote.

We've been abandoned by members of the House of Representatives like U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady. The Woodlands-area Republican holds one of the most powerful positions in Washington - chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. You may have seen him on cable news as of late, smiling proudly as he promotes his tax cut bill. That grin is probably shared by Wall Street traders and Silicon Valley billionaires, but expect a grimace on the face of anyone who cares about building a third reservoir or a coastal storm surge barrier.

We've been abandoned by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz. The Republican firebrand shut down the federal government in an attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act but has failed to rally similar passion for Houston's post-Harvey recovery.

We've been abandoned by President Donald Trump. His quick response on FEMA funding has lacked follow-up. "I'm the builder president," he said last month in Dallas. He can start with new bayou infrastructure.

Congress faces a Dec. 8 deadline to pass the 2018 spending bill, and any hopes of Harvey recovery before the year's end will likely succumb to all sorts of other squabbles.

The best we can hope for is piecemeal funding, Abbott has said. Instead of a one-shot appropriation, Houston's recovery will look more like Project Brays, a bayou flood control plan funded in year-to-year spurts.

How does that work out? Project Brays was intended to be finished in 2014, but completion still sits years away, constantly delayed by funding fights. All across Meyerland, residents are giving up hope and, street by street, they've abandoned their homes for drier pastures.

Expect citywide recovery to follow that Meyerland model unless our delegation in Washington passes a robust recovery and rebuilding package. If Houston wants the story of Harvey to have a happy ending, we'll need more than fair-weather fans in Congress.
About 100 people a day are dying in our nation's opioid drug epidemic.

Just think about that number. That's more than double how many people die on average every day because of accidents or strokes or respiratory disease. And as a shocking expose by The Washington Post and "60 Minutes" recently revealed, the pharmaceutical industry spent more than $100 million lobbying Congress to pass a law that hamstrung federal drug enforcement agents trying to stem the flow of opioids illegally distributed across America.

In September, Texas joined a coalition of 40 other states investigating eight companies that manufacture or distribute prescription pain killers. The probe will try to determine whether those firms played a role in creating or exacerbating America's opioid epidemic.

All of which might make you wonder how Texas granted almost $10 million in taxpayer funds to one of those pharmaceutical companies now under investigation. It's another black eye for the Texas Enterprise Fund, a giant cookie jar that governors have tapped to give money to politically connected businesses with far too little oversight. And it's another reason why state lawmakers need to impose stricter controls on how this state money is distributed.

The enterprise fund is the largest tax-incentive program of its kind in the nation. Gov. Greg Abbott is among the supporters who call it "the deal closing" fund, because it supposedly helps lure new businesses into the state. After handing out more than $600 million since its inception in 2004, state officials give this fund credit for more than 90,000 direct jobs.

But all too often, it's served as little more than a slush fund doling out corporate welfare, sometimes to entities that would have done business here without any financial help from taxpayers. Democrats have been skeptical about it for years, criticizing it as a loosely controlled treasure chest that former Gov. Rick Perry tapped to lavish taxpayer money on favored projects. A scathing audit released in 2014 revealed that almost half the grant money went to entities that never submitted applications or didn't promise to create jobs. That's part of the reason it's also fallen out of favor lately with fiscally conservative Republicans.

Now comes some troubling news about one of the enterprise fund's bigger beneficiaries. The Texas Tribune reports that last April, Abbott's office granted $9.75 million to McKesson Corporation, the nation's largest drug distributor. The company promised to expand its operations in North Texas and add nearly 100 new employees. That's reportedly the largest government grant bestowed upon McKesson in this century.

In September, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's office announced it would join a coalition of states investigating whether drug manufacturers have played a role in causing the nation's opioid epidemic. Among the opioid distributors that received "information demand letters" from the state was McKesson. So here we have a company that received millions of taxpayer dollars tangled up in an interstate investigation into the illegal distribution of pharmaceuticals.

President Trump last month declared a public health emergency to deal with the devastating impact of the nation's opioid addiction crisis. Here in Texas, House Speaker Joe Straus asked state lawmakers to form a select committee to work on the problem, which state health officials say claimed more than 1,100 lives last year.

McKesson has denied any wrongdoing and says it's cooperating with the attorney general's investigation. Still, this case demonstrates that the state's enterprise fund needs stricter oversight. This shouldn't be a bank account for the governor to write blank checks to businesses smart enough to hire lobbyists who know how to tap into the state's treasury.

The embarrassing fact is that Texas subsidized a drug distributor it is now investigating. That's something state lawmakers need to consider the next time the governor asks for more money for his deal closing slush fund. And it's all the more reason the state should tighten the purse strings on the Texas Enterprise Fund.
Slippery slope

Regarding "National crisis looms as Mueller in cross hairs" (Page A17, Friday), a number of Republican commentators are now asking for President Trump to fire Robert Mueller. If the president does so and the Republican Congress is complicit by inaction, we will pass from being a nation of laws to what might reasonably be seen as a dictatorship. Why? We will have a president who can now flout the law with impunity without accountability and a Congress whose members will have shown more concern about being re-elected than in keeping their oath to uphold the Constitution.

It is the prosecutor's role to gather evidence of possible crimes and gain indictments where the evidence so warrants. It is the role of the courts to determine if the evidence is sufficient to convict. If this process is short-circuited out of political expediency or to protect the guilty, it will be a dark time indeed for a nation that once prided itself as a city on a hill, a light to the world and an example to other nations of good government.

Michael Gemignani, League City

Ideals in sight

Regarding "Trump poses a threat to our national ideals" editorial (HoustonChronicle.com, Oct. 24), although Trump may not be the president some would want, he must fulfill his duty to represent the American people. But with all the controversies and outrageous statements, has he fulfilled anything?

As the president, he should act with greater responsibility. But it seems the president argues with members of his party who do not support his agenda and makes outrageous statements against his adversaries. Is this the behavior we would expect from a head of state?

Aside from acting with great responsibility, he should be a role model, both to his citizens and to other nations. Many countries see America as a role model for democracy and opportunity. But does the president seem to reflect this? Are executive orders and policies trying to limit immigration a sign of democracy and opportunity, or are they a sign that we no longer care about these ideals? Perhaps that is why some legislators say the president is a threat to our national ideals.

Regardless of who is in office, the president should be responsible and reflect our will and our national ideals.

Kyle Maru Benauro, Houston
Slavery caused the Civil War. A failure to compromise had nothing to do with it.

Yes, I know a thousand people have made that point in the days since White House Chief of Staff John Kelly's nonsensical assertion on Fox "News" that "the lack of an ability to compromise" is what tore America apart. Allow me to be the 1,001st. There are things that need saying here, and I need to say them.

It's not just that there is no "compromise" between slavery and freedom. It is also that Kelly's use of that word is painfully ironic in a nation that has always been all too ready to bargain with the humanity of African-American people.

In 1776, in his first draft of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson condemned slavery. Southern states balked, so he compromised.

In 1820, North and South argued whether the new state of Missouri would permit slavery. Congress intervened, and they compromised.

In 1877, there was a disputed election. Someone suggested giving the presidency to Rutherford B. Hayes if he agreed to withdraw federal troops that had been protecting former slaves in the South. The two sides compromised.

In 1961, the Freedom Riders pulled into Mississippi. The federal government made a deal with the state that if Mississippi guaranteed no violence, it could arrest the riders, though they had done nothing illegal. They compromised.

And so on. Historically, America always seems to find a way to sell black people out.

Kelly is just the latest in a long line of those who lack the guts to face this straight on. They hide out in textbooks where slaves become "settlers," flee from "Roots" because it is "depressing." And they insist on moral equivalence between people sellers and the people they sold, lynchers and the people they lynched, traitors who fought to destroy America and patriots who fought to preserve it.

"Robert E. Lee was an honorable man," added Kelly in the Fox interview - an interesting take for a military man on an enemy general in a war that killed more Americans than Hitler, Hirohito and Bin Laden combined.

"All of our leaders have flaws," said White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders in defending Kelly. As if Lee's ordering two men and a woman stripped to the waist and whipped ("Lay it on well," he said) for the crime of seeking freedom was in the same moral universe as Barack Obama's cigarette jones.

I can anticipate how all this will land among certain people. They'll call it "racist." They'll call it "divisive." They'll call it everything but untrue.

They are, you see, deeply invested in the myth that struggles with poverty, mass incarceration, joblessness and miseducation arise from something African-Americans chose or did, while the rest of the country, innocent as the dawn, did nothing to cause or benefit from any of it. They will be angry at the reminder that this is ridiculous.

As if this was about them. As if we should give a damn about their anger.

This country stole from black people. It stole their bodies, their children, their names, their land, their lives. Now, some of us seek to steal the very memory of the crime.

Well, let them tell a thousand lies. Let them treat truth like the money card in a game of three-card monte. Let them salve history with the balm of false equivalence. But let them know that some of us find strength for our own trials in knowing the trials of our mothers and fathers.

So we will not be fooled and we will not be robbed.

We will remember - and demand they do the same.

No compromise.

Pitts is a columnist for the Miami Herald. Readers may write to him via email at lpitts@miamiherald.com.
In the days after Hurricane Harvey, "Houston Strong" became a slogan capturing our city's grit and solidarity. Amid the loss of lives and homes, Houstonians stepped up to shelter neighbors, businesses donated millions of dollars for rebuilding efforts, and police officers saved hundreds of lives, risking their own in the process. We are still recovering, but we remain strong.

As the police chief of Houston, I couldn't be prouder of the people I serve as we recover from one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history. I also know how much work remains. That's why I strongly support immigration solutions that allow Dreamers - the hundreds of thousands of young people brought to the U.S. as children-to remain in the country. These immigrants have played and will continue to play a crucial role in rebuilding our city.

The announcement of the end of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, also known as DACA, came days after Harvey. The timing was poignant. As we rebuild after so much loss, we can't afford to have Dreamers pushed into the shadows in fear that they will be deported. More than 124,000 DACA recipients have come from Texas, putting us second in the country. They strengthen our economy and neighborhoods. Alongside other immigrants, those Dreamers in Houston will be essential for dealing with, and helping us recover from, the estimated $108 billion in damage to the city.

Immigrants are also essential for keeping Houston safe. Having served in law enforcement for more than 30 years, I believe trust between police and residents is key to everyone's safety. When immigrants hear of a U.S.-Mexico wall or a nationwide deportation "crackdown," they fear going to police to report criminal activity. I currently lead a department of 5,200 law enforcements officers and 1,200 support personnel. They will tell you that the ugly national anti-immigrant rhetoric has had a chilling effect on their work with residents. They are now less willing to work with our police to report suspicious activity.

Recently, I joined dozens of law enforcement leaders in sending a letter to Congress asking for legislation that allows Dreamers to stay in the United States and continue contributing to our communities. We support any measures that allow law-abiding people to feel safe. We are concerned that, absent any action by Congress, Dreamers will be driven into the shadows and will not report crimes or cooperate with investigations. When Dreamers and other immigrants feel safe working with local police, all communities are safer.

Other law enforcement leaders and I are heartened to see members of Congress from both sides of the aisle show support for broad immigration reform. We hope they seize this moment to enact legislation to protect Dreamers. Such legislation could pave the way for fixing other aspects of our immigration policies, including proposals to secure our borders, reform visa programs, and give law-abiding immigrants pathways to legalization.

With DACA ending, the absence of a legislative solution would be short-sighted and counterproductive. It would hurt our city in one of its most vulnerable moments.

I have seen how strong Houston can be in the midst of devastation. Dreamers and other immigrants living in Houston only make us stronger. For the sake of the city, let's welcome them so that their, and our, future is brighter.

Acevedo is a co-chair of the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force. He was sworn in as chief of the Houston Police Department in November 2016 and holds various leadership positions with the Major Cities Chiefs Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
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Imperial Valley News Center

SECNAV Names New Expeditionary Sea Base

National Harbor, Maryland - Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer announced the Navy's newest Expeditionary Sea Base (ESB) ship, T-ESB 5, will be named in honor of Marine Corps Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Miguel Keith during a ceremony in National Harbor, Maryland, today.

Keith was born in San Antonio, Texas and joined the Marine Corps on May 1, 1969.



In 1969, Keith served as a machine gunner with Combined Action Platoon 132, III Marine Amphibious Force in Quang Ngai Province, Republic of Vietnam. He was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal on April 1, 1970.



He was severely wounded on the morning of May 8, 1970 when his platoon came under a heavy-ground attack. Despite being injured in the attack and open to hostile fire, he continued to engage the enemy with heavy machine gun fire.



Keith's efforts resulted in him killing three attackers and dispersing two remaining adversaries. Despite receiving further serious injuries caused by an enemy grenade, he continued to advance upon an estimated 25 enemy soldiers, killing four and dispersing the rest.



Keith was mortally wounded, but his performance in the face of overwhelming odds contributed, in no small measure, to the success of his platoon defeating a numerically superior enemy force.



Able to accommodate up to 250 personnel, the new ESB ship will support multiple missions, such as air mine countermeasures (AMCM), counter-piracy operations, maritime security operations, humanitarian aid and disaster-relief missions, and crisis response operations.



Also, the vessel will be capable of supporting MH-53 and MH-60 helicopters, with an option for future upgrades to support MV-22 tilt-rotor aircraft.



The new 784-foot-long vessel will feature a 52,000 square foot flight deck, fuel and equipment storage, repair spaces, magazines, and mission-planning spaces.



USNS Miguel Keith will be constructed by General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. The ship is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2019.
CBP Arrests 15 Wanted Criminals

Houston, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Houston/Galveston Seaport arrested 15 wanted persons in separate incidents in the first month of fiscal year 2018.

The wanted persons were each returning separately to the U.S. on cruise ships that reached international ports.

As a law enforcement agency, our officers are duty-bound to respond appropriately when encountering a person wanted by another law enforcement agency, said CBP Port Director Roderick Hudson. In the course of our processing, we conduct law enforcement checks on international travelers arriving to our port. We are often the first law enforcement agency to encounter a wanted person arriving to the U.S. When that happens, we make the arrest.

Hudson added that as the frontline agency, CBP officers are vigilant and remain committed to enforcing the more than 400 U.S. laws on behalf of 40 different agencies.

When CBP encounters a traveler with an active warrant and the law enforcement agency wants to extradite, CBP officers arrest the traveler and turn him over to local police department who will facilitate the extradition.

Arrests range for general charges such as engaging in criminal activity and larceny to parole violations.

Our officers treat every wanted person in the same manner, Hudson said. They are patted down for officer safety, they are arrested including placed in handcuffs and detained until they are turned over to the Galveston Police for extradition and further processing.

In the instance that a police agency does not want to extradite, Hudson said the process is the same. The traveler is detained and after it is confirmed that the agency does not want to extradite, the traveler is released.

On a typical day in fiscal year 2016, CBP officers arrested 22 wanted criminals at U.S. ports of entry.
Under Secretary Shannon's Meeting With Bangladeshi Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haque

Washington, DC - As part of the continuing U.S.-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue, Under Secretary for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon met with Bangladeshi Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haque today in Dhaka, where they discussed further strengthening the U.S.-Bangladesh political, economic and energy partnership, counterterrorism cooperation, the nuclear threat from North Korea, and U.S. assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. The United States recognized Bangladeshs central role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

During the meeting, Under Secretary Shannon thanked the government of Bangladesh for its generosity in responding to the refugees fleeing Burmas Rakhine State, and expressed appreciation for its continued efforts to ensure assistance reaches the affected population. He noted that we call on Bangladeshi and Burmese officials to continue developing a framework for the safe and voluntary return of Rohingya communities to Burma and that we urge rapid and complete implementation of the Annan Commissions recommendations.
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It doesn't seem likely next year's Oscars can turn its gaze away from Hollywood's unfolding sexual misconduct allegations.

In that light, filmmaker Cameron Bossert has now called upon the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to ban Casey Affleck, who won Best Actor last year for his performance in Manchester by the Sea, from the 2018 ceremony, due to previous allegations of sexual harassment levied against him.

A new petition by Bossert on Change.org is set to be delivered to AMPAS, who organises the Oscars, and its newly elected president John Bailey.

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In it, Bossert writes, "In light of the revelations that Harvey Weinstein has been sexually harassing and assaulting women for decades, the Academy Awards recently voted to strip Weinstein of his membership  but did you know that another accused sexual harasser is set to participate in the 2018 ceremony?"

"Last year despite multiple sexual harassment claims against him, Casey Affleck won the Best Actor award for this role in Manchester by the Sea. He had been accused of sexual harassment by two women who worked with him on a 2010 documentary. The women alleged that Affleck sent them threatening texts, demanded that they share a hotel room with him, and locked one of them out of her room so that he and Joaquin Phoenix could use it to have sex with two other women. One of the women woke up to find Affleck in her bed with her."

The claims Bossert references saw two lawsuits launched against Affleck by cinematographer Magdalena Gorka and producer Amanda White alleging sexual harassment on the set of his 2010 mockumentary Im Still Here. Affleck denied the allegations and both cases were settled out of court. A spokesperson for Affleck said at the time: "The disputes have been resolved to the mutual satisfaction of the parties and the lawsuits are being dismissed."

As Bossert writes, Affleck won the Oscar and so, according to tradition, will attend the 2018 ceremony to present the Best Actress award. "With these credible accusations against him, the Academy should take action and rescind the privilege this year." he concludes.

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Umberto Lenzi, who has died aged 86, was a prolific and adaptable director of Italian commercial cinema. Regularly deploying a zoom lens, vivid Technicolour and extreme close-ups of actors faces, his output included crime, or giallo thrillers, costume swashbucklers, James Bond rip-offs and war films known as the macaroni combat genre.

But he was chiefly notorious for instigating the cannibal horror film, not stinting on gruesome details, which, in the days before videotapes were certified by the BBFC in Britain, led to several of his films being placed on the Director of Public Prosecutions list of video nasties in 1983.

By an odd quirk of fate, Me Me Lai, who featured in Lenzis Il paese del sasso selvaggio (1972), released to video as Deep River Savages, and Eaten Alive! (1980), had by this time given up acting and joined the Essex police force, thereby having to seize copies of the films herself.

Lenzi was born in Massa Marittima, a town in the Tuscan province of Grosseto: his father ran a butchers. A moviegoer from an early age, he formed a local film society where works by Rossellini and Eisenstein were shown and discussed, despite his secret fondness for American films. After initially studying law, he enrolled at Romes Experimental Cinematographic Centre.

Cannibal Ferox (1981) was another film that made the video nasty list

Lenzi averred that his first film work was scouting locations for producer Richard Wilson, a former colleague of Orson Welles, on Raw Wind in Eden (1958): an Esther Williams vehicle made in Tuscany. After contributing, as screenwriter and assistant director, to several sword and sandal adventures, he made his directorial debut with Le avventure di Mary Read (1961), based around the cross-dressing 17th century pirate. Inevitably, he tackled spaghetti westerns; Tutto per tutto and Pistol For a Hundred Coffins (both 1968).

Cannibal Ferox (1981), the last in Lenzis cannibal trilogy and another on the video nasty list, included one Western interloper, a cocaine-snorting criminal, having a vital part of his anatomy cut off by an Amazon tribe. Giovanni Lombardo Radice, who played the role billed as John Morghen, subsequently faced family disapproval, said he wished he hadnt made the film, and termed Lenzi bombastic and a self-styled genius.

The impressively eyebrowed Lenzi was somewhat cantankerous in one British interview in 1997, professing himself baffled by his cannibal trilogys continuing cult following, declaring they were not so important and wondering why has nobody ever interviewed me about Il grande attacco (The Biggest Battle), from 1978. The latter featured Henry Fonda, John Huston and narration by Orson Welles; another Second World War effort he preferred was From Hell To Victory (1979), with George Peppard and shown several times on BBC1 in the Eighties, in a print crediting Lenzi as Hank Milestone.

On a feature for the Blu-ray of his Almost Human (1974), Lenzi claimed his and other genre directors work had sustained the Italian film industry for the benefit of more reputable filmmakers. He was, unsurprisingly, admired by Quentin Tarantino. In later life, Lenzi wrote novels not unlike his giallo thrillers.

Umberto Lenzi, director, screenwriter and novelist, born 6 August 1931, died 19 October 2017
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Leading charities have urged the Government to urgently address the crisis facing mental health services in the forthcoming Budget.

In a letter shared exclusively with The Independent, mental health bodies issued an unprecedented warning to ministers that if budgets are not increased and protected, the majority of mental health sufferers will remain locked out of vital services.

Almost a year on from Theresa Mays pledge to improve mental health support and ensure it has parity with physical health services, the letter accuses her of setting out unambitious targets, urging that services cannot go on with the current levels of funding.

The 12 signatories  which include the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), the Mental Health Foundation and Young Minds  urge that the Autumn Budget at the end of November marks a critical moment for ministers to show that they are serious about mental health, by ring-fencing vital budgets.

Opposition politicians have backed the appeal, accusing the Government of recklessly allowing mental health budgets to be raided in order to plug holes in other underfunded areas of the NHS and urging that ring-fencing the mental health budget would help reverse this.

The Government has said repeatedly that it is investing 1bn extra in mental health services per year, but the charities and politicians urge that this falls short of what is needed and is often failing to reach the frontline.

We cannot go on with such unambitious targets, or simply accept a situation where promises of extra funding dont actually materialise at the frontline, the letter states.

If the Government is actually to deliver parity of esteem, the Chancellor needs to invest in and ring-fence the mental health budget to ensure any money promised genuinely reaches those it is intended to help. The crisis is here, the crisis is now.

In a speech in January, the Prime Minister said that for too long, mental illness had been a hidden injustice in our country, and pledged to transform the way mental health problems are dealt with right across society.

But despite Ms Mays pledges, mental health services have faced mounting pressures over funding amid rising demand. Freedom of Information requests recently showed that over half of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) plan to reduce the proportion of their budget they spend on mental health for 2016-17.

Recommended Mother of anorexic daughter writes damning letter to Jeremy Hunt

Vulnerable people are meanwhile facing a postcode lottery over treatment, despite official NHS guidelines stating that all CCGs must increase their spending on mental health in line with their overall budget increase.

Highlighting the decline in child mental health services, a major review by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) last week revealed vulnerable children were facing agonising waits for treatment, often causing their mental health to deteriorate further.

The findings showed that even when children do access treatment, the services were not always adequate to respond to their needs, with more than a third (39 per cent) of specialist child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) across the UK currently requiring improvement.

Professor Sarah Niblock, chief executive at the UKCP, which represents over 8,000 highly qualified psychotherapists, urged that the Budget was a critical moment for the Government to show that it is serious about mental health.

For all the promises of extra funding in recent years, the truth is that much of the money promised isnt reaching the front line  and instead is being siphoned off to fund other services, she told The Independent.

If the Government wants to make its promises a reality, it needs to ring-fence the mental health budget. Mental health charities want it, professional bodies want it, and 160 MPs have written to the Prime Minister calling for it. Now is the time for change.

Sharon Hodgson MP, Labours shadow minister for public health, accused the Government of recklessly allowing mental health budgets to be raided in order to plug holes in other underfunded areas of the NHS.

The result has been children waiting 18 months to be treated, young people with eating disorders turned away for not being thin enough and vulnerable adults sent miles from their homes just to get a mental health bed, she told The Independent.

If the Tory Government is serious about making mental health an equal priority to physical health it should listen to the mental health community and follow Labours lead by committing to greater mental health investment, and to ring-fence the mental health budget so that money reaches the front line.

Liberal Democrat spokesperson Norman Lamb MP said there was a powerful moral case for ring-fenced mental health funding, urging that it would help bring an end to the scandalous practice of diverting mental health funds to plug gaps elsewhere.

Despite all the talk of parity of esteem, we have seen repeated examples of money being shaved off mental health care and diverted to plug gaps in other services. This is a scandalous practice, with the result that too many people continue to be denied vital treatment and support, he said.

It is critically important that money promised for mental health is spent as intended, and the Government should carefully consider ring-fencing the mental health budget as a way of achieving this.

Responding to the letter, a Department of Health spokesperson said: We are investing more in mental health than ever before  with spending at a record 11.6bn this year.

The benefits of record funding can already be seen in areas such as mental health support in A&E, 24/7 crisis services and perinatal, and this trend is set to continue thanks to investment of a further 1bn by 2020/21.

Letter in full:

We, leading mental health bodies in the UK, are calling on the Government to take immediate action to address the rising levels of mental ill-health.

The Government must increase investment in mental health services and ring-fence the mental health budget, ahead of the Autumn Budget. The focus must also be on investing upstream to prevent mental health problems from developing and escalating into crisis.

Without this action, it will not be possible to absorb the spiralling costs of services associated with providing the best care and support.

The majority of children and adults with mental health issues are unable to get the help they need  nor will they get it any time soon.

With a government target for just 25 per cent of adults with mental health issues to access talking therapies by 2020, parity of esteem remains very unlikely.

For children the situation is not much better, the 2020 mental health access target of just 35 per cent still leaves the remaining 65 per cent locked out of services.

The Government has said repeatedly that its investing 1bn extra in mental health services per year, but that money falls short of what is needed, and often isnt reaching the front line.

Freedom of Information requests have shown that over half of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) plan to reduce the proportion of their budget they spend on mental health for 2016-17.

We cannot go on with such unambitious targets, or simply accept a situation where promises of extra funding dont actually materialise at the front line.

If the Government is actually to deliver parity of esteem, the Chancellor needs to invest in and ring-fence the mental health budget to ensure any money promised genuinely reaches those it is intended to help. The crisis is here, the crisis is now.

Yours sincerely,

Sarah Niblock, chief executive, UK Council for Psychotherapy

Jenny Edwards CBE, CEO, Mental Health Foundation

Sarah Brennan OBE, CEO, Young Minds

Tom Quinn, director of external affairs, B-EAT

Piers Watson, chair, OCD Action

Gary Fereday, CEO, British Psychoanalytic Council

Dr Hadyn Williams, chief executive, British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

Heather Stewart, chair, Association Child Psychotherapists

Nicola Gale, president, British Psychological Society

Catherine Roche, chief executive, Place2Be

Vicky Parkinson, CEO, National Counselling Society

Andrew Balfour, CEO, Tavistock Relationships
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Millions of pounds of the Queens private money is invested in offshore funds in Caribbean tax havens, a huge leak of financial documents referred to as the Paradise Papers has revealed.

The documents show that the Duchy of Lancaster, which manages investments for the Queens 520m private estate, invested around 10m in the Cayman Islands and Bermuda-based funds.

They also show that the monarch holds small investments, via funds, in businesses including off license chain Threshers and BrightHouse, which has been accused of exploiting people with mental health problems and learning disabilities in order to sell its products.

The funds have not previously been disclosed in official Palace accounts. There is no suggestion that they are illegal.

The revelation is likely to increase pressure on the Royal Family to increase transparency over where and how they invest their wealth.

A spokesman for the Duchy of Lancaster said: "We operate a number of investments and a few of these are with overseas funds. All of our investments are fully audited and legitimate."

The 13.4 million documents lay bare how thousands of rich and powerful individuals invested vast sums of money in murky offshore structures.

They reveal that Donald Trumps Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, owns a stake in a firm linked to Russian businessmen who are the subject of US sanctions.

The papers were obtained by German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung and are being analysed by 100 media organisations across the world.

The papers come from the company registries of 19 tax havens, and two offshore service providers. They were released less than two years after the leak of the Panama Papers caused shockwaves by exposing how dozens of well-known figures were hiding wealth in offshore funds.

In total, 1.4 terabytes of data have been released via the Paradise Papers  the second biggest leak of data in history. Only the Panama Papers were bigger, at 2.6 terabytes.

Lord Ashcroft, the Conservative peer and a major donor to the party, was also named in the papers.

Labour's Shadow Chancellor, John McDonnell, said: "These are deeply worrying revelations. Despite all the Government's claims of cracking down on tax dodgers, this evidence confirms that tax avoidance is clearly continuing on an industrial scale.

"Either the Prime Minister or the Chancellor needs to explain how this scandalous behaviour has been allowed to go on unaddressed for so long and what action is to be taken now."

A government spokeswoman said: "Since 2010, the Government has secured an additional 160bn, more than the annual UK NHS budget, for our vital public services by tackling tax avoidance, evasion and non-compliance.

"This includes more than 2.8bn from those trying to hide money abroad to avoid paying what they owe. There are 26,000 HMRC staff tackling tax avoidance and evasion, and we have provided an extra 800m to fund their efforts.

"A fair tax system is a critical and key part of our plan to build a fairer society, and we are clear that everyone must pay what is due, at the right time."
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Home Secretary Amber Rudd has denied the Government is on the verge of collapse over the sexual misconduct allegations currently engulfing Westminster.

Asked by the BBCs Andrew Marr if the fallout threatens to bring down Theresa Mays administration, Ms Rudd said: Absolutely not. I think it is something that will take place, in terms of clearing out Westminster of that sort of behaviour, and Westminster, including the Government, will be better off after it. It will be a positive thing.

Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon has resigned, and de facto Deputy Prime Minister Damian Green is under fire over a number of allegations he has denied.

Former Independent on Sunday journalist Jane Merrick revealed in the The Observer on Sunday morning that she had contacted No 10 earlier this week to tell them Sir Michael had lunged at her after a working lunch 14 years ago. Ms Rudd called Sir Michaels behaviour completely disgusting.

Ms Rudd confirmed the ongoing inquiry into Mr Greens conduct had been widened to look at fresh allegations that appeared in the The Sunday Times, which claimed that pornography was found on a laptop in his office when it was raided by counter terrorism police in 2008.

Ms Rudd said: I know that the Cabinet Office is going to be looking at this tomorrow along with the wider inquiry about Damian, and I do think that we shouldnt rush to allege anything until that inquiry has taken place.

Earlier in the programme, prominent Tory backbencher Anna Soubry said the inquiry into Mr Green should be allowed to run its course, and that trial by newspaper was not the way to go about it.

What we are having in relation to Damian, who I said should have been suspended so there was a proper inquiry, this would have formed part of that inquiry, and instead we are pretty much having trial by the newspapers. And this is not acceptable, she said.

Mr Green has also been accused by journalist Kate Maltby, who is 30 years his junior, of touching her knee under the table in a restaurant and sending her a sexually suggestive text message.

Anonymous friends of Mr Green have briefed the media with the suggestion that Ms Maltby mistook his hand for a tablecloth. Mr Green has called Ms Maltbys claims categorically untrue and also said the allegations of pornography are untrue and from a discredited source.

 Amber Rudd comments on Damian Green allegation and whips' culture in Westminster harassment scandal

Ms Rudd was asked whether the attempts to discredit Ms Maltby, who was also the subject of unsparing attacks in the Daily Mail, would frighten other people off from coming forward.

Ms Rudd said: Men and women who have been subject to any sort of abuse of power should have the confidence to come forward, but people who think they have been wrongly accused should be able to come out and say this is not true. And Damian has made some strong pronouncements on that.

Ms Rudd also denied suggestions, made by former Conservative whips, that party whips regularly keep damaging information on their MPs secret in order to compel them to vote how they want them to, rather than report it to Commons authorities, or to the police.

She told Marr: There was no black book. I was a whip myself. I dont recognise some of those more lurid stories about the way whips operate.

Marr repeated claims once made by the Tory whip Tim Fortescue, who served in Ted Heaths government in the 1970s, in which he said whips would be very accommodating in solving MPs personal problems, because it would leave them in our debt.

It might be debt, he said. It might be a scandal involving small boys. We would do everything we can to help because they are in our debt.

Ms Rudd said: That is in the past. I want us to work in a workplace where men and women respect each other.
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Three Conservative MPs have now been referred to the partys new internal disciplinary panel, which was set up only this week.

Party officials confirmed Daniel Kawczynski had been referred to the panel for investigation at lunchtime on Sunday, over allegations he had put pressure on a female colleague to go on a date with a business contact.

Dan Poulter was referred to the panel on Sunday morning, concerning allegations of improper conduct towards female party colleagues.

Fellow Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen said he had warned the whips office about Mr Poulter, having overheard conversations about him seven years ago in which three female Tory MPs said they wouldnt get a lift with him again after he allegedly put his hand up their skirts.

Mr Bridgen told Sky News: I was at the Conservative end of the tea room, Im a newly elected MP, and I was listening to the concerns and the claims of female MPs, newly elected, about inappropriate behaviour relating to a member of my own party.

I could see that they were not something they had the confidence to come forward and complain, so I complained to the whips office about my colleague.

Former Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb is also under investigation regarding what have been described as pretty outrageous text messages sent to a 19-year-old woman who applied for a job in his office.

The Mail on Sunday has also reported that Tory whip Chris Pincher had been accused of making an unwanted pass at former Olympic rower and Conservative activist Alex Story.

Mr Story wrote that Mr Pincher came across as a pound-shop Harvey Weinstein.

Mr Pincher told the newspaper: If Mr Story has ever felt offended by anything I said, then I can only apologise to him.

The Mail on Sunday claims that Mr Pincher attempted to untuck the shirt of Mr Story, who competed for Great Britain in the Olympics in 1996, after persuading him to come back to his London home. Mr Story, who was 26 at the time, said Mr Pincher poured him a whisky, massaged his neck and whispered: Youll go far in the Conservative Party.

The paper also said Mr Pincher is accused of touching up former Labour MP Tom Blenkinsop, who told him to f*** off.

Mr Pincher did address this claim in the statement he gave to the newspaper.

Mr Kawczynski, who served as an adviser to David Cameron, was accused of approaching a young party researcher in 2013, and asking her to go on a date with a businessman older than her father. The researchers employer, the Tory MP Eleanor Laing, told Channel 4 News she had confronted Mr Kawczynski.

Theresa Mays close ally and de facto deputy prime minister Damian Green is also under investigation by the Cabinet Office over allegations pornography was found on his laptop when his office was raided by counter terrorism police in 2008, and that he touched a female activists knee under the table in a restaurant. He has strenuously denied both allegations.
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Labour Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry has said she is ashamed of whats been going on in her party and said the processes must change.

Asked about the case of Bex Bailey, a Labour activist who said this week she was raped at a party event in 2011 and told to keep quiet about it for the sake of her career, Ms Thornberry said: I am ashamed of whats been going on and I want us to do something about it.

I want stuff happening in my party. [To make sure] there is a process there, and people are supported and not told, Keep your head down, dear, dont say anything, which is why we are now going to have an independent body.

It seems to me that we should be looking at the victims of this and we should be making sure that our party responds appropriately.

The Labour leadership is under fire after claims that the party was aware of allegations of sexual misconduct made against former Shadow Culture Secretary Kelvin Hopkins, a friend of Jeremy Corbyn.

Ms Thornberry said: We owe a debt of gratitude to those who have come forward and who have been brave in the way that they have.

But she refused to be drawn in to discussions over Mr Hopkins, who is currently under investigation by the party.

Where there is an investigation going on, it is important we let that investigation run its course, she said.

Former Shadow Business Secretary Clive Lewis has also been accused of groping a party activist at a party conference event last month. He has denied the allegation.

Labour has appointed a high-profile barrister to examine claims of sexual misconduct within the party.

Meanwhile MR Corbyn has defended his decision to appoint Mr Hopkins.

It is understood that Mr Hopkins was spoken to about why his behaviour was inappropriate and reprimanded by then chief whip Dame Rosie Winterton when Ms Etemadzadeh made her initial complaint after dealings with the MP in 2014 and 2015.

Mr Hopkins was suspended from Labour last week and an investigation launched after it is understood Ms Etemadzadeh contacted the party again with fresh information.

The MP "categorically denies" any inappropriate conduct in relation to the activist.

Mr Corbyn said he believed the "case was closed" when he elevated Mr Hopkins to his top team.

The Labour leader said: "Yes, I was aware that he had been reprimanded and I was also made aware that that was the end of the matter.

"He had been reprimanded, the case had been closed. I thought it was reasonable to appoint him, albeit for a very short time, to shadow cabinet."

Asked why the case was reopened, Mr Corbyn said: "Well, it has been reopened and, obviously, there will now be an investigation taking place on this and that's ongoing.

"I made a decision to put him into the shadow cabinet for a short time and I thought that was the right thing to do. And now the case has been reopened and it will be looked at again.

"He has been suspended from party membership, which is a decision I took immediately I heard about the later revelations."

Pressed on whether he would make the same decision to appoint Mr Hopkins to the frontbench with hindsight, Mr Corbyn said: "I can't discuss hindsight, all I can say is that I took a decision based on what I knew at the time and he made a good contribution to the shadow cabinet during the short time he was there.

"But it is now a matter to be investigated and be resolved."
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Gordon Brown has claimed that crucial US intelligence that cast doubt Iraqs weapons of mass destruction was concealed for the UK in the build-up to the war.

The information, which he says he did not see until after leaving office, would have stopped him from supporting the decision to invade.

Mr Brown said: When I consider the rush to war in March 2003  especially in light of what we now know about the absence of weapons of mass destruction  I ask myself over and over whether I could have made more of a difference before that fateful decision was taken.

We now know from classified American documents, that in the first days of September 2002 a report prepared by the US Joint Chiefs of Staffs director for intelligence landed on the desk of the US Defence Secretary, Donald Rumsfeld.

Commissioned by Rumsfeld to identify gaps in the US intelligence picture, it is now clear how forcibly this report challenged the official view.

If I am right that somewhere within the American system the truth about Iraqs lack of weapons was known, then we were not just misinformed but misled on the critical issue of WMDs.

Given that Iraq had no usable chemical, biological or nuclear weapons that it could deploy and was not about to attack the coalition, then two tests of a just war were not met: war could not be justified as a last resort and invasion cannot now be seen as a proportionate response.

The claims appear in Mr Browns memoir My Life, Our Times  published on Tuesday. He says the US Department of Defence document claimed the assessment of Saddams capability relied heavily on analytic assumptions rather than hard evidence and even refuted the countrys capability to create weapons of mass destruction.

He added: I was told they knew where the weapons were housed. I remember thinking at the time that it was almost as if they could give me the street name and number where they were located.

It is astonishing that none of us in the British government ever saw this American report.

One month after Mr Rumsfelds confidential paper, President George W Bush went on record for the first time with the assertion that Iraq possesses and produces chemical and biological weapons and was seeking nuclear weapons.

Last year, Sir John Chilcots 12-volume report into the war concluded that the intelligence reports that led the then Prime Minister Tony Blair to take the country to war had not established beyond doubt that they existed.

It also concluded Mr Blair was so convinced of the presence of the non-existent WMDs that he sent British troops into Iraq when diplomacy might still have resolved the crisis. But the secret intelligence reports he had been shown did not justify his certainty, Sir John concluded.

The issue of whether the then Prime Minister lied to Parliament to justify the UKs involvement in the Iraq war has been a source of damaging controversy for more than 14 years.
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Jeremy Corbyn will today say that abuse of power in the form of sexual harassment is hiding in plain sight and that Westminsters warped and degrading culture must change.

In a speech at the Labour Partys north-west conference, the Labour leader will say: Labour is committed not just to challenging a warped and degrading culture in Westminster, and across society, but to overturning it.

Faced with the ongoing revelations about sexual harassment, we must make this a turning point and a moment of real change.

Recommended Labour MP Kelvin Hopkins suspended over sexual harassment claims

We must say no more. We must no longer allow women, or anyone else for that matter, to be abused in the workplace or anywhere else.

This is not about peering into some dark recesses. This kind of abuse, sexism and misogyny, has been hiding in plain sight. It is all around us. It is, sadly, in our schools and universities, it is in our businesses and workplaces, in our newspapers and on our TV screens, and yes, it is in the corridors of power.

It is not enough to say this is wrong, then only tinker with procedures. How we respond to this moment will shape the way we live our lives. We need to make a fundamental shift in the balance of power and transform the way our society works.

Mr Corbyn is under fire over his decision to promote his friend Kelvin Hopkins to the Shadow Cabinet, even after allegations he had rubbed his crotch against a young party activist at the University of Essex.

Former Labour Chief Whip Rosie Winterton said she raised concerns with Mr Corbyn following his decision to make Mr Hopkins the new Shadow Culture Secretary in June last year. Ms Winterton had reprimanded the Luton North MP  who backed Mr Corbyns leadership campaign  over allegations against him by party activist Ava Etemadzadeh in 2015.

Mr Hopkins has denied the allegations but has now been suspended from the party while it is investigated.

Mr Corbyn will also announce that a leading barrister has been appointed to investigate claims made by party activist Bex Bailey, that she was raped at a party event in 2011 and told speaking out about it would damage her career.
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The family of a British tourist who is facing the death penalty for taking prescription painkillers into Egypt have said they fear she will be murdered or kill herself in prison.

Laura Plummer, 33, from Hull, was arrested when border guards at Hurghada Airport found she carrying tramadol and naproxen in her suitcase for her Egyptian boyfriend Omar Caboo who suffers from severe back pain. The pair have been together for four years.

Ms Plummer reportedly signed a 38-page statement in Arabic, which she thought would result in her being able to leave the airport, but she has been held in a 15ft by 15ft cell with 25 other women for nearly a month.

Her brother, James Plummer, 31, said the family has been told she could face up to 25 years in jail, with one lawyer even mentioning the death penalty.

Her sister Jayne Synclair, 40, said her little sister Laura Plummer has already threatened to take her own life.

"She can't stay in there any longer or she will be murdered or kill herself," she told The Mirror, adding that her life was in danger.

On a recent prison visit, she said their mother had collapsed at the sight of her.

"We are quite a glamorous family and she looked absolutely shocking, she said. Her hair has fallen out and she has a really bad ear infection which has caused her whole face and neck to swell. She doesn't even look like herself. She couldn't speak properly and was wearing the clothes she travelled in.

The family were also reportedly scammed out of 10,000 by of conmen pretending to be lawyers.

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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. 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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

Egyptians wary of this kind of scam would never have parted with money until after a court hearing, but this lady was vulnerable and thought it was the right thing to do, a source told The Sun.

And the men dropped the case as soon as they got their hands on the money and disappeared.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: We are supporting a British woman and her family following her detention in Egypt.
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A gunman dressed all in black, and wearing a tactical gear including a bullet-proof vest, walked into a church in a small Texas church on Sunday and opened fire as the congregation were involved in weekly service - leaving at least 26 dead and about 20 others injured.

The mass shooting occurred at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, about 30 miles from San Antonio, with President Donald Trump denouncing it as an "act of evil". The victims ranged in age from five to 72, according to police.

One of those killed was 14-year-old Annabelle, the daughter of the church's Pastor Frank Pomeroy. Pastor Pomeroy and his wife Sherri were not in town as the gunman stuck, arriving at a petrol station across the street from the church at around 11.20am local time.

The weekly service started at 11am, with the congregation waiting to hear a sermon around the time the shooter arrived. The man, who police have not yet confirmed the identity of, has been named in US media as Devin Patrick Kelley, 26.

Police said the gunman crossed the street in his vehicle, got out and began firing using a Ruger AR assault-type rifle. He then moved to the right side of the church, continuing to fire and then into the building - still shooting bullets.

As he left, he was confronted by a resident who grabbed his rifle and then began to fire at him as he fled. The neighbour of the church then chased the shooter who left the scene in his vehicle before leaving the road at the border with Guadalupe County. He was found dead inside the vehicle, although authorities are not sure if the shooter died from a self-inflicted wound, or whether it was from the resident.

Texas church shooting Show all 9 1 /9 Texas church shooting Texas church shooting The site of the mass shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas Reuters Texas church shooting First responders are at the scene of shooting at the First Baptist Church Reuters Texas church shooting Enrique and Gabby Garcia watch investigators at the scene of the mass shooting AP Texas church shooting Law enforcement officials investigate the scene at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas Reuters Texas church shooting Carrie Matula embraces a woman after a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs Associated Press Texas church shooting Law enforcement officials gather near the First Baptist Church Getty Images Texas church shooting Community members come together for a candlelight vigil for the victims of the deadly church shooting in Sutherland Springs Laura Skelding/AP Texas church shooting Mourners participate in the candlelight vigil held for the victims Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via AP Texas church shooting A vehicle is hauled onto a flatbed truck where the suspect in a deadly church shooting was found dead in Guadalupe County William Luther/Austin American-Statesman via AP

The gunman left 23 dead inside the church, two outside, while another died on the way to the hospital. The death toll could increase given the number of injured.

Representative Henry Cuellar of Texas, who said he was briefed by law enforcement authorities, said the gunman came from Comal County, which is northeast of San Antonio.

Speaking at an evening press conference, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said: "We are dealing with the largest mass shooting in our state's history.

The tragedy of course is worsened by the fact that it occurred in a church, a place of worship where these people were innocently gunned down, he added.

Later, speaking from Tokyo on a trip to Japan, Mr Trump said: "Our hearts are broken but in dark times  and these are dark times  such as these, Americans do what they do best." He says Americans will pull together to help those suffering. He said he would lend his administration's full support to Texas.

Video on KSAT television showed first responders taking a stretcher from the church to a waiting AirLife helicopter. Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center.

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said multiple victims were being treated for gunshot wounds. She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen.

A woman who lives about 10 minutes away from Sutherland Springs in Floresville and was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said that everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.

This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town, said Alena Berlanga of the town, which has a population of about 600. Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected, she told Reuters.

Witnesses close to the small church reported hearing a rapid barrage of about 20 gunshots. It was very close, Carrie Matula, who had been working in a store across the street from the church, told CNN. It was semi-automatic, rapid fire. This is just devastating in a small town like this. There has been no official confirmation yet of the type of weapon used.

Federal law enforcement swarmed the area, including Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) investigators and members of the FBI's evidence collection team.

Friends and family gathered near the church waiting for words of what had happened to loved ones, tears flowed with many incredibly anxious.

We're shocked. Shocked and dismayed, said state Senator Judith Zaffirini, a Laredo Democrat whose district includes Sutherland Springs. It's especially shocking when it's such a small, serine area. These rural areas, they are so beautiful and so loving. 

Regina Rodriguez arrived at the church a couple of hours after the shooting and walked up to the police barricade. She hugged a person she was with. She had been at an amusement park with her children when she heard of the shooting.

She told the Associated Press that her father, 51-year-old Richard Rodriguez, attends the church every Sunday, and she hadn't been able to reach him. She said she feared the worst.

Nick Uhlig, 34, is a church member who didn't go Sunday morning because he was out late Saturday night. He said his cousins were at the church and that his family was told at least one of them, a woman with three children and pregnant with another, is among the dead. He said he hadn't heard specific news about the other.

According to a 2015 listing in the national directory of the Southern Baptist Convention, the Sutherland Springs church was formed in 1926 and has nearly 270 members. Services are offered in English and Spanish and draw an average of about 180 people on Sundays.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, which tracks gun violence, there has now been more than 300 mass shootings in the US this year. The deadliest mass shooting in modern US history was just over a month ago in Las Vegas. Fifty-eight people were killed and more than 500 injured by gunman Stephen Paddock.

As with the Las Vegas shooting the focus will now turn to the motive for the shooter. Police surrounded an address listed for Devin Kelley in New Braunfels, near San Antonio on Sunday night. The First Baptist Church may also aide investigators - it tapes each weekly gathering and uploads the results to YouTube, meaning that the shooter may have been caught on tape.

Kelley was previously a member of the US Air Force, according to Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek.

Kelley served in logistics readiness at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico from 2010 until his discharge, she said. The Air Force did not provide a date or condition of the discharge.

Investigators will be searching all social media related to the gunman, and his communications to try and discern why the attack took place. The attack will also no doubt open debate in Congress and beyond about gun crotrol, whether the weapon used in the attack was obtained legally or not.

But as night fell on the First Baptist church on Sunday night, all residents were concerned with was candle-lit vigil for the victims and their families.
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Several people have been shot at a church in South Texas leaving multiple people dead and a number of other casualties, local media have reported.

As well as local police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and US Marshals are all said to be on, or heading to the scene in Sutherland Springs about 40 miles east of San Antonio.

A sheriff says a man walked into the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, and started shooting.

Recommended What we know about Texas gunman Devin Patrick Kelley

The Wilson County News reports that Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt said the shooter dead. It wasn't immediately known how many people were killed and wounded or who carried out the attack.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott tweeted his condolences to those affected, calling it an "evil act".

A sheriff's department dispatcher says everyone is at the scene and unavailable to comment.

TeleKSAT reports that two Airlife helicopters are also at the scene.

KSAT has video of several fire and police vehicles at the church and a photo of a helicopter that the station says was arriving to take victims to hospitals.
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Donald Trump has reportedly been granted permission to hire 70 foreign workers for his Mar-a-Lago resort over the winter.

The America First President has upped his tally of overseas staff at the club from 64 last year, according to the Palm Beach Post.

The paper reported a Florida job placement agency as saying it had more than 5,000 American workers ready for employment in the hospitality sector.

Mr Trump has previously stated his intention to stand up for our companies and maybe most importantly for our workers, adding that  its time for a new policy, one defined by two simple rules  we will buy American and we will hire American.

Challenged by Senator Marco Rubio last year over his hiring practices, Mr Trump said: Its very, very hard to get people. Other hotels do the exact same thing.

Mr Trumps daughter Ivanka, a White House adviser, has also been criticised for manufacturing her fashion products abroad, given her fathers emphasis on America First.

The Presidents own businesses were again under scrutiny this weekend as he visited Hawaii on the first leg of a tour of the Asia-Pacific region.

Experts accused his press secretary, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, of an ethics violation after she appeared to promote the Trump International Hotel Waikiki during an official briefing.

Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Show all 30 1 /30 Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Threatening to shut down Twitter after being fact-checked After the president tweeted that voting by post would be "substantially fraudulent", Twitter attached a warning label to his tweet and referred readers to a site which explained how the claim was "unsubstantiated". Trump then said Twitter was "stifling free speech" and that he may have to shut it down, something which he would not have the power to do AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Flippantly dismissing a serious allegation of sexual assault When author E Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her, the president responded: Number one, shes not my type. Number two, it never happened. It never happened, OK?" AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Insulting the Mayor of London as he landed in London Just before touching down at Stansted Airport for his state visit, Trump took time out to @ the London mayor Sadiq Khan on twitter. He said that Khan has done a "terrible job"as mayor and that he is a "stone cold loser" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Taking plenty of "Executive Time" The president's official schedule sets aside the hours from 8 to 11am daily for "Executive Time". Further intermittent periods of "Executive Time" are scheduled throughout any given day, ranging from 15 minutes to 3 hours. His duties in these hours have not been officially disclosed, though Axios reports that he spends them watching TV, reading the newspapers and tweeting Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Shutdown the government for over a month in an effort to secure funding for his wall With Mexico declining to pay for the wall, the president has faced difficulty in raising the required $5bn at home. Due to his demand that the money for the wall be included in the budget, and Congress's refusal, the government partially shut down on 22 December 2018. It remained shut for over a month, the longest period in history Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Joking about the Nazi occupation of France to President Macron In this tweet from 13 November 2018, the president mocks Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of a "true, European army" by invoking the conflict between France and Germany in the world wars Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Railing against the Mueller investigation The president has repeatedly claimed that the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, is a "rigged witch hunt" Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting a US intelligence report on Russian meddling in the presence of Vladimir Putin In the press conference that followed his landmark meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, Trump stated that he saw no reason why Russia would have meddled in the 2016 US election. This contradicted a 2017 report by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence that found evidence of Russian interference in favour of Trump Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Contradicting his contradiction of a US intelligence report on Russian meddling Following furious backlash in the US, the president claimed that he meant to say that he saw no reason why it would not have been Russia who meddled in the 2016 US election. As to why he would have intended to use such bizarre phrasing, he did not comment Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Colouring in the US flag wrong The president coloured in the US flag wrongly during a visit to a children's hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He added a blue stripe where in tradition, and statute, there have been only white and red stripes AFP/Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing a Secretary of State over Twitter The president announced on Twitter that he was appointing Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State, much to the surprise of then Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Quoting a catchphrase from a reality TV show when discussing police brutality While addressing the issue of black athletes not standing for the national anthem in protest of police brutality, the president made reference to his catchphrase from reality TV show "The Apprentice": you're fired! Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Calling African nations "S***hole Countries" Ever one for diplomacy, the president reportedly referred to African nations as "s***hole countries". Asked to confirm this when meeting with Nigeria's President Buhari, Trump stated that there are "some countries that are in very bad shape". Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Defending Russian President Vladimir Putin Trump appeared to equate US foreign actions to those of Russian president Vladimir Putin, saying: There are a lot of killers. You think our countrys so innocent? Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Asking for people to 'pray' for Arnold Schwarzenegger At the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump couldnt help but to ask for prayers for the ratings on Arnold Schwarzeneggers show to be good. Schwarzenegger took over as host of The Apprentice  which buoyed Trumps celebrity status years ago Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Hanging up on Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull Early in his presidency, Trump reportedly hung up the phone on Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the foreign leader angered him over refugee plans. Mr Trump later said that it was the worst call he had had so far Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... The 'Muslim ban' Perhaps one of his most controversial policies while acting as president, Trumps travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries has bought him a lot of criticism. The bans were immediately protested, and judges initially blocked their implementation. The Supreme Court later sided with the administrations argument that the ban was developed out of concern for US security Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Praising crowd size while touring Hurricane Harvey damage After Hurricane Harvey ravaged southeastern Texas, Trump paid the area a visit. While his response to the disaster in Houston was generally applauded, the president picked up some flack when he gave a speech outside Houston (he reportedly did not visit disaster zones), and praised the size of the crowds there AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... 'Little Rocket Man' During his first-ever speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Trump tried out a new nickname for North Korea leader Kim Jong-un: Rocket Man. He later tweaked it to be little Rocket Man as the two feuded, and threatened each other with nuclear war. During that speech, he also threatened to totally annihilate North Korea Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Attacking Sadiq Khan following London Bridge terror attack After the attack on the London Bridge, Trump lashed out at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, criticising Khan for saying there was no reason to be alarmed after the attack. Trump was taking the comments out of context, as Khan was simply saying that the police had everything under control Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming presenter Mika Brezinkski was 'bleeding from the face' Never one not to mock his enemies, Trump mocked MSNBCs Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski, saying that she and co-host Joe Scarborough had approached him before his inauguration asking to join him. He noted that she was bleeding badly from a face-lift at the time, and that he said no MSNBC Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming the blame for Charlottesville was on 'both sides' Trump refused to condemn far-right extremists involved in violence at 'the march for the right' protests in Charlottesville, even after the murder of counter protester Heather Heyer AP Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Retweeting cartoon of CNN being hit by a 'Trump train' Trump retweeted a cartoon showing a Trump-branded train running over a person whose body and head were replaced by a CNN avatar. He later deleted the retweet Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Tweeting about 'slamming' CNN Trump caught some flack when he tweeted a video showing him wrestling down an individual whose head had been replaced by a CNN avatar. Trump has singled CNN out in particular with his chants of fake news Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Firing head of the FBI, James Comey Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey landed him with a federal investigation into Russias meddling in the 2016 election that has caused many a headache for the White House. The White House initially said that the decision was made after consultation from the Justice Department. Then Mr Trump himself said that he had decided to fire him in part because he wanted the Russia investigation Mr Comey was conducting to stop Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Not realising being president would be 'hard' Just three months into his presidency, Trump admitted that being president is harder than he thought it would be. Though Trump insisted on the 2016 campaign trail that doing the job would be easy for him, he admitted in an interview that living in the White House is harder than running a business empire Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Accusing Obama of wiretapping him Trump accused former president Barack Obama of wire tapping him on twitter. The Justice Department later clarified: Obama had not, in fact, done so Reuters Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Claiming there had been 3 million 'illegal votes' Trump was never very happy about losing the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by 2.8 million ballots. So, he and White House voter-fraud commissioner Kris Kobach have claimed that anywhere between three and five million people voted illegally during the 2016 election. Conveniently, he says that all of those illegal votes went to Clinton. (There is no evidence to support that level of widespread voter fraud.) Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Leaving Jews out of the Holocaust memorial statement Just days after taking office, Trumps White House issued a statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, but didnt mention jews or even the word jewish in the written statement Getty Donald Trump's least presidential moments so far... Anger over Inauguration crowd size Trumps inauguration crowd was visibly, and noticeably, smaller than that of his predecessor, Barack Obama. But, he really wanted to have had the largest crowd on record. So, he praised it as the biggest crowd ever. Relatedly, Trump also claimed that it stopped raining in Washington at the moment he was inaugurated. It didnt, the day was very dreary Reuters

Asked why the President had stopped off there before leaving the state, she said: It has been a tremendously successful project and he wanted to say hello and thank you to the employees for all their hard work.

Norm Eisen, White House ethics czar under Mr Obama, tweeted: ETHICS VIOLATION by @PressSec: under 5 CFR  2635.702, cant promote Trumps businesses--same violation as @KellyannePolls committed.

He was referencing a similar misstep by Kellyanne Conway, Mr Trumps adviser, when in February this year she promoted Ivanka Trumps fashion products live on Fox News  from inside the White House press briefing room.
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Robert Mueller has enough evidence to bring criminal charges against Donald Trumps former National Security Adviser, Michael Flynn, it has been reported.

The special counsel, who is leading the probe into possible collusion between Mr Trumps team and Russia during last years presidential election campaign, is said to have uncovered evidence that Mr Flynn acted improperly in relation to his work lobbying for foreign governments.

Mr Flynn resigned in February, after just 24 days in the role, when it emerged he had lied to administration officials, including Mike Pence, the Vice President, about his communications with representatives of the Russian government.

Sources familiar with the investigation told NBC News that Mr Mueller was putting pressure on Mr Flynn following the indictment and arrest of Paul Manafort, Mr Trumps former campaign chairman, last month.

Mr Manafort and his business partner, Rick Gates, were charged with 12 offences, including money laundering and conspiracy against the US.

The alleged evidence against Mr Flynn, a retired army general, suggests Mr Muellers probe is getting closer to the inner circle around Mr Trump. If he is charged, the former National Security Adviser would be the first person who held an administration post to face prosecution.

White House officials have previously stressed that those charged to date were campaign officials who were not brought into government by Mr Trump. Mr Flynns possibly indictment would change that.

FBI investigators are reported to have arranged interviews with multiple witnesses in the coming days with the aim of gathering further evidence against Mr Flynn. The inquiries are said to relate to his lobbying work and will investigate whether he laundered money or lied to the FBI about his work.

The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Show all 17 1 /17 The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Paul Manafort Mr Manafort is a Republican strategist and former Trump campaign manager. He resigned from that post over questions about his extensive lobbying overseas, including in Ukraine where he represented pro-Russian interests. Mr Manafort turned himself in at FBI headquarters to special counsel Robert Muellers team on Oct 30, 2017, after he was indicted under seal on charges that include conspiracy against the United States, conspiracy to launder money, unregistered agent of a foreign principal, false and misleading US Foreign Agents Registration Act statements, false statements, and seven counts of failure to file reports of foreign bank and financial accounts. Getty The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Rick Gates Mr Gates joined the Trump team in spring 2016, and served as a top aide until he left to work at the Republican National Committee after the departure of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort. Mr Gates' had previously worked on several presidential campaigns, on international political campaigns in Europe and Africa, and had 15 years of political or financial experience with multinational firms, according to his bio. Mr Gates was indicted alongside Mr Manafort by special counsel Robert Mueller's team on charges that include conspiracy against the United States, conspiracy to launder money, unregistered agent of a foreign principal, false and misleading US Foreign Agents Registration Act statements, false statements, and seven counts of failure to file reports of foreign bank and financial accounts. AP The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation George Papadopoulos George Papadopoulos was a former foreign policy adviser for the Trump campaign, having joined around March 2016. Mr Papadopoulos plead guilty to federal charges for lying to the FBI as a part of a cooperation agreement with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. Mr Papadopoulos claimed in an interview with the FBI that he had made contacts with Russian sources before joining the Trump campaign, but he actually began working with them after joining the team. Mr Papadopoulos allegedly took a meeting with a professor in London who reportedly told him that Russians had "dirt" on Hillary Clinton. The professor also allegedly introduced Mr Papadopoulos to a Russian who was said to have close ties to officials at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr Papadopoulos also allegedly was in contact with a woman whom he incorrectly described in one email to others in the campaign as the "niece" to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Twitter The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Donald Trump Jr The President's eldest son met with a Russian lawyer - Natalia Veselnitskaya - on 9 June 2016 at Trump Tower in New York. He said in an initial statement that the meeting was about Russia halting adoptions of its children by US citizens. Then, he said it was regarding the Magnitsky Act, a US law blacklisting Russian human rights abusers. In a final statement, Mr Trump Jr released a chain of emails that revealed he took the meeting in hopes of getting information Ms Veselnitskaya had about Hillary Clinton's alleged financial ties to Russia. He and the President called it standard "opposition research" in the course of campaigning and that no information came from the meeting. The meeting was set up by an intermediary, Rob Goldstone. Jared Kushner and Paul Manafort were also at the same meeting. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Jared Kushner Mr Kushner is President Donald Trump's son-in-law and a key adviser to the White House. He met with a Russian banker appointed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in December. Mr Kushner has said he did so in his role as an adviser to Mr Trump while the bank says he did so as a private developer. Mr Kushner has also volunteered to testify in the Senate about his role helping to arrange meetings between Trump advisers and Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Rob Goldstone Former tabloid journalist and now music publicist Rob Goldstone is a contact of the Trump family through the previously Trump-owned 2013 Miss Universe pageant, which took place in Moscow. In June 2016, he wrote to Donald Trump Jr offering a meeting with a Russian lawyer, Natalya Veselnitskaya, who had information about Hillary Clinton. Mr Goldstone was the intermediary for Russian pop star Emin Agalaraov and his father, real estate magnate Aras, who played a role in putting on the 2013 pageant. In an email chain released by Mr Trump Jr, Mr Goldstone seemed to indicate Russian government's support of Donald Trump's campaign. AP images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Aras and Emin Agalarov Aras Agalarov (R) is a wealthy Moscow-based real estate magnate and son Emin (L) is a pop star. Both played a role in putting on the previously Trump-owned 2013 Miss Universe pageant in Moscow. They allegedly had information about Hillary Clinton and offered that information to the Trump campaign through a lawyer with whom they had worked with, Natalia Veselnitskaya, and music publicist Rob Goldstone. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Natalia Veselnitskaya Natalia Veselnitskaya is a Russian lawyer with ties to the Kremlin. She has worked on real estate issues and reportedly counted the FSB as a client in the past. She has ties to a Trump family connection, real estate magnate Aras Agalarov, who had helped set up the Trump-owned 2013 Miss Universe pageant which took place in Moscow. Ms Veselnitskaya met with Donald Trump Jr, Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort in Trump Tower on 9 June 2016 but denies the allegation that she went there promising information on Hillary Clinton's alleged financial ties to Russia. She contends that the meeting was about the US adoptions of Russian children being stopped by Moscow as a reaction to the Magnitsky Act, a US law blacklisting Russian human rights abusers. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Mike Flynn Mr Flynn was named as Trump's national security adviser but was forced to resign from his post for inappropriate communication with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. He had misrepresented a conversation he had with Mr Kislyak to Vice President Mike Pence, telling him wrongly that he had not discussed sanctions with the Russian. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Sergey Kislyak Mr Kislyak, the former longtime Russian ambassador to the US, is at the centre of the web said to connect President Donald Trump's campaign with Russia. Reuters The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Roger Stone Mr Stone is a former Trump adviser who worked on the political campaigns of Richard Nixon, George HW Bush, and Ronald Reagan. Mr Stone claimed repeatedly in the final months of the campaign that he had backchannel communications with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and that he knew the group was going to dump damaging documents to the campaign of Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton - which did happen. Mr Stone also had contacts with the hacker Guccier 2.0 on Twitter, who claimed to have hacked the DNC and is linked to Russian intelligence services. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Jeff Sessions The US attorney general was forced to recuse himself from the Trump-Russia investigation after it was learned that he had lied about meeting with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Carter Page Mr Page is a former advisor to the Trump campaign and has a background working as an investment banker at Merrill Lynch. Mr Page met with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak during the 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland. Mr Page had invested in oil companies connected to Russia and had admitted that US Russia sanctions had hurt his bottom line. Reuters The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Jeffrey "JD" Gorden Mr Gordon met with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak during the 2016 Republian National Convention to discuss how the US and Russia could work together to combat Islamist extremism should then-Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump win the election. The meeting came days before a massive leak of DNC emails that has been connected to Russia. Creative Commons The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation James Comey Mr Comey was fired from his post as head of the FBI by President Donald Trump. The timing of Mr Comey's firing raised questions around whether or not the FBI's investigation into the Trump campaign may have played a role in the decision. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Preet Bharara Mr Bahara refused, alongside 46 other US district attorney's across the country, to resign once President Donald Trump took office after previous assurances from Mr Trump that he would keep his job. Mr Bahara had been heading up several investigations including one into one of President Donald Trump's favorite cable television channels Fox News. Several investigations would lead back to that district, too, including those into Mr Trump's campaign ties to Russia, and Mr Trump's assertion that Trump Tower was wiretapped on orders from his predecessor. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Sally Yates Ms Yates, a former Deputy Attorney General, was running the Justice Department while President Donald Trump's pick for attorney general awaited confirmation. Ms Yates was later fired by Mr Trump from her temporary post over her refusal to implement Mr Trump's first travel ban. She had also warned the White House about potential ties former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn to Russia after discovering those ties during the FBI's investigation into the Trump campaign's connections to Russia. Getty Images

Mr Muellers team are also said to be looking at whether the former National Security Adviser attempted to have Fethullah Gullen, an elderly Muslim cleric, extradited from the US to Turkey in exchange for millions of dollars.

Mr Gullen is a rival of Recep Erdogan, the Turkish President. He is the subject of an extradition request from the Turkish government, which accuses him of being behind a 2016 coup attempt against Mr Erdogan.

Mr Flynn has undertaken paid work as a lobbyist on behalf of the Turkish government.

The former army generals son, Michael G Flynn, who is a business partner of his father and worked for Mr Trump during the transition period, is also facing possible charges.

Sources told NBC that the older Mr Flynn could be asked to cooperate with the FBIs investigations into other members of Mr Trumps team, in return for greater leniency for him and his son.

If he is charged, Mr Flynn would be the fourth person to face prosecution as part of Mr Muellers investigation. In addition to Mr Manafort and Mr Gates, George Papadopoulos, a former foreign policy adviser to the campaign, has pleaded guilty to lying to law enforcement officials and is reported to have been cooperating with the investigation.
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President Donald Trumps commerce secretary is doing business with Vladimir Putins son-in-law through a shipping venture in Russia, according to newly-released documents.

Wilbur Ross has an interest in Navigator Holdings, which earns millions a year transporting oil and gas for Russian energy firm Sibur. When he joined Mr Trump's cabinet Mr Ross divested his interests in 80 companies.

But kept stakes in a number of companies, including a number in the Cayman Islands that link him to Navigator. One shareholder of Sibur is President Putin's son in law, Kirill Shamalov.

Two other major Sibur shareholders are under some form of US sanctions.

Mr Shamalov has a 3.9 per cent stake in the firm. Shareholder Gennady Timchenko, who has been individually sanctioned by the United States, in addition to a number of companies connected to him. Leonid Mikhelson, whose main company, Novatek, is also sanctioned, is another major shareholder.

Sibur itself is not under sanctions. Mr Shamalov is also not under any sanctions, although his father is.

The documents, relating to law firm Appleby, were obtained by German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, which called in the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) to oversee the investigation.

The US Commerce Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. However, responding to the release on the papers to the ICIJ, a spokesman for Mr Ross did not dispute the release, but said that the Commerce Secretary never met Mr Putins son-in-law or Siburs other owners and that he was not on the board of Navigator when it initiated its relationship with Sibur.

Mr Ross recuses himself from matters that relate to international shipping, his spokesman said, and has been generally supportive of the administrations sanctions against Russian entities.

During his confirmation hearing by the US Senate, Mr Ross was not asked about his links to Mr Putins family.

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. 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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. 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But the chief ethics counsel in George W Bushs administration, Richard Painter, told The Guardian that he had not made it clear that he was retaining his stake in Navigator.

It is very difficult to figure out from the financial disclosure, he said. He should have sold off any and all interests.

It was suggested that he was making a clean cut from Navigator by divesting from WL Ross by influential shipping industry newsletter, Lloyds List.

Mr Rosss apparent departure is to avoid conflict of interest, it said, before quoting Mr Ross at the hearing.

Other members of Mr Trump's adminstration who appear in the papers include the president's chief economic adviser Gary Cohn who held leading roles in 22 separate entities for Goldman Sachs in Bermuda between 2002 and 2006. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson also directed a company in Bermuda in 1997 known as Marib Upstream Services Company. Mr Tillerson was also the head of ExxonMobil's Yemen arm in 1997, which was tied to Marib, the documents showed.
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The only way to locate and secure all of North Koreas nuclear weapons sites with complete certainty is through an invasion of ground forces, and in the event of conflict, Pyongyang could use biological and chemical weapons, the Pentagon told politicians in a new, blunt assessment of what war on the Korean Peninsula might look like.

The Pentagon, in a letter to politicians, said that a full discussion of US capabilities to counter North Koreas ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and to eliminate North Koreas nuclear weapons located in deeply buried, underground facilities is best suited for a classified briefing.

The letter also said that Pentagon leaders assess that North Korea may consider the use of biological weapons and that the country has a long-standing chemical weapons program with the capability to produce nerve, blister, blood and choking agents.

The Pentagon repeated that a detailed discussion of how the United States would respond to the threat could not be discussed in public.

The letter was written by Rear Admiral Michael J Dumont, the vice director of the Pentagons Joint Staff, in response to a request for information from two House members about expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea, including for civilians and US and allied forces in South Korea, Japan and Guam.

A decision to attack or invade another country will have ramifications for our troops and taxpayers, as well as the region, for decades, Ted Lieu (Democrat, California) and Ruben Gallego (Democrat, Arizona) wrote to the Pentagon. We have not heard detailed analysis of expected US or allied force casualties, expected civilian casualties, what plans exist for the aftermath of a strike  including continuity of the South Korean Government.

The Pentagon said that calculating best-or worst-case casualty scenarios was challenging and would depend on the nature, intensity and duration of a North Korean attack; how much warning civilians would have to get to the thousands of shelters in South Korea; and the ability of US and South Korean forces to respond to North Korean artillery, rockets and ballistic missiles with their own retaliatory barrage and air strikes.

The letter noted that Seoul, the South Korean capital, is a densely populated area with 25 million residents.

Any operation to pursue North Korean nuclear weapons would likely be spearheaded by US Special Operations troops. Last year, President Barack Obama and then-Defence Secretary Ashton B Carter gave US Special Operations Command a new, leading role coordinating the Pentagons effort to counter weapons of mass destruction. SOCOM did not receive any new legal authorities for the mission but gained influence in how the military responds to such threats.

Elite US forces have long trained to respond in the case of a so-called loose nuke in the hands of terrorists. But senior officials said SOCOM is increasingly focused on North Korea.

Dumont said the military backs the current US strategy on North Korea, which is led by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and focuses on ratcheting up economic and diplomatic pressure as the primary effort to get North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to stop developing nuclear weapons. Tillerson, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis and the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, General Joseph F Dunford Jr, have emphasized that during trips to Seoul this year.

In contrast, Donald Trump, who goes unmentioned in the Pentagon letter, has taunted Kim as Rocket Man and expressed frustration with diplomatic efforts, hinting that he is considering preemptive military force.

I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man, Trump tweeted on 1 October, adding, Save your energy Rex, well do what has to be done!

On 7 October, Trump added in additional tweets that North Korea had made fools of US negotiators. Sorry, but only one thing will work! he said.

Mattis and other Pentagon leaders have often cited the grave threat faced by Seoul, but the military much less frequently draws attention to its plans for an underground hunt for nuclear weapons.

Air Force Colonel Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesman, said that Dumont and other Pentagon officials had no additional comment about the letter.

A senior US military official in South Korea, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing operations, said that while the 28,500 US troops in South Korea maintain a high degree of readiness, he has to believe that North Korea does not want a war, given all of the nations aligned against it.

If you open the history books, this is not the first time that weve been in a heavy provocation cycle, the official said. On the side of South Korea and the United States, he said, there is no action taken without extreme consideration of not putting this in a position where a fight is going to happen.

Dumonts letter also notes that we have not seen any change in the offensive posture of North Koreas forces.

A statement by 16 politicians, released simultaneously with the Pentagon letter, urged Trump to stop making provocative statements that impede diplomatic efforts and risk the lives of US troops.

The Pentagons assessment underscores what weve known all along: There are no good military options for North Korea, said the statement, organized by Lieu and Gallego and signed by 14 other members of Congress who are veterans, all but one of them Democrats.

In a telephone interview, Lieu said that the intent of asking the Pentagon for information was to spell out the cataclysmic consequences of war with North Korea and the aftermath.

Its important for people to understand what a war with a nuclear power would look like, said Lieu, citing estimates of 300,000 dead in the first few days alone. More than 100,000 Americans are potentially at risk.

Lieu, who spent part of his time in the Air Force on Guam preparing for military action against North Korea, called the letter a confirmation that a conflict would result in a bloody, protracted ground war. The Joint Chiefs, he believes, are trying to send a message to the American public, he said.

This is grim, Lieu said. We need to understand what war means. And it hasnt been articulated very well. I think theyre trying to articulate some of that.

Gallego said that he wanted information because of what he sees as a cavalier attitude in the White House about military action in North Korea. The idea that a ground invasion would be needed to secure nuclear weapons is eye-opening, he said, and raises the possibility of the US military losing thousands of troops.

I think that youre dealing with career professionals at the Pentagon who realize that the drumbeats of war could actually end up leading us to war, he said. They want to make sure that there is full transparency and information out there about what can occur if our civilian leaders make wrong calculations.

Made in North Korea - In pictures Show all 6 1 /6 Made in North Korea - In pictures Made in North Korea - In pictures Made in North Korea - In pictures Made in North Korea - In pictures Made in North Korea - In pictures Made in North Korea - In pictures Made in North Korea - In pictures

The Pentagon letter also notes the possibility of opposition from China or Russia.

The Department of Defence maintains a set of up-to-date contingency plans to secure our vital national security interests, Dumont wrote. These plans account for a wide range of possibilities, including third-party intervention, and address how best to contain escalation. 

The letter says that both Russia or China may prefer to avoid conflict with the United States, or possibly cooperate with us.

Washington Post
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A petition has been launched to bring a US trophy hunter "to justice" 30 years after he shot a rare snow leopard and was pictured grinning with the body.

The picture shows Hossein Golabchi, who is also known by his nickname Soudy, smiling with the big cat draped over his shoulders.

The animal appears to have been shot at least twice in hind leg.

The American hunter, originally from Iran, is believed to have killed the animal in central Asia.

More than 100,000 people have signed a petition calling for Mr Golabchi to be "brought to justice". It has a goal of 110,000 supporters.

 Baby snow leopards explore new surroundings

The Care2 petition was launched by Amanda, from Tera International (Tiger Exotic Animal Ranger Awareness), on 23 October, International Snow Leopard Day.

Theres nowhere in the entire Western hemisphere (and the rest of the world) that allows anyone to go into Central Asia to trophy hunt a snow leopard, the petition reads.

It is illegal to own their body parts or their beautiful fur and importing their remains into the United States is a federal offence.

This long-time and prolific trophy hunter of rare cats must be made an example of or these magnificent cats will vanish forever.

Where not to visit if you love animals Show all 9 1 /9 Where not to visit if you love animals Where not to visit if you love animals Monkey shows Chimpanzees are forced to perform demeaning tricks on leashes and are often subject to cruel training techniques. Animals who are confined to small, barren enclosures and forced to perform unsurprisingly show symptoms of stress and depression. Chimpanzees have been documented rocking back and forth, sucking their lips, salivating and swaying against enclosure perimeters in distress. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Marine parks Some parks confine orcas to concrete tanks and force them to perform meaningless tricks for food - many die in captivity. Orcas are highly intelligent and social mammals who may suffer immensely, both physically and mentally, when they're held in captivity. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Tiger shows Tigers are forced to live in an unnatural and barren environment and have to endure interactions with a constant stream of tourists. Since tigers never lose their wild instincts, across the world they are reportedly drugged, mutilated and restrained in order to make them safe for the public. However, every year, incidents of tiger maulings are reported at this type of tourist attraction. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Donkey rides Sunning on the beach is great for humans  we can take a quick dip or catch a bite to eat when we get too hot or hungry. But it's pure hell for donkeys who are confined to the beach and forced to cart children around on the hot sand. Some donkey-ride operators at beach resorts in the UK even keep the animals chained together at all times. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Swimming with dolphins Some marine parks use bottlenose dolphins in performances and offer visitors the opportunity to swim with dolphins. Unfortunately, people are often unaware that these animals are captured in the wild and torn from their families or traded between different parks around the world. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Canned hunting Lions are confined to fenced areas so that they can easily be cornered, with no chance of escape. Most of them will have been bred in captivity and then taken from their mothers to be hand-reared by the cub-petting industry. When they get too big, they may be drugged before they are released into a "hunting" enclosure. Because these animals are usually kept in fenced enclosures (ranging in size from just a few square yards to thousands of acres), they never stand a chance of surviving. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Running of the Bulls Every year, tourists travel to Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls. The bulls who are forced to slip and slide down the town's narrow cobblestone streets are chased straight into the bullring. They are then taunted, stabbed repeatedly and finally killed by the matador in front of a jeering crowd. The majority of Spaniards reject bullfighting, but tourists are keeping the cruel industry on its last legs. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Horse-drawn carriages City streets are no place for horses. The animals toil in all weather extremes, suffering from respiratory distress from breathing in exhaust fumes as well as numerous hoof, leg and back problems from walking on pavement all day long. As easily spooked prey animals, horses subjected to the loud noises and unexpected sounds of city streets are likely to be involved in accidents, even deadly ones. Getty Where not to visit if you love animals Zoos The zoo community regards the animals it keeps as commodities, and animals are regularly bought, sold, borrowed and traded without any regard for established relationships. Zoos breed animals because the presence of babies draws visitors and boosts revenue, yet often, there's nowhere to put the offspring as they grow, and they are killed, as we saw with Marius the giraffe in Denmark. Some zoos have introduced evening events with loud music and alcohol which disrupt the incarcerated animals even further. EPA

In an update, Amanda wrote: I want to personally thank everyone around the world for helping this go viral.

Snow leopards have never been numerous. The thought of a wealthy American specifically seeking one out to destroy its life is unfathomable. It also damages the communities around the snow leopard.

There are thought to be between 3,500 and 7,000 snow leopards left in the wild, with 600 to 700 in zoos around the world, according to Defenders of Wildlife.

Exact numbers are hard to determine due to the leopards shy nature, it also noted.

Update: After publication of this report The Independent was contacted by Mr Golabchis representative, who confirmed that his client had indeed shot a snow leopard but pointed out that the hunt took place 30 years ago. He further informed us that the hunt was permitted at the time by the Mongolian government and that the animal he killed was  pursuant to a further permit  shipped legitimately to Mexico, where it was subsequently displayed. As such, there was no legal wrongdoing by his client. We have updated our article in light of this information. 10/11/17
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Tourists have descended on a unique Sydney street to take pictures with a canopy of bright purple flowers.

The Jacaranda flowers, which bloom for six weeks during the Australian summer, are out in force in McDougall Street in the neighbourhood of Kirribilli.

Local residents said they have seen hundreds of tourists flocking to the street to take pictures with trees bearing the flower.

They warn that the floral fans are now causing traffic problems and are calling on North Sydney Council to put proper plans in place for next year.

The chair of a residents group, Jillian Christie, told the Sydney Daily Telegraph: Its difficult to drive there without hitting a tourist. They are out in the middle of the road.

We all love it and we are understanding but we dont want the tourists hurt.

Six women hold the jacaranda flower in McDougall Street in Kirribilli, Sydney (Getty)

She has called for an official jacaranda festival to be organised and for the street to be made one-way for the six weeks the flowers are in bloom or have a small section closed completely to traffic.

A spokesman for the council said they were aware of the increasing popularity of the flowers and the problems they were causing.

Visitors pose for photographs on McDougall Street in November 2016 (Getty)

She said: The feasibility and costs of a traffic management plan and a jacaranda festival are being considered for the future.

In the meantime, as McDougall Street is a public road, pedestrians and motorists should observe the road rules at all times.
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Carles Puigdemont, the deposed president of Catalonia, is being questioned under arrest in Brussels after he and four of his colleagues handed themselves over to the Belgian authorities. The move follows the issuing of a European warrant by a court in Spain as the confrontation between Madrid and the separatists continued to escalate.

An investigating judge in Brussels will have until 9.17am on Monday morning  24 hours after the men surrendered to the authorities  to decide whether or not they will be held in custody or released on bail while the extradition process gets under way.

The charges faced by the exiled Catalan leaders  sedition, rebellion, misuse of public funds and perjury  carries a maximum sentence of 30 years imprisonment on conviction. Mr Puigdemonts Belgian lawyer, Paul Bekaert, has said that his client will appeal against extradition, which means that proceedings may drag past 21 December, the date the Spanish government has called elections in the region.

The Catalan nationalists have strong support from Flemish political parties in Belgium. The fleeing of Mr Puigdemont and his colleagues to Brussels had been preceded by the countrys immigration minister, Theo Francken, saying they would be able to seek asylum.

Today, the Belgian vice-premier and interior minister stated that Madrid had overreacted and all efforts must be made to ensure that Mr Puigdemont and his colleagues get a fair trial if he is returned to Spain. Jan Jambon, who criticised the silence of the European Union on the issue, said: I am just questioning how a European Union member state can go this far and I am asking myself whether Europe is to have an opinion on this.

Mr Puigdemont had called for a coalition of the separatist political parties to present a united front in elections to be held in December before turning up at the police station. An online petition calling for unity for the independence movement had, it was claimed, gathered 50,000 signatures within a few hours.

 Carles Puigdemont says he cannot return to Catalonia because Spain is intent on 'vengeance'

The uncompromising reaction of the government of Mariano Rajoy, which has included the jailing of eight Catalan ministers, appeared to have strengthened the position of the separatists. Two of the most recent opinion polls show that the independence seeking parties would gain around 54 per cent of the votes. However, this may be just short of the majority needed, under Spanish law, to revive the secession campaign.

The separatist parties have been divided over the best strategy for seeking independence and there has been criticism among many politicians and at the grass-roots level over Mr Puigdemont fleeing to Belgium.

Talks, however, have been under way in the last few days in an attempt to arrive at a consensus amid apprehension that a poor result for the independence movement at the December polls may be used by the Rajoy government to bring in rules that will make secession even more difficult in the future.

Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Show all 17 1 /17 Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters A man faces off Spanish Civil Guards outside a polling station in Sant Julia de Ramis Reuters Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Riot police form a security cordon around the Ramon Llull school in Barcelona EPA Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Riot police evict a young woman during clashes between people gathered outside the Ramon Llull school in Barcelona EPA Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Spanish Civil Guard officers break through a door at a polling station in Sant Julia de Ramis Reuters Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Spanish National Police clash with pro-referendum supporters in Barcelona on Sunday AP Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Crowds raise their arms up as police move in on members of the public gathered outside to prevent them from voting in the referendum at a polling station where the President Carles Puigdemunt will vote later today Getty Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters People confront Spanish Civil Guard officers outside a polling station Reuters Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Three man hold each other as they try to block a Spanish police van from approaching a polling station AP Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters A woman shows a ballot to a Spanish Civil Guard officer outside a polling station Reuters Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters A man wearing a shirt with an Estelada (Catalan separatist flag) and holding carnations faces off with a Spanish Civil Guard officer Reuters Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Police try to control the area as people attempt to cast their ballot at a polling station in Barcelona Getty Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters A man is grabbed by officers as police move in on the crowds Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Two women argue with a Spanish National policeman during clashes between Catalan pro-independence people and police forces at the Sant Julia de Ramis sports centre in Girona EPA Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Sant Julia De Ramis in Spain Getty Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Confrontation outside a polling station in Barcelona, where police have tried to stop people voting AFP/Getty Images Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters A Spanish National Police officer aims a rubber-bullet rifle at pro-referendum supporters in Barcelona AP Catalonia independence referendum: Riot police clash with voters Riot police clashed with voters as polls opened in Barcelona Sky News

While political manoeuvrings go on behind the scenes, activists have called for street protests to continue. Another demonstration was held in Barcelona on Sunday afternoon, although the numbers were down from the tens of thousands who had been marching in recent weeks.

Ariadna Olivas, one of the organisers, said: People cannot keep on turning up every day. We shall see the figures go up as the election campaign gets under way. This is now going to be a long road starting with victory in the election and then starting the independence process. Meanwhile the brutal behaviour of the Rajoy government will be noticed in Spain as well as internationally.

The Catalan civic groups Assemblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Cultural  two of whose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition charges  have called for a general strike next Wednesday and mass protests next weekend.
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Ousted Catalonian leader Carles Puigdemont and four former ministers have turned themselves in to Belgian police.

Brussels prosecutors said all five were taken into custody to start the process of their possible extradition to Spain.

They had fled to Belgium this week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to impede the region's illegal declaration of independence.

 Carles Puigdemont says he cannot return to Catalonia because Spain is intent on 'vengeance'

"This morning the five people wanted by Spain presented themselves to police in Brussels. They were put in custody at 9.17 this morning," Gilles Dejemeppe, a spokesman for Brussels prosecutors, told a news conference.

"The judge will hear the people this afternoon. He has until tomorrow morning to decide."

If the judge decides to issue an arrest warrant on the basis of the Spanish request, the case then goes to a court which must decide within 15 days whether to execute the order.

Mr Puigdemont can appeal at various stages of the proceedings, a process which can take many weeks.

The delay could giveMr Puigdemont time to participate, albeit from afar and in largely a symbolic capacity, in the snap regional election called by Spain's government for Catalonia on 21 December.

Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures Show all 6 1 /6 Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures Pro-unity supporters take part in a demonstration in central Barcelona. Hundreds of thousands of Catalans took to the streets of Barcelona on Sunday to call for their region to remain part of Spain, two days after regional lawmakers exacerbated a political crisis by voting for the wealthy region to secede Reuters/Jon Nazca Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures A woman with the Senera and Spanish flags painted on her face shouts slogans as she takes part in a rally against Catalonia's declaration of independence, in Barcelona AP Photo/Gonzalo Arroyo Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures Thousands of pro-unity protesters gather in Barcelona, two days after the Catalan parliament voted to split from Spain Jeff J Mitchell/Gett Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures People support a pro-unity demonstration from their balconies in central Barcelona Reuters/Rafael Marchante Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures Pro-unity supporters take part in a demonstration in central Barcelona Reuters/Yves Herman Catalan pro-unity demonstration  in pictures Protesters wave Spanish flags and carry banners during a pro-unity demonstration on in Barcelona Jack Taylor/Getty

A Spanish National Court judge issued warrants for the five separatist politicians on suspicion of five crimes, including rebellion, rebellion and embezzlement, on Friday, a day after the same judge sent another eight former Catalan Cabinet members to jail without bail while her investigation continues. A ninth spent a night in jail and was freed after posting bail.

The separatist majority of Catalonia's Parliament ignored repeated warnings from Spanish authorities and voted in favour of a declaration of independence on 27 October.

The next day, Spain's central government used extraordinary constitutional powers to fire Catalonia's government, take charge of its administrations, dissolve its regional parliament and call a regional election.

Spain's Constitution says the nation is "indivisible" and that all matters of national sovereignty pertain to the country's parliament.

In all, Spanish prosecutors are investigating 20 regional politicians for rebellion and other crimes that could be punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Another two leaders of pro-secession grassroots groups are also in jail while an investigation continues into suspicion of sedition.

Hundreds of pro-secession Catalans gathered in town squares across the region Sunday to put up posters in support of independence and to demand the release of the jailed separatists.
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Thousands of mourners attended the funeral of the Maltese anti-corruption journalist murdered last month, where they heard a plea for the protection of journalistic freedoms and a warning to her unknown killers.

Daphne Caruana Galizias funeral was held at Maltas biggest church, near the capital Valletta and two miles from the site where the 53-year-old was killed by a car bomb as she left her home.

The islands President, Prime Minister and opposition leader, all targeted in Ms Galizias writing, stayed away from the private ceremony, but European Parliament President Antonio Tajani attended as a guest of the family.

 Reporter who covered Malta 'Panama Papers' link killed

Archbishop Charles Scicluna, who led the funeral mass, addressed the unknown killers, saying: However hard you try to evade the justice of men, you will never escape from the justice of God. Repent before it is too late.

He then told journalists not to be afraid.

I encourage you never to grow weary in your mission to be the eyes, the ears and the mouth of the people ... We need people in your profession who are unshackled, who are free, intelligent, inquisitive, honest, serene, safe and protected.

Reflecting concern in neighbouring countries about possible failings in democracy and the rule of law in Malta, the European Union vowed to make sure its smallest state found the barbarous killers.

World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Show all 15 1 /15 World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Petro Poroshenko President of Ukraine World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Ayad Allawi Allawi Iraqs Vice-President between 2014 and 2015, and the countrys interim prime minister from 2004 to 2005 World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Salman bin Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud King of Saudi Arabia World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan President of the United Arab Emirates, Emir of Abu Dhabi World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Sigmundur Davi Gunnlaugsson Prime Minister of Iceland World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Sergey Roldugin Close friend of Vladimir Putin World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Emir of Qatar 1995-2013 World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Li Xiaolin Daughter of Li Peng, the former Premier of China (The current vice-president of state-owned power company China Datang Gorporation and former CEO of China Power International Development, she has been nicknamed Chinas Power Queen World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Rami Makhlouf Cousin of Bashar Assad, the President of Syria World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Hafez Makhlouf Cousin of Bashar Assad, the President of Syria World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Clive Khulubuse Zuma Nephew of Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Maryam Nawaz Sharif Safdar Daughter of Nawaz Sharif, prime minister of Pakistan World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Hasan Nawaz Sharif Son of Nawaz Sharif, prime minister of Pakistan World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Hussain Nawaz Sharif Son of Nawaz Sharif, prime minister of Pakistan World leaders linked to 'Panama Papers' Alaa Mubarak The eldest son of ousted former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Read more here

Ms Galizia reported on corruption for her blog, which had thousands of followers, and wrote twice weekly for The Malta Independent.

One of her targets was Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, whose wifes name surfaced in the Panama Papers; leaked documents detailing offshore financial accounts maintained by prominent people. Both Mr Muscat and his wife have denied wrongdoing.

At the time of her death, the journalist was facing 42 libel lawsuits in the Maltese courts. Most of the cases are expected to proceed.

The Maltese government declared Friday as a day of national mourning in a sign that no attack on freedom of expression is accepted in Maltas democracy.

The islands government is offering a 1m (890,000) reward for information about the culprits and has asked the FBI and Europol to help.

But Ms Galizias family refused to endorse the reward, called for the resignation of the Prime Minister, the police commissioner and the attorney general, and insisted there could be no justice without institutional change.
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A "confused" man who reportedly fired a number of shots from a gun in the center of the Norwegian capital of Oslo, has been detained by police.

Investigators said the man in his twenties was held behind the city's cathedral. No one was injured in the incident.

Police spokesman Svein Arild Joerunland told Norwegian daily Nettavisen, that the suspect admitted firing a number of shots.

"I can say that this has nothing to do with terror or something like that," he added. "We are talking about a confused man."

The shooting took place around Stortorvet, a square near the Oslo Domkirke cathedral.

The man apparently shot at buildings and at least one shop window had a bullet hole, the tabloid VG reported.

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

Police tweeted they had found a shop front "with damage that may stem from shots."

Although terror was ruled out, local media reported that officers had been deployed throughout the city.

Although possession of guns is tightly controlled in Norway, hunting is popular in the country and a large number of people legally own semi-automatic guns, rifles and shotguns.
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The main operations began at 2am, wrote Leon Trotsky in his History of the Russian Revolution. Bolshevik groups occupied the rail stations, the lighting station, military and food warehouses, the water systems, the Palace bridge, the telephone exchange, state bank, major printing houses, telegraph and post office.

With that  though few realised it at the time  one of historys most consequential turns had taken place. The events of that frosty night 100 years ago would go on to split Russia into red and white, violent and pacifist, poor and rich, old and new. They served as the precursor to terror of unimaginable scale, to technological advances, to Cold War and to no less stunning collapse.

A century on, the world is still discussing the consequences of the Bolshevik Revolution. But in Russia no one seems the least bit interested.

On 7 November, Russian state TV is expected to repeat the news blackout it observed on the anniversary of the February Revolution. Unusually for an administration so used to orchestrating history, there has been no mandated line, no diktat, no good revolution, or no bad revolution. The Kremlin has stated that for the government, the event does not exist  though revolution, in general, is probably a bad thing.

The Russian Communist Party almost seems to agree. Gennady Zyuganov, the partys crusty leader, 73, and at its helm since 1993, has in major speeches skipped all but basic pleasantries about Vladimir Lenin. His focus has been on the Second World War, Yuri Gagarin and technological breakthroughs of the later Soviet period. The 1917 revolution was a state-building exercise, he has inventively argued.

Now very much part of the capitalist state, the Communist Party has scheduled a series of budget-bursting rituals in St Petersburg. But the main event will be a closed party in Moscow on 7 November. Held in an upmarket business hotel, those leftists hoping for a communist Renaissance, complete with five  presumably red  stars, will not be left disappointed.

Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Show all 12 1 /12 Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday An opposition activist wearing a rubber mask depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin walks past gift boxes with lettering reading trial, resignation, impeachment, true election and others during an event dedicated to Putins 65th birthday in downtown Moscow, October 7 2017 AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators holding yellow ducks are interviewed by journalists as they arrive for the rally AP Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday A demonstrator chats slogans during the unauthorized anti-Kremlin rally called by jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators shout slogans and wave Russian flags during the rally in Moscow AP Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators in downtown Moscow hold a poster which reads We demand a fair election. AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators walk down Tverskaya street during the unauthorized anti-Kremlin rally AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Riot police block an area AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators clench their fists during the rally. Opposition leader Alexei Navalny has worked to organize protests in support of his presidential bid across Russia on Saturday AP Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators gather near a monument of Russian poet Alexander Pushkin AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday Demonstrators march and wave a Russian flag AFP/Getty Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday A topless activist from the feminist group Femen depicts American actress Marilyn Monroe singing the happy birthday song EPA Russia protests on Vladimir Putins birthday On the birthday of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, Femen wants to remind the world of the threat that it bears to all of us, and not only to those countries where it has now launched bloody wars, Femen said. AFP/Getty

This is a Soviet festival for the Soviet elite, says Ilya Budraitskis, a leading left-wing commentator. The leaders will be celebrating it exactly as befits members of the neo-nomenklatura.

Mikhail Zygar, editor of the documentary web-project 1917 detailing the revolution and author of the forthcoming book The Empire Must Die, says the total lack of media interest in Russia has surprised him.

It was as if the revolution happened not in Russia, but America. On the anniversary of the February Revolution, my phone didnt stop ringing with requests for interviews with English-language media, he says. There was not a single call from the Russian media.

Fireworks explode over the Aurora cruiser marking the centenary of the Bolshevik Revolution in St Petersburg (AP)

On an obvious level, there is no desire within the Kremlin to encourage thoughts of armed uprising. With Russias radical fringes promising a week of Molotov cocktails and insurrection, the security services are on full alert. Approximately 400 arrests were made over the weekend. Many were supporters of the exiled nationalist anarchist politician Vycheslav Maltsev.

But all that seems to be a secondary concern. The Kremlin is not scared of revolution, says Mr Zygar, for they are scared of nothing. Instead, it appears the authorities have decided there is no propaganda gain to be had from the events of 1917.

Put simply, says the author, the Bolshevik Revolution does not fit into the empire narrative being pushed by the Kremlin. Mr Putins new empire isnt quite Soviet, and it isnt quite the empire of Tsar Nicholas II: It has bits of everything thrown in it; the Second World War, Crimea, a bit of Stalin here, a bit of Orthodoxy there.

Crucially, this imagined empire has become a matter of national pride, and is the Presidents main guarantee against protest.

Police detain a man during a protest in St Petersburg on Sunday (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP)

In his official comments, President Vladimir Putin has encouraged the open study of what he has called the common past. Last week, he opened a new bronze memorial wall in commemoration of the victims of political repressions. There, he made an unusually forthright condemnation of the crimes of Soviet Russia.

We cannot erase the terrifying past from our history, he said. But nor is there anything we can do to justify it; certainly not in the name of so-called higher national purpose.

For Russian liberal commentators, little irony was lost. They noted the incongruity of the Presidents comments with his history in the countrys security services. After all, neither the KGB nor its successors have fully condemned or disassociated themselves from Soviet terror.

But Putin is not alone in processing history illogically, says the cultural historian Boris Belenkin.

Every Russian is a child of the Soviet revolution  whether theyve lost family to the terror, or their family were the ones doing the terror, or both, he says. Russians cant fit this reality into their heads, and so they have turned off the parts of history they find difficult.

In a recent opinion poll, carried out by the Russian Academy of Sciences, almost one-third of respondents were unable to say what they thought about the revolution.

A century on, one might even sympathise. Culturally, economically, politically, the Russia of 2017 has little in common with the Russia of 1917.

That previous imperial Russia has been lost to everyone but historians, says Mr Zygar: Its our sunken Atlantis, with as much a relation to contemporary Russia as the Mayas do to contemporary Mexico.

But there are parallels, he says. One hundred years on, Russian psychologies and the underlying conflict are essentially the same: Its the same picture of government, which is in conflict with the educated part of the population, which it does not trust, and the educated part of the population, which truly hates the government.

And that, adds Mr Zygar, is no longer, a purely Russian construct.

Maybe that why there has been much interest from America, he says.
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Saudi Arabia has arrested 11 princes, four officials and tens of former officials as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe which further cements control in the hands of its young Crown Prince, Mohammad bin Salman.

Billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who has extensive holdings in Western companies, was among those arrested, state news agencies reported.

A top security official, Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, was detained and replaced as minister of the powerful National Guard by Prince Khaled bin Ayyaf, consolidating Prince Mohammeds control of security institutions which had previously been headed by separate branches of the ruling family.

News of the purge came after King Salman decreed the creation of a new anti-corruption committee chaired by Prince Mohammed, his 32-year-old son, who has swiftly amassed power since rising from obscurity less than three years ago.

Analysts suggested the corruption probe, which targeted key members of the royal family, was a show of force by the crown prince, aimed at removing any potential opposition as he pushes an ambitious and controversial reform agenda.

The most recent crackdown breaks with the tradition of consensus within the ruling family whose secretive inner workings are equivalent to those of the Kremlin at the time of the Soviet Union, wrote James Dorsey, a senior fellow at Singapores S Rajaratnam School of International Studies.

 Saudi Arabia's crown prince: Country will return to 'moderate, open Islam'

Nonetheless, the dismissals and detentions suggest that Prince Mohammed, rather than forging alliances, is extending his iron grip to the ruling family, the military and the National Guard to counter what appears to be more widespread opposition within the family as well as the military to his reforms and the Yemen war.

An economist at a big Gulf bank, who declined to be named because of political sensitivities, told Reuters nobody in Saudi Arabia believed corruption was at the root of the purge.

Its about consolidating power and frustration that reforms havent been happening fast enough, the economist said.

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen, a research fellow at the James A Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice University, told the Associated Press the arrests were designed to further smooth the crown princes eventual succession to the throne.

As a leader who is set to remain in power for decades, Mohammed bin Salman is remaking the kingdom in his own image and signalling a potentially significant move away from the consensual balancing of competing interests that characterised Saudi rule in the past, Mr Ulrichsen said.

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

Other people detained in the probe include former finance minister Ibrahim al-Assaf, a board member of national oil giant Saudi Aramco; economy minister Adel Fakieh, who once played a major role in drafting reforms; former Riyadh governor Prince Turki bin Abdullah; and Khalid al-Tuwaijiri, who headed the Royal Court under the late King Abdullah.

In addition to Prince Alwaleed, who is one of Saudi Arabias best-known international businessmen as an investor in firms such as Citigroup and Twitter, those detained included Bakr bin Laden, chairman of the big Saudi Binladin construction group, and Alwaleed al-Ibrahim, owner of the MBC television network.

Reporters suggested some detainees were being held at the opulent Ritz-Carlton hotel in the diplomatic quarter of Riyadh.

The detentions followed an earlier crackdown in September on political opponents of Saudi Arabias rulers that saw some 30 clerics, intellectuals and activists detained.

Additional reporting by agencies
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Saudi Arabia says it has intercepted a ballistic missile fired over capital Riyadh by rebels from Yemen, an attack Donald Trump immediately blamed on Iran.

The missile was brought down near King Khaled International Airport on the northern outskirts of the city and did not cause any casualties, state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV reported.

Rocket fragments fell near the airport grounds, but flights were not disrupted, the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority said.

 Saudi Arabia's crown prince: Country will return to 'moderate, open Islam'

Yemen's Houthi rebels fired the missile across Saudi Arabia's southern border, according to several Houthi-owned media outlets, including Al-Masirah and SABA.

It is the first time a Houthi missile has come so close to a heavily populated area and appears to be the farthest such a missile has reached inside Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is around 620 miles (1,000km) north of the border with Yemen.

Saba News, which is run by the Houthi rebels, reported the missile was a Burkan H2 and the airport had been the target.

A Saudi military spokesman condemned the attack in a statement, saying the missile was fired "indiscriminately" toward a populated civilian area.

Saudi Arabia is part of a coalition carrying out bombings of the Iran-allied Houthi movement in Yemen, which has taken over the capital Sanaa and other parts of the country during its civil war.

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

Responding to the attack, Mr Trump immediately blamed Iran.

"A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia. And our system knocked it down," the US President said, referring to the Patriot missile batteries Saudi Arabia has purchased from the US.

"That's how good we are. Nobody makes what we make and now we're selling it all over the world."

Saudi military forces have intercepted missiles fired by Houthis several times since March 2015, when a Saudi-led coalition launched a war against the rebels and their allies after they captured northern Yemen and ousted the Saudi-backed president from power. The kingdom has also imposed an air and sea blockade on Yemen.

The stalemated war has killed more than 10,000 civilians and displaced three million others, pushing the Arab world's poorest country to the brink of famine.

Saudi Arabia accuses its rival, Iran, of training and helping arm the rebels. Iran denies it has provided material support, though it acknowledges its political support of the Houthis.

News outlet Al-Masirah said the missile was made in Yemen and was the third to be fired toward Riyadh this year. It reported the rebels saying the missile was fired in response to "Saudi-American aggression and crimes against the people of Yemen."

Earlier this week, a suspected air strike by the Saudi-led coalition killed at least 29 people, including children, in northern Yemen.
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The deputy governor of Saudi Arabia's southern Asir province and several colleagues were killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday, Saudi state TV Ekhbariya reported.

Local newspaper Okaz reported the helicopter containing Prince Mansour bin Muqrin. went down while the officials were taking a tour of an area near the coast in Asir, which borders Yemen.

The reports did not elaborate on the cause of the crash.

The Saudi-owned satellite news channel Al-Arabiya, based in Dubai, reported that the crash killed Prince Mansour bin Muqrin and seven others.

Prince Mansour was the son of Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz, a former intelligence service director and a one-time crown prince of the kingdom. Prince Muqrin was removed as crown prince in April 2015 by his half brother King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in favor of Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, a counterterrorism czar and interior minister.

But in June, King Salman also ousted Prince Mohammed in favor of installing his 32-year-old son, the now-Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as first in line to the throne.

The crash comes as a Saudi-led coalition accused Yemen's Houthi militia of a dangerous escalation, with Saudi air defence forces having intercepted a ballistic missile fired by the group towards the capital Riyadh the day previously.

The Houthis' dangerous escalation came because of Iranian support, said coalition spokesman Colonel Turki al-Maliki in a press conference also televised by Ekhbariya.

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. 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Rocket launch vehicles used to fire the missile were made in Iran, he said.

Saudi Arabia and its allies accuse arch-foe Iran of supplying missiles and other weapons to the Houthis, saying the arms were not present in Yemen before the conflict began in 2015.

The missile was brought down near King Khaled Airport on the northern outskirts of the city on Saturday night and did not cause any casualties.

The claim echoed accusations earlier that day by U.S. President Donald Trump, who described the missile as a shot just taken by Iran against Saudi Arabia.

Iran denies sending missiles and financial support to the Houthis, blaming the conflict on Riyadh. The head of its Revolutionary Guards dismissed Trump's comments as slander.

Colonel Maliki also said the coalition would soon begin offering a financial reward for information that could lead to the capture of 40 Houthi leaders yet to be named.

France's foreign minister said on Sunday the missile strike showed there was a danger of wider ballistic proliferation across the region.

Reuters
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A British woman, Laura Plummer, has been held in an Egyptian prison for four weeks.

She was detained after she tried to bring painkillers into the country. Her ordeal is a reminder to travellers that many medicines routinely prescribed and available over the counter in Britain may not be legal abroad.

What were the circumstances of Laura Plummers arrest?

The 33-year-old from Hull had flown to the Egyptian resort of Hurghada to visit her husband, who suffers from back pain. Before she left, a friend who had been prescribed with several hundred Tramadol tablets gave them to Ms Plummer so that she could take them to her husband. Ms Plummer was arrested when the medicine was found in her suitcase by customs officials at Hurghada airport.

Her family say that she signed a 38-page statement in Arabic, believing she would be freed, but instead she was incarcerated and has remained so since 8 October.

What was the problem?

Tramadol is widely prescribed in Britain. But Egypt, in common with many other countries, has strict rules on any drugs containing opioid analgesics, such as Tramadol and codeine. The Foreign Office says: Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines that are available in the UK are considered controlled substances in Egypt and cant be brought into the country without prior permission from Egypts Ministry of Health.

If you arrive in Egypt without this permission and the required documentation, the medication will not be allowed into the country and you may be prosecuted.

What could Ms Plummer have done differently to help her husband get the medication he needs?

The problems faced by Ms Plummers husband might have been addressed by talking to the Egyptian authorities about how he could be provided with suitable medication by the health service in Egypt. If she had contacted the Egyptian embassy in London in advance of her trip and told them what she was planning to do, she would almost certainly have been told not to contemplate such a course of action.

Even if the painkillers been prescribed for Ms Plummer, she would have needed a medical certificate from her GP explaining why she had them, and why she was bringing them in a large quantity.

There are several questions that the NHS will be keen to ask about how controlled medication in such quantities was obtained by one person (normally prescriptions are restricted to 30 days supply), and then taken out of the UK by someone else.

As it is, unfortunately she arrived with a significant quantity of medicines which are regarded as illegal drugs in Egypt.

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. 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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

Is Egypt particularly strict?

No. There are dozens of other countries where these sorts of medicines are banned substances, and where a similar view would be taken of someone trying to import what would be seen as significant quantities of illicit drugs. Opioid analgesics such as Tramadol and codeine are on the World Health Organisations Model List of Essential Medicines, which means the UN health body regards them as valuable treatment which should be widely available. But customs officials in many countries are extremely hot on any substance derived from opium poppies.

Where should people take extra care?

Almost all nations ban the importation of drugs that are regarded by the authorities as being dangerous and having no medical value, such as heroin, marijuana and many synthetic recreational pharmaceuticals.

Middle Eastern countries take a particularly strong interest in what they regard as drug smuggling, and will even check transit passengers and their baggage if they believe it may contain banned substances. The UAE authorities have imprisoned people for testing positive for medicines such as codeine and the sleeping pill temazepan in their urine, and for arriving with poppy seeds from a bread roll they had eaten earlier on the journey. The list of controlled substances in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and elsewhere in the UAE includes many over-the-counter medicines.

Similarly, Thailand has strict laws on import of medications. Travellers planning to take opioid analgesics typically included in strong painkillers, such as codeine and dozens of other substances designated Category 2, into Thailand must obtain a permit issued by the Food and Drug Administration before travelling. They are limited to 30 days of prescribed usage.

In Japan, what the Foreign Office calls a strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law bans the importation of medicines for allergies and sinus problems, even including Vicks inhalers.

Doesnt that makes it sound as though any medicines could land you in trouble abroad?

The most common medicines, such as aspirin, treatments for diabetes, high blood pressure and contraceptive pills, are unlikely to cause any problem in normal amounts. But if you are importing medicines in larger quantities than you would need for a short visit, you can expect some close questioning. And for any medicine with ingredients derived from opium poppies, you should be extremely cautious. Talk to the embassy of the country youre planning to visit, though be warned that  as I have found while researching the subject  this is not always an easy task.

At the very least, get a letter from your GP explaining why he or she has prescribed the medicines you are carrying. And it goes without saying that you should not take in anything that is not intended for your personal use.

Meanwhile, what can the British Government do for Laura Plummer and other people who are incarcerated abroad?

Diplomats can ensure they are being kept in humane conditions, and that they have the proper access to lawyers, but they cannot interfere with the due process of a countrys legal system  just as foreign governments are not allowed to influence the judicial process here. Having said that, I hope I am right to think that the very alarming talk of 25 years in an Egyptian jail or even the death penalty is scaremongering.

The authorities in Cairo are aware of how the story is being told in the UK, and it is very likely that some behind-the-scenes discussions are taking place which will mean Ms Plummer is soon released  just as weve seen in recent cases of British visitors to Dubai facing severe penalties. With the Egyptian tourism minister visiting London this week, I am optimistic that she will be back with her family by next weekend.
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Britain has never known a more tortured public figure than Gordon Brown. Judging by a snippet from his new book, the torment continues in private.

In My Life, Our Times, Gordon does some anguished reflecting on the Iraq war. Almost a decade and a half after the event, and more than seven after he left Downing Street, it still plagues him. As it should.

Gordon cannot formally accept any guilt for what he did (or failed to do) to enable an indelible national disgrace. Owning any offence graver than not emoting enough for a reality TV electorate is too much for his brittle pride to bear.

But one trait that seems to distinguish him from Tony Blair is a capacity to feel guilt, even if he expresses it obliquely in the language of denial.

As Prime Minister, this was visible from his subtle method of confessing to telling whoppers, which was to mention how his father taught him and his brothers always to tell the truth. Referring to his dad when accused of dishonesty was as blatant a tell as Le Chiffre bleeding from an eye when bluffing 007 in Casino Royale, or Homer Simpson whooping with joy on being dealt four jacks.

With Iraq, the tell takes the form of an intendedly rhetorical question that isnt rhetorical at all.

 Gordon Brown: Theresa May will cause more poverty than Thatcher

On the surface, where the headlines are generated, Gordon chooses to pass the buck to the Americans for failing to share an intelligence report about Saddam Husseins limited military capability. Had he seen it at the time, he claims, he would have known then that the war could not be justified as a last resort. The war, he adds, cannot now be seen as a proportionate response.

It would be hard to compute that someone of his intellect could be foolish enough to use that now, were it not for the fact that when it comes to appraising his own credibility, the man is a dunce.

In 2009, after coming within a whisker of sacking Alistair Darling as Chancellor, he categorically denied having considered it. Of course he wasnt lying, he said when challenged. Dad taught us to tell the truth.

He doesnt mention his priestly sire in the Iraqi context, but he might as well. Claiming he needed a US intelligence report to realise the war was unjustified is a sufficiently crude insult to his own and his audiences intelligence to qualify as a gigantic tell.

Robin Cook had not read that report when he resigned in protest against the war, and nor had the millions who marched against it. Brown asks himself over and over again whether I could have made more of a difference before that fateful decision was taken, he writes, but he might as well ask himself over and over again if he has a nose.

It isnt, pardon me for the pedantic textual analysis, that he could have made more of a difference. So far as British involvement, he could have made all the difference. He could have stopped it.

He could have done so at any time between the summer of 2002, when Blairs desperation to join Bush in the fiasco became plain, and March of 2003. All he needed to do was threaten to resign if Blair took an unwilling country to war without indisputable evidence of an imminent danger to British interests. Even with the fanatical backing of the Murdoch press, Blairs position on Iraq was too precarious to withstand that.

In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Show all 10 1 /10 In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Relatives and friends of the military personnel who died in Iraq, leave the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre PA In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Dawn Holmes, the mother of L Cpl Sarah Holmes who died in Iraq, is consoled by solicitor Matthew Jury as she leaves the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre PA In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report A family member holding a photograph of Stephen Robert Wright (R), outside the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, after the publication of the Chilcot inquiry into the Iraq War PA In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Families of soldiers killed in the Iraq conflict stand together outside the Queen Elizabeth II conference centre after the outcome of the Chilcot report Getty Images In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Relatives of military personnel killed during the Iraq War talk at a news conference after listening to Sir John Chilcot present The Iraq Inquiry Report at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster Getty In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Relatives of military personnel killed during the Iraq War react after listening to Sir John Chilcot presenting The Iraq Inquiry Report at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in London AP In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Relatives and friends of military personnel killed during the Iraq War attend a news conference after listening to Sir John Chilcot present The Iraq Inquiry Report at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster Getty Images In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Family of those who died in Iraq speak to the media as they leave the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in London PA In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Relatives and friends of military personnel killed during the Iraq War attend a news conference after Sir John Chilcot presented The Iraq Inquiry Report at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster Getty Images In pictures: Families of Iraq War victims react to Chilcot report Victoria Jones (L), a relative of a British soldier killed in Iraq, holds a copy of The Report of the Iraq Inquiry, by John Chilcot, at the Queen Elizabeth II centre in London Reuters

Gordons effort to blame American secrecy demeans him. He who knew every nook and cranny of that government knew that Peter Goldsmith, the Attorney General, was being put under colossal pressure to reverse his opinion about the wars legality.

He knew from Hans Blix that the WMD case against Saddam Hussein was weak and unproven. He knew the real casus belli, as stated by Bush, was regime change. He knew there was no coherent plan for after Saddams fall. He knew, or should have known because almost every informed voice was saying so, that the aftermath would be as long, difficult and chaotic as the war itself would be quick, easy and orderly.

Despite knowing all that, this ferocious man of destiny sat meek and silent in Cabinet watching the calamity unfold in super-slow motion.

Others did the same, and they are equally guilty under the doctrine of collective responsibility. But they were pitiable cowards in an administration so dominated by its warring duumvirate that there was barely enough oxygen around the cabinet table for the pygmies.

Gordons motive for colluding with Blair by omission was a different form of cowardice. He wasnt frightened of losing the job he had. He was terrified of losing the job he craved. The internal battle was the classically tragic one between good intentions and rampant ambition. The latter won. The potential for greatness was shrunk by the greed for power.

Odious abuses of power at Westminster are currently exposed on a daily basis. Nothing diminishes them by comparison, but this puts them in perspective. Iraqi civilians and British troops died and grieved and suffered monstrously because some MPs abused their power to save their country from a neo-colonial folly by not using that power at all.

Gordon Brown can blame the Americans for being bad sharers, and try to kid himself and others that it took hindsight to clarify the truth. But he knows the supposedly unanswerable question he asks himself over and over again has a simple answer, and that it comes in a three-letter word.
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Otto Englishs proposal that we ditch the Remembrance poppy (Voices, 1 November) is as ridiculous as it is impossible. Why? Because the power of remembrance and of wearing a poppy in November, as he points out, is that it is voluntary.

Nobody alive today experienced the trenches of the First World War directly. The last Tommy, Harry Patch, died in 2009 aged 111 and there are now fewer than 11,000 Britons who were alive when war was declared. The war of 1914-18 has passed from living memory into history. That is a reason to work harder to remember it  not to give up on it and hope it goes away.

British Futures research found that more than 80 per cent wanted a centenary that focuses on the importance of preserving peace, the sacrifice of those who lost their lives and the shared history of our multi-ethnic society.

Our present-day British identity is shaped by our history, of which the two world wars form a crucial part. And the multi-ethnic, multi-faith army that fought for Britain in the First World War looked a lot more like the Britain of 2017 than that of 1914. Understanding our shared history can play an important role in shaping an inclusive British identity today.

The First World War saw 1.5 million soldiers from undivided India, 400,000 of them Muslims from what is now Pakistan, fight alongside British and other Commonwealth soldiers. A total of 80 per cent of the public thinks that telling this story of shared contribution would be good for integration today. Knowledge of the contribution of Indian soldiers is growing and most people are now aware of their contribution, but the story of Britains WWI Muslim soldiers remains little-known: just 27 per cent of people know that more than 10,000 Muslims fought for Britain in WWI, according to a 2014 ICM survey.

A project from British Future and New Horizons in British Islam, Unknown & Untold, is addressing this, telling the story of the WWI Muslim soldiers in mixed workshops around the country. Next week, a new film shows what happened when Muslim and non-Muslim teenagers in Bradford came together to learn more about their shared history and then worked with a local rap artist to express in lyrics what they felt about British identity.

If history was just nostalgia, or remembrance was little more than jingoistic flag-waving, Otto English would have a point about the red poppy. But we dont just look to history for a ripping yarn or a heart-warming tale of times past. Our history shapes who we are today  a history shared by young British Muslims growing up in Bradford and by new military recruits at Sandhurst. If we come together to remember that history for a couple of weeks each year in November, that is only to our benefit.

Steve Ballinger, director of communications, British Future

This generation needs education as to the real reasons behind wearing a poppy. It only takes a bit of a colour on the WWII documentary films to make history feel as close, just in case somebody is suffering from a sense of detachment. Ask the Holocaust survivors what the Second World War was about, if you do not believe me. How can we also forget WWI? The horrendous number of lost lives  the cannon fodder generation  includes my great-grandfather, whom my paternal grandfather had never met, as he fell in the first month of the conflict. A bit of a genealogy is in order here, to find out how many of us are touched by past conflicts. never mind more recent wars and ongoing fighting.

Monika McKay

Liverpool

We should be ashamed of sending animals into space

On your report of Laika, the first dog in space (4 November), and all the other unlucky animals so sacrificed, I was sickened by Nasas statement (They gave their lives and their service in the name of technological advancement). No animal gives its life and service to science. Millions of animals are robbed of their own earthly potential because human beings are too cowardly to take risks, just as they are too scared of new medicines, household liquids, cosmetics and countless other products and adventures. We should be ashamed.

John Bryant

Kent

Gavin Williamson will not bring cabinet unity

The secret isnt what the plan for Brexit may be, but the fact that there is no plan to leave at all, because May is never going to get us out of the clutches of the EU.

Also, it is no coincidence that the Remoaners have gained another seat in the Cabinet and, unrelated to Brexit, we can expect more pointless foreign skirmishes under the new Defence Secretary.

Fred Nicholson

Essex

Animals at Westminster

Much has been said about the new Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson and his pet tarantula Cronus. I would strongly suggest that the new incumbent pops along to the Natural History Museum and takes a look at the new exhibition called Venom. One of the stars of the show is the Tarantula Hawk Wasp Pepsis heros, which hunts said species of spider ruthlessly and with 100 per cent success. It surely should be a salutary lesson to all MPs that whoever you are there is always something more powerful and deadly than you.

Robert Boston

Kent

Sexual harassment affects everyone

Power corrupts, they say. Lets not pretend this sexual exploitation by politicians is something new. Both left and right have been using power for sexual abuse. This includes the Socialist Workers Party in the 1980s and the notable Trotskyists and Leninists. None of them should be thinking theyre squeaky clean.

Richard Kimble

Leeds

Femininity and masculinity are natural products of the process of evolution and are of inestimable value physically, psychologically and socially. Unhappily, these crucial virtues are being drowned in a maelstrom of machismo, raunch, consumerism and mutual exploitation. A wider debate is required.

Steve Ford

Hexham
The independent public revenues authority is reportedly ready to launch a special online platform owners leasing residential lodgings in Greece on a short-term basis must declare the specific property , the name of the person or persons renting it and the duration of the lease.
3 Kidnappers who returned to UNIABUJA (University of Abuja) to kidnap more female students on Friday, met their waterloo as some students recognized them, pounced and beat them to stupor before they were rescued and taken away by the schools security.

According to a student of the school, Damilola, the alleged kidnappers had come to the school on Tuesday to pick up some ladies but the ladies never came back. It was also gathered that after they were nabbed, their car was also set ablaze.

Another student, Mercy, also said;

Two girls got an invitation to go out, from a hostel member, who is not a student, but was impersonating just to get girls kidnapped from the school.

The schools Chief Security Officer, Mr Solomon Ngbede, who spoke with Premium Times, confirmed that the kidnappers who have been identified as Ifeanyi and Precious Okeke, indeed abducted students but they have been rescued.
The Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, on Friday said the police had so far apprehended about 3,000 suspected kidnappers nationwide.

The IGP made this known when he briefed State House correspondents after a closed door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said that already a task force had been inaugurated to scrutinise and streamline the suspects with a view to ensuring their speedy trial.

We are taking them to court on everyday basis.

Presently we have almost over 3000 suspects in the various police stations all over the country and we are taking them to court.

Recently, I set up a task force to sort of streamline or scrutinize these cases so that we have speedy trial of some of these suspects, he said.

The police boss said he had deployed special police unit to patrol the Abuja-Kaduna- Kano highway with a view to checking the menace of armed robbers and kidnappers along the road.

He appreciated the efforts of the National Assembly for proposing death penalty for those found guilty of kidnapping in the country.

The IGP expressed the hope that the nation would soon witness drastic fall in cases of kidnapping in view of the proposed death penalty.
There seems to be an update on case between Jim Iyke and Nigerian socialite, Hajiya Habiba who reportedly accused the Nigerian actor of allegedly defrauding her of over N15 million.

According to online reports, after allegedly dodging the court for 5 years, Jim Iyke has been found guilty N15.7 million fraud and has been ordered to repay the money to Habiba.

Here is the judgement delivered by a sitting court in Abuja on October 19th; Let me take you back and refresh your memories on this story/case.

In an interview with NigerianFilms on how she met Jim Iyke and what really happened, Habiba had this to say;

HOW DID YOU MEET JIM IYKE?

HABIBA: You see I dont know any Jim Iyke before I met him in farmers market with two of his friends Victor and Solomon.

They asked for my number which I didnt know off head, as I just returned from UK and got the sim card. So I said I dont know my number before anything Jim grab my hand set from my hand and dallied his number from mine, that was the beginning of the night mare.

Before you know it he in a month he has bombarded me with his family members mom,dad,sisters, his girlfriend then Ketura Hamilton and told me she was pregnant for him but they lost the baby in July 2011.

Well with such development you will think he is honourable because for me to show you my family we must be real friends and there is someone in a month or two was able to do that, awesome!! From there I dont doubt his honesty and integrity didnt know there was so much to all he was doing.

That was just being smart, for me to be comfortable with him. When the mum came she hardly could work, so I decided to get her checked , he said she had a doctor in Garki hospital but does know all the drugs she has been given dont work and I flew her to the UK thinking she is my mother too and OLD. Where she told me her full life story which I have on video.

After the trip he brought a business proposal with his friend Solo which I invested in 16.5mill, after all I never will think he will have another motive.

But that was the beginning of the saga. After collecting the money he disappeared and asked his family never to answer my calls how do I get him as he too doesnt pick my calls.

Fortunately his elder sister who leaves in Gwagwalada I once visited her ( NKIRU) so I remembered and went to her so she called him, and arranged a meeting where we fought. And I got him locked up for 3 good days at SAS without bail, that was the best I did to myself to show him my worth not celebrity but MONEY. It was the best time of my life.

Source: Naijaloaded
The chairman of Action Democratic Party in Jos East Local Government Area, Josiah Waziri Fursom, has been killed by unknown assassins.

The partys Director of Media, Kayode Jacobs, said Fursom was murdered by assassins on Thursday night.

He said the victims body was riddled with 16 bullets.

We urge security officials to do the needful, as we suspect political motive, Jacobs said.

Josiah Waziri Fursom was, until his death, a leading light in Plateau Politics, he added.

But the Plateau state chairman of ADP, Chief Andrew Nanyah Daman, told journalists at the partys secretariat on Saturday that Fursom was murdered in his village at about 9:00pm.

He said, We received the sad news of the gruesome murder and assassination of the Jos East ADP chairman, Waziri Fursom on Thursday, November 2, 2017 around 9:00pm in his village.

The late Jos East ADP chairman was assassinated by wicked dare devils that pumped 16 bullets into his body.

The ADP party chairman called on security operatives to unravel those behind the killing.

We will not accept anything short of arresting those behind the killing of our quiet and unassuming LGA chairman. We demand fortified security for all ADP leaders in the country.

The ADP in Plateau State totally condemn this heinous crime against humanity and call on the Plateau State Government and Special Military Task Force, Operation Safe Heaven, to swing into action by apprehending the culprits as soon as possible, Daman stressed.

He said the ADP has officially reported the incident to law enforcement agencies, adding, We have reported the matter to the Police in Jos East and the sector command of OPSH, a special task force on Jos crisis.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper)
Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) , Chief Bode George, has told members of the party that it needs an experienced chairman to lead it to the next general elections.

George spoke in Abuja on Friday, shortly after obtaining his expression of interest and nomination forms at the partys national headquarters.

He said it would be disastrous for the party to have someone who would be compromised ahead of the next general elections. In order to avoid a disastrous outing for the party, he said delegates to its national convention, scheduled to hold in Abuja on December 9, should elect someone who is dogged, bold and tested as the partys leader.

He added that only a man who understood the partys written and unwritten laws is good enough for this critical time.

He said, We dont have the time for trial now. We need those who know the constitution of the party; those who have the (right) courage and experience.

After the convention, we shall be having general elections. Do you want those who do not have the experience to lead the party to 2019 general elections?

All we can do is to market what we have done in the past and we also need a chairman that will avoid the mistakes and pitfalls of the past. So lets do what is just, right and equitable. Nigerians want the PDP back.

George added that the country needs a vibrant opposition party. So we dont need a chairman who will take just N1m and go to bed to sleep. In December, we shall confirm to Nigerians whether we are ready for 2019 or not.

On the need to give the younger aspirants in the race a chance; George described his grey hairs as a bank account, an evidence of his wealth of ideas to reposition the party.

Can we afford to have someone who has no experience, who has never been in charge of the party affairs to lead us at this time? He asked.

In a related development, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, has expressed hope that former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, would succeed in his quest to emerge as the National Chairman of the PDP at the partys forthcoming convention.

A statement on Friday by Daniels media team said the Sultan expressed his support when Daniel and his entourage visited him on Thursday in continuation of his nationwide consultation before the partys convention.

The statement quoted the Sultan as saying, Gbenga Daniel has been my very good friend since the days he was governor of Ogun (State). I remember the very good hospitality he affords me anytime I visit (ed) Ogun State.

Gbenga Daniel, we all are praying for you to succeed in this quest and I am personally enjoining you not to forget the people when you get there.

The monarch also advocated for a strong opposition, while urging politicians to be forthright in their dealings at all times.

According to the statement, the team also visited a former governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, who assured Daniel of his support.
A Cameroonian man identified as Dangelo, believed to be the founder of Miss Cameroun Switzerland, has been arrested for allegedly stabbing his three children to death.

According to reports

A Swiss Cameroonian national left his wife in Switzerland. He traveled to Cameroon with his 3 children, the eldest 12 years. He strangled and stabbed them to death at his home in Kondengui District and went and took refuge at Swiss embassy in Yaounde, but has been handed to La Replique du Cameroun authorities ! RIP little angels.
Former President Goodluck Jonathans spokesperson, Reno Omokri has waded into the controversy sparked by Tithing and spearheaded by Cool FMs OAP, Daddy Freeze via his Free The Sheeple movement.

Heres what he wrote;

The recent todo on the issue of tithing which was sparked up by popular On Air Personality, Daddy Freeze, is actually a sad reflection of the state of Christianity in Nigeria specifically and the Black world in general.

Why? Because it proves that it is still true that if you want to hide anything from a Black man all you need to do is to put it in a book!

If all those who have opined about this matter had cared to read about what The Holy Bible says about tithing, I am convinced that it would not have led to as big a controversy as it is today.

So many people have spoken for and against tithing and the thing that bothers me most about their interventions is that it references their pastor, a certain sermon, their opinion or something they have heard.

As a matter of fact, somebody commented that if only I read a certain book by David Yongi Cho, I would know that he (the commenter) was right in his opinion on tithing.

On the issue of tithing as well as on any other ecclesiastical issue, there is only one reference point and that is The Bible.

2nd Timothy 3:16 says:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for DOCTRINE, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (KJV)

This pretty much covers it. Any controversy about tithing must be settled by The Bible.

The truth is that tithing as presently practiced by many churches, especially the so called Pentecostal or Evangelical churches, is unscriptural.

Take away tithing and the attraction and motivation to be the founder and president of an international ministry would disappear.

The Bible actually warned us of such times as this in 1 Timothy 6:5-6.

Constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain. (NIV)

The truth is that tithing is an age old AGRICULTURAL practice that predated even Abraham and Moses. Ancient communities, including African communities, set aside a certain potion of their harvest (usually a tenth) and sacrificed it to their gods through his priests.

Now the tithing that Moses taught about was instituted by the living God because the Levitical priests were not given a portion of the land of Canaan as an inheritance and as a result they were to be supported by their fellow brethren.

Numbers 18:20-21 says:

The Lord said to Aaron, You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any share among them; I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites. I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting. (NIV)

From the above it is clear that the tithes were specifically gifted by God to the Levites.

You will never find anywhere in Scripture were God, His Son Jesus or the early apostles and disciples asked the New Testament church to pay tithes to pastors.

Pastors do not replace Levites. In the New Testament, pastors worked and earned a living. They were not dependent on the church and the following verse proves it.

I have not coveted anyones silver or gold or clothing. You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: It is more blessed to give than to receive.-Acts 20:33-35. (NIV).

The above was a farewell message from Paul who had pastored a church in Ephesus. I have been to Ephesus. I have been to the market where Paul had his tent making business.

Neither Jesus, nor Paul nor any of the fathers of the early church collected any tithes from their congregation because they were not Levites who were prevented from doing any type of work other than temple service.

Rather than tithing, the book of Acts teaches us in Acts 2:44-45 that the early Christians lived a communal life and shared EVERYTHING they had.

All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

Too often, pastors try to manipulate their congregation by quoting Malachi 3:8-10

Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, How are we robbing you? In tithes and offerings. You are under a curseyour whole NATIONbecause you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. (NIV)

I want my readers to note the words NATION in the Scripture above. Scripture must be used to unlock Scripture.

The above Scripture was directed to the NATION of Israel. This is clear from Malachi 3:6

I the LORD do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed(NIV)

The reason God said the Israelites were robbing Him is because, as I have proved above with Scripture, on their way to the promised land, God made a deal with them that He would not give the Levites a share of the land of Canaan so that they could focus on Him and the work of the Temple.

In return the rest of the Israelites were to give God the tithes of their agricultural produce from the land He gave them and God in turn gave His tithes to the Levitical priesthood.

It is funny that pastors who insist that Malachis verses on tithing must apply to them do not insist that other Old Testament provisions should also apply to them.

Deuteronomy 21:18-21 commanded the ancient Israelites to stone their stubborn children to death. Are tithe receiving pastors then prepared to stone their own stubborn children to death because of that Biblical verse?

Quoting an Old Testament verse to justify a New Testament life may appear hypocritical especially as Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith and His early disciples did not preach about tithing. Jesus talked about tithing only in passing while condemning the Pharisees. Pay your tithe if your conscience allows it, but dont use Malachi to justify it.

In the final analysis, I am not saying pay or dont pay tithes. I am just presenting the facts as an ordained pastor.

In fact, when the Pharisees insisted that the first Gentile converts to Christianity must be circumcised and keep the Mosaic Law, including tithing, the Council in Jerusalem overruled them and in Acts 15:19-20 gave only four commandments to the new Gentile believers and tithing was NOT one of those commandments.

Jesus mentioned tithe once (in passing when admonishing the Pharisees) but He preached salvation over 100 times.

Let our message in the church focus on Salvation not tithe! Abraham tithed. But He did not tithe to be blessed or that the devourer would be rebuked.

In fact, the tithing that Abraham tithes was completely different from the tithing God commanded the Israelites to do.

Abraham tithed from the goods he reclaimed from the kings he fought against. He did not tithe agricultural goods.

Are those pastors who insist on collecting monetary tithes aware that money existed during the times of the ancient Israelites, yet God never told them to pay monetary tithes. He only requested for AGRICULTURAL tithes so the Levites who had no farms could eat.

As a matter of fact, God told those Israelites who lived far away from the Temple not to even bother paying their agricultural tithes but to convert it to money and spend it on themselves.

We see this in Deuteronomy 14:24-27:

But if that place is too distant and you have been blessed by the Lord your God and cannot carry your tithe (because the place where the Lord will choose to put his Name is so far away), then exchange your tithe for silver, and take the silver with you and go to the place the Lord your God will choose.

Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice. And do not neglect the Levites living in your towns, for they have no allotment or inheritance of their own.

Yes, Abraham tithed from his military victory but it does not mean that you must also tithe. Abraham had concubines. By the same logic, you should also have concubines.

The point I am trying to make is that the faith of Abraham culminates in Christ and under Christ, there is no compulsion to tithe. God has given each of us a conscience and His Spirit. If you are led to tithe then tithe. If you are not, then dont.

But let him that tithes not look down on him that does not tithe and let him who does not tithe not hold those who do in contempt. Your salvation is dependent on your faith in Christ Jesus and not whether or not you tithe. You can make heaven if you believe but dont tithe but not if you tithe and dont believe.

As a New Testament believer, what is required of you is a willing offering not a compulsory tithe. This is why 2 Corinthians 9:7 says:

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

We ought to understand that the biblical practice of tithing had two origins. The first was from Abraham, the prophet and patriarch and the other is the Mosaic Law.

In Christ, both the tithing by the prophet and the law have been fulfilled hence in Matthew 5:17 Jesus said:

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.

So because of Jesus death, burial and resurrection, we do not need the Levitical priesthood as go betweens us and God since Jesus is The Way, The Truth, and The Life. (John 14:6)

In the same way, we do not need Abrahams blessings since God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ. (Ephesians 1:3).

As a matter of fact, Colossians 2:10 teaches us that we are complete in Christ.

So dont let any pastor psyche you into believing that your worship of God is not complete until you have paid your tithe.

#Renos Nuggets

Many people stay friends with you as long as your success doesnt surpass theirs. Once it does, you become their enemy. And do note that not everyone who loses an argument does so because they cant argue well. Sometimes its because they just want to keep a friend. Finally, those who have a Friend in Jesus have the Only Friend in high places they need. You cant get higher than Son of the Most High #RenosNuggets

***

Written by Reno Omokri
One week after a 39-year-old man, Lukman Olowu, and a woman, Promise Nne, were found dead half-naked in a car on a Lagos street, their families say they were awaiting results of the autopsies that would clear up speculations about their relationship and death.

Reports claimed that Lukman and Nne were lovers but while the mans family insisted that he could not possibly be the womans lover, Nnes husband, Clement, said he knew that she was having an affair.

Saturday PUNCH spoke with Lukmans brother, Idris, who explained that the family was leaving the matter in the hands of the police, while awaiting the result of the autopsy.

We cannot say much now because of ongoing police investigation but I can tell you that we have much to tell you later when the autopsy is out, he said.

Lukman and Nne were found dead in a Toyota Corolla with its engine running last Sunday on Abisogun Leigh Street, Ogba.

When our correspondent visited No. 56, Shonola Street, where Clements family are, but some men claiming to be his relations, said he is not allowed to talk to journalists.

The spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Mr. Olarinde Famous-Cole, also said investigation was still ongoing. According to him, there was little the police could do until the results of autopsies conducted were out.
Southern Kaduna groups on Friday agreed to form committees at community levels to promote peaceful coexistence among various people in the area.

The groups made the commitment at a workshop on peace building organised Global Peace Foundation(GPF) in Angwar Fari, Kanikon Chiefdom in Jemaa Local Government Area.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the groups comprised religious and traditional leaders, elders, women and youth, represented by 40 delegates each.

Communities involved in the search for peace included Goska, Ambam, Bakin Kogi, Tudun Wada, Amere, Angwar Fari, Angwar Baki and Dangoma which had experienced several attacks in the past.

The Country Director of GPF, Jonh Okon, said the workshop was a follow up to series of mediation efforts by the foundation since January.

We thank the people for their commitment to peace and express our happiness that since after the peace and reconciliation meeting in June, normalcy has been gradually returning to the communities, he said.

GPF is committed to continue working with you through the One Family under God peace building programme to ensure that sustainable and lasting peace returns to the communities, as without sustainable peace, there can be no development.

Also, Northern Nigeria Coordinators of the foundation, Halliru Maraya, a sheikh and John Hayab, a reverend, expressed delight that several months of efforts by all stakeholders have resulted in the return of peace to the various communities.

Today, we are building on the foundation of the understanding we all had during the peace and reconciliation meetings and training workshops, they said.

They reminded the participants of the kind of inter-dependent and mutually beneficial relationships that existed between the Natives and Fulani in Southern Kaduna over the ages.

The coordinators urged the people to execute community service projects for the good of all, to strengthen the bond of unity and peaceful coexistence among them.

They also reminded participants that everyone had the fundamental human right to life, ownership of properties, freedom of religion and expression.

This confers on every human being the responsibility of protecting those fundamental human rights not just of him or herself but of others, and also living for the greater good.

We are very hopeful judging from the way events have unfolded that this chiefdom is on the right path towards achieving sustainable peace, because you have accepted to forgive one another, you have accepted to visit one another, they said.

Abokie Galadima, a former Chief of Staff to late Governor Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna State, expressed happiness with the programme and urged all residents to unite and embrace peace and brotherhood.

It they live in peace, then there will be progress, but government needs to come out and help bring to book those that are giving us sleepless nights, he added.

Also Husseini Dembo, a former commissioner in the state, urged the communities to sustain dialogue and avoid anything that would trigger violence.

The people are now aware that they are not alone, they now know that there are people out there who care about them, so they should also start caring about themselves, Mr. Dembo said.

NAN report that the participants in their various groups discussed and outlined several ongoing community engagements to facilitate peace building.

The engagements include setting up community peace and reconciliation committees, initiating community dialogue meetings, regular dialogue with security agencies, interfaith forum, community group outreach, community sport activities, as well as annual community peace festivals.

Source : (NAN)
A social media user identified as Ojon Piran posted a news about a cameroonian national who strangled and stabbed his 3 children to death in his home.

Heres what Facebook user Ojon Piran wrote;

A Swiss Cameroonian national left his wife in Switzerland, traveled home with his 3 children. He strangled and stabbed them to death in his home in Kondengui District. He later went and took refuge at Swiss embassy in Yaounde, but has been handed to La Replique du Cameroun authorities.

Another report says they bodies were found days later and as seen in the photos below, were already decaying.

(EXTREMELY GRAPHIC PHOTOS  VIEWERS DISCRETION HAS BEEN ADVISED)

-Gistreel
The Nigerian Air Force has continued to rain significant fire on insurgents hideouts, with intensive day and night aerial bombardments.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Olatokunbo Adesanya, disclosed this on Saturday in Abuja.

According to a statement by Adesanya, on Oct. 30, NAF conducted an air interdiction mission on a blue-roofed structure in TALALA, the insurgents infested location in Sambisa.

Intelligence reports from NAF Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platforms as well as Human Intelligence had revealed that a sizeable number of insurgents were holding a meeting in the blue-roofed building.

Consequently, a NAF fighter aircraft was scrambled to attack the building.

Subsequent Battle Damage Assessment revealed that the building and its occupants were neutralised as a result of the air strike, he said.

NAF initiated Operation RUWAN WUTA II, on Oct. 23 to further decimate the ability of the insurgents with a view to giving advantage to the surface forces.

Source : ( Punch Newspaper)
The Students Union President of Obafemi Awolowo University, Oyekan Edward, has been removed from office by the legislative arm of the union.

The parliamentarians accused Mr. Edward of convening suspected cultists to the university campus on Monday to disturb the peace of the institution.

The motion for the sack of the president was deliberated by 51 members of the Students Representative Council at their sitting on Saturday at the Awolowo Cafe.

The parliamentarians also resolved to forward an official letter to the university management stating Mr. Edwards offence.

They also suspended the Secretary General and Public Relations Officer of the union, Boluwajaiye Adeoluwa and Okediji Simon respectively, for not attending the parliamentary sitting and for being caught viewing a television programme at the common room of the universitys Awolowo hall of residence not far from the venue of the parliamentary sitting when proceedings were ongoing.

The suspension of the two officers is for two weeks. The parliament also prohibited absent parliamentarians from attending two subsequent sittings.

The sitting had in attendance 51 parliamentarians, with 37 of them voting for the removal of the union president while the remaining parliamentarians abstained from voting.

The OAU Students Union parliament, Odetoyinbo Fiyin, commended the resolutions, particularly the impeachment of the president.

I strongly believe that the impeachment of the president has been lingering for a long time. He has committed so many misconducts, he is also known for absconding congresses.

The parliament has done the needful. The resolution of the parliament which impeached the president is in fact a victory for all the members of OAU Students Union, he said.

The clerk of the parliament, Iyiola Oluwatosin, while speaking with our correspondent, said that the president had to be removed because he has committed a lot of offences.

The president was alleged to have invited cultists to come attack students in a parliamentary sitting that he did call, which held Wednesday November 1.

The cultists who came to attack our students were conveyed to and fro the university campus with the union bus and he masterminded the attack.

This is an archetype that cultism is likely to return and history should not be allowed to repeat itself. The resolution of the parliament as regards the impeachment of the union president is valid and there is no going back.

Falayi Temitope, the Speaker of the parliament, also spoke on the removal.

He was impeached on the grounds of gross misconducts which included his involvement in an attack on students.

Mr. Oyekan Ibukun Edward, impeached OAU students union president, was impeached because he cannot be trusted on matters as regards students security.

He allowed students to be beaten blue black by cultists who were conveyed to and fro the university premises in a bus which was meant to be in the custody of the president. He did invite the cultists that came to attack students at the university students union building on November 1st, 2017, he stated.

However, the embattled president of the union, Mr. Edward, in a statement, said his removal was null and void.

My attention has been drawn to news flying around social media that the president has been impeached, the secretary general and public relations officer of the union have been suspended for two weeks.

May I use this medium to inform you all that it is not true and not in tandem with the sacrosanct Constitution of our union.

The Parliament has 150 honourables and only 37 honourables voted for the impeachment of the president against zero. This is evident of their sinister plan and motive, he said.

The clerk of the parliament, Mr. Oluwatosin, however explained that the removal of the union president is valid.

At this point in time, permit me to clearly clear the general public that the president has been constitutional impeached according to Article V, Section 67 Subsection 1-2

Article V, S.67(1), observed that any officer of the Union shall cease to hold office if a motion for his removal is supported by two thirds of the member of the SRC present and voting at a meeting provided quorum is formed.

Permit me to relate to you that parliamentarians present during voting were 51 and the quorum is (50), 2/3 of the member of SRC of 51 should be 34; and 37 voted which make it more than valid.

Hence, I implore the general public to deal with Mr. Edward Ibukun as a member of the union and not as president. It should be clearly noted again here that the parliament has been fair in dealing with the impeached president before now but bringing cultists to and out of OAU campus with the union bus is the acme of it.

With the decision of the parliament as stated by the constitution, the speaker is expected to assume the office of the president of the union due to ongoing suspension of the vice president by the university management.

It was reported that the suspension of the vice president, Jacob Tosin, and director of socials, Adedayo Emmanuel, by the university management after both engaged in a bloody clash over money.

Meanwhile, some students of the institution have said that the removal of the president will divide the union and will not make it possible for it to demand the reinstatement of some students that were suspended by the university after protesting poor welfare condition on campus.

I agree with the impeachment of the president. But it so painful that this will be the discussion of every student till the end of the administration. We dont know the fate of the suspended students, Bamimore Awoyemi, a student of English department said.

Another student who identified herself as Foluwake said: Im not surprised though. But I hope the leadership will leave their selfish interest to fight for the generality of OAU students.

Source: ( Premium Times)
The Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State on Saturday held its state congress to elect new leaders for the party.

A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria, who monitored the exercise at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, reports that the Congress was peaceful.

NAN reports that the exercise which was conducted by the PDP National Caretaker Committee was also monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The chairman of the state Congress committee, Mr Eddie Olafeso, in his opening remarks said that the PDP National Caretaker committee had directed that the state caretaker committee should allow his committee to conduct the congress.

He explained that the conduct of the Congress was in line with the provisions of the PDP constitution and described the exercise as the first step to victory for the party in the 2019 governorship election in the state.

A total of 31 leaders were elected as the new state executive committee members with Mr Sikirulai Ogundele emerging as the chairman.

Ogundele, who addressed newsmen after the exercise, commended the organisers for the peaceful conduct, saying that it was devoid of rancour.

Source : ( NAN)
Pope Francis has requested that Roman Catholic priests be given the right to get married. The request applies to priests in Brazil, and is on the agenda for an upcoming synod (church council) in the Amazon region.

A small number of married Roman Catholic priests already exist, including previously married Anglican vicars who have joined the church.

A request to lift the ban on marriage was made by Brazilian bishop Cardinal Claudio Hummes, who reportedly asked the Pope to consider viri probati, meaning married of great faith, as priests.

Derry priest Father Paddy OKane suggested that Pope Francis may move to end celibacy earlier this month, saying there was support amongst the church for the idea.

Earlier this year the Pope told Die Zeit newspaper: We must consider if viri probati is a possibility. Then we must determine what tasks they can perform, for example, in remote communities.

Francis and his predecessor Benedict XVI have both stated that celibacy is not a matter of inflexible church dogma unlike, and could be debated.

-Herald
Before their new family business, Preye who is a father of one was a timber merchant. It was gathered that they were paraded by the police on Wednesday, November 1, 2017, alongside 94 other suspects arrested for various criminal activities in the state.

The couple, 35-year-old Preye Idan and his 18-year-old pregnant wife, Divine, were paraded by the police before journalists in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa state capital. The couple claimed they turned to armed robbery because they had no other means of survival.

The couple, 35-year-old Preye Idan and his 18-year-old pregnant wife, Divine, were paraded by the police before journalists in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa state capital. The couple claimed they turned to armed robbery because they had no other means of survival. Before their new family business, Preye who is a father of one was a timber merchant.

It was gathered that were paraded by the police on Wednesday, November 1, 2017, alongside 94 other suspects arrested for various criminal activities in the state.

According to Punch report, Preye claimed he bought a pistol with live .9mm ammunition from a gunrunner with which he robbed a boutique at Biogbolo-Epie in Yenagoa metropolis forcing the owner, Juliet Uchenna, to hand over her sales for the day at gunpoint on September 21, 2017.

He claimed that his kinsman Iro Royereyigha (30), helped him and his wife secure a gun they used during the operation. Preye said: We were so poor that we could not afford the basic things of life. There was nobody to help. That was why we thought we could break out of poverty by going into robbery for survival. That was our first time of carrying out a robbery. I gave Royereyigha N1,000, when he handed the gun to me. He told us that after we carried out the robbery, we must give him N100,000 for the gun.

Corroborating Preyes account, his wife, Divine, agreed that both of them went for the robbery operation at the boutique. Preyes wife, Divine said: Both of us went to Royereyighas house. We actually asked for toy guns but he said he could not arrange toy guns but real ones. The plan was that I should pretend as if I wanted to buy clothes and other items at the shop. In the process, my husband was supposed to come and threaten them with the gun. The plan worked as we conceived. That day, we met two ladies at the boutique  the owner and one of her assistants.

After my purchases, my husband came in with the gun and asked them to lie down on the ground. As they were lying down, he asked me to go and fetch a tricycle to enable us to escape. As I left the place, one of the ladies escaped and raised the alarm. Her screaming attracted passers-by, who apprehended us and handed us over to the police.

But when the police arrested Royereyigha, he confessed that he sold the gun to the couple and not rented it out as they had claimed earlier. He is also in the trade with his 24-year-old wife, Abazi, who he kept his bag containing guns with. But his frozen foods dealer wife said she was not aware of the content of the bag which he gave her to keep for him.
Popular comic Nollywood actor, Charles Inojie has revealed that he took a different approach proposing to his wife.. According to him He did so via a phone call.

In an interview with Saturday beats, He said;

My wife and I had been friends and lovers for a while before we got married. When I approached my wife that I was in love with her, she told me that I was not serious because she thought that I was joking. I experienced that for a while but with persistence, she accepted to date me.

There is something about destiny and there are some people that you would meet and you would know that they are meant to be more than friends. Incidentally, the day I proposed to my wife, she was not even in the country. I called her to ask when she would return to Nigeria and she began to query me. She eventually told me that she would be away for about three months and I began to grumble at that point.

She was eager to know what was on my mind because she asked if the issue was very serious. I told her that even though it was quite urgent, I would be patient.

He continued said:

She ended the call and later that evening, she called back asking me what the problem was because she had been restless all day ever since I made the call. She demanded that I tell her what was on my mind. After dragging the issue for a few days, I had to open up because I discovered that it was going to lead to an unnecessary quarrel.

I had to propose to her on the telephone and immediately I did that, she started crying, then she said yes. That was it. I would have loved it to be more conventional but the circumstances did not allow it. But I am glad it went well.

Source: Naijaloaded
What Is the Spot Rate?

The spot rate is the price quoted for immediate settlement on an interest rate, commodity, a security, or a currency. The spot rate, also referred to as the "spot price," is the current market value of an asset available for immediate delivery at the moment of the quote. This value is in turn based on how much buyers are willing to pay and how much sellers are willing to accept, which usually depends on a blend of factors including current market value and expected future market value.

While spot prices are specific to both time and place, in a global economy the spot price of most securities or commodities tends to be fairly uniform worldwide when accounting for exchange rates. In contrast to the spot price, a futures or forward price is an agreed-upon price for future delivery of the asset.

Key Takeaways The spot rate reflects real-time market supply and demand for an asset available for immediate delivery.

The spot rates for particular currency pairs, commodities, and other securities are used to determine futures prices and are correlated with them.

Contracts for delivery will often reference the spot rate at the time of signing.

1:28 Spot Rate

Understanding Spot Rates

In currency transactions, the spot rate is influenced by the demands of individuals and businesses wishing to transact in a foreign currency, as well as by forex traders. The spot rate from a foreign exchange perspective is also called the "benchmark rate," "straightforward rate" or "outright rate."

Besides currencies, assets that have spot rates include commodities (e.g., crude oil, conventional gasoline, propane, cotton, gold, copper, coffee, wheat, lumber) and bonds. Commodity spot rates are based on supply and demand for these items, while bond spot rates are based on the zero-coupon rate. A number of sources, including Bloomberg, Morningstar, and ThomsonReuters, provide spot rate information to traders. These same spot rates, particularly currency pairs and commodity prices, are widely publicized in the news.

The Spot Rate and the Forward Rate

Spot settlement (i.e., the transfer of funds that completes a spot contract transaction) normally occurs one or two business days from the trade date, also called the horizon. The spot date is the day when settlement occurs. Regardless of what happens in the markets between the date the transaction is initiated and the date it settles, the transaction will be completed at the agreed-upon spot rate.

The spot rate is used in determining a forward ratethe price of a future financial transactionsince a commodity, security, or currencys expected future value is based in part on its current value and in part on the risk-free rate and the time until the contract matures. Traders can extrapolate an unknown spot rate if they know the futures price, risk-free rate, and time to maturity.

The Relationship Between Spot Prices and Futures Prices

The difference between spot prices and futures contract prices can be significant. Futures prices can be in contango or backwardation. Contango is when futures prices fall to meet the lower spot price. Backwardation is when futures prices rise to meet the higher spot price. Backwardation tends to favor net long positions since futures prices will rise to meet the spot price as the contract get closer to expiry. Contango favors short positions, as the futures lose value as the contract approaches expiry and converges with the lower spot price.

Futures markets can move from contango to backwardation, or vice versa, and may stay in either state for brief or extended periods of time. Looking at both spot prices and futures prices is beneficial to futures traders.

Example of How the Spot Rate Works

As an example of how spot contracts work, say it's the month of August and a wholesaler needs to make delivery of bananas, she will pay the spot price to the seller and have bananas delivered within 2 days. However, if the wholesaler needs the bananas to be available at its stores in late December, but believes the commodity will be more expensive during this winter period due to higher demand and lower overall supply, she cannot make a spot purchase for this commodity since the risk of spoilage is high. Since the commodity wouldn't be needed until December, a forward contract is a better fit for the banana investment.

In the example above, an actual physical commodity is being taken for delivery. This type of transaction is most commonly executed through futures and traditional contracts that reference the spot rate at the time of signing. Traders, on the other hand, generally don't want to take physical delivery, so they will use options and other instruments to take positions on the spot rate for a particular commodity or currency pair.
President Donald Trump praised Japan as a "crucial ally" and warned adversaries not to test America's resolve as he kicked off his first trip to Asia.

Mr Trump landed at Yokota Air Base on the outskirts of Tokyo and was greeted by cheering service members.

He then donned a bomber jacket for a speech in which he touted American firepower and the US alliance with Japan.

"Japan is a treasured partner and crucial ally of the United States and today we thank them for welcoming us and for decades of wonderful friendship between our two nations," he said, speaking in front of an American flag inside an airplane hangar.

Mr Trump was expected to spend much of his 12-day, five-country Asian tour exhorting allies and rivals to step up efforts to counter the dangers posed by North Korea, which continues to move forward with its nuclear weapons program.

Both he and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have been engaged in an escalating war of words, with Mr Trump repeatedly referring to the North Korean leader as "Little Rocket Man" and threatening in a recent speech to "totally destroy" the nation if necessary.

Even before he landed, Mr Trump used the first moments of the trip to denounce the North as "a big problem" that must "be solved."

"There's been 25 years of total weakness, so we are taking a very much different approach" toward the North, he told reporters travelling with him.

During the speech, Trump did not mention North Korea by name, but warned of the consequences of crossing what he called the "most fearsome fighting force in the history of our world".

"Together with our allies, America's warriors are prepared to defend our nation using the full range of our unmatched capabilities. No one - no dictator, no regime and no nation - should underestimate, ever, American resolve," Mr Trump told the troops.

Some regional analysts have speculated that Trump's presence in Asia may prompt North Korea to take provocative action, such as another missile test.

The president, when asked about that possibility aboard Air Force One, said "we'll soon find out."

After the speech, Mr Trump flew by helicopter to the Kasumigaseki Country Club about 20 miles outside of Tokyo for lunch and round of golf with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Japanese pro golfer Hideki Matsuyama.

At the club, the leaders signed white caps inscribed with the phrase, "Donald and Shinzo: Make Alliance Even Greater," a tribute to the US-Japan friendship and a play on Trump's campaign slogan.

The White House has signalled that Mr Trump will push American economic interests in the region, but the North Korea issue is expected to dominate the trip.

He will forego a trip to the Demilitarised Zone, the stark border between North and South Korea.

All US presidents except one since Ronald Reagan have visited the DMZ in a sign of solidarity with Seoul.

The White House contends that Mr Trump's commitment to South Korea is already crystal clear, as evidenced by his war of words with Kim and his threats to deliver "fire and fury" to North Korea if it does not stop threatening American allies.

- AP
A black-and-white photograph of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo anchored a candlelit table in the Wherehouse Art Hotel on Wednesday, a pictorial representation of one of the worlds most famous couples in the art world. Surrounded by the accoutrements of a Day of the Dead alter, the photo was part of the backdrop at the Day of the Dreamers celebration, a part-reception and part-performance fundraiser for DACA scholarships and the students who receive them in conjunction with the Hispanic League and El Buen Pastor.

This is All Saints Day, and this is our play on the Day of the Dead  the Day of the Dreamers, said Alessandra Von Burg, one of the Wake Forest University representatives helping to organize the festivities. After everyone enjoys some of the food and all of the colorful decorations here, there will be a performance in black and white  all part of the effort to raise DACA scholarship money.

Day of the Dead is traditionally celebrated in Mexico on Nov. 1 and 2  All Saints Day and All Souls Day, respectively. Celebrants make ofrendas, or offerings, to the spirits of loved ones who have died and leave them at their gravesites or place them on makeshift altars at home.

DACA, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, began in 2012 under then-President Barack Obama. It grants deferred action to individuals who came to the U.S. before turning 16 years old, who were undocumented as of June 2012 and who were in school, graduated from high school, obtained a GED or were honorably discharged from the Armed Forces of U.S. Coast Guard, and who had not been convicted of certain crimes or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety. On Sept. 5, 2017, the Trump administration said that it was terminating the DACA program, and currently, no new DACA applications are being accepted, and many of the attendees at the Day of the Dreamers event said they came out to support the scholarship fund and the dreamers.

We love what the fund is all about, said Mary Haglund, who enjoyed the evening with her husband, Samb Hicks. And Im so proud of Haydee and what shes done with this space.

Haydee is Haydee Thompson, who officially opened the Wherehouse Art Hotel in 2016. Thompson said the goal for the hotel is to offer a multipurpose space that supports the arts.

We want to hold a space for artists here, Thompson said. Almost everything here, all of the art, is for sale, and we even have artists who are building furniture now, headboards, wardrobes. Its about finding ways to give opportunities to artists.

Many of the performers at the Day of the Dreamers event are familiar faces in the local arts community, including: Aaron Bachelder, Carlos Bocanegra, Marissa Causey, June Cleavage, Javier Colon, Noelia Contreras, Amy Fitzgerald, Denisse Funes, Laura Gardea, Molly Graee, Williams Guerrero, Tyler Nail, Zach McCraw, Liz Simmons and Randy Spence. Special guest speakers included: Liz Romo Kelly, Sandra Castro Cortes and Maria Cortez-Perez.

Sarah Cromwell, a member of the Wake Forest University Anthropology team, explained the significance of the Day of the Dead display to guests who came to look over Frida, Diego and the altars.

This is part of our annual Day of the Dead exhibition, Cromwell said. Its different every year; weve had a chapel, a marketplace. We have the same items, but we reinvent the exhibition every year.

According to organization representatives, the Hispanic League facilitates education for Hispanic students through the ESL, Middle School Achievers Program and the Scholarship Program. The Middle School Achievers Program provides motivational speakers to ESL students at nine local middle schools. The Scholarship Program awards $2,000, $3,000, $4,000 and $5,000 annual scholarships to outstanding Hispanic students who are current or former Forsyth County English Language Learner and/or Limited English Proficient students. Since 2000, the Hispanic League has awarded more than 369 scholarships worth $820,000 to students, with 41 scholarships presented in 2017.

El Buen Pastor Latino Community Services partners with Latino families to equip children and adults to fulfill their educational and economic potential. El Buen offers education, enrichment programs and character and leadership development activities.

In the main room, guests enjoyed Sangria, empanadas and pastries along with the inherent camaraderie. Clare Fader spent time with Ashley Edwards and Ralph Womble.

This is a fun way to support the community and the Wherehouse Art Hotel, Womble said. Its a great addition to Winston-Salem.

Fader agreed.

It is great to see people supporting artists, the Hispanic League and El Buen Pastor, she said. I love this hotel and love the idea that people visiting Winston-Salem will be introduced to our arts community in such a unique way when they stay here.

Mari Jo Turner, executive director of the Hispanic League, said the collaborative efforts benefit the entire Winston-Salem community and beyond.

Approximately 17 percent of the local population is Hispanic/Latino, and The Hispanic League is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and its mission of improving the lives of Hispanic and Latino residents through education, health and multicultural awareness initiatives, Turner said. We have numerous students who have received a scholarship and services and then provided the same to students coming through the programs after them, paying it forward.

Several events are scheduled in conjunction with the 25th anniversary. On Nov. 16, the Colorful Sounds in Concert will be held at the Old Salem Visitor Center and will feature the Lorena Guillen Tango Ensemble. And on Saturday, Dec. 2, the Hispanic League will hold its open house and volunteer celebration at the organizations new offices in the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts.

Were very excited about our move and we hope everyone will join us, Turner said. Both events are going to be wonderful celebrations of the Hispanic community.
Compromise is critical to the American experiment. I suspect this statement would be supported by anyone with a fleeting understanding of and appreciation for civics.

Ironically, Americas best-known examples of compromise proved to be abject failures that led to the nations greatest crisis.

I raise this because White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, appearing on Laura Ingrahams cable news show last week, stated: the lack of an ability to compromise led to the Civil War.

Kelly also said Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee was an honorable man who gave up his country to fight for his state, said that men and women of good faith on both sides made their stand where their conscience had them make their stand.

A portion of Kellys comments have that false equivalency feeling, reminiscent of President Donald Trumps good people on both sides remarks in the aftermath of the violence in Charlottesville over the summer.

I understand the point Kelly was attempting to make about Lee siding with Virginia over the United States. It wasnt until the aftermath of the Civil War that the United States transformed from a plural noun to singular.

I also understand his men and women of good faith on both sides made their stand where their conscience had them make their stand comments were subjective. To argue against his latter statement is to merely contribute to the oversimplified manner that the nations greatest crisis is invariably discussed.

Where Kelly warrants criticism is his objective comments on compromise. Kelly would have most likely stood on solid historical ground had he offered his comments about compromise on practically any other seminal American issue other than the Civil War.

It is unclear as to where Kelly begins the lack-of-compromise timeline to substantiate his claims. But the genesis of the Civil War began with the origin of the nation.

In 1776, the unedited version of the Declaration of Independence offered a stinging critique of King George III and slavery. Support for editing the passage on slavery (a compromise) was led by a coalition comprised of Southern plantation owners and Northern delegates representing merchants who, at the time, were actively involved in the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.

The Three-Fifths Compromise, in 1787, was an agreement reached between delegates from Southern states and those from Northern states. The debate centered on whether slaves would be counted when determining a states total population for legislative representation and taxing purposes, hence the compromise.

The Three-Fifths Compromise, along with fugitive slave laws, were enshrined into the Constitution that was ratified in 1789, ironically before the Bill of Rights. In doing so, it put the Constitution in tension with the ethos of the Declaration of Independence, and by extension, placed the Constitution in tension with itself.

Paradoxically, without this compromise, it is doubtful we would have an America in its present form.

With the improved optics of hindsight, we can now see these decisions were compromises with evil that could not be eradicated with additional compromises, notably the Missouri Compromise and the Kansas-Nebraska Act. It is unclear what failed compromise Kelly may be referring to that does not include maintaining the institution of slavery to avoid civil war.

It is not, however, subjective to offer that the reason for the Civil War was secession; and the reason for secession was slavery. One need only read the articles of secession by the Confederate states to see the importance they placed on the ability to maintain slavery would be to staying in the Union. It wasnt the federal governments perceived violation of 10th Amendment, states rights, nor was it the lofty language of interposition and nullification. It was the efficacy of human bondage.

Slavery was the primary reason stated in soon-to-be President of the Confederacy Jefferson Davis farewell address to the Senate on Jan. 21, 1861. It was the basis for the remarks by Confederate Vice President, Alexander Stephens, exactly 60 days later in Savannah, Ga.:

Our new government is founded upon exactly this  idea; its foundations are laid, its cornerstone rests upon the great truth, that the negro is not equal to the white man; that slavery  subordination to the superior race  is his natural and normal condition. This, our new government, is the first, in the history of the world, based upon this great physical, philosophical, and moral truth.

Kellys misstatement about compromise is magnified because there can be no agreed-upon middle ground for issues of human dignity. These are absolutes that Kelly should have known.
By all indications, Republican Rep. Walter Jones of Eastern North Carolina is a man who has learned the lesson of war: Its real and it has permanent consequences.

More than 11,000 times in the last 14 years, Jones, a Republican who represents the 3rd congressional district of North Carolina, has signed letters to family members of troops who died in service, The Associated Press reported recently.

Democratic presidents mired us in Vietnam, a Republican president took too long to get us out, and a Republican president and a Democratic one mired us in Iraq and Afghanistan too long. Now our latest president, a Republican, still struggles with Afghanistan and the threat of new wars. President Trump should heed the lessons of Rep. Jones.

Jones signs the form letters personally with the same pen. And he asks permission from a military liaison who makes sure that family members want to hear from him. He says his dedication is penance for voting in favor of the Iraq war in 2002, a war he believes was based on unfounded claims of Iraqs possession of weapons of mass destruction.

For me, its a sacred responsibility that I have to communicate my condolences to a family, Jones told the AP recently in a telephone interview.

Obviously, the majority of these families will never know me and vice versa, Jones told the AP. But I want them to know that my heart aches as their heart aches.

Janina Bitz-Vasquez, the widow of a Marine whose funeral Jones attended in 2003, says that Jones letter writing sets a standard for taking personal responsibility and accountability for other political and military leaders.

Shes right. We wish every political official followed Jones example  and had his strong conscience. It might prevent future disasters.

President Trump has been rattling his sabre at both North Korea and, to a lesser degree, Iran for months.

Senators recently questioned Trump officials about his authority to launch a preemptive strike on Pyongyang. Congress takes the threat seriously, as it should. Its best to also discuss wars true cost now rather than in the heat of unpredictable events.

Jones has criticized President Trump for arguing with the widow of Sgt. La David Johnson, one of four soldiers killed in a firefight with militants tied to the Islamic State group in Niger earlier this fall. Jones has asked the Department of Defense for specifics regarding their deaths and the future of U.S. military personnel in Africa.

The American people, specifically our military families, deserve to know what is going on when they send their sons and daughters to risk their lives for our country, he said in a letter to the department.

Hes right.

The latest incarnations of Congress and the presidency should finally realize that wars seldom go as we plan, and theres a steep human price involved.

We must finally learn the lesson: That price should never be taken lightly.
BONN, Germany  Some 250 art works that a reclusive collector hid from the world for decades, including pieces likely looted from Jewish owners under Nazi rule, are on show at a German museum.

The paintings in a show that opened Thursday at Bonns Bundeskunsthalle  including works by Albrecht Duerer, Claude Monet and Camille Pissarro  are from the huge art collection hoarded by late collector Cornelius Gurlitt. Authorities first stumbled on the art, stored in Gurlitts Munich home, while investigating a tax case in 2012.

The exhibition focuses on works of art believed to have been taken from their mostly Jewish owners as part of Nazi persecution and on works whose provenance hasnt yet been established.

The Bonn show is part of a double exhibition titled Gurlitt: Status Report. A parallel show in the Swiss capital Bern features some 200 works from the collectors trove, mostly from artists who were defamed by the Nazis as degenerate.

The art on display in Bern includes Expressionist works by artists such as Otto Dix and Franz Marc.

It is the first chance for the public to view any of the paintings and other works from the 1,500-piece collection that belonged to the estate of Gurlitts father, the Nazi-era art dealer Hildebrand Gurlitt.

The Bonn show, subtitled Nazi Art Theft and Its Consequences, aims to put the works into their historical context. It tries to shed light on Hildebrand Gurlitts life and also focuses on the fate of Jewish artists, collectors and art dealers who fell victim to the Nazi regime.

The works cover a broad time span, from Lucas Cranach via Carl Spitzweg and Edgar Degas to Max Beckmann. Among the highlights are Monets Waterloo Bridge and the marble sculpture Crouching Woman by Auguste Rodin.

Cornelius Gurlitt, who died in 2014, had squirreled away more than 1,200 works in his Munich apartment and a further 250 or so at a property in Salzburg, Austria.

His will bequeath the works to the museum in Bern. A German government-backed foundation is working with it to ensure that any pieces looted from Jewish owners are returned to their heirs.

That has been a slow and painstaking task. So far, experts have identified six works as definitely having been looted by the Nazis  the latest of them last month, when researchers determined that the Portrait of a Seated Young Woman by Thomas Couture belonged to Georges Mandel.

Mandel, a Jewish French politician, was murdered in 1944. That piece is among those on show in Bonn.

The curator of the Bonn exhibit said that a lot of work still remains to be done regarding the provenance of much of the collection.

The origin of more that 50 percent of the art pieces has not yet been solved, Agnieszka Lulinska told the German news agency dpa.

The Bonn exhibition runs until March 11. The Bern exhibition runs until March 4.
11/03/2017



Students and alumni in Kappa Sigma were honored at the fraternity's national convention in Las Vegas.

JSUs Kappa Sigma fraternity recently became the first chapter in Alabama to receive the Founders Award for Chapter Excellence - beating out the University of Alabama, Auburn University, University of North Alabama and the University of South Alabama - during an awards presentation at its national convention in Las Vegas.

The chapter also ranks sixth in the nation for its philanthropic work, raising nearly $80,000 last year for charity. Other honors included the 100 Percent Ritually Proficient Award, Chapter Academic Excellence Award and A Greater Cause Champion for Dollars Award.

Several Kappa Sigma alumni and undergraduate members were also individually recognized:

Alumnus Jacob Shaver won the Outstanding Assistant Alumnus Advisor Award for his support of the Sigma-Mu Chapter at Colorado Mesa University

won the Outstanding Assistant Alumnus Advisor Award for his support of the Sigma-Mu Chapter at Colorado Mesa University Alumnus Brett O. Socha won the Deputy Commissioner of the Year Award for his support of the A Greater Cause Commission and Military Heroes Campaign

won the Deputy Commissioner of the Year Award for his support of the A Greater Cause Commission and Military Heroes Campaign Undergraduate Clay C. Hardin was awarded the Outstanding Grand Procurator Award

was awarded the Outstanding Grand Procurator Award The Star and Crescent Society recognized students Bradford F. Nevels, Coleman T. Amason and Tristan G. Baca in the top one-percent of undergraduate members

Founded in 1869 at the University of Virginia, Kappa Sigma has grown into the largest mens college social fraternity in the world - with 20,000 undergraduate members and more than 220,000 living alumni affiliated with its 320 chapters and colonies located throughout the US and Canada.

For information on how to join JSU Kappa Sigma, call Jacob Fondren, Rush Chair, at 205-705-4032.
The Islamic State group claimed a major attack on Yemen's government bastion of Aden on Sunday which killed at least 15 people, wounded 18 others and sparked a hostage crisis.

IS and its extremist rival Al-Qaeda have taken advantage of the war between Yemen's Saudi-backed government and the country's Shiite Huthi rebels, who are allied with Iran, to bolster their presence across much of the south.

While Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has for years been the stronger presence in southern Yemen, IS has recently come forward to claim attacks on both the army and the country's Shiites, whom it considers heretics.

IS claimed Sunday's attack on the criminal investigations unit in an online statement released by its "Aden and Abyan province", which said clashes were "still ongoing".

Security officials in the southern province of Aden, where the Yemeni government is based, said an explosives-rigged car blew up outside the investigations unit, killing six officers on the spot along with the driver.

Around 30 gunmen then stormed the unit and freed around 50 detainees from their holding cells, some of whom took up arms to fight alongside the militants, according to a high-ranking official.

The security officials said a total of four suicide bombers blew themselves up during the attack, one of them targeting the convoy of Yemen's chief of security.

The gunmen also took an unknown number of people hostage inside the unit on Sunday afternoon. Two policewomen were killed execution-style by the attackers, the official said.

By late afternoon, security officials said four policemen -- among them a colonel -- had been freed.

Earlier in the day, Yemeni security sources had said they suspected Al-Qaeda militants were behind the well-coordinated attack.

- End of the calm? -

The assault spells an abrupt end to a period of relative calm that has reigned in Aden, where the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has been based since it was driven out of the rebel-held capital Sanaa in 2014.

Yemen's complex war, which pits the Saudi-backed Hadi government against former president Ali Abdullah Saleh and his Huthi rebel allies, has allowed AQAP and IS to flourish in the south of the country.

IS has not claimed a Yemen attack in almost a year. The group claimed responsibility for a December 18, 2016 attack in Aden that killed 48 and wounded 84 soldiers who had lined up to get their salaries.

While southern Yemen has long been the target of a drone war by the United States, which classifies AQAP as the radical network's most dangerous branch, Washington appears to have recently turned its aim towards IS as well.

In October, a US drone strike targeted what local officials said was an IS group in the central Bayda province -- the second known strike by Washington against the jihadists in Yemen.

The United States has ties to Yemeni special forces trained by the United Arab Emirates, a key member of the Saudi-led coalition, who have closed in on AQAP southern strongholds in recent weeks.

The UAE has played a key role in the Saudi-led military campaign to prop up Hadi's government against both AQAP and the Huthis, who forced him into exile back in 2014.

More than 8,600 people have been killed in Yemen since Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the war in 2015 to support government forces, according to the World Health Organization.

Another 2,100 have died of cholera this year.

Long the poorest country in the Arab world, Yemen now stands steps away from an official declaration of famine, as war, displacement, and port and airport blockades leave its people struggling to secure food.

All parties in the Yemen war have drawn harsh criticism for their failure to protect civilians, but the Saudi-led coalition allied with the government has been singled out by the United Nations over civilian casualties.

In September, the UN Human Rights Council announced an agreement to send war crimes investigators to Yemen.

The UN humanitarian coordinator in Yemen, Jamie McGoldrick, in a statement on Sunday said he was "horrified" by the continuing violence.




There are so many things to be excited about when traveling to Vietnam, but one of the things we were really looking forward to was trying Vietnamese cuisine. We were traveling with Viking River Cruises on their Magnificent Mekong Hanoi Street Food Tours river cruise trip, so we werent sure how many opportunities we would have to eat traditional Vietnamese food. We actually had a number of occasions to try Vietnamese dishes, but one of the best decisions we made was to spend some time taking two street food tours in Hanoi with Duc Ivan, owner of





We learned from Duc that in order to try the best of a certain Vietnamese dish, you should visit one of those hole-in-the-wall restaurants that only serve that one dish. So while you can get Vietnamese pho many places, the best pho is going to be at a place that only makes pho.









Finding the right places could be a little tricky for travelers, so we were happy to have Duc take us to some of the best Vietnamese food places Hanoi has to offer. It also helps to have someone that speaks the language help navigate the maze of streets filled with tiny eateries with short tables and plastic stools. But we were able to find a few things on our own too.









We loved that these restaurants usually had the name of the dish they made as the name of the restaurant. These places dont have a kitchen in the back, theyve got a woman at the entrance, squatting on a short stool, cooking the food in plain sight to lure hungry customers in (plus its cooler by the door and the smoke and steam can get out).





Pho (Noodle Soup)





If there is one Vietnamese dish that everybody knows, it is pho. But before you order pho, you should know how to say pho. It is not pronounced foe. It is not even pronounced fu. Pho is actually almost a two syllable word. Its pronounced fu-u, and the beginning and end of the word are said at the same tone while dropping a tone in the middle. Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup that can be made with either chicken or beef. Also, pho is most commonly eaten for breakfast, so many hotels serve it in the morning.





Where to try pho: Bun Thang, 33 Hang Hom, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)









While banh mi is typically the term used to describe the Vietnamese sandwich, the term banh mi is actually the name of the bread and literally translates to mean wheat bread. This bread is the French baguette, the extremely flaky and crunchy bread introduced to Vietnam by the French during the colonial period. Banh mi can be filled with meat such as pork belly, grilled pork, or grilled chicken, accompanied by vegetables both fresh and pickled.





Banh Cuon (Rolled Cake)





Banh cuon is a popular dish in Northern Vietnam which we were even able to try in a couple of our hotels. Banh cuon must be eaten fresh and hot. It isnt just delicious to eat, it is also fun to watch being made. Banh cuon starts with the most delicate of wrappings made by steaming a thin layer of fermented rice batter. The sheet is expertly lifted and rolled off of a cloth stretched over a pot of boiling water and then filled with minced pork and mushrooms. The roll is then topped with fried shallots and cilantro and dipped in a vinegary sauce to which pickled garlic, hot sauce, and kumquat juice can be added.





Where to try banh cuon: Banh Cuon Nong, 14B Bao Khanh, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Bun Cha (Barbecue Pork Noodle Soup)









My favorite Vietnamese dish was bun cha, a barbecue pork noodle soup. Bun cha starts with barbecue pork, both slices of pork and pork patties. The pork is served with rice vermicelli, both of which are put into a bowl of soup of vinegar, sugar, and lime. The version we had also had green papaya, garlic, yellow peppers, and black pepper.





Where to try bun cha: Bun Cha Que Tre, 27 ao Duy Tu, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Banh Goi (Pillow Cake)









Banh goi is one of Vietnams deep-fried treats that is perfect for a cold winters day. Dont think Vietnam has cold days? Well, we agree, but the people of Vietnam think it gets pretty cold when the temperature falls below 80 degrees. They even wear scarves, gloves, and knit caps! Whether or not you think its cold, Vietnamese pillow cakes are a crunchy delight filled with minced mushrooms and pork. Quan Goc a in Hanoi near St. Josephs Cathedral specializes in pillow cake. Its a favorite with tourists, but it is the place to go for pillow cake.





Where to try banh goi: Quan Goc a, 52 Ly Quoc Su, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Nem Cua Be (Crab Fried Spring Rolls)





I wrongly assumed that fried spring rolls were an American version and that fresh spring rolls are what is eaten in Vietnam. Quite the opposite, fried spring rolls are abundant while we fresh spring rolls didnt seem to be quite as common. Quan Goc a in Hanoi has another fried specialty, and that is the crab fried spring roll. Fried spring rolls are delicious, but the addition of crab takes this version over the top.





Where to try nem cua be: Quan Goc a, 52 Ly Quoc Su, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Banh Tom (Shrimp Cakes)





Yet another fried treat we tried at Quan Goc a was shrimp cakes. These were simple fried cakes topped with a whole shrimp.





Where to try banh tom: Quan Goc a, 52 Ly Quoc Su, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Banh Xeo (Sizzling Pancake)









Banh xeo is a sizzling rice flour cake, topped with green onion and bean sprouts, which is fried in a lightly oiled pan until crispy, then folded in half and chopped into large pieces. But theres more. Banh xeo is eaten by taking a translucent piece of rice paper, topping it with green herbs and a piece of the fried cake, which is then rolled tightly before being dipped in sauce and eaten. Wrapping these is an art form, kind of like rolling a tight cigar, and I was fascinated watching a girl on her lunch break deftly constructing her rolls with the help of her chopsticks.





Where to try banh xeo: Banh Xeo, Nem Cuon, Quay Nong, 22 Hang Bo, Hanoi, Vietnam





Bun Bo Nam Bo (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Salad)









I was surprised by how many times I heard the word vermicelli, something I always associate with Italian, in describing Vietnamese dishes. Bun bo nam bo starts with beef marinated in sugar, fish sauce, and seasonings, which is quickly cooked upon ordering and combined with vermicelli noodles and vegetables along with a tangy sauce of fish sauce, sugar, lemon, and chili. The mixture is topped with items such as fried shallots, roasted peanuts, and bean sprouts.





Where to try bun bo nam bo: Bun Bo Nam Bo Restaurant , 67 Hang Dieu, Hanoi, Vietnam





Seafood









Obviously, seafood is not unique to Vietnam, but I didnt realize until I started doing some research that seafood is a thing in Vietnam. It shouldnt have been a surprise since so much of the country of Vietnam is South China Sea shoreline.





During our food tour with Hanoi Street Food Tours we feasted on clams with lemongrass; cockles; oysters baked with peanuts; sweet shrimp fileted, filled with onions, and grilled over the coals on a barbecue on the sidewalk; steamed ocean crab; and rice vermicelli with bean sprouts and crab. For a dipping sauce, we used a simple combination of salt, kumquat juice, and red chilies.









After our seafood feast, our guide showed us how to get the seafood smell off our hands by washing our hands in a tub of water and tea leaves. During other parts of our trip, we also had stuffed crab and tilapia.





Where to try Vietnamese seafood: Hai San Phuong Uyen, 39 Hang Luoc, Hanoi, Vietnam.





Raw Herbs









Something else I wasnt expecting about traditional Vietnamese food was the abundance of fresh herbs, not used in cooking which I did expect, but used as a fresh side dish. At many of the restaurants we visited on our food tour with Hanoi Street Food Tours we were provided with baskets of fresh herbs to accompany our ordered food. Just a few examples of the fresh herbs youll find in Vietnam are cilantro, Vietnamese mint, purple perilla, and sawtooth herb (ngo gai).





Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee)









Vietnamese egg coffee was first invented in the mid-1900s by Nguyen Giang when he was a bartender at Hanois Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel and whisked an egg into coffee because milk was scarce during the French War. In 1946 he opened Giang Cafe , which to this day is the best place to try egg coffee. The primary ingredients of egg coffee are egg yolk, Vietnamese coffee powder, and sweetened condensed milk. Giang Cafes website also mentions butter and cheese. The coffee is brewed in a small cup and then the rest of the ingredients are whisked in. The cup is served in a bowl of hot water to maintain the temperature. Egg coffee can also be ordered on ice.





Where to try egg coffee: Giang Cafe, 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hanoi, Vietnam





Bingsu Thap Cam (Shaved Ice Dessert)









For a sweet treat on a warm day (warm for us but clearly not so for the locals since they were in long sleeves and puffy jackets), we had a refreshing dessert of shaved ice topped with sweetened condensed milk, mango, papaya, dragon fruit, and lychee. After stuffing ourselves with so many Vietnamese dishes, bingsu thap cam was a nice palate cleanser that wasnt too filling.





Where to try bingsu thap cam: Hoa Qua Dam Hoa Beo, 17 To Tich, Hanoi, Vietnam





Che Suong Sa Hat Luu (Rainbow Dessert)





While strolling through Sa ecs market I noticed trays of knotted plastic bags bulging with creamy white liquid and colorful bits of jelly. I learned that they were dessert soups called che, which are made with coconut milk and a variety of ingredients. I chose the che suong sa hat luu, a colorful mixture of agar jelly, mung bean paste, tapioca and water chestnut faux pomegranate seeds, and coconut milk. Its eaten with a spoon after pouring over ice.





Where to try che suong sa hat luu: Sa ec Market, Vietnam





Keo Lac (Peanut Brittle)









I have always loved peanut brittle and Asian countries make this sweet crunchy treat. While in Cai Be we took a tour of a place that makes rice paper and candy. Vietnamese peanut brittle can be found in many shops.





Bonus - Vietnamese Beer









Not a traditional Vietnamese dish, but beer is a popular alcoholic beverage in Vietnam. Vietnamese beer is light and fresh, usually a lager. Vietnamese beers arent exceptionally flavorful, rather they are perfect for hot days or as an accompaniment to flavorful Vietnamese food. Some popular Vietnamese beers are 333, Bia Ha Noi, and Bia Saigon Special. The best Vietnamese beer experience is having some fresh from the tap, possibly brought to the table in a plastic bo ttle.



The Vietnamese equivalent to saying cheers over a glass of beer is mot, hai, ba, vo (one, two, three cheers), or simply vo. In the south the word for cheers sounds like saying yo, while in the north the last word is dzo and the pronunciation sounds more like djo .




Smear campaigns, threats and leaks: Austrias general election campaign was not only the countrys longest ever, but its dirtiest too.

Austrias recent general election (15 October) saw the longest ever campaign in the countrys history (discounting the four times voters were called to the ballots to choose their president in the preceding year). The SPO (Socialist Party of Austria, S&D) and OVP (Austrian Peoples Party, EPP) had been in coalition governments for decades, on and off, and both had allied with the nationalist FPO (Freedom Party of Austria, ENF).

After just barely scraping together the seats to form another grand coalition in 2013, Christian Kern took over the SPO earlier last year, catapulting his party into a secure first place in the polls. But his success was short-lived, as the OVP also replaced their head with young Sebastian Kurz, who swung the polls in his favour in an instant and immediately called for new elections.

While it could be said that the governing parties SPO and OVP have been preparing for new elections for much longer, we officially found out about the early elections in early May. This meant almost six months of exhausting campaigning, both for the parties and the citizens, who had already endured a lengthy competition in the 2016 presidential elections.

One might have expected such a long campaign to allow each party to delve deeper into their policies and explain their plans to the electorate in detail. Instead, citizens were forced to endure a never-ending cycle of repetitive platitudes and attempts to justifying stances that were never convincing.

If that was not enough to make voters sick and tired of politics, we also were treated to one of the biggest dirty-campaigning scandals to date, surrounding Chancellor Kern and his social democratic party SPO, with some evidence suggesting that the conservative OVPs lead candidate and Foreign Minister Kurz also tried to bribe one of the SPOs contractors to spy on them for him.

Kern denied any involvement in the plot to undermine his rival Kurz through the use of defamatory social media pages. These pages also gave rise to racist and anti-Semitic sentiments in a likely attempt to pin their origin on the nationalist FPO. Instead of apologising, Kern proclaimed himself another victim, pointing to a similar social media page that attacked him. The SPO even went so far as to press charges against the unknown party.

The perpetrator? The Israeli Tal Silberstein and his team. Silberstein has been a campaign adviser to many different parties across multiple countries and is an expert on dirty campaigning.

In January 2017 Romania launched an investigation into Silbersteins alleged money laundering activities. Kern defended him vehemently at that time and called the allegations bogus. Silberstein was arrested in Israel in August, at which point the SPO cut all ties with him.

The defamatory Facebook pages, however, remained active well beyond that and were only shut down shortly before the election. Silbersteins team in Austria seemed to remain fully operative even without him, which begged the question of who was paying them. The SPO denied having any involvement in the matter, yet still let go its federal whip, Georg Niedermuhlbichler.

One of Silbersteins co-workers, Peter Puller, who had close ties to the conservative OVP, later came forward with an accusation that one of Kurzs close advisers offered him 100,000 to switch sides and return to the fold. The OVP of course denied this.

Just a few days later, the Austrian boulevard paper Die Kronen Zeitung revealed screenshots of a WhatsApp conversation between Silbersteins translator (yes, the chancellor needed a translator so he could communicate with Silberstein in English) and the Chancellors speech-writer and adviser Rudi Fui. The conversation was really a monologue comprised of threats and attempts at bribery and intimidation.

It turns out that the translator was responsible for leaking many of the connections between the social democrats and the Silberstein campaign to the press. Fui not only confirmed the authenticity of the report, he also went on Twitter and continued to offer 30,000 to anyone who could provide proof that his private emails had been sold to third parties (leading back to other far more minor leaks from both the SPO and OVP about internal strategy papers and analyses). The SPO disavowed Fui and claimed they had no control over him or his actions.

During the campaign, an internal SPO document prepared to brief Silberstein on the SPOs situation was leaked to the press. It contained an assessment of Kerns personality and called him unfit to lead, an emotional wreck and a princess, a nickname that would stick for the remainder of the campaign.

The Austrian public prosecution department found out after the election that Puller was indeed the administrator of the Facebook pages dedicated to smearing Kurz name.

As for the page attacking Kern, an ex-employee of the OVP came forward and confessed he was behind it. Although he claims it was not connected to or funded by the party and he launched the page himself, in response to the SPOs pages. The SPO has not commented thus far and it remains to be seen, whether or not they will continue their lawsuit.

All pages have since been deleted.
CPNRD approves flood control contract amendments

At its October meeting, the Central Platte Natural Resources Districts (CPNRD) board of directors approved Contract Amendment #6 with JEO Consulting for just over $320,000.

The amendment will extend services for the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project (PSM) for land/easement negotiation, an operation and maintenance manual, desktop dam failure exercise, flood alert system feasibility evaluation, project highlight information and benefit cost update, and a conditional letter of map revision for FEMA. A change order (#2) was also approved with Van Kirk Construction to extend its contract to April 30, 2018, which will allow additional time to smooth and seed the bottom of detention cells on PSM due to wet weather conditions.

In other board action, Jim Schneider of Olsson Associates said results of the Hydrogeologic Evaluation and Subregional Groundwater Modeling shows that excess flows from the Dawson County Canals are being returned to the Platte River more quickly than anticipated, which is a positive effect. He said the subregional model covers 3 percent of the Cooperative Hydrology Study area, allowing for a more detailed and complex evaluation of how water moves through the river and aquifer system. Several subregional models are being conducted in Nebraska.

Brandi Flyr, hydrologist, gave an update on excess flows and temporary transfers on the NRDs surface water canals in Dawson County.

Flyr reported that CPNRD continued to work with Cozad, Orchard-Alfalfa and Thirty-Mile canals to increase stream flows and aquifer recharge. She said immediate stream flow volumes increased through temporary water agreements that reduced the amount of surface water diversions from the river.

Longer-term stream and aquifer benefits occurred through excess flow diversion events, Flyr said, in which water is diverted into the surface water canals and allowed to seep into the aquifer. She said these projects provide direct recharge to the aquifer, as well as increase base flow to the Platte River.

CPNRD again offering conservation seedlings

Each year Nebraskas Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) help landowners plant more than a million conservation trees each year. The Central Platte NRD has sold over 3.6 million trees since 1972.

Conservation trees benefit both people and animals by providing shade and shelter, reduce soil erosion, protect crops and livestock, provide food and cover for wildlife, buffer noise, provide valuable products and add beauty to our landscape.

The Central Platte NRD is now taking orders for conservation seedlings for spring planting. There are several varieties of conifers, shrubs and deciduous seedlings available; all selected to grow well in central Nebraska.

Conservation seedlings are ideal for landowners to plant as windbreaks, wildlife areas, riparian buffer strips, or for other conservation practices. The seedlings are grown at Halsey State Forest and are generally 1 to 2 years old when landowners receive them.

Seedlings are sold in bundles of 25 for $22.50. A tree planting service is available for orders of 200 trees or more. The planting service costs an additional 40 cents per seedling.To have a planting plan designed for you, contact your local USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office.

Small-acre packages are also available for landowners who dont need 25 of the same kind of tree. The small-acre packages have 50 seedlings for $50 with five different species (10 of each kind) and are tailored for eastern and western Nebraska, flowering and wildlife.

To place an order, contact the CPNRD at (308) 385-6282 or visit its office at 215 Kaufman Ave in Grand Island. Tree photos, detailed descriptions, and order forms are also available online at www.cpnrd.org.

District 41 community conversation set at Albion

ALBION  A District 41 town hall meeting focusing on the ongoing property tax debate is set for Tuesday, Nov. 21. The event is free and open to the public. It is hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs and will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Cornerstone Bank, 240 S. 3rd St. in Albion.

Sen. Tom Briese of Nebraskas 41st District will be available to answer questions about interim session activities and expected topics for the 2018 session. The main focus will be the impact of tax proposals on local schools, governments and residents.

There has been no solution or clear path forward to the property tax challenge, said Jordan Rasmussen, policy program associate with the Center for Rural Affairs. The property tax burden still weighs heavily on rural communities. This affects everyone from residents and farmers, to the school systems and local governments that rely on tax funding to do their work.

The 41st District includes Garfield, Wheeler, Valley, Greeley, Sherman, Howard, Boone, Antelope and Pierce counties. Residents are invited to join the conversation.

For more information, contact Rasmussen at (402) 687-2100, ext. 1032, or by email at jordanr@cfra.org. There is no cost to attend, and refreshments will be provided.

USDA sets enrollment for safety net coverage

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced last week that starting Nov. 1, farmers and ranchers with base acres in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) safety net program may enroll for the 2018 crop year. The enrollment period will end on Aug. 1, 2018.

Since shares and ownership of a farm can change year-to-year, producers must enroll by signing a contract each program year, said Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting Administrator Steve Peterson.

Farm producers who are not enrolled for the 2018 enrollment period will not be eligible for financial assistance from the ARC or PLC programs for the 2018 crop should crop prices or farm revenues fall below the historical price or revenue benchmarks established by the program. Producers who made their elections in previous years must still enroll during the 2018 enrollment period.

FSA is issuing approximately $850 million in rice payments, Peterson said. These payments are part of the $8 billion in 2016 ARC and PLC payments that started in October to assist enrolled producers who suffered a loss of revenue or price, or both.

The ARC and PLC programs were authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill and offer a safety net to agricultural producers when there is a substantial drop in prices or revenues for covered commodities. Covered commodities include barley, corn, grain sorghum, oats, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat. For more details regarding these programs, go online to www.fsa.usda.gov/arc-plc.

For more information, producers are encouraged to visit their local FSA office. Offices are listed online at http://offices.usda.gov.
HOLYOKE, Colo.  Make plans now to join farmers and ranchers at the 2018 Farming Evolution event. The Farming Evolution will be held Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 13 & 14, 2018, at the Phillips County Event Center in Holyoke. The focus this year will be incorporating cover crops and livestock grazing into a no-till system. Those who have doubts or objections to cover crops and grazing livestock on cropland are particularly encouraged to attend.

Allen Williams will be the primary speaker. Allen Williams is a 6th generation family farmer and founding partner of Grass Fed Beef, LLC, Grass Fed Insights, LLC, and a partner in Joyce Farms, Inc. He has consulted with more than 4200 farmers and ranchers in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and South America on operations ranging from a few acres to over 1 million acres.

Allen looks forward to an open and honest dialogue about objections and questions people have on soil health, cover crops and grazing cropland. Open conversations are what the science is about, Allen feels, and he wants to look at the hard questions from all sides.

Joining Allen will be Jonathan Lundgren. Jon is the founder of Blue Dasher Farms, which is focused on investigating the practices and farming systems that are adapted to the northern plains and upper Midwest. Jon will help attendees understand why biodiversity is important, how it works, and the science behind it.

Tying directly into Jons talk will be Julie Peterson, from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Julies research emphasis is on the impacts of beneficial insects on the cash crops common to Eastern Colorado and Western Nebraska. Her recent research focuses on encouraging beneficial insects that attack the Western Bean Cutworm and Western Corn Rootworm.

On day two, Allen will get to the brass tacks of how to implement these ideas on the farm. This will be a working session where producers can share information about their operation and get feedback from Allen. He will also discuss how one can access the value added grassfed market, if desired.

Ag businesses are invited to participate as exhibitors. Contact Joe Crowder at the Haxtun Conservation District located at 1280 SW Interocean Dr., in the USDA building in Holyoke. Call 970-854-2812 ext. 3 or email Joe at Haxtuncd@gmail.com. Booths are $150 and include 8 ft. of table space and two lunch tickets for each day. Spaces are limited due to room capacity.

The full agenda, registration and lodging information will be available after November 1 at www.farmingevolution2018.eventbrite.com
LINCOLN  From growing chickpeas in western Nebraska to reducing pesticide use in apple orchards in Nebraska City, 12 specialty crop projects across the state will receive nearly $600,000 in funding from the U.S. Department of Agricultures Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). Administered by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) using funding from the grant, the program supports research, development and marketing of specialty crops.

Nebraskas Specialty Crop Block Grant Program offers resources to those interested in enhancing and diversifying the states agricultural industry through specialty crops, said NDA Director Greg Ibach. This years projects contribute to Nebraskas overall agricultural economy by maximizing the value of specialty crops and by keeping production and research in the state.

Specialty crops are generally defined as fruits, vegetables, nuts, honey and some turf and ornamental crops. A full list of specialty crops is also available on the USDAs website at www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp/specialty-crop.

A brief description of the specialty crop projects being funded in Nebraska and the grant recipients follows:

 Develop biodegradable mulch film and evaluate its effectiveness on specialty crops such as tomatoes and peppersUniversity of Nebraska, Lincoln

 Incorporate more locally-grown specialty crops into the School Meals Program by developing a user-friendly toolkit for food service staffNebraska Department of Education

 Conduct a needs assessment and strategic plan with grape growers, winemakers and winery owners across Nebraska to improve the economic vitality of vineyards and wineries in order to continue producing high quality grapes and wines while promoting stewardshipNebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association

 Improve the quality, safety and nutritional value of Nebraska-grown aronia berry products by using high pressure processing technologyUniversity of Nebraska, Lincoln

 Manufacture high-quality protein isolates from three types of dry edible beans and identify potential uses for those protein isolates in additional foodsUniversity of Nebraska, Lincoln

 Investigate the feasibility of using ozone technology to eliminate or reduce pesticide use for disease control in apple orchards which in turn improves food safetyArbor Day Foundation (dba Arbor Day Farm)

 Expand the use of drones to the specialty crop industry of viticulture to monitor possible herbicide drift and provide valuable information to grape growers and the wine industryNebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association

 Evaluate whether or not chickpeas can be grown successfully in the drylands of western NebraskaUniversity of Nebraska, Lincoln

 Compare the ability of dry beans and field peas to suppress herbicideresistant pigweedUniversity of Nebraska, Lincoln

 Reduce inputs and increase yields of broccoli and peppers by determining optimum application rates of seed meals for integrated management of weeds and nitrogen fertility across four locations in eastern Nebraska.University of Nebraska, Lincoln

 Increase tomato yield and quality while reducing irrigation and synthetic nitrogen fertilizer use through the adoption of water and nutrient use, efficient hybrid tomato rootstocks and carbon-based fertilizer amendmentsUniversity of Nebraska, Lincoln

 NDA will receive SCBG funding to host additional cooking demonstrations at the Nebraska State Fair to show consumers how easy it is to cook with and eat more locally-grown produce.

NDA administered a two-phase competitive grant application process for SCBGP funds. Phase I involved the submission of concept proposals, which allowed applicants to explain the main points of their project. The concept proposals were independently and competitively scored by a field review panel. Projects with the highest combined scores were asked to complete Phase II of the application process.

Projects funded by the SCBGP must be completed by Sept. 29, 2020. For more information about this years grants, go to USDAs website at www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp/awards and click on FY2017 pdf.
LINCOLN  Nebraska Farm Service Agency (FSA) Acting State Executive Director Mike Eller today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots to eligible farmers and ranchers for the 2017 FSA County Committee elections on Monday, Nov. 6, 2017. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 4, 2017, to ensure their vote is counted.

County committee members represent the farmers and ranchers in our Nebraska communities, said Eller. Producers elected to these committees have always played a vital role in local agricultural decisions. It is a valued partnership that helps us better understand the needs of the farmers and ranchers we serve.

Nearly 7,700 FSA County Committee members serve FSA offices nationwide. Each committee has three to 11 elected members who serve three-year terms of office. One-third of county committee seats are up for election each year. County committee members apply their knowledge and judgment to help FSA make important decisions on its commodity support programs; conservation programs; indemnity and disaster programs; emergency programs and eligibility.

Eller said producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. Farmers and ranchers who supervise and conduct the farming operations of an entire farm, but are not of legal voting age, also may be eligible to vote.

Farmers and ranchers will begin receiving their ballots the week of Nov. 6. Ballots include the names of candidates running for the local committee election. Voters who did not receive a ballot can pick one up at their local FSA office. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked no later than Dec. 4, 2017. Newly elected committee members will take office Jan. 1, 2018.

For more information, visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections or contact your local USDA Service Center or FSA office. Visit http://offices.usda.gov to find an FSA office near you.
This month the USDAs Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is sponsoring No-Till November. The campaign encourages Nebraska farmers to keep the stubble on their harvested crop fields and improve soil health.

According to the NRCS, the campaign encourages farmers to keep a different kind of stubble by parking tillage equipment in their machine sheds this fall and keep crop stubble on their fields.

No-till farming is a cornerstone soil health practice, which also promotes water quality while saving farmers time and money, said Acting State Conservationist Myron Taylor. One of the first soil health principles is do not disturb. This campaign is a fun way to remind farmers about the important relationship between tillage and soil health.

Taylor said improving soil health increases soil biological activity, which provides erosion control and nutrient benefits, and also can simulate tillage.

Nebraska State Conservation Agronomist Corey Brubaker said fall tillage disturbs soil and removes valuable cover that can leave soil exposed and unprotected during harsh winter months. Other field-disturbing practices like baling corn stalks also removes valuable cover and nutrients from the field.

Farmers who bale cornstalks for livestock bedding or sell it to other livestock producers could be entering into a losing proposition due to the lost nutrient value and soil health benefits, Brubaker said.

Based on current commodity prices and the nutrient value in each bale, Brubaker said farmers should leave crop residue in the field  especially if the fields are highly erodible and subject to conservation compliance.

The plant residue left in the field after harvest is a valuable resource, he said. The value in cornstalks can be better used for reducing soil erosion, providing extra organic matter content in the soil, and contributing nutrients back to the soil.

According to NRCS, cornstalk bales are currently selling for $45 to 75 per ton in Nebraska. The estimated cost of baling cornstalks, considering the value of the nutrients removed ($28/ton), custom raking ($3/ton), and custom baling ($22/ton), is about $53 per ton. If bales are sold at the lower end of the current rate, farmers are not only losing money, but also the benefits of leaving residue on their fields, Brubaker said.

NRCS said the best thing producers can do for their cropland is to leave it undisturbed as much as possible. They encourage producers this November avoid tilling their fields and keep crop residue in place to replenish the soil.

After harvesting a corn or soybean crop, farmers may plant a cover crop for a variety of reasons to reduce soil erosion and nutrient runoff, increase organic matter in the soil, and improve water quality.

Better for migratory birds

According to research from the University of Illinois, theres another reason: Migratory birds prefer to rest and refuel in fields with cover crops.

Here in the Midwest, were in one of the major flyway zones for migratory birds, where there once was plenty of habitat for grassland birds to safely forage and rest during their migration, said Cassandra Wilcoxen, a graduate research assistant in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois. Now that agriculture is the dominant landscape, they (the birds) are finding it harder to get the resources they need on the way to their breeding grounds.

Wilcoxen said cover crops such as cereal rye likely provide migrating birds with more vegetation and a safe area to escape the elements and predators.

Cover crops also increase insect abundance, another food source for birds, she said. The increased number of insects allows migrants to fuel up faster and move on to their breeding grounds.

Wilcoxen said grassland birds prefer large, open areas  the bigger, the better.

Agricultural fields are huge, so the cover crops provide a large habitat where birds can rest, forage, and potentially even nest, she said.

She said fields with cover crops are not going to replace natural habitats, but in early spring there can be miles of fields with little vegetation. The advent of cover crops provides a potentially important habitat for birds returning to the Midwest from areas as far south as Argentina. The large green fields are likely a beacon for migratory birds.

Over two planting seasons, Wilcoxen monitored birds in corn and soybean fields with and without cover crops. She observed 6,133 individual birds of 52 species, with 13 species accounting for 90 percent of all birds detected. The most common species were the red-winged blackbird, common grackle and robin.

Fields with cover crops always had more birds, and cornfields with a cover crop were the overall winners, Wilcoxen said.

She thinks corn plus a cover crop, especially cereal rye, was the favorite because there is more residue on the fields. The remaining corn stalks, along with the rye, provide more cover for the birds.

Wilcoxen said timing is critcal.

The window of time to plant a cover crop in the fall is fairly short, she said. Cover crops can be aerial seeded, drilled or broadcast. But depending on how wet the fall is, there is only a short time when it can be planted. Drilling is the best method because you know youre getting good seed-to-soil contact.

Another timing issue emerges in the spring: when to kill the cover crop.

Some grassland birds nest in the spring, so in order to give birds the time they need, farmers may need to hold off terminating their cover crop, she said. Those are the sorts of recommendations that will require more research. Its true of any new farming practice. You have to play around with it to get it right.

In our experience, most farmers using cover crops have learned about the practice from their neighbors, and we are hoping this continues and cover crop use continues to grow, Wilcoxsen says. Production agriculture has taken a lot of habitat from wildlife, but we need it to provide food.

The question, she said, is: How do we mesh the two? She said no-till is a great example.

It helps slow soil erosion and it helps birds, Wilcoxen said. Now cover crops are another overlapping win-win opportunity to benefit both agriculture and wildlife.

For more information on how to protect and improve soil quality, contact your local NRCS office or go online to www.ne.nrcs.usda.gov.
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Algerian national Djamel Ameziane in seen in this portrait taken at his home outside Algiers on Wednesday, May 20, 2015. Ameziane is suing the federal government for $50 million, alleging information provided by Canadian intelligence officials to their American counterparts led to his lengthy detention and abuse at Guantanamo Bay. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Debi Cornwall
Demonstrators holding banners that read in Catalan: "Freedom for the Political Prisoners", gather during a protest against the decision of a judge to jail ex-members of the Catalan government at the University square in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. A Spanish judge issued an international arrest warrant on Friday for former members of the Catalan Cabinet who were last seen in Brussels, including the ousted separatist leader Carles Puigdemont, who said he was prepared to run for his old job even while battling extradition in Belgium. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)
JERUSALEM, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Billionaire businessman Len Blavatnik is looking to buy a significant stake in debt-ridden Israeli drugmaker Teva Pharmaceutical Industries , according to Israeli media reports.

Two of Israel's leading financial news outlets, Globes and The Marker, reported on Sunday that Blavatnik has been examining a large share purchase in Teva, whose stock price hit a 17-year low last week after the company again cut its annual profit forecast. Officials at Blavatnik's U.S.-based industrial group, Access Industries, were not immediately reachable for comment. Teva , the world's biggest generic drugmaker, declined to comment.

The Marker reported that Blavatnik was looking to acquire up to a $3 billion stake in Teva. The company has a $12.3 billion market cap.

The investment could either be done through a private stock listing, which would help Teva deal with its nearly $35 billion debt burden, or the shares could be bought from pharmaceutical firm Allergan , the report said.

Allergan received a 10 percent stake in Teva as part of a 2016 deal in which Teva bought its generics business for $40.5 billion. Allergan announced last week that it would begin selling down that stake. Blavatnik's Access has investments in real estate, chemicals, media and technology with Warner Music among its highest profile businesses.

(Reporting by Ari Rabinovitch, Tova Cohen and Steven Scheer; Editing by Keith Weir)
JERUSALEM, Nov 5 (Reuters) - State-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) said on Sunday it signed a deal with the FIMI private equity fund to invest in IAI's subsidiary ImageSat.

FIMI will invest $40 million in ImageSat (ISI), a commercial provider of satellite imagery services, for 53.6 percent of ISI's capital, IAI said.

Under terms of the deal, ImageSat will acquire a new high resolution observation satellite, the EROS-C, and on the closing date it will pay $35 million as part of ISI's debt repayment.

FIMI will receive preferred shares in which a profit sharing mechanism will be operated between IAI and FIMI.

Completion of the deal is subject to the approval of the Defence Ministry and the anti-trust authority.

"Space continues to be at the heart of IAI's business strategy. The combining of forces with FIMI will create synergy between technological and business capabilities," said IAI CEO Joseph Weiss.

(Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by Tova Cohen)
Nov 5 (Reuters) - New York Federal Reserve President William Dudley, who oversaw the Fed's accumulation of trillions of dollars of assets in response to the 2007-2009 financial crisis, will likely announce his retirement this week, CNBC reported on Sunday, citing sources familiar with his plans.

A search committee has already been formed to find his replacement, the report said. CNBC said he is expected to step down in the spring or summer of next year once that replacement is named. ( )

The New York Fed declined to comment to Reuters.

Dudley took office in January 2009 and his term ends in early 2019.

Dudley is an influential voice on policy. The head of the New York Fed also serves as a vice chair and permanent voting member of the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee.

Presidents of the Fed's 12 reserve banks are appointed by the private boards that oversee them, not appointed by the president.

On Thursday, President Donald Trump tapped Fed Governor Jerome Powell to become head of the U.S. central bank, breaking with precedent by denying Janet Yellen a second term. (Reporting by Howard Schneider in Washington and Jonathan Spicer in New York; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
* Sacked Catalonian leader Puigdemont turns himself in

* Brussels judge to make a decision by Monday morning

* Poll shows pro-independence ticket to take 66-69 seats

(Recasts, adds comments, info on arrest procedure)

By Robert-Jan Bartunek, Paul Day and Sam Edwards

BRUSSELS/MADRID/BARCELONA, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Sacked Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont and four associates turned themselves in to Belgian police on Sunday, following Spain's issuing of an arrest warrant for rebellion and sedition.

All are wanted by Madrid for actions related to the push for the region's secession from Spain. Puigdemont has become the public face of that move for independence.

Other charges are the misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to the secessionist campaign, which has thrown Spain into a political crisis just as its economy has recovered from a sharp downturn and banking stress.

Madrid has taken over administrative control in Catalonia, until then an autonomous region, and called new elections on Dec 21.

Two polls on Sunday suggested pro-Catalonia independence parties will together win December's regional election although they may fall just short of a majority of seats in parliament needed to revive the secession campaign.

Parties supporting Catalonia staying in Spain would divide seats but garner around 54 percent of the vote, the polls suggested.

Puigdemont travelled to Belgium shortly after Madrid took control. On Sunday morning, Puigdemont and four of his former councillors presented themselves to police in Brussels.

A judge will hear the defendants case on Sunday afternoon and has until Monday morning to decide whether the formalities for the extradition request have been fulfilled. According to a GAD3 survey of 1,233 people conducted between Oct. 30 and Nov. 3 and published in La Vanguardia newspaper, pro-independence parties ERC, PDECat and CUP would take between 66 and 69 seats in the 135-seat parliament.

A second poll taken over the same period for the conservative newspaper La Razon echoed the GAD3 survey, showing pro-independence parties would capture the most votes though still fall just shy of a parliamentary majority with 65 seats.

Other seats would be generally divided between parties that support the region remaining as part of Spain, though they would run on separate tickets.

Voter participation, however, will rise to a record of 83 percent, the GAD3 poll showed.

POLITICIANS ON REMAND

Under the European arrest warrant system, the five defendants in Belgium can agree to an extradition order immediately or the judge can set bail or detain them. Belgian authorities have to inform their European counterparts if a European arrest warrant cannot be executed after 90 days. On Saturday, Puigdemont - who PDECat said on Sunday would lead the party in the election - called for a united Catalan political front for independence from Spain and against the detention of his former members of government. On Thursday, nine of his sacked cabinet were ordered by Spain's High Court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial.

One member of the dismissed cabinet, Santi Vila, was freed after paying bail of 50,000 euros ($58,035) on Friday. The other eight could remain in custody for up to four years.

According to the GAP3 survey, 59 percent believed legal action against Puigdemont was unjustified while 69.3 percent said that the jailing of the Catalan politicians would give the independence cause a boost at the ballot box.

Catalan civic groups Asamblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Cultural - whose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition charges - called for a general strike on Nov. 8 and a mass demonstration on Nov. 11 to protest the detentions.

BACK TO THE START

A rally in Barcelona on Sunday, however, attracted just a few hundred people, a long way from the hundreds of thousands to join pro-independence marches in October, many waving the regional flag and carrying protest signs.

One protester, Antonia Aguilera, 63, said she was concerned the new elections wouldn't be fair and would be manipulated by the Spanish government.

Her concerns echo the deep mistrust many Catalans have of politicians in Madrid that has deepened since the arrests and after the national police used truncheons and rubber bullets to thwart voting in the illegal independence referendum on Oct. 1.

"I'm disgusted by it all. We knew they would react but not as strongly as they did," she said, adding that she believed the pro-independence parties would win the December election.

"And then we'll be back where we started."

(Reporting by Robert-Jan Bartunek in Brussels, Paul Day in Madrid, and Sam Edwards in Barcelona; Editing by Jeremy Gaunt)

(Adds Belgian comment)

* Sacked Catalonian leader Puigdemont turns himself in

* Brussels judge to make a decision by Monday morning

* Poll shows pro-independence ticket to take 66-69 seats

By Robert-Jan Bartunek, Paul Day and Sam Edwards

BRUSSELS/MADRID/BARCELONA, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Sacked Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont and four associates turned themselves in to Belgian police on Sunday, following Spain's issuing of an arrest warrant for rebellion and sedition.

All are wanted by Madrid for actions related to the push for the region's secession from Spain. Puigdemont has become the public face of that move for independence.

Other charges are the misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to the secessionist campaign, which has thrown Spain into a political crisis just as its economy has recovered from a sharp downturn and banking stress.

Madrid has taken over administrative control in Catalonia, until then an autonomous region, and called new elections on Dec 21.

Two polls on Sunday suggested pro-Catalonia independence parties will together win December's regional election although they may fall just short of a majority of seats in parliament needed to revive the secession campaign.

Parties supporting Catalonia staying in Spain would divide seats but garner around 54 percent of the vote, the polls suggested.

Puigdemont travelled to Belgium shortly after Madrid took control. On Sunday morning, Puigdemont and four of his former councillors presented themselves to police in Brussels.

A judge will hear the defendants case on Sunday afternoon and has until Monday morning to decide whether the formalities for the extradition request have been fulfilled. According to a GAD3 survey of 1,233 people conducted between Oct. 30 and Nov. 3 and published in La Vanguardia newspaper, pro-independence parties ERC, PDeCAT and CUP would take between 66 and 69 seats in the 135-seat parliament.

A second poll taken over the same period for the conservative newspaper La Razon echoed the GAD3 survey, showing pro-independence parties would capture the most votes though still fall just shy of a parliamentary majority with 65 seats.

Other seats would be generally divided between parties that support the region remaining as part of Spain, though they would run on separate tickets.

Voter participation, however, will rise to a record of 83 percent, the GAD3 poll showed.

POLITICIANS ON REMAND

Under the European arrest warrant system, the five defendants in Belgium can agree to an extradition order immediately or the judge can set bail or detain them. Belgian authorities have to inform their European counterparts if a European arrest warrant cannot be executed after 90 days. On Saturday, Puigdemont - who PDeCAT said on Sunday would lead the party in the election - called for a united Catalan political front for independence from Spain and against the detention of his former members of government. On Thursday, nine of his sacked cabinet were ordered by Spain's High Court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial.

One member of the dismissed cabinet, Santi Vila, was freed after paying bail of 50,000 euros ($58,035) on Friday. The other eight could remain in custody for up to four years.

According to the GAP3 survey, 59 percent believed legal action against Puigdemont was unjustified while 69.3 percent said the jailing of the Catalan politicians would give the independence cause a boost at the ballot box.

Catalan civic groups Asamblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Cultural - whose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition charges - called for a general strike on Nov. 8 and a mass demonstration on Nov. 11 to protest the detentions.

The Catalonia issue has sent shockwaves across Europe, energizing regions with their own secessionist agenda while unnerving those fighting to keep the European Union from fracturing further.

Belgian Interior Minister Jan Jambon, a member of the Flemish nationalist and separatist party N-VA, criticised Spain's handling of situation on Sunday, saying Madrid "went too far" in an interview with Belgian broadcaster VTM.

Madrid says the judiciary acts independently of the legislative arm of government while adding that Catalonia leaders acted outside the rule of law when organising the vote and making the declaration of independence.

BACK TO THE START

A pro-secessionist rally in Barcelona on Sunday attracted just a few hundred people, a long way from the hundreds of thousands to join pro-independence marches in October. Many of those attending waved the regional flag and carried protest signs.

One protester, Antonia Aguilera, 63, said she was concerned the new elections would not be fair and would be manipulated by the Spanish government.

Her concerns echo the deep mistrust many Catalans have of politicians in Madrid that has deepened since the arrests and after the national police used truncheons and rubber bullets to thwart voting in the illegal independence referendum on Oct. 1.

"I'm disgusted by it all. We knew they would react but not as strongly as they did," she said, adding that she believed the pro-independence parties would win the December election.

"And then we'll be back where we started."

(Reporting by Robert-Jan Bartunek in Brussels, Paul Day in Madrid, and Sam Edwards in Barcelona; Editing by Jeremy Gaunt and Edmund Blair)
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. High near 30F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy. Low 16F. Winds light and variable.
Private equity eyes Bodyfriend IPO for next deal



By Nam Hyun-woo



VIG Partners, a local buyout fund, is looking to add another record to its deal portfolio following its exit from Burger King Korea.



This time, VIG and other investors that formed a special purpose company (SPC) for the acquisition of Bodyfriend, a manufacturer of electronic massage chairs, are considering an initial public offering (IPO) of the company.



The investors of the VIG-led BFH SPC also include Neoplux, a Doosan investment company, and Bodyfriend CEO Park Sang-hyun. The SPC has a 90.87 percent stake in the massage chair maker, according to Bodyfriend's audit filing.



The group is seemingly preparing for Bodyfriend's stock flotation as local securities companies are assessing the valuation of the company. This would eventually lead brokerages to compete to become its IPO lead manager.



"We are currently studying what its value would be with the securities companies," a VIG Partners source said.

"We have not yet decided whether we should list the company. Thus, there is no fixed plan for our exit."



This comes as news surfaced that the investors of the chair producer have begun the process of selecting the lead manager.



Given Bodyfriend's market dominance in its sector and rising profitability over the past years, the IPO would provide a lucrative exit for VIG and its partners.



Some analysts estimate the deal could be valued at around 2 trillion won ($1.78 billion).



Should they push ahead, the IPO is also expected to breathe fresh momentum into the company, which had to suspend its stock listing in 2014. Then, it picked Korea Investment & Securities as the lead manager.



Bodyfriend founder and Chairman Cho Kyung-hee instead sold the company to the SPC for 400 billion won in 2015.



Since then, Bodyfriend has seen rapid expansion.



It posted an operating profit of 93.3 billion won in 2016, up 43 percent from a year earlier. Its sales jumped 39 percent at 366.5 billion won in the same period, according to its audit filing.



In 2007 when it was founded, its sales were 2.7 billion won.



Besides its aggressive marketing using stars for its television commercials, home shopping and events, the company was able to increase the number of its stores to over 100.



The expansion has boosted its shares traded in the over-the-counter (OTC) market, reaching 144,000 won last Tuesday, a 3.5 times the value before the VIG-led SPC's acquisition, according to 38 Communications, an OTC market data provider.



The IPO, if realized, is expected to put VIG on the local private equity map, analysts say.



VIG, which usually goes for companies in the middle market, has generally been favored as an ideal private equity fund as it seeks to improve the fundamentals of the companies it acquired through increase in sales and profits, rather than through restructuring.



VIG received an accolade from Burger King Korea for helping "increase the number of regular employees from 3,358 to 5,517" over the past three years.



VIG Partners acquired a 100 percent stake of Burger King Korea at 110 billion won at the end of 2012 and sold it to Affinity Equity Partners at 210 billion won in April last year.



In 2006, VIG acquired a 100 percent stake in Novita's electronic bidet unit, for 40 billion won. After five years, VIG sold Novita to Kohler at 90 billion won.




By Lee Kyung-min

A girl, born in the UAE in 2001, was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease, where patients are unable to evacuate stool because part of the colon lacks certain nerves that regulate its movement.

Her condition did not improve despite two surgeries _ one in India and one in her country _ which led to Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD) seeking help from pediatric surgery specialists in London in 2013. Despite three operations there, her condition worsened.

Doctors in London said bowel diversion was the only option left, adding they could not promise anything.

HAAD recommended her family seek treatment in Korea, a country that was increasingly garnering a worldwide reputation with foreign patients for its advanced medical technology and high success rates.

While her parents were initially reluctant to send their child to a country they were not familiar with, they became convinced by many success stories of children younger than her daughter with similar diseases.

When she came to a hospital in Korea in January 2014, despite the incredibly adverse conditions, doctors performed a six-hour operation on Jan. 22 and the result was an absolute success.

She regained full control of the nerves in her colon, with no side effects, which her mother said went beyond her initial expectations.

"Many doctors from different countries tried, but my daughter's condition did not improve," her mother said.

"Most of all, I was overwhelmed that my baby is healthy. She recovered quickly as well. I will definitely recommend patients go to Korea for treatment."







A 72-year-old woman from Kazakhstan, who refused to be identified, was first diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer in January 2016.

Her condition worsened as she underwent four cycles of chemotherapy before seeking treatment in Germany where she was treated for two months.

Medical staffers there told her she was no longer in a condition to withstand the harsh and exhausting chemotherapy due to her deteriorated condition.

She returned to her home country hopeless, but decided to come to Korea after hearing successful treatment stories compiled by a Korean medical agency based in Busan.

She is in much better condition at a university hospital in Busan specializing in asbestos cancer.

These two cases are only a few of the many success stories of foreign patients who had their illnesses fully treated amid the Ministry of Health and Welfare's continued efforts to better guarantee safety and convenience in medical services for foreign patients.

Under the law that took effect in 2016 _ the Act on Support for Overseas Expansion of Healthcare Systems and Attracting International Patients _ medical institutions and private medical agencies, which earn commissions through patient bookings at specific medical institutions, must renew their licenses every three years or be disqualified from offering treatment to foreign patients.

The ministry requires all medical institutions be insured for medical malpractice, or be disqualified from treating foreign patients.

While the measures are all well-received by the medical institutions and agencies, the most effective one was putting a 30 percent cap on commissions for medical treatment costs.

This was to help guarantee foreign patients fair treatment costs. Previously, patients had to pay an unrestricted amount of additional fees asked for by brokers and private agencies that help them select doctors or clinics here.

"It was commonplace for brokers from China to ask up to 8 million won ($7,100) in commissions for a patient who had a 10 million won operation. And mostly they only asked for cash," said a senior official at a beauty clinic that offers plastic surgery and dermatological treatments.

"As the government put the cap at 30 percent, there are almost no calls from suspected brokers asking for reservations for Chinese patients."

Another measure seeking to root out brokers demanding exorbitant commissions includes foreign patients undergoing plastic surgery or dermatological treatments to be exempted from value-added tax, which accounts for 10 percent of medical fees.

Through the tax refund, foreign patients can save money and see if medical institutions overcharged them in commissions.

An official from one of the booking agencies here said the government measure was a much-needed assertion amid few accurate details about commissions.

"It is already established among many patients about the competent, reputable Korean medical technology, while doubts remain about how commission fees are set and whether that should be a risk a patient has to take," the official said.





Medical tourism growth potential in Korea significant

The ministry's efforts come amid a growing number of foreigners seeking medical treatment here.

According to ministry data released in April, the number of foreign medical tourists increased to more than 364,000 last year, up 23 percent from a year earlier.

An increasing number of patients from Uzbekistan, Vietnam and the Philippines have come to Korea.

Over 7,200 patients from Middle Eastern countries came including over 700 United Arab Emirates nationals who were on a government program.

Most of the UAE patients come here on the program to treat serious and complex medical conditions or illnesses such as cancer or stroke, or to undergo transplants, all of which are difficult to treat in their home country.

A fifth of the patients sought treatment for internal medicine (20 percent), followed by plastic surgery (11.3 percent) and dermatology (11.1 percent).

A growing number of patients sought treatment for cancer or stroke, transplants and rehabilitation as well as traditional Korean medicine and obstetrics/gynecology.

A total of 18,011 sought treatment with traditional Korean medicine, up 36.3 percent from a year earlier and 23,081 visited obstetricians/gynecologists, up 21.6 percent from 18,986 a year earlier.

According to a report from Allied Market Research, the global medical tourism market is expected to triple in size, reaching $165 billion by 2023, from $61 billion last year.

Given the rapid growth in the number of foreign patients over the past years, the new goal is to diversify treatments patients can trust.

"In order to achieve the goal of becoming a global health care leader, we will continue to strengthen our capabilities to monitor irregularities and enforce the laws to guarantee safety and convenience for foreign patients," a ministry official said.
President Donald Trump, left, and first lady Melania Trump arrive at Yokota Air Base, on Nov. 5 in Fussa, on the outskirts of Tokyo. / AP-Yonhap



The top diplomats of South Korea and the United States held phone talks Sunday to discuss preparations for the upcoming summit between their leaders and other issues of mutual concern, the foreign ministry here said.

U.S. President Donald Trump is to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a two-day stay during which he will have a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-in.

In the phone conversation earlier in the day, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha hoped that Trump's visit will demonstrate the ironclad alliance between the two countries and highlight their close coordination to peacefully and diplomatically resolve North Korea's nuclear stalemate, according to the ministry.

Tillerson said that the U.S. is attaching importance to Trump's visit, hoping that it will be used as a chance to underscore the significance of the bilateral alliance and send a "positive message," including their strong commitment to denuclearizing the North, the ministry said. Tillerson assessed that the two are closely in consultation on the North's nuclear problem.

He also welcomed China's recent move to improve the ties between South Korea and China, expressing hopes that Beijing would ease what is seen as retaliatory economic measures against South Korea following the deployment of the U.S. missile defense system called THAAD here, the ministry said.












By Kim Rahn



Political party leaders are heading overseas to seek their parties' own solutions for various diplomatic issues such as North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and revision talks on the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA).



But whether they can realize expected ideas and advice through the trips is unclear, and there are concerns some opposition party leaders against President Moon Jae-in's diplomacy may misrepresent understandings of the South Korean government's policies to foreign politicians and experts.



Minor opposition People's Party head Ahn Cheol-soo embarked Friday on a five-day trip to Germany and Israel. In Germany, he met security experts at the Peace Research Institute in Frankfurt and learned about nuclear weapons from NATO. In Israel, he is visiting CyberArk, a security software company, and the Israel Aerospace Industry.



The party said Ahn will gain insights on security and innovation through his visits to Germany and Israel, which have grown through technology development after wars.



But it may be difficult for Ahn to achieve tangible diplomatic results because the two nations are not directly related to the current security and trade issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula and Ahn is meeting experts, not the politicians of the nations.



Main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) leader Hong Joon-pyo is planning trips to Vietnam at the end of this month and Japan next month to talk about cooperation in trade and the North Korea issue.



But he caused a stir during his earlier visit to the U.S. in late October, when he called for the redeployment of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons to South Korea, a claim the Moon administration opposes.



During lectures to Korean Peninsula issue experts and meetings with politicians there, Hong criticized the Moon government, calling government officials "pro-North Korea."



"Those who previously staged anti-America rallies to oppose the presence of U.S. forces in Korea and the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) are now mainstream decision-makers in the incumbent administration," he said in a speech at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, D.C. "Rifts in the Korea-U.S. alliance caused by pro-North Korea forces are more threatening than North Korea."



All other parties then slammed Hong for making such "irresponsible" remarks, saying he used the same strategy he uses here to consolidate conservative forces, but it was not helpful for the national interest.



In the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), Chairwoman Choo Mi-ae will travel to the U.S. from Nov. 14 to 19, seeking meetings with political heavyweights there, including national security adviser H. R. McMaster, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and House Speaker Paul Ryan.



As a ruling party leader, Choo is planning to stress the need for a peaceful resolution of the North Korea issue during the meetings with them. For the revision of the FTA, she is expected to deliver messages that the deal should be reciprocal based on trust.



She is also scheduled to exchange opinions on the North Korea issue with Robert Gallucci, former U.S. top negotiator for the 1994 North Korean nuclear crisis who is now chairman of the U.S.-Korea Institute at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.



Afterward she will go to China to participate in a conference of ranking officials of the Communist Party of China and political parties of other countries from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3.



The DPK is arranging a meeting between Choo and Chinese President Xi Jinping.




Effects of measures remain questionable



By Kim Hyo-jin



The South Korean government issued its own sanctions against North Korea on Sunday over its nuclear and missile provocations ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to the country.



The Ministry of Foreign Affairs unveiled a list of 18 North Korean individuals subject to the unilateral sanctions, saying they will take effect Monday.



It marks Seoul's first unilateral sanctions against the nuclear weapon-seeking country since President Moon Jae-in took power in May.



However, the sanctions could only remain ineffective and symbolic because the two Koreas have already cut almost all exchanges.



The ministry singled out the figures who had been blacklisted by the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) for being linked to North Korea's financial networks.



The selection came in line with sanctions by the international community, according to the ministry.



"They are the executives of North Korean banks overseas suspected of funneling money for the development of weapons of mass destruction for their government," the ministry said.



"The measure is expected to help cut the North's illegal financial resource and raise awareness of the dangers of transactions with the blacklisted individuals at home and abroad."



The sanctions will freeze property of the sanctioned individuals within South Korean jurisdiction and ban any of their transactions with South Korean banks.



The ministry added the government will continue working on resolving the North's nuclear issue peacefully by making the North come to the dialogue table through sanctions and pressure.



The move is interpreted as a show of tightened coordination between Seoul and Washington on the North Korea policy.



A senior Cheong Wa Dae official hinted Friday that the move was facilitated at the request of Washington. "The U.S. called on our government to impose additional sanctions as they will carry a symbolic significance regardless of their effectiveness," the official said.



Moon earlier told his security officials to consider the country's own sanctions against Pyongyang during an NSC meeting convened immediately after the North's launch of the intercontinental ballistic missile Hwasong-14, July 28.



The impact of the sanctions, however, remains questionable as South Korean banks have had no transactions with North Korean individuals or groups since the May 24 sanctions, a package of economic penalties on Pyongyang imposed by then-President Lee Myung-bak in 2010 in retaliation for the North's torpedo attack on the Navy corvette Cheonan, which killed 46 South Korean sailors.



The 2010 sanctions banned all South Korean visits to North Korea aside from the Gaeseong Industrial Complex, all North Korean ships from entering South Korean waters and inter-Korean trade and new investments in North Korea.



While maintaining the basic structure of the May 24 sanctions, the Park Geun-hye government issued a series of unilateral sanctions following the North's fourth and fifth nuclear tests last year.



It then blacklisted 79 individuals and 69 organizations involved in illegal activities of the North Korean regime.



"The sanction came two days before Trump's visit as it could not be delayed any further," said Nam Sung-wook, a unification and diplomacy professor at Korea University, shedding light on the earlier call by the U.S.



"It has no effectiveness whatsoever to contain the North's provocations as it is a mere revival of the existing UNSC sanctions. Having said that, an announcement of unilateral sanctions itself is symbolic."



Attention is rising over how North Korea would react while Trump is on a state visit to South Korea from Nov. 7 to 8 during which the North Korea issue will top the agenda.



It took a hostile stance, saying the Moon government is about to welcome a "war lunatic" in an article of Tongil Sinbo, a North Korean weekly propaganda magazine, Thursday.



It called Trump's visit a "move to propel a nuclear war on the Korean Peninsula."



North Korea watchers forecast Pyongyang may step back and wait for the right moment to relaunch its verbal attack on the U.S.



"Pyongyang would stay silent while the U.S. leader is at the approximate distance but will soon release harsh rhetoric probably through the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency," Nam said, referring to its previous inaction during U.S. presidents' visits to South Korea and the South Korea-U.S. joint military exercises.




Visitors to Korea Single Fair 2017 at COEX in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu in Seoul, check out electric cars on Aug. 11. The exhibition introduced ways to improve the quality of life for single-person household. / Korea Times file



By Ko Dong-hwan

Sales of eco-friendly cars are growing in South Korea as strong financial support from central and local governments encourages consumers.

Six percent of all vehicles  sedans, vans, freight vehicles and special-purpose vehicles  registered from January to September this year are electric cars or hybrids using an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.

Hybrids account for 5.2 percent while electric vehicles account for 0.8 percent, according to the Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association on Saturday.

This year's figure is up from last year's 3.7 percent (hybrids 3.4 percent and electric cars 0.3 percent).

Behind the growing sales of eco-friendly is strong government support for buyers.

When consumers buy hybrid cars, they can receive up to1 million won ($896). Benefits also include a reduction in income tax, educational tax and value-added tax adding up to 1.43 million won, while the acquisition tax can be reduced by up to 1.4 million won. Buyers with bonds in urban development or city metro can receive a tax reduction of up to 400,000 won.

Buying an electric car offers greater benefits. The central government is providing 14 million won for buyers of fast-speed electric cars and 5.78 million won for slow-speed electric cars. Income tax, educational tax and value-added tax can be deducted by up to 2.86 million won and acquisition tax by up to 2 million won. Buyers with the bonds can enjoy 500,000 won tax reduction.

Local governments offer separate supporting funds for electric-car buyers, with the Seoul Metropolitan Government providing up to 5.5 million won.





Kia Motors' Niro hybrid SUV is introduced at Walkerhill Vista Hall in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, Mar. 29, 2016. / Korea Times file



The benefits exist not just at dealers but on road and at parking lots nationwide, boosting convenience for drivers who have bought or rented the cars.

When driving through Namsan Mountain in Jung-gu, Seoul, via Namsan Tunnel No.1 and No.3, drivers are exempt from tolls. At public parking lots, fees are discounted 50 percent, while the price is slashed by 80 percent at parking lots that connect to the subway.

When using a hi-pass  an electronic device created by Korea Expressway Corporation that drivers attach to the windshield so that highway toll booths automatically detect and charge tolls  specifically designed for eco-friendly car drivers, the tolls are discounted by 50 percent.

The device also saves drivers from paying taxes for national environment improvement charge system.

Those who already own the device and changed to an eco-friendly car can register the new car's "eco-friendly" verification code on the corporation's website and receive a new hi-pass device.
By Michael McManus





Some people here in Seoul think that because we both are Wharton 1968 alumni, there is something special. I do know we both went through the same Zeitgeist, and turmoil like that can shape us or damage us. I survived well as an academic and entrepreneur. Now some of my good friends here in Seoul want me to write you a letter. Call it "suggestions for your visit". As a US citizen living and teaching here in Seoul for 6 years, I will offer at least some insights.

So here we are after about ten or so US Presidents and after the watershed event of the Truman-MacArthur clash about what to do, the can is rolling faster down the road after so many kicks! Maybe the slogan is "Let's stop the can!".

Suggestions in no particular order:

1. You have support here, but also many cynics. It is interesting, the Koreans who support you are exactly the ones I would have hoped do so. No accidents!

2. Streets are safe here; take a walk in the evening and see the Lantern Festival. You and the First Lady will find it uniquely beautiful.

3. Food: Koreans are most proud of the local cuisine and Kimchee is the big one. You may be served some of the best but there is a wide range of tastes.

4. Childrenamong the cutest in the world. Mother-daughter combinations are especially beautiful. Mrs. Trump will enjoy this so much.

5. Koreans will follow President Moon's preferred approach concerning the future (73% favorability). He is opposed to nuclear power, and wants the ROK to have leadership command of the Joint Forces. That discussion could be very slow and political. If I may suggest that in your major speech here you help the Korean people understand that the US has its own specific set of issues of homeland security, as well as those of the ROK, Japan, and others.

6. Redline. It may be the time now to set the doctrine. One-NK agrees to talk with the full six party group of nations. Two-if NK acts toward the US or any of its allies with specific threats, actions or starts an incursion of any kind, the US will quickly retaliate militarily on a large and powerful scale. The cuffs are off, and people of the US and our friends in the ROK, Japan and the region, in fact all around the world, will not ever let NK achieve symmetrical MAD status with any country it wants to bully. NK rulers and their people need to understand that unification will never, ever permit the North's political system to encroach on the ROK's democracy. Mr. Rocket man needs to get real, stop playing with fire, and do the right things for his people, or get the hell out.

7. The Korean people need extreme reassurance.

8. Be careful of appeasers.

9. Help them understand the mood of the US people is one of anger and frustration with these circumstances. The minute that Rocketman would mention a specific target or city on the mainland US, the Americans will react and it could be the tripwire.

10. At all events in Korea, remember that Korean pride is operating everywhere. No one wants war. Like in 1939 when Hitler threatened all of Europe and the US, this is a time to get real and serious. But in the last analysis, Mr President, you have the defense and unbelievable offense if and when needed.





Dr. Michael McManus writes exclusively for the Korea Times. He currently serves as Honorary Guest Professor and Strategic Advisor at Gachon University. Write to him at mcmismism@aol.com
Dear Mr. President,



You will have no doubt been briefed in great detail regarding the strong historical, cultural, and military ties that exist between the United States and South Korea. Many of these are well-documented and the foreign communities in each of the countries are testament to how successfully this has been carried out over the many years. Your imminent arrival here in Seoul is preceded by a long list of others  and it is hoped that the work done now will be remembered as fondly in the future as those that have gone before.



The benefits of some of the very first Americans to visit these shores are still with us today. Moreover, they play an essential and yet often intangible role in the very fabric of Korean society. A society that has continually demonstrated a remarkable ability to overcome adversity and thrive in a competitive global environment.



It can be said that a prosperous and thriving society is one that values the hearts, brains, and minds of its citizens  one that embraces and nourishes all without discrimination according to lineage, gender, or other such factors. It was those very hearts, brains, and minds that the first callers to these shores deeply affected. And thus, more than 130 years since his arrival in 1884, the splendid Yonsei Severance Hospital serves as testament to the legacy of Horace Newton Allen. A statute of Horace Grant Underwood stands in Yonsei University as a tribute to the work he and his family have done in strengthening the bonds between the two nations. Meanwhile another of South Korea's most prestigious and respected universities, Ewha Women's University, is a continuation of the dedicated and all-embracing efforts of Mary F. Scranton that began in 1886.



Such profound and long-lasting changes imparted by these early American visitors are hard to quantify in monetary or material terms. They are more akin to seeds which, since being planted, have grown and flourished into mature and thriving hardwood: A hardwood that supports and nourishes much of what still happens in this remarkable land. They are part of the very foundations upon which democracy and, in turn, economic prosperity have sprouted. The warp and woof that have allowed Korean students of all genders, ages, and social classes to attend universities, to study and exercise free speech, and have access to health care that is affordable and accessible to all.



It is wise to retain such legacies and permanence in one's mind when confronted with the nature of international relations. Domestic politics in many countries around the world has become a seemingly ever faster swinging pendulum, veering from one side to the other at greater speeds with consequently greater arcs and distances each time. Here, there are displayed a widening disparity in view points and opinions thrown together on modern platforms such as social media. The movement of international relations is not one which should be tested so readily, however. Even the slightest nudge in one direction can have tectonic results on the wider balance of power in certain regions.



It is international relations between countries such as Korea and the United States on the world's stage that are the chief constituent of what comprises global security. The lives of billions of individuals rest upon the alliances, associations, and fraternities created at the national level so as to achieve a systemic peace that reverberates around the world and solidifies the various actors in their place in order to prevent bloodshed, conflict, and hostility.



As humans we may never truly rid ourselves of the specter of war, for there is always a casus bali waiting to make its seductive voice heard. Yet, the second half of the twentieth century and the start of this century have seen much of the world gifted with a form of stability and sturdiness that arose from the various treaties, alliances, and multilateral agreements that were born out of the chaos of the Second World War, the Korean War, and other harrowing conflicts.



Thus, a hardwood exists beneath the international stage and provides a veritable rock upon which countless individuals and their families play out their existence. This foundation is comprised of various alliances and deeply-intertwined partnerships and affinities. As those Americans that arrived here in Korea did things that implanted themselves in the soil of this land so that it may later flourish and grow into prosperity, may you gaze beyond the volatile swinging pendulum of the present and instead have the prudence and foresight to see deep into the constancy and endurance of alliances.





David Tizzard is an assistant professor at Seoul Women's University and host of TBS eFM's cultural talk show" A Little of a Lot."




By Ned Forney





"If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs . . ." In light of our tumultuous times, the words of Rudyard Kipling may be the best advice we can give ourselves and our leaders.

With social media platforms, YouTube channels, and the old stand-by, newspapers, constantly reminding us of terrorist attacks, political unrest, environmental disasters, and the threat of AI and impending wars, Kipling's famous poem, "If ," penned over 120 years ago, should be on our mandatory reading list.

As U.S. President Donald Trump arrives in Seoul and tensions across Northeast Asia continue to rise, the hard working, "bali bali" citizens of the Republic of Korea are understandably concerned. The American leader's un-presidential tweets and bellicose speeches have made the world uneasy. Even Kim Jong-un seems a bit unnerved.

During his stay, the world's politicians, pundits, and anyone with a social media account will be giving advice and recommendations to President Trump. But as a former US Marine Corps officer, I don't feel comfortable giving America's current commander-in-chief instructions or a laundry list of things he should or shouldn't do while visiting the ROK. It would be naive and pretentious of me to think he or anyone else on his staff would be interested in or amused by such a memo.

More to the point, I am not experienced or knowledgeable enough to give a government official a lecture on how to behave, what to say, or how to use a pair of binoculars (really, Jeffrey Miller?) when he or she makes a state visit. There's too much at stakemillions of lives for startersto turn Trump's visit into a soapbox of personal or political vendettas.

I have lived in Seoul for only 30 months, but during this time, I've tried to observe, listen to, and empathize with the people I've met, and as President Trump and his team visit Korea over the next two days, it is my hope they will do the same. The more they talk with and listen to Korea's politicians, business leaders, military and security officials, and activists, the better.

I also hope Trump will get the opportunity to take a helicopter tour of Seoul to see how vast, modern, and populated the city is and gain a better appreciation of how close those of us living in South Korea's capital are to the DMZ. Secretary of Defense James Mattis flew over Seoul a few days ago and was apparently very impressed by what he saw.

It's also important for Trump and ROK President Moon Jae-in to spend as much time together as possible, developing their personal relationship and reaffirming their countries' strong alliance. Despite contested issues involving KORUS, the THAAD deployment, and the OPCON transfer, the political, economic, and military bonds between the US and ROK, forged in blood over sixty years ago, are as strong as ever. North Korea, China, and Russia should have no doubts about this as the two-day summit ends.

And finally, it would be wonderful if in the next few days the US commander-in-chief unveiled a new policy for dealing with Kim Jong-un: the "speak softly and carry a big stick" policy. Made popular by America's 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt, the strategy would change the dynamics between North Korea, South Korea, and the United Statesfor the better.

The "rocket man" and the world know exactly what will happen if the paranoid and ruthless Pyongyang regime launches more than just verbal threats against the US or its allies. There's no need to reiterate this position. America and South Korea's stance on this is perfectly clear. Our actionsnot our tweetsshould be proof enough of what will happen if Kim miscalculates his provocations.

We are in the midst of a dangerous and potentially catastrophic game of cat and mouse. Leaders on both sides must be cautious. As most experts agree, the status quo won't continue much longer. Something will give.

With that in mind, the ROK and US must maintainand more appropriately increasetheir vigilance and military preparedness. Moon Jae-in and Donald Trump both agree on this point. But they should also continue to tighten the screws on the North Korean regime through sanctions (strict and enforced) and increased pressure on China. Only then, if ever, will Kim Jong-un come to the negotiating table.

As the editorial board of The Korea Times stated last week, President Trump's visit to Korea is "pivotal to the two countries' alliance and regional peace and stability." I agree whole-heartedly. Let's hope that with Trump and Moon working together, cooperation and trust between America and South Korea will increase, and the threat of war will decrease.

If this happens, Trump's visit will have been productive and worthwhile. If it doesn't, the summit will simply be written off as another lost opportunity. Koreans on both sides of the DMZ and Americans, an ocean away, deserve better.





Ned Forney (ned@nedforney.com) lives in Seoul, where he is writing a book on the Chosin Reservoir Campaign and Hungnam Evacuation.
UNESCO deserves chastisement for its recent decision not to recognize the records of comfort women _ wartime sex slaves _ under Japan's colonial rule.



South Korea, China and six other countries whose civic groups had pushed unsuccessfully for recognition, should ask the United Nations body to explain the reason for its decision.



Now the body's International Advisory Committee says the parties involved _ Japan (the perpetrator), Korea, China and other victims _ should come to agreement before thousands of documents and testimonies of former comfort women are adopted to the Memory of the World Register.



That is to say the least an absurd demand because Japan under ultranationalist Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been too busy whitewashing his ancestors' misdeeds in the lead-up to and during World War II. Abe's slogan for a normal Japan, in his words, means an amnesiac Japan that stops apologizing for atrocities against its neighbors.



Tokyo is betting heavily on the "self-resolution" of the issue of comfort women, now in their 80s and 90s and in frail health, through a waiting game. This year alone, six former comfort women have died, leaving only 34 survivors.



About 200,000, mostly Korean girls and women, were commandeered across the Korean Peninsula, which was under Japanese occupation and was plundered for Japan's war effort. A lot of these women lived their lives in shame, hiding their identities and not returning to their families.



Japan is systematically trying to dilute its criminality by disseminating falsehoods that most comfort women had volunteered to be prostitutes for imperial soldiers in frontline brothels.



Above all, it is nothing short of utter absurdity to imagine imperial Japan respected human rights and freedom of expression and conducted its main war support program using volunteers.



Even more unimaginable is Japan's claim that these girls and women consciously decided to serve 100 to 200 soldiers per day, turning themselves into a human cesspool.



With its latest decision not to recognize the evidential materials for Japan's misdeeds, UNESCO is turning a blind eye to what should be judged as a crime against humanity on a colossal scale and is raising suspicions that the U.N. body is conspiring to bury the war crimes for which Japan was responsible.



UNESCO's rejection of the request is contrary to the U.N.'s basic spirit of conscience and protection. UNESCO has denied a significant part of its raison d'etre and given its members one more reason not to stay.








Thae correct on how to deal with NK



Thae Yong-ho, the North Korean deputy ambassador in London who defected to South Korea in August last year, has been visiting the United States, testifying in the U.S. Congress, giving media interviews and lecturing.



It is a rare outing for the highest-level known defector after the 1997 defection by Hwang Jang-yop, the architect of the North's founding "Juche" or self-reliance philosophy. Thae has reduced his activities _ letting the world know about the North's realities _ as the progressive Moon Jae-in government is trying to resume inter-Korean dialogue.



Now, it may be true that Thae's accounts are biased in places and fall short of being holistic, but it cannot be denied that he is a treasure trove of information on the North. For that reason, his U.S. visit is meaningful for sharing information. Of course, some of his claims need critical scrutiny.



The points Thae has made in the U.S. are worthy of note and should be reflected in the ongoing effort to denuclearize the North.



First, he said a pre-emptive strike, floated as a possibility by the U.S., would trigger all-out war. The U.S. has repeatedly threatened Pyongyang by saying force remains an option and implying a surgical strike is one way to implement it.



Experts' consensus is that millions of South Koreans would be killed in what could lead to a nuclear World War III on the Korean Peninsula. But persisting on the sidelines is a wishful-thinking scenario that a well-executed strike nullifies the North's counterattack capabilities together with its nuclear arsenal. Thae's message is "stop daydreaming."



Second, the defector, now attached to a state-run research institute, claims Pyongyang is trying a "divide-and-conquer" tactic to rupture the ROK-U.S. alliance. He said it was pivotal for the international community to maintain the high-pressure sanctions, making the North understand it will not be recognized as a nuclear-armed state.



On the surface, the Moon government is on the same page as the Trump administration in maximizing pressure on the North. But inside moon is doubtful about the effectiveness of this, and is trying to open a line of communication with Pyongyang even at the cost of ties with the U.S., through such concessions as scaling down joint military exercises. Seoul is also suffering a sense of ambivalence, suspecting Washington may cut a deal behind its back with the North or China. Thae's advice is for Seoul and Washington to keep up the pressure until the North realizes there cannot be a split in the alliance.



Finally, Thae pushed a Trump-Kim meeting as an ultimate way of resolving the impasse. One big flaw is that President Moon is missing from this scenario. As the main stakeholder, Seoul must be involved in any effort to defuse the North Korean crisis.




Prosecutors rapped for being too cruel to business leaders



By Yoon Sung-won





Lotte founder

Shin Kyuk-ho

The prosecution is increasingly demanding heavy punishments for business leaders under the Moon Jae-in administration.



While the move shows the authority's firm resolution for justice in business circles, concerns are looming over the feasibility of such heavy punishments and consequent negative influences on the operation of major conglomerates here.



Last week, the prosecution demanded a 10-year prison term and a fine of 300 billion won for Lotte Group founder Shin Kyuk-ho for embezzlement, breach of trust and other charges during his final hearing at the Seoul Central District Court.



"We came up with the decision because Shin was the one who determined and ordered the crimes in the first place," the prosecutors said. "Even in consideration of his age and health, strict criminal punishment is inevitable."



The Lotte Group founder was indicted in October for a series of irregularities, including ordering the company to pay 50.8 billion won in wages to family members who had never worked for the company.



He was also accused of having transferred his shares in Japan-based Lotte Holdings to family members at face value to help them evade about 70 billion won in gift taxes.



However, the 10-year prison term seems unfeasible as the defendant is a 95-year-old suffering dementia, according to industry sources. Last week, Shin didn't even remember why he is standing trial.



For this reason, the defense counsel is likely to ask the court to suspend execution of confinement. Under Korean law, patients with advanced age or illness who can hardly be treated in prison can temporarily be released. Also, the court may give Shin a suspended sentence or lighter punishment due to his age and illness.



"Though it is true that Shin's health is very bad, we will calmly wait for the court's determination," a Lotte official said.

On Oct. 30, prosecutors also demanded 10 years in prison and a 100 billion won fine for Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong-bin, who is the group founder's son, over similar charges.



Aiming at refreshing the group after a series of scandals since last year, Lotte launched a holding company and successfully listed it on Seoul bourse on Oct. 30. But on the same day, the chairman faced heavy punishment demanded by the prosecution.



Under the new slogan "New Lotte," the chairman has been expected to aggressively push for mergers and acquisitions as well as listing of the Lotte Hotel. But if he is sentenced to an actual prison term at his upcoming trial on Dec. 22, Lotte and its chairman's drive is also likely to be thwarted.



Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong, the de-facto chief of the nation's largest conglomerate, also faced a similar fate.



In August, the special prosecution investigating the corruption scandal involving former President Park Geun-hye and her confidant Choi Soon-sil demanded a 12-year prison term for Lee, for allegedly offering over a 43 billion won bribe to Park and Choi. Later, Lee was sentenced to five years in prison by Seoul Central District Court.



The heavy punishments demanded by the prosecutors are in stark contrast to the prison sentences other business leaders in the past. Conglomerate chiefs including Hanjin Group Chairman Cho Yang-ho, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, Doosan Group Chairman Park Yong-mann, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo and Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee all were sentenced to only three years in prison or a five-year suspended sentence.
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Medicaid is rarely associated with getting rich. The patients are poor, the budgets tight and payments to doctors often paltry.

But some insurance companies are reaping spectacular profits off the taxpayer-funded program in California, even when the state finds that patient care is subpar.

Health Net, a unit of Centene Corp., the largest Medicaid insurer nationwide, raked in $1.1 billion in profit from 2014 to 2016, according to state data obtained by Kaiser Health News. Anthem, another industry giant, turned a profit of $549 million from Californias Medicaid program in the same period.

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Overall, Medicaid insurers in the Golden State made $5.4 billion in profits from 2014 to 2016, in part because the state paid higher rates during the inaugural years of the nations Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare. Last year, they made more money than all Medicaid insurers combined in 34 other states with managed care plans.

Those profits are gigantic  wow, said Glenn Melnick, a health economist and professor at USC.

Alan Sager, a health-policy professor at Boston University, was surprised  and dismayed.

California is being wildly open handed and excessively generous with insurers, he said.

Jennifer Kent, Californias Medicaid director, said that health plan profits were higher than anticipated during the ACA expansion. But she said the state expects to recoup a significant amount of money within the next year once audits are complete and other retroactive rate adjustments are made.

Were going to be taking a lot of money back. Were talking billions of dollars, Kent said in an interview Friday. No one should think these plans just made off like bandits and were not going to see them again ... We are very mindful we use taxpayer money.

Health insurers that profited substantially from Medicaid, known as Medi-Cal in California, defend their good fortune. They say these surpluses follow losses in earlier years, and they always run the risk of red ink if medical costs jump.

The expansion may have been a little rich in the beginning, said Jeff Myers, chief executive of the Medicaid Health Plans of America, an industry trade group. But you are starting to see margins come back down.

More than 1 in 3 Californians, or 13.5 million people, are covered by Medicaid  more than the population of Pennsylvania. About 80% of those in Californias program are enrolled in a managed-care plan, in which insurers receive a fixed rate per person to handle their medical care. The goal is to control costs and better coordinate care.

In anticipation of the Obamacare rollout, officials in California and elsewhere boosted their payments to managed-care companies because they expected Medicaid costs to increase as newly insured patients rushed to the doctor or emergency room after going years without coverage. But those sharply higher costs didnt materialize  and insurers pocketed more money as a result, especially in California.

Moreover, Californias payments keep flowing steadily even when patients fare poorly. Two of the most profitable insurers in California  Centene and Anthem  run some of the worst-performing Medicaid plans, according to medical quality scores and complaints in government records.

If there is that much extra money sloshing around in California, then its worth asking whether you could expect more in terms of performance, said Andy Schneider, a research professor with Georgetown Universitys Center for Children and Families.

California officials acknowledge they need to do a better job of connecting money and quality.

We are looking at alternative payment methods and those types of things that we can do to help improve and to tie quality to payment, said Lindy Harrington, a deputy director at the California Department of Health Care Services, which runs Medi-Cal. But as you can imagine, its a difficult ship to turn.

Centene Corp. headquarters. The insurers Health Net unit in California had a profit margin of 7.2% from 2014 to 2016. (Jeff Roberson / Associated Press )

Before the ACA expansion, Californias Medicaid plans collectively were barely in the black, with $226 million of net income for 2012 and 2013 combined. Traditionally, these insurance contracts have yielded slim profit margins of 2% to 3%. California said it aims for 2% when setting rates, based on prior claims experience and projected costs.

But in the years since the health law took effect, many health insurers have posted margins two or three times that benchmark.

Centenes Health Net unit in California enjoyed a profit margin of 7.2% from 2014 to 2016. (Centene acquired Health Net for $6.3 billion in March 2016.) Anthems profit margin in Californias Medicaid program was 8.1% for 2014 to 2016.

Investors have cheered those results. Shares in Anthem have more than doubled since January 2014, when the Medicaid expansion began. Centene shares are up 50% since the company purchased Health Net last year.

We have proven our ability to provide high-quality, cost-effective healthcare to state beneficiaries while saving states money and delivering strong returns to our shareholders, Michael Neidorff, Centenes chairman and chief executive, told investors in February.

In a statement to Kaiser Health News, Health Net said that its profit margins are comparable to other Medi-Cal health plans and that the company has made major investments to improve Californians health and access to care.

Anthem declined to comment on its financial results. The company said in a statement that it has worked with the state to meet the needs of Medicaid patients by extending clinic hours and helping with transportation to appointments. The company said its committed to providing high quality care to our Medi-Cal members.

Charles Bacchi, chief executive of the California Assn. of Health Plans, which represents insurers, said they deserve some credit for making the Medicaid expansion work.

The expansion was an incredible lift and we cant do it for nothing, he said. It would be a shame to look at one snapshot in time and ignore the success of Californias expansion that has helped millions of people.

Overall, Centene has 7 million Medicaid enrollees across the country, with about 2 million in California. Anthem is close behind with 6.4 million Medicaid members, including about 1.3 million in the state.

With so many peoples healthcare at stake, state officials say they did not want to risk having health plans come up short during the expansion.

As it turned out, they need not have worried.

A nationwide study published in September found that average monthly spending on newly eligible Medicaid enrollees was 21% less than the amount spent on those who were already eligible. It helped that many of the new enrollees appeared to use fewer medical services than those already on the program, researchers said.

Anthems corporate headquarters in Indianapolis. The company has 6.4 million Medicaid members, about 1.3 million in California. (Michael Conroy / AP )

In 34 states and the District of Columbia, Medicaid managed-care profits more than tripled to $3.9 billion in 2015 from $1.1 billion in 2013, according to consulting firm Health Management Associates analysis of insurance filings. Those figures dont include California.

By 2016, profits dropped as some states reduced Medicaid rates to insurers to reflect the lower costs incurred during expansion. Kent, the California Medicaid director, said the states rates paid to insurers for enrollees in the expanded program have decreased by 38.5% since January 2014.

The federal government footed the entire bill for Medicaid expansion during the first three years, instead of taking the usual approach of splitting the costs with states. Now, states have more incentive to rein in spending as their share of the costs grows to 10% by 2020.

In the meantime, however, some evidence suggests that in California, richer plans provided care of poorer quality.

The state scores Medi-Cal insurers from zero to 100% on how they perform on dozens of measures, such as diabetes testing, cancer screenings and checkups for children. Statewide, the average score was 63% for 2016.

For Centene and its Health Net unit, seven of its 10 regional health plans in Medi-Cal scored below average on quality. The companys San Joaquin health plan ranked last statewide at 31%. State officials have ordered the company to improve in areas such as ensuring women get postpartum care and providing routine eye exams and other tests for diabetics.

Among patients, a chief complaint is how hard it is to find a specialized doctor. In a March audit, Medi-Cal said Health Net did not maintain an adequate number of specialists within its network. The state found that member grievances on referral for services and availability of appointments with specialists were among the highest complaints.

Five months later, after reviewing the companys corrective actions, the state said Health Net was back in compliance.

Chandra Marshall, a Medicaid patient in Modesto, said she has suffered from limited access to specialty care.

She said her primary-care doctor in her Health Net plan recently recommended she visit a dermatologist for a biopsy. But she said the only available dermatologist on her plan was 90 miles away in San Francisco.

Worried she might have skin cancer, Marshall agreed to go but still hasnt heard back about an appointment.

Why cant Health Net afford more specialists in the area? said Marshall, who also suffers from kidney disease. If Health Net doesnt provide access to dermatologists and other specialists, people may just risk [not going].

Her Health Net plan in Stanislaus County scored below 50% on quality of care measures.

In a statement, Health Net said we are committed to helping improve the quality and availability of healthcare services for our members that produce enhanced health outcomes.

In the case of Anthem, eight of its 12 regional Medi-Cal plans scored below average on patient care. The state has told Anthem to do better at providing prenatal care, controlling patients high blood pressure and monitoring medications for asthma patients, among other issues.

In a written response to questions, Anthem said that its scores have improved over time and that two of its plans, in San Francisco and Tulare counties, are among the top 10 statewide.

While not tied directly to payments, California officials said they do reward insurers with higher quality scores by assigning more Medicaid enrollees to those plans.

The profits of managed-care plans feed into Republican criticism of the ACAs costs and its expanded Medicaid rolls. President Trump has called for the laws repeal, in part, because it enriches health insurers.

They have made a fortune, Trump tweeted Oct. 13.

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) has demanded that California and seven other states account for how they spent federal Medicaid expansion dollars. Johnson, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, asked California officials in a letter Sept. 27 whether they have conducted audits and requested information on insurance company payouts.

In an Oct. 11 response, Kent said the state spent $6,181 per expansion enrollee in 2015, below the national average of $6,365.

California is a cost efficient Medicaid program, she wrote.

By one standard measure, the states oversight has been less than efficient.

Starting in 2014, the federal government required that 85% of Medicaid expansion funding be spent on care and quality improvement efforts, rather than administrative overhead and profits. But three years in, California officials acknowledged they have just started audits to determine whether companies might have to return excess money. Its impossible to determine how much that might be.

Whats clear is that insurers spending on expansion and traditional Medicaid enrollees often falls short. Eight of Californias 22 Medicaid insurers failed to hit 85% in medical spending for the year that ended June 30, 2016, according to state data obtained by Kaiser Health News. Anthem ranked lowest at 77%; Health Net spent 81% of Medicaid premiums on medical care, according to state calculations.

Each percentage point below the threshold can amount to tens of millions of dollars that should have been spent on patients.

In July, a federal rule went into effect establishing 85% as a national benchmark for all Medicaid managed care. Three months later, California Gov. Jerry Brown signed a law mandating that same percentage. But the state requirement doesnt kick in fully until 2023.

Michael McCue, a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University who studies Medicaid managed care, said the profit margins in California raise a lot of red flags. He said government officials owe it to taxpayers and patients to speed up their audits and do more to hold insurers accountable.

You have to make sure youre getting a bang for your buck, McCue said. Right now, [for insurers] Californias Medicaid program is the golden nugget.

Terhune and Gorman are senior correspondents for Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent publication of the Kaiser Family Foundation.

cterhune@kff.org

agorman@kff.org
Newly leaked documents show that Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, the Trump administrations point man on trade and manufacturing policy, has a stake in a company that does business with a gas producer partly owned by the son-in-law of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

According to records obtained by the International Consortium of Journalists, Ross is an investor in Navigator Holdings, a shipping giant that counts Russian gas and petrochemical producer Sibur among its major customers. Putins son-in-law Kirill Shamalov once owned more than 20% of the company, but now holds a much smaller stake.

Commerce Department spokesman James Rockas said Ross never met Shamalov and has generally supported the Trump administrations sanctions against Russia, according to the ICIJ report. Rockas added that Ross has withdrawn from matters related to transoceanic shipping vessels and has met the highest ethical standards.

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The details are likely to add to the questions about ties between Russia and the Trump administration, connections that for months have shadowed the White House and are a focus of an investigation by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. Yet it wasnt immediately clear how many partners Ross might have or what the profit-sharing agreement might be.

ICIJ disclosed the Ross holding as part of reporting on 13.4 million records of offshore entities in tax havens leaked to German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung. The newspaper then shared the records with ICIJ and a network of more than 380 journalists in 67 countries. The New York Times is its U.S. partner in this inquiry.

The Times earlier reported on the Ross holding.

It wasnt immediately clear exactly how much of Navigator, which is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, Ross personally owns. ICIJ reported that Ross and other investors own four Cayman Island entities that in turn own 31.5% of Navigator, a stake worth $176 million at Fridays closing stock price.

Ross stake in Navigator is likely a small fraction of that. In financial disclosure forms he filed with the government this year, Ross valued his holdings in the Cayman Island entities, which include other companies besides Navigator, at no more than $10.1 million.

Sibur contributed 8% to Navigators revenue last year, according to reports filed with securities regulators. Russias energy sector is largely controlled by individuals with ties to state actors, including Putin.

Much of the new trove of files includes bank statements, emails and loan agreements from Appleby, a law firm that helps set up offshore dummy companies and trusts. Appleby told the ICIJ that there is no evidence that it has done anything wrong.

Other records came from Asiaciti Trust, a family-run offshore specialist based In Singapore, and from 19 corporate registries maintained by governments in jurisdictions that draw the wealthy seeking privacy.

Big investments in two U.S. tech companies from a Russian government bank and Russian energy giant have also come to light.

The ICIJ reported that Silicon Valley investor and Russian citizen Yuri Milner got $191 million from VTB Bank, and invested that money in Twitter. The leaked records also show that a financial subsidiary of Russian energy company Gazprom funded a shell company that invested in a Milner-affiliated company that held roughly $1 billion in Facebook shares shortly before its 2012 initial public offering.

Milner told the ICIJ that he was unaware of any involvement by the Gazprom subsidiary in any of his deals and that none of his investments has been related to politics.

Milner has also invested in a tech-savvy real estate fund that was co-founded by Trump advisor and son-in-law Jared Kushner called Cadre. Milner told the ICIJ that he used his own money for the investment.

Sundays revelations follow last years release of records from a Panama-based firm involved in setting up offshore accounts. That disclosure triggered investigations in several countries, the resignation of the prime minister of Iceland and ouster of the leader of Pakistan. The Panama Papers also revealed that close associates of Putin had been using the dummy accounts abroad to store their wealth, including a close Putin friend who had $2 billion in offshore assets.

There are legitimate reasons for setting up offshore accounts, but lax regulation and anonymity in some jurisdictions make it easy to launder money, evade taxes and avoid regulatory scrutiny. Critics of the widening gap between the super-wealthy and the rest have seized upon the use of tax havens as revealed in the Panama Papers as evidence of a crisis, and governments have promised to crack down.

In the case of Ross, the ICIJ reported Navigators Russian customer Sibur has ties to Putin in addition to his son-in-law.

A big shareholder is Gennady Timchenko, who was targeted by the U.S. and other Western nations for sanctions after Russias invasion of the Ukrainian region of Crimea in 2014. A few months later, the U.S. barred banks from providing long-term financing to a gas company belonging to another large Sibur shareholder, Leonid Mikhelson. Mikhelson has also been sanctioned by the Treasury Department for propping up Putins rule.

Sibur itself was not targeted by the U.S. sanctions, but the Bank of America and the Royal Bank of Scotland reportedly backed away from doing business with the company.

The Russian gas producer last year contributed $23 million to Navigators revenue, an increase of more than 40% in two years
Hello! Im Mark Olsen. Welcome to another edition of your regular field guide to a world of Only Good Movies.

The Los Angeles Times Holiday Movies Sneaks came out this week, and once again it is just packed with stories on the essential upcoming movies. Last year, I visited the set of Guillermo del Toros The Shape of Water and interviewed actor Doug Jones while he was in full half-man, half-fish costume. Any role that I do under crazy makeup is a role like any other you have to play, Jones said. That emotional state has to come through those layers of makeup.

Trevell Anderson spoke to Mudbound filmmaker Dee Rees for a story that includes deeply moving images from her family history from a journal kept by Rees grandmother. The film is set in the South before and after World War II. As Rees put it. This is a period that gets skipped over. We go straight from slavery to Civil Rights. I wanted to explore whats in there.

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Josh Rottenberg wrote about creating the future tech world of Justice League.

Jen Yamato talked to Downsizing star Hong Chau.

Amy Kaufman interviewed Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri star Sam Rockwell.

Geoff Berkshire spoke to I, Tonya screenwriter Steven Rogers.

And I had been planning to include something on the movie Thor: Ragnarok, seeing as it is was directed by Taika Waititi and co-stars Tessa Thompson, both fresh talents we have talked about here before. But, per a note in the paper on Friday, Walt Disney Co. studios declined to screen the movie for The Times critics, citing what it called unfair coverage of its business ties to the city of Anaheim. A similar note ran as part of the Holiday Sneaks.

Weve got a screening coming up on Monday, Nov. 13, with one of the my favorite films of the year, Ruben Ostlunds The Square. Well have the films star, Danish actor Claes Bang, there for a Q&A after the movie. Keep an eye on this space for updates on future events, or go to events.latimes.com.

Lady Bird

Since emerging from the independent micro-budget filmmaking scene, Greta Gerwig has always shown herself to be a multifaceted talent and she has now made her solo debut as writer and director with the emotionally nuanced, understated knockout of Lady Bird. The film is about a teenage girl (Saoirse Ronan) coming to realize she likes the place shes from, Sacramento, and that she deeply loves and appreciates her mother. That role is taken on in a powerful performance by Laurie Metcalf, a name you will be likely be hearing a lot of in the coming months.

In his review for The Times, Kenneth Turan called the film As warm as it is smart before adding that it is an elegantly empathetic portrait of a teenage girls senior year in high school that will resonate even with those (no names) who feel theyve seen enough teen-centric movies to last multiple lifetimes.

Josh Rottenberg sat down with Metcalf and co-star Tracy Letts, who have known each other for nearly 30 years but had never worked together before. Nobody believes it but its true, Letts said.

For Time, Stephanie Zacharek noted, There are tons of movies about coming of age in the suburbs, but few are as astute as Lady Bird when it comes to class. Even so, the movie  set in Sacramento circa 2002  is more universal than it is insular.

For the Associated Press, Lindsey Bahr said, Gerwig has arrived and solidified her place as one of the most invigorating, observant and authentic voices in movies today with a directors acumen to match . There are a lot of things rotting right now in the world and in Hollywood, and, basically, we should be especially grateful when something as lovely as Lady Bird comes along.

Last Flag Flying

Richard Linklater has long been one of the most essential American filmmakers and the new Last Flag Flying finds him continuing down his recent path of unforced wisdom and maturity. The film follows three men who were war buddies in Vietnam (Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston and Laurence Fishburne) as they go together to retrieve the remains of Carells characters son, killed in combat in Iraq.

In his Times review, Justin Chang called the film warm, ribald and elegiac while adding, it joins a solid company of timeless American movies  a partial list would include Flags of Our Fathers, The Messenger and a handful of classic Vietnam War epics  that have saluted the courage of our troops while casting a hard, ambivalent eye on the government machinery that sends them into battle.

At the New York Times, A.O. Scott wrote, Richard Linklater is one of the great listeners in American movies . The content of the conversations is important, but so are the more subtle kinds of information that human speech conveys: the unstated emotions and idiosyncrasies of character that flow alongside and underneath the words.

At the Village Voice, Bilge Ebiri was less taken with the film, noting that its a tribute to simple people that also merely hints at the idea without engaging with it, bracketing a couple of stirring scenes with a lot of wan filler. Last Flag Flying is not a bad movie per se. Its just not much of a movie at all.

BPM (Beats Per Minute)

The French submission for the foreign language Academy Award and winner of the second-place Grand Prix prize at Cannes earlier this year, Robin Camillos BPM (Beats Per Minute) tells a story set amidst the group ACT UP against the backdrop of HIV/AIDS activism in Paris in the early 1990s. The movie stars Arnaud Valois and also features rising young actress Adele Haenel in a supporting role.

In is review for The Times, Justin Chang called the film a sprawling, passionate tribute to the power of organized protest, one that derives its authenticity from not only moments of fierce, confrontational action, but also extended elaborations of policy and procedure.

Nicolas Rapold interviewed Campillo for Film Comment. The filmmaker said, For the beginning of the film, I wanted a contrast between all of these people talking about things they have to do, actions they have to imagine . It was like you were in the brain of a body, and people were talking and thinking of actions, slogans, all those things.

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When Kayleigh Ferguson-Walker returned to church for the first time since losing her arms and legs, she wore a bright yellow dress.

She sat in a wheelchair that her husband, Ramon, pushed to the front of the sanctuary. Her legs, missing below the knee, were covered by a blanket. The stump of her right arm, severed above the elbow, was wrapped in a white bandage. Her left arm ended just below the elbow.

The pastor lowered a microphone, and Ferguson-Walker, 31, addressed the congregation of Praise Tabernacle International in Plantation in a soft, slightly hesitant voice.

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Today Im just amazed to be here, to be able to talk, to see, to praise God, she said.

I was in a coma for two weeks. But when I woke up, I woke up. And God, he had a different plan for me. And I looked around, and I said to myself, I can be depressed about this, or I can just go through....

In the hospital bed, I was talking to God. Sometimes I even questioned him in my early stages. I asked God, why? Why me? But I knew then there was a great future ahead of me.

I stay positive for my daughter, she said, looking over at her toddler, Aaliyah, in the first row. She wants to lift me up, to feed me. She knows my situation.

I love you all, Ferguson-Walker told the 150 parishioners present, many with tears in their eyes. Im glad to be back in the house of the Lord. Im going to be walking up in here soon.

I asked God, why? Why me? But I knew then there was a great future ahead of me  Kayleigh Ferguson-Walker

A stunningly quick chain of events led to the healthy, young working mom having a rare quadruple amputation. On a Saturday evening in March, she was six months pregnant with her second child when she suddenly felt her world begin to fall apart.

What had at first seemed like a bad flu quickly turned to chills, vomiting and a racing heartbeat, and Ramon bundled his wife and their daughter into the family car and raced to Broward Health Coral Springs, about 2  miles from their apartment.

In the emergency room, doctors went into overdrive to save her life. Her breathing was labored, her vision blurred and her blood pressure was dropping. With her kidneys failing, she could not provide a urine sample.

That was the first of so many nights I didnt think she would make it, said her obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Linda Green, who rushed to the hospital after being called at home.

When the babys heartbeat could not be detected, Ferguson-Walker was given the medicine Pitocin to induce contractions. The child was stillborn. The son the couple had already named was lost.

The losses did not end there.

In the minutes that followed, it became clear to the medical staff that the infection that had claimed the life of the baby also had infected the mother. As septic shock set in, her blood-clotting mechanism began to work overtime, pulling blood from the extremities in order to protect the vital organs, such as the heart, kidneys and liver.

Ferguson-Walker was given antibiotics, sedated and put into a coma. There she stayed in intensive care for two weeks as family and friends huddled over her, praying aloud, and watching helplessly as gangrene set in and the young womans arms and legs withered and died.

She had likely contracted sepsis through a complication in her pregnancy caused by a rare condition known as incompetent cervix, in which pressure from the growing baby may cause the cervical tissue to open prematurely, according to Green.

As Green and other doctors worked to keep Ferguson-Walkers blood pressure up, family and friends massaged her limbs. They stroked her brow. They leaned over her hospital bed and begged for deliverance. God save these limbs, they prayed.

Among those who spent hours at Ferguson-Walkers bedside was her aunt, Maxine Cunningham, who works as a nurse at the hospital. At first we were hoping she might only lose a hand, maybe up to the wrist, she said.

But the limbs continued to swell, to become more discolored.

We were hoping and praying that things would turn around, Cunningham said. But reality set in.

When Kayleigh regained consciousness, she saw what had happened. My hands and feet were pitch-black, dead, she said. But I was not alarmed. I just looked at them. These were my hands, my feet, and I cant move them at all. It was not a good sight.

Dr. James Fletcher, a plastic surgeon, explained to her family that he would amputate only as much of each limb as necessary, cutting to where the tissue was still viable. He described Ferguson-Walker on the eve of her first surgery as peaceful, very accepting. She said, Do what you need to do.

This Sept. 2, Kayleigh and Ramon returned to the place they were married, Praise Tabernacle International, for what was billed as her welcome home. Its been tough  a little bit fearful, Ramon, a church deacon, told the congregation. But todays an opportunity to celebrate her.

After Ferguson-Walker spoke and the applause died down, Pastor Dywane Dawkins, who married the couple, picked up the microphone.

The hands that [Ramon] put the ring on at the altar, those hands are now gone, Dawkins said.

There is shock and sadness. Why did God allow this to happen? Dawkins paused, then continued. When we dont understand it, we say, Yes. Were believers.

While waiting for her limbs to heal sufficiently to be fitted with prosthetic arms and legs, Ferguson-Walker is attending peer group support meetings, and exercises regularly under the guidance of physical therapists. She has learned to feed herself with a spoon or fork strapped to the stump of her left arm. By using an edge of that stump, she can answer and dial her cellphone. She communicates online by manipulating a stylus she holds in her mouth.

Ferguson-Walker is mother to a 3-year-old girl, who is struggling to comprehend what has happened to her mom, who can no longer hug her as she once did.

What I miss with Aaliyah is braiding her hair, taking her for a drive, making a meal, giving her a bath, putting on her clothes, she said. A bike ride, swimming with her.

When tears come to her daughters eyes, or her own, Ferguson-Walker cannot easily wipe them.

You have to expect me to sometimes not to be happy Kayleigh 100% of the time, she said. I have my moments. We all have those moments.

But I have no fear. I am going to find a way. I may take longer than the next person, but I will find a way. I keep fear out of my mind.

Ramon, who has returned to work as a mortgage analyst for a Boca Raton firm, said, Shes going to walk, cook, do things for herself. I am confident thats going to happen. As years go by, shes going to get the help she needs. It might look like its devastating  the worst thing that could happen to someone. But its life.

Ferguson-Walker herself imagines coming home as usual after a day of work at Walgreens, and Aaliyah is there to greet her as before.

Every time I came home from work, I would dance with her, she said. So I say to her, when I get my legs, the first thing were going to do is dance. And that puts a big smile on her face.

Clary writes for the Sun-Sentinel.
Bernie Sanders: As president, Trump is doing the exact opposite of what he promised on the campaign trail

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders speaks among supporters at an event calling on President Trump to uphold campaign promises on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 19, 2017. (Michael Reynolds/EPA)

When Donald Trump campaigned for president, he told the American people that he would stand up for the working class and take on the political and economic establishment. One year since his election, he has repeatedly reneged on his promises by supporting the interests of the wealthy and powerful at the expense of working families.

During his campaign, candidate Trump said that he was going to drain the swamp. Now that he is president, Trump has brought more billionaires into his administration than any president.

While campaigning, Trump told the American people he was going to provide health insurance for everybody. As president, he supported a disastrous bill that would have thrown millions off of health insurance, substantially raised premiums for older workers and defunded Planned Parenthood.

As a candidate, Trump said he understood the pain of working families. His budget would slash funding for affordable housing, college financial aid and Head Start.

And while Trump wants to make devastating cuts to programs that working families desperately need, he is working overtime to provide a massive tax break to billionaires like himself.

During the campaign, Trump promised to invest $1 trillion in our nations infrastructure to create millions of jobs. Instead, Trumps budget would cut funding to repair our roads, bridges, railways and water facilities.

As a candidate, Trump promised he would not cut Medicare or Medicaid. Now he supports a budget that calls for $473 billion in cuts to Medicare and more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid.

Now that he is president, Trump has brought more billionaires into his administration than any president.

On the campaign trail, Trump said he would stop the pharmaceutical industry from getting away with murder. Trumps pick to head the Food and Drug Administration received millions of dollars from pharmaceutical corporations and is strongly opposed to lowering drug prices.

During the election, Trump promised to stop Wall Street from getting away with murder. As president, Trump signed an executive order to deregulate the same financial institutions whose illegal behavior caused millions of Americans to lose their homes, jobs and life savings.

In other words, Trump as a candidate promised the American people one thing, as president he is doing the exact opposite.

But simply stopping Trumps agenda is not enough. We can join every other major country and guarantee healthcare to all as a right. We can demand that the wealthiest people in this country and the largest corporations start paying their fair share of taxes. We can create millions of decent paying jobs by rebuilding our nations infrastructure. We can reform our broken criminal justice system and pass comprehensive immigration reform. We can raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour and make public colleges and universities tuition-free.

Together we need to build a government and an economy that works for all of us, not just the 1%.

Bernie Sanders is Vermonts junior U.S. senator. He ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016.
To the editor: Mostly I agree with Jamil Smith, but I feel like we are splitting hairs when discussing White House Chief of Staff John F. Kellys remarks about the Civil War. (Doomed to fight the Civil War again, Opinion, Nov. 2)

Kelly said that in the 1860s, Americans first loyalty was to their state. Robert E. Lee was asked by both sides to command their armies, but Lee reluctantly went with the South when Virginia finally seceded. As a career officer in the U.S. Army, he had hoped that Virginia would stay in the union.

Kelly was not necessarily agreeing with Lees actions; he was stating what conditions were at the time.

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Many local governments in the South have found the Confederate memorials to be an embarrassment. Acknowledging our imperfect history while not trivializing its impact, and certainly by not lionizing its shortcomings, would be the responsible thing to do. Monuments should tell the truth about our history  even if we dont like it.

Glenn Bever, Lancaster

..

To the editor: Smith shows how the Trump administrations alternative realities now extend to the Civil War.

Kelly defended appropriateness of memorials to Lee, claiming that it was always loyalty to the state first back in those days. He should find a Civil War textbook and read about George Thomas, the rock of Chickamauga, and naval hero David Farragut, both southerners who fought bravely for the Union and ultimately for the end of slavery.

Confederate apologists need to understand that valor in the service of evil is still evil. This is understood in Germany, where one does not find monuments to the valor of the Nazis.

The statues of Lee and his fellow Confederates belong in museums, not in town squares. Public monuments should be maintained only for those, like Thomas and Farragut, whose deeds reflect values that will endure for the ages.

Daniel J. Stone, Los Angeles

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Trump promotes sons Justice with Judge Jeanine interview President Trump promoted via Twitter an interview with his son Eric Trump just before it aired Saturday night on Fox News Justice with Judge Jeanine. Eric Trump on @JudgeJeanine on @FoxNews now!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 21, 2018 Eric Trump called into the show to defend his father from criticism prompted by the first government shutdown in more than four years, as well as a series of Womens March events that saw protesters in dozens of cities take to the streets to oppose the presidents policies. .@EricTrump joined me over the phone from Mar-a-Lago ! pic.twitter.com/Hro3TzUW52  Jeanine Pirro (@JudgeJeanine) January 21, 2018 Speaking to host Jeannine Piro  who is reportedly an old friend of the presidents  Eric Trump offered effusive praise for his father, ticking off glowing statistics to illustrate the strength of the U.S. economy and gains against Islamic State fighters overseas. My fathers working like no ones ever worked before to bring back this country and to fulfill his promise to make America great again, said the executive vice president of the Trump Organization. He also repeated a sentiment recently expressed on Twitter by his father: That Democratic lawmakers forced a government shutdown on the anniversary of the presidents inauguration in a bid to distract from his achievements. You look at this whole government shutdown, and the only reason they want to shut down government is to distract and to stop his momentum, Eric Trump said. I mean, my father has had incredible momentum. Hes gotten more done in one year than arguably any president in history. Facebook

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Trump tweets: a perfect day for all Women to March President Trump hailed the nationwide Womens March gatherings Saturday. On Twitter, the president called it a perfect day for all Women to March, seeming to imply that those taking part were celebrating his administrations accomplishments: Beautiful weather all over our great country, a perfect day for all Women to March. Get out there now to celebrate the historic milestones and unprecedented economic success and wealth creation that has taken place over the last 12 months. Lowest female unemployment in 18 years!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Participants in the marches across the United States were actually seeking to deliver a powerful rebuke to Trumps policies and mount a crucial mobilization for this years midterm elections. But Trump continued to tout his administrations unprecedented success in tweets sent later in the day: Unprecedented success for our Country, in so many ways, since the Election. Record Stock Market, Strong on Military, Crime, Borders, & ISIS, Judicial Strength & Numbers, Lowest Unemployment for Women & ALL, Massive Tax Cuts, end of Individual Mandate - and so much more. Big 2018!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 The Trump Administration has terminated more UNNECESSARY Regulation, in just twelve months, than any other Administration has terminated during their full term in office, no matter what the length. The good news is, THERE IS MUCH MORE TO COME!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 21, 2018 In addition to the roll call of major American cities where womens marches took place  including New York, Washington, Los Angeles, Dallas, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta  protesters also raised their voices in suburbs and small towns, reflecting the aim of coalescing a broad-based movement on the anniversary of Trumps inauguration to oppose the presidents stance on immigration, healthcare, racial divides and an array of other issues. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Laura King. Facebook

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Trump calls shutdown a present from Democrats By Associated Press President Trump is blaming Democrats for the government shutdown  tweeting that they wanted to give him a nice present to mark the one-year anniversary of his inauguration: This is the One Year Anniversary of my Presidency and the Democrats wanted to give me a nice present. #DemocratShutdown  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 That comes after Senate Democrats late Friday killed a GOP-written House-passed measure that would have kept agencies functioning for four weeks. Democrats were seeking a stopgap bill of just a few days in hopes that would build pressure on Republicans, and they were opposing a three-week alternative offered by GOP leaders. Democrats have insisted they would back legislation reopening the government once theres a bipartisan agreement to preserve protections against deporting about 700,000 immigrants  known as Dreamers  who arrived in the United States illegally as children. Trump on Saturday accused Democrats of holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration: Democrats are holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration. Cant let that happen!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Democrats are laying fault for the shutdown on Republicans, who control both chambers of Congress and the White House and have struggled with building internal consensus. In a series of tweets hours after the shutdown began, the president tried to make the case for Americans to elect more Republicans to Congress in November in order to power through this mess: Democrats are far more concerned with Illegal Immigrants than they are with our great Military or Safety at our dangerous Southern Border. They could have easily made a deal but decided to play Shutdown politics instead. #WeNeedMoreRepublicansIn18 in order to power through mess!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 He noted that there are 51 Republicans in the 100-member Senate, and it often takes 60 votes to advance legislation: For those asking, the Republicans only have 51 votes in the Senate, and they need 60. That is why we need to win more Republicans in 2018 Election! We can then be even tougher on Crime (and Border), and even better to our Military & Veterans!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 #AMERICA FIRST!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 The stopgap spending measure won 50 votes in the Senate, including five from Democrats. Although the House and Senate were in session Saturday, it was unclear whether lawmakers would take any votes of consequence. Trump had been set to leave Friday afternoon for a fundraiser at his estate in Palm Beach, Fla., where he intended to mark the inauguration anniversary. But he remained in Washington and ended up scrapping his plans to attend the Saturday fundraiser. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweet casts doubt on likelihood of averting shutdown President Trump appeared to cast doubt on the likelihood of reaching a deal to avert a government shutdown Friday night in a tweet. Trump also sought to blame Democrats for what would be the first shutdown since 2013. His message came just hours before the midnight deadline by which lawmakers must pass a measure to fund government agencies, or some operations will cease. Not looking good for our great Military or Safety & Security on the very dangerous Southern Border. Dems want a Shutdown in order to help diminish the great success of the Tax Cuts, and what they are doing for our booming economy.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Despite last-minute negotiations Friday between Trump and Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, Congress remained deadlocked over a spending bill and the federal government was headed toward a shutdown at midnight. Senate Democrats  joined by some GOP deficit hawks and immigration allies  were set to filibuster a stopgap funding bill approved by the House on Thursday. A Senate vote was planned for 10 p.m. Eastern, and even White House officials predicted it would fail. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Lisa Mascaro. Facebook

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Trump signs surveillance law after confusing tweets By Associated Press President Trump on Friday signed a bill into law to renew a foreign intelligence surveillance program, announcing his action in the latest in a series of confusing tweets about the spy program: Just signed 702 Bill to reauthorize foreign intelligence collection. This is NOT the same FISA law that was so wrongly abused during the election. I will always do the right thing for our country and put the safety of the American people first!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 19, 2018 Trumps tweet on Jan. 11 created chaos in the House just before it voted to reauthorize what is known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. He linked the intelligence program to a dossier that alleges his presidential campaign had ties to Russia. That caused people to wonder if he didnt support the program that allows U.S. spy agencies to collect intelligence on foreign targets abroad. Trump and other Republicans have alleged that Obama administration officials improperly shared the identities of Trump presidential transition team members mentioned in intelligence reports. Democrats say there is no evidence that happened. Shortly before the House vote, and after conferring with House Speaker Paul Ryan, Trump did an apparent about-face. This vote is about foreign surveillance of foreign bad guys on foreign land, he tweeted. We need it! Get smart! In his tweet announcing that he had just signed the bill, Trump wrote: This is NOT the same FISA law that was so wrongly abused during the election. I will always do the right thing for our country and put the safety of the American people first! There are no obvious links between the dossier Trump spoke of, which includes salacious but unsubstantiated allegations against him, and the reauthorization of the spying program, or between the program and Trumps oft-repeated claims that the Obama administration conducted surveillance on Trump Tower during the presidential campaign. Facebook

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In tweet, Trump suggests that Pennsylvania trip is a political one The White House press office was once again forced to walk back a tweet from President Trump on Thursday morning after he described a trip to Pennsylvania later in the day as a political one  a statement that would force the Republican Party, not taxpayers, to pay for the journey. The White House had said Trump was going to an industrial equipment company outside of Pittsburgh to highlight the good economy and new tax cuts, making it an official, policy-oriented event. It was widely assumed that the trip had a political cast  the area is holding a special election to fill a congressional seat vacated by a Republican who resigned. Trump, by his tweet, seemed to confirm that politics was the whole purpose: Will be going to Pennsylvania today in order to give my total support to RICK SACCONE, running for Congress in a Special Election (March 13). Rick is a great guy. We need more Republicans to continue our already successful agenda!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 Trump later shared via Twitter a pair of video clips of his speech at H&K Equipment, in which he touted the tax cuts he signed into law just before Christmas and tried to turn the conversation back to his accomplishments after weeks dominated by distractions, including questions about his mental health and comments about immigration that some considered racist: Departing Pittsburgh now, where it was my great honor to stand with our incredible workers, and to show the world that AMERICA is back - and we are coming back bigger and better and stronger than ever before! pic.twitter.com/kWPgylqFzj  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 AMERICA will once again be a NATION that thinks big, dreams bigger, and always reaches for the stars. YOU are the ones who will shape Americas destiny. YOU are the ones who will restore our prosperity. And YOU are the ones who are MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! #MAGA pic.twitter.com/f2abNK47II  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 The Republican National Committee, rather than the White House, is supposed to pay for political travel so that taxpayers are not financing party activities; for trips that combine policy and politics, parties have split the cost under past presidents. Neither the RNC nor the White House responded to emails sent Thursday asking who would pay. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement later Thursday suggesting that taxpayers would foot the bill. She insisted that Trump would be conducting government business while in Pennsylvania. Read More This post contains reporting from the Associated Press and Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump tweets praise of Bob Dole after awarding him Congressional Gold Medal By Associated Press Former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole knew the art of the deal before President Trump published the 1987 book of the same name. The two shared a stage under the Capitol dome Wednesday as Dole, 94, accepted Congress highest civilian honor, the Congressional Gold Medal, for his World War II service and decades of work in the House and Senate. Trump later praised Dole in a tweet, attaching to his message a video composed of clips from the ceremony: Today, we witnessed an incredible moment in history  the presentation of Congress highest civilian honor to our friend, and true AMERICAN HERO, Bob Dole. #CongressionalGoldMedal pic.twitter.com/qNQqDLRmCk  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 17, 2018 At the ceremony, the president saluted Dole as a patriot and gave tribute to Doles struggle as a veteran who worked his way back from a grievous shoulder wound he suffered in Italy. He knows about grit, said Trump. But it was Doles penchant for working across the aisle that earned him his latest award, according to the legislation. Bob Dole was known for his ability to work across the aisle and embrace practical bipartisanship, reads the legislation Trump signed in September. Some of the awards 300 recipients include George Washington and Mother Teresa, according to the Congressional Research Service. Read More Facebook

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Trump touts report that seeks to link terrorism cases with immigration By Joseph Tanfani The Trump administration on Tuesday released a report attempting to link terrorism with migration, arguing that it was evidence of the need to dramatically reshape the nations immigration system. New report from DOJ & DHS shows that nearly 3 in 4 individuals convicted of terrorism-related charges are foreign-born. We have submitted to Congress a list of resources and reforms....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 ....we need to keep America safe, including moving away from a random chain migration and lottery system, to one that is merit-based. https://t.co/7PtoSFK1n2  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The report, ordered by President Trump in an executive order last year, said that 75% of the 549 people convicted of terrorism charges since 9/11 were born outside the U.S. Administration officials called that a sign that the U.S. needs to scrap its policy of family preferences for visas, which they call chain migration, and a diversity visa lottery program. But the report did not specify how many  if any  of the convicted terrorists entered the country through those means. It also did not detail how many of the convictions were related to attacks or plans in the U.S. versus overseas and how many involved people who went to fight overseas for the Islamic State or another terrorist group. Those details were not available, officials said. The report, due last year, is being released in a highly charged moment in the immigration debate, as Trump and some Republicans in Congress seek tough new border and immigration measures in return for a deal protecting the 690,000 people in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Trump also fired off a pair of tweets on the topic earlier Tuesday: We must have Security at our VERY DANGEROUS SOUTHERN BORDER, and we must have a great WALL to help protect us, and to help stop the massive inflow of drugs pouring into our country!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The Democrats want to shut down the Government over Amnesty for all and Border Security. The biggest loser will be our rapidly rebuilding Military, at a time we need it more than ever. We need a merit based system of immigration, and we need it now! No more dangerous Lottery.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The focus of our immigration system should be assimilation, a senior administration official said on Tuesday, speaking on condition that his name not be used. He said the nation should give priority to potential immigrants who speak English, who have an education and those who are committed to supporting our values  not family members of people already here. The official said the timing of the report was coincidental. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets welcome to president of Kazakhstan By Associated Press President Trump said Tuesday that he and the president of Kazakhstan are united in a shared determination to prevent North Korea from threatening the world with nuclear devastation. Trump and President Nursultan Nazarbayev discussed North Korea along with other issues during meetings at the White House. Today, it was my honor to welcome President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan to the @WhiteHouse! pic.twitter.com/TerYFZViax  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 Trump said Kazakhstan, once part of the Soviet Union, is a valued partner in our efforts to rid the Korean peninsula of nuclear weapons. Together we are determined to prevent the North Korean regime from threatening the world with nuclear devastation, he said, as both presidents addressed journalists between meetings. Nazarbayev noted that his country once had one of the worlds largest nuclear arsenals but voluntarily gave it up after the Soviet Union collapsed. He said his country is in talks with Iran, which was the focus of a global deal that lifted some economic sanctions in exchange for Irans curbing its nuclear program. Trump has sharply criticized the Iran nuclear deal and threatened last week to pull out soon unless other countries fix what he says are terrible flaws. Read More Facebook

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Trump falsely claims his approval rating among black Americans has doubled By Alex Wigglesworth President Trump lashed out at the news media Tuesday morning in a tweet denouncing the special counsel investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and possible collusion among members of his campaign team. Do you notice the Fake News Mainstream Media never likes covering the great and record setting economic news, but rather talks about anything negative or that can be turned into the negative. The Russian Collusion Hoax is dead, except as it pertains to the Dems. Public gets it!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 It wasnt immediately clear exactly what prompted the presidents tweet, but it appeared as though he was watching Fox & Friends. A short time later, Trump tweeted a headline from a report that aired during that mornings episode: 90% of Trump 2017 news coverage was negative -and much of it contrived!@foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The segment focused on the latest survey results from conservative watchdog Media Research Center, which purportedly analyzed the evening news broadcasts on ABC, CBS and NBC from Jan. 20 to Dec. 31 and found that 90% of the statements made about Trump were negative. Study: 90% of Trump media coverage in 2017 was negative pic.twitter.com/vbrwup4Drg  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 16, 2018 But believe it or not, through all this negative coverage, they did a survey of 600,000 people about how black America views this president, co-host Brian Kilmeade said. His numbers have actually doubled in approval. Trump highlighted the statement in another tweet: Unemployment for Black Americans is the lowest ever recorded. Trump approval ratings with Black Americans has doubled. Thank you, and it will get even (much) better! @FoxNews  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 But its not true. The claim appears to have originated from a misreading of data from the online polling firm SurveyMonkey, according to factcheck.org. The firm polled 600,000 Americans in 2017 and found that Trumps approval rating among blacks actually dropped from 23% early in his presidency to about 17%, as of the week ending Jan. 3. Some conservative outlets, including Breitbart, produced an average from those and other SurveyMonkey figures and compared them to the scores Trump received from black voters in the 2016 exit polls. That methodology is not sound. And since the statistics measure different things, the comparison is misleading. Facebook

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Trump goes after senator who surfaced his immigration remark By Associated Press President Trump turned his Twitter torment Monday on the Democrat in the room where immigration talks with lawmakers took a famously coarse turn, saying Sen. Richard J. Durbin misrepresented what he had said about African nations and Haiti and, in the process, undermined the trust needed to make a deal. Senator Dicky Durbin totally misrepresented what was said at the DACA meeting, Trump tweeted, using a nickname to needle the Illinois senator. Deals cant get made when there is no trust! Durbin blew DACA and is hurting our Military. Senator Dicky Durbin totally misrepresented what was said at the DACA meeting. Deals cant get made when there is no trust! Durbin blew DACA and is hurting our Military.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 Trump was referring to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which protects young people who came to the United States illegally as children. Members of Congress from both parties are trying to strike a deal that Trump would support to extend that protection. Trump also cast doubt on the likelihood of reaching an agreement in tweets sent earlier Monday: Statement by me last night in Florida: Honestly, I dont think the Democrats want to make a deal. They talk about DACA, but they dont want to help..We are ready, willing and able to make a deal but they dont want to. They dont want security at the border, they dont want.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 ...to stop drugs, they want to take money away from our military which we cannot do. My standard is very simple, AMERICA FIRST & MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 On a day of remembrance for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Trump spent time at his golf course with no public events, bypassing the acts of service that his predecessors staged in honor of the civil rights leader. Instead, Trump dedicated his weekly address to Kings memory, saying Kings dream and Americas are the same: A world where people are judged by who they are, not how they look or where they come from. That message was a distinct counterpoint to words attributed to Trump by Durbin and others at a meeting last week, when the question of where immigrants come from seemed at the forefront of Trumps concerns. Some participants and others familiar with the conversation said Trump challenged immigration from shithole countries of Africa and disparaged Haiti as well. Without explicitly denying using that word, Trump lashed out at the Democratic senator, who said Trump uttered it on several occasions. Read More Facebook

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Trump thanks pundit for laudatory Fox & Friends spot By Alex Wigglesworth President Trump thanked Fox News personality Stuart Varney after Varney praised Trump during an appearance on Fox & Friends. In a pair of tweets early Sunday, Trump quoted from Varneys commentary, in which he argued that Trump deserves more credit for the booming economy. The pundit, who also hosts a show on Fox Business Network, cited moves by some corporations to raise workers minimum wage or pay out one-time bonuses in response to the GOP tax cuts. President Trump is not getting the credit he deserves for the economy. Tax Cut bonuses to more than 2,000,000 workers. Most explosive Stock Market rally that weve seen in modern times. 18,000 to 26,000 from Election, and grounded in profitability and growth. All Trump, not 0...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2018 ...big unnecessary regulation cuts made it all possible (among many other things). President Trump reversed the policies of President Obama, and reversed our economic decline. Thank you Stuart Varney. @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2018 Varney was reacting to a quote from House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), who on Thursday called the bonuses handed down to workers pathetic in comparison to the gains corporations are expected to see from the tax cuts. In terms of the bonus that corporate America received versus the crumbs that they are giving to workers to kind of put the schmooze on is so pathetic, Pelosi told reporters. Its pathetic. Varney shot back Sunday that the bonuses, along with explosive stock market growth, are enriching all Americans. This is a huge shot in the arm, its the result of this tax cut deal and I think President Trump should get the credit for it, he said. .@Varneyco Sets the economic record straight after Nancy Pelosi calls U.S. mass bonuses crumbs pic.twitter.com/BvjIHGm3HE  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 14, 2018 The sweeping tax plan passed last month lowers the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and cuts personal income taxes. Analysts say the benefits will largely flow to corporations and the wealthy, as theyre more likely to be in positions to share in corporate profits. For instance, Wells Fargo & Co., which responded to news of the tax overhaul by announcing it will raise workers pay to at least $15 an hour, also reported that it expects to pay an effective tax rate of 19% this year, down from about 31% in previous years. That should amount to tax savings of more than $3 billion annually. On average, middle-class Americans are expected to see a very small tax cut in the near term and a tax increase after 2025, when all of the tax cuts for individuals expire. The tax cuts for corporations, however, are permanent.  This post contains reporting from Times staff writer James Rufus Koren. Facebook

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Trump touts MLK proclamation in tweet, but ceremony is overshadowed by reports of racist remarks By Associated Press President Trump signed a proclamation Friday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, noting the contributions of a great American hero. Today, it was my great honor to proclaim January 15, 2018, as Martin Luther King Jr., Federal Holiday. I encourage all Americans to observe this day with appropriate civic, community, and service activities in honor of Dr. King's life and legacy. pic.twitter.com/samlJsz1Nt  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018 Overshadowing the event was mounting backlash from Trumps comments during a private meeting with lawmakers the day before. A short time after the meeting, which was called to discuss a possible immigration deal, reports emerged that Trump had asked participants why the United States should accept immigrants from shithole countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Illinois Sen. Richard Durbin, the Senates second-ranking Democrat, appeared to confirm those reports on Friday. Trump did not respond Friday to several questions about the incident, including whether he actually used vulgar language to describe African nations, or if he is racist. The president said at the White House that love was central to the slain civil rights leader. Trump said the nation celebrates King for standing up for the self-evident truth Americans hold so dear, that no matter what the color of our skin or place of our birth, we are all created equal by God.  This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump criticizes Democrats in tweet calling for stricter immigration rules President Trump hit out at Democrats on Thursday night in a tweet calling for stricter immigration rules. Trump wrote that members of the party seem intent on having people and drugs pour into our country from the border with Mexico: The Democrats seem intent on having people and drugs pour into our country from the Southern Border, risking thousands of lives in the process. It is my duty to protect the lives and safety of all Americans. We must build a Great Wall, think Merit and end Lottery & Chain. USA!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018 It wasnt immediately clear exactly what prompted the tweet. Earlier Thursday, Trump rejected a bipartisan compromise to resolve the standoff over so-called Dreamers, young immigrants who were brought to the United States illegally as children but have temporary permits to work, attend school or serve in the military. The president drew widespread condemnation after reports emerged that he had asked participants in an Oval Office meeting about the proposal why the United States should accept immigrants from shithole countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Read More Facebook

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Trump touts bill aimed at improving border screening for fentanyl By Associated Press President Trump signed legislation Wednesday aimed at giving Customs and Border Protection agents additional screening devices and other tools to stop the flow of illicit drugs. Speaking at a surprise bill-signing ceremony while flanked by members of Congress from both parties in the Oval Office, Trump described the bill as a significant step forward in the fight against powerful opioids such as fentanyl, which he called our new big scourge. He echoed that language Thursday in a tweet: Yesterday, I signed the #INTERDICTAct (H.R. 2142) with bipartisan members of Congress to help end the flow of drugs into our country. Together, we are committed to doing everything we can to combat the deadly scourge of drug addiction and overdose in the United States! pic.twitter.com/ELZvFol5Lo  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2018 The legislation will pay for new portable and fixed chemical screening devices to detect and intercept fentanyl at ports of entry and in the mail, along with other laboratory equipment and personnel, including scientists. Trump has made fighting the opioid epidemic a centerpiece of his administration, though critics say he hasnt dedicated nearly enough money or resources to make a difference. Trump suggested during his remarks on Wednesday that hed like to take a more aggressive approach to the drug crisis  but the countrys not ready for what he has in mind. So were going to sign this. And its a step. And it feels like a very giant step, but unfortunately, its not going to be a giant step, because no matter what you do, this is something that keeps pouring in, he said. And were going to find the answer. There is an answer. I think I actually know the answer, but Im not sure the countrys ready for it yet, he added. Does anybody know what I mean? I think so. Facebook

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Trump applauds news that Toyota-Mazda plant is slated for Alabama By Associated Press Japanese automakers Toyota and Mazda on Wednesday announced plans to build a mammoth, $1.6-billion joint-venture plant in Alabama that will eventually employ about 4,000 people. President Trump lauded the news in a tweet: Cutting taxes and simplifying regulations makes America the place to invest! Great news as Toyota and Mazda announce they are bringing 4,000 JOBS and investing $1.6 BILLION in Alabama, helping to further grow our economy! pic.twitter.com/Kcg8IVH6iA  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Good news: Toyota and Mazda announce giant new Huntsville, Alabama, plant which will produce over 300,000 cars and SUVs a year and employ 4000 people. Companies are coming back to the U.S. in a very big way. Congratulations Alabama!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2018 Several states had competed for the project, which will be able to turn out 300,000 vehicles per year and produce the Toyota Corolla compact car for North America and a new small SUV from Mazda. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and company executives held a news conference to announce that the facility is coming to the Huntsville area not far from the Tennessee line. Production is expected to begin by 2021. The decision to pick Alabama is another example of foreign-based automakers building U.S. factories in the South. To entice manufacturers, Southern states have used a combination of lucrative incentive packages, low-cost labor and a pro-business labor environment, because the United Auto Workers union is stronger in Northern states. Read More Facebook

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Trump highlights call for border wall in tweets on visit with Norways prime minister By Associated Press President Trump praised Norways prime minister in a tweet on Wednesday after Erna Solberg became the first foreign leader to visit with the president in 2018. Today, it was my great honor to welcome Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway to the @WhiteHouse - a great friend and ally of the United States! Joint press conference: https://t.co/qWR1BhfQZI pic.twitter.com/PJvwznjRCO  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Trump also shared via Twitter a video clip of a joint news conference he held with Solberg on Wednesday afternoon. In the clip, Trump responds to a question from a reporter by saying there can be no bipartisan immigration deal absent funding for his long-promised wall along the U.S. border with Mexico. Republican and Democratic lawmakers have been seeking a solution for hundreds of thousands of so-called Dreamers, young people who were brought to the United States as children and are living here illegally. The United States needs the security of the Wall on the Southern Border, which must be part of any DACA approval. The safety and security of our country is #1! pic.twitter.com/4CFzQXb5aS  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 We need the wall for security, we need the wall for safety, we need the wall for stopping the drugs from pouring in, Trump said Wednesday.  Any solution has to include the wall because without the wall, it all doesnt work. On Tuesday, Trump drew widespread attention when he said during a meeting with a bipartisan group of lawmakers that he would be agreeable to signing a stand-alone bill to protect the Dreamers, before moving on to a more comprehensive immigration bill. That contradicted the Republican consensus that Dreamers fate needed to be part of a broader immigration bill that would include some version of Trumps promised border wall and other immigration reforms. Trump backed away from a stand-alone Dreamer bill in subsequent tweets and public comments. Read More This post contains reporting from Los Angeles Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump praises Cabinet in tweet touting meeting By Associated Press President Trump promoted a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday, sharing via Twitter a link to a video of the session posted on the White House YouTube account. In his tweet, Trump thanked his Cabinet for working tirelessly on behalf of our country and wrote that the last year has been one of monumental achievement. I want to thank my @Cabinet for working tirelessly on behalf of our country. 2017 was a year of monumental achievement and we look forward to the year ahead. Together, we are delivering results and MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! https://t.co/ptXa1hAPwW pic.twitter.com/yv6RALkQf3  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 The former reality television star continued to dispense accolades at the meeting Wednesday, greeting reporters in the Cabinet Room by saying: Welcome back to the studio. Then he proceeded to relive a Cabinet Room session from the prior day, when he had allowed reporters and TV cameras to stick around for much of his meeting with a bipartisan group of legislators on the thorny issue of immigration. It was a tremendous meeting. Actually, it was reported as incredibly good. And my performance  you know, some of them called it a performance  I consider it work, Trump said. Trump went on to say he had received letters from news anchors calling it one of the greatest meetings theyve ever witnessed. He added that the media will ultimately support Trump in the end, because theyre going to say, if Trump doesnt win in three years, theyre all out of business. Asked for examples of letters received from news anchors, the White House said it had received private communications. It also offered a series of positive on-air comments and tweets from journalists about the unusual access to the meeting. During his remarks, Trump swung from praising his own meeting coverage to telling journalists that they were dependent on his presidency for ratings to threatening a strong look at libel laws. Still, Trump thanked the journalists in front of him, joking: Youve gotten very familiar with this room. I appreciate your nice comments yesterday. Facebook

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Trump blasts DACA ruling in tweet calling courts broken and unfair By Lisa Mascaro President Trump denounced the federal courts Wednesday as broken and unfair after a district judge in San Francisco issued a nationwide injunction keeping protections in place for so-called Dreamers. Trump tweeted: It just shows everyone how broken and unfair our Court System is when the opposing side in a case (such as DACA) always runs to the 9th Circuit and almost always wins before being reversed by higher courts.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 On Tuesday night, U.S. District Judge William Alsup in San Francisco temporarily blocked the Trump administrations decision to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, which has protected from deportation some 700,000 people who came to the country illegally as children. Alsup granted a request by the state of California, the University of California and other plaintiffs to stop Trump from ending DACA on March 5. The administrations decision to end DACA, which was announced in September, was based on a flawed legal analysis, Alsup wrote in his decision. Dreamers would be irreparably harmed if their DACA protections, which allow them to live and work legally in the U.S., were stripped away before the courts had a chance to fully consider their claims, he ruled. The action is the mirror image of a ruling in 2015 by a federal judge in Texas who ruled in favor of that state when it sought to block President Obama from expanding DACA to include the parents of Dreamers. Trump administration officials praised that judicial ruling. By contrast, they sharply criticized Alsups decision. Read More Facebook

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Trump thanks lawmakers for productive immigration meeting, says deal must include border wall President Trump thanked a bipartisan group of lawmakers for participating in a meeting on immigration legislation on Tuesday. Much of the discussion involved so-called Dreamers, an estimated 700,000 young people who were brought to the country illegally as children and are now facing deportation. In a tweet, Trump wrote that there was strong agreement to negotiate a bill to protect Dreamers, as well as put into place some of the reforms favored by Republicans. Thanks to all of the Republican and Democratic lawmakers for todays very productive meeting on immigration reform. There was strong agreement to negotiate a bill that deals with border security, chain migration, lottery and DACA. https://t.co/SdqAQ3aL3z pic.twitter.com/8DYHZHspAy  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 The most notable exchange of the meeting came when Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the San Francisco Democrat, asked Trump whether he would be agreeable to signing a stand-alone bill to protect the Dreamers, before moving on to a more comprehensive immigration bill. Yeah, I would like to do it, Trump responded. The statement drew widespread attention because it contradicted the Republican consensus that Dreamers fate needed to be part of a broader immigration bill that would include some version of Trumps promised border wall and other immigration reforms. Trump later backed away from a stand-alone Dreamer bill, tweeting that a wall along the U.S. border with Mexico must be part of any deal: As I made very clear today, our country needs the security of the Wall on the Southern Border, which must be part of any DACA approval.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Pressure has been mounting for Congress to broker an immigration deal by Jan. 19 as part of a must-pass budget package to fund the government. This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump thanks officers and veterans in tweets President Trump doled out a slew of accolades Tuesday via Twitter. He thanked the nations law enforcement officers, including in his message a hashtag denoting a day of appreciation organized by a national support group for law enforcement families. On behalf of the American people, THANK YOU to our incredible law enforcement officers. As President of the United States - I will fight for you, and I will never, ever let you down. Now, more than ever, we must support the men and women in blue! #LawEnforcementAppreciationDay pic.twitter.com/Qb4uxB4JRm  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 Trump later expressed gratitude for federal immigration agents, in particular: .@ICEgov HSI agents and ERO officers, on behalf of an entire Nation, THANK YOU for what you are doing 24/7/365 to keep fellow Americans SAFE. Everyone is so grateful!#LawEnforcementAppreciationDay

President @realDonaldTrump https://t.co/HXCpTlruVo  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 The president thanked veterans as he cited his administrations efforts to curb the number of veteran suicides by improving mental health treatment for the high-risk group: Today, it was my great honor to sign a new Executive Order to ensure Veterans have the resources they need as they transition back to civilian life. We must ensure that our HEROES are given the care and support they so richly deserve! https://t.co/0MdP9DDIAS pic.twitter.com/LP2a8KCBAp  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 Trumps tweet included photos of the president signing an executive order Tuesday directing the secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs to develop a plan to provide seamless access to mental health and suicide prevention resources for 12 months for members leaving the armed forces. Also on Tuesday, Trump touted a law he signed the day before designating the birthplace of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. a national historic park: It was my great honor to sign H.R. 267, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park Act, which redesignates the Martin Luther King, Junior, National Historic Site in the State of Georgia as the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. https://t.co/Qe0b6HBFTY pic.twitter.com/QTgaqTawPT  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 And he thanked House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) for sharing a video compilation comprised of clips of politicians and commentators praising the GOPs tax cut bill: Thank you @GOPLeader Kevin McCarthy! Couldnt agree w/you more. TOGETHER, we are #MAGA https://t.co/QaxtqpyXTR  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018  This post contains reporting from the Associated Press and Times staff writer Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

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Trump hails tax bill in tweets recapping speech to farmers By Associated Press Connecting with rural Americans, President Trump on Monday hailed his tax overhaul as a victory for family farmers. Farm country is Gods country, Trump told the annual convention of the American Farm Bureau Federation. Trump became the first president in a quarter-century to address the federations convention. His Southern swing also included a stop in Atlanta for the national college football championship game. Cant wait to be back in the amazing state of Tennessee to address the 99th American @FarmBureau Federations Annual Convention in Nashville! #AFBF18



On my way now - join me LIVE at 4:00pmE: https://t.co/QaljAqekdD. pic.twitter.com/Wm7Io0hYT8  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Joined by Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) and a group of Tennessee lawmakers, Trump said most of the benefits of the tax legislation are going to working families, small businesses, and who  the family farmer. The package Trump signed into law last month provides generous tax cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans, and more modest reductions for middle- and low-income individuals and families. In every decision we make, we are honoring Americas PROUD FARMING LEGACY. Years of crushing taxes, crippling regs, & corrupt politics left our communities hurting, our economy stagnant, & millions of hardworking Americans COMPLETELY FORGOTTEN. But they are not forgotten ANYMORE! pic.twitter.com/MdYS7xnukQ  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 The president vastly inflated the value of the package in his speech, citing a total of $5.5 trillion in tax cuts, with most of those benefits going to working families, small businesses and who? The family farmer. The estimated value of the tax cuts is actually $1.5 trillion for families and businesses because of cuts in deductions and the use of other steps to generate offsetting tax revenue. We have been working every day to DELIVER for Americas Farmers just as they work every day to deliver FOR US. #AFBF18 pic.twitter.com/QDH7fvFkZ7  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 From Nashville, Trump traveled to Atlanta to watch Alabamas Crimson Tide and Georgias Bulldogs face off Monday night in the College Football Playoff National Championship. We are fighting for our farmers, for our country, and for our GREAT AMERICAN FLAG. We want our flag respected - and we want our NATIONAL ANTHEM respected also! pic.twitter.com/16eOLXg6Fi  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Before departing for the game, Trump referenced his ongoing defense of the American flag and the national anthem, saying there was enough space for people to express their views. We love our flag and we love our anthem, and we want to keep it that way, he said. Facebook

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Trump tweet hails drop in unemployment rate for African Americans By Associated Press President Trump touted a drop in the unemployment rate for African Americans on Monday in a tweet. African American unemployment is the lowest ever recorded in our country. The Hispanic unemployment rate dropped a full point in the last year and is close to the lowest in recorded history. Dems did nothing for you but get your vote! #NeverForget @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 The rate fell to 6.8% in December, the lowest level since the government began tracking such data in 1972. The reasons range from a greater number of black Americans with college degrees to a growing need for employers in a tight job market to widen the pool of people they hire from. Trump also hailed the development via Twitter on Saturday. His latest tweet on the topic came about an hour after it was discussed during an episode of Fox & Friends, according to Mediaite. Facebook

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Trump talks up the economy and dresses down the media in Sunday tweets With President Trump cheering from the sidelines, the White House on Sunday pressed its defense of the presidents fitness to govern, as fired former aide Stephen K. Bannon reversed course and apologized for his role in a new books explosive portrait of Trump. The presidents critics, meanwhile, said Trumps stream of taunts and insults in response to the book  Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, released last week  served only to underscore the authors unsettling portrayal of Trumps year-old presidency, depicting a leader whose own aides consider him childish, ignorant and dangerously erratic. Trump provided more ammunition Sunday morning, as he continued to attack the book via Twitter while preparing to depart Camp David for the White House: Leaving Camp David for the White House. Great meetings with the Cabinet and Military on many very important subjects including Border Security & the desperately needed Wall, the ever increasing Drug and Opioid Problem, Infrastructure, Military, Budget, Trade and DACA.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Ive had to put up with the Fake News from the first day I announced that I would be running for President. Now I have to put up with a Fake Book, written by a totally discredited author. Ronald Reagan had the same problem and handled it well. So will I!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 The most vehement defense of Trump on Sunday came from senior advisor Stephen Miller, a onetime Bannon acolyte who distanced himself from his former mentor. In a combative appearance Sunday on CNNs State of the Union, Miller called the book grotesque and writer Michael Wolff the garbage author of a garbage book. Trump is known to closely monitor aides televised performances in putting forth his case, and he gleefully weighed in within moments of Millers televised clash with host Jake Tapper. CNN has long been a particular target of Trumps ire. Jake Tapper of Fake News CNN just got destroyed in his interview with Stephen Miller of the Trump Administration. Watch the hatred and unfairness of this CNN flunky!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Trumps reaction, however, seemed to bolster Tappers on-air depiction of Miller as using his appearance on the show to play to the president rather than addressing questions put to him. I get it  theres one viewer that you care about, the host said exasperatedly after Miller turned the discussion repeatedly to negative news coverage of the president while deflecting specific queries. Later on Twitter, Trump took up two themes that have been prevalent on his social media feeds recently. The president again went after the news media, tweeting that the recipients of his self-proclaimed most dishonest & corrupt media awards of the year, which he promised earlier in the week to announce on Monday, would actually be revealed the following Wednesday: The Fake News Awards, those going to the most corrupt & biased of the Mainstream Media, will be presented to the losers on Wednesday, January 17th, rather than this coming Monday. The interest in, and importance of, these awards is far greater than anyone could have anticipated!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Trump later lauded a New York Post opinion piece that compared him favorably with his predecessor, President Obama, as well as Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. In quoting the op-ed, Trump initally misspelled consequential as consensual, but he deleted those tweets and re-sent the messages. His is turning out to be an enormously consequential presidency. So much so that, despite my own frustration over his missteps, there has never been a day when I wished Hillary Clinton were president. Not one. Indeed, as Trumps accomplishments accumulate, the mere thought of...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 ...Clinton in the WH, doubling down on Barack Obamas failed policies, washes away any doubts that America made the right choice. This was truly a change election  and the changes Trump is bringing are far-reaching & necessary. Thank you Michael Goodwin! https://t.co/4fHNcx2Ydg  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Trump also continued talking up the economy, which has been enjoying a period of strong gains. The Stock Market has been creating tremendous benefits for our country in the form of not only Record Setting Stock Prices, but present and future Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Seven TRILLION dollars of value created since our big election win!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 In addition to Miller, other senior administration officials made the rounds of Sunday news talk shows to decry the claims made in Wolffs book. CIA Director Mike Pompeo said Wolffs characterization of Trump as averse to digesting classified briefing material was ludicrous, and the ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, insisted that that those around Trump love their country and respect their president. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Laura King. Facebook

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Responding to book that mocks his intelligence, Trump tweets hes like, really smart By Tracy Wilkinson President Trump declared himself a very stable genius on Twitter on Saturday and later in a televised news conference called the author of a book that questioned his mental fitness a fraud. His comments came on a bone-cold day at Camp David during a weekend retreat with top administration officials and Republican congressional leaders strategizing on the years legislative agenda, including matters such as infrastructure, immigration, welfare reform and national security. Now that Russian collusion, after one year of intense study, has proven to be a total hoax on the American public, the Democrats and their lapdogs, the Fake News Mainstream Media, are taking out the old Ronald Reagan playbook and screaming mental stability and intelligence.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 ....Actually, throughout my life, my two greatest assets have been mental stability and being, like, really smart. Crooked Hillary Clinton also played these cards very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 ....to President of the United States (on my first try). I think that would qualify as not smart, but genius....and a very stable genius at that!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 Still, Trumps explosive rebuttal to author Michael Wolffs claims not only opened the day, but it also ensured the presidents capability to fill the highest office in the land was a topic that would not go away. In his early-morning tweets, Trump said two of his greatest assets have been mental stability, and being, like, really smart. He noted that his former Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, played these cards [about competence] very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star to President of the United States (on my first try). Read More Facebook

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In morning tweets, Trump touts job numbers and takes digs at news media By Associated Press President Trump used Twitter on Saturday morning to tout a drop in the unemployment rate for African Americans. He also used the tweets as an opportunity to take digs at media outlets whose past coverage he has found to be critical. The African American unemployment rate fell to 6.8%, the lowest rate in 45 years. I am so happy about this News! And, in the Washington Post (of all places), headline states, Trumps first year jobs numbers were very, very good.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 The unemployment rate for African Americans fell to 6.8% in December, the lowest level since the government began tracking such data in 1972. The reasons range from a greater number of black Americans with college degrees to a growing need for employers in a tight job market to widen the pool of people they hire from. Still, the rate for black workers remains well above those for whites and some other groups, something experts attribute in large part to decades of discrimination and disadvantages. Robust job creation has lowered unemployment for all Americans. U.S. employers added nearly 2.1 million jobs in 2017  the seventh straight year that hiring has topped 2 million. In his tweet, Trump praised a report that noted the numbers, touting the fact that it appeared in the Washington Post (of all places). Minutes later, Trump renewed his attack on an ABC News reporter who was suspended last month after filing an erroneous report on Michael Flynn, Trumps former national security advisor. Brian Ross, the reporter who made a fraudulent live newscast about me that drove the Stock Market down 350 points (billions of dollars), was suspended for a month but is now back at ABC NEWS in a lower capacity. He is no longer allowed to report on Trump. Should have been fired!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 The reporter, Brian Ross, was reportedly reassigned within ABC News upon returning from his unpaid suspension. But on Saturday, Trump wrote that he should have been fired. Trumps tweets came hours before he was set to host congressional Republicans and administration officials at Camp David. The meeting scheduled to begin at midmorning Saturday was expected to touch on the budget, infrastructure, immigration, welfare reform and the shape of the midterm election this fall. Facebook

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Trump commends Sen. Rand Paul after he proposes eliminating all U.S. aid to Pakistan President Trump commended Sen. Rand Paul after the Kentucky Republican announced plans to introduce legislation that would eliminate all U.S. aid to Pakistan. Trump tweeted Friday night: Good idea Rand! https://t.co/55sqUDiC0s  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 On Thursday, the Trump administration announced it was suspending security assistance to Islamabad until the country moves aggressively against local militants who have attacked U.S. troops in neighboring Afghanistan. Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration at the apparent inability of Pakistani authorities to rein in militants who cross out of the countrys rugged tribal areas to attack U.S. troops in Afghanistan. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Tracy Wilkinson. Facebook

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Trump continues to lash out at Sloppy Steve Bannon in tweets on tell-all book By Associated Press President Trump is praising a major Republican donor family for distancing themselves from his former advisor Steve Bannon. Trump tweeted Friday: The Mercer Family recently dumped the leaker known as Sloppy Steve Bannon. Smart!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Trump has continued to lash out at Bannon over an explosive new book that quoted his former aide as questioning Trumps competence and describing a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower among Donald Trump Jr., Trump campaign aides and a Russian lawyer as treasonous and unpatriotic. On Thursday, billionaire GOP donor Rebekah Mercer issued a statement distancing her family from Bannon. Mercer is a co-owner of Breitbart, the populist website Bannon helps run. I support President Trump and the platform upon which he was elected, Mercer said. My family and I have not communicated with Steve Bannon in many months and have provided no financial support to his political agenda, nor do we support his recent actions and statements. The book, Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, quickly shot atop Amazons best-seller list, and the publisher moved up its release date by four days, to Friday. Trump took up the topic again on Twitter on Friday night, denouncing both Bannon and the books author, Michael Wolff, in starkly personal terms: Michael Wolff is a total loser who made up stories in order to sell this really boring and untruthful book. He used Sloppy Steve Bannon, who cried when he got fired and begged for his job. Now Sloppy Steve has been dumped like a dog by almost everyone. Too bad! https://t.co/mEeUhk5ZV9  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 Trumps message linked to a meme depicting a parody book cover titled, Liar and Phony, that featured a photo of Wolff and disparaging quotes about the author. In a tweet sent earlier Friday morning, Trump suggested the book was intended to serve as a distraction from the FBIs investigation into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, which Trump wrote is proving to be a total hoax. Well, now that collusion with Russia is proving to be a total hoax and the only collusion is with Hillary Clinton and the FBI/Russia, the Fake News Media (Mainstream) and this phony new book are hitting out at every new front imaginable. They should try winning an election. Sad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 That came amid reports that Trump directed his White House counsel to tell Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions to not recuse himself from the Justice Departments Russia investigation. Trumps effort to keep Sessions, a vocal and loyal supporter of his election bid, in charge of an investigation into his campaign offers special counsel Robert Mueller yet another avenue to explore as his prosecutors work to untangle potential evidence of obstruction. Read More Facebook

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Trump praises the economy ahead of meetings at Camp David By Associated Press President Trump is praising the strength of the U.S. economy ahead of meetings at Camp David with congressional Republicans. Trump tweeted early Friday: Dow goes from 18,589 on November 9, 2016, to 25,075 today, for a new all-time Record. Jumped 1000 points in last 5 weeks, Record fastest 1000 point move in history. This is all about the Make America Great Again agenda! Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Six trillion dollars in value created!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 The president also told reporters on the South Lawn that the tax cuts are really kicking in after Congress passed a package of tax cuts at the end of 2017. And the president praised the December jobs report, which found U.S. employers added 148,000 jobs in December and the unemployment rate stayed at 4.1%, the lowest level since 2000. The modest but steady pace of hiring is a reassuring sign for investors who have been buoyed by the just-passed Republican tax plan and have been sending stock market indexes roaring to uncharted heights. The president is meeting with Republican congressional leaders and members of his Cabinet on Friday and Saturday to discuss the 2018 agenda. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets as Dow crashes through 25,000 By Associated Press President Trump dispatched a congratulatory tweet as the Dow Jones industrial average rose above the 25,000-point mark Thursday, just five weeks after its first close above 24,000. Dow just crashes through 25,000. Congrats! Big cuts in unnecessary regulations continuing.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 After the Dow closed above 25,000, Trump shared a graphic depicting the stock indexs record-setting rise. MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/iONbr1DkVk  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Later in the day, the president was back on Twitter, complaining that news outlets had barely covered the stock market milestone. He suggested that the strength of the economy would be the biggest story on earth, had it unfolded during the presidency of his predecessor. The Fake News Media barely mentions the fact that the Stock Market just hit another New Record and that business in the U.S. is booming...but the people know! Can you imagine if O was president and had these numbers - would be biggest story on earth! Dow now over 25,000.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 The Dow broke past 1,000-point barriers in 2017 on its way to a 25% gain for the year, as an eight-year rally since the Great Recession continued to confound skeptics. Strong global economic growth and good prospects for higher company earnings have analysts predicting more gains, although the market may not stay as calm as it has been recently. The Dow has made a rapid trip since it reached 24,000 points Nov. 30, partly on enthusiasm over passage of the Republican-backed tax package, which could boost company profits this year with across-the-board cuts to corporate taxes. Read More Facebook

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Trump reacts to Fire and Fury book in tweet lashing out at author and Sloppy Steve President Trump lashed out at the author of a soon-to-be-released book about the chaotic first year of his presidency Thursday night. In a tweet, Trump called Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, a phony book and claimed that hed never spoken to its author, Michael Wolff. Look at this guys past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve! Trump wrote. He appeared to be referring to former White House chief strategist Stephen K. Bannon, whose stunning criticisms of Trump and his circle figure prominently in the title. I authorized Zero access to White House (actually turned him down many times) for author of phony book! I never spoke to him for book. Full of lies, misrepresentations and sources that dont exist. Look at this guys past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Trumps tweet came hours after he had his lawyer demand that Henry Holt & Co. and Wolff stop publication the book. Instead, the publisher expedited the books release to Friday, four days before it was slated to hit bookstore shelves, in response to unprecedented demand. Published excerpts on Wednesday and Thursday whetted that appetite and roiled Washington. Bannons comments, including that it was treasonous and unpatriotic for Trumps son Donald Trump Jr., son-in-law Jared Kushner and campaign manager Paul Manafort to have met in 2016 with Russians said to have dirt on Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, prompted Trump on Wednesday to rebuke his former advisor, saying Bannon had lost his mind. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writers Brian Bennett and Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

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Trump thanks senators who attended meeting on immigration President Trump tweeted thanks to Republican senators who attended a meeting about possible immigration legislation on Thursday. In his message, Trump also listed his top priorities when it comes to any type of overhaul of the nations immigration system. Thank you to the great Republican Senators who showed up to our mtg on immigration reform. We must BUILD THE WALL, stop illegal immigration, end chain migration & cancel the visa lottery. The current system is unsafe & unfair to the great people of our country - time for change!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Trumps tweet echoed his remarks at the beginning of Thursdays meeting, when he insisted again that constructing a border wall and overhauling two legal immigration programs must be part of any deal with Democrats to protect the so-called Dreamers from deportation. Two-year deportation protections and work permits given under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program begin to expire March 6 under an executive order. Trump announced in September that he was ending the Obama-era program, but told Congress to draft a law to continue protections for people brought to the country illegally as children  a group that has widespread public support. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Brian Bennett. Facebook

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Trump resumes Twitter war against kneeling NFL players President Trump has resumed his Twitter war against NFL players who kneel during the national anthem to protest social injustice and racial inequality. In a tweet early Thursday, Trump replied to a supporter who shared a meme that appears to depict family members lying on the grave of a fallen soldier with the caption: This is why we stand. Show this picture to the NFL players who still kneel! Trump wrote. So beautiful....Show this picture to the NFL players who still kneel! https://t.co/tJLM1tvbvb  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 The president has denounced players who kneel during the anthem in previous tweets. Hes also called for the firing of players who do so. His latest message came amid news that the NFL finished the regular season with TV ratings that fell nearly 10% below the previous season. Analysts attribute the drop to controversies facing the league, as well as changing viewing habits and a possible saturation point in the number of games available. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writers Stephen Battaglio and Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

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Trump credits himself with facilitating talks between North and South Korea By Associated Press President Trump says his tough stance on nuclear weapons on the Korean peninsula is helping push North Korea and South Korea to talk. Trump tweeted early Thursday: With all of the failed experts weighing in, does anybody really believe that talks and dialogue would be going on between North and South Korea right now if I wasnt firm, strong and willing to commit our total might against the North. Fools, but talks are a good thing!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 That assertion is in conflict with some of the presidents own statements. Last year, he ridiculed Secretary of State Rex Tillerson for talking about negotiations with the North. This week, Trump seemed open to the possibility of an inter-Korean dialogue after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare overture toward South Korea in a New Years Day address. But Trumps ambassador to the United Nations insisted that talks wont be meaningful unless the North is getting rid of its nuclear weapons. The overture about talks came after Trump and Kim traded more bellicose claims about their nuclear weapons. In his New Years Day address, Kim repeated fiery nuclear threats against the United States. Kim said he has a nuclear button on his office desk and warned that the whole territory of the U.S. is within the range of our nuclear strike. Trump mocked that assertion Tuesday evening in a tweet. Facebook

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After disbanding his vote fraud panel, Trump still says voting system is rigged By Brian Bennett One day after disbanding his troubled voter fraud commission without any findings of fraud, President Trump continued to call the U.S. voting system rigged and said states should require that Americans have voter-identification cards. In two tweets on Thursday morning, Trump blamed the commissions failure on the lack of cooperation from mostly Democrat States that refused to hand over voter rolls because they know that many people are voting illegally. However, voting supervisors in Republican-led states refused as well, objecting on privacy and other grounds. Many mostly Democrat States refused to hand over data from the 2016 Election to the Commission On Voter Fraud. They fought hard that the Commission not see their records or methods because they know that many people are voting illegally. System is rigged, must go to Voter I.D.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 As Americans, you need identification, sometimes in a very strong and accurate form, for almost everything you do.....except when it comes to the most important thing, VOTING for the people that run your country. Push hard for Voter Identification!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Despite Trumps assertions, analysts have not found evidence of widespread voter fraud. Trump created the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity in May after alleging, without proof, that millions of illegal votes were cast for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election. Trump was elected after winning a majority in the electoral college, but the nationwide count showed Clinton received nearly 3 million more votes. The commission sought personal data on voters across the country and faced mounting lawsuits in recent months over privacy concerns. Read More Facebook

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Trump touts another good day for stocks, credits tax cut By Associated Press President Trump touted another good day for the stock market Wednesday in a tweet. Stock Market had another good day but, now that the Tax Cut Bill has passed, we have tremendous upward potential. Dow just short of 25,000, a number that few thought would be possible this soon into my administration. Also, unemployment went down to 4.1%. Only getting better!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Big gains for technology and healthcare stocks helped U.S. indexes set records again Wednesday. Some analysts attributed the surge to investor enthusiasm for Trumps $1.5-trillion tax cut. All told, Wall Street analysts estimate the tax package should boost earnings for companies in the Standard & Poors 500 index by roughly 8% this year. Thats much more generous than the average tax cut of 1.6% that middle-class families will receive, according to the Tax Policy Center. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 The public has been less enthusiastic about the tax law. A Monmouth University poll last month found that nearly half of Americans disapproved of it, with only 26% in support. Still, as Trump also noted on Twitter, some workers have seen a benefit: So far, dozens of companies have announced bonuses and higher minimum wages as a result of the tax cut. AT&T, Comcast, Bank of America, and American Airlines have all pledged to pay $1,000 bonuses to their employees. Some 40 U.S. companies have responded to President Trumps tax cut and reform victory in Congress last year by handing out bonuses up to $2,000, increases in 401k matches and spending on charity, a much higher number than previously known. https://t.co/bmWrwWzxMR  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Investors also appear less concerned than many politicians about how the additional profits will be used. The Trump administration says it expects companies will plow much of the extra profit back into their businesses, purchasing more software, machinery, and other equipment. Those investments will make workers more productive and provide a key boost to the economys long-run growth. They should also boost wages and salaries for employees. Opponents of the tax law respond that companies are more likely to pass the windfall on to shareholders in the form of higher dividend payments and share buybacks, which raise the price of those shares still in investors hands. Previous cuts in corporate tax rates, in the United States and overseas, havent always led to higher wages. For Wall Street, its all good, at least in the short run. Most analysts take the view that either way, companies and the economy will benefit. Facebook

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Trump reacts to death of Mormon Church president By Associated Press President Trump mourned the death of Mormon Church leader Thomas S. Monson on Wednesday evening. Trump tweeted a link to a statement in which he said that Monson demonstrated wisdom, inspired leadership, and great compassion and delivered a message of optimism, forgiveness, and faith. Melania and I are deeply saddened by the death of Thomas S. Monson, a beloved President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints...https://t.co/ETD3fWtfU3  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 A church bishop at the age of 22, Monson became the youngest church apostle ever in 1963 at the age of 36. He served as a counselor for three church presidents before assuming the role of the top leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in February 2008. After a life of church service, Monson died Tuesday at his home in Salt Lake City, according to church spokesman Eric Hawkins. He was 90. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets that Iranian protesters will see great U.S. support at the appropriate time By Associated Press President Trump continued to express support for Irans anti-government protesters on Wednesday. In a tweet, Trump commended the protesters and pledged that the United States will support them at the appropriate time. Such respect for the people of Iran as they try to take back their corrupt government. You will see great support from the United States at the appropriate time!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Trumps tweet Wednesday morning came as Iranian Ambassador Gholamali Khoshroo sent a letter to United Nations officials complaining that Washington was intervening in a grotesque way in Irans internal affairs. The President and Vice-President of the United States, in their numerous absurd tweets, incited Iranians to engage in disruptive acts, the ambassador wrote to the U.N. Security Council president and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The U.S. didnt immediately respond to the letter, which maintains that Washington has crossed every limit in flouting rules and principles of international law governing the civilized conduct of international relations. At least 21 people have been killed and hundreds arrested in Iran during a week of anti-government protests and unrest over economic woes and official corruption. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people took part in counter-demonstrations Wednesday backing the clerically overseen government, which has said enemies of Iran are fomenting the protests. Trump has unleashed a series of tweets in recent days backing the protesters, saying Iran is failing at every level and declaring that it is time for change in the Islamic Republic. Facebook

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Trump congratulates Sen. Orrin Hatch upon news of his retirement By Associated Press President Trump congratulated Sen. Orrin Hatch for an absolutely incredible career upon news of Hatchs impending retirement. In a tweet Tuesday afternoon, Trump called Hatch a tremendous supporter and wrote that he will be greatly missed in the Senate. Congratulations to Senator Orrin Hatch on an absolutely incredible career. He has been a tremendous supporter, and I will never forget the (beyond kind) statements he has made about me as President. He is my friend and he will be greatly missed in the U.S. Senate! pic.twitter.com/0VjzLEeHTl  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Hatchs decision to retire from the Senate after four decades lets the Utah Republican walk away at the height of his power after helping to push through an overhaul of the tax code and persuading Trump to downsize two national monuments. Retirement also preserves the 83-year-olds legacy by allowing him to avoid a bruising reelection battle that would have broken his promise not to seek an eighth term. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweet exaggerates progress in improving veterans care By Associated Press President Trump played up tremendous progress in improving care for veterans in his first year on Tuesday in a tweet. His message linked to an Instagram video describing eight accomplishments that show Trump is fighting for our veterans. But it overstates the impact of these steps. We will not rest until all of Americas GREAT VETERANS can receive the care they so richly deserve. Tremendous progress has been made in a short period of time. Keep up the great work @SecShulkin @DeptVetAffairs! https://t.co/ir25vW15hx pic.twitter.com/OtuzIgxMn6  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Of the eight achievements cited, two are ceremonial proclamations recognizing National Veterans and Military Families Month and National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Two are pieces of legislation that extended the troubled Veterans Choice program on a temporary basis. This became necessary because the Trump administration repeatedly miscalculated the amount of taxpayer dollars available to pay for care from private doctors outside the Veterans Affairs system when veterans had to endure long waits for treatment at VA medical centers. The departments poor budget planning caught lawmakers off guard. A fifth claim involves telehealth, a step letting doctors practice medicine across state lines using digital technology. Announced in August, it has yet to take full effect because a proposed VA regulation hasnt been completed. The VA wants authority to practice across state lines to come from legislation, not a regulation. On Wednesday, the Senate approved a telehealth measure that now goes to the House. A sixth claim refers to legislation that streamlines the appeals process for disability compensation claims within the VA. This step has had limited effect so far because it applies to new disability claims, not the 470,000 pending claims. The last two initiatives make it easier for the VA to discipline employees. The department has pointed to more than 1,300 employees who have been fired under Trumps watch. Because their infractions are not detailed in public documents, the effect on veterans care is not fully known. Facebook

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Trump unleashes his first tweetstorm of 2018 By Noah Bierman President Trump clearly didnt resolve to change his Twitter habits this year. With nine disparate tweets over three hours on Tuesday morning, the first working day of 2018, Trump continued to exploit social media to be the most aggressive commentator in chief in American history. For any other president, his posts would have made for a monumental day of (mis-)statements. Yet for Trump, the series  attacks on political foes and media, provocations of foreign leaders and self-praise for events he had nothing to do with  was all but unremarkable. His Twitter barrage  sent between 7:09 a.m. and 10:16 a.m.  reflected a familiar gamut after nearly a year in office: Attacks on political foes: Nearly 14 months after his election, Trump called for the jailing of Huma Abedin, Crooked Hillary Clintons top aid (his misspelling, another occasional feature of Trump tweets). Crooked Hillary Clintons top aid, Huma Abedin, has been accused of disregarding basic security protocols. She put Classified Passwords into the hands of foreign agents. Remember sailors pictures on submarine? Jail! Deep State Justice Dept must finally act? Also on Comey & others  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 In the same tweet, he disparaged the Deep State Justice Dept, headed of course by his appointees, calling on it to act against James B. Comey, the FBI director he fired for investigating the Russia thing. Diplomatic provocations: Trump again called North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Rocket man, ridiculed the volatile nuclear-armed foe for recent military defections and openly speculated about potential talks between North and South Korea. Sanctions and other pressures are beginning to have a big impact on North Korea. Soldiers are dangerously fleeing to South Korea. Rocket man now wants to talk to South Korea for first time. Perhaps that is good news, perhaps not - we will see!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Perhaps that is good news, perhaps not  we will see! Trump wrote. Later Tuesday, Trump tweeted: North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un just stated that the Nuclear Button is on his desk at all times. Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Also later Tuesday, Trump tweeted an attack on Pakistan, his second in as many days, and added a new one against Palestinians: It's not only Pakistan that we pay billions of dollars to for nothing, but also many other countries, and others. As an example, we pay the Palestinians HUNDRED OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS a year and get no appreciation or respect. They dont even want to negotiate a long overdue...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 ...peace treaty with Israel. We have taken Jerusalem, the toughest part of the negotiation, off the table, but Israel, for that, would have had to pay more. But with the Palestinians no longer willing to talk peace, why should we make any of these massive future payments to them?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Undermining media: Trump offered Congratulations! to A.G. Sulzberger, who took over as publisher of the New York Times this week. The Failing New York Times has a new publisher, A.G. Sulzberger. Congratulations! Here is a last chance for the Times to fulfill the vision of its Founder, Adolph Ochs, to give the news impartially, without fear or FAVOR, regardless of party, sect, or interests involved. Get...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 ....impartial journalists of a much higher standard, lose all of your phony and non-existent sources, and treat the President of the United States FAIRLY, so that the next time I (and the people) win, you wont have to write an apology to your readers for a job poorly done! GL  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 But the two-part post was really yet another slam against a perceived media foe: Trump said the paper had a last chance to fulfill its journalistic mission, and accused it of relying on phony sources and substandard reporters  just days after he granted another exclusive interview to the paper. As a bonus, the tweet contained a recycled falsehood, that the paper apologized after the election for reporting on him unfairly. It didnt. Trump later said on Twitter that he would soon announce the most dishonest & corrupt media awards of the year. Stay tuned! I will be announcing THE MOST DISHONEST & CORRUPT MEDIA AWARDS OF THE YEAR on Monday at 5:00 oclock. Subjects will cover Dishonesty & Bad Reporting in various categories from the Fake News Media. Stay tuned!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 The president also tweeted a quote from Fox Business Networks Lou Dobbs Tonight, which aired a segment praising Trumps first-year accomplishments. Dobbs reportedly joined Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday for a gala to celebrate New Years Eve. President Trump has something now he didnt have a year ago, that is a set of accomplishments that nobody can deny. The accomplishments are there, look at his record, he has had a very significant first year. @LouDobbs Show,David Asman & Ed Rollins  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Taking credit: Trump congratulated himself for policing the border with Mexico, an area where his policies and anti-immigration rhetoric are believed to have had some effect on reducing illegal crossings. Thank you to Brandon Judd of the National Border Patrol Council for your kind words on how well we are doing at the Border. We will be bringing in more & more of your great folks and will build the desperately needed WALL! @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 He took credit for employee bonuses by companies after he signed Republican tax cuts into law last month. Companies are giving big bonuses to their workers because of the Tax Cut Bill. Really great!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 But the jaw-dropper was Trump congratulating himself for planes not crashing. Since taking office I have been very strict on Commercial Aviation. Good news - it was just reported that there were Zero deaths in 2017, the best and safest year on record!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 It was the safest year on record worldwide, but the American streak without commercial jet passenger deaths goes back to 2009. Trump, who has promoted deregulation as one of his top accomplishments, has not signed off on any new airline safety regulations. The White House pointed to new security screening of passengers, to electronic devices to prevent terrorist attacks and to Trumps support for privatizing air traffic control  a proposal that has gotten nowhere in Congress. Falsehoods: Trump said President Obama, in brokering the 2015 nuclear arms limitation deal with Iran, foolishly gave money to the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. He didnt. The people of Iran are finally acting against the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. All of the money that President Obama so foolishly gave them went into terrorism and into their pockets. The people have little food, big inflation and no human rights. The U.S. is watching!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 The nuclear deal, which included major U.S. allies as signators, released Irans own funds that had long been frozen. Trumps art of the deal: When Trump sees a big deal looming, he often blasts the other side  to gain leverage, as hes written. This week he resumes a showdown with Democratic lawmakers over funding the government and immigration protections for so-called Dreamers, who were brought to the country illegally as children. Democrats are doing nothing for DACA - just interested in politics. DACA activists and Hispanics will go hard against Dems, will start falling in love with Republicans and their President! We are about RESULTS.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Trump, who in September ordered a gradual end of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, sought to shift blame for the resulting controversy, saying Democrats are doing nothing for DACA and are just interested in politics. Trump has insisted that any help for Dreamers be paired with funding for a border wall and a crackdown on legal immigration. Democrats, and some Republicans, are opposed. Read More Facebook

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In tweet, Trump suggests U.S. will withdraw financial assistance to Pakistan By Shashank Bengali Pakistan lashed out Monday after President Trump accused its leaders of lies & deceit and suggested the United States would withdraw financial assistance to the nuclear-armed nation it once saw as a key ally against terrorism. It was the presidents latest broadside against Pakistan after a speech in August in which he demanded its leaders crack down on the safe havens enjoyed by Taliban militants fighting U.S.-backed forces in neighboring Afghanistan. The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 1, 2018 U.S. Ambassador David Hale was summoned to the Foreign Ministry to discuss the presidents statement, U.S. Embassy spokesman Richard Snelsire said. Pakistan lodged a strongly worded protest and asked for clarification about Trumps comments, according to two foreign office officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Pakistans prime minister, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, called a Cabinet meeting for Tuesday and a meeting of the National Security Committee on Wednesday to discuss Trumps New Years Day tweet. Read More Facebook

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Trump continues to tweet in support of Iranian protesters By Laura King President Trump expressed renewed support Sunday for protesters in Iran, declaring that people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. In a tweet from his Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, the president said the nationwide economic protests that began on Thursday  and have taken on wider political overtones as they have grown in size  were a signal that Iranians will not take it any longer. Big protests in Iran. The people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. Looks like they will not take it any longer. The USA is watching very closely for human rights violations!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Trump has tweeted about the protests for three days straight as Iranians took to the streets despite a heavy police presence, tear gas and scores of arrests. The defiance gained urgency after two people were reported shot to death in the city of Dorud, about 200 miles southwest of Tehran. As the conflict escalated, Iranian authorities on Sunday slapped a temporary ban on Instagram and the messaging app Telegram, which were widely used to fan protest fervor. Iran, the Number One State of Sponsored Terror with numerous violations of Human Rights occurring on an hourly basis, has now closed down the Internet so that peaceful demonstrators cannot communicate. Not good!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Irans leaders already are casting Trumps increasingly effusive expressions of support for the demonstrators as opportunistic meddling and are painting the demonstrators as foreign pawns, adopting a strategy that some analysts say could jeopardize the legitimacy of the nascent antigovernment protests. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets condolences after Colorado deputies are shot in ambush, one fatally By Associated Press A man fired more than 100 rounds at sheriffs deputies in Colorado early Sunday, killing one and injuring four others, before being fatally shot himself in what authorities called an ambush. Two civilians were also injured. President Trump expressed sorrow, writing on Twitter: My deepest condolences to the victims of the terrible shooting in Douglas County @DCSheriff, and their families. We love our police and law enforcement - God Bless them all! #LESM  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said deputies came under fire almost
Wait  did the president really say, Mission Accomplished? By Marc Olson Some are recalling the last time a president declared Mission accomplished, in May 2003 when George W. Bush was talking about Iraq. (Stephen Jaffe / AFP/Getty Images) President Trump on Saturday morning thanked his allies in a tweet that declared the airstrikes on Syria perfectly executed, but he might have wished hed stopped there. Instead, he ended his message with the phrase, Mission Accomplished! Thats a line that might have a previous president shaking his head. On May 1, 2003, President George W. Bush declared an end to major combat in Iraq under a Mission Accomplished banner aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. That war, which began in March 2003, grew into a prolonged conflict that didnt end until 2011. In 2008, the White House said it had paid a price for the backdrop. A perfectly executed strike last night. Thank you to France and the United Kingdom for their wisdom and the power of their fine Military. Could not have had a better result. Mission Accomplished!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 14, 2018 Facebook

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Auditor says Pentagon is censoring key data on the war in Afghanistan By Shashank Bengali The Pentagon is blocking the release of data showing how much of Afghanistans territory lies outside government control, censoring a key metric used to gauge progress in the 16-year war, a watchdog agency said Tuesday. The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, an auditing agency established by Congress, said in its latest report that the Pentagon instructed it not to release unclassified data on how many districts and people are controlled or influenced by insurgent groups. This is the first time SIGAR has been specifically instructed not to release information marked unclassified to the American taxpayer, the head of the agency, John F. Sopko, wrote in a letter. Sopko also said the U.S.-led military coalition, for the first time since 2009, classified information about the size and attrition rates of the Afghan security forces, important indicators of progress in building up army and police forces on which the U.S. already has spent $70 billion since 2002. The decision to withhold more information from congressional oversight and the public comes amid growing violence in Afghanistan and an intensifying combat mission involving a greater number of American troops. Following a series of bombings in Kabul that left at least 136 people dead in 10 days, President Trump signaled on Monday that he was focused on trying to win the conflict militarily, saying, We dont want to talk with the Taliban. But data released by SIGAR since 2015 have shown how the insurgents have gained ground against Afghan security forces. In its previous quarterly report, the watchdog said that only 57% of Afghanistans 407 districts were under Afghan government control or influence as of August 2017, the lowest level of control since it began tracking the statistic in December 2015. The steady decline in government control should cause even more concern about its disappearance from public disclosure and discussion, Sopko wrote. The watchdog also accused the Pentagon of overstating the impact of its efforts to combat drug cultivation and trafficking, among the Talibans main sources of revenue. The Pentagon touted airstrikes that destroyed 25 drug labs in November and December, saying it eliminated nearly $100 million of Taliban revenue. The labs being destroyed are cheap and easy to replace, SIGAR said. According to some estimates, they only take three or four days to replace. Facebook

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Women journalists shunted to rear for Pences visit to Western Wall By Noga Tarnopolsky The view from the womens section. (Noga Tarnopolsky / Los Angeles Times) Vice-President Mike Pences 48-hour visit to Israel stumbled into a public storm Tuesday when female reporters covering his final stop at Jerusalems Western Wall were penned behind four rows of their male colleagues. White House officials told stunned journalists that the arrangement emanated from a request made by the Western Wall rabbi, Shmuel Rabinowitz, and followed Western Wall rules. Some women journalists said they could not recall such treatment in the past. In a statement to Israels Channel 10 news, the Western Wall Heritage Foundation said it was exactly as it was during the visit of the U.S. president to the Western Wall last May. Later in the day, in a statement to the newspaper Haaretz, the foundation blamed the United States embassy in Tel Aviv and Israeli security officials for the segregation, and announced they would reexamine the way they handle such events. Women who covered previous VIP visits said the Pence arrangements were significantly more onerous than previous visits, when male and female journalists were separated but not offered substantially different work conditions. LIVE coverage of our male colleagues granted access to cover VP at Western Wall as we are penned into #PenceFence pic.twitter.com/k3svkxfQsa  Noga Tarnopolsky (@NTarnopolsky) January 23, 2018 The arrangement reflected procedures at the Western Wall, Judaisms holiest site, where on regular days, men have access to two thirds of the area available for prayer. Tal Schneider, the diplomatic analyst for Globes, a financial newspaper, protested that the separation of men and women may be valid for the requirements of Orthodox prayer, but no one is praying here. We are here to work. I dont appreciate being restricted in my ability to work because I am a woman, she said. The discriminatory attitude towards women is infuriating and is unbefitting of a modern country. Yael Freidson, the Jerusalem affairs correspondent for Yediot Ahronot, Israels widest circulation newspaper, said she worried that her editors could choose male colleagues for the next assignment, knowing they would have better access. Before Pence arrived, journalists were herded onto a specially constructed platform in the middle of the Western Walls esplanade, with women guided to the right behind a white fence, and men, many carrying cameras, directed to the left, where they had more than double the space. Towards the end of the vice presidents 10-minute visit, male journalists were permitted into the VIP tent where he received a gift from Rabinowitz, while the women remained in their enclosure. None of the men publicly protested the treatment of their female colleagues. Israels Association of Women Journalists filed a formal complaint with Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, herself a woman. Facebook

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Former Sheriff Joe Arpaio, after his pardon from Trump, says hell run for Senate in Arizona By Kurtis Lee (Mary Altaffer / Associated Press) (Mary Altaffer / Associated Press) Former Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio, who last year was pardoned by President Trump in a case stemming from his enforcement tactics aimed at immigrants, announced Tuesday he will run for the open Senate seat in his home state. I am running for the U.S. Senate from the Great State of Arizona, for one unwavering reason: to support the agenda and policies of President Donald Trump in his mission to Make America Great Again, Arpaio, 85, said on Twitter. Hell enter a Republican primary for the seat being vacated by Republican Sen. Jeff Flake. Last summer, Trump pardoned Arpaio, who was convicted in July of criminal contempt for violating a federal court order to stop racially profiling Latinos. It was Arpaios roughly quarter-century as sheriff that gave him a national reputation for his tough treatment of people suspected of being in the country illegally. Repeated court rulings against his office for civil rights violations cost local taxpayers tens of millions of dollars. In the early 1990s, Arpaio directed construction of a tent city for immigration detainees, a measure he said was intended both to alleviate overcrowding and to underscore his aggressive enforcement measures. But it was open to the burning Arizona sun, and drew widespread criticism. After Trump entered the presidential race in July 2015, Arpaio invited him to Phoenix to talk about a crackdown on illegal immigration. He endorsed Trump just before the first votes in the Iowa caucuses in 2016 and frequently spoke out on behalf of Trumps campaign. Facebook

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President Trump ends controversial voter fraud commission By Kurtis Lee President Trump signed an executive order late Wednesday ending the voter fraud commission he launched last year as the panel faces a flurry of lawsuits and criticism from Democrats and Republicans alike. Trump signed the order disbanding the commission rather than engage in endless legal battles at taxpayer expense, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement. The Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity, created by executive order in May with the stated goal of restoring confidence and integrity in the electoral process, has faced a barrage of lawsuits in recent months over privacy concerns, as the commission sought personal data on voters across the country. Read More Facebook

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Congress returns to work with slimmer GOP majority to accomplish Trumps agenda By Lisa Mascaro Congress returns to work this week with unfinished business on spending, immigration and other crucial issues, but with an even narrower GOP majority that will make it tougher to move on President Trumps agenda. The House and Senate will convene Wednesday, swearing in the newly elected Democratic senator from Alabama, Doug Jones, and Minnesotas Tina Smith to replace a fellow Democrat, Sen. Al Franken, who is resigning as the latest high-profile public figure sidelined by allegations of sexual misconduct. The change gives Republicans only a one-seat margin in the Senate. Trump, fresh off passage of the GOP tax cuts bill, is pushing lawmakers to pivot quickly on his new year priorities of infrastructure investment and immigration, as well as his foreign policy agenda. But another legislative victory seems far off. Republicans have struggled to hold their majority together and Congress first must tackle critical stalled agenda items that leaders punted to 2018. Read More Facebook

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Trump threatens to cut off U.S. aid to Palestinians By Tracy Wilkinson President Trump on Tuesday angrily threatened to cut off U.S. aid to Palestinians as punishment for what he called their failure to show appreciation or respect to the United States. Writing on Twitter, the president compared the Palestinians to Pakistan, a nuclear-armed ally that abruptly drew his ire this week and a similar threat to drastically curtail aid. He accused the Palestinians of recalcitrance in what he described as their refusal to negotiate a peace deal with Israel. Palestinian officials have said they can no longer use Washington as a broker to restart peace talks with Israel following Trumps Dec. 6 decision to overturn decades of U.S. policy and recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and ultimately to move the U.S. Embassy there. The Palestinians also claim part of Jerusalem as the capital of an eventual independent state. Until now, the United States and most of the world agreed the citys political status was a matter to settle in final peace talks. The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly condemned any effort to recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital, and the Palestinian leadership said it would not meet with Vice President Mike Pence, who had planned a trip to the region. That trip is on hold. [W]e pay the Palestinians HUNDRED [sic] OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS a year and get no appreciation or respect, Trump wrote on Twitter. [W]ith the Palestinians no longer willing to talk peace, why should we make any of these massive future payments to them? In response to Trumps tweet, Hanan Ashrawi, a senior Palestinian official, issued a statement saying: Palestinian rights are not for sale. By recognizing Occupied Jerusalem as Israels capital Donald Trump has not only violated international law, but he has also singlehandedly destroyed the very foundations of peace and condoned Israels illegal annexation of the city. We will not be blackmailed, she said. President Trump has sabotaged our search for peace, freedom and justice. Now he dares to blame the Palestinians for the consequences of his own irresponsible actions! The United States does not pay large amounts of money directly to the Palestinian Authority, the government that rules over parts of the Palestinian West Bank. Instead, most money goes to the U.N., refugee or aid agencies and even Israel to pay for roads, welfare, schools, security and other Palestinian projects. The U.S. ambassador to the U.N., Nikki Haley, said Tuesday that the administration was planning to cut off one of those organizations, the U.N. Relief and Works Agency, until the Palestinians return to the negotiating table. UNRWA, which receives around $300 million annually from the U.S., for years has been the lifeline to hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees living in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. It was not clear if Haley was threatening to cut all U.S. support for the agency. Special correspondent Noga Tarnopolsky in Jerusalem contributed to this report. Facebook

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The White House stops short of calling for government overthrow in Iran By Brian Bennett President Trump wants Iran to give its citizens basic human rights and stop being a state sponsor of terror, his top spokeswoman said, but the White House stopped short of calling for a change of government in Tehran. If they want to do that through current leadership, if thats possible, OK, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders told reporters. Sanders praised the organic popular uprising, which she said the widespread protests in Iran represented. The protests grew out of years of years of mismanagement, corruption, and foreign adventurism have eroded the Iranian peoples trust in their leaders, she said. Earlier Tuesday, Trump called Irans government brutal and corrupt and wrote in a tweet: The people have little food, big inflation and no human rights. The U.S. is watching! Trump also blamed President Obama for foolishly giving Iran money that he said went to fund terrorism. The money he referred to were funds belonging to Iran that had been frozen by the U.S. and were released as part of the deal in 2015, which blocked Irans development of nuclear weapons. The people of Iran are finally acting against the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. All of the money that President Obama so foolishly gave them went into terrorism and into their pockets. The people have little food, big inflation and no human rights. The U.S. is watching!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Facebook

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Retirement of Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch clears the way for a Mitt Romney revival By David Lauter The retirement of Utahs senior senator, Orrin G. Hatch, opens the way for a widely expected Senate bid by Mitt Romney, the Republicans 2012 presidential nominee and a frequent critic of President Trump. Although Romney previously served for two terms as governor of Massachusetts (and was raised in Michigan, where his father was governor and his mother ran for the Senate), he comes from a prominent Mormon family with strong ties to Utah. He also served as chief executive of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics. Hes viewed as a strong candidate for the Senate seat. Romneys criticisms of Trump, however, could prompt a challenge in a Republican primary. Trump was widely reported to have tried to convince Hatch to run for a seventh term, in part to head off a Romney candidacy. Last month, Romney and Trump were on opposite sides of one of the biggest political fights of the fall  the battle over the Senate seat from Alabama. The president strongly supported Roy Moore, the Republican candidate who had been accused of sexual misconduct by several women. Romney called Moore a stain on the GOP. Roy Moore in the US Senate would be a stain on the GOP and on the nation. Leigh Corfman and other victims are courageous heroes. No vote, no majority is worth losing our honor, our integrity.  Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) December 4, 2017 On Tuesday, Romney tweeted praise for Hatch, but did not immediately reveal his own plans. I join the people of Utah in thanking my friend, Senator Orrin Hatch for his more than forty years of service to our great state and nation. Read my full statement: https://t.co/YwjUpjez5y  Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) January 2, 2018 Facebook

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U.S. calls on Iran to unblock social media sites amid protests By The Associated Press The Trump administration is calling on Irans government to stop blocking Instagram and other popular social media sites as Iranians are demonstrating in the streets. Undersecretary of State Steve Goldstein says the U.S. wants Iran to open these sites. He says Instagram, Telegram and other platforms are legitimate avenues for communication. The United States is encouraging Iranians to use virtual private networks, known as VPNs. Those services create encrypted links between computers and can be used to access blocked websites. Goldstein says the U.S. is still communicating with Iranians in Persian through State Department accounts on Facebook, Twitter and other platforms. He says the U.S. wants to encourage the protesters to continue to fight for whats right. Goldstein says the U.S. has an obligation not to stand by. Read More Facebook

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Trump blasts Democrats in advance of immigration meeting By Brian Bennett The day before a meeting of administration officials and congressional leaders on outstanding legislative business, President Trump accused Democrats of doing nothing to hammer out an immigration deal to protect from deportation people brought to the country illegally as children. Democrats are doing nothing for DACA  just interested in politics, Trump wrote in a Tweet on Tuesday morning, referring to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program by its acronym. Democrats are doing nothing for DACA - just interested in politics. DACA activists and Hispanics will go hard against Dems, will start falling in love with Republicans and their President! We are about RESULTS.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer along with the Republican leaders, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, are scheduled to meet on Wednesday at the Capitol with Trumps legislative director, Marc Short, and budget director, Mick Mulvaney. The White House on Tuesday said the meeting is to discuss separate spending caps on military and domestic programs. Yet the Democrats insist the discussion also must include a variety of legislative issues that Trump and Congress punted into the new year  on immigration, the budget, healthcare and more. That stance reflects Democrats leverage: Republicans need Democratic votes to pass a government-funding bill and avert a federal shutdown when the current funding expires Jan. 19. Democrats especially want separate legislation replacing the Obama-era DACA program; Trump in September ordered a phase-out of the program, beginning March 6, and called on Congress to act before then on an alternative way to address the plight of the group. However, Trump has demanded that any alternative must be part of a package including both money for a border wall and immigration limits. Democrats are opposed. Facebook

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Pakistan hits back after Trump accuses its leaders of lies and deceit By Aoun Sahi Pakistan lashed out Monday after President Trump accused its leaders of lies and deceit and suggested the United States would withdraw financial assistance to the nuclear-armed nation it once saw as a key ally against terrorism. U.S. Ambassador David Hale was summoned to the Foreign Ministry to discuss the presidents statement, U.S. Embassy spokesman Richard Snelsire said. Pakistan lodged a strongly worded protest, according to two foreign office officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Pakistans prime minister, Shahid Abbasi, called a Cabinet meeting for Tuesday and a meeting of the National Security Committee on Wednesday to discuss Trumps New Years Day tweet. It was the presidents latest broadside against Pakistan after a speech in August in which he demanded its leaders crack down on the safe havens enjoyed by Taliban militants fighting U.S.-backed forces in neighboring Afghanistan. Read More Facebook

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Trump again cheers on Iran protests By Laura King President Trump expressed renewed support Sunday for protesters in Iran, declaring that people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. In a tweet from his Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, the president said the nationwide economic protests that began on Thursday  and have taken on wider political overtones as they have grown in size --- were a signal that Iranians will not take it any longer. Big protests in Iran. The people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. Looks like they will not take it any longer. The USA is watching very closely for human rights violations!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 The presidents earlier hailing of the protests drew condemnation from Irans government. A Foreign Ministry spokesman called his comments deceitful and opportunistic. Following an overnight report of the first two fatalities stemming from the protests, Trump raised some eyebrows by expressing concern over human rights violations as authorities move to crack down on the demonstrations. During his first year in office, the president has shown scant inclination to press foreign governments to respect the fundamental rights of their citizens. The USA is watching closely for human rights violations! Trump said in his tweet Sunday. Some domestic critics have pointed to the presidents inclusion of Iranian nationals in his travel ban, suggesting he was more interested in bashing the Tehran government than in supporting freedom of speech in Iran. Even some of the presidents allies said that supporting the protesters on social media did not amount to making policy. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said he had urged Trump to give a national address laying out his Iran strategy. President Trump is tweeting very sympathetically to the Iranian people, Graham said on CBS Face the Nation. But you just cant tweet here. You have to lay out a plan. Facebook

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Australian diplomats tip a factor in FBIs Russia inquiry By Associated Press Australian High Commissioner Alexander Downer. (Alastair Grant / Associated Press) An Australian diplomats tip appears to have helped persuade the FBI to investigate Russian meddling in the U.S. election and possible coordination with the Trump campaign, the New York Times reported Saturday. Trump campaign advisor George Papadopoulos told the diplomat, Alexander Downer, during a meeting in London in May 2016 that Russia had thousands of emails that would embarrass Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, the report said. Downer, a former foreign minister, is Australias top diplomat in Britain. Australia passed the information on to the FBI after the Democratic emails were leaked, according to the Times, which cited four current and former U.S. and foreign officials with direct knowledge of the Australians role. The hacking and the revelation that a member of the Trump campaign may have had inside information about it were driving factors that led the FBI to open an investigation in July 2016, the newspaper said. White House lawyer Ty Cobb declined to comment, saying in a statement that the administration is continuing to cooperate with the investigation now led by special counsel Robert Mueller to help complete their inquiry expeditiously. Papadopoulos has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI and is a cooperating witness. Court documents unsealed two months ago show he met in April 2016 with Joseph Mifsud, a professor in London who told him about Russias cache of emails. This was before the Democratic National Committee became aware of the scope of the intrusion into its email systems by hackers later linked to the Russian government. The Times said Papadopoulos shared this information with Downer, but it was unclear whether he also shared it with anyone in the Trump campaign. Facebook

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Trump offers fresh support for protesters in Iran as demonstrations continue By Lisa Mascaro Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice. The world is watching! pic.twitter.com/kvv1uAqcZ9  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 30, 2017 President Trump again offered support Saturday for anti-government protesters in Iran, where a third day of demonstrations, the largest in years, spilled across the country amid fears of a crackdown. Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice. The world is watching! Trump wrote on Twitter. Trump took a break from playing golf near his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida to tweet clips from his speech to the United Nations General Assembly in September when he called for Iranian democratic reforms. Iranian authorities warned of potential violence as the street demonstrations, which began over economic conditions, swelled into frustrations with the theocratic rule of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump has maintained a hawkish stance toward Iran, sharply criticizing the landmark nuclear disarmament accord that Tehran reached with then-President Obama and five other nations in 2015. In October, Trump declined to certify the accord to Congress although the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency says Iran is complying with it. Several conservative GOP senators signaled their support for Trumps position and backed the protesters in Iran. Others in Congress did not immediately respond, however, amid conflicting reports over who had organized the demonstrations. Even after the billions in sanctions relief they secured through the nuclear deal, the ayatollahs still cant provide for the basic needs of their own people, said Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), a Trump ally and opponent of the nuclear deal. We should support the Iranian people who are willing to risk their lives to speak out against it, he added. Trump initially tweeted his support on Friday night. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a statement at that time as protests spread. There are many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regimes corruption and its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad, Sanders said. The Iranian government should respect their peoples rights, including their right to express themselves. The world is watching. Facebook

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When it comes to U.S.-Russia relations, it takes two to tango, Kremlin says By Sabra Ayres The deteriorating relationship between the United States and Russia is one of the biggest disappointments of 2017, Russian President Vladimir Putins spokesman told reporters today. Russia would like to rebuild relations between the two adversaries, but it takes two to tango, Dmitry Peskov said today during a conference call with the press. We want and are looking for good mutually beneficial relations based on mutual respect, mutual trust with all countries, primarily with European ones, including the United States, but it is necessary to dance tango, as they say. Peskov blamed the ongoing anti-Russian Russophobia in Washington for playing a major role in blocking the two countries from moving forward in their relationship. U.S. investigations into the Trump presidential campaigns alleged collusion with the Kremlin during the 2016 U.S. election and accusations that the Kremlin tried to interfere with the electoral process continue to cast a dark shadow over the relationship, he said. Peskov told reporters that Moscow was perplexed by the investigations. The Kremlin has continued to deny having any involvement with the Trump campaign or doing anything to interfere with the American election. This is definitely a U.S. domestic affair, but in this case it naturally hurts our bilateral relations, which is regrettable, Peskov said. Relations between the U.S. and Russia have been categorized as the worst theyve been since the end of the Cold War. This year, Washington and Moscow have engaged in a diplomatic tit-for-tat in which both sides have been forced to reduce diplomatic staff, embassy properties have been repossessed by the hosting countries and visa services have been interrupted. The U.S. diplomatic mission to Russia shrank from 1,200 personnel, including some Russian local staff, to just over 450 across all its three consulates and embassy in Moscow. In the U.S., Russia was forced to vacate its San Francisco consulate. Moscow has also blamed anti-Russian sentiments on the recent decision by the International Olympic Committee to ban Russian teams from wearing their tricolor uniforms or flags during the upcoming games in South Korea. The international body accused some of the Russian national teams of doping. Facebook

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U.S. and Turkey resume reciprocal issuing of visas but frictions remain By Tracy Wilkinson The United States and Turkey began issuing reciprocal visas again on Thursday, more than two months after normal visa service was suspended in a dispute over the arrest of two U.S. diplomatic staffers in Istanbul  the latest friction between the two nominal allies. The State Department said it was lifting the visa restrictions after it was assured by the Turkish government that U.S. Embassy employees would not be arrested when performing their official duties. But the Turkish Embassy in Washington denied assurances were offered concerning the ongoing judicial processes, and suggested that the arrests were legal and justified. It is inappropriate to misinform the Turkish and American public that such assurances were provided, the embassy said in a statement. The dispute has aggravated the already tense relationship between the United States and Turkey, which is a member of the NATO military alliance. The two countries have clashed over U.S. support for Kurdish rebels in Syria and over Turkeys demands that the U.S. extradite a Turkish cleric who lives in rural Pennsylvania. After a failed coup attempt killed more than 250 people in July 2016, Turkeys autocratic president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, launched a harsh crackdown on his political opponents, arresting or firing tens of thousands of teachers, police, journalists, military officers and others. Erdogan accused Fethullah Gulen, an Islamic educator and former political ally, of orchestrating the coup. Gulen, who has lived in a compound in the Pocono Mountains, has denied any involvement. The Justice Department has so far denied Turkeys repeated demands to extradite Gulen. Erdogan raised the issue again at the White House in May, but his visit ended in a public relations disaster when his security guards brutally beat peaceful protesters outside the Turkish ambassadors residence. Two Turkish employees of the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul were arrested this fall for alleged ties to the 2016 coup attempt. The U.S. responded by suspending most visa services at its missions in Turkey in October. The Turkish government reciprocated in November. State Department officials said they have repeatedly demanded more information about any formal charges against the two employees. They reiterated on Thursday that serious concerns about the allegations remained. Facebook

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Trump: China caught RED HANDED allowing oil to reach North Korea By Brian Bennett (Andrew Harnik / Associated Press) President Trump isnt taking a holiday vacation from Twitter. In one of three tweets early on Thursday from his West Palm Beach golf club, he charged that China was caught RED HANDED allowing oil shipments to reach North Korean ports. Pronouncing himself very disappointed, Trump in effect was acknowledging the failure of his months-long effort to convince China to clamp down further on energy shipments going to the isolated country, which relies heavily on Beijing, as a way to pressure North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program. Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 28, 2017 Trumps tweet came after a South Korean newspaper published what it said were U.S. spy satellite images of Chinese ships selling oil to North Korean ships. The United Nations Security Council, which includes China, has voted repeatedly to restrict fuel shipments to North Korea. Trump asked Chinese President Xi Jinping in November to cut off North Koreas oil supply entirely, the American ambassador to the U.N., Nikki R. Haley, said at the time. It is unclear if Trumps admonishment of China was based on news reports or classified information he received from U.S. intelligence officials. There was no daily intelligence briefing on Trumps public schedule Thursday. He is expected to return to Washington next week after spending the Christmas holiday and New Years Eve at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla. Facebook

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President Trump again falsely claims hes signed more bills than any president By Brian Bennett President Trump visits a firehouse in West Palm Beach, Fla., on Wednesday. (Nicholas Kamm / AFP) After another morning at his Florida golf club, President Trump visited firefighters and paramedics at a West Palm Beach firehouse and praised his own performance as president, including with a false boast. Trump touted his administrations work to roll back government regulations and cut taxes and claimed credit for the stock market hitting record highs. He also said hes signed more bills into law than any other president, which isnt true. We have signed more legislation than anybody, Trump said, standing in front of a rescue vehicle inside the fire station. We have more legislation passed, including  the record was Harry Truman a long time ago, and we broke that record, so we got a lot done, Trump said. An analysis by GovTrack, a website that tracks bills in Congress, shows that Trump has signed the fewest bills into law at this point than any president in more than 60 years, back to Dwight D. Eisenhower. Facebook

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Trump administration urges Russia to reinstate monitors in Ukraine, lower violence By Tracy Wilkinson Sergei Lavrov (AFP/Getty Images) Secretary of State Rex Tillerson asked Russia on Wednesday to reinstate its military personnel at a monitoring station in eastern Ukraine intended to quell escalating bloodshed. In a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, Tillerson also urged Russia to lower the level of violence and underscored the Trump administrations concern over increased fighting in Ukraine, the State Department said in a statement. Russia last week withdrew its monitors from the Joint Center on Coordination and Control, which is tasked with verifying a much-violated ceasefire between Ukrainian forces and Russia-backed separatists. Moscow cited what it called restrictions and provocations from Ukrainian authorities that made it impossible for the observers to do their jobs. Washington has accused the pro-Russia forces of being responsible for many of the truce violations. Late last week, the State Department also announced plans to provide Ukraine with lethal defensive weapons, including Javelin anti-tank missiles, a decision that angered Moscow. The State Department statement did not say whether the weapons deal came up in Tillersons conversation with Lavrov. The two also discussed North Korea, its destabilizing nuclear program and the need for a diplomatic solution to achieve a denuclearized Korean peninsula, the statement said. Russia has offered to serve as a mediator between Washington and Pyongyang, but direct talks do not seem likely at this point. Facebook

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U.S. sanctions two more North Korean officials for ballistic missile program By Tracy Wilkinson The Trump administration announced sanctions Tuesday against two more North Korean officials for their alleged role in Pyongyangs expanding ballistic missiles program. The Treasury Department is targeting leaders of North Koreas ballistic missile programs, as part of our maximum pressure campaign to isolate [North Korea] and achieve a fully denuclearized Korean Peninsula, Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin said in a statement. The nuclear-armed country tested an intercontinental ballistic missile last month that U.S. officials said appeared capable of reaching New York or Washington, a significant milestone in the countrys growing arsenal. The Treasury Department identified the two North Korean officials as Kim Jong Sik, who reportedly is a key figure in the ballistic missile program and led efforts to switch missiles from liquid to solid fuel (which makes them easier to hide before launch), and Ri Pyong Chol, who was reported to be a key official in the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles. The sanctions block banks, companies and individuals from doing any business with the targeted officials. It also allows the U.S. government to freeze any American assets owned by the officials. On Friday, the United Nations Security Council unanimously voted to add more sanctions on North Korea, its third round this year. The new measures order North Koreans working abroad to return home within two years, and ban nearly 90% of refined petroleum exports to the country. In a statement published Sunday by North Koreas state-run KCNA news agency, the foreign ministry denounced the new U.N. sanctions as an act of war. We define this sanctions resolution rigged up by the US and its followers as a grave infringement upon the sovereignty of our Republic, as an act of war violating peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula and the region and categorically reject the resolution, it said. Facebook

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Salt Lake Tribune calls on Sen. Orrin Hatch to not seek reelection in scathing editorial Perhaps the most significant move of Hatchs career is the one that should, if there is any justice, end it. The last time the senator was up for reelection, in 2012, he promised that it would be his last campaign. That was enough for many likely successors, of both parties, to stand down, to let the elder statesman have his victory tour and to prepare to run for an open seat in 2018. Clearly, it was a lie. Read the editorial>> Facebook

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Christmas Eve, Trump on Twitter: New attacks on FBI official, decrying Fake News By Laura King President Trump launched a Christmas Eve attack on FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, whom he accuses of favoritism toward his former opponent, Hillary Clinton, and also returned to a longtime favored theme, excoriating the news media for failing to sufficiently extol his accomplishments. .@FoxNews-FBIs Andrew McCabe, in addition to his wife getting all of this money from M (Clinton Puppet), he was using, allegedly, his FBI Official Email Account to promote her campaign. You obviously cannot do this. These were the people who were investigating Hillary Clinton.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 24, 2017 Thank you President TRUMP!! pic.twitter.com/LKdkT0FL99  oregon4TRUMP (@shawgerald4) December 23, 2017 The Fake News refuses to talk about how Big and how Strong our BASE is. They show Fake Polls just like they report Fake News. Despite only negative reporting, we are doing well - nobody is going to beat us. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 24, 2017 Trump, who is spending the holidays at his Florida resort, Mar-a-Lago, also sent Christmas greetings to deployed military personnel, praising them for success in the fight against terrorism. The early-morning swipe at McCabe followed a flurry of tweets attacking the deputy FBI chief on Saturday. McCabe, who has been a lightning rod for Republican attacks on the FBI, is expected to retire early in the new year. How can FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, the man in charge, along with leakin James Comey, of the Phony Hillary Clinton investigation (including her 33,000 illegally deleted emails) be given $700,000 for wifes campaign by Clinton Puppets during investigation?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 23, 2017 FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe is racing the clock to retire with full benefits. 90 days to go?!!!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 23, 2017 Critics say the president and his allies are in the midst of a systematic campaign to denigrate the FBI and special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, who is looking into potential collusion by the Trump campaign in Russias attempts to sway the 2016 presidential election. In a pair of statements on Twitter, Trump again expressed scorn regarding news coverage of his administration. For months, the president has been particularly critical of reports regarding the Russia investigation and more recently has repeatedly complained he does not receive enough credit for a booming stock market. In his video conference message to troops overseas, the president made apparent reference to the fight against the militants of Islamic State, who over the last year have lost most of the territory they previously controlled in Iraq and Syria, including former strongholds in Mosul and Raqqah. Were winning, Trump told military personnel deployed in Qatar, Kuwait, Guantanamo Bay and aboard the guided missile destroyer Sampson. Reporters traveling with the president heard his address, but were ushered from the room before he took questions from the troops. The president often breaks with longtime custom and makes politically charged statements at events in which he addresses military personnel. Facebook

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Trumps Wells Fargo tweet cited in court hearing as reason to remove Mulvaney as CFPB acting chief By Jim Puzzanghera A recent tweet by President Trump about possible penalties against Wells Fargo & Co. was cited during a court hearing Friday as a reason for removing White House official Mick Mulvaney as acting director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The attorney for Leandra English  the bureaus deputy director who has said she is the rightful acting head  said Trumps tweet showed he was trying to exercise improper influence over the independent consumer watchdog. I think that [tweet] shows you this isnt just some hypothetical concern, the attorney, Deepak Gupta, told Judge Timothy J. Kelly of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia during a nearly two-hour hearing. Read More Facebook

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Trump administration recognizes Honduran presidents reelection By Tracy Wilkinson The Trump administration on Friday formally recognized the incumbent president of Honduras, conservative Juan Orlando Hernandez, as the winner of a bitterly contested presidential election held last month. In a statement, the State Department congratulated Hernandez while also acknowledging widespread irregularities in the Nov. 26 vote and calling for a robust national dialogue to overcome political discord in the Central American country, a close ally of the administration. The Organization of American States, which monitored the election, said it was so flawed that only a new round of voting could establish a fair and transparent outcome. But the U.S. rejected that determination. Uproar over the contest led to demonstrations in Honduras that left numerous civilians dead after state security forces opened fire on the protests. Activists and others voiced criticism Friday of the administrations decision. Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), a leading Democratic voice on Central American issues, said he was angry and deeply disturbed by the State Department decision. The recent elections in Honduras were deeply flawed, chaotic and marred by numerous irregularities, McGovern said. U.S.-Honduran cooperation on matters such as drug-trafficking, violence and immigration requires a credible, legitimate government that has the support of its people, in Honduras, McGovern said. Hernandezs victory also was controversial because it was the first time a sitting president was allowed to run for re-election, barred until now by the Honduran Constitution. Facebook

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Senate Leader Mitch McConnell says fixing DACA is no emergency until March By Lisa Mascaro Amanda Bayer, left with banner, and Marisol Maqueda, right, join a rally in support of so-called Dreamers outside the White House. (Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Friday hes committed to allowing a vote on a bill for so-called Dreamers in January, but sees no rush to resolve the deportation threat posed by President Trumps decision to end a program protecting immigrants brought to the country illegally as children. There isnt that much of an emergency there, he said. There is no emergency until March. Well keep talking about it. Trump called for phasing out by March the Obama-era program that allows the young immigrants, many of them longtime residents, to get two-year deferrals of any deportation threat so they can legally attend school or work. Beneficiaries must be vetted for security purposes. Trump told Congress to come up with a legislative alternative for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which President Obama created by executive order, to protect those currently eligible. A bipartisan Senate group has been working with the White House, but talks stalled this week amid administration demands for curbs on legal immigration flows in exchange for protecting the DACA recipients. Meanwhile, Dreamers and immigrant advocates stormed the Capitol in recent days pressing for the help promised by Trump and Democratic congressional leaders that failed to materialize in the years final legislation. Advocacy groups say more than 120 immigrants each day are falling out of compliance without DACA renewals, putting them at risk of deportation. The number that is projected to swell to more than 1,000 a day in March. Weve been gridlocked on this issue for years, McConnell said. We want to have a signature. We dont just want to spin our wheels and have nothing to show for it. Facebook

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President Trump signs tax bill By Noah Bierman (Alex Brandon / Associated Press) President Trump on Friday morning signed a sweeping tax-cut measure  his first major legislative achievement  before heading off for a Christmas vacation at his Mar-a-Lago property in Palm Beach, Fla. The president also privately signed a short-term spending bill to fund government operations through Jan. 19. Congress approved it Thursday, after Republican leaders were unable to bridge differences in their own party as well as with Democrats to get agreement on funding for the full fiscal year. The stopgap bill punts fights on immigration and other issues to January. The tax bill, approved earlier this week in Congress in largely party-line votes, slashes corporate tax rates from 35% to 21% and also includes a host of other provisions for individuals, all intended to boost the economy. Critics point to nonpartisan analyses showing that the package, including changes greatly reducing the number of estates subject to taxes, steers the bulk of tax benefits to top earners and the wealthy, including Trump, despite his repeated claims that hell take a hit. Trump signed the bill quietly Friday, but held a public ceremony with Republican lawmakers on Wednesday after the bills passage; he also tweeted about the measure extensively. He is expected to hold another public ceremony after the New Years holiday. Facebook

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Pelosi urges Ryan to prevent Republicans from curtailing Houses Russia probe By Chris Megerian House Speaker Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin greets House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi sent a letter to Speaker Paul D. Ryan on Friday urging him to ensure the Houses investigation into Russian interference with last years presidential campaign is not cut short. The American people deserve a comprehensive and fair investigation into Russias attacks, wrote Pelosi, of San Francisco, in her letter. Political haste must not cut short valid investigatory threads. The House Intelligence Committee has been probing the issue since March 1, and Democrats have repeatedly warned that Republicans are trying to wrap up its work prematurely. Pelosi said Ryan, a Republican from Wisconsin, should take urgent action to ensure this investigation can continue. AshLee Strong, a spokeswoman for Ryan, said Pelosi simply wants to see this investigation go on forever in order to suit her political agenda. Whether it concludes next month, next year, or in three years, she will say it is too soon, Strong said in a statement. She added, The investigation will conclude when the committee has reached a conclusion. The committees work is led by Rep. K. Michael Conaway (R-Texas). His spokeswoman, Emily Hytha, said he remains committed to conducting this investigation as thoroughly and expeditiously as possible. With more interviews scheduled, the investigation shows signs of extending into next year, Bloomberg reported Friday. BREAKING: Steve Bannon and former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski have been sent letters requesting they testify to House Intel panel in early January, per @HouseInSession  Laura Litvan (@LauraLitvan) December 22, 2017 Facebook

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Congress votes to avert government shutdown, but Senate fails to pass disaster aid package By Lisa Mascaro ( (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press)) Congress approved a temporary spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, but failed to complete work on an $81-billion disaster aid package to help California, Gulf Coast states and Puerto Rico recover from wildfires and hurricanes, as lawmakers scrambled Thursday to wrap up business before a Christmas break. The stopgap measure continues federal operations for a few more weeks, setting up another deadline for Jan. 19. But it left undone a long list of priorities that members of both parties had hoped to finish this year. Read More Facebook

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Wells Fargo says raises were not linked to tax bill passage  then backtracks By James Rufus Koren Wells Fargo & Co.s move to raise its minimum pay to $15 an hour was part of a long-term plan and not related to the passage of the Republican tax overhaul as the company implied, said a bank spokesman, who later backtracked and stated the hikes were a result of the bills approval. The bank was among several large corporations to publicly announce pay raises or new investments immediately following the final House vote in an apparent public relations offensive to boost the popularity of the tax bill The San Francisco bank had implied the direct linkage to the tax legislation in a news release Wednesday, shortly after Congress passed the tax overhaul, which slashes the corporate tax rate to 21% from 35% starting Jan. 1. Read More Facebook

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Obamacare signups beat expectations, despite Trump administrations opposition By Noam N. Levey President Trump with Seema Verma, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) Despite Trump administration efforts to discourage people from signing up, the number of people enrolling for Affordable Care Act coverage nearly hit last years level, the government revealed Thursday. Exchange open enrollment for 2018 coverage ended w/ approx 8.8M people enrolling in coverage. Great job to the @CMSGov team for the work you did to make this the smoothest experience for consumers to date. We take pride in providing great customer service.  Administrator Seema Verma (@SeemaCMS) December 21, 2017 The 8.8 million people who enrolled in the 36 states that use the federal governments healthcare.gov system significantly exceeded most forecasts. The Trump administration stopped most outreach and other efforts this year aimed at getting people to sign up. The president also repeatedly said publicly that Obamacare was dead. Open enrollment continues in California and several other states that run their own healthcare marketplaces. The figures from the federal government indicate that when those states wrap up for the year, the number of people covered by Obamacare will be nearly the same as in 2017. Read More Facebook

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U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly condemns U.S. policy change on Jerusalem despite Trumps threats By Tracy Wilkinson The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly voted Thursday to condemn President Trumps decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, despite Trumps threats to punish countries that voted against the U.S. position. The resolution passed in an emergency session at U.N. headquarters in New York with 128 in favor, nine opposed and 35 abstentions. The nonbinding resolution demands that Washington rescind its declaration, which included a plan to transfer the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in coming years. The resolution value is mostly symbolic, showing how isolated the U.S. is in the move. Nikki Haley, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., warned this week that she would be taking names of countries that opposed the U.S., and Trump on Wednesday suggested he might cut U.S. aid to governments that voted in favor of the resolution. Let them vote against us, Trump said. Well save a lot. We dont care. The U.S. recognition of Jerusalem reversed decades of international consensus on the political status of the divided city. Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as their capital in a future independent state. Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki said the U.N. was facing an unprecedented test and that history would remember those who stand by what is right. Facebook

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Democrats defend Robert Mueller, saying Russia investigation must be allowed to continue By Chris Megerian Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) speaking during a committee hearing earlier this year. (Molly Riley / Associated Press) House Democrats said they will fight Republican attempts to discredit and undermine the work of special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, who is investigating whether President Trumps associates helped Russian meddling in last years election. There is an organized effort by Republicans, in concert with Fox News, to spin a false narrative and conjure up outrageous scenarios to accuse special counsel Mueller of being biased, Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) said. Trump has said he has no plan to fire Mueller, but Democrats are alarmed by escalating criticism of the special counsels work. Why is the president afraid of the facts and the truth? Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Mich.) said. He added, No matter what the facts are, were satisfied if the investigation is complete. A letter of support signed by 171 Democratic members of Congress will be sent to Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein, who appointed Mueller, a former FBI director, and oversees his investigation. Rosenstein has defended Mueller in the face of Republican criticisms. Facebook

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U.S. blacklists Myanmar army general who it says oversaw atrocities against Rohingya Muslims By Shashank Bengali The Trump administration on Thursday blacklisted a Myanmar army general who it said oversaw human rights abuses committed by security forces against Rohingya Muslims. Imposing economic sanctions against the general, Maung Maung Soe, was the toughest action the United States has taken in response to a brutal army offensive that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has described as ethnic cleansing. In a statement, the Treasury Department said it had examined credible evidence of Maung Maung Soes activities, including allegations against Burmese security forces of extrajudicial killings, sexual violence and arbitrary arrest as well as the widespread burning of villages. The Rohingya are an ethnic and religious minority of about 1 million people in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar, also known as Burma. The United Nations says that more than 640,000 Rohingya have fled the country since August, after the army launched clearance operations in response to attacks carried out by a Rohingya insurgent group against security forces. Rohingya refugees in crowded camps in neighboring Bangladesh have described horrific violence by Myanmar forces, including mass rapes, summary executions and children being burned alive. The aid group Doctors Without Borders estimates that 6,700 people were killed in the first month of the operation. Myanmar authorities deny committing atrocities and say that only a few hundred fighters were killed. Maung Maung Soe was chief of the armys Western Command, which carried out the offensive. He was transferred from his position last month, according to news reports. He was one of 13 individuals worldwide who were blacklisted Thursday under a new U.S. law that gives the Treasury Department authority to target officials for human rights abuses and corruption. Others included former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh; Gulnara Karimova, daughter of the late Uzbekistan dictator Islam Karimov; and Artem Chaika, son of Russias prosecutor-general. Today, the United States is taking a strong stand against human rights abuse and corruption globally by shutting these bad actors out of the U.S. financial system, said Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. The sanctions freeze any assets Maung Maung Soe holds in the United States and bars Americans from doing business with him. It is also a sign of how quickly U.S. relations with Myanmar have soured. Under the Obama administration, the United States forged closer ties with the former military dictatorship and eased economic and political sanctions as the country began implementing democratic reforms. But Myanmar, which does not regard the Rohingya as citizens, has lashed out at the international community over the current crisis. It has jailed journalists, blocked access to affected areas in the western state of Rakhine and this week barred a U.N. human rights investigator from entering the country. Rohingya activists said the U.S. action would not have much effect on a country that survived under economic sanctions for years. It is the whole military institution that has a policy to persecute these people, said Nay San Lwin, a Rohingya activist and blogger in Germany. According to the U.S.s own definition, the army is carrying out ethnic cleansing. They have a responsibility to protect these people. Sanctions on one person are really not enough. Facebook

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Dreamers will have to wait until next year for Congress long-promised protections By Lisa Mascaro Amanda Bayer, left with banner, and Marisol Maqueda, right, join a rally in support of so-called Dreamers outside the White House. (Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press)) A promised year-end deal to protect the young immigrants known as Dreamers from deportation collapsed Wednesday as Republicans in Congress  fresh off passage of their tax plan  prepared to punt nearly all remaining must-do agenda items into the new year. Congressional leaders still hope that before leaving town this week they can pass an $81-billion disaster relief package with recovery funds for California wildfires and Gulf Coast states hit during the devastating hurricane season. But passage even of that relatively popular measure remained in doubt as conservatives balked at the price tag. Rather than finish the year wrapping up the legislative agenda, the GOP majorities in the House and Senate struggled over their next steps. Read More Facebook

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Chants of protest drown out any caroling this holiday season at the Capitol By Lisa Mascaro U.S. Capitol Police arrest a man wearing a Santa Claus hat during a protest against the Republican tax bill. (Alex Edelman / AFP/Getty Image) Outside the U.S. Capitol, the lights on a towering Christmas tree are flipped on each evening, giving the Engelmann spruce a festive twinkle; inside the marble halls, wreaths and garlands decorate doorways and alcoves ahead of the holidays. But the spirit of the season has been punctuated by other sights: a Jumbotron parked across from the Capitol reflecting pool broadcasts images of young immigrants who face deportation; Little Lobbyists, children with complex medical needs, were featured in a recent news conference; protesters filed into the visitor galleries to shout against the Republican tax plan. While its beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Capitol, its also shaping up to be a holiday season of protest. Read More Facebook

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Tax bill simplifies filing for some but complicates it for others  and dont count on that postcard By Jim Puzzanghera A priority of the Republicans tax overhaul was simplification, and they drove home the point this fall with an omnipresent prop: a red-white-and-blue postcard. Were making things so simple that you can do your taxes on a form the size of a postcard, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.) said last month, pulling one from his jacket pocket as he and Republican leaders unveiled their bill. They gave a couple of the cards to President Trump at a White House meeting a few hours later and flashed them often during news conferences and TV interviews in the coming days. Read More Facebook

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Top U.N. human rights official reportedly wont seek reelection The top United Nations official for human rights, who has frequently criticized the Trump administration, has reportedly decided not to seek a second term, saying his work had become untenable. Zeid Raad Hussein, the U.N. high commissioner for human rights, notified his staff in an email that was obtained by several news outlets, including Agence France-Presse. Staying when his four-year term is up for renewal at the end of August might involve bending a knee in supplication, AFP quoted Husseins email as saying. Hussein is a Jordanian prince who has criticized, among other things, President Trumps attempts to ban visitors or refugees from six predominantly Muslim countries. The news comes a day before the U.N. General Assembly is expected to vote on a nonbinding resolution condemning the Trump administrations formal declaration of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a decision that went against international consensus. Nikki Haley, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., has warned she will be taking names of those who vote against the United States on Thursday. Trump echoed that sentiment Wednesday, voiced support for Haley and implying to reporters that he would consider cutting off U.S. aid to countries that vote against the U.S. Well, were watching those votes, Trump said. Let them vote against us. Well save a lot. We dont care. On Monday, the United States lost a Security Council vote 14-1 on a binding resolution that would have required Washington to rescind its declaration. Haley then vetoed the resolution. Facebook

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Top Democrat warns Trump not to fire Mueller or interfere with his investigation By Chris Megerian Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, one of the top Democrats involved in the congressional inquiries into Russian interference in last years election, said Wednesday that any attempt by President Trump to interfere with the separate criminal investigation would be a gross abuse of power. Warner, who is vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, delivered his warning from the Senate floor as Republicans escalate their criticism of special counsel Robert S. Mueller III and his team of prosecutors and FBI agents. Some Democrats believe Trump is laying the groundwork to fire Mueller even though the president has publicly denied it. Mueller was appointed in May after Trump fired FBI Director James B. Comey. In the United States of America, no one, no one is above the law, not even the president, Warner said. Congress must make clear to the president that firing the special counsel or interfering with his investigation by issuing pardons of essential witnesses is unacceptable and would have immediate and significant consequences. Some Democrats say the White House may try to in effect short-circuit the Mueller investigation by replacing Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein, who is the only official empowered to fire Mueller. Rosenstein recently told Congress that the special counsel is acting appropriately and that he would not dismiss Mueller without just cause. Facebook

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We have essentially repealed Obamacare, Trump says after tax bill passes By Brian Bennett President Trump at a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday at the White House. (Chris Kleponis / Getty Images) President Trump is celebrating Republicans passage of the tax overhaul bill as a two-fer: On Wednesday, in addition to tax cuts, he checked off his promise to repeal Obamacare, pointing to a provision in the bill to end the penalty on Americans who dont get health insurance. We have essentially repealed Obamacare, Trump told reporters during a Cabinet meeting at the White House. Other provisions of the 2010 Affordable Care Act are still in place, and Trump and congressional Republicans failed completely on the replace half of their vow to repeal and replace the program. In Trumps view, however, stripping away the laws individual mandate to get insurance or else pay a tax penalty amounts to repeal of the whole law. Congressional analysts have said that millions of people would lose insurance as a result, either by choice or because they cannot afford it without subsidies, and that premiums would increase for others as younger, healthy people drop coverage. We will come up with something much better, Trump said, adding that block grants to states could be one approach. By his comments, Trump tacitly acknowledged that repeal of the mandate is likely the best he can do following Republicans failure this year to agree on a repeal-and-replace bill. Looking back on his first year, Trump also boasted of his administrations efforts against the Islamic State and increased immigration enforcement. He said he had not given up on funding a border wall or tightening immigration law to limit citizens ability to resettle foreign relatives in the country. He said he would very shortly visit the border with Mexico near San Diego to see wall prototypes that have been built. He didnt answer a reporters shouted question about how he would personally benefit from the tax bill. Facebook

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House gives final OK to GOP tax plan, sending it to Trump By Lisa Mascaro Congress gave final approval to the GOP tax plan Wednesday, 224-201, after the House took an unusual do-over vote to clear up differences with the Senate-passed bill. The $1.5-trillion package now heads to President Trump, who plans to sign it into law. The House had approved the tax bill on Tuesday but was forced to take another vote Wednesday because a couple of provisions in the version it approved were found to be in violation of Senate procedures. Those provisions were dropped before the Senate gave its approval early Wednesday. Critics complained the Republicans rushed to pass the sweeping tax plan to deliver Trump a year-end legislative victory, but supporters shrugged off the problems as minor. The tax plan dramatically cuts corporate rates and provides some individual rate reductions, overhauling the tax code for the first time in 30 years. Facebook

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Trump administration effort to block immigrant from having an abortion fails By David Savage Scott Lloyd is director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) President Trumps lawyers rushed to the Supreme Court and U.S. appeals court in Washington on Monday evening to file emergency appeals seeking to prevent an immigrant in detention, dubbed Jane Roe in court, from having an abortion. That set the stage for a legal showdown on whether the administration can block pregnant minors in custody from choosing to have an abortion. But the legal clash, which the administration has seemed eager to have, fizzled out Tuesday when the governments lawyers admitted the 17-year-old unaccompanied minor in their custody was actually 19. They said they had obtained her birth certificate and realized she was not a minor after all. As a result, Roe, who is 10 weeks pregnant, will no longer be held in a detention center for immigrant minors, and will not be subject to an administration policy that tries to prevent minors in immigration detention from having abortions. Administration lawyers told appeals court judges Tuesday night that Roe was being sent to a facility for adults and likely would be released until her immigration status can be resolved. In a brief order, the D.C. Circuit Court agreed to put the case on hold, but told government attorneys to confirm that she will be permitted to obtain an abortion. The administration had earlier tried to delay another young woman, referred to in court as Jane Poe, from having an abortion, but officials relented on Monday because she was 22 weeks pregnant and nearing the time limit for a legal abortion. Facebook

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Senate panel rejects Trumps pick to lead Export-Import Bank, a leader in the effort to shut it down By Jim Puzzanghera A Senate committee on Tuesday rejected President Trumps nominee to lead the Export-Import Bank, extending the chaos at the embattled agency whose job is to help U.S. companies sell their goods abroad. Two Republicans joined all Democrats on the Senate Banking Committee in voting against former Rep. Scott Garrett (R-N.J.) to be the banks president. Garrett had been a vocal critic of the Ex-Im Bank and a leader of a conservative effort that shut the bank down for five months in 2015 by blocking its congressional authorization. He and other bank opponents branded the banks aid as crony capitalism. Read More Facebook

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Congress proposes $81-billion disaster aid package, including funds for California wildfires By Lisa Mascaro Congress is set to consider an $81-billion disaster aid package that includes wildfire recovery money for California and other Western states as well as hurricane relief with a price tag reflecting a year of record-setting natural calamities. The legislation, the text of which was released late Monday, would provide almost twice as much as the $44 billion the White House sought last month to cover relief efforts along the Gulf Coast and in the Caribbean. Republican congressional leaders added more money after California lawmakers objected that the administration had failed to include help for areas damaged by wildfires and Democrats protested that the overall amount President Trump asked for was insufficient. Read More Facebook

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White House blames North Korea for worldwide WannaCry cyber attack By Noah Bierman The Royal London Hospital, a victim of the unprecedented global cyberattack in May. (Niklas Hallen / AFP/Getty Images) The White House officially blamed North Korea on Tuesday for the cyberattack in May known as WannaCry that infected hundreds of thousands of computers in 150 countries, affecting healthcare, financial services and vital infrastructure. Thomas P. Bossert, assistant to the president for homeland security and counter-terrorism, noted in a briefing with reporters that the consequences were beyond economic. He warned that North Koreas malicious behavior is growing more egregious. Bossert did not specify what evidence American officials have to blame North Korea, citing security issues, but he cited the countrys prior attacks as revealing hallmarks of how Pyongyang and its network of hackers operates. He said other allied countries had joined the United States in making the determination. The administration did not announce any penalties on the regime, which is already subject to severe sanctions over its nuclear program. They want to hold the entire world at risk, Bossert said of North Koreas rulers, referring to the nations nuclear and missile provocations as well as its alleged cyberattack. Given its isolation and international sanctions, North Korea is desperate for funds. Bossert said the country did not appear to make much money on the ransom attack, as word spread that paying a ransom did not result in getting computers unlocked. Its primary goal, he said, was spreading chaos. Bossert and Jeanette Manfra, assistant secretary of homeland security for cybersecurity and communication, said the United States, through a combination of preparation and luck, escaped the worst of the attack, as a patch to the malware was found before U.S. companies and other interests were severely crippled. However, Manfra said, We cannot be complacent. Bossert added, Next time were not going to get so lucky. Manfra praised Microsoft and Facebook for their efforts to combat WannaCry and to block more recent attempts to hack U.S. systems. She and Bossert urged more cooperation and information-sharing from American and multinational companies, arguing a united front is vital to protecting against bad actors who do not differentiate between government and business. Bossert rejected criticism that the the Trump administration has more aggressively called out North Korean cyberattacks than it has Russias meddling in the 2016 election. He said the administration has continued the national emergency initiated by President Obama. Facebook

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GOP lures some mountain bike groups in its push to roll back protections for public land By Evan Halper When their vision of creating a scenic cycling trail through a protected alpine backcountry hit a snag, San Diego area mountain bikers turned to an unlikely ally: congressional Republicans aiming to dilute conservation laws. The frustrations of the San Diego cycling group and a handful of similar organizations are providing tailwind to the GOP movement to lift restrictions on the countrys most ecologically fragile and pristine landscapes, officially designated wilderness. Resentment of these cyclists over the longstanding ban on mechanized transportation in that fraction of the nations public lands presents a political opportunity for Republicans eager to drill fissures in the broad coalition of conservation-minded groups united against the GOP environmental agenda. Read More Facebook

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Vice president postpones Israel trip a second time in case his vote is needed to pass tax cut bill By Noah Bierman (Ethan Miller / Getty Images) Vice President Mike Pence is delaying his trip to Egypt and Israel for a second time in case he is needed to break a tie in the Senate for the tax bill that is expected to pass narrowly this week. Two White House officials confirmed the changed schedule, which they say is unrelated to to protests in the region over the administrations decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital. Pence had initially been scheduled to leave last Saturday. Late last week, the White House moved the trip back a few days to Tuesday night, in case Pence was needed to break a Senate tie. But Monday, they decided to postpone the trip further, to January, given the possibility of a late Senate vote and the coming holidays. He wants to see it through the finish line, said a White House official, referring to the tax measure that is a centerpiece of the Republican legislative agenda. We dont want to leave anything to chance. The mid-January dates will allow Pence more breathing room to merge schedules with embassies and hotels, the official said. Trump still plans to address the Israeli Knesset, a high-profile venue to discuss the Jerusalem decision where it is most popular. Facebook

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Trump judicial pick who drew ridicule at hearing withdraws By Associated Press A White House official says the Trump judicial nominee whose qualifications were questioned by a Republican senator has withdrawn his nomination. Matthew Petersen, who was nominated by President Trump to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, has been the subject of widespread ridicule since he was unable to define basic legal terms during his confirmation hearing Wednesday. A White House official says Petersen has withdrawn his nomination and that Trump has accepted the withdrawal. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the official was not authorized to discuss the development publicly. Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy pressed Petersen, a former chairman of the Federal Election Commission, who testified he had never tried a case, on his qualifications to the bench. Facebook

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Trump says McCain will return to Washington if needed for tax vote By Laura King President Trump said Sunday that Sen. John McCain, who is battling an aggressive form of brain cancer, was returning home to Arizona for the holidays but would come back to Washington if needed to cast a vote on the Republicans tax overhaul bill. The Arizona Republicans office announced last week that McCain was receiving treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center outside Washington for complications from his cancer treatment. McCains daughter Meghan tweeted earlier Sunday that her 81-year-old father would be spending Christmas in Arizona. The Senate is expected to vote early this week on the tax cut legislation, but the GOP appeared to have secured sufficient support without McCains vote. John will come back if we need his vote, Trump told reporters as he returned from a weekend at the presidential retreat at Camp David. Hes going through a very tough time. Facebook

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Putin calls Trump to thank him for U.S. help foiling terrorist strike By Laura King Vladimir Putin phoned President Trump to thank him for what the Russian president said was CIA help in foiling a terrorist attack, the Kremlin said on Sunday. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders confirmed the two leaders conversation to reporters. It was the second time that the two leaders had talked in four days; Trump called Putin on Thursday to thank the Russian leader for lauding the U.S. economy. Putin, in his annual year-end news conference, had praised Trump for a strong performance by the U.S. stock market. Perhaps ironically, given his credit to the CIAs recent help, Putin at that news event dismissed as hysteria the consensus among American intelligence agencies that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential campaign. In reporting Putins call to Trump on Sunday, the official Russian news agency Tass said Putin thanked his American counterpart for information shared by the US Central Intelligence Agency that had helped break up a plot to set off explosives in St. Petersburgs landmark Kazan Cathedral and elsewhere in the city, which is Russias second-largest. Russian authorities last week had credited their countrys counter-intelligence service, the FSB, for foiling the attacks. They reported that seven people affiliated with Islamic State had been detained in St. Petersburg in connection with the plot. The FSB, the successor organization to the KGB, announced Friday that the group had planned to carry out the attacks on Saturday, and that one of those in custody had confessed to the cathedral bomb plot. Facebook

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Mnuchin: Government shutdown unlikely but could happen By Laura King Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin said on Sunday that a government shutdown this week was unlikely but possible. A two-week stopgap spending bill passed by Congress earlier this month provided enough funding to keep the government running through Friday. A deadlock on another temporary funding measure would open the door to a possible shutdown. I cant rule it out, but I cant imagine it occurring, Mnuchin said on Fox News Sunday, suggesting everyone had an interest in avoiding the government grinding to a halt and federal workers going unpaid, especially in the holiday season. I would expect that both the House and Senate, Republicans and Democrats, understand if they cant agree on this, they need to have another short-term extension to move this to January, the Treasury secretary said. We cant have a government shutdown in front of Christmas. In May, irate over concessions made to Democrats in hammering out a spending measure, President Trump tweeted that a good shutdown might help matters. While both parties agree that a government shutdown involves a degree of disruption that is not beneficial to either side, shutdowns in 1995-96 and in 2013 mainly caused a backlash against Republicans. The latest funding measure is to be taken up after a vote on a massive GOP tax overhaul, expected by midweek. Facebook

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Trump transition team says sensitive emails should not have been shared with Robert Mueller By Chris Megerian (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) President Trumps transition team is crying foul over how special counsel Robert S. Mueller III obtained emails for his investigation into Russian meddling in last years campaign and possible Trump campaign complicity. Kory Langhofer, a lawyer for the transition team, sent a letter to Congress on Saturday saying there was an unauthorized disclosure of emails. While the Trump transition is long over, the transition team remains a nonprofit organization. Its emails were hosted by the General Services Administration, a federal agency. Mueller reportedly obtained the emails directly from the agency. There are attorney-client communications, Langhofer said in an interview. There are executive-privileged communications. He added, What were asking Congress to do is to take some legislative action to make sure this never happens again. Peter Carr, a spokesman for the special counsels office, defended the process for obtaining emails. When we have obtained emails in the course of our ongoing criminal investigation, we have secured either the account owners consent or appropriate criminal process, he said. The letter was first reported by Fox News. A request for comment from the General Services Administration was not immediately answered. This story has been updated with a comment from the special counsels office. Facebook

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Virginia house arrest is ending for Paul Manafort By Chris Megerian (Mark Wilson / Getty Images) A federal judge agreed Friday to end Paul Manaforts house arrest in Virginia, allowing President Trumps former campaign manager to return to Florida while awaiting trial. The decision followed a dispute between Manaforts legal team and prosecutors working for special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, who accused Manafort of violating a court order restricting public statements about the case. Under the terms of the judges order, Manafort will be allowed to live at his home in Florida as long as he stays within Palm Beach and Broward counties and obeys a curfew from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. If he misses a court appearance, he would forfeit four properties valued at $10 million total. The deal, which includes GPS monitoring, is not as permissive as Manafort originally sought. He had asked to be able to travel freely among Florida, New York, Virginia and Washington. Manafort faces criminal charges of fraud, conspiracy and money laundering. He has pleaded not guilty. Facebook

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GOP negotiators enhance child tax credit to win over Sen. Rubio By Lisa Mascaro Republican negotiators slightly increased the refundable portion of the expanded child tax credit in their tax plan, raising it to $1,400 in hopes of winning back Sen. Marco Rubios (R-Fla.) support ahead of next weeks vote. Rubio announced Thursday he was withholding support after negotiators ignored his push to make the expanded tax credit, which increases from the current $1,000 to $2,000 in the proposed bill, fully refundable for lower- and moderate-income filers. The refundable portion in the original bill was $1,100. The Florida senator argued that was not enough to help working-class Americans, many of whom already view the GOP plan as tilted toward the wealthy. Rubios office was waiting to see the final text before commenting on whether the change was enough to win him over. We have not seen the bill text, and until we see if the percentage of the refundable credit is significantly higher, then our position remains the same, Rubios spokeswoman said. Negotiators meeting Friday before unveiling the bill said they thought they had the support they needed from Rubio and other holdouts. Im confident both chambers will pass it next week, said Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.). Facebook

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Sen. Marco Rubio opposes GOP tax bill, depriving leaders of crucial support By Lisa Mascaro 20.94% Corp. rate to pay for tax cut for working family making $40k was anti-growth but 21% to cut tax for couples making $1million is fine?  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) December 12, 2017 Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) says he is currently opposed to the GOP tax plan because it fails to include his proposed enhancements to the child tax credit, leaving leaders without crucial support ahead of next weeks expected vote. Republicans can only lose two GOP senators from their slim 52-48 majority as they push the plan forward under special budget rules to prevent a Democratic filibuster. Vice President Mike Pence on Wednesday altered his planned Israel trip so he could be on hand, if needed, to cast a tie-breaking vote. Rubio, and GOP Sen. Mike Lee of Utah, have fought to increase the child tax credit, doubling it to $2,000 in the GOP plan, but they also want to increase its refundability. They argue it will lower taxes on middle-income families at a time when the tax plan is being criticized as tilted to the wealthy. Sen. Rubio has consistently communicated to the Senate tax negotiators that his vote on final passage would depend on whether the refundability of the Child Tax Credit was increased in a meaningful way, Rubios spokeswoman said. Lee stopped short of opposing the bill, but his spokesman said Wednesday he is undecided. GOP leaders, though, have said they believe they have the support for passage. Facebook

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White House gives Roy Moore a unsubtle shove: Time to concede By David Lauter (Alex Wong / Getty Images) The White House sent a clear signal Thursday to the defeated Republican candidate for Senate in Alabama: Its time to concede. Roy Moore refused to concede the race on Tuesday night when Doug Jones, the Democrat, was declared the winner. Election night results show Jones winning by about 1.5 percentage points, three times more than the states standard for a recount. Although a few absentee and provisional ballots remain to be counted, theres no indication they would change the result. On Wednesday, Moore notably did not call to congratulate Jones  even as President Trump and other leading Republicans did. Instead, he released a video declaring the battle rages on. Asked at the daily news briefing whether the White House thinks Moore should concede today, Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said, It probably sounds like it maybe should have already taken place. Sanders also dismissed the idea, pushed by some Moore supporters, that Jones victory was tainted in some fashion. Asked if the Democrat had won fair and square, she said, I think the numbers reflect that. The states Republican senator, Richard Shelby, offered a similar comment in an interview with MSNBC in which he said he was willing to work with Jones. If I was 25,000 votes behind, its not going to change much, Shelby said. Facebook

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House Speaker Paul Ryan says hes not leaving anytime soon By Lisa Mascaro House Speaker Paul D. Ryan shot down suggestions Thursday that he might soon be retiring. Stories often circulate that party leaders, especially the House speaker, are stepping aside. Ryans tenure has been as rocky as that of his predecessor, Rep. John Boehner, who abruptly resigned in 2015 amid GOP infighting. Asked Thursday if he would be leaving, Ryan answered a simple no, as he left his weekly press conference in the Capitol. Ryan, the Wisconsin Republican who reluctantly took over the speakers gavel after Boehners departure, had just finished talking up the GOP tax plan, which leaders hope to pass next week. He also outlined his sweeping agenda for his longtime goal of entitlement reform of welfare benefits next year. Two stories published Thursday suggested Ryan may soon be out. This is pure speculation, said spokeswoman AshLee Strong. As the speaker himself said today, hes not going anywhere anytime soon. Facebook

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GOP leaders reach tax deal, cutting corporate rate to 21% and top individual rate to 37% By Lisa Mascaro Republican leaders on Wednesday agreed on a revised plan to cut taxes that would lower the corporate rate from 35% to 21% and drop the top individual rate for the richest Americans to 37%, according to GOP senators and others briefed on the deal. The tentative accord marked a significant step in the Republican push to have a tax bill on President Trumps desk by Christmas. Leaders did not release details of the compromise or the text of a final bill as negotiations continued. Its critically important for Congress to quickly pass these historic tax cuts, Trump said Wednesday, promising that Americans could begin to reap the benefits of the plan as early as February, if passed. Critics, however, said the latest changes  particularly the lowering of the top individual rate from the current 39.6%  only reaffirmed several independent analyses that show the bulk of the savings from the Republican plan would go to businesses and the wealthy. Read More Facebook

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Farenthold to retire from House amid harassment accusations By Associated Press Texas Republican Rep. Blake Farenthold wont seek reelection next year, two Republicans said Thursday, adding his name to the list of lawmakers leaving Congress amid sexual harassment allegations that have cost powerful men their jobs in politics, the arts and other fields. The accusations against Farenthold surfaced in 2014, when a former aide sued him alleging sexually suggestive comments and behavior and said shed been fired after she complained. The lawmaker said he engaged in no wrongdoing and the case was settled in 2015. But the House Ethics Committee said last week that it would investigate Farenthold after congressional sources said hed paid an $84,000 settlement using taxpayers money. Though Farenthold said hed reimburse the Treasury Department, such payments have drawn public criticism from people saying lawmakers should use their own money for such settlements. A House official said Farenthold spoke twice Wednesday to House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.), while another official said the congressman spoke once with Rep. Steve Stivers (R-Ohio) who heads the GOPs House campaign committee. Those discussions suggested that Farenthold may have come under pressure from leaders to step aside. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity to describe private conversations. Last week, three lawmakers facing accusations of sexual harassment announced their resignations. Reps. John Conyers (D-Mich.) and Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) have already left Congress while Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) has said he will step aside soon. Mike Bergsma, Republican county chairman in Farentholds home county of Nueces, Texas, said Fare
Caterinas Club, a nonprofit based in Anaheim, took its mission to help solve hunger to Irvine for the first time Wednesday night.

More than 100 children went to the Irvine branch of the Boys & Girls Club of the Harbor Area for the chance to gobble up a pasta dinner prepared by volunteers and Bruno Serato, the nonprofits founder and owner of the Anaheim White House Restaurant.

The Boys & Girls Club of the Harbor Area serves Costa Mesa, Newport Beach and Irvine.

To see the children come back to the table asking for a second or third plate that night, you see how hungry they are, Serato said. But my heart was happy to see them being fed. No matter where you live, there is always someone who needs help.

Serato formed Caterinas Club in 2005 after he and his mother, Caterina, visited the Boys & Girls Club of Anaheim. During their trip, they found that not all the children there could afford proper meals. She suggested he make pasta for them, and he listened to Mamma, Serato said.

Since then, the organization has been dedicated to feeding Orange Countys motel children  kids whose families live in motels and cannot attain meals on a regular basis.

Caterinas Club feeds children Mondays through Fridays at 25 sites in 12 Southern California cities. Last year, the organization provided about 315,000 meals.
Youre going to Egypt? With all the terrorism? my friends and family asked when I announced I would be traveling to that country in northeastern Africa.

I understood their concerns, but having taught Egyptian history and literature at the high school level for 35 years, I felt compelled to see the ancient pyramids, tombs and temples.

On Halloween 2015 I left my Redlands home and flew to Cairo.

Welcome to Egypt! Lorna, our Canadian guide told our group of 16 tourists assembled in the lobby.

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The Egyptian government requires a certified Egyptologist to accompany all tour groups. Please meet Ahmed.

Tall, thirtysomething Ahmed was Egypt personified. His charismatic personality and resonant voice put us at ease. With a masters degree in Egyptology from the University of Cairo and fluency in four languages, he immediately won our respect.

Family! he exclaimed, a term of endearment he would use throughout the tour.

(To see the U.S. State Department travel warning on Egypt, go to lat.ms/egyptwarning.)

A guarded Egypt tour

The next morning we left Cairo, a sea of rising minarets draped with smog. Aboard a plush touring bus with an armed guard, we traveled to Saqqara.

At the Pyramid of Djoser, three young men approached me, replaced my Adidas hat with Egyptian garb, grabbed my camera, and took a photo of me as two of them threw their arms around me.

When I reached for some Egyptian pounds to tip them, I clumsily took out some American bills. One of the men snatched a $20 bill from me.

Although I was surprised, his look of childlike joy stopped me from objecting.

He probably never saw so much cash in his life, Lorna said later, adding that more than a quarter of Egyptians live below the poverty line.

Throughout the tour we were approached by peddlers and beggars, some of them adorable children.

And all of us were dismayed by the large population of starving dogs and cats.

Ahmed, I said, did not your ancient ancestors worship jackals and cats?

Yes, he replied. But our culture regards them as scum.

But you believe in Allah, right? I said.

He said he did.

Then you know he created all life and put us in charge of the animals.

He smiled and said nothing. I didnt know for sure what he was thinking, but his comments did not deter us from feeding dogs and cats for the rest of the tour.

Ahmed was a moderate Muslim who opposed the Muslim Brotherhood in support of Egypts moderate government.

My wife and I will not allow our daughter to be circumcised, he told us. And we noticed that he never bowed down and faced the East during the daily call to prayer.

Night noises, day convoy

We flew to Aswan to prepare for our trek across the vast Nubian desert to Abu Simbel in southern Egypt.

The first night at our resort along the Nile, I was sure I heard gunfire near my room and was convinced terrorists had struck. I called Lorna in a panic.

Relax, she said. Those are firecrackers in celebration of a wedding along the street just above our hotel.

The next morning we rose at 3 so a full military convoy of tanks could escort us across the desert to the temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel.

Friendly trip, horror at home

When we returned to Aswan, we boarded a cruise ship and sailed the Nile for three days to Luxor. From there, we flew back to Cairo to prepare for our departure.

During every facet of our journey, I found Egyptians to be kind, friendly and jovial people who often greeted us on the streets. I never felt unsafe, except the night of the firecrackers. OK, and maybe when I rode a tall, homely camel for 30 minutes.

When I got back to the U.S., my friends and family told me how glad they were I was home safely.

A little more than two weeks later, an American-born man and his wife, who lived two blocks from me, shot 36 co-workers at an office holiday party in San Bernardino, killing 14 before they were killed by police.

An arsenal of weapons and bomb materials was later found in their condo.

Shukran  thank you  to Ahmed, Lorna and all my family in Egypt for reminding me that fear sometimes finds fertile ground in exactly the wrong place.

Departure Points, a monthly column, explores the ways in which traveling changes us, whether its a lesson learned or a truth uncovered. You may submit a first-person essay of 700 words or fewer to travel@latimes.com with Departure Points in the subject line. Please include your first and last names and your contact information for editorial consideration.

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravel
Caught in the middle of seating ploy

I would like to report a more sinister stuck-in-the-middle incident I had on a flight from LAX to Frankfurt [Stuck in the Middle Seat, Fly Guy, by Elliott Hester, Oct. 29]. A married coupled was seated in the aisle and window seats with me in the middle.

After they started speaking incessantly over me even before the plane departed, I offered to switch seats, as I assumed they would love to sit together to chat. They declined.

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Once we were in the air, they did not waste a second calling the flight attendant and asking, Can you please remove this passenger between us? They actually used the word remove as if I were a parcel.

They were very disappointed when the attendant replied that the flight was fully booked. I eventually forced my way into a seat switch with them.

Apparently, fairness and consideration are easy victims of the current flight culture.

Monica Wiedenhoff

Los Angeles

Tick, tock, time to see this clock

How can you have an article about famous clocks around the world [Youll Have a Big Time, by Mary Forgione, Oct. 29] and not include the Astronomical Clock in Prague, Czech Republic?

Crowds gather to watch the hourly show, which is a spectacular morality play. What a beautiful scene.

Charlotte Batistic

Oxnard

Delectable Prague sampler platter

Six of us just returned from two weeks in Germany and the Czech Republic, and the highlight of our trip came the last night on the Prague Food Tour.

For about 100 euros each [about $117], we had a 4-hour walking tour that included samples of Czech wine, beer, liquors and coffee, as well as 13 different food samples. Leona, our guide and one of the owners, was enthusiastic, personable and knowledgeable about food, history, architecture and anything else we could ask.

Info: praguefoodtour@gmail.com

Patricia Rabe

La Crescenta

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravel
The U.S.-led coalition in Afghanistan said Sunday that it was investigating reports that at least 14 civilians were killed in airstrikes in the northern province of Kunduz, where U.S. and Afghan forces have been waging a heavy battle against Taliban militants.

Local officials said the victims included four children. They said 13 other civilians were wounded Saturday in the provinces Chardara district.

Mawlawi Khosh Mohammad, a member of the Kunduz provincial council, said the civilians were victims of foreign airstrikes. U.S. warplanes carry out the vast majority of airstrikes in Afghanistan.

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Lt. Jason Tross, a spokesman for the U.S.-led NATO coalition, confirmed that Afghan and international forces conducted a joint operation in Kunduz on Saturday but said he did not have additional information.

The coalition takes all allegations of civilian casualties and the responsibility of human life seriously, and is assessing the facts surrounding this incident, Tross said. We will release more information as appropriate.

The operation involved Afghan army commandos, the countrys most active ground force, whose leadership issued a statement saying that 57 Taliban fighters were killed, including the insurgent groups shadow governor in Chardara.

But the commandos denied the residents reports, saying, Neither the commandos nor the civilians have suffered casualties.

Kunduz has been the scene of intense clashes between coalition forces and Taliban militants since 2015, when the insurgents briefly overran the provincial capital, Afghanistans fifth-largest city. As U.S. forces have become heavily involved in the fighting, they have also been implicated in civilian casualties.

In November 2016, a joint operation by U.S. soldiers and Afghan special forces in Kunduz resulted in the deaths of 33 civilians, according to a U.S. military investigation.

A year earlier, a U.S. airstrike mistakenly hit a Doctors Without Borders humanitarian hospital in Kunduz, killing at least 42 people.

Residents of Kunduz said the operation in Chardara had been going on for three days, but the extent of the damage in the village of Gharaw Qishlaq was not yet clear because government forces were restricting entry to the area.

Azizullah Erkin, a 28-year-old agriculture student, said by phone that the airstrikes took place after Afghan forces launched an attack in Gharaw Qishlaq. Residents had gone to retrieve bodies of those killed in the clashes when the airstrikes occurred, killing more than a dozen people, he said.

We still have some bodies that have not been taken out of the debris, Erkin said.

Faizy is a special correspondent.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia
A frail Shah Khan Kukikhel was walking through the rubble of what used to be his brothers home. The trouble, he recalled, had begun after his 19-year-old nephew began to leave the family compound for days at a time.

We got worried, we made him swear on the Koran that he was not involved in any militancy, said Kukikhel. In June, government officials turned up with an ultimatum: Hand over the nephew, Sheheryar, for interrogation, or the family home would be razed.

By then, Sheheryar was gone.

We spent months looking around, we visited every madrassa we could, we asked all Sheheryars friends, but the deadline came and we couldnt produce him, said Kukikhel.

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In most of Pakistan, a manhunt for one person  whether justified or not  would not imperil the rest of his family. But Kukikhel lives in Pakistans tribal region, a dangerous and nearly lawless area along the Afghanistan border. In recent years, it has been a favored hiding place for Taliban and Al Qaeda militants, and a focal point of the U.S.-led war on terrorism. Authorities suspected Sheheryar of being a member of a local Taliban group.

Shah Khan Kukikhel stands on the rubble of his brothers home near Jamrud, in the tribal areas of Pakistan. (Umar Farooq / For The Times )

Neither Pakistans parliament nor its judiciary has any power in the tribal areas. Instead, the region remains subject to a 1901 set of British colonial laws called the Frontier Crimes Regulation, which has seen little modification since Pakistan gained independence in 1947.

Under those laws, federally appointed civil servants, called political agents, enjoy nearly unchecked power. And they wield an especially harsh form of criminal enforcement known as collective punishment.

Collective punishment allows government agents to exact retribution on an entire family, or even an entire tribe, for the misdeeds of one member.

Such was the experience of the Kukikhel family.

The familys compound sits near the town of Jamrud, a few miles west of Peshawar, a city of roughly 2 million that serves as the administrative hub for the tribal region. The compound is off the main road, a storied highway that snakes west through the Khyber Pass and into Afghanistan.

Here, one tribesman can kill another in broad daylight, and if tribal elders decide it was justified, can get away with it. But if the political agent takes an interest, the entire family can be punished.

On Aug. 3, officials returned to the Kukikhel compound with a bulldozer and a document bearing the signature of tribal elders allowing them to raze part of the house.

They drove the bulldozer through the outer wall, then completely destroyed my brothers home, Kukikhel said. Officials also arrested another one of his brothers, 65-year-old Khalil, and said he would be detained until Sheheryar turned himself in. That hasnt happened yet.

What kind of justice is this? Kukikhel said.

In 2011, Pakistan amended the Frontier Crimes Regulations, restricting detention for collective responsibility to men ages 18 to 60, and establishing a tribunal for hearing appeals against the decisions of the political agent. But the restrictions are often ignored. In September, for instance, a roadside bomb exploded in Landi Kotal, along the road to the border with Afghanistan. Authorities arrested 30 tribesmen and a 10-year-old boy under the collective responsibility law.

Pakistani tribesmen talk as they wait to enter the FATA Tribunal for a hearing. FATA stands for Federally Administered Tribal Areas. (Umar Farooq / For The Times )

A tribal security officer keeps watch at the FATA Tribunal. (Umar Farooq / For The Times )

The tribunal, part of an $8.8-million U.S. and European grant to encourage good governance, has disposed of more than 2,200 appeals so far, but is short staffed and lacks the means to impose its powers. It is often unable to compel political agents to provide judicial records so it can deliberate appeals.

The government needed to implement these reforms right away in 2011, but they have yet to even come up with procedural rules we need to do our work, said the tribunals chairman, Sange Marjan.

Marjan, a Mehsud tribesman from South Waziristan who once served as a political agent, had his home razed as part of the collective responsibility law in 2009. Nearly 1 million locals left the area then ahead of a military operation to eliminate Taliban fighters. When they returned three years later, more than 4,000 homes had been leveled by authorities.

How can we all be held responsible for the governments failure to fight these militants? said Marjan. We all left when the army told us to do so, and when we came back we were punished. If we were terrorists, why would we have left in the first place?

In 2014, after a Taliban attack killed 132 schoolchildren in Peshawar, the Pakistani military waged a new multi-pronged war in the tribal areas, which had served as the nerve-center for the militant groups. The civilian government, in an acknowledgment that it was time to lift the Frontier Crimes Regulation, issued a comprehensive plan to tackle terrorism that included an end to collective punishment. Yet none of the reforms have been carried out.

In the last two years, terrorism-related deaths across Pakistan have fallen by more than half, but for those living in the tribal areas, every bombing or drive-by shooting on soldiers still elicits the use of the most brutal measures available to authorities under the collective punishment law.

At an intersection on the main road to Peshawar, blocks of low-rise markets still stand shuttered, ordered closed two years ago by the government after a local factory was attacked by rocket-propelled grenades. The political agent said we were responsible under the law, said Zeeshan Afridi, one of the handful of local traders who had managed to open his shop again this year. I had to sign a special agreement taking responsibility if any attacks happen again. What can I do? Thats the law here.

Where in the world does a country include an area that is mentioned in its constitution, but has no law applied there? said Shah Jee Gul Afridi (no relation to Zeeshan Afridi), one of the leading voices in what has become a popular movement for mainstreaming the tribal areas.

Bab-e-Khyber is a memorial that marks the entrance to the tribal areas west of Peshawar, Pakistan. (Umar Farooq / For The Times )

He too has spent time behind bars for collective responsibility. In 1992, a minibus was stolen near his family home near Jamrud. Shah Jee Gul Afridi and 20 other tribesmen were arrested and spent six months in prison until they agreed to pay the owner compensation.

We later found out the minivan had been stolen and taken across into Afghanistan, he said. But we never got that money back, and we never got that time in prison back. What kind of a country has a law like that?

Shah Jee Gul Afridi is one of 12 lawmakers from the tribal areas who hold seats in parliament, but are constitutionally barred from voting on legislation that could be applied in their constituencies. Still, Afridi has tried to push Islamabad to lift the Frontier Crimes Regulation and fully integrate the tribal areas into the country.

In a meeting with tribal leaders in August, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said the government was prioritizing legal reforms in the tribal areas, and that Islamabad would ensure that practices like collective punishment would end. But residents are skeptical.

We have been hearing about these reforms since we were children, said Afridi. We only want a sustainable, peaceful Pakistan. I only want to see this nation survive, and for that we need to end this law in the tribal areas.

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Farooq is a special correspondent. This article was supported by a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.
Allentown police are investigating an early Sunday shooting that left a 39-year-old woman dead and a 17-year-old girl injured.

City police said the shooting happened at about 2 a.m. at a home in the 900 block of West Tilghman Street. It's unclear what led to the gunfire and police did not state what type of weapon was used in the alleged killing.

The 39-year-old, whose identity hasn't yet been released, was pronounced dead at 2:26 a.m. at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Salisbury Township. The death was attributed to multiple gunshot wounds to the body, however an autopsy scheduled Monday will determine the exact cause and manner of death, police said.

A 17-year-old girl also was found with gunshot wounds and taken to an area hospital, where she is now listed in stable condition, according to police.

Angel Manuel Cruz, 54, a resident of the home, has been arrested in connection with the shooting. He was taken into custody without incident a short while after the shooting took place in the area of Fourth and Linden streets, police said.

Cruz is facing charges of homicide, criminal attempt of homicide and aggravated assault. The relationship between Cruz and the victims remains unclear.

Police are awaiting family of the deceased to be notified before releasing her identity.

The incident is being investigated by the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office, the Lehigh County Coroner's Office, city police and the Lehigh County Homicide Task Force. Those with information are urged to call the Allentown Police Detective Bureau at 610-437-7721.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
An animal-infested home and garage on Cooper Street in Easton were targeted for the city's blight list three years ago.

Brian Corcodilos can see why.

"It's probably one of the worst renovation jobs I've ever seen," he said.

The buildings at 113 W. Cooper St. on the South Side were infested with termites. Neighbors complained skunks were burrowing in through the cracked foundation in 2014.

"There are still animals under there. Skunks, groundhogs, possums," said Don Border, who runs an auto mechanic business next door. "I catch them all and take them down to the river and let them go."

Corcodilos bought the property last year for $24,500 with a plan to renovate it. But the interior features were rotted and some renovations were completed part way, leaving a confusing and unattractive layout, he said.

With the city's permission, Corcodilos wants to raze the home and garage and put in three, two-family attached homes.

His company, Philadelphia-based DesignBlendz, renovates old homes throughout the Philadelphia area and the Lehigh Valley.

"Our favorite place is Easton," he said.

He said he likes the city's up-and-coming atmosphere. And where many of Easton's renovation projects are upscale, he caters to those looking for affordable housing.

He says he typically charges $1,100 rent for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom property.

He replaced a burned-down pair of homes at 1072 and 1072 W. Wilkes-Barre St. with a duplex and a single-family home. He also tore down a home at 506 W. Berwick St. and built a new home.

His plan for Cooper Street was rejected by the zoning hearing board earlier this year because it called for on-street parking backing out onto the street. His revised plan has a 10-space parking lot in the rear. He said it will have water-permeable asphalt so he won't need special zoning permission for too much pavement.

He plans to ask for permission to move ahead with the project at the December Easton planning commission meeting.

Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@express-times.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook.
Lehigh County has hired special counsel to appeal a federal judge's ruling that could force the county to eradicate images of its official, nearly 73-year-old seal.

And the pro bono firm the county has hired is considered the top religious liberty law firm in the United States with a successful track record.

County commissioners voted 6-3 on Oct. 11 to file an appeal in the U.S. Third Circuit Court of appeals. Then on Oct. 25, commissioners voted 7-1 to hire The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty to represent the county in its appeal.

The Washington, D.C.,- based Becket Fund is a nonprofit and nonpartisan law firm that is representing the county for free. Since its creation, the Becket Fund has argued almost 200 cases and won 87 percent of them.

One of its most high profile cases was Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, where the Becket Fund challenged the Affordable Care Act's contraceptives mandate arguing it violated the owner's religious beliefs and violated their religious liberty.

In a 5-to-4 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court found that family-owned businesses do not need to provide employees contraceptive coverage against their religious beliefs.

The Lehigh County case dates back to August 2016 when the Freedom From Religion Foundation Inc. based in Madison, Wisconsin, sued the county alongside four of its local members.

They objected to the prominent cross on the county seal and flag adopted by county commissioners Dec. 28, 1944.

In September, Judge Edward G. Smith, in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, ruled in favor of the challenge to the seal calling it unconstitutional.

Smith wrote that while he doesn't believe the symbols violate the Constitution, he was bound by precedent to side with the "membership association of freethinkers (atheists, agnostics and other nonbelievers) that works to promote the separation of state and church."

The Freedom From Religion Foundation request the county remove the Latin cross from its seal in 2014, arguing it violated the establishment clause of the First Amendment.

"The board of commissioners unanimously refused to remove the Latin cross from the seal, viewing the Latin cross not as an endorsement of religion, but rather as one of the many different symbols on the seal, which honor the rich history of Lehigh County," the county said in a news release.

The foundation filed suit in 2016 and sought an injunction to stop the country from displaying the cross on the official seal.

Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
NORRISTOWN -- A pair who lured a victim from California -- promising easy money, forcing her into prostitution and holding her against her will -- will stand trial in what authorities are describing as a "horrendous" sex trafficking case.

Kashamba John, 29, and Arianna Somerville, 27, both of Georgia, are accused of luring the 21-year-old woman from the west coast and forcing her into prostitution in Georgia, North Carolina and Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office.

A third defendant, Tyler Bachtel, remains on the lam.

Authorities said the case began when the victim met Bachtel at a Los Angeles nightclub, and was recruited by him to fly to the East Coast to work as an escort. He allegedly told her she could potentially make thousands of dollars weekly.

The victim then flew to Atlanta, where she met John. Investigators said John immediately forced the victim to have sex with men in Atlanta hotel rooms, sometimes as many as 30 men daily. She was forced to work from 8 a.m. until 12:30 a.m, according to authorities.

John allegedly took possession of the victim's belongings, including her personal identification, and kept all of the money the victim earned through prostitution, authorities said.

Somerville went by an alias and arranged the meetings through online advertisements, authorities said.

The victim and John Oct. 5 flew from Atlanta to Philadelphia, and the victim was taken by John to a motel in King of Prussia, Montgomery County, where she continued meeting men for sex, authorities said.

The victim eventually was rescued when she told an Uber driver she was being held against her will and wanted to go to police. John ordered an Uber car to take the victim to a hotel in Philadelphia for a date, authorities said.

The Uber driver flagged down a Pennsylvania State Police trooper, who took the victim to a nearby police barracks.

A statewide grand jury investigation recommended trafficking and related charges against John in July. The ongoing investigation led to additional charges filed in September against John, as well as charges against Somerville and Bachtel.

All three are charged with trafficking, involuntary servitude, prostitution, conspiracy, corruption organizations and related charges.

John and Somerville appeared in court Friday before Montgomery County District Judge William Maruszczak for a preliminary hearing. The judge determined there was not enough evidence to send all the charges over to county court.

John is being held on $1 million bail and Somerville is being held on $50,000 bail at the Montgomery County jail.

The case is a joint investigation by the Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Upper Merion Township Police and Homeland Security Investigations.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Hazel Gaynor, an award-winning author, is originally from a small village in the east of Yorkshire, England. She moved to Ireland in 2001 when she met her husband Damian. In 2004, they settled in Kilcullen. They have two sons, Max (12) and Sam (10).

WHAT APPEALED TO YOU ABOUT LIVING IN KILDARE?

My husband is from Dublin, and we started to come to Kilcullen to visit friends of ours, and we really liked the town. For me. its always reminded me of where I grew up back home. Its quite that rural community, always felt very familiar to me.

WHAT IS YOUR FIRST KILDARE MEMORY?

It would be the Curragh. We used to go for walks on the Curragh. Its something weve always done, even when my children were tiny babies. I used to take the boys to the Curragh to get some fresh air, splash in the puddles, look for conquers, collect leaves, building snowmen, sledging down the hills. Thats really what I would associate my memories with.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE COUNTY?

I think all outside spaces, places like Donadea, the forest there, the lake walk. The National Stud, those places, certainly for family time I think are so fantastic. Obviously weve got the gorgeousness of Kildare Village. Theres just so much in the county.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT OUT IN THE COUNTY?

Bardons in Kilcullen is an absolute go-to, the chjicken wings are legendary, great place. And the Ballymore Inn, those are the two places the children will always want to go to.

IDEAL DAY OUT IN THE COUNTY?

The kids love the belgian waffles with hot chocolate sauce in Le Pain Quotidien, so maybe breakfast there and then I think wed definitely go somewhere like the National Stud for a long walk, and then on to a restaurant for a bite to eat, you cant beat that. Youre not driving too far.

WOULD YOU TAKE INSPIRATION FROM KILDARE FOR YOUR BOOKS?

Yes I do. There are a few stories Ive had that are very relevant to the area. The Gordon Bennett race in particular really interests me as something Id like to maybe cover, and thats right on my doorstep. Strange historical connections like the Shackleton, we went to see the amazing exhibition in Athy Heritage Museum, and its surprising how you find these historical figures who have a local connection. So I am inspired by that.
A dog park has finally been agreed for Naas, which will allow dogs to be exercised off the lead in an enclosed area.

Members of the Naas Municipal District agreed at a recent behind-closed-doors meeting to proceed with the facility close to where the playing pitches are located within Monread Park. The original proposal was for a dog park near the Kerdiff Close and Kerdiff Avenue residentials areas.

However some residents expressed concern about possible noise levels and this prompted a change of location within the park.

SEE ALSO:Bark off! New Naas dog park to be relocated after resident complaints

The new location agreed by the councillors is away from residential areas. The campaign for a dog park began about four years ago and Kildare County Council initially resisted the idea.

It was sought first by then councillor Emer McDaid and then independent councillor Sorcha ONeill pressed the council for the facility, pointing out they have been opened at locations in Dublin for 5,000.

The park will have self closing gates at either end in addition to two unleashing areas at both entrances.

There will be two small paths leading to the facility and it will be surrounded by a post and rail fence.
A constituent of Kildare North TD, Catherine Murphy, has told her he got a warning letter for being late as a result to disruption to the bus services in Clane and Prosperous.

Deputy James Lawless said the numbers of Bus Eireann services not turning up without prior warning increases.

"Buses are literally not turning up in the morning to collect people. There appears to be an unofficial industrial dispute.

The Taoiseach told Deputy Lawless if it is an industrial relations matter, I imagine that would be dealt with in the normal way.

Deputy Catherine Murphy said that cuts to double decker buses since mid-September were leaving people stranded.

Cllr Paul Ward said that Kilcock has also been hit.

Deputy Murphy said: One person who contacted me said he got a written warning from his employer for being late, all as a result of the change in the service on his bus route.
It was an opportunity to remember.

Wednesday was All Saints Day, a time when the Catholic Church remembers men and women known for living a lives of heroic virtue.

That means, when facing the choice of denying Christ or dying, they chose death, said the Rev. Walter Nolte, senior pastor of St. Patricks Catholic Church in Fremont.

There are red martyrs, people whose blood was spilled, and white martyrs, those whose blood wasnt spilled, but who united their persecutions to the sufferings of Christ.

A saint is someone who allows Christ to work in them to the fullest extent as possible for them, Nolte said.

In observance of this day, students at Archbishop Bergan Catholic Schools attended a Mass at the church. Nolte then led a procession of students to their schools to bless the classrooms.

Nolte held a Monstrance, which is shaped like the sun and meant to represent the rays of Christs love going out into the world.

The Monstrance contains the consecrated host (sacred bread used in a Eucharistic service).

It holds the consecrated host so people can adore Jesus Eucharistic presence, Nolte said.

The host is placed in a circular container called a Luna, which means moon.

Just as the moon cant reflect light on its own  it needs the sun  we, too, in our souls need Jesus, the son, to reflect holiness, Nolte said.

So we took the Eucharist and the Monstrance into each classroom to remind the kids that they, like all these other saints, are meant to reflect Gods love in the world.

Nolte and three servers and Principal Dan Koenig walked into each room.

As we walked into the classrooms, the kids would stand and I would say, Christ enter our hearts, and the kids would repeat that and then Id say, Christ enter our room, and theyd repeat that, Nolte said, adding, As Christians and Catholics, our classrooms should reflect Christian values.

The rooms then were blessed with Holy Water as way of celebrating the day.

Nolte first led students into the grade school.

We drove to the high school and did it again, he said.

The observance reminds students to allow the light of Christs love to be visible through their actions.

At the same time, they remember the saints who went on before them.

Nolte told students that Every saint was a sinner, but every saint knew that Christ could forgive them.

He encouraged students to ask forgiveness from God when they sinned.

Nolte said he knows everyones heart was touched.

He noted something else.

The church has thousands of saints, Nolte said. Pope Francis has canonized, made the most saints, of all the other popes combined.

This is because the Pope and the church want people to know that saints come in all shapes and sizes.

So then when you read the history or the biography of one of these saints then maybe you can see yourself in them and see that its possible for you, too, to be a saint, Nolte said.
Leitrim's Tesco stores raised over 1,970 as part of Trick or Treat for Temple Street over the recent Bank Holiday weekend.

In total Tesco Ireland stores across the country raised a fangtastic 102,000 as part of the fundraiser.

In all 149 stores, Tesco colleagues dressed up in a variety of costumes while they hosted Halloween parties at the front of each store with cake sales, face-painting, balloons and much more.

All funds raised by Tesco stores will go towards purchasing eight new Patient Monitors located in several critical care units across the hospital. These new monitors will support the amazing staff of Temple Street to deliver the best possible care to little patients and allow patient data to move with them if they need to be transferred.

Christine Heffernan Corporate Affairs Director Tesco Ireland said: We are really proud to have supported Trick or Treat for Temple Street and are amazed by the level of support from our colleagues and customers alike. It really shows what can be achieved when people pull together for a great cause. What a fantastic result for Temple Street.

Denise Fitzgerald, CEO of Temple Street Fundraising said: Once again our friends in Tesco all across the country have made an incredible effort for Trick or Treat and have raised a spectacular 102,000 to support Temple Street. Their hard work will help us to buy vital new patient monitors that will be used around the clock by the doctors and nurses of Temple Street to watch over and treat sick children. On behalf of all the patients in Temple Street I would like to say a huge thank the customers and Tesco colleagues who helped make the event such a huge success.

Temple Street has been Tesco Irelands charity partner since October 2014 and to date Tesco Ireland has raised 2.9m in aid of the little heroes of Temple Street.

Each year Temple Street Childrens University Hospital treats over 145,000 children from across the country and operates the busiest A&E department in Europe. For thousands of children, Temple Street is the only hospital in Ireland in which they can be treated. Through the charity partner programme, Tesco colleagues and customers can help little people from all over Ireland get better and be real life heroes to children attending the hospital. For more information on Temple Street Children's University Hospital and fundraising efforts see here.
Toyota Ireland has launched a new website called www.dieselscrappage.ie to help Irish customers see just how much they could save by scrapping their diesel vehicle and making the move to a Toyota hybrid or petrol car.

The launch of the website coincides with Toyotas upgrade to hybrid for free and trade in, trade up 181 promotions which make it even easier for customers to switch to hybrid or petrol.

Toyota is the only brand launching a diesel scrappage scheme exclusive to hybrid where the diesel vehicle will have to be scrapped, delivering real societal benefits as hybrids emit up to 90% less NOx than diesel.With the widest range of hybrids on offer, Toyota is helping to make life better in Ireland for both drivers and pedestrians.

Viewing the savings on offer couldnt be easier. Firstly, users can see how much their current car is costing them each year by simply entering the registration of a vehicle on the website. In an instant, they can see how much could be saved by driving a Toyota.

The website, powered by Cartell, uses a range of factors such as depreciation, road tax, NCT costs, fuel economy and servicing when calculating the savings. Thousands of Irish drivers are already experiencing vast benefits, having made the switch to hybrid.

Michael Gaynor, Marketing Director at Toyota commented, We see the market at a tipping point where a move out of diesel accelerates as people want to protect the future resale value of their vehicle though buying a hybrid or petrol powertrain. Its why Toyota Financial Services, our new financial services partner, has revised downwards its Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) on diesel vehicles and increased the GFV on hybrids so the gap is now 6% in favour of hybrids.

For full terms and conditions, see here
ST ANTHONY couldnt help a priest find his missing All-Ireland winning medals but pupils of Caherline National School helped answer his prayers.

Fr Pat Currivan, who has served the parish of Caherconlish/Caherline for 39 years, mentioned one day he had lost the mementos from the minor finals in 1952 and 1953. The Confirmation class are asked to choose a special act of kindness and they decided to reunite Fr Currivan with his missing medals. Michael McCarthy, principal, said the boys and girls asked permission to raise money to make new medals by holding a bake sale

They organised it from start to finish. Then they researched the medals he won and unearthed the original design. JJ Kenneally was of great support. The medals were then framed with photographs taken at Fr Currivan's two finals in Croke Park, said Mr McCarthy. Under the guise of a school Mass all pupils and staff attended the service.

The pupils read out pieces describing what Fr Currivan meant to them. The medals and photographs were then presented to an emotional and gracious Fr Currivan. He was overwhelmed at the effort the pupils went to. We are extremely proud of the pupils and their project, said Mr McCarthy.

Fr Currivan said: It was a total surprise. I didnt know a thing about it. I thought I was just saying Mass. They brought up the presentation at the beginning. Id like to thank the children for their thoughtfulness.

Mr McCarthy said during Fr Currivans 39 years in the parish he has been a great support to many families through the most difficult of times.

It was a very special day. Perhaps the most difficult part of the whole project was seeing a Tipperary man receive two All-Ireland medals but on this occasion and for this special man we will overlook it! joked Mr McCarthy.
A BERMUDIAN who admitted possession of a significant quantity of cannabis at a cottage in County Limerick has been told he has to realise that having such drugs is illegal in this country.

Jason de Souza, aged 39, who has an address at Leprechaun Cottage, Kilfinny, Adare pleaded guilty to two charges arising from a search of his home on June 2, 2016.

Detective Garda Jason Mitchell told Limerick Circuit Court that a surveillance operation was put in place after gardai were alerted to a smell of cannabis emanating from the Adare cottage, which is owned by Mr de Souzas parents.

During a subsequent search of the property, cannabis with a street value of almost 13,000 was found in a wardrobe in the defendants bedroom.

Detective Garda Mitchell told Lily Buckley BL, prosecuting, the defendant made admissions following his arrest and took responsibility for the drugs.

He told gardai he had bought the drugs in bulk for the purpose of sharing them with friends.

Judge Tom ODonnell was told gardai were satisfied the defendant was not involved in street dealing and that there was no profit involved.

Detective Garda Mitchell said Mr de Souza has been travelling between Bermuda and Limerick for a number of years and that he had not been on the garda radar prior to the offence.

The court was told that prior to his arrest, he worked during the summer months in Bermuda maintaining air conditioning units before travelling to Ireland during the off season.

It was accepted by the State that the defendant was a chronic user of cannabis around the time of the offence and that his drug use had been exasperated by a serious back injury a number of months earlier.

Peter OFlynn BL, defending, said his client who is currently studying in Cork owns a cottage in West Cork which he is renovating with a view to living in it full time.

Imposing a two year suspended prison sentence, Judge ODonnell noted that the defendant had taken steps to mend his ways.

He has to realise possession drugs (in this country) is illegal, he commented.
STRENGTHENING the present-day links between Ireland and Canada was at the heart of the recent visit to Canada by Minister of State, Patrick ODonovan.

But a significant chapter in Irish and Canadian history was not forgotten when Minister ODonovan led the Irish government's commemoration for those Irish people who, fleeing the Famine at home, died on board coffin ships en route to Canada or shortly after. He laid a wreath at the Famine memorial in Ireland Park, Toronto.

Afterwards he met representatives of emigrants from Ireland who have recently made Canada their home and witnessed the services and supports provided to them by the Irish Embassy in Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and the Irish Embassy Provide emigrants.

The Fine Gael junior minister also held a meeting with a cross-community group which is commemorating two soldiers who fought in the Canadian Army during World War I and who were decorated with the Victoria Cross. One of the soldiers, Michael ORourke, was from Co Limerick, and further work on understanding his background is being carried out in Dublin and Toronto.

There are great opportunities for Ireland to deepen our relationship, culturally, economically politically and otherwise with Canada and I believe that these opportunities will provide real positive benefits for people in Ireland and Canada over time, Minister ODonovan said. He welcomed the decision by Air Canada to open a new summer route from Toronto to Shannon, beginning next June, saying it offered huge potential for the entire mid-west region.

This is a great vote of confidence by Air Canada in Shannon and the Mid-West Region, he said.

This will provide us with the opportunity to link directly from Shannon into one of the largest cities in North America, and has opportunities both for tourism and business expansion here in the Mid-West. It is one example of the many investments that are coming to Ireland from Canada and we need to make sure we encourage as many others as we can through visits and engagements like this.
IMPROVEMENT works at one of the most dangerous and busiest junctions in County Limerick have been accelerated by councillors in the Cappamore-Kilmallock municipal district.

They backed the latest stage in the process to construct a 2 million roundabout at Bearys Cross on the N24. It connects the R513 Limerick to Mitchelstown Road with the Limerick to Tipperary Road.

Tim Fitzgerald, of the Mid-West National Road Design Office, and consulting engineers - Kilgallen & Partners, gave local councillors a presentation on submissions received after it went on public consultation. It will be a four leg roundabout, north and south on the N24, the link to Mitchelstown and Murroe-Boher GAA clubs pitch.

Cllr Brigid Teefy said the progress is very, very welcome.

We have been waiting so long for this. It is so, so busy, said Cllr Teefy.

The biggest concern of councillors, and one of the submissions from the association of residents and landowners at Bearys Cross, is for signalised pedestrian crossing on the N24.

The designers response was: A crossing facility is provided on the N24 on the Limerick side of the proposed roundabout. The scheme will not generate pedestrian movements and is intended to cater for existing movements across the N24. The scheme will reduce the paved width of the N24 at the crossing point and will also act to reduce traffic speeds on the N24. Should pedestrian movements increase significantly in the future, an alternative crossing arrangement can be considered.

Cllr Bill ODonnell said the only ones walking across the road will be children going to the GAA pitch.

We as councillors dont have the luxury of not worrying about the future. We have to be ready for it, said Cllr ODonnell, who pointed to pedestrian crossings at roundabouts in Dooradoyle and Roxboro.

Cllr Mike Donegan said he too was concerned there would be no pedestrian crossing. The plan made Cllr Lisa Marie Sheehy feel uneasy.

Paul Bergin, a consulting engineer, said motorists might not expect a zebra crossing in a high speed area.

It could create a greater danger by having a controlled crossing, he said.

Mr Fitzgerald, of the Mid-West Design Office, said the crossings in Dooradoyle and Roxboro are in urban settings and in 50kmph zones.

There will be dished kerbs and a refuge on the island [on the N24], he said.

Also of the design office, Ciaran Hegarty said it would be safer not to have a pedestrian crossing. You may generate a problem, he said.

Cllr Ediie Ryan said he doesnt think it is an issue.

Ninety nine per cent of people will drive to the GAA pitch. No way would you let a child of any age cross that road, said Cllr Ryan.

All the councillors backed the roundabout design and it now goes forward to the full council meeting. It is hope it will be completed in 2019.
COUNCILLORS have voted to keep a former garda barracks in Patrickswell off the protected structure list after one of the closest council votes in recent times.

Limerick City and County Councils conservation officer Tom Cassidy, and the Arts Minister Heather Humphreys were bidding to add the former Royal Irish Constabulary barracks to the register of protected structures.

But a small majority of members, led by metropolitan mayor Sean Lynch, expressed opposition to this, pointing out the building was bought by a developer who wants to convert the building into four apartments.

He argued adding it to the list of protected structures would make it commercially unviable to do just this. A young man has come back from Australia and brought it in good faith - there was no notice of it being added to the record at any time. He wants to turn it into apartments. In my experience, when buildings are protected, they become an eyesore. Why spend 1.3m on the village upgrade when we might have an eyesore right in the middle, he asked.

There was a clash between the mayor and Mr Cassidy, with the council official suggesting Cllr Lynch was using the politics of exaggeration, a move criticised by Cllr Daniel Butler, who called for respectful discourse.

We are crying out for houses and we cannot keep putting obstacles in the way of people. He wants to provide accommodation for up to four people here, Cllr Lynch added.

Independent councillor John Gilligan said he was minded to support the addition of the structure to the list  but had changed his mind.

He said the former garda stations at Mary Street and Edward Street are some of the biggest eyesores in the city.

We will not get far being too sensitive to these things, he added.

But City West councillor Malachy McCreesh supported adding the building, saying: It has served many functions, mainly as a barracks, but it was also a hospital during the famine. I have seen many protected structures deteriorate. That does not mean it has to be the case here.

Cllr Frankie Daly, Independent, said: The words which come to mind are: eyesore, homelessness and forward thinking. This is a small example but we must look at the bigger picture."|

Cllr Cian Prendivile said: If the conservation officer has looked at the building, and there is a history that needs to be protected, are we going to overrule him on the basis of lobbying by a developer? I have a real concern about this. We should hear from the conservation officer and let's have a full debate about it.

Former metropolitan mayor Michael Sheahan said: It's derelict, it's an eyesoere. This building could fit in very well to the development of Patrickswell.

And Fianna Fails leader in the metropolitan district, Cllr James Collins said: We are in the middle of a housing crisis. We can agree and disagree on the architectural significance of the barracks. We can preserve the historical significance of a building, without putting it on the register. People say that by putting units on the housing register, it will unlock the gates to funding. It's not. There is a very small budget there, and it's spread very thinly.

Mr Cassidy warned if members voted to keep the barracks off the register, they must offer a valid reason to Minister Humphreys on why they chose to do this.

Cllr Collins said the major reason is that if the site is on the register, it would become commercially unviable to develop.

A roll-call vote was held, which saw nine members vote to keep the building off the list, and eight to put it on the protected structures register.

Sinn Feins three councillors McCreesh, Seighin O Ceallaigh and John Costelloe were among those who wanted to add the structure.

Fine Gael councillor Elenora Hogan, a member of the Limerick Civic Trust, went against her party colleagues and sought to add it.
THE HISTORIC Worralls Inn in Castleconnell will be transformed into office suites and apartments if planning is granted by the council.

It is the second pub in the village to have a bright future after the ACM Community Centre purchased the Shannon Inn in recent weeks. Plans for both establishments dont include pulling pints.

A heritage centre and hub for the community is destined for the bar ran by the legendary Paddy Hickey. Over the ACMs successful Halloween weekend its first function was hosting a pumpkin carving and scarecrow competition.

While, RR Property Fund have lodged an application for proposed works at the Worrall's Inn to provide two self-contained office suites on the ground floor and two one bedroom apartments on the first floor. The pub is a protected structure. Included in the plans are for an extension at the rear to provide seven apartments on the ground and first floor.

The iconic building has been part of the villages streetscape since the 1820s. The Worrall's Inn was a hotel during the high water days of the river Shannon when the fishing rod and salmon fisheries were big industries. It has lain idle for a number of years and was badly damaged in a fire in 2014.

It has been labelled an eyesore on Castleconnells Main Street and locals have long wanted to see it restored.

Senator Paul Gavan, who lives in the village, said this proposed development is very good news for Castleconnell.

It is another sign of the resurgence of our village after a number of difficult years. The planned development of offices and apartments on the site of the Worrall's Inn will bring much needed accommodation, whilst bringing the original building back to life. In recent decades it was a public house and restaurant. It will be very welcome to see it back as a commercial premises, albeit as offices, said Senator Gavan.

This is the latest of a number of positive developments for the village, he said.

They include the housing co-operative development at the Castleview site, the recent purchase of the Shannon Inn by the ACM Centre, and the wonderful redevelopment of Bradshaws public house.

It would be good if the construction phase of this development would include a local labour clause to ensure there is also an employment boost for people in the village and surrounding areas, said Senator Gavan.

Local man, John Hardiman said he and others in the village lobbied for a considerable period of time for the Worrall's Inn not to be knocked down, and for its facade to be retained.

It is great to see the original building put back into use, said Mr Hardiman. However, he has a concern about the new seven apartments in the extension.

That particular estate  Bruach na Sionna  is badly lacking in amenities as it is and to have seven more apartments cant possibly improve the situation. There is no space for amenities. This isnt a building on a half acre  the space isnt there, said Hardiman, who stressed his delight at the pub being rejuvenated.

Senator Kieran ODonnell also welcomed the fact that the Worrall's Inn structure is being brought back into use.

Obviously what you want is sustainable development in the village itself. The scale of the project being proposed in a very confined area, in addition to whats being provided by the Worrall's Inn, these are obviously issues that will have to be taken into account by the planners, the people living in the village and how they view it, said Cllr ODonnell.

The village of Castleconnell and the whole parish is back en vogue said group property director of GVM Acutioneers, Tom Crosse, in September. GVM sold a three bedroom semi-detached housing estate in Castlerock housing estate for around 220,000. In late 2014 / early 2015 a neighbouring house was bought for 120,000.

The localitys newest and most famous residents are CJ and Jean Marie Stander. We were looking to buy a house to make our own for quite some time. We had friends living in Castleconnell and loved the area, said Jean Marie.
A CHRONIC drug addict who carried out armed robberies at three retail premises in Limerick city told gardai he would have started robbing rural post offices if he was not caught.

Paul Hinchey, aged 29, of Pennywell Road, Garryowen has pleaded guilty to robbery charges relating to offences which occurred over the course of a week last December.

Hinchey was armed with a large knife and threatened staff at each of the premises. He escaped with around 3,000 in total.

Detective Garda Fergal Hanrahan told Limerick Circuit Court the robberies happened at Garryowen Stores on December 23, 2016; Fine Wines, Castletroy on December 27, 2016 and Maxol, Dublin Road on December 31, 2016.

On each occasion the defendant wore dark clothing and had his face covered.

The detective told John OSullivan BL, prosecuting the defendant was identified as a suspect from CCTV footage at the three premises and that he made full and frank admissions following his arrest. A balaclava used in two of the robberies was also recovered during a search of his home.

He said he would have started doing post offices next and that he would go out to the middle of nowhere, Detective Garda Hanrahan told the court.

Brian McInerney BL, defending, said his clients admissions were critically important as there was no forensic evidence and because the victims had given varying descriptions of the culprit to gardai.

He said his client was a very bad heroin addict around the time and had committed the offences to get money to repay a drug debt he owed.

The money was not used to buy flashy clothes or go on fancy holidays, he said.

The barrister said Mr Hinchey began smoking cannabis at a young age and that his life had spiralled downwards when he lost his job.

He said he first began taking heroin in prison but that he is now engaging with various services in an effort to deal with his addiction.

Hinchey, who has also pleaded guilty to separate attempted robbery and burglary offences, will be sentenced on December 21.
Estimados amigos,

Les doy cordialmente la bienvenida a este Blog informativo con articulos, analisis y comentarios de publicaciones especializadas y especialmente seleccionadas, principalmente sobre temas economicos, financieros y politicos de actualidad, que esperamos y deseamos, sean de su maximo interes, utilidad y conveniencia.

Pensamos que solo comprendiendo cabalmente el presente, es que podemos proyectarnos acertadamente hacia el futuro.

Las convicciones son mas peligrosos enemigos de la verdad que las mentiras.

There are decades when nothing happens and there are weeks when decades happen.

You only find out who is swimming naked when the tide goes out.

No soy alguien que sabe, sino alguien que busca.

Only Gold is money. Everything else is debt.

Las grandes almas tienen voluntades; las debiles tan solo deseos.

Quien no lo ha dado todo no ha dado nada.

History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce.

If you know the other and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.

We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share.This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in eternity.
Testing Washingtons Commitment to Asia

Chinas 19th National Congress of the Communist Party is garnering a lot of attention right now, and rightly so. In a speech during the opening ceremony of the conference, President Xi Jinping heralded the beginning of a new era in China, but he was also surprisingly honest about the inadequacy of his first term. Although the congress will continue into this weekthere are still important things to be decided, chief among them whether Xi will anoint a successor, as is tradition in China, or whether he will continue to rule as dictator in perpetuitymost of the major events have already taken place.

Much of Asia had been in something of a holding pattern in the lead-up to the congress. But now, that holding pattern is over, and we can look ahead to some key events in the region that will reverberate throughout the world in the weeks to come.

Japan in a Tough Spot

In Japan, Prime Minister Shinzo Abes coalition decisively won another term in elections over the weekend. It is a remarkable political comeback for Abe, who gambled that he could overcome some of the scandals dogging his regime and win another mandate, allowing him to continue his economic reforms and to push the country toward the controversial step of revising its pacifist constitution.

Abe can thank North Korea in part for his political resurgence. North Koreas launching of missiles over Japan and the inability to halt Pyongyangs nuclear program have given Abe new life. But the important issue here is not so much Abe as it is a potential shift in Japans overall posture. Although China conceded to some of its weaknesses during the National Congress, Japan cannot bet that China will remain weak, no matter how difficult Chinas problems are.

The inability of the US to control the situation in North Korea, moreover, raises hard questions for Japan. A country shielded by a US security guarantee can afford to be a pacifist nation, but a country highly dependent on raw material imports and threatened by an adversary that may soon become a nuclear power cannot. Add to this the fact that Japan conquered much of the Asian coast in the early 20th century and treated its colonial subjects as inferiors. This leaves Japan in a tough spot. Japan has no shortage of enemies, and it cant count on the US to prevent North Korea from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Japan will have to fend for itself.

Meanwhile, North Korea remains as recalcitrant as ever. In the past week, Pyongyang has threatened imminent nuclear war against the United States and vowed to mercilessly smash the war frenzy of the US and South Korean puppet warmongers in response to US-South Korean naval drills. This theatrical language is typical for the North Koreans. But there are some statements related to the North Korean crisis that shouldnt be dismissed. Last week, the CIA director said that North Korea was on the verge of possessing nuclear weapons capable of striking the USand that President Donald Trump was resolute in not allowing that to happen.

US Commitment to Asia

It is with all of this uncertainty swirling that Trump will travel to five Asian countriesJapan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the Philippinesin early November. Its a fitting trip for the one-year anniversary of Trumps election.

Trumps visits to Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines are aimed at demonstrating that the US is still committed to Asia, and not only because of North Korea. Photo ops, however, wont be enough to prove this commitment. Japan and South Korea will want to know what the US plans to do about Pyongyang, while the Philippines wants to know whether it can still depend on the US to protect its interestsor whether it should cut a deal with China now while it has all the leverage.

Trumps trip to Vietnam is proof of a fundamental premise in geopolitics: Individual leaders dont matter nearly as much as most people think they do. A countrys foreign policy will change very little when a new president takes office. President Barack Obama lifted an arms embargo against Vietnam during a visit to Hanoi. Now, President Trump is set to take his own trip to the communist country. The two nations may have an uneasiness toward each other because of the Vietnam War, but they share an interest in containing China, and this is more important than ideology and their historical animosity. Trump wont eat noodles with Anthony Bourdain on the streets of Hanoi, as his predecessor did, but like Obama, he will look to strengthen the bilateral relationship with an eye toward isolating China in the region as much as possible.

This leads us, of course, to China. It remains unclear precisely what Trump plans to do when he meets the Chinese president on his home turf. When they last met in April, Xi agreed to help the US contain North Korea in exchange for the Trump administrations backing off some of its promises to punish Beijing for what it sees as unfair trade practices. Six months later, there has been no tangible progress on North Korea, and some of the more hawkish, anti-China voices in Trumps ear have been sidelined Steve Bannon most notable among them. And now, according to Politico , the White House is reportedly conducting a comprehensive, bottom-up review of its China policy.

Rumors are swirling over what could result from Trumps trip to China. Some think that he will announce some kind of major US-China agreement on how the two will coexist in the global economy. Others expect this to be a tougher conversationa last ditch effort by Washington to impress upon Beijing what the cost would be of failing to make progress on North Korea. The only things that can be known for certain are that the US is not getting what it wants out of China and China cannot give the US what it wants.
A book that recounts the tale of two Laredoans who grew up to become hit men with Los Zetas drug cartel has been excluded from UISD high school reading lists.

United Independent School District said "Wolf Boys" was not officially banned. As part of a new incentive to support English Language Arts and encourage reading among high school students, a group of UISD educators read seven books that could be read in the classroom and created lessons for them, UISD said in a statement. The books chosen focused on young people as well as individual journeys and hardships. According to UISD, "Wolf Boys" was not one of the books reviewed for this purpose.

RELATED: Laredo police searching for 'armed and dangerous' suspects in Zetas auto-theft ring case

The author of the book, Dan Slater, said, "Many teachers, both within the district and in other districts, have already taught the book and more were planning on teaching it. Dozens of high schools around the country are bringing 'Wolf Boys' into the classroom."

"Wolf Boys" focuses on the journey of Gabriel Cardona and Rosalio "Bart" Reta, and how the young men fell into the world of the Mexican drug cartel.

After hearing that UISD decided not to include "Wolf Boys" in the curriculum for students, one teacher said she was curious why and read the book. Despite the book containing graphic violence, the teacher said the story depicted a reality that was unfortunately familiar to Laredo but important for students to learn about.

"After reading it and having dealt with students who mirrored or shadowed the lives of the 'characters,' I found that it was a necessary read because I feel that it could save students who are contemplating the 'thug life,'" the teacher said.

The book was banned from Texas prisons after the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and Director's Review Committee cited two sentences, which explain how to conceal and smuggle narcotics in a vehicle, as the reason behind their decision.

READ MORE: 11 sentenced for involvement in Laredo-based organization that transported drugs for Zetas cartel

Slater said banning the book will only encourage kids to read it outside of school, without a teacher for guidance.

"Not that they need guidance to read a book, particular one about a subject that some, many, or all know too well," Salter further stated. "All a ban does is take a universal reality and render it somehow shameful."

Slater, a former reporter for Wall Street, became intrigued with the story of Cardona and Reta after reading a New York Times article in 2009. However, he was most intrigued as to how two childhood friends were led into the world of drug cartel wars.

Slater exchanged letters with Cardona for years, which were used as the basis for the book. At a book signing last year in Laredo, Slater said most stories about drug cartels were told through the eyes of the cartel bosses, which was easy for people to glamorize.

RELATED: Top-ranking Zeta sentenced on drug, money-laundering charges in Laredo

He wanted to depict the truth about the drug war through the eyes of the young men, the foot soldiers.

"As far as what I hope the book does in Laredo, along the border, and elsewhere in the U.S. is just open people's minds to what's really going on here," Slater had said. "And to why the drug war is such a counterproductive endeavor for our youth. It's not just about the money. It's about providing kids with a sense of belonging that they're not finding in their societies."
Thirty-two-hundred Americans would not have to pay the estate tax next year if the Republican tax bill is passed, a 64 percent reduction from the 5,000 people who would pay under current law, according to Congress' Joint Committee on Taxation - one of the most glaring ways the proposed legislation benefits a small number of wealthy Americans.

Under the current law, Americans can pass along homes, land, stocks or other assets worth up to $5.49 million without paying any estate or gift tax. Estates worth more than that are subject to a 40 percent tax. The House GOP bill would double the threshold to $11.2 million in 2018 and then do away with the tax entirely in 2024.

In total, the reduction and ultimate elimination of the estate tax would cost taxpayers $172 billion over a decade. The figures were contained in a JCT analysis that was obtained by The Washington Post.

The JCT is a non-partisan group of analysts that serve as the official scorekeepers of how much tax bills add to the debt and what their impacts are on rich, middle class and poor Americans.

Democrats have panned this as a giveaway to the mega rich. Instead of eliminating the estate tax, they argue that money should be used elsewhere, such as more tax relief for the middle class or aid for the poor. Economists Thomas Piketty and Emmanuel Saez, experts on inequality, say that one of the main reasons the top 0.1 percent have become even wealthier is because they transfer money and property to the next generation. The have argued for raising the estate tax to 50 or 60 percent.

But Republicans call it a "death tax" and say it is unfair because people already pay taxes when they are living, so they should not have to pay them when they die as well.

"We just think it's unfair. Death should be not a taxable event, and we should not be stopping people from being able to pass their life's work on to their kids," House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said Sunday in an interview with Fox News. He also argued doing away with the tax would create more jobs as people use the money to invest or grow their businesses.

President Donald Trump has said the estate tax hurts farmers and small business owners trying to pass on their legacies to the next generation, but the Washington Post Fact Check team pointed out that very few farms or small businesses have to pay the tax anymore. Congress has already raised the threshold many times in an effort to ensure it is only the very rich who are paying the tax. In 2000, 52,000 estates had to pay the tax. Now it is down to 5,000.
The campaign of Ralph Northam, the Democratic nominee for Virginia governor, says it has evidence that automated social media accounts - or bots - were used to inflame online chatter about a controversial TV ad launched by a progressive group that's backing Northam.

That ad, which depicted a white Gillespie supporter in a pickup truck bedecked with a Confederate flag chasing children of different ethnicities, was sponsored by the Latino Victory Fund and ran for just two days last week on Spanish language stations.

But it generated howls of outrage from the campaign of Republican rival Ed Gillespie and his surrogates and supporters. They denounced the spot as being "disdainful of millions of Virginians," called on Northam to disavow it, and then condemned him when he declined. Gillespie appeared on "Fox and Friends" and called the ad "an attack on all Virginians."

Discussion about the ad has lit up Twitter and other social media platforms.

The Latino advocacy group stood by the ad as a response to a series of ads from Gillespie that began airing in September and seemed to link illegal immigrants with the violent Latino street gang MS-13. Those ads also have drawn widespread condemnation for being racially insensitive and for seeking to whip up fear about immigrants.

The Latino Victory Fund pulled its ad after only two days because of the incident in New York City in which a man driving a rented truck ran down pedestrians in what's been called and act of terrorism, killing eight people.

But the online chatter has continued, and the Northam campaign released a study commissioned from a group called Discourse Intelligence that analyzed the top 15 Twitter accounts that have posted using the words "Latino victory" and either Gillespie or Northam, or the thread #VAGov. Of those 15, the analysis concluded that 13 were either fully or partially automated, meaning the comments they posted were generated by software.

David Abrams, a spokesman for the Gillespie campaign, said it had "absolutely nothing to do with the fact that Virginians in both parties found this ad to be, in the words of The Washington Post editorial board, 'vile' and 'despicable'. The Northam campaign is so desperate they have resorted to fabricating conspiracy theories for their failing campaign. Since the ad ran, our online donations have tripled, and we have been inundated with requests to volunteer. The only question that remains is why hasn't Ralph Northam condemned this attack on his fellow Virginians, and what exactly was his campaign's role in the production of this spot."

The report was paid for by the Virginia Education Association as an in-kind service for the Northam campaign.

The issue of automated accounts has been linked to the problem of Russian or other outside agents' interference with the U.S. election process, most notably during last fall's presidential campaigns.

Because it's hard to say where thes anti-Northam bots originated, it's difficult to determine whether it could be a sign of an attempt by outside interests to influence the race for governor. It's also hard to put those numbers into context - bots and cyborgs, or partially automated accounts that feature some human input, are all over Twitter, Facebook and other social media services.

The researcher who compiled the report said he saw similar activity around other aspects of the Virginia election and that he will continue monitoring. "We are seeing the same exact techniques that attempted to skew the social media conversation and affect hashtags trending and search results that we saw in the [presidential] election," said researcher Timothy Chambers.

He said that as he has continued to scan for Northam over the past week, he has identified more than 700 suspicious new accounts following the candidate. Many of them, he said, are Turkish language accounts. That's possibly because many botnet services used for this kind of activity are based in Eastern Europe, Chambers said.

Days before the bots report was released Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, warned Americans that while information warfare is not new, social media has the power to magnify propaganda and fake news on a scale never before imagined.

Although the report funded by Northam supporters did not pin the blame for bots on a specific country or culprit, last week Warner noted Russia's influence on the 2016 presidential race.

"Russian operatives are attempting to initiate and manipulate American social media to hijack the national conversation and to make Americans angry, to set us against ourselves and. . . to undermine our democracy," he said during a hearing with tech firms. "They did it in the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign. They are still doing it now."

Warner, who introduced the Honest Ads Act to protect elections from foreign interference, said disinformation campaigns work like this: Agents set up thousands of group accounts on lots of social media platforms, including Twitter. Accounts then spend months creating networks of real people to follow and like their content with the help of paid ads and automated bots.

"We all need to take a more discerning approach to what we are reading and sharing and who we're connecting with online," he said during the hearing. "We need to realize the person at the other end of that Facebook or Twitter argument may not be a real person at all."

In response to the bots report from the Northam campaign on Saturday, a Warner spokesman said researchers estimate up to one in six Twitter accounts are either automated or fake; that's 48 million accounts.

"What we saw during the 2016 presidential campaign was a consistent and coordinated effort by trolls and bots to 'flood the zone' to manipulate the conversation on social media," spokesman Kevin Hall said in a statement. "Twitter's anonymity, reach and speed make it the perfect platform for spreading fake information and hyper partisan content."
Even if you didn't know much about Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal before his arrest on Saturday - in what was either an anti-corruption purge or a political crackdown - you're almost certainly acquainted with his money.

The biography on Alwaleed's personal website consists of a single sentence about his background (born 1955; grandson of the first king of Saudi Arabia), followed by a dense page crammed with details of his wealth and power:

Holdings in Twitter, Lyft, Euro Disney and Twentieth Century Fox; luxury hotels across the world; a tower under construction in Saudi Arabia that will soon be the world's tallest building. Or his opulent palace, where Business Insider once reported the prince kept "a group of dancing, laughing, joking dwarfs" in his entourage, occasionally tossing them around as sport like human shot putts.

That last part isn't in the official biography. And it would be a shame if all you knew about Alwaleed was his wealth, because the personality behind those billions of dollars sounds no less extraordinary.

It's true that Alwaleed descends from King Abdulaziz al-Saud, the founder of Saudi Arabia whose family has controlled it ever since. But the website biography doesn't mention what Vanity Fair will tell you: that Alwaleed's father rebelled against the repressive monarchy in the 1960s and forever after damaged his line's chances of inheriting the throne.

Though that hasn't stopped Alwaleed from hinting that he might one day sit on it.

Vanity Fair's profile also retells - with some skepticism - the official story of how Alwaleed amassed his immense fortune.

It reads like a fairy tale.

The prince was about 30, having returned from Menlo College in California with a business degree in 1985.

"Alwaleed claims his father gave him $30,000. Within a year, he had lost the money. He went back to his father, who gave him $300,000. This time, it took him three years to lose it."

Third time was the charm. Alwaleed's father gave him the deed to a house instead of cash, and told him "work for yourself." So he took a loan out on the deed, and with some shrewd investments (and his royal stipend, and the proceeds from hawking a $200,000 heirloom), the prince learned to become a self-made man.

Others have speculated that his fortune owes more to the royal family's control of Saudi Arabia's oil, Vanity Fair wrote - or even that Alwaleed is "a frontman for the vast wealth of the Saudi royal family."

In any event, the prince surged to the top of the billionaires list in early 1990s, not for any enterprise inside his family's kingdom, but by investing in a then-struggling U.S. bank, now known as Citicorp.

From that point on, Alwaleed was a prince without borders. He worked with Stephen K. Bannon in the late 1990s. He sold a yacht to Donald Trump. At 62, The Associated Press reported, he's now one of the major shareholders in Apple, News Corporation and Twitter.

But we're getting sidetracked by dollars signs again. In our defense, they suffuse almost every anecdote about the prince's personality, and his hard-to-pin-down politics.

Alwaleed donated $10 million to help New York after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, Business Insider reported, for example. But Mayor Rudolph Giuliani turned the money down after the prince issued a news release criticizing the U.S. position on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

He's always been a press-happy prince. (Or occasionally press-cranky, as when Alwaleed sued Forbes for defamation, claiming the magazine had underestimated his wealth at a mere $20 billion.)

Seated in a recliner in shaded glasses at night, Business Insider reported, Alwaleed held forth to CNBC on the banking crisis in 2008. The same year, according to Forbes, he put on a ceremonial Saudi robe and took his personal Boeing 747 to the city of Jeddah. There he pitched his uncle, King Abdullah, on his plan to built a skyscraper more than a kilometer tall.

"It will be the epicenter of Jiddah," the prince told Forbes. "It will be a magnet."

The tower is slated to open in 2019. About midway through its construction, Business Insider ran an expose on Alwaleed's lifestyle at his headquarters in the capital of Riyadh.

"Almost every source we spoke to, including Alwaleed's official spokesperson, confirmed that, like a medieval monarch, Alwaleed keeps in his entourage a group of dancing, laughing, joking dwarfs," the outlet reported in 2012. "One source called them'jesters.' "

Not only did the prince hold occasional "midget-tossing" contests with these people, Business Insider wrote, but once invited his "jesters" to a business meeting, where he taught them the words "Boeing" and "Airbus," and had them decide which type of plane he should add to his personal fleet.

In the face of bizarre accusations like this, Alwaleed has made great demonstrations of his concern for human rights - especially among the poor and women.

"Can you believe this? It's horrible," he told Forbes while handing out cash-stuffed envelopes in a Riyadh slum. The same article noted that women who work for Alwaleed's offices are discouraged from wearing the veils they're forced to wear in public.

The prince wrote an op-ed for the New York Times during the "Arab Spring" revolutions, condemning autocratic Arab nations led by those who "serve special and self-serving interests," and embracing his father's criticism of Saudi Arabia's autocracy.

And two years ago, following in the footsteps of Western billionaires like Bill Gates, Alwaleed promised to give away his entire $30-some billion fortune in the indefinite future - "to build a more peaceful, equitable and sustainable world," he told reporters.

And the prince was among many global leaders to condemn Donald Trump early in his run for president, and attempt reconciliation after the election.

As The Washington Post previously wrote, some have suggested that Alwaleed is essentially running a PR campaign for his western business holdings.

Others wonder if he has designs on the Saudi throne. That's one theory for why Saudia Arabia's crown prince - Alwaleed's cousin - had him and 10 other princes arrested on Saturday to face a"royal anti-corruption" committee, amid rumors that the king is preparing to step down.

Power in Saudi Arabia has long passed between the sons of the founding king, Forbes wrote in 2009. But the line of succession has become complicated as that generation nears the end of its life span.

Could the globe-trotting, billionaire son of a dissident one day take the throne?

"Sure," Alwaleed told Forbes."The chain of command of people who could become king in this country is between the sons and the grandsons of King Abdulaziz. I am among them."

Others doubted his chances.

"Alwaleed is the Donald Trump of Saudi Arabia," an expert on the Saudi royal house told Forbes that year."He may be a symbol of success for some Saudis, but many others view him as being way too gaudy."

But that was many years ago. Donald Trump is president of the United States now, and who knows what's in store for Alwaleed?
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Saturday evening, on a crowded entryway at La Villita, Joe Offutt looked on as an artisan draped in a sari applied a henna tattoo to his wife Ericas arm. The aroma of roasting chicken wafted from nearby food vendors onto the plaza as the artist added finishing touches to her intricate artwork.

Joe Offutt said when they saw the henna booth Saturday afternoon, it reminded them of the henna shoes hed bought for his wife a few years ago.

Sounds of the crowd applauding a dance troupe clad in colorful garb could be heard coming from the Arneson Theater, where they performed classical, traditional and Bollywood dances with lyrical, flowing steps.

Later, 13 colorful river barges floated past the theater on the San Antonio River, representing various states from the nation of India.

I like it, Erica Offutt said, as the artist completed the temporary tattoo. Im trying to embrace the culture while Im here.

Friends of the Offutts had suggested going to the 9th Annual Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights for a memorable experience. They both agreed they had received great advice.

This is a fantastic event, Joe Offutt said. Were really glad that we came.

The couple were among the throngs of visitors to the Ninth Annual Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights, that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. In India, Diwali or series of lighted lamps, is a five-day festival celebrated through sharing gifts, lighting candles, saying prayers and fireworks.

Organizers said the first festival in 2009 drew 5,000 guests and last year more than 17,000 people attended the event.

Festival organizer Kausi Subramaniam said the event saw traction after several members of the local Indian community approached then-Mayor Phil Hardberger to see if hed be interested in having a sister city in India.

Subramaniam led a task force that selected five cities to visit in India. She said after San Antonio officials visited a couple of the cities in India, they chose Chennai, located in the Southern state of Tamil Nadu. The members were impressed with the hospitality of the families that made them feel at home and the passion for art and culture as San Antonio, said Subramaniam, director of dance/co-owner of Kalalaya Indian Performing Arts.

We live in turbulent times, people are suspicious and uncertain about people, and traditions and customs that theyre not familiar with, she said. I feel the differences are maybe in what we eat and wear and how we celebrate. Were inviting the general public to share our food, try our clothing and celebrate with us.

Brian and Mary Mack and their daughter Kate of Houston were drawn to Mayor Maury Maverick Plaza by the aroma from 11 vendor booths. Clouds of smoke rose from steaming grills as the trio surveyed the menus listing food ranging from fish tacos to mango shakes.

Everybody is super friendly, Mary Mack said, as a cook scooped a bowlful of rice from a large pot behind them. All of the outfits are very beautiful.

At the corner of Nueva and South Alamo, Plaza Juarez echoed with the sounds of vibrant, thrumming music that invited the crowd to dance and take part in Bollywood Zumba.

Organizer Hema Viswanathan said the festival has become part of the San Antonio tradition of celebrating diversity and different cultures

You dont have to get a passport or visa to go to India, she said, were bringing the various states of India to San Antonio.

vtdavis@express-news.net
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SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas  A gunman wearing all black and a ballistic vest opened fire with a rifle outside a small Baptist church in rural Texas and continued firing inside the building Sunday, killing at least 26 people and turning a tiny town east of San Antonio into the scene of the country's most recent mass horror.

Gov. Greg Abbott confirmed the death toll, which has steadily increased throughout the day after the shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. A pregnant woman and children were among the dead, and the authorities said at least 20 people were also injured.

The authorities said at least 20 people were also injured. Among those killed, 23 people died inside the church, two outside the building and one person died after being transported to a hospital. The ages of the wounded and dead ranged from 5 to 72, the authorities said.

THE GUNMAN'S WIFE: Wife of Sutherland Springs gunman Devin Kelley speaks for first time about day of the massacre

Two law enforcement sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the continuing investigation, identified the gunman as Devin P. Kelley, 26.

U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas, who said he was briefed by law enforcement authorities, said the gunman came from Comal County, which is northeast of San Antonio.

"He went there, he walked in, started shooting people and then took off" to Guadalupe County, which is northeast of Sutherland Springs, he said. The gunman was found dead in his car, the authorities said.

Now Playing: Latest updates: Sutherland Springs church shooting Video: San Antonio Express-News

Albert Gamez Jr., a Wilson County commissioner, said the gunman was dead, but it was not clear whether he was killed by the police or he took his own life. Gamez told CNN that Sutherland Springs is a small community where everyone knows one another.

He added: "You never expect something like this. My heart is broken."

Hours after the shooting, the one-story rectangular church remained sealed off, with yellow tape posted along the church grounds. Reporters poured into Sutherland Springs throughout the day as the tragedy transformed the once-obscure Texas farming community into the scene of the latest mass killing.

The unincorporated community has a population that numbers in the low hundreds  the 2000 census was 362, according to the Texas State Historical Association. The preliminary death toll would amount to about 7 percent of the population.

The service at the church last Sunday, which was posted on YouTube, began with a rendition of a song called "Happiness Is the Lord."

Then the pastor, Frank Pomeroy, told his parishioners  20 to 30 were visible in the video  to walk around the room and "shake somebody's hand."

"Tell them it's good to see them in God's house this morning," he said.

Videos posted online show lyrics to the hymns appearing on television screens with parishioners playing electric guitars and a sign language interpreter translating the songs.

Scott Holcombe and Sarah Slavin said their parents, Bryan and Karla Holcombe, were among the dead. Sobbing on a curb outside Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville, about 15 miles from Sutherland Springs, Scott Holcombe said: "I'm dumbfounded. This is unimaginable."

He added: "My father was a good man and he loved to preach. He had a good heart. They knew where they were going. There's peace in that."

A parishioner, Sandy Ward, said in an interview Sunday that a daughter-in-law and three of her grandchildren were shot. Her grandson, who is 5, was shot four times and remained in surgery as of Sunday night. She said she was awaiting word on her other family members.

Ward said she did not attend services Sunday because of her troubled knees and a bad hip. "I just started praying for everybody who was there" when she learned of the shooting, she said.

Joseph Silva, 49, who lives about 5 miles northeast of Sutherland Springs, said the police had instructed his family and neighbors to stay indoors.

In a phone interview Sunday afternoon, he described Sutherland Springs as "a one-blinking-light town."

"There is a gas station and a post office," he said. "That's about all there really is."

Silva said he had been approached by a woman who said she had two loved ones at the church who were shot.

"There are a number of individuals just weeping and just wanted to know what's happened to their loved ones," he said. "Everybody is pretty grief-stricken. Everyone's worried."

The First Baptist Church of La Vernia, about 7 miles away, wrote on Facebook that it would open its doors from 5 to 7 p.m.

"Today an unthinkable tragedy occurred in our community," the church wrote. "There will be Pastors and leaders present to pray with you or to talk, and the altar will be open for us to fall at the feet of Jesus."

President Donald Trump, who was in Japan on a trip to several Asian countries, offered his support. In a Twitter post he said: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

Abbott said on Twitter: "Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response."

Ken Paxton, the attorney general of Texas, said in a statement: "The thoughts and prayers of all Texans are with the people of Sutherland Springs as tragic reports come out of First Baptist Church. My office stands ready to assist local law enforcement as needed."

On Facebook, a user described the church: "It is such a warm and welcoming church that is truly filled with the Holy Spirit and shows real Christian love and friendship."

The shooting Sunday was reminiscent of when a former high school teacher carrying four guns killed five people and injured 12 others in June 1980 in a crowded church in Daingerfield, Texas, about 130 miles east of Dallas.
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Bernard Canavan, an artist born in Wicklow but reared in Edgeworthstown before he emigrated to the UK in 1959, is certainly to the fore of art and culture in Ireland at the moment.

With a Distinguished Service Award from the President coming his way and a documentary inspired by his artwork in the works, he's certainly come a long way from the orphanage in which he spent his early years.

As a teenager, Bernard was thrown into a culture that was entirely different to the one he was used to in Ireland. This was a culture of diversity, where religion was not compulsory and people spoke freely on matters of philosophy and sex.

In his early twenties, Bernard encountered Swinging London at a time when the city was undergoing a mini-revolution in pop-music, which combined with the sex revolution made possible by the pill, and the repeal of censorship and homosexuality laws.

I found that my drawing ability, which had been nurtured during my Longford childhood, suddenly emerged into high demand, Bernard explained to the Longford Leader.

I got regular illustration work from a growing number of new underground press titles: 'Oz', 'International Times', 'Peace News', and for mainstream papers like 'New Society', 'Computer Times' and the 'Architectural Journal', which meant I had to enlarge the scope of my reading still further to take in popular social and psychological theorists of the day.

He also designed theatre sets and posters for The Roundhouse and Unity Theatre, the Oxford Playhouse, with one poster included in a volume of graphics for the best international designs in 1977.

But first. he received an education.

In 1967, Bernard was awarded an art scholarship to Europe and so he went to Berlin and Prague and, after studying the art of France and Italy, he soon began painting himself and showing work in mixed exhibitions.

Then, in the 1970s, with no exam qualifications, Bernard was lucky enough to be admitted to a higher education college, where he received a diploma in history and economics before being admitted to university .

After graduation in 1976, I returned to London and taught history - Irish, British and European - and was in much demand at adult education institutes in London during IRA British bombing campaign of the late 70s, to provide some historical explanation of the causes of this violence.

It was a changing time for Ireland, which was undergoing a process of intense self-analysis, which Bernard referred to as a catching up educationally with the modern world that was being experienced in Britain.

And that process was, I maintain, to a greater extent than has been acknowledged, the result of changes in values that were coming back to Ireland with every returning wave of summer visitors, said Bernard.

Children of these emigrants, who spent their long summer school holidays back with parents in rural Ireland, revealed all kinds of details - inconsequential family details, that never made the news on Irish papers:

The fact that these children had fewer siblings than their Irish family counterparts; that many attended godless schools; the fact that they sometimes had step-dads in London; that their church attendance was somewhat irregular, and they knew, or said, few prayers; that there were relatives it was whispered who lived together.

But most of all, Bernard added, it was the change in the role of Irish women in Britain that brought the most wonder .

Having come from a country where caring had been rigidly confined to the domestic sphere, here they were in a world where caring was out in the public with the NHS, where training was paid for by the state, wages and advancement was structured, and the service was a subject of pride, he said.

The Irish world had been turned inside out, for the male world went down a hole in the ground, unregulated, undocumented, and sometimes illegal with the lump, its operation and life supported by make-do measures.

The effect of these informal reports back to even the most outlying parishes of Ireland, he said, began to prompt a questioning of the theological morality enshrined in the Irish Constitution: the ban on sex education, birth control methods, divorce, the lack of science and sex education classes in church-controlled schools, the puritanical censorship laws.

Migrants were becoming a bridge to the modernity Ireland had desired in joining the EEC; it was not Bonn, or Boston that was changing Ireland, but places like Birmingham and Brent, in the land of officially forgotten exiles, said Bernard.

Also read: Longford Lives: Distinguished Service award for Longford artist Bernard Canavan

Perhaps nowhere could these changes be seen more than in the art world, the area least consequential of all activities, where the ignored and the negative often surfaces first.

The prettified, selected world of the Impressionism, the white-washed thatched cottages of Paul Henry under blue Italianate skies began to look like advertising hype for the Irish 1950s from which people fled in their hundreds of thousands.

German expressionists like Max Beckmann, Franz Masereel, and Paula Rego today, had a greater truth to tell, and perhaps the most famous expressionist of all, Francis Bacon, was the most relevant of all in his work, said Bernard, who said he often encountered Bacon in the 60s when buying canvasses in specialist art shops in London.

He was well known for his sexually explicit naked figures, his early screaming Popes, and pictures of half-human monsters entitled Studies for the Crucification.

Few people knew of his Irish connections then, and he obfuscated the link by denying a belief in God at a time when Irish identity was emphatically Catholic.

As that identity began dissolving in the last decades of the twentieth century, the rejected and forgotten Ireland began to surface, at a time when the Celtic Tiger was everywhere being lauded.

Bacons quintessentially Irish subject matter, his themes of human isolation, the abused body, repressed sexuality, political violence and incarceration, were not simply about Auschwitz and Hiroshima and modernism elsewhere, as usually claimed, but about ourselves, Bernard explained.

And even if we could not always understand his images, we could feel the truth of them, the alienation and normlessness of that world in our bones.

That effect is everywhere visible in Irish exile literature, in John McGahern, Connor Riordan, John B Keane, Edna OBrien, Shane Connaughton, Donal McAmlaigh, JM ONeill and the stories of Niall Jordan, to name just a few, but it was probably in painting that it has had its greatest impact.

In his own painting, Bernard looks deep into the philosophical, historical and theological issues central to Irish identity and the effects of emigration.

He paints raw energy with sheer intensity of colour and somewhat sensitive chaos.

My images are about the impact of modernity on the solitary individual, but Ireland, we must remember, is making that same journey collectively as a society, and increasingly the world of my distant youth is indeed another country today, he said.

With such striking works as 'Vertigo' and 'The Loved and the Unloved', Bernard's work has been widely recognised as a representation of the 'forgotten Irish' in London.

As a result, he will be receiving a Distinguished Service Award this year from President Michael D. Higgins himself and will stand alongside the likes of Liam Neeson at a ceremony in Dublin.
Longford people are being asked to take part in this years Concern Fast when they can give up any habit or activity for 24-hours to raise vitals funds for children suffering from hunger around the world.

The annual Fast campaign - one of Irelands longest running fundraisers, which is run by aid agency Concern Worldwide - takes place this year on Thursday, November 23.

Traditionally, Fast participants focused on giving up food for a day, but people also do 'digital fasts' that involve forgoing social media and online activity while others try to give-up coffee, smoking and other habits.

Another Fast idea from Concern this year is for Irelands phombies to use the opportunity to try and spend a day without being distracted by their mobile phone device when walking.

Phombies, or phone-zombies, are people who stare at their mobile phone while walking and are completely oblivious of other people and their surroundings.

They can be regularly spotted phombie-walking in every town and city across Ireland and beyond.

Concern Worldwide Marketing Executive, Christina Meehan, said: Concern Fast is a rewarding opportunity to challenge yourself for a very deserving cause.

We think it can also be a fun way to detox on modern habits that many people have, like looking at our phone when walking to a shop or to catch a bus.

I think its important to stay present. When we are present we have the time to think about others and connect to the world and this is exactly why Im giving up my phone for a day.

For decades, Fast has been helping millions of children suffering from hunger - and we ask that people continue to take part and do what they can because it really does make a difference.

"For example, Irish people who took part last year helped feed 4,000 children for a month in South Sudan alone.

Christina said that this year has been especially tragic for so many children with famine casting a shadow over four nations, including South Sudan and Somalia, where over 20 million people are still at risk of starvation.

Globally, it is estimated that 5.6 million children under five died last year and that around three million of them had hunger related illnesses.

The Fast campaign raises funds that help provide high-energy therapeutic food for malnourished children to try and prevent their conditions becoming fatal and to reduce the sobering statistics that show how many people suffer from hunger.

A 30 donation can provide emergency nutrition support to a malnourished child for one month while 300 can provide a family with enough food to eat for six months.

Concern reached 22 million people in 27 countries in 2016, largely because of the funds it received from the Irish public, including donations from Fast.

We cannot thank the Irish public enough for their ongoing support for Concern and all of our dedicated volunteers who do street collections and other fundraising activities, added Christina Meehan.

People can sign up for Concern Fast 2017 and find more information at Concern.net/fast or by calling 1850 50 50 55  and participants can also engage with Concern on Twitter @Concern, Facebook, Snapchat and on Instagram.

TEN Concern Fast ideas for what to give up for 24-hours on Thursday November 23 [Register: Concern.net/fast]

1. Phombie-walking - Stop being a phombie looking at your phone while walking.



2. Coffee Blackout  Have a no-coffee day.



3. No-Butts  If you smoke, try being smoke-free for 24-hours.



4. Digital-detox - Try not using any digital technology.



5. No social post - A day without posting on social media.



6. Landline only  Try going back in time and not using your mobile phone to make a call.



7. TV Free  A day without watching any television.



8. Like, Eh  Give up vocalised pauses, which are the fillers used in sentences, such as um, ah and like.



9. Game Over  Zap video gaming for 24 hours.



10. Silence Please  Try a day without talking.
A man who appeared at last weeks sitting of Longford District charged under the Road Traffic Act had the case against him struck out following a hearing into the matter.

Luis Vergadim, 2 Boyne Court, Summerhill Road, Dunboyne, Co Meath appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes charged with driving without insurance at Rathcronin, Granard, Co Longford on September 29, 2016.

Outlining the evidence to the court, Inspector Blaithin Moran said that when gardai stopped the defendant on the date in question, they discovered that he was not insured to drive the vehicle.

The court also heard that the tachograph on the truck at the time of the incident was not working.

In mitigation, the defendants solicitor Brid Mimnagh said that her client was driving the vehicle on the date in question for another individual, whom the court heard had asked Mr Vergadim to do him a favour.

My client worked with this man and even checked with him to make sure that the insurance covered him to drive the truck, Ms Mimnagh continued.

He was told he was covered to drive and went ahead and did the job he was asked to do.

Meanwhile, Judge Hughes heard that the defendant had a Brazilian licence when gardai stopped him in Granard towards the end of last year.

Mr Vergadim also addressed the Judge.

I was asked to bring a load to Granard and it was only when Sergeant Rowan stopped me that I discovered I wasnt insured, he added.

I thought I was covered and even checked with my employer about that.

Ms Mimnagh then informed the court that her client had never been in trouble with the law prior to this matter and had left his employment that very day as a result of what had transpired.

Sergeant Rowan then added; I contacted Mr Vergadims employer and he confirmed to me that he had instructed the defendant to drive the vehicle and everything was in order for him to do so.

Following his deliberations, Judge Hughes struck the case out before bringing matters to a conclusion.
Editors note: When you go to vote this Tuesday, you might notice the commissioner of revenues race isnt on the front of the ballot. In order to cast a vote in this race, you have to flip to the back of the ballot.

The commissioner of revenue may not be a position many Martinsville residents are familiar with. Its one of five constitutional officers that we elect on the local level, as per the Virginia Code. Were voting on three of the others in Martinsville this year as well, including the commonwealths attorney, treasurer and sheriff. In a city or county, the council or board of supervisors establishes the tax policy and sets all tax rates.

The commissioner of the revenue then goes and implements those policies. He or she establishes assessments and decides what is and is not taxable in the area. The act of collecting those taxes is then turned over to the treasurer. What taxes does the Commissioner of Revenues office administer? Those include the Business and Professional Occupational License Tax, the Bank Franchise Stock Tax, the Motor Vehicle Rental Tax, the Meals Tax, the Personal Property Tax, the Public Service Corporation Tax, Consumer Utility Tax, Virginia Income Tax, and in areas where they apply, a Public Rights of Way Use Tax and a Transient Occupancy Tax. According to the Virginia Code Section 58.1, the Commissioner of the Revenue also has the power to issue a summons to individual taxpayers, issue statutory assessments, audit taxpayer returns and launch civil or criminal proceedings against taxpayers for failure to file returns or if they failed to provide requested information.

In this race, Ruth Easley is the incumbent and she's being challenged by Tyler Freeland. The answers to each question in this Q & A are listed in alphabetical order, by last name.

Q. How would you define the role of the commissioner of revenue?

Ruth Easley-The Commissioner of Revenue is the chief assessing official for a locality. We are responsible for determining which items should be taxed by the locality as defined in state statues and local ordinances and then assign a fair market value to the item, whether its a motor vehicle, business equipment, machinery and tools or real estate. The Martinsville Commissioner of Revenue is also responsible for licensing city businesses and compliance for the citys meals tax, lodging tax, and cigarette tax. The office also provides assistance with state income tax filing and partners with the local United Way as a VITA site providing federal income tax filing assistance to city residents with qualifying low income. The Commissioner of the Revenue also provides advice to members of the General Assembly and City Council regarding legislative matters impacting local tax assessments.

Tyler Freeland-I get asked every day while campaigning the same question because many people have never heard of the position. The Commissioner of the Revenue by definition is the chief tax assessing officer in a municipality. The primary duty of the office is to make sure the city has a stream of revenue coming in to operate. This position has an incredible amount of power to help businesses thrive, or to shut them down. I believe the COR should not just be a tax assessing officer, but an aid to business. I believe the Commissioner should use their knowledge of the tax laws to assist businesses, not to punish them. The position requires fair judgement and a person to use discretion in unique situations. As the Commissioner, I will always abide by the law, but I will also always make sure businesses keep their maximum fair share. We have to stop punishing the hardest working people in the community who work, pay taxes, and are the life of our area.

Q. Does the commissioner of revenue play a part in making the city attractive to businesses? Why or why not?

Ruth Easley- The Commissioner of Revenue is part of the team that makes the city attractive to businesses. City Council sets the ordinances, tax rates, and incentives that can make Martinsville attractive to business. I understand the frustration that many new business owners face running a business in any locality as my family has a small business in Henry Co. that was founded by my dad and grandfather and is now run by my brother. I have worked in that business and other small businesses so I know firsthand the financial struggles that businesses face in meeting their business demands, employee demands and tax and licensing requirements. The philosophy of my office has always been that we will do all we can to help a business succeed. If all businesses are succeeding, the city is succeeding. As a first step, I created an interactive checklist on the citys website about 10 years ago that provides a 17-step guide to starting a business in the city. It can be found at http://www.martinsville-va.gov/businesses The checklist provides links to other city departments and state and federal agencies that a new business would need to contact before becoming licensed by the Commissioner of Revenue.

Tyler Freeland-Absolutely, the Commissioner of the Revenue plays one of the most important roles in making Martinsville attractive to businesses. Unfortunately the city I love, Martinsville, has become an extremely difficult environment to conduct business. Instead of offering every possible start up package and incentive, businesses are forced through piles of intimidating government policies that are exhausting. It is intimidating enough to take the leap of faith to start your own business, and we need leaders who respect that. If someone is willing to better our community with their business, I feel the COR should be one of the main helping hands in the process. I understand we have to follow the rules, and I fully believe in complying with every mandate. I believe the current implementation of these rules, and the people we have dropping the hammer on local businesses have made us a known place to avoid doing business. We need to be a friend of businesses and tax payers, because their revenues are what keep the lights on in city hall. The current situation is so toxic, I have received reportable donations of over one hundred dollars from nearly every city official. The city leaders who work with my opponent each day, and have for nineteen years, are my biggest supporters because they see more than anyone we have to be business friendly.

Q. Does Martinsville need to make changes, as far as what is considered taxable? If so, please explain the changes you would make

Ruth Easley- The Commissioner of the Revenue does not make laws. That authority rests with the General Assembly which grants authority to the City Council to decide what is taxable at the local level within the constraints of state statutes. Only City Council can decide what the revenue needs are to provide the services demanded by the city residents. It is up to City Council to decide if they want to add another local option tax that has been authorized by the General Assembly or eliminate any from the citys ordinances. The Commissioner of Revenue can provide an analysis of the potential impact of those decisions, but the decision on making changes to the local tax ordinances rests with City Council and sometimes with the General Assembly.

Tyler Freeland-Throughout this campaign, Ive met many city residents and business owners. The most common complaint is we are simply taxing locals to death. We are trying to make up for lost revenue by raising taxes on everything else. That method will eventually price out businesses and keep them away, and I feel we are at that point. We cannot expect our citizens, many who are on fixed incomes, to continue to climb this tax mountain. The playing field is not level for many local businesses. Investment advisors pay a hefty tax, while some in similar professions pay none at all. The Commissioner of the Revenue does not set these rates, but as Commissioner I would work with city leaders immediately to address these issues and work with local elected officials to try to reduce the burden on businesses. Many business go a few miles down the road to Henry County because they save a fortune over a career. The time is now to make necessary changes, use some common sense, and make Martinsville attractive to businesses.

Q. There are some significant outstanding delinquent tax bills in the city, with fees amounting $5,000 or more in some cases. How would you address that problem?

Ruth Easley- The Commissioner of the Revenue only assesses the tax and then turns the assessment over to the City Treasurer for billing and collection. I do not collect the tax revenue. That authority rests with the elected City Treasurer or the City Council-appointed City Collector after certain conditions are met.

Tyler Freeland-The collection of delinquent taxes is the responsibility of the Treasurer and the City Attorney. The Commissioner of the Revenue identifies the delinquency, and works with the other leaders to remedy the situation. It is completely unfair for tax paying citizens to do what is right and pay their share, while some people unfortunately do not. I discussed the importance of the use of discretion in the Commissioner of the Revenue position earlier. We have to do what is in the best interest of the city, but I believe in using compassion in certain situations. Some of these delinquencies are people taking advantage of the system, while other delinquencies are people who have fallen on hard times. The importance of team work in the municipal building cannot be stressed enough. Currently we have a Commissioner of the Revenue who simply cannot get along with the other leaders in the building, and it makes it very difficult to collect the delinquent taxes. There is no way to work together on collection of these delinquencies if leaders cannot get along. Ive always gotten along with people, and our city needs that quality in the COR role now more than ever.

Q. Why did you decide to run for this position?

Ruth Easley-I worked for the previous commissioner, Ronnie Minter, as a real estate clerk. When he decided to retire 19 years ago he encouraged me to run for the office due to my legislative knowledge and experience. He mentored me for three years and provided opportunities to learn all aspects of the duties of the Commissioner of the Revenue. I believe that we should build on the successes of those who came before us, paved the way and taught us. Over the past 16 years my staff and I have made many improvements on how we do assessments, encourage tax compliance and provide customer service to the citys residents through technological advances and partnering opportunities. I am always looking for new ways to provide information on the assessment process to the public, City Council and other city departments so sound decisions are made in the best interest of all city residents. I hope the residents of Martinsville will continue to place their trust in me for my stewardship of the Martinsville Commissioner of Revenue office and offer suggestions on how we may better serve.

Tyler Freeland-I have always felt the need to come back and do everything in my power to help Martinsville recreate its image in the business world. We lost over ten thousand jobs in a small amount of time, and with those jobs thousands of middle class people also left. I feel that personal connection and diplomacy are what we need to bring our city together and move our economy forward. I have started and operated several successful businesses since I was twelve years old, and I understand the challenges. It is hard enough to get ahead and make an honest living, without the pressures of local government making it even more difficult. I didnt run for this position because I need a job, thankfully I have a good one. Ive spent the last ten months of my life campaigning because I see the real potential in Martinsville. I want the people I grew up with to be able to come back and earn a good living, raise a family, and make Martinsville a positive headline again. Please vote for Martinsville to get out of a rut, and take a chance you will not regret by voting Tyler Freeland for Commissioner of the Revenue on Tuesday, November 7, 2017.
STUART-There aren't as many people buying hardwood flooring right now. That fact was part of the reason Shaw Industries decided to close their plant in Stuart, company officials said Friday.

Shaw has seen a shift in demand in the market from solid hardwood to engineered wood, said Susan Farris, Shaw's Vice President of Corporate Communications. Shaw continually evaluates the best way to meet customer needs and adapts our operations accordingly. As demand for flooring products shifts, Shaw is adjusting its solid hardwood production capacity.

Engineered wood involves binding or fixing strands, fibers or boards of wood together, mixed with adhesives and other materials. It was created to be a stronger, more durable version of hardwood and doesn't shrink or expand due to humidity.

Farris said despite the downturn in sales, the company is not getting out of the hardwood business. It will continue to operate the three other solid hardwood manufacturing facilities it owns in other states. The decision to close the Stuart plant, however, means that 160 employees are out of work. Farris said that each of them will be given an offer to work in one of the company's other facilities. The Stuart plant is the only one that operated in southern Virginia, so that would require relocating if the offers are accepted. Farris said that a final closing date hasn't been set for the Stuart plant. It will continue to operate through December or at the latest, early January of 2018. Shaw bought the factory in 2010, before being itself bought out by Berkshire Hathaway.

As for the employees who want to stay in Patrick County, the West Piedmont Workforce Development Board plans to help.

A rapid response effort will start later this week, with officials from the Virginia Employment Commission working with other service providers to offer help. That means both letting the employees know what job openings exist in Patrick County and helping them pay for any retraining classes, if they want to go into a new career. The retraining will be covered through the use of federal funds.
SPRINGFIELD - What do 43 Western Massachusetts towns, 31 local photographers and the MassMutual Center have in common?



From Agawam to Worthington - and including long-lost Quabbin Reservoir towns Enfield and Prescott - the area's finest photography will be showcased as part of the "43 Towns" exhibit celebrating local history.

An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 to 7 p.m. "43 Towns" is open through late December at the MassMutual Center Exhibition Hall Lobby Area.



Curated by the Springfield Photographic Society and on display though late December at the MassMutual Center Exhibition Hall Lobby Area, MassMutual Sales Manager - and self-proclaimed geography and history buff - Richard DeCusati recently explained what visitors to the exhibit can expect to see.



"When you walk in the room, there's three big plaques: the first talks about the 43 towns, the second about the Springfield Photographic Society and the third about the artists featured," said DeCusati. "It isn't an exhibit with 43 pictures of town greens. It's old country stores, plants and sculptures, people and night scenes. There's quite a mix of themes. The goal is to give a flavor of each town."



In giving a flavor of each town, DeCusati said that - with the help of the Springfield Photographic Society and 31 photographers - the exhibit aims to display some of the area's most beloved landmarks at various times throughout history, from Dr. Seuss sculptures at Springfield's Quadrangle to Granby's Church of Christ Congregational.



"What's nice is people will see things from the towns they know, others will see things they didn't know. Like in Ware, we have a pic of Quabbin Reservior that's current," said DeCusati.



And speaking of the Quabbin, DeCusati - a self-professed history and geography buff - said that the exhibit also features a special tribute, "The Lost Towns of the Quabbin," featuring photography of numerous towns evacuated upon the building of the Quabbin Reservoir between 1930 and 1939.



"When I went out to visit [artist] Les Campbell, he showed me all the pictures, he showed me a map, it's literally the borderline between Hampden County and Worcester County. It's nice to know where that line fell. The towns featured are Enfield, Dana, Prescott and Greenwich," he said.



DeCusati said that while the exhibit is hosted by xxx, Springfield Photographic Society Kevin Fay, along with the rest of the organization, deserve credit for putting the vast exhibit together.



In the past, our gallery has featured mosty mixed arts and paintings. This is the first photo exhibit we've done. The Springfield Photographic Society approached us about the project and it was never put together until now. They judged what was going to go up," said DeCusati.


Maestro Kevin Rhodes and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra presented an all-American program to an audience of 1,572 Saturday evening in Symphony Hall, playing music by Bernstein, Copland, Gershwin, and Lowell Liebermann.

Rhodes and his colleagues tore into Gershwin's boisterous, sassy Cuban Overture, a riot of melodies, countermelodies, and interjections riding on a hive of percussion.

Next up, guest cello soloist Julian Schwarz joined Rhodes and company for the East Coast premiere (and only the second performance) of Lowell Liebermann's Cello Concerto, Op. 132, commissioned by Schwarz and a consortium of orchestras and premiered last week in Toledo, OH.

In pre-performance remarks, Schwarz made much mention of Liebermann's accessibility, his unique voice and the enduring quality of his music. Indeed, Liebermann, at age 56, is prolific and frequently performed.

The new Cello Concerto bore Liebermann's hallmark neo-romantic tonality, and skillful, imaginative orchestration, casting the solo cello in expressive duos with orchestral soloists (piccolo, trombone, English horn), always preserving an excellent balance between cello and ensemble.

The work's three movements traversed the gamut of things the cello is good at - rhapsodic melodies soaring over filmy orchestra textures, creepy sul ponticello effects, and loopy glissandi. Its structure was clearly conceived and communicated by soloist and orchestra, from the working-out of the opening low C#-E-D melodic cell to the piece's eventual harmonic plateau of D-flat Major.

There were marvelous constructions in the first movement - at one point, Schwarz's capering triplets gradually infected the whole orchestra, sparking a lively tarantella. In the slow movement, sequences of lamenting melodic cello cascades descended restlessly above pulsing Wagnerian chord progressions.

The frantic, abrupt third movement seemed over before it began. Though strung together of lovely moments, well-crafted, and passionately played by Schwarz, Liebermann's Concerto still paled by comparison to the enduring masterworks of the repertoire by Haydn, Elgar, Dvorak, Schumann, Shostakovich - even Prokofiev. Schwarz responded to the audience's standing ovation by playing the Prelude from J.S. Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 in G. Its perfect architecture, simplicity and profundity, and Schwarz's intimate, humble performance of it cast an even longer shadow on the foregoing concerto.

The concert's second half began with Copland's drunken, playful El Salon Mexico, and concluded with an uproarious account of Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. Both works showcased the excellence of the SSO musicians - Copland's arcane, complex meters, and Bernstein's virtuosic, vivacious writing challenged and rewarded the musicians simultaneously.

Superb solo efforts were turned in by new principal clarinetist Christopher Cullen, as well as principal trumpeter Tom Bergeron, and principal oboist Nancy Dimock.

The Symphonic Dances marked the return of Real Time Concert Notes, texts sent to the cell-phones of patrons sitting in the uppermost balcony that connected the live performance with scenes from the musical. Another experiment in process this season, according to Maestro Rhodes, is breaking with the white-tie-and-tux tradition of concert attire. Saturday evening, the men wore "basic black" and the women "casual black" with "splashes of color." Rhodes quipped that he had always wondered if, in order to successfully play classical music, the orchestra members had to dress "...like the guys on the Titanic." Saturday clearly proved this was not the case.
WESTFIELD - 15 airmen from the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield will head to Puerto Rico to assist with Hurricane Maria relief efforts.

The Barnes airmen will join 25 other airmen from Connecticut and depart from Bradley Air National Guard Base in Windsor Locks, Connecticut on Sunday.

The airmen are expected to be mobilized for 30 days.

"We are proud of our Air National Guard Airmen who stand ready to assist in humanitarian missions around the world," said Col. James Suhr, 104th Fighter Wing Commander. "These Airmen are providing relief to the Security Forces who have been on duty since Hurricane Maria hit and are dedicated to helping in the recovery effort."

In Puerto Rico, the airmen will provide security at federal installations and will be available to assist local law enforcement operations if necessary.
This story has been updated to include information about the victim's condition.

SPRINGFIELD - One person was injured in a shooting Sunday afternoon in the North End of Springfield.

The shooting happened at about 1:34 p.m. at the corner of Main and Portland streets. Multiple police converged at the busy street to investigate.

One person was brought to the hospital by ambulance, police Sgt. Dennis Prior said.

The male victim was shot once in the the leg and his injuries are not expected to be life-threatening, said Ryan Walsh, Springfield police spokesman.

Officers searched a vacant lot at the corner of the two streets looking for evidence. There are reports a house was also hit by a bullet, police said.

The victim is being uncooperative with investigators, Walsh said.

Carlito Sanchez said he and his wife were nearby when it happened and he saw two men running away but didn't see their faces.

"I heard boom, boom, boom and I said what," he said. "It happened so quick."

Sanchez said he works nearby but usually avoids the area when he can because of crime problems.

Details of the shooting are limited. MassLive will update as more information becomes available.
NORTH ADAMS - Two people were arrested in North Adams on Friday after a police raid at a local residence revealed heroin, cocaine, and other drugs at the location.

Police say Chastity Phoenix and Tyree Mckinnon were both taken into custody after members of the Berkshire County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 172 Houghton Street.

Inside the dwelling, police found large amounts of cocaine, heroin, and Suboxone and Clonazepam.

Both Phoenix and Mckinnon are now charged with cocaine trafficking and conspiracy to violate the drug laws.

Additionally, Mckinnon has been charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of Suboxone, and possession of Clonazepam, all of which are subsequent offenses.

Police did not provide further information on the suspects.
The Parent Teacher Association and a love for home brewing brought David McKeever, Nicholas Diehl and Mick Mondloch together.

Now, the three friends and their spouses are opening up Crooked Furrow Brewing in early 2018 near the Custer Interchange. Diehl and McKeever have both been home brewers for over a decade and joined a home-brewing club together five years ago. Mondloch got involved after his wife met McKeevers wife through the PTA.

I heard there was free beer, he said.

Mondloch said the home-brewed beer was some of the best hed tasted in Helena and encouraged the other two to take their recipes and start a brewery. Crooked Furrow, a reference to planting seeds crooked, represents the path the trio took before committing to the brewery. Both McKeever and Diehl spent years talking about it over home-brewed beer before Mondloch gave a final push to make it a reality.

While McKeever and Mondloch will keep their full-time jobs, Diehl recently quit his to focus on the brewery. Hell be the head brewer and manage day to day operations, Diehl said. While the brewery will have some staples such as an IPA, they plan to incorporate different styles in small batches to experiment.

The home brewing is tweaking the recipe for what were going to go commercial with, McKeever said.

All of the owners agree that the beer they brew should be clean, crisp and refreshing.

As of now, the building is gutted and being rebuilt to host the brewery and a taproom. McKeever said theres been plenty of curve balls so far but the families are enjoying the process.

When youre dream is coming true its definitely worth it, he said.

The entire country has experienced a craft beer boom over the last decade. According to Business Insider, the industry has an economic impact of $23.5 billion and well over 5,000 operating breweries.

Montana is one of the top states in the country for the number of breweries opened per capita. According to the Department of Revenue, there are 82 businesses in Montana with a Domestic Brewery License. While larger cities like Missoula, Billings and Bozeman can be expected to have a craft beer audience, small Montana towns are experiencing similar success. Breweries are operating in Lavina, Wibaux and Sheridan. A report from the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana prepared for the Montana Brewers Association estimated that craft brewing funds more 1,000 full-time jobs and $33 million in personal income to the states economy.

There are three breweries operating in Helena and a fourth, called Snow Hop Brewery, is slated to open this winter. Crooked Furrow will be the fifth, but the owners dont think Helena has reached market saturation.
A new generation of young people is returning to rural areas to immerse themselves in the difficult and rewarding work of being part of a community. Maybe rural America has something to teach the rest of the country on that score.

What Ive learned from living in Athens is that participation in living in a collective future is what nourishes us.

We are facing huge challenges now about how we will continue to feed and fuel our planet. But even more important, I think, is this question of how we stay within sight and sound of each other across all the barriers and borders we put up. I think rural people have something to teach us about repairing the breach.

By Whitney Kimball Coe
The Idaho Supreme Court on Friday restored a lawsuit against the state of Idaho over a tax incentive program for new or expanding companies.

Employers Resource Management Co. of Boise sued in 2016 after officials gave a tax incentive to Paylocity, an Illinois company and competitor establishing a new office here.

The incentive came through the states Tax Reimbursement Incentive Program, created by the Legislature in 2014. In this case, Idaho agreed to refund Paylocity $6.5 million in income, payroll and sales tax over 15 years.

BY RUTH BROWN

[email protected]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/business/article182686696.html
Bozemans leaders will narrow their project priorities for the first plan that outlines the citys growth for the next three to five years.

"As we continue to grow as a community, it is important for us as an organization to determine what our priorities will be moving forward," according to the citys breakdown of the plan. "Our Strategic Plan will serve as a tool to help lead policy decisions, funding and budget conversations, and staffing choices."

https://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/news/city/city-to-vote-on-strategic-plan-at-monday-s-meeting/article_116f880d-2acf-5fd7-86ec-ee15d311a9b8.html
Thank you to our investors and partners for your support. You make what we do possible! We are getting close on some new exciting deals. Now BE SURE TO VOTE!

1) Cascade County (Great Falls MSA) was ranked 47th amongst all 388 U.S. metros for private industry average hourly earnings, putting us in the 88th percentile. The ranking was published this week by Syneva Economics. This marks a big improvement in our wages over the last few years. The Billings metro was ranked 141st and Missoula 319th.

2) Moodys projects that personal income in Cascade County (Great Falls MSA) will grow 4.0% in 2017, followed by 21% over the next five years. I think we can do even better than that!

3) Several Great Falls area leaders have earned well deserved recognition. David Oien, founder of Timeless Seeds in Ulm, has been named Montanas Outstanding Agricultural Leader of 2017 by Montana State Universitys College of Agriculture and the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station. The awards highlights his 30 years of organic and alternative agriculture achievements. We are proud to have helped finance Timeless Seeds Ulm facility. See more details in the The Valierian.

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Time has what I call a bad habit of blurring facts, or worse, wiping them out completely. Yes, the well-known people are covered extensively. But what about the little-known people who, at the time, stood tall?

Leonard Stevens* was one of them. Its not an exaggeration to say Decatur may not exist today without him, or would be at best just another small town. I dont mean that as a derogatory description, but theyre not a Bloomington or Champaign.

Try to imagine our fair city of the same size, only lying south of the Sangamon River. Thats the best case scenario, though highly unlikely.

Mr. Stevens is one of those people with whom Id really like to have a long conversation. He was born in Connecticut in c. 1754. He married and moved to New York, where his seven children were born. In around 1814, they moved to Randolph County, Illinois. Why and how? Kaskaskia, our first state capital (1818), was the main settlement. Three years after statehood, Stevens, accompanied by Thomas Cowan, headed north, arriving at the Decatur area. (Some sources say 1822. Either way, the Stevens family were the first settlers in what became Decatur.)

There had been a trading post and a bee-keeper searching for honey, but no family wishing to settle. The John Ward party came in 1824, settling on the south side of the Sangamon. Stevens stopped and settled in an area about three miles northwest of the original plots, near a creek that became known as Stevens Creek. (Roughly the north end of Moffet Lane.) Again, why there? A while later, they moved the cabin further to the north, close to todays Grand Avenue and close to the woods.

In 1824 the John Ward group settled on land south of the Sangamon. They were from Kentucky. Whether by choice or accident, a mini North vs. South hostility began to form. Those from Tennessee, Kentucky and other southern states clustered on the south side and became known as the Ward Settlement. Those coming from eastern states opted for the Stevens Settlement.

One notable exception was the Hanks Clan. They opted for the north side.

By 1829, the population had increased enough to seek formation of Macon County, which meant there had to be a county seat. Not surprisingly, each side wanted the city. The first meeting ended in chaos, including fisticuffs. Finally, at the second meeting, and thanks to Leonard Stevens negotiating skill (the majority of county officers were from the south side, traded for the north side location?), Decatur was born.

*As John W. Smith said in his History of Macon County (1876): ... At this late date, and from the data at hand, it is absolutely impossible to give an accurate account of the ages, deaths, marriages, etc., for this family. Almost 150 years later, it still holds true.
Editor's note: The Herald & Review each day is listing a reason the Decatur region is loved. We're profiling people, places and history that are special to our region  and that make it a great place to live. See more here.

The latest addition to the Scovill Park area, the Scovill Sculpture Park opened in summer 2016 thanks to a grant from the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.

The sculpture park, which includes a dozen pieces spread along a winding pathway between the Childrens Museum of Illinois and Scovill Zoo, was funded by a $250,000 grant announced in June 2016 by the Decatur Parks Foundation.

The foundation placed a call for submissions online and received 106 proposals from 41 artists from across the country. A committee narrowed them down to 24, from which the final 12 were selected. They include a large aluminum dragon, an oversized wooden bench, a butterfly and more.

The sculptures will be on display for two years, with each costing the foundation $3,500 to rent for that time. They will be available for purchase from the artists, with 20 percent of the proceeds going to the parks foundation. Next year, 12 new pieces will be chosen to replace them.

Last month, the district unveiled a permanent sculpture called Learning Curve by local artist Aaron McIntosh.

With steel fabricated by Iron Bull Fabrications and a curved LED display, McIntosh's sculpture was one of more than 200 potential pieces that the Decatur Parks Foundation considered installing in the sculpture park.
When 32-year-old Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman rose to power two years ago, many predicted that change was afoot. The events of November 4 have shown that change would not just be swift, but also seismic, extending unremittingly beyond the kingdom's boundaries.

A 24-hour sequence of political bombshells began on Saturday afternoon, when Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation from the Saudi capital of Riyadh, blindsiding his country's political establishment. Hours later, Saudi Arabia's official news agency reported that the country's military had intercepted a Yemen-borne ballistic missile over Riyadh. Even as images of the blast were flashing on TV sets around the region, similarly dramatic news began to trickle in: Some of Saudi Arabia's most high-profile princes and businessmen were being sacked and detained in an anti-corruption drive led by bin Salman.

The events serve as an opening salvo for a new period in the region's crisis-ridden history, analysts say. They represent an escalation in a yearslong proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, threatening to activate new fronts in the region, with the Saudi show of force beginning with a sweeping consolidation of power from within.

On Friday, ISIS' last strongholds in Iraq and Syria fell. It marked a major milestone in a fight that saw archrivals converge on the extremist group until its so-called caliphate was on its last legs. On Saturday, regional powerhouses appear to have trained their sights on one another.

"I think the end of ISIS, the so-called Islamic State, does not really mean the end of geostrategic struggles," London School of Economics Professor Fawaz Gerges told CNN's George Howell.

"On the contrary, the dismantling of the so-called caliphate will basically intensify the geostrategic struggles between the pro-Iranian camp led by Iran, Syria, Hezbollah and its allies in the region, including the United States."

A resignation sets the stage

On Friday evening, Lebanon's Saad Hariri was summoned to the Saudi capital. It was his second visit to the country in a week. Hariri is a dual Saudi-Lebanese citizen and the regional powerhouse is widely seen as his political patron.

Just a week before, it appeared the Prime Minister had averted a major crisis between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. He had met with the Crown Prince and outspoken Saudi Minister Thamer al-Sabhan, appeasing their fears about the Iran-backed Hezbollah, which has members in his Cabinet.

"A long and fruitful meeting with my brother Prime Minister Saad Hariri. We've agreed on many issues that concern the good people of Lebanon. God willing, the best is yet to come," Sabhan wrote in a tweet.

The meeting came on the heels of a series of tweets in which Sabhan chastised the Lebanese government for its inclusion of Hezbollah. Hariri appeared to have defused tensions with his visit.

Lebanese MP Yassin Jaber, a member of a pro-Hezbollah parliamentary bloc, told CNN that he met with Hariri just as he returned from Saudi Arabia, and described the premier as cheery and in a "joking" mood.

But when Hariri returned to Saudi Arabia the second time, it was an altogether different matter.

It would be the first time a Lebanese premier submitted his resignation from outside the country. Multiple local media reported that nearly all Hariri's closest aides were caught unawares.

"Over the past decades, Hezbollah has unfortunately managed to impose a fait accompli in Lebanon by the force of its weapons, which it alleges is a resistance weapon," Hariri said in his resignation speech.

"I want to tell Iran and its followers that they are losing their interferences in the Arab nation affairs. Our nation will rise just as it did before and the hands that want to harm it will be cut," he said in remarks apparently aimed at Hezbollah, which he shared a coalition government with.

Hariri's resignation spells the collapse of a 30-member government of national unity that saw Saudi-backed Hariri fill the post of prime minister, and Hezbollah-backed Michel Aoun occupy the presidency. That government, analysts say, was one of the byproducts of the Obama administration's landmark Iran nuclear deal.

"With this arrangement, we saw some sort of appeasement where we saw mutual steps from the US and Iran in improving relations and lowering tensions in various areas," said Riad Kahwaji, director of Institute for Near East and Gulf Military.

The period marked a brief time of stability, in which Lebanon seemed to have steered clear of regional fault-lines.

"With (Hariri's) resignation yesterday, this arrangement has come to an end and we are back to an escalation between Iran and Saudi Arabia on the Lebanese front. Lebanon is back in the arena of the showdown between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

"Everyone in Lebanon is holding tight and worried ... we're seeing now that we may again be engulfed in conflict," said Jaber.

Riyadh intercepts ballistic missiles

Hariri's resignation triggered a crescendo of war drums. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the remarks were a "wake-up call" to "take action" against Iran. Saudi Minister Sabhan promptly tweeted: "The hands of treachery and aggression must be cut off," echoing Hariri's threats against Hezbollah.

Just hours later, Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a ballistic missile targeting King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital. Saudi forces intercepted the missile over northeast Riyadh, the Saudi Ministry of Defense said, but the Houthis hailed it as a "success" that "shook the Saudi capital."

The attack was conducted using a Yemeni-made, long-range missile called the Burqan 2H, the rebels said. The missile launch was the first time the heart of the Saudi capital has been attacked.

The Saudi-led coalition accused a regional state of providing material support to the Houthi rebels, saying the firing of a ballistic missile at Riyadh "threatens the security of the Kingdom and regional and international security," according to a statement carried by Saudi state-TV al-Ekbariya.

The coalition didn't name the country. Saudi Arabia has been fighting a proxy war in Yemen against Iran, which it accuses of arming the Houthi rebels.

Analysts dubbed this a "major escalation" in the Yemeni war.

"This is a major escalation and will have tremendous implications on the situation in Yemen itself, because Saudi Arabia now feels extremely the urge to retaliate against the Houthi movement that controls the government in Sanaa," said Gerges.

Gerges added that combined with the political rupture in Lebanon, the ballistic missile attack spells an outbreak of tensions "throughout the region."

Saudi Arabia wages war within and without

Saudi Arabia was still putting out the fires caused by the missile attack when state TV announced the onset of an anti-corruption crackdown led by the crown prince. Over 17 princes and top officials were arrested on graft charges, according to a list obtained by CNN and cited by a senior royal court official.

The list includes billionaire business magnate Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns 95% of Kingdom Holding, which holds stakes in global companies such as Citigroup, Twitter, Apple and News Corp.

The list also includes formal head of the royal court Khaled Al-Tuwaijri, Saudi media mogul Waleed Al-Ibrahim and Prince Turki Bin Nasser.

"Some of the wealthiest figures in the Arab world are in apprehension today," said military analyst Riad Kahwaji.

"This is unprecedented. We're seeing it for the first time and it's definitely causing shockwaves across the region."

Reportedly, the detainees are being held at the lavish Ritz-Carlton hotel. "I think there's a lovely irony in that many of these corrupt deals happened at the Ritz-Carlton and now these guys are locked up there," said historian Robert Lacey, who wrote two books about the kingdom.

"In historic terms, what we've seen in the last few months is nothing short of revolutionary," said Lacey. "I've been waiting for 40 years for these things to happen, and they happened in four months."

Mohammed bin Salman's campaign of "two fronts," as analysts have dubbed it, is being met by cheers and apprehension. But there is near consensus that these are uncharted waters, and the results will be dramatic.

CNN's Becky Anderson, Chandrika Narayan and Sarah El Sirgany in Riyadh contributed to this report.
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SHELTON  City officials said they were blindsided by the states plan to install solar energy panels on the site of the former landfill.

We were caught off guard, said John Anglace, the president of the citys Board of Aldermen, who with Ruth Parkins, chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission, were at the site Thursday. Im not saying were opposed to the plans but we have questions that need to be answered.

Both Anglace and Parkins said they were concerned because the landfill still collects methane gas through an elaborate piping system before burning it off.

At least once, the gas affected residents of the neighboring Pine Rock area. While no homes were evacuated, some businesses had to curtail their work that day, officials said.

There are a lot questions that have to be answered  particularly what type of emergency response there would be if something happened, Parkins said.

Just this week, Anglace discovered that the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority closed its request for comments on the solar panels on Oct.30  and that the comments were directed only at the pricing for the electricity generated by the panels. The Authority is expected to vote on a price Nov. 16.

Mike Coyle, an Authority spokesman, said he could not comment on pending matters.

Once the pricing is set, the solar panel project will move onto the state Siting Council. Its the Siting Council that gives final approval for the placement of the panels.

Thats where we expect to have the opportunity to participate, said State Rep. Jason Perillo, who with State Rep. Ben McGorty and State Sen. Kevin Kelly have been discussing the panels. We are going to be asking questions, offering comments and making suggestions.

Parkins said she would attend the Siting Council session which would probably take place sometime next year.

In June, Hearst Connecticut Media reported that the Shelton landfill was one of three proposals selected to test the states first attempt at sharing power from large solar arrays with customers.

In June, U.S. Solar representatives told the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection they believe their company can produce 1.6 megawatts of power on the 7.5 acres of solar panels at the River Road landfill. Additionally the city would be able to tax the panels and equipment.

Shelton would not be the first community to install solar panels on its landfill. In 2015, Derby Mayor Anita Dugatto and her Board of Alderman closed the deal with BQ Energy Inc. of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., to install 3,000 solar arrays expected to generate 840 megawatts of power on its landfill. Bridgeport did the same on its closed Seaside Park landfill.

Meanwhile, Anglace said he met with Mayor Mark Lauretti and the city attorney to discuss possible legal action if the city is unsatisfied with the way the process is being handled by the state  if their comments or concerns are not taken into account during the hearings.

We could have a disasteran explosion or firesif the methane collection is disturbed, Anglace said. If we dont continue to collect it and monitor it, it will migrate.

Anglace said the Connecticut Resource Recovery Authority in 1993 proposed to close the site in 1996 and turn it into a public spot with walking trails, a marina, a boardwalk and wild life sanctuary. The Board of Aldermen president said he believes that up to $35 million was earmarked for the project.

This was planned but never adopted, Anglace said.  What happened to this plan and the money? There was never any public communication.
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MIDDLETOWN  Sixteen-year-old Angie has been homeless on and off for many years. So when she sees people on the street asking passersby for help, she knows exactly how it feels to be so rootless and alone, she said.

She tells a story about the time she went into Dunkin Donuts and walked past a man outside asking people if theyd get him a coffee or doughnut. A customer asked the cashier if she knew what kind of coffee he liked, and she said, Oh, hes still here? I asked him to leave,  Angie recalled.

Hes not homeless, the cashier told the customer. Cant you tell how hes dressed? He has actual clothes on.

Like now, Angie was homeless at the time. How are you going to say hes not homeless by the way he looks? Do I look homeless to you? Have I ever looked homeless? I come here every day, Angie told the cashier.

I have a job. Dont tell me I dont look homeless because Im clean and Ive got clothes on my back. Ive been wearing these clothes for four years now, she said.

Angie and Dwayne, 23, are two of the 13 young people that North End resident Nur Fitzpatrick has been helping since 2015  providing them a warm place to rest, something to eat, companionship, friendship and, most of all, guidance.

Each grew up in troubled, fractured homes and have never really been part of a family or had people they can look up to, anyone to guide them, Dwayne said.

Ive found sort of a family, he said of the time he spends with Fitzpatrick, Angie and the others. I feel like we should have more houses like this on one street, he said.

Theyre part of a growing statistic, said Ann Faust, executive director of the Coalition on Housing and Homelessness in Middletown, which is hosting a youth housing summit Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at First Church, 190 Court St., Middletown.

The event, planned as a listening session for young people to air their views and concerns, will include housing resources and information, food, a disc jockey and more.

When they break the statistics down by age, kids 17 and under represent most of the homeless population and thats just unacceptable in our society, Faust said.

It took a year for Dwayne and Angie to tell their stories at a recent North End Action Team meeting, said Fitzpatrick, a chaplain who graduated from Yale Divinity School. Afterward, Fitzpatrick said, some well-meaning people who attended took a walk through the neighborhood looking for homeless kids.

Angie, Dwayne and Fitzpatrick turn incredulous recalling the story.

What do you think this is, a movie? Dwayne asked rhetorically. Do you expect to see kids sitting on the corner with cups and everything? This is reality. There are kids who are homeless, theyre dressed up. Theyre the type of people that worry about keeping clean, he said.

Connecticut is on the cutting edge of understanding and trying to remedy its homeless youth, Faust said. The state was recently awarded a $6.6 million grant to address youth homelessness, something that should spur action that will make a difference in these young peoples lives, she said.

This was a really great honor that really highlighted the whole state of Connecticuts response to housing and homelessness, she said, pointing out that there were more than 130 applications for the grant from 130 communities across the nation. Connecticut is one of only 10 awarded money. Its a really big deal, Faust said.

Applicants had to submit an action plan to the federal Department of Housing and Urban Developments Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program. They really did a thorough job in coming up for a plan on spending the money, Faust said.

Through the grant, the Women and Families Center of Meriden, which serves Middlesex County, Meriden and Wallingford, will be opening a transitional living program for youth in April that will have six available beds for homeless youth.

Still, Faust acknowledges, There isnt enough for this population.

I have homeless youth that are courageously saying, I am homeless in front of people, and, as an inner-city chaplain, that has impacted me greatly, Fitzpatrick said. I praise them because they look clean, they look healthy, they eat, theyre managing, but, even as unstable as it sounds, theyre homeless. But they need help, she said.

And, Angie and Dwayne said, they want to remain together. In the months and sometimes years theyve been around one another, these youth have formed a tribe.

These are 14- to 21-year-olds, Fitzpatrick said. These are not adults. If you have a child in a home from birth to 18, and youve loved them, theyve gone to school and theyve had the American Dream, OK, maybe thats an adult.

The best thing they can do is connect with mainstream services, said Faust, who urges homeless youth to call 211 and press option 3, then 1. The service can help young people find housing, mental health services, employment and education, she said.

There is help out there, Faust said. We always could use more resources, but we do have resources for homeless youth, but they really need to connect with them.

It is difficult and different than dealing with adults, Faust said. The most important thing for them is to trust the system again and I understand why many dont. The system has failed them in the past.

Were doing the very best that we can and its heartbreaking, Faust said.

Angie just landed a job, so she wants to stay in Middletown, athough many have suggested she try to find shelters in other bigger cities. I want to be local. I want to be in a place where I know if I have to take the bus to work I can do that not in a big town Ive never seen before, never been there.

Both Angie and Dwayne, who have 11th-grade educations, say its too difficult  and unwieldy  to think about getting a job or earning their high school diplomas until they find stable housing.

Faust agrees. We know many of these youth have undergone trauma, she said. If they get into the right programs, they can make great strides in recovering from something like this.

For information, see anendinten.org, cca-ct.org, womenfamilies.org or svdmiddletown.org.
Durham church to hold bazaar

DURHAM  Christmas Bazaar, Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., Durham, will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Christmas bazaar will feature the Craft Group's famous Jewish coffee cakes, candies, cookies, pumpkin and apple pies, knitted and crochet items, a Chinese Auction, jams, relishes, an assortment of homemade delicacies baked by church parishioners, a large variety of house plants, Christmas crafts by the Craft Group, night lights using lighted glass bottles and the beautiful and always popular Christmas table.

A beautiful Thimbleberries quilt, machine pieced and quilted (measuring 60" x 60"), will be displayed and raffled off at the Christmas bazaar this year. The cost per ticket is $5. Please look for Samantha Szymaszek's Craft Table. All donations benefit the Hartford Children's Medical Hospital. Christmas decorations and ornaments, all hand painted/crafted are just in time for the holiday season. Refreshments will feature breakfast and lunch on Saturday. The Notre Dame Church raffle will be drawn at 12 p.m. on Sunday followed by the Chinese Auction.

Christmas bazaar is Saturday

DURHAM  The Church of the Epiphanys Christmas Bazaar will be held Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 4-5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For information, call 860-349-9644. Church of the Epiphany is located at 196 Main St., Durham.

Sleigh Bells Ring fair is Saturday

MIDDLETOWN  The annual St. Pius X Sleigh Bells Ring Christmas Fair will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.in the St. Pius X Bill Fortin Memorial Hall, 310 Westfield St. Middletown. Admission is free. Coffee, hot lunches and desserts can be purchased throughout the day.

There are many featured booths including the White Elephant, kids booth, crafts, country store and more! The teacup raffle booth includes items valued from $25-$250. The five top prizes in the general raffle include a $1,000 gift certificate to Stop & Shop, $1,000 gift certificate to Exxon/Mobil Gasoline, $750 gift certificate to Home Depot, $750 gift certificate to Genes TV and Appliance, and a $500 gift certificate to Eversource.

Tickets for the General raffle and can be purchased at the Friary office in advance or at the fair. All are invited and welcome to attend. For more information contact the Friary office at 860-347-4441.

Chamber to hold annual breakfast meeting

MIDDLETOWN  Chairman Rick Morin of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the chambers 16th Annual Support the Troops and Honor the Veterans Member Breakfast Meeting will be held on Monday, Nov. 6. Colonel Christopher H. Beckert, Director at Center for Strategic Leadership U.S. Army War College located in Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania will serve as keynote speaker.

The Member Breakfast Meeting, sponsored by Middlesex Hospital, will be held at the Radisson Hotel Cromwell, 100 Berlin Road, Cromwell, with networking beginning at 7 a.m., breakfast buffet opens at 7:30 a.m. and the meeting program, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Cost is $22.00. Advance registration is required, please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.

The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award will be presented to Thomas Goglia of Middletown at the Member Breakfast Meeting. The William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award is presented annually to a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces, in recognition of his or her distinguished service to the citizens of Connecticut and selfless commitment to public service.

Registration ow open for Penguin Plunges

MIDDLETOWN  Registration is now open for the Penguin Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Connecticut at soct.org. The Penguin Plunge event gives participants the opportunity to come together with friends and other warm-hearted individuals in their community to have fun and do good. Participants jump into the chilly waters of a lake or ocean in an exciting, festive atmosphere and earn great incentive prizes by raising money online to support Special Olympics year-round sports, health and fitness programs for people of all abilities.

Special Olympics Connecticut will host five Penguin Plunge events during its anniversary year in 2018, including:

 Farmington Penguin Plunge at Winding Trails in Farmington on Sunday, Jan, 28, featuring the Cool School Challenge

 Middletown Penguin Plunge at the Polish Falcons Club at Crystal Lake in Middletown on Saturday, March 3

 Winsted Plunge at Highland Lake in Winsted on Saturday, March 3

 Shoreline Plunge at Ocean Beach Park in New London on Sunday, March 4

 Westport Penguin Plunge at Compo Beach in Westport on Saturday, April 7

In addition to the plunge into icy waters, event highlights will include music, refreshments, a parade of plungers and an awards ceremony. To join in, participants must raise a minimum of $100 and be at least eight years old. Costumes and team outfits are encouraged. In addition to incentives that include apparel and backpacks, awards for best costume, top fundraising individual and top fundraising group will be handed out. Signing up early helps participants reach their fundraising goals and ensures they receive a FREE event t-shirt. For details and to register to Plunge, visit soct.org. Questions? Call 203-230-1201 or email specialolympicsct@soct.org. Also, follow Special Olympics Connecticut on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Eversource Energy, The Golisano Foundation, Law Enforcement Torch Run, NBC Connecticut, TD Bank, United Technologies and WWE.

Year-Round Suppliers: Adams Hometown Markets/IGA Hometown Supermarkets, Campus Customs, The Coca-Cola Company, Connecticut Portable Storage/PODS, Crystal Rock Water and Coffee Company, Dunkin Donuts, Guidas Milk and Ice Cream, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Marcus Communications, State of Connecticut Judicial Branch Community Service and WORX.
An Indigenous airman, who had to cut his braids when first joining the Air Force two years ago, is now one of the first in...
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine expected late. High 57F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph..

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Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. Low 41F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
WYOMING, MI -- Two people are dead after a crash in Wyoming early Sunday morning.

Cpt. Kim Koster said four people in a Volkswagen Passat were headed north on Clyde Park Avenue when their vehicle crashed into a tree at 54th Street before 4 a.m. on Nov. 5. Two people were killed, while two other occupants were hospitalized. One listed in critical condition.

Koster said speed is a factor in the crash. She was unable to provide information identifying the victims.

The car involved in the crash was heavily damaged, with portions of the vehicle torn off by the impact.

The Wyoming Police Department plans to release additional information Sunday afternoon. Check back for more information as it is available.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Covenant House Michigan will break ground on the area's first shelter for young adults Wednesday, Nov. 8, off South Division Avenue.

The 90-day emergency shelter will house 28 males and females between the ages of 18 and 24, next door to the nonprofit's charter high school, Covenant House Academy Grand Rapids.

The faith-based organization, headquartered in Detroit, is in the process of raising $4.5 million for the project, which includes a year of operating funds. Officials expect to construct the 15,000-square-foot facility by the end of next summer.

The charter school for at-risk and homeless youth, located at 50 Antoine St. SW, is authorized by Grand Valley State University. It opened in 2012 with the long-range goal of having a youth shelter on campus.

"In my opinion, this facility is going to be saving members of a generation that are important to any city," said Gerry Piro, executive director of Covenant House Michigan.

"These young people have gone through a lot of trauma and we need to recognize that. We need to do whatever we can to address that, so that they can come back into the community contributing by joining the workforce, being taxpayers and perhaps becoming leaders.''

In Grand Rapids, more than 200 young people ages 18 to 24 are without a safe, warm bed every night, according to Covenant House Michigan.

Piro said the nonprofit can be a strong partner in helping to give them confidence that they will be accepted back.

Pam Spaeth, site administrator and director of development for Covenant House Michigan, said the emergency shelter will be offering a comprehensive program, including health services, education, employment programs and social skills to support the transition to permanent housing.

She said Covenant House has been working with other local groups in the community committed to ah the homelessness problem, including 3:11 Youth Housing and HQ, a drop-in center for homeless and runaway youth ages 14 to 24.

"Covenant House is filling a specific niche and need," said Spaeth, who said multiple organizations meet monthly about the problem and how to complement the youth services being provided.

The youth do not have to attend the school to occupy the transitional housing, but officials expect a portion would come from the school. Around 10 percent of the approximately 350 students are homeless.

Covenant House leaders completed a two-part process in January to move forward with the shelter project, gaining Special Land Use approval from the City of Grand Rapids. Last fall, city leaders agreed to rezone the property.

Piro said the organization's program for getting young people back on the right track is proven. He said Covenant House runs three other charter high schools in Detroit that have an emergency shelter and a two-year transitional facility nearby.

He said the nonprofit saw 52 young adults find employment in fiscal year 2017. Of the 3,800 youth served in Detroit during that time, he said 87 percent found stable, permanent housing.

"The most important part of this is preparing them to have meaningful employment," Piro said.

Grand Rapids and the Detroit Covenant schools are managed by Youth Vision Solutions. The shelter will be a separate operation from the school.

On Wednesday, during the groundbreaking breakfast celebration, the nonprofit's campaign co-chairs are expected to reveal how much has been raised to date and the ways the community can contribute toward the goal.

The event scheduled at 8 a.m. is at the school and invitation only.

The planned shelter and school are located in a residential area near commercial properties along Division Avenue. Neighbors include: New Hope Baptist Church, Delaware Manor, senior affordable housing, and Campau Commons, which offers affordable apartment living to low-income families, senior citizens and the disabled.

The first floor of the shelter will feature student intake and assessment, including a large room used for multiple purposes.

The second and third floor will be residential floors, with the second floor designated for women only and the third for men. Each youth will have their own room.

A small cafe area, spaces for socializing, and laundry facilities will be included on each resident floor.
WYOMING, MI -- Wyoming police said two rear seat occupants were ejected and killed from a speeding car was split in half from the impact of striking a fire hydrant and a tree.

A 27-year-old man was driving a 2012 Volkswagen Passat north on Clyde Park Avenue when the vehicle struck a curb near 52nd Avenue around 3:52 a.m. Sunday.

According to a release from Lt. Mark Easterly, police believe alcohol and speed are factors in the crash. The driver was also ejected and hospitalized with critical injuries, while a front seat passenger has already been released from the hospital Sunday morning for minor injuries sustained in the crash.

Police said the front passenger was the only one that was apparently wearing seat belt.

Wyoming police did not release names of the victims in the crash, as family members have not been notified of the incident Sunday morning. All victims in the crash were between the ages of 27 and 30 and live in the Grand Rapids area, according to the release.

The Wyoming Department of Public Safety will continue with their investigation. Anyone with information in regard to the crash is asked call (616) 530-7300 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345.
ROCKFORD, MI -- The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has given Wolverine World Wide until the end of January to wrap its hands around the scope of the toxic fluorochemical plume leaching through the groundwater from the company's long forgotten tannery sludge landfill on House Street NE in Belmont.

In a letter to Wolverine on Friday, Nov. 2, the DEQ set a Jan. 30, 2018 deadline for Wolverine to comprehensively model the House Street plume amid a long list of work deadlines associated with both the Belmont plume and the former Rockford tannery.

The DEQ wants "all existing data" from tannery ground sampling in downtown Rockford by Nov. 8 and a site model for both fluorochemicals and ammonia contamination that includes former building footprints and piping pathways by Nov. 27.

In late August, Wolverine began sampling the tannery site and Rogue River for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances collectively called PFAS, (also called PFCs), and the DEQ has been awaiting those delayed results with some frustration.

Backups at labs certified to test for PFAS has prompted the DEQ to ask the legislature for funds to retrofit a state lab to handle testing, said DEQ spokesperson Melanie Brown.

Other new DEQ deadlines for Wolverine include:

Nov. 9: A work plan and schedule for installing a monitoring well network around the House Street landfill, including on Michigan Department of Transportation property where old rusty barrels and leather hides were excavated in October.

The deadline also includes installation of monitoring wells in the "southeast expansion area," a 300-home testing zone extending south to Rogue River Drive, east to the Rogue River and west to Samrick Ave.

Nov. 27: A remedial investigation work plan to fully define the scope and size of the House Street plume impacts on groundwater, soil and surface water.

The DEQ also wants a work plan and schedule to "fully define the vertical and horizontal extent of impacts to groundwater, soils, surface water and sediments" at the Rockford tannery site in addition to the conceptual site model by Nov. 27.

Nov. 30: Find a lab approved by the U.S. Department of Defense or provide documentation about the performance specifications of the lab Wolverine selects for sample analysis.

Dec. 1: Installation of monitoring wells in the U.S. 131 right-of-way.

The DEQ also wants weekly progress reports on work accomplished, upcoming work scheduled, maps of sampling areas and data summaries.

The DEQ is overseeing contamination response efforts Wolverine is conducting on a voluntary basis because PFAS are not a regulated chemical and neither the DEQ nor the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have established cleanup standards.

The chemicals showing up in Plainfield Township private and municipal water supplies are tied to cancer, thyroid problems and other diseases.

"The department expects that Wolverine will want to meet the deadlines," said Brown.

The EPA does have a drinking water health advisory level for two PFAS compounds, PFOS and PFOA, of 70 parts-per-trillion (ppt) at which chronic exposure is considered unsafe. That number has functioned as a de facto baseline safety threshold, although there's some debate about the adequacy of its protection for the developing organs of unborn children.

The DEQ says 22 wells in Belmont have thus far tested above 70-ppt.

Wolverine says it has no issues with the deadlines.

"Wolverine has complied with every request for information from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as it works collaboratively to determine the extent of the PFAS in groundwater. It will continue to do so," the company said. "Wolverine continues to provide safe drinking water and whole-house water filters to those residents in the impact area who need them. Wolverine does not anticipate any issues with meeting the MDEQ's requested timelines."
ALBION, MI - The reach of Albion College has expanded further east.

The 182-year-old college announced on Oct. 30 it has assumed management of the Philadelphia Center, an off-campus study program that offers college credit and internship possibilities.

The center, at 121 S. Broad St. in Philadelphia's Center City, was created in 1967 by the Great Lakes Colleges Association. The GLCA is comprised of 13 colleges, including Albion, Hope College and Kalamazoo College.

Albion students have been utilizing the center for several years, taking fall-, spring- and summer-semester study programs while also working at for-credit internships, a press release says.

Albion President Mauri Ditzler called Albion's new role at the Philadelphia Center an important development for the college.

"For many of our students who completed a semester through the Philadelphia Center, it remains a highlight of their Albion experience as alumni," he said in the release. "Our deeper association with the center - and our new, direct connection to Philadelphia and the Northeast Corridor - will result in more people in more places learning about and becoming familiar with Albion College."

Hope College had managed the Philadelphia Center prior to Albion College taking over.

The programs offered at the center provide Albion College students, and students from other institutions, the opportunity to supplement their undergraduate experience, Marc Roy, Albion College provost, said in the release.

"Off-campus study adds a special dimension to an undergraduate education that is unique for each student," Roy said in the release. "Combining that with a real-world professional experience in a vibrant city such a Philadelphia gives an undergraduate - from Albion and elsewhere - not only a memorable college semester, but a competitive edge when the receive their degree."

Click here for more information about the Philadelphia Center.
KALAMAZOO, MI - Maintenance work on the Paterson Street Bridge is being postponed until spring of 2018, according to the Kalamazoo Department of Public Works.

That means the structure, located on East Paterson Street between Harrison Street and Riverview Drive in the city's Northside Neighborhood, will not be closed during the coming weeks.

City officials had announced this past week that the bridge would be closed for three weeks while repair work was done to fix fragmenting concrete and damage that has resulted from corrosion and weather.

On Friday, James Baker, director of public services for the city of Kalamazoo, said advancing winter weather has caused the work be postponed.

"It's pretty late in the construction season," he said.

Among other things, the project calls for the use of a latex additive concrete mixture that has extremely tight tolerances to temperatures, he said.

"We just kind of looked at it," Baker said. "We got mobilized to take on the work. The contractor is ready to go. But then we didn't really have any confidence (in the weather)."

He said, "The scope of the work for the Paterson Street bridge would probably take us out four to six weeks."

He said four to six weeks from now, Michigan weather could get pretty scary. So the work has been postponed.

He said various street repair and improvement projects were completed this spring and summer. No others will be started until the spring.

Speaking of street projects and work with the Michigan Department of Transportation earlier this year, he said, "We're pretty much done right now. We've got all our streets done."

He said city work crews should complete work on the Pitcher Street Bridge this coming week. That was a project that started earlier and does not require the same fixes as the Paterson Street Bridge.

Baker said work on the two bridges was preventative maintenance that was being done proactively before significant problems occurred.
Answer: Amway (Image: Official website)

Direct selling major Amway is planning to scale up organic farming to source ingredients for its foods supplements brand Nutrilite for both global and Indian operations, according to a senior company official.

It is currently in discussion with some state governments to increase organic farming to enhance sourcing of different products, including basil, turmeric, marigold, bosiwellia, pomegranate and ginger.

The company, which has four company-owned farms spread over a total of 6,000 acres in Brazil, Mexico and the US, currently sources ingredients in India from nine third-party owned farms certified under its Nutricert programme.

"We have nine different farms in India, which supply many of our ingredients not only for India but also for global manufacturing," Amway Regional President- Europe, India & Africa Samir Behl told PTI.

He further said, "It is fair to say we would like to scale up sourcing of organic ingredients from India for our products." When asked about the plans to increase organic farming in India, he said: "We are also in discussion with a number of state governments on organic farming, which is at the heart of Nutrilite." The foods supplement brand Nutrilite is manufactured in the US, China and India. Amway sources many of the ingredients from India also for this brand, he added. Queried about the sort of arrangement with the state governments that the company was looking at, he said it would depend upon "their interest" on how Amway can "assist in organic farming".

"Whether that means more of Nutricerts or buy farms on our own depending on laws of landholdings. We would like to do things which are within what the law permits," Behl added. Nutricert is Amway's agricultural certification programme ensuring that its partner farms meet the same quality standards as its own farms, from seeds to supplements. He said Amway's goal is to "provide products in line with our global process and enhance the health profile of the local citizens".

Amway's four company-owned farms are based in Brazil, Mexico, California and Washington State.

Amway has set a target of reaching USD 1 billion (around Rs 6,500 crore) sales in India by 2025-26. It expects to cross the Rs 2,000-crore mark next year when it completes 20 years of operations in the country.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Kelly Criterion has an interesting background. It was proposed by John Kelly in the 50s who, at that point, was working for AT&Ts Bell Laboratories.

He, in fact, suggested Kellys Criterion to help the telecom company with long distance telephone noise issues. This soon found its way to the stock markets as well, and there are many professional traders and investors who use Kellys Criterion for bet sizing.

Kellys Criterion essentially helps to estimate the optimal bet size considering 

 We have a certain information on the bet we intend to take

 We have an edge taking that particular bet

The Kellys Criterion is an equation, the output of which is a percentage, also known as Kellys percent. The equation is as below 

Kelly % = W  [(1-W)/R]

Where,W = Winning probability

R = Win/Loss ratio

 The winning probability is defined as the total number of winning trades divided by the total number of trades

 The win/loss ratio is the average gain of winning trades divided over the average loss of the negative trades.

To understand this better, lets take up an example. Assume I have a trading system which has produced the following results, for sake of simplicity, lets assume this is a trading system to trade just one stock, Tata Motors.

Given the above data 

W = Total Number of winners / Total number of trades= 6/10

=0.6

R = Average Gain / Average LossAverage gain = Average of [5325, 2312, 4891, 1763, 8675, 4231]

= 4,532

Average loss = Average of [6897, 231, 989, 1980]

=3,274

R = 4532 / 3274

= 1.384

Do note, a number greater than 1 is always desirable as it indicates that your average gains are higher than your average loss.

Lets plug these numbers back to the Kellys Criterion equation 

Kelly % = W  [(1-W)/R]= 0.6  [(1-0.6)/1.384]=0.6  [0.4/1.384]

= 0.31 or 31%.

As per the original school of thought - Kellys percentage is a direct representation of how much capital one should expose for a trade. For example, for the 11th trade on Tata Motors, Kellys Criterion suggests a capital exposure of 31 percent.

But, I think this can be a little tricky, imagine a trading system with great accuracy  Kellys Percentage can turn out to be 70 percent, suggesting a capital exposure of 70 percent to the next trade. Not a very smart thing to do if you ask me. However, you may ask why not?

After all, a system with 70 percent accuracy is great, so why not maximize the bet?

This is because there is still a 30 percent chance to lose 70 percent of your capital!

Given this, here is a simple modification to Kellys criterion. Given Kellys criterion, we can modify the exposure to a trade as up to 5 percent (or any percentage you deem suitable).

What does this mean? This means for a given trade, I would not expose more than 5 percent of the capital. This also means that capital exposed could range from as low as 0.1 percent to all the way up to 5 percent. So how do I decide?

We can use Kellys percentage here. For example, if Kellys percentage is 30 percent, then Id expose, 30 percent of 5 percent or in other words, Id expose 1.5 percent. If Kellys percentage is 70 percent, then Id expose 70 percent of 5 percent or say 3.5 percent of the capital of the trade.

So higher Kellys percentage, higher is the capital exposed and vice versa.

The author is VP, Educational Services, Zerodha. The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on Moneycontrol are their own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
Ratan Tata

Ratan Tata has "testified" before the Israeli police in connection with allegations of corruption involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reports in Israeli media said, which were denied as "factually incorrect" by the noted Indian industrialist's office.

Tata "testified to the police for two hours regarding suspicions that he was involved in a case in which the prime minister is alleged to have received gifts valued at hundreds of thousands of shekels," The Times of Israel reported.

The investigation into allegations against Netanyahu related to the expensive gifts has been dubbed as Case 1000, and also involves Israeli businessman and Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan.

According to a Channel 10 report, Milchan allegedly asked Netanyahu to promote a free trade zone near the Jordan-Israel border. The request by Milchan was allegedly made following consultations with Tata. The initiative never came through.

Other than The Times of Israel, the reports were carried by Hebrew language media and web portal Nana.co.il.

When contacted, Israel Police national spokesman Mickey Rosenfeld, in his email response to PTI, said that he had "no idea whatsoever".

Meanwhile, a statement emailed to PTI by Tata's office did not deny the meeting between him and the Israeli officials. But it said the reports in Israeli media on the contents of the meeting are "factually incorrect and appear to have been motivated".

"Tata holds Netanyahu in high esteem and considers him to be a respected friend. Allegations such as those made seem baseless and highly motivated," the statement added.

The statement gave a detailed account of the meetings.

It said that a few days before the 'Fuel Choices and Smart Mobility Summit' on October 31  November 1 in Israel, a section of the press reported that in connection with their probe of Milchan, an Israeli investigative team might also wish to speak to Tata while he was in Israel.

It said Tata was advised to cancel his visit but as he had nothing to hide, he attended the conference in Tel Aviv as planned.

"Tata was requested if he would informally meet with members of agencies in connection with an ongoing probe in Israel as they wished to confirm certain facts relating to the investigations they were undertaking," the statement said.

"Tata agreed to meet them and two persons, presumed to be members of the agencies, met him at the David Intercontinental at 1530 hrs on November 1st. No IDs were offered," it added.

The officers asked questions on how Tata had met Milchan and their business relations, if any.

Tata stated how they met and clarified that they had no business relationship other than a client relationship with a security advisory company for the Taj Group of Hotels subsequent to the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai where Tatas were later informed that Milchan had an interest, it said.

Tata was asked to recount events around a proposal in 2009 to build a low volume automotive assembly plant in Israel.

"Tata clarified that he was requested by a member of the Israeli security team to assist in preparing a concept plan for a project that was to be part of a peace initiative, to be built on the banks of the Jordan river with a free trade corridor to Haifa to offset higher logistics costs in Israel. It was intended to provide skilled jobs to Palestinians," the statement said.

A concept layout plan for the plant was drawn up but was never costed. The peace initiative was never put in place and the project died a natural death, it said.

It said that the team member queried Tata on a figure he read out from a sheet of paper he had, stating that Milchan was spearheading the project and that it was estimated to be USD 250 million.

"Tata immediately responded that he had never discussed this project with Milchan and the project cost had never been computed by Tatas. He stated that he had no knowledge as to how that figure was established.

"The number also seemed inordinately high for an assembly plant. They asked whether Netanyahu had been involved. Tata stated that there had been one meeting of about 10-15 minutes where Netanyahu was present at which he had suggested one or two preferred sites for the plant," the statement added.

It said Tata also "clarifies that at no time did he express or support a view that Netanyahu was involved directly and indirectly or derive any personal benefit from this project."

Netanyahu is facing two separate criminal investigations, known as Case 1000 and Case 2000.

Case 1000 revolves around alleged illicit gifts received by Netanyahu and his family from billionaire benefactors.

Case 2000 focuses on an alleged clandestine quid pro quo deal made between Netanyahu and Israel's largest circulated daily Yedioth Ahronoth's publisher and owner Arnon Mozes.
process, reports PTI

8. Rahul Gandhi asks Modi to ensure jobs or leave post

20:38 Nepal opens bridge built with India's help near China border

Nepal today inaugurated a bridge built with India's financial assistance of USD 430,626 on the Kaligandaki river near China border, according to a report by PTI.

The bridge at Jomsom area in Mustang district not only provides direct motorable connectivity to people of Mustang but also benefits thousands of tourists and pilgrims visiting the famous Muktinath temple and upper Mustang for trekking, the Indian Embassy here said in a statement.

The newly-constructed Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) bridge was inaugurated by Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri.

Read the full story here.

20:06 Nirmala Sitharaman visits forward army posts in Arunachal Pradesh

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today visited forward army posts in remote Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh bordering China to take stock of the defence preparedness, according to a PTI report.

The minister, in her maiden visit to the state, was accompanied by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command Lt Gen. Abhay Krishna and other senior Army officers.

She was briefed on the situation and defence preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Defence Spokesman Lt. Col. Sombit Ghosh said in a release.

Read the full story here.

19:50 Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal rolls out carbon free tourism project in Majuli

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today rolled out a carbon free tourism project in the world's largest river island Majuli.

The project 'Majuli Sustainable Tourism Development Project' is aimed at encouraging a carbon free tourism experience in the island along with creating an environment protocol for the tourism industry, an official release said.

Sonowal launched the ambitious sustainable tourism project at a function in Majuli this morning.

Read the full story here.

19:33 Telangana Legal Metrology department cracks down on traders levying GST on packed goods

The Telangana Legal Metrology Department which has taken up a special drive across the state following complaints of levy of GST on packed goods having MRP, has registered over 1,000 cases and imposed fines to the tune of over Rs 10 lakh, said a senior official, according to a PTI report.

The department found that small traders to big shopping malls and even multiplexes and prominent MNC food chains were allegedly indulging in this fraud, he said.

Read the full story here.

19:09 123 units of new Ford EcoSport booked on Amazon.in

Ford Motor India today said all the 123 units of its new EcoSport put up on e-commerce platform Amazon.in was booked within hours of availability.

"A limited 123 units of the all-new Ford EcoSport were exclusively available for 24-hours, starting midnight of November 05, giving a chance to select customers to jump the queue and be amongst the first few to own Indias most capable compact SUV," Ford said in a statement.

It added that all the 123 units were booked within hours of commencing the booking.

Read the full story here.

18:54 Catalan leader Puigdemont hands himself in to police

Catalonia's deposed president Carles Puigdemont and four of his former advisers have turned themselves in to the Belgian police, a Belgian prosecutor has said, according to media reports.

The prosecutor added that an investigating judge would decide by Monday whether to an European Union arrest warrant issued by a Spanish judge on Friday is to be executed.

Puigdemont had fled to Belgium after the Spanish central government imposed direct rule on Catalonia after the independence referendum.

18:15 China may grasp climate leadership at UN talks with Donald Trump pulling out

China has a chance to assert leadership of a global plan to combat global warming this week at the first UN climate talks since U.S. President Donald Trump decided to quit the 195-nation Paris Agreement, delegates say.

Government experts are to work on a "rule book" for the 2015 climate pact at the Nov. 6-17 annual meeting in Bonn, Germany. The accord seeks to end the fossil fuel era this century with a shift to wind, solar and other clean energies.

Read the full story here.

18:00 Bank of England's Mark Carney sees slower growth without Brexit deal

Britain's economy will grow more slowly in the short term if the country fails to secure a deal for its future trading relationship with the European Union after Brexit, Bank of England Governor Mark Carney said on Sunday.

Carney also said British business investment should be booming, given the strength of the world economy and other factors, but it was only just growing because of the uncertainty about the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, according to a report by Reuters.

Read the full story here.

17:47 No vendetta politics by Modi government: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

The Narendra Modi government has never indulged in vendetta politics as alleged by the Congress and believes in the principles of "reform and perform", Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said today, according to a report by PTI.

"Had we indulged in such vendetta politics, many Congress leaders, who indulged in corruption, would now have been in jail," Naqvi told PTI here.

The minister's remarks came after the recent criticism by Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi, who accused the BJP of "witch-hunt" and "vendetta" against party chief Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra.

Read the full story here.

17:15 Motilal Oswal Q2 net profit up 41.18% at Rs 144 crore

Motilal Oswal Financial Services has posted a 41.18 percent jump in its consolidated net profit at Rs 144 crore for the September quarter, backed by strong growth across all businesses.

The company had reported a net profit of 102 crore during the corresponding quarter last fiscal, it said in a statement.

The consolidated revenues for the company stood at Rs 713 crore for the quarter under review, up 34.78 per cent from Rs 529 crore in the same quarter last year, according to a report by PTI.

Read full story here.

17:00 Indian women's hockey team have won the 2017 Women's Asia Cup

India defeated China 5-4 in the penalty shootouts and have secured a berth in the 2018 Women's Hockey World Cup.

The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.

16:50 Saudi Arabia intercepts and destroys 'ballistic missile' over capital Riyadh

Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed a "ballistic missile" northeast of the capital Riyadh on Saturday, after it was launched from Yemen, media reports have suggested.

Another report claimed that Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels had claimed responsibility for launching the missile.

State-run news channel Al-Ekhbariya said that the missile was of a limited size and that no injuries or damage was reported.

The report added that the missile was intercepted and destroyed close to Riyadh's King Khaled International Airport and that the airport was functioning normally.

16:35 Quit if unable to control price rise, give jobs: Rahul to BJP government

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi today asked the Narendra Modi government to stop delivering "hollow" speeches and quit if it was unable to stop prices from rising and give jobs to the people, according to a PTI report.

Gandhi, whose Twitter feed has become more active of late, posted on the micro-blogging site: "Mehngi gas, mehnga ration, band karo khokhla bhashan, daam bandho, kaam do, varna khali karo singhasan."

This roughly translates to "costly gas, dearer food items, stop delivering hollow speeches, fix prices, give jobs or quit the seat of power".

Read the full story here.

16:20 Tata Power's renewable portfolio profit up at Rs 173 crore in Q2

Tata Power has said that its renewable portfolio in the country saw 101 percent increase in profit to Rs 173 crore in the second quarter of the current fiscal.

The company had clocked Rs 86 crore profit from renewable business in the same period last year, according to a PTI report.

The company's consolidated underlying EBITDA for the quarter was also up by 16 per cent due to strong operating performance of all its businesses, it said in a statement.

The non-fossil fuel portfolio stood at 3210 MW as of today, a healthy increase from the corresponding quarter last year, it added.

Read the full story here.

16:05 Hundreds of anti-Trump protesters in South Korea urge for peace

Hundreds of South Koreans protested today against an upcoming visit by Donald Trump and called for peace as the US President begins an Asian tour dominated by North Korea's nuclear programme.

Trump, who arrived in Tokyo, is set to visit the South from Tuesday to Wednesday as part of his first Asian trip as head of state that also includes Vietnam, China and the Philippines.

Trump is scheduled to hold a summit with President Moon Jae-In and visit a US military base.

Tensions flared after Pyongyang staged a sixth atomic test in September and test-launched multiple missiles capable of reaching the US mainland, while Trump and Kim have traded colourful personal attacks.

Read the full story here.

15:50 Tech Mahindra to train additional 10,000 employees on automation this year

Tech Mahindra will train an additional 10,000 employees on automation this year as the country's fifth largest IT firm expands its focus on new technologies to become more competitive.

Automation is an area where Tech Mahindra is heavily focused on with an aim of making company competitive, Tech Mahindra Vice Chairman Vineet Nayyar said on an investor call.

At the end of September 2017 quarter, Tech Mahindra had a total headcount of 1,17,225 people. Of these, 75,587 people were in software business, while 35,287 were part of BPO operations, according to a PTI report.

Read the full story here.

15:40 BJP must not be a 'one-man show', 'two-man army': Shatrughan Sinha

Actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha has said that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would be able to live up to people's expectations only if it ceases to be "a one-man show and a two-man army".

Sinha has said that the youth, farmers and the traders were dissatisfied with present policies of the BJP.

The former Union minister has also said that the party should stay united and fight boldly with the blessings of veteran leaders who have made enormous contributions to its growth.

Read the full story here.

15:30 Air India is scouting for USD 535 million loan to buy 3 Boeing planes

Air India is looking to raise loans worth $535 million to finance acquisition of three Boeing planes, including two aircraft that will be used for ferrying VVIPs, a senior airline official said, according to a PTI report.

However, the disinvestment-bound carrier has reduced the required loan amount by around $20 million in less than three weeks after floating a tender where it had sought loan up to $555 million for buying the three aircraft. The delivery of three B777-300 ER planes is scheduled to be completed in February next year, with two expected to be bought in January.

Read the full story here.

15:14 Bio-metric attendance system in railway offices by January

The Railway Ministry has planned to install Aadhaar-based biometric attendance system across all zones and divisions by January 31, 2018.

As part of the first phase, the system will be first implemented in the offices of all divisions, Metro Rail Kolkata, railways workshop, factories and productions units by November 30, according to a report by The Financial Express.

In the second phase, the system will be implemented in all Railway offices, including public undertakings, attached and subordinate offices by January 31, 2018.

14:52 HSIL

700cr

Leading sanitaryware player HSIL is eyeing an 80% growth in its consumer product vertical and expects it to garner a revenue of Rs 700 crore in the next four to five years. "Our consumer business is growing at 80%. It is a new business we got into. We should close the year at Rs 220-240 crore over last year's revenue of Rs 130 crore from the division," HSIL Vice Chairman and Managing Director Sandip Somany told PTI.

The company is present in built-in kitchen appliances and claims to be the number three brand in the country in the category, and has launched water heaters, air coolers, water purifiers and air purifiers. "The consumer products division will grow quite significantly and we are looking at revenues of over Rs 700 crore from the consumer business in the next four to five years," he added.

Consumer products business is the fastest growing category for the company whose other verticals include glass and building materials. HSIL which aim to grow at 10-12% this fiscal, is also planning to enhance the capacity for its faucet and showers facility at Rajasthan.

Indicating adverse macro-economic impact of rise in crude oil prices, global financial services major Nomura said every $10 per barrel rise in the price will worsen India's fiscal balance by 0.1% and current account balance by 0.4% of GDP. The financial services firm noted that while brent oil price should on an average stand at $53-54/bbl in the current as well as next fiscal year, current prices have already risen by more than 10%, driven by a mix of demand and supply side factors.

North Korea warned Donald Trump against making "reckless remarks" as the US president began a marathon Asian tour dominated by the nuclear threat from Pyongyang, reports AFP. Ruling party newspaper Rodong Sinmun said Americans were pressing for the president's early impeachment because tough remarks by a "spiritually instable" Trump could bring about "nuclear disaster to the US mainland".

After arriving in Tokyo on Sunday, Trump warned that "no dictator" should underestimate the United States, in a thinly veiled reference to North Korea. Trump, who will also visit South Korea this week, has been engaged in an escalating war of words with the North's leader Kim Jong-Un, trading threats and personal insults.

14:46 BJP

Actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha said the BJP would be able to live up to the expectations of people only if it ceased to be "a one-man show and a two-man army", reports PTI. Sinha said the youth, farmers and the traders were dissatisfied with present policies of the saffron party. "I feel we face a great challenge in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh in view of the dissatisfaction among the youth, farmers and traders. We must see the writing on the wall and avoid taking our opponents lightly", Sinha said.

Sinha, who is also a Lok Sabha MP, rubbished speculations that he was looking for an alternative to the BJP. "I had not joined the BJP to leave it. But I would not mince words when I say that we cannot meet our challenges if we continue to be a one-man show and a two-man army," he said in a clear indication to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah's hold on the party.

14:31 Tata Global Beverages (TGBL) has completed the sale of two of its subsidiaries in Russia - Sunty and Teatrade - for 375 million roubles (about Rs 41 crore). TGBL in August announced sale of its business in Russia as part of restructuring operations in that country.

Long power cuts due to grid failure or a natural calamity can cause disruption in mobile telephony services in Delhi NCR any time as use of generator sets for powering towers has been banned till March 15, telecom infrastructure players have cautioned. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee following a decision of Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority has imposed ban on generator sets running on petrol, kerosene or diesel till March 15, 2018. Telecom infrastructure industry body TAIPA said that though mobile towers are deployed with high-capacity batteries including fast charging to extend backup, these cannot run for long in case of long power outage due to grid failure or a natural calamity, reports PTI.

Railway projects account for over 60% of the 331 central sector projects that are facing cost overrun of Rs 1.5 lakh crore due to various reasons, reports PTI. A total 202 projects of railways are facing total cost overrun of Rs 1.5 lakh crore, as per the flash report of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation for July, 2017. According to the report, the total original cost of these 202 projects was Rs 1,05,424.13 crore. The total anticipated cost of these projects is estimated at Rs 2,55,634.29 crore which indicates overall cost escalation by 142.48%. The study stated that as many as 33 projects of Railways out of the monitored 350 projects reported time overrun or delay of 12 months to 261 months.

After railways, power sector reported second highest incidence of overall cost overrun. Out of the 125 projects monitored by Statistics Ministry in the power sector, 43 reported cost overrun of Rs 52,933.93 crore. The total original cost of these 43 projects was Rs 89,432.27 crore which escalated to total anticipated cost of Rs 1,42,366.20 crore. The report stated that out of the 125 power sector projects, 59 reported time overrun (delay) of five months to 134 months.

14:20 Amul

250cr

Odisha

The Gujrat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (Amul) has decided to invest about Rs 250 crore in the dairy sector of Odisha, reports PTI. Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation's Managing Director RS Sodhi said currently there was a supply gap of 30 lakh litres of milk per day in Odisha. He also said the state was the second biggest market for Amul in the country.

Digital transactions through Unified Payments Interface (UPI) have surged exponentially 77 times within a year of the demonetisation drive, reports PTI. The number of transactions through UPI, a payments system launched by NPCI, was very low (0.1 million in October 2016), before the government's decision to replace old currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 with new notes in 500 and 2,000 denominations with a view to checking black money and promote digital transactions.

As per the latest data of the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), the number of payments through UPI has zoomed to 76.96 million at the end of October. In October alone, the transactions increased to 76.96 million from 30.98 million in September. In terms of value, the transactions were valued at Rs 70.57 billion in October 2017. Meanwhile, the number of banks on UPI have increased to 57 from 21 in August last year.

Adani

UAVs

A joint venture between Swedish defence giant Saab and the Adani group is looking at producing a broad portfolio of products including UAVs and helicopters for the Indian armed forces, besides eyeing a billion-dollar deal for supplying fighter jets to the Indian Air Force, reports PTI. Asish Rajvanshi, head of the Adani Group's Defence and Aerospace division, said the joint venture was focusing on developing "foundational capabilities" to produce a wide-range of products in the aerospace sector for the domestic as well as export markets.

ONGC

Nearly 25 years after ONGC's prime discovered oilfields were privatised, the Oil Ministry has identified 11 more producing oil and gas fields of the state-run firm for handing over to private firms to raise output, reports PTI. The ministry is approaching the Cabinet to allow private companies to acquire 60% stake in producing oil and gas fields of national oil companies, ONGC and OIL, with the view that they would raise production above the baseline estimate.

As many as 15 fields - 11 of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and four of Oil India (OIL) - with cumulative in place reserve of 791.2MT of crude oil and 333.46 billion cubic metres of gas have been identified, sources said. These include Kalok, Ankleshwar, Gandhar and Santhal - the big four oilfields of ONGC in Gujarat. All of these fields are in blocks or areas that were given to the national oil companies on nomination basis and the current policy does not allow private firms taking equity stake in a nomination block. So, a change in policy is required for which the ministry is approaching the Cabinet, sources said.

Engineering and construction segments account for maximum number of cases under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), according to an Assocham-EY research paper. These are followed by metals and mining, food, beverage and hospitality, the paper added. It also pointed out while the valuations of the stressed assets landing with IBC regime may be the maximum for steel, the number of cases is smallest at 15. This is because the operational scale of such companies seeking resolution is quite large while the sector being quite capital intensive.

However, as many as 62 cases relating to engineering and construction have gone for resolution under the IBC, reflecting the kind of stress the sector is battling in the entire infrastructure space, the paper said. Metals and mining sector contributed the second largest number of cases at 56 (up to last week of August, 2017), it added. Other sectors like food, beverage and hospitality had 43 cases, textiles (22) and steel (15). In terms of geographical coverage, Delhi saw the maximum of 62 cases, followed by Mumbai 59, Chennai 40, Kolkata 23 and Hyderabad 16, since the IBC became effective from December 2016, the paper said.

13:52 ICRA

FY18

Domestic commercial vehicle (CV) sales are expected to grow by around 7% in the current fiscal on the back of pent-up demand post GST and replacement cycle in CVs driving the sales, as per rating agency ICRA. CV sales remained in the slow lane during the first quarter due to various reasons including pre-buying in fourth quarter of last fiscal and fleet operators deferring new vehicle purchases in view of incoming GST regulation from July 2017. As a result of these factors, the domestic CV sales contracted by 9.1% during the first quarter with M&HCV (truck) sales being impacted the most.

Within the CV industry, the M&HCV segment is likely to register a growth of 2-4% during the current fiscal aided by pent-up demand post GST, higher budgetary allocation towards infrastructure and rural sectors. The segment would also benefit from stricter implementation of regulatory norms especially related to vehicle length (for certain applications) and overloading norms, it said. ICRA also expects LCV segment to grow 14-16% in the current fiscal. The rating agency also expects a 10-12% drop in bus sales during the current fiscal as compared to the previous year.

13:46 IPOs

000cr

PEs

Indian companies have raised a record amount of nearly Rs 57,000 crore through initial public offerings so far this year, but more than Rs 45,000 crore have gone to promoters and other existing shareholders leaving only 20% funds for the firms' growth and expansion plans, reports PTI. Out of the total IPO funds raised by 31 companies so far in 2017, nearly 80% (Rs 45,755 crore) has gone to existing shareholders. This has left Rs 11,115 crore for the companies in the form of fresh capital, according to an analysis of the IPO data available with stock exchanges.

The funds that have gone to promoters and other existing investors like private equity players are for the shares sold by them for partial or full exit from the firms. A total of 31 companies have raked in Rs 56,870 crore through the IPO route so far this year. Indian equity market appears headed for a record haul in 2017 in terms of money raised through IPOs, as a number of big-ticket offers are already lined up for the coming weeks. So far, the highest amount of funds through IPOs in a full calendar year was raised in 2010 at Rs 37,535 crore  a level which has already been exceeded by a big margin in 2017.

cos

932cr

mcap

Eight of the 10 most valued Indian companies together added Rs 86,932.41 crore in market valuation last week, with Bharti Airtel stealing the show with maximum gain. Reliance Industries, TCS, HDFC Bank, HDFC, SBI, Maruti Suzuki India, ONGC and Airtel saw gains in their market capitalisation (m-cap) during the week ended on Friday. Only two companies, ITC and HUL, recorded losses in their market valuation in the week.

The m-cap of Airtel, the latest entrant to the top-10 list, soared by Rs 22,486.25 crore to Rs 2,16,399.25 crore as on Friday last week. The market valuation of HDFC surged Rs 12,338.06 crore to Rs 2,83,185.15 crore and that of State Bank of India (SBI) advanced by Rs 12,128.03 crore to Rs 2,80,541.64 crore. RIL's m-cap zoomed Rs 10,253.62 crore to Rs 5,98,854.67 crore and that of HDFC Bank went up by Rs 10,234.53 crore to Rs 4,73,570.96 crore.

The market cap of ONGC jumped Rs 10,009.93 crore to Rs 2,45,563.96 crore, TCS' moved up by Rs 6,412.86 crore to Rs 5,00,145.92 crore and that of Maruti rose by Rs 3,069.13 crore to Rs 2,48,201.06 crore. On the other hand, ITC's m-cap dropped Rs 4,763.02 crore to Rs 3,23,403.50 crore and that of Hindustan Unilever (HUL) fell by Rs 4,177.45 crore to Rs 2,67,984.09 crore. In the ranking of top-10 firms, RIL remained at the pole position followed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), HDFC Bank, ITC, HDFC, SBI, HUL, Maruti, ONGC and Airtel.

SBI

50cr

Scouting for funds, Air India is in advanced discussions with public sector lender SBI for sale of at least two residential properties that could net nearly Rs 50 crore, reports PTI. While the government moves ahead with the process for strategic stake sale, the loss-making airline continues to work on the strategy to divest non-core assets. Saddled with more than Rs 50,000 crore debt, Air India recently sought loans worth over Rs 1,500 crore to meet working capital requirements.

Against the backdrop of the severe financial crunch, the airline's talks with the State Bank of India (SBI) assumes significance in terms of raising additional monetary resources. The discussions between Air India and SBI are at an advanced stage with respect to sale of two residential properties in South Mumbai, sources said. While the final contours of the deal are being worked out, an airline source said the sale is expected to fetch around Rs 46 crore.

12:51 RIL

Reliance Industries has awarded a major contract for bringing to production the R-Series gas field in the flagging KG-D6 block to US engineering and construction company McDermott, reports PTI. R-Series is one of the three sets of discoveries in the eastern offshore KG-D6 block that RIL and its partner BP of UK are working to bring to production by 2021-22 to reverse the declining trend in output.

McDermott on its website confirmed award of the contract but did not give value of the deal. The company said it will provide "engineering, procurement, installation and pre-commissioning of subsea flowlines, vent lines, and a pipeline-end manifold for connection with six subsea wells in the R-cluster field at a water depth of up to 6,890 feet."

This is the first of three planned projects in KG-D6 that RIL-BP had announced in June, involving a cumulative investment of Rs 40,000 crore and producing from about 3 trillion cubic feet of discovered gas resources. The R-series (D34) project is a dry gas development in water-depths of more than 2,000 metres, about 70 km offshore. It is to be developed by linking six producing wells with existing producing facilities at Dhirubhai-1 and 3 (D1&D3) gas fields in the block.

12:38 Rahul

Modi

Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi has on Sunday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure jobs or leave the post, reports CNN-News18. This latest attack by Rahul came against over soaring price and inflation. Calling Narendra Modis speeches hollow, Rahul in his tweet, asked PM to vacate his post if he is unable to control the inflation. Leave the throne if you cannot control the rising price, Rahul said in his latest barb. This tweet came in response to the price hike that was announced by the state-run oil firms on Wednesday. The prices of the LPG cylinder`s went up by Rs 4.50, while the non-subsidised rates were hiked by a steeper Rs 93 per cylinder.

The country's first integrated heliport set up by state-run Pawan Hans at an investment of around Rs 100 crore, has been kept out of the Miniratna PSU's disinvestment process, according to a senior official of the Civil Aviation Ministry. As part of the plan, the heliport at Rohini in North Delhi, which became functional early this year, will remain under the administrative control of the ministry while its operations and management will be handled by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the official told PTI.

Pawan Hans (PHL) is a 51:49 joint venture between the Civil Aviation Ministry and oil behemoth ONGC. The profit-making aviation entity is currently under the sale process as the government has proposed to offload its entire 51% holding in the company to private entities. "The heliport at Rohini has been hived off from the disinvestment process of Pawan Hans," the official said. Spread over an area of 25 acres, the heliport consists of a terminal building, having a capacity of 150 passengers, four hangars with parking capacity for 16 helicopters and nine parking bays.

Laptops and washing machines were bought out of a whopping Rs 29,000 crore fund meant for the welfare of construction workers and less than 10% spent on the actual purpose, reports PTI. Terming this as a "shocking" and "extremely distressing" state of affairs, the Supreme Court has said the funds, collected by the government through a cess under the construction workers law, were being "frittered away" and diverted, instead of being spent on welfare of the beneficiaries. The "astonishing" details were given in an affidavit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) that the funds meant for construction workers' welfare were spent to buy laptops and washing machines for them, that shocked the Supreme Court.

Metals and mining giant Vedanta said there has been no "adverse impact" of the GST on it and the new tax regime has helped it streamline supplies in the country. "We have no adverse impact or issues (due to GST). It (GST) only helps us streamline our supply chains in this country and serve the customers better," Arun Kumar, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Vedanta told PTI.

Owing to massive infrastructure push by the state government towards easing commuting in western and eastern corridors of the megapolis, northern region will continue to be at the epicentre of real estate activities in the future, reports PTI. "North Mumbai has been very active on real estate and infrastructure front off late. Connectivity with this region has improved substantially due to the various projects undertaken by the government," Jone Lang LaSalle Head Research and REIS Ashutosh Limaye said.

The north Mumbai region spans from Bandra to Dahisar, from Kurla (Chunabhatti) to Mulund and from Kurla up to Trombay Creek. According to JLL, north Mumbai has about 15m sq ft of Grade A office space and more companies are choosing to move to this area. "North Mumbai is unlocking its potential to new scale and will continue to be at the epicentre of the real estate and infrastructure activities in future as well," he said.

LoC

Security forces on Sunday foiled an attack by the Pakistani Border Action Team (BAT) near the Line of Control in Uri sector of Kashmir, killing two militants, reports PTI. Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid said a possible tragedy was averted. BAT action bid foiled by Army and JKP (Jammu & Kashmir Police). Two terrorists killed in Dulanja Uri. No casualty on our side. Possible tragedy averted, the DGP wrote on Twitter.

Companies are giving increasing importance to quality of hire and are investing in various channels including social media, employer branding and job boards to improve on this metrics, reports PTI. According to a survey of 120 companies by online recruitment and career solutions portal Wisdomjobs.com, the single-most effective parameter to measure the success of a company's hiring process is 'quality of hire'. Firms are using various metrics like performance of new hires, turnover and retention ratios and satisfaction ratings by hiring managers to quantify the quality of hires.

Most companies are making conscious efforts to hire quality candidates by opening several channels of engagement with potential hires. From social media engagement to employer branding, companies plan on investing more in the following channels to improve quality of hire. Some of the other tools used by companies to improve quality of hire include assessments and background checks. Companies are increasingly using assessments conducted before interview rounds to identify quality candidates, map their competencies etc, the report said, adding that background checks have long been used by companies to weed out fraudulent candidates.

agri-commodity

Despite the near-normal monsoon, the farm income is expected to see only a modest growth this fiscal, due to the depressed agri commodity prices and the still lingering impacts of the note-ban and GST rollout, says a report by JM Financial. "Though there is a marginal uptick in consumption it's driven by credit. Since wealth effect remains weak in the hinterland there is no large ticket consumption. Therefore, we see only a marginal improvement in overall rural income, though the monsoon has been near-normal," says JM Financial in the sixth edition of its annual report 'Rural Safari'.

The report lists the low prices of agri commodities and almost nil growth in non-farm income which constitute two-thirds of the rural income, and curbs on cash transactions and sand mining and the GST related disruptions as the main reasons for the problem. The still continuing curbs on sand mining and cash transactions, along with GST-led disruptions and lower prices of agri-commodities have all moderated economic activity levels in the first half. This will cap the overall growth in farm income for the full fiscal year, the brokerage said.

11:39 FPIs

000cr

After two months of intense selling, foreign investors turned net buyers in October to invest over Rs 3,000 crore in stocks, enthused by the government's Rs 2.11 lakh crore bank recapitalisation plan. The latest inflow followed a net pullout of Rs 24,000 crore from stock markets in the past two months (August and September). Prior to that, FPIs had invested over Rs 59,000 crore in equities between February and July. According to depository data, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) infused a net sum of Rs 3,055 crore in equities last month.

11:37 ICRA

MSME

Despite concerns over the implementation of GST, the monthly collection ratios of loan pools of commercial vehicles (CVs), loan against property (LAP) and MSMEs remained strong at 95-99% in July and August, states a report by ICRA. Since the rollout of the Goods & Services Tax from July 1, there have been reports about temporary disruptions in the performance of these loans as borrowers have been working overtime to make their businesses GST compliant on one hand and their working capital cycle getting stretched on the other, the report added. The observed collection efficiencies are largely in line with the levels witnessed during the previous few quarters, it noted.

ICRA said there has been a small increase of 30-50 basis points in 30+ delinquency levels during this period for CV and LAP asset classes. But delinquencies in the MSME segment have only come down. For MSME loans, many borrowers are either outside the GST ambit or have complied with GST under the composition scheme, where tax rates are marginal and compliance requirements are significantly lower, it said, adding "these borrowers are likely to see minimal impact on businesses." The report said for the CV industry, the GST is likely to have a positive impact in the medium- to long-term.

A German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj railway station in the district, police said on Sunday. The incident comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agra's Fatehpur Sikri, reports PTI. Holger Ereek was allegedly beaten by railway contractor Aman Kumar on Saturday after which the station master informed the police.

Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwari said that the accused has been arrested. However, the railway contractor alleged that when he greeted Ereek by saying "welcome to India", he hit him. The victim refused to talk to the media. On October 22, the Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

Bajaj

Allianz

At a time when several insurance majors were turning to the capital market, Bajaj Finserv has made it clear that its two insurance companies are not looking at an IPO soon, reports PTI. Bajaj Finserv is the holding company for Bajaj Allianz General Insurance and Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, besides Bajaj Finance.

"There is no reason for an IPO in the short-term," Bajaj Finserv Managing Director Sanjiv Bajaj said. He said both the life and general insurance companies were well capitalised and its promoters remained committed. Bajaj Allianz Life is among the most capital-efficient among private insurers with a solvency ratio of 608% as on September 30, Bajaj said.

3cr

The VVIP chopper scam is not the only setback for Italian helicopter manufacturer AgustaWestland which may now have to forego a Rs 3 crore bank guarantee it had deposited to bid for a tender floated by the Indian Navy to procure 56 naval utility helicopters, reports PTI. The Italian company may have to forego the amount as it has neither deposited it in the court, nor given a bank guarantee of a nationalised bank or banks such as ICICI Bank, Axis Bank or HDFC Bank as directed by the high court.

The court had made it clear that not complying with its directions, would lead to revocation of the interim order staying the government from invoking the amount. The amount of Rs 3 crore was deposited by the company along with the pre-contract integrity pact, which was one of the conditions of the request for technical and commercial proposal (RFP) issued to it by the government. The integrity pact, signed in 2013, said that if a successful bidder violated the agreement, it would entail forfeiture of the bank guarantee.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday sought to allay fears that introduction of NCERT books in madrassas in the state will disturb the course structure of the Islamic educational institutions, reports PTI. At the same time, the government maintained that "dakiyanusi" (conservative) education system cannot ensure "progress of an individual, a state or the country".

"The Uttar Pradesh government has no intention of disturbing the course structure of the madrassas or change them. But, the fact remains that 'dakiyaanusi' education system cannot ensure progress of an individual, a state or the country," Minority Welfare Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary said. In the age of technology, no engineer, doctor, scientist or civil servant has come from madrassas, he said. "We want employment-oriented education and technical education to be imparted in the madrassas across the state," he said.

At present, syllabus of madrassas does not have adequate content of history and culture, he said, adding, "We are planning to introduce history, geography and Sanskrit as additional subjects. This will be implemented from the next academic session." There are 19,000 recognised madrassas in the state. The minister said, "The books will be of NCERT and UP Board as well. However, this is still in planning stage. The books are in Urdu, some of which will are already available in the market. The basic aim is an attempt to integrate madrassa education with the mainstream education system."

Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile over Riyadh after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, with debris landing inside the capital's international airport, officials told AFP. The missile attack claimed by Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels was the first aimed at the heart of the Saudi capital, underscoring the growing threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen.

Residents in Riyadh reported a loud explosion near the King Khalid International Airport just north of the city after the missile was shot down on Saturday, but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life. "This evening a ballistic missile was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom," the Saudi Press Agency quoted coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki as saying. "The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas. Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries," he added.

Huthi rebels, who fired the missile from Yemeni territory more than 1,200 km from Riyadh, said they were targeting the airport, according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television channel. Saudi forces have shot down Huthi missiles before with Patriot surface-to-air missiles purchased from the United States, but few have come so close to a major population centre. In July, a ballistic missile fired from Yemen was shot down close to Mecca, a month before the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Islam's holiest site.

10:49 CCI

GIC's

000cr

The Competition Commission has approved Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC's plan to acquire 33% stake in DLF Cyber City Developers for Rs 8,900 crore, reports PTI. Under the deal, GIC's subsidiary Reco Diamond will acquire 33.34% stake in DLF Cyber City Developers (DCCDL), held by the realty major's promoters  Rajdhani Investments & Agencies, Buland Consultants and Investments, Sidhant Housing and Development Company.

In a BSE filing, DLF said the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a letter dated November 3, 2017 to GIC which states that the regulator has approved the deal. GIC recently approached the fair trade regulator seeking approval of its deal to acquire 33.34% stake in DCCDL, rental arm of DLF, for Rs 8,900 crore. DCCDL has rent yielding assets of 26.9m sq ft with annual rental income of over Rs 2,500 crore. It has an under-development pipeline of 2.5m sq ft with further development potential of 19m sq ft within the portfolio.

US President Donald Trump has urged Saudi Arabia to choose Wall Street as a venue for the initial public offering of shares of oil giant Aramco in 2018, reports AFP. Trump said he had spoken to the Saudi king during the flight, saying he "would like them to consider" US exchanges. "I know they're looking at London, I know they're looking at others, they're probably looking at themselves, they have a much smaller stock market," the US president said. "So I would like them to consider the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ."

The Aramco IPO is expected to be the largest in history, raising around $100 billion in much-needed revenue for the kingdom. Aramco, which controls Saudi Arabia's massive energy assets, plans to list nearly 5% of its shares on the stock market. Plans are to list the offering in the second half of 2018 on the Saudi stock market as well as an international exchange, with markets in New York and London vying for the business.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman removed a prominent prince who headed the National Guard, replaced the economy minister and announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee, reports AP. The Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya news channel also reported late on Saturday that 11 princes and dozens of former ministers were detained in a new anti-corruption probe headed by the kingdom's powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was also named to oversee the new committee.

National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah on Saturday called on India and Pakistan to take effective and urgent measures to restore peace along the Line of Control (LoC), reports PTI. He said people on the either side of the LoC bear the brunt of cross-border hostilities and appealed to the two nuclear-powered countries to follow the tenets of the 2003 ceasefire agreement in letter and spirit.

10:32 Lalu

RJD chief Lalu Prasad has demanded a probe into an alleged toilet construction scam in the state, claiming that a "proper" investigation would find the quantum of the fraud to be hundreds of crores of rupees, reports PTI. The Patna district administration had on Thursday uncovered misappropriation of funds to the tune of around Rs 13.50 crore, meant for construction of toilets in the state.

Government money to construct toilets in 2016 was allegedly transferred by Public Health and Engineering Department's then executive engineer to four NGOs and some individuals, when the construction work was handed to the Rural Development Department, officials said. "In which circumstances, the work of construction of toilet was handed over to NGOs, whereas it has to be done by the government? The quantum of the scam could be in hundreds of crores if a proper probe is done in all the districts of the state," Prasad said.

Mocking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's claim of "zero tolerance" towards corruption, he said, "More than a dozen scams have occurred in his current tenure that included mega scam Srijan, toilet construction scam, Mahadalit scam, scholarship scam, toppers scam." Prasad said whenever any scam surfaces, Kumar talks of setting up a high-level probe committee with his "so-called resolve to punish the guilty at any cost", and also questioned the CM's continuance in power.

Mukul

A 'Y+' category of armed VIP security cover has been accorded by the Centre to Mukul Roy, a day after he joined the BJP, after quitting the Trinamool Congress, reports PTI. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been entrusted with the task of safeguarding the former railway minister under the UPA regime, official sources said.

"A contingent of armed CRPF commandos will take charge of the new protectee in the next few days. Roy will have about three to four commandos with him, whenever he is in West Bengal," a senior official said. He said a threat analysis report, prepared by central intelligence and security agencies, favoured granting of such a cover to Roy.

Roy, a founder member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), was inducted into the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday. He had resigned from the Rajya Sabha and quit the TMC earlier this month. The former TMC leader was suspended from the party for six years for indulging in alleged anti-party activities after he announced that he would quit the party.

10:13 Haryana

The Haryana government has signed initial pacts worth Rs 2,069 crore with 44 agro-based and food processing enterprises and establishments that will provide employment to 5,012 persons, reports PTI. The Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed on Saturday in the presence of state Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar at the Haryana Session on the second day of the three-day World Food India organised in the national capital.

Assuring the investors of all possible assistance, the Chief Minister said the state government would soon implement the Agri-Business and Food Processing Policy, 2017. New drivers of growth such as agro-marketing reforms, development of mega-food parks, registration of more FPOs, promotion of start-ups in agri-business and providing conducive business climate have been given due emphasis in the policy. He said the state government was working at different levels to double the income of farmers by making agriculture profitable.

10:05 Inox

Wind turbine maker Inox Wind reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 46.81crore in the second quarter ended September, hit by lower revenues. The company had posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 56.42 crore in the quarter-ended September 30, 2016. Its total income from operations declined by 89% to Rs 87.15 crore in the second quarter of this fiscal from Rs 816.06 crore a year ago.

918kg

khichdi

India on Saturday set a Guinness world record by cooking 918kg khichdi, a traditional multi-grain dish, at the ongoing global food event organised by the government in the national capital, reports PTI. A team of 50 people led by celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor and NGO Akshaya Patra supervised the night-long preparations and yoga guru Ramdev Baba put crowning tadka in the dish at the World India Food event that will conclude on Sunday.

Khichdi was steam-cooked in a giant wok weighing around 1,200kg. Out of which, the wok alone was weighing 343kg. The dish was prepared using multi-grains like rice, pulses, coarse cereals and vegetables. We are still waiting for a few pieces of evidence. For the time being, I am happy to announce that this (khichdi) wins the Guinness World title weighing 918kg, Guinness World Records project manager Paulina Sapinska said at the event.

The minimum requirement to create a world record was 500kg. The cooked dish, however, weighed more than the target of around 800kg set by chef Sanjeev Kapoor. Other leading chefs, including Imtiaz Qureshi, Ranveer Brar, Sudhir Sibal, Rakesh Sethi, Akshay Nayyar, Satish Gowda, too helped in the cooking of the dish.

Amit

BJP national president Amit Shah refused to comment on allegations against his son Jay Shah's company by a web portal, but asked anybody who has proof against his son to submit it in the court, reports Times of India. When asked about allegations against his son Jay by a news portal, he refused to comment. "The matter is subjudice. However, if anybody has any evidence (against my son), he may submit it in the court," he added.

He countered the allegations of no development in Gujarat made by Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi. Shah claimed that the figures quoted by Gandhi during his Navsarjan Yatra in Gujarat were that of some NGOs and were incorrect. "Vikas emna mate majak che amara mate mijaj che (for them development is a joke, for us it's our attitude)," he stated.

India may announce measures next week to help traders and small businesses who say a new nationwide Goods & Services Tax (GST) has increased their tax and administrative burden, reports Reuters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said if there is consensus at the next GST council meeting due over November 9 to November 10, the government would take the necessary steps to help traders and strengthen the countrys economy. A panel of ministers last month recommended reducing tax rates for small businesses and traders and raising the minimum revenue threshold for companies that need to pay tax.

Aadhaar

Aadhaar

Aadhaar

Aadhaar

Aadhaar

Minister of Railways and Coal Piyush Goyal asserted thathas exposed five crore 'ghost accounts,' reports ANI. The minister asserted that since the government mademandatory, they have captured 3.5 crore Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections and 1.6 crore ration cards. Taking to Twitter, Goyal shared a video and said, "Exposes 5 Crore Ghost Accounts: Govt, after makingmandatory, has captured fake 3.5 cr LPG connections & 1.6 cr ration cards."
Steps for unlocking the US-India trade potential would be explored by American, Indian, and international businesses with trade experts at a two-day trade meet beginning here on November 7.

Around 100 conference attendees will explore the economic partnership between the United States and India, factors that pose impediments to growth, and potential solutions.

The trade conference would address themes, including ease of doing business, expanding defence cooperation and energy cooperation, US Consulate General, Chennai, said.

The conference titled "Unlocking US-India Trade Potential," being held in association with Atlantic Council South Asia Center, would enable conversation and collaboration among key stakeholders, thought leaders, and policymakers, the Consulate said in a statement here.

"We are pleased that our bilateral trade has expanded again this year to more than $114 billion, and two-way investment to $40 billion," US Consul General Robert Burgess said.

"We are also proud of the fact that the United States buys more Indian goods and services than any other country in the world. US companies continue to see great opportunities in India, and we support India's efforts to open up to greater trade and investment to support US jobs," he said.

He said initiatives like this conference and the Global Entrepreneurship Summit, coming up later this month in Hyderabad, will further strengthen US-India business ties. While bilateral trade between the United States and India is five times what it was a decade ago, tremendous potential for growth remains, the statement noted.

The Bengaluru meet is timed in advance of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES), a gathering of emerging entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders from around the world, which will take place in Hyderabad from November 28 to 30, it said. It is co-hosted by the United States and India.
Nirmala Sitharaman

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today visited forward army posts in remote Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh bordering China to take stock of the defence preparedness.

The minister, in her maiden visit to the state, was accompanied by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command Lt Gen Abhay Krishna and other senior Army officers.

She was briefed on the situation and defence preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Defence Spokesman Lt. Col. Sombit Ghosh said in a release.

Sitharaman, who arrived in the state on a two-day visit yesterday, interacted with the troops at forward army posts at Kibithu in Anjaw district and lauded their dedication to the service and their efforts in such a remote and inhospitable terrain, he said.

She also visited the key air force base in Chabua in Tinsukia district of neighbouring Assam, where she was received by Senior Air Staff Officer (HQ), Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar and Air Commodore George Thomas.

The minister took stock of the operational preparedness and infrastructure development at the base, the release said.

The strategic base presented a static display of the combat assets to the minister, which included the Sukhoi 30MKI fighter aircraft and advanced missiles.

She also interacted with Air Force personnel there.

Sitharaman had yesterday inaugurated the Buddha Mahatsava at Bomdila in West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh and held a security meeting with Chief Minister Pema Khandu in Itanagar.
The Indian Express today came out with the first in a series of investigative reports titled what is being called as the 'Paradise Papers', based on a leak of millions of documents that reveal a global network used to funnel money abroad into secret tax havens.

The Express carried out the investigation in collaboration with International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which has partnered with 96 global news organisations.

Starting today, the newspaper will reveal a list of Indian companies and individuals -- 714 in all -- who have stashed money in tax havens through offshore entities.

The names of the companies or individuals are not known at the time of this filing.

Centrepiece in the investigation appears to be a 119-year-old company called Appleby, which the report says has lawyers, accountants and bankers who help individuals avoid or evade taxes, ship money to tax havens, manage real estate assets, even "purchase airplanes and yachts paying low tax rates".

Among the 180 countries whose names came up in the Paradise Papers, India ranks 19th in terms of the number of names, the report says. It adds that the names includes names of several companies that were subsequently investigated by the CBI and ED.

Big political names globally also find a mention in the report, with exposes over secret dealings of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's chief fund-raiser, reports of Queen Elizabeth's investments, and activities of former Pakistan PM Shaukat Aziz, among 120 politicians.

US President Donald Trump could also face scrutiny in the aftermath of the investigation, with ties between billionaire US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Russia, as well as Russian investments into Facebook and Twitter, coming up.

The Paradise Papers is the fourth of Express' investigations coming out of its collaboration with ICIJ, starting with April 2013's "offshore leaks", followed by HSBC's "Swiss leaks" and then the famous Panama Papers leak in 2016 -- the global investigation which had ramifications internationally.
With the high-stake Assembly polls approaching in Gujarat, BJP chief Amit Shah today held separate meetings with key party leaders and workers from the southern, central and northern regions of the state.

Shah, who has been camping in Gujarat since yesterday to strategise for the upcoming polls, held meetings with the BJP workers of Valsad, Navsari and Dang districts at the Tata Hall in Navsari town of south Gujarat in the morning.

In the afternoon, the BJP president guided the party workers and leaders of the tribal-dominated Panchmahal and Dahod districts in Godhra town.

In the evening, Shah reached Himmatnagar town in north Gujarat to hold meetings with the party workers of Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts, said a BJP release.

Yesterday, the BJP chief was engaged in similar deliberations with the party workers from Kutch, Morbi, Surendranagar, Bhavnagar, Botad, Amreli and Ahmedabad city.

He is scheduled to meet the BJP leaders and workers of the remaining districts and cities in the state till November 9, the release added.

The 182-member Gujarat Assembly will go to the polls in two phases -- on December 9 and 14 -- and counting of votes will be taken up on December 18.
BJP chief Amit Shah today slammed Rahul Gandhi for talking about farmers' plight in Gujarat during his campaigning for the Assembly polls, claiming that the Congress vice president was relying on a "chit" given by some NGO to speak about farmers' issues.

Shah also accused the Congress party of trying to mislead the people of Gujarat and challenged it to discuss the issue of development and fight the upcoming Assembly polls on the development plank, instead of raking up the issue of caste.

The BJP president claimed that the condition of farmers has improved under the BJP rule and 25 lakh youths in Gujarat have got jobs under the Centre's MUDRA scheme.

"Rahul Gandhi is going around the state and talking about farmers based on a chit handed over to him by some NGO. He does not know that the BJP government achieved what the Congress government (during its rule in the state) could not," Shah told reporters in response to a query about Gandhi's claims during his poll campaign tour that farmers were suffering in Gujarat.

Shah said that milk production in the state went up from 46 lakh tonnes during the Congress government to 122 lakh tonnes, and production of foodgrains also touched 63 lakh tonnes annually.

The BJP president is on a six-day tour of the state during which he will interact with the party workers from different districts.

The 182-member Gujarat Assembly is scheduled to go to the polls in two phases -- on December 9 and December 14.

"As many as 25 lakh unemployed youths got Rs 16,110 crore assistance (for self-employment) under the MUDRA Scheme, and he (Rahul) says that only 500 people get employment daily in the country...Rahulji, these are the figures only of Gujarat," the BJP president said.

Gandhi, who yesterday completed this three-day tour of south Gujarat as part of his poll campaign, had attacked Modi government over the plight of farmers in the state and had said that Gujarat government's land acquisition Act was "authoritarian".

He had also said that Modi government had failed to provide 2 crore jobs annually as promised.

Shah also accused the Congress of raking up the issue of caste. "It is not going to work," he said.

He also challenged the opposition party to debate with BJP over the issue of development.

"Congress is trying to rake up the caste factor. But people here have suffered due to this during (former Congress CM) Madhavsinh Solanki's rule. So they are not going to fall in the trap again," he said.

"Congress is trying to mislead the people of Gujarat. I challenge the party to discuss the issue of development and fight the election on the basis of development," he said.

He said that the Modi government at the Centre was taking gas cylinders to the poor and helping them to open bank accounts. "Gujarat will be doubly benefited if the BJP forms a government here," he said.

Shah also alleged that during the UPA rule, Congress did injustice to Gujarat by holding back the completion of Narmada Yojana project and not approving crude and gas royalty of the state.

"All these projects were completed after the BJP under Modi came to power at the Centre.

"The Congress misappropriated Rs 12 lakh crore in its 10 years of rule. The Congress should first answer who were behind the 2G scam, ISRO scam, Adarsh Society and CWG scam," he said.
China growth: Slowdown concerns in US and China, due to the trade war between the two countries, have caused global investors to worry. (Image: Getty Images)

China has a chance to assert leadership of a global plan to combat global warming this week at the first U.N. climate talks since U.S. President Donald Trump decided to quit the 195-nation Paris Agreement, delegates say.

Government experts are to work on a "rule book" for the 2015 climate pact at the Nov. 6-17 annual meeting in Bonn, Germany. The accord seeks to end the fossil fuel era this century with a shift to wind, solar and other clean energies.

Trump once dismissed climate change as a Chinese hoax to harm the U.S. economy and said in June that he would pull out of the agreement and instead promote U.S. coal and oil. A formal U.S. withdrawal will take until 2020.

No other nation has followed his lead. U.S. influence is likely to wane compared to other big greenhouse emitters led by China, the European Union and India even though Washington will still have a place at the table in Bonn.

"The rest of the world, including all major emerging economies, has made it clear that it is committed to the Paris Agreement," Maldives Environment Minister Thor Abraham, chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (OASIS), told Reuters.

China, on track to beat its goal of a peak in carbon emissions in 2030, seems best placed to step up leadership of an agreement largely designed by Washington under former president Barack Obama, many delegates say.

The meeting "will be a great free advertisement for China," one European environment minister said. And Beijing plans to launch a nationwide carbon market this year, albeit delayed from the first half.

"The results (in Bonn) will prove that this (Paris) process has certainly not stopped," China's top climate official, Xi Zhenhua, told a news conference last week. He expressed hopes that Washington will end up staying in the Paris pact.

Adding urgency, 2017 is set to be the second warmest on record, behind 2016, according to NASA. And 2017 has had weather extremes of hurricanes, floods and drought-fuelled wildfires.

Fiji will preside at the Bonn talks, the first small island nation to do so in more than two decades of U.N. climate negotiations. That may give OASIS, at risk from rising seas, unprecedented influence.

The Paris rule book, including details of how to measure and report emissions, is due to be in place by the end of 2018.

Alden Meyer, of the Union of Concerned Scientists, said governments will face a tougher test in coming years when they have to ratchet up national ambitions to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

The United Nations says average temperatures will rise about three degrees Celsius (5.4 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times by 2100 with existing policies, against a Paris goal of keeping them "well below" two degrees (3.6F), ideally 1.5 (2.7F).

And on Friday, U.S. scientists released a report saying it was "extremely likely" that human activities are the main source of warming, contradicting Trump's views.

"The U.S. has painted itself into a corner," isolated both from other nations and from mainstream science, Christiana Figures, who was the U.N. climate chief in Paris, told Reuters.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump speaks at his election night rally in Manhattan, New York, U.S., November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri - RTX2SPTE

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he "would very much appreciate Saudi Arabia doing their IPO of Aramco with the New York Stock Exchange."

"Very important to the United States!" Trump wrote on Twitter about Saudi Aramco's plan to float around 5 percent of the company in an initial public offering next year.

The kingdom is planning to float the IPO on the Saudi exchange but also is looking to list it internationally.

NYSE Group President Thomas Farley said at an investment conference in Riyadh last month that he had not given up on the IPO and was in discussions with Saudi authorities.

A Saudi Aramco spokesman had no comment.
"The thought is that parents, grandparents, will bring their kids there to have fun, to use the trails, but also to understand the history of veterans' service in Towamencin," land planner Peter Simone
Jarrett Coleman goes from school board to statehouse with win in 16th Senate District race
Letter to editor: Gas pump politics and the election
State officials announce $2.85M for new police station in Upper Moreland
November 05, 2017

Saudi Arabia - This 'Night Of The Long Knives' Is A Panic-Fueled Move

Yesterday the ruling Salman clan in Saudi Arabia executed a Night of the Long Knives cleansing the state of all potential competition. The Saudi King Salman and his son Clown Prince Mohammad bin Salman initiated a large arrest wave and purge of high ranking princes and officials. Part of this internal coup was the confiscation of huge financial estates to the advantage of the Salman clan.

The earlier forced resignation of the Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri is probably related to the last night's events. The Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahoo endorsed the resignation. This guarantees that Hariri will never again be accepted in a leading role in Lebanon.

In Saudi Arabia eleven princes, including sons of the deceased King Abdullah, more than thirty former and acting ministers as well as the heads of three major TV stations were taken into custody or put under house arrest. The National Guard Commander Prince Mitieb Bin Abdullah was relieved from his post and replaced with Prince Khalid Bin Abdulaziz al Muqrin. The National Guard was the last intelligence and security power center held by the Abdullah branch of the al-Saud family.

An earlier purge in July had dethroned the former Crown Prince Nayaf and replaced him with the young Mohammad Bin-Salman. Then the Nayef branch of the al-Saud family was removed from all power centers. The Abdullah branch followed yesterday. The purged officials were replaced with stooges of the ruling Salman clan.

The Salman branch of the current king and clown prince has now eliminated all of potential internal competition. This goes against the consensus model that had been the foundation of the Saudi family rule over the last century. Tens of thousands of clans and people depended on the patronage of the removed princes and officials. They will not just sit back as their fortunes evaporate.

One effect of the purges will be the concentration of Saudi wealth in the hands of the Salmans.

One of the arrested persons is the allegedly sixth richest man of the world, Prince Al-Waleed Bin Talal (video). He has (had?) an estimated net-worth between $18 and $32 billion. Al-Waleed had publicly clashed with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Al-Waleed is (was?) the largest shareholder of Citygroup which selected Barack Obama's cabinet before receiving a huge government bailout.) Another casualty is Bakr bin Laden, brother of Osama Bin Laden, chairman of the Saudi Binladin Group and fifth richest man of the country.

Official pretext for the purge are corruption allegations going back to 2009. This financial subterfuge will allow the ruling Salmans to confiscate the wealth of the accused. The total haul of this raid will amount to dozens of billions of dollars. A new anti-corruption committee was installed under Clown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. It has dictatorial powers and can freeze and confiscate whatever financial assets it deems worth its attention:

It may take whatever measures it deems necessary to deal with those involved in public corruption cases and take what it considers to be the right of persons, entities, funds, fixed and movable assets, at home and abroad, return funds to the state treasury and register property and assets in the name of state property.

The events in Lebanon and Riyadh would have been impossible without U.S. approval and support. In late October Trump's son in law and senior adviser Jared Kushner made an unannounced visit to Saudi Arabia. In a tweet yesterday Donald Trump, sworn to the Wahhabi orb, named the price for his consent and cooperation:

Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump - 12:49 PM - 4 Nov 2017 Would very much appreciate Saudi Arabia doing their IPO of Aramco with the New York Stock Exchange. Important to the United States!

A primary listing of Aramco oil conglomerate at the NYSE will give the U.S. government regulatory and legal authority over the most valuable company of the world.

Also last night Yemeni forces fired a medium range missile from north Yemen towards Riyadh airport. The well targeted 1,000 kilometer (660 miles) shot is impressive and unprecedented. The Saudi air-defense near the airport, U.S. Patriot systems manned by contractors, launched four interceptor missiles (video) towards the incoming Yemeni projectile. The Saudis claim that one of the interceptors hit the target. A uprising smoke column was seen from the airport (video). It is not possible to say if it was the result of the original missile or of an interception.

That the Saudi capital can be hit will come as another shock to many Saudis. It discourages investment in Saudi Arabia.

The Yemeni missiles, fired by the original Yemen army under former president Saleh, may have their origin in Iran. But they could also be older ones Yemen had purchased elsewhere decades ago. The Saudis will surely blame Iran without explaining how such missiles could be smuggled through their tight blockade cordon around the resistance held country.

The missile launch is unlikely to be related to the Hariri resignation or to the purge in Riyadh. It takes days for the Yemenis to prepare such a missile and its launch. It is presumably in retaliation for Wednesday's devastating Saudi air attack on an open market in the northern Saada province of Yemen. According to Yemeni sources more than 60 people were killed. After the missile launch on Riyadh Saudi jets again bombed the Yemeni capital Sanaa.

Since the incapacitated King Salman took the throne in Riyadh his ruthless 32 year old son Mohammad bin Salman has taken control of all branches of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi launched a war on a defenseless Yemen and supported al-Qaeda, ISIS and other "rebels" against the Iraqi and Syrian governments. He split the Gulf Cooperation Council by attacking Qatar. After a stalemate in Yemen and Qatar and losing in Iraq and Syria he has now initiated a war against Hizbullah in Lebanon. None of these bloody initiatives has achieved its aim of weakening the influence of the perceived enemy Iran. All of them helped Iran to consolidate its position.

The financial position of the Saudi state is in disarray. To the applause of the western claque Bin Salman announced the economic, social and religious liberation of Saudi Arabia. But little, if any, of the grand promises have been delivered.

Yesterday's purge can be perceived as a panic-fueled move. All of Bin Salman's endeavors have failed. The successful targeting of Riyadh's airport only underscores this. He is under pressure but unable to deliver. The internal resistance to him is growing.

When Hitler initiated the Night of Long Knives against the socialist part of his party he was on an upward trend of his political power. The country was at peace, its international standing was growing, the economy surged and the majority of the people endorsed him. Bin Salman's remake of that night comes while his initiatives fail. It is doubtful that the consolidation he seeks will be equally successful.

Posted by b on November 5, 2017 at 11:43 UTC | Permalink

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Brent Hilliard, chairman of the Midland Development Corp. board, was a panelist at the State of the Economy conference held this past week.

He took the time to offer his thoughts related to the economy, current events and Midland Development Corp. business.

MRT: What message is out there for those wanting to connect the state of our economy and the road bond issue?

HILLIARD: Infrastructure and the economy are intrinsically connected. Without improving its infrastructure, Midland can neither maintain its current level of commerce and industry nor handle the projected growth that will occur in the next five years. The Road Bond is the vehicle to immediately address the needs of our failing infrastructure.

MRT: As chair of the Midland Development Corp. board, what economic indicators do you concentrate on?

HILLIARD: Key economic indicators include:

-Monthly sales tax revenues from Texas Comptroller

-Midland MSA unemployment rate and civilian labor force number

-Industry composition  which industries in the Midland MSA are gaining or losing jobs

-Karr Inghams Midland Economic Index and Petroleum Index  holistic view of the entire regional economy and feedback from local businesses like the oil and gas industry on their take of the economic outlook.

MRT: Give the public a glimpse on how the city has benefited from the MDCs decision to leverage its dollars to get state funding.

HILLIARD: Leveraging has allowed the MDC to advance the city of Midlands five-year engineering plan for both new and existing infrastructure. It has also allowed federal funds, which may not have been otherwise allocated to this area, to be utilized. Our focus on infrastructure has also allowed the MDC to make more informed decisions by eliminating duplication of planning and combining financial resources for the betterment of this region. Thanks to the Texas Department of Transportation, Midland-Odessa Transportation Alliance (MOTRAN), MPO, city, and county we have been able to collectively access and plan for the transportation of the various goods and services traveling across our roadway system. The result allows the MDC to make investment decisions that we believe will advance economic development for the city of Midland. Additionally, TxDOT projects in Midland that were low- to medium-priority have been accelerated, which will provide Midland with re-built main lanes and interchanges years earlier than previously planned.

MRT: How has the strategy of the MDC changed in the last couple years? With some stability being seen in oil prices around $50, does that strategy change in the next 3-5 years?

HILLIARD: Along with diversifying Midlands economy, the MDC has enhanced its strategy of investing in Midlands existing strengths as well as seeking opportunities to partner with Midlands health care and education establishments. By matching or leveraging funding from federal, state, and local sources, the MDC is making its revenues go further to better serve the interests of Midlands citizens and industries. We are pursuing long term investments that will promote organic business and employee growth. We like the idea of homegrown investments that promote, educate, and train our citizenry. We are making a concerted effort to promote Midland for who we are and what we have to offer. Obviously that is a lot.

Stability in oil prices can assist in gauging future tax revenues which makes planning for future MDC projects more accurate and reliable.

MRT: When infrastructure is talked about, some look at downtown. Is that a big concern for the MDC at this time or is the corporations focus related more to other areas of the city/other infrastructure projects?

HILLIARD: Midlands downtown is a vital part of the citys unique industrial and civic composition. In the past, MDC has contributed to two significant public parking structures downtown which help alleviate parking congestion. The MDC and its board are kept appraised regarding ongoing opportunities and challenges of developing downtown infrastructure.

While focus is good, blinders on ones surroundings and ignoring new opportunities for our city would be foolish. Therefore, we are always seeking and looking for new opportunities.

MRT: There are some people worried about deals like Trace Engines and those involving the space industry. What lessons did you and the MDC learn from those?

HILLIARD: The MDC board and staff are keenly aware of the deals that provided funding agreements to Trace Engines and to the space companies. As I have previously indicated, space related businesses are higher risk investments. Space is in its infancy stage of development. The primary clients for the space business are NASA, DARPA, DOD, large satellite owner operators, other countries, etc. So primarily the US government. It represents a large opportunity for our State. For example, Saudi Arabia just this month announced their plans to invest as much a $1.49 billion with Virgin Galactic and Virgin Group.

Investment decisions related to any economic development decision must be analyzed and accessed. The current MDC economic development agreements that provide incentives for new and expanding businesses, such as the Weir Group, are structured so that incentive payments are contingent upon performance: until contractual stipulations have been met, the MDC does not provide incentive funds.

Notwithstanding the above, I believe we must continue to protect and expand the investment that both the MDC and the city of Midland have made at the airport. While I do not know the exact value of our airport property, I would imagine that it totals in the hundreds of million of dollars. Therefore, as aviation transforms itself into supersonic travel and space travel, Midland must be prepared to meet the needs of this changing industry. Air travel and space travel will one day be synonymous.
This fall at Madison restaurants, find bratwurst in dumplings, mixed with gravy or tossed with curry and served on fries. Or try andouille for a different kick.
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The Wayland professors who led the discussion at the Faith and Science Faculty Forum recently saw no conflict between science and religion.

However, as Dr. Randolph Rogers, assistant professor of religion in the School of Religion and Philosophy, pointed out, We dont see a conflict, but its obvious somebody out there does, or we wouldnt be having this discussion.

About 45 faculty, staff and students attended the lunch-time forum led by Manny Silva, President of Theta Alpha Kappa Honor Society, the national honor society for religious studies and theology. The panel included three religion professors, two science professors and two math professors.

Some of them described the conflict they felt growing up in households and churches that frowned on their desire to delve into science and mathematics. Others grew up in households where science and math co-existed side-by-side with religious beliefs and practices.

Dr. Stephen Stookey, professor of religion, said his father was a biologist and a botanist who also had an abiding faith. However, others in the community marked scientists as godless liberals.

I was raised not to see the conflict, Stookey said.

Dr. Robert Moore, associate professor of chemistry, said he was raised in a church that insisted on their interpretation of the Bible, and if you didnt agree, you were going to hell.

However, Moore said, I couldnt justify the conflict, and the more he studied science, the more his faith grew.

Dr. Charles Nelms, assistant professor of mathematics, described his household as relaxed. Dad was a farmer, Mom was a secretary. As he grew older, the conflict between religion and mathematical studies pressed upon him, and he asked himself the question, Why cant I do both?

Nelms discovered that the more he advanced in mathematics, with its reasoned and ordered process, The more my faith grew.

Dr. Don Parker, Jr., professor of geology, grew up in a church he describes as fundamentalist.

My relatives werent anti-science, but the church was, he said.

Parkers wife, a devote Christian, reined me in, and showed me there should be no conflict, between science and religion.

Parker described religious authority as a three-legged stool of scripture, reason and tradition.

Its from tradition that we get our rich theology, he said. Parker postulated that during the time of Christ, people more theologically astute.

When you take a biblical text and turn it into a science text, you miss the rich, deep theological meaning, Stookey said.

While studying at Baylor, Nelms had quite a few friends who were atheists. It didnt make them bad people, he said. However, he added, atheists were missing one thing  Christ as the foundation for salvation.

Parker pointed out that people of advanced age, such as Methuselah, in the Bible, may be telling the length of a line of descendents. He told a story of a man in Beaumont at the time of Katrina who had a dream that a tree had caught on fire and people were moving.

That was three weeks before the exodus from New Orleans, Parker said. He added that Moses may have seen the burning bush in a dream.

If you read the text more closely, Rogers said, the fire is God, What is the story telling me about God?

Franklin said miracles in the Bible lack scientific verifiability because they cannot be reproduced. He mentioned Jesus and Peter walking on the water. Do I believe thats possible? According to quantum mechanics, everything is possible.

Rogers said that when miracles are reported in the Bible, he asks What does the narrative say about God? Im not trying to prove anything. Im trying to meet the one who made me.

Stookey said we tend to make presuppositions about others. If a person has no faith background, we need to use a fair amount of grace in dealing with others. Its not us versus them.

Stookey pointed out that science is not an established fact, Science is the best suggestion at that time.

Moore mentioned a book that attempted to disprove God, and another that refuted the first book.

But in attempting to prove God, he never addresses the foundation of Jesus Christ. We start from the fact that Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again. Its the argument for faith.

According to the WBU website, The Faith and Science Seminar is required of all majors and most minors in math and science. The course has proven to be very effective in challenging students to consider how success in the sciences and personal faith are complementary.
WALLINGFORD  Voters on Tuesday will decide whether the Town Charter will be revised for the first time in nearly three decades.

The Charter Revision Commissions proposed changes will go to referendum as one question on the ballot that will read: Shall the revisions to the Wallingford Town Charter recommended by the Charter Revision Commission, and approved by the Wallingford Town Council on June 27, 2017, be adopted?

The referendum needs to receive at least 51 percent approval to pass. The Town Charter was adopted on June 6, 1961, and has been revised four times, most recently in 1989. The last time charter changes went to ballot in 2009, all seven questions on the ballot were rejected by voters.

Heres what you need to know before voting Tuesday.

Background

The 11-member Charter Revision Commission was appointed in March 2016 by the mayor and Town Council. All nine councilors appointed one member and Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr. appointed the remaining two. The 11 members were Patricia Kohl, Robert Swick, Tom Corrigan, Stephen Knight, Jim Seichter, Christina Tatta, Jonathan Chappell, James Pyskaty, Mark Gingras, Gina Morgenstein and Sam Carmody.

As a part of its review, the commission considered suggestions from the Town Councilors and members of the public. The commission also reviewed the work of the 2009 charter commission.

The commission held about 15 meetings from May 2016 through July of this year. The commission also held three public hearings.

The vast majority of approved changes were passed unanimously.

In April, the commission voted to submit a draft of changes to the Town Council for review. The council then held a joint meeting with the commission on June 6 to give commissioners feedback. Those recommendations included expanding the Public Utilities Commission from three members to five, something a majority of councilors supported. The charter commission met to discuss the feedback and ultimately voted 8-3 not to expand the PUC. As a last step, the Town Council voted 8-1 in July to place the changes as one all-or-nothing question on the ballot, rather than breaking the changes out into separate yes or no questions.

The proposed changes

The town clerk, currently appointed by the Town Council every two years, would become a classified position hired and supervised by the mayor. The fire marshal and deputy fire marshals, currently appointed by the Town Council, would be appointed by the fire chief. And the environmental planner, currently appointed by majority vote of the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, would be appointed and supervised by the mayor.

The commission wanted to put the environmental planner position under the mayor to make it consistent with other positions, like the Town Planner, which are also appointed by the mayor. The environmental planner position is the only town position that reports to a volunteer commission. The environmental planner also serves as staff to the Conservation Commission.

Town Clerk Barbara Thompson voiced support for making her position hired, saying it would ensure consistency in how records are managed, rather than potentially having a new clerk every two years. Thompson also noted that all other department head positions like the assessor and town engineer are also hired.

Much of the commissions revisions involved creating more gender neutral language by replacing terms like term councilmen, for example, to members of the council and referring to the mayor as he/she instead of he.

The commission removed language in the charter regarding removal of an elected officer because it was determined state statute does not give municipalities the authority to remove elected officials, according to Chappell, an attorney who has worked with other towns on charter revision in the past. Chappell reviewed the language with Corporation Counsel Janis Small to determine that, while appointed officials can be removed by the appointing power, an elected official voted in by the electorate cannot be removed by the town.

Chappell said a similar issue came up in Hartford in 2014, when the citys council sought to remove elected registrars. The judges opinion stated theres no statutory authorization permitting a city in Connecticut to remove an elected official.

In reviewing the section regarding the Board of Ethics procedure for handling an ethics complaint, the commission decided it was best to remove the procedural language from the charter and allow the Town Council to establish the procedure through ordinance, a process that would include a public hearing.

Chappell said its normal for municipalities to establish the procedure through ordinance because an ordinance can be more easily amended. While some residents have raised concerns that the change waters down the boards power, Chappell said were not changing the power of the ethics board at all.

The revised charter still contains language about the power of the ethics board, but procedural language was removed, Chappell said.

Language regarding the procedure and criteria for the removal of an appointed official was also removed from the charter so that it can be established by ordinance.

A revised draft of the charter showing the commission's revisions has been posted to the town's website on the home page under news/announcements.The Law Department also produced a one-page document to summarize and explain the changes.

One question on the ballot

Many members of the charter commission and council supported one question because they felt none of the proposed changes were controversial enough to warrant being separated for special consideration. Some councilors and commission members also raised concerns about voters becoming confused by multiple questions.

I think the chances are better of it passing if we do one single question, Tatta told the Town Council in July. I dont think theres any one item in there that a majority of the voters are going to be so upset about that they would vote down the entire work that weve done.

Republican Town Councilor Craig Fishbein, the only councilor who voted against one question, disagreed and raised concerns that some of the changes could sway enough people to vote no.

I would be disappointed if the good work that the commission has done went down in flames as opposed to, lets say, half of the questions passing, Fishbein said.

Democratic mayoral candidate Jared Liu believes the commission made a mistake by not separating out the changes.

In order for government to be transparent, one of the things they should have done with the vote is they should have separated out the questions, Liu said. I think we would have had a much clearer process... I think we lose a degree of transparency by grouping the questions.

Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr. was also asked about the proposed changes and voiced support, saying I think it is a very viable document with those changes.

Opposition

Though commission members are confident none of the changes are so controversial that they would casue the question to fail, some residents and town officials have raised concerns about some of the revisions. Lawn signs reading Save Our Charter, Vote No have recently appeared around town, oppossing other lawn signs that lobby voters to vote "yes.

Jim Vitali, chairman of the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, spoke against making the Environmental Planner position appointed by the mayor at a public hearing held by the charter commission in March. Vitali said the current system works well and it would be "a mistake to change it to anything else.

Fishbein took issue with the Town Clerk becoming hired by the mayor, saying it threatens the separation of power between the council and mayor because the Town Clerk currently serves as staff to the council.

Perhaps the most contested decision by the charter commission was not expanding the Public Utilities Commission from three members to five, something a majority of town councilors supported.

Proponents for expansion said that adding more voices would benefit the commission.

"A PUC of five is a voice with more information, more knowledge," Morgenstein said. "I don't see fuller discussions with more people as a downside."

Commission members who opposed the change said the current commission works well and doesnt need to be altered.

"I'm really not sold as to the reasons why we need to go from three to five and I'm of the belief that ... if something's not broken, there's no need to fix it," Swick said.

Dickinson and PUC Chairman Bob Beaumont attended the commissions meeting in July when expansion was rejected. They lobbied the commission to reject PUC expansion.

"At the point we start to change something of that substance out of fear that something might happen or 'why not try this,' I don't think that's a justifiable reason to be altering as essential of a service and product as what (the utilities commission) deals with," Dickinson said. Dickinson noted that, unlike other boards and commissions, the PUC has an administrative, rather than legislative, function. He added that any action taken by the PUC is subject to veto by the Town Council.

The commission unanimously voted not to expand the PUC during a meeting last year. Commissioners voted on the issue a second time in July after the Town Council asked them to revisit the issue and it was again rejected 8-3.

Gender inclusivity

At a meeting in April, Morgenstein suggested adding a third pronoun to the document, in addition to he and she, to refer to someone who does not identify as male or female, but that idea was voted down.

In 2017, using he/she does not include gender-neutral people, Morgenstein said. Morgenstein spoke with a gender identity expert who told her he/she/they is the proper non-gender specific solution.

If this body wants to be sensitive at all to the times that we live in, that is the request of the gender neutral community, Morgenstein said.

Knight responded to Morgenstein by saying its unfair to suggest that if this body doesnt adopt your suggestion that we are insensitive to that subject.

We accomplished what we wanted to accomplish by making it gender-neutral, Knight said. I dont think were insensitive...Men and women need to be treated equally and thats being recognized.

The commission ultimately voted 8-3 only to include he and she throughout the document.

We cant solve all the worlds problems through the charter, Chappell said, and this is an issue I dont think were going to solve one way or another no matter what. Im comfortable with what weve done.

mzabierek@record-journal.com

203-317-2279

Twitter: @MatthewZabierek
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Jeff Copsetta of the National Museum of the Pacific War says he thinks going to an air show as a kid was one of the main reasons he joined the military.

And this weekend he aspired to be a similar influence on youngsters at the JBSA 2017 Air Show and Open House at Port San Antonio, site of the old Kelly Field. The air show is marking several milestone anniversaries: the Air Forces 70th, the Air Education and Training Commands 75th, Kellys 100th and San Antonios 300th.

The show continues today; gates open at 9 a.m. and admission to the grounds is free.

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Children and their parents, veterans and other air enthusiasts flocked Saturday to the event to watch the aerial acrobatics, see planes up close at the static displays and to learn more about their history. In one hangar, people wandered different booths, took pictures of a B-25 Mitchell and P-51 Mustang, and listened to musical acts.

Now Playing: From World War I to Operation Desert Storm, these are the most effective aviators in the history of aerial warfare. Video: PopularMechanics

The Dillard sisters, a vocal trio of sisters from Spring Branch who modeled themselves after the Andrews Sisters of 1940s fame, performed in the hangar on Saturday.

We just really want to honor the veterans that are still with us, and honor the memory of those who did not come back, said Katie Dillard.

Click through the gallery to see rare color photos from World War II

In the hangar, children climbed into Jeeps and donned green tin helmets for pictures, stood in front of the planes for the camera and went to check out weapons used in World War II.

To have something like this  to be able to participate in something like this where we get to reach so many children  This is the greatest, said Copsetta, who was at the museums booth in the hangar.

Copsetta, the education assistant and living history coordinator at the museum, and volunteers fielded questions Saturday from adults and kids alike. He also took the museum's "Follow Me" Army Air Corps Jeep built in 1942 out for a spin.

"We've tried to do a little bit of everything," he said of the museum's display. "So we've got some of the basic infantry weapons that were used during World War II, both by the Army and the Marine Corps. We've got our Japanese display, which has some Japanese infantry weapons, some of their gear, and those are actual artifacts from the war. Some of these out here actually served during World War II."

10-year-old Cody Johnson of Boerne had just finished checking out a restored World War II flamethrower with his dad, Michael.

"I think watching the airplanes, and the Pearl Harbor reenactment, I think that those were my favorite parts," Cody said.

Indeed, many checking out the displays in the hanger on Saturday stopped and trained their eyes on the skies to watch the "Tora, Tora, Tora" part of the air show, a recreation of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

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Michael said he brought Cody because his son loves history, and Michael thought it would be an educational experience for him.

I have seen a lot of cool airplanes and a lot of cool stuff and it was really really fun and I really really liked it, he said.

Asked if he would want to join the Air Force, Cody said: Kind of and not really because: first of all Im kind of afraid of flying. And second of all, I think that it would be really cool to fly in an airplane. So yes and no I think.

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While the museum does educational programs, Copsetta said this air show is an opportunity to reach many more children.

Im getting paid to do what I had so much fun doing as a kid: coming to an air show, Copsetta said. And now Im the guy that the youngsters are looking up to. Maybe theyll remember me and maybe theyll think about me when they join the military, just like I did with all those veterans.

sehlinger@express-news.net | Twitter: @samehlinger
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How do you define success?

If you happen to live in one of the following San Antonio-area suburbs, then online jobs search site Zippia uses you to define success.

According to Zippia there are 3 area neighborhoods that are among 10 most successful in all of Texas.

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The site compiled and compared the median income, poverty rates and unemployment rates for the 340 Texas cities with more than 5,000 residents to calculate their formula for success.

In all, 12 suburbs and municipalities that make up San Antonio's metropolitan area were listed in the top 100.

Click through the slideshow to see where area suburbs rank among Texas' most successful.
GREENWICH  An executive vice president at Greenwich Hospital announced Saturday she will retire in February after working at the hospital for 32 years.

Sue Brown, the executive vice president of operations and patient care services, encouraged the growth of several programs at the hospital, according to a release. Her program to help patients at risk of falling has been adopted by other hospitals across the country.

I could not be prouder of the hard work and achievements we have accomplished during these many years, Brown said in a statement. I am grateful in the knowledge that we created true excellence in care for our patients, as well as an encouraging and safe environment for our excellent staff.

Brown started working at the hospital in 1985 as a manager and then director of Womens and Childrens Health. She later became the chief nursing officer and senior vice president of Patient Care Services, leading the hospital to achieve Magnet status for the first time from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the nations highest nursing honor. She was promoted to her current position in 2015.

Sue was instrumental in establishing numerous community and hospital programs, said Norman Roth, the hospitals president and chief executive officer, in a statement. Her vision for implementing various safety initiatives and her leadership role in our outstanding patient satisfaction and employee engagement scores have been critical to enhancing the Greenwich Hospital experience. She will be sorely missed by everyone in our organization.

Brown has been published in professional journals for work on the education of patients and staff. She has also been a featured speaker on safety and communication. She earned her nursing degree from Adelphi University and her masters degree from Columbia University.

In retirement, Brown plans to work as a healthcare consultant and spend more time with her husband and seven grandchildren.
Testimony wrapped up Friday in the trial of two Texas Mexican Mafia members accused of gunning down Balcones Heights police officer Julian Pesina.

U.S. District Judge Xavier Rodriguez scheduled closing arguments for Monday in the case of Jesse Jay Santibanez and Alfredo Freddy Low Cardona. The pair face up to life in prison for racketeering-related murder and gun charges in the death of Pesina, who was ambushed May 4, 2014, outside Notorious Ink, the tattoo shop he co-owned.
After Assembly Leader Robin Vos called three Republican state senators "terrorists" last week, he received backlash from his own party. But Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said the party is still in a good place, and the Assembly and Senate will work together to pass bills on crime prevention and sulfide mining.
San Antonio Police are investigating a shooting death of a 3-year-old boy Saturday night on the South Side while he was riding in the back seat of his family's vehicle.

Police say the child was shot around 11:30 p.m. while riding in the backseat of the vehicle near the intersection of New Laredo Highway and Briggs Avenue.
Re: City Council should rethink the Tobacco21 push, Another view, Paul DiGiovanni, Oct. 30

DiGiovannis examples of adult things lack important context, which highlights exactly why raising the minimum legal sale age of tobacco to 21 makes sense.

DiGiovanni cites joining the armed forces as a right given to 18-year-olds, but he fails to acknowledge that newly enlisted members work and live under military orders. These adult cadets are not given free rein to do whatever, whenever. Their lives are governed by strict rules, rules intended to minimize harm to the cadet himself and the people around him. Not surprisingly, all branches of the armed forces have banned the use of tobacco products during basic training.

DiGiovanni cites driving automobiles, but he doesnt mention age-related restrictions. If you want to drive a commercial vehicle over state lines, for example, you must be at least 21 years old.

He cites the purchase and open carry of a rifle, but he ignores that you have to be 21 to buy a handgun and obtain a license to carry. These inconvenient exceptions to his rules are in place because driving big trucks and carrying sidearms require more responsibility.

Tobacco and nicotine are no different. They cause permanent health damage to those using the product and have the potential to cause life-altering harm to the people around them. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, raising the smoking age in Texas would prevent 3,700 preterm and low-birth weight infants in the first five years and save $406 million in health care costs.

An 18th birthday does not unlock unlimited access to all adult things. It never has. Certain activities with potentially profound impacts deserve slightly more maturity, and the right to purchase a tobacco product fits into this category.

Democratic Sen. Carlos Uresti represents Senate District 19, which includes San Antonio.
Challenges faced by the Texas economy with trade, immigration and border governance policies were the focus of a recent symposium convened by the Universtiy of Texas at Austins LBJ School of Public Affairs and its Texas 2030 Project. Some eye-opening facts emerged.

The Texas economy today depends heavily on international trade and is built around technology, energy-related goods and professional services. Texas exports more goods than any other state by a large margin  40 percent more than the next largest exporter, California. Yet the California economy is 50 percent larger than that of Texas.

The flash point reshaping U.S. trade policy is NAFTA. Economic studies show the trade agreement having a small, positive impact on the economy overall. In practical terms, the winners from this agreement gained enough to more than offset the economic pain of the losers. But there has been little effort to cushion these losses.

The result is todays highly charged NAFTA debate, with winner and loser industries and regions. Since NAFTA trade accounts for nearly half of Texas exports, Texas is one of the largest net-winner states. But even within Texas, winners and losers co-exist: An expert identified major urban centers where most Texans live as doing well; along the border and in patches of West Texas, less so.

Immigration will also affect our economic future. As with trade, there are winners and losers. Studies show the biggest winners are those with the most education; the big losers were those with the least education. Texas is well above average in the share of immigrants in its work force  more than 21 percent  compared with a U.S. average of 17 percent. The jobs that immigrants hold are vital to some of Texas fastest-growing industries.

The most difficult and divisive problem faced by the Texas economy involves an unpleasant reality: drug and human trafficking. Along our border, these activities form a single, integrated underground industry. The de facto security zone that now exists along the Texas border slows trade and commerce, and disrupts its wildlife, conservation and tourism activities.

Human trafficking has one direct link to trade policy  if diminished access to U.S. markets were to significantly reduce employment opportunities in export industries to our south, increased flows of migrants should be expected.

Several points were clear. Texas recent economic growth and economic future are closely tied to U.S. success competing in a world economy.

The global industrial supply chains that were created because of NAFTA and other trade agreements clearly have provided a net economic benefit to Texas. Texans should resist changes to trade policy that do not take their interests into account. The large automotive assembly plants run by Toyota in San Antonio and General Motors in Arlington, both highly dependent on component and sub-assembly manufacturing supply networks reaching deep into Mexico, exemplify how Texas gained from creation of global supply chains linked to our NAFTA neighbors.

Similarly, we are more dependent than average on immigrants in our industries. Texans should pay close attention to details of more restrictive immigration policies that are being proposed, because they may have outsized impacts on the Texas economy.

On the front line of an underground drug and human trafficking industry, our border with Mexico is destined to be a laboratory for immigration policy. Texans should work on developing new and innovative ideas, not sit back passively as others unfamiliar with our state contemplate costly and disruptive experiments in our backyard.

Texas future economic success lies in making our state the best possible location for industries shaping up as the future of Texas  high technology, energy-related products and technology, and professional services. Texas should be a leader in showing how investments in education, at all levels, make Texans winners from globalization, delivering economic benefits from both trade and immigration.

Kenneth Flamm holds the Dean Rusk Chair in the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. He co-directs the LBJ Schools Texas 2030 Project, which supports research-based policy analysis from a Texas perspective.
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Seventy-five years ago this fall, Trinity University held its first classes in San Antonio. Moving here was a bold decision. The university relocated from Waxahachie after an invitation from the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.

Trinity would not be what it is today if not for the vision of San Antonio business leaders who believed that miracles could happen, even in a war-torn world. The chambers vote to invite Trinity to San Antonio came Dec. 8, 1941, the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

San Antonios and Trinitys history are inextricably connected. The nations seventh largest city serves as a diverse laboratory for Trinity students. San Antonio businesses, nonprofit organizations and government agencies have opened their doors to provide our students with experiential learning opportunities. Trinitys Students + Startups program connects students to San Antonios burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through internships, collaborative research projects and volunteer activities, students contribute to the life of the Alamo City.

Trinity Universitys 21st century liberal arts and sciences education prepares students for a changing world, for jobs that do not yet exist, for complex situations that require creative thinking, and for a meaningful life of engagement with our world. The liberal arts and sciences foundation, linked to professional programs, is essential for the ability to thrive in todays work environment and for the drive to experience the life well-lived.

The universitys deep community connections include a long-standing investment in San Antonio public schools. Trinitys nationally recognized teacher education program maintains ongoing partnerships with several public schools. These partnerships not only produce some of the best teachers in the country, but improve schools in our own community. Recently, Trinity partnered with the San Antonio Independent School District to develop a pre-K through 12th grade academy for students seeking advanced learning opportunities. The Advanced Learning Academy fills a critical need in this inner-city school district and serves as a premier professional development school that trains the next generation of teachers and principals.

Urban studies students are actively engaged in community-based research projects such as the Eastside Promise Initiative. Students provide field work and research for the annual assessment of this neighborhood revitalization project. Todays urban studies program builds upon Trinitys legacy of training many successful city planners and urban administrators whose careers unfolded in San Antonio, as well as other cities across the country.

Many of our graduates, who came from other cities, states or countries to attend Trinity, have stayed beyond graduation. They have built prosperous businesses and companies. Mayor Ron Nirenberg, class of 1999, is one example of the more than 7,300 Trinity alumni (out of 31,223 living alumni) who are making their mark on San Antonio.

The universitys prominent lecture series bring to campus nationally and internationally recognized artists, policymakers and political leaders for presentations that are free and open to the community.

Founded in 1869 in Tehuacana, Trinitys storied journey has survived four moves and numerous financial crises. The move to the hilltop overlooking downtown San Antonio did not come with any guarantee of success.

Renowned San Antonio architect ONeil Ford joined forces with visionary Trinity President James Laurie (1951-1970). Their combined vision and aspirations had an early and lasting impact on the skyline campus. Today, Trinitys campus is a treasure for future generations of students and the community. For this reason, Trinity is seeking designation on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a dramatic step forward. It will bring national attention to Trinitys campus and the city of San Antonio.

In 2018, the city will mark its 300th anniversary. Trinity University looks forward to being part of that celebration with its remarkable home city.

Danny Anderson is the president of Trinity University.
In 1991, in a string of attacks, three women were sexually assaulted by a man in a ski mask in and around Baraboo, a Sauk County community jus
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Twelve persons have died and more than 7,100 people took refuge in relief camps across the state even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) ruled out any major rainfall activity over Chennai in the next 24 hours.

A top official from the state government said that officially seven people have been declared dead due to the Northeast Monsoon. However, the figures did not take into account the deaths due to electrocution.

Commissioner of Revenue Administration (CRA) K Satyagopal told Express these deaths were due to reasons like lightning and wall collapse. The CRA said over 7,100 persons were being housed in relief camps in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Nagapatinam districts and over 87,000 food packets had been given to them.

ALSO READ: Crowd-sourced initiatives back to keep people informed about waterlogging

The state has so far recieved 195.9 mm rainfall, which is an 8 mm deficit. The normal rainfall should be 212.3 mm.

It is learnt that S Balachandran, director, Area Cyclone Warning Centre, said the low pressure area over Southwest Bay of Bengal off the Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu coast now lies as a trough of low at mean sea level over Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West-Central Bay of Bengal off the Tamil Nadu South Andhra Pradesh coast.

Strong Easterlies to push Moisture into Interiors of #TamilNadu. Coastal areas will continue to get light to moderate #Rains, Isolated heavy spells likely in South TN along the ghats #NEM2017 https://t.co/agvFcN7da4 pic.twitter.com/H4gNRJbAIf  Chennairains (@ChennaiRains) November 5, 2017

Though heavy rain is expected over coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, no major rainfall activity will be seen over Chennai for next 24 hours.

ALSO READ: Is Chennai ready to face the brunt of the weather gods in coming days?

More flood monitoring & warnings

The State govt appointed seven more IAS officers to monitor rain-related works in Kancheepuram dist while the Collector issued flood warning to 21 villages by Kiliyar river since surplus water from Madurant-akam lake would be released

Chennai tops

Chennai has received highest rainfall in TN, with 617.5 mm as against normal 320.5 mm

ALSO READ: Chennai rains: Failure of signalling system cripples suburban train operations in city

CHENNAI: Twelve persons have died and more than 7,100 people took refuge in relief camps across the state even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) ruled out any major rainfall activity over Chennai in the next 24 hours. A top official from the state government said that officially seven people have been declared dead due to the Northeast Monsoon. However, the figures did not take into account the deaths due to electrocution. Commissioner of Revenue Administration (CRA) K Satyagopal told Express these deaths were due to reasons like lightning and wall collapse. The CRA said over 7,100 persons were being housed in relief camps in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Nagapatinam districts and over 87,000 food packets had been given to them. ALSO READ: Crowd-sourced initiatives back to keep people informed about waterlogging The state has so far recieved 195.9 mm rainfall, which is an 8 mm deficit. The normal rainfall should be 212.3 mm. It is learnt that S Balachandran, director, Area Cyclone Warning Centre, said the low pressure area over Southwest Bay of Bengal off the Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu coast now lies as a trough of low at mean sea level over Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West-Central Bay of Bengal off the Tamil Nadu South Andhra Pradesh coast. Strong Easterlies to push Moisture into Interiors of #TamilNadu. Coastal areas will continue to get light to moderate #Rains, Isolated heavy spells likely in South TN along the ghats #NEM2017 https://t.co/agvFcN7da4 pic.twitter.com/H4gNRJbAIf  Chennairains (@ChennaiRains) November 5, 2017 Though heavy rain is expected over coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, no major rainfall activity will be seen over Chennai for next 24 hours. ALSO READ: Is Chennai ready to face the brunt of the weather gods in coming days? More flood monitoring & warnings The State govt appointed seven more IAS officers to monitor rain-related works in Kancheepuram dist while the Collector issued flood warning to 21 villages by Kiliyar river since surplus water from Madurant-akam lake would be released Chennai tops Chennai has received highest rainfall in TN, with 617.5 mm as against normal 320.5 mm ALSO READ: Chennai rains: Failure of signalling system cripples suburban train operations in city
Trump announces his 2024 presidential run as GOP debates future

Donald Trump announced he will run for the White House, even as weak midterm showings prompt debate about whether the GOP should move past him.
Editor Emeritus Dave Zweifel has been with The Capital Times since he graduated from UW-Madison in 1962, serving as the paper's editor in chief from 1983 to 2008. He was president of the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council for 15 years, served as a Pulitzer Prize judge in 2000 and 2001, and named to the Wisconsin Newspaper Hall of Fame in 2011. A native of New Glarus, Wis., where he grew up on a farm, he serves on several non-profit boards and is a military veteran, having served on active duty as a field artillery officer in the early 1960s and for 26 years in the Wisconsin Army National Guard where he retired as a colonel in 1993.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy skies with a few snow showers this afternoon. High near 35F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 30%..

Tonight

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It was said to be the biggest scam in the history of Independent India. Time Magazine has called it the second biggest instance of the abuse of executive power- just a notch below Richard Nixon's Watergate scandal.



Exactly ten years back, when the murmurs of wrongdoings were first heard in the corridors of powers in Delhi, the opposition demanded an investigation.



Politically however, irregularities in the allocation of Second Generation spectrum licenses for mobile communication and limited data transmission was too complex a subject for public comprehension or popular political lexicon.



Only when the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in a report quantified and pegged the scam loss to Rs. 1.76 lac crores that the scandal took its own definitive shape and moniker- the 2G Scam.



The case was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation which filed an 80,000 page chargesheet before the trial court.





WHAT IS SPECTRUM SCAM?

On 16th November 2010, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), the supreme auditing body of the country came out with its report on the issuance of licenses and allocation of 2G spectrum by the Department of Telecom.



CAG, then headed by Vinod Rai, revealed 2G licenses had been issued to telecom operators at throwaway prices causing a loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore to the exchequer. Moreover, licenses had been issued to ineligible applicants who had deliberately suppressed facts, disclosed incomplete information, submitted fictitious documents and used fraudulent means for getting licenses and thereby access to spectrum.



The CAG report went on to say that licenses owners had in turn sold significant stakes to the Indian/foreign companies at high premium within a short period of time.



The premium earned by these new entrants to the telecom sector was estimated to be the true value of the spectrum.



In a free and fair bidding process, these profits should have accrued to the public exchequer.





THE ALLEGATIONS

The telecom ministry under A Raja changed rules and eligibility criteria several times in the run-up to auction.The cut-off date of the auction was advanced by the ministry.The ministry issued licenses on a distorted First Come First Served (FCFS) Policy and that too at 2001 prices, not at 2008 prices.Officials at the ministry allegedly shut counters to physically block selected telecom companies from entering the fray.Telecom Minister Raja acted against the advice of TRAI, Law Ministry, Finance Ministry.
Srinagar: Security forces on Sunday foiled an attack by the Pakistani Border Action Team (BAT) near the Line of Control in Uri sector of Kashmir, killing two militants.

Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid said a possible tragedy was averted. BAT action bid foiled by Army and JKP (Jammu and Kashmir Police). Two terrorists killed in Dulanja Uri. No casualty on our side. Possible tragedy averted, the DGP wrote on Twitter.

He did not share any further details.

Earlier, the Army said two terrorists were killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district.
Bhopal: Post the suspension of five policemen for 'botched' probe in the Bhopal gang-rape case, the Madhya Pradesh government on Sunday transferred Bhopal IGP and SP Rail, Bhopal, in an effort to salvage police image.

An order issued by police headquarters, a copy of which is in possession of News18, on Sunday transferred Yogesh Chaudhary, replacing him with Jabalpur DIG Jaideep Prasad, who earlier served the city as Superintendent of Police. SP Rail Anita Malviya too was transferred and was attached to police headquarters. She has been replaced by Ruchivardhan Mishra.

Talking to media on Saturday, the victim said, The police behaviour after the incident was highly insulting as we tried to lodge complaint. The survivor backed the SHO at Habibganj police station as he was the only officer who extended support.

It was absolutely unbecoming for the SP Rail, being a woman and senior officer, to laugh on my case, the survivor girl claimed.

Ironically, Habibganj SHO Ravindra Yadav too was part of the list of three SHOs and two SIs who were suspended by the government earlier. Another City SP has been attached to police headquarters in the case earlier.

The survivor, daughter of a police couple, was allegedly raped by four men on Tuesday night in the vicinity of the Habibganj railway station Bhopal.

Earlier becoming an IPS officer was my passion but now its my dream, said the girl who wants capital punishment for the accused who outraged her modesty.

Police administration did not comment on the reshuffle involving ten IPS officers, while sources claimed that CM Chouhan had gave the nod before leaving for Chitrakoot for campaigning in by-election.
Sonebhadra (UP): A German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj railway station in the district, police said on Sunday, days after an assault on a Swiss couple left the local administration red-faced.

In the latest incident, Holger Ereek was allegedly beaten by railway contractor Aman Kumar on Saturday after which the station master informed the police.

Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwari said that the accused has been arrested.

However, the railway contractor alleged that when he greeted Ereek by saying "welcome to India", he hit him. The victim refused to talk to the media.

On October 22, a Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland were chased and attacked with stones and sticks by five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple had said that they were taking a stroll near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youths started following them and later attacked. All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism KJ Alphons had also dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

(With PTI inputs)
While Taj Mahal may be the edifice of the moment, caught in the eye of a political storm and being showered with both barbs and bouquets, not very far from it is a museum of Muslim tehzeeb that brims with tales of nobility and sophistication. Housed in the Ibn Sina Academy, Aligarh, the museum is one mans effort to preserve articles of Muslim lifestyle or tehzeeb that include textiles, crockery, manuscripts, and musical instruments among other things.

The academy is primarily a museum of Medieval Medicine and Sciences, founded by Padma Shri Hakim Syed Zillur Rehman in the year 2000, but soon it diversified into chronicling Muslim lifestyle and tehzeeb of the past. People wonder why a science museum would be generous enough to grow into accommodating the articles of Muslim lifestyle. And he answers all of the queries with a note of hope and love for future, I have the articles of Muslim houses preserved in the cupboards of my museum, from the royal families of Bhopal, Hyderabad, and Rampur etc.

He said that he is preserving all this for posterity  After acquiring education, prosperity and wealth there will be a time when they would want to know their civilizational facts, culture and past and at that time my museum will give the future generation a glimpse into their tehzeeb and lifestyle. It will respond to their search for roots.

There are almost 4,500 articles of Muslim tehzeeb showcased in his museum  which include crockery that keeps the food warm till the last bite because of the vacuum that takes hot water, there are dupattas three meter long that were tied differently in different Muslim societies of Hyderabad and Bhopal etc., there is a fruit tray from the dining table of Begum Sultan Jahan of Bhopal, her brooch made of precious stones, with her name inscribed in gold, a chogha that belonged to the Qazi Shamsuddin of Rewari, dating back to 1830, a paandaan weighing over 5 kg and a betel stand to name a few.

There are other items that chronicle Muslim culture through objects like: gramophones, harmoniums, costumes for weddings and trays for biryanis designed keeping the sense of style and comfort of those times. There are heavy paandaan (a box for preserving items used to make paan), ugaldaan (spittoon for the pan user), fancy haath ka pankha (a hand fan), and pretty batua (wallet), gem-studded gharara (a dress item), there are also silver-lined razais (quilts). The museum grew out of his fondness for all things with rich history, some of which were also priceless - coins from ancient times, stamps, pens and other artefacts. He makes sure to mention the source of the specimens he gets from Muslim families and pin them in the cupboard with the name of the person donating it or belonging to.

Times for Muslims have also changed in many ways, he said, Somehow they are not able to think beyond maqbara, masjid and madarsa. They are always ready to contribute in the growth of masjid and madarsa but dont understand the values of museum of heritage and culture of Muslim families. In this time of collective ignorance about out past I designing this for the future generation that will come in search for roots, he added. Some of the objects on display were inherited by him. Some were gifted by people who saw that he had the wherewithal to preserve priceless items for posterity.

He takes pride in showing the guests original royal orders of Mughal emperors that have come to Rehman from his father, and a paper weight made of shells that was used by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. These orders come from Aurangzeb, Babur and calligraphy by Bahadur Shah Zafar. When asked how he continues to enrich the museum of Muslim past in times of attack on Taj Mahal, he said, The attacks on Taj Mahal or anything associated with our past are just seasonal things, it is more to do with politics than our society and its commitment to celebrate history.

In his view these attacks dont mean anything in the larger picture of history, Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar are part of our pride, we cannot be attacking them because they were made in medieval times. By that logic Connaught Place and Parliament should also be broken down because they were made angrez (British), he added.

Rahman served as a professor and chairman, department of Ilmul Advia at the Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College, Aligarh Muslim University. After serving as a dean, faculty of Unani medicine, he retired after 40 years. He is the author of 45 books and several papers on different aspects of Unani and boasts of being the possessor of the largest collection of books on Unani medicine. Conferred the Padma Shri in 2006 for his contribution in the field of Unani medicine he is now expanding his museums to start taking items like animal skin, which formed an important part of households of the past.

Also, unsure of who will take it forward after him, Rahman has given this endeavor to a Trust to take charge of it. There is huge collection of Ghalibs work, which he claims to be one of the largest in South Asia and attracts scholars from other parts of the country to study. In his library lined with thousands of books, manuscripts and dedicated works of Ibn Sina and medieval medicine, sciences, youngsters from all backgrounds especially economically weaker come to study in the quiet atmosphere.

(More Sunday Features)
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday sought to allay fears that introduction of NCERT books in madrassas in the state will disturb the course structure of the Islamic educational institutions.

At the same time, the government maintained that "dakiyanusi" (conservative) education system cannot ensure "progress of an individual, a state or the country".

"The Uttar Pradesh government has no intention of disturbing the course structure of the madrassas or change them. But, the fact remains that 'dakiyanusi' education system cannot ensure progress of an individual, a state or the country," Minority Welfare Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary told PTI here.

In the age of technology, no engineer, doctor, scientist or civil servant has come from madrassas, he said.

"We want employment-oriented education and technical education to be imparted in the madrassas across the state," he said.

At present, syllabus of madrassas does not have adequate content of history and culture, he said, adding, "We are planning to introduce history, geography and Sanskrit as additional subjects. This will be implemented from the next academic session."

There are 19,000 recognised madrassas in the state.

The minister said, "The books will be of NCERT and UP Board as well. However, this is still in planning stage. The books are in Urdu, some of which will are already available in the market. The basic aim is an attempt to integrate madrassa education with the mainstream education system."

On October 30, the Yogi Adityanath government decided to introduce NCERT books in madrassas in Uttar Pradesh, apart from making mathematics and science compulsory at intermediate levels in these schools.

The steps are intended to make madrassa students more competitive by providing them contemporary and quality education, according to Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma.

"The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to introduce National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) books in the madrassas in order to make students studying there to come on a par with children of other schools," Sharma recently said.

Of the 19,000 recognised madrassas in the state, 4,600 are partially-funded, while the number of 100 per cent funded madrassas in the state is 560.

The Uttar Pradesh government had on August 18 launched a website related to madrassas and orders were issued to upload all relevant information pertaining to the managing committee of the institutions, teachers, students and other information by September 15.

It then extended by 15 days the deadline till September 30, as there were some technical issues.

The September 30 deadline was then extended by 15 days so that all the madrassas in the state can register themselves on the government website.

So far out of the 19,000 madrassas, as many as 16,686 madrassas have furnished all the relevant details, Chaudhary said.
In 2117, a local artist might be completing her greatest work thanks to Bird Ross and Brenda Baker.

Ross and Baker, artists working in Madison today, are behind the new endowment fund Women Artists Forward Fund. Expected to launch with start-up donations in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, the fund will be set up to make unrestricted grants available to individual female artists in the Madison area long into the future.

The idea  and the fundraising effort  was sparked by the story behind the iconic statue Forward, which has stood on the Capitol grounds for well over a century.

Ross and Baker learned its remarkable history while brainstorming for a piece for the show The Capitol at 100: Madison Artists Celebrate the Centennial, a new exhibition in the Overture Center. An opening reception for the show, which is sponsored by the Madison Community Foundation as part of its own special 75th anniversary Year of Giving, will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. today.

Meant to celebrate the state Capitols 100th birthday and its artistic legacy, The Capitol at 100 features original works by some of Madisons best known and emerging visual artists: Baker, Ross, Eric Baillies, Randall Berndt, Michael Duffy, Leah Evans, Patrick Flynn, Lisa Frank, Tom Jones, Helen Klebesadel, Lewis Koch, John Miller, Yvette Pino, Beth Racette and Gregory Vershbow.

Each artist was asked to consider the history, architecture, (and) our cultural symbolism of the Capitol building and grounds, said the shows curator, Martha Glowacki, who knows the Capitol well after helping to conserve murals in the east wing during a 1990 restoration.

The artists were given only a few months to create an original artwork for Capitol 100, she said. Of the works that resulted, some have a political twist; others tap into the buildings cultural significance.

The Capitol is filled with artwork, inside and out, Glowacki said. To my delight, people have really looked at the building, especially the decorative arts in the building  the marble, the water fountains, the lights, things like that that have really inspired people.

Many of the artists have focused on looking at details like that. Others have focused on looking at the history, she said. Its really a mix. And then Bird and Brenda came in and said, We want to do a big community project.

A statue by a woman,

funded by women

Ross and Baker began their research for The Capitol at 100 by looking at some of the unsung heroes who are part of the Capitol community  not high-profile lawmakers, but the building staff and cleaning crew who every day preserve the splendor of Madisons most recognizable landmark.

Then they came to learn about Jean Pond Miner.

Miner was the Madison artist who created Forward, the statue that welcomes visitors to the Capitol at the confluence of State, West Mifflin and North Carroll streets. According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, it was Madisons first piece of public art.

Miner created Forward for the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where she was one of two Wisconsin women to participate in the historic event. Women from Madison and Janesville raised $6,000  the equivalent of $155,500 today  to support Miners work.

Women also largely financed the restoration and replacement of Forward in 1995, when the original copper sculpture was preserved. (Its now housed in the lobby of the Wisconsin State Historical Society headquarters.) A bronze replica is what stands outside the Capitol today.

It felt like such a forward-thinking thing, that all these women came together to support a woman artist. It felt like such an important story to us, Baker said.

Then we thought, what if we were to do a piece of artwork that is a piece of social practice, where were working with community members to raise money to do exactly what those women did in 1893  to perpetuate it and keep it going, to have a fund thats a forever fund to support women artists.

Ross and Baker had worked together on past installations related to the idea of social practice, art designed to raise awareness of a social issue. The two artists created Lakeline, for example, a huge clothesline along John Nolen Drive during the annual Bike the Drive event in 2012, which was designed to get people to think about the aesthetically pleasing, energy-saving act of drying clothes on a clothesline. In 2004, they created the joint work Pedestrian Art for Democracy  sidewalk chalk stencil drawings urging people to get to the polls and vote.

Ross and her husband, wood artist Tom Loeser, also designed and built the whimsical reception desk at the Madison Childrens Museum, where Baker is director of exhibits.

New connections

Bird and Bakers piece in The Capitol at 100 will feature a photograph of Miner working on the Forward statue, surrounded by 5-by-7-inch, black-and-white photos of 100 women who create or support the visual arts in the Madison area today.

The contemporary women all wear a robe and strike a pose akin to Miss Forward; each holds something that inspires her.

One is holding a baby, Ross said. Others might be holding a work of art, or a hammer to symbolize buildings that house art.

So many women offered to pose as Miss Forward that Baker and Ross may end up with more than 100 photos, they said. All will appear on an upcoming website.

Many other volunteers have rallied around the project, too.

Weve had seven different photographers, five people on our advisory board, multiple people at the Madison Community Foundation (which will administer the fund), and more than 100 women willing to be photographed, said Ross, noting that neither she nor Baker are photographers or fundraisers by training.

Even though we had this concept and really wanted to stretch ourselves, and improve the life of artists living in Madison, its been a very big effort on a lot of different peoples parts, she said.

Some of it has been by the seat of our pants, but a lot of it has also been some really great advice from some really knowledgeable, experienced advisers  the best in the field. We feel really, really lucky that we approached people with what we thought was a tiny idea. And they have absolutely jumped on it.

The project also has led to new connections.

I thought that I had a big circle in the Madison arts community, but I have met so many people I didnt even know, Baker said.

The community foundation helped us get a group of people together that we could ask, Is this a good idea? And we heard a yes, a resounding yes.
Srinagar: Centre's special representative for Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma said he does not have a magic wand, but wants to be judged by his actions when he starts the process of talks in the Valley on Monday.

"I do not have a magic wand but my efforts have to be judged with sincerity and not through the prism of the past," Sharma, 61, said.

The former Intelligence Bureau director added that no one should jump to conclusions before the process of talks with various stakeholders in Kashmir begins.

"I would like to be judged by my actions," he told PTI from Delhi.

Describing his work as a "serious effort", he added that "one should refrain from fishing in the desert".

"I am going there tomorrow to be with my people and understand their pain and suffering and find a suitable remedy to their problems," Sharma said.

Responding to criticisms which have appeared in sections of the media, he said in due course he would also meet intellectuals for their advice in achieving "this difficult national task".

Sharma, who is originally from Bihar and was a Kerala-cadre IPS officer of the 1979 batch, held the country's top-most post for a police officer from 2014 to 2016.

He said Kashmir was his "second home" as his professional journey in the premier intelligence unit began here in 1992.

"Nothing has changed since I was there for the first time. Kashmiriyat, which means compassion and brotherhood, has not changed even an iota. Therefore, I am hopeful that I will be at least able to contribute towards a new Kashmir, a peaceful Valley where prosperity will be the order of the day," he said.

Last month, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, while announcing that Sharma would be the interlocutor for Kashmir, had referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech from the Red Fort this year.

Modi had said on August 15, "Na gaali se, na goli se, parivartan hoga gale lagaane se (Only by embracing the people, and not with abuses or bullets, can there be a change in Kashmir)."

Asked about the course of action he would follow, Sharma said, "I do not have a magic wand to change the situation overnight. But having said that, I will like to emphasise during my proposed meetings beginning tomorrow, my every effort will be to work towards ensuring permanent peace in the state."

The special representative will meet political leaders, traders and other delegations on Monday, according to a list drawn up by the state government.

However, he made it clear he had his own list of people whom he would meet as well.

To a question about a statement made by the Joint Resistance Front comprising separatist groups including moderate and hardline factions of the Hurriyat and JKLF that they would not meet him, Sharma said the government's effort should not be seen through the "prism of the past".

"It is purely their choice whether they want to be a partner in peace or on the opposite side of the fence where destruction has been topping the agenda. My suggestion to everyone is that they should not see this effort of the government through the prism of the past." he said. Efforts had previously been made by successive central governments too, he said.

"I have no idea what happened to them and, therefore, I would not like to comment. I can only talk about this initiative which has been done with a serious thought process and months of hard work by many," he said.
Lucknow: Cow meat is not exported from Uttar Pradesh and no one can have the audacity to do so, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Sunday.

The UP chief minister asserted that even cruelty to a bovine could lead a person behind bars not to talk of killing cows. Addressing an event organised here by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's Gauraksha Vibhag (cow protection wing), Adityanath said, "It is absolutely wrong and incorrect to say that the largest volume of cow meat is exported from Uttar Pradesh. Not an iota of cow meat can be exported from UP. No one can have the audacity of doing so, as it is banned in UP."

Adityanath said that his was the first government in the state to put a ban on illegal abattoirs. "If any person indulges in cruelty to cows (leave aside talk of killing of cows), he will find himself behind bars," Adityanath, a priest-turned-politician, said.

Grazing land for cattle has been identified in UP and we have initiated drives to free encroached grazing land, he said.
Mumbai: An editorial in Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamana has highlighted the budding bonhomie between party supremo Uddhav Thackeray and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, calling the latter a tigress for single-handedly fighting Left forces in her state.

The editorial also signaled the growing gulf between allies Shiv Sena and the BJP, with a veiled reference to allegations of EVM tampering against the latter.

"Mamata is the tigress who fought Left forces single-handedly in West Bengal. She did not need to tamper with EVM machines or distribute money to win elections," said the editorial, published two days after the November 2 meeting between Uddhav and Mamata in Mumbai.

The meeting had sparked speculation of the two parties mulling an anti-BJP front ahead of 2019 Lok Sabha elections, finding common ground in opposition to demonetisation and the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The Saamana editorial highlights yet another common rival for both parties  the Left. The Shiv Sena has been at loggerheads with Left parties in Maharashtra for five decades over trade union influence in Mumbai. "This is not a recent issue. It dates back to at least two generations," a senior leader of the Shiv Sena told News18.

The editorial is one among a long list of similar write-ups in Saamana where the Shiv Sena has lashed out at ally BJP. The latest rakes up the issues of Ram Temple and Kashmiri Pandits.

"Even today, Kashmiri Pandits are homeless. Even today, Lord Sri Ram faces vanvaas (exile) in Ayodhya. Look at these issues of Hindutva with some love," the editorial advised the BJP. "We definitely aren't the progeny of Ranchhoddas who raised their hands and pointed fingers at us after the Babri Masjid demolition," it said.

The party also took a dig at the BJP for objecting to the Uddhav-Mamata meeting. "Those who have forged alliance with pro-Pakistan Mehbooba, shouldn't point fingers at us," it said, referring to the BJPs alliance with PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti in Jammu and Kashmir.
Los Angeles: Uma Thurman said she is "waiting to feel less angry" before she addresses the Harvey Weinstein scandal and the ongoing problem of sexual harassment in Hollywood.

The 'Kill Bill' star, however, said "it's commendable" for so many women to come forward with their own experiences of harassment and assault.

"I don't have a tidy soundbite for you because I've learned I am not a child and I have learned that when I've spoken in anger, I usually regret the way I express myself.

"So I've been waiting to feel less angry and when I'm ready, I'll say what I have to say," Thurman told Access Hollywood.

Weinstein, who worked with Thurman on 'Kill Bill', 'Pulp Fiction', and various other films, is currently under investigation by police in New York, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and the UK for sexual assault accusations.

Numerous women have come forward against Weinstein in the wake of exposes from The New York Times and The New Yorker, while even more individuals have alleged similar behaviour from men like former Amazon Studios head Roy Price, Kevin Spacey and directors Brett Ratner and James Toback.
New York: Television host Jimmy Fallon is mourning the death of his mother Gloria, who passed away on Saturday.

"Jimmy Fallon's mother, Gloria, died peacefully on Saturday," said a Fallon family spokesperson, reports people.com.

"Jimmy was at his mother's bedside, along with her loved ones, when she passed away at NYU Langone Medical Center in NYC. Our prayers go out to Jimmy and his family as they go through this tough time."

The news comes after Fallon cancelled the taping of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on November 3 due to a "private Fallon family matter".

According to a source, Gloria was sick and Fallon had gone to the hospital to be by her side.

"Jimmy comes from a very close-knit family, and together with the rest of his loved ones they are by her side right now," the source added.

Fallon is known to keep his family life private, but he has shared funny stories and sweet moments about his mother over the years.

In June, he told Howard Stern that his mother used to be a nun. A month earlier, he shared a memory about Gloria as part of a "#MomQuotes" segment for the talk show.
Ahmedabad: Gujarat Congress leaders are expected to meet party MP and former Law Minister Kapil Sibal in Delhi this evening as party attempts to finalise its position on Patel quota demand ahead of state assembly elections. Campaign committee chairman Siddharth Patel along with Babu Mangukia are scheduled to discuss with Sibal to see how best reservations demands of the Patidar community can be met within the current constitutional framework.

Patel is the sitting Congress MLA from Dabhi and son of former state chief minister Chimanbhai Patel.

The meeting comes a day after Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) on Saturday issued a statement claiming Congress in the few days is likely to make its stand clear on providing reservations to Patels in government jobs and educational institutions.

A report being prepared by legal experts has been submitted to Congress President Sonia Gandhi, PAAS which is spearheading the Patel quota demand in Gujarat claimed in its statement.

After due diligence, senior lawyer Kapil Sibal has given a report. It is being accessed how reservations demands of those who are out of quota ambit can be met. Hardik Patel led PAAS said amid ongoing talks with the Congress party on extending support ahead of the upcoming state assembly polls.

A delegation of PAAS has already had a round of comprehensive talks with state Congress leaders last month in Gandhinagar. While there is consensus on most of the demands made by the Hardik Patel led group, there is still no clarity on how Patels would be accommodated in the existing constitutional framework for OBC reservation.

Technically, any inclusion in the state OBC list is vetted by the State Backward Classes Commission. This is done only after it is empirically established that a particular caste or a community is socially and educationally backward.

Secondly, extending OBC reservations to Patels can disrupt caste-coalition Congress is attempting to build for the upcoming polls. About 150 castes in Gujarat are currently in the state OBC list. Together they constitute almost 40% of the state population, the largest voting-block. And inclusion of Patels- a relatively affluent community- in the OBC list would effectively reduce quota pie for the existing beneficiaries.

OBC leader Alpesh Thakor at a rally in Ahmedabad last month has already joined the Congress. The challenge for the Congress now to meet Hardik Patels reservation demand without antagonising the OBC groups.

Similarly, for Patel and his supporters in PAAS, as they attempt to mobilise their community ahead of the elections, it is important to extract a substantive assurance from the Congress on reservations.

Sources in the Congress party indicate that final decision on the issue would probably be made closer to the elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his Gujarat campaign in the second week of November and Congress is closely watching BJPs next move before committing anything to competing castes groups.
Chennai: Superstar Kamal Haasan on Sunday confirmed that he would take the political plunge and launch his own party but said people should be a little patient.

I will surely start a party and enter politics, he said at a function to mark the 39th anniversary of his fan and welfare club.

Haasan said that the first step in his political journey will be the launch of a mobile app on November 7 - his 63rd birthday - that will enable him to be in touch with the fans and also keep a track of the donations he receives from fans.

Haasan said the political party launch will happen in a calm manner later and the mobile app launch will come first. He said his fans would contribute funds for the party.

According to him, there is no shame in stretching out one's hands for the welfare of the people. If only the rich pay their taxes properly, the country would not have a debt issue, he said.

He also used the opportunity to take a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modis promise of bringing black money back and said he would fulfil the promise. "I will not deposit the funds in Swiss banks. Instead I will try to bring back our money that is lodged in the Swiss banks," Kamal said.

November 7 is a day not to cut a cake and celebrate but a day to cut canals, he said, obliquely referring to the flooding of several localities in the city due to recent rains.

The actor added that natural disasters do not differentiate between rich and the poor and all should be ready to take preventive measures rather than acting after the loss of dear ones.

He also hit back at his detractors and said he had never advocated bringing down temples. It does not matter how many people oppose us. What matters is what we do. I am ready to take beatings. To beat again and again, I am not the thavil (a percussion instrument), he said, adding that suppression has become a common in politics now.

Haasan has been in the eye of a storm for his comments that right-wing groups cannot deny the existence of Hindu terrorism. The statement had ruffled quite a few feathers and a defamation case has also been filed against him.

A Hindu Mahasabha leader even said he should be shot dead for his remarks. But the actor appeared unfazed and said those who cannot stand criticism now want to kill him. If we question them, they call us anti-nationals and want us jailed. Now since there is no space in jails they want to shoot us and kill us, he said.

He also found support from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who demanded the arrest of those issuing threats to Haasan.
Nachan/Fatehpur (HP): Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "termite" barb against the Congress, even as he ridiculed the BJP leader for "running from one constituency to another, in a desperate bid to garner support for his party's candidates" in the upcoming Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls.

"With the writing on the wall clear for the BJP, the Prime Minister is making frantic rounds of Himachal," he said, adding that his own rallies had been delayed due to Modi's "frenzied movement" in the hill state.

Reacting to Modi's "termite" barb against the Congress, Singh said, "Had that been the case, the country would have collapsed by now, instead of progressing the way it has in the last 70 years. Himachal Pradesh also would not have developed the way it has under various Congress governments."

He added that the Prime Minister's comments reflected his despair at the anti-BJP swing that had started emerging across the country.

At a rally in Kangra on Saturday, Modi had likened the Congress to termites and exhorted the people to finish it off by handing over a three-fourth majority to the BJP in the November 9 Himachal polls.

Launching his campaign in the hill state in support of the Congress candidates with massive rallies at Nachan (Mandi district) and Fatehpur (Kangra), Singh said it was obvious that the Prime Minister had realised that the BJP was headed for an electoral rout.

"Thus, he (Modi) has put all his personal efforts in salvaging the situation, with the bleak hope that he will be able to befool the people.

"These last-ditch efforts are, however, unlikely to yield results as the people of the state have witnessed the devastation wreaked by the BJP, wherever it is in power, including at the Centre," he said.

The veteran Congress leader alleged that from demonetisation to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the Modi-led central government's ill-conceived decisions had brought the people of the country to their knees and disillusioned them completely from the BJP.

He further alleged that when demonetisation struck, people were not even left with enough money to buy a cup of tea and added that with the promised GST money yet to come in, the state governments were having a hard time carrying out any development and welfare works.

Singh, one of the star Congress campaigners in Himachal, also ridiculed the Bullet Train project at a huge cost to the exchequer and said rides on the train were more expensive than air travel.

"Why would anyone want to pay more for a train journey when they could fly at a cheaper cost?" he asked, alleging that the Modi government clearly had no qualms about wasting the tax-payers' hard-earned money.

Appealing to the people to vote for Congress nominees Lal Singh Kaushal from Nachan and Sujan Singh Pathania from Fatehpur, Singh said with the governments in Punjab and other states caught in a financial bind due to the various inconsiderate decisions of the Modi government, the plight of the ordinary people could not even be imagined.

"But, the BJP remains unconcerned," he said, asking the Prime Minister if his government had spared a single thought on how the states and the people would survive in the absence of funds.

Pointing out that Himachal had witnessed a huge development on all fronts under Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, the Punjab chief minister said the people of the hill state wanted continued progress and peace, which only the Congress could give them.

"Virbhadra's love for Himachal and its people will ensure that under his leadership, the state will see another phase of development," he added.

The upcoming polls were a fight for the future of our children, Singh said and exhorted the people to go home and persuade their neighbours and friends to vote for the Congress in the interests of the state.

Citing the example of Punjab, which he said was on the path of an economic revival since his government took over earlier this year, Singh said Himachal, which had already witnessed a huge industrialisation under the Congress regime, would also see large-scale employment generation under Virbhadra's continued stewardship.

"Like me, Virbhadra has also declared that this will be his last election as both of us now want to hand over the reins to the youth," Singh said.
Bhopal: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday called upon his party workers in Madhya Pradesh to prepare the ground for "uprooting" the "corrupt" BJP government in the state.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh in November- December next year.

Kejriwal accused Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of indulging in massive corruption and misrule. The Delhi chief minister was addressing a convention -- the 'Shankhnaad Rally' -- at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan in Bhopal.

AAP workers, who had gathered from across the state, responded with a huge applause after Kejriwal asked them about contesting the 2018 state Assembly polls.

"The BJP has been ruling Madhya Pradesh for the last 14-15 years. The time span is sufficient for making a new Madhya Pradesh. But, can you point out a single achievement of Shivraj Singh Chouhan during this period," the AAP supremo asked the gathering amid slogan shouting.

He claimed that all the sections of the society, including teachers, farmers, students, women, traders, scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), were facing problems in the state.

"Shivraj sucked Madhya Pradesh like a mango. What is happening in Madhya Pradesh was happening in Delhi as well. But, the situation there has changed now.

"The power tariff in Madhya Pradesh is the costliest in the country, despite it being a power-surplus state. On the other hand, the Delhi government purchases electricity from Madhya Pradesh and supplies it to the citizens at one-third of the rates in MP," Kejriwal said.

He added that while the electricity bill for 200 units would come to Rs 1,370 in Madhya Pradesh, it would be for Rs 462 in Delhi.

Taking a swipe at Chouhan over the Vyapam scam, Kejriwal said Madhya Pradesh had earned notoriety for the entire episode and added that 40 young people were killed following this massive corruption.

"The young students, aspiring for a good life, were killed in the Vyapam scam, though officials and leaders were responsible," he alleged.

Kejriwal claimed that corruption had reduced in Delhi after the AAP government took charge.

"A report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), an agency of the BJP-led central government, has said that corruption has reduced by 81 per cent in two-and-a-half years in the Delhi government, while graft has increased by 67 per cent in three years in the central government," he said.

Claiming that the success rate of the students of government schools in the national capital had gone up compared to the private schools, Kejriwal said, "If you want cheap electricity, good government schools, health facilities and a corruption-free Madhya Pradesh, you will have to fight."

Referring to his government's achievements in developing the school infrastructure and in the health sector, the AAP leader sought to know that if Delhi could be developed in the last two-and-a-half years, why was Madhya Pradesh not developed in 14 years.

He said the BJP and Congress were hobnobbing with each other in Delhi, where the people had found an alternative in the AAP.

"The work done in Delhi in the last two-and-a-half years has never happened in any city of the country in the last 70 years," Kejriwal claimed.
New Delhi: Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to arrest price rise and increase employment rate or step down from the top post.

Taking to Twitter, the Congress scion also called the Prime Ministers speeches hollow.

The tweet is the latest in a series of salvos the Congress and the BJP have been firing at each other in the run-up to the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections.

On Saturday, BJP chief Amit Shah had slammed Rahul Gandhi for talking about farmers' plight during campaigning for Gujarat polls, claiming that the Congress vice president was relying on a "chit" given by some NGO to speak about farmers' issues.

Shah also accused the Congress party of trying to mislead the people of Gujarat and challenged it to discuss the issue of development and fight the upcoming Assembly polls on the development plank, instead of raking up the issue of caste.

"Rahul Gandhi is going around the state and talking about farmers based on a chit handed over to him by some NGO. He does not know that the BJP government achieved what the Congress government (during its rule in the state) could not," Shah had said.

Earlier this week, Rahul Gandhi had held a rally in Surat, Gujarats diamond hub, where he reminded the Patidar community of police atrocities during their quota agitation seeking quota, and promised traders that his party would make changes to the GST to meet their demands if elected.

"This is a fight between the truth of Gujarat and the truth of BJP. The truth of Gujarat is different from that of BJP. The truth of BJP is the order to fire on the Patel community (during quota agitation)," Gandhi had said.

The 182-member Gujarat Assembly is scheduled to go to the polls in two phases  on December 9 and December 14. Himachal Pradesh will vote to elect its 68-seat Assembly on November 9. Counting in both states will be held on December 18.
Im confused by all the wrangling over whether the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. board should get to see the Foxconn contract before its finalized.

Because shouldnt a $3 billion state agreement with a foreign company be released to the public, and the publics democratically elected representatives be allowed to vote on it?

WEDC says that releasing incentives deals before theyre signed is not part of the agencys standard operating procedure  which is true, but also irrelevant, as theres little thats standard about the Foxconn deal. At least on Friday agency leaders relented somewhat and declared the contract would be shared with board members.

If theres such a thing as a good way to dole out tax breaks, public grants and low-interest loans, and other corporate welfare, its probably the way municipalities do it.

Developers or companies approach cities about dipping into taxpayers pockets to help them build or expand facilities. Rules for what kinds of help are available are set by state law, city ordinance and city policy. The city and developer negotiate a deal in private, which is legal and which they contend is necessary to maintaining their competitive advantages.

But once the developer and city staff decide on an agreement, its released publicly before the citys elected officials vote on whether to approve it.

In a way, incentives agreements approved by WEDC have gotten a public airing because the tax credit, grant, loan and other programs the agreements involve have been approved through legislation.

The Foxconn agreement to open up a $10 billion factory and create thousands of jobs in Racine County, though, required legislation to create new programs  and only one incarnation of one of those programs  specifically for Foxconn. Under the legislation, Foxconn could collect up to $2.85 billion in tax credits by building in what is now the states only Electronics and Information Technology Manufacturing Zone.

I tried to find out if this is the first time the state has created a lucrative new incentives program for a single company since WEDCs creation in 2011, but WEDC spokesman Mark Maley did not respond to requests for comment.

Yes, the Foxconn legislation  signed by Gov. Scott Walker on Sept. 18  got a public hearing and votes. State law also gives traditional state agencies  as opposed to quasi-public ones like WEDC  authority to sign contracts with third parties without having to run them past the Legislature first.

But the Foxconn legislation left WEDC and Foxconn to hammer out the contract details in private  and Foxconn isnt exactly your everyday state deal.

The Foxconn incentive package is 167 times larger than the largest WEDC tax credit award in fiscal year 2015-16, according to a May audit of the WEDC by the states nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau. Its 750 times larger than the largest WEDC loan made that year. Its 16 times larger than the total of all loans, grants, tax credits and bonds issued or authorized by the agency in FY15-16.

In August, PolitiFact said that as far as it could determine, the Foxconn deal was the most generous collection of public subsidies ever awarded to a foreign company. Second was a $1.65 billion deal Pennsylvania crafted for Dutch Royal Shell in 2012.

UW-Madison professor emeritus of public affairs and political science Dennis Dresang contrasted WEDCs approach to that of the UW System Board of Regents and the states Building Commission.

The Board of Regents is appointed mostly by the governor, although the elected state superintendent of public instruction gets a seat. The Building Commission, which approves state construction projects and building leases, is made up mostly of lawmakers and the governor. The WEDC board is made up of state legislators, private citizens with expertise in business or industry, and nonvoting state agency heads.

The Building Commission can see project costs and leases before voting on them, while the Board of Regents will be provided, upon request, with the contracts its asked to vote on.

It is standard that negotiations are confidential, but it is not standard that contracts are approved behind closed doors, Dresang said of state contracts.

Since they took whats turned out to be near-continuous control of the governors office and the Legislature six years ago, Republicans havent always provided the best example of open government.

Legislative leaders sought to gut the states open records law and drew state and congressional district lines in secret. The governor has limited access to so-called transitory records and his campaign and travel schedules.

The GOPs Foxconn deal is unique. But the lack of transparency surrounding it is not.
Beijing: China on Sunday reacted cautiously over a proposal by the Trump administration for a working-level quadrilateral meeting with India, Japan and Australia, saying Beijing hopes that it would not target or damage a "third party's interest".

The US was looking at a "working-level" quadrilateral meeting in the near term with India, Japan and Australia and offer countries in the Indo-Pacific region an alternative to predatory financing or unsustainable debt, the State Department had said last month.

The proposal was, however, seen by China as an attempt to counter its influence in the region.

Reacting to it, the Chinese Foreign Ministry hoped that such an arrangement will promote mutual trust among countries in the region and not harm its interest.

"China hopes the collaboration among relevant countries could comply with the trend of times, which refers to peace, development, and cooperation and shared benefits, and also conform to the prospects of the regions and nations for common security and development," the ministry said in a written response to a query from PTI in Beijing.

"We hope it would be beneficial for improving the mutual trust among countries and regions, at the same time safeguarding and promoting peace, tranquillity, and prosperity within the area, without targeting or damaging a third party's interest," it said.

State Department's Acting Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice G Wells had said: "As we explore ways to deepen and try to inculcate some of the values - freedom of navigation, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, transparency - obviously, Australia would be a natural partner in that effort as well".

The freedom of navigation is mostly referred to unhindered movement of ships and flights in the disputed South China Sea as China claims most of the busy trade route through which goods worth over USD 5.3 trillion pass every year.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the resource-rich area. The US has been periodically sending naval ships and planes to assert the freedom of navigation, much to the chagrin of China.

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono said earlier that Tokyo would propose a "top-level dialogue with the US, India and Australia" to promote free trade and defence cooperation across the Indian Ocean.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is expected to bring up the same issue during his meeting with US President Donald Trump who is currently visiting Tokyo.

The US President would arrive in Beijing on a three-day visit from November 8.

Besides the proposed grouping, President Xi Jinping is expected to discuss with Trump, America's new South Asia policy piling up pressure on China's close ally Pakistan over terror safe heavens and Japan's proposal to jointly work out an alternative Silk Road plan with the US and India to counter China's multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which includes USD 50 billion CPEC.

India has opposed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as it traversed through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The quadrilateral idea has drawn criticism from sate-run Chinese media.

Although Wells refuted reports that the move is aimed at containing China, statements by other senior US officials sound suspicious, an article in Global Times said recently. Wells said that the mechanism will offer countries in the Indo-Pacific region an alternative to predatory financing or unsustainable debt, while US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson recently rebuked China for being an irresponsible international actor prone to predatory economic policies, the article said.

"Investment and trade are an important means to promote world economy. If the US, Japan, Australia and India can coordinate and support infrastructure construction and economic development of Indo-Pacific countries, they are more than welcome. But if they try to incorporate values into economic issues and display prejudice and hostility toward other countries, they will not bring stability to the region," it added.
Santiago: A top Venezuelan opposition lawmaker on Saturday requested Chile's protection after Venezuela's high court announced he would be prosecuted on charges punishable by a decade in prison.

Freddy Guevara, the opposition-stacked National Assembly's number two official, sought refuge at Chile's embassy in Caracas after the pro-government dominated Supreme Court's announcement Friday.

Chile's foreign ministry said in a statement that Guevara, 31, was received at the residence of its ambassador "as a guest," and that he "had requested the protection of Chile" based on "what he considers to be imminent threats to his security and personal integrity."

The prominent opposition leader became the sixth Venezuelan to seek protection at the embassy in under three months, including four judges who are already protected in Chile and a fifth who has remained at the diplomatic residence since April.

Venezuela's top court on Friday announced the suspension of Guevara's immunity to enable him to be tried for crimes of "association, persistent public instigation and the use of an adolescent to commit crimes," without specifying when the allegations date from.

The pro-government constitutional assembly  which governs crisis-stricken Venezuela with absolute power  is meanwhile investigating the lawmaker in connection with mass protests against the embattled President Nicolas Maduro that left 125 dead between April and July.

Spain has rejected the measures taken against Guevara, while the so-called Lima Group  comprised of 12 American states  described it as "a new attack against the rule of law and the division of powers in Venezuela."
Beirut: Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah movement, said on Sunday the previous day's resignation of the country's premier Saad Hariri had been "imposed" by Saudi Arabia.

"It is clear that the resignation was a Saudi decision that was imposed on Prime Minister Hariri. It was not his intention, not his wish and not his decision" to quit, Nasrallah said in a televised address.

Hariri, a protege of Riyadh, on Saturday announced his surprise resignation in a broadcast from the Saudi capital.

He cited the "grip" of Hezbollah ally Iran on the country, and also said he feared for his life.

"We did not seek this resignation," said Nasrallah, whose powerful movement has participated in Hariri's government for almost a year.

The Hezbollah chief did not directly address the accusations levelled by what he called Hariri's "very hard" speech, saying only that these were "a matter for Saudi Arabia".

Hariri, a two-time premier whose father Rafik held the same position for years and was assassinated in 2005, accused both Iran and Hezbollah of seeking hegemony in the region.

Nasrallah questioned the timing of Hariri's announcement at a time when "things are proceeding normally... in the heart of government" in Lebanon.
Brussels/Madrid/Barcelona: Sacked Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont and four associates turned themselves in to Belgian police on Sunday, following Spain's issuing of an arrest warrant for rebellion and sedition.

All are wanted by Madrid for actions related to the push for the region's secession from Spain. Puigdemont has become the public face of that move for independence.

Other charges are the misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to the secessionist campaign, which has thrown Spain into a political crisis just as its economy has recovered from a sharp downturn and banking stress.

Madrid has taken over administrative control in Catalonia, until then an autonomous region, and called new elections on December 21.

Two polls on Sunday suggested pro-Catalonia independence parties will together win December's regional election although they may fall just short of a majority of seats in parliament needed to revive the secession campaign.

Parties supporting Catalonia staying in Spain would divide seats but garner around 54 percent of the vote, the polls suggested.

Puigdemont travelled to Belgium shortly after Madrid took control. On Sunday morning, Puigdemont and four of his former councillors presented themselves to police in Brussels.

A judge will hear the defendants case on Sunday afternoon and has until Monday morning to decide whether the formalities for the extradition request have been fulfilled.

According to a GAD3 survey of 1,233 people conducted between October 30 and November 3 and published in La Vanguardia newspaper, pro-independence parties ERC, PDECat and CUP would take between 66 and 69 seats in the 135-seat parliament.

A second poll taken over the same period for the conservative newspaper La Razon echoed the GAD3 survey, showing pro-independence parties would capture the most votes though still fall just shy of a parliamentary majority with 65 seats.

Other seats would be generally divided between parties that support the region remaining as part of Spain, though they would run on separate tickets.

Voter participation, however, will rise to a record of 83 percent, the GAD3 poll showed.

POLITICIANS ON REMAND

Under the European arrest warrant system, the five defendants in Belgium can agree to an extradition order immediately or the judge can set bail or detain them. Belgian authorities have to inform their European counterparts if a European arrest warrant cannot be executed after 90 days.

On Saturday, Puigdemont - who PDECat said on Sunday would lead the party in the election - called for a united Catalan political front for independence from Spain and against the detention of his former members of government.

On Thursday, nine of his sacked cabinet were ordered by Spain's High Court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial.

One member of the dismissed cabinet, Santi Vila, was freed after paying bail of 50,000 euros ($58,035) on Friday. The other eight could remain in custody for up to four years.

According to the GAP3 survey, 59 percent believed legal action against Puigdemont was unjustified while 69.3 percent said that the jailing of the Catalan politicians would give the independence cause a boost at the ballot box.

Catalan civic groups Asamblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Cultural - whose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition charges - called for a general strike on November 8 and a mass demonstration on November 11 to protest the detentions.

BACK TO THE START

A rally in Barcelona on Sunday, however, attracted just a few hundred people, a long way from the hundreds of thousands to join pro-independence marches in October, many waving the regional flag and carrying protest signs.

One protester, Antonia Aguilera, 63, said she was concerned the new elections wouldn't be fair and would be manipulated by the Spanish government.

Her concerns echo the deep mistrust many Catalans have of politicians in Madrid that has deepened since the arrests and after the national police used truncheons and rubber bullets to thwart voting in the illegal independence referendum on October 1.

"I'm disgusted by it all. We knew they would react but not as strongly as they did," she said, adding that she believed the pro-independence parties would win the December election.

"And then we'll be back where we started."
Washington: North Korea could use biological and chemical weapons in the event of a conflict and the only way to locate and secure all of its nuclear weapons sites "with complete certainty" is through an invasion of ground forces, the Pentagon has warned.

In a letter to lawmakers, the Pentagon said that a full discussion of US capabilities to "counter North Korea's ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and to eliminate" its nuclear weapons located in underground sites is best suited for a classified briefing, the Washington Post reported.

The letter, reportedly written by vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff Rear Adm. Michael J Dumont, said North Korea "has a long-standing chemical weapons program with the capability to produce nerve, blister, blood and choking agents."

The Pentagon leaders "assess that North Korea may consider the use of biological weapons," the letter said. The letter was in response to a request from two members of Congress about "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea," the Post said.

The Pentagon said that calculating "best- or worst-case casualty scenarios" was challenging and would depend on the "nature, intensity and duration" of a North Korean attack; how much warning civilians would have to get to the shelters in South Korea; and the ability of US and South Korean forces to respond to North Korean artillery, rockets and missiles.

A statement by 16 lawmakers, released simultaneously with the Pentagon letter, urged President Donald Trump to stop making "provocative statements" that impede diplomatic efforts and risk the lives of US troops, the paper said.

Trump and North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong-Un have traded increasingly threatening and personal insults as Pyongyang races towards its goal of developing a nuclear-tipped missile capable of reaching the US.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea conducted its biggest nuclear test in September, which its state-run KCNA news agency described as a hydrogen bomb.
New York: A Sikh mayoral candidate in the US has been labelled a terrorist in slanderous flyers left on car windshields only days before the election, according to a media report.

The flyers targeting Ravinder Bhalla, the first Sikh to hold elected office in New Jersey, were placed on car windshields on Friday night, New York Daily News reported.

They have a photo of New Jersey Councilman Bhalla. In red letters above him, the flyers read: "Don't let terrorism take over our Town!", it added.

The report alleged that the leaflets appear to be a modified version of mailers sent out by another Hoboken mayoral candidate, Mike DeFusco. The original flyers accused Bhalla of having a potential conflict of interest. Officials in New Jersey are condemning flyers that paint the Sikh politician running for the mayor of Hoboken as a terrorist.

DeFusco condemned the altered flyers in a statement on Saturday.

"Today I spoke out not only against the racist, disgusting flyers targeting Ravi Bhalla that appeared last night and was made to look like it came from my campaign, but also against the rest of the hate that has been shamefully displayed throughout this race," DeFusco said.

DeFusco said he has also been the victim of hateful rhetoric accusing him of being a part of a "crime family" and attacking his sexuality, the report said.

Yesterday, a flyer w/ word terrorist above a pic of me was circulated in Hob. Of course this is troubling, but we wont let hate win. pic.twitter.com/Ri9xrYF4Al Ravinder S. Bhalla (@RaviBhalla) November 4, 2017

He would be Hoboken's first gay mayor, if elected. Bhalla addressed the terrorism flyers on November 4, calling them "troubling" in a statement.

"We won't let hate win in Hoboken," he said. "I want to use this incident as an opportunity to affirm to each other and our children the value of living in a diverse community where we are judged by the content of our character - not by the colour of our skin or how we worship," Bhalla said in the statement.

Senator Cory Booker posted a photo of the flyers to his Twitter account. He called it "vile" and "hateful" and said, "We all must condemn bigotry & hate!" Six candidates are vying to replace outgoing Mayor Dawn Zimmer in the election on Tuesday.

The flyers appeared days after racist campaign mailers attacking two Asian school board candidates in Edison evoked the campaign slogan of President Donald Trump and claimed Chinese and Indian residents are "taking over" the town.
After coming under the control of the Lynchburg Humane Society in January, the public Appomattox County Animal Shelter has seen an increase in the number of animals in its care over last year and now boasts a save rate of more than 99 percent, up from 94 percent last year.

Management of the shelter was shifted from the county to the Lynchburg Humane Society after public outcry in September 2016 over the euthanasia of a dog named Sam  whose adoption allegedly had been arranged by shelter volunteers  accelerated previous talks between the nonprofit and the county to set up an agreement to manage the shelter.

Between January and the end of October, the facility, located on Morningstar Road in Appomattox County, has taken in 612 animals, which already is a 34 percent increase over the total animals cared for in all of 2016, according to Lynchburg Humane Society Executive Director Makena Yarbrough.

Im glad that things have changed for the positive, and I think were on a good course, Yarbrough said. We would love to see more community involvement there, including adoptions, volunteering and fostering. Wed love to see more people getting involved.

Despite the increase in animals, the facility has been able to boost its adoption rates and only euthanize one animal in 10 months of operations by collaborating with the humane societys main location in Lynchburg and other community members, according to Appomattox Shelter Supervisor Skylar Yeatts.

When we start to get really filled up with pets, we reach out to rescues, we look for foster [homes] in the community and we also reach out to Lynchburg so if they have space, we will transfer some of the pets out there, said Yeatts, who began supervising the facility in July. It is quicker for them to get adopted once they move to [LHS main location] because they get a higher volume of people who come in and out of their facility on a daily basis.

Since the first of January, the Appomattox shelter has connected 150 pets with adoptive homes, according to Yarbrough.

Of the 455 animals the Appomattox shelter cared for in 2016 prior to LHS taking over, 183 were adopted, 184 transferred to another facility, 25 were euthanized, 51 were reclaimed by owners and 12 remained at the Appomattox shelter as of Dec. 31, 2016, according to the latest numbers available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Since taking charge, LHS now provides 24/7 medical care for the animals in the shelter, spay and neuter services, increased training for shelter employees and longer hours of operation under the agreement. Prior to the change in management, when the shelter was under county control, newly admitted animals often were taken to a local veterinarian to be examined because staff did not have the training to properly evaluate animals.

Other updates to the facility include a second, larger dog play area next to the facility where dogs can run and potential adopters can spend time with the animals. In the works is a more open cat room with platforms and cat trees for the animals to climb on instead of keeping the animals in crates, which Yeatts said should happen in the coming months.

Under management by LHS, the facility is staffed with Yeatts and the shelters three Animal Welfare Associates, who are all LHS employees and trained to evaluate animals on intake and give vaccinations. The four employees at the shelter work exclusively in Appomattox, but LHS staff based in Lynchburg can come in to help if necessary, according to Yarbrough. When more medical attention is needed, animals are cared for by the veterinarian at the Lynchburg Humane Society in Lynchburg.

In comparison, as of September 2016, the shelter had a staff of one full-time employee and one part time employee.

According to Appomattox County Administrator Susan Adams, discussions about a potential partnership between the locality and the Lynchburg Humane Society initially began in 2015 but were put on hold once Adams decided to hire a shelter manager instead.

After public pressure mounted following the death of Sam, talks began in earnest. The Appomattox County Board of Supervisors approved the agreement in November 2016, and it took effect Jan. 1, 2017. In order to pay for the approximately $113,000 it would take for LHS to operate the shelter, Appomattox County agreed to pay$75,000 annually to the nonprofit. The rest of the $38,000 necessary to operate the shelter would come from fundraising by LHS, according to Yarbrough.

When the locality managed the shelter itself, Appomattox budgeted $65,000 annually to pay for the facilitys operations. Another $5,000 was paid to the Animal Welfare Action Group of Appomattox, a nonprofit that assisted with medical expenses and other sheltercommunity outreach. After the group cut ties with the shelter and disbanded in October 2016, Yarbrough said group members donated the balance of the groups bank account to LHS for the operation of the Appomattox shelter. The News & Advance could not reach anyone in the nonprofit for a comment on why the group disbanded.

According to Yarbrough, $2,000 of the $10,000 Animal Welfare Action Group of Appomattoxwill be used for educational programs for youth in Appomattox and to assist pet owners with items or medical care they might need to take care of their animals, such as the purchase of a dog house or a spay/neuter procedure.

Becky Walsh, Sams prospective adopter before his euthanasia, said although she has not been closely involved with the shelter since the incident last year, everything she has heard about LHS managing the shelter has been positive.

It appears from what I can see that the Lynchburg Humane Society has done an incredible job in turning things around at the Appomattox Shelter, Walsh said in an interview.

Adams said she is pleased with LHS management of the shelter and the added resources the agreement adds.

Appomattox County compliments Ms. Yarborough and her staff at LHS for their professionalism and desire to hold our interests as top priority, Adams said in an email. We are excited about the prompt healthcare and screenings that are offered to all of the animals as they come to the shelter as well as the facelift that is planned for the interior of the facility.

Yeatts attributes the rise in the number of animals passing through the facility to LHS reputation as a no-kill facility and the increased level of care provided since the new agreement.

I think weve had more animals because people feel a little bit more comfortable with the facility, she said. A big thing is people feel more comfortable coming to us, which is great because thats what we wanted. We want the community to know that were here, and we can help with anything that they need.
A state historical highway marker for Helen Pesci Wood is set to be dedicated today, according to a press release.

Born in Chicago, Helen Pesci Wood was an operatic soprano and arts educator who taught at Lynchburg College and performed across North America at places such as Carnegie Hall in New York and Her Majestys Theatre in Montreal, Canada, the release states.

The marker, issued by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, will be placed near the Fort Hill Womans club at the intersection of Fort and Memorial avenues.

Speakers during the unveiling will include Lynchburg City Council member Randy Nelson and S. Allen Chambers Jr., a former chairman of the State Review Board of the Department of Historic Resources.

The event, which is open to the public, will begin at 2 p.m. and will continue indoors after the marker is unveiled with speeches by marker proposer Jane Baber White and Woods son Robert C. Wood III, according to the release.
LEXINGTON  John Winfrey is the rare candidate for public office who doesnt like the sight of his name on a campaign sign.

I never thought that I wanted to be a politician, and I still dont, said Winfrey, who at the age of 82 has launched the first campaign of his life: An uphill battle to oust Republican Ben Cline from his seat of 15 years in the House of Delegates 24th District.

Im embarrassed about seeing my name on all those signs, said Winfrey, who is running as an independent. Im not that pretentious.

But even more disquieting for Winfrey would be to see no signs at all.

And once it became clear earlier this year that no one else was willing to challenge Cline in the heavily Republican district, he decided to do it himself.

If there was a Democrat running, I would not be running, the retired Washington and Lee University economics professor said. I would be helping them.

Cline, who holds a conservative voting record and a string of Election Day victories, said he welcomes his sixth opponent since 2002. Its a healthy debate because his views are so different from mine, the Lexington lawyer said.

The 24th District includes the cities of Lexington and Buena Vista, Bath and Rockbridge counties, and parts of Amherst and Augusta counties.

In most elections, Lexington is a speck of blue in a swath of red; less than a third of the citys voters backed President Donald Trump last year while he carried the district with 66 percent.

Like Trump, Winfrey is entering politics as a senior citizen with no prior experience in elected office.

The similarities end there.

Congress should impeach Donald Trump now, Winfrey wrote in a recent letter to the editor in The Roanoke Times. He listed seven grounds, the first being sheer incompetence.

But what about Winfreys own lack of political experience, not to mention his age?

During an interview in the living room of his cottage at the Kendal at Lexington retirement community, Winfrey described himself as a very healthy and energetic 82-year-old. He said his knowledge as an economics and public policy professor and longtime Democratic activist give him a good grasp on how government should function.

And, he added half-jokingly, I believe in term limits, so Im sort of automatically ensuring everybody: Dont worry; I wont be in there for very long.

Winfrey has been around Lexington so long that he once had Clines father as a student in one of his W&L economics classes.

Hey, more power to him, said Cline, who at 45 can vaguely remember meeting Winfrey when he was a toddler. I encourage folks to get involved regardless of their age or experience. It makes the debate in the public sphere all the more healthy.

Based on available records, it appears that a victory by Winfrey next week would make him the oldest person elected to a first term in the House of Delegates since at least 1776, according to House clerk Paul Nardo.

When Cline was first elected in 2002 at the age of 30, he became the youngest member of the House at that time.

Cline seems like a nice young man, Winfrey allowed. But his positions are diametrically opposed to everything I stand for.

Two of those positions are the centerpiece of Winfreys campaign: A decision by the Republican-controlled General Assembly not to expand Medicaid as part of the Affordable Care Act, and the drawing of legislative districts along party lines, also known as gerrymandering.

Medicaid currently offers limited public health insurance to the destitute and disabled. An expansion would use federal funds to widen the programs eligibility to include about 400,000 Virginians, many of them among the working poor.

Theyre struggling hard to raise a family and they just cant make enough to get health care. Theyre obviously eager to succeed, but they need a little help, Winfrey said. I tell Ben Cline, I say Ben, your policies are making it tougher on these families and some of these people will die. Theres no way to get around it.

Thats just so evil, basically. Its just plain evil.

In explaining his vote against expansion, Cline called the facet of Obamacare fiscally unsustainable.

Virginias Medicaid program is the biggest driver of cost increases in our current budget, he said. To expand our Medicaid program even further would not only strain our resources, it would impact our ability to meet needs in other areas.

The promised federal dollars would not cover administrative costs, he said, and some of the states that have expanded Medicaid have found the projected costs were woefully underestimated.

On the issue of gerrymandering, Winfrey said he supports forming an independent, non-partisan commission to draw up the states legislative districts  a task that currently falls to the General Assembly. Critics say that whatever party is in power rigs the electoral map to maintain its control.

One reason that Im running as an independent is that I can say: its cheating,  Winfrey said. And everybody knows its cheating. If the Republicans do it its cheating, and if the Democrats were to do it, its cheating.

Cline argues that an independent commission would remove transparency and accountability from the process.

I take my responsibility very seriously as the representative of the people of this area, he said. So Im very suspicious of any reforms that would remove that responsibility for drawing legislative lines away from the legislature.

Cline and Winfrey come closer to common ground on the issue of Confederate statues on public land, and whether they should be taken down in light of racial tensions exposed by a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville that turned deadly.

Both candidates say the issue is different in Lexington, where Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson are buried  and where many say the men are best remembered for what they did in Lexington before and, in the case of Lee, after the Civil War.

So far, there has been no concerted public push to remove three statues: a recumbent Lee in the chapel at W&L, where he served as president, and two of Jackson, one in the cemetery where hes buried and a second at Virginia Military Institute, where he taught.

Lexington is a unique place and we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to educate and inform about these men and who they were in their lives before, during and after the Civil War, Cline said.

While sympathizing with the African-Americans and others who see the statues as standing for racism, Winfrey said he would like the ones in Lexington to remain.

Clines campaign has far outpaced Winfreys in fundraising, $95,387 to $11, 381 through the end of September, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

That and the districts makeup could make it a tough run for the candidate whod rather not be running.

The odds are stacked against me, Winfrey conceded.

As Election Day  and the end of campaigning  approaches, Winfrey has written a note on his kitchen calendar, next to the Nov. 7 date.

It reads: Thank God.
An increasing number of students in Campbell County Public Schools are having difficulties with their mental and emotional health, according to school officials who now are working to arm teachers with new techniques to handle outbursts in school.

Schools in the division share between one and three counselors on staff who are trained to deal with social and emotional issues students might have. Assistant Superintendent Rob Arnold ran through the list last week: anxieties, depressions, thing that trigger behavior they cant control, emotional responses, emotionally explosive responses.

That equates to one counselor for an average of 559 students at the elementary level, or an average of 315 students at the middle and high school levels.

High anxiety, depression, self harming and explosive behaviors have become a real problem in Campbell Countys public schools, Arnold told the Campbell County School Board in October.

Lacking the financial means to bring on more counselors or social workers, Arnold said administrators and teachers in schools, likely beginning with Rustburg Elementary, soon will be trained in de-escalation strategies for when students have outbursts in class, though there is no set date yet for this training to begin. The training will be similar to a course offered for teachers over the summer, as part of a collection of courses they can volunteer to take called the teacher learning academy.

Kristen Stafford is a reading specialist at Rustburg Elementary School. She took the training course over the summer, and said she learned verbal de-escalation strategies as well as some physical interventions if necessary. She called the strategies beneficial because they help her prevent crises and also decrease the intensity of students outbursts when they do occur.

More than anything, she said, the framework the training provided helps her maintain much-needed consistency in responding to these behaviors.

Students know what to expect when theyre de-escalating from the behavior, Stafford said. Ive been able to provide a more safe and secure learning environment for all my students because they know what to expect when that situation arises.

Stafford also leads by example. She displays respect, compassion and kindness and she said her students often mirror it in turn. When a student does have an outburst, Stafford said shes careful to remain calm and not react along with the student.

The ultimate goal is to give teachers strategies to spend less time troubleshooting behaviors and more time on instruction. That can involve teaching students strategies as well.

Jennifer McCormick, director of the Cornerstone Learning Center, the alternative school in Campbell County, said she and her staff teach their students both coping and calming strategies. They tell the younger kids to smell the flowers and blow out the candles to teach them to take deep breaths. Other students count forward or backward to calm down, she said.

***

Arnold explained that handling these behaviors is a challenge, but it ultimately represents a positive shift in how schools deal with kids with social and emotional problems. If students misbehaved a few decades ago, the teacher would just kick them out of class, and maybe out of school.

Linda Grubba, a retired counselor who worked in Campbell County schools for 27 years, is now the president of the Virginia Counselors Association. She said the rise of students in school struggling with social and emotional issues tracks with the fact that in the 1960s and 70s, if a student was acting out, schools were fine if they just dropped out. Now, schools are more concerned with keeping and helping these students, and teachers and administrators know more about the trauma that can cause these outbursts. Problem kids arent necessarily bad kids.

Campbell County Public Schools has had a memorandum of understanding for about a decade with professional mental health providers Harvest Outreach and Horizon Behavioral Health. Eligible students receive services in a few different ways. Some may need a clinician from one of these organizations to stay with them throughout the day, or they may just meet up for a short session each day. Sometimes students with similar situations might meet together for group therapy.

Damien Cabezas, chief executive officer of Horizon, said the agency also has a physical location on Old Forest Road in Lynchburg where students can get treatment if its unsafe for them to be in school. The goal is always to increase the number of days students are present in class, bring their grades up, and get them to a point where theyre ready to go back to their home school.

Theres one caveat: Only students with Medicaid qualify for services through Horizon.

Harvest can offer pro bono counseling and sometimes track down funding for some of the students who are not on Medicaid. Students who dont have any of these options must seek counseling privately, and Arnold said schools can steer parents toward resources but cant ensure that theyre taking advantage of them.

Horizon serves school divisions in Lynchburg and the surrounding counties, and Cabezas said he hasnt seen a major uptick in the total number of students who receive services in recent years. Some divisions fluctuate from year to year, but the total number of students Horizon works with hovers at about 400 per school year. In Campbell County, Horizon served 130 students in 2015 and 2016, and 148 in 2017.

Horizon counselors have seen an increase in students dealing with trauma, often from abuse  physical or verbal  in the home, either among other members of the family or directed at the student, Cabezas said. The number of students who had a history of trauma in Campbell County and were treated through Horizonjumped from 72 in 2015 to 87 in 2016. That manifests itself in anxiety and depression, Cabezas said.

Carrington Connolley, the executive director of Harvest Outreach, said Harvest also has seen more students struggling with anxiety recently, at all age levels. She didnt have exact figures on the increase, however. She also said in the last three years the number of older students referred for substance abuse has ticked up.

***

Arnold said trauma  and the subsequent anxiety, depression and outbursts  is found in students across the socio-economic spectrum.

Poverty creates stress, and that stress then is transferred to kids who have to deal with it in their own ways, he said. But students with parents who are not low-income, and who may be type-A high-achievers who take challenging courses, also face social and emotional issues.

They constantly think, I have to get into this college, I have to be on this team, I have to perform at this level, Arnold said.

Grubba said this uptick in depression and anxiety isnt just a trend in Central Virginia  its nationwide. She attributes the increase to myriad factors, everything from changing parenting styles to social media making disturbing national events like mass shootings feel close to home.

Its much more real to these kids, Grubba said. When children are exposed to things they cannot control, it increases their anxiety.

Grubba said the most shocking thing for her was seeing self-harming and behaviors harmful to others rising among very young children, and Cabezas echoed this. He said nationally, more and more young children, specifically children ages 10 to 14, are dying from suicide.

Horizon expanded services in Appomattox after the county saw multiple suicides two years ago. In 2015, it served 122 Appomattox students.

Suicide rates have been on the rise since 1999, but since 2012 theyve spiked even more dramatically, and specifically for that age group, Cabezas explained. According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide was the fourth-leading cause of death for 10- to 14-year-olds nationwide in 2006, and it was the second-leading cause in 2014.

Were a microcosm of the larger country, Cabezas said.

Arnold said ultimately, the schools cant solve this problem on their own. They need other resources that support kids in Campbell County  everyone from social workers to the juvenile justice system  to become more closely involved with the schools. And they need the state to acknowledge the problem and provide funding to pay more people like counselors and psychologists in the schools.

We need community, we need state legislatures to be a part of the solution, Arnold said.
14:21- First Lady Mugabe rises to address the thousands in attendance and starts with slogans in recognition of the congregants.



14:26  Dr Mugabe starts by acknowledging the presents of all denominations by name.

14:27 - Today is your day. We must worship all the time. We have to seek God all the time. We have to understand that we sin, as a people, and that should make us seek God every time.



We might be coming from different denominations, but the God we are seeking is one. We need to maintain peace. let us pray to God, thanking Him for giving us a leader, President Mugabe who preaches peace all the time.



14:30  We were under the repression of the British colonial government. We do not forget therefore those who fought for this independence. We do not look at people from an ethnic perspective.



14:31  Hatidi kuti vanhu vatitarisire pasi. Imi vanhu vechipositori, tiri vanhu vatinokudza, Tinoda kuti muitewo zvikoro zvenyu, vana vaende kuchikoro. Knowledge is power. Kana wava nefundo, hapana anogona kukuitisa zvausingade, nekuti unenge wava nefundo.



14:32  Dr Mugabe says people must seek wisdom from God through prayer. She says she respects apostolic congregants and that their white regalia is as white as their hearts.

14:34  You work tirelessly. I see you at the borders, yes it might be difficult now because of sanctions. But Zimbabwe is full of natural resources and the number one natural resource in this country are its people, says Dr Mugabe.



14:35  Everyone in this country is important regardless of your physical stature.

She makes reference to Ephesians, Chapter 2 verse 10 which talks about equality.

14:41  She says God gives people different gifts, and that was for a purpose.



14:43  Haubise VaMugabe nekuti hausiwe wakavapa simba iroro. Unenge usinganzwisise nekuti mweya waMwari ndiwo wati unoda uyu. Vakasarudzwa naMwari VaMugabe, nekuti kana wisdon yavainayo ndeya Mwari. Vane chiremerera chakabva kuna Mwari.



14:44- Hanzi hapana munondo ucharwisana newe ukakukunda. No weapon formed against you shall prevail. Ukapira kuna Mwari matambudziko ese auinwawo, zvose zvinopera

14:46  Dr Mugabe asserts that Gods plans can not be destroyed by human beings.

14:47  She condemns those who are out to fight a God-anointed leadership and likens such people to moving graves.



She makes reference to Proverbs 16:9 which says,  In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps. But at the end it is God who makes the final plan.



14:49  She says she always thanks the Lord for everything that she does and achieves, and therefore encourages people to always thank God and pray to God for a plan. She also says those without a vision always try to fight Gods plans.



14:51  Hapana asingagone kuverenga ma verse ese aya. Asi kana usina kukomborerwa kutsanangura zviri muBhaibheri imomo haufe wakakomborerwa. Hazviite.

14:52  First lady acknowledges the support Zanu-PF gets from the apostolic religious sector.



14:52  She encourages people that although Zimbabwe is under sanctions, they should remain resolute despite those who try to accuse President Mugabe over the economic situation.

14:53  Ini handisi munhu anovhaira. Ndinoshanda. Kana muchida ndipei basa, ndinoita mndakasungunguka! Vanhu vanofanira kundinzwa kuti ndinogona basandipei muona, says Dr Mugabe



14:55- She revisits her Politburo experience when she joined the body by making reference to how Joice Mujuru faced her demise.

She says at some point she noticed there were some obsessed with chucking others from the party, but she proposed that the party had to chat a new direction focusing on economic issues.

That is when i said we are a working people and we can not always be a people who import food everytime. That was the time i spoke about this program called Command Agriculture..I am saying it for the first time.



14:59  Vagonhi vakabva vatanga kumhanya nayo, asi vagonhi hapana chandakaona chavakamboita.

President Mugabe vakazoti aiwa, rega ndizvitaura, pama Interface ralies. Baba vakazotaura, kuti ndiFirst Lady.



15:00  Dr Mugabe makes reference to the erroneous attribution of Command Agriculture to Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa saying she was the proponent of the concept, meant to bring back Zimbabwe to the status of being Africas bread basket.

15:02  Dr Mugabe reveals that VP Mnanagwa as early as 1980 had always harbored ambitions to wrestle power away from President Mugabe.

15:03  Dr Mugabe says VP Mnangagwa when he looks at the President he does so with an intent eye full of hate.

15:04  Dr Mugabe also says people should be content with what they have. They should accept who they are.



15:05- Ane ruchiva murume iyeye (VP Mnangagwa), saka ndataura zva 1980, asi mazuva ese aya ndichigara nababa anoita twunhu twake achida kuvhiringidza. Vana vazhinji vakadzingwa vachidzingiswa naiye. I do not want to be blackmailed. No one is going to silence me. Handisini ndakadzingisa Mai Mujuru. Handisini ndakavatuma kuda kupanduka.

15:06  She queries where factionalists get time to pursue factionalism when they are supposed to be working for people.

15:08  Dr Mugabe says President Mugabe is a patient person, and that she also is not perfect as a human being. She says she has adopted orphans and she has assumed the name, Mafirakureva, someone out to always the truth.



15:09  She says she heard about Lacoste and G-40 but failed to get any information about G-40, but she picked that VP Mnangagwa was that much associated with the name Lacoste. She says she confronted him in the Politburo meetings asking him why he was letting this demon of factionalism confuse him.



15:11  Dr Mugabe says after the Mashonaland Central interface rally, Mnangagwa approached the President complaining about her remarks on him about factionalism. But the President told him the First Lady was a truthful person, but Mnangagwa expressed his cowardice and failed to defend his position over the matter.

15:17  Dr Mugabe says at some point together with other women leaders they approached the President with a suggestion to make Cde Shuvai Mahofa (the late) being appointed Minister of Masvingo Province.



At first the President had reservations about Cde Mahofas health, but she convinced him to go ahead with the appointment. But VP Mnangagwa was not happy about the appointment. However the VP in the politburo meeting started to deny saying do not listen to barking dogs (imbwa dzinovukura).



15:20  All these developments, Dr Mugabe says then led to the happenings at the Bulawayo Interface rally held yesterday. She says she had to expose the VP in Bulawayo yesterday.



15:22 So yesterday, the VP planted people in the crowd (in Bulawayo) to boo me. But i am a hard core. I am made of steel, says DrMugabe.

15:23  She says she therefore declared that disciplinary action should be taken against Mnangagwa who was accusing President Mugabe of creating a dynasty, yet the VP left his constituency to his wife, Auxilia.



15:24  She makes reference to how VP Mnangagwa danced to Jah Prayzahs song, Mdhara vachauya at the Midlands Youth Interface rally, pointing at himself as the boss to come, . . .



15:27  She says after her speech President Mugabe stood up against Mnangagwa and warned him he could drop him as soon as tomorrow, and that was when the Vice President got to know what kind of man President Mugabe was.

15:29  Dr Mugabe says there were calls for the Zanu-PF constitution to be amended to accommodate a woman as one of the Vice Presidents. She says however not only the constitution can guarantee those positions as everyone is appointed at the mess of the President.

She says it is up to the women to choose who should be appointed vice president.

15:32  Dr Mugabe says when the constitution was amended, Cde Oppah Muchinguri and Senate President Cde Edina MAdzongwe were in the legal committee but they let it go. However this time around the constitution has to be changed to reclaim the VP position for women.

She warns that women and youths in cahoots with Lacoste are gone!



15:34  She asserts that Zanu-PF has one center of power, President Mugabe. She also highlights that all positions will be up for contestation at the upcoming Zanu-PF elective congress except the Presidency. All provinces have declared President Mugabe the sole presidential candidate in the 2018 national elections.
PROMINENT businessman Dr Shingi Munyeza has stepped down as the senior pastor of Faith Ministries.



The Sunday Mail Society understands that Dr Munyeza, who runs high-end restaurants, recently relinquished his post as Faith Ministries senior pastor.



The clergyman was replaced by Percy Kadziyanike. Kadziyanike confirmed the replacement.

Yes I replaced Dr Munyeza who has since stepped down but I will ask the church communications department to give you a proper write up of the issue, he said.





Dr Munyezas timing in stepping down has generated a lot of debate. He has for long resisted to relinquish the senior pastoral office as church elders tried pushing him out over his business interests in selling alcohol. One of the restaurants located in the Avenues area allegedly operates like a night club, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, as it closes in the wee hours of the morning.





The businessmans opinions are also not a secret as he has developed a penchant for attacking Government programmes.

Dr Munyeza has for months been running a campaign on social media dubbed The Christian Vote Must Decide. He has also been at the forefront of The Zimbabwe we want, a document which speaks to political campaigns in a Christian way.





In an interview with a local weekly, Dr Munyeza declared that he was fearless and would speak truth to power.





Dr Munyeza has since last year posted statements on social media. Some of his statements include 10-Point Plan to Run Zimbabwe Limited and What I would have done with the US$200 million facility.





Under his 10-point plan, Dr Munyeza suggested massive civil servants retrenchments and reversal of the indigenisation policy.





Definitely stay away from the printing press by ensuring the necessary foreign currency controls are in place to arrest externalisation. No to bond notes. Conclude a balance of payment support through current process with IMF  this will ensure my working capital requirement. No to bond notes. Government immediately cuts its expenditure and begins to live within its means  privatise or commercialise State-owned enterprises. Major retrenchment is overdue.





He is a strong critic of the historic land reforms that have seen around 300 000 black families benefiting from farms previously held by just 6 000 whites. Contacted for comment, Dr Munyeza said, With all due respect, as usual your paper has a story they want to write. I suggest you proceed with your story and I will handle what you would have written. I will not endorse mediocre reporting by responding to it. Sunday Mail
No Charges for Cops

in Killing of Man Who

Was 'Biking While Black'
The Dutch branch of the Red Cross did "little or nothing" to help Jews persecuted by Nazi occupiers in the Netherlands during World War II or those transported to camps elsewhere in Europe, a historian said Wednesday. The conclusions come in Questions of Life and Death: The Netherlands Red Cross in the Second World War, a book by Regina Grueter of the NIOD Institute for War, Holocaust, and Genocide Studies following a four-year investigation commissioned by the Red Cross. "The central board of the Red Cross in The Hague, bluntly putbut this is bluntabandoned the Jewish population," Grueter said at a book launch in Amsterdam, reports the AP. "On the one hand it has, clearly unwillingly, carried out anti-Jewish measures of the occupiers. On the other hand, it did little or nothing to help Jews."

Around 140,000 Jews lived in the Netherlands before the 1940-45 Nazi occupation. Of those, 107,000 were deported to Germany and only 5,200 survived. Some 24,000 Jews went into hiding, of which 8,000 were hunted down or turned in. Grueter said the Red Cross also failed those sent to Nazi camps by not doing more to get aid to them. "I don't believe that a package from the Red Cross probably would have made much of a difference," Auschwitz survivor Frieda Menco said in a comment included in the research. "But the idea that somebody in the Netherlands was thinking about you? Yes, that certainly would have made a difference." The current chairwoman of the Dutch Red Cross board, Inge Brakman, apologized unreservedly: The Red Cross "shirked its duties during World War II. It is undoubtedly painful to face up to that, but we must."

(Read more WWII stories.)
The only way to locate and destroy with complete certainty all components of North Korea's nuclear program is through a ground invasion, reports the AP, according to a blunt assessment from the Pentagon in response to a letter from two Democratic congressmen asking about casualty assessments. Rear Adm. Michael Dumont noted that the US is evaluating North Korea's ability to target heavily populated areas of South Korea with long-range artillery, rockets, and ballistic missiles. He also pointed out that Seoul is just 35 miles from the demilitarized zone. Casualties would differ depending on advance warning and the ability of US and South Korea forces to counter, he said. He also mentioned the possibility that chemical and biological weapons might be used by the North in case of a conflict.

Military officials would be happy to join "the intelligence community to address these issues in a classified briefing," he said. In a joint statement Saturday, 15 Democratic lawmakers and one Republicanall military veteranscalled the assessment "deeply disturbing" and said such an action "could result in hundreds of thousands, or even millions of deaths in just the first few days of fighting." "It is our intent to have a full public accounting of the potential cost of war, so the American people understand the commitment we would be making as a nation if we were to pursue military action," the lawmakers said. They also said the Trump administration "has failed to articulate any plans to prevent the military conflict from expanding beyond the Korean Peninsula and to manage what happens after the conflict is over." "With that in mind, the thought of sending troops into harm's way and expending resources on another potentially unwinnable war is chilling. The President needs to stop making provocative statements that hinder diplomatic options and put American troops further at risk," they said. (Read more North Korean nuclear weapon program stories.)
Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of princes and former officials, including a well-known billionaire with extensive holdings in Western companies, as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe that further cements control in its young crown prince. A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's Kingdom Holding Co. told the AP that the royal was among those detained overnight Saturday. The surprise arrests, which also reportedly include two of the late King Abdullah's sons, were being hailed by pro-government media outlets as the greatest sign yet that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is serious about reforming the country, which has long been plagued by allegations of corruption at the highest levels of government. The moves come barely two weeks after Saudi Arabia hosted a major investment conference.

Analysts suggested the corruption probe, which targeted key members of the royal family, was a show of force by the crown prince, aimed at undermining potential rivals. A Saudi government official with close ties to security says 11 princes and 38 former government ministers, deputies, and businessmen are being held in five-star hotels across Riyadh. The scale of the arrests is unprecedented in Saudi Arabia, where senior royals and their business associates have long been untouchable. The Finance Ministry said the anti-corruption probe "opens a new era of transparency and accountability." The kingdom's top council of clerics issued a statement saying it is an Islamic duty to fight corruptionessentially giving religious backing to the arrests. And a top royal court official on Sunday confirmed the arrests on Twitter, describing a "historic and black night against the corrupt." The news broke within hours of King Salman announcing the formation of a new anti-corruption committee headed by his son, the 32-year-old crown prince.

(Read more Saudi Arabia stories.)
Just days after winning the World Series with the Houston Astros, ace pitcher Justin Verlander tied the knot with his longtime on-and-off girlfriend, supermodel Kate Upton. The couple was so eager to get married that Verlander, who pitched two games during the Astros' 4-3 series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, missed his team's celebration parade in Houston on Friday, ESPN reports. By that point Verlander and Upton were already in Italy, where they would get married Saturday in a medieval church in Tuscany's Montalcino valley.

Upton, 25, and Verlander, 34, went on to celebrate with their guests at the Rosewood Castiglion Del Bosco resort, per US Weekly. The couple got engaged in May 2016. Verlander wasn't the only Astro whose World Series victory was accompanied by the sound of wedding bells. After Wednesday's game 7 victory, team shortstop Carlos Correa proposed to his girlfriend, Daniella Rodriguez, on the field on live television. Two big rings on one big night. (Read more Justin Verlander stories.)
New York State Police say they've charged a 48-year-old woman with stealing $250 worth of baked goods from an order of nuns known for their cheesecake. Troopers say the theft occurred last month at the Nuns of New Skete monastery in the rural town of White Creek, on the Vermont border, 35 miles northeast of Albany. The nuns sell their cheesecakes and pastries on the honor system at the monastery's unstaffed gift shop, reports the AP. Police say surveillance cameras caught Angelique Smith and another woman taking merchandise without leaving money in the drop box.

"They try to believe in their fellow man, and they want people to do the right thing," a neighbor tells News 10 of the nuns' honor system. Troopers say surveillance photos released earlier this week and social media postings of the images led to the arrest of Smith, from North Arlington, Vt. The other woman was identified as her 21-year-old daughter, who wasn't charged. The cheesecakes sell for $49 and up.

(Read more cheesecake stories.)
Carles Puigdemont, the former leader of Catalonia wanted on an arrest warrant issued by Spain, has turned himself in to Belgian authorities, reports the BBC. He was accompanied by four other former high-ranking officials who were also ousted after Spain imposed direct rule on the region; all were wanted on charges of rebellion, sedition, misuse of public funds, disobedience, and breach of trust. Belgian authorities are to issue a statement shortly. The same judge who issued the warrant for Puigdemont and his advisers has jailed eight other former Catalan Cabinet members without bail, notes the AP. (Read more Carles Puigdemont stories.)
Saturday Night Live covered a lot of ground in its most recent episode, from President Trump and Paul Manafort naked together in the shower to Larry David making ill-received concentration camp jokes. Alec Baldwin kicked off the show as Trump talking to Manafort in the wake of his disastrous week, heading to the shower as a way to ensure that Manafort isn't wearing a wire, notes Mashable. Joining them are Kate McKinnon as Jeff Sessions ("Im wearing a bathing costume that I got from my favorite placethe 1890s," she drawls. "Plus I thought we should get all used to wearing stripes.") and Beck Bennett as VP Mike Pence. Meanwhile, at the SNL version of the White House, Aidy Bryant brought back her impersonation of Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders that Slate says "singlehandedly saved the day."

But guest-host David is taking some heat over his monologue, notes People, in which he cracked that Ive always been obsessed with women, and Ive often wondered: If Id grown up in Poland when Hitler came to power and was sent to a concentration camp, would I still be checking out women in the camp?" he wondered before musing about flirting. "The problem is, there are no good opening lines in a concentration camp." (Read more Saturday Night Live stories.)
Sprint and T-Mobile called off a merger, reports the AP, saying Saturday that they couldn't come to an agreement that would benefit customers and shareholders after years of dancing around a merger. "The prospect of combining with Sprint has been compelling for a variety of reasons, including the potential to create significant benefits for consumers and value for shareholders. However, we have been clear all along that a deal with anyone will have to result in superior long-term value for T-Mobile's shareholders compared to our outstanding stand-alone performance and track record," said John Legere, president and CEO of T-Mobile US. T-Mobile and Sprint are the US' third- and fourth-largest wireless carriers, respectively, but they are significantly smaller than AT&T and Verizon, who effectively have a duopoly over US wireless service.

The two companies had hoped to find a way of merging to make the wireless market more competitive. Sprint and its owner, the Japanese conglomerate SoftBank, have long been looking for a deal as the company has struggled to compete. But Washington regulators have frowned on a possible merger. DC spiked AT&T's offer to buy T-Mobile in 2011 and signaled in 2014 they would have been against Sprint doing the same thing. Sprint has a lot of debt and a string of annual losses. The company has cut costs and made itself more attractive to customers, BTIG Research analyst Walter Piecyk says, but it hasn't invested enough in its network and doesn't have enough airwave rights for quality service in rural areas. T-Mobile, meanwhile, has been on a yearslong streak adding customers. "T-Mobile does not need a merger with Sprint to succeed, but Sprint might need one to survive," Piecyk wrote in an October research note.

(Read more Sprint stories.)
On Saturday, Harry Dreyfuss, son of actor Richard Dreyfuss, became the latest man to accuse Kevin Spacey of sexual assault. In a long essay on BuzzFeed, Dreyfuss writes that when he was 18 years old, in 2008, Spacey groped him in the actor's apartment in London. Dreyfuss was there with his father, who was starring in a production of the play Complicit at the Old Vic theater, a play Spacey was directing. In the essay, Dreyfuss describes Spacey repeatedly putting his leg on his thigh while Dreyfuss' father was in the room, too wrapped up in rehearsing his lines to notice. Harry Dreyfuss repeatedly changed seats but was followed each time by Spacey, who eventually moved his hand up the young man's thigh to his crotch, leaving it there as Dreyfuss continued to read lines with his father.

Dreyfuss says for years he would tell the story as a joke but only realized that he'd been assaulted after news about the sexual behavior of Spacey, Harvey Weinstein, James Toback, and others began to break. Actor Anthony Rapp was the first to publicly accuse Spacey of assault, on Oct. 29. Since then 10 more men have come out against Spacey. In response, Netflix has shut down production on Spacey's hit show, House of Cards, and cancelled other projects, and Spacey's agency and publicist have terminated their relationships with him. (Read more Kevin Spacey stories.)
Donald Trump is in Asia this week to talk trade and the threat of a nuclear North Korea, and at his first stop, Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, on Sunday morning he told the American troops gathered to hear him speak that things are going "really, really well" back in the United States "since a very very special dayit's called Election Day." Wearing a leather bomber jacket, Trump talked about the success of the stock market and continued low levels of unemployment, the New York Times reports. He also talked about dealing ISIS "one brutal defeat after another." Trump called American troops "the greatest threat to tyrants and dictators who seek to prey on the innocent.

Tokyo is the first stop on Trump's 12-day tour of Asia, during which he'll meet with the leaders of Japan, South Korea, and China and attend summits in Vietnam and the Philippines. Arguably the biggest issue facing the region is North Korea, and Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he will likely meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Vietnam to discuss the rogue nation, CNN reports. Trump's arrival in Japan came on the same day a report in the Japan Times claimed the president questioned the country's decision not to shoot down North Korean missiles earlier this year. The source said Trump, while speaking on the phone with South Asian leaders, expressed disbelief that a country of "samurai warriors" didn't strike back. (Read more Donald Trump stories.)
Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian involvement in the 2016 presidential election may be inside the White House soon. NBC News reports that Mueller has enough evidence to bring charges against Donald Trump's former National Security Advisor, Michael Flynn. Last week Mueller charged former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and his business partner Rick Gates and revealed that a former Trump campaign adviser had pleaded guilty to lying to investigators and was cooperating with officials, but Flynn would be the first Trump administration official indicted in the investigation. Sources say Mueller also has enough evidence to charge Flynn's son, Michael G. Flynn.

At issue is Flynn's lobbying work. Investigators are trying to figure out if he laundered money or lied to federal agents about international connections. He is also under investigation for his possible role in an attempt to ship a political enemy of Turkish President Recep Erdogan back to Turkey from the US in exchange for several million dollars. Flynn's son traveled and worked with his father during the campaign and transition, and sources say Mueller could put pressure on Flynn to cooperate with the investigation in exchange for sparing his son. (Read more Michael flynn stories.)
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As'ad's Bio

As'ad AbuKhalil, born March 16, 1960. From Tyre, Lebanon, grew up in Beirut. Received his BA and MA from American University of Beirut in pol sc. Came to US in 1983 and received his PhD in comparative government from Georgetown University. Taught at Tufts University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, Colorado College, and Randolph-Macon Woman's College. Served as a Scholar-in-Residence at Middle East Institute in Washington DC. He served as free-lance Middle East consultant for NBC News and ABC News, an experience that only served to increase his disdain for maintream US media. He is now professor of political science at California State University, Stanislaus. His favorite food is fried eggplants.
The labourers suffered 20 to 85 per cent burn injuries. It took five hours to control the fire.

The workers have suffered 20 to 85 per cent burn injuries.

By Press Trust of India: At least 15 labourers were injured, seven of them seriously, when a fire broke out in an oil mill following an explosion in an oil tank on Hisar-Tohan road near here today, the police said.

The explosion in the oil tank took place following a leakage in the boiler, they said.

It took five hours for fire brigade personnel from Hisar, Tohana, Barwala and Narwana to extinguish the fire.

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The impact was so powerful that the roof and walls of the mill crumbled and it soon turned into a heap of debris.

All the injured were shifted to Hisar and were admitted to different private hospitals.

Seven persons -- Rahul, Pankaj Ram, Suresh, Bhim Raj, Ganesh, Ramesh and Narender received burn injuries ranging from 90 per cent to 100 per cent, police said.

Their condition is stated to be the critical, said police.

Eight labourers received 20 per cent to 85 per cent burn injuries and have been admitted to private hospitals in Hisar.

The police chief of Hisar district, Manisha Chaudhary visited the spot and hospitals to take stock of the situation.

The incident comes close on the heels of an boiler blast in the NTPC plant in UP which left 33 persons dead.

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A video of the alleged incident shows one of the two boys crying in pain as a man places a burning cloth on him.

One of the minors allegedly suffered burn injuries during the assault. Photo for representation.

By Tanseem Haider: Delhi Police has registered a case against unidentified men for allegedly stripping two minors and brutally assaulting them after they were accused of theft in Samaypur Badli area. A video which captures how the unidentified men also inflicted burn injuries on the two minors has gone viral.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rohini said a case was registered on Saturday but the incident took place a few days ago. The police came to know about the incident when authorities at the Baba Saheb Ambedkar hospital informed them after being told about the video.

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The video purportedly shows a group of men holding a boy's legs, who is lying on the ground, while another person kicks him and places his foot on his chest. Another man, holding a fuel-soaked burning cloth, places the piece of cloth on the boy's body. The boy's cries for help go unheard.

The video then allegedly shows that at some distance a man is slapping and pulling the hair of the other minor boy.

ALSO WATCH: Delhi horror: Nigerian tied to pole, brutally thrashed on 'suspicion' of theft

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AAP has filed a complaint of theft and has also submitted the CCTV footage.

By India Today Web Desk: After Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's car was stolen another case of theft has been reported by the Aam Aadmi Party at their office. An AAP leader reported the theft in the Indraprastha Police Station on Sunday.

"A complaint of theft was submitted at the Indraprastha Police Station along with the CCTV footage, on Saturday night," the AAP leader told IANS.

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The leader said that around 25-28 election campaign material was stolen from the party office at Rouse Avenue, New Delhi. The CCTV footage that the AAP submitted to the police shows a man entering the AAP office and exiting with the stolen campaign material in hand.

AAP said that the culprit can be recognised through the CCTV footage.

Watch the video below:

(With inputs from IANS and Arvind Ojha)

--- ENDS ---
New Delhi:

Continuing the string of deaths in Gorakhpurs Baba Raghav Das (BRD) Medical College and Hospital, at least 30 children have lost their live in span of 48 hours.

BRD Medical College Professor Dr. DK Shrivastava told that 15 children died in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) while 15 others took their last breath in the Paediatrics Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the hospital.

According to hospital officials, 1,470 children were admitted in BRD hospital out of which 310 could not be saved.

In August, the BRD hospital made headlines worldwide after 63 children including infants died in a span of 7 days due to disruption in supply of liquid oxygen over non-payment of dues.

Also Read | Gorakhpur Tragedy: Here's how 'hero' Dr Khan saved as many children as he could

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath had to face severe critisim from the Opposition parties as the BRD medical college is located in his own constituency Gorakhpur and he even visited the hospital few days before the mass deaths.

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New Delhi:

Two terrorists were killed as the Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid in Uri sector of North Kashmir's Baramulla on Sunday. The operation was underway till the last report came in.

"An infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector and two terrorists have been killed," an Army official said.

On Friday, a militant was killed by the troops along the Line of Control in Machhil sector of Jammu and Kashmir. A weapon was recovered from the spot, an Army official had said.

Around 80 militants have been killed in south Kashmir in the past six months and around 115 ultras are still active in the region, of whom over a dozen were foreign terrorists, a top Army official had informed on Friday.

Infiltration bid foiled in J&K's Uri sector. Two terrorists killed, operation underway pic.twitter.com/Tk6TRB1LQK a ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2017

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New Delhi:

Popular Tamil actor and director Kamal Haasan said on Sunday, People say I will announce my party's name. For naming a child we must have one first. Should I still say if I'll enter politics?



If you keep putting people, who speak truth, behind bars, the number of jails will not be enough to keep them, added Haasan.



This comes amid strong speculations that Hassan would either be joining a certain political party or float one of his own. Recently, Haasan has made several comments about the ongoing political turmoil in Tamil Nadu.



He had said that he wants a better Tamil Nadu, and if the tools that must help achieve that, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and other political parties are blunt, we must find others.



Hassan had also met Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in September. After the meeting, the actor expressed happiness over the meeting. I am very happy that he (Arvind Kejriwal) is here, have discussed issues including corruption, Haasan had said.



Terrorism is different from extremism. I don't preach my ideology to others. I am a rationalist, added Haasan.



In his column published in Tamil Magazine Ananda Vikat Hassan wrote, Earlier, the right-wing Hindu groups would not indulge in violence. They used to hold dialogues with opponents but now they resort to violence. The right-wing groups cannot deny Hindu terrorism in their camps as well.

Also read: Uttar Pradesh: German national assaulted by railway contractor in Sonbhadra



Also read: Bihar: Eight drown in Ganga while taking bath in Fatuha

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New Delhi:

At least 30 people were fell ill with food poisoning symptoms after eating community feast in Balasore district, Odisha.

A district health official said that the villagers, who attended the feast at Kantabania village on the occasion of Kartik Purnima on Saturday night, complained of nausea, vomiting and stomach pain.

All of them were taken to a local community health centre from where 22 (including 15 children), were shifted to the district headquarter hospital, the official said.

The condition of all the patients was stable, Balasore chief district medical officer, Bibekananda Das said.

(With PTI inputs)

ALSO READ | Tejas Express: 24 passengers taken ill after eating breakfast

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Rameswaram(TN):

Eight Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested on Sunday by the Sri Lankan Navy when they were allegedly fishing near Neduntheevu in the island nation's waters.

The fishermen from Akarapettai in Nagapattinam district, who put out to sea in a mechanised boat, were arrested on charges of poaching fish in Lanka's territorial waters, Assistant Director of Fisheries Department - Nagapattinam Gangadhar said.

The fishermen were taken to Parunthithurai, he added.

Read more: UP: German national allegedly beaten up at Sonbhadra railway station

Thirteen fishermen from the state were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on November 2 when they were allegedly fishing near Neduntheevu.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami had on October 27 urged the Centre to take steps to secure the release of 54 fishermen and 140 fishing boats from Sri Lanka.

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New Delhi:

A German national was allegedly beaten up at Sonbhadra railway station in Uttar Pradesh. The police have arrested the accused and a probe is on.

The police informed that German national Eric had a fight with one Aman Yadav, who is a resident of Munger district of Bihar.

Aman claimed that he is innocent and the German national punched him when he said 'welcome to India' to him.

A few days back, a couple from Lausanne in Switzerland was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of youths in the Fatehpur Sikri leaving them battered and bruised recently, triggering widespread outrage.

German national beaten up at Sonbhadra railway station. Police have arrested the accused, investigation underway pic.twitter.com/LmoYC2WVXF a ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

Quentin Jeremy Clerc, 24, who came to India on September 30 with his girlfriend Marie Droz, also 24, was quoted as saying that they were strolling near the railway station at the Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when the group had started following them and later attacked.

I am innocent, the German national punched me when i said 'welcome to India' to him. He even spit on me: Aman Yadav,arrested accused pic.twitter.com/PrcO2gudIw a ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

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New Delhi:

Just a few days after a Swiss couple was assaulted near the railway tracks at Agras Fatehpur Sikri, a German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj Railway Station in Uttar Pradeshs Sonbhadra, police said on Sunday.



The accused identified as Aman Yadav has been arrested and an investigation is underway.



Meanwhile, the accused claimed innocence and alleged that he was punched by Berlin resident Holger Eric. I am innocent, the German national punched me when I said welcome to India to him. He even spat on me, ANI quoted him as saying.



Robertsganj Police say Yadav asked Eric about his visit but he refused to reply as he smelled alcohol on Yadavs breath. This led Yadav to allegedly attack Eric.



UP Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including the deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

(With Agency inputs)

Also read: Bhopal gang rape case: IG and Railway SP transferred



Also read: Bihar: Eight drown in Ganga while taking bath in Fatuha district of Patna

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New Delhi:

Four main genes that can predict the survival level of a patient with pancreatic cancer have been identified by scientists.

Researchers from the University of Rochester in the US conducted the study on 356 patients who all had pancreatic adenocarcinoma that could be surgically removed.

Following the removal of the tumours in all cases, researchers extracted DNA from the cancerous tissue and nearby normal tissue, and conducted next-generation DNA sequencing on the specimens.

The activity of the KRAS, CDKN2A, SMAD4, and TP53 genes was analysed and findings revealed that patients who had three or four of the altered genes had worse disease-free survival (the time between surgery and when cancer returns), and overall survival (from surgery to death), compared to patients with a single or two altered genes.

Read more: Consumption of coffee can increase lifespan of kidney disease patients

Aram Hezel from the University of Rochester said, "The research helps us to understand how the molecular features of pancreatic cancer impact prognosis on an individual level and gives us more facts to guide patients, and importantly, to design future research studies".

The study was published in Jama Oncology.

(With PTI inputs)
New Delhi :

A flight of Pakistan's national carrier today landed in Lahore due to low visibility and asked passengers onboard to travel by bus to their destination, according to a media report.

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Abu Dhabi in the UAE to Rahim Yar Khan landed at the Lahore airport reportedly due low visibility, Geo News reported.

The airline staffers offered to take the passengers to their desired destination by a bus. However, the passengers turned down the offer and refused to leave the plane.

Following which the airline staffers switched off the plane's air conditioning system, resulting in suffocation of passengers, including minors, in the plane.

The approximate distance from Lahore to Rahim Yar Khan is 624.5 km. The passengers said that they had asked the airlines to drop them at Multan Airport which is 292 kilometres away from Rahim Yar Khan.

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London:

Mosques in Britain refused to perform the last rites of Salman Abedi, the suicide bomber who blew himself up at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester earlier this year, killing 22 victims.

The remains of the 22-year-old were flown to Tripoli in Libya, the country of his origin, where the burial was conducted, according to 'The Sun'.

But he was still reportedly denied an Islamic burial ceremony.

"After Manchester mosques refused to bury the remains of terrorist Salman Abedi, British authorities allowed his family to move him to Libya, where he was buried in Tripoli," claims Noman Benotman, of anti-extremist think tank Quilliam.

Abedi grew up in Britain and is thought to have visited the North African country from where his parents had emigrated regularly in the last six years.

Libya is a hotspot for the Islamic State (ISIS) terror network and Abedi is believed to have been trained in bomb- making by an ISIS explosives expert, a former car mechanic from the West Midlands region of the UK.

The news of his burial emerged as another media report claims the UK's intelligence officials missed key warnings that could have put the Manchester bomber under surveillance as a "high-priority" target.

Also Read: ISIS car bombing kills dozens of displaced in Syria

'The Sunday Times' reports that the failure to act properly on the intelligence emerged in an MI5 internal review sent to UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd.

"There were a few calls made regarding several bits of intelligence which, if judged differently at the time, would have turned Abedi into a high-priority case," an intelligence source is quoted by the newspaper as saying.

"And when a target is judged a high priority, you should place them under surveillance. The greater the threat, the more resources you deploy for surveillance," he added.

The detailed analysis of all intelligence received in the build-up to the Manchester attack on May 22 is understood to focus on information passed to an MI5 regional office.

While the information was not considered of high significance when received, it was judged upon reassessment to be enough to have raised serious alarms about Abedi.

It had emerged last week that Libyan authorities are processing a request from Britain to extradite the younger brother of the bomber, Hashem Abedi, to question him on his role in aiding the attack at Manchester Arena.

Also Read: British PM Theresa May launches code of conduct amid sex scandals

Salman Abedi blew himself up at the end of the Grande concert in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Britain.

The 22 victims included seven children and more than 500 people were injured, with 112 people needing hospital treatment after the attack and 64 suffering "very serious" injuries.

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As the AAP leadership yet again charts big plans in the Capital, voices of dissent and a mass exodus of local leaders mar its Gujarat campaign.

By Sweta dutta: In the backdrop of a disintegrating state unit in poll-bound Gujarat, senior Aam Aadmi Party leaders yet again build castles in the air for the 2019 parliamentary polls and other assembly elections around the same time.

While the party is on the back foot in Gujarat where it had almost decided to take the plunge but backtracked following the rout in Punjab, it is now eyeing states and union territories slated to go to polls next year or in 2019.

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At the recent National Council meet of the party, state prabharis and convenors presented promising reports of confident victories.

AAP MLA and incharge of five southern states and two Union Territories Somnath Bharti told the gathering that all states under his charge were poll-ready.

Madhya Pradesh convenor Alok Agarwal too said the state was all set for elections.

Several other states including Odisha, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand also presented optimistic reports.

Rajasthan incharge Kumar Vishwas, who has been on a collision course with AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, was the only one to say, "like Punjab, Rajasthan too wasn't ready to deliver 100 seats."

'BJP'S B-TEAM'

As the AAP leadership yet again charts big plans in the Capital, voices of dissent and a mass exodus of local leaders mar its Gujarat campaign. Though the party was similarly poll-ready for Gujarat earlier this year, its plans fell flat after the Punjab debacle.

As the party fields 11 candidates so far, it has sparked outrage in its local cadre. Over 2,000 AAP volunteers along with at least 100 local leaders moved on to the Congress earlier this week, slamming the party leadership of working as BJP's B team.

"Most senior leaders of AAP in Gujarat had contested Lok Sabha elections for the party in 2014 but have moved on to Congress. After working hard for three-four years, we were sidelined and told that the party will not contest the upcoming polls. There was a sudden lull after the Punjab elections and whatever momentum we had gathered diffused,"former AAP leader Ruturaj Mehta, who recently joined Congress, told Mail Today.

"Neither did the top leadership let us build our own teams nor did they promote us. The local leadership was never given importance and instead parachute leaders from Delhi were brought in for everything. Delhi leaders do not understand the demography of Gujarat. Why should Kejriwal not take into account feedback of the local team?" he added.

"Only Kejriwal and state prabhari Gopal Rai's posters were used for rallies and events. Local leaders were not promoted," Mehta said.

"Now that the party has fielded 11 candidates so far, these are on seats where Congress had a good chance but with more players in the fray it will benefit the BJP. At a time when all sections of society are uniting against the BJP, all local leaders are trying to come together with the Congress to oust the BJP, for AAP to field candidates who have no prospect of winning, makes no sense. These candidates will not even be able to save their deposit," Mehta maintained.

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WATCH | Gujarat Opinion Poll: Results of the India Today-Axis My India Opinion 2017 survey

--- ENDS ---
Copenhagen:

A man with a firearm was suspected of opening fire in Central Oslo was arrested by Norway Police on Sunday.

No one has been injured.

Police said on Twitter that the man was detained behind Oslo's downtown cathedral, adding they have no information that shots were fired at people.

However, they were seeking witnesses.

Today's incident happened around Stortorvet, a square adjacent to the Oslo Domkirke cathedral.

Earlier on April 9, a suspect was arrested after Norwegian police neutralised an explosive device found in downtown Oslo.

Police Chief Vidar Pedersen confirmed on Saturday that the device, initially described as "bomb-like," was an explosive. The police Twitter account said it had been defused or neutralised.

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Riyadh:

Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile over Kingdom after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, with debris landing inside the capital's international airport.

Yemen's Shiite Houthi rebels fired the missile from Yemeni territory said they were targeting the airport, according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television channel.

Residents in Riyadh reported a loud bang near the airport after the missile, the firing of which was claimed by Iran- backed Huthi rebels, was shot down, but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life.

The attack underscores the threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen, increasingly spilling across the border since a Saudi-led coalition began its military intervention in 2015.

"This evening a ballistic missile was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom," the Saudi Press Agency quoted coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki.

"The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas... Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries," he added.

Civil aviation authorities said the airport was functioning normally and that flights were operating as scheduled.

Saudi Arabia led a 2015 intervention in Yemen to prop up the government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi after the Houthi rebels forced him into exile.But two years later, the kingdom appears to be in a quagmire.

Hoping for a quick victory against what it saw as Iranian expansionism in its backyard, Riyadh has so far been unable to remove the Houthis from Yemeni capital Sanaa.

Aside from occasional missiles, Saudi territory has also been hit repeatedly by the rebels' cross-border incursions, raising fears the conflict could drag out yet further.

In July, a ballistic missile fired from Yemen was shot down close to Mecca, a month before the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Islam's holiest site. In the frontier provinces of Jizan and Najran, thousands of mortar rounds and crude rockets have hit schools, mosques, and homes.

Thousands of residents have been evacuated from border towns across the southwest to create a buffer zone.Saudi Arabia does not officially disclose military fatalities, but state media has frequently featured funeral notices for "martyred" soldiers.

United Nations-backed talks have failed to broker a political settlement to end the fighting in Yemen, which has left more than 8,600 people dead since the coalition intervened.

A cholera outbreak has claimed more than 2,100 lives in Yemen since April as hospitals struggle to secure supplies amid a coalition air and sea blockade.

The United Nations has warned that Yemen now stands on the brink of famine.

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Police in Tokyo say a suspect in a serial murder case told them he gave some of the victims liquor or tranquilizers before attacking them.

27-year-old Takahiro Shiraishi was arrested on suspicion of abandoning a corpse. Dismembered bodies of 9 people have been found in his apartment in Zama City near Tokyo. Shiraishi admitted killing all the victims in his apartment.

Shiraishi reportedly said he found suicidal women through Twitter and lured them to his apartment by proposing they commit suicide together.

Shiraishi told the police that he used alcohol, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills to relax some of the victims before attacking them.

Police say they found sleeping pills in his apartment. They suspect that Shiraishi used these to prevent the victims from resisting.

Shiraishi also reportedly admitted that he had no intention to commit suicide with the victims despite his words. He said he killed them without their consent.

Investigators are also trying to identify the victims. They say some promising clues on 6 women were found. They include cash cards and patient ID cards found in the suspect's room, as well as smartphone GPS records.

The 6 women include a 23-year-old Tokyo resident who has been missing since late October, and a high school student from Saitama Prefecture near Tokyo.

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Air India just floated a tender to bridge the finance gap- for acquiring three aircraft, whose combined cost stands at Rs 3,460 crore.

By Rahul Shrivastava: At the verge of privatisation while battling a Rs 52,000 crore debt, the Maharaja of skies, Air India still refuses to bow down.

Air India just floated a tender to bridge the finance gap- for acquiring three aircraft, whose combined cost stands at Rs 3,460 crore.

This comes at a time, when it received Rs 24,745 crore of the Rs 31,000 equity infusion for a turnaround plan till 2021 from the UPA government.

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The three B777-300 ER planes are scheduled to roll in by February 2018, out of which two will be pressed into service to ferry VVIPs. "These planes will be modified and join the fleet of aircraft that are used by President of India, Vice President and Prime Minister," a senior Air India official said.

An Air India spokesperson said, "Air India had placed an order with Boeing for 68 aircraft in 2005. These B777-300ER airplanes are the last of the three aircraft to be delivered. They will be delivered in January-February 2018 by Boeing..."

Less than three weeks ago, the original tender floated by Air India was for a loan of $555 million. But now the national carrier for which the government is likely to appoint a "transaction advisor" has reduced the loan amount to $535 million, $20 million lesser than the original.

WHY NOW?

Air India as per the purchase agreement with Boeing is to buy 15 B777-300 ER aircraft in all. It has already taken delivery of 12 such planes. The deals ran into a controversy due to allegations of kickbacks and are currently being probed by the CBI.

It's surprising that the NDA government which has been critical of the deal due to the kickback charges had given the go ahead for the tender.

According to the revised tender document, one term sheet would be for two aircraft that are to be delivered in January next year and the loan amount required is up to USD 400 million.

For the remaining aircraft, a separate term sheet would be inked for a loan of up to USD 135 million.

The airline did not provide any specific reasons for revising downwards the proposed loan amount to USD 535 million from USD 555 million.

"The facility should be a direct loan without the requirement for formation of a special purpose vehicle structure which requires title transfer," the tender document said.

Air India has said that the Government of India has indicated that they would issue its guarantee for the bridge financing of B777-300 ER aircraft for a period of 12 months or till the date the loan is refinanced whichever is earlier.

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No commitment fee would be paid to the bidder and that the "pre-payment/short closure of the bridge loan should be allowed without any extra cost" to the airline, it added.

The government is already planning to use the 115 aircraft strong fleet of the airline to cover part of its Rs 52,000 crore debt.

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A state school board association recently awarded two local school districts for their leadership and communications, respectively.

The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education recognized both Bethel and Brookfield.

The Bethel Board of Education was again awarded the CABE Board of Distinction Award - Level II. The award recognizes truly exemplary boards for providing effective leadership to their districts through the use of good practices, Superintendent Christine Carver said in a statement.

I would like to thank the Board for their hard work and dedication to the families and children of Bethel Public Schools and their tireless commitment and support to fulfilling the mission of the Bethel Public Schools, Carver said.

Meanwhile, the Brookfield school district earned the CABE Excellence in Communications award. This award honors school districts for effectively communicating with parents and taxpayers, according to CABEs website.

CABE recognized the district for five projects, including a Going Green poster contest, the Brookfield broadcast newsletter and the Four Types of Assessment presentation. Superintendent John Barile said.
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Miracle Legion and Polaris frontman Mark Mulcahy, who built his fame when Miracle Legion exploded out of the New Haven music scene in the 1980s, returns to The Ballroom at The Outer Space Thursday night for a Manic Presents solo show.

The Philistines Jr. open the show.

After a long absence from the Connecticut scene, Mulcahy, now a resident of Springfield, Mass., has returned on a fairly regular basis over the past few years, with reassembled versions of both Miracle Legion and his post-Miracle Legion band, Polaris, as well as with solo appearances.

He has played full band shows over the past year or two at New Haven's College Street Music Hall and The Ballroom at The Outer Space, as well as solo shows at the Daffodil Festival in Meriden and New Haven's intimate Lyric Hall.

Thursday's show will kick off Mulcahy's first solo tour in three years.

A short run of seven November dates in support of Mulcahys most recent Mezzotint album, "The Possum in the Driveway," will begin a year of live solo performances after spending the past three years re-establishing the two bands.

For years in the 1980s and 1990s, Mulcahy and Miracle Legion, his first big band, were among the things that put New Haven on the world's musical map.

The band, favorably compared in some quarters to R.E.M., seemed to be on a similar trajectory at one point. But that came crashing down in a legal dispute with Morgan Creek Records that kept Miracle Legion from releasing music for years.

He re-emerged as the driving force and frontman of Polaris, best known as the house band for Nickelodeon's mid-1990s alternative television series "The Adventures of Pete & Pete," and perhaps best remembered for the song "Hey Sandy," which was featured in the opening credits.

The Outer Space, 295 Treadwell St, Hamden, CT 06514, 8:30 p.m. Nov. 9, $15 in advance or $20 at the door.
If a strong majority of American citizens support a reform that potentially could save untold numbers of lives, then wouldnt it be logical for Congress to act?

This Congress, however, defies logic.

The bill that 90 percent of Americans want would close a gaping loophole in background checks for gun purchases. Anyone wanting to buy a gun from a federally licensed dealer must first pass a FBI criminal background check. The loophole is that no background checks are required for private sales, such as at gun shows.

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy estimates that as much as one-quarter of gun sales in this country occur without criminal background checks. Hoping to change that, Murphy introduced the Background Check Expansion Act before the Senate on Wednesday with several co-sponsors.

This bill makes sense. It is not an entirely new regulation, which should mollify gun-rights advocates; it simply expands what has existed for years.

In 1993 the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act established the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for guns bought through licensed dealers. Private sales were not included at that time, unfortunately. That was before internet sales became widespread.

The expansion bill compromises by allowing exemptions, such as guns transferred between family members. A bill without that compromise failed in the Senate last year.

The criminal background check system works, for the most part. Last year 12,000 people were stopped from purchasing guns because the check uncovered a criminal history, Murphy said.

We believe the bill should go further, or another one be adopted, to close the Charleston loophole. Now, if a licensed gun dealer does not get a response from the FBI on a background check within three days, the sale can go through on the fourth day. Most checks clear within minutes, but because of missteps the 72 hours had lapsed and Dylann Roof in 2015 was able to buy a .45-caliber handgun  even though his felony drug charge should have blocked the sale. Roof used that gun to kill nine people in a Charleston, South Carolina, church.

Gun sales should not proceed until the criminal background check is cleared.

No one measure, such as expanding background checks, can prevent every death by gun. At the beginning of this month, 58 people were shot to death at an outdoor concert in Las Vegas and hundreds more injured by a shooter who legally owned his weapons. The new bill could not have stopped the massacre, nor could it have prevented the Sandy Hook tragedy of 2012.

No single measure can halt the exchange of illegal weapons.

But making criminal background checks universal can help keep guns out of the wrong hands.

Since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, more than 1,500 mass shootings with ever-escalating death tolls have erupted. Guns kill nearly 90 Americans a day, according to the Newtown Action Alliance.

Tell Congress it is unacceptable to do nothing to curb the carnage.
For the last seven days, I have been stewing in a rage.

For nearly three years, Connecticuts public transportation to get me back and forth to work at the Register was a five-hour daily nightmare.

I have refused to buy a car because for some of us, the financial costs of owning a nice car in Connecticut can put a huge dent in the wallet. I also refuse to hand over my hard-earned money to pay annual taxes for the privilege of owning and driving a car in this state to get to work.

So, I found a perfect alternative and purchased a scooter to get back and forth to the train station, which in effect shaved three hours off my daily commute. It was a big weight off my shoulders until it was stolen right under the noses of MTA police as well as security guards at the Bridgeport train station.

I am a realist  bad things happen and in some cases, we are expected to live with it.

But what has me in a tizzy is the attitude of the people we put our trust in and the disregard not only for the transportation I lost but the thousands of dollars I am on the hook for.

When I first talked to the security guards to inquire how this could happen with three security guards on duty, I was confronted with a wall of its not our responsibility and given a number to call in the Catskills. I am not sure how any law enforcement agency in the Catskills is expected to help me.

It was the same reaction from the Metropolitan Transit Police, who arrived to take the report because they said Bridgeport police would keep me waiting a minimum of six hours before they would arrive.

When I contacted Allied Security  the Shelton-based company that supplies the guards  to find out what the responsibilities of their guards are, I was dismissed and told to contact the Bridgeport train station.

None of this works for me. I dont look at things the way some other people do and I refuse to buy into the idea that I should eat this cost.

My vehicle was not parked or left at some random site; it was parked and secured in what is supposed to be a safe and secure space for commuters.

But that is before I found out that safe and secure at the train station is simply an illusion.

Those three white monster-sized SUVs parked outside the station emblazoned with MTA Police? What do they mean? According to one MTA officer, MTA police can be anywhere and the vehicles were parked there for convenience.

I have no idea what the responsibilities of the security guards are but according to Monster.com  an online job site  a security guard Secures premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment, and access points; permitting entry. Prevents losses and damage by reporting irregularities; informing violators of policy and procedures; restraining trespassers.

So what are the security guards at the train station being paid to do if not to be the eyes and ears of law enforcement? They can't break up fights, they can't make arrests so what is their function? They cant be there for our viewing pleasure because the uniforms aint pretty.

So, whats next for the hard-working people of Bridgeport?

We're barely safe in our homes, we deal with high taxes, we deal with high crime, we worry about random bullets flying through the air, our homes and cars are broken into and our property is stolen  and now we're being told we can't even go to work and expect our things to remain safe at the space the city provides.

People in Bridgeport  and elsewhere in Connecticut for that matter  deserve better than this.

We do our part. We go to work, we pay our bills, we support the salaries of city and state employees and help the businesses in this city keep their doors open.

We put our faith in the people who are paid to serve and protect us and others who are supposed to complement that protection  and that faith must be rewarded.

What we don't deserve is to have the people who are responsible for the safety of our belongings in an environment they provide to tuck their tails, lace up their sneakers and run when confronted with that responsibility.

I admit I was duped and lulled into a sense of false security. I later found out from MTA police that there are no cameras at the station or the surrounding downtown area, so the person(s) who stole my scooter was able to either ride off or carry it off without being seen.

There also are no signs that say Park at your own risk. There is no sign that says your belongings are not safe here. I would never have parked in Bridgeport had I known security was fleeting and only did so after seeing other scooters and bikes parked there. I had been leaving it in Stratford and Fairfield.

I realize that police in Bridgeport have their hands full trying to ebb the flow of violent crime. But there are other criminal acts that also affect the quality of life of the people in Bridgeport.

I dont know whether the city of Bridgeport, the state of Connecticut, Allied Universal, MTA police or the security guards are responsible for not stopping the theft of my scooter.

But I hope to find out.

In the meantime, let my loss serve as a warning to commuters everywhere who think security guards and police represent safety and security for property. Because the message they have sent to me so far leaves doubt.

James Walker is the senior editor at the Register. He can be reached at 203-680-9389 or james.walker@hearstmediact.com or jwalker@nhregister.com. Follow him on Twitter @thelieonroars.
The Federal Government has begun secret moves that will see a number of online newspapers, blogs and websites perceived to constitute threat to national security permanently shut down.Social media and Internet users may also not be exempted from the clampdown which will begin any moment from now.The closest clue in what has been interpreted as an indirect attempt to gag the press and suppress opposing views since the advent of the current administration is the controversial bill to regulate social media which has passed second reading in the Senate.Sunday Tribune can reveal authoritatively that the government, through the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), has engaged the services of a firm in Lagos to block the domain names of several identified websites threatening national security.The Office of the National Security Adviser drew the list of the offensive websites and the number is in excess of 21, a memo written by NCC, a copy of which Sunday Tribune got said.The letter, which was dated 20th October, 2017, is a reminder memo to the firm, indicating that other letters had earlier been written to the firm by NCC.The memo was entitled: Re: Request to Prevent the Commission of an Offence under Section 146 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.It was signed by NCCs Head, Legal and Regulatory Services, one Yetunde Akinloye, while an official of the agency co-signed on behalf of Engineer Haru Alhassan who is the Director, New Media and Information Security.Reference is made to another letter dated 27th September, 2017 on the aove subject matter, directing the contracted firm to restrict access to several identified websites threatening national security as identified by the Office of the National Security Adviser.Further to the said directive, the said firm is hereby required to immediately take steps to restrict access within the Nigerian cyberspace in respect of 21 (twenty one) additional websites by blocking the domain names. (The list of websites is attached).Section 146 of the NCC Act 2003 states thus:1461: A licensee shall use his best endeavour to prevent the network facilities that he owns or provides or the network service, applications service or content application service that he provides from being used in, or in relation to, the commission of any offence under any law in operation in Nigeria.2: A licensee shall, upon written request by the Commission or any other authority, assist the Commission or other authority as far as reasonably necessary in preventing the commission or attempted commission of an offence under any written law in operation in Nigeria or otherwise in enforcing the laws of Nigeria, including the protection of the public revenue and preservation of national security.3: Any licensee, shall not be liable in any criminal proceedings of any nature for any damage (including punitive damages), loss, cost or expenditure suffered or to be suffered (whether directly or indirectly) for any act or omission done in good faith in the performance of the duty imposed under subsections (1) and (2).Im sure nothing like that happened ShittuReacting, Minister of Communications, Alhaji Adebayo Shittu, said he was not aware any memo originated from the Nigerian Communication Commission instructing any firm to gag the press, particularly the online newspapers, Internet and social media users or shut them down.Shittu told Sunday Tribune that no instruction would be given to the NCC without such passing through him as the Minister supervising the NCC.I am sure NCC will never ever write such a memo. I am sure it never happened.President Muhammadu Buhari or any of the people working for him will never do or encourage anything that will amount to gagging of the press, he said.
Chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, who are pushing for a second term ticket for President Muhammadu Buhari, have mapped out st...

Chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, who are pushing for a second term ticket for President Muhammadu Buhari, have mapped out strategies to woo the partys first-term governors to swell their ranks.So far, at least six of the partys serving 24 governors have openly declared support for the President to seek the partys ticket for re-election in 2019.These are Kano Sate Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, Solomon Lalong of Plateau State; Yahaya Bello of Kogi State; Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa State; Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State as well as Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.A top-ranking member of the APC, who spoke on condition of anonymity so as not to ruffle feathers, told newsmen on Saturday that party members, who considered themselves core Buharists, did not foresee any threat to his candidacy at least from anywhere in northern Nigeria.He explained that as members of a political party, no matter which aspirant a person or group of persons supported, it was incumbent on such people to respect others who had other preferences.The source said, It is for the same reason why no one could talk about sanctions for the Minister of Women Affairs, Aisha Alhassan, when some mischiefmakers leaked a video of her endorsing former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the needless controversy which followed.With all these noise being made by some people and the misleading headlines you see these days, tell me one person, within or outside the APC in Nigeria today, who can defeat President Buhari if he decides to run in 2019? Name one!According to him, the APC is determined not to repeat the mistakes made by the former ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party, by taking party members for granted.He added, When you hear some of our party members saying no automatic ticket, they are referring to history. How far did candidate Buhari go when he was given an automatic ticket by the defunct CPC?Remember that at the height of the PDPs impunity in 2015, only one presidential form was printed and it was only for the then President Goodluck Jonathan. We have learnt from history.The source explained that as part of strategies to get more of the partys powerful governors on board, the President had started consulting the states helmsmen on appointments into the headship of federal agencies.He also made reference to the tone and language used by the President in his address to party men and women at the just concluded National Caucus and National Executive Council meeting of the party.The National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, had, in an interview with one of our correspondents, explained that the party remained focused on delivering on the mandate given to it by the Nigerian people and would not be distracted.He also noted that despite insinuations from certain quarters that the party was in turmoil, the peaceful atmosphere under which the last caucus and NEC meetings were held was evidence that the party was on course.Nobody slapped anybody; in fact nobody raised his voice against another. We came out of these meetings laughing, he said.The APCs first term governors, who will most likely seek re-election in 2019, are Jibrilla Bindow (Adamawa); Mohammed Abubakar (Bauchi); Samuel Ortom (Benue); Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Badaru Abubakar (Jigawa), Nasir el-Rufai (Kaduna), Umar Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano); Aminu Masari (Katsina); Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi); Yahaya Bello (Kogi); Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos); Abubakar Bello (Niger); Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo); Simon Lalong (Plateau) and Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto).Meanwhile, in furtherance of their desire to ensure that the Buhari brand remains sellable, members of the Buhari Support Organisation, after unveiling an ultra-modern office in Abuja about a week ago, are planning to start a series of activities to showcase the Presidents achievements in the last two years.It was learnt that the group would, within the next few months, use social and traditional media to increase awareness about Buharis achievements within the period under review.Already, members of the BSO have started putting its internal structures in place to maintain relevance ahead of 2018 when political campaigns for the 2019 elections will start officially.A prominent member of the group, who is the current Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hammed Ali (retd.), had, during the unveiling of the Abuja office, revealed the reason behind the event.He explained that it was designed to rekindle what we started in 2015 and what we used as a vehicle to fight in the trenches, out of the trenches, along routes and in so many different terrains to see to the success of vision and mission.However, when contacted, another prominent member of the BSO, who is now the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, explained that there was nothing sinister about the unveiling of the BSO secretariat.He told newsmen, It is all about supporting the APC and the government it has formed with the support of the Nigerian people. You cannot separate President Muhammadu Buhari from the APC. There is no basis for imputing any other motive to last weeks event.Also, a member of the partys National Working Committee, who also spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue, said the issue of getting some governors on board was inevitable.He said, You will agree with me that as they say, all politics is local. No aspirant can make impact in an election, especially at the federal level, all alone.Our governors control the logistics required to get things done in the states. The President, Senators and members of the House of Reps are not elected in Abuja, they must come from the states. We recognise this; so, we know we must have them all on board to ensure victory.He, however, refused to say how far the group has gone to work on the first-time governors and get their full participation in bringing Buhari back his second term.In another development, the lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Shehu Sani, on Saturday, criticised the reported endorsement of Buhari for a second term when the President had yet to express his interest to re-contest.Sani described the reported endorsement as a Greek Gift which the current ruling elite once condemned, commending Buhari for rejecting the gift.On his Facebook on Saturday, the Senator wrote, Endorsing a President for second term when he has not yet expressed interest to run amounts to political obsequiousness, taradiddle by lick Spittles. This is something the present political ruling elite once denounced as antics, machinations and relics that characterised the old order, now conveniently dusted for exigency.Thanks to PMB for turning down their Greek Gift.Several leaders and groups in the ruling APC had endorsed Buhari for a second term. While the Progressives Governors Forum had recently proposed an automatic ticket for the President, the National Executive Council of the party only passed a vote of confidence in him and rejected the proposal.Sani, in another Facebook post on Saturday, faulted the exchange of presidential power between the South-West and the North-West geopolitical zones, saying figuratively that Nigerians were more interested in who becomes President than Nigeria itself.
Hair in food can be poisonous and disgusting, no matter how well-groomed your beard might be.

By India Today Web Desk: Last evening, India made food history by setting a new Guinness World Record. Chef Sanjeev Kapoor and his team, in partnership with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, successfully cooked up 918 kilos of khichdi in a massive kadhai, in front of a live audience. And while everybody was focused on this remarkable feat (because, whether you like khichdi or not, cooking up such a large amount can be taxing), there was something that went unnoticed.

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We are talking about Baba Ramdev.

But he didn't go unnoticed, you might say. He added the finaltadkato the khichdi, and stirred the large pot with those long ladles, right? He even gave a speech.

Also Read: India makes Guiness Record in the largest portion of khichdi serving

He did, and he wore a hair cap just like everybody else who approached the kadhai full of hot khichdi. But hey, what about his beard?

That bit of Baba Ramdev might have gone unnoticed, but it is quite important. In the long spate of congratulatory and celebratory tweets after India's success in setting the Guinness record was announced, we noted a handful of tweets pointing out this significant food safety violation.

Picture courtesy: Twitter/#BabaRamdev Picture courtesy: Twitter/#BabaRamdev

Picture courtesy: Twitter/#BabaRamdev

Hair in your food is quite far from being a good thing, no matter how groomed your hair might be! Yes, Baba Ramdev's beard looks well-groomed, but it is rather bushy. Even if we let the bare chest pass--because it was covered with that saffron cloth--the bare beard is hard to ignore.

Picture courtesy: Twitter/#BabaRamdev

Picture courtesy: Twitter/#BabaRamdev

There is a reason why we have an agency like the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, which has established clear guidelines about human hair, as per Schedule 4 of their regulations. The regulations clearly state that human hair must be controlled from falling into exposed foods in eateries as well as in food processing and manufacturing plants.

The reason behind this--as a report published by the National Institute of Science, Technology, and Development Studies, New Delhi, indicates--is that human hair can carry a number of toxic contaminants. No, it's not just about the disgusting part about finding hair in your food, but also about sanitation and hygiene. Human hair naturally carries protein keratins; and add sweat, oil, and shampoo residues to this equation, and you have a cocktail for disaster.

Also Read: Hair in your food is not just disgusting, it's also poisonous

Khichdi is Indian super food. It's healthy, complete, Satvik & nutritious. Indian masalas & Patanjali Ghee makes it delicious ??? pic.twitter.com/x5tnRWGPJ1- Swami Ramdev (@yogrishiramdev) November 4, 2017

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Ideally, Baba Ramdev should have been handed a beard cover or cap as well (yes, such things are manufactured and can be accessed quite easily), the moment he approached the podium. But he wasn't. And he clearly didn't bother to cover his face and beard with that upper-body cloth of his, which could also have easily been done, had anybody noticed it.

While it's understandable that the pressure and significance of the event might not have drawn proper attention to Baba Ramdev's bare beard, that is simply no excuse. With senior chefs and many government officials (and foreign dignitaries) present at the event, and on the stage, Baba Ramdev's food safety violation should have been noticed and addressed immediately.

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Three persons were feared dead yesterday at Oji-River during yesterdays local council elections in Enugu State marred by two separate ex...

Three persons were feared dead yesterday at Oji-River during yesterdays local council elections in Enugu State marred by two separate explosions.The first explosion occurred around 8:20am at Coal Camp in Enugu North Council area of Enugu State just before voting began.It was gathered it occurred at Broadrick Street Primary School, one of the designated voting centres.The suspected improvised explosive exploded at the gate of the school, shattering a Mercedes Benz V-boot.It left three people injured.The Police Commissioner Mohammed Dan Mallam and Director of the State Security Services were on hand to ascertain the extent of the damage.The second explosion was reported at Amechi, Awkunanaw voting centre.The developments led to the arrest of three suspects.Police spokesman, Ebere Amaraizu confirmed the arrest of the perpetrators.Amaraizu also said that a tricycle was destroyed by the explosion, which occurred at a workshop about 400 metres near the entrance of a polling station at Coal Camp.The All Progressives Congress (APC) condemned the exercise.Its National Vice Chairman, South East, Emmanuel Eneukwu told newsmen in his country home at Obinagu in Udi Local Government Area of the state that the election was a sham.Eneukwu said that election materials arrived very late at many council areas while other areas witnessed no election.Voting materials arrived late in many areas across the state while sensitive materials like the result sheets were nowhere to be found.There is no way election can be conducted without result sheets.Even in my ward at Obinagu, materials have not arrived as at 1p.m, he said.Also former Governor Sullivan Chime called for the cancellation of the election which he described as a charade.According to him the election came near nothing like free and fair.Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Osita Okechukwu described the election as shambolic.Okechukwu decried late arrival of materials in many polling units in the state.This exercise is shambolic. I think the PDP is afraid of losing to the APC.Is that how they will behave if devolution of powers is granted to governors?So if they give them powers, opposition will die because they will use state police to intimidate them,  he said.But the Commissioner for Information, Mr Ogbuagu Anikwe said that it was aggressors that were trying to disrupt the elections.This is part of their antics to make the entire process a nullity because they know they are losing.PDP is not afraid of any opposition because PDP is on ground in Enugu State and it will take the opposition number of years to find itself in PDPs position, he said.
Tragedy struck after a female outgoing student of Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, Uloko Laurenta Apaume, was allegedly shot dead by a m...

Tragedy struck after a female outgoing student of Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, Uloko Laurenta Apaume, was allegedly shot dead by a member of a community vigilante group during a graduation party.It was learnt that Uloko, a banking and finance graduating student, was accidentally shot by the vigilante member who was at the scene to provide security for the celebrating students.It was gathered that the students, after writing their last paper on Thursday, had invited the vigilante members, as part of tradition, to help secure the place for a party organised to celebrate the successful completion of their Higher National Diploma (HND) programme.An eyewitness narrated to Sunday Vanguard: While the celebration was going on, the vigilante member tried to fire his gun but failed. So he wanted to inspect the gun to know why it did not fire only for the gun to go off in the process.The bullet hit the girl in the process and she died before help could come. Edo State Commissioner of Police, Babatunde Johnson Kokumo,who confirmed the incident, said it was a celebration that went awry adding that it was not an intentional killing. The vigilante men, according to the report of the Divisional Police Officer on ground, had been invited by the students and it was in the night.It was clearly a misadventure; it was not an intentional killing as there is no record of any sort that there had been malice between the late student or any student for that matter and the vigilante men. So, the vigilance man had an accidental discharge so to say while the celebration was on, he stated.
The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons on Sunday in Ikom distributed food and materials worth m...

The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons on Sunday in Ikom distributed food and materials worth millions of Naira to Cameroonian refugees residing in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River.Mrs Sadiya Umar-Farouq, the Federal Commissioner of the Refugee Commission saidduring the distribution of the items that the gesture was in line with Federal Governments agenda of providing succour to asylum seekers in Nigeria.Umar-Farouq, who was represented by an official of the commission, Mr Immosan Immosan, said refugees were scattered in Obanliku, Etung, Boki, Ikom and Obudu local government areas of the state.She added that the attention of Federal Government was drawn to the symbolic declaration of sovereign state and independence of Ambazonia by Anglophone Cameroonians through the hoisting of flags and national anthem in strategic locations in Cameroon on Oct. 1.This action culminated in repressive attacks by government security agents on armless civilians, destruction of property and arbitrary arrest and detention of mass population.The consequences of such attack has been the remarkable influx of Cameroonians into the bordering towns of Ikom, Obudu, Boki, Etung and Obudu in Cross River, Gembu in Taraba and other surrounding locations.She assured them that Federal Government would continue to play its role by providing security and succour to refugees while efforts were ongoing to foster peace in their country.Items distributed to more than 600 beneficiaries on Sunday included rice, beans, garri, groundnut and palm oil, mattresses, cooking stoves, bed sheets, among others.Mr Eric Shu, the Director of Rhema Care, the implementing agency for the UN High Commission forRefugees in Nigeria, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the commission registered more than 6,000 Cameroonian refugees from Sept. 22 to date.He said our objective is to work and collaborate with the refugee commission in rehabilitating and registering the refugees that are flowing in from Cameroon.From Sept. 22 that they started arriving in Nigeria, we registered well over 6,000 Cameroonians. Our main duty here is to ensure their welfare and security.Mr John Inaku, the Director-General of Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, advised the refugees to be law-abiding, adding that the state government would continue to provide shelter and security for them.Responding on behalf of the refugees, Mr Mark Pongo, thanked Federal Government for the food and other items and for the hospitality accorded them since their arrival. (NAN)
Lagos lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN) has advised President Muhammadu Buhari quickly take action against all officials involved in the controv...

Lagos lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN) has advised President Muhammadu Buhari quickly take action against all officials involved in the controversial recall of the former Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Pension Reforms, Abdulrasheed Maina.He said in a statement issued on Sunday titled, President Buhari should act with dispatch on Mainagate that time is certainly not on the side of President Buhari.Although the federal government has promised not to sweep the Mainagate under the carpet, Falana contended that the handling of the scandal generated by the recall of Maina has eroded the credibility of the anti-corruption crusade of the Buhari administration.Therefore, the sanctions which the Federal Government will mete out to all the officials who conspired to expose the administration and the nation to such avoidable shame will make or mar the fight against corruption and impunity which is the cornerstone of the domestic and foreign policy thrust of the administration.Falanas advice was sequel to a statement credited to the family of Abdulrasheed Maina, accusing Buhari administration of official betrayal.He recalled that at a press conference in Kaduna two weeks ago, the spokesman for the Abdulrasheed Mainas family, Mr. Aliyu Maina, had stated that Abdulrasheed was in fact invited by this administration and he was promised security to come and clean up the mess and generate more revenue to the government by blocking leakages. He has been working with the DSS for quite some time and he was given necessary security. So, one wonders why all the agencies and various individuals responsible for his return are now denying,  Mainas spokesman stated.In his reaction to the development, Falana contended that those who recalled Maina, deliberately set out to subvert the anti-corruption policy of the Buhari administration.He argued that through such demonstration of official impunity, the officials involved have exposed the country to ridicule before the comity of nations.In view of the revelation of the family which has not been denied, it is crystal clear that the highly placed officials of the federal government who brought Mr. Abdulrasheed Maina back to the country, gave him a clean bill of health, provided him with necessary security, reinstated him, promoted him and paid his arrears of salaries and allowances totalling N22 million deliberately set out to subvert the anti-corruption policy of the Buhari administration, he said.Falana described the payment of N22 million to Maina as the height of insensitivity to pay arrears of salaries to a fugitive at a time when hundreds of thousands of workers and pensioners are owed arrears of their legitimate emoluments.Having found Maina and exonerated him, why was Interpol not informed that he was no longer wanted to stand trial for his role in the unprecedented pension fraud? , he asked.He further asked: Since Mr. Mainas necessary security provided by the State Security Service has not been withdrawn, why is the federal government requesting the Interpol to declare him wanted again?Will Interpol believe that a man who was provided with necessary security cannot be found by the federal government? Why is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission asking Nigerians to assist in searching for the fugitive?
The Nigerian National Assembly has launched a fresh plot for the removal of the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Com...

The Nigerian National Assembly has launched a fresh plot for the removal of the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu.The lawmakers made the demand for Magus exit at a dinner with President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday night.There were indications that the Assembly might use the removal of Magu as a condition for the consideration of all outstanding appointments in the Senate.The latest onslaught by the National Assembly has however created anxiety in Buharis camp because of the stalling of the confirmation of the appointment of over 45 nominees in the Senate.But Buhari, who listened calmly, allegedly glossed over the request for Magus replacement.According to reliable source, who spoke in confidence with our correspondent, a Senator from the South-West re-echoed the need for the removal of Magu at the rapprochement dinner.It was learnt that the Senator was supported by a principal officer of the House of Representatives who was hitherto an ardent supporter of Magu.The top source said: The face-off between the Executive and the National Assembly over Magu reared its ugly head again at a dinner the President had with the principal officers of the legislature.What was meant for a new rapprochement by the two arms was turned into an agitation session with a Senator from the South-West demanding the sack of the Acting EFCC chairman.The Senator wanted to know why the resolution of the Senate on Magu was not complied with.Although a principal officer from the House of Representatives actually backed the Senator, the President was non-committal. He actually glossed over the request.The lawmakers felt a bit shocked that the President was not forthcoming on their request.Apart from the concern over Magu, a principal officer of the House of Representatives also shocked the President on how he raised issues over non-appointment of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) into key positions.The affected principal officer said lack of empowerment of APC members was making loyalty to the government difficult.Findings however revealed that the President was non-committal because there are more than seven suits in the court over Magus continued stay in office.A presidency source said: By his nature, the President does not act on the spur of the moment. He takes decision after considering all angles to it. He is always saying that he will account for his action in the Hereafter. He likes to be fair to all based on empirical evidence.It is also subjudice for the President to make comments because the row over Magus confirmation has generated many matters in court. The lawmakers ought to know better on this.The presidency is awaiting pronouncement by the court on this appointee. In the spirit of fairness, the President has no choice than to allow the status quo to remain. In fact, the Senate is a party to some of these cases.Beyond the cases, there were other issues which cropped up including allegations against Magu which the President discovered were unfounded.Although some forces in government wanted Magu out, there is also international dimension to it. Some donor agencies and a few countries collaborating with Nigeria on anti-corruption war were okay with the performance of Magu.The President must weigh all options because the Magu saga is at the heart of the anti-corruption campaign which has defined this government.But the National Assembly, especially the Senate, might go back to the trenches against the Executive over Magu.It was learnt that the Senate might not immediately decide the fate of over 45 nominees from the Executive because of its outstanding concern over Magu.It was gathered that the latest development has made some strategists of the President to meet on how to find political solution to the row over Magu.One of the key strategists said: We are aware of the plot to stall the confirmation of these appointees since August but we will lobby the Senate to have a rethink.The grouses of the Senate against Magu should not be tied to other appointees confirmation. We believe the President has started the rapprochement and the two arms will find a common ground.Even the row over Magu is resolvable if the two arms can strike a political compromise.Some of the appointees awaiting confirmation are those of the National Pension Commission; the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB); the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC); the new CBN Deputy Governor and members of the Monitoring Policy Committee (MPC); Chairman and chairman of the Board of Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) among others.The list in the ICPC includes Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, Chairman; Musa Abubakar Secretary; and commissioners : Grace Chinda; Okolo Titus; Olubukola Balogun; Sam Ewang; Adamu Bello; Hannatu Mohammed; Abdullahi Saidu; Yahaya Daud; and Khamis Mailantarki in the National Pension Commission, there are Alhaji Ali Usman Ahmed (Chairman); Mr. Funso Doherty-Director-General with other Executive Commissioners on the board like Mr. Manasseh T. Denga; Abubakar Z. Magawata; Ben Oviosun; and Nyerere Anyim.At the Code of Conduct Bureau, we have Dr. Muhamma Isah (Chairman); and members including Murtala Kankia; Emmanuel E. Attah-; Danjuma Sado; Ubolo I. Okpanachi; Ken Madaki Alkali; Prof. S. F. Ogundare; Ganiyu Hamzat; Saad A. Abubakar and Dr. Vincent NwanliFERMA board comprises Mr. Tunde Lemo (chairman); Nurudeen Rafindadi ; Buba Abdullahi ; Babagana Aji ; Shehu Abdullahi and Loretta Aniagolu; Mujaidu Dako ; Vincent Kolawole; Chukwunwike Uzo ; Olubunmi Siyanbola ; Abdulrazak Ma aji ; Saidu Abdulkadir and Peter Osawe .Others are Aishah Ahmed as new Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and members of the Monetary Policy Committee of the CBN including Adeola Adenikinju; Aliyu Sanusi; Robert Asogwa and Asheikh Maidugu .
The Coalition of Niger Delta Militants vowed on Saturday to resume its operation show no mercy by attacking oil installations in the...

The Coalition of Niger Delta Militants vowed on Saturday to resume its operation show no mercy by attacking oil installations in the Niger Delta region.The latest threat from the coalition is coming barely 24 hours after the Niger Delta Avengers issued a statement that it had decided to resume hostilities in the oil rich region.A statement by its leader, John Duku, indicated that the coalition decided to attack oil facilities, including pipelines, because the Federal Government does not have the interest of the Niger Delta at heart.It wondered why government used funds that would have been used to develop the region to finance Operation Crocodile Smile at a time the region was peaceful.The statement read, All the militants groups in the Niger Delta met today (Saturday) and we have issued a directive that we should go back to our different states, to do everything possible to cripple all the (oil) installations.We are going to resume attacks and this time around, it is not going to be business as usual. We have already agreed that when we move in, it will be Operation No Mercy. Anything we find on our way, there would be no option but to crush it.It is not only the installations; we are also going to shut down the offices of each of the oil companies. It is high time the Niger Delta people worked together and declared a Niger Delta Republic. We will be on our own and manage our resources.We had already embraced peace. We had already announced ceasefire before the Operation Crocodile Smile came. The exercise (Operation Crocodile Smile) was done in collaboration with top oil firm directors.The Operation Crocodile Smile was unnecessary because, there was no crisis in the Niger Delta. But because we insisted the oil companies should relocate their headquarters to Niger Delta before October, the oil companies connived with the cabal in government and they brought the Nigerian Army to the Niger Delta to intimidate us.The directive on the relocation of oil companies headquarters came from the Vice-President, but they (oil companies) refused to relocate. Government should have used the money spent on Operation Crocodile Smile for the development of Niger Delta.The coalition also hailed the Niger Delta Avengers for what it described as its bold step in making a declaration on behalf of the Niger Delta people.According to the group, it can no longer be patient since the Federal Government refused to implement the 16-point agenda for the growth of the oil-rich region.Meanwhile, the Ijaw Youth Council has called on the Federal Government to be sincere with issues concerning the region in order to avoid a situation where militant groups would resume the destruction of oil facilities.IYC President, Mr. Eric Omare, told newsmen that though it was necessary for the Niger Delta Avengers to embrace dialogue, government should also fulfill promises made to the people of the region.Omare explained that the Federal Government must allow Niger Delta people to have a stake in the oil that was found in their environment.
The Borno Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has appealed to Gov. Kashim Shettima to use the third tranche of the Paris Club ref...

The Borno Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has appealed to Gov. Kashim Shettima to use the third tranche of the Paris Club refund to clear teachers entitlements.The state Chairman of the NUT, Mr Bulama Abiso, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Maiduguri on Sunday.Abiso said that some retired teachers in Borno had yet to be paid pensions and gratuities, while serving teachers were being owed salaries.The Federal Government has advised state governments to use between 50 and 75 per cent of their shares of the refund to clear arrears of salaries, pensions and gratuities.The Borno Government must, therefore, utilise the money to settle arrears of the entitlements of retirees, some of whom have been waiting since 2009.The government used the previous fund to settle part of pensions and gratuities, but much needs to be done to fully address this problem, he said.Bulama said that the education sector could not be revolutionalised without government giving priority attention to teachers welfare.The chairman said that the state government had yet to pay death benefits to families of 500 teachers killed by Boko Haram in the course of their duties across the state.He said that the NUT had been catering for the welfare of over 1,500 widows and 2,500 children of the slain teachers.Some of the teachers left three wives, some had even four wives, and the NUT has never received any intervention either through the government or UN agencies to support our teachers.While it is paramount for the government to focus attention on the rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement, there is also the need for them to focus directly on the educational sector.There are about one million children roaming the streets of Borno without going to school.There are also more than 500,000 of vulnerable unaccompanied children who dont even know their parents as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency, Abiso said.The chairman, who commended President Muhammadu Buhari for signing the North-East Development Commission Bill into law, hoped that the law would fully address the menace of Boko Haram in the state. (NAN)
Two members of the Islamic Move in Nigeria, IMN, also known as the Shiia sect have reportedly been shot in Kano.

Two members of the Islamic Move in Nigeria, IMN, also known as the Shiia sect have reportedly been shot in Kano.Reports indicate that the Shiia members who were on procession to mark their ArbaeenTrek 2017 in the state were dispersed by mobile policemen who allegedly shot both teargas and live bullets at them.It said the sect members were intercepted by the police at the popular Lado overhead bridge along Zaria road in Kano metropolis.
The Accountant-General of the Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, has said he has no legal obligation to account for how 35 states of the fe...

The Accountant-General of the Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, has said he has no legal obligation to account for how 35 states of the federation spent the N388.3bn Paris Club loan refund released to them.He argued that he could not be compelled to disclose such information because it was protected by professional privilege, and therefore confidential.The Accountant-General likened the relationship between him and the states to that between a bank and its customers, saying he could not be compelled to publish same.This was his response to a suit by a human rights advocacy group, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, seeking to compel him to disclose and publish how the N388.3bn Paris Club loan refund was spent by the states.SERAP had said it filed the suit before the Federal High Court in Lagos following reported embezzlement or diversion of the funds, which were meant to be used for the payment of workers salaries and pension arrears.Justice Muslim Hassan had in June granted SERAPs application seeking a judicial review of the spending of the N388.3bn.The judge held that it was important for the authorities to come and tell us how they spent our money.But in response to the suit, the Accountant-General of the Federation contended that SERAPs move against him was misconceived.He said he did not have the information and even if he had it he could not be compelled to disclose same.He said, The relationship between the Accountant-General and the 35 states is professional and confidential. It is a fiduciary one akin to that between a bank and its customer and allied professionals.On that score, record of the spending of N388.304bn London Paris Club loan refunds by the 35 states is exempted from publication, assuming the Federal Government has the information sought by SERAP.The Accountant-General does not have custody or possession of the information or record relating to the spending of N388.304bn London Paris Club loan refunds by 35 states which the government gave them.
The persecution of Rohingyas and their forceful expulsion from their homeland has created instability in the region, she said.

By Sahidul Hasan Khokon: Bangladesh Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, urged the lawmakers of Commonwealth countries to put pressure on Myanmar government for early repatriation of Rohingya refugees.

Hasina said, "I would request all of you to discuss Rohingya issue with utmost priority and exert pressure on the Myanmar government to stop the persecution of its citizens and take them back at the earliest".

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Bangladesh PM said this while inaugurating 63rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) at South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in Dhaka on Sunday.

Hasina highlighted the refuge Bangladesh has given to 622,000 Rohingyas who have crossed the border into Bangladesh, since August 25, and approximately 400,000 others who have entered the country at during different times since 1978.

The persecution of Rohingyas and their forceful expulsion from their homeland has created instability in the region, she said.

Hasina stated, Bangladesh wants friendly relations with its neighbours, citing the progress made on the Ganges water wharing issue, and the land boundaries with India and Myanmar.

"However, the inhuman persecution meted out on the Rohingya population in Rakhaine state and their forceful expulsion from their homeland have created instability in the region and beyond," Hasina said.

MILITANCY A GLOBAL CRISIS NOW

Reiterating her call to Commonwealth countries to be united to get rid of militancy and terrorism, the PM said, thoughtless acts from a section of people are claiming innocent lives.

"Recent terror attack in New York claimed eight precious lives. Militancy is not a problem of a particular country, rather it became a global phenomenon," she said.

Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh has become a sovereign independent democratic country through huge sacrifices, and as a cherished desire of the people of this land. Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, led Bangladesh's struggle from the front.

Chairperson of CPA and Speaker of Jayita Sangsad of Bangladesh, Dr Shirin Sharmin Choudhury, gave a welcome address, while Secretary-General of the CPA Akbar Khan, Commonwealth youth representative Aiman Sadique and treasurer of CPA Vicki Dunn spoke, among others, on the occasion.

The CPC is the world's second largest parliamentary forum. It has 52 countries as its members. This year, 44 countries among them are participating. The theme of this year's conference is 'Continuing to Enhance High-Standards of Performance of Parliamentarians'.

The CPC started in 1911. Bangladesh got its membership of the forum in 1973. Although, the CPA's 62nd conference was supposed to be held in Dhaka in September last year, but that did not happen due to the terrorist attacks in Holi Artisan Baker in July 2016.

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The contestants will reveal a big secret about themselves in the Weekend ka Vaar episode.

By India Today Web Desk: Trust Bigg Boss 11 to keep its viewers at the edge of their seats; tonight's episode of the show is going to be epic as contestants will become personal, this time at host Salman Khan's request.Here's what will happen in tonight's episode:

Special guests to make a special appearance on the show

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Yes, you read that right. Tonight's show will see Aaj Tak journalist Sweta Singh, former contestant Tanishaa Mukerji, and actor Karanvir Bohra on the show. The guests will sit on judgement and discuss the proceedings of the show with host Salman Khan.

Contestants to reveal their big secrets

As a part of the task, contestants will be asked to reveal one big secret of their lives on national TV. In a promo released by the channel on Twitter, the participants tell it all to the cameras. The guests of the show will decide whose secret they liked the best. The winner will be awarded with a special gift.

Gharwalein nominations se bachne ke liye kholenge apni zindagi ke gehre raaz! Tune in tonight at 9pm! #WeekendKaVaar pic.twitter.com/4lfBjIOGa8- COLORS (@ColorsTV) November 5, 2017

What is Priyank Sharma's secret about Vikas Gupta?

While Sapna's secret will move both Tanishaa and Salman, Benaf will reveal something deeply personal about herself, which she has been battling with. Hiten will state that all his shopping is done by his actress-wife Gauri. But the big secret will likely come from Priyank, who, in the promo, is seen taking Vikas' name.

Salman Khan's fun task for housemates

The host will divide the participants into groups of two, and they will be required to answer the actor's questions, if one of them gives a negative response, the remaining contestant will get waxed on national TV. Well, that should be interesting.

But the million dollar question remains, who will get evicted tonight?

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By Karishma Kuenzang: A CHANCE encounter with Mario Puzo's The Godfather when he was in class 7, which he ended up buying despite his father's disapproval, had a deep impact on Bilal Siddiqi's overall creative style.

Siddiqi's third book, The Stardust Affair, is a slick romantic thriller focused on journalist Avinash who falls in love with a fading Bollywood actress with a criminal connect.

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The book is about the murky side of Bollywood, the research for which was done by observing the drug and party circuits in Mumbai, the author says.

Siddiqi realised he wanted to be a writer when he was in class 9. A chance meeting with author and former investigative journalist Hussain Zaidi in Mumbai's St Xavier's College paved the way for Siddiqi to work with Zaidi.

THE STARDUST AFFAIR BY BILAL SIDDIQI, PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE INDIA; Rs 199. Photo: Mail Today

"I loved crime fiction/non-fiction and horror. I discovered James Bond and Jason Bourne at 16 and I knew I wanted to write a spy thriller. I had been writing a spy thriller set in Balochistan, but no one had read it. Zaidi asked me to send him a synopsis, and he forwarded it to a publishing house," he says.

Also Read: This advocate's thoughts in his recent book about India's freedom of speech might surprise you.

Weeks later, 19-year-old Siddiqi had a contract for his debut novel, which he describes as the highest point of his life.

The book was influenced by the 26/11 terror attack, which happened when Siddiqi was still in school. "Mumbai was considered safe and suddenly the terror attack happened. I'm not a staunch Muslim but the terrorists were also believers of the same faith as I. It made me read a lot of non-fiction about the Taliban and terrorism. Through the book, I wanted to prove that what the terrorists practice isn't actually Islam, that Islam and terrorism are not synonymous," he says.

He continues, "Readers can get influenced, so it's the writer's responsibility to write something true and socially relevant. You can't just write anything. There are two sides of the story and you have to justify both. You have to be true to the subject and can't have a myopic view on the subject."

It was at the launch of his debut novel that Siddiqi met actor Emraan Hashmi, who was looking for someone to co-author a book on the actor's son's fight with cancer.

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"My grandfather died due to cancer and my father has also had a brush with it," says Siddiqi, who is planning a documentary film on cancer with actor Emraan Hashmi.

Apart from the documentary, Siddiqi is also working on a film script based on the Indian Army and is looking forward to penning another spy thriller soon.

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Voters in southwest Iowa go to the polls on Tuesday to make their choices in city elections.

Most polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. in Pottawattamie County. Carson, Macedonia, Hancock and Oakland polling locations will open at noon and close at 8 p.m.

To find your polling location, go to https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx.

In Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County Supervisor Scott Belt challenges Mayor Matt Walsh for the citys top position. Four candidates are vying for two City Council seats  challengers Mike Wolf and Lynne Branigan and incumbents Melissa Head and Al Ringgenberg.

In the Oct. 10 primary election, turnout was 7.84 percent, with 3,193 of 40,684 registered voters casting a ballot. Kristi Everett, deputy county auditor in charge of elections for Pottawattamie County, said recent elections with a mayors race have drawn better turnout than elections with only City Council contests.

Turnout was 16 percent in 2013, the last election featuring a mayoral race. That was the first election without longtime Mayor Tom Hanafan on the ballot in decades. Turnout was 11 percent in 2009.

Other contested elections in Pottawattamie County include Carter Lake, Avoca, Underwood and Walnut.

Elsewhere in southwest Iowa, in Harrison County there are contested races in Woodbine, Magnolia and Missouri Valley. In Mills County, Glenwood, Henderson, Pacific Junction and Malvern have contested races.

For more information on area races visit nonpareilonline.com/news/election and goo.gl/9XtL6D.

Pottawattamie County Voting Precinct

Precinct Locations

Council Bluffs

1 Northwest Christian Church, 714 Benson St.

2 Timothy Lutheran Church, 3112 W. Broadway

3 Peace Church of the Brethren, 2605 Avenue E

4 Epworth Methodist Church, 2447 Avenue B

5 Epworth Methodist Church, 2447 Avenue B

6 Broadway Methodist Church, 11 S. First St.

7 Community of Christ Church, 140 W. Kanesville Blvd. (Use west entrance)

8 St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 22 Dillman Drive

9 St. Pauls Lutheran Church, 239 Frank St.

10A New Horizon Presbyterian Church, 30 Valley View Drive

10B New Horizon Presbyterian Church, 30 Valley View Drive

11 Broadway Methodist Church, 11 S. First St.

12 Creekside Church (Formerly First Assembly of God), 3320 Harry Langdon Blvd.

13 The Center, 714 S. Main St.

14 Bethany Presbyterian, 1900 S. Seventh St.

15 Masonic Temple, 130 S. Sixth St.

16 Queen of Apostles South, 3304 Fourth Ave.

17 Queen of Apostles North, 3304 Fourth Ave.

18 Bethany Presbyterian, 1900 S. Seventh St.

19 Fox Run Golf Club, 3001 MacIneery Drive

20 Gethsemane Presbyterian Church, 224 Wallace Ave.

21 Gethsemane Presbyterian Church, 224 Wallace Ave.

Note: Some precincts are combined. Council Bluffs precincts 4 and 5, 14 and 18, 16 and 17, 20 and 21 and 6 and 11 are housed at the same facility.

Carter Lake

1 City Hall, 950 E. Locust St.

2 City Hall, 950 E. Locust St.

Other Cities

Avoca American Legion Hall, 112 N. Elm St.

Carson Carson Community Center, 316 S. Commercial St.

Crescent Crescent Fire Hall, 102 W. Florence

Hancock Hancock Fire Hall

Macedonia Macedonia City Hall, 322 Main St.

McClelland McClelland Town Hall, 117 Main St.

Minden and ShelbyMinden United Church of Christ, 106 Lincoln St., Minden

Neola Neola Community Center, 110 4th St.

Oakland Oakland City Hall, 614 Dr Van Zee Road

Treynor Treynor Community Center, 13 W. Main St.

Underwood UMBA Hall, 300 2nd Ave.

Walnut Walnut Library, 224 Antique City Drive
A 49-year-old man was taken to the University of Nebraska Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries Saturday night after being hit by a train in Council Bluffs.

Andres Galindo of Omaha was found at 11:10 p.m. on the train tracks near the 700 block of South 16th Street, according to a statement from the Council Bluffs Police Department. He was under the second car of a train that was backing up.

A hospital spokesman said no information on Galindos condition is being released.

Police ask that citizens pay attention to all railroad crossings and not to try crossing the tracks when the warning arms are down.
Council Bluffs and area residents are invited to attend the Salvation Armys Tree of Lights Ceremony on Nov. 9 at the Corps Community Center, located at 715 N. 16th St.

The ceremony, starting at 6:30 p.m., will feature the lighting of the Tree of Lights, a free concert and Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh. The lighting of the Tree of Lights will be shown on a screen at the Corps Community Center.

The public is also welcome to go to the tree, located at American National Bank at 16th Street and Broadway, which will be lit at 6:40 p.m. Salvation Army officials voiced their gratitude to American National Bank for creating a space for this new tree.

The Browns, a gospel music group from LeMars, will be performing during the ceremony. The group has been delivering the message of the gospel through word and song full-time for 15 years.

There will be a $5 community dinner preceding the ceremony at 4:30 p.m.

The Tree of Lights Ceremony marks the beginning of The Salvation Army Tree of Lights Campaign. This years fundraising goal for the Omaha-Council Bluffs Salvation Army will be announced during the ceremony.

The Salvation Armys red kettles will be located around the Council Bluffs-Omaha area from Nov. 10 to Dec. 23. Volunteer bell ringers can sign up online at registertoring.com or by calling 402-898-6000.
Parts of Interstates 80 and 29 in Council Bluffs are set to close temporarily beginning tonight, diverting some traffic onto Interstate 480 in Omaha.

Southbound I-29 between Ninth Avenue and Nebraska Avenue will be closed from 10:30 p.m. Sunday to 5:30 a.m. Friday. The closing is for demolition of part of the Union Pacific Railroad Bridge.

Northbound I-29 then will close from 10:30 p.m. Nov. 12 through 5:30 a.m. Nov. 17.

Drivers on I-29 can take either I-480 into Omaha or surface roads in Council Bluffs during those periods. Traffic on I-480 in Omaha likely will be heavier than normal during that time.

Marvin Lech, district construction engineer for the Nebraska Department of Transportation, said any increase in traffic on the Omaha interstate system shouldnt be too bad. It might be a little more congested at certain times.

Lech said I-480 and I-80 in Omaha should provide clear sailing for motorists because no construction will be under way while the Bluffs work is in progress.

People will need to drive safely and put their phones down, Lech said.

Also in Council Bluffs, eastbound and westbound I-80 will be closed at the I-80/I-29 interchange, or exit 1, from 10 p.m. Sunday to 1 a.m. Monday and nightly from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Officials said the closing is for bridge-construction work.

An estimated 36,000 vehicles use the Council Bluffs Interstate system each day, officials said.

The Iowa Department of Transportation has been reconstructing 18 miles of Interstates 80, 480 and 29 in the Bluffs.

The project, officially known as the Council Bluffs Interstate System Improvement Program, is aimed at modernizing the highway system and improving mobility and safety in the Bluffs area.

Construction on the $2 billion undertaking started in 2008. Its expected to continue through 2024. The federal government will pay 85 percent of the cost of the work, with the rest coming from the state.

The majority of the construction in 2017 has been at the major I-80/I-29 interchanges and along the I-80/I-29 eastbound main line.
By PTI: New Delhi, Nov 5 (PTI) Birla Cellulose, Aditya Birla Groups umbrella brand for its range of cellulosic fibres, will open a design studio this month in New York to connect with international fashion brands, a company official said.

Besides, the company also has plans to open studios at other international destinations such as London and Hong Kong for its collections, Birla Cellulose, President - Marketing, Manohar Samuel, said.

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"We are launching a design studio at the 7th Avenue in New York which is known as the garment district, it is the most premium location in New York," Samuel told PTI.

He further said: "We are launching the studio in November this year, then our seasonal collections will be available for global brands."

Opened in Noida this year, the studio is known in India as Liva accredited partner forum (LAPF).

LAPF has samples of Viscose, Modal and Excel with technical specifications and a variety of woven, knitted, and flat knitted fabrics on display under Liva, the fabric brand of Birla Cellulose.

Samuel further said the company is "also planning to set up studios in Europe and Hong Kong".

Birla Cellulose is opening one LAPF studio at Tirupur to cater the Southern textiles hub and has plans to be present at major centres like Jaipur and Bengaluru.

The company is also looking at adding more kiosks in its network, which consists of co-branded design fabricated studios. These are operated in collaboration with local partners.

"We see around 15 kiosks in the coming years and about 6 studios in the country as of now. Four studios in India, Jaipur and Bengaluru for sure. Noida is already present and Tirupur is almost ready," Samuel said.

Birla Cellulose is the Pulp and fibre business of Aditya Birla Group under Grasim. It has four units in India and fibre units in Thailand, Indonesia and China. PTI KRH ADI MKJ MR

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Ahmedabad, Nov 5 (PTI) With the high-stake Assembly polls approaching in Gujarat, BJP chief Amit Shah today held separate meetings with key party leaders and workers from the southern, central and northern regions of the state.

Shah, who has been camping in Gujarat since yesterday to strategise for the upcoming polls, held meetings with the BJP workers of Valsad, Navsari and Dang districts at the Tata Hall in Navsari town of south Gujarat in the morning.

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In the afternoon, the BJP president guided the party workers and leaders of the tribal-dominated Panchmahal and Dahod districts in Godhra town.

In the evening, Shah reached Himmatnagar town in north Gujarat to hold meetings with the party workers of Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts, said a BJP release.

Yesterday, the BJP chief was engaged in similar deliberations with the party workers from Kutch, Morbi, Surendranagar, Bhavnagar, Botad, Amreli and Ahmedabad city.

He is scheduled to meet the BJP leaders and workers of the remaining districts and cities in the state till November 9, the release added.

The 182-member Gujarat Assembly will go to the polls in two phases -- on December 9 and 14 -- and counting of votes will be taken up on December 18. PTI PJT PD NRB RC

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CHADRON  Fires in the summers of 2006 and 2012 burned up unprecedented acreages in the Pine Ridge of northwestern Nebraska. Lasting drought meant the stands of ponderosa pine forest on public and private lands were tinder dry. Lightning strikes, coupled with high winds and thick fuel loads and brush under-canopies, propelled the fires out of control. The end result obliterated huge swaths of forest land, scarred the hillsides and left ranchers without land to graze their cattle herds.

And its the lasting impact of these natural disasters which has created a vexing problem for range management professionals; how do you effectively manage forested land to ensure that there is not another year like 2012?

Doak Nickerson, northwest district forester for the Nebraska Forest Service, discussed the three-legged stool approach to creating and managing fire-tolerant forests and healthy land management in northwest Nebraska. The method Nickerson presented to the Nebraska Section  Society for Range Management at its annual meeting in Chadron on Oct. 18, couples grazing, roads for access, and a forestry-led thinning program.

These big wildfires are really expensive, Nickerson said. Once they start burning, the meter starts running and we have to figure out to pay for it to get them to the end where they arent a threat to people anymore.

Its a threat, but it can be managed.

If we can follow the three-legged stool, we can open up all kinds of opportunities for managing the land, Nickerson said. Grazing is at the top, and Ive had a difficult time over the years convincing my bosses in a rainy place called Lincoln that it gets really dry here. They cant understand what the cow/calf pair has to do with maintaining the forest ecosystem.

But my answer is that it has everything to do with maintaining the pine ecosystem, he said. Without the cow/calf pairs  or some sort of grazing animal  without it, all of the other forestry management means nothing. Its because these fires are a grass fuel model.

Under a no-management scheme, a forest can withstand 15 mile-per-hour winds before the fire moves from the grass to a canopy fire with 200 foot flames  and in western Nebraska, a 15 mile-per-hour wind is one of few certainties, especially at night.

If thinning from below is used, meaning lower branches are trimmed to prevent fires from spreading up to the canopy, the forest can withstand 40 mile-per-hour wind before the fire escapes.

In 2012 we had winds over 40, Nickerson said. However, if land owners adopt the three-legged stool approach, Nickerson said that the forests can withstand up to 60 mile-per-hour winds with fire.

Prescribed burning can be a compliment to grazing, however, public perception can be a tough sell to the public, especially after fire seasons like 2012, Nickerson said.

When people can see the dark side of what fire can do, people are afraid, he said. I am too.

Nickerson argues that grazing cow/calf pairs ahead of the prescribed burn, as well as thinning and logging of over-story fuel, ensures that the prescription doesnt escape the intended area.

If we dont keep that grazing practice front and center, we cant keep pine on the hill, Nickerson said.

Southeast of Chadron west of Bordeaux road is the Collins Allotment, public land managed by the Pine Ridge Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service. Michael Mattmiller, acting district fire management officer, told guests of the Nebraska Section SRM tour of the site on Oct. 19 that plans to perform a prescribed burn have been in the works since 2005.

Mattmiller said that prescribed burns are often a lengthy process, requiring many rewrites to the plan before approval is given. Prep work, from establishing four units and contingency lines within the perimeter to thinning and clearing are crucial.

However, its the public interest that is the largest hurdle.

Because were a small forest, we have to rely a lot on our neighbors to help us do this, he said. When we talk about 2006 and 2012, you can imagine the public interest when you talk about actually putting fire on the ground.

An extensive public awareness campaign, as well as meetings with neighboring landowners and members of the public, has all been instrumental to the plan.

Mattmiller said the primary intention of the burn is to reduce the fuel load  the sticks and needles which smother the grass below the trees. The dead matter not only reduces the available forage for grazing, it often increases the risk of the fires spreading more rapidly.

Stand replacement fires are not natural, Mattmiller said. In 2006 and 2012 thats what you saw, so were trying to make sure that we get back to a healthy ecosystem.

While the Collins burn has been delayed several times due to weather and wind conditions, the end goal will be to reduce litter and return the forest to a vibrant, healthy state, both for grazing contracts and wildlife management.
A simple swearing-in ceremony became a big going-away party for Nebraskas top agriculture official Monday, Oct. 30.

Greg Ibach, now the states former ag chief, took an oath of office for his new post as an undersecretary at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in front of more than 100 Nebraska farm boosters, elected officials, family members and friends.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue conducted the ceremony at the historic Livestock Exchange Building in South Omaha.

The move to Washington for Ibach, a farmer and cattle producer from Sumner, follows nearly 19 years of work at the Nebraska Department of Agriculture  12 as director  a tenure praised by Gov. Pete Ricketts.

Ibach will support the Trump administration in a post as undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs. He is one of seven undersecretaries who report to Perdue.

Hell oversee operations and policy development at three federal agencies within the agency: the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; the Agricultural Marketing Service; and the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration.

The agency known as GIPSA attracted controversy recently when the USDA said it would not implement the Farmer Fair Practice Rule, which was developed under the Obama administration but never went into effect.

The rule, designed to protect the rights of farmers raising livestock for packers, large meat processors, would have made it easier for farmers to sue those businesses over unfair practices.

Perdue told reporters after Mondays event that the decision to withdraw the rule was a close call, but he said the rule would have been a windfall for litigators.

Ibach said part of his role was to make sure farmers are treated fairly. He said hed have an open door to hear their concerns.

Ibachs work at the State Department of Agriculture won the support of major state agricultural organizations such as the Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska Cattlemen, whose leaders praised him as a tireless promoter of their industry.

Ibach made trade trips to 28 countries, including Japan, Canada, China and several in Europe, and helped host international visitors in Nebraska, to promote the sale of Nebraska commodities and food products.

Ricketts noted Ibachs support of programs that support new livestock industry development: the 2003 Livestock Friendly County designation and the newer Livestock Siting Assessment Matrix, which speeds local governments evaluation of proposed livestock feeding operations.

Ricketts also praised Ibach for developing the Certified Nebraska Beef promotional program and for working with other state agencies to support retailer Costcos push to build the chicken-processing plant now under construction in Fremont.

Perdue said in remarks about Ibach and Bill Northey, the Iowa agriculture secretary nominated for another undersecretary post:

It was so clear that they were not bureaucrats but authentic agriculturalists that had learned how to get things done within state governments. And yet they maintained that dirt-under-the-fingernails, agricultural heart.

Ibachs experience in Nebraska will be an asset at the USDA and on Capitol Hill, said former Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns, who served under George W. Bush.

Johanns is also a former U.S. senator and former governor of Nebraska.

Not only will Ibach run the agencies hes responsible for, and enforce and interpret existing regulations, hell also likely be called on by Perdue to travel the country on behalf of the USDA and to advise members of the House and Senate as Congress reauthorizes the farm bill, the legislation that covers the food stamp program and crop insurance.

The Trump administration is on record as not looking to issue new regulations, but dispute will likely arise again over the Farmer Fair Practice Rule, Johanns said.
WASHINGTON  Karl Elmshaeuser and Nancy Johner have been appointed as directors to the U.S. Department of Agriculture state agencies.

Elmshaeuser will direct Rural Development and Johner will serve as the executive director for the Nebraska Farm Service Agency, the White House announced on Saturday.

President Trump has selected two outstanding Nebraska leaders to serve as our USDA state directors, Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., said in a press release. Karl Elmshaeuser is a former U.S. Marine with a strong passion for building prosperous Nebraska communities. His first-rate management and development skills will enable him to make invaluable contributions to rural areas across the state.

I was also happy see Nancy Johner nominated to head our other USDA state agency. Her long career in public service, as an Under Secretary at USDA and the State Director for former Senator Mike Johanns, have prepared her to serve Nebraskans well once again at the Farm Service Agency.

In their respective roles, Karl and Nancy will be in good positions to promote Nebraska agriculture and effectively communicate the common sense policies our producers and communities need to be prosperous. I look forward to working with both of them to advance the priorities of our great state.

Elmshaeuser, an Ogallala native, graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omahas Aviation Institute with a degree in general studies. He served as manager and owner of Pioneer Aviation, L.L.C. for 13 years. Currently, he serves as executive director for the West Central Nebraska Development District.

Johner is currently the CEO for Pathfinder Support Services in Omaha. She served as the state director and deputy chief of staff for former Nebraska U.S. Senator Mike Johanns and was previously presidentially appointed as undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Agricultures Food, Nutrition and Consumers Services agency. Additionally, Nancy is a former director of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Children and Family.
JOIN A WINNING TEAM right here in northwest indiana We have been covering Northwest Indiana for over 100 years and were still growing. We are, by far, the main source of news, information and advertising in the Region and are looking for great people to join out team. Whether youre just starting out or looking for a place to step up,TheTimes has opportunities you need to explore. PAGE DESIGNER TheTimes Media Co., located 20 miles from downtown Chicago, is looking for highly motivated, creative page designers who can bring a new dimension to our brand of local newspapers and magazines. As our design center has expanded, so has our drive to find designers with innovative newspaper and magazine design and illustration skills. Our energetic design staff is working hard to change the perception of designers as merely visual people. We work with the belief that good content drives readership, and we push our staff to be content editors. If you possess the heart of a journalist and an innovative mind, we want you to join our close-knit, talented design team. Our ideal candidates will have experience in design at a newspaper or magazine, understand the fast-paced, newsroom environment, have the ability to manage several tasks simultaneously, and are experienced in information and content design. Candidates also must display a strong instinct for problem solving, a sense of urgency, and a passion for news. Experience with InDesign and Photoshop is preferred. In this position you must be willing to work a varied schedule with night hours. TheTimes Media Co. is one of Lee Enterprises 46 daily newspapers. Lee also publishes 300 weekly newspapers, shoppers and classified and specialty publications. In addition, Lee provides a wide variety of associated online services. EOE Call Center Representative (Part-time 30-39 hrs/wk) We have immediate openings for experienced Customer Service Representatives (CSRs), for our call center operations atTheTimes in our Munster & Crown Point, Indiana locations.TheTimes of Northwest Indiana is part of Lee Enterprises which is a leading provider of local newspapers, information and advertising in primarily midsize markets, with 46 daily newspapers and a joint interest in two others, along with rapidly growing digital products and nearly 300 specialty publications in 21 states which includesTheTimes of Northwest Indiana. Our call center agents are the backbone of our business. When customers call us, our CSRs answer the phone, make connections, answer questions, solve problems, and get people happily on their way as quickly as possible. As a Lee Enterprise Call Center Customer Service Representative, youll handle heavy call volumes daily in our fast paced call center, while maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction. When you join Lee Enterprises, you will enjoy:  Instantly becoming part of our family of diverse people focused on making really good customer experiences happen.  Ways to earn more every single month through bonus and incentives.  A clear path and the tools you need to progress with more responsibilities and promotions  Earning paid time off which includes vacation, sick and personal days, along with paid holidays  Eligibility for Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance, along with a 401K Match! Bring it.Youre qualified if you:  Love to help people  Have experience performing comfortably in a fast paced, deadline oriented environment.  Are proficient with MS Excel, Word & Outlook & have the ability to navigate thru various software programs efficiently  Above average typing skills (50+wpm)  Have sales ability and experience with inbound/ outbound customer service Learn more or apply online at www.nwi.com/timesjobs. EOE Distribution Assistant  Temporary/Seasonal TheTimes is currently looking for part-time Distribution Assistants to work in one of our Distribution Centers, working an average of 35 hours per week.These positions are temporary, seasonal positions that may continue through January 2018. Our centers are located in Valparaiso, Merrillville, and Hammond, IN. Work hours are in the early morning and include holidays and weekends. The work consists of:  opening and closing the distribution center  stacking bundles on tables  assisting with the delivery of newspaper routes  other duties assigned by the District Manager Candidates must have a valid drivers license and good driving record, as well as a reliable vehicle and proof of auto insurance. Mileage reimbursement is available if asked to use your vehicle for work purposes. Other requirements include basic computer skills and the ability to lift up to 40 pounds. The starting hourly wage for this position is $12.00/hour. This is an excellent entry level position for a company with a history of promoting from within. TheTimes is a drug-free workplace and all candidates offered a position will be asked to complete a pre-employment drug screen. Interested candidates should apply online at www.nwi.com/timesjobs. Equal Opportunity Employer Multi-Media Sales Executive  Outside Sales Base Salary PLUS Un-capped Commissions Join a winning team! We reach more consumers than we ever have before through NWI.com and our award winning print products. Consumer in NW Indiana rely onTheTimes and NWI.com for local news and information that no one else can deliver. Over 75% of all adults in NW Indiana connect with us through our on-line and print products on a weekly basis. We deliver 1.6M unique visitors per month with over 12.6M page views and 8.2M mobile sessions per month! We are looking for Multi-Media Sales professionals who possess the drive and passion to help local business owners increase market share through real time solutions and products that deliver superior results! We offer:  Competitive base salary  Un-capped commissions  On-going incentives and spiffs  Mobile phone  Mileage reimbursement  Benefits including: 401K (matching too), medical, dental, vision, paid vacation and personal time, life insurance, flexible spending accounts  Laptop and tools to be successful Our Multi-Media Sales professional manage an existing base of wellestablished accounts along with the responsibility and ability to hunt and develop new accounts... we want HUNTERS. Plus work alongside a team of sales professionals in a competitive market serving 6 counties! You Are:  Competitive  Driven to be the best  Results and goals oriented  Mentally tough  Possess a strong work ethic  Tech savvy  High character  Want to grow a great career  Willing to have fun! Ideal candidates possess:  3 + years of sales experience with a demonstrated track record of success  Prospecting & cold calling experience in successfully opening new accounts  Excellent communication skills  Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high transactional sales environment  College degree preferred  Valid drivers license, good driving record and access to a reliable vehicle Were willing to train the right candidate! If you bring the heart and desire to succeed we will equip you with the tools and knowledge to be successful! Drug Free Workplace Equal Opportunity Employer APPLY AT NWI.COM/TIMESJOBS
Nine small businesses from around Northwest Indiana will be recognized on Wednesday for their contributions to the Region's economy.

The 26th annual Entrepreneurial Excellence Awards event, also known as E-Day, is set for Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Avalon Manor, 3550 E. Lincoln Highway in Merrillville.

Keynote address will be given by Emerson Spartz, a Michigan City native and past E-Day young entrepreneur nominee. Spartz is CEO of Dose, a digital media company.

Our E-Day winners may come from a variety of industries from all over the region, but they have something in common: their passion has created a measurable impact on our business community, said Lorri Feldt, Northwest ISBDC regional director. We are proud to provide a platform to showcase their entrepreneurial spirit.

The 2017 E-Day winners include:

 Small Business Person of the Year: Pete Korellis, Korellis Roofing, Hammond

 Entrepreneurial Success: Donna Hubinger, Hubinger Landscaping, Crown Point

 Emerging Business of the Year: Rich and Leslie Monroe, Monroes Crossing, New Carlisle

 Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Seth Spencer, SERA Solutions, Michigan City

 Family-Owned Business of the Year: Leep family, Pleasant View Dairy, Highland

 Women-Owned Business of the Year: Justine King, Bilingual Speech Solutions, Crown Point

 Small Business Exporter of the Year: Scott Yaeger, FAST International, LaPorte

 Small Business Advocate of the Year: Erica Dombey, Regional Development Company, Valparaiso

 Lifetime Achievement Award: Robert Coolman, Coolman Communities, Valparaiso

Tickets are $40 and may be purchased by visiting www.edayleaders.com/luncheon. For more information, call 219-644-3513 or email northwest@isbdc.org.
The imposing three-story brick facade of Garys historic Heat Light Water building was once drab but now pops with bright colors.

Yellow, green and blue plywood boards cover broken windows and doorways that havent been darkened in years. Theyre covered with spray-painted words: I love you, Four words for my city: weve got to work, and To hold dear/the light/we have found/we must/sprinkle poetry/like a sword/let it save us/let it ignite a/revolution/in the sanctum of the soul.

The Gary Poetry Project has been turning abandoned buildings across the city into an unlikely canvas, an unfurling scroll for a sprawling citywide poem. The words come from Gary residents themselves  hundreds of people, many of whom are schoolchildren, have contributed lines of verse to a growing poem thats been spreading across Garys ruins like ivy draped on the side of the Heat Light Water building.

Gary Poetry Project organizers Sam Love and Corey Hagelberg have plastered poems on vacant buildings across the city: on Broadway downtown, on the towering City Methodist Church, outside the vintage Palace Theatre and all over the Aetna neighborhoods forlorn commercial district.

It will soon start becoming very noticeable in all corners of the city, Love said. Our goal is to get as much of it up before it gets cold.

Poems like Kelechukwu Brnfre's My City and Alva Wilsons Black Mecca, which are displayed on the long-forsaken nine-story Gothic City Methodist Church, have garnered a positive response.

Nobodys said anything negative, Love said. Weve been real clear it wont save this building or draw us out of problems of racism and inequality. Whats most important to me is when you have the people who live around it like it. Ive been painting stuff around Gary for 10 years. If the people across the street say, Hey, thats cool, thats really the reward Im looking for.

Garnering attention

Gary resident Carlotta Taylor pulled over in her SUV while Love and a cadre of volunteers were prepping the Heat Light Water building for winter, sprucing up the grounds and covering the 91-year-old warehouse Indiana Landmarks once declared one of the states most endangered historic buildings in verses from the Gary City Poem.

Wow, that looks nice now! she exclaimed. I love it, I love it.

Taylor, whos a spoken word artist herself, was returning from the grocery store with her grandchildren when she spotted the freshly painted verse.

It was the most beautiful sight I had seen in a long time in this city, she said. It really attracted my eye. I stopped. I had my grandchildren read the poetry to me. Its beautiful and I so much appreciate whatever organization did this for us and thought of it.

Taylor, a lifelong Gary resident, has watched a city of nearly 180,000 residents shrink to about 80,000 as the mills laid steelworkers off, storefronts got boarded up and people decamped to suburbs like Merrillville and Crown Point. She was heartened to see such beauty in a city filled with thousands of empty buildings, many burnt up in fires or left open for squatters.

There are blocks across the city where only a single home is still occupied. The once-bustling downtown can feel like a ghost town when the Gary SouthShore Railcats arent playing a home game.

We need to see more beautiful sights in this city, Taylor said. It will encourage us to do more work. Were so used to seeing the degradation and the downfall of the city until we feel like its hopeless and we dont know where to start. Something like this could bring us to the point where we could do something. When you plant a flower, you plant something beautiful to make you think. When you see beautiful sights, you think beautiful thoughts. We dont get to see that often.

More than words

Taylor, a product of Gary schools, said she loves the city shes called home and thinks it could use a little more poetry.

What would life be without poetry? she said. It would be like a day with no sun. It would be like an ocean with no water. It would be like a day with no love. Thats what I think.

The Gary Poetry Project is a yearlong initiative by the Calumet Artist Residency, a Miller-based group that turned a vacant home into a place to house visiting artists who create art for the community.

Over the past year, it's hosted multiple poetry workshops for the public at the Indiana University Northwest campus and often for schoolkids. About 1,000 participants have crafted their own lines for the collaborative city poem.

When theyre finished painting it on vacant buildings around Gary, they plan to post a map online so people can go read the entire poem. Theyll also post photos of the boards of spray-painted verse on the Calumet Artist Residency website.

I think the poems themselves deserve a lot of credit and attention, Love said. Well have the whole thing online. Well photograph everything. There will be a way for people to engage with this for years. This will still resonate for many years after weve done it. I think youll see a positive effect come out even a few years from now.

Work in progress

The Gary City Poem is a labor of love, crafted as meticulously as a stanza.

Love transcribes all the lines workshop participants scribble down on handouts, and Hagelberg creates 4-foot-by-8-foot stencils on a CNC machine. The process takes about four hours to complete for a single board.

Theyve already cranked out more than 40.

We were just kind of trying to come up with a citywide project that allowed people from all over the city to collaborate and incorporate their voices and ideas into something that would be available for everybody, Hagelberg said. Poetry was just kind of a natural fit for that.

A previous artist in residence, the poet Ahimsa Timoteo Bodhran, came up with a project where he created a poem with a small group of kids. They realized it could be replicated on a large scale.

They made a zine of Gary poems, including Carl Sandburgs The Mayor of Gary, so theyd have something to give community members who made creative contributions.

Its better than we imagined, Hagelberg said. Were seeing people coming out here to participate. We asked people for a line of poetry. We didnt know if we would get two or three words, but as you can see some people are writing paragraphs. Some people are pouring out their soul. Its really great, the variation and the different points of view talking about Gary and what its like to live in Gary.

Poems concern nature, the citys beauty, the community and what could be better in a city known for its high crime rates, blight and depressed property values.

A lot are very optimistic, he said. The city has a lot of troubles. From an outside point of view, it isnt very pretty. But people recognize the beauty in their community.

The hope is that people take away many things, including that the Rust Belt burgh is home to culture and creativity.

We just want people to see that Garys not a simple place, he said. Its complex, and there are different experiences people have.

The Gary Poetry Project hopes to brighten up spaces in neighborhoods and give passersby something to appreciate and contemplate. They also want people to be able to go around the city and take in the larger poem.

One board might be a poem in and of itself, but theres something interesting to the collaborative nature, Hagelberg said. We want to create what some would call a living poem, a poem that keeps growing over time.

The website will have a map and other relevant information to create a poetry trail across Gary.

People will know where everything is so they can drive or ride their bike or walk around and find the different poems, Hagelberg said. It will be kind of like a treasure hunt.

Sharing the love

Love said the Gary Poetry Project organizers would love to see other Northwest Indiana communities, such as Hobart or Michigan City, copy the idea and craft city poems of their own because every community has a unique story to tell. He and Hagelberg collected poems from about 1,000 Gary residents to give them a voice and a platform in an effort to record the citys history.

Even if the population had fallen to 70,000, we wouldnt say weve gotten everybodys story to where we could say this is Gary, Love said. We would say were getting a lot of Gary stories, a good representation, probably more kids than adults. Its important to get it from local people.

Contributors have diverse viewpoints, and often present an unflinching view of Garys grittiness, Love said.

These are good poems, he said. Some are talking about violence in a non-cliched way or talking about violence he witnessed on his block. If people are going to consider reinvesting in the city, we want them to understand the nuances.

One of the projects biggest goals is to change the way people look at Gary.

Too often, Garys reputation gets reduced to one thing, whether thats industry, abandoned homes or the legacy of Jackson family, Love said. Poetry could give outsiders a deeper and richer appreciation of what the city is all about.

I think its taking aspects of the city that arent appreciated, that people maybe even arent aware of and putting it out for people to see, he said. The real thing is the way non-Gary people view Gary. Theres no nuance. People dont see the diversity. They see a singularity. Weve got a great diversity of opinion, ethnicity and culture but it all gets funneled down into blacks, Michael Jackson, crime or abandoned houses. They never let the city be itself. Thats why we want to put it out there where people cant ignore it. If people across the Region read it, it confronts the way people look at this city.
The American Red Cross encourages people to share their good health this holiday season by donating blood for patients in need.

A decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Years Day when donors are busy with holiday activities and travel. However, patients dont get a holiday break from needing lifesaving transfusions. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.

By giving blood or platelets, donors may give patients more time  and more holidays  with loved ones. Make an appointment to give blood by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Nov. 16-30:

2 to 7 p.m. Nov. 16, Holy Spirit Church, 7667 E. 109th Ave., Crown Point

8 a.m. to noon Nov. 18, Merrillville Blood Donation Center, 791 E. 83rd Ave., Merrillville

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 18, Boys & Girls Club of Porter County - Valparaiso, 354 Jefferson St., Valparaiso

12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Nov. 19, Momentum Church, 2200 N. Main St., Crown Point

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 19, Conservation Club House, 1 Mill Pond Road, Union Mills

noon to 5 p.m. Nov. 20, Merrillville Blood Donation Center, 791 E. 83rd Ave., Merrillville

1 to- 6 p.m. Nov. 20, St. John Township Community Center, 1515 Lincoln Highway, Schererville

1 to 6 p.m. Nov. 21, Bethany Lutheran Church, 102 G St., LaPorte

7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 24, LaPorte Hospital, 1007 W. Lincolnway, LaPorte

1 to 6 p.m. Nov. 24, American Legion Post 485, 7485 Burr St., Schererville

2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 27, Hobart Community Center, 111 E. Old Ridge Road, Hobart

Noon to 5 p.m. Nov. 27, Merrillville Blood Donation Center, 791 E. 83rd Ave., Merrillville

11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 27, St. Peter Lutheran Church, 6540 Central Ave., Portage

12 to 7 p.m. Nov. 28, Valparaiso University - Harre Union, 1509 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 29, Fitness & Recreation Center, 2300 173rd St., Hammond

8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 30, Hebron High School, 509 S. Main St., Hebron
CROWN POINT  Mayor David Uran has said he'll have a major real estate-related announcement concerning the city at Monday's City Council meeting.

Uran made that promise during his monthly mid-week meeting with residents Wednesday at Carriage Court Pizza.

Though he would reveal no public details of the impending announcement, Uran did weigh in on other ongoing city concerns.

They include:

Barney's Hub Bootery

The longtime Main Street downtown square shoe store recently moved into its new location just north at the Jewel-Osco plaza. The old site on the city square is being renovated by its owner with approval from the city's Historic Preservation Committee. Uran said the owner is entertaining ideas of what will go in there.

Crown Theater

Like other vacant sites in the city, including the former cleaners business on Main Street just north of Goldsborough Street, the Crown Theater site is privately owned, and all the city can do is act as a "matchmaker" to pull people together to make a deal, Uran said.

109th and Broadway

Improvements are coming to that intersection, with construction slated for 2019. Special traffic devices installed as a temporary fix on 109th east and west of Broadway have resulted in a "drastic" reduction in accidents, Police Chief Pete Land said.

109th Avenue at Interstate 65

Uran said the city is not giving up on having 109th Avenue expanded to four lanes, but it would require the Indiana Department of Transportation to replace that bridge. The city has been working with the state, the governor's office, local leaders and state legislators about improving 109th.

"We all agree 109th needs to be expanded, and we are working hard to be able to do that," Uran said.
A 17-year-old was found by the railway police at Chennai Central station after an alert was issued about the boy. On questioning, the boy told the police that he was playing the Blue Whale Challenge and was completing a task.

By Pramod Madhav: In an incident of what is being alleged as another case of Blue Whale challenge, a 17-year-old West Bengal boy was rescued by Railway Police Force at the Chennai Central Station.

The 17-year-old boy was missing from West Bengal. As the Chennai police received an update on their network that a 17-year-old boy was last seen boarding a train, the railway police was on alert. The teams started combing the Chennai Central station where they spotted a boy who looked clueless about where he was.

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On questioning, the boy told his name and that he came from West Bengal but refused to divulge any other information. He told the cops that he has been playing the Blue Whale challenge and had left home to complete a task. He had boarded the Coramandal Express in Howrah and reached Chennai around 6pm.

The six member RPF team headed by Inspector Mohan scanned the entire Chennai Central station in search of the missing boy. All they had for identification was an ill printed Aadhaar card copy of the boy. Police also discovered that the boy's father runs a college in West Bengal.

Unconfirmed reports also claimed that the boy is a relative of a minister in the West Bengal Government.

The police has sent the boy for counselling and informed his parents who will be arriving in Chennai to take him back to West Bengal.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had earlier stressed the need for immediate action in cases related to Blue Whale Challenge, and had also ordered the Tamil Nadu police to be active and alert in such cases.

--- ENDS ---
Hebron Drama Club presents "Game of Tiaras" by Don Zolidis. When the aging king of a Magical Kingdom decides to split his empire between his three daughters, Cinderella, Belle and the Snow Queen-who-in-no-way-resembles-a-copyrighted-character, terrible tragedy ensues. Terrible, hilarious tragedy. Combining the gut-wrenching plot twists of the popular television series and the soul-numbing despair of Shakespearean tragedy, this adaptation of King Lear will keep you laughing. The show runs at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Nov. 12. Tickets are $7 general admission and $5 for students and senior citizens 55 and older.
Porter Regional Hospital will present the following childbirth education classes in November:

Breastfeeding class

VALPARAISO  This free class, coordinated by an internationally board certified lactation consultant, is designed to help expectant and new parents learn skills to promote successful breastfeeding. The class is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 14 in the Women & Childrens Pavilion classroom at Porter Regional Hospital, 85 E. U.S. 6. The class is free and registration is required at 1-800-541-1861.

Childbirth Education

VALPARAISO  Expectant parents can feel better prepared for the journey ahead by attending this comprehensive class to learn about pregnancy, labor and birth, postpartum and newborn care. Natural coping methods will be discussed, such as relaxation and breathing, as well as the use of pain medication and epidural anesthesia. Your partner or support person is encouraged to attend. Register in your fourth or fifth month of pregnancy and take the classes in your seventh or eighth month. Classes will meet for four consecutive weeks from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday and Nov. 13, 20, 27, in the Women & Childrens Pavilion classroom at Porter Regional Hospital, 85 E. U.S. 6. The cost is $65 per couple. Registration is required at 1-800-541-1861.

Fast-Track Childbirth Education

VALPARAISO  Spend one full Saturday in this expedited version of the Childbirth Education class to learn all of the aspects of pregnancy and birth. The class will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 11, in the Women & Childrens Pavilion classroom at Porter Regional Hospital, 85 E. U.S. 6. The cost is $65 per couple. Registration is required at 1-800-541-1861.

New Beginnings Tours

VALPARAISO  Learn more about what your birthing experience will be like during a 30-minute tour of the labor, delivery, postpartum and nursery areas at Porter Regional Hospital. Tours will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 11 and at 6 p.m. Nov. 21 and 28. The tours are free and space is limited. To register, call 219-983-8343.

eLearning Online Childbirth Education

This online version of the Childbirth Education class offers an alternative for women and their support person who cannot attend a conventional prepared childbirth class due to bed rest, scheduling conflicts or time constraints. It can also be a helpful refresher for repeat parents. The interactive web-based program includes animated illustrations, videos and games. Your partner or support person is encouraged to participate with you online. Register during your sixth or seventh month by calling 219-983-8692. The cost is $75.

Baby Basics

VALPARAISO  This new class helps parents build confidence around how to nurture babys development and ensure newborns safety. This free class includes topics like getting ready for baby, bathing, diapering, signs of illness, safety and newborn behaviors. Great for parents, grandparents and child care providers. Babies and toddlers are welcome. The class is from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16, in the Women & Childrens Pavilion classroom at Porter Regional Hospital, 85 E. U.S. 6. It is free. To register, call 1-800-541-1861.
I applaud The Times on its collaboration with the American Heart Association to provide Northwest Indiana residents cardio pulmonary resuscitation training. CPR is a life-saving skill.

Lake County government has provided American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/AED classes for several years to our employees on a volunteer basis. Classes include CPR/AED (automatic external defibrillator) instructions for adults, children and infants.

It is only in the past year, since the commissioners contracted with CardioTech LLC, a local business, that the demand has been overwhelming. I attribute this to the extensive, relaxed and engaging instruction provided by Herbie Cruz, instructor and president of CardioTech LLC.

After three hours of instruction, employees receive their certification. The county has had other classes in the past, but participation has never been so great.

In fact, class registration fills up the same day or within a few days that employees are given notice of a scheduled class.

More than 200 employees working in various county offices have received their certification  all prepared to respond when needed.

In fact, a few months ago county employees, bailiff Charles Hedinger, security officer Theodore Serrano Jr., Jeanine Szany, Willie Denis and Amy Schilling came to the aid of a court visitor in distress who lost consciousness.

They performed chest compression and used the AED until Crown Point Fire Department EMTs arrived. In my opinion, they saved his life. I commend their act of courage.

I encourage every employer to consider offering CPR and AED training to their employees. It could be your life or a loved ones life that is saved. I, too, am certified and feel empowered and confident that I will be able to assist someone in need of CPR.

Are you prepared to assist a co-worker, friend or loved one who may be in cardiac arrest? Do you know how to use an automated external defibrillator?

Dont wait. Learn today.

You could make a difference of life or death. Again, I appreciate the effort of The Times to train 5,000 residents this life-saving skill.
November is particularly special for me personally, as the wife of a veteran, and professionally, as a supporter of caregivers throughout our state. Each November we observe Veterans Day, honoring those men and women who served our country.

Appropriately, November also is National Family Caregivers Month, an opportunity to honor the caregivers who serve their friends and family.

Veterans from World War II, Vietnam and Desert Storm have distinct needs, but one unavoidable trend is the increasing number of elderly veterans, which has risen steadily over the decades.

This year the American Community Survey found 9.3 million American veterans age 65 and older. Indiana alone is home to 10,000 veterans from World War II, and most of the Greatest Generation require care or assistance from someone they love.

Thousands of Hoosier veterans need some form of daily care to live otherwise independent lives in their communities. Some simply need help with transportation or grocery shopping while others require more personal assistance with bathing or taking medications.

While the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and various nonprofits support veteran health care needs, the day-to-day care our veterans receive often is provided voluntarily by a family member.

Caregivers are a lynchpin in our communities. If you take care of anyone you love, helping them to live a safe and comfortable life at home, November is your time for recognition. Thank you.

For others, take time to acknowledge friends and family who look after veterans and other seniors in your life. We all need their dedicated work today and in the future.

In Indiana, family caregivers have additional resources at their fingertips to care for these aging loved ones, veterans or otherwise. Indianas 15 Area Agencies on Aging stand with family caregivers and help them find expert opinions, programs and even compensation.

AAAs can recommend excellent facility-based care, but the tools for family caregivers are especially valuable. There are options to build concerted care teams around each caregiver, awarding them a small stipend and giving them and their families access to nurses, care managers and the latest medical technology.

The VA also provides support to caregivers looking after veterans through its Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers program. The program covers those tending to veterans, who sustained injury in the line of duty since Sept. 11, 2001. All are important options for caring for our nations heroes and families throughout the state.

This November, thank the veterans in your community. Thank those who look after them, and thank the thousands of caregivers serving the most fragile of populations.

We owe a debt to each.
In her dissent in the 1983 case Akron v. Akron Center for Reproductive Health, former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor wrote, "The Roe framework...is clearly on a collision course with itself."

O'Connor was speaking of the trimester framework that was the basis of the original Roe v. Wade decision. The Roe court made a distinction between the constitutionality of state laws regulating abortion before fetal viability and those that would regulate abortion after viability.

Although the majority in Akron did not side with O'Connor, the concerns she raised in her dissent were prescient. As she noted at the time, "viability" in 1973 (when Roe was decided) was considered to be 28 weeks gestation at the earliest and generally well into the third trimester of pregnancy. But even 35 years ago, when the Akron case was argued, O'Connor could see that advances in medical technology would push viability earlier  into the second trimester  and possibly even earlier.

O'Connor warned the Roe decision was forcing state legislatures trying to regulate abortion to determine what were "accepted medical practices," and the courts thereafter to sit as de facto "science review boards."

Roe v. Wade's problematic structure has serious legal implications to be sure. But two cases in the news last week highlight the even more dramatic philosophical inconsistencies and moral absurdities.

On Oct. 23, Denise Grady, health writer for The New York Times, wrote an article about a new in-utero surgical technique to correct fetal spina bifida  a condition in which the spinal column does not fuse, leaving the spinal cord exposed. Children born with spina bifida are unable to walk and can suffer a host of other serious disabilities. Surgeons have been operating on gestating children to ameliorate spina bifida for about 20 years, with mixed results. But this new method is fetoscopic; it does not require opening the uterus and removing the developing fetus.

Instead, tools are inserted into the uterus through a tiny incision, and surgery is performed guided by a tiny lighted camera and images projected on a video screen.

Grady watches the surgery  which took place last month at a Houston hospital  and the tone of her piece is hopeful, even a bit awestruck.

Describing the gestating infant being operated on  at only 24 weeks  she writes, "The patient, still inside his mother's womb, came into focus...Fingers, toes, the soles of his feet  all exquisite, all perfectly formed."

At the same time  also in Texas -- an unaccompanied minor (a child of 17) illegally crossed the border into the United States. Caught and detained, it was determined that she was pregnant. Thereafter, she demanded an abortion. Both the government of Texas and the federal government opposed the request, arguing that there is no constitutional right for a noncitizen to enter the United States and obtain an abortion. Opponents further argued that a ruling in favor of the immigrant minor's request would effectively create a policy making the United States a "sanctuary destination" for abortions.

"Jane Doe" was represented by the ACLU. Her case was heard by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, and then a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and then the entire bench of the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, which ordered the state of Texas and the federal government to take the minor to a clinic for the abortion.

On Oct. 25, the immigrant minor aborted her child.

This is insanity. It is untenable.

The inherent worth of any human being is not determined by whether or not he or she is "wanted."

The spina bifida patient was 24 weeks. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation that would ban abortion after 20 weeks.

Scientists now believe 20 weeks is the developmental point at which the unborn child can feel pain. Planned Parenthood  of course  opposes these laws.

In her article, Denise Hardy notes that the surgeons administered anesthetic to their tiny fetal patient before performing the delicate surgery to repair his spinal cord.

Is it not absurd that a 24-week unborn baby undergoing surgery receives anesthetic, but one slated for the abortionist's knife can be mercilessly ripped to pieces?

It's quite likely "Jane Doe's" yet-unborn child was just as "perfectly formed" as the baby boy that Denise Hardy saw operated on last month.

Two children, both in Texas, both in utero, separated in age by only a few weeks.

Justice O'Connor was right.
News of the passing of William White, known to many as Bill, made the rounds on social media Friday, producing an outpouring of tributes about the longtime photojournalist.

Words such as kind and generous were used often in the posts, coming from former students who learned from him during his time teaching photojournalism at Auburn University as well as colleagues during his two decades at the Opelika-Auburn News.

But talk to those who knew White  who died this week at the age of 71 - and a recurring theme appears, one that rivals his praise as a photographer. White had a unique way of telling stories.

Like all good journalists, Bill could tell a good story in his slow Georgia drawl, said Ed Williams, professor emeritus for the school of communication and journalism at Auburn. I will miss Bills stories, his smiling face, his willingness to help others, and his kind, gentle spirit.

I am so sad especially that I cant hear his voice again. He spoke slowly in a sort of friendly, wry rumble, said Judy Sheppard, associate professor emeritus for the journalism department at Auburn. She added that he would tell stories with his half-smile, and his deceptively mournful eyes would actually twinkle. And he would walk slowly away as if he had all the time in the world.

He had such a patient way of communication; a nice, patient way of laying out a story, said John Carvalho, professor of journalism and associate director for journalism at Auburn.

A storied career

White began school at Auburn in the fall of 1963, but initiated a military career during the Vietnam era. He was an honors graduate of Military Police School at Ft. Gordon, Ga., later joining the U.S. Army in Europe with the USAEUR Inspector General's team headquartered in Heidelberg, Germany.

Afterward, he returned to Auburn and pursued photography and journalism and worked on the Auburn Plainsman staff.

Bill White was one of the first people I met when I joined the Auburn journalism faculty in 1983, Williams said. I was only 30 years old. Our first encounter was probably in the classroom  I was the young teacher and Bill was the older student. I never told Bill, but I admit I was a little intimidated when I looked out in my newswriting classroom that first day. Bill was about seven years older, and probably had more journalism experience than me.

"I quickly realized I had no worries with Bill White. Time and time again he showed me that his enjoyment in and out of the classroom was helping others, not showing how much he knew. If Bill ever thought he knew more than me about a topic, he never showed it. I think that we learned from each other.

White would eventually become a teacher himself, at one point teaching photography to 7th-9th graders at Auburn Junior High School before he taught various photography lessons at Auburn Universitys Continuing Education program of night classes.

He then began working part-time as a photographer for the News, where he eventually served as the editor of the communitys weekly newspaper, The Auburn Bulletin.

"Bill White was a gentle giant," said Troy Turner, editor of the Opelika-Auburn News, who began his career working with White at the News during the late 1980s. "He was one of the kindest, friendliest of people I knew very early in my career, and he constantly was sharing words of encouragement or praise for a good job. That had a great deal of influence on me. He was the kind of guy who helped build confidence in others.

"But he also quietly built a solid journalism career, both in his writing but especially with his passion for photography, and you could tell he loved his work," Turner said. "I'm proud to say I knew Bill White the person, and I'm proud to say that I worked with him. He'll be missed."

While he was a full-time journalist, he also began teaching photojournalism in Auburn University's School of Journalism in 1995. After working as a reporter and photographer for the News for more than 27 years, he retired in 2012.

An asset to the community

William was such an important resource to the Opelika-Auburn News and to students at Auburn University, said Carvalho, who worked with White at Auburn. He knew the area like a journalist should know an area. He knew the history and why things were important.

Carvalho said he would often ask White to speak to journalism students before they covered city council meetings as White would be able to offer a unique perspective one gets by knowing an area so well.

You always hear about 'institutional knowledge - he had an institutional knowledge of both the community and Auburn University, Carvalho said.

Friends such as Sheppard will praise his work but also recall fondly his personality, including a love for fishing.

Several times he and his partner Caroline house-sat for us while we were on long trips (as we) had dogs and cats that would get lonely when we stayed away. It was great for us  not so great for the fish around our dock! Sheppard said. On our last long trip out west, at a stop at Estes Park in Colorado, I found a gorgeous stone carving of an eagle, perfect for a guy whose life was so connected to Auburn. He was surprised  he never expected any thanks for favors, as many people he helped out can tell you.

Tommy Eden, an attorney in the Opelika area, attended Whites visitation on Saturday. Edens father worked with White in the 50s and 60s on a local television program and White photographed Edens fathers 80th birthday party.

He could not have been a nicer person to know, Eden said.

Eden said when he thinks of White he thinks of the photos that appeared in the News.

I would look forward to Sundays picture and how he would show the beauty of Lee County, Eden said.

Funeral services will be held at St. Dunstans Episcopal Church in Auburn at 2 p.m. today with the Rev. Dr. Wells Warren officiating. In lieu of flowers, it is requested to make donations in his name to the American Red Cross, the East Alabama Food Bank, or another charity of your choosing.
By PTI: By K J M Varma

Beijing, Nov 5 (PTI) China wants joint cooperation with the US in developing next-generation nuclear power technology, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said, ahead of President Donald Trumps visit to Beijing this week.

Trump will be in China from Wednesday to Friday. He would hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In his meeting yesterday with Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of TerraPower, Li has called for closer China-US cooperation in developing the next-generation nuclear power technology.

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Speaking highly of the China-US partnership in this field, Li said companies of the two countries have set up a joint venture with each holding half of shares and agreeing to share the intellectual property rights, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

TerraPower, LLC signed a joint venture agreement with China National Nuclear Corporation to form the Global Innovation Nuclear Energy Technology Limited. The two companies plan to work together to complete the Travelling Wave Reactor (TWR) design and commercialise the TWR technology.

"This is a pioneering work in China-US high-tech cooperation, which is on a voluntary basis. This shows the open attitudes of both sides," Li said. He said he expects "win-win" results in this cooperation.

China hopes to combine its advantage in talent resources with advanced technologies overseas, and make good use of the internet platform, to promote technological progress that the world can share and benefit from, Li said.

Acknowledging the significance of the next-generation nuclear power in the development of future energy technology, Gates said it is important to ensure the energy supply is clean, safe and reliable.

He said his company cherishes the cooperation with the Chinese counterpart, values Chinas rich talent resources, and will try to translate their shared cooperation vision into reality. PTI KJV UZM

--- ENDS ---
Six students of Kampala International University (KIU) have died following a nasty accident along the Gulu-Kampala highway.

According to Festus Rwabuhihi, the KIU deputy dean of students, five of the students died on spot in Nakasongola while another one has just died this morning at Nsambya hospital.



Rwabuhihi says 13 students were travelling in the same vehicle at the time of the accident, which occurred last night at about 10pm.



The deceased include; the president of the KIU Banyarwanda Students Association, Frank Ngarambe, Fred Kasasira, Vincent Kwizera and four others whose identities could not easily be established.

The students were reportedly returning from a party when their taxi rammed into another commuter taxi. Rwabuhihi says immediately after the accident, the students were rushed to Nakasongola health centre IV at Kakooge along Kampala-Gulu highway. Another student is said to have been taken to St. Mary's Lacor hospital in Gulu.



Other injured students have been rushed to Nsambya hospital and are said to be in critical condition.
RIP: Issa Kikungwe

Former Kyadondo South member of parliament and Democratic Party (DP) national treasurer, Hajji Issa Kikungwe is dead.



According to Norbert Mao the DP president general, Kikungwe, 54, died this morning from Mengo hospital after undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumour.

Kikungwe has been DP national treasurer since 2010. Mao said this was the second surgery, after the first one which was done in India some years back.

According to Mao, Kikungwe never regained consciousness after the surgery. Mao adds that Kikongwe was spearheading the fundraising for the construction of Ben Kiwanuka House, a building to be named after former chief justice Ben Kiwanuka who was killed in 1972.

According to Mao, Kikungwe was a strong pillar of DP who was spearheading the process of building a solid financial accountability mechanism for the party.



Kikungwe served in the ninth Parliament of Uganda from 2011 to 2016 as a directly elected member of parliament for Kyadondo South constituency.



During the 2016 general elections, Kikungwe contested as the DP flag bearer in the Kampala mayoral elections but lost to Erias Lukwago. He is remembered for doing his campaigns by engaging passengers in buses and taxis around the city.



Lukwago posted on his Facebook wall this morning describing Kikungwe as a brother and his death as "shocking and sad."



"I spent the night in Bukedi sub region on a Togikwatako/ Red Ribbon campaign but have woken up to shocking and sad news of the death of our brother, Hon Issa Kikungwe. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Inna lilahi wa inna ilaihi rajihun."
MP Anthony Okello at parliament earlier

Kioga country member of parliament, Anthony Okello alias Tango is nursing facial injuries he sustained during a fracas that ensued at the consultation meeting on the presidential age limit.



The NRM legislator, on Saturday afternoon organised a consultative meeting with residents of Muntu at Muntu sub-county headquarters.



Tango arrived at the venue of the meeting at about 1:00pm under heavy police protection when he met a group of already charged residents, many of whom were wearing red ribbons, a symbol of resistance to the age limit amendment.

The charged residents demanded for the whereabouts of Doreen Amule, their Woman MP whom they accused of betraying their trust by supporting a move by the ruling NRM party to remove the presidential age limits from the constitution.

They claimed Okello had been traversing the district together with Amule to bribe locals to support the move. Armed with stones and sticks, the angry residents told Okello they wanted to show Amule that they aren't happy with her move to support the amendment.



They barred Okello from addressing them without Amule before ordering him to immediately leave the venue. The police whisked Okello into the sub-county offices as officers tried to cool down the charged residents.



However, the angry residents followed the MP and started throwing stones at the offices smashing the window glasses in the process.



Police intervened and fired several bullets in the air to scare the residents in vain. As the police tried to rush the MP into his car, he was hit on the face with a brick.

He sustained injuries on the nose, mouth and forehead. However, police managed to speed off with him to Amolatar health center IV where he received treatment. He later wrote to police to register a criminal case against the perpetrators.



In his statement recorded at Amolatar central police station under SD reference 23/04/21/17, Okello pointed out five people he accused of masterminding the attack on him.

They include a Lira based advocate, Moses Okot B' tek Junior, Amolatar district vice chairman, Geoffrey Ocen, Sam Onyanga, Muntu sub-county councillor, Tonny Otanga, former LC 3 chairman of Agikdak sub county and Solomon Odongo.
Agricultural News

Scott Biggs and Lee Denney Named to Top USDA Posts in Oklahoma by USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue

Late Friday, US Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the lineup of State Directors for FSA and the Rural Development Agency across the US. Included in that announcement were former State Lawmakers Scott Biggs of Chickasha to be the Oklahoma Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency in Oklahoma and Dr. Lee Denney of Cushing to become the State Director for the USDA Rural Development in Oklahoma. Click or tap here to review the entire list announced by the USDA on Friday afternoon.



USDA's release explained the importance of the State Level appointments- "FSA State Directors help implement U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policies in planning, organizing, and administering FSA programs in their respective states. They are also responsible for running the day-to-day activities of the state FSA office. Similarly, RD State Directors work to help improve the economy and quality of life in rural America."





"These state directors will help ensure that USDA is offering the best customer service to our farmers, ranchers, foresters, and agricultural producers across the country," Secretary Perdue said. "FSA and RD both play a critical role in helping the people of agriculture, and are able to connect with people in their home states. They are the initial points of contact for millions of our USDA customers. Our goal is to help rural America prosper, and these state leaders will be of great assistance in that task."





Earlier this year- Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) worked with state agricultural leaders to make recommendations to the Trump Administration for these posts- and on Saturday, they praised the President's announcement of Denney and Biggs to be the top USDA officials in Oklahoma.





"Scott Biggs is a great choice to serve as Farm Service Agency State Director," said Inhofe. "Throughout his tenure in the state legislature, Biggs has been a committed advocate against unnecessary regulations against the farming community," Inhofe said. "I also applaud the selection of Lee Denney to lead the Oklahoma Rural Development state office. Her longstanding service to Oklahoma, particularly in our more rural communities, will be of great value to her well in the new role. Given the importance of the USDA Farm Service Agency and Rural Development Office in Oklahoma, I am confident they will work to promote agriculture, enhance rural economic development and support disaster relief efforts. I congratulate them both and look forward to working with them in their new capacity in support of Oklahoma's farmers and ranchers."





"I am pleased the Administration filled these vital positions that serve Oklahoma's diverse agricultural and rural communities," said Lankford. "Lee and Scott are the right candidates to faithfully serve the agriculture and rural development communities; I am grateful for their willingness to serve our state in this capacity."





Denney resides in Cushing, OK. Denney received Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from Oklahoma State University. Denney served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives for 12 years and is currently teaching in the veterinary technology program at the Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City campus. In 2017, Denney received the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association Veterinarian of the Year award. The Rural Development state director sets priorities and administers USDA-RD programs at the state level. The programs include housing, community facilities loans and grants, and emergency community assistance water grants.





Biggs lives in Chickasha, OK and served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. He attended the University of Oklahoma School of Law and attended Oklahoma State University and received a degree in Agricultural Economics. Biggs' professional background includes work in agriculture and rural development. The Farm Services Agency state director runs USDA-FSA programs at the state level. The programs are agricultural and conservation and range from commodity programs and disaster assistance for farms and ranches to conservation assistance and incentives.





Biggs abruptly resigned immediately from his House District 51 seat on Thursday of this past week- saying only he was taking a federal appointment- and that was a similar case to the person that Perdue named as the State Executive Director in Kansas- wheat producer David Schemm, who resigned less than a week ago from his elected role as President of the National Association of Wheat Growers.





Kansas Senator had praise for the former NAWG President- you can read his comments by clicking here.





At least one Oklahoma ag group quickly praised Biggs for being named to the USDA post. In comments provided to the Oklahoma Farm Report- American Farmers & Ranchers hailed the appointment of Scott Biggs as state executive director of the USDA Farm Service Agency for Oklahoma. "The USDA has made a great choice in selecting Scott Biggs as the new FSA executive director," said Terry Detrick, AFR president. "Biggs will use his background in agriculture and the legal system to serve Oklahoma's farmers and ranchers. We can't think of a better choice."

Earlier this year AFR presented Biggs with the organizations' Agriculture Advocacy award. After receiving the award, Biggs said "I am extremely grateful to receive an award for doing something I love, advocating for agriculture."





















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Ahead of East Asia Summit, China hopes that the meeting between India, US, Japan and Australia will "comply to the trends of current times, that is, peace, development, cooperation and shared benefits".

By Ananth Krishnan: China is carefully watching the revival of the India-United States-Japan-Australia quadrilateral dialogue, set to take place next week after a decade long hiatus.

Officials from the four countries are likely to meet on the sidelines of the November 13-14 East Asia Summit in Manila, according to reports, and this would be the first 'quad' meeting since the idea was first proposed by Japan in 2007.

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Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is also likely to discuss the idea during the two-day visit of US President Donald Trump, which began on Sunday.

The first iteration of the quadrilateral security dialogue was short lived, with the Abe government in Japan in 2007 lasting only a year and Australia then withdrawing from the dialogue after China issued protests to all the members, seeing the meeting as a platform to "contain" China.

Ahead of this month's meeting, the agenda of which remains unclear, China's Foreign Ministry reacted warily, saying it hoped the meeting "would not target or damage" a "third party's interest".

"China has noticed the relevant news reports. We hope the collaboration among relevant countries could comply with the trend of times, which refers to peace, development, cooperation and shared benefits, and conform to the prospect of... common security and development." the Foreign Ministry in Beijing said in a statement on Sunday to a news agency.

"We hope it would be beneficial for improving the mutual trust among countries and regions, and at the same time, safeguard and promote peace, tranquillity and prosperity within the area, without targeting or damaging a third party's interest."

Reports of the meeting have garnered attention in China's strategic community. Writing in the Party-run Global Times last week, Lian Degui, a professor at Shanghai International Studies University, said that "If the US, Japan, Australia and India can coordinate and support infrastructure construction and economic development of Indo-Pacific countries, they are more than welcome. But if they try to incorporate values into economic issues and display prejudice and hostility toward other countries, they will not bring stability to the region."

"A U.S, saddled with a tight budget, a financially indebted Japan, an Australia eyeing a free ride on China's economic development and an India still struggling to become a developed country can hardly spare any effort to contribute to the public good," he wrote. "Geopolitical competition and value judgments are affecting the way the US and Japan articulate their political and economic policies. Last year, Abe proposed the "free and open Indo-Pacific strategy," echoing the Obama administration's rebalancing the Asia-Pacific policy and the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement both of which aim at putting China in check. If they stick to such a mind-set, they will miss crucial development opportunities offered by this era."

--- ENDS ---

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By PTI: Una/Kullu (HP), Nov 5 (PTI) Describing the Himachal election as a "one-sided" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today accused the Congress of running away from the battlefield and said it had nothing left to do but grieve in the coming days.

In a series of meetings in Himachal Pradesh, Modi also said he was unfazed by the Congresss protest call on the anniversary of demonetisation and stressed that by burning his effigies, the party could not stop him from carrying forward the fight against corruption and black money.

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"The Congress party has left the ground and run away. This election has become one-sided, never seen earlier," he said about the November 9 poll.

"I can understand the pain of my Congress brothers. Their problem is that a tea-seller has become the prime minister, a poor mothers son has reached this level. They felt they had reserved this seat forever, but this public knows all," he said.

Modi, who addressed poll meetings -- called Parivartan Rally -- in Una, Palampur and Kullu to give a fillip to the BJPs poll campaign, accused former prime minister Indira Gandhi of not going for a note ban when she needed to, and said he would not have had to carry out this elaborate an exercise had she taken the step for demonetisation years ago.

"For the Congress, it is never dal se bada desh (the country is bigger than the party). For them only their partys interest comes first," he alleged.

He said after the people of Uttar Pradesh brought the BJP to power, the Congress had started to fear that it would find it difficult to deal with him even in 2024.

"And that is why they have no alternative before them except to burn my effigies," he said.

Modi said over 3 lakh companies had shut down after the note ban and a probe into 5,000 such firms had found a fraud of Rs 4,000 crore. Investigation against the others was on.

Referring to the Congresss "Black Day" call, he said at a well-attended poll rally in Kullu, "A few people who faced the heat of demonetisation are still complaining and are planning to observe November 8 as a black day. The Congress cannot scare me by burning my effigies."

"I learn that the Congress is planning to observe mourning in the coming week. It has nothing to do except grieve in the coming days... My fight against corruption will not stop," he said at another rally in Palampur.

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Modi said the note ban had "disturbed the sleep" of Congressmen, alleging that they had "big bags and garages" full of old notes.

Campaigning for the third day in a row in the state, he urged the people to ensure that the BJP formed a government with a three-fourth majority.

The election, he added, was not being fought by the BJP, but the people of the state who were out to teach a lesson to the Congress "Sultanate" for corruption and poor law and order.

"People want not just a change, but punishment for those who looted Himachal Pradesh. A storm is raging here against the corrupt Congress," he said.

Focusing on corruption, Modi accused the former UPA government at the Centre of abusing subsidies worth Rs 57,000 crore. He claimed he had stopped this misuse, and the money was now being used for the welfare of the poor.

"The Congress and corruption are inseparable; they are like a tree and its roots. All their leaders are out on bail after facing serious charges of corruption and they are speaking about putting a check on corruption," he said.

He also took a dig at former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi for his statement that out of one rupee spent from Delhi, only 15 paisa reached the villages, saying Gandhi was merely giving an account of what the Congress did when it ran the country.

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"Who was that magician? Or which panja (palm) was used to steal that money," he asked, in an apparent reference to the Congresss electoral symbol, the palm, and wondered where the money had gone.

Modi said the Congress did not implement the benami assets law as it would reveal all their "wrong-doings".

"Who is responsible for corruption? Who brought communal, caste and social disharmony in India? It is the Congress. Dont you think the party needs to be taught a lesson?"

On GST, Modi said no businessman or business body had opposed the new tax regime, and the government was doing everything to resolve the problems of traders and shopkeepers after taking all states on board. PTI SKC BDS

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Nebraska City is the fortunate home of half a dozen generous family foundations, among them the Nelson, Kimmel, Wirth, Kropp, Kriefels and Steinhart Foundations. Their generosity has helped countless projects take shape in Nebraska City over the years  a new hospital, an addition to the library, an aquatic center, multiple public and parochial school renovations and much more.

Undoubtedly, it is thanks to this support that Nebraska City consistently tops the lists of Nebraskas most beautiful destinations. The home of Arbor Day is indisputably charming.

But Nebraska City's allure extends beyond its stately buildings. The people are top notch, too, deeply devoted to the community they call home. A good handful of those folks serve as volunteers to the Nebraska City Community Foundation Fund, an affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation, and since 1999, the Fund has been filling an important niche in Nebraska City.

We invest in people, said Paul Madison, a retired physician who has served on the fund advisory committee for nearly nine years. The abundance of family foundations makes us different from a lot of communities and were so lucky to have them to fund brick and mortar projects. Because of this, the Nebraska City Community Foundation Fund has been able to focus on different ways of making an impact.

Investing in people informs every aspect of the Funds work, not only its grant making procedures, but its role as a connector and facilitator in the community.

Our mission is about more than just money, said Doug Friedli, a founding member of the Fund. "We see ourselves as a collaborator and convener. The Fund brings local citizens, organizations and institutions together to talk about big issues."

Last year, the Fund did just that.

In January, volunteers extended an invitation to Nebraska Citys many community leaders to attend a meeting of the minds. The gathering served as an opportunity for the diverse entities to each share their vision for the future of their community.

As far as anyone could remember, this had never been done before, said Friedli.

Attendees included representatives from four family foundations, the city council, economic development, school board, chamber of commerce, Leadership Nebraska City alumni and the public library. In total, 88 people participated in the conversation.

We felt really good about the attendance, said Friedli.

In January 2018, the Fund will host a follow-up meeting to plan for next steps.

Madison admits that fulfilling the Funds mission is not without its challenges. Its easy to understand brick and mortar projects  you can see them, said Madison. Investing in people is a little more abstract. Sometimes you dont see the results for years. They take time to develop.

A perhaps even more abstract opportunity presented itself several years ago when a private foundation challenged the group to raise $500,000 to be met with a $250,000 match. If the goal was achieved, the money would benefit Nebraska City Community Foundation Funds unrestricted endowment. An unrestricted endowment is like a permanent savings account for a community. The assets are invested, rather than spent, and while a portion of the income earned is granted out to worthy causes, the principal remains intact to continue to build the fund forever. Importantly, there are no restrictions on what charitable causes the endowment can support. This allows the Fund a great deal of flexibility to award grants that support its mission of investing in people.

The Fund began the challenge in 2011 and completed it in 2015, creating an additional $30,000 to $40,000 per year to be invested back in the community and its people. This money, in addition to other dollars raised by Fund volunteers, has supported projects to benefit Nebraska Citys oldest residents, youth and everyone in between. For instance, recent grants have supported a free outdoor movie series downtown, a challenge grant to Leadership Nebraska City, a visit from a renowned childrens book author, youth philanthropy contest and "Philanthropist of the Year" awards.

The Fund has also established a scholarship program that has, to date, provided financial assistance to 52 non-traditional students. Another unique scholarship program awards funding to local groups and organizations to attend planning retreats and leadership development training  the city council and school board have both been recipients.

Fund dollars have also gone towards the purchase of new iPads for a program housed at the public library. Tech Revolution takes young volunteers into nursing homes to teach residents how technology can be used to stay in touch with their relatives.

Six years ago, local kids decided they wanted to build a skate park. Fund volunteers mentored the youth, taught them fundraising techniques and provided the means to facilitate donations. Today, thanks to this partnership, Nebraska City has a $150,000 skate park enjoyed frequently by local youth.

A lot of communities build skate parks for kids, but not with kids," Friedli said. "They feel a real ownership of the project and they continue to use, love and take great care of the park.

The Funds investment in people also involves mentoring their youth advisory committee. This is no token committee. The group has authority to award 20 percent of the Funds annual payout from its unrestricted endowment. With that endowment now exceeding $1 million, it is a big responsibility.

Chloe Higgins, a high school senior, has been on the youth advisory committee since eighth grade. Last year she recommended a $5,000 grant for a program that directly impacts young children, especially those who come from underprivileged families.

Readers EDGE serves all pre-school and kindergarten classes in the public schools, plus children in Head Start. Once a month, volunteer readers  known as Book Besties  visit the classes to read a book and lead a related activity. Most importantly, every child gets to take home and keep a copy of the book.

Worth noting, 47 percent of children in Nebraska City qualify for free or reduced lunch. Literacy has been shown to reduce generational poverty, yet many children are being raised in homes where there are no books.

The pilot program in April 2016 was very successful. The book was Peter Rabbit. Childrens comments included questions like, Can I read this every day?

"Can I keep this book at my house? These are gratifying responses for the 12 volunteer readers and others who help with the program.

Fund leaders like Doug Friedli hope that the Fund will lead by example.

Nebraska City Community Foundation Fund invests in people, but beyond that, we hope to create a culture of giving that encourages people to invest back in their community," Friedli said. "The Fund gives everyone the opportunity to participate at whatever capacity they can. Yes, were lucky to have such generous family foundations in Nebraska City, but we all have a responsibility to give back.

For more information on this and other community stories visit NebraskaHometown.org.
Omaha police have made two arrests in connection with a series of robberies.

Carlos Farley, 23, was booked on seven counts of robbery and seven counts of use of a weapon  not a gun. Dustin Burghardt, 22, was booked on three counts of robbery.

Police searched an address near 66th and Pinkney Streets and an address in the 5600 block of South 29th Avenue and recovered evidence, including a BB gun.

Police have been investigating a series of convenience store robberies. Friday, Omaha police released a photo of a person of interest who was at the site of two robberies minutes before the businesses were robbed Oct. 23.

Police also released photos of a man who has been linked to 10 robberies in the area, including the two on Oct. 23 at a Cubbys in Greenwood, Nebraska, and a Buckys at 3909 N. 132nd St.
By PTI: Mumbai, Nov 5 (PTI) Despite concerns over the implementation of GST, the monthly collection ratios of loan pools of commercial vehicles (CVs), loan against property (LAP) and MSMEs remained strong at 95-99 per cent in July and August, says a report.

Since the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax from July 1, there have been reports about temporary disruptions in the performance of these loans as borrowers have been working overtime to make their businesses GST compliant on one hand and their working capital cycle getting stretched on the other, says the report of Icra.

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The observed collection efficiencies are largely in line with the levels witnessed during the previous few quarters, it noted.

"While these are still early days, the initial performance suggests that the rated pools are demonstrating remarkable resilience. The monthly collection ratios at a median level in July and August have remained strong at 95-99 per cent for CV, LAP and MSME loan pools," Icras structured finance head Vibhor Mittal said.

He said there has been a small increase of 30-50 basis points in 30+ delinquency levels during this period for CV and LAP asset classes. But delinquencies in the MSME segment have only come down.

The report said for the CV industry, the GST is likely to have a positive impact in the medium to long term.

"For transporters plying in some sectors, the vehicle transit time has come down due to the removal of check posts at state borders. The deferment of e-way bill implementation has also helped," Mittal said.

He said the ability of small road transporters to cope with the e-way bill requirement once it is rolled out and the corresponding rise in operational cost, remains to be seen.

For MSME loans, many borrowers are either outside the GST ambit or have complied with GST under the composition scheme, where tax rates are marginal and compliance requirements are significantly lower, he said, adding "these borrowers are likely to see minimal impact on businesses."

The agency said for the larger ticket loans offered in the MSME and the LAP segment, the government has extended the return filing dates which has provided an interim relief.

The compliance costs for some of these businesses may go up. As borrowers are forced to report their true income, their margins may also get suppressed owing to higher income tax levy, the report said.

In the long-term, the entities that are able to face the interim challenges will become part of a stronger marketplace, it added.

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"These entities will then be able to reap the benefits of GST--lower indirect tax burden, better logistics, and the end of goods and services distinction," Mittal said. PTI HV BEN GK

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LINCOLN  A confidential state investigation completed earlier this year resulted in no professional discipline against a former doctor for the Nebraska State Patrol who is now being sued and criminally investigated over his physical exams of female trooper recruits.

The World-Herald has learned that the Department of Health and Human Services months ago closed a 2015 civil complaint by Trooper Brienne Splittgerber against Dr. Stephen Haudrich. The trooper accused Haudrich of doing a medically unnecessary and inappropriate exam of her female anatomy.

The HHS complaint was investigated and the Attorney Generals Office declined to take action, said Omaha attorney David Ernst, who represents the doctor. The written notification of the decision sent to his client was dated Feb. 17, the lawyer added.

The discovery sheds new light on and raises new questions about the disputed medical examination by the patrols former doctor who conducted pre-employment physicals of recruits under a three-year, $45,000 state contract.

The trooper has said she reported her concerns about the exam to her superiors sometime in October 2014, but they did nothing. That inaction prompted her to file a federal lawsuit in August against the state, the patrol and the doctor.

The patrols apparent failure to promptly vet the allegations also factored in a decision by Gov. Pete Ricketts to fire the agencys superintendent, Col. Brad Rice, this past summer. The governor, in turn, asked the patrol to launch a criminal investigation into the matter  something the female trooper had been seeking for three years.

All the while, it turns out, officials with HHS and the Attorney Generals Office had quietly completed a 14-month investigation of the allegations that very few people knew about.

Among those unaware of the HHS investigation were the governor and officials with the State Patrol, said spokesmen for both offices.

HHS officials said they cant discuss, or even acknowledge, the departments professional-standards investigation of Haudrich. They pointed to state law, which imposes confidentiality to protect medical professionals who might be targeted by frivolous complaints. The agency does release a limited amount of information when disciplinary action is taken against a license holder.

The nearly 2,000 complaints filed annually against medical professionals are first reviewed by HHS investigators, who have the authority to open investigations or dismiss allegations they deem invalid. The department said it opened investigations into about 700 such complaints in 2016.

Investigations of doctors are reviewed in closed meetings of an eight-member State Board of Medicine and Surgery, which can dismiss complaints or order disciplinary action against the doctor, said Jenifer Roberts-Johnson, a deputy director with HHS. All decisions of the board are reviewed by the Attorney Generals Office, she added.

The attorney generals spokeswoman said the same secrecy law prevents Attorney General Doug Peterson from commenting for this story.

Omaha attorney Tom White, who represents the trooper in the hostile workplace lawsuit, questioned the propriety of having state agencies investigate a doctor for work he did while under a state contract.

Im concerned about whether the HHS and attorney generals decision not to take disciplinary action was made in an unbiased atmosphere, said White, who also served in the State Legislature from 2007 to 2011.

Furthermore, he said, his client has never been told by HHS that it had closed the investigation. Splittgerber spoke to an HHS staff member on Feb. 23  seven days after the doctor had been notified by the agency  and was informed the investigation was still under review, White added.

Until she was told about the comments by the doctors lawyer, the trooper had believed the HHS investigation was ongoing, White said. This, despite HHS protocol, which says the department will report a final decision to the person who files the complaint.

HHS spokeswoman Leah Bucco-White said two letters were mailed on Feb. 17, although she declined to clarify to whom they were addressed. If, however, the complaining party had legal representation, the letter would have been mailed to the lawyer, she said.

At the time the trooper filed the complaint, she was represented by a different lawyer. An attempt to reach that attorney last week to ask if he received a notice letter from HHS was unsuccessful.

Whats more, its possible HHS is reviewing the allegations again. Upon reading about the troopers lawsuit in August, State Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha filed his own HHS complaint against the doctor. The senator said he recently was contacted by an HHS staff member, who asked whether Chambers had additional information to submit.

The timeline of the troopers allegations is important for understanding where the confidential HHS investigation fits in the larger dispute over the exams.

In 2014 Splittgerber was one of 42 members of the recruiting class accepted into the patrols basic training camp. Four members of the class were women, three of whom would receive badges.

Splittgerber has alleged in her lawsuit that while she was undergoing a pre-employment physical on Sept. 11, 2014, Haudrich instructed her to undress, lie on an examination table and spread her legs so he could look at her vagina and anus. Suspicious of the exam, she spoke about it with her family physician, who questioned its validity.

Splittgerber then shared her concern with superiors at the patrol. After months of hearing nothing back, she made another report to a patrol captain, who told her an investigation was being done.

About a year after the exam, Splittgerber brought the issue to Sgt. Brian Petersen, president of the State Troopers Association of Nebraska. Petersen put her in touch with the lawyer who helped her file the complaint with HHS in late 2015.

Another year passed. So she contacted HHS for a status report on Feb. 23, 2017. Four days later she asked Rice about the status of the patrols investigation. The lawyer for the troopers union followed up by meeting with the patrols legal counsel.

On March 31, the patrols lawyer responded with an email that said the disputed exam is for a hernia check which is necessary for both males and females. The email also said the patrol would allow employees to request a gender of doctor to perform the exam or have their own physicians certify there is no problem related to hernias with the patient.

The patrols leadership said the change would allow recruits to avoid having a doctor they are unfamiliar with performing any exam that might make them uncomfortable, said Wendy Wussow, the agencys attorney.

Then, on June 18, The World-Herald published a story that showed patrol officials may have meddled with an internal investigation into a fatal high-speed chase. On June 22, Taylor Gage, the governors communications director, met with Gary Young, the lawyer for the troopers union. Among other things, Young described the female officers allegations against the doctor.

The next day, June 23, the governor announced he had assigned his chief human resources officer to review the leadership of Rice. A week later, the governor fired Rice, who had led the patrol for just over two years.

The trooper filed her lawsuit Aug. 1 in U.S. District Court in Omaha. Her attorney has said two other female troopers have since filed complaints involving similar allegations with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Cody Thomas, spokesman for the patrol, said the agencys investigators do not have access to the findings of HHS. Therefore, the patrols investigation will continue on an independent course.

In September, the patrols contract with the company that employs the doctor expired. The agency has signed a new agreement with a different medical provider.

When the next class of recruits goes in for physicals, they will be given the option of having their own doctors perform the hernia checks, Thomas said. Hernia exams are required under guidelines established by the states Police Standards Advisory Council.

The patrol also is working with our new provider ... to ensure that the physical exams meet industry best-practice standards before any future exams are performed, Thomas said.

Since the HHS investigation of the doctor is confidential, its unclear what impact it may have on the lawsuit.

Ernst, the doctors attorney, maintained that the decision not to sanction the doctor shows he met the professional standard of care. Dr. Haudrich adamantly denies any wrongdoing, the attorney said.

He certainly did his job, Ernst said. He did the examination he was asked to do.

A well-respected family practice expert has reviewed records of the exams and concluded they were entirely appropriate, Ernst said.

In court filings, the doctor has contested the troopers claim that her equal protection rights were violated because she and other female recruits underwent exams different from those of male recruits. His dismissal motion says males and females have different anatomies, different potential health complications, and therefore, their examinations are not alike.

Other medical professionals have questioned the validity of the exam based upon the troopers description of it. Three professionals have told The World-Herald that hernia examinations of a woman would not involve a simple visual inspection of the genitals or anus.

Even an exam for a pelvic hernia could not be done with a look alone. Rather, it would require the use of a medical instrument called a speculum, which would have to be inserted inside the patient, said Kelley Hasenauer, a family nurse practitioner who owns a womens health clinic in North Platte.

Every physician we have talked to has said there is no medical reason for this examination, said White, the troopers lawyer.

In legal filings, Splittgerber said she raised her concerns with the agency and with HHS because she hoped action would be taken before other female trooper candidates underwent the exam. And she disputed contentions that male recruits were required to display their genitals and anuses to the doctor.

A female trooper who reports an inappropriate sexual incident, which may well have been a crime, to her superiors and watches as nothing is done to protect subsequent female trooper candidates works in a hellish place, said her brief in opposition to the motion to dismiss.

Since Splittgerber got her badge in 2015, two other recruit classes would have been required to take the physicals.

Seven of those recruits were women.
The writers are Nebraskas U.S. senators. Sasse is a member of the Judiciary Committee.

Nebraska has an impressive legal community. With more than 5,700 lawyers, our state touts a lengthy and impressive list of those who have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the rule of law.

During our search for a candidate to fill the seat of Chief Judge William Jay Riley on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit, however, one name stood out.

Steve Grasz.

President Donald Trump accepted our recommendation and nominated Steve for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit in August. Like us and so many other Nebraskans across our great state, the president recognized Steves temperament, intellect and skill as valuable attributes for the federal bench.

Steve learned the value of hard work while growing up on his family farm in the Nebraska Panhandle. That experience laid a strong foundation for him. He went on to excel in his education and build a distinguished legal career practicing appellate litigation.

For 12 years, Steve served Nebraska with dedication. In his role as the chief deputy attorney general, he passionately defended our citizens and upheld the laws of our state.

The respect Nebraskans hold for Steve is widespread and bipartisan.

Former Nebraska Gov. and U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson, a Democrat, wrote of Steve:

(Steve) was an asset to our state and Nebraskans benefitted from having such a capable and thoughtful professional in public service. Today, he is unquestionably one of the foremost appellate lawyers in the state, making him an obvious choice for this seat on our federal appeals court.

Furthermore, Deborah Gilg, the former U.S. attorney for Nebraska appointed by President Barack Obama, echoed those sentiments, stating that Steve had a reputation for being honest and fair, with a dedication to the rule of law.

Despite the strong support for Steve from across the aisle, there is a targeted effort by some outside Nebraska to tarnish Steves reputation.

Hoping to drive a political agenda, the American Bar Association rated Steve as not qualified to serve on the federal circuit court. We were shocked by its assessment, given Steves considerable legal experience. But our examinations of the ABA report revealed intense bias and an evaluation based on limited facts.

The two evaluators who performed this ABA analysis discounted Steve for his association with political organizations, an action integral to our democracy. This charge is absurd because the ones lobbing the attack have engaged in political participation themselves.

The first evaluator, an Arkansas law professor named Cynthia Nance, was given multiple awards from affiliates of the Democratic Party of Arkansas. The second, Laurence Pulgram, has worked as a liberal activist and donated thousands of dollars to the Democratic Party.

These revelations weaken the ABAs argument that Steve Grasz is unqualified for his nominated position. A review of the evaluation shows a report long on anonymous sources and short on substantiated evidence.

The president of the Nebraska State Bar Association, Timothy Engler, quickly responded to the evaluation by noting that his organization did not participate in the report or the ABAs grade. Whats more, Ed Whelan, president of the Ethics and Public Policy Center and one of the nations foremost experts on judicial appointments, called the ABA evaluation feeble beyond the point of incompetence because it selectively quotes portions of an article written by Grasz, misrepresenting his views.

Bias should not cloud how we evaluate judicial nominees. We were proud to defend Steves excellent credentials, character and commitment to the rule of law during his hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and we will confidently continue to do so throughout his confirmation process.

The American people deserve to have Steve Grasz on the 8th Circuit Court. Any efforts to misconstrue him as unfit for this judgeship are politically charged, dishonest and unwarranted. Thats not the Nebraska way, and thats not how we should be determining who sits on the federal bench.
On the other side of the world from the Midlands, the picturesque Japanese village of Tsuwano lies nestled against tree-covered mountains.

Visitors to the community of 7,600 can stop at sites including former samurai residences and  unusual for rural Japan  two Catholic churches. The village, in a time zone 15 hours ahead of Central time, arose 700 years ago around a now-vanished castle.

In the 21st century, Tsuwano unfortunately is struggling to sustain itself. Many of the challenges will sound familiar to Nebraskans and Iowans in rural communities:

Economic difficulties. An aging population. An outflow of young people to urban areas. Decreased attachment to and understanding of local history and heritage.

Tsuwano was home to 11,000 residents in the mid-1990s but has lost ground since then. Between 2000 and 2015, the population declined by 28 percent.

Consider a demographic comparison with Midlands communities with populations roughly equal to Tsuwanos:

In Blair, residents 65 and older make up 15 percent of the population. The figure for York is 18 percent; for McCook and Nebraska City, 19 percent. In Atlantic, Iowa, 22 percent of residents are 65 and older.

In Tsuwano, the number of residents 65 or older is far higher  45 percent.

For that centuries-old Japanese village, its crucial that elderly residents receive adequate support for health care and other needs and that enough working-age residents are retained to sustain the economy.

There are no magic solutions, but efforts are underway in Japan to help rural communities. The government, in fact, has declared that mission to be a national priority.

The Japan Society, a century-old New York City-based organization that promotes U.S.-Japanese dialogue, reached out this year to the University of Nebraskas Rural Futures Institute to host five Japanese specialists in rural development.

The Japanese specialists visited Nebraska last month, describing their efforts and learning about rural-focused initiatives in Nebraska. They will also have rural-focused discussions with specialists and community leaders from Ohio and West Virginia.

NUs Rural Futures Institute is the only higher education organization invited to participate in this cross-national initiative  an indicator of the institutes reputation as a respected center for rural-issues analysis and collaboration.

Kenji Hayashi, one of the five Japanese visitors, described to The World-Herald how a nonprofit he co-founded helps Tsuwanos high school students learn about local needs and get involved in projects to address them.

There is a sense of crisis about rural challenges in Tsuwano and similar Japanese communities, he said. Residents of Tsuwano initially were leery of his nonprofits efforts, he said, but people responded positively as young people began to show understanding of community needs.

Rural leaders and specialists from Nebraska and several other states will visit Japan next year to learn and to share ideas, said Betty Borden, who oversees collaborative U.S.-Japanese projects for the Japan Society.

The heart of what were trying to do is give people the opportunity to meet and see things for themselves, she told The World-Herald, with the hope that it will inspire them to think in new ways about the challenges theyre working on.

Learning about rural conditions in other countries can help NUs Rural Futures Institute as it works with Nebraska communities across the state, said Connie Reimers-Hild, the institutes associate executive director.

Japan and the Midlands have begun what should be a fruitful conversation, learning about their common rural challenges. This commendable dialogue, facilitated by NU, offers much potential benefit for both nations.
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By PTI: chopper services

New Delhi, Nov 4 (PTI) The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has been asked to explore the possibilities for air travellers to avail of helicopter services connecting Delhi to cities such as Gurgaon, Noida and Ghaziabad, a high- ranked official said today.

Speaking at the PHD Chambers first Heli Expo India 2017 at Rohini, Civil Aviation Secretary Rajiv Nayan Choubey said these chopper services should serve as an alternative to travelling by road in taxis, which takes a longer time.

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The heliport at Rohini, inaugurated earlier this year, was developed at a cost of Rs 100 crore. It is a joint venture between the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Pawan Hans Limited.

"I have asked DIAL to explore the possibilities for making space for helicopters at the Delhi airport, so that heli-services are launched to provide direct connectivity to air travellers. They can avail of such facilities and reach their destinations by air in a much shorter time," Choubey said.

Uttarakhand Tourism Minister and Chairman of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board Satpal Maharaj, who spoke at the event, urged the Centre to encourage and optimise air travel through helicopter services in the hill states and north-eastern parts of the country.

He also urged the government to provide subsidies to the spare parts manufacturers of the helicopters, enabling efficient medical and disaster management operations at a cheaper cost on such difficult terrains.

The countrys first integrated heliport, a dedicated landing facility for helicopters, was opened at Rohini in March. PTI ASG RC

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The court observed the CBI had failed to show that the assets in the hands of the accused were disproportionate to known sources of his income.

By Mail Today Bureau: After a protracted legal battle of 17 years, a Delhi court has acquitted senior IPS Officer and Director General of Home Guards Jatinder Kumar Sharma of charges of corruption.

Sharma was accused of holding disproportionate assets of close to Rs 9 lakh - from the period of serving as the Deputy Commissioner of Police of North East District, Delhi to the date of search at his residence in 2000.

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The court observed that the CBI had failed to show that the assets in Sharma's hands were disproportionate to his known sources of income.

Through his counsel, Sharma told the court that the CBI had also taken into the account the earnings of his wife, who has a higher income.

He told the court, "All the house-hold articles shown in the observation memo were purchased by his wife, who was admittedly earning manyfold higher than him."

He also referred to the credit card statements in his wife's name, to show that the payments for many of the household articles imputed on the accused were made by his her - through credit cards.

WHAT THE COURT SAID

The court observed that the CBI had taken one-third of the accused's salary as non-verifiable expenses, and taken into account clothes and food items as part of his household assets.

"CBI was not justified in counting the non-verifiable expenditure of the accused separately counting the expenses of clothing, items of food etc. as his assets," said the order.

The court also said an accused can hold additional assets to the extent of 10 per cent of his total income, over and above his likely savings.

While acquitting Sharma, the court said the prosecution needed to show beyond reasonable doubt that the accused held assets which were disproportionate to the known sources of his income - and it had failed to discharge this burden.

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Updated 2:26 p.m. Monday

Portland may want Amazon's second headquarters but it didn't offer the city on a silver platter.

The city's agency in charge of development offered no special tax incentives or outlandish promises after the announcement that Amazon would choose a site with 8 million square feet of space for the retail giant.

Instead, a public-private proposal submitted last month is considerably measured, according to documents obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive after a public records request. The documents provide the first public glimpse of Portland's place inside the heated competition among hundreds of cities to win Amazon's favor.

The second headquarters would be not just a public relations plum for a city, but also would bring as many as 50,000 jobs with it. Portland has not been considered a front runner.

The city agency known as Prosper Portland cobbled together a proposed headquarters site that ranges across several blocks downtown to achieve Amazon's required size. Some of the site sits in a tax-advantaged enterprise zone, which means the city would temporarily lose out on property tax income.

This rendering, from a draft proposal, illustrates Portland's plan for Amazon's second headquarters. Union Station and the Fremont Bridge are visible on the right.

The city also said it would accelerate work on infrastructure and housing, but only if Amazon contributed.

"We're not gonna play in the incentive game, nor should we, so let's make what we have for options and our value proposition stand out," wrote Matt Miller in a September email to Prosper employees.

Miller heads up business development for Greater Portland Inc., which wrangled proposals from four area economic development agencies  Portland, Beaverton, Clark County and Milwaukie  and submitted them to Amazon as one document on Oct. 19.

On Sept. 7, Amazon announced that it had outgrown its Seattle space and needed a second company headquarters. The retailer said it plans to invest $5 billion in construction alone for the new site.

The announcement sent city officials throughout North America scrambling to craft a proposal sufficient to lure an investment by the retail and tech giant.

By its Oct. 19 deadline, the company received 238 proposals from cities throughout North America. Some offered to build a bullet train or a Hyperloop (Elon Musk's superfast tube transportation system), while others offered as much as $7 billion in tax incentives. One Georgia city said it would change its name to Amazon should the company locate there.

Portland took a more subdued approach, perhaps because the city, so close to Seattle, may not have much of a chance. But Jared Wiener, Prosper's software industry liaison, tried to use the proximity to the city's advantage.

"The fact is we're close to Seattle and we can't change it," he wrote in an email. "(In my opinion) we should own this and position as a plus  the closest top 25 US Metro to current HQ while being a distinct labor market."

of the city's proposal highlights the ease of travel from Seattle to Portland.

"The urban location is easily accessible to the Seattle headquarters by train, plane, or a drive of just three hours," it says. "The train departs from Union Station, where two floors of office included in this proposal allow Amazon employees to walk downstairs and into a train departing regularly for King Street Station. Light rail travels to PDX, which currently offers more than 50 direct flights daily to Seattle."

The proposed site for Amazon's campus would cover roughly a mile, from the Broadway Bridge to the Morrison Bridge. The blocks include the U.S. Post Office on Hoyt Street and sites next to Union Station, nearly all owned by the city.

This map, from a draft proposal, shows the sites Portland has selected for Amazon's second headquarters, should it decide to locate here. The blocks are marked in yellow.

The plan also includes a handful of parking lots south of Burnside. These lots, owned by the Goodman family's Downtown Development Group, are part of the developer's Ankeny Blocks proposal, slated for development into office, residential and retail space over the next decade.

In a Monday interview, company co-president Greg Goodman said he was grateful the city included his blocks in the proposal, but was disappointed the city didn't work with the state and other jurisdictions to offer Amazon more in the way of tax breaks.



"This is a once in a multi-generation opportunity," he said. "You've got to put your best foot forward."



The 50,000 jobs Amazon promised to bring to its second headquarters would be a considerable boon to state coffers in the form of income taxes. If it were up to him, Goodman said, he would have offered the company tax breaks equal to the amount it would add the first few years.



The state wouldn't really be giving anything away, he said, because it wouldn't get any of that long-term income without Amazon.



As for the influx of employees putting strain on the city, Goodman said 50,000 people over 10 years isn't a huge amount, considering how many people have moved here in recent years. According to U.S. Census estimates, 2016 alone saw a net migration of 29,000 people to the Portland area.

Together, the sites Portland offered Amazon  Prosper is calling the swath the "Broadway Corridor"  could potentially offer just over 10 million square feet of space, well over Amazon's required 8 million square feet. Of the 13 sites, six of them are located in the city's Enterprise Zone, which offers a five-year property tax waiver.

"Portland has invested hundreds of millions of dollars to make the site and surrounding area attractive to businesses," the proposal said. "It will devote additional resources to develop a site that includes open space, streets and needed infrastructure."

This rendering shows the northernmost part of the proposed Amazon campus, at the site of the U.S. Post Office near the western head of the Broadway Bridge.

In the draft proposal, the city insists it wouldn't just hand the blocks to Amazon. It would require the company to consider needs of community members during the development process, and ensure that the process is racially equitable.

The proposal also acknowledged that the addition of 50,000 Amazon employees would take a toll on the city. If Amazon were to site its second headquarters in Portland, the company would need to offer living-wage jobs and career pathways for workers at all skill levels, it said.

Meanwhile, Portland, with Amazon's help, would fast-track several initiatives:

Building more affordable and middle-income housing

Completing the

Building the Gateway Education Center, a 3-acre East Portland facility to support Parkrose and David Douglas school districts, Mount Hood Community College and Portland State University

Adding more light rail and streetcar tracks

Building a high-speed rail line between Portland and Seattle

Early drafts of Portland's proposal show the city's strategy for attracting Amazon.

"Welcome, we want you, we have what you want/need, and we've done this (without a) major tech anchor so you can be the big fish," one document read.

In other words, Portland doesn't have any large tech company headquarters, but it would like one. And Amazon could be the tallest tree in the Silicon Forest.

But should Amazon go elsewhere, the company has prompted Portland to take a hard look at how it wants to grow.

Wiener, Prosper's software industry liaison, addressed this in a September 27 email to some in Portland's tech industry.

"The good news is Portland will grow significantly during this time regardless of whether the second HQ is located here," he wrote, "and as a community we are well-stocked with plans we've already begun implementing to best manage this growth.

"So, in addition to directly pursuing the recruitment this presents a fantastic opportunity to think beyond the traditional confines on how to address the growth that is coming. And, if Amazon ultimately does locate in Portland then we will be better positioned to address the issues (positive & negative) that come with it."

-- Anna Marum

amarum@oregonian.com

503-294-5911

@annamarum
So Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden, as ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, went down to the White House recently to talk to the president about the tax overhaul process, accompanied by other Democrats on the committee.

One by one, the other Democrats explained to the president their predictable priorities on the bill: helping the middle class, protecting Social Security and Medicare, not exploding the deficit. And as he often does, Donald Trump told the people talking to him that he agreed with them entirely.

The conversation then came around to Wyden, speaking last, who pointed out to Trump that those were not the positions taken by the administration officials working on the bill.

Trump looked around at Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin and chief economic adviser Gary Cohn and told them to fix it.

And later in the week, Trump jovially declared that if a tax bill didn't work out, it would be all Mnuchin's and Cohn's fault.

Commented Wyden afterward, sounding just a bit dazed by the experience and the week, "You can't make this stuff up."

After all, he noted, "We're only talking about remaking the entire American economy."

Whether Washington can make up, let alone enact, a major tax overhaul remains murky. Thursday, after many delays and postponements, House Ways and Means Committee chairman Kevin Brady, R-Texas, finally rolled out a bill cobbled together over the last minutes and scheduled for committee action next week without the annoyances of public hearings.

Cutting taxes, of course, is not hard. By all accounts, including observation of the early Reagan and George W. Bush. administrations, it can be rather delightful. What's hard is paying for it, especially if the goal is to avoid a filibuster by qualifying under the Senate's reconciliation rules.

Especially if, by Wyden's (and others') calculations, Republicans have promised $4 trillion in tax cuts over the next decade. Even charging $1.5 trillion to the national debt, it means they have to come up with a lot of new tax revenue to balance the cuts, and several of the strategies involved are aimed directly at Oregon.

The original plan was to save some money by repealing the Affordable Care Act, which would have sharply hit the finances of Oregon, perhaps more invested in Obamacare than any other state. (It also would have hit hard at Oregon hospitals and at several hundred thousand Oregonians who'd gained health coverage.)

Last week, Trump suggested finding some money by using the tax bill to take another hack at health care, but congressional Republicans had apparently had enough of wrestling with that issue.

Instead, Brady had another last-minute idea, cutting the 401(k) deduction - a curious strategy at a time when private company pensions are collapsing - but that vanished after Trump tweeted against it.

So to achieve the declared Republican goals - including cutting the corporate tax rate nearly in half and entirely eliminating the inheritance tax that starts at a couple's estate of $11.9 million - the next idea was to end the deductibility of state and local taxes. That was thought to be a good joke on high-tax states, considered mostly Democratic. According to a study by the Government Finance Officers Association, Oregon has the sixth-highest dependence on the deduction, with 36 percent of Oregon filers claiming it.

But after the home-building industry exploded against the idea, Brady proposed a tweak: allowing deductions of property taxes but not state income or sales taxes. (Texas has high property taxes but no state income tax.) This plan could still be a political problem for GOP congressmen from high-tax states, who might someday want to go home.

The plan released Thursday indeed ends the deductibility of state income and sales taxes, and limits mortgage interest deductibility to the first $500,000 of mortgages - a limit running directly against the trend in Portland metro real estate prices. A headline on Bloomberg News Thursday explained, "Oregon, New York Top List of States Hit by Ending Tax Deductions."

Well, it's always nice to be on top.

In a press conference Thursday afternoon, Wyden declared, "The final price tag for this Republican bill is still a question mark... But what's not going to change is the fact that this plan is massively skewed toward those at the top."

In mid-October, riding between La Grande and Pendleton, Wyden observed about Republican tax designers, "It's not at all clear what they're going to do. They make it up as they go along."

Last week, as time ran out, the tax bill process still looked like a practice exercise at an improv theatre company.

You can't make this stuff up.

And looking at it from Oregon, there seems no reason why you would want to.

David Sarasohn's column appears on the first and third Sundays of the month. He blogs at davidsarasohn.com.
BY REYNA LOPEZ

This past week, Nov. 2 marked Latina Equal Pay Day. It's a symbolic holiday that represents the time - an additional 11 months - that it took for Latinas to finally achieve the equal amount of pay that a white man earned in 2016.

More than 50 years after the passage of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, Latinas typically earn only 54 cents for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men. Latinas must work more than 22 months to earn what white men earn in 12.

Latina Equal Pay Day follows Black Women's Equal Pay Day in July, Native American Women's Equal Pay Day in September, Asian-American Women's Equal Pay Day in March and the averaged women's Equal Pay Day in April. Indeed, this is the last "Equal Pay Day" observance of the year, meaning Latinas must work longer than... everyone. This disparity hurts Latinas and the families and communities they support.

I was raised in Salem. My parents are both immigrants from Mexico who worked hard as farm and factory workers my whole life. My parents were able to help send me and my sister to college and I was the first person in my family to receive a higher education. We thought the key to our success would be getting an education. But I was not ready for the additional barriers I would face as a woman, as a Latina, and a first-generation American.

I've held back from starting a family because I know what a financial burden it would be. I'd like to imagine a world where women don't have to choose between starting a family and our financial security. Whether we have blue collar jobs or professional careers, gender plays a big role in the amount of time we spend caring for kids or aging parents.

Pay disparity is about more than simply discrimination, although that's certainly a part of it. Another factor is how undervalued the role of caregiving is in our society. Most of us have to work to stay afloat and yet we also have significant family caregiving duties. When this falls disproportionately on women and our workplaces don't have policies designed to support this reality, it's no wonder we fall behind.

We need workplace policies that recognize family responsibilities and allow for paid time off so that workers aren't forced to choose between financial security and taking care of their families. It's unfortunate that motherhood is a leading indicator of poverty in later years. It doesn't have to be this way. We need a paid family and medical leave policy so all workers, not just women, are able to care for themselves and their families during critical times in their lives.

We need to take steps to reduce this gap, and ensure Latinas are able to earn wages they deserve and that are equivalent to their counterparts. We need the opportunity to take time off when we need to care for our families without a negative financial repercussion. We need to call out the inequality that Latinas face and work on solutions, such as paid family and medical leave, to bridge the gap and ensure Latinas finally earn what they deserve for their work, their talents and their many contributions.

-- Reyna Lopez is the organizing director of Family Forward and chair of the Oregon Latino Agenda for Action. She lives in Northeast Portland.
An official said that in addition to installing a special help desk, police personnel will give children chocolates, candies and fruit juice to make them feel more comfortable.

By Chayyanika Nigam: With the rise in registration of cases related to crimes against children , the Delhi Police is all set to introduce a special help desk for them.

Trained cops will address the issue.

The initiative was taken by Delhi Police commissioner Amulya Patnaik in order to provide a friendly environment for child victims and their parents.

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A official said that in addition to installing a special help desk, police personnel will give children chocolates, candies and fruit juice.

"This gesture would make a victim more comfortable while narrating the incident. It is necessary to take out the police fear from a victim's mind," the official said.

Whenever a crime happens, usually a PCR call is made. The victim has to go to the police station to file the complaint.

In cases related to sexual assaults, the counselling is done in a room at a police station.

"The victim child who is already traumatised, gets more scared seeing cops around in the uniform. Once the child become nervous, it also hampers the probe while narrating the incident. The victim tends to forget the appearance of the accused or other vital information," said another officer.

Officials said the initiative was taken after several complaints were received by the victims' families about the trauma and mental harassment at the police stations while registering the complaints.

"Parents often complain that when they reach (a) police station to file a plaint, almost each and every police personnel coming to the police station asks the parents about the incident," the official said, quoting some of the feedback.

Earlier, Delhi Police set up a public facilitation desk in almost all police stations - where specially trained cops addressed the complainants.

In a separate initiative, the Delhi State Legal Services Authority will be conducting a sensitisation programme in schools.

The aim and vision of this programme is to make students aware about the law, punishment for the abuse and violence in the interpersonal and digital world (age group: 14 to 18 years), and the justice delivery system thereof - with a view to teach them that their actions have consequences.

--- ENDS ---
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The government has taken action against 2.24 lakh companies found to be involved in dubious transactions in the aftermath of demonetisation.

By India Today Web Desk: Days ahead of the first anniversary of demonetisation, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs has said that its investigation has found thousands of dubious banking transactions in the aftermath of note ban on November 8 last year.

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs, in a statement, said that about Rs 17,000 crore was deposited in 58,000 accounts and withdrawn from the same.

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Some of the bank accounts had negative opening balance on November 8, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced demonetisation in a televised prgramme last year.

THE FINDINGS

"Preliminary enquiry on the basis of information received from 56 banks in respect of 35,000 companies involving 58,000 accounts has revealed that an amount of over Rs 17,000 crore was deposited and withdrawn post demonetisation," the statement read.

"In one case, a company which had a negative opening balance on 8th November, 2016, deposited and withdrew Rs 2,484 crore post-demonetisation," it added.

On the basis of its investigation "around 2.24 lakh companies have been struck off till date for remaining inactive for a period of two years or more." Following the massive drive to strike off the defaulting companies, restrictions have been imposed on operation of their bank accounts.

ACTION BY AGENCIES

These companies have been barred from "sale and transfer of moveable and immoveable properties". The Centre has shared information about defaulting companies with the respective governments depending on the location of the firm.

Enforcement authorities including Central Board of Direct Taxes, Financial Intelligence Unit, Department of Financial Services and the Reserve Bank of India have also been advised to take further action based on the preliminary enquiry.

"The Prime Minister's Office has constituted a Special Task Force under Joint Chairmanship of Revenue Secretary and Secretary, Corporate Affairs, to oversee the drive against such defaulting companies with the help of various enforcement agencies," the statement issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs said.

"The Special Task Force has so far met five times and action has been initiated against several defaulting companies, which is expected to help in the drive against black money," it added.

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Multiple people have been killed and many more injured in a shooting Sunday at a church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, authorities said.

The shooter was killed after a brief chase north into neighboring Guadalupe County, according to Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office spokesman Robert Murphy. It is unclear if the shooter was killed by police or took his own life, Murphy said.

The FBI is responding to the scene of the shooting, according to Michelle Lee, spokeswoman for the FBI's San Antonio field office.

Local police also have responded to the scene, which occurred at the First Baptist Church, a witness told CNN. The witness, a cashier at a gas station across the street from the church, said she heard about 20 shots being fired in quick succession while a church service was underway around 11:30 a.m. local time.

Sutherland Springs is in Wilson County, about 30 miles east of San Antonio.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr. told CNN that multiple people were killed and numerous people were injured in Sunday's shooting.

"My heart is broken," Gamez said. "We never think where it can happen, and it does happen. It doesn't matter where you're at. In a small community, real quiet and everything, and look at this, what can happen."

A law enforcement source told CNN that a man walked into the church and began shooting about 11:30 a.m. local time. Agents from the San Antonio field office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are en route to the scene, the source said.

The Connally Memorial Medical Center in nearby Floresville, Texas, is "accepting and assessing victims" from the Sutherland Springs church shooting, according to hospital spokeswoman Megan Posey. The number of victims is unknown at this time.

At least 8 patients are being treated at University Hospital in San Antonio, according to spokeswoman Leni Kirkman, who added the situation is still active and the hospital may receive more patients.

A spokesman for Brooke Army Medical Center also confirmed to CNN that the facility has received patients from the shooting, but the spokesman didn't have a specific number.

Dana Fletcher, who owns a business down the road from the church, told CNN's Fredricka Whitfield that Sutherland Springs is a "very small" but "very tight-knit community."

"There's two gas stations, the church, a community center, post office, a Dollar General, a tire shop," she said. "That's about it."

"May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas," tweeted President Donald Trump, who is in Japan on his first trip to Asia as president.

US Senator John Cornyn of Texas called the news "truly heartbreaking" in a tweet Sunday. "Please say a prayer for First Baptist congregation, first responders & the community there," he said.

"While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act," said Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in a statement Sunday. "I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss."

Developing story -- more to come

CNN's Darran Simon, Alaa Elassar and Evan Perez contributed to this report
Dont look now, but Election Day 2018 is a year away  and an unprecedented amount of money is already being dumped into the race for governor. The irony of such a thing in a cash-poor state is not lost on us.

As reported in todays Pantagraph, the contest is anticipated to be one of the most costly statewide elections in American history. So far more than $100 million has been thrown in, the vast majority from the marquee big-money candidates GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner ($71 million) and Democrat J.B. Pritzker ($28 million).

The crowded spring primary field on the Democratic side includes Chris Kennedy, son of Sen. Robert Kennedy, and state Sen. Daniel Biss, of Evanston. Rauner recently found an opponent in state Rep. Jeanne Ives, of Wheaton.

None of them are even close to the funding levels of Rauner and Pritzker, who both fashion themselves as outsiders bent on returning Illinois to glory days. If history is any indication, those who win the money race stand a good chance of getting to Election Day, although thats not always the case.

Meg Whitman, former CEO of eBay, famously spent a whopping $150 million running as the GOP candidate for California governor in the wide-open 2010 contest but still lost to Jerry Brown. In the end, $280 million was spent between both of them, in the most expensive statewide contest ever.

Back home, Rauner is up against some major hurdles put in place since he last was on the ballot, including a surprising reversal in September in which he signed legislation to provide additional public funding for abortion.

This editorial board has said the governors focus on workers comp reforms, fixing pensions and reforming government are worthy of support. But his handling of the state budget crisis and, more recently, opposition to important legislation that would require agencies report outstanding bill totals to the Illinois comptroller have given us pause.

We strongly believe our best path forward is if Democrats and Republicans work together, although thats something of a pipedream considering the Springfield ecosystem.

For that reason, it might seem an outsider or more conservative candidate like Ives would stand a chance, especially as establishment Republicans across the country face increasing opposition. Whether donors and outside money coalesce around her remains to be seen. Either way, Ives will have a lot of ground to make up.

In the meantime, hefty war chests will undoubtedly be used to fund a blitzkrieg of TV ads in coming months. That momentum has already started, as evidenced by Rauners recently launched ad spots featuring the governors of Missouri, Indiana and Wisconsin thanking Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, and bitter Rauner foe, for helping send Illinois jobs to their states. The ads are clumsy (Cheeseheads love you, Madigan) but effective  and telegraph a likely plot line for the incumbent governor.

Not to be outdone, Pritzker, an heir to the Hyatt hotel chain, had ads airing a few weeks after announcing his campaign.

All of which leads to this Twilight Zone moment for Illinois  a contest between filthy rich candidates using their own money to run one of worst financially managed states in America.

The money chase will only ramp up in the next year. Consider that the 2014 governors contest was the most expensive in Illinois history. The total was $112 million, an amount were poised to pass -- with a whole year to go before Election Day.
Naik is far from alone among those who exploit the impunity conferred by the cloak of religion on a wide spectrum of disruptive fanatics, writes Ajai Sahni.

It was in the wake of the Holey Artisan Bakery terrorist attack in Dhaka on July 1-2, 2016 (where 29 persons, including the five terrorists, were killed) that the extraordinary success of Zakir Abdul Karim Naik hit a wall. Rohan Imtiaz, one of the terrorists involved, had posted on Facebook prior to the attack, quoting Naik. Reports subsequently claimed at least three of the five had been 'inspired' by Naik, and his Peace TV was banned in Bangladesh.

The channel had been broadcast without official sanction in India, but was proscribed in 2012. After the Bangladesh developments, however, Naik's Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) was declared an 'unlawful association' in November 2016. In January 2017, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) issued summons against Naik under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. As he failed to appear before both the ED and-in new investigations-the National Investigation Agency (NIA), his passport was revoked in July.

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A rash of allegations relating to incitement to terrorism has found its way into the media over the past year. Areeb Majeed, one of the four Kalyan boys, who were the first from India to join the Islamic State, told interrogators on returning home that he was 'inspired' by Naik; four of the 21 from Kerala who joined Daesh in Afghanistan were said to have been converted from Christianity by Naik's 'close aide' Rizwan Khan, before their decision to join IS; Abu Anas, charged by the NIA for links with the Daesh-linked Junood-ul-Khalifa-fil-Hind, got a scholarship from IRF between 2013 and 2016. Ibrahim Yazdhani, 'chief' of the 'Hyderabad module' of Daesh, was 'deeply influenced' by Naik. So was Noor Mohammad, who aborted a plan to travel to Syria to join Daesh.

On October 26, the NIA finally filed charges against Naik and the two organisations he heads-IRF and Harmony Media Pvt. Ltd. Most of the charges relate to 'promoting enmity, hatred or ill will', and acts 'intended to outrage religious feelings'. The only charge under counter-terrorism provisions in the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is 'membership of an unlawful association'-the IRF. There is a charge of 'criminal conspiracy' under which several of the alleged terrorism links could be examined.

But conspiracy charges are notoriously difficult to prove. None of his cases leaked to the media indicates any active intent or agency on Naik's part. Mere association will be insufficient to establish criminal culpability. But if the cases are linked to the broader offence of inciting communal hatred, the prosecution may make some headway. The NIA charge-sheet lists nine speeches "found to be inflammatory as they hurt religious sentiments besides inciting violence".

The challenge will be to establish a chain of evidence linking Naik or the organisations he heads to specific acts of incitement to offence, as against 'advocacy' of radical ideas that may come under protection of free speech-a distinction Naik is evidently well aware of. Even if he falls short of incitement to offence, he may be in significant jeopardy for 'hate speech'. But Naik has been exceptionally cautious. Most frequently reported are Naik's declarations that "every Muslim should be a terrorist" and his support for Osama bin Laden. There are many versions of these statements, but what he says is heavily qualified, hypothetical, even disingenuous. He argues that America is "the biggest terrorist in the world" (a claim put forward by many others, prominently including Noam Chomsky) and that if bin Laden is "terrorising the terrorist, every Muslim should be a terrorist"; he follows this with the qualification that if bin Laden kills innocents, then he is acting against Islam. It would take an exceptional lawyer to bring this under the offence of hate speech or incitement.

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Naik has widely and freely propagated a rigid, fundamentalist, exclusionary and supremacist brand of Islam. But far more dangerous is the unchecked proliferation of radicalising preachers and institutions not only of extremist Islamist doctrines but of extremist interpretations of other faiths. Naik is far from alone among those who exploit the impunity conferred by the cloak of religion on a wide spectrum of disruptive fanatics.

(The author is executive director, Institute for Conflict Management, New Delhi)

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As much as kill crazy American Conservative Catholics and their close intellectual allies, the Communists and Islamic despots may stamp their feet and demand it, the Church is not going to stop calling for the abolition of the death penalty. Pope Francis just made this clear again by telling us that capital punishment is contrary to the gospel.

The Usual Suspects on the RightWingoSphere are out in force panicking that the Pope is now a Full Blown Heretic and offering the usual stuff about how abortion is intrinsically immoral and the death penalty is not in order to attain their combox bulls of excommunication.

But, of course, one need not say the death penalty is intrinsically immoral (i.e. wrong by its very nature) in order to say that it is, practically speaking, always wrong. And, indeed, the Pope does not say that. What he says, in effect, is that killing people when it is not necessary to kill them is contrary to the gospel. And by no small coincidence, that is what the Catechism (2267) says too:

Today, in fact, as a consequence of the possibilities which the state has for effectively preventing crime, by rendering one who has committed an offense incapable of doing harm  without definitely taking away from him the possibility of redeeming himself  the cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare, if not practically non-existent.

Its like this: the gospel, which is about grace and mercy, especially to the guilty (for whereto serves mercy but to confront the visage of offense?) asks How can we spare the life of the sinner if possible? When do we *have* to kill? And how can we avoid it if there is the slightest chance of doing so? So the Church acknowledges that there are situations in which killing cannot be avoided such as combat or, say, a hostage situation). But she has concluded that, in the first world, there is no need to kill prisoners. So since it is not necessary, lets not do it. That is why the past three pope and all the bishops of the world have called for the abolition of the death penalty. Killing people when you dont need to kill them is, indeed, contrary to the gospel.

But American Conservative Christianists dont ask When do we *have* to kill? They ask When do we *get* to kill? And they are at war with the Church and the Magisterium (and virtually the whole of the Church beyond our borders) to maintain a system in which the statistical guarantee is that about 4 out of 100 victims of the death penalty will be innocent, but in which they prefer to murder the innocent in order to unnecessarily kill the guilty.

That is, indeed, contrary to the gospel. Yet again, the Pope is right and his enemies are simply wrong.

Ill stick with the Church.
Government has recruited Barbara Mahama, wife of the Ghanaian military officer who was gruesomely murdered in May this year, to work in one of Ghanas missions in a bid to help her heal from the pain of losing her husband.

Defence Minister, Dominic Nutiwul, who revealed this Friday in Takoradi said as part of government package for the widow, Mrs. Mahama was given a number of job options based on her communication background to which she opted to work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We gave her options; she is into communications so we gave her options, she said she wanted a particular job at the Foreign Ministry and we put her there.

The idea is to take her completely away from this country for some time so that she does not keep remembering those problems that are there, Mr Nitiwul explained during his two day visit to the Western Region. Major Mahama, a member of the 5th Infantry of the Ghana Armed Forces who was on official duty, was lynched at Denkyira-Obuasi in the Central Region on May 29, 2017 when some residents mistook for an armed robber.

A part of his body was set ablaze. His body was retrieved filled with marks of assault including multiple deep cut wounds on the head, the Police said. Major M. A. Mahama His murder reignited calls for an end to instant mob justice which was becoming rampant across the country and led to the death of a number of people.

Maj. Mahama was given a state burial and government resolved to cater for his wife and two children with the establishment of Major Mahama Trust Fund which is currently before parliament. Defence Minister Nitiwul on Friday justified the various interventions put in place for the welfare of the family of the late soldier, stating at that time that was the sensible thing to do. He explained that government did all those because the anger in the people, the anger in the military, the anger in the civilian, the anger in the clergy, [and] civil society was such that government needed to do this.

Mr. Nitiwul said Mrs. Mahama has been working with the Foreign Affairs Ministry for the past month and half.

Source: 3news.com









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The managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr wonders why the New Patriotic Party (NPP) tries to link former President John Mahama to everything bad.



According to him, even if the issue is not connected to the former President, the ruling government finds a way of implicating him.



Kwesi Pratt was reacting to allegations made by the CEO of COCOBOD.



The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Joseph Boahen Aidoo accused the John Mahama administration of syphoning millions of dollars from the Board's accounts.



He said former COCOBOD CEO, Dr Stephen Opuni, used export duty payments from COCOBOD as a conduit to syphon funds for activities not related to cocoa.



According to him, former President Mahama influenced the construction of an unnecessary guest house using funds belonging to COCOBOD.



Mr Boahen Aidoo who made this allegation at a news conference in a sharp response to cocoa-related issues raised by the Minority in Parliament at Bodi in the Western Region, further indicated that the guest house was built in John Mahamas hometown, Bole for his personal comfort while in office.



However, the former president has rejected all the allegations levelled against him saying, the guest house in question, the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) Research Station Guest House, has been in existence since 1975, and could not possibly have been constructed during the tenure of President Mahama. The assertion therefore that he influenced its construction is also false



Contributing to a panel discussion on Radio Golds Alhaji and Alhaji, Kwesi Pratt wondered how the former President could have constructed the COCOBOD guest house in 1975, when he was by then a school boy; adding there was something wrong with the story from the beginningthe logic doesnt add up.



According to him, sometimes it seems to me that there are some people who have decided that no matter what happens, they have to find fault with former president John Mahama. Somebody steals and they say Mahama boy commits theftIt seems to me that is also related to the suspicion that he might run in 2020; so therefore even things that are not connected to him; by all means they have to find a way of relating every bad thing to Mahama. Otherwise, where is the story in thisis this how we are going to do our politics?"

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas -- A man dressed in black tactical-style gear and armed with an assault rifle opened fire inside a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing 26 people and wounding about 20 others in what the governor called the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history.

Officials didn't identify the attacker during a news conference Sunday night, but two other officials -- one a U.S. official and one in law enforcement -- who were briefed on the investigation identified him as Devin Kelley. They spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss the investigation.

The U.S. official said Kelley lived in a San Antonio suburb and doesn't appear to be linked to organized terrorist groups. The official said investigators are looking at social media posts Kelley may have made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon.

At the news conference, Freeman Martin, the regional director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said the attacker was dressed all in black, wearing tactical gear and a ballistic vest, when he arrived at a gas station across from the First Baptist Church at around 11:20 a.m.

He crossed the street and started firing a Ruger AR rifle at the church, and continued after entering the building. As he left, he was confronted by an armed resident who chased him. A short time later, the suspect was found dead in his vehicle at the county line, Martin said. There were several weapons inside.

Martin said it's unclear if the attacker died of a self-inflected wound or if he was shot by the resident who confronted him. He said investigators weren't ready to discuss a possible motive for the attack. He said the dead ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old. Twenty-three were found dead in the church, two were found outside and one died after being taken to a hospital.

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

Federal law enforcement swarmed the small community 30 miles southeast of San Antonio after the attack to offer assistance, including ATF investigators and members of the FBI's evidence collection team.



Among those killed was the 14-year-old daughter of the church's pastor, Frank Pomeroy, and his wife, Sherri. Sherri Pomeroy wrote in a text message to the AP that she and her husband were out of town in two different states when the attack occurred.



"We lost our 14 year old daughter today and many friends," she wrote. "Neither of us have made it back into town yet to personally see the devastation. I am at the charlotte airport trying to get home as soon as i can."



The wounded were taken to hospitals. Video on KSAT television showed first responders taking a stretcher from the church to a waiting AirLife helicopter. Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, the station said.



Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds. She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen.



Alena Berlanga, a Floresville resident who was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.



"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

Families in tears wait to see if their family and friends are safe. Praying for the safety of all those involved. pic.twitter.com/yjzK7lZJ1S  KSAT Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan, where is his on an Asian trip, that he was monitoring the situation following the shooting. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called the shooting an "evil act," and promised "more details" from the state's Department of Public Safety soon.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

Regina Rodriguez arrived at the church a couple of hours after the shooting and walked up to the police barricade. She hugged a person she was with. She had been at an amusement park with her children when she heard of the shooting.



She said her father, 51-year-old Richard Rodriguez, attends the church every Sunday, and she hadn't been able to reach him. She said she feared the worst.



Nick Uhlig, 34, is a church member who didn't go Sunday morning because he was out late Saturday night. He said his cousins were at the church and that his family was told at least one of them, a woman with three children and pregnant with another, is among the dead. He said he hadn't heard specific news about the other.



"We just gathered to bury their grandfather on Thursday," he said. "This is the only church here. We have Bible study, men's Bible study, vacation Bible school."



"Somebody went in and started shooting," he said, shaking his head and taking a long drag of his cigarette.



Sutherland Springs is in a rural area where communities are small and tight-knit. The area is known for its annual peanut festival in Floresville, which was most recently held last month.



"We're shocked. Shocked and dismayed," said state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, a Laredo Democrat whose district includes Sutherland Springs. "It's especially shocking when it's such a small, serene area. These rural areas, they are so beautiful and so loving."



Zaffirini said she had called several county and local officials but not been able to get through and didn't have any firm details.



The church is a white, wood-framed building with a double-door at the entrance and a Texas flag on a pole at the front area. A morning worship service was scheduled for 11 a.m. The first news reports of the shooting were between noon and 12:30 p.m.



The church has posted videos of its Sunday services on a YouTube channel, raising the possibility that the shooting was captured on video.



In the most recent service, posted Oct. 29, Frank Pomeroy parked a motorcycle in front of his lectern and used it as a metaphor in his sermon for having faith in forces that can't be seen, whether it be gravity or God.



"I don't look at the moment, I look at where I'm going and look at what's out there ahead of me," Pomeroy said. "I'm choosing to trust in the centripetal forces and the things of God he's put around me."

Breaking news outside Floresville in Sutherland Springs a shooting inside a church with multiple victims. Posted by KSAT 12 & KSAT.com on Sunday, November 5, 2017

By Jim Vertuno, Associated Press. Associated Press writer Sadie Gurman in Washington contributed to this report.
Sen. Rand Paul was assaulted inside his home in Bowling Green, Kentucky, according to CNN.

Police told CNN state troopers responded to a call to Paul's residence at 3:21 p.m. Friday.

Police arrested a man named Rene Albert Boucher, who they allege "intentionally assaulted" Paul, causing him "minor injury," according to the report.

Boucher, 59, was charged with assault and was being held as of Saturday on a $5,000 bond.

Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault, CNN reports.

"Senator Paul was blindsided and the victim of an assault," Paul's communications director Kelsey Cooper said in a statement to CNN. "The assailant was arrested and it is now a matter for the police. Senator Paul is fine."
UPPER DARBY, Pa. (AP) -- Police in Pennsylvania have tweeted a photo of a Halloween beer can costume to make underage revelers think officers would be staked out in disguises at parties.

Upper Darby police sent out a series of tweets Tuesday after they found out about underage parties planned for the holiday. They said they know teenagers keep tabs on their social media accounts, so they were hoping the tweets would scare some of them away from the parties.

We are breaking out some old costumes for the underage Halloween party at Cobbs tonight. Sure to blend in. pic.twitter.com/fOPTLWc1D9  Upper Darby Police (@UDPolice) October 31, 2017

We CANNOT WAIT for the underage drinking/costume party in Cobbs tonight. We will be dressed up and ready to go! See you there young people! pic.twitter.com/bZXc9pietj  Upper Darby Police (@UDPolice) October 31, 2017

"We will be dressed up and ready to go," the department tweeted, accompanied by a picture of uniformed officers standing at attention.

Bad news- just heard the underage Halloween drinking party is moving to Marshall Rd Field. Good news- we have cars.  Upper Darby Police (@UDPolice) October 31, 2017

Later, they said they'd heard of a new party location. "Good news," they said. "We have cars."

WTXF-TV reports officers checked in on the addresses where the parties were expected, but found nothing.
YORK--Tom Baughman started his company "New Concept Technology" in his basement in 1985.

And right now, the York businessman said, taxes are suffocating his company's ability to grow.

Baughman was among a half-dozen business owners brought in to a York factory Saturday to meet with U.S. Vice President Mike Pence in a roundtable to talk about proposed changes to the country's tax code.

The discussion occurred in front of an invitation-only audience of about 120 local Republicans.

Baughman told Pence he needs to be able to invest in expensive new machinery quickly to keep up with rapidly changing technology. If he doesn't move fast enough, Baughman said, the contracts he's competing for go to overseas companies.

"We are capital-dependent," Baughman said, in asking Pence for tax relief.

Pence visited York as part of a series of events across the country to get feedback from families and business owners and generate support for tax reform.

Republicans in Congress are working to come up with a bill to satisfy President Donald Trump's demands to overhaul and simplify the country's tax code.

U.S. Rep. Scott Perry helped chair Saturday's roundtable by introducing various business owners and allowing them to share their tax hardships directly with Pence. The vice president took notes as business owners spoke and said he would use what he learned in York as "ammunition" to help Congress pass a bill that could represent the largest tax cuts in history.

Earlier this year, Trump unveiled a broad template for tax reform predicated on the idea that putting more money in the pockets of middle class families and business owners would jumpstart the economy into creating more jobs.

Since then, much debate has ensued about whether the particular tax cuts Trump is championing would create jobs and benefit the middle class, or simply represent a boon for the wealthiest Americans and balloon the national debt by $1.3 trillion.

The business owners in York said tax cuts are necessary for them to compete and survive. Many owners told stories of losing employees and customers over the decades as they lost their ability to compete against countries with lower tax rates and less regulations.

Craig and Michelle Siewert, who own the nuts and bolts factory that Pence toured Saturday, said increasing capital costs and skyrocketing health care costs have made it difficult to thrive in recent years.

Craig Siewart said he hoped legislators would pass "meaningful reform and not get watered down in the process."

Charlie Burnside, owner of Maple Donuts, asked Pence to get rid of all the loopholes in the tax code for a "level-playing field." He said he thinks Trump's proposal doesn't go far enough.

Pence responded that Trump is committed to cutting business taxes from 35 percent to 20 percent.

"That's what I wanted to hear," Burnside said. "Of course we're going to reinvest the money and that creates other jobs."

Tighe King, CEO of Perform Group and a distinguished Vietnam War pilot, said he used to employ 500 people at three factories. Now he's down to 300 employees at one factory.

Over the years, King said he reluctantly cut the number of American contractors and instead outsourced the majority of his products "to survive."

"It's difficult to be competitively-priced," he said. "Customers used to look for style first, then quality and price. Now it's price, price, style."

Pence spent nearly two hours at the York factory and ended the event by saying he and Trump understand that tax cuts are necessary to "invite investment" to achieve sustainable growth.

He asked for the crowd's help in convincing both Republican and Democratic members of Congress to approve the tax cuts "and we need to see the cuts this year."

Last month, Trump made an appearance at Harrisburg International Airport to promote his tax proposal.
Police have released a photo of a suspect after investigating what appeared to be signs of a skimming device at F&M Trust in Hampden Township on Saturday.

Police said staff at the bank on Carlisle Pike reported a suspicious person riding a bicycle through the drive-thru ATM at 10:10 a.m. Saturday.

The individual spent an "unusually long period of time" at the machine, which prompted staff to call police, according to a police report.

Officers arrived and found "items consistent with prior confirmed skimming device incidents."

Skimming devices are used to steal account information from bank cards when they are inserted into ATMs or similar machines. Officers previously found similar devices at the Citizens Bank on Carlisle Pike at the end of October and on a gas pump in Mechanicsburg.

Police said similar incidents were reported in the Boiling Springs, Carlisle, and Chambersburg areas as officers were at F&M Trust.

The suspect is described as a male that is 5 feet 8 inches tall with a thin build, facial hair, and an accent. He was last seen wearing a black bicycle helmet, mirrored sunglasses, blue jeans, and a black coat.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hampden Township Police Department at 717-761-2609.
Police say they are investigating what appeared to be signs of a skimming device at the F&M Trust in Hampden Township.

ABC27 reports police were dispatched to the business on Carlisle Pike for a report of a suspicious person sometime on Saturday morning.

Officers at the scene found signs consistent with the skimming device located at the Citizens Bank on Carlisle Pike at the end of October, according to the report.

Skimming devices are used to steal account information from bank cards when they are inserted into ATMs or similar machines.

An officer with Hampden Township said that while officers were on the scene, similar calls for potential signs of skimming devices at banks came in nearby municipalities.

Another skimming device was found on a gas pump in Mechanicsburg last month.
One suspect is in custody and another is sought in a homicide last month in Lebanon.

Luis Manuel Marquez-Rivera, 45, of North Lebanon, is charged with criminal homicide in the death of Carlos Villarreal-Berrios on Oct. 28. Jorge Monge, 61, of Lebanon, has also been charged and is being sought in connection to the fatal shooting.

Lebanon police said Villarreal-Berrios, 30, was specifically targeted in the shooting just after 11 p.m. Oct. 28 in the area of 11th and Mifflin streets. Neighbors assisted Villarreal-Berrios at the scene before he was taken to local hospital where he later died.

Authorities said Villarreal-Berrios and Frank Marrero-Colon were purchasing heroin when an argument ensued between the victim, Marquez-Rivera and Monge. Monge shot at Villarreal-Berrios and Marrero-Colon, police said, adding that Villarreal-Berrios was struck by a bullet and Marrero fled the scene.

Marquez-Rivera and Monge are charged with felony counts of criminal homicide, conspiracy to commit criminal homicide, several counts of aggravated assault. The men are also charged with misdemeanor counts of recklessly endangering another person and conspiracy to recklessly endanger another person. Monge faces an additional felony count of possession of a firearm prohibited.

Marquez was arrested without incident Nov. 3. He is being held at Lebanon County Correctional Facility without bail.

Monge remains at large. He is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing about 150 pounds. He has brown eyes and gray hair.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Lebanon police at 717-272-2054 or Crime Stoppers at 717-270-9800.
By PTI: New Delhi, Nov 5 (PTI) Fair trade regulator CCI has approved Singapores sovereign wealth fund GICs proposal to acquire 33 per cent stake in realty major DLFs rental arm DCCDL for Rs 8,900 crore.

GIC had in late August agreed to buy 33.34 per cent stake in DLF Cyber City Developers Ltd (DCCDL) for Rs 8,900 crore. GIC will buy shares in DLF Cyber City from DLF promoters.

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GIC had approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to approve this deal and enable formation of joint venture with the real estate firm.

Post this deal, DLF will have 66.66% stake in DLF Cyber City.

Under the deal, GICs subsidiary Reco Diamond will acquire shares in DCCDL from promoters.

In a BSE filing, DLF yesterday said that the CCI has issued a letter to GIC which states that the regulator has approved the deal.

"Pursuant to an application made by the Investor, the CCI has issued a letter dated November 3, 2017 to the Investor which states that the CCI... considered the proposed combination and approved the same under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002. The detailed order of CCI in this regard will follow," the filing said.

The CCI approval will pave the way for completion of this deal.

DLF has already got shareholders approval for promoters? decision to sell their entire 40 per cent stake in the rental arm for Rs 11,900 crore.

This deal included sale of 33.34 stake in DLF Cyber City to GIC for Rs 8,900 crore and a buyback of the remaining shares worth Rs 3,000 crore by DLF Cyber City.

"This strategic transaction would be a game-changer for the company as it would not only remove conflict of interest and reduce significantly the overall debt, but create free cash flows," DLF?s senior executive director (finance) Saurabh Chawla had said earlier.

While the residential business will be driven 100% by DLF, the commercial segment will be run in a JV with GIC.

DLF promoters ? K P Singh and family - will infuse the net proceeds from this transaction into DLF for debt repayment.

While promoters are expected to invest about Rs 10,500 crore into the company, DLF expects to raise another Rs 3,000 crore from institutional investors as the company will have to hit the capital market to maintain promoters shareholding at 75 per cent post their infusion of funds.

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DLF would use this Rs 13,500 crore to repay its debt that stood at nearly Rs 26,000 crore at the end of the June quarter.

DCCDL has rent yielding assets of 26.9 million square feet with annual rental income of over Rs 2,500 crore. It is currently developing 2.5 million sq ft area and has land bank for further development potential of 19 million sq ft. PTI MJH BAL

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The Top 5 Letters to the Editor of the Week.

As you might imagine, we get more letters to the editor here at PennLive Opinion than we could ever hope to run. Some are turned down because they're too long. Some don't make the cut because they just don't have that something that makes them worthy of publication.

None of these have run on PennLive before. It's a nice way to clear the decks on a Sunday morning before another busy week of news devours our collective attention.

Ready? Here we go.

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SEAN SIMMERS

5. 'Gobsmacked' by Scott Perry's whopping double hypocrisy in budget and tax reform process

In 2012, U.S. Rep. Scott Perry vowed to work for a balanced budget saying, "There is no greater issue than getting our fiscal house in order." He has been a stalwart Freedom Caucus member. And so, it was no surprise, really, when Mr. Perry, one of only a few PA Representatives, voted against the $35.6 billion hurricane relief package. But, nationally shamed when, in a recent CNN interview, he showed a shocking lack of empathy towards Americans in Puerto Rico, he replied afterwards that one reason for the "no" vote was "because the bill wasn't even opened to debate or amendment... we must make decisions of this magnitude in an open and transparent manner."

So, I sit here gobsmacked by his whopping double hypocrisy as it plays out in the present budget and tax reform process. First, he seems totally unconcerned about the leadership's rush and manipulation of the agenda, all designed to eliminate any input, debate or amendment by Democrats at all. And secondly, Perry voted to support the budget resolution which ultimately has no mandatory cuts whatsoever in it while it paves the way for tax cuts that would boost the federal deficit by $1.5 trillion. Ah, the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

The sad joke here is that if all this passes and the deficits accrue, we will probably once again be hearing him chime his fiscal order righteousness as he goes after cuts to Medicaid and other social programs. But, at that point, we won't be able to take him seriously.

Dr. Mary E. Barnes, Springfield Township, York County

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4. John McNally is the right choice for Dauphin County Court

I write to enthusiastically endorse John McNally as a judge on the Court of Common Pleas of Dauphin County. After moving to central Pennsylvania in 1978, I was an active trial attorney based in Dauphin County for the next 33 years, trying cases in at least 15 counties, as well as federal courts. This experience gave me some modest idea of the traits that make for a good judge. During that time, I also came to know John, first as a colleague and later as a partner in a litigation-based law firm in Harrisburg. I have watched John grow as a lawyer, a person and a friend, as well as a father.

I believe that John has all of the characteristics one looks for and expects in a judge, among those being knowledge of the law, compassion and respect for litigants, an even temperament, patience, open-mindedness, candor, receptivity to others' opinions and objectivity. I also believe that as a judge, he will comport himself with judicial demeanor, sensitivity, honor, humility and grace. I truly believe John will bring honor and integrity to the court, serving the interests of the public and the law. I encourage you to vote for John McNally as judge.

C. Kent Price, Fairview Township

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John L. Micek | jmicek@pennlive.com

3. Doesn't Rep. Daryl Metcalfe have anything better to do?

I attended the Pennsylvania House State Government Committee public hearing on non-citizens who have unlawfully registered to vote in the Commonwealth. Commissioner Jonathan Marks, Bureau of Commissions, Elections, and Legislation testified, during 2000 to 2017, 93.6 million ballots were cast in Pennsylvania. Of these, 544 ballots may have been cast by non-citizens.

Why does the Chairman of the House State Government Committee, Rep. Metcalfe, spend two hours discussing an issue that represents .00000581 of one percent of the 93.6 million ballots cast? I believe my taxpayer money can be spent better on bigger problems, such as ending gerrymandering that affects every Pennsylvania voter.

John R. Heapes, Susquehanna Township

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2. Want to grow the economy? Raise the minimum wage.

The Republican tax reform plan presently before Congress will cut Medicare and Medicaid by $5 trillion over the next decade. This will severely hurt senior citizens, the poor, and the disabled. Fifty-five million people will feel the cuts to Medicare and 70 million people will be affected by the cuts to Medicaid. The savings will be used to give the top 1 percent of earners tax cuts over $234,050, and most middle-class households will get a tax break of $660. Taxes for many middle-income families will rise over the next 10 years while the rich pass their fortunes on to future generations free of tax. Eighty percent of the tax breaks will go to the top 1 percent of earners.

Most people agree that the tax code needs an overhaul, but giving the rich a windfall is not the way to pay for it. The rich don't need money, the poor do, and the way to get it to them is to raise the minimum wage. From 1973 to 2013 compensation of a typical worker rose just 9 percent while productivity rose 74 percent. If the current minimum wage of $7.25 were raised to $15, it would provide thousands of dollars to 41 million workers and, for sure, this money would be spent. The economy would grow as a result and additional tax revenue would pay for the tax cuts resulting from sensible reform of the tax code.

John D. Killian, Lower Allen Township

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John L. Micek | jmicek@pennlive.com

1. Is this the end of public education in Pennsylvania?

If voters approve a proposed Pennsylvania constitutional amendment in November allowing the General Assembly to pass a law that would allow property owners to exclude 100 percent of the assessed value of a homestead from local taxing authorities, it could signal the end of public education in Pennsylvania in the very near future.

Despite state responsibility for providing public education, Pennsylvania's public schools aren't funded anywhere near the 50 percent level, and the local school districts, especially in rural areas, depend on real estate taxes to fund most of that difference in their costs.

In 2011, the Corbett administration cut millions of dollars in state funding to rural public schools that closed over 200 neighborhood schools, furloughed more than 20,000 teachers and thousands more support staff, caused employee pay freezes and increased school real estate taxes, and it was these taxes that kept those rural schools from closing.

What do you think will happen if Scott Wagner wins the gubernatorial election in 2018? The private schools for the rich will flourish; and if the proposed constitutional amendment is approved, it could be the end of public education in Pennsylvania.

David L. Faust, Selinsgrove
FILE - In this July 16, 2008 file photo, Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal waves at the Elysee Palace prior to lay the cornerstone of the new Islamic art rooms of the Louvre museum in Paris. Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of princes and former government ministers, including a well-known billionaire with extensive holdings in Western companies, as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe, further cementing King Salman and his crown prince son's control of the kingdom. A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's Kingdom Holding Company told The Associated Press that the royal was among those detained overnight Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017. (AP Photo/Francois Mori, File)
By PTI: New Delhi, Nov 5 (PTI) Dubai-headquartered lifestyle fashion retail brand Comoculture plans to enter India early next fiscal with the launch of its first store, a top official of the company said.

The company, which offers a combination of 40 handpicked emerging brands from Europe and the markets it operates in, plans to open 4-5 outlets in metros in India in the first year of operation.

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"We want to open 4-5 stores in India in the first year of operation. We offer handpicked emerging brands in the mid- priced segment through our offline and online stores," Comoculture Founder and CEO Peter Castella told PTI.

Comoculture will open its stores in India through master franchise agreement with Retail One Solutions and Services Pvt Ltd.

The brand will open stores in the size range of 800-1600 sq ft with its main product categories being design & fashion jewellery, fashion watches, beauty and lifestyle. It also plans to open health cafe in its larger stores.

"We also connect with some India-developed brands across the categories that we operate in ... but the DNA of Comoculture is that we are a European destination. In India, 20 per cent of our offering will be Indian brands," he said.

The company at present has operations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Iran.

Elaborating on India expansion plans, Retail One Solutions and Services Managing Director Sumeet K Lal said: "There is no hurry to open stores. The idea is to set up a long term business opportunity...scaling up is not a problem once we have established the brand In India".

Comoculture is also planning to enter into markets such as Turkey, Russia and China next year with offline and online stores, Castella said. PTI SVK MR

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A lithograph depicting the loss of the luxury ship U.S.M. Steam Ship Arctic on Sept. 27, 1854 off Newfoundland, is shown at Memorial University of Newfoundland in St. John's in this recent handout photo. There were outraged headlines around the world when about 80 women and children were left to die in the freezing North Atlantic off Newfoundland as crew members raced to save themselves. It was Sept. 27, 1854. The luxury ship Arctic had collided in heavy fog with the steamer Vesta off Cape Race, N.L., killing an estimated 350 people. Editorial writers and readers were incensed over the blatant violation of what is today considered an increasingly archaic custom -- women and children first. Public anger over the Arctic helped shape that almost mythic tradition of nautical gallantry in the face of death, but it was still an inconsistent practice in the decades that followed. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - Maritime History Archive, Memorial University, St. John's
FILE - In this Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017 file photo, Kentucky Speaker of the House Jeff Hoover speaks at the 137th annual Fancy Farm picnic in Graves County, Ky. KentuckyAos House Republicans will meet privately to discuss the future of House Speaker Jeff Hoover after the stateAos largest newspaper reported the GOP leader settled a sexual harassment claim outside of court with a member of his staff, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017. (Kat Russell/The Paducah Sun via AP, File)
By PTI: Mumbai, Nov 5 (PTI) The financial services industry is resorting to apprenticeship models to recruit and develop talent pool for niche and new segments that are evolving within the sector, according to industry experts.

"Due to allocation of licences there is growth in banks, which demands new skills and volume. Also, with introduction of GST the sector is facing a scarcity of tax professionals with the required knowledge," TeamLease Services Vice President, NETAP (National Employability Through Apprenticeship Program) Sumit Kumar told PTI.

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The sector is seeing a growth over couple of years and hence the skill shortage is becoming evident, he added.

"While the concept of apprenticeship has been there in the manufacturing sector, today the financial services sector is warming up to the concept to bridge the supply gap. Around 1,000 candidates have been employed across many leading financial services companies," he said.

The talent gap is witnesses in specialised segments, like fin-tech, payment banks, analytics among others, he said.

Echoing the view, Michael Page India Director Anshul Lodha said financial services industry is only facing lack of talent in niche and upcoming areas like digital and analytics, senior sales professionals, CxO level professionals in banking and other upcoming industries like NBFCs, housing finance companies, fin-tech firms among others.

"We have witnessed this trend only over the last 12-18 months since new banking licences were given and recent surge in non-banking financial company (NBFC), fintech and other similar areas," he added.

While lower level jobs in banking (retail and branch banking) are facing the heat of automation and digitisation leading to all major banks trimming their employee base at this level at the same time demand for specialist roles at mid to senior level have picked up great momentum in the last couple of years, he said.

"Overall, we expect lower level jobs in banking to steadily decline by 10-15 per cent every year for the next few years, whereas hiring momentum will pick up by 15-20 per cent for mid to senior level professionals," he added.

For certain niche and upcoming areas like digital or analytics, banks are resorting apprenticeship model for the last 12-18 months to bridge the supply gap, he said.

"This is on account of the fact that there arent too many educational institutes offering specialised courses in these areas, hence leading to a supply gap," he added.

Going forward, he said, sectors including banking, aerospace, defense, telecom, automobiles are likely to adopt apprenticeship programmes to bridge talent-supply gap.

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GlobalHunt Managing Director Sunil Goel said financial services industry have been one of those fastest moving and most liked industry by the professionals despite this the sector is having talent gap and is continuously training and hiring resources through apprenticeship programmes.

"Not necessarily every apprentice will end up getting job in company but 6-12 weeks programmes in financial services industries generates interest and experience and this enables them to get jobs in some financial services firms," he added.

Apprenticeship programme is going to grow going forward, he said, adding that there are collaborations hubs where education institutes and industries are coming together to create the opportunity and the talent pool.

"We have seen this happening in Food Processing industries. Any sector which are growing fast like retail, e-Commerce and robotic process automation, digital domains will need to adapt to apprenticeship programmes to build the capacity for the industry in the long term," he added. PTI SM NP ADI MR BAS

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In its bid to win the next Amazon headquarters, Philadelphia made a sparkling sales pitch replete with videos, interactive maps, testimonies from business leaders, and a lengthy written proposal.

The bid, marketed as Philly Delivers, is unlike any the city has made to win a corporations loyalty  and it didnt come for free.

Total price tag? $245,000.

So far, Philly agencies have spent nearly a quarter million dollars on its various incentivizing efforts.

Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation contracted with six local businesses to put together the bids slick digital and written components, according to Jessica Calter, the PIDCs vice president of marketing communications. In all, it spent $160,000, funded by a mix of public and private dollars.

Visit Philly also reportedly spent $85,000 on bus wraps and a social media campaign in Seattle, the site of Amazons corporate headquarters. Running through the end of November, the ad blitz doesnt mention the HQ or Amazon specifically, but the goal is clear: keep Philadelphias virtues in Amazons sightline.

Visit Philly is funded by the citys hotel tax and various foundation grants. And for PIDCs part, Calter said that the money came from Economic Stimulus Program  a revolving fund initially capitalized with City funds  as well as grants from the Knight Foundation and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia.

We focused dollars on the marketing assets that will be used beyond this effort, Calter said. We are confident this was money well spent on a project that speaks of Philadelphias worth not just to Amazon but to all businesses looking to relocate or grow here.

The reception of Phillys bid has been mostly positive. Win or lose, advocates say the effort brought Phillys business community together and showed that city can make a convincing pitch on the national stage. But critics have derided Amazons whole experiment, arguing that it essentially extorted local governments, even those with little competitive standing, into promising public resources and grovelling at the feet of a corporate giant. Is a citys dignity worth the chance as an estimated 50,000 jobs and massive economic stimulus that would come with a new Amazon HQ?

It depends on who you ask.

Philadelphias was one of 238 bids the retail juggernaut received. Even going by Amazons own prerequisites, however, most of the municipalities that submitted bids are a longshot.

Nonetheless, the bids came eagerly from every corner of the country, and initial news reports suggest that the nation collectively spent millions on the Hunger Games-esque wooing battle.

Albany, New York, spent $100,000 on their pitch, according to news reports. But these dollar amounts pale next to some of the old-fashioned financial incentives offered up to the tech giant. Over in Newark, New Jersey, Amazon was promised $7 billion in a host of city and state tax breaks if it decides to open up shop there.

Among the more desperate pleas for Jeff Bezos attention, Stonecrest, Georgia, proposed to de-annex 345 acres of land to create a new city called Amazon, and instill the billionaire CEO as its mayor. In a more bizarre solicitation, Tucson, Arizona, expressed its interest in the form of a 21-foot saguaro cactus sent to the companys Seattle headquarters.

(Amazon turned the cactus down.)

TWITTER: @MAXMMARIN
Saturday night, Paul Simon and Edie Brickell came to Philadelphia to hear Wynton Marsalis's Violin Concerto in D Major played by the Philadelphia Orchestra. The songful couple are seen here backstage at Verizon Hall with Marsalis, along with the soloist for the piece, Nicola Benedetti. Read a full review of the Marsalis concerto here.

Brickell ran into an old friend at the orchestra: cellist John Koen. The two had gone to high school in Dallas together at the Arts Magnet High School at Booker T. Washington.

"She was in the visual arts cluster  we had music, dance, theater and visual arts  so it was always a surprise to me that she became one of the most famous musicians to come out of the school," said Koen. "Of course, I was in my self-made classical bubble so I didn't have jam sessions with the other students. I mostly remember being in advanced placement English class our senior year with her."

How much of a classical bubble? Brickell mentioned something to Koen about her children with Paul Simon, and Koen asked whether they were married. He apologized for not keeping up with the music business gossip. "She laughed and said, 'Oh that's refreshing.'"

While in town, Brickell and Simon stopped by Rittenhouse Square steakhouse Barclay Prime.
Larry David delivers a controversial joke about the Holocaust during his opening monologue on Saturday Night Live. Read more

"I think I'm doing quite well."

That's how Larry David responded to the crowd's lackluster reaction to a series of jokes he told during his opening monologue last night on Saturday Night Live, where he compared his dating life to Quasimodo and mocked a blind woman he joked about working for.

Yes, it was that kind of opening monologue for the beloved creator of Seinfeld and star of Curb Your Enthusiasm, currently in its ninth season on HBO. Stand-up comedy has never exactly been David's area of expertise, but he knew enough to realize his jokes about the disabled and his dating troubles were bombing.

So he told a Holocaust joke.

"I've always been obsessed with women, and I've often wondered if I'd grown up in Poland when Hitler came to power and was sent to a concentration camp, would I be checking women out in the camp?" David asked. "I think I would.

"Of course, the problem is there are no good opening lines in a concentration camp," David admitted to an awkwardly quiet studio audience. "How's it going? They treating you OK?"

Watch:

Predictably, people watching on social media drew out their digital pitchforks and complained about David's decision to tell a joke about the Holocaust. But as comedians will tell you, no subject is off limits to comedy.

"The Holocaust itself isn't funny. There's noting funny about it," actor and director Rob Reiner said in the PBS documentary The Last Laugh. "But, survival and what it takes to survive  there can be humor in that."

While there were certainly many people on Twitter and Facebook that expressed their displeasure at David's joke, there were also many who defended the Jewish comedian and writer over his decision to joke about such racy material.

"I am disgusted by Larry David's mildly provocative joke," wrote Australian comedian Ben Pobjie. "What happened to the nice clean comedy that made Carlin and Pryor and Bruce famous?"

"More and more Twitter feels like I've been sent to stay with the Flanders for a night," wrote WIRED and BuzzFeed scribe Hayley Campbell.

It certainly isn't the first time David has used the Holocaust for a laugh. The fourth season of Curb Your Enthusiasm features a heated argument between a Holocaust survivor and Colby Donaldson, star of the reality show Survivor.

As far as comedy is concerned, David's problem wasn't deciding to tell a joke about the Holocaust on Saturday Night Live  it was telling a Holocaust joke that many people didn't find particularly funny.

"The thing about a joke about the Holocaust  it's all about the funny. It's got to be funny," comedian Judy Gold explained in The Last Laugh. "You can't tell a crappy joke about the biggest tragedy in the world."

What did you think of David's monologue? Let us know in the comments section below.
Homicide investigators gather on North 19th Street near West Somerset Street in North Philadelphia after a gunman opened fire early Sunday morning killing one teenager and injuring a 12-year-old. Read more

More gunshots. Another teenager dead, another injured along with a 12-year-old boy.

Less than 24 hours after mourners gathered for the funeral of 16-year-old Caleer Miller Jr., another Philadelphia teenager has died from gunfire.

Police are searching for a man reported to have fired a gun into a group of youths hanging out near 19th and Somerset Streets in North Philadelphia early Sunday morning, killing one of them.

Marquez Houston, 16, was shot multiple times, at least once in the head, and was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:26 a.m., police said. A 12-year-old boy was shot in the right thigh and rushed by officers to Temple University Hospital. He was then transferred to St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, where he was in stable condition later Sunday.

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic and senseless death of one of our own, Marquez Houston," Universal Audenried Charter High School said in a statement. "He was a respectable young man and will be truly missed."

Minutes after that shooting spree and less than a mile away, an 18-year-old man was shot in the back while walking on the 2100 block of North 17th Street. Police said he ran to French Street, where he was picked up by Temple University police officers and taken to Temple University Hospital. The victim was in stable condition Sunday, police said.

An initial investigation revealed "no indication" the shootings are related, police spokeswoman Officer Tanya Little said Sunday afternoon.

In the fatal shooting, the gunman, described as black, 5-foot-9, thin, in his early 20s with light brown eyes and wavy hair, and dressed in dark clothing, ran from the scene on the 2700 block of North 19th Street. There, police responding to 911 calls reporting "a person with a gun" found the 16-year-old lying face down in the road.

The scene was reminiscent of one in South Philadelphia on the 2300 block of South 12th Street the evening of Oct. 24. That shooting, resulting from a feud between two groups of teenagers, cut short the lives of Salvatore DiNubile, 16, a junior at St. Joseph's Preparatory School, whose funeral last weekend drew thousands, and Miller, also 16 and a junior at Mastery Charter Thomas Campus, whose passion for the 76ers and ever-present smile was remembered by hundreds who attended a service celebrating his life Saturday morning at Love Kingdom Fellowship Church, just hours before the shootings in North Philadelphia.

Both DiNubile and Miller were shot in the chest and pronounced dead within an hour.

Another 16-year-old, Brandon Olivieri, of the 1600 block of South Juniper Street, turned himself in days after that shooting. He is charged with two counts of murder and is being held without bail pending a preliminary hearing on Nov. 15.

Staff writer Valerie Russ contributed to this article.
The only way to locate and secure all of North Korea's nuclear weapons sites "with complete certainty" is through an invasion of U.S. ground forces, and in the event of conflict, Pyongyang could use biological and chemical weapons, the Pentagon told lawmakers in a new, blunt assessment of what war on the Korean Peninsula might look like.

The Pentagon, in a letter to lawmakers, said that a full discussion of U.S. capabilities to "counter North Korea's ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and to eliminate North Korea's nuclear weapons located in deeply buried, underground facilities" is best suited for a classified briefing.

The letter also said that Pentagon leaders "assess that North Korea may consider the use of biological weapons" and that the country "has a long-standing chemical weapons program with the capability to produce nerve, blister, blood and choking agents."

The Pentagon repeated that a detailed discussion of how the United States would respond to the threat could not be discussed in public.

The letter was written by Rear Adm. Michael Dumont, the vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff, in response to a request for information from two House members about "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea," including for civilians and U.S. and allied forces in South Korea, Japan and Guam.

"A decision to attack or invade another country will have ramifications for our troops and taxpayers, as well as the region, for decades," Ted Lieu (D., Calif.) and Ruben Gallego (D., Ariz.) wrote to the Pentagon. "We have not heard detailed analysis of expected U.S. or allied force casualties, expected civilian casualties, what plans exist for the aftermath of a strike  including continuity of the South Korean Government."

The Pentagon said that calculating "best- or worst-case casualty scenarios" was challenging and would depend on the "nature, intensity and duration" of a North Korean attack; how much warning civilians would have to get to the thousands of shelters in South Korea; and the ability of U.S. and South Korean forces to respond to North Korean artillery, rockets and ballistic missiles with their own retaliatory barrage and airstrikes.

The letter noted that Seoul, the South Korean capital, is a densely populated area with 25 million residents.

Any operation to pursue North Korean nuclear weapons would likely be spearheaded by U.S. Special Operations troops. Last year, President Barack Obama and then-Defense Secretary Ashton Carter gave U.S. Special Operations Command a new, leading role coordinating the Pentagon's effort to counter weapons of mass destruction. SOCOM did not receive any new legal authorities for the mission but gained influence in how the military responds to such threats.

Elite U.S. forces have long trained to respond in the case of a so-called "loose nuke" in the hands of terrorists. But senior officials said SOCOM is increasingly focused on North Korea.

Dumont said the military backs the current U.S. strategy on North Korea, which is led by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and focuses on ratcheting up economic and diplomatic pressure as the primary effort to get North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to stop developing nuclear weapons. Tillerson, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr., have emphasized that during trips to Seoul this year.

In contrast, President Trump, who goes unmentioned in the Pentagon letter, has taunted Kim as "Rocket Man" and expressed frustration with diplomatic efforts, hinting that he is considering preemptive military force.

"I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man," Trump tweeted on Oct. 1, adding, "Save your energy Rex, we'll do what has to be done!"

On Oct. 7, Trump added in additional tweets that North Korea had "made fools" of U.S. negotiators. "Sorry, but only one thing will work!" he said.

Mattis and other Pentagon leaders have often cited the grave threat faced by Seoul, but the military much less frequently draws attention to its plans for an underground hunt for nuclear weapons.

Air Force Col. Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesman, said that Dumont and other Pentagon officials had no additional comment about the letter.

A senior U.S. military official in South Korea, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing operations, said that while the 28,500 U.S. troops in South Korea maintain a high degree of readiness, he "has to believe" that North Korea does not want a war, given all of the nations aligned against it.

"If you open the history books, this is not the first time that we've been in a heavy provocation cycle," the official said. On the side of South Korea and the United States, he said, "there is no action taken without extreme consideration of not putting this in a position where a fight is going to happen."

Dumont's letter also notes that "we have not seen any change in the offensive posture of North Korea's forces."

A statement by 16 lawmakers, released simultaneously with the Pentagon letter, urged Trump to stop making "provocative statements" that impede diplomatic efforts and risk the lives of U.S. troops.

The Pentagon's "assessment underscores what we've known all along: There are no good military options for North Korea," said the statement, organized by Lieu and Gallego and signed by 14 other members of Congress who are veterans, all but one of them Democrats.

In a telephone interview, Lieu said that the intent of asking the Pentagon for information was to spell out the cataclysmic consequences of war with North Korea and the aftermath.

"It's important for people to understand what a war with a nuclear power would look like," said Lieu, citing estimates of 300,000 dead in the first few days alone. More than 100,000 Americans are potentially at risk.

Lieu, who spent part of his time in the Air Force on Guam preparing for military action against North Korea, called the letter a confirmation that a conflict would result in a "bloody, protracted ground war." The Joint Chiefs, he believes, are "trying to send a message to the American public," he said.

"This is grim," Lieu said. "We need to understand what war means. And it hasn't been articulated very well. I think they're trying to articulate some of that."

Gallego said that he wanted information because of what he sees as a cavalier attitude in the White House about military action in North Korea. The idea that a ground invasion would be needed to secure nuclear weapons is eye-opening, he said, and raises the possibility of the U.S. military losing thousands of troops.

"I think that you're dealing with career professionals at the Pentagon who realize that the drumbeats of war could actually end up leading us to war," he said. "They want to make sure that there is full transparency and information out there about what can occur if our civilian leaders make wrong calculations."

The Pentagon letter also notes the possibility of "opposition from China or Russia."

"The Department of Defense maintains a set of up-to-date contingency plans to secure our vital national security interests," Dumont wrote. "These plans account for a wide range of possibilities, including third-party intervention, and address how best to 'contain escalation.' "

The letter says that both "Russia or China may prefer to avoid conflict with the United States, or possibly cooperate with us."
ATLANTIC CITY  Atlantic County has a history of political intrigue proudly dating back to Enoch "Nucky" Johnson, the original party boss from the Prohibition era, whose legendary rule over the county was the inspiration for HBO's Boardwalk Empire.

In 2017, Atlantic County  which has races for state and county seats and the always-contentious Atlantic City mayor's post  has supplied some plot lines that would make Nucky proud.

Red is blue and blue is red. In the race for Atlantic City mayor, intermarriages are rampant, especially after a year when the Republican mayor aligned with Democrats and civil rights activists to fight Gov. Christie's city government takeover. One night leaving City Hall, Mayor Don Guardian was asked about Christie's grabbing at the reins of his government: "We're not the fascists here," he replied. Local politics was never the same.

The next thing you know, the white-bow-tied Republican from North Jersey was locking arms with the black ministers and Democratic politicians of Atlantic City. He was endorsed by City Council President Marty Small Sr., who lost to Councilman Frank Gilliam in the primary, as well as the Rev. Collins A. Days of Second Baptist Church. Latino groups endorsed Guardian, but the Bangladeshi community, which supported Guardian in 2013, appears to be split.

The race between Guardian and Gilliam may turn on mail-in ballots, a hornet's nest that had the Guardian campaign wiring up a homeless Rikers Island alum turned minister-in-training named Rodney Cotton, who recorded getting paid $30 to sign for a messenger ballot he then turned over to a Democratic operative.

HBO, you didn't see that coming, did you?

In the race for the Second District's state Senate seat, a similar political reversal is at play.

Republican Assemblyman Chris Brown of Ventnor is the maverick who fought the Republican governor, and, unlike the Democratic legislators, opposed the Atlantic City takeover and plans for North Jersey casinos from the start.

Brown is also fending off the political machine of Democratic power broker George E. Norcross III, whose PAC has spent just under $2 million in the district, a far cry from two years ago, when the PAC spent $4 million trying to defeat Brown in the Assembly race.

In recent weeks, his opponent, Democrat Colin Bell, sworn in as a state senator after the August death of State Sen. Jim Whelan, has sought to recast the race along traditional party lines, reminding voters of issues like minimum wage, gun control, and legalized marijuana.

Mac and cheese. Naturally, it's been the most obscure race of them all  a District Three race for an Atlantic County freeholder seat  that has garnered the most national attention.

Atlantic County Freeholder John Carman, a Republican, got himself unwanted publicity  and a challenger  when he shared a Facebook meme that asked if women at the post-Trump-inauguration protest march "would be home in time to cook dinner."

Ashley Bennett, 32, who showed up at a freeholders meeting to protest, then became the Democratic candidate for the position, which represents Egg Harbor Township and parts of Hamilton Township.

Carman later got into more hot water when a photo of him showed a patch on a jeans vest of New Jersey featuring the Confederate flag over the South Jersey part. He was ridiculed for the Facebook meme on a national podcast featuring U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D., N.Y.).

Bennett, a psychiatric screener at a Cape May County hospital, says the story of how she decided to run resonates.

"It is never wrong to ask your elected official to hold themselves to a higher standard," she said. "It's embarrassing. This is not what Atlantic County should be known for."

Carman said that Bennett was a "political opportunist" and that voters know he's not the person being portrayed. "I think people can see through it," he said. "People know I'm not the person I'm portrayed to be: a misogynist, a homophobe, a bigot, a racist. Can you get any more in there?"

In other women's news, one is trying to get elected to the all-male, famously argumentative Atlantic City Council: Stacey Kammerman, a Republican businesswoman running with Guardian. When she called in to a radio program to ask questions of Gilliam, he responded: "I would have more respect for Don Guardian if he would have gone on the radio and asked these questions. Why would he send a woman?"

Bogeymen. Every election debate in Atlantic County seems to come around to Camden County or political operative Craig Callaway. Both Callaway and Camden County's Norcross have been referred to as the bogeymen, and both are seen, and in some circles feared, as wielding undue influence in Atlantic County.

Norcross' PAC has been preoccupied with helping State Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D., Gloucester) fight off attacks by the state teachers' union, as anyone with a television receiving Philadelphia stations is well aware. But that hasn't stopped his name from being invoked repeatedly by Brown and Guardian.

As for Callaway, his influence in Atlantic City has been interrupted only by the 42 months he spent in prison on, first, a federal bribery charge, then a state charge of organizing a blackmail scheme to oust a city councilman.

"In Atlantic County, Craig Callaway may control who will be the next state senator, Assembly members, sheriff, freeholders at large, mayor of Atlantic City and three Council members at large," said radio host Harry Hurley, whose program has been at the epicenter of campaign crosswinds, via Facebook message. "Unprecedented potential influence with his boldest-ever mail-in ballot program."

Trust the process? It's not every election that features a sting operation organized by an incumbent mayor a week before the election, using retired state troopers and a wired-up homeless minister-in-training, but Guardian is convinced that widespread ballot fraud has occurred.

In a literal back room Thursday night, the Board of Elections began deciding whether thousands of votes by mail and messenger ballots will be counted. Things got heated when Guardian attorney John Carbone accused the board of not properly advertising the meeting. Commissioner John Mooney accused Carbone of targeting minority voters.

Guardian wants to challenge the ballots  2,500 sent to Atlantic City, 950 via messenger  before they are counted, but the board plans to turn the task over to two staff members, one Democrat, one Republican, and do it in private. The campaign has pressed its case to the prosecutor, the media, the state. Being paid to be a messenger for up to three voters is allowed; however, the ballots must be delivered directly to the voters, not turned over to a Democratic operative.

For his part, Callaway acknowledged taking a ballot from the messenger but says he brought it to the voter, which he called a "technicality," He accused Guardian of trying to suppress minority voters, and said he was proud to have "mastered" the state's Vote by Mail law. He noted his efforts had helped Guardian in 2013, amid no complaints.

Walking into the old County Courthouse on Friday as Guardian readied a news conference out front, Callaway called the whole matter "the biggest sideshow in the history of Atlantic County." Now that's saying something.
By PTI: New York, Nov 5 (PTI) Scientists have identified four main genes that can predict how long a patient may survive with pancreatic cancer.

The study, published in Jama Oncology, involved 356 patients who all had pancreatic adenocarcinoma that could be surgically removed.

In all cases after the tumours were removed, researchers extracted DNA from the cancerous tissue and nearby normal tissue, and conducted next-generation DNA sequencing on the specimens.

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Researchers from University of Rochester in the US analysed the activity of the KRAS, CDKN2A, SMAD4, and TP53 genes.

The team found that patients who had three or four of the altered genes had worse disease-free survival - the time between surgery and when the cancer returns - and overall survival - from surgery to death - compared to patients with a single or two altered genes.

"The research helps us to understand how the molecular features of pancreatic cancer impact prognosis on an individual level and gives us more facts to guide patients, and importantly, to design future research studies," said Aram Hezel from University of Rochester.

Pancreatic cancer is aggressive and generally has poor survival odds.

Patients who can undergo surgery as part of treatment often survive longer and some patients fare best when they can receive chemotherapy prior to surgery, said Hazel.

"However, having customised, molecular information will provide an even greater understanding of how the disease is likely to progress in each patient," Hezel said. PTI APA MHN APA

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When eight states hold elections Tuesday, they'll be some of the first to do so on the newly shaky ground of the U.S. election system's integrity.

That's the world we live in after U.S. intelligence officials determined Russia launched a cyber campaign to meddle in the 2016 presidential election. Over the last week, lawmakers have revealed the extraordinarily detailed scheme to influence the votes of tens of millions of Americans, and even to spread false information about how to vote. Lawmakers said this misinformation campaign is ongoing.

We also recently learned that at least 21 state election systems were targeted by Russian hackers before the 2016 election.

There's no evidence that Russians were able to change any votes after they were cast, but at the very least, they succeeded in raising questions about the U.S. voting process  questions that James Norton, a homeland security expert and former official in the George W. Bush administration, said aren't unfounded.

The Washington Post talked to Norton ahead of Tuesday's elections. Our conversation has been edited for clarity and length.

Question: When voters go to the polls Tuesday, what, if anything, should they be concerned about from a security perspective?

Answer: You want to make sure all the votes are counted. For stations that do use electronic polling stations, do they have the right amount of security, or are they being dealt with by people who are trained to monitor the machines? As the information passes from each town, that it's passed in a secure way. That all the voter rolls have been counted, and that all the names on there are legitimate, and there's been a thorough run-through of that list, and that you have the right people voting. These are all things that could be an issue if not handled appropriately.

Q: That's a lot of things! Should voters be concerned that Russia is trying to change their vote, either before or after it's cast?

A: The integrity of voter rolls, voter data, and voters' decision process needs to be stronger. The secretaries of state aren't in charge of cyber; they are in charge of elections. That's been their role for 200 years, but (protecting elections from hacking) is not their role. I think governors need to appoint cyber directors.

There's been a push to put the Department of Homeland Security in charge of this. I think that's a mistake. DHS was never set up to be an election-monitoring organization. They lack the money and resources to really run a massive operation to try to secure every polling station in the country. It's just not possible.

Q: Should voters be concerned that what information they consume on social media about their local elections isn't real?

A: Yeah, absolutely.

What we're learning from Facebook, Twitter, and Google is that they really don't have any control of what's on their platforms, and they are kind of running to catch up to see what's on there. They created this environment where anybody can plug and play. It's this global wild West, because what the attorneys for these companies were saying to Congress is that they don't necessarily follow the rules of any one country.

I think that it is scary we can't trust the information we see online, or that we have to question it.

Q: You've recently testified to Congress about all this. What can it do to keep elections safe and honest?

A: A lot of the conversation in Congress is: What is the role of the government, and what can we be doing to support efforts to help clean this up? When individuals' private data is breached (as the state's voter database in Illinois was), what does it mean to lose your data? Is there a value to that?

But it's incumbent on social media platforms to give some sort of guarantee that the information on them is real, and show where it's coming from.

Q: State and federal officials say one particularly pernicious effect of all this is that people might decide not to vote if they don't think it will be counted accurately.

A: This could be a motivator in the sense of foreign adversaries trying to create civil unrest or influence elections. Hopefully it motivates people to go out and practice their civic duty and to vote.

Q: Bottom line, we don't know how to ensure that some of the digital information we rely on to vote is real, nor how to ensure that parts of our voting process won't be corrupted.

A: Right. It seems like we are constantly cleaning up yesterday's messes. For the most part, we have the right idea of having a safe, secure election. However, we are grossly underfunded, and we lack a strategy at both the federal and state and local level to have a comprehensive security plan, not only for this Tuesday but for two or four years from now.
Following up on a grand jury indictment from September, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro plans to prosecute two Georgia residents the state says lured a woman to the East Coast from California "with promises of easy money" as a paid escort, then forced her into prostitution. The victim was freed from her captors after they sent her to a client in an Uber and the driver helped her escape.

Kashamba John, 29, and Arianna Somerville, 27, of Decatur, Ga., were held for trial on all charges after a preliminary hearing before District Judge William Maruszczak in Montgomery County on Friday, Shapiro's office said Sunday. Another defendant in the case, Tyler Bachtel, "remains a fugitive."

The charges follow a joint investigation by Pennsylvania State Police, Upper Merion Township Police, U.S. Homeland Security investigators and Shapiro's office, which they submitted to a state investigating grand jury. The jury found that John ran a human-trafficking ring that recruited the 21-year-old victim, flew her to the East Coast, "held against her will and forced into prostitution in hotels in Georgia, North Carolina and Pennsylvania."

The state says the victim met Bachtel at a nightclub in Los Angeles. He recruited her to come East and work as an escort. Arriving in Atlanta, she was met by John, who, according to Shapiro's statement, "immediately forced the victim to begin having sex with men in Atlanta hotel rooms, sometimes as many as 30 men per day. She was forced to work from 8 a.m. until 12:30 a.m. John took possession of the victim's belongings, including her personal ID. John kept all of the money the victim earned through prostitution." Somerville arranged the woman's "dates" for cash through ads placed in Backpage, a Dutch-owned website.

"On October 5, 2016, the victim and (Kashamba) John flew from Atlanta to Philadelphia, and the victim was taken by John to a motel in King of Prussia, Montgomery County, where she continued meeting dates for sex," Shapiro's office added in its statement. .

"John ordered an Uber car to take the victim to a hotel in Philadelphia for a date. Once in the car, the victim broke down and told the Uber driver she was a victim of human trafficking, and wanted to go to the police. The Uber driver flagged down a Pennsylvania State Police trooper," who took her to his barracks. Her story was put before the grand jury, resulting in the charges.

John has also been arrested in New Jersey and Florida on prostitution-related charges, and in Georgia for assault, according to news accounts. He, Somerville and the absent Bachtel are charged with trafficking in individuals, involuntary servitude, prostitution, conspiracy, corruption, and other offenses. After the hearing, John was ordered held on $1 million bail. Somerville's bail was set at $50,000.
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Trump has been wondering for months why a nation of samurais like Japan didnt just shoot down North Korean missiles.

The Japan Times reported, Trump questioned Japans decision not to shoot down the missiles when he met or spoke by phone with leaders from Southeast Asian countries over recent months to discuss how to respond to the threats from North Korea, the sources said. The U.S. president said he could not understand why a country of samurai warriors did not shoot down the missiles, the sources said.

Shooting down the missiles is a no-win situation. If Japan tried to shoot down the missiles and failed, it would humiliate the Japanese and embolden North Korea. If Japan successfully shot down the missiles, it would be viewed by North Korea as an act of war and escalate the conflict.

Only an idiot, or in Rex Tillerson terms, a moron would try to shoot down the missiles.

Donald Trump might be the dumbest and most dangerous man ever to occupy the White House. If this is the thought process of the President is not a matter of if, but when one of his reckless actions gets the United States into another war.

The moron president is abroad, and every word he speaks makes the world a little dumber, and a whole lot less safe.
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Fifty-eight in Las Vegas just last month. Forty-nine in Orlando last year. Thirty-two in Blacksburg in 2007. Twenty-six in Newtown in 2012. Fourteen in San Bernardino in 2015. Thirteen in Littleton in 1999. Twelve in Aurora in 2012.

These are just a handful of high-profile mass shootings that have shocked the United States over the past two decades  but, unfortunately, it hasnt shocked us into taking meaningful action to ensure it doesnt happen again.

Which is why on Sunday, in Sutherland Springs, Texas, this uniquely American bloodbath took the lives of more of our citizens  people who were attending a service at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs.

As Jason Easley noted a short time ago, the death toll could range from 10-15 people, but according to a new report from ABC News, there are at least 20 casualties, with other reports indicating it could be even higher.

As if this tragedy wasnt already bad enough, an NBC News affiliate noted that according to a witness on the scene, one of the victims hit with gunfire was two years old.

Like clockwork, pro-gun politicians, from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Sen. Ted Cruz all the way to Donald Trump, were quick to offer their thoughts and prayers:

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

Keeping all harmed in Sutherland Springs in our prayers and grateful for our brave first responders on the scene.  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) November 5, 2017

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

With all due respect to Gov. Abbott, Sen. Cruz and Mr. Trump  and all the politicians who will inevitably chime in with similar messages of condolence  if thoughts and prayers could prevent this type of violence from taking place, Im pretty sure todays church shooting in Texas would have never happened.

Enough is enough.

The same, tired expressions of sympathy we hear from our leaders  particularly from the many Republican lawmakers over the years who have helped put weapons of war in the hands of deranged individuals like the man who opened fire on churchgoers today  will no longer do.

Spare us all the nonsense that this is simply a mental health issue, not a gun problem. After all, the United States is not the only civilized country on the planet with firearms or mentally unstable people. But you know what? We are the only advanced nation that sees this level of gun violence on a regular basis.

This year alone, including todays carnage, we have seen more than 300 mass shootings, in small towns and big cities, many of which dont get airtime or national attention.

Whether or not you own a gun, you should want to change that. We as a society should want to fix this. We should want to live in a country where movie theaters and classrooms arent war zones and two-year-old children can safely attend a church service.

And what makes this so much worse is that our inability to act seems only to apply to gun violence.

Think about it for a moment: There are national freak-outs when somebody gets burned by hot coffee, or when we discover a chemical in toys that could harm our kids. What do we do in those instances? We act by changing laws or tightening regulations or finding some way, big or small, to better protect our people.

No solution to any problem is perfect, but we at least try.

So where the hell is the call to action each time there is a slaughter in an American school or movie theater or church? When will we as a civilized society decide that human life is more important than being able to get our hands on a deadly weapon at a moments notice? How much higher must the body count be before NRA-funded politicians and the voters who enable them decide that now is the time to act?

Study after study after study show that smarter gun laws work. Other advanced countries that implement stricter firearm regulations  banning assault weapons, expanding background checks, increasing waiting periods, among other things  have found them to be incredibly effective.

Here in America, left-leaning states that have enacted smarter gun regulations have seen lower rates of gun violence  imagine that.

So, to our evergrowing list of cowardly leaders  including the NRA-funded President of the United States  who pretend to care only in the immediate aftermath of these tragedies, please save your empty prayers. When you repeatedly shed crocodile tears over mass shootings, then follow it up by refusing to do anything to prevent the next one, nobody hears you anymore.

Your sympathetic rhetoric was useless after Las Vegas and Orlando and Sandy Hook and Aurora and Tucson and Columbine, and itll be useless again today, when more innocent lives were taken by gun violence.

As former President Barack Obama said two years ago, after another mass shooting, Our thoughts and prayers are not enough. Its not enough. It does not capture the heartache and grief and anger that we should feel. And it does nothing to prevent this carnage from being inflicted someplace else in America.

Today, the body count grew even higher. More families will be forced to go through this uniquely American ritual of mourning the loss of their loved ones after another mass shooting. And many of the leaders who were quick to offer their condolences  Donald Trump, in particular  will likely do nothing to prevent the next massacre.

Its time for these spineless guardians of the status quo to either do something or just shut up.
David Slade is a senior Post and Courier reporter. His work has been honored nationally by Society of Professional Journalists, American Society of Newspaper Editors, Scripps foundation and others. Reach him at 843-937-5552 or dslade@postandcourier.com
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By PTI: Sonbhadra/Lucknow (UP), Nov 5 (PTI) A German national and a railway employee entered into an altercation at the Robertsganj railway station in Sonbhadra district after which both filed complaints against each other, police said today.

The railway employee alleged that he had greeted Holger Erik Misch by saying "welcome to India", when the German hit him.

Police are now probing the incident which comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agras Fatehpur Sikri. Misch has an FIR registered against him in Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, senior officials said.

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Misch and railway supervisor Aman Kumar entered into an altercation and fought with each other yesterday at around 1 pm at platform number one of the Robertsganj railway station, a senior police official said in Lucknow.

"According to reports, the railway supervisor enquired the German national about his well being, which angered him. The German hit the railway employee, who might have pushed him in retaliation. Based on the complaints of the two, non- cognisable reports have been registered. Their medical examination has been conducted," ADG (Law and Order) Anand Kumar told reporters in Lucknow.

Police officials said that it had also emerged that an FIR was lodged against the German national on July 5 in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, on charges of attacking a person with a sharp edged weapon.

His passport and visa is deposited in the chief judicial magistrate court, they said.

Kumar claimed that when he greeted Misch by saying "welcome to India", the German hit him. Misch refused to talk to the media.

Earlier, on October 22, two tourists from Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and Marie Droz (24), were chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack. Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

The couple were offered a free stay in a 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons.

Even as the police probed German national Mischs allegations, the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) attacked the BJP government over what it called the "growing attacks" on foreign tourists in the state.

"Earlier in Agra and now in Sonbhadara. The situation is the same everywhere. Its a big achievement on the tourism front that the pride and lives of foreign tourists are in danger. This is Yogi (Adityanath) government," SP spokesman Sunil Singh Sajan said.

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BJP spokesman Shalabh Mani Tripathi said that the incident was unnecessarily "hyped" by the opposition.

"It was a fight between two individuals and police was prompt to intervene. The German national had a case lodged against him. A probe is on in the matter. If any one is guilty, he will be taken care of by the police," Tripathi said. PTI CORR/ABN ADS

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By PTI: Sonebhadra (UP), Nov 5 (PTI) A German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj railway station in the district, police said today.

The incident comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agras Fatehpur Sikri.

Holger Ereek was allegedly beaten by railway contractor Aman Kumar yesterday after which the station master informed the police.

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Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwari said that the accused has been arrested.

However, the railway contractor alleged that when he greeted Ereek by saying "welcome to India", he hit him.

The victim refused to talk to the media.

On October 22, the Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple was quoted as saying in a media report that they were strolling near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youths started following them and later attacked.

The couple said as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones, the report said.

All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

The couple were also offered a free stay in 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons. PTI CORR ABN KJ

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Some South Jersey residents have not forgotten about the suffering people in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Island even as the headlines about the disaster there have given way to new calamities.

Atlantic City-based attorney Jonathan E. Diego, one of the founding members of the Hispanic Lawyers Organizations, and Atlantic Citys Bert Lopez, the host of the Latino Motion public affairs show, joined an ad hoc group called Boricuas From New Jersey Para Puerto Rico.

Since Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, this group has raised more $93,000 through events and honor boxes placed at various South Jersey Federal Credit Union locations.

Diego, 50, who is part Latino and part Hungarian, is on the board of directors of the Spanish Community Center in Atlantic City. It was closed for three years after Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Besides the fact that we have friends, family, acquaintances and colleagues down in Puerto Rico that are handling this firsthand, we got a little taste of that by the fact of what Superstorm Sandy did, said Diego, who lives in Egg Harbor Township.

Lopez and Diego joined a group spearheaded by state Senator Nilsa Cruz-Perez, who is based out of Camden, called the Puerto Rican Congress of New Jersey, which is based out of Lakewood, Ocean County.

The money that been donated has ranged from the change in an elderly persons pocket to a five-figure check from a corporation, Diego said. He would like to see the fund reach $100,000.

By late this month or early next month, Diego said, his group will make a decision on how best to distribute the money it has collected to best help people in Puerto Rico.

Part of the $93,000 was raised during a Hurricane Maria Relief Fund Community Event held Oct. 8 at the Pleasantville Parking Lot.

Pleasantville Mayor Jesse Tweedle and Diego reached out to Pleasantville Police Chief Sean Riggin to involve police with the Oct. 8 event.

Riggin was flying back from the Virgin Island of St. John, where he evacuated his father-in-law. He gave the departments full support upon receiving the call.

Pleasantville has one of the highest Latino populations in Atlantic County by percentage, Riggin said. This isnt a do-good cause for us. We have a social obligation to our residents to do everything we can to help with Puerto Rico.

The Press of Atlantic City and Catamaran Media joined the Hammonton Puerto Rican Civic Association to collect emergency supplies for those affected by the passage of hurricanes Irma and Maria in Puerto Rico.

Lopez, a former founder of the Hispanic Alliance, came to the U.S. mainland from Puerto Rico at age 6. By coincidence, his father came to the mainland just two months before Hurricane Maria, but Lopezs aunts, uncles and cousins remain on the island.

As Diego organized the benefit in Pleasantville, Lopez helped pull together a fundraising rally on the same day in Atlantic City.

People have been very generous. Theyve been very supportive. ... They want to donate. They want to help. They want to be a part of this relief effort. I think there is a lot of people with open hearts, who are willing to give, Lopez said. This is not a short-term effort. Its a long-term effort.

A telethon, scheduled to air on Nov. 19 on SNJ Today, is being organized by the CEO Group in Vineland and the Puerto Rican Action Commitee of Southern New Jersey, which represents Cape May, Cumberland and Salem counties.

A Unity March for Puerto Rico, which will have South Jersey residents in attendance, is taking place Nov. 19 also at the Mall in Washington, D.C.

While hurricanes were hitting U.S. territories and the mainland, wildfires have been hitting California.

Larry Sharrott, the owner of Sharrott Winery near Hammonton, has links on his companys website to donate to the Napa Valley Community Foundations Disaster Relief Fund and Community Foundation of Sonoma Countys Resilience Fund, along with the International Medical Corps and United for Puerto Rico.

Sharrott, 69, who lives in Tabernacle, Burlington County, said people told him he should help out his brothers and sisters in the wine industry.

I thought about it for a minute and said, You know, we really should help out all people. The folks in Puerto Rico really need help, Sharrott said.

People in Puerto Rico have limited resources and limited ability to generate income now because their economy is tourism-based, Sharrott said.

I felt more of us should step up to help in Puerto Rico, he said.
By PTI: Panaji, Nov 5 (PTI) The Goa government is contemplating the possibility of increasing the spending on educational sector to 5-6 per cent of the gross domestic product, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said.

At present the the spending on the sector stands at 3.4 per cent.

Parrikar made this announcement during a press conference last evening where he had presented the detailed analysis of the spending of the state during the current fiscal.

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The chief minister said the current allocation for educational sector which is around 3.4 per cent of the GDP is highest in the country and much more than the national average.

He said that the state government which has decided to make education a priority area will increase the spending to 5-6 per cent of the GDP in the coming years. PTI RPS RMT

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Srinagar, Oct 31 : Kashmiri separatist leaders on Tuesday ruled out any talks with the government's interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir, calling his appointment "a new tactic" by New Delhi after it failed in its muscular approach in the troubled state.

A joint statement by Hurriyat factions chairmen Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and JKLF chief Yaseen Malik said they won't engage in parleys with former Intelligence Bureau chief Dineshwar Sharma.

Sharma, who has served in Kashmir as an IB man and was known to have struck a personal chord with arrested militants there, declined to comment on the separatists' first reaction to his October 23 appointment as a special representative of the Central government to talk to "all stakeholders" for ending the nearly three-decade-long separatist campaign in Kashmir.

"I have nothing to say over what the Hurriyat says," Sharma told IANS in Delhi.

The separatist statement issued under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership, a newly formed loose conglomerate of factionalised separatist groups in the Kashmir Valley, said it was useless to participate in any dialogue process that didn't recognize Kashmir "is a dispute that has to be resolved".

"The appointment of Sharma by the government as its interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir is nothing more than a tactic to buy time adopted under international pressures and regional compulsions and due to the abysmal failure of the state policy of military repression upon the people of Kashmir," the statement said.

It added: "In principle, we have always advocated and supported sincere and productive dialogue as a means to resolve the conflict in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian government has continuously refused to accept the basic premise and the reality on the ground.

"Unless the Kashmir dispute is understood and addressed in its historical context and in the background of international commitments made over over it, lasting peace can neither be achieved in Jammu and Kashmir nor in the sub-continent."

Referring to Sharma's various media interviews ahead of his first trip to the Kashmir Valley as interlocutor, the separatist leaders said his assertions that he was coming to the valley to "restore peace rather than addressing the dispute or its resolution... limits the scope of any engagement with him and makes it an exercise in futility".

They also took strong exception to Sharma's statement that Jammu and Kashmir had to be saved from becoming another Syria -- a comment he made in an interview to IANS.

"To compare the internationally recognized 70-year-old political and humanitarian issue of Kashmir to that of the sectarian war and power struggle in Syria is deception and propaganda as there is no relation between the two situations."

Reacting to the opposition to Congress leader P. Chidambaram advocating autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir, the statement said: "Even the assertion by their own leaders on restoration of autonomy to the state has been rejected by the Indian government although the same is guaranteed by their own constitution."
New Delhi, Nov 1 : U.K rapper Lady Leshurr will be visiting India for a three-city tour as part of beer brand Bira 91's new hip-hop focused campaign called FreeFlow.

For its first tour featuring Leshurr, Bira 91 FreeFlow will visit Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi later this month, read a statement.

Leshurr, who came into the limelight with her "Queen's Speech" YouTube series, is known for her ingenious freestyling that combines mischief, wit and a good comic timing.

Accompanying her on the tour will be Delhi-based rapper Prabh Deep.

From rap to graffiti and fashion, Bira 91 FreeFlow aims to become the one-stop resource for all things hip-hop in India.

Joining the tour will also be acts that have been long standing supports of hip-hop in the country or are inspired by it.

In Mumbai, turntablist DJ Uri will join Leshurr and Prabh Deep on November 16.

On November 17, the two artistes will be joined by audio-visual and sample-driven act Aerate Sound in Bengaluru.

Delhi fans will see Leshurr, Prabh Deep and DJ MoCity hitting the stage on November 18.
Bangkok, Nov 1 : Myanmar has accused Bangladesh of delaying the repatriation of refugees to its territory due to the millions of dollars of aid it is receiving to build refugee camps, official media reported on Wednesday.

Around 600,000 members of the Rohingya Muslim minority and thousands belonging to other minorities have fled Rakhine state in Myanmar and entered Bangladesh in the last few months following a wave of violence, reports Efe news.

"On our side, we have been ready to accept (the refugees) anytime," U Zaw Htay, the spokesperson for Myanmar's de-facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, said during a visit to Rakhine state, the official daily Global New Light of Myanmar reported.

U Zaw Htay did not make a specific mention of the Rohingyas, who are denied citizenship by Myanmar and have been victims of alleged ethnic cleansing by the Myanmar army according to the UN.

U Zaw Htay said Myanmar was ready to accept the refugees after a process of verification and added that the cause of the delay was the construction of huge refugee camps in Bangladesh with international donations.

"Currently, they have got nearly $400 million. Over their receipt of this amount, we are now afraid of (them) delaying the programme of deporting the refugees," the spokesperson said.

More than 1 million Rohingyas lived in Rakhine before the current crisis, although they have faced alleged growing persecution since the outbreak of sectarian violence in 2012 that killed at least 160 people and drove 120,000 into resettlement camps.

Last year, around 85,000 Rohingyas fled from Myanmar after an attack by a rebel group, the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, on border security posts, leading to a retaliatory offensive by the Myanmar army.

The current exodus started after a military campaign carried out in response to another attack by the ARSA on multiple security posts on August 25.

Bangladesh has recognized only around 30,000 Rohingyas as refugees.
Washington, Nov 3 : US President Donald Trump has announced he will nominate Federal Reserve Governor Jerome Powell as the head of the American central bank.

He will replace Janet Yellen as Chair of the Federal Reserve.

Powell, a lawyer and former US Treasury official, will be the first Fed chair in three decades without a Ph.D. in economics.

The President had settled on Powell by October 28 and spoke with him on Tuesday, Xinhua news agency earlier quoted The Wall Street Journal as saying.

Trump had recently concluded interviews of five candidates for the next Fed chair, including Powell, Stanford University economist John Taylor, former Fed governor Kevin Warsh, White House National Economic Council Director Gary Cohn and current Fed Chair Janet Yellen, whose term expires next February.
By PTI: Motihari (Bihar), Nov 5 (PTI) Heroin worth about Rs 1.5 crore in the international market was seized from one person who was arrested in East Champaran district of Bihar, a Sahastra Seema Bal (SSB) official said today.

Acting on a tip-off, SSB personnel captured the man from a place on NH-28 in Ramgarhwa police station area last night and seized 300 gram of heroin, a motorcycle, a mobile phone and some cash from him, SSB Deputy Commandant Amit Kumar said.

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"The heroin was kept in a polythene bag and its estimated price in the international market is about Rs 1.5 crore," Kumar said.

It was revealed during interrogation that the arrested man had obtained the contraband in Ramgarhwa and was promised Rs 20,000 for handing over the heroin to a person in Raxaul.

The SSB deputy commandant said the drug was to be smuggled to Nepal from Raxaul.

The arrested man was handed over to the local police by the SSB after interrogation. PTI NAC NN

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Chandigarh, Nov 4 : Braving the early morning chill of the onset of winter, thousands of devotees thronged gurdwaras across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh on Saturday to offer prayers on the occasion of 'Gurpurab' - the birth anniversary of the first Sikh guru, Nanak Dev.

The holiest of Sikh shrines 'Harmandir Sahib', popularly known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar, and other gurdwaras elsewhere saw religious fervour to mark the birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism.

Guru Nanak Dev was born in 1469. Thousands of people, from various faiths, reached the Golden Temple complex since early morning on Saturday to offer prayers.

Tight security arrangements were made around all leading Sikh shrines in Punjab.

The shrine complex was decorated with lighting since Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas in October.

Hymns were being rendered at the holy shrine and hundreds of other gurdwaras across the region to mark the occasion.

At other gurdwaras in cities, towns and villages, hundreds of people could be seen coming to offer prayers.

'Langars' (community kitchen), were arranged at most gurdwaras. Reports of Gurpurab celebrations were received from Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of the Guru Nanak Dev, 100 km from Lahore in neighbouring Pakistan.

Nearly 2,600 Sikh devotees have gone to Pakistan to celebrate Gurpurab at Nankana Sahib.

Punjab Governor V.P. Singh Badnore and Chief Minister Amarinder Singh greeted people on the occasion of Gurpurab and urged them to follow the Guru's teachings and maintain peace and harmony.
New Delhi, Nov 4 : External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday said she has sought a report from the Indian Embassy in the US following reports of an attack on a Sikh schoolboy in a city in Washington State.

"I have seen news reports about the beating of a Sikh boy in US. I have asked @IndianEmbassyUS to send me a report on the incident," Sushma Swaraj tweeted.

The 14-year-old boy was beaten up by a classmate in Kent city, with his father claiming that the victim was targeted as he is of Indian descent, the media reported.

The incident happened on October 26, less than a block from Kentridge High School, where both the boys are students, KIRO-TV reported.

In the clip that was posted on mobile application Snapchat, a teenaged boy followed the victim and punched him, knocking him to the ground.

The victim was punched several more times as he tried to protect his head and crawl away.

The victim's father said he felt pain each time he looked at the video. "I am feeling so, so bad because this happened with my son. They beat him from the backside and hurt him too much.

"This is a very big thing for me, here in America... I can't explain... how I am feeling," said the 14-year-old's father, who declined to be identified.

The family said the incident exposed racial divisions in the city. However, school officials said the attack was not religiously or racially motivated, but was instead a continuation of an earlier classroom dispute.

The victim's parents denied that, saying their son did not even know his attacker's name. "He never interacted with this guy. He never knew his name," said the victim's father.

Calls and messages from people in the region poured in expressing outrage about the incident.

The Kent area is home to many Sikhs. The family said it wants peace for them and everyone. "I don't want to see this again happen with my son or anyone else. I don't want to see this," the boy's father said.

A Facebook thread about the incident generated more than 40 comments from parents and community members who said the teen who beat up the boy needs to be held accountable and people everywhere need to stand up to injustice.
Madrid, Nov 4 : Spain has issued an international arrest warrant for Catalonias ousted President Carles Puigdemont a day after eight members of the regions separatist government were jailed in Madrid over their declaration of independence, media reports said.

Carmen Lamela, a judge in Spain's National Court, on Friday asked Belgium's prosecutor's office to arrest Puidgemont and four ministers -- Meritxell Serret, Antoni ComAn, LluAs Puig, Clara PonsatA, reports CNN.

Puigdemont and 13 former ministers were ordered to appear before the Spanish High Court on Thursday. Of the nine former officials who showed up, eight were detained and one was freed on bond.

They all face charges of rebellion, sedition and misuse of public funds for pursuing Catalan independence, the BBC reported.

Puigdemont, who considers himself the rightful leader of Catalonia, is currently in Belgium.

The arrest warrant also said that the former leader will not be allowed to testify via video-conference from Belgium.

Late Friday, Puigdemont told the Belgian public TV channel RTBF that he would put his faith in the Belgian courts, the Guardian reported.

He said: "I will not flee from justice. I will go towards justice, but real justice. I've told my lawyers to tell the Belgian justice system that I'm completely available to cooperate.

"It's obvious it's politicised. The guarantees are not there for a fair, independent trial."

It was Puigdemont's first interview since arriving in Brussels on Monday and he claimed there was "enormous influence of politics over the judiciary in Spain".

"It's not normal that we risk 30 years in prison, it's extremely barbaric, we can not talk about democracy."

Puigdemont said he was ready to stand in December's regional elections, adding: "It's possible to run a campaign from anywhere. We consider ourselves a legitimate government.

Meanwhile, Belgian Prosecutor Eric Van der Sypt said he had received the arrest warrants for Puigdemont and the others.

"(I will) study them and will hand them over to the investigating judge either Saturday, Sunday or even Monday," Van der Sypt told CNN on Friday night.

The prosecutors have 24 hours to decide whether the warrants were justified. Belgium has a maximum of 60 days to return the suspects to Spain after arrest.

But if the suspects do not raise legal objections, a transfer could happen much sooner.

Spain was plunged into its worst political crisis in decade after Puigdemont's administration held an independence referendum on October 1.

The Catalan parliament declared unilateral independence and Spain responded by suspending the region's autonomy, sacking the government and imposing direct rule.

Puigdemont and his former ministers turned up in Brussels after Spain's state prosecutor announced he would seek charges of rebellion, sedition and misuse of public funds against them.
Khartoum, Nov 5 : African Union (AU) Commission chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat will begin a three-day visit to Khartoum on Sunday to hold talks over Horn of Africa, Sudan's Foreign Ministry said.

"The AU chairperson will commence his visit to hold official talks with Sudan's Foreign Minister Ibrahim Ghandour," Xinhua news agency quoted the ministry as saying in a statement on Saturday.

The talks would focus on the situations in the Horn of Africa and issues of the African continent, the statement added.

Mahamat is scheduled to meet Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir and Prime Minister Bakri Hassan Saleh during his visit.
Paris, Nov 5 : The Chinese embassy in Paris has urged Chinese tourists to raise vigilance and take precautions following the mugging and attack on Chinese nationals, a media report said.

France has been faced with grim public security recently and Paris region has reported a series of muggings and attacks against Chinese tourists and Chinese French, Xinhua news agency quoted the embassy as saying in a statement posted on its website.

According to local media, a group of 40 Chinese tourists was attacked and robbed on Thursday by four men near a hotel in Val-de Marne, Paris suburbs.

The robbers sprayed the tourists with tear gas while they returned from their tour in the French capital.

The group of Chinese tourists returned to China on Friday.

Confirming the robbery, the Chinese embassy said it had contacted the French Police and urged them to solve the case and bring the perpetrators to justice as soon as possible.
Beijing, Nov 5 : China's Ministry of Public Security and the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have cracked four major drug cases in 2017, the ministry said.

In March, Chinese Police and the DEA shared information on a ketamine smuggling case with four suspects arrested in China and 13 in the US, Xinhua news agency reported.

Police seized nearly 280 kg of various drugs and about a million USD.

The Chinese Police have acted against transnational traffickers following information from the DEA since May. Over 90 kg of cocaine bound for Australia was seized and nine suspects arrested.
Berlin, Nov 5 : A German man was detained for carrying nearly half a kilogram of explosives that he claimed he found on his travels through Europe, police said.

An employee at a petrol station in central Vienna alerted officers on Friday after the 54-year-old from Frankfurt told her about his possession, police said.

Numerous police as well as sniffer dogs were deployed to the scene, where the man was detained and his 400 grams of TNT seized, along with a military cartridge and a knife.

"He handed it over voluntarily," Xinhua news agency quoted a police spokesman as telling German news agency DPA on Saturday, adding that "this is not related to terrorism in any way".

The man told police that he left Germany in 2008 and has been roving Europe by bike ever since. He said he had found the block of explosives on a military training range in Slovakia.

Although the man was let free, he now faces charges of illegally possessing and importing war materials.
Algeirs, Nov 5 : Book prices soared in the 22nd International Book Fair of Algiers (SILA) on Sunday amid the financial crisis in the country, organisers said.

"There was a slight fall in the sales compared with previous fairs," Xinhua news agency quoted Head of Algerian Publishers Association Ahmed Madi as saying.

The main cause of the price hike is "the devaluation of the dinar by 35 per cent in a year as all materials used in the process of publishing books, including paper, ink and printers, are from abroad with foreign currency", Mustapha Guellab, owner of the private book publisher El Houda.

As many as 638 foreign publishers representing 52 countries, including South Africa, China, Russia and India, are exhibiting their books on the fair.
Chengdu (China), Nov 5 : Chinese telecom giant Huawei's sub-brand Honor wants to take the Indian smartphone market by storm with some innovative and trend-setting products and become the country's top smartphone brand within three years, its Global President George Zhao has said.

It plans to push its position up in the highly competitive Indian smartphone market by launching flagship products at "unbeatable price", introducing cutting edge technolgy, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), increasing presence in both online and offline platforms and boosting its marketing efforts.

"We will launch Honor 7X in December at such a price that it will have no competitor in that segment," Zhao said while unveiling the smartphone maker's roadmap for the Indian market to a group of journalists here over the weekend.

The bezel-less Honor 7X with dual camera technology is already available in the Chinese market.

Its price in China is 1,299 yuan.

The 4GB RAM phone that offers 32 GB internal storage and has a 5.93 inch display is already a rage among the young population here, according to Zhao, who informed the visiting journalists that Chengdu, capital city of Sichuan province in southwest China, is known as the most "relaxed city" in the country animated by its higher concentration of young polulation.

Honor will also start incorporating AI capabilities in its phones for the Indian market within the current quarter, Zhao told IANS.

"We have the capability to outcompete other dominating players in the Indian smartphone market in terms of quality, but our marketing efforts need to improve," Zhao said, siganlling its intention to go aggressive in promotion of its upcoming products in India.

Globally, Honor, which has now presence in 73 countries, spends just three per cent of its revenue in marketing.

Honor first introduced the AI capabilities in its Honor Magic phone. Although its application has so far been restricted to China because of the internet ecosystem, it wants its customers in other countires to avail the automation facilities soon.

Indian customers, it appears, would not have to wait for long.

Currently, the smartphone market in India is dominated mostly by Chinese players spearheaded by Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo and Honor, among others.

Launched in India in 2014, Honor started manufacturing in India from 2016 in partnership with leading global electronics manufacturer Flex Telecom at a facility in Chennai.

"Honor began manufacturing in India with the Holly series. It is the first brand to respond to the Government of India's request for SOS feature on phones," Zhao said, adding that it will further ramp up its manufacturing efforts in India.

"Honor shipped 98.8 per cent more devices in 2017 than in 2016. But in India, we need strengthen offline channels," Zhao said, adding that exclusive Honor demo shops will also be launched in India soon.

"Honor 7X will also be available offline."

India recently surpassed the US to become the second-largest smartphone market in the world after China. And yet, according to Counterpoint Research, only one fourth of India's population uses smartphones, making the country an attractive destination for players in the mobile ecosystem.

(Gokul Bhagabati is in China at the invitation of Huawei. He can be contacted at gokul.b@ians.in)
Mumbai, Nov 5 : The key Indian equity indices -- the BSE Sensex and the NSE Nifty50 -- are expected to take cues from quarterly results, along with macro-economic data points and the flow of foreign funds during the upcoming week.

"The focus will continue to be on results this month. Sectors like PSU banks, infra and pharma will be in focus," Arpit Jain, AVP at Arihant Capital Markets, told IANS.

Some of the major companies that will announce their July-September quarter earnings during the upcoming week include Bharat Heavy Electricals, Cipla, Ashok Leyland, Bharat Forge, Aurobindo Pharma, Jindal Steel and Power, Steel Authority of India, Tata Motors, Mahindra and Mahindra, State Bank of India, Coal India and Larsen and Toubro.

"On the macro front, automobile sales data for October by SIAM (Society of Indian Automobile Manufactures) will be announced on November 8-10, and the Index of Industrial Production for September will be announced on November 10," Jain added.

According to Dhruv Desai, Director and Chief Operating Officer of Tradebulls, the Indian markets, which scaled a fresh peak on the first trading day of November, are all set to hit fresh highs in the next 12 months.

"Earnings recovery will prove to be the 'make or break' level for the Indian market. If earnings fail to play catch-up, then the Indian markets will start looking expensive and we could see some course correction," Desai told IANS.

"The rally getting bigger highlights the inherent strength in the trend amid persistent demand at elevated levels and augurs well for the continuance of the up-move going forward," Desai said.

Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services, said: "FIIs (foreign institutional investors) have turned net buyers since the government announcement on 'Bharatmala' and (bank) recapitalisation, which is a positive sign. The concerns of premium domestic valuations have faded and investors are looking towards visible long-term growth opportunities in sector/stocks."

Figures from the National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL) revealed that foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) invested in equities worth Rs 2,773.08 crore, or $179.57 million, during October 30-November 3.

Provisional figures from the stock exchanges showed that FIIs turned net buyers on November 1-2 and invested in stocks worth Rs 2,071.19 crore.

"However, in the near term, the market will continue to gauge ongoing Q2 results. However, any reasonable relief in tax rates of goods under 28 per cent bracket in the upcoming GST council meet next week will support the current positive momentum," Nair added.

The GST Council will hold its 23rd meeting in Guwahati on November 10.

Commenting on technical levels, Deepak Jasani, Head, Retail Research, HDFC Securities, said: "Technically, with the Nifty surging higher to new life highs, the underlying trend remains up. Further upsides are likely once the immediate resistance of 10,471 is taken out."

"Weakness could emerge next week if the support of 10,311 is broken," Jasani told IANS.

Bolstered by an upbeat domestic macro data and global cues, the benchmark indices -- BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty50 -- rode the bulls to scale new highs last week.

On Friday, the broader Nifty50 of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) hit a new 52-week high of 10,461.70 points intra-day, and closed trading at record 10,452.50 points. On a weekly basis, it edged higher by 129.45 points, or 1.25 per cent.

The barometer 30-scrip Sensitive Index (Sensex) of the BSE, too, saw a strong closing at 33,685.56 points -- up 528.34 points, or 1.59 per cent, on a weekly basis. The Sensex hit a new 52-week high of 33,733.71 points on intra-day basis.

(Porisma Gogoi can be contacted at porisma.g@ians.in)
By PTI: Motihari (Bihar), Nov 5 (PTI) Heroin worth about Rs 1.5 crore in the international market was seized from one person who was arrested in East Champaran district of Bihar, a Sahastra Seema Bal (SSB) official said today.

Acting on a tip-off, SSB personnel captured the man from a place on NH-28 in Ramgarhwa police station area last night and seized 300 gram of heroin, a motorcycle, a mobile phone and some cash from him, SSB Deputy Commandant Amit Kumar said.

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"The heroin was kept in a polythene bag and its estimated price in the international market is about Rs 1.5 crore," Kumar said.

It was revealed during interrogation that the arrested man had obtained the contraband in Ramgarhwa and was promised Rs 20,000 for handing over the heroin to a person in Raxaul.

The SSB deputy commandant said the drug was to be smuggled to Nepal from Raxaul.

The arrested man was handed over to the local police by the SSB after interrogation. PTI NAC NN SNP

--- ENDS ---
New Delhi/Hyderabad/Bengaluru/Kolkata, Nov 5 : Large companies and bankers, employees and customers, as well as small and medium enterprises have all vented their anger at the demonetisation announced by the government on November 8 last year.

But the common man and woman have not been heard enough, though they are the ones that most felt the pain when money suddenly became scarce and their way of life was shaken to the core.

Over a hundred persons died in the queues. One such man in central Delhi was Saud-ur-Rahman, a 48-year-old poster designer. Standing in a bank queue for the third day in a row, from early morning till late afternoon, he suffered a massive heart attack and was brought dead to the hospital by his friend.

"Our child has gone. We couldn't speak to him one last time. Why would I want to speak about him to others," his 70-year old father Ahmed Rahman told IANS before shutting the door and cutting off any more queries. The pain felt by the father was as real today as it was a year ago.

Shiraj Ahmed, the friend who took him to the hospital, said that no one from the ruling party came to express condolences or offer an apology. Shiraj had given Saud some money and told him not to go, perhaps sensing the desperate situation he was in, but he insisted he had to take out money or the family would not be able to manage.

In many cities, people recalled the harrowing time they underwent to withdraw their hard-earned money, day after day.

"The dividend of the hardship we faced was expected to be moral. But, one year down the line, what we got as retired persons is receding interest income," says retired central government employee Bankim Chandra Roy.

"I had to go to the branch four to five times to convert about Rs 10,000 of demonetised notes; one day, I fell and injured my head," says the pensioner. "I used to draw my pension in the first week of the month. But when demonetisation came, I just could not draw my pension and really had to struggle to manage family expenses," Roy, a resident of West Bengal's Hooghly district, told IANS.

For a large number of working men and women it was a loss of income as they stood in serpentine queues at banks to exchange the spiked notes for new ones.

"It was as if somebody had suddenly snatched all my money. I had to struggle to get even Rs 4,000 in new currency from my bank to buy essentials," recalls Damodar Reddy, a pensioner in Hyderabad.

Caught completely off-guard, people did not know how to meet immediate financial commitments like paying house rent, children's school fees and other monthly expenses. But the most immediate need before the common man was to buy his daily needs like grocery and fuel with new currency notes which were elusive.

"People had to face hardships, especially those who were not tech-savvy and relied on cash for their daily transactions," Aashish Joshi, a chartered accountant, told IANS.

He wondered why so many had to go through so much pain. "It was believed that the dramatic move would have positive impact and the so-called black money would be cut back. But statistics released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) show that 99 percent of the demonetised currency came back into the system," Joshi said, wondering whether all the pain was worth it.

Anne Bangera, a 71-year-old retired teacher based in Mangaluru, recalls the demonetisation period being particularly painful as all her pension savings were held in cash. "It shook me as it meant all the money I had saved was of no value any more. I require to make monthly visits to the hospital for my health, but I no longer had any valid money," Bangera said.

An arthritis patient, Bangera lives alone at her home. "With bad knees, standing in those queues was particularly painful and I had to make several trips to the bank to deposit my old currency in return for the new notes. For the old and the weak, demonetisation was very difficult, as it just left us helpless," she said.

Rahul Chauhan, who runs a car garage in the Kamla Nagar area of North Delhi, says that for many days they were left with no money, even to pay the workers -- many of whom started staying away. "I spent many nights standing in the queues, and then the customers did not turn up to claim their vehicles since they couldn't pay cash," Chauhan said.

Kailash Sharma, a resident of South Extension in Delhi, said that going to the banks became a family affair. "My father, mother and me stood in queues for over seven hours each day, since one person could withdraw only Rs 4,000." Sharma mentioned that exchanging the cash at home became a highly challenging task for them.

Self-employed young men did not know how to manage for several weeks. Twenty-seven-year-old Prashanth K. (name changed on request), a wedding photographer in Bengaluru, said many weddings in the state turned low-key after November 8 last year. "All the money saved for weddings had become worthless and had to be exchanged. Even the withdrawal limit -- which was raised to Rs 2.5 lakh for weddings -- was useless because of the conditions attached," he said.

The result: "I had to spend many hours of each week in bank queues trying to exchange old Rs 500 notes I was paid." He could not refuse old currency as business would have vanished, although he did reduce his assignments. For several months, the photography business remained dull, despite the wedding season, he said.

Small start-ups, often lacking deep pockets, were no better off. Adnigam Private Limited, a hyperlocal marketplace launched only six months before demonetisation, was nearly knocked out of business. Its USP was same-day delivery in and around Hyderabad, but it was forced to retrench staff and cut operational and overhead costs. Raji Reddy Kesireddy, founder and CEO of Adnigam, said there were days when they had no orders. "From a spacious office in Ameerpet, we had to move to a small premises in Begumpet," he told IANS.

The situation was exploited by touts who suddenly sprouted up everywhere. D. Saraswati, a worker in a private school in Hyderabad, recalls that she had to part with Rs 300 to exchange each Rs 1,000 note. "Had I stood in a queue, my employer would have deducted a day's salary and still there was no guarantee that I would get the money. I had no other option," she said.

The pain was spread across the country for several weeks and months, but no one is sure today whether all the sacrifices by the common man and woman resulted in any real benefit. They look askance at the government, which has few answers.

(Mohammed Shafeeq can be reached at m.shafeeq@ians.in, Anand Singh at anand.s@ians.in, Bhavana Akella at bhavana.a@ians.in & Bappaditya Chatterjee at bappaditya.c@ians.in)

(Editors: The above article is part of a series of demonetisation stories leading up to November 8)
Fremantle (Australia), Nov 5 : Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini left Australia's Fremantle on Sunday morning for its onwards journey to New Zealand's Lyttleton, a defence statement said.

INSV Tarini had arrived at Fremantle on October 23, after completion of first leg of its maiden voyage to circumnavigate the globe.

This historic circumnavigation attempt by an all-women crew is being led by Lt Commander Vartika Joshi, and the crew comprises Lt Commanders Pratibha Jamwal and P. Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta.

The crew of INSV Tarini was officially welcomed to Western Australia by its Tourism, Defence Issues and Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia and Women's Interests Minister Simone McGurk on November 1. Western Australia Ministers were accompanied by two Indian-origin members of WA Parliament.

Royal Australian Navy chief, Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, also visited the vessel on November 1 to welcome the crew.

He also handed over a personal message from Australian Minister for Defence Marise Payne for the crew.

The crew had several engagements during its stay in Fremantle, including call-on meetings with Western Australia Governor Kerry Sanderson and Freemantle Deputy Mayor Ingrid Waltham. WA Legislative Council President Kate Doust also hosted the crew at WA Parliament for an interaction with female MPs from all major parties.

The INSV Tarini crew had an opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders during the welcome reception hosted by the Indian Consulate on October 28, which was attended by about 100 distinguished guests, including members of WA Parliament, state officials, businessmen, academicians, consular corps, leaders from Indian community and media persons.

The crew of INSV Tarini also had an opportunity to interact with strategic thinkers and academia during a presentation and reception event hosted by Perth US-Asia Centre, a leading think tank focusing on geopolitical issues based in the University of Western Australia, on October 31. More than 200 students attended a presentation and interaction session with the crew at Perth Modern School on the same day.

The crew also visited the scientific facilities at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre at University of Western Australia. They also had a chance to meet renowned Australian scientist & Australian of the Year 2017 Professor Alan Mackay-Sim, who is famous for his work on stem cell research. The crew also had a trip to few tourist places in Perth and Fremantle, including Rottnest Island.
New Delhi, Nov 5 : Hundreds of Swaraj India supporters on Sunday protested against liquor vends functioning from a shopping mall in east Delhi and accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of flouting excise rules in allocating licences for these businesses.

Swaraj India's Delhi State President Anupam led party workers in the protest against a dozen-odd liquor vends holding L10 licences which open towards 'Cross River' Mall.

He said the AAP came to power to make Delhi liquor-free but it had been violating excise rules.

"The Delhi government is illegally distributing L10 licences to enable licensees to open vends in shopping malls. Rules for shops within a mall clearly say that all such shops should have entrance only within the building and cannot have entrance/exit towards the mall's exterior," Anupam said.

The Swaraj India leader said these liquor shops had been set up against the approved map of the said mall. "Every week, Delhi excise officials are supposed to inspect liquor vends in the city, but not a single objection has been raised or action taken against these vends which are blatantly violating rules."

"The shopping mall has been turned into a liquor den, leaving people living in nearby residential areas helpless. Neither the Delhi government, nor area MP or MLA or councillor has opposed these illegally operating liquor vends. It is surprising to see such a harmonious relation between the AAP and opposition Bharatiya Janata Party in promoting liquor trade in Delhi," he said.
New Delhi, Nov 5 : Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday visited a forward army post in Arunachal Pradesh and an Indian Air Force (IAF) base in Assam to take stock of the defence preparedness and the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

During the visit to the forward army post of Kibithu, she was briefed on the situation and defence preparedness along the LAC. She also interacted with the troops and appreciated their dedication to the service in such remote and inhospitable terrain, a Defence Ministry release said.

Sitharaman later visited Chabua air base, where she took stock of the operational preparedness and infrastructure development at the base.

She inspected a static display of the combat assets available at the station, which included the Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter aircraft and modern missiles.

Sitharaman also interacted with the Air Force personnel serving at this easternmost region and had lunch with them. She appreciated the operational readiness, ongoing infrastructure development and the high morale of the Air Force personnel at the base.

In continuation with her visits to forward areas along the LAC, the Minister had on Saturday visited Bomdilla and Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh, where she attended the inauguration ceremony of the Buddha Mahotsav 2017 and called on the Governor, Brig D.B. Mishra (retd.).
Chennai, Nov 5 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly in here on Monday morning to participate in the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Daily Thanthi newspaper, said state BJP chief Tamilisai Soundararajan.

Modi is expected to arrive here at around 10 a.m. and would return back to New Delhi the same day.

Security has been beefed up in connection with Modi's visit. Union Minister of State for Finance and Shipping Pon Radhakrishnan and others on Sunday inspected the arrangements at the airport, she said.
New Delhi/Kohima, Nov 5 : National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Sunday told Nagaland Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang that he hoped that a settlement to the decades-old Naga problem will happen soon.

"Everyone wishes for an early solution and it is important to look at what one can do towards achieving that objective," said Doval, according to a statement issued by Nagaland Chief Minister's Office in Kohima.

Zeliang, who was accompanied by his Cabinet colleagues and Nagaland's lone Lok Sabha member Neiphiu Rio, on Sunday met Doval in New Delhi and urged a solution to the longstanding problem.

On August 3, 2015, the Central government and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland - Issac Muivah (NSCN-IM) signed the Framework Agreement. However, neither side released its details.

"Given the progress made and especially with the involvement of the six Naga national political groups along with NSCN-IM in the talks, this is the most opportune time for a solution. Further, given that the state is scheduled to have assembly polls early next year, it is important that settlement of the Naga political issue is done before the elections," Zeliang told Doval.

"This is the most opportune time for a final settlement with BJP governments in Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh and it will be in the interest of all if the settlement is done before Christmas," he added.

Appreciating the initiative of Chief Minister and his colleagues, Doval hoped that "settlement of Naga political issue will be done soon".

He also asked the Nagaland ministers to suggest what all the Central government do for a solution to the issue before Christmas.

Assuring that the Nagaland government's advice will be fully considered by Central government, Doval said: "It has to be a win-win situation for all. We have to together create a congenial atmosphere for acceptance of the agreement between Government of India and Naga National groups so that one can move ahead on the path of development and leave the history of clashes and violence behind."
New Delhi, Nov 5 : Ten persons subjected two minors to third degree, forced them to sexually assault each other, and filmed the crime in west Delhi, following which two accused have been arrested, police said on Sunday.

An FIR was lodged against 10 persons under the Indian Penal Code for unnatural sex and other offences as well as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and two of them arrested late Saturday night, Delhi Police Special Commissioner and Chief PRO Dependra Pathak said.

The crime took place on October 26 in Rohini but came to light on Saturday when the boys' families approached police after a video footage recorded by the accused went viral on social media.

Police said the boys, aged between 13 and 15, are friends and live with their families in Metro Vihar area in Holambi Kalan.

As one of the accused, Kanwar Singh, suspected one of them of involvement in theft at his residence, his men summoned the minor and held him hostage.

They beat him with leather belts and when he did not admit to the theft, the accused also called his friend, 15, forced both to strip, and tortured them for over five hours, police said.

Both were forced to perform sexual acts on each other, filmed in the process and threatened with uploading of the clipping on the Internet in case police was told about the crime, a senior police officer said.

The accused even put petrol and chilli powder on their private parts and burnt them with cigarettes.

The two boys were said to be in very bad condition and had since been admitted at Ambedkar Hospital in Rohini.
New Delhi, Nov 5 : Belgium's King Phillipe and Queen Mathilda, accompanied by a large business and academic delegation, arrived here on Sunday evening on a week-long state visit to India.

President Ram Nath Kovind will meet the royal couple on Tuesday after bilateral talks between King Phillipe and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde are being accompanied by six ministers and a high-powered business delegation comprising CEOs of nearly 90 Belgian companies and over a dozen chiefs of academic institutions.

India is Belgium's second largest export destination and third largest trade partner outside the European Union (EU). In 2016-17, bilateral trade, overwhelmingly dominated by diamonds, was at $13.28 billion of which exports from India to Belgium acc1ounted for $5.65 billion while imports from Belgium accounted for $6.62 billion.

King Phillipe is the third Belgian monarch to make a state visit to India after earlier such visits in 1970 and 2008.

The importance of the visit can be gauged from the fact that a Belgian King makes only one state visit to a country during the course of his reign.
Guwahati, Nov 5 : Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday asked police chiefs of districts surrounding the Kaziranga to assist the Forest Department in containing the menace of poaching after after three rhinos including a calf were killed inside the famous national park in the last 48 hours.

While the poachers have killed one rhino on Friday night inside the park, another mother rhino and a calf was killed inside the park on Saturday night.

"There has been no poaching in last six months. However, the recent incident has indicated that the poachers have been active again. The SPs (Superintendents of Police) of Nagaon, Golaghat, Karbi Anglong, Biswanath and Sonitpur have been asked to assist the forest officials in operation against the poachers," Sonowal told media persons on the sidelines of a government function.

With the killing of three one-horned rhinos, the total rhinos poached in Kaziranga national park became 5 this year.

"We are going to deal with the poachers very strictly and we are going to protect the one-horned rhinos, the pride of Assam at any cost," said the Chief Minister while appealing the villagers of fringe villages to extend their help in containing the menace of poaching.

"The villagers living in fringe areas of Kaziranga national park had earlier also showed their courage in apprehending the poachers. I appeal to them to help the forest officials and police so that the poachers could not take advantage," said Sonowal.

In 2016, poachers have killed over 11 one-horned rhinos in the park, which is also a UNESCO world heritage site.
Kolkata, Nov 5 : Dismissing former Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy's crossing over to the BJP as "Aya Ram Gaya Ram' politics, the CPI-M on Sunday said it would be "suicidal" if anybody harboured thoughts of fighting one of them by joining the other as the two parties "complement each other".

"So many people go to these parties, so many people leave. That doesn't affect the people. This is nothing but Aya Ram Gaya Ram politics," Communist Party of India-Marxist's West Bengal state Secretary Surjya Kanta Mishra.

The expression "Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram" refers to Haryana legislator Gaya Lal, who changed party thrice in a fortnight in 1967.

Roy, one of the founders of Trinamool, earlier this week joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in New Delhi.

Accusing the BJP led government at the centre and the Trinamool regime in West Bengal of carrying out a three-pronged attack on the masses, Mishra said "democracy is under attack, people's life and livelihood is under attack and there is an attempt to polarise people on religion, caste and community lines".

He alleged that the Sangh Parivar including the BJP, was trying to polarise people in the state with the "backing of the state government".

"Their principal target are the Leftists, particularly the CPI-M. Such attacks on the CPI-M is happening across the country, particularly in West Bengal.

"There were communal clashes, tension in some areas of late. The state government's role seems to be strengthen the poliarisation."

In an obvious allusion to the Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's meeting with Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee this week, Mishra said: "Even the Shiv Sena is giving certificate to Mamata, because she is anti-communist."

Asked whether there could be an exodus from various anti-Trinamool parties in the state to the BJP, he said: "If anybody thinks Trinamool will fight the BJP, or BJP will fight against the Trinamool, I think that is suicidal. BJP and the Trinamool complement each other."

"You cannot fight the one by taking along the other. To fight these forces, the Left and other democratic and secular forces need to come to a common platform".
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At 73, Prem Kumar Dhumal, two time Himachal Pradesh chief minister is BJP's best bet in the state assembly polls. Party has declared him its chief minister candidate.

By Anand Patel: At 73, Prem Kumar Dhumal, two time Himachal Pradesh chief minister is BJP's best bet in the state assembly polls. Party has declared him chief minister candidate to bolster its chances of wresting the state from arch rival Congress party. Dhumal is contesting from his traditional Sujanpur seat, but has been addressing 50 to 55 public meetings each day campaigning hard for other party candidates.

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India Today caught up with Dhumal in Shimla.

Q: There is buzz that party was lagging behind in poll campaign, so they have projected you as CM face?

PK Dhumal: Don't think this has been done as part of any strategy. I was sure that the party would take appropriate decision at an appropriate time, perhaps this was the right time for the decision. Now, we are trying best that our candidates win in large numbers and BJP forms a government with heavy majority.

Q: PM Modi during his address in Kangra rally sought support to end drug mafia raj in Himachal. Is the state heading towards 'Udta Punjab' like situation?

PK Dhumal: We are getting close to a similar situation of drugs menace as in Punjab. Reports of heroin or Chitta as it is locally known, being sold in areas bordering Punjab are very disturbing, cops are being beaten up, in one constituency more than 20 youths have died due to drugs abuse. This is emerging as a big problem and we will have to act tough to get rid of this menace.

Q: Law and order has emerged as a big issue in these polls.

PK Dhumal: People have lost faith in state government . Even for minor law & order issues they are demanding CBI probe, we will restore rule of law. Rape and murder of a teenage girl in Kotkhai near Shimla, followed by rape and murder of a minor in Kullu, in Mandi murder of a forest guard was called suicide by the police -- all these incidents have shaken our state and disturbed its peace. This has been a major failure of the present government. People have lost faith in this government.

Q: In its manifesto, BJP has promised to set up Major Somnath Vahini to deal with law and order situation. How will it function?

PK Dhumal: Major Somnath Sharma was first Param Vir Chakra. He was from Himachal so we have decided to set up Somnath Vahini. Have raised questions over women security in the state, its a big issue and we will address this once voted to power. It will comprise of ex-servicemen so that they can assist administration and police in law and order situations.

Q: Modi ji had promised One Rank One Pension during his Lok Sabha poll campaign in Himachal. But, still a section of ex-servicemen is complaining?

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PK Dhumal: Centre has assured that the anomalies will be removed. Our government has given 15 thousand crore. I am sure it will not hesitate in shelling out a few hundred crore more.

Q: Not much has been done on the infrastructure development front. Himachal shares border with China. Do you think border area development needs a push?

PK Dhumal: Modi government has already cleared all border roads to be developed as National Highway. It also sanctioned Rs 329 crore for the Detailed Project Report. But this state government couldn't prepare DPR. Modi government has also approved extension of railway lines to border areas. Right now, we have to air lift supplies for our soldiers on Indo-China border. Once rail line is extended, we will have better supply lines which will be in our national interest.

Q: During last one year, there have been 10 thousand deaths in road accidents. Himachal roads are in poor shape.

PK Dhumal: This shows how careless this government has been. Although, we cannot completely stop mishaps given our geography. We had identified 100 black spots and got Rs 100 crore grant from finance commission to build crash barriers there. The money got frittered away due to poor financial management. Once voted to power, we will pay attention to build better roads in first year of our tenure.

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Q: Capital city Shimla has been facing lot of issues related to civic amenities. Not much attention has been paid to its development. Is it because there were governments of different political parties at Centre and the state while Shimla MC was ruled by CPM?

PK Dhumal: Now, we will have same party ruling all three once we win assembly polls. For water problem, we have already said that we will lift it from Kol dam to supply sufficient water to the city. We had developed a number of parkings when we were in government. We will come up with more parkings, by pass roads to de-congest traffic in Shimla.

Q: Campaign is into its final phase. BJP had begun with a mission 50 seats. What is your assumption now?

PK Dhumal: We are getting support from all sections of society. Dalits have also joined us. Women, youth have also come along. Employees were with us, we expect them to support again. All of them will come together to overthrow this regime. I am sure we would convert the mission 50 plus to 60 plus.

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Washington, Nov 6 : US President Donald Trump has lauded Saudi Arabia on achieving the commitments he announced during the Riyadh Summit earlier this year, the White House said on Sunday.

Trump made the remarks in a telephone call with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Saturday, Xinhua news agency reported.

He noted that the Saudi top leadership's recent public statements regarding the need to build a moderate, peaceful and tolerant region are essential to "ensuring a hopeful future for the Saudi people to curtailing terrorist funding and to defeating radical ideology - once and for all - so the world can be safe from its evil".

The two leaders threw light on the importance of countering extremist ideologies and championing moderation and tolerance.

They discussed the continuing threat of Houthi militias in Yemen and Saudi Arabia's interception of a missile attack targeting Riyadh launched by Houthi militias on Saturday.

Trump thanked the King for his support of the US commitment to defeating the Islamic State (IS).

He also praised the Saudi massive purchase of US weapons, including a $15 billion investment in Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and billions more in commitments and investments, the White House said.

Trump assured the Saudi leader that he would support the purchase of appropriate military equipment that would keep Saudi Arabia safe and help create US jobs.
London, Nov 6 : Britain's First Secretary of State Damian Green has denied claims made by an ex-police chief that police found pornographic material on one of his parliamentary computers, a media report said.

Former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Bob Quick claimed that police in an investigation into government leaks in 2008 found "extreme porn" on a computer in Green's House of Commons office, according to Sunday Times, Xinhua news agency reported.

Refuting the claims, Green said on Twitter the allegations about the material and computer are "false" and "disreputable political smears". He added that police have never suggested to him that improper material was found on his parliamentary computer.
Cairo, Nov 6 : Egypt strongly condemned the firing of a ballistic missile by Yemen's Shiite Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.

"The Egyptian Government and people stand in solidarity with Saudi Arabia's Government and people and support the measures taken by the kingdom to protect its security and stability against such a brutal aggression," Xinhua news agency quoted the Foreign Ministry as saying in a statement.

The Houthi rebels fired a long-range missile on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday night, according to Houthi-controlled Saba news agency.

The Saudi Government said the missile fell and exploded north of the airport causing no casualties.
Tripoli, Nov 6 : The Libyan Government has issued a decision to terminate the service of senior military officer who threatened to target the Egyptian Presidential Palace and government offices in Cairo, officials said.

"The investigation found out that General Mohamed Gneidi, a military intelligence official from Misurata, violated military rules by appearing to media without prior permission, in addition to threatening Egyptian authorities to blow up the Presidential Palace, which is unjustified and acceptable," Xinhua news agency quoted an official of the Military Prosecution Office as saying.

"We referred the investigation documents of the actions of officer Gneidi through media and his refusal to appear before the military court, which led Prime Minister Serraj to issue a decision a few hours ago to terminate his services and dismiss him from the army."

The General criticized the Egyptian authorities via a local Libyan channel on Saturday over the airstrike carried out by unidentified warplane on the eastern city of Derna a few days ago and accused Egyptian Air Force of carrying out the attack.

He threatened to respond to the "Egyptian aggression" on his country by targeting government and vital buildings, including the Egyptian Presidential Palace.

Gneidi also appeared on Sunday on another local Libyan TV channel and stressed that he does not represent the military command of the Government of National Accord, but the military command of the outgoing General National Congress.
Damascus, Nov 6 : Hundreds of civilians started returning to the first neighbourhood that was liberated from the Islamic State (IS) militants in the northern Syrian city of Raqqa, a monitor group reported.

The return of civilians to the Mashlab neighbourhood east of Raqqa comes following 20 days of tension between the civilians and the US-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Xinhua news agency quoted the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights as saying.

The civilians wanted a quick return to their homes following the SDF capture of Raqqa from IS last month, but the monitor group said the return was granted after the neighbourhood was cleared of explosive devices left by IS.

With the help of the US-led airstrikes and special forces, the SDF fully captured Raqqa from IS on October 17, following a four-month offensive to strip IS of its self-proclaimed capital in Syria.
We love this community and are so grateful to be a part of it and this is just one way we can give back

After their plans for a dental care mission trip to Guatemala were stopped at the gates of Denver International Airport from a last minute cancellations due to Hurricane Irma, Dentistry Making a Difference, a dental group consisting of four local Colorado dentist offices, has regrouped its mission efforts and will be offering a Community Day of Dental Care event here at home in Denver instead. The event will be held on December 2, 2017 at Hampden Family Dental, with the purpose of offering dental care without charge to the people in the community that do not have proper access to oral health care.

Patients arriving that day will receive one treatment of needed dental work. Extractions, teeth cleanings, sealants and fillings will be administered by the volunteer staff of dentists, hygienists and personnel. In total, 4 dentists, 6 dental hygienists and 12 volunteers from all the Dentistry Making a Difference offices will be providing dental care. Service will be administered on a first come, first served basis from 8am until 2pm, at 7090 E. Hampden Ave Suite A Denver CO 80224.

This concerted effort is part of the business mission of Dentistry Making a Difference, a company that pledges a percentage of its profits go to charitable giving, as well as giving community and dental service to the areas they serve. Once a quarter, the Dentistry Making a Difference Dental offices collaborate to offer a community dental day event in one of their communities. The last event was in the spring in Sterling, CO.

Once a year, the team goes to a developing country and offers free dental care to indigenous communities. This years trip to Guatemala had to be postponed until March because of the devastation that Hurricane Irma inflicted to the Florida airports.

Tanner Applegate, CEO of Dentistry Making a Difference, believes that the culture and mission are what separates the DMD group from other dental groups: In the world of dentistry, there are too many people that are unable to have access to dental care. We believe that finances should not be a deterrent to being able to access good oral health. In order to deliver on this belief, Dentistry Making a Difference is offering a volunteer dental day to give back to our community and help those that are not able to access dental care on their own. We love this community and are so grateful to be a part of it and this is just one way we can give back.

Dr. Benjamin Bassett leads the team of dentists for Dentistry Making a Difference: Dentistry Making a Difference is a mission based dental group focused on relief and giving back. Dentistry is a great profession, for which we are lucky enough to be a part of, and when we have our needs met we want to pass on how good it is to others. We believe that caring for others is more important than caring for ourselves. That's why we take time to use our skills to give back. It won't completely change the world, but it will make a difference."

For more information: http://hampden.dental/free-dental-day/

Source:

Dentistry Making a Difference and Hampden Family Dental

7090 E. HAMPDEN AVE SUITE A, DENVER, CO 80224

hampden.dental I dentistrymakingadifference.com
PM Modi was in Himachal Pradesh for the second day in a row today and addressed three rallies taking on the Congress ahead of the state's Assembly election.

By India Today Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Himchal Pradesh today seeking to wrap up the Bharatiya Janata Party's campaigning for the hill state's Assembly election ahead of voting day, which is November 11.

PM Modi was in Himachal Pradesh for the second day in a row and addressed three rallies.

The prime minister kept up a sharp attack on Congress at all his three rallies, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party would win the HImachal election with a comfortable majority.

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Here is what PM Modi said through the day:

Himachal needs double engine for development. One, a BJP led government at Centre & the other a BJP government in the state: PM Modi

"Himachal Pradesh needs to be free from 5 Mafias - 'Mining Mafia', 'Forest Mafia', 'Drug Mafia', 'Tender Mafia' & 'Transfer Mafia'": PM Modi

"For 70 years, Congress ruled the country but they were only involved in corruption, spreading lies, casteism and nepotism," PM Modi says, continuing his attack on the grand old party. "Congress and corruption can never separate from each other."

The prime minister repeated his assertion from yesterday that the BJP will win 3/4ths majority in Himachal Pradesh.

On 9th November people of Himachal Pradesh will vote for change: PM Modi

? ?? ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ??? ? ????? ?? ?? ? ? ?? ? ? : ?? #ModiDhumal4Vikas pic.twitter.com/fdO7BjYKMn- BJP (@BJP4India) November 5, 2017

I will repay the debt of Himachal Pradesh on me with interest and I will do so through development: PM Modi in Kullu

PM Modi is now addressing a 'Parivartan Rally' in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu.

Corruption is the only identity of the Congress, PM Modi says, adding that the party does not like that an ordinary "chai-walah" became the PM.

Congress ko takleef iss baat ki hai ki ek chai wala Pradhan Mantri ban gaya? Ek gareeb maa ka beta yahan pohoch gaya?: PM Modi in Himachal pic.twitter.com/TdHlet4Fyo- ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2017

I urge people & especially women of Himachal Pradesh to turn out in large numbers and vote for the BJP on 9th November: PM Modi

Attacking the Congress, PM Modi said, "Congress is using all possible means to blame us but our fight against black money & corruption will continue".

Now speaking in Palampur, PM Modi says these election aren't about forming the government, but about changing the lives of the people in Himachal Pradesh.

These elections are not about who will form the government or who will become the CM, but are about transforming lives of people in HP: PM pic.twitter.com/zpnHuNANkP- BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) November 5, 2017

At the Una rally, PM Modi once again hints at a crackdown on benami firms and properties, saying those who have looted the country will not be spared.

Targeting the Congress, PM Modi said, "Congress did not implement the benami assets law as they were well aware it would reveal all their wrong doings".

"GST has immensely benefited the transport sector. Truck movement between the states has gained pace," the prime minister said.

What was the reason that infrastructure development was so slow during the Congress? After we came to power, things changed in 3 years: PM- BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) November 5, 2017

Speaking about the Goods and Services Tax, the rollout of which has been much criticsed by the Opposition, PM Modi said they entire country welcomed the introduction of GST.

We are working to fulfill people's aspirations. We will ensure jobs for youth, healthcare for elderly and proper education for children, the prime minister says.

The poor of Himachal Pradesh will get their due, PM Modi promises at the Una rally.

The people of Himachal Pradesh have vowed to teach Congress a lesson, which is why the party has deserted the battlefield, PM Modi says.

???????? ?????? ????? ?????? ??? ??? ??, ??????? ?? ??? ?????? ?? ???? ?? ???????? ?? ??? ?????? ?? ?? ??? ???? ?? : ???? #ModiDhumal4Vikas pic.twitter.com/HZHb4KnqZY- BJP (@BJP4India) November 5, 2017

This election campaign has become boring, PM Modi says, with Congress having run away from the battlefield.

The BJP will decimate the Congress, PM Modi suggests, saying in Una that he has never seen such a one-sided contest.

--- ENDS ---
AO Eyewear - General Sunglasses If every American purchase one USA made product per year the impact would be $9 billion. That creates an amazing amount of jobs for U.S. Citizens!

America's Business to Consumers Inc. (USAB2C.com) provides U.S. manufacturers the venue to sell products. Given a choice between items made in America and similar items made overseas, consumers would rather buy the American product, according to a nationally representative survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

Made in USA products run the gamut from Maple Landmark Toys, to Bully Tools / QPI Tools, Towels, Sunglasses, Kitchen Gear, Utility Lighting, Knives, Wingards Decorative Windmills, and Kids Furniture in time for holiday shopping needs.

This month, AO EYEWEAR Inc., of Southbridge, MA is being featured.

The development of the optical and eyewear manufacturing industry in America started in the early part of the nineteenth century. Prior to this time, optical frames and lenses were imported from Europe, mainly France, Germany and England. Metal frames were also produced by local jewelry manufacturers as well as other specialty metal workers. The quantities, however, were limited to private demand for singularly custom made frames.

The AO heritage began in 1826, when William Beecher, a Connecticut farm boy, came to Southbridge, after an apprenticeship in Providence, Rhode Island, where he learned the jeweler's trade. This trade he practiced in Southbridge for seven years before his fateful encounter with a pair of typically crude imported spectacles. "I can do it better," said William to himself and he went to work.

The American optical industry was born at that moment. William Beecher fostered an enduring precept for the company that was to grow into the American Optical Company.

The Company grew at an exponential rate at the turn of the century. The export business was further expanded with the setting up of the London office in 1905. Back in Southbridge, AO was already employing 2,000 employees with a payroll of $1 million.

Precious metal frames (gold and silver) were increasingly gaining popularity. Production exceeded 600,000 gold/silver frames and mountings per year, twenty times the numbers produced just thirty years earlier.

In 1917, AO designed and built 8 mobile optical units to support U.S. troops and Allied Forces in Europe during WW-I. These self-contained eyeglass facilities were stocked with all necessary frames, lenses, refractive equipment and machines for the fitting and filling of prescription and distribution of sunglasses. Two white metal frames, "Liberty" and "Victory" were put to service in the field. A record of two and one-half million glasses were furnished to the US Government for the war effort.

During WW-II, AO again come to the forefront with new optical products developed by their research laboratories. This development work allowed AO to supply the US Government with new products including gun sights, bombsights, AR glass, aviation goggles, sunglasses and precision optics for military and instrument applications.

Between 1943 and 1944, a total of 10 million goggles frames, 5 million pairs of sunglasses and over 6.5 million pairs of lenses were grounded and polished including 1.4 million prescriptions delivered to the Armed Forces.

By 1946, AO's contribution to the war effort was so substantial that the Company and the entire work force were presented the Army-Navy "E" (excellence) award as recognition.

It was in 1958 that the Flight Goggle 58, now known as the Original Pilot Sunglass was produced for the US military to provide pilots with maximum protection, optical performance and comfort. Right to the present time, the Original Pilot is still being manufactured in the AO complex in Southbridge, Massachusetts.

In fact the Original Pilot Sunglass was honored to be the first ever sunglass to land on the moon worn by US Navy Commander Neil Armstrong and the crew of Apollo 11 in 1969. These sunglasses now resides on permanent display in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

Subsequent years saw numerous collections of AO frames and sunglasses made and sold. A plethora of shapes, colors, sizes, materials and designs were offered. They were trendsetters in their own right. AO Sunvogue sunglasses could be found on the cool bikers in the 1969 movie, "Easy Rider" or on the hotshot aviators in "Top Gun" as well:

https://www.usab2c.com/product/AOeyewear_FlightGear_OriginalPilot

AO Eyewear prides itself on its products, classic lines and styling. Their products, developed with function first, remain in vogue year in and year out.

AO Eyewear, is committed as the founders of the company to continue to uphold the value of producing the highest quality, innovative and design-driven eyewear products that withstand the test of time.

Why USAB2C?

Chief Operations Officer George P. Hanos recently relayed, "USAB2C is a modern day marketplace in the tradition of the ancient Greek 'Agora'; a virtual channel where consumers and American manufacturers come together to exchange ideas, concerns and conduct business. On USAB2C.com, customers can browse an online catalog and order products sourced from USAB2C Certified American through a safe and secure website. The effort to uncover American made products is ongoing.

USAB2C founders are intent on providing products made in the USA that minimize exposure to some inferior materials found at times in Asian imports, particularly seen in toys. The Made in the USA News section presents consumers with daily stories dealing with PRODUCT RECALLS, new product introductions and related retailing / safety news.

Consumers can submit inquiries to USAB2C directly on the "CONTACT US" page: http://www.usab2c.com/page/contact.

About America's Business to Consumers Inc.

America's Business to Consumers Inc. is a private company experienced in retail marketing, consumer research and e-Commerce. Established in 2007, USAB2C seeks to be a single source of American manufactured products. A site where consumers can find a multitude of products manufactured in the U.S. at competitive pricing. http://www.USAB2C.com as a website portal, facilitates interactive communication between consumers and those in-demand products to numerous American manufacturers.

The USAB2C team takes this occasion to once again sincerely hope this Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah at home will prove a fitting climax for 2017 and that the coming year brings more success and happiness than any which has gone before!

Contact:

Sophia C. King, Editor-in-Chief

America's Business to Consumers Incorporated

(775) 888-1378

Sophia(dot)Anayannis(at)USAB2C(dot)com

http://www.facebook.com/USAbusiness2consumers
Pond Lehocky was a proud sponsor of the 43rd Annual Firefighters Memorial 5K in honor of Philadelphia Firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The very first Memorial Run was organized in 1975 to honor eight firefighters who lost their lives battling the Gulf Oil Refinery fire in South Philadelphia.

Today, the traditional run continues, and money raised benefits local burn centers in the Philadelphia Area.

Participants and sponsors of the 3 mile run through Pennypack Park included several fire stations, local unions, and active firefighters and paramedics. The firm was honored to participate alongside these heroes in the run.
Conference Series Digital and social media are no longer are optional and they form inseparable part of medical conferences.

Conferences, meetings and scientific events have been proved as excellent platforms to share and exchange knowledge as it intends to bring together the researches and researchers from across the globe. While the Cancer Conferences offer global exposure on the recent practices in the field, social and computerised media assumes a key role in dispersing the same to the audience spread from across the length and the breadth of the globe within in a split second by taking the data to the alcove and the side of the globe.

Digital and social media are no longer are optional and they form inseparable part of medical conferences. While the local society meetings are strictly confined to specific territories modern day gatherings are global through computerised media. The customary society meetings are unable to satisfy the computerised media nearness with their constrained asset.

With 25 million visitors to its library of proceedings and articles, International conferences organised by Conference series are setting example. According to the Google analytics, Cancer and Oncology conference organised by Conference Series are getting 35,000+ exceptional online visitors that are therapeutic experts and oncologists.

The descriptive speaker pages for the academic & business professionals of the Cancer Meetings introduce the key leaders globally and our robust digital media promotion to the conference through Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Blog etc offer global recognition to the business companies& media associates, their products & services.

The abstracts as well as the full-length articles are published in our peer reviewed Oncology & Cancer journals with a specified a Digital Object Identification Number (DOI) given by Crossref.

Most of the Oncology Conferences are CME/CE Credited and they are useful for renewing the professional licensure, attaining certification, professional honors, credentials and membership in professional societies. Besides that, CPD accreditation is also provided in our conferences endorses the competency of the practitioner.

Conference Series is supported by 25,000+ well-qualified scientists as organizing committee members who serve on voluntary basis to organize 2000+ International conferences, 1000+ symposiums and 1000+ workshops every year across America, Europe, Middle East and Asia.

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After Punjab, drug addiction becomes a poll issue in Himachal Pradesh after Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted the Virbhadra government on the issue.

By Anand Patel: A bitter blame has ensued between the BJP and Congress following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments on drug mafia in Himachal Pradesh during poll campaign.

Virbhadra government is under attack from several quarters for allegedly ignoring warning signals which have lead to state fast turning into 'Udta Himachal'

If it was Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, who hit out at the then Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP government of Punjab over drug addiction among youth, it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi doing the same in Himachal Pradesh.

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Addressing a huge gathering at Kangra on Thursday, PM Modi slammed the Virbhadra government in Himachal Pradesh blaming it for "drug mafia raj". PM Modi sought votes for the BJP promising definitive action against drug mafia in Himachal Pradesh.

DRUGS IN HIMACHAL

PM Narendra Modi spoke about growing abuse of heroin or chitta, as it is locally called, in the state. Unchecked cultivation of high quality cannabis locally known as 'Malana Cream' has been attracting hoards of foreigners to the Kullu Valley for decades.

With neighbouring Punjab facing severe drugs abuse, heroin smuggled into bordering districts of Himachal Pradesh has sent alarm bells ringing for the authorities. Sources told India Today that Kangra, Una, Kullu, Solan, Bilaspur, Sirmaur and Hamirpur districts were most affected by heroin abuse.

As per sources in Narcotics Control Bureau, Damtal, Nurpur, Haroli and Nagrota towns bordering Punjab have become heroin peddling hubs.

"This menace is growing at alarming rate. Youth are getting into this trap but not much action is there on part of local police. This cannot go on without political support," Ajay Srivastava, a social activist, told India Today.

Himachal Pradesh has seen exponential rise in drug abuse related cases in the recent times. Quoting a study by Shimla's Indira Gandhi Medical College, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has already cautioned the state government that close to 40 per cent youth are into drugs.

DRUGS: RIPPLE EFFECT OF PUNJAB?

Sources said that action against drug mafia in Punjab by Captain Amarinder Singh Government has led to peddlers seeking safe heavens in Himachal Pradesh. Central agencies investigating Punjab's illicit synthetic drugs trade had cracked down on chemical supplying units in Himachal Pradesh's pharma hub in Baddi area.

"The areas bordering Punjab are worst affected. Virbhadra government has turned a blind eye to this menace. Drug peddlers have no fear of law as they sometimes beat up even cops," said former Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, adding, "Once we are back in power we will crack down on the drugs network."

Activists too have warned authorities of similar nexus operating in Himachal Pradesh. However, the Congress trashed these allegations calling them poll gimmick.

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Congress leader and Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Badal, while speaking to media persons in Shimla, said, "This is all propaganda by the BJP, they should answer who was in power for 10 years during which drugs abuse in Punjab became a menace. If anyone is responsible for this situation then it is the BJP."

The Akali-BJP government in Punjab had to face humiliating defeat in assembly polls just six months ago. Opposition parties - Congress and AAP had used drugs menace issue as a key poll plank. The BJP is trying to cash in on similar sentiments in Himachal Pradesh now.

--- ENDS ---
To most people, the term "registered sex offender" makes them think of a convicted rapist who has been released from prison, whose location is now visible in a database for all.

Each US state maintains this public database on the internet, sometimes referred to as the Megan's Law database.

But what most people don't know is that it's possible for someone to be a registered sex offender and not be found anywhere on it.

That means that the person won't show up when a concerned citizen is searching for sex offenders by zip code. They also won't show up if a search is done by the person's name or address, and they won't be visible when the database is used for a background check by a potential employer, experts say.

And that's how an infamous registered sex offender in the upscale community of Carmel Valley, California, wound up living as a host in an Airbnb, regularly entertaining guests  even though Airbnb was notified about his history by at least one person who recognized him, according to documents seen by Business Insider.

The situation points to a frightening idea: that Airbnb may not always be aware of all the people living in the homes rented out on its platform, or the people who have access to them, and wouldn't have done its typical safety checks on them.

Shh, dont tell Airbnb

There were a lot of people who recognized this man. His name is Carl Bergstrom, a former wealthy "concierge" doctor in the area whose sensational and lurid 2009 rape trial in the sleepy community of Carmel, California, was closely covered by the local media.

Although the community knew his history, it was very difficult for Airbnb to know it. For one thing, he wasn't listed as the Airbnb host.

The home was listed by the woman he lived with, "Sharon" a little over a year ago, and her host rating was high. And, like many people in Carmel, Sharon knew of Bergstrom's background.

"Carl is not on Megan's list or my Airbnb so someone must have pointed us out to you?" she told us when we asked if she had told Airbnb that Bergstrom was living there.

"People know Carl lives there, but the public doesnt know," one person who lives in the area told us. "They [Airbnb] wont allow you to rent if you are registered sex offender, but what if someone is living in your house? I dont think people are aware that people can be a registered sex offender but not disclosed."

When Business Insider contacted Airbnb with questions about what it knew about Bergstrom living in the house, and how it knows to perform background checks on other adults in a house if the host doesn't disclose them, Airbnb didn't answer our questions directly.

It did, however, tell us that as a result of our inquiry, it had banned Sharon and her Carmel Valley home from its platform.

"Hosts need to be transparent about who has access to their home (so we can check) and not doing so can lead to removal like in this case. We removed this host and this listing from our community," said Nick Shapiro, Airbnb's Global Head of Trust & Risk Management.

The lurid rape trial of the concierge doctor

Before his arrest in 2009, Bergstrom was known in the community as a wealthy "concierge" doctor in the area whose patients paid to keep him on a full-time retainer.

On the night that landed him in prison, he met up with a woman at a bar, according to trial testimony.

They drank a lot and went back to his place where she passed out, she testified. She alleges that she woke up to him assaulting her. Bergstrom maintained his innocence at trial, saying that the sex was consensual.

The woman called 911 that night and the Carmel police found her on the curb outside his house at about 3 a.m. crying hysterically.

At trial, prosecutors presented two other women who also accused him of other incidents, although neither had previously filed charges. Both women testified they thought they may have been drugged. Prosecutors also presented evidence that Bergstrom sold cocaine and Bergstrom admitted at trial that he had traded prescription drugs for cocaine.

The case delved into many lurid details about his lifestyle and sexual proclivities and captured the public's attention. A jury convicted him of the charge of felony "forcible sodomy" and sentenced him to six years in prison.

After conviction, he gave up his license to practice medicine, just as governing bodies had taken steps to revoke it, according to news reports at the time.

While in prison, he appealed his case. The appellate court overturned the verdict, finding the judge had given poor jury instructions on how to decide Bergstrom's guilt. The appellate court didn't declare that he was innocent. It authorized a new trial.

But there were reasons why a second trial would be hard to pull off, including that the victim didn't want to go through the whole ordeal again, according to news reports. Instead, the district attorney struck a plea deal with Bergstrom. He agreed to plead no contest to a lessor charge of felony sexual battery, according to news reports and court records seen by Business Insider. He was ordered to pay fines and restitution and he was released from prison for time served.

As part of the plea, Bergstrom agreed to be a registered sex offender for life. Commander Johnathan Thornburg of the Monterey County Sheriff's department confirmed to Business Insider that "he is currently registered."

But here's the catch: his plea was for an offense allowed to be excluded from the public database.

When Business Insider contacted the Monterey County District Attorney office to ask about the exclusion, the assistant district attorney we spoke to seemed surprised.

The assistant DA told us he thought Bergstrom "should be" in the database, and actually checked it himself while we were on the phone. But he's not. Not by name. Not by address.

Although this attorney had prosecuted other sexual assault cases and said he was "familiar" with Bergstrom's case, he told us he didn't work on it himself.

He told us that sometimes prosecutors strike plea deals and that he wasn't familiar enough with the sexual battery statues that covered this particular deal.

Business Insider asked Bergstrom to contact us and comment on this story through our communications with "Sharon" but he did not respond.

Registered but not revealed

Most states have rules that allow some convicted offenders to be excluded from the public database, says

For the most part, the people excluded are considered low risk to the public. They may have been convicted of a misdemeanor, for instance.

Or they may be excluded so as not to offense committed against a child by a relative who still lives with the child, like a parent, sibling, aunt/uncle or grandparent, according to the application for exclusion, California Penal Code 290.46. That circumstance only applies to offenses that didn't involve a substantial incident with the child.

In Airbnb's case, it remains unclear how the company discovers and checks on other adults living in a home besides the host if the host hasn't notified the company.

Airbnb's publicly available policies about background checks do not discuss its requirements about roommates, spouses or others who have access to the house.

Airbnb's Shapiro did say the company uses technology to watch for "signals" that may indicate something unsafe is going on but he declined say if one of those signals would alert the company to additional adults who have moved in with a host and be in need of a background check.

On the other hand, it may be comforting to know that the public sex offenders database isn't the only source for a background check, even for sexual offenses.

If a person has been convicted of a felony offense, that information can still be uncovered by doing a more thorough, formal background check that includes a search of state criminal records.

Airbnb's Shapiro tells us that for all US residents who apply to be a host and who have been disclosed to Airbnb, the company does do such "background checks looking for prior felony convictions, sex offender registrations, or significant misdemeanors. We are working with additional governments around the world to identify where we can do more background checks."

He adds, "more than 200 million guests have had safe, positive experiences on Airbnb."
She is yet to confirm the story.

In his first public comments on the matter, the controversial counsellor said going by the Ghanaian culture, the Ghanaian actress has given birth to a stupid child.

Yvonne Nelson doubted the pregnancy because she knows the guilt that comes out with this, he said in an interview with media personality, Abeiku Santana.

She knows the process to pregnancy is after marriage. And if she has given birth unmarried, then I am very disappointed in her, he added

Expressing his disgusted, Counsellor Lutterodt said the actress has been portrayed in several movies for Ghanaians to know how a woman must be.

There are so many movies Yvonne Nelson has acted an unfortunately for us, she was portrayed for us to know how a woman must be.

READ MORE: Counselor Lutterodt trolls Ebony over childhood photo
The latest to express his desire to meet the President is Kumawood actor Lilwin, known in private life as Kojo Nkansah.

He said, Yes, Shatta Wale has visited the president and I am happy for him. No need waiting for my turn. I will also go to the Flagstaff House.

I will go whether Im invited or not.

Right now, Im just waiting for the president, Nana Akufo-Addo to get over Shatta Wales visit.

The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, on October 17 wished Shatta Wale, a happy birthday in pidgin English on his Twitter account.

The tweet which went viral also extended an invitation to Shatta to visit the seat of government which he honoured.

READ MORE: Kumawood actor vows not to cheat on wife

President Akufo-Addo tweeted: Happy birthday @shattawalegh! You for come visit me for Flagstaff House o!
On Sunday, the security forces showed tonnes of seized cannabis to reporters at an RSF camp in Khartoum.

Dozens of blue plastic sacks full of hashish were on display, while some was spread out on a carpet in the compound of the camp.

"On Tuesday, October 31, our troops clashed with a gang of smugglers when we ambushed them," RSF spokesman Abdulrahman al-Jaali told reporters.

"We captured their chief... and seized two vehicles loaded with 189 quintals (19 tonnes) of hashish."

The RSF unit ambushed the smugglers after intercepting their telephone communication with another gang in Khartoum, indicating that the seized drugs were bound for the capital, he said.

"This hashish is usually grown in South Sudan and also comes from Ethiopia, and these days it is also grown in Radoum (in South Darfur)," police General Hashim Ali said at the press conference.

In recent years the Sudanese media has regularly reported security forces seizing hashish and other narcotics, but the latest seizure is clearly one of the biggest-ever hauls reported in the east African country.

Officials have acknowledged an overall rise in drug trafficking and consumption across the country in recent years, especially among young people.

Global rights groups accuse RSF of human rights abuses in areas where it is fighting rebels like Darfur, Blue Nile and South Kordofan.
Mr Ussif says the idea of insurance policy for NSS personnel was a resolution adopted at congress by the National Service Personnel Association.

Dr Whyte said the policy needs to be backed with data although he admitted the policy looks good.

He said: National Service personnel are not posted to Afghanistan, Iraq, Sudan or any of the conflict-prone areas.

They are posted to Ghanaian public and private institutionsThe policy looks good on paper, but the reality is such a claim needs to be backed by data.

In the two years I was at the Scheme, matters relating to deaths were about two or three and matters relating to accidents were about three or four.

READ MORE: Insurance scheme for NSS personnel launched
Addressing the National Democratic Congress(NDC) Unity walk in Cape Coast in the Central Region on Sunday, Mr Mahama said new governments, all over the world, are often given honeymoon periods to roll out their policies.

However, he said the Akufo-Addo administration is committing so many mistakes and that the President is not acting boldly to correct them.

One of such mistakes, the ex-president said, is the launch of the Ghana Post GPS App.

"How can you launch a Google GPS system that is freely available on our mobile phones and say it is a national addressing system, he quizzed, adding: It is such a pity. Why do you embarrass the President so much.

"You go and bring a whole president to launch a system that is essentially a 419," he noted.

According to him, someone must be held accountable over the digital addressing system, charging the President to show accountability.

He said: "When you talk about accountability, this is where the president must show seriousness about corruption. Somebody must account for GHC15 million Ghana cedis given away free of charge."

He said when the bus branding scandal happened under his watch, he instructed the Attorney General to investigate and a colossal sum of money was retrieved from the state.

Sadly, he noted, the president is unable to take firm action against his appointees.

He said to tackle corruption, you must take firm action against your own people.

On Wednesday (October 18, 2017) President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo launched the National Digital Property Addressing System, also known as the Ghana Post GPS.

The app for the system was developed by VOKACOM. Asaase GPS will be used to generate street address and postcode in Ghana.
"Ghana has a constitution which is the supreme law of the land and, so, if you are a party officer, you can say whatever you want, there is no problem. You can say all jobs should go to NDC people before it goes to NPP people. Thats if you are Allotey Jacobs, you can say that because government doesnt pay you, taxpayers dont pay you, you havent sworn an oath to anybody," he said.

But when you are appointed as a High Commissioner," he noted, and then you swear an oath of allegiance to the Constitution of Ghana and the Constitution of Ghana says: There shall be no discrimination, and that you shall do justice to all manner of persons, thats what the constitution of Ghana says, then you come and say  have you read animal Farm before?  It says all animals are equal  thats how they started when they did the revolution. Then when Napoleon and the pigs started enjoying, they had to justifying why they were enjoying, and, so, they said: All animals are equal but some are more equal than others."He said when they [NPP] were looking for your vote, I remember President Akufo-Addo said: We shall open opportunities of this country to all Ghanaians irrespective of your party or your ethnic affiliation. Do you remember he said that? So we did the revolution and he came to power, now that the pigs are enjoying they say: Some Ghanaians are more Ghanaian than others.I mean for something like this, you dont call the person to the Flagstaff House, draft an apology letter for him and ask him to sign; you sack him at once, Mr Mahama said.
By PTI: Bengaluru, Nov 5 (PTI) The Income Tax department has summoned Karnataka energy minister D K Shivakumar and his family members to appear before it here tomorrow in connection with searches conducted at his properties in August for alleged tax evasion.

Shivakumar, his wife, mother and other family members have been summoned for questioning as part of a routine process following the searches, I-T department sources said. Shivakumar, the states power minister, had already appeared before I-T officials in August and last month.

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A close aide of the minister confirmed the fresh summons to the minister.

"Yes, yes. The Income Tax Department has summoned our sir (D K Shivakumar) and his family members, including mother and wife," the aide told PTI here.

The I-T department on August 2 conducted searches at various properties linked to Shivakumar, who had hosted 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at a resort on city outskirts to forestall alleged attempts by the BJP to poach them ahead of the then Rajya Sabha polls.

Congress president Sonia Gandhis political secretary Ahmed Patel was seeking re-election in the poll. He eventually won.

The searches had kicked up a political row with the ruling Congress alleging misuse of the I-T department by the central government to target its leaders. PTI BDN VS TIR

--- ENDS ---
Mrs Pobee was confirmed on Friday in a disputed poll in which she secured 28 votes out of the 36 valid votes.

It was reported that members of the vigilante group, Invincible Forces, stormed the Assembly claiming to be from the National Security.

Reacting to the news in a statement, Dr Dzani, who represents the Greater Accra Region at the council, said the action of the Invincible Forces was cowardly, while expressing solidarity the victims.

Below is his statement:

It was with profound sadness that I received the news this afternoon of an attack on members of the Ada East District Assembly during confirmation polls for the nominated District Chief Executive (DCE), allegedly perpetrated by the so-called "Invisible Forces", a notorious vigilante group.

In this moment, I wish to express my solidarity with the victims of this cowardly attack, innocent Ghanaians peacefully discharging their democratic duties. As a country, it is time we rid ourselves of factionalism of all kinds, especially those borne out of political divisions, in order that we can pull together as one people working to realize a common vision of development and prosperity for our country and people.

I was ashamed to view video footage of the incident, which clearly showed some police personnel standing idly by at the premises where the regrettable incidents took place. I urge the Police Administration to take urgent steps to identify and punish those officers who abdicated their duties so publicly, in order to restore the reputation of the Police Service in the eyes of the public.

Further, I wish to remind all government appointees to be mindful of the fact that it is from the same Constitution that all of us derive our offices, irrespective of the level in the governance structure in which we serve. That is why we must all be tolerant and respectful of each other and condemn behaviours that project violence against one another.

I charge all relevant security agencies to rise to their constitutional mandates and combat the creeping lawlessness in our midst, no matter the affiliations of the instigators of such violent occurrences. It is only by uniformly and consistently applying the law that the needed deterrence would be established against those that operate outside the boundaries of the law. In this particular instance, I am committed to seeing through the processes that will ensure justice for all who fell victim to this afternoon's aggression and violence.
The regime's forces "progressed rapidly" and are 15 kilometres (nine miles) from the town, the Britain-based monitor said.

Saturday's attack in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor killed "at least 75 displaced civilians including children" and wounded 140, said Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman.

The scale of the attack showed that despite losing vast swathes of territory it held in Iraq and Syria, the jihadist group is still capable of mounting deadly attacks.

Abdel Rahman said "a new convoy of displaced people joined the gathering at the time of the attack".

The displaced had fled battles in the province, where Russian-backed Syrian regime forces and the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), are fighting the jihadist group in separate offensives.

The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources on the ground inside Syria for its information, reported Saturday that dozens had died in the bombing.

Fighting across Deir Ezzor province has sent thousands of civilians fleeing for their lives, some straight into the desert.

Saturday's attack came a day after Russian-backed government forces seized Deir Ezzor city from the jihadists.

IS, which in 2014 declared a "caliphate" spanning territory in Iraq and Syria roughly the size of Britain, has also lost most of the territory it once controlled in neighbouring Iraq, including second city Mosul.

Fight for Albu Kamal

On Friday, Iraqi forces retook the border town of Al-Qaim, also on the Euphrates river.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Sunday toured Al-Qaim and raised the national flag in the town centre.

The jihadists who have lost most of the territory they once controlled are now confined to a small stretch of the Euphrates Valley border area, which was at the heart of IS's so-called caliphate.

The US-led coalition has estimated that around 1,500 jihadists are still in the area.

Syrian regime forces have intensified their assault on IS in the area in a bid to seize Albu Kamal close to the Iraq border.

According to the Observatory, Iraqi militiamen have fought alongside Iraqi regime forces in the area.

Civilians caught in the fighting have tried to escape.

Hundreds of thousands fleeing

Aid group Save the Children estimates that some 350,000 people have fled the recent fighting in the oil-rich province, half of them children.

Some of those displaced had sought refuge in a desert area controlled by the SDF, a Kurdish-Arab alliance, on the eastern bank of the Euphrates where Saturday's bombing took place, the Observatory said.

It was not the first attack attributed to IS and targeting civilians fleeing Deir Ezzor.

On October 12, a car bombing in the northeastern province of Hasakeh killed at least 18 people, including displaced people and Kurdish security forces, the Observatory said.

The jihadists have been repeatedly accused of targeting those attempting to flee during fighting.

The United Nations on Thursday said the group had executed 741 civilians in the battle for the Iraqi city of Mosul, accusing it of "indiscriminate targeting of civilians trying to flee the city".
The President, who is currently in Japan on a tour of Asia responded to the attack in a tweet.

He tweeted: "May God be with the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI and law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

In the same vein, the Texas governor, Greg Abbott has called the attack an evil act.

He said "Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response."

Gunman in church

A gunman entered a First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in Wilson County, Texas with a gun killing least 27 people.

According to a report by BBC, a gunman opened fire at a church during Sunday services killing several worshippers.

ALSO READ: Gunman opens fire during service, kills 27 people in Texas church

The shooting and number of casualties were confirmed by Police official Albert Gamez Jr to CBS News.
The right to keep and bear arms is a longstanding, often glorified right protected by the US Constitution.

Americans own nearly half of all the civilian-owned guns in the world, and on a per capita basis, the US has far more guns than any other nation.

Certainly, many countries are awash with guns. Among the nations with the most firearms are Serbia, Yemen, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia.

There are only three countries, however, that have a constitutional right to keep and bear arms: Mexico, Guatemala, and the United States  here's why.

Mexico

Just south of the US border, the Mexican government has a strict hold over civilian gun ownership. Although Mexicans have a right to buy a gun, bureaucratic hurdles, long delays, and narrow restrictions make it extremely difficult to do so.

Article 10 of the 1857 Mexican Constitution guaranteed that "every man has the right to keep and to carry arms for his security and legitimate defense." But 60 years later in 1917, lawmakers amended it following Mexico's bloody revolution.

During the rewriting of the constitution, the government placed more severe restrictions on the right to buy guns. The law precluded citizens from buying firearms "reserved for use by the military" and forbid them from carrying "arms within inhabited places without complying with police regulations."

Today, Mexicans still have a right to buy guns, but they must contend with a vague federal law that determines "the cases, conditions, requirements, and places in which the carrying of arms will be authorized."

In 2012, The New York Times reported that only members of the police or military can buy the largest weapons in Mexico, such as semiautomatic rifles.

"Handgun permits for home protection allow only for the purchase of calibers no greater than .38," the Times wrote. One man who wanted to buy a pistol had to pay $803.05 for a Smith & Wesson revolver.

Perhaps the biggest hurdle of all is that there is only one shop in the entire country where Mexicans can go to buy guns, and it's located on a heavily guarded army base in Mexico City.

Guatemala

Like Mexico, Guatemala permits gun ownership, but with severe restrictions. The right to bear arms is recognized and regulated by article 38 of the current constitution, which was established in 1985.

"The right to own weapons for personal use, not prohibited by the law, in the place of in habitation, is recognized," the document says. "There will not be an obligation to hand them over, except in cases ordered by a competent judge."

Although Guatemalans are not allowed to own fully automatic weapons, they are allowed to buy semi-automatic weapons, handguns, rifles, and shotguns if they obtain a permit. Still, that can be difficult.

For example, individuals who want to purchase a gun for private security purposes need approval from the government. They are also limited in how much ammunition they can own, and they must re-apply and re-qualify for their firearm licenses every one to three years, according to GunPolicy.org.

Despite the restrictions, guns are widely available in Guatemala. In fact, it has one of the highest gun ownership rates per capita in Latin America, according to Insight Crime. The same organization also noted that 75% of homicides in Guatemala involve a gun.

United States

Although Mexico and Guatemala both have a constitutional right to bear arms, the US is in a league of its own simply because it is the only country without restrictions on gun ownership in its constitution.

Those words were adopted in 1791 and have since inspired other countries around the world to provide their citizens with the right to own guns. Only 15 constitutions (in nine countries) "ever included an explicit right to bear arms," according to The New York Times.
President Donald Trump said in an interview that he hopes special counsel Robert Mueller is "treating everything fairly" as he investigates Russia's interference in the 2016 election, which involves looking into whether any members of the Trump campaign colluded with Moscow to sway the race in his favor.

"Well, I hope he's treating everything fairly," Trump told "Full Measure" host Sharyl Attkisson in an interview that will air on Sunday. "And if he is, I'm going to be very happy, because when you talk about innocent, I am truly not involved in any collusion with Russia.

"Believe me, that's the last thing I can think of to be involved in," Trump added.

Trump's defense team has been cooperating with Mueller's investigation, largely at the urging of Ty Cobb, the white-collar defense attorney leading the president's legal team, who has argued that cooperating with the special counsel will ensure that the investigation concludes quickly and smoothly, and without the president getting caught in the crosshairs.

But Jay Sekulow, another attorney on Trump's defense team, told Politico on Thursday he will lodge a complaint against Mueller or Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein  who appointed Mueller special counsel in May  if Mueller looks too closely at Trump's prior business dealings.

Trump also addressed issues surrounding Paul Manafort, his former campaign chairman who was indicted on Monday along with his longtime associate, Rick Gates, as part of Mueller's investigation.

"Paul was not there very long," Trump said of Manafort's tenure on the campaign.

Manafort joined the operation in March 2016 and departed in August,

Manafort is also associated with Oleg Deripaska, a wealthy Russian oligarch with known ties to the Kremlin. Deripaska's representatives claimed, in legal complaints filed in the Cayman Islands in 2014, that Manafort had disappeared after Deripaska gave him $19 million to invest in a failed Ukrainian TV venture.

Earlier this month,The Atlantic published several emailsthat appeared to show Manafort using his elevated role in the Trump campaign to resolve the dispute with Deripaska, by offering him "private briefings" on the campaign.

Manafort was also one of three top Trump campaign members, in addition to Jared Kushner and Donald Trump Jr., who attended a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower with a Russian lawyer offering damaging information on then Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

Trump said during his interview with Attkisson that no one has informed him that Mueller plans to question him.
In an exclusive interview with Pulse Religion, the leader of the free the sheeple movement shared his thoughts on Pastor Paul Adefarasins Wednesday sermon titled Abrahams Blessings Are Already Upon My Life.

After listening to the Man of Gods explanation on the principle of tithing, Daddy freeze said, Quite a lot of flaws with that particular doctrine. Where do I even start from? There are so many things that are wrong with this doctrine.

He went on to say, First of all, I have a lot of respect for Pastor Adefarasin as a person and as my first Bible teacher. However, after going the extra mile to study doctrine, to a large extent theology and the antiquities of the Jews, I have come to the realisation that a lot of what we were taught wasn't well grounded.

I hear that he is one of the pastors that uses Melchizedek as the order for tithing going by Hebrews 7:5. I have a lot of issues with that particular doctrine. Abraham cannot be used as the role model for tithing and here is why, especially since in this part of the world, we believe that tithing brings blessings. I know he tried to work on that but let me break it down for you."

Daddy Freeze explains, In Genesis 13: 2, it already says Abraham was wealthy. If you go down to verse 5, it says that Lot also was very rich, with flocks and lands. Then verse 6 says, and the land was not able to bear because they were so rich and the land could not sustain them. So, these are brothers that were already immensely rich.

Now, if you go to Genesis 14, Lot was captured and taken prisoner, then Abraham went to recover him. On his way back, he met Melchizedek, the king and the priest who was in the likeness of Jesus. Now, here is my first problem.

First of all, Melchizedek met him with bread and wine. he gave bread, gave him wine, blessed him and prayed for him. Then, Abraham gave him, he didn't pay, there is a difference, he gave him a portion, that is 10% of his spoils of the war, not from his personal income, riches or wealth so this can not be the direction upon which modern-day monthly tithing is based.

Here, he tells Pulse why this doctrine is faulty. He asks, Does your pastor give your bread and wine when you meet him? No, all they do is take. If you read that verse, you will see that Melchizedek gave Abraham bread and blessed him.

So, how do you pay tithe to someone who can not bless you and give you bread and wine over an ATM connection or online? You have first of all destroyed the essence of that tithe. Secondly, how do you base a perpetual tithing doctrine on something that happened once? Abraham only paid tithe once no more."

ALSO READ: 10 shocking things Daddy Freeze says about religion

The OAP ends his explanation by saying, There are so many things that are clarified in Islam, which came after Christianity, especially those vague and grey areas that surround tithing that have laid a foundation of which exhortation can be based. There are so many loopholes and there is much falsehood in that particular doctrine.

Daddy Freeze has been quite vocal about his issue with pastors demanding tithe from their congregation.

Tithing, along with the excessive display of wealth among Nigerian pastors are major reasons for his #free the sheeple campaign.
Hosted by Serge Noukoue and Kemi Lala Akindoju, the event held at Eko Hotel & Suites on Saturday, November 4, 2017.

The event was attended by actors and filmmakers such as Linda Ejiofor, Kunle Afolayan, Chioma Ude, Gideon Okeke, Mildred Okwo, Eric Aghimien, Joke Silva, Olu Jacobs, Seun Ajayi, Deyemi Okanlawon, Blessing Egbe, Kate Henshaw among others.

This year kicked off with a double dose of films, as the opening night selection consisted of one short film, Waiting for Hassana, an ode to the missing Chibok girls, abducted from their secondary school in 2014, directed by Ifunanya Maduka, and the Zambian entry, I am not a Witch, helmed by Rungano Nyoni.

This year's film line-up included a host of entries from Francophone filmmakers as a fulfilment of organisers' wish last year to honour France and La Francophonie in a long-term vision of artistic collaborations and partnerships.

Winners at the event include Kenneth Gyang's "The Lost Cafe," which won the Audience Choice Award. Asurf Oluseyi's "Hakkunde" won the Oronto Douglas best Nigerian film. Moses Inwang's Alter Ego" won the Jury special award.

As is tradition, an array of movies screened during the festival's seven-day run as it hosts competitions in several categories including short films, feature films, documentaries, animated films, and short films made by film students.

The first edition of the film festival took place in Port Harcourt 2010, while the 2013 and 2014 editions were held in Calabar.
At the age of 10, Joao Esan Da Rocha who was from Ilesha was captured as a slave and taken to Brazil in 1840. Candido was born in Brazil. His mother was Angelica Josephina da Rocha.

Joao Esan Da Rocha would later regain his freedom and return to Ilesha years later. This was circa 1871 when a lot of Brazilians traced their roots back to the Yoruba tribe and came back home. These families were Agustos, Pedros, Pereiras, Lopezes, da Silvas, Gomezes, Domingos, Evaristos, Dacostas, Cardosos,Sho-Silvas etc. You can still meet people with these surnames till today in Lagos.

Upon his return, Joao Esan Da Rocha, bought two houses for himself, the famous Water House at Kakawa Street and another one on 4, Tinubu Street, Lagos Island.

ALSO READ: These photos of Nigeria from the 60s, 70s would awe you

Esan Da Rocha was successful in business. "Senior Joao Esan Rocha (was) a prosperous merchant perhaps the richest of his time" according to "The Torch Bearers or Old Brazilian Colony" found on The Yoruba.

His son Candido Da Rocha who could only speak Portuguese and Ilesha upon his return attended CMS Grammar School alongside some famous people such as Herbert Macaulay where he was the Head Boy.

His brother was Moses Da Rocha, a famous Nigerian doctor. It was said that he loved reading books and had a well-stocked library including books written in Portuguese. History has it that Candido always came first in class.

Joao Esan Da Rocha died on December 31, 1891 at Water House. In 1893, at the age of 25, Candido filed for administration of his father's estate. When he took over the reigns of his father's business he expanded it into a huge empire.

To show his foresight, at the age of 16 he decided to take an internship at a German company on Lagos Island that dealt with the importation and exportation of goods instead of being a clerk which was the norm back then. This helped him sharpen his business acumen.

ALSO READ: How to be a real Lagos big girl

His first bit of fortune came in 1894 when a British gold prospector sold him gold bars for the sum of 6,000. The young Da Rocha did not have all the money so he took a loan from Bank of West-Africa which we now all know as First Bank. He later filed the gold bars into gold dust and sold it to gold smiths. By doing so he made 200% profit. This kind of money was unheard of back then for a Nigerian trader.

In 1907, Da Rocha teamed up with J.H. Doherty and Sedu Williams to establish the Lagos Native Bank. The bank gave other big banks a run for its money until Da Rocha was swindled. He later opened Lagos Finance Company which lent out money to people.

A lover of horses and horse racing, Da Rocha became one of the founding members of Lagos Race Club in 1891. He participated in many tournaments at the Race Course in Lagos and won a lot of trophies too. His champion horse Vampa won a lot of tournaments.

Candido Da Rocha had a lot of properties in Lagos which he gave Brazilian names. One of his most famous properties was the Ilojo Bar which he bought when he was 34. Ilojo Bar was unfortunately demolished in 2016.

His country home and hunting ground was 55 hectares of land in Agege. He was also a founding member of Anti Slavery and Aborigines Right Society.

Candido Da Rocha's personal life was a bit strange for the times. It's on record that he never officially got married even though he was a strong Catholic. Three women had children for him. His first child and only son was Alexander who he had a great falling with in 1920 and never saw again till his death. He also had four daughters. Alexander moved to Ghana to be with his mother after the falling and that is why there is a noticeable presence of the Da Rocha family today in Ghana.

Candido Da Rocha's grandson Dr. Oladele da Rocha  Afodu admitted that his grandfather "was a very difficult man to live with."

In 1959, the great Lagos businessman passed away and was buried at Ikoyi Cemetery.
Brig. Gen. Sani Usman, Director Army Public Relations, revealed that army neutralised dozens of Boko Haram insurgents in an ambush in Sambisa forest.

He also said the terrorists were attempting to cross over to Sambisa forest, when they fell into an ambush by the Nigerian army.

The army spokesman who disclosed this in a statement in Maiduguri, said many of the terrorists escaped with gun shot wounds.

Usman said that troops of 151 Battalion also rescued a six-year-old boy, when troops laid ambush on fleeing terrorist along Banki-Bula Yobe road in Bama Local Government Area of Borno.

ALSO READ: NAF destroys insurgents Boko Haram building in Sambisa

According to him, items which includes, eight Bicycles, blankets, Jerricans, plates, mats, spanners, cutlasses, clothes, and a pair of Boko Haram terrorists Special Forces Uniform were recovered from the insurgents.
The most respected leaders driving the technology revolution will come together at the India Today Conclave Next 2017 to discuss, debate and decode the next I-T evolution, and how it will shape businesses and lives.

By India Today Web Desk: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella will deliver the keynote address at the first edition of the India Today Conclave Next 2017, an exhaustive technology thought leadership forum scheduled to be held on November 7 in New Delhi.

The daylong CXO only event will explore the impact of some of today's biggest technology trends, and feature the best thought leaders from industry and academia.

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The most respected leaders driving the technology revolution will come together to discuss, debate and decode the next I-T evolution, and how it will shape businesses and lives.

What does the workplace of the future look like? How can digital security remain one step ahead? How can Internet of Things (IoT) be made seamless to improve quality of life and efficiency? How to be ready for the rapid advances in the application of Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analytics, Blockchain, Robotics, Financial Tech and 3D Printing? These are some of the questions that will be explored during the conclave sessions.

The prominent speakers at the event include:

Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft

Arun Jaitley, Union Minister for Finance (*Invited)

R Chandrashekhar, President, NASSCOM

C P Gurnani, CEO & MD, Tech Mahindra

Sri Rajan, Chairman, Bain & Co. India

Kiran Karnik, Former Director, RBI Former Director, RBI & Chairman, Board Of Reserve Bank Information Technology Private Limited

Kiran DB, Senior Director - Solution Sales, Microsoft India

Harmeen Mehta, CIO & Head of Digital, Bharti Airtel

Keshav Murugesh, Group CEO, WNS

Manish Bahl, Senior Director, Center for the Future of Work, Cognizant

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Padmaja Alaganandan, Partner Consulting, PwC India

Ramesh Swaminathan, Chief Financial Officer & Executive Director, Lupin Limited

Rachna Nath, Partner, Digital Consulting, KPMG India

Sachin Gupta, CIO, Havells India

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Vineeth Purushothaman, CIO, Fortis Healthcare

Sridhar V, Group Vice President & Director, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt Ltd.

S.Anantha Sayana, Vice President & Head - Digital, L&T Construction

Radhakrishnan Srikanth, Group Program Manager at AI & Research Division, Microsoft

Dr. Badri Raghvan, Chief Data Scientist, Ola

Mayur Datar, Chief Data Scientist, VP of Engineering, Flipkart

Madhu Gopinathan, Data Science Head, MakeMyTrip

Abhijit Singh, Head of Business Technology Group, ICICI Bank

Sudipta Ghosh, Data and Analytics Leader, PwC India

Rajat Tyagi, CIO, PVR Limited

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Member of Parliament

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Jaspreet Singh, Partner - Cyber Security, EY

Saurabh Agarwal, Founder & Managing Director, Skill Cube

Pavan Duggal, Cyberlaw Expert

Dr. Gulshan Rai, National Cyber Security Coordinator, Prime Minister's Office

The discussions of India's leading CEOs, tech super-specialists and analysts promise to liven up the sessions, with sharp insights and path-breaking solutions to the challenges ahead.

--- ENDS ---
On Friday, November 3, 2017, the militants issued a statement saying they would resume attacks on oil facilities in the Niger Delta.

The group had said: We can assure you that every oil installation in our region will feel the warmth of the wrath of the Niger Delta Avengers.

Onochie wondered why the fresh threat is coming at a time when Jonathan is wanted as a witness in a money laundering trial involving ex-spokesman of PDP, Olisa Metuh.

A Nigerian court insists (former) president Jonathan appear before it and the Niger Delta Avengers come alive! Still wondering who owns the NDA? she wrote.

Onochie hinted that the NDA coming alive  after it suspended attacks due to a peace deal with the government  could be connected to the courts insistence on Jonathans appearance.

ALSO READ: Militants threaten to resume bombing of pipelines

Metuh wants Jonathan as witness

Metuh is being tried for alleged money laundering, had called on the ex-President as a witness though Jonathan had filed an application objecting the witness summons.
Dr Kabiru Ali, the Executive Secretary of the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency (PHCDA), said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigerian (NAN) in Dutse.

Ali said the state government has stocked enough doses of vaccines for smooth conduct of the immunisation.

He explained that over 3000 trained health workers would be engaged to administer the vaccines at designated centres across the 27 local government areas of the state.

The official added that the exercise would be conducted in two phases, adding that the first phase would conducted between Nov. 9 and Nov. 14 in 17 local government areas.

According to him, the second phase will be conducted between Nov. 17 and Nov. 21 in the remaining 10 local government areas of the state.

The executive secretary particularly appealed to parents to take their children and wards to nearest vaccination centres in their communities.

He pointed out that the gesture was to ensure that all the children targeted were immunised against the disease.

This is to facilitate quick response to the disease and other emergency situations in the state.
In a report by TheCable, the soldier, who has refused to disclose his identity on the basis of alleged dire consequences, claimed there is corruption in the Nigerian army and it's affecting the troops at the warfront.

"Your Excellency, , and it is killing us. Every man and woman who decided to join the Army knows the risks. While we expect to die in the hands of the enemy, we dont expect to die in the hands of the Nigerian Army, due to corruption and criminal negligence," the soldier had written.

Read the letter to President Buhari here

Having read the online correspondence between Dr. Idris Ahmed of CUPS and our Army spokesman, Brigadier General S.K. Usman, I have decided to take a major risk and write to your Excellency directly over this issue.

Sir, I am a course-mate of Pvt. Abdulrauf Aliyu, who Oga S.K. claimed that he has gone AWOL. We trained at the same company, Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Kaduna State. We are presently posted to Operation LAFIYA DOLE. On behalf of all the colleagues of Pvt. Abdulrauf Aliyu, I categorically refute the allegation that Pvt. Abdulrauf Aliyu deserted the Army. The Sections 59  63 of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, as quoted by Oga S.K., has always been mentioned by our superiors, to protect themselves and antagonise us, whenever they have done mischief.

Your Excellency, the case of Pvt. Abdulrauf Aliyu is actually not an isolated one. There are many such cases of soldiers who got wounded on the battlefront. It is true, some are well looked after, as mentioned by Oga S.K. Usman in his press release. Unfortunately, due to corruption in the system, some unfortunate soldiers, mostly from less privileged backgrounds, are left to fend for themselves. Like myself, Pvt. Abdulrauf Aliyu comes from a humble family. He sustained life-threatening injuries in the abdomen during a routine operation. The initial first aid treatment and medical care that he received was very inadequate. With full Army permission, Pvt Abdulrauf Aliyu and his family paid for his transfer to University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Unfortunately, the care he received in Maiduguri Teaching Hospital too was inadequate. Eventually, his family had to pay for his transfer to a specialist facility in Sokoto.

ALSO READ: Army confirms retirement of senior officers being investigated by EFCC

Your Excellency, corruption in the Army is REAL, and it is killing us. Every man and woman who decided to join the Army knows the risks. While we expect to die in the hands of the enemy, we dont expect to die in the hands of the Nigerian Army, due to corruption and criminal negligence.

Just the other week, about 14 (I am not sure of the exact numbers) of our colleagues died in the hands of Boko Haram, who attacked the Army camp. The circumstances surrounding their unnecessary death warrants a full investigation by his Excellency. Sir, you will be shocked of the outcome. The bodies of the slain heroes are still lying here in Damaturu, Yobe State. The story of this incidence has hardly been officially published by the Army or Nigerian media. Attached is the picture of the commander of the camp. He too died in the attack.

Your Excellency, this is the third month in a row that we have been denied of our operations allowance. We have to rely ONLY on our meagre salary for everything. From battalion commanders, to Company and Sectors leaders, we are all in debt, because our salaries are not enough to sustain us at the battlefront while feeding our families back at home. It is a big shame that we have joined the Army to defend the civilians, yet we have to go to the civilians in town to borrow money to fend for ourselves at the battlefront.

Take for instance the food that we are fed. Most of the times it is not fit for human consumption. I attach for your perusal, your Excellency, the lunch that was fed to us this afternoon (3/11/2017). As you can clearly see, there is not a single piece of meat or fish in it. The taste of the food is so bad that we have to add surplus salt to be able to eat it. This is also dangerous for our health. A plate of our food per soldier is probably about two hundred Naira (N200).

It is said that the Federal Government spends about fourteen thousand Naira (N14,000) on each prisoner in Nigeria. Here, at the battlefront in Operation LAFIYA DOLE, the Army spends about six hundred Naira (N600) per day per soldier on feeding us, while in reality billions of Naira is appropriated per year for this purpose. Your Excellency, we are treated like animals. Most of us are afraid to talk because of the dire consequence.
Igwedibia made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Akwa.

He said reports of destruction of billboards, posters and hate speeches by political opponents were becoming rampant, ahead of the states Nov. 18 governorship election.

He added that though the state was currently enjoying relative peace, it would allay some peoples fears if security agencies could take proactive steps to nip rising incidences of political misconducts in the bud before the election.

Igwedibia said hate speeches and inciting comments by contestants and party chieftains are not what Anambra people want to hear. Parties and their candidates should try and tell the people what they intend to do to further develop the state.

He noted that IPAC in the state had not endorsed any candidate for the governorship election, adding that it recognised 36 political parties.
The former governor made the call on Saturday night in Enugu while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the exercise.

He said that the call was necessary to save ENSIEC from ridiculing itself by announcing fictitious results.

He said that from the events that played out across the state it was obvious that the electoral umpire was not prepared for the election.

They should go back and do their homework. No election held today. They should reschedule the election and be more prepared for it and forget about electoral fraud, he said.

Chime said that it would have been in the best interest of the state government to allow for a free and fair election in order to test their popularity.

I believe it would have been in the interest of the government to actually allow a free and fair election. That is the only way they can actually know their strength and whether they are doing well or not.

If you do what it was today and you have fake results all over, they may be going in for a shocker in 2019 as the election will not be conducted by ENSIEC, he said.

He said that his experience at his polling unit was very unfortunate and sad, adding that it was a resurgence of those primitive days.

I went to vote in order to encourage people around there but sadly I think we have gone back to those primitive days. They were no result sheets and other sensitive materials.

We observed impersonators with all sorts of cards to vote. Some were turned down while others succeeded.

This is a situation were you have well known card carrying members of a party also functioning as electoral officials like supervisors and presiding officers. It was that bad, he said.

Chime said that what played out during the polls could be likened to where your opponent is your umpire in a contest.

I did not see anything close to an election or resembling free and fair election. In fact in some places there were no voting at all. We describe it as unfair.

So elections properly so called did not hold in the state, he said.

ALSO READ: Voters protest alleged non-inclusion of ward unit result sheets

Chime said that the state government had before now held four local government elections, but we never experienced any such nonsense as we did today.

If this is what they plan to do in 2019 general election they should start looking for something else to do because it will not work, Chime said.

There were protests by opposition parties over non-availability of result sheets during the exercise resulted to violence in many areas.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the convention is scheduled to take place on Dec. 9 in Abuja.

Olorunrinu, PDPs only members in the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA), representing Amuwo-Odofin Constituency I, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday.

The lawmaker further urged the Chairman of the partys Caretaker Committee, Sen. Ahmed Makarfi, to ensure grassroots were not left out in the scheme of things to ensure success of the national convention.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Caretaker Committee, led by Sen. Ahmed Makarfi, should consider the grassroots members and carry them along concerning the coming national convention.

There are lots of existing voters in Lagos state already; we cannot continue getting it wrong in Lagos State.

If our leaders do not carry the people at the grassroots along, it may affect the convention because a tree cannot make a forest, he said.

According to him, the national convention should not be planned among the members in Federal Capital alone, adding that people and members at the grassroots across the states must as well be involved.

This he said became necessary to make the planned exercise worthwhile.

We cannot do caricature convention and expect positive change, we know our problems and we have the solutions to the problems.

Let us come to the grassroots politics instead of doing it as usual that brings no positive result.

Members of the party must be recognised if harmonisations will work, but we if we do any harmonisation without grassroots members, that means we only organise caucus meeting not convention.

The lawmaker said that being the only PDP member left at the Lagos Assembly, out of eight elected in 2015 general elections on the platform of PDP, posed a great challenge to him.
The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) conducted election into 17 council areas and 261 political wards on Saturday, Nov. 4.

The commands Spokesman, SP Ebere Amaraizu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu that the speculations that some persons were killed were false and unfounded.

There was no loss of life anywhere in the state, he insisted.

Amaraizu said the police and other security agencies were able to persuasively calm nerves and return normalcy in locations where violence broke out on Saturday.

He added that some groups resistance that the election would not hold was professionally handled by police and other security agencies as the agitators were peacefully dispersed.

He explained that against the backdrop of rumours that some persons were killed in Oji River Local Government Area on Saturday, the command wish to make it categorically clear that there was no loss of lives in Oji River and throughout the entire state.

The command wish to state that there was an issue in which some electoral officials and materials were held hostage by some group of persons.

The group insisted that election would not hold in Oji River and its environs and also threatened to burn down the council secretariat should the election go on.

However, the situation lasted until the arrival of the Commissioner of Police (CP) in the state, Mr Mohammed Danmallam and his entourage, who had been on visitation to polling stations and booths monitoring security situations.

Following the commissioners arrival, the issues were professionally handled as the agitatorswere peacefully dispersed.

Normalcy returned to the area immediately, leading to commencement of distribution of electoral materials to centres and wards in Oji River and its environs.
The shooter was also dead, Guadalupe County Sheriff's spokesman Sergeant Robert Murphy told AFP, without providing further details about the circumstances of his death.

The worshippers were gunned down at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, a small rural community about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio, reports said.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr told AFP there were multiple fatalities and multiple people wounded, but he could not officially confirm the number.

The shooter reportedly walked into the church shortly before noon -- at a morning service that witnesses said was normally attended by some 50 people -- and opened fire.

A two-year-old was among the wounded, The Dallas Morning News reported.

It was unclear how the shooter died.

"There was no police chase," Murphy said, denying earlier media reports that the gunman was killed after a pursuit. "He was in his vehicle."

A spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center in nearby Floresville said the hospital received eight patients with gunshot wounds. Four had been transferred to San Antonio.

- Federal agents assisting -

A witness working at a gas station across the street told CNN he heard at least 20 shots being fired in quick succession. Others nearby said the shooter appeared to have reloaded more than once.

Emergency personnel rushed to the scene in the community of 400 people, and some victims were evacuated by helicopter.

Police formed a perimeter around the area. Tearful relatives and neighbors stood outside, nervously awaiting news from inside the traditional, white-frame church.

Agents from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were heading to Sutherland Springs, the agencies said.

President Donald Trump, who is in Japan on the first stop of a tour of Asian countries, tweeted: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

Texas Governor Greg Abbott offered his condolences.

"Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response," he said, promising more details "soon."

The shooting comes just over a month after a gunman in Las Vegas fired down from a hotel room onto an outdoor concert, killing 58 people and wounding hundreds.
A victory in Sicily would give M5S its first region, a boost supporters say could propel it all the way to national leadership.

"The choice is simple: us or them, the future or the past, hope or failure, citizens or traditional political parties", comedian Beppe Grillo, the movement's outspoken, wild-eyed founder, wrote on his blog.

M5S candidate Giancarlo Cancelleri, 42, is expected to have just one real challenger for the victory podium: Nello Musumeci, 62, who was leading the race in recent polls and could snap up the region for the right.

A bitterly feuding left is expected to fail to get anyway near the top.

Analysts say the political dynamic mirrors the situation nationally, and the vote is being closely watched in the eurozone's third-largest economy for indications of how the general election, due before May, will go.

Polls open at 8:00 am (0700 GMT) and close at 10:00 pm (2100 GMT), with a result not expected before Monday morning.

'Enemies at the door'

A victory for Musumeci could be a boost for former premier Silvio Berlusconi, who recently shrugged off scandals to return to the political fray, portraying himself as a pro-European moderate and the only real defence against populism.

His centre-right Forza Italia (Go Italy) party joined forces with its traditional rightist allies the Northern League and the Brothers of Italy for the Sicily vote -- a powerful combination which pollsters say could steal the show at the national elections.

The anti-immigrant Northern League, meanwhile, sees Sicily as a testing ground for expanding its reach beyond Italy's northern regions.

But the ruling Democratic Party (PD) is braced for an embarrassing defeat that could have serious implications not just for the left nationally but also for Matteo Renzi, the former prime minister who wants his old job back.

"Renzi is preparing for the probable Sicilian nosedive like a man whose enemies are at the door and the supplies are running out," political commentator Tommaso Ciriaco said in La Repubblica daily.

The 42-year old has been accused of causing a debilitating rift in the left, and has largely abandoned the party's candidate, Fabrizio Micari, 54, on the campaign trail.

The worst case for the PD would see it beaten by Article 1 - Democratic and Progressive Movement (MDP), formed in early 2017 by a leftwing split.
"It's a dangerous decision whose consequences will be heavier than what Lebanon can bear," Hilal Khashan, a professor of political science at the American University of Beirut, said.

Hariri announced his resignation in a broadcast from Saudi Arabia, accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of taking over his country and destabilising the entire region.

Hezbollah is part of the government, but the clout of a group whose military arsenal outstrips that of Lebanon's own armed forces is far greater than its share of cabinet posts.

For years now, Lebanon has been deeply divided between a camp dominated by the Shiite Tehran-backed Hezbollah and a Saudi-supported movement led by Hariri.

"Hariri has started a cold war that could escalate into a civil war, bearing in mind that Hezbollah is unmatched in Lebanon on the military level," Khashan said.

The rift in Lebanon's political class led to the assassination in 2005 of Hariri's father Rafik, an immensely influential tycoon who made his fortune in Saudi Arabia.

Iran-Saudi flare-up

Investigations pointed to the responsibility of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah.

Other political assassinations in the anti-Hezbollah camp ensued, then a month-long war between the powerful militia and neighbouring Israel, as well as violent internal clashes that harked back to the dark days of the 1975-1990 civil war.

Twelve years on, Lebanese politics remain just as toxically sectarian and the threat of another flare-up very real. Hariri even said on Saturday he feared going the way of his father.

His resignation came in a context of high tension between Saudi Arabia, once the region's powerhouse, and Iran, which has played an increasingly predominant political and military role in the region recently.

On Friday, Hariri met Iran's most seasoned diplomat, Ali Akbar Velayati, before flying to Saudi Arabia and resigning from there via a Saudi-funded television network.

"The timing and venue of the resignation are surprising... but not the resignation itself," said Fadia Kiwane, political science professor at Beirut's Saint Joseph University.

"The situation is developing rapidly and we're at a turning point... there could be a deadly clash between Saudi Arabia and Iran," she said.

"In that event, the two main camps in Lebanon will clash too."

Over the past few weeks, a Saudi minister, Thamer al-Sabhan, has unleashed virulent attacks against Hezbollah on social media.

New war with Israel?

"The terrorist party should be punished... and confronted by force," he wrote last month.

Other than just an internal conflict, analysts also do not rule out an external attack on Hezbollah, be it by Saudi Arabia directly or by the Shiite militia's arch-foe Israel.

"Hariri is saying 'there is no government any more, Hezbollah is not part of it'... and he is thus legitimising any military strike against Hezbollah in Lebanon," Kiwane said.

Israel and Hezbollah fought a devastating war in 2006, and Israeli politicians have ramped up the rhetoric lately, warning that its military was prepared for war with Lebanon.

Any new war damaging key infrastructure would have a disastrous impact on a country already weakened by ballooning debt, corruption and the demographic pressure from a massive influx of Syrian refugees.

As soon as the news of Hariri's resignation broke, many Lebanese took to social media to voice their fears of a return to violence.

"After Hariri's resignation, a war will be launched against Lebanon," wrote one of them, Ali Hammoud, on Twitter.

On the streets of Beirut, even those who had little sympathy for Hariri expressed concern.
The 13-day exercise will be conducted at India's Jungle Warfare School at Vairengte in Mizoram and at the Joint Training Node at Umroi in Meghalaya.

This is the 7th edition of the joint training exercise, which will be conducted in Meghalaya and Mizoram.

By Sahidul Hasan Khokon: Army personnel of India and Bangladesh will take part in a joint training exercise 'Sampriti-7' in Meghalaya and Mizorum starting today.

This is the 7th edition of the joint training exercise, which will end on November 18. The 13-day exercise will be conducted at India's Jungle Warfare School at Vairengte in Mizoram and at the Joint Training Node at Umroi in Meghalaya.

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The Inter Services Public Relation Directorate-ISPR of Bangladesh said that the main objective of the exercise is to conduct counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in peace-keeping activities in the United Nations (UN).

"There will be 20 officers each from both the nations in the Command Post Exercise (CPX) as part of the brigade and battalion command posts. The Field Training Exercise (FTX) would see participation of one Infantry company each from the Bangladesh Army and elite Red Horns Division of the Indian Army," Bangladeshi News Media quoted an Army official.

The joint exercise was first held in Assam in 2011 and since then both the countries have been hosting the exercise alternatively. Last year, the training exercise was conducted in at Bangabandhu Cantonment in Ghatail of Bangladesh.

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Chile's foreign ministry said in a statement that Guevara, 31, was received at the residence of its ambassador "as a guest," and that he "had requested the protection of Chile" based on "what he considers to be imminent threats to his security and personal integrity."

The prominent opposition leader became the sixth Venezuelan to seek protection at the embassy in under three months, including four judges who are already protected in Chile and a fifth who has remained at the diplomatic residence since April.

Venezuela's top court on Friday announced the suspension of Guevara's immunity to enable him to be tried for crimes of "association, persistent public instigation and the use of an adolescent to commit crimes," without specifying when the allegations date from.

The pro-government constitutional assembly -- which governs crisis-stricken Venezuela with absolute power -- is meanwhile investigating the lawmaker in connection with mass protests against the embattled President Nicolas Maduro that left 125 dead between April and July.
It is the latest twist in the crisis unleashed by the Catalan separatists' push to break away from Spain that sent shock waves across Europe.

'Fair and impartial' process

Puigdemont and his allies fled to Belgium last Monday after Spain dismissed the Catalan executive and imposed direct rule on the semi-autonomous region following the declaration of independence by the parliament there last month.

"They were taken into custody at 9:17 am (0817 GMT)," said Gilles Dejemeppe, a spokesman for Belgian prosecutors.

Puigdemont's PDeCAT party said Sunday that he had turned himself in to show his "willingness not to flee from the judicial process but to defend himself in a fair and impartial process, which is possible in Belgium, and highly doubtful in Spain."

Puigdemont wrote on Twitter on Saturday that he and his colleagues -- Meritxell Serret, Antoni Comin, Lluis Puig and Clara Ponsati -- would "cooperate" with the Belgian authorities.

Spain issued European arrest warrants on Friday after Puigdemont and his allies ignored a summons to appear before a judge on allegations linked to the move to declare Catalonia an independent republic.

The judge in Madrid had on Thursday put Puigdemont's deputy and seven other deposed regional ministers behind bars because of a risk they would flee.

'Political influence'

Puigdemont, 54, insists that Catalonia earned the right to declare independence following a banned referendum last month and has described his detained colleagues as "political prisoners".

On Sunday, protesters in Catalan cities took to the streets to demand their release.

In Barcelona, city police said about 350 people gathered on the central University Square, shouting "Freedom" and carrying posters that read "Freedom for political prisoners".

Others stuck posters demanding their release on walls throughout the city.

Puigdemont said he was not convinced by guarantees of a fair trial back home, denouncing the "enormous pressure and political influence on judicial power in Spain."

The judge could "refuse to hand over Puigdemont if there is a proven serious risk to his fundamental rights," said Anne Weyembergh, president of the Institute of European Studies at the Free University of Brussels.

She said the court would need to see evidence of criminal offences before executing the warrant.

But cases of refusal are rare, according to several lawyers interviewed by AFP.

Election candidate

Puigdemont, who still describes himself as Catalonia's "president," has also said he is willing to run as a candidate in the December 21 regional election called by Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy to "restore normality" to Catalonia.

"We want president Puigdemont to be the person who leads the big offensive we will carry out on the 21st at the polls," said Marta Pascal, a PDeCAT spokeswoman.

She said the conservative, pro-independence party was looking to put together a "big united list," a day after Puigdemont himself called for separatists to unite in the election.

During the last regional election in September 2015, Puigdemont's PDeCAT and the leftwing ERC party joined for a "Together for Yes" coalition in Catalonia, a region of 7.5 million people.

jpegMpeg4-1280x720With the help of the separatist far-left CUP party, they held an absolute majority in the 135-seat Catalan parliament, which was swiftly dissolved by Madrid under a never-used constitutional move after the October 27 independence proclamation.

But there have been growing tensions between the two allies over strategy and it is not clear if they will stand together again.

ERC leader Oriol Junqueras has been in custody since Thursday along with other members of Puigdemont's dismissed government who did not flee to Belgium.

Opinion polls published in several newspapers Sunday indicated that the ERC would come first in the December election, but that the independence coalition as a whole could lose its absolute majority.

But Puigdemont's party, which has been in power in the wealthy northeastern region for much of Spain's modern democratic era, would come fourth, the surveys suggest.
JMC CHAPLAIN GETS A PROMOTION

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL -- The U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command recently hosted a promotion ceremony for Chaplain (Lt. Col.) H. Emerson Byrd Jr. at its headquarters.

William Schafer, senior human resource manager, deputy chief of staff, G-1 for Headquarters, First Army, Rock Island Arsenal, presided over the ceremony. Mr. Schafer provided a brief biography of Lt. Col. Byrds career and assisted his family in promoting the JMC chaplain to the rank of lieutenant colonel.

In attendance were Lt. Col. Byrds wife, Dorcas, and three of the couples five children. Another daughter watched the ceremony through FaceTime.

Mr. Schafer said he and Lt. Col. Byrd had served together previously in the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment (later 2nd Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment). Mr. Schafer, who is a retired Army colonel, was the battalion commander while Lt. Col. Byrd was the battalion chaplain, so the two worked together frequently, including during a deployment to Iraq.

Mr. Schafer praised Lt. Col. Byrds successes and noted, We couldnt have had a better example of family than the chaplain and his wife and their family.

Lt. Col. Byrd thanked his family and JMC leadership and staff for their support. For 15 years, Ive been blessed to serve in the Army, he said.

Lt. Col. Byrd arrived at JMC this summer. As JMC chaplain, he said, his goal is to support the JMC workforce in its mission. My hope is that I will be able to work alongside our leadership across our organization to identify and engage the resources that the workforce needs for personal spiritual strength and resilience.

ARSENAL ROLLS OUT MILITARY STAR CARD

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL -- Service members and their families are invited to attend the local kick-off event marking acceptance of the Military Star card at the Rock Island commissary at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7. The ceremony will feature refreshments and gift card giveaways.

The Defense Commissary Agency is rolling out acceptance of the card in all its stores to offer greater convenience to service members and their families, said Command Chief Master Sgt. Stuart Allison, DeCA senior enlisted adviser.

"Being able to use the Military Star card at the commissary is a big win not only for shoppers," Master Sgt. Allison said. "Having one convenient payment method specifically for the military community demonstrates the commitment DeCA and the exchanges have for meeting the needs of service members and families in the most cost-effective way possible to maximize the value of each benefit."

Benefits of the Military Star card include:

-- Two points per dollar on purchases and a $20 gift card after 2,000 points earned.

-- One of the lowest annual percentage rates (11.24 percent) among retail-issued cards.

-- Fair and flexible terms such as no annual, late or over-limit fees.

-- 10 percent discount on first day of use, including at the commissary.

-- Reduced interest deployment plan with no payments required for eligible customers.

For more information about the Military Star card, visit MyECP.com.
Property details:

1 Acre of land ready to build land, lot in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates, Big Island, Hawaii, USA (Interactive Map and Directions) You are bidding on the down payment only You are bidding on the down payment only. Parcel Number: 920490560000 Legal: LOT 9 1.000 AC BLK 118 FP 1101 HAWN OCEAN VIEW EST One acre. 92-8994 Bamboo Ln, Ocean View, HI 96704 Fantastic piece of land in Hawaii, minutes to the beach Yearly Taxes: $200 Will cooperate FSBO, owner will carry, owner financed, non qualifying, no nee...

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- Fabulous Southern California - Your are bidding on the full price for a 30 Acre lot ( zoned single family residential ) in San Bernardino County. YOU WILL GET WARRANTY DEED WITH INSURABLE TITLE. County of San Bernardino, CA Southern California Land 120 miles to Los Angeles You are bidding on the full price for 30 acres parcel located north of Kramer Junction east of highway 395 in the Cuddeback Lake area. Directions:- From Kramer junction Take Hwy 395 north, Take Fremont peak rd exit ( about 1...

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Welcome to Palm Bay,Florida Buildable Subdivision Lot Origionally Sold in 1990 for $21,400 Short Ride to Orlando and Minutes to Atlantic Ocean Beaches No Minimum / No Reserve High Bid Owns the Lot Palm Bay is located in Brevard County just a short drive from Orlando and only minutes from the beaches and waters of the Atlantic Ocean. An International airport in Orlando and quick and easy access to a network of Interstate highways, railroads, and nearby port facilities support Palm Bay's efforts t...

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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the Indian High Commission in Nairobi on the incident.

By India Today Web Desk: A day after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj sought a report on an Indian boy being shot dead in Nairobi, the minister today tweeted that she has received a report from the Indian High Commission in Nairobi.

Sushma Swaraj said that security forces were conducting anti-terror operations on the building across deceased Bunty Shah's residence. "Bunty thought this was an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air," the minister tweeted explaining the sequence of events.

The deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin. Kenyan security forces were conducting anti terror operations /2 https://t.co/bF5MdnU6uY- Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 5, 2017

on the building across Shah's residence. Bunty thought this as an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air. /3- Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 5, 2017

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In response, security forces fired, resulting in Bunty's death. "Kenyan Police have regretted the incident," the minister said and expressed condolences to the bereaved family. Sushma Swaraj said that the Indian High Commission will provide "all help and assistance to the family".

The security forces returned the fire resulting in Bunty's death. Kenyan Police have regretted the incident. /4- Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 5, 2017

Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. /5- Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 5, 2017

The deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin. His father, Vipin Shah, owns the Bobmil Industries, which manufactures mattresses and foam cushions among other things.

On being informed about the incident on Twitter, Sushma Swaraj on Saturday had sought a report from Suchitra Durai, India's High Commissioner to Kenya.

Suchitra - Please send me a report on this. @IndiainKenya https://t.co/bF5MdnU6uY- Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 4, 2017

ALSO WATCH: Good News: In Navratri gift to Pakistan, Sushma grants visa to Karachi girl for heart surgery

--- ENDS ---
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Vacant Land in Lucedale, George County, Mississippi! Item Id: Adams01 Case Name: Adams, Wilda G Case Number: 17 00157 Trustee: Description: Estate's interest in 0.23 acres of vacant land in Lucedale, Mississippi near the Pascagoula River and Plum Bluff. The property is located near Old River Road, Lucedale, MS 39452. The status of water, power, sewer and utilities is unknown. The APN# is 150B-25-0-A005.00. The PIN # is 8610. The legal description is 'Lot 219 Unit 3 Plum Bluff Est 25-3-7 BK 249 P...

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Ambassador of Israel to India Daniel Carmon says PM Benjamin Netanyahu will visit India soon to reciprocate PM Modis highly successful visit to Israel in July.

By Nolan Pinto: Ambassador of Israel to India Daniel Carmon, who inaugurated the Israel Centre at IIM-B, says that he is in Karnataka to extend and expand various on-going activities as part of a wonderful growing partnership between India and Israel.

"We are building 3 centers of excellence some of which are already working and fully operational," he says and explains that these are places for training and for demonstration in areas such as agriculture.

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He insists that it is not only about talking, but also where Israeli experts come and do the actual ground work adding, "It is a partnership in which each side brings its own contribution and this is a genuine, real partnership."

With Bengaluru being the capital of innovation and Israel the startup nation, Ambassador Carmon believes both the nations have their own ecosystems and have built an interesting way to deal with the new world. Keeping this in mind, the focused activities of the Israel Centre at IIM-B will be aimed at stimulating, strengthening and sustaining Indo-Israeli academic-business interactions.

ON PM MODI'S VISIT TO ISRAEL

"The visit was an immense success, we have all seen it and I was there. I can tell you such visits do not happen every day," Ambassador Carmon tells India Today. He stresses the visit concentrated on a few pillars and the pillars are the reflection of the fabric of the relations between India and Israel. He adds that, "We have a very unique relationship that is based on a lot of confidence and trust and much potential regardless of many differences."

TRADE TO IMPROVE MANIFOLD IN YEARS TO COME

Ambassador Carmon is very optimistic about the potential that still needs to be utilized between both the nations. He believes there is today an interest and eagerness to do business and cites the example of a large number of people travelling back and forth with many of them being businessmen. The objective is to reach a trade target of US $ 20 billion and he adds, "We can say, we are in the right direction."

Prof. G Raghuram, Director, IIM-B is confident the Israel Centre @ IIM-B will forge academic relationships between IIM-B and institutions in Israel, so that there is mutual learning for impact on Indo-Israeli business relationships in the domains of innovation, technology, startups and scaling up of organizations.

"There has been growing work at IIMB focused on Israel with students going to Israel to study their Startups and provide information on how India can be a market opportunity for them," he says.

IIM-B is looking at this centre as an academic collaboration that will bring managerial talent and businesses from both India and Israel together and also serve as a great learning opportunity as well.

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Centres special representative for Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma says he does not have a magic wand, but wants to be judged by his actions when he starts the process of talks in the Valley on Monday.

I do not have a magic wand but my efforts have to be judged with sincerity and not through the prism of the past, Sharma, 61, said.

The former Intelligence Bureau director added that no one should jump to conclusions before the process of talks with various stakeholders in Kashmir began.

I would like to be judged by my actions, he said from Delhi.

Describing his work as a serious effort, he added that one should refrain from fishing in the desert.

I am going there tomorrow to be with my people and understand their pain and suffering and find a suitable remedy to their problems, Sharma said.

Responding to criticisms which have appeared in sections of the media, he said in due course he would also meet intellectuals for their advice in achieving this difficult national task.

Sharma, who is originally from Bihar and was a Kerala-cadre IPS officer of the 1979 batch, held the countrys top-most post for a police officer from 2014 to 2016.

He said Kashmir was his second home as his professional journey in the premier intelligence unit began here in 1992.

Nothing has changed since I was there for the first time. Kashmiriyat, which means compassion and brotherhood, has not changed even an iota. Therefore, I am hopeful that I will be at least able to contribute towards a new Kashmir, a peaceful Valley where prosperity will be the order of the day, he said.

Last month, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, while announcing that Sharma would be the interlocutor for Kashmir, had referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech from the Red Fort this year.

Modi had said on August 15, Na gaali se, na goli se, parivartan hoga gale lagaane se (Only by embracing the people, and not with abuses or bullets, can there be a change in Kashmir).

Asked about the course of action he would follow, Sharma said, I do not have a magic wand to change the situation overnight. But having said that, I will like to emphasise during my proposed meetings beginning tomorrow, my every effort will be to work towards ensuring permanent peace in the state.

The special representative will meet political leaders, traders and other delegations tomorrow, according to a list drawn up by the state government.

However, he made it clear he had his own list of people whom he would meet as well.

To a question about a statement made by the Joint Resistance Front comprising separatist groups including moderate and hardline factions of the Hurriyat and Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front that they would not meet him, Sharma said the governments effort should not be seen through the prism of the past.

It is purely their choice whether they want to be a partner in peace or on the opposite side of the fence where destruction has been topping the agenda. My suggestion to everyone is that they should not see this effort of the government through the prism of the past. he said.

Efforts had previously been made by successive central governments too, he said.

I have no idea what happened to them and, therefore, I would not like to comment. I can only talk about this initiative which has been done with a serious thought process and months of hard work by many, he said.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti Terrorist Squad has arrested suspected Islamic State terrorist Abu Zaid from the Mumbai Airport, a top police official said on Sunday.

Zaid was arrested on Saturday on his arrival from Saudi Arabia.

Abu Zaid, suspected IS terrorist was arrested by the ATS team from Mumbai Airport yesterday after he came from Saudi Arabia, Additional Director General of Police (Law and order) Anand Kumar told reporters.

He said Zaid was residing in Riyadh and formed a social media group to allegedly radicalise youths and lure them to IS.

He will be brought to Lucknow on a transit remand and will be produced in the court. We will take him in police custody for interrogating him, the ADG said.

In April, the ATS had arrested four suspected IS terrorist Umar alias Nazim, Ghazi Baba alias Muzammil, Mufti alias Faizan and Jakawan alias Eihtesham. Zaid's name had cropped up during interrogation.

They used to talk via an application on the Internet and Zaid was their ideologue, the ADG said.

Image: Abu Zaid was residing in Riyadh and formed a social media group to allegedly radicalise youths and lure them to IS. Photograph: ANI/Twitter
'Although India has a lot more to offer in terms of tourism other than the Taj, yet there is nothing compared to the Taj Mahal.'

Virendra Singh Rawat reports.

Two years after the Kargil war in 2001, India and Pakistan attempted to give peace and tranquillity in the region another chance.

On the invitation of then India prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, then Pakistan president General Pervez Musharraf came to Agra for the first formal talks between the neighbours in years.

With the ivory-white marble domes of the Taj Mahal as the backdrop, the two leaders thrashed out vexed bilateral issues and agreed to meet again soon.

Later, General Musharraf visited the Taj Mahal along with his wife Sehba and posed for customary photographs outside the 17th century mausoleum complex.

Over the centuries, the Taj Mahal has been an enduring message of love and peace and among the country's most famous cultural exports globally.

Given the monument's global stature, when the Uttar Pradesh tourism department last month decided to drop the Taj from its publicity brochure, which waxed eloquent about the state's top tourist destinations, its decision drew scrutiny worldwide.

The omission not only made the booklet bereft of the state's most precious jewel, but set off a wave of acerbic criticism against the Yogi Adityanath government.

Many saw the move as a deliberate attempt to undermine the state's Muslim heritage: The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1631.

Critics argued that the state government was stoking the narrative of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party by promoting Hindu pilgrimage sites at the cost of other monuments.

Despite the barbs from politicians across the spectrum, the top echelons of the state bureaucracy, including the chief minister himself, justified the step, calling the controversy manufactured.

State Tourism Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi said the booklet was to promote the lesser known tourist destinations of the state.

Since Agra and the Taj Mahal were already recognised and established tourist destinations, these were omitted from the list.

Yet, experts in the tourism industry are not convinced. Sandeep Goyal, brand expert and co-founder of ad tech company Mogae Media, said the country's leisure tourism industry is centred around the Taj Mahal and its exclusion would do more harm than good to the state's tourism industry.

"You visit any foreign country and ask people there regarding their visit to India. The Taj Mahal would be discussed. The significance of the Taj cannot be underestimated, Goyal argued.

"The Taj is the magnet that attracts foreign tourists to India, we do not really understand its importance yet."

Critics are also dismissive of the argument that the Taj was dropped from the booklet to make way for other lesser known monuments.

"Although India has a lot more to offer in terms of tourism other than the Taj, yet there is nothing compared to the Taj Mahal. Leave aside UP, any tourism publication in the country is incomplete without the image of the Taj Mahal," said Goyal.

In 2016, 6.2 million tourists visited the Taj Mahal and 10 million tourists visited Agra, according to the tourism department.

In comparison, Varanasi had 5.9 million tourists and Lucknow 4.9 million.

The Taj Mahal and Agra accounted for the maximum number of backpackers who form the backbone of the small and medium businesses built around tourism in and around Agra.

Tourism experts say the state has failed to exploit the full potential of Agra as a tourist destination.

Not only does Agra lack infrastructure in terms of roads and civic amenities, but the Taj Mahal itself has been plagued by troubles.

The Yamuna, on whose banks it is located, has become a dumping ground for waste and air pollution is blackening its pristine white marble.

The Taj and Agra's shoddy state has drawn the ire of the Supreme Court as well.

Hearing a petition recently, the Supreme Court had in a terse observation asked the Centre if it wanted to destroy the Taj.

The petition had sought the court's nod to cut 400 trees to make way for a railway track between Mathura and Delhi.

'This (the Taj Mahal) is a world famous monument and you (the government) want to destroy it? Have you seen the recent pictures of the Taj Mahal? Go to the Internet and have a look at it,' a bench comprising Justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta observed.

The apex court had likened the prayer for cutting trees to seeking permission to destroy the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal stands on a raised, square platform (186 x 186 feet) with its four corners truncated to form an unequal octagon.

It employs the principles of self-replicating geometry and symmetry of architectural elements and is regarded as the most exquisite monument built by the Mughals.

To protect its legacy and preserve the monument for posterity, the Taj Mahal is subjected to conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India, including mud pack therapy to treat paleness of its white marble.

Under this process, a paste of multani mitti (fuller's earth) is applied on sections of the marble and left to dry for a few days, with polythene sheets covering these spots.

When the dried clay wears off, these portions are washed with distilled water. This method is non-abrasive and non-corrosive and is applied in European countries as well for conservation of monuments.

The danger posed to the Taj Mahal from pollution, the vagaries of nature and tourists has even attracted the attention of Parliament, with the standing committee on environment taking note of the phenomenon and directing remedial measures.

IMAGE: Rangin Basu from Ghaziabad who shot the Taj Mahal at sundown from Mehtab Baug on the other side of the Yamuna.

This photograph was part of a Reader feature on the Taj.

You can see more Reader features on the Taj in the RELATED LINKS alongside.
Kamal Haasan's statement ruffled quite a few feathers, with leaders of BJP, RSS and fringe Hindu groups lashing out at the Tamil superstar, accusing him of eyeing Muslim votes.

A day after a defamation suit was filed against Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan in Varanasi over his "Hindu terror" remarks, a court on Saturday fixed November 22 for hearing the complaint.

The aspiring politician was accused of hurting Hindu sentiments with his comments that right-wing groups cannot deny the existence of Hindu terrorism.

The statements had ruffled quite a few feathers, with leaders of BJP, RSS and fringe Hindu groups lashing out at the Tamil superstar, accusing him of eyeing Muslim votes.

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Haasan, however, had received support from fellow actor Prakash Raj.

KAMAL HAASAN SHOULD BE SHOT DEAD: HINDU MAHASABHA LEADER

Little-known Hindu outfit Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha leader Pandit Ashok Sharma added to the controversy on Saturday when he said that Haasan should be shot dead or hanged for his comments. Refusing to be cowed down, Haasan attended a farmers' meeting in Chennai and kept up the ante, this time targeting the Modi government over 'anti-nationals' being killed.

He said, "If I say money is missing...they ask how the money is missing...and then those who ask are put in jail and labelled anti-national. But now they have gone to the next level. There is no space in jails, and so they say, 'Let's gun them down'. This is very wrong." The comment comes close on the heels of the actor criticising demonetisation.

On the other hand, the BJP has demanded an apology from Haasan over his "Hindu terror" remarks.

It, however, distanced itself from the Hindu Mahasabha's comments. Speaking to Mail Today, BJP spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathi said, "Whoever made nasty remarks against Haasan should definitely be condemned. But it does not mean that the actor is right. His comments are irresponsible and he should apologise for insulting Hindu sentiments."

"Haasan should understand that India is a peaceful country because most people in this country are Hindus. Hinduism is a culture where people are very tolerant. We can live in peace in India unlike many other countries," Thirupathi added.

RSS ideologue S Gurumurthy took to Twitter to hit out at Hindu Mahasabha and Kamal Haasan alike.

"Never heard of such senior Hindu Mahasabha leader's name till now. He has found his name in print by the statement against Kamal. He is now the evidence for seculars to say 'see here is the Hindu terror'. Idiot," Gurumurthy tweeted.

"The difference between RSS & Hindu Mahasabha is that if an RSS person spoke something like this, the RSS removed him. RSS is a responsible organisation. But the seculars, liberals use the words of irresponsible thugs to malign RSS," the tweet goes on.

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"And none of these fellows can do anything. They speak & bring bad name to their philosophy. There is no kafir in Hinduism for Hindus to be prompted into jihad. Hinduism is doctrinally tolerant. Some Hindus may be intolerant. That does not make it Hindu terror," Gurumurthy added.

DMK DEFENDS KAMAL

Considering the volatile political situation in Tamil Nadu and with an eye on the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the opposition DMK too jumped into the bandwagon and was quick to defend Haasan.

DMK spokesperson Manu Sundaram told Mail Today, "As if to prove Kamal's allegations true, leaders of Hindu Mahasabha, the ideological predecessor of RSS, have issued death threats.

Will BJP prosecute these so-called Hindu leaders and provide an environment where freedom of speech can be respected?" Analysts feel this could cobble up an anti-Modi formation in Tamil Nadu. Political expert GC Shekar said,

"This is another attempt by Haasan to distance himself from Modi and become part of the anti-Modi brigade for 2019. But he is bound to lose his middle-class fan following."

Another analyst, RK Radhakirhnan, opined that this would make the BJP lose an opportunity to gain ground in Tamil Nadu. "Whatever his (Haasan) intentions, he has sparked a national debate. The harassment meted out to him, in the form of a complaint in UP, again underlines the fate that awaits anyone who takes on the ruling party."

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WATCH | Kamal Haasan confirms political debut soon, slams critics of 'Hindu terror' remark

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LITCHFIELD  Live Election Night Coverage will return to Cable 5 this coming Tuesday from 8-10 p.m. The program will be moderated by John Calkins of Torrington, President of Bozzuto Associates and long-time Republican activist and Audrey Blondin of Litchfield, a Torrington Attorney, former Litchfield selectman and current member of the Connecticut Democratic State Central Committee for 15 years.

Candidates and the public are encouraged to call in with comments and election night results to 860-361-9985.

Baroque painters are subject of talk

WASHINGTON  Formerly of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, art historian, Veronique Sintobin Dulack, delivers an illustrated presentation, Renaissance and Baroque Painters of the Fair Sex. This program will be Thursday, Nov. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Gunn Memorial Library in Washington.

What did it take for Sofonisba Anguissola (1535 - 1625), Lavinia Fontana (1552 - 1612) and Artemisia Gentelischi (1593 - 1652) to become professional painters? Their life story and artistic production echo the creative trials of modern day female artists. Their accomplishments have made it possible for other generations to follow in their footsteps. Veronique Dulack will highlight the lasting impact of these legendary women.

Veronique Dulack is a Belgian born art-historian. From 1987 to 1999, she was an associate researcher in the Department of European Paintings at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The taught as an Art History adjunct professor at the Waterbury Campus of the University of Connecticut from 2000 to 2016. Her scholarly work focuses in the History of Collections during the 19th century. She is a Certified Appraiser of the Appraisal Association of America.

This program is free and open to the public but registration is requested; call 860-868-7586 for further information or visit www.gunnlibrary.org. The Gunn Memorial Library is located at 5 Wykeham Road at Route 47 on the Green, in Washington.

OWL welcomes playwright for performances Nov. 9, 16

LITCHFIELD  Nancy Palmento Schuler performs The Process: Three Plays, will be held Nov. 9 and Nov. 16 at the Oliver Wolcott Library, 160 South St., Litchfield, from 7-8 p.m.

The Process is a production of three short plays. The first is Henry and Marion, 62 years of Wedded Bliss, NOT!, which is a look at a marriage that has worn out its life. The second play, The Dating Game, is a hilarious look at dating for seniors, and finally The Process, is a glimpse into the fading world of an octogenarian who is determined to stay in her home even though she may be losing some filters. Nancys husband, Ed will play the parts of Otto and Marcus.

Schuler was born and raised in Waterbury and has lived in Litchfield for the past 20 years with her husband, Ed. The arts are not new to her, having studied at Paier Art College in Hamden and teaching art and painting her entire life. Her trompe loeil talent won her a spot at the New Britain Museum of American Art - Juried art show.

Last year at age 67, she transitioned to writing and acting. Her story about Teresa, her Italian immigrant grandmother, was awarded a place at the New York Public Library Equity Theaters 2017 new playwrights. She will be performing Teresa at the Italian American Museum in New York in November. She has also performed it at the Manhattan Repertory Theatre, Osher Life Long Learning at the University of Connecticut, the New Britain Museum, Shakesperience Productions, the Mattatuck Museum and many community centers and libraries. Her trilogy, Three Women, Three Roads, has also been performed at numerous theatres and libraries including the OWL last November.

Space is limited. Registration is required and can be done by calling 860-567-8030 or visiting owlibrary.org and clicking on Events/Adult Events

Ocean State Job Lot Buy, Give, Get program

TORRINGTON  Ocean State Job Lot announces a way for shoppers throughout New England, New York and New Jersey to help local homeless veterans stay warm this winter season.

At the closeout discount retailers 127 stores throughout eight states, a Buy, Give, Get program is now in effect to enable the public to provide a brand-new, warm winter coat to a homeless veteran. Customers can purchase a quality, brand-name winter coat for $40 (retail value between $80-120), give the store back the coat they just purchased, and receive a $40 Crazy Deal Job Lot gift card.

When customers use their Crazy Deal card, their final cost will be zero and a veteran will get a brand-new coat. Its a win-win, states Marc Perlman, CEO/co-founder of Ocean State Job Lot. As the cold Northeast weather comes our way, its a great opportunity for people to show their compassion for a veteran who needs a helping hand. When we work together to solve a problem such as this, everybody wins.

The program will remain in effect through Veterans Day or while supplies last. Coats are available in both mens and ladies styles.

An estimated 20,000 coats will be collected by the stores and distributed by the Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation to a network of certified military support agencies and organizations, such as the Massachusetts Military Support Foundation, Operation Stand Down, and Veterans Administration.

Over the past 40 years since Ocean State Job Lot was founded, philanthropy has been a critical component of the company mission. In addition to military and veteran assistance, Job Lot supports food banks and pantries across the Northeast, Boston Medical Center, Trinity Repertory Company, Rhode Island Free Clinic, Amos House, The Institute for the Study and Practice of Nonviolence, as well as more than 50 grassroots nonprofit organizations focused on hunger relief, education, health care, water purification and childrens literacy.

For more information about the Buy, Give, Get program or Ocean State Job Lot, visit www.oceanstatejoblot.com, call 401-295-2672, or visit the store nearest you.

Make a gingerbread nativity at Lourdes Shrine

LITCHFIELD  The Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield is now taking reservations for Gingerbread Nativity Making which will take place on Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall, 50 Montfort Rd., in Litchfield. Come with your little ones and (older ones!) and partake in this enjoyable preparation for the Christmas season. Materials are provided, including gingerbread pre-cut forms, candy & frosting. The cost is $30 per Nativity. Space is limited, so call 860-567-1041 or e-mail lourdesshrinect@gmail.com. early to reserve a table.
Condemning the death threats to actor Kamal Haasan, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan demanded immediate arrest of those issuing such threats.

By India Today Web Desk: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemned the death threats to Kamal Haasan by a Hindu Mahasabha leader after the actor said that Hindu terrorists exists. The Kerala chief minister called for the arrest of those issuing "murder/assassination threats".

Pinarayi Vijayan, in a strongly-worded Facebook post, condemned "such criminal attempts against Kamal Haasan's freedom of speech by threatening to murder him by Hindu Mahasabha leader(s)".

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The Kerala chief minister said, "Such religious fanatics and radical minds issuing murder/assassination threats should be immediately arrested by the concerned authorities and stringent legal action is needed against these persons who threatened to kill Kamal Haasan."

Recounting the recent murders of rationalists, Vijayan said, "The entire nation knows WHAT happened to Mahatma Gandhi, Pansare, Dhabolkar, Kalburgi, Gauri Lankesh and WHY? Any move to further add names to that series by such draconian forces has to be opposed and terminated immediately". The Kerala chief minister condemned those "resorting to terrorism to accomplish their communal agenda to spread unrest in society and destabilise the country".

Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, joined CM Pinarayi Vijayan in demanding arrest of those "inciting violence against Kamal Haasan".

This is being politica. I join @vijayanpinarayi in demanding areest& prosecution of those inciting violence against KamalHaasan. #StopHate pic.twitter.com/98btnVUveX- Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 5, 2017

Actor Kamal Haasan, in his column in a popular Tamil weekly, wrote, "Right-wing cannot challenge anyone saying there are Hindu terrorists, because their terror has spread into their camps as well. Such terror activities are not going to help them in way."

A defamation suit has been filed against the actor in Varanasi over his remarks, accusing him of hurting Hindu sentiments.

Hindu Mahasabha leader Pandit Ashok Sharma was quoted by a Times of India report as saying that "Kamal Haasan and likes of him should either be shot dead or hanged so that they learn a lesson".

ALSO WATCH: Kamal Haasan confirms political debut soon, slams critics of 'Hindu terror' remark

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GOOCHLAND

Joanna Johnson stood on stage in the gymnasium at the Virginia Correctional Center for Women, her fellow prisoners-turned-students seated before her in green caps and gowns, and candidly described how far she has come.

Five years ago, had you asked me if I thought I would be standing at this podium representing so many intelligent and strong women, I would have laughed and said, Yeah, right, said Johnson, who was chosen as a student speaker for the annual commencement exercises in October. People like me do not succeed.

She talked of working dead-end jobs and living in a hopeless paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

That was way back when, she continued. Today, I have a new story to write, and this one is worth reading. My darkest days are over and, although there will be some shade, my future is bright.

Johnson, 35, of Portsmouth, who has been incarcerated on a grand larceny conviction and probation violation, dropped out of high school after the deaths of her parents and the birth of a child.

She admittedly was unenthusiastic when she began working toward her GED and was merely going through the motions. After reuniting with her child, though, she gained new motivation and embraced her academic work, and was selected as the graduating class speaker after completing her GED.

She also has finished the first part of the prisons Business Software Applications program and is enrolled in her first college class as she looks forward to her release in February. Her ambition is to work with victims of domestic violence.

A few days before the graduation ceremony, I visited the Goochland County prison, a low-level-security facility where prisoners are preparing to return to the outside world. There, I met Johnson and several other prisoners to hear their stories of how educational opportunities are changing their perspectives and, possibly, their lives.

VCCW has an interesting history, as it was Virginias first prison for women. Its first superintendent was Elizabeth Kates, a no-nonsense corrections official who arrived in Goochland in 1931, just a few weeks before the first women arrived. She emphasized rehabilitation, and the prison became recognized as a national model.

Kates legacy was an organization she formed in 1942 to provide resources to the incarcerated women and prepare them for leaving prison.

Today, that organization bears her name, the Elizabeth Kates Foundation, which pays for college courses, provides assistance in GED programs, and pays for academic materials and supplies.

Volunteers also show up for book club meetings with prisoners and collect donated clothes to help women put together appropriate workplace attire for when they are released.

The foundation is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, and Betty Ann Dillon offered to tell me about Kates and the foundation, since she is well-acquainted with both. She has volunteered for years with the foundation, serving on its board from time to time, but she also knew Kates, having worked for her in the 1960s as the prisons psychologist.

She was an absolutely excellent person to be where she was when she was, Dillon said. She was well ahead of her time in terms of the attitudes she had toward rehabilitation. She was a very tough person in terms of her standards. They were high, and she expected you to meet them. She was very strict about it, but she was also very rational about it and fair.

Or as one corrections officer said of Kates and her legacy, When your ideas live beyond you, thats leadership.

Dillon accompanied me to the prison  This was Miss Kates world, Dillon said as we arrived of her former boss who ran the place for more than three decades until retiring in 1964  where we met Johnson and the other women, all of whom spoke enthusiastically of their academic work. They also told about how it was giving them hope  sometimes for the first time in a long time  for their futures.

Some were working on completing requirements for their GEDs (general equivalency diplomas, or high school-level work), while others had already accumulated dozens of hours of college credits, through correspondence courses or special classes at the prison taught by instructors from local colleges.

They were involved academically not only in the business software program but in commercial foods and cosmetology. Horticulture is another popular program.

At the time of our meeting, Heather Howell, 28, from Floyd County was looking forward to taking a state board test in cosmetology, which she views as a golden career opportunity when shes released from prison in a few months after serving time on drug-related convictions.

Im not a lost cause anymore, she said.

Denise Stewart, 37, of King William County has served 18 years on an armed robbery conviction. She has become a star in the commercial foods program, said Elizabeth Weisbond, an instructor at VCCW, and hopes to work in a bakery or for a nonprofit organization when shes released next year.

Shelby Carano, 52, from the Richmond area has been in prison since 2003 and is nearing the end of a sentence for a second-degree murder conviction stemming from a drug overdose death. Drugs and addiction led to bad choices, she said, but education and the self-discipline it has taught her have changed my life. She is convinced I can make a living legally, and she might pursue a career in web design.

She earned her GED in prison and has accumulated scores of college credits as she has become a role model for other prisoners.

Once you get a few small successes, your mind starts to change, Carano said. Im not as dumb as I thought I was.

Weisbond, who has taught in the corrections system for a decade, said a phrase she hears a lot from her students is, I never knew.

I never knew I could pass a test. I never knew I could do algebra. I never knew I could find a career.

Weisbond said the students she encounters in the corrections system struggled in school during their teen years for many reasons, but almost all of them experienced school failure due to the actions or inabilities of family, school or community to support them when they were unable to support themselves.

Carano said the encouragement of instructors like Weisbond and such organizations as the Elizabeth Kates Foundation are much needed and much appreciated.

Its so rewarding to know somebody cares, she said.

In a follow-up email after my visit, Weisbond wrote, You might be surprised to find out that many of our students are pretty smart. They just never had a chance to show it, and it really doesnt matter whether it was because of their choices or someone elses when they walk into the adult learner classroom. That moment is a chance to start again  a do-over, if you will.

And why should people on the outside care about the education of prisoners?

Because, in many cases, she said, Theyre coming back to your community.
Two militants gunned down on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district.

By India Today Web Desk: Two militants were killed on Sunday on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district as the Army foiled an infiltration bid, a defence official said.

Defence Ministry spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said: "The terrorists were killed in Uri sector after alert troops foiled the infiltration bid."

"A search operation is ongoing in the area," he added.

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Uri has been a hot bed for terrorists . Multiple standoffs have taken place in the northern Kashmir region in just 2017.

- With inputs from IANS

WATCH VIDEO | Sushma Swaraj responds to Pakistan PM Abbasi, slams Islamabad on terrorism at UNGA

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Richmonders will vote Tuesday on a referendum to change the citys charter to require Mayor Levar Stoney to create a plan to modernize the citys schools without raising taxes.

The 350-word referendum is on the back of the ballot, something the creators of the referendum  Proposition A  are working to bring awareness to. Richmond Public Schools continues to face serious infrastructure problems.

Here are six answers to questions related to the referendum:

What is the current state of Richmond school facilities?

The city is still facing problems with its 44 schools. George Mason Elementary School in the East End has become the focal point of discussion as school officials grappled over the summer with whether to close it, but interim Superintendent Tommy Kranz has said the difference between Mason and the next-worst school isnt that large.

The schools are suffering from years of deferred maintenance, meaning improvements were put off in order to save money at the time.

How did the referendum get on the ballot?

A petition calling for the referendum to be on the ballot garnered more than 15,000 signatures of registered city voters.

In August, a Richmond Circuit Court judge ordered the proposed charter change appear on the ballot. The Richmond City Council chose not to challenge the ruling, meaning the referendum would appear.

What does the referendum say?

The referendum is broken down into five parts. The first part gives a bit of a history lesson and quotes Martin Luther King Jr. It says that Richmonds facilities situation is not unique. The second part tackles the mayors responsibilities. The charter change says the mayor would have six months to present a fully funded plan to the City Council that would modernize RPS infrastructure without a tax increase or tell the council that such a plan isnt possible.

Part three says the mayors plan to improve facilities cannot be funded with new or increased taxes.

The fourth part of the referendum says the School Boards power would not be changed. The final part requires the council to take action on the mayors plan within 90 days.

What happens if the referendum passes?

If the referendum passes, it would then go into the hands of the Virginia General Assembly. Del. G. Manoli Loupassi, R-Richmond, has said he would work to get the charter change passed through the legislature, which is under no obligation to take up the charter change in its 2018 session. The session starts in early January.

What happens if the referendum fails?

RPS is in the midst of developing a facilities plan after a 2015 plan known as Option Five stalled because of the citys limited debt capacity. The divisions infrastructure remains a main issue, and officials have vowed to work to fix it, regardless of the referendums success.

A plan from the RPS administration was expected to be presented in late October, but it was not complete. The School Board is receiving an overview of the plan at its work session Monday.

Who is behind the referendum?

The Richmond Crusade for Voters, a group founded in 1956 that works to inform voters, took up the initiative to create the referendum. Paul Goldman, a Democratic strategist, was the propositions chief architect and has campaigned strongly for its passage.

JMJ Corp., a Richmond-based interior design company, donated $500 to the committee raising money for the initiative. Former Richmond mayoral candidate Joe Morrisseys law firm also donated $500, according to state campaign finance reports.
The race for Virginia attorney general started negative and will finish even more so.

Mark Herring, the incumbent, was elected in 2013 and became the states first Democratic attorney general since 1994.

Herrings outspoken support of same-sex marriage and certain gun restrictions has draw rebukes from Republicans in the state legislature.

Republicans in the General Assembly recently called for the states watchdog agency to do a full-scale review of Herrings office.

John Adams, a white-collar defense lawyer at the firm McGuireWoods, one of the most politically powerful firms in Virginia, is the GOP nominee who faces Herring on Tuesday.

As of late October, Herring had raised about $8.3 million, compared with about $6.8 million for Adams, according to the Virginia Public Access Project. The Republican Attorneys General Association, which has largely funded the Adams campaign, then gave him $2.2 million to keep pace.

The GOP group gets money from corporations, associations and groups like the National Rifle Association. RAGA, as its called, gave Adams close to $6.3 million for the campaign and gave $389,000 to the Republican Party of Virginia in October to boost Adams.

The Democratic Attorneys General Association is the top donor to Herring, contributing $2.7 million this year through Oct. 26.

Herring and Adams have throttled each other in TV ads and mail while arguing over how tough Herring is on crime and whether hes been too political in office.

More murders, rapes, drug crimes, reads a recent Adams mail piece. Thats the Mark Herring record.

Adams chief complaint about Herring is that he refused to defend the states gay marriage ban, which was later overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. Herring has said he believes there are rare instances in which an attorney general should not defend a law, and the ban qualified because the right to marry for certain people was at stake.

Adams, an opponent of gay marriage, says he will defend any law passed by the legislature regardless of his personal beliefs.

Adams has attacked Herring for using money from a fraud settlement to give raises to political appointees in his office.

Under constant attack himself, Herring has unleashed a stream of attacks on Adams, portraying him as an extremist who opposes abortion even in cases of rape and incest, and over Adams opposition to requiring employers to provide contraception coverage for women.

Mark Herring has spent the last four years fighting to keep Virginians safe and defend their rights while John Adams has been protecting powerful special interests and working to put employers in charge of womens access to birth control, Herring campaign manager Adam Zuckerman said in a statement after the candidates held their second and final debate last month.

The Herring campaign also has asked how Adams, should he be elected attorney general, would recuse himself from the many cases McGuireWoods handles that involve the commonwealth. The McGuireWoods political action committee gave $15,000 to RAGA on Oct. 30, according to a report filed with the Virginia Department of Elections.

Aside from Democratic political action committees, Herrings top donor this year is the gun control group Everytown for Gun Safety, which has given Herring more than $700,000 in 2017, according to VPAP.
Can sixth sense predict earthquakes and tsunamis? Some ISI and ERRA officials in Pakistan believe so as they start their preparations after an Indian writes about his "visions" to PM Modi.

By India Today Web Desk: Howsoever frivolous it may sound but reports from Pakistan suggest that the officials of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Earthquake Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Authority (ERRA) panicked following a prediction by an Indian on the basis of his extra-sensory perception or sixth sense.

A man, identified as Babu Kalayil, wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi claiming that he has got extra-sensory perception that a massive earthquake will strike the Indian Ocean by December 31 this year that would set off a powerful tsunami in the region.

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Babu Kalayil claimed in the letter to have received the "observation" on August 20 this year through his sixth sense. The letter was written on the official letter head of BK Research Association for ESP. Babu Kalayil's name appears as the director of the Kerala-based group. The letter was shot off to PM Modi on September 20.

This letter failed to get any attention in India, but Pakistan seems to have lost sleep over the prediction. But, the letter started doing rounds on social media. Babu Kalayil predicted that 11 countries in the Asiatic region including India, Pakistan and China will be badly impacted by tsunami.

Letter to PM Modi by Babu Kalayil that set off alarm bells in Pakistan.

According to a BBC Urdu report, the officials in Pakistan have taken the prediction of Babu Kalayil seriously and began preparations to deal with a possible disaster.

A letter, issued by the ERRA of Pakistan, is being circulated on social media directing the officials and departments to "immediately" follow the standard operating procedures on the matter.

The letter, apparently, written by the deputy chairman of the ERRA - that works under the PMO of Pakistan - refers to an alert issued by the DG, ISI warning about a "large scale earthquake, as being expected".

The DG, ISI sent the letter to the ERRA on October 12 while the ERRA official issued directions on November 1. "The SOPs will be put up to ERRA's acting deputy chairman by Monday, November 6, 2017," reads the deputy chairman's letter.

It says, "An Information Report has been received from DG, Inter-Services Intelligence that there is, reportedly, likelihood of large scale earthquake, as being expected, in the Indian Ocean in near future which may vigorously shake the Asian continental areas, including Pakistan. There is, therefore, a need to sensitise concern departments to be on vigil and take care of any natural disaster. (sic)"

ERRA issues letter with directions about SOPs.

The scientists have been trying to have a technology in place to predict earthquakes and tsunamis. Earthquakes are considered one of the biggest killers because they cannot be predicted with available technology. Japanese and Americans have invested millions of dollars towards this end.

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First, check the weather. The forecast for Election Day calls for rain. Candidates dont like rain because it can depress turnout.

But not always.

In 1985, downpours swept west to east across Virginia, triggering heavy flooding. Jerry Baliles was still easily elected governor, carrying every congressional district. There were 10 at the time. Baliles, running with an African-American and a woman, would lead the second of three consecutive Democratic statewide sweeps.

In 2017, bright-line partisanship, the expanding rural-urban divide and a booming, more diverse population preclude the possibility that either Republican Ed Gillespie or Democrat Ralph Northam will win every congressional district. There are 11 now. There could be a one-party sweep.

Virginias geopolitics  for purposes of picking a winner on election night  begin with 10 cities and counties with populations of about 200,000 to nearly 1.2 million. They are in the eastern half of the state, from the Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C., to Virginia Beach, on the Atlantic coast.

This sweeping crescent  it tracks Interstates 95 and 64  is the key to the Democrats current lock on the five offices decided by statewide vote. It is where Northam will receive most of his votes. It is where Gillespie, who can count on near-uniform support across the western and southern countryside, must break through to win.

The four counties of Northern Virginia  Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William  are emerging as hostile territory for Gillespie, largely because it is where hostility to President Donald Trump is greatest. That could drive up turnout, potentially providing a cushion for Democrats against losses in more competitive localities downstate.

Do not underestimate the tail-wagging-the-dog effect of Northern Virginia on state politics. If Democrats carry the region  of the 2 million-plus votes expected to be cast Tuesday, more than 500,000 will come out of the four counties  its likely game-over for Republicans.

Loudoun may be the most promising D.C. suburb for Gillespie, who lives next door in Fairfax. Though Loudoun was carried by Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Gov. Terry McAuliffe in 2013, the countys profile is quasi-Establishment Republican. It is the fastest-growing county in the state and the No. 1 county nationally in median household income. Nearly 60 percent of its residents are college graduates. And Loudoun may remember Gillespie, having tipped to him  barely  in his near victory for U.S. Senate in 2014 against Democratic incumbent Mark Warner.

But Gillespies majority this year in Loudoun would have to far exceed his nearly 500-vote edge over Warner. Thats because there arent enough votes in reliably Republican rural Virginia to overtake the metropolitan areas, where two-thirds of the states residents live.

Central Virginia, once a Republican bulwark, is fertile ground for both candidates. However, many of the trends that have made Northern Virginia Democrat-friendly are remaking Richmond and environs: waves of non-natives from other states and overseas and the growth of the African-American middle class.

Richmond, a majority-minority city, is a gimme for Northam. Hell need it to produce a hefty majority, just as he will in the heavily black cities of his home base, Hampton Roads: Newport News, Hampton, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk. There also are opportunities to pad the black vote in Southside, though overall, the old tobacco-and-textile belt is Republican.

An appearance for Northam in Richmond by former President Barack Obama could stir black voters as well as Gen Xers and millennials.

However, Northams awkward distancing earlier in the campaign from his African-American running mate for lieutenant governor, Justin Fairfax, apparently contributed to the just-announced refusal of Doug Wilder, the nations first elective black governor, to endorse fellow Democrat Northam.

Suburban Richmond counties, once safely Republican, will likely split, with Henrico continuing its recent preference for Democrats and Chesterfield and Hanover falling to Gillespie. Chesterfield merits close attention because the Republican advantage there has been fading for more than a decade.

In years past, GOP statewide candidates would routinely win Chesterfield 2-to-1. But Gillespie, against Warner three years ago, managed only a 9,000-vote majority. And Trump won Chesterfield by a mere 4,000 votes.

Gillespie cant afford a repeat of his 2014 performance in Chesterfield. Continuing antagonism in the county for Trump  and Gillespies refusal to criticize the president for fear of alienating his voters  might muffle Republican enthusiasm.

That wont be a problem in Hanover. Still heavily rural, with a robust tea party presence, Hanover delivers for Republicans majorities on the scale once seen in Chesterfield. But Hanover is a third of Chesterfields size, generating in the high-turnout presidential year only 62,000 votes to Chesterfields 176,000.

Gillespie potentially can make up for that in the southeastern corner of the state, in the cities of Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, both of which were carried by Trump. In off-year gubernatorial elections, both cities can be competitive, helping Democrats.

Because hes from the Eastern Shore, lives in Norfolk and represented the region in the Virginia Senate, Northam  as the local guy  might over-perform in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, denying Gillespie a crucial trove of votes. Northams regional profile perhaps allows him to hold down Republican majorities in rural counties flanking the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

Gillespie Country spans from Winchester in the northwestern corner of the state, down Virginias mountainous spine to the remote coal counties, reaching east across Southside and into the central Piedmont. Though its pocked with the occasional Democratic stronghold, such as Prince Edward County and the cities of Charlottesville, Danville and Roanoke, this is Republican terrain.

And for Gillespie, its right as rain.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
What Charles Dickens was to Ebenezer Scrooge, what J.M. Barrie was to Peter Pan, the English author A.A. Milne was to Christopher Robin. Each writer published popular tales of iconic characters, earning roaring applause and trainloads of money. Goodbye Christopher Robin digs into the origins and consequences of Milnes mythic Winnie-the-Pooh stories in ways that are charming and ultimately poignant.

Creating a character permanently engraved in our collective memories might seem like a writers dream come true, but for the Milne family, it came at a cost. Unlike Scrooge and Peter Pan, Christopher Robin Milne was a real person.

This British period films deeply personal look into the origins of the small young boy in the Hundred Acre Wood offers childish joys shadowed by tragedy. If youre expecting a lighter-than-air Pooh spin-off, the opening should get you to pack away your childish fantasies.

As we watch grisly nighttime combat during WWI, Milne (Domhnall Gleeson) comes of age in unrelating hell. The film follows him through the first third of the 20th century as he wrestles with the psychological horrors of war, what was then called shell shock and now known as post traumatic stress.

Transformed by the war, he re-enters a London social life of moneyed self-indulgence that he no longer fits into. A playwright of some acclaim, he wants to write a great pacifist work to end violent militarism. Im tired of making people laugh, he says. I want to make them see.

That proves to be an uphill battle. His wife, Daphne, played by Margot Robbie as a charming, conceited social diva, calls Milnes idea for a political polemic perfectly horrid. He moves his wife and son to the English countryside in order to focus on the project, but the rural solitude and silence leave him blocked as a writer, with little sense how to express his feelings. Gleeson does justice to the frustration of this quiet, self-conscious introvert.

While taking a walk in the woods with his son Christopher (played at this age by the adorable Will Tilston), inspiration for a trifle of a story to entertain the youngster strikes like lightning. He recruits a friend to add illustrations of a boy and his toy animals and begins discussing the best approach for a story that can lift Britains morale after the war.

Are you writing a book? Christopher asks. I thought we were just having fun. Were writing a book, and were having fun, his father replies. I didnt know you could do both at the same time, Christopher replies, foreshadowing the stormy weather brewing.

The small book surpasses the wildest expectations, spawns three sequels and becomes a global brand. But Christopher loses his mother, getting sympathetic care from his watchful new governess (Kelly Macdonald) and repaying it with a devotion deeper than any bond he has to his family. Meanwhile, his father is elbowed aside by the adoring public, with the real Christopher Robin becoming the focus of all the attention. He must be the happiest boy on Earth, one onlooker sighs.

Of course, the moral of the film is that fame and success can extract a huge price. It was impossible for the Milne family to find privacy. Every major player here to some degree suffers the burden of peoples expectations, but none so much as Christopher. Being perplexed by unwanted scrutiny from strangers hardens into troubled resentment as he advances into young adulthood (now capably played by Alex Lawther).

Movingly scored by Carter Burwell (who often works with the Coen brothers), Goodbye Christopher Robin is a film with a good supply of heart, plucking our emotional strings through both the essential sweetness of the story and its darker elements of conflict. Its a fresh footnote to the story that may change hearts and minds about the cherished character.
Why did you choose to become a dentist?

I had a great dentist as a child and great experiences. I knew I wanted to do something in medicine, and it seemed to be a logical spot. I really liked doing stuff with my hands and building models and carving and stuff like that. It was a natural fit either as a dental surgeon or a medical surgeon. Dentistry had more appeal because you are not on call. So I took the path of less resistance.

Why did you work with Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine to incorporate oral health into the curriculum?

One of the things Ive been really proud of is exposing future physicians to the connection between oral diseases and health, and also the manifestation of some medical diseases that you see in the mouth. There is not really a curriculum, except one on the West Coast, that purports to do what were doing here. I think its highly critical in disease management in diabetes or cardiovascular disease that physicians are aware that oral health problems contribute to the chronic condition for those patients. It helps improve oral health and cuts down on the cost of health care. ...

Because Im a dentist, Im about oral health, but Im also concerned with overall body health. If we as dentists are missing an opportunity to educate our peers on another aspect of disease control or management then we need to fix that. We need to present a more unified comprehensive viewpoint to the patient for their health care.

Do you see dental care being integrated into medical insurance?

The benefits are substantially different. Historically for dental benefits, patients are encouraged to use their benefits for prevention to keep from having problems. Historically on the health care side, organizations have said there is a benefit here for you if you get sick. So medicine is starting to change and is becoming more proactive from a prevention standpoint, so I think there could be a day when it gets rolled in or incorporated. But I take a very strong position for it to be a stand-alone because the dynamics and the costs are so radically different. There is just a bigger benefit to have someone focus entirely on a dental product. Its better for the patients long-term health.

Why is it important to fund dental programs for children?

Theres a significant issue with lack of access to care, especially for children. Children particularly cant do anything about it.  We viewed them as being disadvantaged, and a place where we could really help out. Part of our mission of Delta Dental is to improve the publics oral health, and we do that in a number of ways, certainly one is through the placement of contracts and sales of our products. But the other way is to say, where else can we be of use to the community? Not everyone has access to a group dental plan so we thought it was important to go back and try and help some of those people who need access to care.

What will you miss?

Ill miss the stimulation of working with great people. I enjoy working though issues and advancing the company to the next big thing. My philosophy is there is no such thing as standing still or being complacent. You either grow or you shrink. Ill miss those opportunities, interactions and the great employees I have.

Whats next for you?

I announced internally my plans to retire back at the beginning of this year. Twelve months seemed a long time. Weve been running really hard to move the company forward, and I havent given it a lot of thought. Beyond sleeping in one or two days, I will take a little time to reflect, perhaps pursue some education. I may like to get involved in dentistry again. I hope to serve in some capacity on different boards and give back to the community, and travel.
For the second time in two years, an effort to sanction the Pakistani terrorist Masood Azhar, who heads the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), appears to have run into a Chinese wall. On October 30, the Chinese foreign ministry said there were "disagreements" at the UN Security Council 1267 sanctions committee that concerns Al-Qaeda, ISIS and associated groups, over an application filed by the United States, and backed by the UK and France, to list Azhar.

China had placed a "technical hold" earlier this year seeking more information. With the hold expiring on November 2, Beijing has indicated it would exercise its veto right to block the listing. "So far, a consensus has yet to be reached by members of the committee," said foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying about the matter.

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The case against Azhar appears clear cut. More pertinently, the very same UNSC committee had already agreed to proscribe Azhar's organisation, the JeM. And as recently as September, China was among the five BRICS countries that signed a joint statement at the Xiamen summit, identifying the JeM as a 'global concern'.

What explains Beijing's intransigence? Publicly, officials in Beijing claim the lack of "solid proof" against Masood. "We believe the committee should follow principles of objectivity, professionalism and fairness and reach decisions by consensus based on solid proof," explained Hua. But given that proof was deemed "solid" for listing the JeM, that makes little sense.

Privately, Chinese officials appear to believe the listing is being driven solely by "political motivations" targeting its all weather ally Pakistan. Last year, senior Chinese official Li Baodong said of the listing that countries "should not pursue political gains in the name of counter-terrorism". Officials point to the case of the Lashkar-e-Taiba leader Hafiz Saeed who, despite being listed, remains unrestrained in Pakistan, suggesting such sanctions have little real benefit other than political point-scoring.

This argument holds little water, Indian officials say, pointing out that brazen Pakistani actions - as in the case of Saeed - are being encouraged by the diplomatic cover China provides. This also contradicts China's own long-held grouse against Western "double standards" on terrorism in Xinjiang.

What are India's options? India could submit a third application for Azhar. It may meet a similar fate. But it will, at the very least, serve the purpose of shining the spotlight on China's unseemly diplomatic manoeuvring on behalf of its "all weather" ally.

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Ten persons subjected two minors to third degree, forced them to sexually assault each other, and filmed the crime in west Delhi, following which two accused have been arrested, police said on Sunday.

By Indo-Asian News Service: Ten persons subjected two minors to third degree, forced them to sexually assault each other, and filmed the crime in west Delhi, following which two accused have been arrested, police said on Sunday.

An FIR was lodged against 10 persons under the Indian Penal Code for unnatural sex and other offences as well as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and two of them arrested late Saturday night, Delhi Police Special Commissioner and Chief PRO Dependra Pathak said.

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The crime took place on October 26 in Rohini but came to light on Saturday when the boys' families approached police after a video footage recorded by the accused went viral on social media.

Police said the boys, aged between 13 and 15, are friends and live with their families in Metro Vihar area in Holambi Kalan.

As one of the accused, Kanwar Singh, suspected one of them of involvement in theft at his residence, his men summoned the minor and held him hostage.

They beat him with leather belts and when he did not admit to the theft, the accused also called his friend, 15, forced both to strip, and tortured them for over five hours, police said.

Both were forced to perform sexual acts on each other, filmed in the process and threatened with uploading of the clipping on the Internet in case police was told about the crime, a senior police officer said.

The accused even put petrol and chilli powder on their private parts and burnt them with cigarettes.

The two boys were said to be in very bad condition and had since been admitted at Ambedkar Hospital in Rohini.

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Even as price wars in the mobile telephony market bleed existing service providers following the entry of Reliance Jio, smartphone makers are having a field day. Not surprising, since India is now touted as the world's second largest smartphone market after China. Two separate reports, by research firms Canalys and Counterpoint, also say that Korea's Samsung, the market leader so far, is in for a tough challenge from Chinese firm Xiaomi, which entered India as late as 2014.

Singapore-based Canalys, a firm that analyses the technology market, says the Indian smartphone market grew by 23 per cent year-on-year in the July-September quarter to top 40 million units. It said that the numbers were fuelled mainly by Xiaomi, which clocked shipments of 9.2 million units- an increase of over 290 per cent from a year ago. Xiaomi, the fifth largest smartphone maker in the world, is in a neck-and-neck race with Samsung, which shipped 9.4 million units in the period, a 30 per cent rise from the previous year.

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"This growth comes as a relief to the smartphone industry. Doubts about India's market potential have clearly been dispelled," says Canalys research analyst Ishan Dutt. "There are close to 100 mobile device brands sold in India, with more vendors arriving every quarter." In addition, India has low barriers to entry. "Growth will continue. Low smartphone penetration and the explosion of LTE are the main drivers," Dutt added. LTE or long term evolution, a 4G wireless standard, offers high speed mobile internet connection, a technology Reliance Jio has successfully based its services on, forcing rivals to follow suit. Data from the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) shows India had 949 million mobile phone subscriptions in August 2017.

Yet another report by Hong Kong-based Counterpoint Research says that Samsung and Xiaomi together contributed almost 45 per cent of the smartphone market in India in the third quarter of this calendar year. India handset shipments reached an all-time high of over 84 million, driven by strong sales of both feature-phones and smartphones. "This is the first time since 2012 that Samsung and Xiaomi have reached this level of combined share. The quarter also marked a return to growth for local handset players such as Micromax and Lava in the smartphone segment," said Karn Chauhan, research analyst at Counterpoint Research. Xiaomi, iTel, Oppo, Vivo and OnePlus were the fastest growing smartphone brands during the third quarter driven by festive season sales. Mid-segment phones (Rs 10,000-Rs 15,000) was the fastest growing segment, driven by Xiaomi's strong performance-it contributed almost half of the shipments.

Meanwhile, the premium segment (above Rs 30,000) grew a record three times y-on-y during the third quarter owing to the strong performance of Apple, Oneplus and Samsung. Interestingly, the featurephone segment (phones with more functionality than basic mobile phones, but less than smartphones) declined 4 per cent y-on-y but grew 22 per cent during the quarter. The previous quarter, by contrast, was driven by sub-rs 1,000 devices, as well as the entry of Jiophone and Nokia branded phones in the market.

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By Indo-Asian News Service: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh on Sunday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not moving the stalled Women's Reservation Bill, accusing him of betraying the "nation builders".

"Once hailed as 'nation builders' by PM Modi, the already marginalised Indian women have been most brutally betrayed by the BJP government," the Chief Minister said attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) central government in a series of tweets.

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"Deference of the Women's Reservation Bill is BJP has gone back on its primary manifesto promise for women. And it was only the beginning," he said.

On September 21, Congress President Sonia Gandhi urged the Prime Minister to urgently pass the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha where the BJP has a majority.

In a letter to Modi, Sonia Gandhi said: "You may recall that the Rajya Sabha had passed the Women's Reservation Bill on March 9, 2010. Since then, however, it has languished in the Lok Sabha for one reason or another."

The Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister also referred to the Panchayati Raj Bills passed in Haryana and Rajasthan in 2015, fixing educational and other qualifications for the candidates contesting Panchayati elections.

"Then came along arbitrary conditions on educational qualifications for contesting panchayat elections in Rajasthan and Haryana. Anti-constitutional!"

According to the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (amendment) Bill, 2015, a candidate should be Class 8 pass for the post of Sarpanch -- except in tribal reserved areas, where the minimum qualification is Class 5 -- and Class 10 for Zila Parishad or Panchayat Samiti elections.

While in Haryana, matriculation is essential qualification for general candidates contesting the Panchayat elections while the qualification for the women (general) and Scheduled Caste candidate will be middle standard (Class 8).

Virbhadran Singh flaunted Himachal's women literacy rate, claiming it was higher than the national average.

"Meanwhile in Himachal Pradesh, female literacy of 75.9 per cent exceeded national average. Sixty-four per cent women constituted workforce, highest in India. True empowerment!" the Chief Minister added.

Votes for 68-seat assembly in Himachal Pradesh will be cast on November 9 and the counting will take place on December 18.

WATCH VIDEO | Congress' termite-like mindset eating away India, says PM Modi in Kangra rally

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T-Mobile US Inc. (TMUS) announced that it has end talks to merge with Sprint Corp. (S), as the companies were unable to find mutually agreeable terms.

John Legere, president and chief executive officer of T-Mobile US Inc. said that the prospect of the two companies coming together has been compelling for many reasons, including the value it would create for shareholders and the benefits it would bring consumers.

"However, we have been clear all along that a deal with anyone will have to result in superior long-term value for T-Mobile's shareholders compared to our outstanding stand-alone performance and track record," Legere stated.

"While we couldn't reach an agreement to combine our companies, we certainly recognize the benefits of scale through a potential combination," said Sprint President and CEO and SoftBank board member Marcelo Claure, in the statement. "However, we have agreed that it is best to move forward on our own."

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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Dipesh Tank, an activist, is on a mission to make Mumbai local trains and stations harassment-free for commuters.

By India Today Web Desk: This inspiring story comes at a time when Twitter and Facebook are filled with heart-wrenching posts hashtagged #MeToo where women and even men from different walks of life have have shared their stories of sexual harassment on social media.

Dipesh Tank is an activist who founded 'War Against Railway Rowdies' in Mumbai and is on a mission to make the maximum city's local trains and railway stations harassment-free for female commuters.

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He wakes up with a single mission every morning - to protect the women who use Mumbai's lifeline and help nab men who don't think twice before harassing commuters.

In a true James Bond style, he strolls around various stations and trains in Mumbai wearing sunglasses with a built-in HD camera to record the perpetrators committing the crimes. The video evidence is then passed on to police officials for further action.

Tank's work has resulted in the arrests of more than 140 men in the past 6 months.

This Good Samaritan's message and initiative is really making a difference.

WATCH THE VIDEO | Mumbai's hero

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hit out at the previous Congress-led UPA government for abusing subsidy of Rs 57,000 crore meant for the poor.

"People used to loot the treasury in the name of subsidies. In the past, 57,000 crore used to get leaked due to rampant corruption in implementing subsidies," Modi said at an election rally here ahead of the state's November 9 assembly polls.

"Now our policy has stopped the leak. The leaders in Congress cannot bear this, so they are attacking me."

Taking potshots at former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's statement that Re 1 ends up as 15 paise when it reaches villages, Modi said: "Rajiv was such a doctor who diagnosed the problem of corruption but did not do anything about it.

He has made sure that the whole of 100 paise now goes into the pockets of the poor.

Taking a dig at the Congress central leadership, he said the party has already left the battlefield and it was a one-sided contest.

"Mujhe iss chunav mein ek baat ka dukh rahega, mazaa nahi aa raha hai, kyunki Congress maidan chhod kar bhaag gayi hai (I will regret one thing about this poll. It isn't fun because the Congress has accepted defeat)," he said.

Playing the development card by emphasising on promotion of tourism in the hill state, the Prime Minister said his government was focusing on laying road networks in the state.

Donning a Himachali cap, Modi, on his third and last election tour of the state, said: "In the last 20 years, there has not been a single election where I have not been involved. But this is an unprecedented election. I know where the wind is blowing.

"A storm is raging here against the corrupt Congress."

Batting for his government's biggest tax reform with the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Modi said it has benefited the transport sector.

"This country has warmly welcomed GST as it has immensely benefited the transport sector. Truck movement between the states has gained pace."

Talking tough against black money and holders of 'benami' or illegal properties, Modi said after demonetisation at least three lakh companies came under the scanner.

"We did a sample survey of 5,000 companies and saw that they at least transacted Rs 4,000 crore worth of black money. I can only imagine what will happen if we look at the transactions of all the companies," Modi added.
By PTI: By Shirish B Pradhan

Kathmandu, Nov 5 (PTI) Nepal today inaugurated a bridge built with Indias financial assistance of USD 430,626 on the Kaligandaki river near China border.

The bridge at Jomsom area in Mustang district not only provides direct motorable connectivity to people of Mustang but also benefits thousands of tourists and pilgrims visiting the famous Muktinath temple and upper Mustang for trekking, the Indian Embassy here said in a statement.

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The newly-constructed Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) bridge was inaugurated by Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri.

India had extended a total of 44.5 million Nepali rupees (USD 430,626 or 2.7 crore Indian rupees) as financial assistance for its construction as part of India?Nepal Economic Cooperation (INEC) programme, the statement said.

Prior to the construction of the RCC bridge, the old suspension bridge on the river Kaligandaki could not be used by motorists, it said.

People had to alight from their vehicles and took another vehicle from across the river to reach their destination, the statement added.

The INEC has an outlay of over 76 billion Nepali rupees with more than 554 large and small development projects completed or currently being implemented across the country in cooperation with the Nepal government.

The projects focus on the education, health and infrastructure sectors. PTI SBP CPS

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The cost of living compared to average incomes is the toughest part about living in Samoa today.

So says 40-year-old-father from Siusega, Tavita Samu.

When the Village Voice team met him yesterday, he said life was good in Samoa except the expensive cost of living which is a burden to most families.

I have two children with my wife and I tell you this, this life is not a walk in a park. If you stay home and do nothing to help your children and your family, youll starve to death, Tavita said.

To us, we need to change our mindset, theres no time to complain and sit around waiting for a miracle to come.

We have to get going, if all your life was just to stay home then I tell you, you need to change it right now.

We are on the days where you hardly find something to eat, or money to buy your childrens lunch if you just sit around and do nothing.

Aside from high cost of living, Tavita is also concerned about whats happening between fans of Toa Samoa and Tonga.

This is crazy, we are all Polynesians and watching TVNZ News last night, it was ugly, Tavita said.

Its just that these all started when one Tongan guy burnt our flag, why dont we just forgive and move on.

It will only create problems after problems, so we should stop but lets cheer our boys on the field.

He reminded fans of both teams about peace.

We need to avoid aggression and violence and we must also understand that peace only happens when different desires are in one agreement, when we stand together and support our boys from the Pacific, Tavita added.

We all know what peace is all about, when everyone around you is happy, eager to love, accept and relate; you just feel peace.

But most importantly we must respect people around me.

He said people should understand that violence brings no good.

Not only in our neighbouring islands but amongst our own communities, Tavita said.

We need to realize the fact that if we want peace, we have to live peacefully, love everyone, forgive, forget and live life to the fullest.
People say money cant buy happiness.

But we cannot live without money. That much is true.

Meet Toa Tupai, 30, from Falelauniu who used to work until his wife got sick and he is still unemployed now.

The Village Voice team met Mr. Tupai while on his way to collect firewood for his family yesterday morning.

Mr. Tupai mentioned to Village Voice that he is looking for a job right now in order to provide for his family.

I used to work at the CeCes Bingo before but then my wife got sick and I never went back to work.

The money I use to make from my job was not enough at all and that was one of the reasons I never went back to work in the first place.

Mr. Tupai said he had one son who lived with his family at Falelauniu.

Mr. Tupai also shared the type of work and working skills he possessed in order to help him find a job.

I love working and I am a hard working person, he said.

I am a friendly person and a fast learner as well.

Mr. Tupai said he was looking for a job because his only son would soon attend school and he really needed money to support him.

Nowadays it has been really hard dealing with the expensive cost of living and that is why Im looking for a job to help out with my family as well as supporting my son.

My son will be starting school next year and I am seeking and hoping for a job so I can be able to support him with his schooling expenses.

Mr. Tupai added he was also hoping to get a job real soon so he could support his family, obligations and church.

Samoa is getting expensive and as we are also supporting our families and church as well, so basically money is everything.
Family is everything.

Meet Iefata Pauli, 19, from the village of Vaipua in Savaii.

Mr. Pauli said he came last week from Savaii to find a job in Upolu so he could support his family and parents back in Savaii.

I just came from Savaii last week to live with my aunty here in Falelauniu and start seeking for a job to support my parents back home in Savaii, he said to the Village Voice team while on his way to deliver his application letters to supermarkets yesterday morning.

Its really hard finding a job there in Savaii and thats why I came all the way here just so I can get a job.

Mr. Pauli also said he had been sending out application letters to companies in Upolu and he is hoping for a response soon.

I just came back from Farmer Joe Supermarket to submit my letter there and I also dropped a few letters yesterday to a few other places and I am just hoping they will give me a call soon.

Mr. Pauli shared why he opted to come to Apia to find a job.

I have been seeking for a job there in Savaii for the last two years and it was unsuccessful, Mr. Pauli said.

Our family is heavily depended on our plantation for survival, as well as the sea because my dad is a fisherman.

We dont have anyone there working but we are surviving through our plantation because we also sell it when we have harvested enough.

Mr. Pauli also shared about the skills he has that could help him get a job.

I am good in carpentry works, and I am also good in plantation work because thats what I have been doing in Savaii.

Mr. Pauli added he started to miss his family in Savaii but he would try harder to get a job and send his earnings to support them.

I am missing my parents so much, but this is a challenge for me to work hard and support them from here when I get a job.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has a plan for everything.

Just two weeks back in his office after undergoing medical treatment in New Zealand, Tuilaepa says he does not plan to waste any time.

His first public appearance was two days after his return where he called a press conference and thanked members of the public for the prayers and support that helped him recover from a severe infection.

He however, did not specify what the infection was.

During an interview with the Samoa Observer last week, he was asked if the Human Rights Protection Party had a Plan B if he should decide to step down as Prime Minister.

Nothing is impossible with God.

There is a plan B, said the Prime Minister.

Plan B comes from God.

There is nothing to worry about, God oversees everything and he will send a sacrificial lamb for the offering.

When God is involved there is a Plan B, Plan C and a Plan D, he said smiling.

Last month, the Prime Minister was flown to New Zealand for medical checkup early this month.

I am one 100 per cent healthy, he said during a press conference at his office last week.

According to Tuilaepa, he was not aware of the challenges associated with his health until local physicians told him.

I want to thank the Samoans here and in New Zealand who stopped by for a visit, although some were not allowed in, but it was comforting to be healed by Gods healing hands, due to the many prayers by our people who prayed for my speedy recovery.
Families of the Congregational Christian Church at Etena-Fou, Sagafili based in New Zealand, presented a donation of 70,000 tala to the church yesterday.

The money was raised through fundraising in the past two weeks to help the Etena-Fou Church build a new hall.

Sons of Sagafili in New Zealand including Chairman, Papalii Laumaopo TaoaI; Secretary, Mulipola Iosefa Alo Taualeoo and Treasurer, Mulipola Anelusi Mila presented the money to the church.

Papalii believes wherever they go they always want to open up a window to help the village and the church that they grew up in.

This is why we came all the way from New Zealand to present this money to our church, and to let you know that well never forget you, Papalii said.

Its not just Sagafilis children who have donated the money, but it includes the whole of Samoa who are willing to help out with whatever amount they can, to assist in Gods work.

We understand that our church here in Samoa does not have a large congregation and thats why we stepped in to help.

Mulipola also shared similar sentiments.

Here we are today, and we are very happy to present this money to our church, may God continue to tie us all together as one family, Mulipola said.

May he bless us continuously and may each and of us follow in his footsteps establish his kingdom on this earth.

Rev. Simona Perefoti of the C.C.C.S. at Etena Fou, Sagafili thanked the children of the church in New Zealand for their help.

Theres nothing much more to say, but we thank God for all of you who have helped out, especially children of Sagafili in New Zealand.

Thanks for always being there to help, not forgetting so many of those in New Zealand who have contributed as well.
Savaiians in the remote far west end of the big island now have a slice of sweetness in their neighbourhood with Soul of Pasifika opening its operation out of Sal le Pel Variety Store in n Falealupo-uta.

Soul of Pasifika is a business that specialises in artfully made cakes and cupcakes for any special occasion of which there are many in Savaii according to owner /operator Lote Faamausili Scanlan Savelio.

Ms Savelio returned to her roots in Falealupo in July this year after living in Brisbane for the last 30 years. She brought her family with her as well as her enthusiasm and passion for baking which she has quickly turned into a profitable business and given Savaiians something to smile about and celebrate.

Although Lote was born in New Zealand, she was raised till she was five years in Falealupo by her grandparents before returning to her parents in New Zealand and eventually Australia where she lived and raised a family.

During that time she would return to Falealupo every chance she had, making more happy memories which made it harder each time for her to leave. Carrying her love for her home, she opened a small home business she called Soul of Pasifika in Brisbane which allowed her to care for her children at home and take up her passion for baking to supplement their family income.

I always knew one day that we would retire in Samoa. she said. Through watching our kids, I always yearned to give them the same happy memories of a childhood growing up in Samoa where life is more about the importance of aiga, being outdoors, simple living, less technology and helping and serving others.

Her husband and two young children finally decided to heed that calling and made the move to Samoa in July of this year to better support their families and help take care of her grandmother who turned 90 years old in the same month. This was perfect timing for Lote to honour her grandmother by doing what she does best,

I had the honour of baking my grandmothers 90th birthday cake. I baked her 9 cakes, one for each decade.

My husband is also assisting his family in Fasitoo Uta building a family home so we feel like we are serving and supporting our families which will always be one of the most important roles we have as Samoans.

Leaving behind her business in Brisbane was a bittersweet move as she had built up a large, loyal customer base there but she was also excited at the prospect of moving home and finding new customers.

The locals in Falealupo were very welcoming of having a local cake maker and the word quickly spread around to the surrounding villages about Lotes services.

Hoteliers in Savaii also came calling for Lote, seeking her baked goods for their special events. One in recent times was the Pinktober high tea fundraiser at Amoa resort held last month.

In addition, thanks to social media, the word also spread around in Brisbane and Melbourne that Lote had relocated Soul of Pasifika to Falealupo which only increased her sphere of influence and potential for business.

 I have truly missed leaving behind my amazing customers in Brisbane though I always enjoy making new ones and what better place than Samoa.

Because Im baking, Im doing something Im passionate about so it makes the transition easier. Im loving the ability to provide a service to not only my beautiful village of Falealupo, but also the surrounding villages too.

 When I moved to Savaii, I was surprised to receive requests from my customers in Brisbane, asking if they could order for their families in Savaii. I also have customers from areas in Australia, New Zealand and Upolu who are ordering on behalf of their families.

While Lotes presence has created quite a buzz in Savaii with her skills of producing delicious and beautiful looking desserts, her primary focus in her business venture since the beginning was to provid affordable and high quality baking goods to everyday families especially those on budgets,

Im more humbled that Im therefore able to give back for families who may have otherwise not have been able to afford cakes and cupcakes for special occasions such as White Sunday held earlier this month.

Its common to hear that what is good for Upolu, is good for Savaii but in this case - what is good for Lotes soul is also good for Savaii and her return home to her beloved Falealupo has had a positive flow on effect for her family and local community,

My return to Falealupo has not only been a blessing for my soul, it has reminded me of whats most important in life and the ability to live simply. My priority in Falealupo will always be assisting my family to care for my grandma as my grandfather passed away in 2002. Helping out at my auntys shop, supporting my family and the ability to earn a living doing what I love, is good enough for me. You appreciate the simpler things in village life including the environment, spending time with family and appreciating and making do with what you have.
Salaries in Samoa nowadays do not cover the expensive cost of living.

And Tupe Leiataua, 26, from the village of Siusega is calling on the government of Samoa to step in and help address this problem.

Speaking with Village Voice team last week, Mr. Leiataua said his wages are not enough to cater for all his familys needs.

I am currently working at the Blacknose Bar in Tuanaimato and the salary we earn cannot cater for the expensive cost of living we have here in Samoa.

Mr. Leiataua said expensive cost of living also resulted in social upheaval in Samoa.

The high cost of living results in the increasing crime rate we have in Samoa because people are just doing anything they can to earn money even if its illegal, he said.

It also results in street vendors especially young kids, selling goods late at night around the clubs.

Not everyone can afford this kind of life now.

It is very sad knowing that we are working so hard down here, while other people are just drinking from our pain, he said.

As to how others manage who do not have a job at all, is beyond his comprehension.

Others asked for their comments agreed.

No, we are not starving, said another man who preferred not to be named, but not being able to provide for your familys other needs which require a regular wage, is not a good feeling.

There are so many of us who are unemployed and there are simply not enough jobs to go around.

The government has committees and meetings about other less important things than this so why dont they have committees and meetings on unemployment?

Were not asking for a handout, we want jobs.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  New Zealand's prime minister on Friday repeated her country's offer to take up to 150 refugees from an Australian immigration camp in Papua New Guinea, where more than 600 weakened men are continuing a standoff with authorities.

Jacinda Ardern said she would personally restate the offer to Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull when they meet on Sunday in Sydney. New Zealand has made the offer before but Australia has declined on the grounds it could allow the refugees access to Australia.

Iranian Behrouz Boochani, who is living in the camp on Manus Island, said the refugees are starving and are without medical treatment after their camp was declared closed Tuesday based on a Papua New Guinea court ruling. However, the refugees fear for their safety from locals and have refused to leave. The facility has been left unguarded, without power and with limited toilet facilities.

In a series of tweets, Boochani described deplorable conditions, saying the refugees had resorted to digging holes to try to find water to drink.

"At the moment hundreds of naked men are lying around me," Boochani wrote. "They are starving and their bodies are getting weak."

Boochani said the New Zealand offer was "our best chance."

"Australia blocking but has no right to say no," he wrote on Twitter. "You can't keep political hostages."

Ardern said in a statement the offer would be covered by New Zealand's existing refugee quota and applied to offshore refugees on both Manus Island and the tiny Pacific island nation of Nauru.

"I acknowledge that, while New Zealand has not had to contend with these issues on our shores, it's hard to ignore the human face of this situation and nor should it be ignored," Ardern wrote.

New Zealand citizens are typically allowed to work and live in Australia, a pathway that Australia fears could be used by the refugees to move to Australia.

For four years, Australia has paid Papua New Guinea, its nearest neighbor, and Nauru to house asylum seekers who attempt to reach the Australian coast by boat. They are Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar, Afghans, Iranians, Sri Lankans and other nationalities.

Australia has recognized that many of the asylum seekers are refugees who cannot return to their homelands, but it refuses to resettle anyone who tries to reach the country by boat in a policy it credits with dissuading such dangerous ocean crossings.
Our reporter asked members of the public if they were aware of the Tui Samoa Cable which recently reached our shores. According to the Government of Samoa website, Samoas new Tui-Samoa Cable will span more than 1,470 km, connecting Samoa to Fiji with branching units to Wallis & Futuna and Vanua Levu, Fiji, enhancing fast, reliable and affordable internet services across the region. We also asked people why it is important and what it means to the people in Samoa.

Alfred Mosile, Vaoala.

I am not aware of the Tui Samoa Cable but I know one thing, we need the internet. That way I am able to communicate with my loved ones overseas. Even though I cannot see them but it feels like they are living close by because you get to know everything that they are doing and you also get to see them. You can use Facebook to video call and send them messages too.

Koneferenisi Talatau 54, Iva Savaii

Tui Samoa Cable is important for many reasons. In my own opinion nowadays we rely on the internet to communicate with our relatives overseas. I support the Tui Samoa Cable and I am happy that we have taken a step further in terms of development and teamed up with other Pacific Islands. No development is built by walking backwards, we must always walk ahead.

Kaiona Lam Ah Ching 43, Satuimalelufilufi

When I think of the Tui Samoa Cable I think of the word internet. Having internet is very important; it makes communication much easier. I may not know how to operate all these new apps that we have on our phones but my wife is really good at it. She shows me how everything online is operated. The biggest advantage of this cable here in Samoa, in my own opinion, is that I will be able to communicate with my friends and families overseas.

Ugapo Usoalii, 50, Lepea

The Tui Samoa Cable shows that our country is slowly developing. I am happy and I do support the government on this initiative because it will benefit the people of Samoa. Back in the days we always write letters to communicate with each other and it usually takes a while before it reaches its destination. Technology has a huge impact on Samoa. It is also important because it helps our children in terms of their education; it makes it easier for our children to do their school work.

Vavao Seleni, 20, Vaitele Fou

I think the Tui Samoa Cable is important. For me as a tertiary student, we have many assignments so I tend to rely a lot on the internet. It gives me helpful information that has to do with my school work. Having the Tui Samoa cable saves a lot of time and not only that, it gives me the opportunity to keep in contact with my friends who have left the country to study or work overseas. In this world that we now live in, technology is what makes everything in life easier and I know that it is the same idea behind the Tui Samoa Cable.
CITY COUNCILS

CARLSBAD

The Carlsbad City Council will meet in closed special session for labor negotiations at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in council chambers at 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive. In regular session at 6 p.m., the council will consider a request to authorize a request for proposals to lease the Dove Library Cafe. The council will adopt on second reading an ordinance changing zoning requirements to allow auto repair within the P-M Planned Industrial Zone with a minor conditional use permit. The council will also discuss the 2018-2019 Community Development Block Grant Program funding plan.

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The city of Carlsbad is hosting an open house from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Faraday Center, 1635 Faraday Ave., to share updated designs for a project to improve safety, traffic flow and the coastal experience around Cannon Road and Carlsbad Boulevard, known as the Terramar neighborhood. The city has been working with the community for years on the Terramar Area Coastal Improvement Project to address safety, parking and traffic concerns and to enhance the blufftop area across from the Power Plant.

DEL MAR

The Del Mar City Council will meet in special closed session at 2:30 p.m. Monday in council chambers, 2010 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Suite 100, to discuss litigation, the city managers evaluation, and property negotiation. In open session at 4 p.m., the council will consider setting a forbearance period to temporarily delay enforcement against existing, non-conforming short-term rentals in certain cases. At 6 p.m., the council will also discuss design guidelines for single-family, multi-family and commercial development within the city.

Del Mars Sustainability Advisory Board hosts an information session from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Powerhouse Community Center, 1658 Coast Blvd., on Community Choice Energy. Erika Morgan, executive director of the San Diego Energy District, and Sachu Constantine, policy director of the Center for Sustainable Energy, will speak. Question and answer session follows, plus panel discussion. Call (858) 755-9313 or cbrown@delmar.ca.us.

ENCINITAS

The Encinitas City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday in council chambers, 505 S. Vulcan Ave., for a public hearing on proposed district maps and sequence of elections.

A proposal for new public art in Encinitas has been evaluated and approved by the citys Commission for the Arts. Public input is requested in a survey at https://www.encinitasca.gov/artvote. Results will be included in a report to the City Council for their consideration to accept or decline the proposal. Deadline is Tuesday.

POWAY

The Poway City Council will meet in special closed session at 6 p.m. Tuesday in council chambers, 13325 Civic Center Drive, to discuss property negotiations. In regular session at 7 p.m., the council will consider hiring Rutan & Tucker LLP to provide legal representation in the federal litigation filed regarding the California Voting Rights Act. The council will also hear a report on the end of fiscal year 2016-17, and will discuss zoning designations for single-family attached homes.

SOLANA BEACH

The Solana Beach City Council is scheduled to meet in closed session to discuss litigation and personnel at 5 p.m. Wednesday in City Council Chambers, 635 S. Highway 101. In regular session at 6 p.m., the council will hold a hearing on a proposed ordinance setting a minimum average workspace of at least 125 square feet per employee working in a business space.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS

BONSALL

The Bonsall Unified School District board is scheduled to meet at 5 p.m. Thursday at the Bonsall Community Center, 31505 Old River Road.

CARDIFF

The Cardiff School District board is scheduled to meet at 5 p.m. Thursday in the district auditorium at 1888 Montgomery Ave.

FALLBROOK

The Fallbrook Union Elementary School District board will hold a reception for its newly tenured teachers at 5 p.m. Monday in Room 106 of the district office, 321 N. Iowa St. In regular session at 6 p.m., the board will hear a report on the LCAP Dashboard Local Indicators, and will set its annual organizational meeting for Dec. 11. A closed session to discuss litigation and personnel will follow.

POWAY

The Poway Unified School District board is scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. Thursday at the district office, 15250 Avenue of Science, San Diego, for another hearing on the move to the by-district election process.

SOLANA BEACH

The Solana Beach School District Board of Education will hold a special closed meeting to discuss labor negotiations at 4 p.m. Tuesday in the district office, 309 N. Rios Ave. The district will also meet in closed session at 5:30 p.m. Thursday to discuss labor negotiations. In open session at 6:30 p.m., the board will consider contracts for various services to students and the district, and will hear an update on the California School Dashboard and on its capital improvement projects.

VALLEY CENTER-PAUMA

The Valley Center-Pauma Unified School District board will meet in closed session to discuss personnel, student discipline and litigation at 5 p.m. Thursday at the district office, 28751 Cole Grade Road. In regular session at 6 p.m., the board will hear an update on its Language Arts Pilot Timeline. The board will also hear the results of a parent/guardian survey of Indian children and a review of the education of children living on Indian lands in the district.

laura.groch@sduniontribune.com
By PTI: By Shirish B Pradhan

Kathmandu, Nov 5 (PTI) Scientists from various nations, including India, Pakistan and the US, would gather in Nepal to discuss ways to promote the economic and food value of buffalo.

The faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries of the Agriculture and Forestry University at Chitawan is organising the four-day long symposium "Increase in buffalo production for food and economic growth" from November 15, an official told a press conference today.

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The meet, being held for the first time in Nepal, is being organised in collaboration with the Government of Nepal, the Ministry of Livestock Development, Department of Livestock Service, Nepal Agriculture Research Council and Michigan State University, US.

Scientists from Nepal, India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand and the US would present 90 different working papers on various aspects of commercial rearing of buffalo. PTI SBP SMJ SMJ

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The La Jolla Symphony & Chorus launched its 63rd season  and its 50th year of affiliation with UC San Diegos Music Department  Saturday evening in Mandeville Auditorium. Thoughtful juxtapositions of old and new brought out surprising freshness in music we think we know well, and the unexpected ways in which new music often transports us not forward but backward.

Thats a long-winded way of saying that you are not likely to hear a program like this anywhere but in the hands of this band of dedicated volunteers, led by master percussionist-cum-conductor and music director Steven Schick.

This seasons concerts  six programs in 13 performances between now and June  are loosely grouped under a one-word theme: vectors. Websters old Second Edition New International says that a vector is a bearer or carrier; in math, vector analysis is the study of changes in space and time as we move from one point to another.

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Two musical points by a singular American genius anchored the concerts beginning and end: George Gershwins An American in Paris and Rhapsody in Blue, both composed in the 1920s and both so deeply embedded in our psyches by now that it is a wonder we can really hear them at all.

UCSD music professor Cecil Lytle was the piano soloist in the Rhapsody, imbuing it with two things that rescued it from tedium: crispness of articulation lavished on details that seemed  even to this listener of 60 years  brand new; and spring-loaded rhythmic elasticity that kept it air-borne from start to finish.

Schick commissioned three new works for this concert from Asher Tobin Chodos, a music composition/musicology doctoral candidate at UCSD whose background is a study in unexpected vectors: He holds a Columbia degree in classical languages and literature and is writing his dissertation on automated music recommendation. His Concertino for Two Pianos and Orchestra received its world premiere, with Lytle and the composer as soloists, playing parts that are both notated and improvised.

Chodos is one of a new generation of American composers who dont see musics past as something to be evaded, dismissed or even transcended. In a program note, Schick warned us about taking omnipresent masterpieces (like Gershwins) for granted.

But Chodos sees it differently, I think: He takes everything  and nothing  for granted. All music, from every period and place, is his heritage and he can acknowledge, quote, parody, transform it, producing not a pastiche, but a dialogue  as he did in two other commissioned works, re-thinkings of the Ellington classics Mood Indigo and Solitude.

Chodos terms them translations that open the music to the present to reveal aspects that an earlier form had ignored or did not see. Lytle was the honey-toned soloist in both, and the orchestra produced veils of sound that were often silky and rough simultaneously.

At the evenings midpoint, trumpeter Stephanie Richards and oboist Carol Rothrock joined the orchestra for Aaron Coplands Quiet City. Urban alienation has never been imagined so vividly, and the orchestras string sections shimmered with its aching urgency.

The evening opened with the announcement that the symphonys fund-raising efforts have met and exceeded its $1.5 million endowment fund goal. If that means that this kind of insightful music-making is here to stay for at least another 50 years, we are all beneficiaries of their hard work. Bravi tutti!

Overton is a freelance writer.
Four actors are working their way through a tense scene in rehearsals for the play Falling when an unscripted visitor comes loping through the action.

Its a small dog named Ireland, whose apparent attempt at a walk-on part barely fazes the admirably focused cast of the InnerMission Productions show.

Making do with the unexpected and the improvised can be a way of life for a small theater troupe like InnerMission: Falling was being rehearsed in the living room of an arts patron (and Irelands owner) in Mission Hills.

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Unpredictable events also have a way of crashing through the lives of the people depicted in Falling, the Deanna Jent drama that opens at the Diversionary Black Box space in University Heights this week.

The play documents the struggles and humble victories of a family with a teen-age son named Josh, who is profoundly autistic.

Jent was inspired to write the piece in part because of her own familys real-life experiences in raising son Andy, who likewise has autism.

But while Falling depicts the challenges the family encounters with Josh  his rigid adherence to schedules and rituals, his outbursts of aggression  Jent emphasizes in a script note that the play is less about his condition than about an aspect of the human condition.

Ultimately, she writes, this is not a play about autism, but about Loving Someone who is Hard to Love.

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As director Samantha Ginn observes the rehearsal and works with the actors, she drops in terms such as regulate  used to describe how those on the autism spectrum seek what can be an elusive sensory and emotional equilibrium.

Ginn knows this territory: Shes a former special-needs preschool teacher whose current projects include an improv program called Monday Night Live!, geared to young people with disabilities.

Shes also an actor who, as it happens, once played a dog named Sylvia in the play of the same name at New Village Arts Theatre. (Perhaps Ireland sensed a kindred soul.)

Part of her rehearsal technique is to have the actors run once through just the physical aspects of a scene, without speaking the lines. The idea is to get the characters motions in their bones.

Watching it is like witnessing an elaborate and entertaining but at times puzzling pantomime.

The idea seems especially fitting for Falling, because nonverbal communication can be a critically important tool for those on the autism spectrum.

In my own family home, we use extensive visual supports  including whiteboards, an iPad and picture-enhanced social stories  to help interact with our autistic teen-age son, who is partially verbal but has difficulty with complex sentences and conversations.

Frustrations nevertheless can mount when he cant articulate his needs in a way we can understand.

How such realities of life with autism are (or are not) communicated to the outside world is a subject that was much on Jents mind when she wrote Falling.

As with other challenging disorders and conditions, there can be a tendency in pop culture to spotlight miracles or special gifts among the affected.

Those certainly can exist in autism, but not every person on the spectrum is a highly verbal math whiz like Christopher in the novel and Broadway play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.

Jent felt that not all of the stories were being represented, she says in a phone interview from St. Louis, where she is head of the theater department at Fontbonne University.

Specifically, this story wasnt out there  meaning that of Josh, which draws on her familys experiences with son Andy.

The short answer to why she wrote the play: I never knew what to say when people would ask, How was your day?

As Falling has been staged around the country and world since its 2011 premiere, Jent has found that not only people with autism in their own families, but those who have confronted a range of other issues, have recognized themselves in it.

Jent remembers one pair of sisters in particular whom she spoke with after a post-show talkback (a practice InnerMission also plans to implement).

One of them said, We just want to know, how did you know thats how we were feeling?, she recalls.

But thats the thing good storytelling and good theater can do, where suddenly you feel that youre not alone, says Jent. That someone else is feeling that thing that you felt.

Jent acknowledges she also has received a little pushback  not from people whove seen the play, but whove read reviews of the play  who basically said, Youre going to make people afraid of people with autism. Like, You cant tell this story because thats what people are going to think everyone with autism is like.

And I hear that fear and I understand that. But at the same time I can say, This is not the only story.

If this were the only story out there, that might be true. But this is not the only narrative out there.

Jent recalls that while she was writing Falling, she also was directing a production of the play My Name is Asher Lev, based on the Chaim Potok novel.

Its a story of a Hasidic Jewish boy who has an artistic talent, but thats not valued in his community, as Jent explains. His rabbi ends up sending him to a secular Jew for painting lessons. And one of the things this painting teacher keeps saying to him is: As an artist you have to tell the truth. Everything else is propaganda.

Since Joshs story first hit the stage six years ago, there have been some dramatic changes in Jents family.

Last February, her husband Stephen  a teacher and the inspiration for the character of the devoted dad Bill in the play  died of a heart attack at 57.

Besides grappling with her own grief, Jent had to figure out how to impart the news to Andy. A big part of that was explaining that his father would no longer be the one taking him for a burger or a trip to the store on the weekend.

For him, as Jent explains, Dad was Sunday morning.

But Andy is doing great, Jent adds. Now in his early 20s, hes living with two roommates who are also on the spectrum, in a residential arrangement that grew out of a day program founded by two behavioral analysts whom Jent describes as his angels.

It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears, she says. But hes been there a little over a year now. He loves it  theyre respected and well cared for.

The title of Falling, its important to note, has meaning beyond a sense of struggle or distress; it also refers to the delicate feathers that give Josh pure, endless delight as he spills them from a box and watches them waft toward the floor.

His family shares in that joy. And its a reminder that sometimes the most unlikely gifts can also be the most profound.

EDITORS NOTE

This is the latest in an occasional series on how theater is exploring autism and connecting with people on the spectrum. The series has offered a behind-the-scenes view of InnerMission Productions Falling  a play with a young autistic man at its center  as it progressed from first auditions to the shows opening this month. U-T theater critic James Hebert, who has a child with autism, also has been taking a broader look at other theater programs and resources for those with special needs and their families.

Falling

When: Previews begin Friday. Opens Saturday. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays (no performance Nov. 23); plus 4 p.m. Nov. 13 (industry night). Through Nov. 25.

Where: Diversionary Theatres Black Box, 4545 Park Blvd., University Heights.

Tickets: $25 (discounts available)

Phone: (619) 324-8970

Online: innermissionproductions.org

Milestone moment

A recent joint production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time in Indiana and Syracuse, N.Y., was the first staging of the play to star an actor on the autism spectrum.

jim.hebert@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @jimhebert
Maggie Espinosas best guess is that her wanderlust may have started while living in London, England, as a child. At 40, she switched gears in her career from marketing to travel writing because while working in the marketing field, I was always planning my next vacation. Shes spent the subsequent years traveling all over and guiding her readers along the way, but one of her more recent travel projects kept her in California: an 800-mile journey to visit all of the missions in the state.

Im from Pennsylvania, home of the founding fathers, Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Growing up, we learned about our local history, she says. California is a young state, in comparison. When I moved here, I hadnt heard about the missions. Walking to these historic landmarks was a good way to learn about their history.

Espinosa, 57, has been visiting libraries and other locations to talk about her journey and her book, On a Mission: An 800-mile Walk to Discover Californias El Camino Real. She took some time to talk about her overall love of traveling, what her journey to the missions was like, and her next talk at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 15 at REI Encinitas (1590 Leucadia Blvd., Encinitas).

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Q: Tell us about your 800-mile walk and the subsequent book, On A Mission.

A: I read an article in a magazine about a retired school teacher from Oregon who walked to Californias 21 missions and I thought, Bingo, heres a great way to learn the history of my adopted state. I started the walk on Nov. 15, 2013, with a pilgrims blessing from the priest at Mission San Diego de Alcala. The trek was 49 total walking days, and I divided my walking into 10 months, taking four days each month to cover approximately 80 miles (with Amtrak as my chauffeur to and fro). I sent an e-mail inviting friends and family to join me on any segment of the excursion and a surprising number of them said yes.

A longtime buddy signed up for the first leg north to Mission San Juan Capistrano. During the exhausting 20-plus-mile days, life stories were regaled, jaw-dropping sunsets witnessed and thousands of laughs shared. This was the blueprint each month. My fellow pilgrims were from all walks of life, ages, professions and religious beliefs  a flight attendant, a medical writer, an architect, a Franciscan Friar, a symphony bass player, a pet groomer  all brought together by Californias royal road. Along the way, my companions and I expected sore bodies and pep talks when fatigue commandeered our fervor. What we didnt expect was the kindness of strangers. The California Mission Walkers (CMW), a group of El Camino Real enthusiasts, followed my escapades on Facebook. Having never met any members, I was astonished when affiliates asked to walk with me, and with nothing more than an email to acquaint us, graciously provided guest rooms and meals to my cadre.

Q: What kinds of expectations did you have when you started this 800-mile journey?

A: I try not to have expectations when I embark on any trip or endeavor, but I knew Id be tired.

Q: Were those expectations met?

A: Yes! It was so much more grueling than I expected.

What I love about Encinitas ...

I love the little center of town. Its boutique shops and restaurants have maintained a small town feel.

Q: Last year, the state department of education said the fourth grade tradition of building mission replicas didnt help students understand the period in which those missions were built; that missions were sites of conflict and forced labor. In your journey, did you find that the sites of the California missions included that part of their history?

A: The people who run the missions are amazingly dedicated to the history of the buildings. Each mission has a museum depicting life there from conception of the edifice moving forward. The docents dont shy away from the facts; they let visitors view the artifacts and make their own judgments. When Junipero Serra, the founder of the mission project, was canonized in 2015, a newscaster addressed the subject of conflict and forced labor. She said modern-day people were viewing the mission events of the 1700s with 21st-century eyes. The missions parishes make sure both sides of this issue are addressed.

Q: What can people expect at your talk on Nov. 15?

A: Coincidentally, my presentation is four years to the date from when I began my walk. Ive made a video of the trek, which I will show while regaling the audience with stories from the trail.

Q: In your other travel writing, what are you looking for when you choose a destination?

A: I dont visit a place twice. It helps for me to see a destination with fresh eyes. I like to visit a variety of destinations, not only cities or only beaches or only Europe. Each type of location is appealing.

Q: What do you make sure you do when visiting these locations?

A: I ask locals what they suggest I see while in their town/city/country. Many times this takes me to unknown sites. I also like to stay in local residents homes. Recently, in Cuba, I stayed with numerous lovely families while touring the country; I learned how the people live. In Guatemala, I rented a room from a single woman. The gracious hospitality in both countries was endearing. These visits made me realize that in any country around the world, were more alike than different.

Q: When you sit down to write about a location, what is your goal? What do you want to communicate?

A: I want to take my reader along with me. Instead of only writing about tourist attractions, I like to reveal little known tidbits not mentioned in travel guides. Also, I love to shop for my readers when I travel. Because of this, I started Global Personal Shopper on social media and my website (travelwithmaggie.com). When traveling, I search for indigenous items unique to the country and then offer it on Facebook for a period of time. After people send me their orders, I purchase the products. One of my empty suitcases I use for this purpose is filled with the unique finds and I bring them home with me. My followers thoroughly enjoy receiving their goodies.

Q: What was challenging about your work on this project, centered on the missions?

A: The most challenging aspect about the book is that people outside of California arent familiar with the landmarks or their significance in the states history. This lack of knowledge translates into a lack of interest. With a few exceptions, the book has only been purchased mostly by people living in California.

Q: Whats been rewarding about it?

A: The most rewarding part of this entire project has been the generosity of the people I met along my walk. Humanity is good.

Q: What has it taught you about yourself?

A: That I dont want to do it again (smile).

Q: What is the best advice youve ever received?

A: Its a quote attributed to Mark Twain: Twenty years from now, youll be more disappointed by the things you didnt do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find out about you?

A: I dont like to fly.

Q: Describe your ideal San Diego weekend.

A: Hanging out at Coronado Dog Beach with my husband and bichon frise, Marcel. Then going to dinner at one of San Diegos great restaurants.

Email: lisa.deaderick@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @lisadeaderick
Californias legal marijuana marketplace is coming with a kaleidoscope of new taxes and fees that could influence where its grown, how pot cookies and other munchies are produced and the price tag on just about everything.

Be ready for sticker shock.

RELATED: Will high taxes allow black market in pot to thrive?

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On a retail level, it costs about $35 to buy a small bag of good quality medical marijuana in Los Angeles, enough to roll five or six joints.

(Brennan Linsley / Associated Press )

But in 2018, when recreational sales take hold and additional taxes kick in, the cost of that same purchase in the new market is expected to increase at the retail counter to $50 or $60.

At the high end, thats about a 70% jump.

RELATED: Veteran pot growers see the end of a way of life

Medical pot purchases are expected to rise in cost too, but not as steeply, industry experts say.

Or consider cannabis leaves, a sort of bottom-shelf product that comes from trimming prized plant buds. The loose, snipped leaves are typically gathered up and processed for use in cannabis-laced foods, ointments, concentrates and candies.

Growers sell a trash bag stuffed with clippings to manufacturers for about $50. But come January, the state will tax those leaves at $44 a pound.

That means the tax payment on a bag holding 7 or 8 pounds would exceed the current market price by five or six times, forcing a huge price hike or, more likely, rendering it essentially valueless.

All it would become is compost, predicted Ryan Jennemann of THC Design in Los Angeles, whose company has used the leaves to manufacture concentrated oils.

Governments struggling to keep up with the cost of everything from worker pensions to paving streets are eager for the cascade of new tax money from commercial pot sales that could eventually top $1 billion statewide.

But higher taxes for businesses and consumers give the states thriving illicit market a built-in advantage. Operators in the legal market have been urging regulators to be aggressive about shutting down rogue operators.

Donnie Anderson, a Los Angeles medical cultivator and retailer, predicted the higher level of state taxation next year is just going to help the illicit market thrive. He said more needs to be done to cut the cost, especially for medical users, many of whom wont be able to absorb a price jump.

The increased tax rates are just one part of Californias sprawling plan to transform its long-standing medical and illegal markets into a multibillion-dollar regulated economy, the nations largest legal pot shop. The reshaping of such an expansive illegal economy into a legal one hasnt been witnessed since the end of Prohibition in 1933.

The change has come haltingly. Many cities are unlikely to be ready by Jan. 1 to issue business licenses, which are needed to operate in the new market, while big gaps remain in the system intended to move cannabis from the field to distribution centers, then to testing labs and eventually retail shops.

The path to legalization began last year when voters approved Proposition 64, which opened the way for recreational pot sales to adults. Medical marijuana has been legal in California for about two decades.

Come January, state taxes will include a 15% levy on purchases of all cannabis and cannabis products, including medical pot.

Local governments are free to slap on taxes on sales and growing too, and that has created a confusing patchwork of rates that vary city to city, county to county.

In the agricultural hub of Salinas, southeast of San Francisco, voters approved a tax that will eventually rise to $25 a square foot for space used to cultivate the leafy plants, a rate thats equivalent to about $1 million an acre.

But farther north, in the pot-growing mecca of Humboldt County, rates will be a comparative bargain, ranging from $1 to $3 for a square foot for cultivation space.

By some estimates Humboldt County has up to 15,000 unregulated pot grows, and Supervisor Ryan Sundberg said he was eager to fashion a tax scheme that would encourage cultivators to come into the legal system and adhere to environmental regulations.
A disbarred Rancho Santa Fe attorney on probation for a San Diego-based fraud scheme was found guilty by a Brooklyn, N.Y., jury Friday of conspiring to fly a private plane loaded with more than 3,000 pounds of cocaine.

Todd Macaluso, an experienced pilot, was arrested last November in Haiti along with two other men as the smuggling flight was in the final planning stages. The plane was to pick up cocaine in Ecuador then unload in Honduras, according to the complaint filed in New York federal court.

Macaluso has maintained his innocence, saying that he believed the chartered flight was to explore a real estate venture, and has accused the government of misconduct.

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Macaluso gained prominence earlier in his career for his high-award verdicts, as well as for his famous  or infamous  clients. He was part of the defense team of Casey Anthony, the young Florida mother charged with killing her toddler daughter in 2011. Anthony was acquitted, and news reports speculated that one of Macalusos private planes secretly shuttled her from Orlando and into hiding when she was released from jail.

He also claimed in a letter to a judge to have flown the Kardashian family around for years.

In 2015 he was sent to prison by a San Diego federal judge for five months after he forged client signatures that would give investors a claim over a portion of the winnings in his clients personal injury cases.

After being released from prison, his financial woes prompted him to file for bankruptcy. He reported between $10 million and $50 million in liabilities, according to court records. Even if his bankruptcy is granted, he would still owe $1.2 million that could not be erased, including unpaid taxes, court-ordered restitution and a fine, prosecutors argued in a motion.

He was being supervised by a probation officer and working as a pilot, shuttling wealthy clients to a Mexican resort where he owns property, when he was contacted by the traffickers, according to court documents filed by prosecutors.

His probation officer had approved several Mexican flights  with the required two weeks notice  but did not immediately reply when Macaluso asked if he could fly to the Dominican Republic on a days notice. On Nov. 10, 2016, he traveled to Tijuana without permission, then the next day to San Diego, and later to Orlando and Port-au-Prince, Haiti. (Prosecutors say the traffickers mistakenly thought Port-au-Prince was in the Dominican Republic.)

Macaluso had been selected for the drug flight only after another plane, a Gulfstream II in Florida, was unable to leave the U.S. Investigators from the New York Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said in court documents that U.S. planes are desired for such work because traffickers think they attract less attention.

In a motion filed before trial, prosecutors said Macaluso had met with the co-conspirators in Tijuana beginning in June 2016, months earlier. Prosecutors said Macaluso was introduced to Humberto Mateo Osuna Contreras and other drug dealers at the meeting by an unnamed employee of San Diego attorney John Kirby, who had partnered with Macaluso in the Mexican aviation business, according to the court documents.

Kirby represented Macaluso in his fraud case.

 Todd Macaluso, one of several defense attorneys representing Casey Anthony, has been arrested on charges of trying to smuggle cocaine.

On Nov. 13, 2016, a co-conspirator was recorded by law enforcement as saying a crew member, Mateo, would be going along for the ride to represent investors who were to buy a portion of the cocaine, according to the complaint.

Flight records show the two men flew to Haiti the same day. In another recorded conversation the following day, co-conspirator Carlos Almonte Vasquez said the chauffeur would be arriving and that the captain knew everything but the co-pilot did not, according to the complaint.

Once in Haiti, Macaluso, Osuna and Almonte met to finalize the plans, agreeing on $185,000 payment, most of which would go to Macaluso, the complaint says. Macaluso explained the structure of the jet and confirmed, in Spanish, it could hold 1,500 kilos, documents state. Macaluso claims the conversation was not about drugs.

Prosecutors said the plan was to pick up the cocaine in South America and then drop it off in Central America  a common tactic used by smugglers to get the drugs closer to Mexico, where they can then be smuggled by land into the United States.

Haitian law enforcement arrested the men after the meeting. The trio was flown back to New York to face international drug distribution conspiracy charges.

Macaluso maintains his cellphone, which was seized upon his arrest in Haiti, holds evidence proving his innocence, but the phone went missing.

Osuna and Almonte pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge in September, leaving Macaluso to face trial alone beginning Oct. 30.

The jury deliberated for about an hour Friday before convicting him, according to the New York Daily News. His lawyer, Michael Gold, told the newspaper: Mr. Macaluso was disappointed with the verdict but looks forward to being vindicated in future proceedings.

kristina.davis@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @kristinadavis
Sunlight shimmered though tree branches Tuesday afternoon, dappling a shady homeless camp along the San Diego River in the midst of uprooting.

Deep in the Mission Valley Preserve, Mike McCraken gathered up his possessions, preparing to move his four-month-old camp.

Along with tents, folding chairs and bikes, the area, inhabited by about a dozen people, was covered in dirty clothes and trash, including an overflowing garbage can and a bucket used for defecating.

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A frown made its way across the 62-year-olds tanned, creased face as he held up a pink special notice from the city. McCraken said a park ranger had posted it at his camp two days before, given him and his friends 72 hours to vacate or have their belongs confiscated.

You move, and then theyll come and tag your tent again, he said. I asked (a police officer) for advice about where I should go since Im homeless and stuff, and he said, out of sight, out of mind.

City officials have recently turned their attention to the San Diego River amid the ongoing hepatitis A outbreak that has killed 20 people and afflicted 536.

County health official have said the contagious liver disease is being passed from person to person through fecal contamination, and that homeless and illicit drug users have been those primarily impacted.

Following a law enforcement crackdown in September on those living on the streets in the East Village, Mayor Kevin Faulconers office announced efforts to clean up homeless encampments along the river.

City officials said clean-ups have taken place on two dates in locations around the stadium, with more to come. Homeless outreach teams with the San Diego Police Department have also conducted outreach efforts in recent months along the river that included offering hepatitis vaccinations and access to shelter services.

Our crews will continue to make progress cleaning the citys portion of the San Diego Riverbed, said Mario Sierra, director of the environmental services department. Many areas are challenging because of topography, vegetation and access, but we must do what we can to ensure the river is as free from debris and trash as possible.

Late last month, behind a Kaiser Permanente medical office building, a well-entrenched homeless camp of about five tents sat tucked out of sight along the San Diego River.

With them cracking down downtown so bad, were getting over populated down here, said a 27-year-old living on the river who identified himself as Rabbit.

Rabbit pointed out bags of trash piled up around his tent and the colorful mess that is a typical river camp  evidence, he said, that folks have tried to keep the area somewhat tidy.

I know Im sitting here talking about it being clean and there are piles of trash everywhere, but it could be way worse, he said.

It makes no sense trying to move everyone around, he added. All it does it stir the pot.

Its not clear what the recent influx of homelessness on the San Diego River represents other than the perpetual game of Whack-A-Mole the city has been playing for years with its transient population.

However, the San Diego River Park Foundation found that camps along the river nearly doubled in the past year.

The small nonprofit, which is dedicated to restoring the river, counted 116 encampments in October, up from 61 in the same month in 2016. This years total was by far the highest since the group started keeping records nearly a decade ago.

Right now, theres just a Band-Aid on the situation, said Tiffany Swiderski, a staff member with the foundation. It takes more of a coordinated effort and more of a partnership between us and the city and the land managers and all the different stakeholders in the area. You cant just do one thing and walk away from it.

Swiderski and others with the foundation, including a handful of volunteers, were out on Tuesday conducting their weekly assessment of trash along the river. The group surveys the watershed from the ocean all the way to Santee.

Walking along a series of trails behind the YMCA in Mission Valley, foundation employee Benjamin Downing documented the precise location of trash and encampments using GPS.

Ultimately, were hoping to have a system of trails that span from the mountains to the ocean, he said of the foundations long-term vision. As we start to develop this system of trails and open spaces, it will encourage people to use them and the presence of people will mitigate some of the problems.

A homeless woman pulling a cart walked by Downing and the group. The trolley rumbled overhead on elevated tracks. Needles and bottles of oxycodone seemed to be scattered everywhere, as were old clothes, coolers, plastic jars and boxes of dog biscuits.

In response to the hepatitis outbreak, the foundation has scaled back its larger clean-up efforts, but it still conducts weekly abatement activities with staff and a core group of vaccinated volunteers.

Downing will share his data with the Metropolitan Transit System, which owns this particular section of land and routinely conducts its own clean-up activities. The foundation has a cooperative agreement with the agency allowing its members to operate in the area.

Asked whether the river could ever stay clean while people are living on it, Downing looked stumped: I have no idea. Thats a really hard question to answer.

Employees and at least one shopper at the Fashion Valley Mall on the north side of the river said they have seen people who appear to be homeless in parking areas after dark.

Meanwhile, San Diego City Council members Lorie Zapf and David Alvarez on Monday plan to propose using the former San Diego Chargers training facility on Murphy Canyon Road as a temporary housing for the homeless living on the river. In addition to other environmental and safety issues, there is concern about the rising river and flooding of homeless encampments with the rainy season approaching.

Despite all the challenges, the river park foundation has made a significant difference on certain sections of the river, Swiderski said.

A long time ago, Mission Valley Preserve was awful, she said. So much trash, just the stuff of legends. Then over time through a coordinated effort of working on enforcement and cleaning the area up, Mission Valley Preserve overall is looking great now.

Minutes later, she ducked through a tunnel of bushes to find 69-year-old Daniel Potet sleeping on a dirty blanket under a beach umbrella. His small dog barked at her approach and the homeless man, frazzled, slowly pulls on his pants.

Its a common encounter for foundation staff, who said they do their best to make friends with the homeless living on the river.

I travel up and down the river, said Potet, explaining that he found this spot about a week earlier after being chased by police out of a camp under the bridge at Hazard Center Drive.

Asked whether Swiderski thought the river could be permanently cleaned up without kicking out the homeless, she paused and then offered, I dont think so. People have been living in the river bed for a really long time, and its just a complex issue, so I dont know.

Twitter: @jemersmith

Phone: (619) 293-2234

Email: joshua.smith@sduniontribune.com
Homeless and out of work for several years, James Lee Taylor III had been spending Saturday morning with his two young kids at the City Heights library when a staffer suggested he head over to the nearby park where a nonprofit was handing out supplies, clothing and blankets.

He took the advice. With his 9-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter in tow, he was carrying a large blue satchel loaded with two rolled blankets; a hygiene kit filled with shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap and brush; a box of school supplies; and a sweatshirt.

Coming here, I do get a sense there is still hope in this community and people who do care, said Taylor, a single father whose two children live at a friends apartment for which he helps pay rent, while he finds shelter on the streets of City Heights.

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Organized by Somali Family Service of San Diego with the support of the national nonprofit Islamic Relief USA, San Diegos Day of Dignity was one of several similar events that have been held across the country to reach out to the indigent and lower-income households in need of services and the staples of everyday living.

Saturdays afternoon gathering at Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park drew several East African immigrants, as well as others of varying ethnicities, plus homeless individuals. The event was open to anyone who chose to attend.

Lining the periphery of the park were multiple shopping carts stuffed with belongings and small encampments covered with plastic tarps.

Taylor, who had just learned about a computer coding class being offered by the San Diego Futures Foundation, said he planned to follow up and hoped that it might be helpful in finding employment.

Yes, you need a job, his son and daughter quickly chimed in.

Taylor smiled. Well, they can be direct.

On hand for the event were a number of nonprofits, the county Health and Human Services Agency, San Diego Gas & Electric and Walgreens, which offered free flu shots. Attendees could also take advantage of hepatitis A vaccines and medical and dental screenings.

I really think people are reaching out and connecting with these services, said Ahmed Sahid, president of Somali Family Services. A lot of the immigrants face language barriers and it can be difficult for them to navigate services in the community so the idea is to bring the service agencies to them so they can have direct access.

We took a survey and this is the one thing we found that they really needed.

One Ethiopian man, Ahmed Fahr, 26, had been advised by a social service agency to come to Day of Dignity but instead of getting some free supplies for himself, he was picking up school kits for his sister, who has six children.

Madina Maho, 24, resting on a park bench with her young son and daughter, said she heard about the event while she was helping her mother sell produce at the nearby farmers market.

Who doesnt love free stuff, said Maho, who was born in Somalia but came to City Heights in 2004 from Kenya. Her husband, she said, is not currently working and they are living on unemployment while she is attending school at San Diego City College.

It is hard financially, especially because of the housing, she said.

She had heard about the free flu shots that were being offered. But she decided to pass.

I dont like needles.

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lori.weisberg@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-2251

Twitter: @loriweisberg
Gathered in the same place at the same time, several of San Diegos leading experts on combating homelessness were asked the same question:

What needs to be done?

From Amy Gonyeau, chief operating officer at Alpha Project, came an answer that many found surprising:

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Stop giving homeless panhandlers money, she told 380 people gathered for a recent forum at the Balboa Theatre in downtown San Diego. Stop feeding them in parking lots.

Its not helping, she said.

Gonyeau wasnt being cold-hearted. Her non-profit, founded more than 30 years ago, is one of the citys oldest and largest homeless-assistance agencies, with programs that provide housing, drug and alcohol treatment, job training and other services.

Her point was that street handouts, however well-meaning, dont move the homeless toward permanent solutions. They make it easier for them to stay where they are, she said. Better to have them go places where theyll be empowered, not enabled.

With her comments, Gonyeau waded into an ongoing controversy about how best to help the homeless, especially when it comes to food. More than 70 cities across the country have proposed laws limiting street feedings, according to a tally kept by the National Coalition for the Homeless, which opposes the restrictions.

Meals should not come quid pro quo, the Washington D.C.-based advocacy group says on its website. A need so basic must be addressed in any way it can be.

The issue has flared locally in recent weeks. The El Cajon City Council unanimously passed an emergency ordinance last month banning food distribution on city-owned property in response to the outbreak of hepatitis A that has killed 20 people and sickened more than 530 in the county, many of them homeless.

In Pacific Beach, a resident named Matt Phillips has started a petition asking for an end to the free weekly meals given to the homeless by a handful of churches there.

The dinners contribute to the habitual state of the participants homelessness, according to the petition on change.org. It blames meal attendees for bringing crime to the neighborhood.

Bob Rhodes, the pastor at one of the churches, Pacific Beach United Methodist, said its Wednesday gatherings started more than 20 years ago and are open to the community, not just the homeless. Some who come have housing, but are struggling financially, he said. Others attend for the fellowship.

Along with the meals, there are medical clinics and referrals to agencies that help the homeless find housing. What we are really trying to do is provide a comprehensive service, he said.

By late Friday, the petition had attracted almost 480 signatures. And in a sign of just how emotional this issue can be, it had also triggered a second petition on change.org for Phillips to go (bleep) himself.

That one had five signatures.

More visibility

There are dozens of churches and charities that distribute food regularly in the city of San Diego, where, according to a street count last January, almost 62 percent of the countys 9,116 homeless congregate.

Of the 5,619 people counted as homeless in the city, 3,231 of them were unsheltered  sleeping in parks or canyons, on the sidewalk, in their cars.

Thats up from 2,745 in 2016. There was also an increase, 64 percent, in the number of tents and hand-built structures in the city, from 411 in 2016 to 674. (Downtown, the number of structures soared 104 percent, to 418.)

Thats made the homeless more visible to many people, and has helped spur the efforts to feed them. There are programs that hand out burritos on Sunday mornings and others that make enchiladas on Monday nights. Churches that open their fellowship halls to serve spaghetti. Volunteers who walk around downtown and hand out sandwiches. Some homeless people arrange their days and weeks around where they can find food.

For those providing meals, especially churches, helping the poor is part of their calling, part of their mission. As Christians, as people of faith, we find a great deal of inspiration in sacred text, said Rhodes, the pastor in Pacific Beach. Jesus said to his disciples, You feed them, and we take that to heart.

Others see their programs as a hands-on way to give back to the community or to teach young people empathy for the less fortunate.

Even critics of the feedings applaud the underlying compassion. People are doing it with the best of intentions, Gonyeau said at the recent downtown homelessness forum.

But increasingly the focus by government and homeless-assistance agencies is on long-term solutions, not stop-gap measures. Thats why more money is being directed away from temporary housing into an approach known as housing first, which gets people off the street quickly and into apartments and then provides services designed to keep them there: substance-abuse counseling, mental-health care, job training.

Thats why providers like Alpha Project, St. Vincent de Paul, the Salvation Army, the San Diego Housing Commission and others that want federal money for the dozens of programs they operate in the county are graded on how many of their beds are being used, how many nights the homeless are in them, and how many of those helped wind up back on the streets.

And its why theres renewed debate about whether street-feeding programs are effective.

Addressing the causes

Robert Marbut is a consultant in San Antonio, Texas who by his count has helped hundreds of communities and agencies across the country dramatically reduce homelessness. His focus, he said, is on the core conditions behind homelessness, including poor mental- and behavioral-health, domestic violence, and post-traumatic stress in military veterans.

Im all about getting people into 24/7 programs that treat the root causes, he said. Lack of food is not a cause of homelessness. Never has been, never will be.

He encourages churches and other charity groups to align their feeding efforts with agencies that steer the homeless into recovery and rehabilitation. Dont just cook hamburgers on a barbecue in a parking lot, he said. Dont hand out sandwiches in the park. Thats probably the least-productive thing you could do.

But the National Coalition for the Homeless says its a myth that feeding programs enable the homeless to remain homeless. Food-sharing programs often represent the only way some homeless individuals will have access to healthy, safe food on a given day, it said in a 2014 report. Due to illness, disability, or a lack of access to transportation, many rely on food being distributed in areas near them.

The report was the third the group has done since 2007 on street feedings amid a surge in cities around the country proposing laws restricting the meals. Some of the laws banned feedings in public parks. Some required new food-safety permits. Others moved them away from residential neighborhoods.

Problems such as trash, thievery and vandalism were often cited by those backing the laws, but the coalition believes the real goal has often been to push the homeless out of sight.

If cities continue to restrict or ban the compassionate act of food sharing, the coalition report says, homeless individuals physical, mental and emotional health will suffer and deteriorate over time.

While the debate about their value continues, the feedings remain popular with the homeless. As part of the countywide street count last January, volunteers surveyed more than 1,000 people who were unsheltered. They were asked what services they regularly use. Thirty-two percent said they accessed health care; 16 percent used bus passes,; 14 percent, drop-in day centers; 10 percent, emergency shelters.

By far the most commonly used, at 61 percent: Free meals.

john.wilkens@sduniontribune.com
A crisis in ambulance costs is prompting San Diego officials to seek an alternative model where non-emergency patients could take a taxi or Uber to a clinic or urgent care facility and get reimbursed by private insurers, Medicare or Medi-Cal.

The goal is stemming a sharp rise in ambulance costs for the city and patients by discouraging rampant abuse of the 9-1-1 system, where 30 percent of callers dont end up actually needing an ambulance ride to an emergency room.

The citys ambulance operator agreed last week to work with government officials and the insurance industry to explore such an alternative model as part of the citys approval of a 24 percent spike in the cost of an ambulance ride in San Diego.

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RELATED: Ambulance fees could spike in San Diego amid response time concerns

The spike will immediately affect only a small number of patients because many have Medicare or Medi-Cal, or have private insurance where ambulance fees are already higher than their annual deductible.

But some insurers may refuse to pay the higher rates, and industry experts say the spike will eventually prompt insurance companies to increase premiums and deductibles, making health insurance more expensive for everyone.

Thats why an alternative model is needed to stem a 22 percent increase in 9-1-1 calls for ambulances in the last four years in San Diego, said Stewart Gary of Citygate Associates, a consulting firm hired by the city to analyze the issue.

Many non-emergency patients, especially those with lower incomes, would use another form of transportation than an ambulance if their insurer or their government health care provider told them it would be covered, he said.

But private insurers, Medicare and Medical cover ambulance rides only, not trips in a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

The new approach wouldnt eliminate high-frequency abusers of the 9-1-1 system, such as homeless people with health problems that prompt hundreds of calls to 9-1-1 each year from passers-by who see them and want to help.

But Gary said a much larger slice of the increase in ambulance calls are people who arent sure whats wrong with them and dont know what to do about it.

In health care in America today, tragically 9-1-1 emergency medical services is the health care of last, first and only resort for many of your populations, he said.

Anthem Health Insurance recently announced it will start covering such alternative modes of transportation in 2018, a move Gary said he hopes other insurance companies follow.

The citys ambulance provider, American Medical Response, hopes to work with the city, county, private insurers, Medicare and Medi-Cal to copy that approach in San Diego and make the region a model.

Meanwhile, San Diego city officials plan to study the citys call triage process to reduce the number of ambulance trips by better weeding out 9-1-1 calls where an ambulance isnt necessary.

Its going to require going through each one of those determinants and really looking at what type of patient care is going to be required, said Chief Brian Fennessy of the Fire-Rescue Department, adding that changes must be made to the existing system. Its just not sustainable.

Fennessy, Gary and American Medical Response told the City Council last week that the 24 percent spike in ambulance fees  9 percent immediately and 15 percent on Jan. 1  is warranted based on AMR facing increased costs.

San Diegos fees for ambulance responses including advanced life support services such as intubation or chest decompression will climb from $2,154 to $2,671.

Fees for less aggressive instances of advanced life support will climb from $1,933 to $2,396, and fees for basic life support, which might only include an assessment, will rise from $1,631 to $2,022.

The rate increase would push San Diego near the top of communities below state Route 56 for ambulance fees, according to a survey conducted by the city.

But AMR officials said the increase will affect a small number of patients because 27 percent of San Diego ambulance patients in 2017 were covered by Medicare, and 30 percent were covered by Medi-Cal.

Medicare pays a flat rate of $434 for ambulance rides and Medi-Cal only pays $118.

AMR also says that 20 percent of its patients dont pay anything because they have no insurance and cant afford to pay.

And 13.2 percent of patients have commercial insurance, where annual deductibles are typically lower than what the city already charges for an ambulance ride.

But health care industry experts said it would be unwise to conclude those patients wont pay anything long term.

Some insurers might simply refuse to pay the higher fees, Gary said.

An AMR spokeswoman said the company is ready for that.

When they deny coverage or short pay, we work with the patient and appeal to the insurance company, said the spokeswoman, Madeleine Baudoin. Sometimes the insurance company will agree to pay the full charges. If not, the patient will be responsible for the balance.

But she said a more likely scenario is insurance plans increasing premiums and deductibles because of AMRs fee spike, and industry experts agree.

Theres no free lunch in health care, said Kristof Stremikis, head of market analysis for the California Health Care Foundation. Someones got to pay down the line and those health insurance companies are going to recoup those extra charges, probably by raising premiums. Theres no were going to charge the insurance companies and it wont hurt consumers.

While it might seem insurers would risk losing customers by raising premiums and deductibles, Stremikis said thats not necessarily true because patients and employers have limited choices in the market.

In a normal market, when you raise prices people are less likely to purchase the service, he said. But when it comes to health care, the normal rules of markets and consumer behavior dont always hold.

In exchange for raising fees, AMR agreed to let its ambulance contract with the city expire one year early, in 2019.

City officials say they plan to release a request for proposals next summer for a new ambulance contract, either with AMR or another provider.

david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick
These medical camps will be useful to prevent spread of diseases that come up during the monsoon time, said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami.

By PTI: Tamil Nadu government has pressed into service 601 medical teams to cater to people in rain-affected areas in different parts of the state, Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami said today.

Already, 401 medical camps were in place in affected parts of Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Nagapattinam district among others, he said after flagging off an additional 200 medical teams, taking the number to 601.

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"The government has taken special care to press 601 medical teams into service to attend to people affected by the rain," he said.

These medical camps will be useful to prevent spread of diseases that come up during the monsoon time, he said, and urged people to immediately visit the nearest medical camps if they had any symptoms of illness.

Further, systems were in place to check the amount of chlorine in drinking water, he said, and underlined his governments commitment to ensure public health in such times of monsoon.

Northeast monsoon has been active over Tamil Nadu, with Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Nagapattinam and Cuddalore districts receiving torrential rains since last week. Many parts in these districts have suffered from inundation of low-lying areas and waterlogging.

ALSO WATCH: With more rains forecast in Chennai, residents dread repeat of 2015 floods

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It was the late 1980s when novelist Carrie Arcos grew up in Temecula  back when it was still called Rancho California, when horses grazed in a sun-washed field near Winchester Road (now occupied by the Temecula Promenade Mall) and when area roads sported stop signs instead of streetlights.

Today, the Los Angeles resident is author of three books for young adults, including Crazy Messy Beautiful, released earlier this year, There Will Come a Time, in 2014 and Out of Reach, a 2012 National Book Award finalist in young peoples literature.

While some may argue Arcos came of age in a simpler time, the issues she navigates in her stories remain much the same today as they were then: Friendship and romance, relationships within families, depression and suicide, drug and alcohol abuse and, always, identity.

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Q. Your newest book, Crazy Messy Beautiful is written from the perspective of Neruda Diaz, a sixteen-year-old boy with Chilean roots. There Will Come a Time follows Mark, a Filipino teenager. Youre not Filipino, Chilean or male, though you were once a teenager. What made you decide to write from these perspectives?

A. My world is very mixed. My friends and family are from different cultures and backgrounds. My kids are Latino and their friends are Latino, Asian, white, etcthis is my world. So to me, Im just writing a reflection of the space I inhabit living in Los Angeles.

Besides, men have been writing women forever. There hasnt seemed to have been a problem with that.

Q. How did you choose a career as a writer/novelist?

A. Ive always wanted to be a writer. In high school I would write poetry and short stories. I even got a degree in writing. But I didnt have the courage to really pursue it until I had my third child. I was tired of not chasing it. Either I was a writer or I wasnt. And writers write. So I decided that I would write and pursue publication no matter how many rejections I received. And when I got the call for representation from my agent, it was one of the best days.

Q. Are any of your stories or characters based on people or events from your own life?

A. My first book is probably the most personal in that I have a family member who has struggled with addiction. The others are influenced by former students, but nothing so much as to say that it imitates life.

Q. It occurs to me these stories might translate well into film, and you are in Los Angeles, after all. Is there a possibility well see one of these stories on the big screen?

A. Not at the moment. There have been nibbles. Sigh. But thats Hollywood for you. Its actually very difficult to get something from book to screen.

Q. You have three kids  what do they think of your books?

A. My oldest read the first one and enjoyed it. The other two are still on the young side to read them, but Ill be curious to see what they think as they get older.

Q. What advice would you give aspiring writers: first, to younger ones who may still be in school, and second, to adults, who may feel as if theyve missed their calling?

A. To younger writers: Read everything you can  good and bad stuff. Learn all that you can. You dont know what you dont know.

To adults: Writers write. Make the time. How can you not? We get this one life and we decide how we will live it. This is the hard truth. Baby steps. You dont have to write the book all in one sitting. Just one chapter at a time. But you must write. You must do the work.

Q. Whats next for you?

A. I have a book coming out in May 2018 called We Are All Thats Left. When I graduated from college, I worked with Bosnian refugees and helped resettle them in the Boston area. This book is my attempt to bear witness. My editor calls this my soul book. Im very excited but also nervous about it.

Meet the author

Fans of Carrie Arcos books and aspiring writers can meet the author at the Ronald H. Roberts Temecula Public Library, Monday, Nov.13, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Space is limited  make an advance registration at the library reception desk. For more information about the author, visit www.carriearcos.com.

temecula@sduniontribune.com
Sending thoughts and prayers to (fill in the blank).

I see these words all the time lately. Following every natural disaster or unnatural tragedy, my Facebook and Twitter feeds are full of posts like these.

I admit to a certain amount of cynicism about these posts. They remind me of a cartoon that depicts a drowning man yelling Help! and a man on the dock calling back, My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Youre probably wondering why someone writing a church column would be anti-prayer. Im not. Prayer is an important part of a life of faith. It is perfectly appropriate to turn to God when one is overwhelmed, in despair or grieving. We pray in times of joy or awe as well. Ann Lamott, in her book "Help, Thanks, Wow," says that all prayers fall into three categories  supplication (help), gratitude (thanks) and awe (wow). When faced with tragedies like hurricanes, fires, shootings, and hatred, sometimes all one can say is, God, please help.

As a kid, I knelt by my bed and prayed every night, starting with the Lords prayer, followed by a long list of asking God to bless family, friends, pets and others. I learned to pray by bowing my head and closing my eyes. As I matured, my prayers changed, becoming more a sense of awareness of Gods presence as I went about my day. Now I pray with my eyes open and my feet on the ground. I believe that prayer is transformative, but it is more about changing me than it is about changing others or the situation around me.

Thoughts and prayers, then, are how we focus our awareness on a person, a problem or a situation. But it doesnt stop there. Awareness leads to empathy and compassion. Prayers help us see Gods presence in our lives and in the lives of others.

From compassion, the next step is action. What does God call us to do in response to our prayers? Are we asking God for action, or asking God for help in knowing how to act ourselves?

We are exploring this at my church. Every year, we focus on a theme to help us grow in our faith and to discern where God is calling us as individuals and as a faith community. Last year, we explored "where your heart is. We shared those things about which we are most passionate, the things that touch our hearts. We found that as a community, we are concerned about social justice, Gods good earth (especially our lakes), arts and music, children and youth, education, refugee resettlement, and the full inclusion and embrace of all people.

This year, we move from caring to doing. How can we actually make a difference for the people and things about which we feel most strongly? After listening to our hearts, how do we put our hands to work?

This years theme is you are Christs hands. It is based on a quote from Theresa of Avila: Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which he looks compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good. Yours are the hands through which he blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no body now on earth but yours.

Some respond in big ways. I have friends who are already planning trips to Texas or Florida to work on recovery efforts. Others might not be able to rebuild a house in another state, but they work on Habitat for Humanity homes here in Auburn. We can give money to recovery efforts or donate clothes, furniture or household items to local homeless programs. We can visit the sick, deliver meals, write cards. We can start with small steps, and keep taking them.

The quote by Theresa of Avila inspires me to move personally from thoughts and prayers to putting my hands to work. Prayer is transformational. It is a start. It starts with caring, and moves to doing. It changes me, so that I can bring change for others.
By PTI: Lucknow, Nov 5 (PTI) The war of words has escalated among political parties in UP ahead of urban local body polls with the BJP saying that rival parties were waging a battle to keep their electoral identity intact while the Congress asserted that the ruling party will be wiped out in the polls.

The state will witness civic polls in three phases from November 22, making it the first electoral test for the ruling BJP, which stormed to power in the Assembly elections earlier this year with a massive mandate.

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Launching an attack on rivals, UP Dairy Development Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary said, "Rival political parties in the state are waging a war in the urban local bodies polls to save their electoral and political identity".

"Rival parties also want to give proof that they are alive, and hence decided to contest urban local bodies elections on party symbols. But, they will not be able to stop the lotus from blooming across Uttar Pradesh," he said.

He exuded confidence that the BJP will sweep urban local body elections.

"In the 2012 Assembly elections, when BJP won only 47 seats, the party had bagged 10 out of 12 mayoral seats in the state in the urban local body polls. So, this time with an overwhelming tally in the UP Assembly, we are confident that we will come out with flying colours," Chaudhary told PTI. Reacting to Chaudharys statement, the Congress said "BJP will be wiped out from the state."

UP Congress spokesperson Ashok Singh said, "Congress has always been contesting elections on party symbols. We have won elections in the past as well. Last time, we won the Bareilly mayoral polls. The BJP should stop exhibiting dual face and character. In this urban local body polls,the BJP will be wiped out from the state."

Samajwadi Party spokesman Sunil Singh Sajan said voters will decide who will survive and who will perish.

"In the past seven months, the Yogi Adityanath government has failed to deliver on the promises it had made in the Assembly election," he charged.

"This is a statement stemming out of sheer fear of losing the (urban local bodies) elections. The urban voters in the state have made up their mind to teach a lesson to the BJP in the urban local bodies elections."

As per the poll schedule, 24 districts will go to polls on November 22, while 25 districts on November 26, and 26 districts on November 29.

Counting of votes for 16 nagar nigams, 198 nagar palika parishads and 438 nagar panchayats will be done on December 1, he said.

Nearly 3.32 crore voters will be eligible to cast their votes at 36,269 polling booths and 11,389 polling stations. PTI NAV DV

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Yesterday was a beautiful day in more ways than one.

In the afternoon, under the shining Belize sun, a group of persistent, motivated, hopeful women cut the ribbon for the Shine Center and Hope Haven Home in downtown San Pedro, Belize.

The home was filled with donors and supporters for this AMAZING project that doesnt just give hope and sanctuary to children who have suffered greatly in their short lives but gives hope to a community that like others around the world, can feel overwhelmed at times.

But let me back upand try to get this a bit more organized.

Who: The Shine Organization and Hope Haven Childrens Home

What, When, Where and Why:

Two years after dreaming up a MUCH needed home for children on Ambergris Caye, a powerful group of women cut the ribbon for new Hope Haven Childrens Home.

2 years of dreaming, begging, scraping, soliciting donations, fundraising  incredibly hard work, INCREDIBLE persistence. It can be easy to assume that nothing will change or say Im not the one who can change this  none of these women stopped there.

Its easy to say Im not good at asking for donations or Im terrible at numbers  they didnt stop there.

The team worked HARD to locate the building. They found one in town. A building that for years had been a girly bar is now a home for children.

I wont dwell on the buildings former status (questions like why are these KNOWN bars ofill-repute given liquor licenses or business licenses? in our town  that is for another forum though not something to brush aside) -the transformation is INCREDIBLE. They even bought the stripper pole from the former owner  sanitized it and re-installed it as a ballet bar for the kids.

One cannot complete erase the past  but hopefully draw on it for strength.

LOOK at the building now.

The first floor is gorgeous. With hang out space and offices for counselingplay areas and meeting spaces.

And a beautiful kitchen  a new home for the San Pedro Food Bank.

An annex for play and crafts

Its the detailsso much work and heart went into this project. And the work DEFINITELY continues.

Upstairs is the private area for the kids and their house mother (they are interviewing for those positions)

There are 22 beds. A large lounge and bathrooms  a brand new washer and dryer. And beautiful outside space.

There were speeches by some of the board of directors and by the Mayor, Danny Guerrero. There were lots of tears. The message was clear  this was only the beginning. Volunteers, donations, help would all be needed going forward.

Brittney ODaniel, owner of Sandbar Restaurant and Hotel, spoke about how the idea for the home came about. 2 years ago, when she was helping run the food bank, she became close to many families but especially to one young girl. An orphan raised by her older sister, the sister was unable to care for her any longer.

The young girl was sent to a home in Belize City where she wasnt properly cared for  she ran away. And Brittney has been looking for her ever since.

We need a haven for these kids on our island. She didnt just think it. Or put it on Social Media. She made it happen.

That is what really struck me yesterday. With what must have been 100000 this will never happens, the board persisted.

They held countless fundraisers  from High Tea parties to bringing back the San Pedro Lighted Boat Parade (this years is December 16  to benefit this very project). They just held a two day haunted house  the $2bzd entrance fee for kids going to the project. There have been cocktail parties, silent auctions, balls and fashion shows.

They organize tutoring for those who cannot read at local schools (they need volunteers!)  they empower high school girls with the SHINE Group  they help feed families on our island.

They will not take NO for an answer.

Anywayenough from me. Humbled and in awe.

They had a wish list at the party  and the work will continue.

They need a fence and some things to pass inspections with the social services division  they will be recommending the kids to stay at Hope Haven.

Please reach out to them if you can help. This is a project that needs the whole community.

I headed home just as the sun was setting over the lagoon

Thinking about how much I love about living on Ambergris Caye.

For information on how you can help  please see their website.
By PTI: Bhopal, Nov 5 (PTI) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal today called upon his party workers in Madhya Pradesh to prepare the ground for "uprooting" the "corrupt" BJP government in the state.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh in November- December next year.

Kejriwal accused Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of indulging in massive corruption and misrule.

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The Delhi chief minister was addressing a convention -- the Shankhnaad Rally -- at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here.

AAP workers, who had gathered from across the state, responded with a huge applause after Kejriwal asked them about contesting the 2018 state Assembly polls.

"The BJP has been ruling Madhya Pradesh for the last 14- 15 years. The time span is sufficient for making a new Madhya Pradesh. But, can you point out a single achievement of Shivraj Singh Chouhan during this period," the AAP supremo asked the gathering amid slogan shouting.

He claimed that all the sections of the society, including teachers, farmers, students, women, traders, scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), were facing problems in the state.

"Shivraj sucked Madhya Pradesh like a mango. What is happening in Madhya Pradesh was happening in Delhi as well. But, the situation there has changed now.

"The power tariff in Madhya Pradesh is the costliest in the country, despite it being a power-surplus state. On the other hand, the Delhi government purchases electricity from Madhya Pradesh and supplies it to the citizens at one-third of the rates in MP," Kejriwal said.

He added that while the electricity bill for 200 units would come to Rs 1,370 in Madhya Pradesh, it would be for Rs 462 in Delhi.

Taking a swipe at Chouhan over the Vyapam scam, Kejriwal said Madhya Pradesh had earned notoriety for the entire episode and added that 40 young people were killed following this massive corruption.

"The young students, aspiring for a good life, were killed in the Vyapam scam, though officials and leaders were responsible," he alleged.

Kejriwal claimed that corruption had reduced in Delhi after the AAP government took charge.

"A report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), an agency of the BJP-led central government, has said that corruption has reduced by 81 per cent in two-and-a-half years in the Delhi government, while graft has increased by 67 per cent in three years in the central government," he said.

Claiming that the success rate of the students of government schools in the national capital had gone up compared to the private schools, Kejriwal said, "If you want cheap electricity, good government schools, health facilities and a corruption-free Madhya Pradesh, you will have to fight."

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Referring to his governments achievements in developing the school infrastructure and in the health sector, the AAP leader sought to know that if Delhi could be developed in the last two-and-a-half years, why was Madhya Pradesh not developed in 14 years.

He said the BJP and Congress were hobnobbing with each other in Delhi, where the people had found an alternative in the AAP.

"The work done in Delhi in the last two-and-a-half years has never happened in any city of the country in the last 70 years," Kejriwal claimed. PTI ADU RMT RC

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Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi once again attacked the Narendra Modi government on economy, posting a Hindi couplet on social media website Twitter.

By India Today Web Desk: Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi continued what seems to have become a Twitter campaign taking on the Narendra Modi government on various issues, mostly related to the economy.

Sending out an early-morning tweet, Gandhi posted a couplet in Hindi saying, "Gas is expensive, ration is expensive; Stop this empty talk; Control prices, provide jobs; Otherwise leave the throne."

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Rahul's tweet carried along with it a link to a Hindi news report regarding a hike in the prices of LPG cylinders. The report claimed it was the 19th such hike in the last 16 months.

Rahul's tweet comes as the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party slug out in Gujarat, which will vote in a new Assembly later next month. The two parties are also locked in an election battle in Himachal Pradesh, where voting will be held this week.

Opinion polls have given BJP an advantage over the Congress in both the states, but the former still seems to be a facing a tough fight in Gujarat, which will be going to the polls for the first time since Prime Minister Narendra Modi left Gandhinagar for New Delhi.

The Congress and its vice-president have made economy one of their biggest election issues. Gandhi has repeatedly attacked PM Modi and his finance minister Arun Jaitley over demonetisation and the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax, which Rahul termed 'Gabbar Singh Tax' in another tweet.

Congress GST= Genuine Simple Tax Modi ji's GST= Gabbar Singh Tax =''?? ???? ???? ?? ??"- Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) October 24, 2017

The Gandhi scion, who is tipped to soon take over the grand old party from his mother Sonia, has also displayed exceptional wit and humour on Twitter off late. His use of a Hindi rhyme to target the Modi government isn't new - he recently posted a Mirza Ghalib-inspired tweet to attack Finance Minister Jaitley.

"Sabko maaloom hai ease of doing business ki haqeeqat, khud ko khush rakhne ke liye Dr Jaitley khayal achha hai," Rahul Gandhi tweeted last week.

???? ????? ?? "ease of doing business" ?? ?????, ????????? ?? ??? ???? ?? ??? "Dr Jaitley" ?? ????? ????? ??- Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) November 1, 2017

Some of the Congress vice-president's other Twitter gems have included attacks related to the economy, Indian culture and PM Modi's speeches.

Last month, Rahul said PM Modi trying to 'demon-etise' Tamil pride (a reference to state BJP leaders opposing scenes related to GST in the Vijay-starrer Mersal) and asked him to give Donald Trump another hug after the US president tweeted positively about the current Pakistani leadership.

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Gandhi also recently forecast a 'rain of jumlas' ahead of the prime minister visiting poll-bound Gujarat and memorably shared a column in which former finance minister Yashawant Sinha attacked the Modi government economy with a tweet saying, "Ladies & Gentlemen, this is your copilot & FM speaking. Plz fasten your seat belts & take brace position. The wings have fallen off our plane".

--- ENDS ---
A German national has been reportedly assaulted at Robertsgunj Railway Station in Sonbhadra by a railway employee.

By India Today Web Desk: Just a few days after some locals assaulted a Swiss couple at Fatehpur Sikri near Agra, another such incident has come to light. A German national was allegedly assaulted at Robertsgunj Railway Station in Sonbhadra by a railway employee.

The police reached the spot swiftly and arrested the accused railway employee. The arrested railway engineer, Aman Kumar Yadav said, "I'm innocent. I told the foreign citizen 'Welcome to India' and he suddenly started hitting me. He even spit on me!"

I am innocent, the German national punched me when i said 'welcome to India' to him. He even spit on me: Aman Yadav,arrested accused pic.twitter.com/PrcO2gudIw- ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

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Hollger Erik, the German tourist, was at Sonbhadra to marvel at the Agori Fort. After his complaint to the station master, the police brought the German tourist and the accused to Robertsgunj police station.

The German citizen has refused to talk to the media. The matter is now being handed over to the GRP police and an investigation is underway.

On October 22, a Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple was quoted as saying in a media report that they were strolling near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youths started following them and later attacked.

The couple said as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones, the report said.

All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

The couple were also offered a free stay in 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons.

(With inputs from PTI)

--- ENDS ---
Based on their cautious reactions it doesn't appear any policy change has been communicated in regard to travel specifically.

'We wouldn't comment until the change is official,' Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez told Seatrade Cruise News. She added: 'We look forward to the day that the issue is resolved and calls to Korea can resume.'

Carnival Corp. & plc's brands operating in China have nothing new to announce, company spokesman Roger Frizzell said, 'but we will certainly look at all our options if anything changes in this regard.'

For Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, 'it's too early to speculate' when ships might be able to chart South Korea, spokeswoman Christina Baez said.

For more than six months China-based cruise ships have had to steer clear of this popular and growing destination for Chinese travelers. Revised itineraries replaced South Korea with calls at Japan or sea days.

In a note this week Wells Fargo Securities said approximately 40% of all China cruises had been impacted, turning net yield growth negative in that market.

News reports now indicate China and South Korea aim to quickly move beyond their dispute, triggered in 2016 when Beijing took issue with Seoul's plan to deploy a US-manufactured missile defense system to counter threats from North Korea.

In spring this year the Chinese government began to boycott South Korean goods and services and prodded travel agents to stop selling tours to South Korea.
Saudi Arabia is on a cleaning mode after the creation of a new anti-corruption committee.

By AP: Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Saturday removed a prominent prince who headed the National Guard, replaced the economy minister and announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee.

The Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya news channel also reported late Saturday that 11 princes and dozens of former ministers were detained in a new anti-corruption probe headed by the kingdom's powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was also named to oversee the new committee.

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Al-Arabiya reported that the committee is looking into devastating and deadly floods that overwhelmed parts of the city of Jiddah in 2009 and is investigating the Saudi government's response to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus that has killed several hundred people in the past few years.

Meanwhile, the kingdom's top council of clerics issued a statement saying it is an Islamic duty to fight corruption- essentially giving religious backing to the high-level arrests being reported.

The government said the anti-corruption committee has the right to issue arrest warrants, impose travel restrictions and freeze bank accounts. It can also trace funds, prevent the transfer of funds or the liquidation of assets and take other precautionary measures until cases are referred to the judiciary.

The royal order said the committee was established "due to the propensity of some people for abuse, putting their personal interest above public interest, and stealing public funds."

Saudi nationals have long complained of rampant corruption in government and of public funds being squandered or misused by people in power.

The 32-year-old crown prince has been seeking to attract greater international investments and improve the country's reputation as a place to do business. It's part of a larger effort to diversify the economy away from dependence on oil revenue.

The king ousted one of the country's highest-level royals from power, removing Prince Miteb bin Abdullah as head of the National Guard. He was replaced by Prince Khalid bin Ayyaf al-Muqrin, who had held a senior post with the guard.

Prince Miteb's father was the late King Abdullah, who also had led the National Guard and had transformed it into a powerful and prestigious force tasked with protecting the ruling Al Saud family, as well as important holy sites in Mecca and Medina, and oil and gas sites.

Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne. His ouster as head of the National Guard essentially sidelines one of the most formidable rivals to the current crown prince, who has amassed enormous power in less than three years since his father, King Salman, ascended to the throne.

It comes just three months after Prince Mohammed bin Nayef was ousted from the line of succession and from his post as interior minister, overseeing internal security.

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With the two princes now sidelined, control of the kingdom's security apparatus is now largely centralized under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is also defense minister.

The monarch also replaced Minister of Economy and Planning Adel Fakeih with his deputy, Mohammad al-Tuwaijri.

Admiral Abdullah Al-Sultan was also sacked as commander of Saudi Naval Forces and replaced by Admiral Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Ghifaili.

ALSO WATCH: Yemen joins list of nations that have cut ties with Qatar

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Washington, Nov 5 (PTI) North Korea could use biological and chemical weapons in the event of a conflict and the only way to locate and secure all of its nuclear weapons sites "with complete certainty" is through an invasion of ground forces, the Pentagon has warned.

In a letter to lawmakers, the Pentagon said that a full discussion of US capabilities to "counter North Koreas ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and to eliminate" its nuclear weapons located in underground sites is best suited for a classified briefing, the Washington Post reported.

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The letter, reportedly written by vice director of the Pentagons Joint Staff Rear Adm. Michael J Dumont, said North Korea "has a long-standing chemical weapons program with the capability to produce nerve, blister, blood and choking agents."

The Pentagon leaders "assess that North Korea may consider the use of biological weapons," the letter said.

The letter was in response to a request from two members of Congress about "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea," the Post said.

The Pentagon said that calculating "best- or worst-case casualty scenarios" was challenging and would depend on the "nature, intensity and duration" of a North Korean attack; how much warning civilians would have to get to the shelters in South Korea; and the ability of US and South Korean forces to respond to North Korean artillery, rockets and missiles.

A statement by 16 lawmakers, released simultaneously with the Pentagon letter, urged President Donald Trump to stop making "provocative statements" that impede diplomatic efforts and risk the lives of US troops, the paper said.

Trump and North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong-Un have traded increasingly threatening and personal insults as Pyongyang races towards its goal of developing a nuclear- tipped missile capable of reaching the US.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea conducted its biggest nuclear test in September, which its state-run KCNA news agency described as a hydrogen bomb. PTI ZH ZH

--- ENDS ---
Press Release

November 4, 2017 Dispatch from Crame No. 193

Sen. Leila M. de Lima's statement on Shibby De Guzman's inclusion in Time's 30 most influential teens 11/4/17 Congratulations to Shibby De Guzman, the 14-year-old student who has been recognized by Time Magazine as one of the "30 Most Influential Teens of 2017"! To say that we, as Filipinos, ought to be proud of her accomplishment is an understatement. Better yet, we should be inspired by this extraordinary achievement because she is, first and foremost, an ordinary school girl who became "influential", not just because of her awareness of social issues, but, most of all, because of her desire to be an instrument of change - not just for herself, but for others. She isn't just well-informed - which is a commendable achievement in itself in this age of fake news and click bait mentality geared at garnering fame, power and influence through imaginary internet points - she also chooses to do something to change the unfortunate status quo for the better. She chooses to distinguish herself for a good and unselfish cause, despite the peril that becoming a "dissenter" presented. That is a level of maturity, patriotism and humanity that not even some geriatric members of the Philippine government have been able to demonstrate. Shibby's achievements belong to her, her parents and grandparents, her school and everyone who has helped shaped her become the way she is in just 14 years. But it is also our own because this single girl, with just a pen, paper and her courage as her tools, managed to show the world that we are not defined by the bad things that some of our officials do, but, most tellingly, by the brave choices that seemingly ordinary and powerless people make on a daily basis. Shibby has shown us that we don't have to have hundreds of thousands of followers, or the most expensive and high tech gadgets and worldly possessions to be recognized in the world - distinction follows where we choose to be decent and conscientious human beings. You can simultaneously be both a famous and influential person on one hand, and a decent human being on the other. It's not binary. Let that be the lesson that we learn from this 14-year-old.
Press Release

November 4, 2017 Akbayan Party to march with families of EJK victims, calls for justice and solidarity There is no healing without justice. This was the statement of the leadership of Akbayan Party as they called for the public's participation to the 30,000-strong who will gather at EDSA Shrine tomorrow "for national healing that starts with justice, in solidarity with the kin of thousands who died under President Duterte's war-on-drugs". "Tomorrow's procession is a march for healing and the foundation of healing is justice towards those who have been wronged", said Etta Rosales, former Commission on Human Rights Chairperson and currently Akbayan's Chairperson-Emeritus. "The human cost, 8 to 13 thousand killed, of this abusive and corrupt war-on-drugs has torn the social fiber of this country. After leaving thousands dead on the streets, all of whom with neither due process nor promise of justice, someone must be held accountable. It's time to move forward, but the first step is accountability", Rosales added. Recently, the government's flagship anti-drugs operation has been transferred from the Philippine National Police [PNP] to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency [PDEA]. But for Akbayan Partylist Representative Tom Villarin, it is not enough. "We can't just forgive and forget. Turning all drug operations over to the PDEA must not be an absolution for the PNP. An independent investigation has to be conducted to discern the accountability of the police force and the government as a whole on this policy", said Villarin. "How did the President's policy to kill translate to the operations of the PNP? How did the President's words embolden the police and vigilantes to conduct summary killings?" Villarin asked. For her part, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros made an appeal to the "collective conscience" of the Filipinos given the trauma and emotional torture that kin of EJK victims were forced to endure under police operations known as Oplan Tokhang. "The procession tomorrow is the public's solidarity with the EJK victims and their families. We need to bring back our collective conscience as Filipinos", Hontiveros urged. According to the organizers, families and friends of EJK victims will march alongside Church and lay leaders. "The Church is becoming a refuge during this terrifying time in our country. But we should also admire the courage shown by those who were wronged by the war-on-drugs. They are fighting back and we must help them do so", Hontiveros added. Akbayan furthered in a statement that the government cannot wash its hands of the crimes committed. "Managot ang dapat managot. There is no moving on without justice", Rosales concluded. The Heal Our Land activity will start with a mass at EDSA Shrine at 3:00PM then will proceed via procession to the People Power Monument for a cultural program.
STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR NOV5 CHURCH MASS-PROCESSION

OPPOSITION SENATORS BAM AQUINO, RISA HONTIVEROS, KIKO PANGILINAN, AND SONNY TRILLANES

We, members of the opposition bloc at the Senate, support the initiative of the Catholic bishops to mark November 5 as "Lord Heal Our Land Sunday" to gather and pray for a stop in the killings linked to the administration's war on drugs.

Together, we lend our united voice and will join the faithful in prayers for justice for the victims of extra-judicial killings and for enlightenment for our leaders that violence and bloodshed is not the way is not the way to address problematic drug use.

We hail this timely and significant effort of our prelates to go out and inspire action from Filipinos to speak out against injustice and violence through a peaceful gathering.

We hope the united prayers of the prelates and the faithful will stir the inner voice of our leaders and those who kill the helpless to stop wasting lives and mend their ways.
Press Release

November 5, 2017 'Every child deserves a fair start in life'

FIRST 1,000 DAYS BILL TO COMBAT CHILD MALNUTRITION -ANGARA Senator Sonny Angara has called for the passage of a bill that seeks to mandate the implementation of a comprehensive healthcare program that covers the nine months of pregnancy and a child's first two years--or the first 1,000 days of human life. "As we celebrate National Children's Month, we call for support for the passage of bills that would promote and ensure children's right to health, proper care and nutrition. Every Filipino child deserves a fair start in life that will enable them to reach their full potential," said Angara, who is the principal author of Senate Bill 1537 or the Healthy Nanay and Bulilit Act, also known as the First 1,000 Days Act. According to studies, a human being's first 1,000 days--the period covering the nine months of a mother's pregnancy and a child's first two years--is the critical window particularly in preventing child stunting and wasting. Studies further show that if a child's nutrition is assured during this period, it would not only prevent one-third of child deaths per year, it would also improve school attainment thus increase wages and reduce poverty. Based on the data by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, chronic malnutrition among Filipino children under 5 years old has increased to 33.5% in 2015 from 30.5% in 2013. To address this, the First 1,000 Days health package involves proper nutrition for pregnant mothers, improved breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices, protection against diseases, and proper feeding of children who are sick and undernourished. It also provides for vaccinations, check ups, monitoring systems, and facilities such as breastfeeding stations and human milk banks. "Such measure would boost maternal and child health and nutrition that would provide a pathway to good education and out of poverty, and cut child deaths in the country. Child deaths and malnutrition remain highest in the poorest sector of society. We should put an end to this," the senator said. Moreover, the Senate version of the first tax reform package, which Angara sponsored as ways and means chairman, seeks to fund the expansion of school-based and community-based feeding programs for children in areas with high hunger incidence.
By PTI: Mumbai, Nov 4 (PTI) Maharashtra government will provide cheap and assured electricity to farmers across the state through solar feeders in the next three years, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today said.

He was speaking after performing the Bhumipujan (ground breaking ceremony) for first solar project under the Mukhyamantri Agricultural Solar Feeder scheme at Ralegan Siddhi.

Veteran social activist Anna Hazare was also present.

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"The important decision of using solar powered feeders has been taken to become self sufficient in the power sector," Fadnavis said.

"Initially, the plan was a plan to provide solar pumps to farmers. However, when we realised that there were limitations for distributing solar pumps, it was decided to connect the solar panels to feeders for supply to agricultural pumps for farmers to ensure power for 12 hours a day," he added.

Fadnavis said currently each unit of electricity is generated at around Rs 6.50 and the cost will come down to Rs 3-3.25 when solar power is used.

Farmers will be provided electricity at Rs 1.20, he said.

"The money saved in generating power can be used for development of farmers. This scheme has been appreciated by the NITI Aayog and it has asked the other states to replicate this model," he said.

The Chief Minister, during his visit to Ralegan Siddhi also addressed a Sarpanch Parishad, to launch Gram Rakshak Dal,a mechanism to empower common man against evil menace of illicit liquor.

"Due to alcohol, many families have been devastated. The state government has enacted a law, under the guidance of Anna Hazare to ensure that the common man can prevent the sale of illicit liquor. This law also fixes responsibility on officials," he said.

He added that through this law, villagers will have the right to prevent the sale of illegal liquor and that the responsibility of villages to prevent illegal liquor trade is big. PTI MM RMT

--- ENDS ---
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A potentially lifesaving emergency alert system that Sonoma County officials decided against using during the deadly fires that swept through the area last month will finally get a long-planned upgrade, after nearly a yearlong delay by the Trump administration.

All wireless carriers will be required to more specifically target the areas where cell phones would receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, or WEAs. Sonoma County officials said they did not send such an alert as the fires raged late on the night of Oct. 8 because it would have hit phones all across the county, possibly causing panic and traffic jams that would have blocked people from getting in and out of the area.

They are among a number of local emergency officials who have found fault with the WEA system since it was put in place in 2012, including some who have declined to adopt it at all. Only about a third of all counties in the U.S. have access to the alert system, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

This past week, the Federal Communications Commission issued a rule requiring the nations big five wireless carriers to implement upgrades to the Amber Alert-style warnings that the agency had first ordered in September of 2016 but had been stalled due to industry objections.

The action followed a series of disasters, including three hurricanes that ravaged Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico, and the Wine Country fires, in which 43 people died, more than half of them in Sonoma County.

After The Chronicle reported on Sonomas decision not to send a wireless alert, Democratic Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Kamala Harris of California wrote to the FCC to complain about the delay.

Months earlier, long before Hurricane Harvey unleashed devastating floods on Houston, county officials there had pleaded with the FCC to upgrade the system, warning that more precise targeting was vital to assisting evacuation in a hurricane.

Its amazing that it took four disasters to make this come about, said retired Adm. David Simpson, who was chief of the FCCs Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau during the Obama administration, which developed the new rule. It should be an embarrassment to the commission, but its done.

Even as the new rule takes effect, though, wireless carriers say many local officials do not understand or properly use the existing alert system. Emergency responders, meanwhile, are pushing for more improvements, in particular using phones geo-location technology to target WEAs even more precisely.

As currently programmed, Wireless Emergency Alerts  text-like messages accompanied by a unique loud sound and vibration  can be sent to most cell phones in an area during potentially life-threatening emergencies by pinging nearby cell towers. Every phone targeted by the alert receives it unless its user has opted to block it.

The main problem: By covering such large areas, the alerts can warn the wrong people to do the wrong thing, or possibly induce alert fatigue, leading some to ignore what might be a lifesaving warning.

Public safety officials said the revised system should allow targeting within a tenth of a mile.

The maximum length of a WEA text will increase from 90 to 360 characters, and can include links and phone numbers to direct people to more information. Also, a new class of public safety messages can convey recommended actions, such as boiling water or going to a shelter. And carriers must support transmission of the alerts in Spanish.

Some public safety officials, though, want further refinements that would take advantage of geo-location technology, which phone users already use daily to determine exactly where they are. Such a system would allow emergency managers to target each cell phone in only a designated emergency area. That would eliminate the potential for alerting too many or too few people.

But wireless service providers and device makers are putting up stiff resistance.

After President Trump was elected, promising to reduce government regulations, the trade association CTIA, which represents large wireless carriers such as Verizon and AT&T, effectively blocked implementation of the September 2016 upgrades, arguing that incorporating embedded links and phone numbers in alerts would congest networks.

The election happened, and a very powerful lobby asked that this not be made a priority, said Simpson, the former FCC public safety director.

Only last week did the FCC decide that the industrys objections had no merit.

Justin Cole, spokesman for CTIA, said the industry works closely with public safety officials and government agencies to maximize the proven lifesaving benefits of Wireless Emergency Alerts and has made additional enhancements to the alert system, including embedded references and geo-targeting below the county level, so even more lives can be saved.

Sonoma County officials who made the decision not to send a mass alert on the night the Wine Country fires began said they decided to focus instead on notifying and evacuating specific areas. They turned to other cell phone alert systems that county residents must sign up for, which could reach only a small portion of the population, and used a reverse 911 system to call landline phones in unincorporated areas. First responders also went door to door warning people in danger.

There are half a million residents in the county, and that doesnt include tourists, said Zachary Hamill, emergency coordinator for Sonoma County Fire and Emergency Services. We were really trying to focus on areas that were going to be impacted, because a lot of these areas are fairly rural and theres one-way-in, one-way-out type situations.

Many Sonoma County fire victims were incensed by the countys decision not to send a wireless alert on the night of the fires. Lisa Tieber Nielson, whose Santa Rosa home was destroyed, said it could have prevented deaths.

If they sent out an alert at 10 oclock, saying theres a fire, its in your area, get ready to leave at a moments notice, that would have saved a lot of people, Tieber Nielson said.

She, her husband Dan and their two children fled only after receiving a warning call on their landline phone. Flames and explosions were already encroaching on their Larkfield-Wikiup neighborhood.

As they rushed out, Tieber Nielson thought about warning her elderly neighbor, but said there wasnt enough time.

Its unspeakable the way I feel about not being able to do what I needed to do to help him out, she said, adding she believes he was able to escape. I dont see why they couldnt have just given us an advisory so we could have been prepared. Theres no excuse for that.

Noah Berger/Special to The Chronicle

Napa and Yuba counties, which were also hit by the recent wildfires, are among the roughly two-thirds of U.S. counties that do not use Wireless Emergency Alerts. Officials in both counties said imprecise geo-targeting has played a role in their decisions not to obtain the tool.

Lake County sent a wireless alert Oct. 9 issuing mandatory evacuations shortly after the Sulphur Fire broke out. Lt. Rich Ward, a spokesman for the Lake County Sheriffs Office, said they were battle tested by the 2015 Valley Fire.

There were lessons learned about getting the message out quickly and how to do that most efficiently, Ward said. With our limited personnel, trying to go door to door to get out the message just wasnt enough.

Officials in Riverside and Orange counties also sent wireless alerts to warn residents about fires this year. In both cases, it was the first time the counties had directly used the tool.

In Texas, Francisco Sanchez Jr., an official with Harris Countys Homeland Security and Emergency Management office, said the county, which includes Houston, used the wireless alert system only once during Hurricane Harvey, to ask people not to overload 911 emergency lines with calls unless a life was in danger.

Sanchez, who helped lead a major study of WEAs for the FCC, said being able to target alerts to a specific area is perhaps the single greatest improvement that the FCC and carriers can make.

Sanchez said that while the new FCC requirements allow more precise targeting of alerts than before, it remains only a best approximation of the area that needs to be notified. It involves emergency managers drawing a line around the area they want to alert, and cell service providers using that as a guide to decide which cell phone towers to light up to send the message.

Sanchez is urging the FCC to adopt new rules that would employ geo-location technology, taking advantage of the capacity of modern smartphones to pinpoint a persons location within a few feet and decide whether the owner is within the emergency area or not.

Thats already on the phone, Sanchez said. You use it to order pizza, you use it to drive, you use it to do all kinds of stuff.

Last week, the National Academy of Sciences published a report recommending that emergency alerts take advantage of evolving cell phone technologies like geo-location, saying phone users now expect such a system.

Wireless providers say its one thing for a few people in a given area to order a car-share, another for everyones phone in the area to suddenly demand location information for a Wireless Emergency Alert.

Device maker Apple warned the FCC last August against such a plan, saying using phone locations to target WEAs would increase battery drain when power is most needed, as well as create consumer privacy issues.

Apple declined to comment for this story. But Sanchez said if Apple has privacy concerns, perhaps they ought to prioritize public safety as much as they do making money off of geo-locating for all these apps that they make an incredible amount of money on.

On Friday, FCC chairman Ajit Pai wrote to Sen. Harris saying he intends to propose further WEA upgrades in the near future.

He said that despite industry objections about the technical feasibility of using precise geo-location in the alerts, based on our staffs review of the record, we believe that it is possible to make additional progress on this issue.

Pai also told Harris that the FCC has contacted all the California counties affected by the recent fires, as well as the state Office of Emergency Services. He said he was concerned by Sonoma Countys decision not to issue a wireless alert, and that the FCC will work with officials there to help them use the system more effectively, and follow up with the other counties as well.

Industry officials said its up to local emergency managers to generate wireless emergency alerts and understand how the system works, noting its low level of usage among counties. Even industry critics such as Simpson acknowledge that local emergency managers need to upgrade their systems and better train people on how to use them.

The new system allowing embedded links and longer alerts will be installed on most phones through software updates as soon as the rule is published in the Federal Register, which is expected to occur within a few weeks, officials said. Smaller carriers will have until May of 2019 to comply.

Meanwhile, some Sonoma County officials have pledged to review the decision not to send a wireless alert during the deadly fires.

Elizabeth Hawkins, whose home in Santa Rosas Riebli-Wallace neighborhood was destroyed, hopes the disaster will strengthen the countys emergency response system.

Hawkins smelled smoke on the night of Oct. 8, but assumed she was not in danger because she heard no sirens and received no official warning.

The system failed, the county failed, the city failed, Hawkins said. And we need to know as we rebuild that they will learn from their mistakes and improve things.

Carolyn Lochhead is The San Francisco Chronicles Washington correspondent, and Joaquin Palomino is The Chronicles data and investigative reporter. Email: clochhead@sfchronicle.com jpalomino@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @carolynlochhead, @JoaquinPalomino
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The fate of marijuana taxation in Cotati is not exactly foremost on the minds of Sonoma County residents as they recover from the disastrous fires that raged through their communities last month, but, ready or not, that and several other local issues will be up for a vote this week.

Besides the pot tax, Tuesdays election will include a vote on an urban growth boundary in Windsor, a parcel tax for a small school district on the west edge of Petaluma and a seat on a remote water board. But to say the issues are falling under the radar would be to understate the situation.

What election? asked one woman as she walked out of Mercy Wellness of Cotati, the only cannabis dispensary in the city, with a bag of medicinal weed in her hand that may or may not be subject to new taxes.

Im not following that, said an elderly customer.

It doesnt help that all polling stations in Sonoma County will be closed Tuesday because of an executive order Gov. Jerry Brown issued after the fires, which made finding poll locations and recruiting poll workers more difficult.

The fact that the election will be conducted entirely by mail is expected to further reduce turnout, though county officials said theyre doing all they can to get people to vote, including sending everyone ballots that can be turned in.

Every issue is important. Whether its to vote on a measure or elect somebody, these things have long-term implications. said Liz Acosta, the special projects director for the Sonoma County registrar of voters. But I think its fair to say people are distracted by the things going on elsewhere in the county. Peoples minds are on other things.

Granted, the ballot isnt packed with the crucial issues of the day.

The town of Windsor is voting on a resolution to extend its urban growth boundary to the year 2040 and add a few extra parcels for commercial development. The Wilmar Union School District just west of Petaluma is seeking an annual $65 parcel tax that would last eight years, supporting the 240 students at Wilson Elementary School.

Two candidates are running for one seat on the Timber Cove Water District, in the tiny coastal hamlet of Sea Ranch.

The most contentious issue may be Measure G, in Cotati, a suburb of 7,500 south of Rohnert Park. Voters will decide whether to place a tax of up to 8 percent on the gross receipts of pot cultivators, or up to $25 per square foot of cultivation. The measure, which would also tax manufacturing, distribution and retail sales up to 8 percent of gross receipts, is expected to generate $300,000 a year.

Brandon Levine, the director of Mercy Wellness, said the measure  which as proposed would mean an initial tax of 2 percent on sales at his dispensary, rising to 3 percent in three years  will force many cultivators out of business. That, in turn, will force him to raise prices.

Still, he said he supports the taxes because the city has to raise money to enforce the law. No argument against Measure G was turned in for the ballot.

We have been notifying all of our patients, Levine said. We want them to be aware that there will be an increase in taxes and that the tax ultimately will be passed down to the customer.

Nonetheless, only 20 percent of total ballots had been mailed in as of Friday, Acosta said. Of the 21,150 registered voters in areas affected by the measures, 15,600 were already getting their ballots by mail, she said.

At this point, for an off year and a small election like that, its probably not that unusual, she said. The reality is that the majority of our voters already were getting ballots by mail, with probably only about one quarter who were expecting to go to a polling place.

Rick Gorell, a bartender at The 8 Ball, a bar and billiard hall on Old Redwood Highway in Cotati, was one of the few people who seemed to be aware of the upcoming election. He said he already voted in favor of the cannabis tax and mailed his ballot in.

Its a burgeoning industry and they should be taxed like the rest of us, but I would have liked to have read an argument against it, said Gorell, who admitted it was the first time he had ever mailed in a ballot.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

It didnt feel any different to me, but I didnt lose my house, he said of the election. Im sure its the last thing on a lot of peoples minds.

None of the jurisdictions voting Tuesday were in areas directly hit by the fires, but Gorell said virtually everybody in Sonoma County knows someone who lost a home or a business or was hurt in some way.

Cotati City Hall was closed Friday, with a notice attached to the front door telling anyone who happened by that the election would be conducted by mail. The addresses where citizens could send or drop off their ballots were listed on the notice.

Laura Sparks, 36, of Cotati said she normally would have boned up on the issues by now, but the fires distracted her. Still, she said, she would have preferred to hear more about the election.

The vote by mail doesnt bother me. I dont think many people go to the polls anyway, Sparks said. I just think there should have been more publicity. The only time I heard about it was when I got my sample ballot in the mail.

Peter Fimrite is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: pfimrite@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @pfimrite
One of San Franciscos largest residential landlords, Veritas Investments, is joining forces with Airbnb to allow tenants in five Veritas buildings to offer short-term rentals of their apartments. At the same time, Airbnb is teaming up with a company called Pillow Residential to offer management and support to Veritas and other building owners that countenance Airbnb rentals.

Airbnb has often clashed with landlords, who resent tenants renting to tourists over concerns about security, noise, loss of control, and wear and tear. Some landlords in San Francisco and elsewhere have sought to evict tenants for violating their leases by renting on Airbnb.

But the San Francisco company is trying to make nice with building owners through the year-old Airbnb Friendly Building Program, under which landlords let their tenants rent on Airbnb in exchange for a cut of the proceeds. Equity Residential, another landlord with hundreds of Bay Area units, already participates in the program, but without the Pillow aspect.

For tenants, having a green light to rent their apartments when theyre out of town could make them more affordable, said CEO Yat-Pang Au who founded Veritas in 2007. For Veritas, it could increase the buildings cachet and attract tenants who appreciate its stance. While Veritas will take a 10 percent cut of vacation-rental income, thats trivial for a company with a $2 billion real estate portfolio.

We are looking at ways to provide more affordable and diverse housing options, he said. This is also about experimentation. In a city with tight regulations, and a lot of people who really fear change, its an opportunity to go ahead and provide a new option, try it out, get feedback from residents.

Veritas is starting with a pilot program of five buildings with about 100 units. After six to 12 months, it will assess whether to expand, he said. It surveyed tenants before beginning the program and found that most were either positive or indifferent about it, while a handful voiced concerns, he said. Veritas owns more than 200 midsize buildings with more than 5,000 units in San Francisco, which is currently its only market  though it plans to buy Oakland properties and is looking to expand elsewhere in the Bay Area.

Veritas strategy is to buy older buildings and add modern touches such as Zipcars on site and Google Fiber.

Alex Washburn/The Chronicle

We own 100-year-old Victorian buildings where you cannot build a rooftop bar or gym on site, Au said. We turn that challenge into an opportunity by embracing the new world of digital economy services. Airbnb and Pillow is a natural next step.

Akash Desai, who rents a Mission Dolores apartment in one of the five Veritas pilot buildings with his boyfriend, thinks the program sounds exciting. We travel to visit family often, so it would be great to make use of our empty apartment to help cover our costs, he said in an email. Its great that as renters we would have the same opportunity to use our empty place the way homeowners in San Francisco already do.

The Airbnb Friendly Buildings Program has 13,000 enrolled units in about 35 buildings nationwide and in Canada, said Jaja Jackson, director of global multifamily housing partnerships at Airbnb. Its now expanding to Australia and Japan.

For owners, having transparency about whats going on in their building, and knowing that Airbnb offers a $1 million primary insurance policy to cover liability and damages, both in units and in common areas, are selling points, Jackson said. Some of the landlords previously had unauthorized vacation rentals, he said, but resident complaints about those decreased once an official program was in place.

Most landlords take a 10 percent cut of revenue, which they use to improve the buildings, for neighborhood events, or sometimes to donate to charity, he said. In cities that dont impose limits on rentals, landlords implement their own, averaging 180 to 200 nights a year, far more generous than most municipal caps. (San Franciscos limit is 90 days a year for entire-home rentals.)

Most of the enrolled units are personal residences, although a few may be guest suites run by the building. Generally those unoccupied units would be offered for rentals of 30 days or more, making them exempt from short-term rental regulations in most cities.

San Franciscos Pillow, which started out as one of dozens of companies offering property management for Airbnb rentals, created Pillow Residential this year to help owners of multifamily buildings track and manage short-term rentals on their properties. Pillow has raised $18 million in venture backing, putting it far ahead of most other Airbnb-services companies, many of which are mom-and-pop concerns.

We decided to put everything into multifamily, said co-founder Sean Conway, pointing out that its a huge market that is still relatively untapped by Airbnb.

Pillows tools will help landlords execute lease addenda covering short-term rentals, incorporate building rules into tenants Airbnb listings, and view all short-term rentals in their properties in a single dashboard. For tenants, Pillow will manage their rentals so they can simply leave town and have Pillow handle guest check-in, cleaning and other tasks. Pillow takes a 15 percent cut of short-term rental fees.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Pillow helps make sure that buildings are in compliance with local regulations, such as San Franciscos cap on whole-home rentals, Conway said.

Airbnbs relationship with its hometown has been contentious. But under a judges order, the company and rival HomeAway now have agreed to ensure that all their San Francisco hosts comply with the citys registration requirement, which was widely flouted. The registration process will be complete by early January after which both companies have agreed to jettison any unregistered San Francisco hosts.

The trade group San Francisco Apartment Association has been a fierce foe of Airbnb, but expressed cautious openness to the new program.

There will be some buildings that are a natural fit, and we recognize that it could be a good thing for some property owners, said Charley Goss, government affairs manager. But were wary about issues of safety, security and liability. We have concerns if Airbnb is going on and keys to the building are being given to strangers who havent been vetted. Were also concerned about other residents who signed a lease for an apartment building, not a hotel. Thats something that probably has to be hashed out.

Au said he hopes that Veritas experience might be a model for other landlords.

We would like to set a positive example for other owners of classic building stock to consider utilizing this (Airbnb) program, Au said. People will think what they want to think; groups are not used to change. We think it is a very high likelihood that it will be a positive improvement for residents lives.

Carolyn Said is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: csaid@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @csaid
Bala G shames Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami, Tirunelveli police commissioner and the district collector in his recent cartoon.

By Pramod Madhav: The crime branch wing of Tamil Nadu Police today arrested a freelance cartoonist Bala G for his caricature, wherein he is criticising the chief minister and district administration for being unable to help a distressed family.

He posted the cartoon on his Facebook page, that has till now garnered about 4,000 likes and 12,000 shares.

Bala's cartoon shames Chief Minister E Palaniswami, Tirunelveli police commissioner and the district collector for standing by while a child burns to death.

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This comes as a direct rebuttal to a recent incident, wherein a daily wage labourer's family of four set themselves ablaze outside the collector's office in Tirunelveli.

Isakimuthu and his wife Subbulakshmi were allegedly being harassed by a money lender even after they had paid the dues.

After six trips to the collector's office with pleas of help and disappointed with police inaction, the hapless couple along with their two daughters- aged 2 and 4 committed suicide.

--- ENDS ---
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Elisabeth Moss is fast becoming the Julia Louis-Dreyfus of Mad Men  the breakaway cast member whose career explodes following the series end, as happened to Louis-Dreyfus after Seinfeld.

Between seasons of the critically lauded Top of the Lake, Moss completed the TV miniseries The Handmaids Tale. Her performance as a woman living a hellish existence in a dystopian future finally won her an Emmy after six nominations for playing an aspiring ad executive in Mad Men.

Moss first foreign film, The Square, went on to win the Palme dOr at Cannes. The 34-year-old actress, known as Lizzie in her regular life, says her experience at Cannes felt like you were in a Fellini film.

Her outfit for a day of interviews promoting her The Square  a short canary yellow dress under a leather bomber jacket studded with stars along with high black boots  could be described as Felliniesque.

Accepting compliments on both her attire and her booming career, Moss exhibited none of the coy modesty others on the brink of major stardom have been known to show.

Oh, I love Julia, so it is ever so nice to be compared to her in any way. But you know, I have been working for a really long time, said Moss, who played the presidents teenage daughter in the television series The West Wing.

Just having a job is great. When you have a job and people actually like watching you  well, thats sort of a bonus.

A big fan of Swedish director Rubin Ostlund, whose film Force Majeure (2014) scored a Golden Globe nomination, Moss wasnt above auditioning for him for the part of a journalist in The Square.

I thought maybe being an American was sort of a drawback for me, Moss said. But then I learned the part wasnt written to be any nationality in particular. Still, I was really surprised when I got it because I had heard Rubin had seen a variety of actresses.

Her character is dispatched to interview a pompous curator (played by Danish actor Claes Bang) at a cutting-edge Swedish art museum. (Another of his encounters  a bungled attempt to retrieve his stolen wallet and iPhone  forms the crux of the film.)

Moss drew on her own experience for this scene, in which it becomes apparent that the reporter has a scalpel out for her subject.

Journalists sometimes pretend as if they are your friend and pretend as if the knife isnt out for you, but at a certain point, you realize they are like going for it, she said. When it was pointed out that this interview had started with a compliment, Moss laughingly said she wasnt worried.

Her instinct was right. The question she surely must dread the most  about belonging to the Church of Scientology  wasnt raised because for years shes given a standard non-answer to it. She recently said on the Today show: Im always happy to have a personal conversation with somebody off the record, but in this scenario, no.

The specter of Scientology, which she was raised in, haunts her. Recent stories speculated that her religion might knock her out of the Emmy race. When she won at last, a former Scientologist was quoted saying Moss use of profanity in her acceptance speech was related to a teaching within the church called the tone scale, which involves trying to communicate with average people.

It is unclear how an average Joe would respond to her tussle over a freshly filled condom in The Square, let alone her having a monkey for a roommate. But the art house audience for which the film is targeted should find it hilarious.

Succumbing to the polished charm of the museum curator, she goes to bed with him. When she retrieves his used condom, possibly out of a desire to have his child, he fights her for it.

That is my favorite scene, Moss said. We had so much fun filming it. It seemed like there were 50 takes.

Because the film was partially financed by German money, it was agreed that the sex scene would be shot in a flat in Berlin.

Some of the crew wasnt able to come with us from Sweden, so we had these German sound people, Moss said. We must have seemed to them like these very weird art people coming to shoot with a monkey. They (the sound techs) were watching two people having sex in an orange apartment and then winding up fighting over a condom.

Ruthe Stein is The San Francisco Chronicles senior movie correspondent.

The Square (R) opens Friday, Nov. 10, at Bay Area theaters.
For nearly a quarter century, Michael Tilson Thomas has offered San Francisco Symphony patrons  and observers around the world  a virtuoso display of just how much can be accomplished by an orchestral music director with seemingly boundless reserves of energy, ambition and musical imagination. On his watch, the Symphony has become a byword for innovative programming, institutional vigor and a command of a wide swath of orchestral repertoire, from Beethoven and Mahler through music of our time.

Now the Symphony will have to find someone to fill those shoes when Thomas, 72, steps down after the 2019-20 season  not only to command the role of music director as capably as he has, but to refashion the position to fit the distinctive challenges of American cultural life in the 21st century.

If you look back at music director transitions from even 30 years ago, the set of considerations was much simpler, said Jesse Rosen, president and chief executive officer of the League of American Orchestras, an industry umbrella group. You were looking for someone who could make good programs, put together good seasons and give great concerts.

But today, the challenges and opportunities extend so much beyond that. Theres a much broader definition now of artistic leadership.

The roster of tasks facing the next San Francisco Symphony music director will be daunting and varied. It includes finding new ways of making the standard repertoire speak directly to a younger and more diverse audience, including many for whom the music of Mozart or Brahms is terra incognita. It includes embracing a broader range of contemporary music  including works by women and composers of color, a point on which this orchestra has lagged woefully behind organizations like the Los Angeles Philharmonic under Music Director Gustavo Dudamel.

The new music director will also have to be adept at all sorts of outreach, from educational projects to romancing the donors and board members who keep the coffers filled. And, of course, he or she will have to give great concerts, which means creating a vibrant and productive working relationship with the members of the orchestra.

Whats striking about this description is how closely it tallies with the Michael Tilson Thomas of 1995, when he arrived in San Francisco. At the time, Thomas was a noticeably different breed of conductor  different from his predecessor, the staid and strait-laced Herbert Blomstedt, and different from just about anyone else the orchestra could have chosen.

He had a reputation as a splashy showman (in part the legacy of his grandparents, immigrant stars of the Yiddish theater), and a demonstrated commitment to a wide array of American and contemporary music. He had an extensive discography covering a broad stylistic expanse, and he was able right from the start to put his own stamp on the orchestras proceedings.

He brought such energy to the podium, and he was the perfect personality for this city, said violinist Melissa Kleinbart. He was just what the orchestra needed. Those are going to be big shoes to fill. But of course, the next person doesnt have to be a mirror image of Michael.

Indeed, it seems unlikely that anyone on the horizon will boast the full panoply of gifts that Thomas has brought to the job. (Thomas will stay on as music director laureate, conducting the orchestra for at least four weeks each season.) And even speculating about the identities of possible successors is premature, given a three-year search that is only now getting into gear.

But broadly speaking, its possible to sketch out the sort of conductor the Symphony might opt for. They might choose someone in the flashier, more dynamic mold of Polish conductor Krzysztof Urbanski or Finnish conductor Susanna Malkki. They could give the nod to a maestro in a more solidly traditional vein, such as Manfred Honeck. They could split the difference, picking a conductor like the suave, imaginative Italian Fabio Luisi or the thoughtful but more reserved Slovakian conductor Juraj Valcuha.

And thats just a sampling from among the conductors who have made impressive showings in Davies Symphony Hall recently. Its equally likely that the successful candidate will be someone with a long relationship with the Symphony  or someone who has yet to make their debut with the orchestra.

The process is a little like romance, said cellist Barbara Bogatin.

There has to be that special chemistry, which is more important than any preconceived notions. Just like finding a partner  everything could be right, but it wouldnt matter if theres no chemistry.

And chemistry is unpredictable, said Matthew Spivey, the Symphonys director of artistic planning.

Ive seen appointments grow out of a long relationship, and Ive seen it be love at first sight where someone gets appointed after one week.

But that spark is a surprisingly tangible thing. When the relationship connects, its palpable  the orchestra feels it, the person on the podium feels it, and the audience feels it.

Just like in the dating market, the search for a music director involves a certain amount of self-assessment.

An institution has to start out with some notion of what it values most, said Rosen. They will definitely not find someone whos good at everything, so the question is what are the things they feel they can forgo or trade off.

Many orchestras look at this as a moment to ask themselves, Who are we today, and who do we want to become?

For Deborah Borda, the powerhouse orchestra manager who hired Dudamel in Los Angeles and in September began a second nonconsecutive stint as head of the New York Philharmonic, one of the perils at this juncture is an orchestra that tries to solidify its reputation by bringing in a marquee name.

You want to be sure that the institution is secure enough to say, We dont need a famous maestro to define ourselves. An institution itself should be more broad-based, inventive and possibly disruptive.

The San Francisco Symphony certainly has enough cachet at this point to attract a wide range of potential candidates. The orchestras reputation both for stylistic fearlessness and technical excellence is well established; a conductor even with outlandish programming plans would find a group of willing collaborators.

Geography is a complicating factor, though, even in the age of ubiquitous air travel. Ideally, a music director should be a recognizable and ensconced resident of the city, as Thomas has been, and for conductors with active European careers, San Francisco can be a long way from the hub.

Still, said Mark Hanson, the orchestras new executive director, This will be a very attractive position, and the process is a two-way street. In the coming years, were going to be trying to attract the interest of some of the worlds greatest conductors, known or up-and-coming, and I think just as many of our guest conductors are going to be trying to impress us.

Many of them, presumably, have already undergone some kind of courtship ritual, whether consciously or not.

A search should be organic and ongoing, said Borda, because these relationships need to be nurtured over time. You start it the day after you hire the last music director.

Wherever Ive worked, Ive always had a list of three people in mind as the next music director.

But its also entirely possible that Thomas successor will be someone as yet unknown to the Symphonys musicians and audiences  which means that the guest conductors traipsing through Davies over the coming seasons will merit particularly close attention.

They know it, too, according to Spivey, who is responsible for scouting and engaging the orchestras guest artists.

Its funny how the level of activity increases immediately around something like this. Just since the announcement, Ive suddenly had countless calls and emails from conductors who just wanted to say hello.

Joshua Kosman is The San Francisco Chronicles music critic. Email: jkosman@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JoshuaKosman
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During the Obama administration, Mickey Hart would bring a box of a couple dozen CDs into the Oval Office for the president. They were recordings of ethnic music from countries around the world drawn from the sound archives of the Smithsonian Institute, where Hart serves on an advisory board. How can you know about these countries if you dont know their music? he once asked the president.

Grateful Dead drummer Hart does know something about other countries music. He traveled down the Nile to play with Nubian tar drummers. He supervised a CD series of Endangered Music, field recordings from pioneer musicologists. Hes written books about the history of percussion. He has won two Grammy Awards for previous multiculti, all-percussion records by his group Planet Drum. His life is a river of rhythm.

Im recording every day, he says. That is my job. When Im not playing Dead music, I am in the studio every day.

About to leave for a 15-date East Coast tour with Dead & Company  the latest iteration in post-Jerry Garcia Dead units that includes former bandmates Billy Kreutzmann and Bob Weir, along with pop star and guitarist John Mayer  Hart will release a solo album Friday, Nov. 10, many years and thousands of hours in the making, titled RAMU, where Hart plants his flag firmly in exciting new sonic territory.

In the wake of the 50th-anniversary celebration concerts of the Grateful Dead featuring all four living members in July 2015 called Fare Thee Well  the largest-grossing concerts by a single band in history  Dead & Company have benefited from a robust renewal of interest in all things Grateful Dead. The band broke attendance records throughout its last summer tour, selling almost a half-million tickets, grossing more than $1.5 million per night for 23 shows. Now, in addition to this months sold-out indoor swing, Dead & Company is scheduled to make an appearance Thursday, Nov 9, at Band Together Bay Area, the North Bay firestorm benefit concert at AT&T Park, and is planning another extensive tour next summer.

But over lunch in the design district of San Francisco, where he keeps a pied-a-terre, Hart grinned broadly and shrugged his shoulders at the mention of Dead & Company, an unprecedented third act nobody saw coming. Instead, the wiry 74-year-old musician, who strains to hear conversation after a lifetime sitting behind crashing cymbals, wanted to talk about his new record.

My job is to make new music, he says. Normally I dont make rules, but this time I laid down some guidelines: no bass, no keyboards, no cowbells and only a few tom-tom fills.

In the works since well before Fare Thee Well, Harts new album is the fruition of a technological marvel he has been building for more than 30 years called RAMU or Random Access Musical Universe. Its a digital work station, he explains, a sound droid.

Operated through a bewildering array of knobs, sliders, switches, pipes and pads to bang on, RAMU contains a gigantic database of samples Hart has collected since the 60s. Every drum in his huge collection has been sampled  and his collection is epic (he once shipped an entire container full of percussion instruments from Indonesia, and a portion of his holdings was displayed at the San Francisco International Airport in 2000).

He also collaborated with astrophysicists several years ago. Using radio telescopes, the scientists captured light from stars millions of miles away and Hart transposed the signals into noise using the astrophysicists supercomputers, a process he calls sonification.And hes been actively involved for some time in neuroscience research relating to rhythm and the brain. He is a long way from Gene Krupa.

The combination of advancing technology and his increasing skills at operating the complicated system allowed him to create this unique sonic space he inhabits on RAMU. Now I can dance with this like never before, he says. I am smarter. The instruments are smarter.

Deep in his sound files he found some experimental sessions from the late 80s he ran with longtime bandmate Garcia, who died in August 1995, checking out the possibilities of a guitar/synthesizer interface. He would play and I would scroll, he says, and we would audition all the sounds. I had forgotten all about it, but it popped up in my tape vault.

The great Nigerian drummer Babatunde Olatunji of the landmark album Drums of Passion, who died in 2003, makes a similar posthumous appearance on the album.

Hart also mined his vault for actor Peter Coyote reading in his most elegant, echo-laden tones from the Carlos Castaneda book The Teachings of Don Juan (on any path that may have a heart, there I travel, Hart recites over lunch), for Big Bad Wolf. Fresh talent from New Orleans, Tarronia Tank Ball of Tank and the Bangas, tops off the track, with an exclamatory rapped tirade directed at todays Trump administration.

Hart is not taking CDs to the White House these days  the current occupant probably thinks Julio Iglesias is ethnic music  and the shadow of Donald Trump falls heavy on RAMU.

Musicians are supposed to reflect whats happening in society, Hart says. Thats how we scream. Thats the power of song.

Hart, long a political activist, takes aim at the president on several numbers on the album, including jeremiads supplied by longtime Dead lyricist Robert Hunter, who contributed lyrics to several songs, including the forceful Who Do You Think You Are.

Hunter really delivered this time, says Hart. In addition to his floral, romantic mystical stuff, this time you see his political side.

But Hart also partnered with a number of young musicians besides the aforementioned Ball. With his 25-year-old daughter Reya Hart working with him, Hart has been introduced to a lot of new music, especially from New Orleans where she is located. She worked hard stretching his ears, Hart says, evident in the collaboration with the albums co-producer Michal Menert of the electronic music duo Pretty Lights and vocalist Avey Tare from the experimental pop band Animal Collective.

I went there. I listened up. A little. No, a lot, he says. I went where the young ears go.

Joel Selvin is The San Francisco Chronicles former senior pop music critic.

Band Together Bay Area: 6 p.m. Nov. 9. $49.50-$199.50. AT&T Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza, S.F. www.bandtogetherbayarea.org

To hear the Big Bad Wolf featuring Tarronia Tank Ball: https://youtu.be/1p2chgtecTo
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Clarinetist Andrew Friedman was holed up in a practice room at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music the other morning, working over Steve Reichs New York Counterpoint for a performance he and conservatory colleagues were giving a few nights later at the Contemporary Jewish Museum.

Friedman had been pursuing his graduate degree at the University of North Carolina until last spring, when he read that Carey Bell, the San Francisco Symphonys principal clarinetist, had joined the faculty of the conservatory.

I saw that and said, I have to go there, says Friedman, 23, who hadnt thought orchestral playing offered him enough expressive range  until he heard Bell play. Under the radar, during spring break, I come out here, took a two-hour lesson with Carey at Davies Hall, and that was it.

Friedman is one of many students drawn to the conservatory in recent years as the institution, now celebrating its centennial, has made clear its ambition to become one of the worlds premier music schools, hiring major artists and reshaping the curriculum to reflect the music world as it exists today.

That aspiration, says conservatory president David Stull, who arrived in 2013 after a decade as dean of the Oberlin Conservatory in Ohio, was signaled in 2006 when the conservatory moved from its longtime Sunset District home  the Mission-style building at 19th Avenue and Ortega that was formerly a home for unwed mothers  to its rightful place in the Civic Center Performing Arts zone.

The decision by the board and then-president Colin Murdoch to buy, renovate and extend a Beaux Arts building on Oak Street, close to Davies Hall, the San Francisco Opera and now SFJazz, said something about proximity to greatness and the conservatorys desire to be in that pantheon, Stull says.

Under his energetic leadership, the conservatory has taken the next step, creating two new programs: Roots, Jazz and American Music, a partnership with SFJazz, whose all-star Collective members are on the faculty, and Technology and Applied Composition, now in its third year. Directed by composer MaryClare Brzytwa, the program, whose faculty includes movie composers and music folk from Facebook, trains students to score films, do video game sound design and otherwise use the technology creatively. Half the programs 38 students are women.

In addition, all conservatory students are required to take professional development business courses designed for musicians making their way in a wired-up, gig-economy world.

With the advent of technology and changes in how funding works, smaller ensembles can now become just as prominent or more so than the New York Philharmonic, Stull says. Music students today, he adds, need to be critical thinkers who can no longer rely on managers, or that theyre going to join an orchestra. They absolutely need to be driving themselves.

Another milestone in the conservatorys evolution begins next spring, with the groundbreaking of a planned 12-story building on Van Ness Avenue across from Davies Hall. Scheduled to open in 2020, the Mark Cavagnero-designed structure will contain dormitories, two recital halls  one a street-level space visible to passersby, the other a penthouse venue with a view of the City Hall dome  a recording studio and restaurant. The details and the name of the donor making the project possible will be announced next year.

Stull, an Oberlin-trained tuba player, has hired marquee artists like soprano Deborah Voight, composer Mason Bates and jazz guitarist Julian Lage to join a solid faculty that has long included distinguished players like San Francisco Symphony concertmaster Alexander Barantschik and guitarist David Tanenbaum.

Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle

When you build your faculty at the highest levels, you will attract top talent, Stull says. Hes talking in his office, where the tuba owned by the late Cleveland Orchestra tubist Ron Bishop sits in a corner, an unexpected gift from Bishops wife. Students care first and foremost about who their teacher is.

Take Lukas Janata. A Prague Conservatory graduate, he traveled to 27 American states scoping out grad programs and meeting faculty composers. (Yales David Lang told the kid he doesnt usually do interviews but said OK because he couldnt resist his story). Janata applied to four schools, got accepted to three and was torn between two: New Yorks Juilliard and the San Francisco Conservatory. He chose San Francisco.

The main thing that got me here was my teacher, David Conte, says Janata, 23, referring to the prolific composer who chairs the composition department and who, Janata notes, studied with composer Nadia Boulanger. I really feel his pedagogy is very strong, and I wanted to study with him.

The welcoming vibe of the city and the conservatory also influenced him.

Thats also the reason I chose SFCM before Juilliard. The attitude is more personal, he says. Its a smaller school, and I feel more like part of the community.

Over the decades, that conservatory community has included such esteemed musicians as the San Francisco violin virtuosos Yehudi Menuhin and Isaac Stern, who studied there; composer Ernest Bloch, the director from 1925-30; and contemporary composer John Adams, who taught there from 1972-82 and directed the New Music Ensemble.

The conservatory was founded in 1917 as the Ada Clement Piano School by Clement and fellow pianist Lillian Hodghead.

They moved Lillians parents out of this beautiful house on Sacramento Street into a cottage next door so they could run a music school in it, Stull says. They were trailblazers. At the time, women did not start cultural institutions. In her memoirs, Ada Clement talks about chasing down Bloch to be the first director, how they imagined a great building, instruments, an endowment. There was a vision early on.

Tanenbaum got his degree at the conservatory in 78, began teaching there in 82 and was later appointed department chair by longtime, much-loved president Milton Salkind (his Rolodex is on view in a centennial exhibition in the Oak Street atrium, flipped to Aaron Copland). The guitarist was familiar with august East Coast institutions like the Manhattan School of Music, where his father taught, and Baltimores Peabody Institute, where hed studied for two years. The conservatory felt different.

It was funky, not particularly organized, very laid back, very West Coast, Tanenbaum says. But there was a certain freedom to it. It felt like there was room to do things here artistically.

He forged bonds with artists like Aaron Jay Kernis, the composer who studied at the conservatory for a spell and has written four pieces for Tanenbaum, and Adams, who has featured the guitarist in several works (hes in the orchestra playing the premiere of Adams Girls of the Golden West this month at San Francisco Opera).

Adams, a Harvard grad, was working at an Oakland dry goods warehouse when he got a call to teach at the conservatory.

I was not stolen from a major institution, the composer says with a laugh.

The old conservatory was a very humble place. There were some wonderful people on the faculty I learned a great deal from. Mack McCray (the pianist, still there) was a tremendously important figure for me. I wrote my first mature piece, Phrygian Gates, for him. It gets played all over the world, says Adams, who premiered another of his perennials, Shaker Loops, with the conservatory ensemble.

Robin Sutherland, the symphonys sterling pianist, got his degree at the conservatory in 75 and now serves on its advisory board.

I was a refugee from Juilliard, says the pony-tailed pianist, who studied for a year at the New York school with his teacher, Rosina Lhevinne, until she became too ill to teach. Feeling no affection for Juilliard or New York, Sutherland came to the conservatory and studied with Paul Hersh.

I found what I was looking for  a welcoming environment, Sutherland says.

In his first year, the pianist was dispatched by Salkind on a moments notice to sub with the symphony for an ailing McCray, scheduled to play a Paul Hindemith piece under Leon Fleishers baton. Sutherland took Muni down to the Opera House and played the rehearsal and subsequent concert to Fleishers satisfaction. S.F. Symphony maestro Seiji Ozawa later hired him permanently.

Sutherland has watched the schools evolution over 45 years. Now, he says, with the planned new building and stronger ties to the citys major arts companies, the conservatory has arrived.

Jesse Hamlin is a Bay Area freelance writer.

Upcoming concerts

The San Francisco Conservatory of Music is putting on hundreds of concerts as part of its season-long centennial celebration. Here are some highlights (all shows are at the conservatory, except where noted):

Community Concert, Nov. 7: The celebrated Kronos Quartet performs with chamber and orchestral musicians from three San Francisco schools  School of the Arts, Lowell High and the conservatory  playing works by Wu Man, Aleksandra Vrebalov, Rhiannon Giddens and others.

Historical Concert, Nov. 11-12: Corey Jamason, a specialist in Bach and American music theater who chairs SFCMs Historical Performance department, conducts the Theatre Comique Conservatory Orchestra in unknown masterpieces by the operetta-writing master Victor Herbert and the young Jerome Kern.

Chamber Music, Dec. 9: The conservatorys shining ensemble-in-residence, the Telegraph Quartet, three of them from the Class of 12, performs the program that won it a prestigious Naumburg Competition award last year. The quartet plays Carnegie Hall in February.

Roots, Jazz and American Music, Jan. 31: Thats the name of the new program at the conservatory taught by artists performing at this concert, among them such superlative players as guitarist Julian Lage and members of the SFJazz Collective on the SFCM faculty, including bassist Matt Penman, pianist Edward Simon and vibraphonist Warren Wolf. They perform with their students.

New Music Ensemble, Feb. 3, 2018: Nicole Paiement conducts the SFCM ensemble in performances of Schoenbergs 1906 Chamber Symphony No. 1 and a work it inspired, Chamber Symphony, a 1992 piece by John Adams, who directed the New Music Ensemble in the 70s.

Sunday with the Sopranos, Feb. 25, 2018, Nourse Theater: Three stellar operatic sopranos, Patricia Racette, Frederica von Stade and current SFCM faculty member Deborah Voight, come together with a few special guests to make and talk about music.

For more information, go to www.sfcm.edu/performances

Timeline of the San Francisco Conservatory Of Music

1917

Pianists Ada Clement and Lillian Hodghead open the Ada Clement Piano School in the home of Hodgheads parents on Sacramento Street in Laurel Heights.

1923

The school is renamed and incorporated as the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

1925

Composer Ernest Bloch signs on as director. Students during that decade include violinists Isaac Stern, left, and Yehudi Menuhin.

1956

The conservatory moves into its longtime home at Ortega Street and 19th Avenue, left.

1966

Milton Salkind begins a 25-year term as president, one that brings a new degree of expansion and professionalism to the school.

1972-83

John Adams teaches composition and other subjects at the conservatory.

1992

Colin Murdoch, left, the schools dean, moves into the presidency.

2006

The conservatory relocates to its current home on Oak Street near Civic Center.

2013

David Stull becomes president.

2017

The conservatory celebrates the institutions 100 years.
Jolie Holland and Samantha Parton started performing together some 20 years ago as founding members of the Be Good Tanyas, a revered folk trio from Vancouver, British Columbia. Having set off on solo careers shortly after recording the groups first album, the pair find their way back together as a duo on Wildflower Blues. Parton was recovering from a couple of car accidents and a brain aneurysm when Holland, a Texas native and former San Francisco resident, called her up last year to reconnect for the album, which revels in their deep-rooted love of folk, blues and jazz.

Q: You have mentioned that a lot of this album was inspired by Bob Dylans Nashville Skyline. So which one of you is Dylan and whos Johnny Cash?

Samantha Parton: I think we might have a bit of both in us. The whole Are we rolling, Bob line  I can relate to that.

Holland: Samantha used to have a band called the Illegitimate Daughters of Johnny Cash.

Q: What is it about the spirit of that album that informed your album?

Parton: We like the spontaneity and looseness of that album. There was a lot of filler on that record too, which was helpful for not stressing too much about what we were laying down and being in the moment.

Q: I disagree, but get what youre saying.

Holland: Theres total filler on that record!

Parton: That record was basically my childhood. Theres the Nashville Skyline Rag, which was the impetus for Gooseberry Rag on Wildflower Blues. We thought, why not throw this crazy instrumental on our album?

Holland: We had four minutes left on tape and that song took four minutes to record.

Q: This all started with a phone call out of the blue. Did you feel there was some unfinished business after the Be Good Tanyas?

Parton: The relationship that Jolie and I had since we met in the late 90s, it was so much more than your average musician hangout. We became really good friends and we kind of grew up together through the Tanyas and the seed that was planted with that band. I didnt really know when we would get the chance to work together again. There were no plans.

Q: Do you regret leaving the Be Good Tanyas?

Holland: Absolutely not. I dont regret anything.

Q: Samantha, you were recovering from two car accidents when Jolie called?

Parton: I was kind of in this weird, crazy, bleak wilderness of health problems. I was in a bad car accident in 2012, then six months later, another one. Six months after that, I had brain surgery for a brain aneurysm. It was a difficult and weird and lonely time when I got the call from Jolie. I felt like it was like, This is how youre going to get your life back. I felt every part of me, despite being fearful, was, I had to say yes.

Q: Were you aware of her health problems when you made the call?

Holland: I absolutely knew. Sam said, I cant believe youre so supportive. Its such a no-brainer.

Parton: We approached this record like, Were going to sit down and make some music together and let the chips fall the way they may. We came to this project with almost nothing and we just sat in a room together. We werent talking about whats going to sell; we were letting the music be music.

Aidin Vaziri is The San Francisco Chronicles pop music critic. Email: avaziri@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @MusicSF

Jolie Holland and Samantha Parton: 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6. $20. Starline Social Club, 2236 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Oakland. www.starlinesocialclub.com

Watch You Are Not Needed Now: https://youtu.be/HXHOkCgM9SU
ISTANBUL - They seemed untouchable. The head of a huge construction conglomerate. A prince who led Saudi Arabia's elite national guard. A billionaire investor who was one of the richest people in the world.

But in one breathtaking stroke, the men were detained by the Saudi authorities in a purge that began Saturday night and swept up some of the most powerful and recognizable names in the country, including members of the Saudi royal family, cabinet ministers, titans of media and industry and former officials. The detainees included Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, the wealthy investor who owns major stakes in such companies as Twitter and Citigroup, according to an associate of his family.

On Sunday, Saudi officials cast the arrests as the first shot in a battle against the country's notorious and deeply rooted corruption, and part of a broader effort by the country's young and ambitious crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, to refresh the stagnating Saudi state.

For others, though, the detentions seemed more like the continuation of a process that had been accelerating over the last two years: the ruthless consolidation of power by the crown prince before his father, King Salman, dies or abdicates the throne. That process - which included eliminating critics and rivals, but also elite figures who presided over independent power centers - amounted to a radical restructuring of the Saudi order, analysts said.

"Mohammed bin Salman wants to destroy the game of checks and balances," said Stephane Lacroix, a professor of political science at Sciences Po in Paris and the author of Awakening Islam: The Politics of Religious Dissent in Contemporary Saudi Arabia. The goal was "autocratic monarchy," Lacroix said. "No fiefdoms that could counter his decisions."

The detentions came at a time of political, social and economic upheaval in Saudi Arabia, an absolute monarchy that has become one of the Trump administration's closest Middle East allies. At the center of the storm is the 32-year old crown prince, often referred to by his initials, MBS, who is widely seen as the architect of the kingdom's increasingly assertive policy initiatives at home and abroad.

Saudi leaders have embarked on a widely publicized drive to modernize the ultraconservative kingdom, relaxing social restrictions and liberalizing its oil-dependent economy. Last week in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, a lavish conference that was intended to encourage international investment featured robots as well as planned, futuristic megaprojects.

Saudi Arabia has also adopted an increasingly muscular and confrontational posture in the Middle East that has focused on combating the influence of Iran, the kingdom's archrival. Over the last two years, the Saudis have led a military campaign in neighboring Yemen against a rebel group that Saudi officials regard as an Iranian proxy force.

The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemeni civilians and is effectively at a stalemate: On Saturday, the rebels, known as the Houthis, fired a ballistic missile that reached Riyadh - their deepest strike yet inside Saudi territory, and a sign that the conflict was not nearing an end.

Saudi Arabia has also led a group of Arab states in a boycott of Qatar, a neighboring Persian Gulf country, in a rift that has sharply divided the Trump administration's closest Arab allies. And on Saturday, Lebanon's prime minister announced his resignation while in Saudi Arabia, in what appeared to be an attempt by the Saudi leadership to confront Iranian influence in Lebanon.

Analysts said the detentions on Saturday were part of an intensifying drive to centralize power under the crown prince. The effort has included sidelining potential challengers from rival branches of the royal family, and a crackdown on dissidents, including clerics, over the past few months.

The officials detained Saturday included Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, head of the elite Saudi national guard and a favored son of King Abdullah, who died in 2015 and was the predecessor of the current king.

Miteb "was important because he was the only prince who remained inside the government who could potentially oppose MBS," said Lacroix. With Miteb's removal from his post on Saturday, Prince Mohammed had "finished the job of excluding all the competing royal factions," he said.

The reasons for Alwaleed's arrest were not immediately clear. The prince, who is the founder of the business conglomerate Kingdom Holding and one of the world's most prominent investors, had been supportive, at least publicly, of the Saudi leadership, including its controversial intervention in Yemen's civil war.

His detention - along with a number of other business tycoons -- suggested that the Saudi leadership was sending a message that something fundamental had changed, Lacroix said.

In the past, Saudi Arabia "would allow the existence of powerful people or fiefdoms, as long as they remained loyal in the general sense," he said. "It's not about loyalty anymore. Mohammed bin Salman doesn't want to allow the existence of those fiefdoms."

But Hesham Alghannam, a Saudi political analyst and a nonresident fellow at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, said that Saudi citizens were demanding fundamental change, including strong anti-corruption measures.

"People need to see that there is accountability," he said. "The immediate goal is to boost domestic and international confidence in the Saudi economy."

Beyond that, he said, "we are witnessing a move from a patriarchal system to a modern system with a new social contract."

A royal decree, carried Saturday on the website of the Saudi state news agency, said the crown prince would lead a new committee that had been granted broad powers to root out public corruption, including the ability to issue arrest warrants, impose travel bans and freeze bank accounts.

But the scale of the challenge from corruption defied easy solutions, since it was "essentially a structural feature of the economy" in Saudi Arabia, according to Christian Henderson, a professor at Leiden University in the Netherlands who specializes in the economies of the Middle East.

He described a complex ecosystem in which royal family members often benefit from state contracts, and then distribute wealth to their own patronage networks. "Trying to tackle corruption and ensuring that this doesn't eat into your legitimacy, and the stability of the regime, is very difficult," he said, adding that the detentions appeared to be part of a political purge, rather than aimed at curbing graft.

"If you interested in encouraging investment, this seems a strange way of doing it," he added. "Making these sudden moves. I don't think its going to do much to create confidence."
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As firefighters snuff out the remaining hot spots in Wine Country, as families mourn the dead, and as devastated communities begin to shift their focus to renewal, Kathy Riordan continues her near-daily trips to the burn unit of St. Francis Memorial Hospital in San Francisco.

For her family, moving forward is not yet possible.

A month has passed since her younger brother, 55-year-old Michael Hanson, was found by a neighbor as he lay on a road near his rural home outside Santa Rosa, overcome by the Tubbs Fire as it surged west from Calistoga, consuming his home and thousands of others. When the threat was over, 22 people were dead, including his 27-year-old daughter, Christina.

He was unconscious and near death. Third-degree burns had destroyed the skin on half of his body, requiring lifesaving interventions that continue today, including a ventilator that helps him breathe.

But Riordan, who lives in the East Bay, saw a glint of hope recently in what has otherwise been a month of darkness and distress. Her brother still cant talk, but as hes regained some consciousness, he can smile. Last week, he mouthed to a family member, I love you.

The last time I left the hospital after he was able to smile at me, I was just on cloud nine, Riordan said. It felt really good to connect with him.

The swarm of fires that ignited in Northern California on the windy night of Oct. 8 killed 43 people and at last count ruined 8,889 homes, businesses and other structures  the worst disaster of its kind in modern state history. The destruction is stark, but a less visible impact of the tragedy is the plight of several burn victims who suffered almost unthinkable injuries in Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino and Yuba counties.

Patients like Hanson, who has a breathing tube through a hole in his trachea, face a long and grueling journey.

Because of the severity of the burns, they had him medically sedated, said Hansons niece, Brittney Vinculado of Oakland. Theyve taken him off sedation, but because every few days hes having surgeries, its hard for him to be aware and awake.

Hanson is one of three remaining victims of last months wildfires being treated in the Bothin Burn Center at St. Francis Memorial in San Francisco, a state-of-the-art facility with 16 beds where the temperature and humidity are tightly controlled and a team of surgeons, nurses and therapists seek to usher patients from critical care to rehabilitation.

Ten people were taken there for treatment in the days after the fires broke out. UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, another major regional burn center, had three critical burn victims from the disaster as of last week.

Some of the most serious burn cases involved the four members of the Shepherd family, who were overcome by flames while fleeing in the early hours of Oct. 9 from the Redwood Valley Fire in Mendocino County. They had been trapped at their mountain home.

Kai Shepherd, 14, died while trying to escape on foot, and his sister, 17-year-old Kressa Shepherd, died nearly three weeks later at Shriners Hospital for Children in Sacramento. Their parents, Jon and Sara Shepherd, remain hospitalized with severe burns, and dont yet know that their children didnt make it.

The relatively few severe burn victims, compared with the number of dead, illustrate the fires ferocity. Most victims either made it to safety or perished in the flames.

Peter DaSilva/Special to The Chronicle

At Firefighters Burn Institute Regional Burn Center at UC Davis Medical Center, Dr. Tina Palmieri, the surgeon who directs the unit, has been among those tending to the influx of patients. What happens in the minutes and hours after people sustain severe burn injuries, she said, can determine whether they survive.

Rushed to hospitals, they may be in immediate need of a breathing tube to clear their swollen airways along with intravenous therapy. Fluids seeping from damaged skin can bring on dangerous dehydration.

Airway, breathing, circulation, those are the top three priorities, Palmieri explained.

Once the crucial life-or-death issues are addressed, doctors can start looking at the wounds. Third-degree burns  the most severe  go through all the layers of skin and sometimes into the subcutaneous fat and underlying muscles. If such a burn travels the circumference of a patients leg or arm, surgeons may need to ease the pressure with an incision known as an escharotomy, preventing the limb from bursting like an overcooked sausage.

The skin traps the pressure inside, so we have to relieve it, Palmieri said. Its a controlled relief of pressure, so the muscle will survive.

Later, surgeons mount skin graft surgeries, removing webs of scorched tissue before borrowing skin from other parts of the patients body. Unlike in other organ transplants, people cannot receive skin from donors, so surgeons use a tool known as a dermatome, which resembles a cheese slicer, to cut strips of a patients healthy skin to be transferred onto the burned areas.

You shave the skin to a level where it will grow back from the site you borrow from, Palmieri said. You get pieces that develop roots that grow back to the tissues underneath, and then youve got your skin.

A person burned to the bone may require an amputation. Before Kressa Shepherd died, doctors had removed both of her legs below the knees in a bid to save her, said her aunt, Mindi Ramos.

Palmieri called burns the extreme of injuries, noting that they happen very quickly but heal very slowly and painfully. Moreover, her patients are some of the most vulnerable, because their burns affect all of the bodys other organs and the immune system.

A weak immune system, coupled with the bodys loss of its natural barrier, exposes the patient to a host of potentially deadly problems like staph infection, sepsis, pneumonia and blood and urine infections, to name a few. Burn patients can get sick at any time, Palmieri said. My rule of thumb is youre not out of the woods until you are home.

The general rule in the field is that patients will be hospitalized one day for every 1 percent of their bodies that is burned.

After leaving the hospital, burn victims typically face strenuous physical therapy and other rehabilitation. But over time, they recover.

Our goal is to get everybody a life that is enjoyable, Palmieri said. Burn patients can most of the time have that.

Its not clear how long Hanson will be at St. Francis. He was somewhat fortunate in that his burns were mostly limited to his legs and hands, and he suffered only minor smoke inhalation, his family said. He continues to undergo skin graft surgeries as doctors keep close watch on his progress.

All the while, a large group of family and friends keep vigil at the hospital. Theyve decided to postpone funeral services for his daughter until her father is well enough to attend and grasp whats happened.

Everyones state of mind is positive, Vinculado said. Were trying to be positive for him and help him to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But part of me thinks the hardest part is ahead of us.

She said family members were trying to split grieving for Christina, while being there and being strong for Michael.

Hanson, a retired electrical contractor, several years ago moved from San Ramon to Sonoma County, where he devoted himself to his hobbies and his daughter, whose mother died when she was 9.

Peter DaSilva/Special to The Chronicle

Christina, who was born with a spinal birth defect and used a wheelchair, lived in a unit behind the home on Wikiup Bridge Way about a mile east of Highway 101 in Santa Rosa. Her father had converted a horse barn into the apartment, and he used the other half as a studio for glass blowing  a craft hed picked up since buying the property several years ago.

Hanson is an artist as well as a motorhead who loves big engines, his relatives said, and in his garage he kept a 1932 Ford coupe and a custom motorcycle.

The family doesnt know exactly what happened amid the chaos of the Tubbs Fire, which caught thousands of people by surprise, prompting frantic escapes by car or on foot. A few people near the Hansons home jumped in backyard swimming pools to wait out the flames. But Christina was unable to escape, and her father didnt get far. He was found collapsed on Mark West Springs near his property.

From the day Christina was born, she was his priority, Riordan said. He always thought about her first. He lived his life to protect her.

The neighbor who found Hanson unconscious drove him down the hill to nearby Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital. But the advancing wildfire had forced the evacuation of the facility, so the staff rushed Hanson 10 miles west to a hospital in Sebastopol, said Steve Gandolfo, a friend and fellow glass artist.

Doctors wanted to fly Hanson by helicopter to St. Francis Memorial, but the smoke was so thick in Sonoma County that they had to take him by ambulance.

Hanson shared a room at St. Francis Memorial with Jon Shepherd when the two were first admitted, Gandolfo said. The first days were full of panic and dread for Hansons family, followed by moments of clarity, and then a sharp realization of the arduous path ahead.

Its brutal. Its just such a horrible thing, said Gandolfo, who has visited his friend several times in the burn center. I just wish I could take his pain from him.

Gandolfo describes Hanson as just amazingly nice and one of my closest friends. Whenever he needs help on a project, Hanson is there. The only repayment hell ever accept is dinner and drinks with Gandolfo and his wife at their home in Sebastopol.

As Hansons loved ones continue to make trips to the hospital, his friends in the North Bay are banding together to help. During a recent open studio at his art space, Gandolfo gathered a batch of stemless wineglasses he had made at Hansons studio and placed them for sale with a photo and story about his friend. The money, he said, will go to a fund to assist the family.

The glasses sold in a flash, and Gandolfo has since created a website, buyacupformike.com, where he plans to raise more money for his friend.

Im asking glass blowers from around the country to see if they would donate cups for Mike and Christina, he said. Its not really the money. I want him to see the support from people all over. I think the empathy and compassion has the potential to be healing for him.

Riordan, who visits her brother at least three times a week, recalled a recent conversation in which he told her she was his rock in life following their mothers death in March. She appreciated his words, and told him shed always be there for him.

Hes a strong man, she said. Hes got lots of love around him, and when hes awake, he knows were there. Thats whats important.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky
Authorities said a civilian with a gun confronted the attacker and chased him away. The gunman was later found dead in his vehicle along with several weapons.

Law enforcement officials stand next to a covered body at the scene of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. (Photo: AP)

By AP: A man opened fire inside of a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing 26 people and wounding about 20 others in the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history, the governor said.

Officials didn't identify the attacker during a news conference Sunday night, but two other officials - one a US official and one in law enforcement - who were briefed on the investigation identified him as Devin Kelley. They spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss the investigation.

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The US official said Kelley lived in a San Antonio suburb and doesn't appear to be linked to organized terrorist groups. The official said investigators are looking at social media posts Kelley may have made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon.

Authorities said a civilian with a gun confronted the attacker and chased him away. The gunman was later found dead in his vehicle along with several weapons.

A Department of Public Safety official said at the news conference that investigators weren't ready to discuss a possible motive for the attack. He said the dead ranged in age from 5 to 72-years-old. Twenty-three were found dead in the church, two were found outside and one died after being taken to a hospital.

Federal law enforcement swarmed the small community 30 miles southeast of San Antonio after the attack to offer assistance, including ATF investigators and members of the FBI's evidence collection team.

Among those killed was the 14-year-old daughter of the church's pastor, Frank Pomeroy, and his wife, Sherri. Sherri Pomeroy wrote in a text message to the AP that she and her husband were out of town in two different states when the attack occurred.

"We lost our 14 year old daughter today and many friends," she wrote. "Neither of us have made it back into town yet to personally see the devastation. I am at the charlotte airport trying to get home as soon as i can."

The wounded were taken to hospitals. Video on KSAT television showed first responders taking a stretcher from the church to a waiting AirLife helicopter. Eight victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, the military hospital said.

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds. She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen.

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Alena Berlanga, a Floresville resident who was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said everyone knows everyone else in the sparsely populated county. Sutherland Springs has only a few hundred residents.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

Regina Rodriguez arrived at the church a couple of hours after the shooting and walked up to the police barricade. She hugged a person she was with. She had been at an amusement park with her children when she heard of the shooting.

She said her father, 51-year-old Richard Rodriguez, attends the church every Sunday, and she hadn't been able to reach him. She said she feared the worst.

Nick Uhlig, 34, is a church member who didn't go Sunday morning because he was out late Saturday night. He said his cousins were at the church and that his family was told at least one of them, a woman with three children and pregnant with another, is among the dead. He said he hadn't heard specific news about the other.

"We just gathered to bury their grandfather on Thursday," he said. "This is the only church here. We have Bible study, men's Bible study, vacation Bible school."

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"Somebody went in and started shooting," he said, shaking his head and taking a long drag of his cigarette.

President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan, where is his on an Asian trip, that he was monitoring the situation. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called the shooting an "evil act," and promised "more details" from the state's Department of Public Safety soon.

Sutherland Springs is in a rural area where communities are small and tight-knit. The area is known for its annual peanut festival in Floresville, which was most recently held last month.

"We're shocked. Shocked and dismayed," said state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, a Laredo Democrat whose district includes Sutherland Springs. "It's especially shocking when it's such a small, serene area. These rural areas, they are so beautiful and so loving."

Zaffirini said she had called several county and local officials but not been able to get through and didn't have any firm details.

The church is a white, wood-framed building with a double-door at the entrance and a Texas flag on a pole at the front area. A morning worship service was scheduled for 11 am. The first news reports of the shooting were between noon and 12:30 p.m.

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The church has posted videos of its Sunday services on a YouTube channel, raising the possibility that the shooting was captured on video.

In the most recent service, posted October 29, Frank Pomeroy parked a motorcycle in front of his lectern and used it as a metaphor in his sermon for having faith in forces that can't be seen, whether it be gravity or God.

"I don't look at the moment, I look at where I'm going and look at what's out there ahead of me," Pomeroy said. "I'm choosing to trust in the centripetal forces and the things of God he's put around me."

--- ENDS ---
True enough  ISIS is like herpes. Thats why public health protocols likely can teach us more about fighting the so-called Islamic State than our current counterinsurgency strategies out of the Pentagon, which rely on military intervention.

Lets face it, the Western coalitions counterinsurgency strategies have not worked well at all. After billions of dollars have been spent, and thousands of heroic soldiers have given their lives, the bloodthirsty Taliban still controls more than 40 percent of Afghanistan. In Iraq, Islamic State grew out of a vacuum: Now ISIS 3.0 is on the horizon. We need to make a change.

There are three stages of tackling this Islamic State virus: prevention, treatment and recovery. Prevention aims at protecting vulnerable and at-risk youth, while treatment and recovery deals with those who have been recruited. Just like the doctor orders  we need to get our shots.

Similar to a sexually transmitted disease, the virulent ideologies of the Islamic State and its knockoffs spread through intimate, one-on-one contact, as opposed to a widely dispersed airborne pathogen like anthrax. To contain the spreading infection of extremist violence, we need to isolate and inoculate against dangerous and destructive ideologies. That means monitoring ideologically infected individuals and groups by keeping a close watch on their public and private postings on social media.

Indeed, there is an evolving understanding among diplomats and policy engineers of exactly how hateful ideas (like those espoused by the superpowers of terror) and evil philosophies spread and gain traction within different communities. New research has shown how Islamic State thought is replicated and spread through human populations, more or less like a nasty virus. It has a viral coefficient that we can track and measure.

The Islamic States ideas are transmitted through close social and emotional bonds; tight, closed friendships. Islamic State recruiters tickle recruits from multiple angles. They use a variety of social media platforms to locate vulnerable and at-risk youth.

Employing Twitter and Facebook accounts, they seek young people with identity grievances. Once a link is established, they move their communications over to the encrypted messaging apps Telegram and WhatsApp. This is where they close the deal.

Many believe that the lone-wolf phenomenon means a terrorist acting strictly on his own. Research shows quite the opposite: potential recruits are massaged a number of times a day through social media outbursts. Radicals have crafted their messaging through trial and error, making it stronger and more seductive because of the constant feedback loops.

So it is with the Islamic States propaganda: It is transmitted over a long time and through repeated interactions. This explains ISISs strategy behind its media output and its use of fanboys. Fanboys obsession with extremist ideologies spreads a contagion.

And just like sexually transmitted diseases, many ISIS supporters are ashamed to admit that they are infected, that they subscribe to the Islamic States online communities. They will only talk about their secret interests and aims with someone they know and can trust, someone who has similar interests in extremist groups. No one else would really know they were terrorist recruits.

Over the past two weeks, TV and Internet news has been full of tanks and soldiers moving through Raqqa in Syria, with the talking heads declaring the downfall of the Islamic State. Yes, most Islamic State fighters have been killed, captured or run off. People in Raqqa are getting a decent nights sleep for the first time in years. But its premature to think the Islamic State is washed up and done with. In fact, ISIS 3.0 is doing rather well on the battlefield the Islamic State cares most about  the information battlefield.

Stopping the Islamic State requires a strategy of specifically targeting hot spots to control the disease of extremist violence. For example, Tunisia is the leading exporter of ISIS and most of its foreign fighters come from one neighborhood in Tunis. The same pattern holds true in many other places. The first place to look to stop new recruits is among known contacts and networks around existing foreign fighters.

Preventing ISIS and ISIS-like cells from spreading requires a strategy that includes government, civil society and private sector technology companies working on identifying those hot spots. Research shows that certain narratives work best to inoculate these vulnerable youth against Islamic State propaganda. For example, a defectors tale of disillusionment shatters the image of unity and determination ISIS attempts to portray and takes on the emotional and identity grievances that make these youth vulnerable.

We need a whole range of actors to tackle the treatment and recovery of those who have been infected. But first, we need to accept that the old strategies arent working and we must change.

Haroon K. Ullah, chief strategy officer for the Broadcasting Board of Governors, is the author of Digital World War (Yale University Press, 2017). To comment, submit your letter to the editor at SFChronicle.com/letters.
When the price of gas went up 12-cents last week, thanks to a Democrat-backed state transportation bill, California Republicans responded with reproachful head shaking and murmurs of concern for those who will be paying higher prices.

Were overburdened with taxes in California, said Sue Caro, chairwoman of the Alameda County Republican Party and a state party official. This just makes life more expensive, especially for low- and middle-income residents and seniors.

But behind the scenes there was likely backslapping and high fives as GOP officials beamed at the prospect of putting a gas tax repeal initiative on the November 2018 ballot that could bring out droves of tax-hating Republican voters.

In a state where GOP registration is falling fast, Republicans are shut out of statewide offices and half the partys Congress members are being targeted by anti-Trump Democrats, GOP leaders are fighting for any edge they might get, and the gas tax might be their best shot.

The SB1 transportation bill, along with the $5.2 billion in annual taxes and fees it authorized, is a #Gastaxtrophe, they proclaimed.

Thanks to Gov. Brown and the out-of-control California Legislature ... every California commuter will be reminded how Sacramentos failure to govern directly impacts their pocketbook, Jack Pandol, a spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee, said in a statement Wednesday. California families living paycheck-to-paycheck will hold Democrats accountable for this regressive tax on the poor.

But those GOP complaints are more about hardball politics than any concern for California voters and the needs of the state, said state Sen. Jim Beall, D-San Jose, the author of the transportation measure.

After more than four years of study, hearings and negotiations on the states road and transportation needs, the people who reviewed the information on a factual basis, we convinced, Beall said. But the people who reviewed it based on political considerations, we didnt.

For Beall and the Democrats who pushed the bill through the Legislature and narrowly got the needed two-thirds vote, the decision was a no-brainer. Not only hadnt the state increased the per-gallon gas tax since 1994, the fuel efficiency of cars and trucks also has improved substantially, which means people are going farther on less gas  and paying less in gas taxes.

Paul Chinn/The Chronicle

The new transportation bill not only boosts the gas tax, but also adds 20 cents to each gallon of diesel fuel, increases the diesel fuel sales tax by 4 percent, raises the vehicle registration fee and, beginning with the 2020 model year, requires owners of electric cars and other zero emission vehicles to pay an annual $100 road improvement fee in lieu of the gas taxes they dont pay.

That adds up to $52.4 billion in new transportation money that will go to the state and local governments over the next 10 years for road and bridge improvements, with some of the money earmarked for mass transit, and bike and pedestrian paths.

Supporters of the transportation bill say new taxes are the only way to provide the money needed to pare down what transportation officials say is a $59 billion backlog of highway repairs and $75 billion for work on local streets and roads.

Some people want to oppose this for their own political purposes, said Michael Quigley, executive director of the construction-friendly California Alliance for Jobs and a leader of Fix Our Roads, a coalition of supporters of the transportation bill. But most people realize the gas tax is a users fee and ultimately represents a good thing for them, the roads and the state.

Two separate GOP-friendly groups already are pushing measures for the November 2018 ballot that would repeal the various transportation taxes and fees, but both are still awaiting the final OK from the state before they can begin to collect the hundreds of thousands of signatures needed to qualify for next years ballot.

California Republicans see the gas tax repeal as a welcome oasis of opportunity in whats otherwise a GOP political desert. With two little-known Republican candidates, San Diego-area businessman John Cox and Assemblyman Travis Allen of Huntington Beach (Orange County), currently in the race for governor, theres a chance that a pair of more visible  and far better financed  Democrats could finish first and second in Junes top-two primary and crowd out the GOP at the top of the November ballot.

But even with a Democrats-only governors race, a hot battle over the gas tax could bring out Republicans and anti-tax independents who would also vote for down-ballot Republican candidates, such as the seven GOP members of Congress now being targeted by Democrats.

That prospect has led to bruising tactics on both sides. GOP opponents of the gas tax already are pushing to recall state Sen. Josh Newman, D-Fullerton (Orange County), who won a Republican-held seat last year and then voted for the transportation bill.

In September, the Fix Our Roads group, which includes not only labor, construction industry and local government representatives, but also business-oriented groups like the California Chamber of Commerce, sent a letter to the 14 GOP California members of Congress, warning them to stay out of the gas tax fight since with so much at stake, our organizations will have no option but to mount a robust and powerful effort in opposition to this initiative, using the voice of the California business community to counter your efforts.

But 11 of those GOP congressmen quickly sent a letter saying they would back a repeal of the new taxes and fees, betting the stand would bolster their support next year.

Republicans and other opponents of the gas tax dont say road repairs arent needed, but argue that SB1 isnt the way to go.

California keeps receiving more tax revenue, more than enough to fix our roads and expand our freeways without raising taxes a dime, said Allen, the Orange County assemblyman who wrote one of the repeal initiatives.

The argument that we need money for roads is absolutely correct, but the Democrat-led Legislature shouldnt be able to vote new taxes in on their own, said Jon Coupal, president of the anti-tax Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association who backs a competing repeal effort. What were saying is that changes like this have to go to the voters.

Democrats and other supporters of the transportation bill are doing what they can to ease the impact  and the visibility  of the new fees. For instance, the gas tax took effect Nov. 1, the day oil companies can begin pumping the less-expensive winter-blend gasoline. And with gasoline prices being as volatile as they typically are, the extra 12-cents could quickly disappear into the usual ups and downs of pump prices.

Republicans also should be worried that get-out-the-vote efforts work in both directions, especially with supporters of the transportation bill ready to spend $30 million or more to fight off repeal, said Rob Stutzman, a GOP consultant working with Fix Our Roads.

People dont like taxes, but its a trade-off, since if you cut the taxes the road repairs go away, he said. And to beat back the repeal, supporters will spend a lot of money turning out Democrats.

And while any repeal measure wont be on the ballot for a year, the state and cities already are filling potholes and repaving roads with the promise of new state money. Its a safe bet that for the next 12 months transportation officials across California will be reminding voters just where the cash for those repairs is coming from.

Its not taxes were supporting, but the results, the outcome, said Quigley of the California Alliance for Jobs.

John Wildermuth is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jfwildermuth
San Francisco Unified School District reached a tentative contract agreement with its teachers union Saturday, days before the union was scheduled to vote on whether to allow a strike.

The deal grants teachers an 11 percent raise over three years  a financial stretch for the district as its revenue dwindles and expenses grow, but doable as long as were willing to make other sacrifices and work together to find additional revenue, Superintendent Vincent Matthews said in a statement.
Uttar Pradesh ATS has arrested terror-accused Abu Zaid who is suspected to be part of ISIS.

By India Today Web Desk: Uttar Pradesh ATS has arrested terror-accused Abu Zaid who is suspected to be part of ISIS. He was arrested in Mumbai as he was returning from Saudi Arabia.

In April 2017, UP ATS had arrested 4 terrorists with the help of other agencies and state police. The gang used to talk through an app on the internet and was preparing for a terrorist incident. Their arrest could have prevented a few terrorist incidents from happening.

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During this crackdown, Abu Jaid's name came into light. He is a resident of Azamgarh who was living in Saudi Arabia and was working to inspire and guide people from India into ISIS. Accumulated evidence from the mobile of the arrested accused was also found.

A look out notice was issued for Abu Jaid and he was arrested by DSP Anup Singh at the Mumbai airport. He is now being taken on transit remand and will be brought to Lucknow.

We have arrested a terror suspect Abu Zaid from Mumbai airport: ADG (LO) Anand Kumar pic.twitter.com/8o00VZk9VM- ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

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I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list."  Susan Sontag

I arrived in Bahrain on Sept. 29, exhausted after a 20-plus-hour journey, beginning in Tampa, Florida, a stopover in Boston, changing planes in Dubai, and finally landing in Muharraq, Bahrain.

This flight was a watershed event for me. My dream of travel took root while I was a child, riding across the country with my mother and sister in our red and white Ford sedan, from Ohio to California, watching the scenery change from green farmland to fields with working oil pumps, to sage brush followed by saguaro cactus, to irrigated citrus and avocado trees in Southern California and the huge Pacific Ocean. After an election observation mission in Ukraine years later, the dream grew from touring the United States to touring Europe as well, and then, in the last few years, why not the whole planet?

There is so much to see and learn in the world, so many people to know, so many different approaches to living a life, that I wanted most to travel when I could make the journey at my leisure, with time for reflection. I retired in March of this year, and now is finally that time. It will never be easier. I hope to share this journey with you, and perhaps even to entice you toward a journey of your own.

Just taking off, like many things in modern life, is not as simple as it sounds. Life in the United States has a lot of societal, bureaucratic and economic strings attached: houses, utilities, passports, driver's licenses, forwarding mail, what to do with the car insurance and the car itself, paychecks, pensions, income tax returns, remote banking, health care, storage or disposal of household goods, mobile phones, Internet access  and thats not an exhaustive list. People asked when I planned to leave. I told them 2017 would be a year of transition, from career to retirement and from settled resident to gypsy. How much money will you need? This is the question that deters many would-be travelers from their treks, but the answer is tied to the style of travel.

I wanted to travel at leisure, not bound by a schedule or a fixed itinerary. I wanted to get to know the areas I would visit by looking at neighborhoods, people-watching and people-meeting, and sampling the local public transportation and food, as well as visiting museums, historical buildings and cultural events when possible. Some people prefer luxurious travel  rented cars and upscale hotels  but its not for me. It feels isolated and uniform, and lacks the sense of place, the discovery of societies that developed differently.

I loosely planned about two years for this adventure. I dont know if I will actually use two full years, if I will continue for longer than that, or if Ill ever come home at all, but planning requires some decisions. It requires understanding the intersection of money required and money available. How much would I need for full-time travel? I read books: "The Rough Guide to First-Time Around the World" by Doug Lansky, "Vagabonding" by Rolf Potts and "See the World on $50 a Day" by Matthew Keynes, among others. These were people who chose extended travel and public transportation, and avoided luxury hotels.

At $50 a Day, the annual cost would be $18,250, but this included couch-surfing, something way outside of my comfort zone. "The Rough Guide" broke the cost down by country, and cost per day ranged from $30 a day in cheap countries to $100 a day in expensive countries for high-end backpacking. That included some B&Bs and some hostels, and the occasional hotel. I never seem to be able to match these expert estimates, and I didnt want to pinch pennies, so I decided on a budget of $150 per day, $54,750 per year, roughly $4,600 per month. This would be a serious drain on my savings. In the end, I decided that I could manage this adventure best by shedding as much financial responsibility as possible, and I sold my house. That freed most of my annual income for travel, reducing the draw on assets, plus I have many fewer worries plucking at the back of my brain. I left my car with my daughter in Florida; otherwise, I would have ditched that, too. Extreme? I suppose so. There will be other appealing houses to love, but I only get one life.
He said the liquor mafia and the tender mafia are also ruining the natural resources of Himachal.

By India Today Web Desk: BJP's chief ministerial candidate for the Himachal Assembly elections, Prem Kumar Dhumal says, he won't indulge in revenge politics if his party comes to power. Dhumal said, eliminating mafia and restoration of law and order in Himachal will be his top most priority.

Dhumal said, "There will be no revenge. We will like to devote our time for the development of the state. We will focus on restoring democracy and values for which the government is elected. Law and order will be established so that drug mafia, mining mafia and all these mafias are controlled".

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Confident of winning the November 9 Assembly elections, Dhumal said he would reinstate the safety, security and self-respect of the people, otherwise ruined by the Congress government led by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.

"Safety, security and self-respect of people are the main responsibilities of any government. In the last five years, the law and order has collapsed and the anti-social elements are dominant."

Accusing the Congress government of establishing a mafia raj, he said that Virbhadra Singh turned this "dev bhumi", the land of gods, into "drug bhumi and crime bhumi".

"People in the state feel they are governed by the mafias. Forest mafia is cutting trees. If officials try to stop, they are beaten up and killed. Mining mafias are transporting minerals to other states and locals are being deprived."

He said the liquor mafia and the tender mafia are also ruining the natural resources of Himachal.

"The state government had formed a Beverage Corporation. Out of 29 such corporations, 27 were running in losses. Suddenly, last year Beverages Corporation of Himachal Pradesh was constituted just to benefit some people.

"Through this, the government started to supply liquor in the state but no infrastructure was created. This gave birth to many new liquor mafia. There is industry in the state for transfer and postings of government officials. Tenders are given to favourites."

Dhumal alleged that Hoshiyar Singh, a forest guard, was killed just because he saw and recorded on his mobile phone how some people were carrying out illegal felling of trees. But the state government turned his murder into a suicide case, he said.

"There are many such examples. First time in the history of Himachal Pradesh, the High Court has intervened in the cases of Gudia, who was raped and brutally murdered in Shimla, and also in the case of Hoshiyar Singh," he said.

The court has ordered a CBI probe in both the cases. "These are the issues which show the character of this government."

Dhumal said common people have lost faith in the government and police because of such incidents.

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"My first task would be to reinstate the confidence of the people into government. My priority would be to give right posting to honest and efficient police officers so that confidence is reinstated and criminal elements and mafias feel insecure. The dev bhumi will be brought to its old glory."

He said his government would form an anti-drug squad in the name of Hoshiyar Singh that would be operative 24/7 in the Chief Minister's office to note every complaint.

The BJP leader said he would constitute a squad of ex-servicemen in the name of Himachal's first Param Veer Chakra winner Major Somnath Sharma to check anti-social elements and help the police.

He said the state government was under a Rs 50,000 crore debt and that his government would try to get the state to get rid of these debts and be self-sufficient.

"I think the time of giving packages is over. The present government was getting Rs 40,000 crore but after Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, the state was given Rs 1.15 lakh crore. The share in central taxes was also increased by the present union government to 42 per cent from 32 after 14th finance commission.

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"We have already got packages for 69 National Highways, for three four-laning of roads and six bridges. When Rs 70,000 crore will be invested in the state, a number of economic activities will take place and number of people will be engaged in this. Employment will be generated," he said.

Asked why the BJP changed its strategy and announced a chief ministerial face in Himachal, Dhumal said: "In small states, people like to know the face with whom to interact later on. Everybody wants to have direct contact with the chief minister. Himachal election has always been fought by projecting a face."

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The 160 shadow puppets (by Neda Kazemifar and Spica Wobbe) are so finely wrought that you can trace an individual tress of hair as it flows and coils down a puppets back. A kings throne, seen in profile, has a border as ornate, as curlicued, as lace. Masks on the seven human actors, though their expressions are of course frozen, have the inscrutability that becomes leagues of depth as, from scene to scene, the same countenance seems to express fathomless sorrow, then fiery desire. A headdress of feathers, on the magical bird Simorgh (performed and voiced by Rose Nisker), is like a jagged mane of multicolored stained glass.

If the craft of these designs staggers, its unmatched elsewhere in Feathers of Fire: A Persian Epic, an 80-minute show by Fictionville Studio and Banu Productions that opened Friday, Nov. 3, for a three-day run at Fort Masons Cowell Theater. The show, produced in collaboration with Larry Reed and ShadowLight Productions, attempts to fuse animation, puppetry and live human performance, projecting all three onto a giant screen, but only rarely do those forms cohere. More often, each undermines the reality of the other, and since youre already staring at a two-dimensional movie screen with an animated background, you cant help but wonder if the whole thing would work better as a film.
LONDON  Saudi Arabia announced the arrest Saturday night of prominent billionaire investor Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, plus at least 10 other princes, four ministers and tens of former ministers.

The announcement of the arrests was made over Al-Arabiya, the Saudi-owned satellite network whose broadcasts are officially approved.

The reports in Al-Arabiya and from other sources that Alwaleed was among those arrested were sure to send shock waves both through the kingdom and the worlds major financial centers.

Alwaleed, who controls the investment firm Kingdom Holding and is one of the worlds richest men, has major stakes in News Corp, Time Warner, Citigroup, Twitter, Apple, Motorola and many other well-known companies. He also controls satellite television networks watched across the Arab world.

The sweeping campaign of arrests appears to be the latest move to consolidate the power of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the favorite son and top adviser of King Salman.

At 32, the crown prince is already the dominant voice in Saudi military, foreign, economic and social policies, stirring murmurs of discontent in the royal family that he has amassed too much personal power, and at a remarkably young age.

The king had decreed the creation of a powerful new anti-corruption committee, headed by the crown prince, only hours before the committee ordered the arrests.

Al-Arabiya said that the anti-corruption committee had the right to investigate, arrest, ban from travel or freeze the assets of anyone it deemed corrupt.

The Ritz Carlton hotel in Riyadh, the de facto royal hotel, was evacuated Saturday, stirring rumors that it would be used to house detained royals. The airport for private planes was closed, arousing speculation that the crown prince was seeking to block rich businessmen from fleeing before more arrests.

President Trump has developed a warm, mutually supportive relationship with the ascendant crown prince, who has rocketed from near obscurity in recent years to taking control of the countrys most important functions.

But his swift rise has also divided Saudis. Many applaud his vision, crediting him with addressing the economic problems facing the kingdom and laying out a plan to move beyond its dependence on oil.

Others see him as brash, power-hungry and inexperienced, and they resent him for bypassing his elder relatives and concentrating so much power in one branch of the family.

David D. Kirkpatrick is a New York Times writer.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The son of a convicted terrorist from Staten Island is now one of FDNY's bravest, according to a New York Post report.

Omar Ahmed Sattar, 30, son of convicted terrorist Ahmed Abdel Sattar, graduated with 278 others from the FDNY Academy in October, the report says.

Six months after 9/11, his father -- a postal worker from Elm Park -- was arrested and accused of providing material aid to Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman, the mastermind of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

In 2008, Sattar was convicted of conspiracy for plotting to kill and kidnap persons in a foreign country. He was sentenced to 24 years in prison and is to be released in March 2023.

The new firefighter told The Post how becoming a firefighter was his dream come true.

"This is what I have always wanted to do. This is who I have always wanted to be. I have always admired firefighters," he said.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.-- A Staten Island man who formerly worked as a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley is suing the firm, claiming he was pressured to drop clients who identify as Orthodox Jewish, according to a New York Post report.

Michael Pellegrino, 46, claims in the federal lawsuit he was ordered by a superior to cease work with Hasidic Jews, who were referred to by some at the firm by the code name "unicorns," according to the report.

A unicorn in the world of business typically refers to what is perceived to be an unreliable client, according to Investopedia.com.

The suit claims Pellegrino was suspended, then, fired in December, 2016, for not dropping the clients. He claims he was "bullied" and caused to feel inferior due to his Jewish clientele.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As winter steadily approaches, Staten Island officials are urging volunteers to sign up for a program that provides free snow shoveling for senior citizens.

"No one wants to think about the cold months ahead when it still feels like early fall. But winter is just around the corner," said Councilman Steven Matteo (R-Mid-Island).

"Forecasters are predicting this winter will be longer, colder and bring more snow than usual, which is why we want to get a head start on our shoveling for seniors program," Matteo added.

Where to Turn, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing New York City's most pressing needs, works in collaboration with the snow shoveling program, which is currently in its 15th year of operation.

The program pairs volunteers and senior citizens in their immediate area, and the volunteers agree to shovel senior's sidewalks and walkways.

Student volunteers can receive up to 10 hours of community service credit for their work.

With the list of seniors-in-need growing, more volunteers are needed to meet the rising demand.

"Winter is coming, and there are many seniors throughout our borough who need assistance shoveling outside their homes," said Borough President James Oddo.

"I encourage parents share this opportunity to help their neighbors with their teenage children," Oddo added.

According to Councilman Joseph Borelli (R-South Shore), "We need people on every block."

MORE THAN 2,500 SENIORS NEED HELP

In total, Where to Turn "has over 2,500 seniors requesting snow shoveling assistance," according to Dennis McKeon, the executive director of the organization.

"If you are a student in the seventh grade or higher we will find you a senior within walking distance of your home," McKeon stated. "You commit to shovel their sidewalk and the path to their front door each time it snows and you will receive 10 hours of community service credit at the end of the winter."

And, as McKeon concludes, "just the fact that they know there's somebody out there who is going to help them out makes a big difference in their lives,"

If you are senior citizen, age 65 and older, who needs your snow shoveled or a student or resident who wants to volunteer, sign up for the snow shoveling program at www.where-to-turn.org, or call 718-966-6531.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The East Shore seawall, the borough's opioid epidemic and healthcare bill were among the issues Staten Island and Brooklyn residents brought up at Rep. Dan Donovan's (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn) "Coffee with the Congressman" town hall on Saturday.

The event, which was held at New Dorp High School, drew more than 50 residents.

EAST SHORE SEAWALL & FLOOD INSURANCE PREMIUMS

Residents asked Donovan about his plans to reduce flood insurance premiums with the the construction of the East Shore Seawall that will run from Fort Wadsworth to Oakwood Beach.

"The seawall is going to protect the eastern seaboard of our Island and after it's built, anyone behind the seawall, anyone who's received seawall protection, will probably not be even in the flood zone anymore and won't have to pay mandatory flood insurance at all," he said. "It might be a good idea to have a small policy but you won't be mandated as you are now."

Construction will start in phases in 2019, with an expected completion date of 2023.

The congressman said he and other officials are working with FEMA to discuss plans for those who won't receive protection from the seawall and other flood zones and unprotected areas, including those who live in attached homes.

Donovan also said he introduced a bill to freeze flood insurance premiums until the new flood maps are revised following the seawall construction.

"Once they redraw the maps, many homes might not be in the flood plan anymore and all this time you would be paying flood insurance you weren't required to," Donovan said. "We've asked the administrator also to come up with plans with how people can mitigate and protect their own homes from a flood if they can't elevate."

GOP HEALTHCARE BILL



Rep. Donovan voted against the repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act because of high deductibles and premiums, and costly fines from individual and employer mandates.

He also said he would vote against President Donald Trumps' tax plan. Donovan voted against the budget that would eliminate federal income tax deductions for state and local taxes (SALT), but is not a binding tax policy law.

OPIOID EPIDEMIC EDUCATION

A question posed to Donovan was about the plan to educate students and residents of the borough about the dangers of addictive drugs.

Donovan said the new generation of those addicted started with prescription painkillers to manage their pain and were "lied to" by pharmaceutical company representatives who said the medication was not addictive.

"Now you have a population of people who got addicted on narcotics who had no intentions of this happening," Donovan said. "So we have to educate people that even though this tablet has 30 milligrams of OxyContin in it and the FDA says it's safe. And it's in someone's medicine cabinet, my dad's or mom's medicine cabinets, and there's no heroin or syringe in there, they're just tablets so it must be safe."

"We have to educate people that these are dangerous drugs. Don't experiment because they are addictive," he added.

He said he continues to support drug treatment centers, drug courts and educating young people about the dangers of opioids.

IMMIGRATION, DACA

Donovan spoke about his support of the president and administration's work to secure the border, target criminals for deportation and his ban that barred travel from seven countries.

The new permanent travel restrictions apply to five of the original countries, including Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen. Chad and North Korea was added to the list.

Donovan said he believes in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). In fact, he said DACA needs to be "fixed" immediately and a comprehensive immigration plan needs to be developed.

"It takes too long for someone to become a citizen in this country," he said. "I don't know what it is. I don't know how long it takes."

"But we have people who do what we ask them to do. They fill out the paperwork, they go for their interviews, they go through background checks and what else we need people to do. Nobody is coming here because it's a bad place to be. Nobody is coming here because where they're leaving is better than here. So we have to speed that up," Donovan said.
By JIM SMITH

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The chilly winds of November are a prelude to the warm holiday season.

Before we celebrate the Thanksgiving season we mark two equally important dates, this year both in the same week. Tuesday we celebrate one of our greatest freedoms of being an American -- Election Day.

If you enjoy your freedom, thank a veteran. Veterans Day is Saturday, Nov. 11.

Veterans Day grew out of this country's celebration of Armistice Day to mark the ending of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. History books tell us, "at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 the great war ended."

In 1954, the day was renamed Veterans Day to account for veterans of all wars.

Every Veterans Day, I visit the Vietnam Memorial at the Armory on Manor Road. I go alone, with my memories. I feel both proud and sad.

I was proud to be part of the committee that erected the memorial and I feel sad as I read the 84 names of the young veterans, inscribed for eternity on the marble walls. All young Staten Islanders, in their prime, who gave their lives.

Since 1988, the memorial has become a mecca of peace and serenity for the friends and relatives of the 84 who died in that war.

Staten Island had the highest per capita ratio of deaths in the war.

Through the years, I watch as families approach the wall and run their hand across the name of their fallen warrior. I touch the name of Bobby Mullens, a good friend of my brothers Bobby and Tommy; growing up he was always in our home. A special forces Green Beret, his life ended when his helicopter was shot down.

"If I have to die here, I hope it will not have been in vain," wrote Second Lt. Robert J. Mullens Jr. to his father three days before he died in Qui Nhon hospital.

He was 24.

He was buried wearing his uniform, in a glass enclosed casket.

My brother, Tommy, was a Marine second lieutenant. At the wall, he told me, "My name should have been there; don't tell Mommy."

I never asked "Why?"

I remember the day my brother left for Vietnam. It was the day after Mother's Day in 1968.

I am the oldest of 10 children and we all were at the home we grew up in on Lawrence Avenue in West Brighton. My mother prided herself on Sunday dinners. She would never go out for dinner on Mother's Day; she enjoyed us being home.

In the middle of the table was a bowl of yellow roses, a gift from Tommy.

The conversation was about everything "but the elephant in the room."

The next morning we drove Tommy to the airport, not much to talk about. We all said our goodbyes and watched him with his forced smile wave back.

Each of us went in a separate direction in the airport, to cry in private.

When we got home my mother took the bowl of yellow roses and put them in the freezer, "till he came home."

Every time we opened the refrigerator door there was a grim reminder of the unspeakable cloud hanging over our family. War is hell on a family; you don't have to be "over there" to feel it.

My brother returned to West Brighton safely on July 6, 1969. The roses looked good back on the table.

What we didn't know was the PTSI, survivors guilt, he lived with for over 35 years.

One day he finally told me why his name was not on the wall.

On July 1, 1969, he was leading his troop in the jungle. They were in the Rocket Belt, south of Da Nang. My brother was the platoon commander. His platoon sergeant was more familiar with the area and suggested, "Let me go with the lead squad, I've been here before."

They were ambushed and the sergeant was killed in my brother's spot.

Survivors guilt haunted my brother for over 35 years. Finally, he tried to call the family of his sergeant. All he knew was his last name and he came from Bandera, Texas.

He ran into many wrong numbers till one day a young girl answered. He identified himself, looking for the family of a Marine he served with in Vietnam. The young girl replied, "Wait a minute. Mom, it's for you."

The sergeant's sister got on the phone and asked, "Did he suffer?"

"Absolutely not; he died instantly. I was by his side in 10 seconds," he answered.

After a long silence, she gasped, "Thank God, I've always wondered all these years."

My brother is alive today thanks to the dedication, devotion and valor of Sgt. Charles Clinton Kalka, USMC. Both shared their love of the Marine Corps, their country and both had the same birthday, March 22. Charles was 22, my brother 23.

There are so many stories of the names on the wall.

Our committee was formed in 1985 to erect this memorial. The veterans who had returned from the war were an important part of the committee. They worked tirelessly to make this happen.

On Veterans Day, I remember the 84 and salute the living who are proud Americans, reunited with their families and starting families of their own. Staten Island is full of proud veterans from all wars.

As we were planning the dedication of the memorial, the veterans chose the date of May 7.

On that date in 1975, President Gerald Ford declared, "The Vietnam Era had ended."

Sadly, this war divided the country. Veterans were not welcomed home with gratitude. Our committee wanted to right that wrong. Our dedication day started with a "Welcome Home" parade down Forest Avenue.

They wanted to invite Gen. William C. Westmoreland, who served as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces in Vietnam.

He accepted and I will never forget his entrance. His flight was delayed; we had to start the program without him. Midway through the program we looked up from the stage as he marched proudly in to the cheers of the crowd.

He was surrounded by soldiers and you could feel the love and respect for him, and his for them.

Some sights are etched in your mind forever. He called the Vietnam War "one of man's most noble crusades." He praised our memorial as "one of the finest local memorials he had ever seen."

Please fly your flag on Veterans Day and try to stop by the Vietnam Memorial.

On your visit, read the dedication:

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them."

(Jim Smith, of St. George, is a veteran who served in peace time. He was president of the Vietnam Memorial committee to erect the memorial.)
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ANOTHER $200 FINE COMING RIGHT UP;

Two generations of Liberal fundraisers -- Stephen Bronfman and his 88-year-old retired senator godfather Leo Kolber -- are tied together in a complex offshore structure that amassed $60 million (U.S.) in a tax haven beyond the reach of tax collectors in Canada, Israel and the U.S., a newly leaked trove of documents reveal.

Buried in the Paradise Papers, a massive leak to the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which includes the Toronto Star and CBC/Radio-Canada, are more than 5,000 pages of internal records detailing how the Bronfmans and Kolbers invested in Israel through two offshore trust funds in the Cayman Islands.

It was a two-family affair: Stephen Bronfman personally lent millions to the Cayman trust that handled his family's investments in Israel, run by Leo Kolber's son, Jonathan, 55.
As the energy prices continue to rise, analysts are mixed over whether the federal government's National Energy Guarantee can halt the upward march of costs.

The NEG framework, released last month, provided a national policy and direction for the energy sector in response to the Finkel review. While it has been welcomed by the sector, which has faced ongoing uncertainty in the space, the ability of the new policy to achieve its aims are in doubt.

Advisory firm Energy Action argues the NEG's focus on extending the operational life of older coal-fired power station will increase capital costs and that will flow on to consumers through contracts.

"We're seeing the impact of higher prices," Energy Action chief executive Ivan Slavich told Fairfax Media.
We are up to our ankles in mud when Amina approaches us. Pregnant and with three young children clinging to her arms, Amina explains through tears that her husband is missing after fleeing their village in Myanmar.

Amina and her children travelled by foot for 18 days to reach this camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. After finally reaching the camp in the middle of the night, she was so exhausted that she slept through the morning's aid delivery. The family of four have nothing but the clothes they are wearing.

My Bangladeshi Red Crescent colleague acts quickly, arranging for a meal, a tarpaulin for shelter and a few other survival necessities. The next day Amina returns to thank us. Her smile is a ray of hope in this heaving new city of close to a million people within eyesight of Myanmar.

This is the best we can hope for right now: to give people what they need to survive the coming days.
Do you feel like a massage right now? Whether it's to relieve sport or workplace injuries, medical conditions such as arthritis, neck and shoulder tension, or you simply want to relax and feel good, chances are the answer is yes. However, finding the time, money and a massage therapist who ticks all the boxes can be a challenge.

Affordable and convenient mechanical alternatives have come a long way since those old coin-operated vibrating beds in motel rooms. Homecare options include compression foot massagers and shiatsu back cushions, but the most useful, versatile devices are handheld massagers. I tested the mains-powered HoMedics "dual action percussion massager" and Beurer's battery-operated "mini massager".

Homedics: Heat option. Credit:Dave Hurt

Essentially the former is a more serious contender than its little competitor, but the latter's size makes it nimble. An Australian representative of the German-based Beurer advised that the mini massager is recommended by medical professionals for, and popular among, people with arthritis. Its ability to get into webbing between fingers and toes apparently provides considerable relief. The cashier where I bought this device said, without any prompting, that her grandmother used one for this very reason.

VERDICT
The citizenship saga continues to batter the government, with another minister forced to deny his eligibility is under a cloud, a backbench MP openly questioning Malcolm Turnbull's leadership and the Coalition partners preparing to do battle over the Senate presidency.

Labor is ramping up the pressure on the Prime Minister to support its plan for "universal disclosure" of citizenship documents after Assistant Immigration Minister Alex Hawke became the latest MP to face questions over his status, based on his Greek heritage.

While Mr Hawke insists he is in the clear, the opposition says the government simply cannot be trusted in the wake of the Stephen Parry affair.

"Now that we know ministers were told about Stephen Parry's situation and covered it up, Australians simply can't take Turnbull's word for it when he says his MPs are fine," said Labor's Penny Wong.



"Turnbull either accepts Labor's proposal for universal disclosure or he refers MPs in doubt  including Alex Hawke and Julia Banks  to the High Court. The status quo is not acceptable."
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has put New Zealand's latest offer to resettle some of the refugees languishing on Manus Island on the backburner, as a conservative MP broke ranks to declare the government should reconsider.

As the Manus Island detention centre stand-off entered its fifth day, Mr Turnbull held talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in Sydney, where she formally extended to Mr Turnbull the offer to take in 150 people. "The offer is very genuine and remains on the table," she said.

But Mr Turnbull said Australia remained focused on the US refugee resettlement deal, which has so far resulted in 54 people being resettled. The US deal covers up to 1250 people but US President Donald Trump dislikes it and vetting is taking a long time.
Government backbencher Kevin Andrews has made a thinly veiled swipe at Malcolm Turnbull's prime ministership, saying he thinks voters are unhappy about "inadequate leadership" in Canberra.

Mr Andrews, an outspoken ally of former prime minister Tony Abbott, said while he was not advocating for a change of leader, Australians wanted "clear, decisive, stable leadership".

When asked if he had confidence in Mr Turnbull, Mr Andrews told Sky News: "There is a deep frustration in the community about what people see as inadequate leadership at the present time".

The Victorian MP directly linked this frustration to the uncertainty about MPs' citizenship that has engulfed Parliament in recent months.
They say a week is a long time in politics. But in the case of the Australia-New Zealand relationship, is two-and-a-half months enough time to overcome some major awkwardness?

It was only back in August that an enraged Julie Bishop said if there was a change of government across the Tasman, she would find it "very hard to build trust" with New Zealand Labour.

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull greets New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern in Sydney. Credit:David Gray

The foreign minister had been bothered by revelations Australia's Labor opposition had been in touch with New Zealand's (then) Labour opposition about the citizenship of people born to New Zealand parents (as questions swirled about Barnaby Joyce's Kiwi paternity).
Ten years of Australian style will be celebrated as the Australian Fashion Laureate marks a decade of recognising the industry's most influential players this week with a gala event, presented by Etihad Airways, and retrospective exhibition at Sydney's Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS).

Established by the New South Wales government and IMG in 2008, and decided by a who's who in the ragtrade biz, this year's nominees  including Dion Lee, Romance Was Born and Kym Ellery  will be honoured on Thursday among 260 guests (including models Gemma Ward and Samantha Harris) during a dinner at the Cutaway in Barangaroo.

Cristina Garces wears a top and trousers by Romance Was Born, while Nikki Crerar sports a Dion Lee dress. Both designers are finalists for the Australian Fashion Laureate. Credit:Kate Geraghty

Previous winners of the Laureate include Akira Isogawa and Collette Dinnigan. Other categories include emerging designer, best retailer and best accessories.

Catherine Bennett, IMG senior vice-president and managing director of IMG fashion events, says the Laureate is the "holy grail" of fashion awards, noting that it highlights Australian fashion's "greatest advocates".
Last week, The New York Times featured an article chronicling the rise of Families Advocating for Campus Equality (FACE) , a movement of hundreds of mothers who have come together to defend sons they say have been wrongly accused of sexual assault.

Now it seems the growing awareness of sexual assault on university campuses in the United States has seen the advent of "as the mother of a son...", implying that the mother-son relationship may have the opposite effect on women.

In the weeks since the Harvey Weinstein scandal broke, we have heard quite a lot of "as the father of a daughter..." , implying it takes the birth of a daughter for men to truly appreciate all the discrimination, harassment and assault women seem to be on about.

As cringeworthy as the repeated 'as the father of a daughter' line is, there's something to learn from it. Credit:Stocksy

"In my generation, what these girls are going through was never considered assault," one mother said. "It was considered, 'I was stupid and I got embarrassed'."

These women's stories remind me of how the father of Stanford rapist Brock Turner last year wrote a letter to the judge imploring him to go gentle on his son for "20 minutes of action", while his mother also penned a lengthy letter in which she wrote about her son's "shattered dreams" and her own "broken heart"; but, amazingly, failed to mention the victim even once.

While it may be tempting to mock, dismiss or even recoil in horror as some of the "as the father of" or "as the mother of" logic enters the public debate, as accounts from parents whose views and actions are clearly informed to some extent by the dynamic of their role as a parent, their gender and the gender of their child multiply, I wonder if there's something to this?

Should we look more closely at what behavioural psychologists call cognitive dissonance (the state of having inconsistent thoughts, beliefs or attitudes) and how that relates to mums and dads parenting sons and daughters  especially if we hope to more effectively engage parents as allies in the pursuit of gender equality and a world free of violence against women?
The number of Australians diagnosed with gonorrhoea has increased by 63 per cent in the past five years with spikes in the number of men and heterosexual city-dwellers infected, a new report states.

The University of NSW's Kirby Institute annual report on STIs and blood-borne viruses found that diagnoses of gonorrhoea and syphilis were rising while the number of people diagnosed annually with HIV has remained the same over the past five years.

In 2016, almost three-quarters of the 23,887 people diagnosed with gonorrhoea were men. Credit:AFR

Young heterosexual city-dwellers have shown a prominent and unprecedented rise in gonorrhoea in this period, the report says.

"Up until recently, gonorrhoea had been uncommon in young heterosexual people living in major cities," said Associate Professor Rebecca Guy at UNSW.
A couple of months ago Sue Higginson had just decided to quit her job taking on corporations and governments in the courts as chief executive of the NSW Environmental Defenders Office.

After 11 years with the community legal centre she was still wondering "What's next?" when an email arrived from Ian Cohen, who in 1995 became the first Greens member of the NSW Parliament.

Sue Higginson is seeking NSW Greens preselection in the seat of Lismore at the 2019 state election. Credit:Nic Walker

"He said, 'I know we've talking about this in the past  a long time ago  I know you've told me you're absolutely not interested in politics because law is your thing,'" Ms Higginson said.

But Mr Cohen proceeded to outline "a few opportunities" that had arisen.
The lawyer grandson of chief Sydney Harbour bridge engineer John Bradfield will not be jailed for a $3 million fraud because he is gravely ill and "likely to die" within months, the District Court has ruled.

John Gordon Bradfield, 74, was at the centre of a drawn-out investigation and prosecution for misappropriating clients' and friends' money as part of pyramid-style scheme spanning 30 years from the late 1980s.

John Bradfield at his home in St Ives in 2009. Credit:James Brickwood

He lost $2.3 million of his own money in the scheme, the court heard.

The fraud squad launched an investigation into Bradfield in 2010 and the former suburban solicitor pleaded guilty on February 5 last year to 10 charges of making false statements and using false instruments to obtain money.
A 30-year-old man died on Sunday in a single-car crash near Berrima, NSW police said.

Just before 7am, a member of the public came across an overturned car off the side of the Old Hume Highway and called police.

Officers from The Hume Local Area Command found the Ford Falcon.

The driver was dead inside the car. There were no other passengers.

"A crime scene was established and initial investigations have led police to believe the vehicle left the roadway, hit a tree before rolling," police said.
The principal of a top Sydney private school has admitted management "wrestled" with disclosing the presence of a convicted child sex offender on its board, as it battles fallout over its handling of the issue from concerned parents.

Shauna Colnan, the principal of International Grammar School in Ultimo, wrote to the head of the school's Parents Teachers and Friends community late on Friday, acknowledging the disappointment and concerns of parents.

Dr Peter Macarthur pictured in 1983.

She also revealed that after learning of concerns about board member Dr Peter Macarthur in May, the school engaged lawyers to investigate the matter.

The Herald revealed last month that Dr Macarthur, a 79-year-old ear, nose and throat surgeon with practices in Armidale and Taree, quietly resigned from the IGS board after 21 years after a parent conducting background checks inquired whether board members had any contact with children.
A 31-year-old man with two outstanding warrants has been arrested by police after he was found passed out in a stolen car at a service station in Seven Hills.

Police were called to the service station on the Prospect Highway at 5am on Sunday morning following reports a man had passed out in a car.

Police have arrested a man with two outstanding warrants after he was found passed out in a car. Credit:Georgia Matts

Upon arriving at the scene, police discovered the vehicle was stolen, the driver was disqualified and a search of the car allegedly revealed a large amount of stolen property.

Police say they also discovered methylamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in the car.
Lowana Longbottom has never been comfortable with the fact that a quarter of inmates in Australia's prisons are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

For the 23-year-old Indigenous woman, it has been the driving force behind her goal to someday work in a NSW prison.

Lowana Longbottom and Nancy Alone, graduates of the Justice Aboriginal Pre-Employment Program. Credit:Janie Barrett

"I want [Australia] to see that we can have Aboriginal people on both sides ... working, and not just inmates."

Ms Longbottom is one of 25 Indigenous jobseekers to complete the Justice Aboriginal Pre-Employment pilot program at Campbelltown TAFE, a preliminary step towards becoming a correctional officer in NSW.
Queensland Labor has announced an extra $247 million for the M1.

Speaking from Oxenford on day eight of the election campaign, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said Labor would commit $206 million to help fund the 10-kilometre upgrade of the southern M1 between Varsity Lakes and Tugun, widening the stretch to six lanes.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced funding for M1 upgrades on day eight of the Queensland election campaign. Credit:AAP/ Darren England

The Queensland government would chip in 20 per cent of the money, and ask the federal government to tip in 80 per cent, under the National Land Transport Network projects arrangement.

With the Commonwealth's assistance, the project could start immediately after the 2020 completion of the Mudgeeraba-to-Varsity Lakes upgrade.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has arrived back in Australia to join the Queensland election campaign, singling out the cost of electricity as one of the party's major platforms.

Senator Hanson touched down at Brisbane Airport from a parliamentary delegation to India on Sunday night, greeted by a group of supporters and candidates.

One Nation leader and senator Pauline Hanson is greeted by state leader Steve Dickson and party supporters at the Brisbane International Airport on Sunday. Credit:AAP/Regi Varghese

Both the Labor and Liberal National parties had failed to deliver true leadership, she said.

"They're going to realise now they truly have a campaign on now I am back in Queensland," Senator Hanson told reporters.
A wild bar brawl in Melbourne Central sent four security guards to hospital, bloodied and bruised from the vicious attack.

The violence erupted in front of shocked onlookers outside the Asian Beer Cafe on the third floor of the shopping centre on Saturday night.

Up to 10 men were involved in attacking the venue's bouncers, police said.

"They got pounded. They were throwing punches, like full on. It was just crazy," witness Luke Averam told Seven News.
Police on the scene of the collision overnight. Credit:Courtesy Channel Nine An off-duty nurse, then an off-duty paramedic also stopped and Mr Nippard kept talking to the teenager as the pair worked on the girl. "I told her to 'keep breathing, keep going, stay with us darling'," he said. The corner of Bell Street and Sussex Street in Coburg on Monday morning. Credit:Justin McManus Mrs Nippard tried to comfort the girls' two friends, who were in shock.

"They were so scared," she said. The teenager remains in a critical condition in the Royal Children's Hospital. Assistant Commissioner Doug Fryer said she might not survive. "We've got a 13-year-old girl who is absolutely fighting for life. She may not pull through," he said. "Every Victorian can put themselves in the hearts and minds of parents ... they'll be devastated." Mr Fryer said the dark-coloured, smaller BMW would have damage to its front windscreen, front left bumper and left mirror.

The driver stopped momentarily, it's believed someone may have got out of the car, before getting back in and leaving. Mr Fryer said he has no doubt the driver realised what had occurred. "What sort of person hits a young girl and then doesn't render assistance?" Mr Fryer said. He urged the driver to hand themselves in, likewise friends or family to contact police or anyone who notices a BMW with similar damage. Head of the Major Collision Investigation Unit, Detective Inspector Stuart McGregor, told 3AW a woman got out of the car but he was, at this stage, unsure as to whether she was the driver.

He said the girl's parents were keeping a bedside vigil in hospital. Police are collating CCTV footage from nearby homes and businesses. 'I saw the bike on the footpath' Both Sussex and Bell are busy, noisy streets and several residents who live within a stone's throw of where the hit-run occurred and were home Sunday night were totally unaware anything out of the ordinary occurred. Many woke and went about their normal routine.

On Monday morning people were heading to work, going out to breakfast, mowing their lawns, just metres from the scene of the tragedy  many completely unaware of what had happened. Others witnessed the aftermath in the moments after the hit-run. Chef John Elrahi was driving to his Sussex Street home from work on Sunday night when he saw the crumpled bike on the footpath. "I have four kids at home aged from six to 13," he said. "They ride their bikes.

"I thought, 'Oh my God'." Mark Sanders, an IT manager, who lives about 100 metres away from where the hit-and-run happened said he woke to hear the news on Monday morning. "It's very distressing that these sort of things can happen and worse that somebody can just drive off without offering help," he said. His neighbour Charlie Manango has two daughters, both teenagers. The food importer said he went to see what was happening when he went to put the bins out about 8.30pm on Sunday night and saw police lights flashing at intersection about 100 metres from his Rose Street home.

"I saw the bike on the footpath, I saw the blood stain on the road," he said. Mr Manango said he saw a group of about half a dozen kids on bikes of a similar size to that of the victim. He said a group of mothers was trying to comfort them. "They looked shocked," he said. "They looked like they were telling things to the kids to take their minds off it.

The father of two said said his first thoughts were for his own daughters. "It makes you feel like you don't know if your kids are going to come home OK," he said. "You could walk across the street to the milkbar and something could happen. "I'm very upset." Mr Manango said neighbours had been raising concerns about dangerous driving and congestion in the area for years, especially as people took rat runs to avoid congestion on Bell Street.

"When I bought this house 20 years ago  Bell Street was quiet. "Now this street, Rose Street, is like Bourke Street." Several others raised concerns about traffic in the street. Lisa McKay-Brown was walking with her 11-year-old daughter to their Sussex Street home past the corner with Bell Street on Monday morning. "It hit home," she said.
Costs to motorists mount rapidly after the department takes on the infringements, but Transurban's invoice fees also account for a substantial part of the overall debt. Charges related to driving on toll roads are taking their own court toll. Credit:Penny Stephens In July this year, the company increased its invoice fees in Victoria to $12.39 for a first toll invoice and $24.48 for a second and final invoice, in addition to the initial cost of travelling on the toll road. Those fees are imposed on top of toll travel amounts that can be as little as $1.51. The CityLink invoice fees are applied for bills that cover up to three days of travel. Transurban said more than 95 per cent of customers paid their tolls on time and so avoided administrative fees. Credit:Paul Rovere

Denis Nelthorpe, chief executive of WEstjustice, which provides free legal help in Melbourne's west, said a toll invoice with administrative fees exceeding the actual cost of using the road was often the first contact a motorist received from the company. "CityLink's rapid toll fee increases are excessive and in our experience discourage customers from paying, which can lead to people getting trapped in the infringements system," he said. "Toll invoice fees should only seek to recoup actual expenses incurred, not punish customers simply for being late or not having an e-tag." He said Transurban had tried to improve hardship processes, but that would have limited benefits if fees and charges remained unfair. EastLink charges $5.53 per first invoice, which can also cover up to three days of consecutive travel on the tollway, in addition to a fee incurred from VicRoads that is less than $3. EastLink's invoice fee doubles for a second notice.

A Transurban spokeswoman said more than 95 per cent of customers paid their tolls on time and avoided administration fees. "We do not profit from fees," she said. "There are large costs involved in collecting unpaid tolls, including the specialist roadside equipment and technology as well as numerous systems, processes and back-office functions." The spokeswoman said the company did all it could to settle unpaid tolls before they reached the infringement stage, including up to 10 attempts to make contact via phone, text message and email. The Age has spoken to multiple people caught up in the infringements system, including one woman who racked up $80,000 in CityLink fines. The woman said she feared going to her letterbox and finding dozens of fine notices. After appearing in court, the total debt was reduced to less than $2000.

Transurban is preparing to build the $5.5 billion West Gate Tunnel project, which will provide an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. As part of that deal with the Andrews government, it has sought to extend its toll deal on CityLink by up to 12 years. Opposition spokesman Ryan Smith said the government was cosying up with Transurban, which had a "long history of gouging excessive payments" from motorists. "Transurban's cost recovery regime far exceeds that of its competitors, which should make Victorians very sceptical about whether this $5.5 billion project represents anything near good value for money," he said. A government spokesman said the system to manage CityLink toll infringements was established in 1999 and talks were under way with Transurban to make it fairer. He said the government was appointing more magistrates and overhauling the state's infringement system to help Victorians manage their fines.
New details have emerged following the murder of a 53-year-old man in Gosnells, with reports alleging he was "stabbed to death" in front of his distressed partner.

9 News Perth reporter Lee Steele said the fighting began at around 10pm on Saturday evening, and "quickly escalated".

Police outside the man's property on Saturday morning. Credit:9 News Perth

Neighbours said they had heard "shouting, screaming and doors slamming" at the property moments before the alleged attack.

Neighbour Dave Smith said he had heard the man's cry for help.
Surfers planning to head to one Margaret River's most popular breaks this weekend have been urged to reconsider their plans as wildlife officers attempt to remove a whale carcass from the area on Sunday morning.

Fisheries issued a shark warning for Boranup Beach after a member of the public reported a decomposing whale carcass floating three kilometres west of the Boranup campsite at around 1pm.

SLSWA's shark patrols are in full swing. Credit:Darren Pateman

"Officers from the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions are attempting to secure the carcass to the shoreline and will be preparing heavy machinery overnight in a bid to remove the carcass," yesterday's warning said.

"While it's not uncommon for sharks to be present off the Western Australian coast throughout the year, people should exercise additional caution until the whale carcass is removed."
China has a chance to assert leadership of a global plan to combat global warming this week at the first UN climate talks since US President Donald Trump decided to quit the 195-nation Paris Agreement, delegates say.

Government experts are to work on a "rule book" for the 2015 climate pact at the November 6-17 annual meeting in Bonn, Germany. The accord seeks to end the fossil fuel era this century with a shift to wind, solar and other clean energies.

Trump once dismissed climate change as a Chinese hoax to harm the US economy and said in June that he would pull out of the agreement and instead promote US coal and oil. A formal US withdrawal will take until 2020.

No other nation has followed his lead. US influence is likely to wane compared to other big greenhouse emitters led by China, the European Union and India, even though Washington will still have a place at the table in Bonn.
Brussels: Many Britons see their country as a brave galleon, banners waving, cannons firing, trumpets blaring. That is how the country's voluble foreign secretary, Boris Johnson, likes to describe it.

But Britain is now but a modest-size ship on the global ocean. Having voted to leave the European Union, it is unmoored, heading to nowhere, while on deck, fire has broken out and the captain -- poor Theresa May -- is lashed to the mast, without the authority to decide whether to turn to port or to starboard, let alone do what one imagines she knows would be best, which is to turn around and head back to shore.

Searching for direction: Boris Johnson, UK foreign secretary. Credit:Bloomberg

I've lived and worked for nine years in Britain, first during the Thatcher years and then again for the last four politically chaotic ones. While much poorer in the 1980s, Britain mattered internationally. Now, with Brexit, it seems to be embracing an introverted irrelevance.

The ambitious Johnson was crucial to the victory of Brexit in the June 2016 referendum. But for many, the blusterings of Boris have lost their charm. The "great ship" he loves to cite is a nationalist fantasy, a remnant of Britain's persistent post-imperial confusion about its proper place in the world, hanging on to expensive symbols like a nuclear deterrent while its once glorious navy is often incapable of patrolling its own coastline.
Madrid: Ousted Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont has called for a united political front in the December 21 election to continue the drive for independence from Spain and to protest against the imprisonment of former members of the regional government.

Puigdemont, who went to Belgium after his government was fired following a unilateral declaration of independence, said on Friday he was considering standing in the election from Brussels.

In Spain's gravest political crisis since the return of democracy in the late 1970s, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy called the snap election after taking control of Catalonia a week ago.

Rajoy invoked constitutional powers last month to reassert his authority over Catalonia and fire Puigdemont and his government. Since then, eight politicians and two activists have been jailed pending trial, and arrest warrants have been issued for five others, including Puigdemont, who fled to Belgium to try to run a government in exile.
Seoul: On the eve of President Donald Trump's first visit to South Korea, tensions remain critical because secret back channels with North Korea have collapsed, says South Korea's First Deputy Chief of National Security Strategies, Sang-chui Lee.

Mr Lee, whose post is similar to that of a deputy minister, said North Korea's nuclear tests had added to the tensions on the Korean peninsula due to the vast conventional forces that have long been posed against one another across the Demilitarised Zone that has marked the border between the two nations since the end of the Korean War.

South Koreans hold banners during a welcoming rally ahead of Donald Trump's visit this week. Credit:AP

But he said until recently effective back channels existed between the two armed forces.

"I served for 20 years as the [South Korean] representative whenever there were set military talks between the north and south," he said during an interview with Fairfax Media at the Blue House, the South Korean equivalent to the White House.
Law enforcement officers work in front of the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs after a fatal shooting on Sunday. Credit:AP Earlier, Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez, jnr, said that at least 27 were killed and more than 20 were injured. Police told him the gunman was chased into the next county and was killed, but it was not clear whether the police shot him or he killed himself. Mona Rodriguez holds her 12-year-old son, J Anthony Hernandez, during a candlelight vigil held for the victims of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. Credit:AP He added: "You never expect something like this. My heart is broken."

Gunman identified The suspect in the Texas church mass shooting was a former member of the US military. Law enforcement officials at the scene of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday. Credit:AP Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek says records confirm Devin P. Kelley served in Logistics Readiness at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico from 2010 until his discharge. The date of his discharge and the circumstances under which he left the service were not immediately available.

Emergency personnel respond to a fatal shooting at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Credit:AP The Pentagon has also confirmed Kelley was an airman "at one point", but didn't provide additional details. Authorities in charge of the investigation into the shooting did not formally identify him at a press conference earlier on Sunday, except to say he was a white male in his 20s. However, two officials - one a US official and the other in law enforcement - told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity the shooter was Devin Kelley. The US official said Kelly lived in a suburb of San Antonio and did not appear to be linked to organised terrorist groups.

Investigators are looking at social media posts Kelley may have made in the days before the attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semi-automatic weapon. Texas Democratic congressman Henry Cuellar said law enforcement authorities told him the gunman came from Comal County, which is north-east of San Antonio. "He went there [to the church], he walked in, started shooting people and then took off [to Guadalupe County, just outside Wilson County]," Cuellar said. Wilson County Commissioner Larry Wiley said that, after the shooting, the gunman sped away in a car and was soon cornered by sheriff's deputies in Guadalupe County. He did not know if the gunman died of a self-inflicted gunshot or was killed by deputies.

First responders converged on the town and helicopters were taking victims to hospitals. Ernest "Skip" Hajek, another Wilson County Commissioner, told The Washington Post that the gunman began firing from outside the church and continued to shoot as he entered. Hajek said the gunman eventually drove away and was followed by a local resident who called 911 to report which way the gunman was fleeing. "About four or five miles away, he pulled his car over," Hajek said of the gunman. "That's where the police found him dead." Hajek said police were looking into whether the gunman's wounds were self-inflicted.

Federal authorities, including from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI, were on the scene. The Texas Ranger Division of the state's Department of Public Safety is also involved in the investigation. Pastor's daughter killed The teenage daughter of the pastor of the church was reportedly among the dead. Sherri Pomeroy, wife of Pastor Frank Pomeroy, said in a text message to the Associated Press that she lost her daughter, Annabelle, 14, "and many friends" in the shooting.

Ms Pomeroy said both she and her husband were out of town when the church was attacked and were trying to return. The First Baptist Church is a fixture in Sutherland Springs, an area home to fewer than 900 residents, according the 2010 census. The white-painted, one-storey structure features a small steeple and a single front door. On Sunday, the Lone Star flag of Texas was flying alongside the US flag and a third, unidentified banner. Inside there is a small raised platform on which members sang worship songs to guitar music and the pastor delivered a weekly sermon, according to videos posted on YouTube. In one of the clips, a few dozen people, including young children, can be seen sitting in the wooden pews.

The service began with a rendition of a song called Happiness Is the Lord. It was reported earlier that the pastor was in church and told his parishioners to walk around the room and "shake somebody's hand". "Tell them it's good to see them in God's house this morning," he was reported to have said. The church's website, which was down shortly after the shooting, says the church schedule was for a fellowship breakfast on Sunday mornings, followed by Sunday School. A morning worship service was scheduled for 11am. The first news reports of the shooting were between noon and 12.30pm.

Community devastated David Keen, a constable in Wilson County, confirmed there were casualties and said, "there were kids involved". He said that the gunman was dead and that he did not know how many people had died. Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Centre in Floresville, Texas, said that she did not know how many patients the hospital had received, but that it was continuing to receive more.

The hospital had activated its emergency response team, she said. Information about the conditions of patients was not available. "We're sending more officers on the streets to help secure Connally Memorial while they're bringing the casualties to the hospital," Keen said. Officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are on the scene. Photos taken by local media showed several police and emergency vehicles, as well as helicopters, outside the church.

A video shared on Twitter by a KSAT reporter showed people crying and holding hands as they waited to find out whether their loved ones were safe. A parishioner, Sandy Ward, said in an interview on Sunday that a daughter-in-law and three of her grandchildren were shot. Her grandson, who is five, was shot four times and remained in surgeryon Sunday night. She said she was awaiting word on her other family members. Ward said she did not attend services on Sunday because of her troubled knees and a bad hip. "I just started praying for everybody who was there," she said. Diana Segura, 69, was in the shower on Sunday morning about 11am when she was startled by a series of thundering bangs so loud she thought a truck's engine had exploded on the highway behind her home. Minutes later, sirens burst onto her quiet street and Segura walked outside and saw the unthinkable: multiple bodies on the ground outside the First Baptist Church, where she occasionally attends weeknight services.

Standing outside her home down the street from the church, Segura stared at the throng of police cars and emergency vehicles, her head shaking in disbelief. "This is a small town and nothing never happens here," Segura said. "We are family here, and that church is always filled with friends." Joseph Silva, 49, who lives about seven kilometres north-east of Sutherland Springs, said the police had instructed his family and neighbours to stay indoors. In a phone interview on Sunday afternoon, he described Sutherland Springs as "a one-blinking-light town". "There is a gas station and a post office," he said. "That's about all there really is."

Silva said he had been approached by a woman who said she had two loved ones at the church who were shot. "There are a number of individuals just weeping and just wanting to know what's happened to their loved ones," he said. "Everybody is pretty grief-stricken. Everyone's worried." US President Donald Trump, on a visit to Japan, tweeted his concern, saying he was "monitoring the situation".

Rash of massacres The massacre is the latest in a rash of mass shootings that have plagued the United States in recent years, stirring a national debate over whether easy access to firearms was contributing to the trend. It comes just weeks after a sniper killed 58 people at an outdoor concert in Las Vegas, the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history. The shooting occurred on the eighth anniversary of the massacre of 13 people at the Fort Hood army base in central Texas on November 5, 2009. A US Army Medical Corps psychiatrist convicted of the killings is now awaiting execution.
Newly arrived Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar in Bangladesh. Credit:AP The dominant view within Trump's White House is that under his "America First" world-view human rights concerns related to allies and strategically important countries should be managed gently to avoid impeding job-creating business deals or undercutting security efforts such as isolating North Korea, several Trump aides said. Soft-pedaling human rights may also help Washington avoid alienating countries in Southeast Asia that it wants to keep from moving further into China's orbit, those aides said. Beijing puts little pressure on its neighbours over such issues. The body of Cambodian government critic Kem Ley. Credit:AP This approach, however, has sown frustration among some US diplomats who deal with human rights and disappointed dissidents in several countries, according to interviews with more than a dozen people involved in these matters in Washington and Asian capitals. The failure so far to fill several senior Asia and human rights posts at the State Department is a further handicap, they say.

Obama's former top Asia adviser, Evan Medeiros, is one of those critical of what he sees as the Trump administration's lower-key approach to human rights. "It's a false dichotomy to say that somehow a focus on human rights detracts from American security or economic well-being," he said. Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. Credit:AP Even under Obama, however, there were some in the human rights community who at times found fault with US actions. While the Nobel Peace Prize laureate was praised for stressing human rights in Asia-Pacific trade negotiations, he faced criticism that he suspended sanctions on Myanmar prematurely and lifted a ban on the sale of lethal arms to Vietnam. "He spoke eloquently and sometimes delivered," said John Sifton, Asia advocacy director for Human Rights Watch. "But he also didn't fully use the carrots and sticks of American power."

Though Trump has said little on human rights beyond condemning adversaries such as North Korea and Venezuela, United Nations envoy Nikki Haley has been one of the few top aides who have spoken out more broadly. She visited sub-Saharan Africa and pressed leaders to tackle political and humanitarian problems. 'We are not here to lecture' Trump set the tone in Saudi Arabia in May when he told an audience that included monarchs and strongmen from the Muslim world: "We are not here to lecture." He has hosted several autocratic leaders - including Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who had been frozen out of White House visits since leading a 2014 military coup - but has steered clear of publicly criticising their records on human rights. Such visits under Obama usually included addressing rights concerns, the Democratic president's former aides said.

McMaster insisted that Trump preferred to deal with such issues "quietly in every relationship." One closely watched meeting will be with Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte. Trump praised him in a phone call in April for a bloody anti-drugs campaign. An administration official told reporters human rights would be part of their "frank and friendly discussions." But the government in Manila has been feeling less heat from the Trump administration about extrajudicial killings linked to drugs crackdown, according to a foreign ministry official. "It's a very different White House under President Donald Trump, not like under President Barack Obama, who pushed human rights hard during his term," the official told Reuters. "We are not hearing this from the White House." Another issue expected to be front and centre is Myanmar's Rohingya crisis.

Trump's critics, including Democratic lawmakers, have chided the administration for what they have seen as a halting response. U.S. officials have been reluctant to label the situation as "ethnic cleansing" even though the United Nations has used the term. Myanmar rejects that accusation, saying action was needed to combat terrorism. Two months after an outbreak of violence that sent more than half a million Rohingya Muslims fleeing into Bangladesh, Washington has now sent a senior delegation, announced a planned visit by Tillerson on November 15, and is threatening modest sanctions. Cambodia crackdown When Kem Ley, a popular Cambodian political commentator, was killed by a gunman in July 2016, Malinowski, the State Department official, flew to Phnom Penh just days later and met top aides to Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has ruled for more than three decades. Malinowski's stern words helped give local diplomats leverage to press rights concerns behind the scenes, said one U.S. official involved in Southeast Asia diplomacy.

This year Hun Sen has intensified his crackdown, including the arrest of opposition leader Kem Sokha, while also stepping up rhetoric against Washington. The State Department has largely limited its response to statements of "deep concern". Cambodian government spokesman Phay Siphan said Cambodia had not felt pressure from Washington and Trump was clearly taking a different approach than Obama. "Their tone is lighter. Before, they would bully," said ruling party parliamentarian Sok Eysan. The change under Trump, he added, "means we are on the right path towards democracy," an assertion that contradicts human rights advocates who say the political climate has deteriorated. In Vietnam, dissident Nguyen Quang A expressed pessimism about Trump's visit.

Nguyen, who was detained by authorities on his way to meet Obama during a visit last year, said: "I don't think Trump will talk about human rights. Just look at his words and actions." The White House has not signalled that Trump plans to meet any dissidents during his Asia trip, something Obama frequently did in his foreign travels. There has been frustration among some US diplomats in Beijing over perceptions that botched messaging from the United States signalled a retreat on human rights. But some US officials said that behind the scenes the administration has been supportive of work in China on behalf of Chinese dissidents. A Beijing-based diplomat from another Western country said, however, that U.S. participation in meetings between Western allies to coordinate strategy on human rights was much reduced, for example, when it came to putting out joint statements on issues of concern. China has been "relieved" to see Trump giving human rights less weight, according to a Chinese diplomat in Washington.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Some 27 employees from Cable TV will be without a job on December 31st, 2017 if the management of TelEm gets their way. The employees who have worked for Cable TV for more than 10 years are not at all satisfied with the information they received from TelEm CEO Kendall Dupersoy. SMN News learned that Cable TV was sold to TelEm for $4.5M since January 2017, but only on October 27th workers learned that management of TelEm does not intend to have them transferred as TelEm workers but would send them home instead with a payout.

On Friday, most of the workers called in sick forcing Cable TV to close its doors while their union has sought legal representation to secure much-needed documents from TelEm management. Information reaching SMN News indicates that TelEm purchased Cable TV for its infrastructure and to keep Digicel from investing on the Dutch side. A well-placed source said that Cable TV has way better infrastructure which would help to boost TelEm's services. The source said that while they knew some of the workers would not have been transferred because of their age they did not expect the management of TelEm to send home all of the employees.

However, the workers of Cable TV is not blaming the management of TelEm but instead, they are blaming the Manager of Cable TV Beulah Jonis whom they said bankrupted several companies including ECC and Saint Martin Mobile. They said Jonis never looked out for the employees and has blocked all unions from entering Cable TV and only allowed the SMUC to be the union representative when she realized TelEm was about to purchase the company. The workers who spoke to SMN News said that while Jonis did not represent the workers she made sure she secured a good position for herself and another senior employee of Cable TV.

While workers of Cable TV are in their own predicament it is also understood that to date management of cable TV has not purchased materials to conduct the necessary repairs and installations since the passing of hurricane Irma. According to the information provided to SMN News, all clients that are still hooked up overhead are still without Cable TV and internet.
Lt. Col. Oscar Gomez Cifuentes was an army battalion commander accused of human rights violations

Demobilized members of the ELN (National Liberation Army) arrive in Cali, Colombia. Individuals pictured were not involved in this story.

Deportation officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) on Tuesday removed a former Colombian national army battalion commander accused of human rights violations.

Retired Lt. Col. Oscar Gomez Cifuentes, 53, was implicated in five killings in Colombia that allegedly occurred while he was the commander of Infantry Battalion 43 Efrain Rojas Acevedo. These allegations relate to a disputed report stating that five persons were killed by the battalion during a confrontation at a Colombia ranch in November 2007. This incident was among other incidents reported by military units as "positive" killings of guerrillas in combat; but later these killings were alleged to have been executions committed outside of combat. Such killings are referred to as "false positives."

Between 2008 and 2014, Gomez was admitted into the United States three times as a temporary non-immigrant visitor through New York and Miami. He departed as required the first two times, but he overstayed his visa in 2014. On April 4, 2017, a federal immigration judge ordered him removed back to Colombia; Gomez appealed that decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).

On June 10, 2017, ERO Miami officers assigned to ICE's Fugitive Operations Team arrested Gomez, and he was taken into custody pending his appeal to the BIA regarding his removal order. However, on Aug. 24, 2017, he withdrew his appeal.

This case was litigated by ICE's Office of the Chief Counsel in Miami with the support of the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC).

The HRVWCC was established in 2009 to further ICE's efforts to identify, track and prosecute human rights abusers. It leverages the expertise of a select group of agents, lawyers, intelligence and research specialists, historians and analysts who direct the agency's broader enforcement efforts against these offenders.
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AURORA  A lead asteroid scientist on a NASA-funded mission to collect samples from an asteroid described her role in the groundbreaking mission at Wells College on Saturday at a lecture hosted by Friends of the Southern Cayuga Planetarium.

Beth Ellen Clark, chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Ithaca College, said she has been fascinated her entire life with asteroids, billion-year-old rocks that she said are literally star stuff, and are also potentially hazardous objects that could enter our atmosphere and cause a lot of trouble.

Clark is an asteroid scientist in charge of the OSIRIS-REx asteroid science working group. The OSIRIS-REx mission launched just over a year ago, in September 2016, and is on its way to Bennu, an asteroid about 60 meters taller than the Empire State Building that scientists say has about a 1 in 1,800 chance of colliding with Earth in 2182.

Clark estimated that nearly 1,000 people had worked on various aspects of the mission, which seeks to reach the asteroid in 2018, retrieve a 2.1-ounce sample with a robotic arm and bring a 2.1-ounce sample back to Earth for study. The sample will be parachuted back to a desert in Utah to soften the landing of the sample canister, Clark said.

What we dont have is a connection between the meteorites that we study in our laboratories and the asteroids that weve flown by in our spacecraft, Clark said, something she and others involved in the mission are hoping to change.

The meteorites that we have in our collections may only represent about 100 parent body asteroids, she said, adding that there are about 1 million asteroids that scientists are aware of and plenty more that are not yet discovered.

Bennu, the asteroid, is a near-Earth object, or NEO, meaning it is within about 121 million miles of Earth. At the time the mission selected Bennu, in 2008, there were 7,000 known NEOs. Bennu orbits the sun (which is about 93 million miles away) every 436.6 days.

Clark joined the team preparing its proposal in 2008 and NASA selected OSIRIS-REx, which stands for Origins Spectral Interpretation Resource Identification Security  Regolith Explorer, for funding in 2011.

You cant get selected by NASA unless you have a really good acronym, Clark said, laughing. NASA has spent about $1 billion on the mission, she said.

The robotic arm, folded onto the side of the spacecraft, has an "elbow" and a "wrist," Clark said, and will take a sample from the asteroid in July of 2020, if things go according to plan. The sample is scheduled to return to Earth, in the Utah desert, in September 2023.

Noting the incredible preciseness of the mission, Clark said the OSIRIS-REx team must know where the craft is and where it is going within just 10 centimeters.

Instruments on OSIRIS-REx will also measure what is known as the Yarkovsky effect on the asteroid, which can spin the asteroid in either direction, pushing it out of the solar system or bringing it closer toward the sun.

Not knowing exactly how the asteroid is spinning makes it really hard for us to project the asteroids [location] into the future to predict when it could be hazardous to us, Clark said.

Clark was introduced by Mike Dempsey, president of the Friends of the Southern Cayuga Planetarium and a former teacher at Southern Cayuga High School.

Dempsey said the planetarium, which has been in financial trouble for years, recently procured several grants and is preparing for a new roof. The group is heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, he said.

Speaking to several students in attendance who had been nominated by their teachers or professors for scholarships to planetarium-hosted events, Dempsey said that they could one day make astronomical history.

The scholarship students are from Southern Cayuga, Union Springs, Tyburn Academy, Moravia, and Wells College, and are able to attend the lecture series events free of charge.

Bruce Willis had a movie where he went to an asteroid to try to save the world, Dempsey said. You guys  our scholarship students  may be the ones who are going to go to Mars.

He said Friends of the Southern Cayuga Planetarium is celebrating women in science during its lecture series and that the strength of science is related to its diversity.

We find that we are always better, the more diverse our group, Dempsey said.

Noemi Ami Ghazala, superintendent of the Womens Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, introduced Clark at Wells on Saturday and encouraged the audience to make the drive to the historical park.

The lecture included a silent auction, among which was a picture of the phases of the recent solar eclipse, taken by Dempsey himself, from Clemson, South Carolina
The force of the hurricane raked her coastal city like an atomic bomb  but whats happened in Puerto Rico in the six weeks since then left Marisabel Carde-Sanchez searching for words.

It's really hard to explain, she begins.

First, people lost their homes. Then they lost electricity and clean water. Now they're losing their patience.

The people are crazy, she says over the phone. The people are going into houses, taking everything. They are fighting for the food and for the gas. They are fighting for everything.

The 25-year-old single mother of two young children  a 5-year-old boy and a 7-year-old girl  lost her job at a Dorado Beach resort that was closed because of Hurricane Maria. She feared for her familys safety, so she abandoned her home and moved in with a cousin.

She spends hours standing in the street, waiting for her turn to buy food or gas.

She doesn't see it getting better soon.

It's really, really hard to live in a place that is all destroyed, she says. I can't pay anything because I don't have work.

So she called her father in Lincoln, 2,400 miles away.

I tell him, 'I need to go, I need to go.'

* * *

The six days of silence were excruciating for Jose Carde-Bernal.

He had been talking to his daughter before the hurricane, bracing her; they'd even installed walkie-talkie apps on their phones to make it easier. Then the storm hit, and there was nothing.

We were kind of panicking, he said. For the first six days, I was a mess. I had no idea if my grandchildren and my daughter were alive.

He and his wife prayed and hoped, he said. He filled his daughter's phone with voicemails and text messages.

Finally, they heard from Marisabel: She and her children were safe.

You can imagine how we felt when we got the news.

But he felt something else when he saw what was happening in Puerto Rico. He considers himself a proud American; he left Puerto Rico nearly 40 year ago with his mother, when he was just a boy. He served in the U.S. Army when he was a young man.

He's lived in South Chicago Heights and Nashville and Columbus. He works as an appraiser for Lancaster County now.

But he'll also be a proud Puerto Rican until the day he dies, he said. And what he's hearing from his island is heartbreaking.

The lack of electricity and water, the long lines for gas and food, the crime, the chaos more than 40 days after the skies cleared.

We're talking American citizens that are being treated like second-class citizens, he said. It's horrible. I know it's horrible what's going on there.

He offered his daughter money for food and supplies. She asked for plane tickets instead; she had to get her children out of there. At first, she thought about moving to San Antonio, where it was warm, and where she had friends.

But three weeks ago, she asked if she could move to Nebraska, where she had family  her father and his family, her aunt, her cousins. It was also familiar; she'd lived briefly in Columbus years ago.

Carde-Bernal couldn't say yes immediately. He lives in a three-bedroom home in the Highlands with his wife and their two children. This could put stress on his marriage, and on his family. He had to talk to his wife, Lori Carde.

And she was very open and receptive to the idea of helping someone who has gone through so much.

By the time he got back to his daughter, about two hours later, the price of the plane tickets had increased $100 apiece, he says. So many people were trying to get out of Puerto Rico.

* * *

She's not here yet  she couldn't get tickets to fly out until Wednesday  but Lincoln is already giving.

Theyre coming with the clothes on their backs, her father said. They dont have anything.

Jose Carde-Bernal's sister-in-law and her husband offered a car. His wife's co-workers at the Department of Health and Human Services donated furniture.

His colleagues at the assessor's office pitched in with clothing and household items to help his daughter start over. He told them not to give money.

Hes a good guy, said Rob Ogden, chief deputy county assessor. And we have a good team. They all care about each other. We want to support his family.

The North American Martyrs Catholic School, where Jose and Lori's two sons attend, opened its doors to the newcomers. The school's families gathered clothing and gift cards, and administrators are appealing to parents to help pay tuition for Marisabel's two children.

The school is ready to welcome the family to northwest Lincoln. We're really excited. We're doing a bunch for the family here, said Sister Janelle Buettner, the school's principal. We're working on getting it funded.

Jose Carde-Bernal is dismayed by what's happening in his homeland, but he's grateful for what's happening in his hometown.

The outpouring has been overwhelming.

The community has been amazing. It warms my heart that I live in a city that, without any questions, will step up and help their neighbor.
On the upper deck of the Hamza Fort border check-point in Pakistan's South Waziristan, Maj. Gen. Nauman Zakaria points to a 12-foot high fence just yards away -- the latest initiative the military says will stem insurgent attacks across a more than 1,000 mile disputed border with Afghanistan.

"There won't be an inch of international border that shall not remain under our observation," said Zakaria, who has served in counter-insurgency operations in restive border regions of south and north Waziristan.

At an estimated cost of more than $532 million, Pakistan has started fencing the 1,456-mile (2,344-kilometer) border with war-torn Afghanistan, the latest measure that's driving a wedge between the fractious neighbors who have accused each other of harboring insurgents launching cross-border attacks.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has condemned Pakistan for instigating an "undeclared war of aggression" against his nation. While only 43 kilometers has so far been fenced since May, Ghani's administration has repeatedly denounced and threatened armed confrontation over its construction across the disputed Durand Line, which divided the largely ethnic Pashtun communities in the region during British colonial rule.

Despite the objections, Pakistan is proceeding with its plan as Islamabad faces increased U.S. pressure to act against terrorists. President Donald Trump in August strongly denounced the nation's alleged duplicity. He said the nuclear-armed Islamic Republic continues to harbor militant groups, such as the Taliban-affiliated Haqqani Network, which have attacked American-backed forces in Afghanistan.

After visiting Islamabad during a tour of South Asia last month, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said he was concerned terror groups are undermining political stability in Pakistan and called on leaders there to join in eradicating fighters that seek safe haven within its borders.

Pakistan's military expects to complete construction of the chain-linked and barbed-wire topped fence across the South Waziristan portion by December 2018. No timeline has been given for completion of the entire length of the border and there are questions over whether the plan is logistically feasible along the porous and often mountainous terrain.

There are 235 crossing points, some frequently used by militants and drug traffickers, of which 18 can be accessed by vehicles, according to a report by the Afghanistan Analysts Network research group last month.

The Taliban are used to moving with ease between the two countries in the often lawless border lands and are usually waved through by Pakistan security forces, according to the AAN, citing conversations with multiple current and former Taliban fighters, doctors and Afghans living in the region. Pakistan's military has long denied supporting militant groups, including the Taliban.

While there has been some tightening of security since, the AAN said more than 2,000 Taliban commanders traveled to the southwestern Pakistani city of Quetta in July 2015 to witness Mullah Akhtar Mansour's ascension to the group's leadership, before his death last year when he was killed in Pakistan by a U.S. drone strike.

"It was like a free highway," Asad Munir, a retired brigadier who served in Waziristan and other border regions, said about one of the crossing points in Birmal. Militants won't sit idle and will find alternative routes to sneak across the fenced border, he said.

Officials from Afghanistan's foreign ministry didn't respond to calls seeking comment, though in April the ministry's spokesman, Ahmad Shekib Mostaghni, said "any type of unilateral actions" along the Durand Line will be "ineffective, impractical and impossible" without Afghanistan's agreement. The country will use its security forces to stop the fencing if diplomacy fails, he said.

Nafees Zakaria, a spokesman for Pakistan's foreign ministry, said in a text message that the border fortification was being misconstrued by Afghanistan and is "instrumental in curtailing cross-border movement of terrorists and other undesired elements, smuggling of drugs, weapons and other goods."

The fencing may reduce rampant smuggling which is valued at $3 billion by the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry -- more than double the size of official trade between the two nations. Pakistan's central bank recorded the bilateral trade at $1.2 billion in the financial year ended June.

The barrier is also aimed at reducing the drug trade across the border, which fund the Taliban's operations in Afghanistan. About 40 percent of the opiates produced in the war-torn country are used in and transit through Pakistan, according to the United Nation's. The UN estimates that Afghanistan's opium poppy production grew by 700 tons to 4,800 tons in the decade ended 2016.

"Pakistan is one of the biggest transit routes for the smuggling of drugs from Afghanistan," said Syed Tahir Hussain Mashhadi, a retired colonel who is a member of Pakistan's Senate committee on narcotics control. Pakistan's anti-narcotics force "is trying its best to control it, but lacks power to keep the whole border sealed."

---

Bloomberg's Eltaf Najafizada contributed.
An experienced kindergarten teacher contacted me the other day. She reported that she and teachers in her district have seen a spike in children entering kindergarten having suffered trauma. Distraught, she said that she and her colleagues are not trained to meet these childrens needs, and there are not enough services in the schools to help.

This phenomenon is sadly not unique. The New York Council of School Superintendents recently issued the results of its annual survey. In 2017, for the first time, increasing mental health services in schools shot up to be the No. 1 priority. A majority of superintendents reported that mental health was a significant problem in schools.

Studies across the United States reveal that every classroom has at least one student affected by trauma. Almost half of American adolescents have experienced an adverse childhood experience (ACE). Almost a quarter have experienced two, and nearly one in 10 have had four or more ACEs. ACEs are a range of stressful childhood experiences that have long-lasting developmental, cognitive and behavioral effects. They include such things as living with a divorced or separated parent or guardian; living with a parent or guardian who died or is incarcerated; living with someone with mental illness or substance abuse problems; witnessing or being the victim of violence or abuse in the home or neighborhood; experiencing economic hardship or neglect.

Students living in poverty are significantly more likely to experience stress and trauma. African-American children are disproportionately represented among those with ACEs; six in 10 have experienced them.

ACEs affect a childs brain development precisely in the area where learning occurs. All stress causes the brain to release stress hormones. However, ACEs cause a prolonged release of these hormones, disrupting the development of brain circuits. This disruption negatively affects a childs ability to maintain or shift focus, her working memory and self-control. She may have difficulty processing and organizing information, problem solving and other important cognitive functions. She may have difficulty calming down and forming healthy relationships. More than half of children with four or more ACEs display learning and/or behavior problems. These problems not only impact the child herself, but also can disrupt her entire classroom of children.

Research has shown that intervention, particularly in the early years, can mitigate the effects of this toxic stress. A calm and nurturing environment and close relationships with caring adults are critical to this process. Helping students avoid or manage common triggers such as sudden change, loneliness, rejection and sensory overload is also vital.

Many of the policies foisted upon schools by education reformers are damaging to the well-being of these vulnerable students. Forcing young children to attempt age-inappropriate tasks, such as reading too early, increases stress, communicates to them that they are failures and diminishes their trust in the adults, teachers, to whom they would otherwise turn for support. Isolating children, as is done with the increasing reliance on computers rather than teachers, can exacerbate the effects of ACEs. Furthermore, as one high school principal who has worked for years with trauma-informed education practices noted, high-stakes testing with consequences for both students and teachers goes against everything research is telling us about how to help these kids creating hostile environments with stressed teachers and students. Many of the practices by which reformers measure success in fact undermine the conditions that would enable children to develop successfully.

The strong evidence revealing the close connection between mental health and learning should also bring the understanding among policy makers that mental health services and social supports are crucial to successful learning for many children. Seventy percent of children who receive mental health services in this country receive those services in school. Teachers also need training in dealing with children who have suffered trauma. Class sizes should be small enough for caring relationships to develop. Yet the trial judge in Connecticuts school funding case, CCJEF v. Rell, dubbed these school resources extra and not necessary for education.

Children cannot block out the outside world when they enter the schoolhouse doors. The science is clear that their emotional and mental status directly affects their learning and academic performance. If our leaders are truly concerned with building success at school, then they must create the conditions for that success. They must ensure that all our children, including those suffering from trauma, are provided the tools and support they need, in their schools, to overcome learning and developmental obstacles.

Wendy Lecker is a columnist for the Hearst Connecticut Media Group and is senior attorney at the Education Law Center.
Marvin E. Ziegler, 85, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2017 at his home surrounded by his loving family. His funeral service will be held at 10 AM on Monday, November 6, 2017 at Mitchell Berean Church with Pastor Giles Armstrong officiating. Private family burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery with military honors by the Nebraska National Guard. Visitation will be held from 1-6 PM on Sunday at Dugan-Kramer Funeral Chapel with the family present from 4 to 6 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Mitchell Berean Church, Panhandle Humane Society, or Regional West Hospice. The family respectfully requests no food brought to the house. Condolences may be left by visiting Marvins Tribute page at www.dugankramer.com

Marvin was born in Scottsbluff on October 26, 1932 to Katherine Morgheim and Earl Herbert Ziegler. He grew up and attended schools in Scottsbluff. Marvin married Carol Ann Wolfe on October 3, 1954 at Salem Congregational Church in Scottsbluff. They recently celebrated 63 years of marriage.

He started working at a few small jobs as a very young boy. He enlisted in the Army at the age of 18 and served in Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1954. He learned stuccoing and plastering trade from his bother Herb. He and his brothers, Virgil and Herb worked together plastering and building homes in the Valley. With his brothers, he entered many different business ventures during his life. These included Twin City Ready Mix, farming, feedlots and his current business of ZM Lumber.

He had a great passion for his German-Russian family history. He wrote a book about his family history and donated historical items to the Germans from Russia Historical Society. He was a life member of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, lifetime member of the VFW, lifetime member of the Moose Lodge, the Eagles Club and the Elks Club. He served as Honor Guard for Military Funerals for 10 years. His hobbies included becoming a private pilot and scuba diving. Marv loved to mow his yard, tend the orchard and feed the fish in his pond.

He is survived by his wife Carol, his daughter Renea Erickson (Ralph) of Missouri, his son Martin Ziegler of Scottsbluff, his son Matthew Ziegler (Jody) of Gering, sister Patty Brown of Scottsbluff, sisters-in-law Keitha Ziegler of Mitchell, Dorothy Ziegler of Arizona, Glenda Ockinga of Gering, and Val Hinman (Pat) of Nebraska, granddaughters Chantell Propes of California, Taylor Ziegler of Nebraska, grandsons David Erickson (Teal) of Missouri, Jonathan Erickson of Missouri and Sterling Ziegler (Bailey) of Utah and great grandchildren Carter, Olivia, Angela, Skylar and Max.

He was preceded in death by his father E.H. Ziegler, his mother Katherine Ziegler Bigsby, his step-father Derward Bigsby, and his brothers Herbert Ziegler and Virgil Ziegler.
A teacher has been placed on leave after a racial slur was used by students acting out a scene in a social studies class at West Iredell High School.
Representatives of the Salary Union are collecting signatures in the counties of Transylvania with a view to support a legislative initiative at EU level that will set equal salaries in all EU countries for the same job, on Sunday told a news conference in northwestern Satu Mare, Gyongyosi Marton, chairman of the Salary Union initiative and Jobbik deputy in the Hungarian Parliament.

This spring a citizen's initiative was kicked off by which the principle of salary equality or equal incomes for equal job, was formulated. Representatives of seven countries, that are to address the European Commission or the European Union's bodies with a view to even the incomes in the European Union, have met, because 30 years have passed since the regimes were changed, we are 10-year members of the European Union, more than 10-year members we wait to up to the Western or Europe's level, and yet we need the equalization of the incomes, too, both among East and West. Unfortunately, we found that instead of nearing the Western living standard, we are more and more left behind. We've decided to join forces and we, the representatives of seven countries of Central and Eastern Europe, should try to impose ourselves, Gyongyosi Marton said.He specified that by May 2018 over 1,000,000 signatures must be gathered in entire EU to uphold the initiative in the European Parliament, over 100,000 being collected so far.We'll initiate public stands, in the street so we see how open to our initiative the people are. We've found that a huge interest towards this initiative exists and practically there is no person we could not appeal to. The young are interested in this initiative, because they are whose who sooner or later leave the country to get a better paid job abroad, and the elder notice that their grandchildren leave them to work abroad, the Hungarian deputy added.The Salary Union representative on Romania's behalf, Dragos Tirnoveanu said that Romania must gather 24,000 signatures, and that a few thousands are already clustered.
Several thousands of people according to Gendarmerie sources have gathered in downtown Bucharest, in front of the Government seat, in Victoriei Square, protesting the Justice Laws' draft amendment.

Protesters of all ages continue to cluster, bearing tricolour flags, with vuvuzelas and drums, alongside placards with slogans such as: "Jos PSD, ciuma rosie / Down with PSD, red plague", "Vrem justitie independenta / We want independent justice", "Ce asteptati, o noua dictatura? / What are you waiting for, a new dictatorship?", "Democratia este sub asediu / Democracy under siege", "Alegeri anticipate / Early elections". Protesters also chant: "Justitie, nu coruptie! / Justice, not corruption!", " Liviu Dragnea nu uita, Romania nu e a ta! / Liviu Dragnea, do not forget, Romania is not yours!"Order forces are already gathered in the square.Around 19:00 hrs the protesters are set to march to the Parliament Palace.





"The bill to amending the Justice Laws has already been parked in the Parliament and it is to be debated and voted in a plenary siting. The Judicial Inspection will become a political tool at the Justice minister's hand. The appointment of the prosecutors' heads by the (Justice, ed. n.) minister, with no control from the President (of Romania, ed. n.) will mean that the DNA (National Anti-corruption Directorate, ed. n.) will turn back to the PNA (former title for DNA, ed. n.), and the Prosecutor's Office becomes subdued to the political interests. Should this package laws is endorsed by the Parliament, it will be a disaster for Romania and its citizens. We could say good bye from an independent justice. We are not alone in this battle. From magistrates to President and to the European Commission, they have all positioned against these draft laws. It is time that each of us acts and does not legitimate the attempt of the corrupt to control Justice. On Monday, the lawyer senators have given a negative report to a draft law that is hampering the criminally sentenced to reach the country's supreme position. The vote in the Senate is to be given. This means that an underworld mob guy, a criminally condemned person could decide the Romanians' fate and represent them," says the Facebook motivation of the march titled "We don't want to be a nation of thieves!".
Despite images of shuttered factories and a chorus of high school voices chanting the virtues of college, you do not have to get a four-year degree to earn a decent living.

While it may be true that on average, people with four-year college degrees earn more than those who have not gone to college, a study this summer by the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce finds there are still 30 million good jobs held by people without bachelors degrees. And 28 percent of people with two-year associate degrees make more than bachelors degree recipients.

The College Board reported last week that four-year college graduates between the ages of 25 and 34 earn $19,497 more per year than people with only high school diplomas  a sum that seems to make it well worth spending the $20,770 that tuition, fees, room and board the average public college is charging this year.

But if you do not think college is for you, it does not necessarily mean you will struggle to put food on the table.

Those in the 30 million good jobs identified by the Georgetown study earn a minimum of $35,000 to start and $45,000 by age 45. Eventually half the jobs pay $55,000 or more. That compares, according to the Georgetown researchers, to people with bachelors degrees who earn a median $61,000 by mid-career and start at about $33,000.

A rule of thumb in borrowing for college has always been not to have loans that total more than a starting salary in your field. Thinking ahead about occupations and pay is crucial before borrowing money for any degree, because many students borrow heavily without realizing their salary will be deficient to cover loans.

Its the degree and the occupation that matters, said Georgetown Center on Education and the Workplace Director Anthony Carnevale.

These days, it takes advance planning and research to find occupations that pay well, said research director Jeff Strohl, who worked on the study.

For example, an elevator technician with a two-year degree earns $95,000 in Florida, but cosmetologists average just $22,700, which is close to the poverty level for a family of three. A nurse with a two-year degree would average $46,000 while a health aide would make $26,000.

Despite the loss of manufacturing jobs over the last few years, 55 percent of the best-paying jobs remain in manufacturing, transportation and construction. But these jobs are dwindling. Since the recession, manufacturing has lost 1 million of them, and construction employs 1.6 million fewer people than in 2007, according to the research. To hire for a job that typically does not require college, employers often look for some additional education past high school to weed out candidates, said Strohl.

Good jobs have shifted to workers with associate degrees. They have gained more than 3 million of the net new jobs since 1991; a period when jobs for people with only high school diplomas has declined by 1 million. There are currently 123 million workers in the economy, including 75 million without a bachelors degree.

While opportunity is growing for people with associate degrees, Strohl warned that these jobs may lead to a dead end. Often people go to community college to get a two-year degree focused on the liberal arts. The intent may be to save money on the less expensive program and then transfer to a four-year college, but few end up transferring, he said. Courses often are not accepted by other colleges and frequently fail to interest employers.

The lowest-earning positions for bachelors degree recipients are in the liberal arts and humanities  often starting at $29,000, said Strohl. Yet, business graduates on average start at $37,000, health care $41,000 and STEM jobs at $43,000.
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After news broke that his former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, and Manafort's long-time associate, Rick Gates, had been indicted, President Donald Trump responded by tweet with a familiar response: Investigate Hillary Clinton.

"Sorry," he tweeted after Monday's 12-count federal indictment was unsealed, "but this is years ago, before Paul Manafort was part of the Trump campaign. But why aren't Crooked Hillary & the Dems the focus?????"

Translation: "Manafort? Manafort? Do I know a Manafort? So when are you going to arrest Hillary Clinton and her fellow Democrats?"

Blame Hillary First has been a standard White House response in the days leading up to the first Russia-gate indictment. "If any collusion took place, it was with the Clintons," said White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders in response to the indictments.

Trump has charged that the Clinton Foundation received "pay for play" donations from Russians in order for then-secretary of State Hillary Clinton to sell a uranium mining company to a Russian one and "gave Russia 20 percent of American uranium."

But, even though the Clinton Foundation received enormous donations and Bill Clinton received enormous speaking fees from leaders involved in the deal, the Washington Post Fact Checker and the fact-checking website Snopes.com found no evidence that Hillary Clinton was involved personally in the deal, which may not even have risen to the level of her office.

But as we have seen repeatedly, Trump and his allies are not about to let anything as trivial as facts get in the way of a good slam at their favorite targets, like Hillary Clinton.

Devin Nunes, a California Republican and chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, plans to look into Clinton's role in a 2010 uranium deal that became a favorite attack line by candidate Trump. Fine. I would not stand in the way of officeholder's accountability to public scrutiny. But that doesn't excuse Team Trump from similar scrutiny.

Yet three minutes after that "Crooked Hillary" tweet, Trump added this: "Also, there is NO COLLUSION!"

Well, not so fast. Even as Trump tapped out that presidential tweet, newer news broke: The FBI has evidence of -- Surprise! Surprise! -- collusion.

Foreign policy aide George Papadopoulos secretly pleaded guilty three weeks earlier, it turned out, to charges that he lied to FBI agents about meetings he had with Kremlin-connected Russians during last year's presidential campaign who claimed to have "dirt" about Hillary Clinton's campaign.

News of the plea came as Manafort and Gates were charged with conspiracy to launder money, making false statements and other charges related to their work advising a political party in Ukraine that is friendly to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Sanders tried to dismiss Papadopoulos as "a volunteer." That sounds like his job was no more important than answering phones. But he had enough clout to be one of five people Trump listed and praised as foreign policy advisers during a Washington Post editorial board meeting last year.

But his dirt-chasing contacts sound very much like the invitation Donald Trump Jr. received to another meeting with Russians to which Junior famously replied, "If it's what you say I love it especially later in the summer."

Papadopoulos, according to court filings, was told by an unidentified "professor" with Kremlin contacts -- since identified as Joseph Mifsud of Scotland's University of Stirling -- that Russians had "dirt" on Clinton, including "thousands of emails." This came a month after Clinton's campaign chairman John Podesta's emails were hacked in March.

There's a lot more to this story, but you get the idea. Papadopoulos's plea deal as a "proactive cooperator," rebuts Trump's weak charges of "fake news" -- especially if, as CNN legal commentator Jeffrey Toobin speculated, Papadopoulos has been wearing a wire. As former FBI head James Comey said under different circumstances, "Lordy, I hope there are tapes."

As Mueller's investigation moves closer into Trump's inner circle, Watergate-style questions arise, such as "What did the president know and when did he know it." In Trump's case, the question of what he did not know is just as appropriate.

However he may have handled his affairs in the private sector, he was poorly prepared in many ways for the extra accountability that public-sector jobs entail, especially in the White House.

In Trump's case, I can't help but wonder not only about what he didn't know but also why he didn't seem to care -- as long as he had someone else to blame.
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique hold consultative meeting with former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Lahore on Saturday night.

Prevailing political situation of the country, election campaign, NAB references and other issues were came under discussion in the meeting, said the sources. The meeting resolved to expedite the mass mobilizing campaign.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz will formally kick-off its election campaign From November 12 by conduction a political power show in Abbottabad, said the sources. After the Abbottabad meeting, PML-N will announce a schedule of public meetings in different cities.

The meeting also resolved to expedite mass-contact drive in South Punjab. They decided to make a strategy to tackle with intra-party issues.
Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Lahore on Sunday after his six-day stay in London.

The chief minister reached Lahore via Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-758. He is expected to meet ousted premier Nawaz Sharif in Raiwind today.

During his stay in London, Punjab CM visited Begum Kulsoom Nawaz and inquired about her health. He also met former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and attended a significant meeting of PML-N leaders which discussed the political situation in Pakistan and consulted over the nab court trials.

The meeting was also attended by PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif.

Punjab CM also met overseas Pakistanis and PML-N leaders in London. Yesterday, PM Abbasi met Shehbaz Sharif in London to discuss political matters and party-related issues for a second consecutive time in a short span.

While the last meeting also included Nawaz Sharif, this one excluded him for his absence this time around to appear before accountability court in corruption charges. The two met to discuss topics related to ruling PML-N.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa Sunday arrived in Tehran on an official visit, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The army chief will meet Iran's civilian and military leadership during the visit, DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet on Sunday.

On October 31, Iranian Ambassador Mehdi Honardoost called on General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the General Headquarters.

COAS arrived Tehran, Iran on official visit. Scheduled to meet Iranian civilian and military leadership.  Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) November 5, 2017

The two figures discussed regional security, Pakistan-Iran border management, visits and exchanges in the defence realm.

"The visiting dignitary acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan Armys contributions for peace and stability in the region and pledged to keep working for better relations between two brotherly countries," the ISPR had said in a statement following the meeting.
Three state legislators wrote a column defending student Katie Mullen and questioning the conduct and character of University of Nebraska-Lincoln staff, from a graduate assistant all the way to Chancellor Ronnie Green.

If I could throw my support behind anybody in the state of Nebraska right now it would be Katie Mullen and these senators.

I am from Omaha, but I attend a U.S. military service academy where free speech is a privilege, not a right. I spent a semester in Singapore, where the ability and right to criticize your government and institution does not exist.

Too often I had citizens voice their complaints to me, because I was an American who had a right to free speech, and they knew they could trust me with their speech. To be able to speak freely, especially in an academic setting, is something unique to America that started this great nation.

I am deeply concerned that UNL administrators and staff have ignored our most basic and forthright law -- the U.S. Constitution -- and have allowed the bullying of a young girl to take place by members of their own institution.

Have they forgotten that they answer to Nebraskans, who rally behind "Equality before the law"? To see more UNL faculty berate a student -- seen on comment threads and social media -- deeply troubles me.

We are a state operating in the Midwest, in Nebraska, where "manners maketh man" and the ability to exercise our fundamental rights is not ceased. I stand with Katie Mullen.

Jacob Wolff, Omaha
Two Otumoetai Intermediate pupils are in the running for Peoples Choice at this years ASB Bright Sparks Awards.

Ethan Duck, 13, and Will Waters, 12, have both been selected as finalists, thanks to their ideas for new pieces of software.

Ethans project is a handwriting app designed for iPads, with dyslexic students in mind. Users encounter letters and words, and use the touch screen to trace the shape of the letters with their finger.

By repeating the motion, you get used to writing, says Ethan. Kids who have tried it say they prefer it over paper.

Ethan says the hardest part of the project was learning to programming language to design the app, which took him six months. But now hes had some interest from Matua School, where they intend to try it simply as handwriting tool for Year 1 and 2 children.

Fellow pupil Will also designed a new piece of software for his entry  a teacher planner. He says he came up with the idea after seeing his teachers carrying around heavy books containing all their lesson plans.

His software allows teachers to fill in their daily plans electronically, as well as keep the roll.

My teachers been using it a bit, says Will. Since I had a deadline to work to, though, the user interface was a bit rushed. Im hoping to improve that when I rebuild the programme.

ASB Bright Sparks is an initiative of The Skills Organisation, and has been running for the past 17 years.

Skills CEO Garry Fissenden says more than 6000 students have been involved in the programme.

It started out with a focus on electrical projects but has now moved to encompass engineering, science, software and the environment. It has been sponsored by ASB since 2016.

Entries have been received from across the country, and project submissions range from robotics to apps, to inventions which improve household objects, and deal with environmental issues.

The ASB Bright Sparks competition is open to all New Zealand school students, and is an opportunity to showcase their inventiveness and problem solving skills.

Its a chance for students to create solutions for day-to-day problems and develop novel inventions.

A prize pool of $10,000 is on offer to finalists, who will travel up to Auckland for an awards ceremony as ASB North Wharf on Tuesday November 7.
A Bay of Plenty teenager has been arrested after a police car was stolen last month.

A police patrol car was taken on October 17 when an officer was attending an incident at Oregan Drive in Murupara at 7pm.

Police units were deployed, along with the Eagle Helicopter, to search for the stolen vehicle.

The police car was found abandoned on Gibbs Road a couple of hours later, but the offender was no where to be found.

Police have today arrested 18-year-old Maakai Emery who they sought in relation to the incident.

A police spokesperson says Emery was located at a Murupara address at 11.20am.

Police have not released any other information at this stage.

We will update this story if anything more comes to light.
Developing empathy and encouraging humane treatment towards all animals is behind the SPCAs launch of a series of storybooks for primary school children.

The six story books aim to help educate young readers about the care and well-being of animals, aiming for a change in attitude and behaviour from the next generation of animal owners.

The first storybook collection was released in August 2016 and, to-date, around 78,000 books have been used by more than 2000 primary schools. The first storybook series focused on companion animals and the second on farm animals.

SPCA CEO Andrea Midgen says the books further extend the charitys New Zealand curriculum-aligned education programme, which first launched in 2016.

"We continue to care for around 46,000 animals that have been lost, abandoned, injured, or abused each year, she says.

This is simply not good enough and we need to do better as a country. Teaching animal care and empathy at a young age is vital to turning this around.

These storybooks build on the overwhelming success of our education programme which is available to all primary and intermediate schools in the country."

The focus of each original story is to teach animal care and well-being through engaging and thought-provoking narratives, while supporting the development of childrens reading skills and strategies at school and home.

We chose to focus on farm animals because, after their pets, New Zealand children are most likely to interact with farm animals. However, the goal of the series is to develop empathy towards all animals from the next generation.

Each school will receive 36 new books, made up of six sets each, which are funded by donations and community grants. Teaching notes are available to teachers through the SPCA Teachers Portal. Suggested activities help to extend and consolidate childrens understanding of animal care concepts and increase their empathy for the animal characters within the stories.

The new books include Garry the Goats Escape, Barney and the Sheep with No Name, Guzzler Does the Job, Toni, the Party Pony, Mrs Wigglesworth Gets the Milk and Wake Up, Drongo!

Children and their families can access resources to support the books at via SPCA Kids Portal at: www.kids.spcaeducation.org.nz

Teachers can register for free, curriculum-aligned resources via the SPCA Teachers Portal at: www.teachers.spcaeducation.org.nz
Theres not too many people that can light up a room, but scientist Dr Siouxsie Wiles, with her long, hot pink locks, is definitely one of them.

The microbiologist, and head of the Bioluminescent Superbugs Lab at the University of Auckland, is one of four keynote speakers at the House of Sciences biennial science symposium Curious Citizens in Te Puke this week.

Siouxsie has been dying her hair pink since 2000, and says it was the nearest thing she could get to glowing in the dark.

She wears her pink hair proudly, believing it is important to destroy stereotypes about who scientists are.

Its important that people outside of science, especially children who might be interested in going into science, see that you can be different, she says.

Ive come to realise that its as important within science too. I dont fit the image or the mould of what a scientist looks like, even within my community, so its about challenging some of those stuffy professors who say you cant possibly be serious looking like that.

Siouxsie will speak at the symposium next week about why we need to understand microbiology.

Microbes are everywhere. Some are amazing and useful for important things and some are really awful. New Zealand has high rates of infectious diseases, so its important to understand how to keep ourselves safe from microbes, but not to be too scared of them.

I get lots of emails from people who are terrified of germs and are constantly washing their hands. Theres a fine line between being aware of things and washing your hands when necessary, to being completely freaked out and exposing yourself to horrible chemicals because you have to keep everything clean.

More often than not, Siouxsie says people are anxious about the wrong things.

Were really bad at understanding risk. When I talk to teenagers and grown-ups Ill talk about our risky behaviour around sex  like not wearing condoms for example - which is very risky. People dont think about that at all, but will obsess over washing their hands and using the right products to clean things with.

Siouxsie will also be speaking about the new business she has just launched with her lab called Brightenz, developing kits for schools and home use to teach people about microbiology using bacteria.

Its a cool way to get teachers and schools interested in teaching microbiology, she says.

Siouxsie is a well-known commentator on television and radio, and in 2013 was awarded the Prime Ministers Prize for Science Media Communication.

She has combined her twin passions of microbiology and bioluminescence to understand infectious diseases and is currently on a drive to raise awareness of the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant superbugs.

She was involved in a crowdfunding campaign earlier this year to raise funds for her research into developing new antibiotics from New Zealand fungi, and has just published a book titled Antibiotic Resistance. The End of Modern Medicine.

The book was written in her summer holiday over a period of five weeks.

It was a fantastic thing to do. Ive been talking about antibiotic resistance for a long time, so this was an opportunity to sit down and write it.

Her family, including her parents visiting from the UK for the summer, werent very impressed, she says, but it was important to her to get it all down on paper.

Ive had a really great response. A lot of it is about putting [antibiotic resistance] in context for New Zealand. New Zealanders say well, Ive heard about this thing but what does it mean for me and my family?

I wanted to start a conversation about what kind of country we want to live in and the really difficult choices we will have to make. A lot of our rates of disease are around the way we live and the economy we have.

The crowdfunding campaign in May and June of this year raised $280,000 to continue her research into New Zealand fungi as a potential source of antibiotics for another year.

Well try and screen 1000 of these 10,000 fungi in the next year and see whether theres any potential antibiotics there.

It saddens Siouxsie that she has to spend so much of her time outside the lab fundraising for the project.

Im constantly fundraising. What wed really like is five years worth of funding where we can go right, lets do this.

This is an ideal project to get the public engaged with this problem and to get them excited about science. We may find nothing, but thats also how science works. We want them to understand the process and how long this stuff takes.

The crowdfunding is a good solution because it allows us to do our work, while engaging the public on why we do it and how we do it. But its very sad that we have to do it.

Siouxsie will be joined at the Curious Citizens symposium by Bugman Ruud Kleinpaste, underwater oceanographer Steve Hathaway and Victoria Metcalf, the national coordinator of the participatory science platform in the office of the Prime Ministers chief science advisor.

Curious Citizens will be held at The Orchard Church in Te Puke on Friday, November 10 from 8.30am-5pm.

To register, and to see the full programme, visit: houseofscience.nz/get-involved/symposium.html
Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller has met with the parents of teens bullied at schools around the city.

The meeting comes as a result of a series of bullying incidents reported by parents around the Bay of Plenty.

One mother, who chose to not be named, shared her story with SunLive recently which she says has resonated with many other parents.

She now wants to take a stand on behalf of families in similar situations to hers.

Theres been four articles in the news recently regarding bullying.

New Zealand has some of the highest rates in the world for school bullying, which is information I have read from BBC, were even getting attention from over there.

There has to be a link between these statistics and in others which also show we have some of the highest teenage suicide rates in children aged between 15 and 19 years old.

There has to be more effort in schools, she says. Possibly by our governments reaching out to others to see what they are doing, and what is working there that we can implement here.

It doesnt mean were failing, we just need some help.

The mother has joined alongside two other families of bullied teens, to meet with MP Todd Muller recently.

Im hoping that he will listen to the point where he may make an inquiry to see why schools are all following the same direction.

It seems as though there is this pattern in schools to isolate the victim, not get in contact with the parents and keep it under cover. Why do schools follow that?

I assume every school has been given a portfolio on how to deal with bullying but why dont they have someone in the schools to specifically deal with the bullies and bullied?

Counsellors have other issues to deal with, so there needs to be someone there who can deal with those specific issues.

She says despite the incident, she doesnt believe the school involved is a bad one.

Just the way theyve dealt with this was really wrong.

She says her child will now be transferred to another school.

Schools need to bring more awareness around mental health.

If these children knew more about mental health, wellbeing and about keeping minds well, they might take a bit more ownership about how they act towards other people.

If they are strong enough in the head, other things will just fall into place.

Of the families who joined her at the meeting, is a man who wished to only be named as John, who is the grandfather of a bullied teen.

He says his grandson became involved in an incident where bullies at Tauranga Boys College held him down and shot him with a BB gun.

My grandson was set upon by the group of boys and was forced onto the ground and held down.

A boy then produced a pistol, which we later found out was a BB gun, and shot him in the leg. There was no penetration just bruising.

The school was not aware the incident had happened nor did my grandson tell anyone not even his mother.

It came to light later when the incident was published on Facebook with a picture of my grandson crying.

He says his grandson, who suffers Asperger syndrome, did not inform the school or his family about the incident out of fear.

The school were then told and they apparently took the boys before the Board of Governors and the boys were warned about their future behaviour, short of expelling them, this was all they were able to do.

He says the incident was also presented before the police more than a month ago. They are still waiting for an outcome.

Im hoping to get answers to the problem of bullying, says John. We have the second highest bullying statistics in the OECD.

The problem with schools is that instead of involving the community and letting them know whats going on, they keep it to themselves.

In a letter, sent by TBC principal Robert Mangan to parents of the school, he has responded to the incident.

I feel compelled to assure our wider community that bullying is totally unacceptable at Tauranga Boys College and that the college works hard to create a culture of respect and support for all students, he says.

"This was a plastic toy, readily available in local toy shops, not a firearm, the boy who fired it had harmlessly shot both himself and his friend with prior.

"However, we took the impact on the victim seriously.

I applied the most significant disciplinary action available to me, suspending the two 13 year olds to meet the Board of Trustees Disciplinary Committee, a group of three elected parent representatives, to decide if the boys should remain at Tauranga Boys College - two 13 year olds for whom this behaviour was out of character.

The Board of Trustees decided the two boys could return to the college under strict conditions, confident they had gained a significant lesson and clearly understood the impact of their actions on the victim and assurance that behaviour such as this would not be repeated.

As a college we treated the situation with the utmost seriousness.

He says the school launched a full disciplinary investigation, alongside close communication with Police and the victims family.

It is very disappointing that the family of the victim do not feel supported by the college, and we understand how upsetting it is for families when loved ones are involved. We will continue to do our utmost to support all the boys in our care.

Sadly, the reality is that bullying exists in our society and society is reflected in all of our schools, no more the domain of primary, intermediate or secondary, single-sex or co-educational schools.

All schools work hard to address these societal issues.

Due to a longstanding policy of confidentially, Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller wasnt able to share specific details from the meeting, but says he agrees the larger societal issue of bullying is significant.

Its quite personal for me, he says. When I was a young fella, at Tauranga Boys, I had a bullying experience and the school handled it well back then.

It was a different world back then, while some of my class mates and people on my bus knew about it, it wasnt instantly posted and commented on across the entire social media. I really get a sense of the challenges and difficulties for families and parents who have to deal with this.

Theres no excuse for it, kids should be able to go to school and feel comfortable in that environment.

Education is so critical and students need to feel safe. If they dont, we need to be very honest in what we need to improve.

If that means we need to improve our guidelines, or ask more of our schools then so be it, he says. I have pretty regular contact with most the local school principals so Im going to connect with them just to get their perspective, just how prevalent the situation is, whether theyre happy with the guidelines the ministry of education and whether they could be strengthened.

We need a sense of what we can do better, because it doesnt feel like its where we should be.
Two medical emergencies sparked callouts for the Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter overnight.

The Rescue Helicopter was dispatched at 5.30pm for an emergency transfer from Tauranga Hospital.

A 75-year-old male suffering a serious medical condition, requiring a rapid response flight to Waikato Hospital," says a spokesperson for the rescue chopper.

The following morning, the rescue helicopter was dispatched at 3am to Te Kaha for another emergency transfer.

A 27-year-old male required urgent medical treatment and was flown to Tauranga Hospital. The flight was undertaken with the use of Night Vision Goggles.
A second group of international students enrolled in a ground-breaking Professional Doctorate programme at Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi has been welcomed to the Whakatane campus.

Post-graduate students from Washington State in the USA experienced their first visit to the wananga this month as part of the Professional Doctorate in Indigenous Development.

The four-year doctoral programme consolidates doctoral study for professionals working in areas relating to indigenous developmentand is offered in partnership with the University of Washington Tacoma.

The students are members of Native American tribes in Washington State, and are largely funded by their tribes to undertake the programme.

The first cohort of Washington State doctoral students first visited Awanuiarangi in 2013, and are now preparing to submit their theses.

The current cohort started their studies at the beginning of the year, and are half-way through two years of course work, which will then be followed by two years writing their theses.

They spent their first week in Whakatane focusing on the fundamentals of research and working collegially with Maori students of the Professional Doctorate.

Professor Nathan Matthews, head of the School of Indigenous Graduate Studies, says the international cohorts research is similar to research being undertaken by Maori doctoral students.

It will focus on the tribal, community or indigenous areas in which they are working, providing increased opportunities for positive impacts across their communities at a professional level.

The research generated will have direct benefits for their communities, in a range of areas including cultural and language revitalisation, relationships with the federal government, and tribal economy, and will augment the already significant body of research resulting from Masters and doctoral studies at the School of Indigenous Graduate Studies.

Professor Matthews said the eight visiting students mostly had leadership roles or work for their tribes in a range of areas including health, education, law, culture and art.

At an international level, and its application in developing innovative, durable development solutions informed by the values of the local context.

Awanuiarangi also offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Maori Studies, Indigenous Studies, Environment Studies and Education.

As a wananga, we recognise our role in contributing to broader indigenous development aspirations and priorities and are excited by the opportunity within the tertiary education space to facilitate social, economic and cultural advancement for whanau, hapu, iwi and communities both nationally and internationally, says Nathan.

The paradigm for indigenous development education is very different in the United States. Our visitors said they were inspired by meeting so many Maori students undertaking pre-degree studies, Masters and Doctorates, and by hearing people speaking our language and seeing the level of development in Maori education. Importantly, our visitors doctoral studies will support their own development work in their communities at home.
The SUR in English team is packing its suitcase for London in the next few days as the newspaper sets up shop once again at the World Travel Market (WTM).

The WTM is one of the biggest annual trade fairs for the travel and tourism industry and runs from Monday to Wednesday next week.

Now in its 37th year, show organisers say that some 3.5 billion euros of business is done each year between the 5,000 exhibiting destinations and private companies and 51,000 travel industry professionals who attend.

SUR in English has been taking part for almost as long, and the newspaper's eye-catching red stand is next to the Costa del Sol and Andalucia delegations. The aim is to lend support to the tourism industry as well as to fly the flag for the expat community here on the coast, telling people who might want to visit or move to the area why this is the best corner of the world to be.

To mark the occasion, SUR in English has as usual published a 72-page supplement which is included inside this edition of the newspaper and available on the stand at the WTM next week.

Editor of SUR in English Rachel Haynes said, We're looking forward to meeting lots of new and familiar faces. If you're visiting WTM, please stop by for a chat.

Commuters into London will also be getting a taste of the Costa thanks to SUR, when, once again, the City A.M. morning newspaper will include a special 32-page supplement on southern Spain.

As usual, SUR in English will also be hosting a dinner in London for people from the world of tourism in Andalucia and the rest of Spain.
For Leah Dickerson Andrews, nursing has taken a different direction.

She said she has known since her teen years what her chosen profession would be. When I was 16 years old, my grandmother was in and out of the hospital with congestive heart failure and I saw what the nurses did for her. It became a calling.

After graduating from Floyd County High School in 2011, she attended New River Community College, where she pursued an associates degree in nursing. She graduated in June 2014, became licensed as a Registered Nurse and started working at LewisGale Hospital in Blacksburg  where her grandmother had been hospitalized years ago.

A month after she began working at the hospital, her mother Eunice got a diagnosis of terminal cancer. She also became a patient in the same hospital.

Leah said her co-workers embraced her and the family during this difficult time. They were wonderful. Her hospital friends even planned a wedding for her and fiance Jacob. Your mom is having a good day so far, a co-worker told her as she was coming off the night shift that morning. Why dont you get married so she has time to enjoy the wedding? After the decision was made, the co-workers had about 6 hours to make it happen. The hospital catered the evening wedding. It was a special time for all. Eunice passed away on October 2, about two weeks later.

At the time of her mothers fight against Stage 4 cancer, Leah said the thoughts of working in oncology first emerged. Obviously it was not the right time for me. But my mom is kind of the one that paved the path for my passion.

Three years later, she found herself back in school, at Liberty University, as she worked toward a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. As part of a cohort with LewisGale employees, she has been working online and attending a once a week class in Salem. She will complete her nursing classes next month. She should graduate in May 2018.

When I started the fall semester at the end of August, Leah said, I just had this really big tug on my heart (that said) you need to get your chemo certification. She went on to complete the certification in 4 days. It usually takes people a month or two to finish it, she commented. I know it was in Gods hand.

At the beginning of September, a good friend, who had worked at the hospital and was now working at the Blue Ridge Cancer Care in Blacksburg, told her a position was open and that she should apply.

I prayed about it, and the Lord kept leading me, Leah said.

She applied and was accepted.

Although she will have to pay back some of the tuition for her nursing courses, things have worked out so that is manageable, she commented. That was a huge blessing.

She began working at her new job on Monday, October 16.

Im so glad I listened, Leah said. I cannot tell you how much I love it.

A Floyd County resident, Leah is also active in 4-H. She started as a camper beginning in 4th grade, became a CIT (Counselor in Training) and then a teen leader and is now an adult leader. Her parents, Julius and Eunice, also worked in 4-H together. Julius continues to be a 4-H volunteer and drives a school bus. Her sister, Mary, also active in 4-H, is a sixth grade teacher at Check Elementary School.

Jacob and Leah met as children at Riner Grace Brethren Church, and they still attend there. Jacob works at the Kroger fuel center in Christiansburg.

Leah misses her co-workers at the hospital, but she said nursing has now taken her in the direction she has always wanted. At Blue Ridge Cancer Care, days are busy, and its not easy, but you get to know your patients, and they get to know you.

To Leah, nursing is a responsibility to give the kind of care you would want your family to have.

Leah said her mother has given her the drive to help the cancer patients. If I had not had the experience with my mom, I wouldnt be able to understand as welland help the patients and families get through this.
The Red Cross reportedly lost over $5 million of aid money due to corruption and fraud within its own organization during the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. Auditors detected fake custom bills, salaries for non-existent workers, and overpriced supplies.

Red Cross Staff Siphons Off Ebola Funds

Own investigations carried out by the organization revealed evidence of fraud with over $2.1 million lost in Sierra Leone. A further $1 million was lost through a mixture of inflated and fake custom bills. An earlier investigation found that the prices of payrolls and relief goods were inflated to an amount of $2.6 million in Liberia.

The representatives from the organization have said that they regret the loss of the funds and intent to make the financial rules stricter and bring those responsible for the fraud to justice. Furthermore, the organization said that it was committed to reclaiming all diverted, misappropriated, or illegally taken funds.

"I feel disappointed and concerned by the reaction of a few individuals, that their actions detract from the amazing work of the Red Cross staff and volunteers during the Ebola outbreak," said Red Crosss Paul Jenkins. "Their actions saved thousands of lives and the IFRC will continue to ensure that its funds are used for the purpose for which they are given," he added.

Ebola, which raged between 2014 and 2016, claimed at least 10,000 lives. A massive humanitarian operation, which cost hundreds of millions of dollars, was needed to bring it under control. At first, aid agencies faced a heavy struggle to raise ample funds to respond to the outbreak.

However, relief money to the tune of millions of dollars poured in after the World Health Organization raised an alarm. WHO had received over US$ 459 million in direct and in-kind donations from over 60 donors by April 22, 2016.

A large portion of the funding for Ebola-related activities came from multilateral organizations and governments. Japan, the United States of America, Ebola Multi-Partner Trust Fund, African Development Bank, and World Bank were the biggest donors. The Red Cross gave out tens of millions of dollars in cash to its affiliate organizations during the epidemic.

Ebola

Ebola is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by ebolaviruses and infects humans and other primates. The disease has a high death risk and can kill between 25 and 90 percent of those infected. The disease was first identified in 1976 after two simultaneous attacks, one in a village called Yambuku near the Ebola River, taking its name from the place and one in Nzara.

Ebola occurs at irregular intervals in the tropical regions of sub-Saharan Africa and the largest recorded outbreak was the epidemic that occurred in West Africa between December 2013 and January 2016.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
RACINE  Downtown Racine could be home to a new craft brewery next April.

Mark and Christine Flynn, the owners of DP Wigley, 234 Wisconsin Ave., have been working since about 2010 toward their goal of opening their own craft brewery. They brew beer at home on a smaller scale and operate Hop to It, a home brewing and wine-making supply store. The pair now hopes to open Littleport Brewing Co. next year across the street from DP Wigley on Third Street, aiming for an April opening.

The brewery would include a taproom where customers could try the six beers the Flynns plan to brew and sell. The flavors will include an India pale ale, a Welsh pale ale and stouts. Theyll also sell a lighter beer for people who do not like the full-flavored beverage.

Mark Flynn said they expect to brew about 442 barrels in the first year, containing 31 gallons each. They hope to eventually scale up production to 3,000 to 5,000 barrels in a year. Unlike home brewing, in which they make 5 to 10 gallons at a time, theyll brew 310 gallons at time at Littleport, Mark Flynn said.

He said they plan to create four full-time jobs at the brewery in its first year and hope to sell their products at restaurants and bars.

We like making beer, he said. We dont like staying up until midnight serving.

He said the project was previously delayed by financial matters, which are now largely settled.

The Flynns originally expected the project to cost about $1 million, but cut the estimate in half by acting as their own contractor. Some of the planned work will be financed with a facade grant from the City of Racine.They also plan to apply for a grant from the citys

. That program, started this year, funds work on older buildings to bring them up to code so they are habitable for new businesses.
RACINE COUNTY  If you want to get somewhere in eastern Racine County and dont have a car or anyone to drive you, you have a couple choices other than walking or riding a bike.

You can call a cab or use a ridesharing service, but if you cant afford those options, there is the city bus, or Ryde.

The service costs $2 per trip and serves Racine, Mount Pleasant, Caledonia and Sturtevant, as well as the Grandview Industrial Park just west of Interstate 94 in Yorkville. But as users and local leaders will attest, it is not always the most convenient way to get to work or elsewhere in the community.

Federal and state funding cuts, as well as local budget woes, have eroded service over the years, resulting in fewer routes and longer waits between buses. Now the Village of Sturtevant says it will cut its $50,000 annual contribution to Ryde, citing longstanding frustrations with the system.

As the region prepares for a Foxconn manufacturing campus expected to employ hundreds of construction workers in the short term and up to 13,000 employees in long term, The Journal Times asked area lawmakers and leaders how the region should address the looming transportation need, and if there might be the political will in Madison to allow for regional transit authorities.

While Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, who was part of the effort to abolish RTAs in 2011, remains largely opposed to the idea, fellow Republicans, state Sen. Van Wanggaard of Racine, and state Rep. Thomas Weatherston, of Caledonia, say they are open to discussing possible solutions, including RTAs.

Current situation

Used in many states, RTAs have taxing authority or can ask voters to approve taxes  in many cases a sales tax  dedicated toward funding a regional transit network. Six years ago state lawmakers passed legislation essentially prohibiting RTAs. Transit advocates have long lobbied for the state to allow the systems, but those efforts have largely failed.

The idea of creating an RTA to address Foxconn transit needs was most recently brought up by Racine City Administrator Jim Palenick.

Ryde costs about $9.8 million annually to operate, and is funded through a variety of sources, including state and federal funding, fares and money from the City of Racine, Sturtevant, Mount Pleasant, Caledonia and Yorkville.

Under the current funding system, Sturtevants decision to defund Ryde could mean service being eliminated to Gateway Technical Colleges iMet Center, 2320 Renaissance Blvd., in Sturtevant, which is preparing for a $5 million-plus expansion to train future Foxconn employees.

Worth exploring

Asked about the situation, Weatherston said that he was open to the idea of RTAs.

I would like to know more about what that really entails, but I am at least open to talking about it and learning more. With Foxconn coming its something we should talk about, Weatherston said.

Wanggaard said he would be willing to discuss RTAs, but stressed transit discussions should begin with local municipalities.

I think (an RTA) is definitely going to be part of the discussion, that being said, the first part of the discussion has to be about the expectation of each one the communities, he said.

Asked for the countys position, M.T. Boyle, Racine Countys chief of staff, said county officials realize that transportation can be a barrier to employment.

That concern has been discussed extensively in our Workforce Solutions effort in light of not just Foxconn, but as an ongoing issue, Boyle wrote in an email. Until state legislators change the law prohibiting RTAs, the county will continue to work with the tools and resources we have.

Sturtevant Village President Jayme Hoffman, whose village board has been suddenly thrust into the middle of the Foxconn transit debate, said hed like to see service issues addressed before discussing RTAs.

Racines mayor-elect, state Rep. Cory Mason, D-Racine, could not be reached for comment despite numerous attempts; nor could Mount Pleasant Village President Dave DeGroot. The massive Foxconn manufacturing campus is slated to be located in southwest Mount Pleasant.

Recent efforts, obstacles

As lawmakers and local leaders contemplate available solutions to transit needs, state Rep. Peter Barca, D-Kenosha, said Democrats in the both houses of the state Legislature continue to push for RTAs.

A budget amendment that would have allowed regions across the state to create the systems failed along party lines this year, as did an effort to pass an amendment to the Foxconn legislation that would have allowed Milwaukee, Waukesha, Kenosha, or Racine counties to form RTAs. Legislators in the Fox Valley and Chippewa valley areas have unsuccessfully pursued similar efforts.

Vos, who leads the Republican majority in the Assembly, hasnt changed his position on RTAs.

From my perspective, I look and say the City of Racine, Mount Pleasant, Sturtevant, Caledonia can already form an entity that allows for them to coordinate and cooperate on transportation if they choose, Vos said. I think what they are looking for is more money from taxpayers.

He added that he hasnt heard from area constituents or business leaders who say they would like the ability to tax for such service.

I guess before Im convinced we would need revenues to expand service, I want to make sure that the service we are providing is as efficient as it can be, and it is going to where jobs actually are, he said.

When asked for Gov. Scott Walkers position on regional transit authorities, a Department of Administration spokesman did not directly address the issue, but instead pointed to the roughly $250 million in funding for Interstate 94 included in the Foxconn legislation.

Asked again about public transit, DOA Communications Director Steve Michels said: The state will work with local employers, municipalities, and partners to make sure the skilled workforce needed in the region is available.

Despite the lack of support from Republicans, Barca, whose district includes a portion of southeastern Racine County, said he believes that those in power increasingly recognize that transportation needs to be a part of the Foxconn initiative.

He plans to continue introducing legislation to allow RTAs, and working to build support.
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A man who was wrongly jailed for driving offences lost an appeal last week that means he will not be able to pursue the government for compensation.

It was more than 12 years ago when police pulled Salvatore Strano over and charged him with driving while unlicensed.

He was accused of being a "repeat offender", which is treated as a more serious offence than a first offender, and it put a term of imprisonment on the cards.

Strano pleaded guilty and the magistrate sentenced him to three months full-time jail. He was immediately taken into custody.

It was not until two years later in 2007, when Strano came before the court again on different crimes, that a different magistrate realised he had been incorrectly charged "in that he should not have been treated as a repeat offender and, therefore, should not have been imprisoned."
A global oil price surge is set to drive up the cost of petrol through the Christmas holiday season and experts are warning the pain at the bowser is likely to intensify in the New Year.

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries cartel has slashed production levels over the past year, at the same time as American and Russian producers pulled back, raising prices strongly in recent months.

Oil cuts by OPEC countries, such as Saudi Arabia, have seen a strengthening price for the commodity. Credit:Bloomberg

The Brent Crude benchmark climbed to a two-year high on Sunday reaching $US62.07 ($81.10).

And those price hikes are already flowing through at the pump. CommSec economists say last week's jump of more than 8 per cent was the largest week-on-week spike in 13 years.
Reading the Productivity Commission's grand plan to "shift the dial" on micro-economic reform gives me a feeling of deja vu all over again.

When I started in this business in the mid-1970s, macro-economics had become a pitched battle between Keynesians and monetarists. It took years for a resolution of that conflict to emerge.

The monetarists didn't win the war, but they did win a lot of battles, and management of the macro economy was changed forever.

Today's great conflict in economics comes in the aftermath of the global financial crisis, as politicians in all the advanced economies abandon the "neoliberal consensus" under pressure from the populist revolt against privatisation, deregulation, austerity and all the rest.
Mira Crouch Glebe Thank goodness l never stood for federal Parliament. Despite having been born, bred, educated, raised a family and worked in Australia l have now realised the High Court would have turfed me out. My parents were Polish and l remember discovering some years ago that l could apply for a Polish passport. I didn't, but what would the High Court say? Then there's the fact that on escaping from Poland the day after the German invasion my father hot-footed it to British-controlled Palestine, joined the British army, served six years in North Africa, the Middle East and Italy and after living another year in Palestine arrived in Australia a British subject. Where would that leave me? The point is of course that while I and thousands of other loyal Australians are free to stand for the NSW Parliament we cannot do so federally. Section 44 is a vestige of another age and the ridicule hurled at Barnaby Joyce et al is misplaced. Bipartisanship must prevail and a referendum initiated to modernise this anachronism. Richard Fry Marrickville Coral Button's reference to Aboriginal people as the only truly unequivocal Australians (Letters, November 4) is not true if one of their parents was (say) British. The law can be interesting. John Dyson Mittagong

For tomorrow's Melbourne Cup, is it possible to know in advance which politicians will be attending at the public's expense? Justin Brash Surry Hills Given his recent uncanny form in predicting the outcome of major events in Australia, can the PM give us his tips for the Cup? Thanks mate. Ian Tuit Hornsby I look forward in the next life to having dual citizenship, one place for a quiet comfortable life and the other to renew acquaintances. Bit like having a flat in Mosman and Newtown.

John Woodward Monterey It's so un-Australian to be un-Australian. Conrad Mill Parkes Given that both Peter Dutton and Malcolm Turnbull have frequently denied responsibility for the refugees on both Manus Island and Nauru, saying that they are now the responsibility of the PNG government, how can they now deny 150 of them the right to go to New Zealand? Surely this is a decision for the PNG government and the Australian government is trying to have it both ways  deny responsibility for the refugees on one hand, but on the other deny them right of passage to another country even though they have been deemed genuine refugees  and is yet another example of gross hypocrisy by the LNP. Sue Armstrong Pyrmont

The "unfortunate legacy" of Australia's refugee policy that Peter Hartcher writes of is actually a toll on hundreds of human lives that are put on hold, stopped or ended altogether through unnecessary policies ("The murky politics of Manus", November 4-5). When political expediency wins over the chance to show compassion to people in need, we are all losers, especially those of us who do not see the impact of offshore processing simply because it is out of mind and out of sight. Let's not forget that behind all the labels, refugees, asylum seekers and migrants are, after all, people. Melissa Phillips Drummoyne



What do refugee advocates hope to achieve on Manus? Just and compassionate treatment of all refugees trapped by Australia. Acknowledgement that our policies have brought misery and death to those whose lives Australia's government has power over. Removal of all those detained by Australia on Manus and support for them all to begin a free life in Australia. More respectful treatment of our PNG neighbours  not "heavying" them, not bribing them. Cessation of our government's despicable persecution of one group of people, claiming that persecution will deter a different group of people from attempting to seek a free life. Constructive use of taxpayers' resources in accordance with our stated values. Helen Esmond Cherrybrook Don't destroy good in development rush

In its rush to push through massive high rise apartment development in some out of favour electorates, the government seems to have forgotten the basics ("The politics of density", November 4-5). It must take care not to destroy the very things that make Sydney a good place to live - like low pollution levels, green space, playing fields, light filled areas, a sense of community - not frenetic, overcrowded suburbs shrouded in the shadows of often ugly insensitive high rise. The government needs to listen to what the residents of Sydney want, not dance to the tune of rapacious developers. Pip Hughes Balmain The absolute short-sightedness of governments and planning departments drives me insane. Australia has limited fertile productive farm land but this land is continually being carved up for housing developments. And, while this is happening, no thought is being given to the needs for infrastructure to cope with the massive increases in population. As much as the current state government boasts about new roads, they are only ever going to be playing catch-up. For instance one new huge development is near Picton Road at Wilton. The new residents will only have access to road transport and they will funnel into Campbelltown, the M7 and M5. How on earth will our roads cope with this? My preference would be for bigger satellite cities with fast train connections and more jobs in these areas. Everyone can't work and live in Sydney.

Sandy Mackenzie Bundanoon What you get away with

The Hensley Hall imbroglio, Bayswater Road, Kings Cross, is demolition by stealth and highlights the inadequacy of Sydney Council's planning department ("Developer fined, told to rebuild ageing facade", November 3). Council obviously had no idea what was happening on their watch. Their fine of $6000 is not even a slap on the wrist: it's actually an encouragement for other developers to try the same trick. This project is not a DA, a development application. It's an EA, a exploitation application. It is innovation masquerading as restoration and is kitsch facadism. It seems town planning law is only what you can get away with. Andrew Woodhouse Kings Cross Your article made me wonder what is happening with the Melbourne ad agency Apparition Media which painted over the glorious mural in Enmore for the sake of an unauthorised movie ad. We need to ensure that this mob doesn't just slink off without rectifying their vandalism. Allan Roberts Marrickville Classical Triguboff



I imagine that Harry Triguboff, as a good classical scholar, will be recalling these words from one of Terence's Latin plays as he reads the letters of November 4-5: The public hiss at me, but I cheer myself when in my own house I contemplate the coins in my strong-box. John Flint St Leonards

Let's just call it Uluru The discussions around climbing of Uluru (Letters, November 4-5) reminded me of how the airlines still refer to the monolith as Ayers Rock. If we have matured enough to recognise that climbing the rock causes offence then surely the airlines can drop the reference to Ayers Rock and simply call it Uluru. Ian Mead Randwick

The bikes of wrath Following so much publicity about bike-sharing I was having a discussion with my grandson ("Man 'Reddy' to tackle bikeshare", November 4-5). He considered that, while some regulation by way of docking sites (a similar type of situation as with car-sharing) would be necessary, the problem was cultural. You could leave a bike on the Bund in Shanghai unattended for a week and return to find it intact - allowing for police acceptance - yet here it would be nicked. These share-bikes do not throw themselves in the harbour, nor do they lay themselves down in gutters, streets of driveways. Our entitled locals just abuse the rights of ownership of the bikes and chuck them wherever and so whatever! Like many Australian values so often crowed by our politicians, it is "cultural".

Garry Scarf Paddington Stick to your opinion [My letter of November 3 about the Villers-Bretonneux, Beersheba and Kokoda "celebrations" was] meant as sarcastically as possible and as political as those who make use of these so-called "commemorations". I am an army veteran and have a right to this opinion as much as anyone.

Gary Frances Bexley Among forthcoming centenaries John Lees includes the Treaty of Versailles in 2019 (Letters, November 4-5). Yes it was the end at last of World War I, but because the treaty was based on spite and revenge, it also proved to be the beginning of World War II. Lest we forget that, particularly.



Paul Hardage Faulconbridge Another important anniversary to remember is the 90th anniversary of the Greycliffe ferry disaster, the worst maritime disaster on Sydney Harbour. On November 3, 1927, the steamer Tahiti sliced through the Greycliffe en route to Watson Bay with the loss of 40 lives ranging in age from two to 81. Thirty-four victims were residents from Watson Bay and Vaucluse. Their descendants have not forgotten. Elizabeth O'Connor Vaucluse History in perspective

Carole Molyneux-Richards is right to assert that the course of Australia's history would have been different if Sir Ninian Stephen had been governor-general in 1975. (Letters, November 4-5). Gough Whitlam would never have dared to stand over Stephen as he did with Sir John Kerr. Peter Hughes Macquarie Fields Equal before the law? The questions never end Justice Philip Woodward, royal commissioner on drug trafficking, suspected that Tony Sergi and others in the Griffith N'Dranghita 'Ndrangheta kept cannabis in their basements ("Grand exit in gold casket for mafia boss", November 4-5). Woodward wanted to examine the "grass castles" but the premier, Neville Wran, would not let him. Evan Whitton Glebe

There is now only one survivor of that meeting in Griffith when the murder of Donald Mackay was sanctioned. In 1990, the Australian Bureau of Criminal Intelligence linked 23 murders, including the Mackay murder, to the N'Dranghita 'ndrangheta in Australia. In these cases, only two hired hitmen, both of Anglo-Saxon descent, have been convicted. The question is: why is it so? Terry O'Donnell Yass When are we going to get serious about sentences for major drug dealers? ("Cocaine smuggled for $20,000 debt" November 4-5). A key person in importing $20 million of cocaine gets less than five years' jail. When considering the lives lost from overdose and ruined through addiction and the cost of associated theft, major drug dealers are worse than murderers. The penalties should reflect that. Warren Mitchell Mosman Again we see a well-known actor get virtually let off after his third offence ("Colosimo faces ultimatum after $3500 fine", November 4-5). He was high on ice, he could have killed you or me, and he is off the road for only five months. Has the judge actually heard of a two-year suspension? It was our son or your readers he would have been jailed. We'll see after five months if he has learnt anything. Don't hold your breath.
Certainly a new dark age No one, witnessing the travesty of justice in the case of Manus Island refugees, could be proud to be Australian ("Food aid blocked to Manus 'starving"', The Age, 4/11). The story of the men locked up on Manus is a heartbreaking saga of defenceless men's physical and mental wellbeing sacrificed to successive government political agendas. Now the processing centre is closed, and the men are in limbo, with no protection, support, or basic services. This certainly is a new dark age, and I fear for their welfare. Helen Scheller, Benalla Dutton a 'superhero'

Peter Dutton imagines himself a superhero in his tough stance on Manus Island, while the rest of us see him as a thick-skinned numbskull who delights in making vulnerable people's lives a living nightmare because he can. Debb Schmetzer, W Tree Something must be done To paraphrase the words of the late King Edward VIII, with regard to the plight of 600 young asylum seekers holed-up in their former camp on Manus Island: Surely something must be done. Whether they're viewed by the federal government as "queue-jumpers", "economic refugees", or whatever, they're human beings, and they are in desperate need.

Despite attempts to induce other nations to accept responsibility for them, Australian policies have put them where they are. And so, after manoeuvring its way onto the United Nations Human Rights Council, perhaps the Australian government should put its money where its mouth is, and extend these poor people a lifeline. Bruce Thomas, St Kilda East Anything but honourable It's ironic that Malcolm Turnbull and Peter Dutton are entitled to be called "the honourable". Their record on Manus Island is anything but honourable. Lawrie Bradly, Surrey Hills

FORUM What's in a name? I read Danny Katz's article (The Age, 4/11) in which he describes discovering the name of a rampant weed known as Wandering Jew. It reminded me how years ago my elderly Jewish neighbour and I were discussing how to remove the weed afflicting both houses. I called the weed Wandering Jew, and he told me he called it Creeping Jesus. I think we settled on That Weed from then on. Ann Stratton, Balaclava We love it

Danny Katz, we also have a yard full of Wandering Jew (although it is the front rather than the back). We enjoy thinking about all the carbon dioxide it is absorbing. It also supplies much appreciated greens for our five chooks as well as pleasant ground cover that doesn't need mowing. And it has got another name, wandering trad, from the scientific name. Virginia Lowe, Ormond Unintended outcomes The letter of the law is often somewhat mad, and attempts have been made in the past to allow courts to interpret it in the way that the lawmakers intended. Such moves have always failed on the grounds that there is often no way in which the intended meaning can be precisely established. Fair enough; but it is much less difficult to determine what was not intended. In the present case of eligibility for Parliament, it is clear the lawmakers intended to ensure nobody with divided loyalties got into Parliament, but the letter has caused it to be applied to many people whose loyalties are clearly not divided. There can surely be no dispute that the current interpretation was NOT the intended meaning.

Nick Hudson, Newstead The real crisis There is no citizenship crisis and there certainly isn't a constitutional crisis, the High Court ruling of October 27, proves this. However, we have a political crisis when a bunch of politicians are either unable to comprehend the rules of parliamentary candidacy or too lazy to do their preparatory homework. People with such a cavalier attitude to our democracy and such a lack of attention to detail do not deserve to sit in our Parliament. Good riddance! John Kirk, Canterbury

The ultimate reckoning "We have no place in Australia for witch-hunts," thunders the Prime Minister, outraged at the inconvenience being visited upon those politicians who incorrectly completed their job applications. This is the same PM who turned his Human Services Minister loose on tens of thousands of Centrelink recipients, causing enormous financial and psychological hardship, with the flawed robo-debt inquisition. The same PM who has praised Peter Dutton as an "outstanding Immigration Minister" for pursuing a policy that unbelievably keeps reaching new heights of inhumane treatment of refugees under our care. Mr Turnbull, the ultimate witch-hunt will occur at the next election by the voters for the deceptive, callous and incompetent manner in which you have led this country. Peter Thomson, Brunswick

Exactly, Mr Turnbull "We must not allow ourselves to be dragged into a sort of lynch mob, witch-hunt, trial by innuendo and denunciation." Exactly, Prime Minister. Now if you could just let Michaelia Cash know ... Stephen Williams, Wandin North The letter of the law Josh Frydenberg's situation highlights the absurdity of section 44 of the constitution but it does not eliminate him from the scope of its regulation. The question is not what Mr Frydenberg or Malcolm Turnbull think about his citizenship eligibility but what the Hungarian government laws state. And the High Court would so decide his fate on this basis.

Peter McCarthy, Mentone A step too far While the issue of the statelessness of Josh Frydenberg's mother may well have relevance in any legal consideration of this case, Malcolm Turnbull was clearly going beyond the legal and was invoking the emotional power of the word "Holocaust" to shut down any questioning of his minister's citizenship. A cheap trick and offensive. Heather Hill, Yarra Glen One man's witch-hunt ...

An audit of parliamentarians' eligibility to receive substantial salaries and allowances is a witch-hunt but a robo audit of Centrelink benefits is due diligence. Fred Langenhorst, Castlemaine The buck stops where? Malcolm Turnbull and Peter Dutton have stated repeatedly that the 600-odd souls on Manus Island who were placed there by Australia are the responsibility of the PNG government and outside of Australia's control. So how can the Australian government categorically state that none of them can go to New Zealand? Please explain. Greg Poropat, Albion, Qld

I beg to differ Much is written in these pages of the "invisibility" of the elderly to the young (or just younger), with the offer of a seat to a 70-year-old (presumably by a younger person) cited as a newsworthy event (Letters, 4/11). Rubbish. I am constantly amazed at the readiness of the help out there, to the extent I virtually never have to trot out my Useless Old Lady routine, perfected for really awkward situations but languishing through lack of use. At times impatient with the unwanted helping hand, I accept it with the smile it deserves. Barbara Abell, Ringwood North Party business?

I wonder what pressing Liberal function there was in Melbourne this weekend to coincide with the Victoria Derby Day. Julie Bishop does it year in year out. Alan Inchley, Frankston A heartening approach It is heartening to see how the Victorian Parliament is approaching the assisted dying legislation, with dignified and respectful conduct from both sides. The federal government would do well to take note. Cath Dyson, Mount Eliza

It's not about us Dr Odette Spruijt's brief letter (3/11) about her possible role in assisted dying contained 15 personal pronouns. The proposed legislation is not about us doctors, it is about allowing a choice, currently denied, for a small group of our patients. No doctor will be required to be involved, but whatever our views, our concerns should be about our patients, not about us. Dr Nick Carr, St Kilda Enjoy the walk instead It seems too many people who object to being unable climb Uluru have never been. Or maybe they scrambled to the top a long time ago without any awareness of its cultural significance.

This world heritage area is an amazingly beautiful destination thanks to the care of the local Anungu rangers in conjunction with Parks Australia since 1985. I hope some of these objectors will make the journey to Uluru one day to listen, look and learn as they walk around the 10-kilometre base. The Anungu are happy to share thousands of years of history, culture and spirituality. The vast majority of current visitors already choose to do this. Susan Mahar, Fitzroy North The heart of the problem

Your correspondent Wendy Dent ( "Predators killed my Hollywood dream", The Age, 3/11) describes her humiliating experience of American movie magnates demanding sexual favours before considering her potential talent as a film director/writer/producer. The recent Harvey Weinstein story of male power in Hollywood culture was sourly familiar to her. In my letterbox on the same morning as her story was another example of male power from a different culture. It was a plea for financial help from the charity ActionAid featuring a photo of a 15-year-old Kenyan girl named Pauline who was already into her third pregnancy, the first one being from rape at age 11, followed by genital mutilation before her being married off at age 12 to an older man. Thus, in a single morning I was reminded of barbarism First World style and barbarism Third World style. Satisfying male ego was the heart of each situation with the difference that Wendy at least was able to say no and maintain her dignity. Pauline had no say. Paul Ormonde, Northcote It's always about punting

Forgive me, Tony Wright, for being unable to muster sympathy at your bemoaning the growth of online betting and its effect on the grand spectacle of horse racing (The Age, 28/10). At its very heart the racing industry is built on wagering and without it, there would be no horse racing, nor would there be hundreds of thousands of noble animals ruined in pursuit of money and left at very young ages to dire fates. If the prevalence of online gambling deters people from the racetrack, perhaps demand for these animals will diminish. Too little is known of the sad fate awaiting most of theses creatures that don't pass the post in first place  perhaps your sympathies should lie with them and not with the people whose "day out" is being affected by the promotion of the very reason for horse racing's existence. Eliza Allender, Templestowe Lower AND ANOTHER THING NAB sackings

Will NAB's CEO get a bonus for sacking 6000 staff ? Malcolm McDonald, Burwood Record profits for the NAB as they announce they're going to shed 6000 jobs. But it's OK because they've declared that they're going to do it "with dignity". That should calm staff's fears. Rosie Elsass, Brighton

Not a viewing platform Nick Pile (Letters, 4/11)  St Peter's, Vatican City, is not a cathedral and Uluru is not your personal viewing platform. Leslie Hunter, Geelong Don't ask don't tell Malcolm operates under the US "don't ask don't tell" dictum followed closely by "I knew nothing" then "they are out to get us".

Greg Curtin, Blackburn South Citizens of la-la land With the ministers who created NEG and Direct Action clearly being dual citizens of la-la land, they should all join Barnaby heading for the exit. Rex Niven, Eltham Noble Nobel peace

I would like to nominate for the Nobel peace prize the Twitter employee who shut down Donald Trump's Twitter account for a few hours. Peace indeed! Rob Ward, Lake Tyers Beach Political terrorist Peter Dutton may not be a terrorist, but he is causing terror for political purposes. Phil Lipshut, Elsternwick

Furthermore Would someone out there call an election? I am tired of waiting. Before the end of this year  please! Frank Braybrook, Runaway Bay, Qld Finally Why is it OK to send Manus Island asylum seekers to the United States but not to New Zealand?
Dawn over Murwangi, in the Arafura Swamp region of Arnhem Land. Credit:Peter Hannam The non-profit group manages credits for the Arafura Swamp region and its neighbours in an area covering 80,000 square kilometres, or bigger than Tasmania. ALFA has contracts for 1.8 million ACCUs, including net abatement of 830,000 tonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent in 2016, the best year yet. Feral buffalo damaging the Arafura Swamp region. Credit:Daniel Hartley-Allen 'Cool burning'

The benefits of the managed burning, though, potentially go far beyond supplying money to remote areas ranging from the Kimberley in the west, across the Top End, and northern Queensland. "Cool burning" doesn't come cheap. In 2016, for instance, rangers and traditional owners covered some 50,000 kilometres in helicopters, dropping incendiaries, while those using matches and drip torches travelled at 26,000 kilometres on foot, quad bike, four-wheel drive or other transport, ALFA says. Rangers crossing some savannah land burned during the recent dry season in Arafura Swamp. Credit:Peter Hannam "We also take the tractor, and put a tracker [device] on, so our manager knows," says Djangirri, who is one of two women on the board of the Arafura Swamp Rangers Aboriginal Corp. Biodiversity is helped because the risk is reduced of devastating "hot burns" that can destroy forests and open up the country more to invasive weeds such as mimosa.

Marine rangers off Arafura Swamp, in east Arnhem Land. Credit:Peter Hannam The extra funds also support programs culling feral animals, such as wild buffalo, cattle and pigs that were introduced by the "Balanda"  the common word for Europeans. The swamp is considered unique in its size and range of relatively intact wetlands in the Northern Territory, with the paperbark forests kept well-watered through the dry season by springs along the Goyder River. Marley Djangirr, a ranger at the billabong near Murwangi station. Credit:Peter Hannam Large black-necked stork, also known as jabiru, can be seen stalking along the edges of billabongs - as one did during this writer's recent visit - while the region also supports huge flocks of waterbirds of international significance in numbers and variety.

'Waste Lands' But the significance of the "smoke money" potentially goes much further if the objectives of ASRAC's 2017-2027 Healthy Country Plan can be achieved. Solomon O'Ryan, a ranger at the Arafura Swamp. Credit:Peter Hannam The program was compiled with help from Bush Heritage  a conservation group founded by former Greens leader Bob Brown  and Charles Darwin University. While highlighting the need to reconnect Yolngu with their lore and the land it is based on, it also seeks to address some of the challenges that have bedevilled the region.

For instance, one of 11 identified threats is "Balanda rules [are] always changing", a problem ASRAC hopes to counter with "good governance" and funding sources including carbon credits and a crocodile hatchery. The wording, though, masks waves of trauma that began in 1842 when, unbeknownst to the Yolngu, the "Australian Colonies, Waste Lands Act" was passed, handing their land over to European pastoralists. By 1861,Yolngu men moving south of the Roper River were made to "wear a tin plate slung around their neck. Anyone not wearing a plate was simply shot," author Richard Trudgen, wrote in his book Why warriors lie down and die, quoting an earlier work. Trudgen's book details what he calls four "pastoral wars", beginning in 1885 and extending into the 1930s, that are little known in modern day Australia but are keenly remembered in Arnhem Land today. That 1885 contact began when pastoralist J.A. Macartney tried to set up the Florida station at Murwangi  now the site of an upmarket tourist camp beside the billabong where rangers Djigirr or Djangirr were fishing.

"White people come and destroy all our bush tucker," says Djigirr, who acted and co-directed the 2006 Ten Canoes drama filmed in the Arafura Swamp. 'Be careful of these people' Otto Campion, ASRAC chairman, says the corporation "is already thinking of putting some of our history from our first European contact" in a form visitors can appreciate as part of potential cultural tourism plans. Campion speaks delicately of how Yolngu spearing cattle "got trouble" for his people, noting his own clan has a site "where people got shot". The killing of members of western clans prompted them to flee. "Some people rushed to the escarpment, and left the evidence" in the form of paintings.

"The rock art was telling the story: 'Be careful of these people  they are coming and they have rifles'," Campion says. "After fighting and dropping the population [Campion's forefathers] realised they had to stop," Campion says of the time when Yolngu realised they had no choice but to end resistance and seek protection from missionaries. "If the missionaries hadn't stepped in, they wouldn't exist any more," Trudgen tells Fairfax Media. International traders Trudgen  who has worked with local communities for three decades and is fluent in the region's lingua franca, Yolngu Matha  is blunt in his description of how some Yolngu think of Balanda.

They consider Europeans as "cretin, lawless people" for their past murder of women and children and the seizure of their lands without consultation. "The Aborigines would have been much better off if they had been colonised by Asians," Trudgen says, pointing to centuries of amicable trading between Arnhem Land and Makassar (now Ujung Padang on Sulawesi island in Indonesia). The Makassans came each year for trepang, a highly sought-after sea slug that grows about 10-15 centimetres. In return, they brought fish hooks and line, and other objects that the Yolngu on-traded into central Australia. As Trudgen notes in his book, the South Australian government  which then ran Northern Territory affairs  effectively banned the trade in 1906 without telling the Yolngu. (Part of the grief was that some Yolngu clansmen lived in Makassar and could never return.) Lost for words

Trudgen has campaigned for governments to translate their policies in Yolngu Marta  so more the 8000-odd speakers can understand  and other Indigenous languages. He cites the example of the slow response to efforts to cut petrol sniffing when lead was one of the toxic components. Interviews he conducted with about 250 adults found "not one person knew what lead was, even though they had their own name for it" thanks to the Makassan trade, Trudgen says. More recently, the intervention  introduced by the Howard government to address allegations of widespread child abuse  has fostered an unintended erosion of discipline within Indigenous communities, he says. "They had trouble with the word 'abuse'," Trudgen says. People think "they can no longer discipline children or they'll end up in jail". Signs of social strains were evident even on the recent whirlwind visit. Outside the main store in Ramingining, the main town in the Arafura Swamp region, youth were gathered in the shade, drinking soft drink, and some of them smoking.

On chart on the wall of the store noted "Ramo's" school attendance goal was 90 per cent, compared with a 72 per cent target for Arnhem Region. Week two of term four, though, showed just 55 per cent attendance on the Monday for the local school, dropping each day to below 40 per cent by Friday. Bridging the divide Campion, the ASRAC chairman, hopes his organisation will be able to step up junior ranger training that will give students more of a connection between students' education and the culture and life around them. "We want to set up a program so that everybody knows traditional burning," he says, adding they shouldn't have to get a letter from the principal excusing their absence. "It should be part of their education."

Bush Heritage, which elsewhere in Australia has made strategic purchases of properties to boost conservation, is providing help in the form of staff and other assistance for ASRAC. Solomon O'Ryan, a ranger for 16 years, understands better than most the challenges of bridging the cultural divide. Born of a white Tasmanian father and a Yolngu woman, O'Ryan was brought from Darwin  about 460 kilometres to the west  to his mother's community when he was 11. Conversations with O'Ryan flow without a ripple between descriptions of Dreaming legends and Western ways. "The shark started from the east, heading to the west, and got injured half-way by another spiritual being. This is where he came to rest," he says, standing beside a small lake that is a sacred site for his mother's clan.

With his ranger's hat on  actually a "Hawks" cap, reflecting his love as a player and fan of the Hawthorn AFL team  O'Ryan points out the damage down by feral animals such as cattle. "It used to have many water lilies, now it's just dirty water," he says. "May be in the future we can get it back to its original state." Back to country The appeal of the Healthy Country Plan for O'Ryan is also that it gives people "a reason to get back on country again", he says. "What we're looking at now is everyone in town, relying on a job to go to the shop," he says. "No one relies on the bush to get the food."

The plan also has the advantage of telling the outside world the Arafura Swamp clans are ready to take more control of their lives. ASRAC is seeking independence from the Northern Land Council, and the current funding for about 11 rangers, by the first half of 2018. "People are keen to separate out," says Dominic Nicholls, chief executive of ASRAC, noting "it wouldn't have been viable to set up the corporation without 'smoke money'". That flow of carbon funds should only increase in the future, with new methodology allowing 25-year contracts rather than the 10-year ones now signed. 'For the planet' With the Bonn climate conference getting under way next week, ALFA's Ansell says "you see where the world is headed".
A low pressure system will wreak havoc over Sydney on Monday with high rainfall and possible severe thunderstorms forecast for parts of New South Wales .

The east coast of Sydney is expected to receive between 20 and 30 millimetres of rain, although rain will be less heavy in the west, with about 15 to 25 millimetres forecast for Penrith.

A low pressure system will wreak havoc over Sydney on Monday. Credit:Nick Moir

Senior forecaster at the Bureau of Meteorology, Mohammed Nabi said it will be a wet morning for commuters in Sydney with rain increasing throughout the day.

"It becomes a bit more prevalent during the day, people get into work and it will just seem like it's raining even more as opposed to easing off," he said.
The other week, I had a sobering conversation with Mum after asking her if she'd ever been sexually harassed, abused or assaulted. It's not the kind of conversation we usually have, and it isn't a question she  or any woman  is obliged to answer. Mum was up for talking, though. She dropped her hot chocolate and nodded vigorously, staring into my eyes as if to say, "Are you kidding? Of course." Her stories were a wake-up call.

I'd asked her after watching the #MeToo hashtag take off on Facebook and Instagram. I'd felt my stomach drop as every woman in my Facebook timeline posted #MeToo, to drill into men's heads that these weren't isolated incidents, to emphasise the scale to which men regularly violate women's personal space and bodies. One friend noted: "Just because someone isn't posting #MeToo, don't think for a second it didn't happen to them."

Illustration by Simon Letch.

That haunted me. Because, for men, it begs the question: if every woman we know has experienced sexual abuse, assault and/or harassment, surely that means every man we know is part of the problem. Already, I can hear men whingeing: "Not all men are rapists, Benjamin!" (Yeah der, mate.) But after lawyer and advocate Debbie Kilroy suggested men start using the hashtag #IHave, I realised #IHave:

 Told female friends, "Yeah I'm mates with him, but wouldn't be if I was a woman"  because I knew of his weird and predatory behaviour around women.
Sydney: Accidents on NSW's roads claimed at least nine lives over the weekend, including those of a woman and a young boy.

Paramedics were called to the M1 at Cameron Park, near Newcastle, at 5.30pm on Sunday after reports of a serious crash.

Emergency services at the scene of a fatal accident on the M1 Motorway at Cameron Park, Newcastle on Sunday. Credit:Max Mason-Hubers

The two victims  a woman in her 30s and a boy believed to be seven years old  were pedestrians, according to a NSW Ambulance spokesman.

Police said the pair was hit by a truck.
All through her VCE year, Emma Missen felt like she was drowning.

A high achiever, Ms Missen had won a scholarship to her private school and felt under pressure to perform well in the exams.

High achiever, Emma Missen ,21, battled with anxiety during the VCE year. A beyondblue app is helping young people start conversations about mental health. Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui

Those close to her knew what she was going through, but most friends at school had no clue.

"I felt like I had to kind of maintain the image of totally being on top of things," she said.
Toni Celona and Anthony Swords in Bali. Credit:Facebook LRD is already the subject of an internal investigation by Professional Standards Command following a series of complaints from the security industry, amid calls to transfer their responsibilities to the Department of Justice. But the latest allegations against Mr Celona and TCB Elite Security raise troubling questions about LRD's intelligence-gathering capabilities and lack of oversight. Toni Celona's Ferrari. The colourful mates of 'Toni Two Guns'

Known in the industry as 'Toni Two Guns' for his habit of regularly carrying two firearms, Mr Celona has always kept colourful company. Within days of the police raids of his business on October 19, Mr Celona flew to Bali, Malaysia and Thailand with his friend, Anthony Swords, a Melbourne debt collector who is a director of Gatto Corporate Solutions. Mr Swords uses Mick Gatto's name to persuade creditors to settle their debts and is understood to financially compensate the former Carlton Crew identity for the privilege. Mr Swords is believed to have referred work to a company linked to Mr Celona, which provided guards to help with the eviction of tenants unable to pay rent, mortgage repayments or utility bills. Sources have told Fairfax Media that an armed guard in TCB uniform was also assigned to protect a box containing envelopes of cash given at the wedding of Mr Gatto's daughter.

In 2014, a Dandenong magistrate ordered Swords to undergo anger management and community service after he threatened the wife of Warwick Capper's agent. He had confronted the woman in a Noble Park hotel and demanded she hand over her BMW car in part settlement of a $250,000 debt owed by her former husband. Mr Swords made a throat-cutting gesture before telling the woman "those boots you are wearing, they're mine and that handbag you have is mine," according to a police prosecutor. Mr Celona is also a regular visitor to the Riverina town of Griffith, where he meets with an accused crime figure who is charged with cultivating a commercial quantity of marijuana and participating in a criminal organisation. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is alleged to be part of the criminal syndicate that produced, distributed and sold commercial quantities of cannabis and methylamphetamine throughout southern NSW.

Mr Celona recently sent a TCB technician to install security equipment at a Griffith business linked to the accused drug trafficker. While associating with "colourful characters" is not an offence, Mr Celona's company appears to have breached strict laws that regulate the private security industry when a convicted criminal was appointed to a senior management role in 2011. Fairfax is again unable to identify the man as he is due to face court next year on fraud charges. But the 61-year-old man, who worked for more than two years with Mr Celona, has a long association with the Gypsy Jokers motorcycle gang and an extensive criminal history dating back to 1989, when he was convicted of serious assault. Five years later, he was charged with drug trafficking as a part of a National Crime Authority investigation. He was eventually convicted of drug possession for his involvement in the seizure of half a kilogram of cocaine seized by police at a former Melbourne nightclub.

A police spokesman confirmed that TCB Elite Security had not declared it had appointed a convicted criminal as chief executive officer. "A recently suspended private security business provided no notification to the Licensing and Regulation Division that a now 61-year-old man was an officeholder of the private security business between 2011-2013. "The same 61-year-old man's private security licence was cancelled in 2015 following charges laid for indictable offences," the police spokesman said. Ferrari-driving bankrupt Mr Celona's financial affairs also raise serious probity issues that appear to have been ignored by the corporate regulator, the Australian Tax Office and a liquidator appointed to oversee the collapse of a company registered to his wife, Antonina Celona.

In 2013, Mr Celona applied for bankruptcy after owing Suncorp Bank $1,590,147.67 and more than $150,000 in income tax. His bankruptcy documents appear to be littered with falsehoods and omissions, despite warnings of one-year imprisonment for anyone found to have deliberately made a false declaration. He claimed he was unemployed, separated from his wife, had lived in a rental property in Surfers Paradise for more than a decade, had no bank accounts and was "living on donations from friends" with just $100 cash to his name. But according to several sources, Mr Celona was driving a yellow Ferrari or a white Hummer at the time, remained the beneficial owner of TCB security and his primary residence was a property in Skye that was purchased by his wife in 2007. The collapse of a company last year that was owned by Ms Celona should have also triggered alarm bells with ASIC and the ATO.

In 2016, Ms Celona placed TCB Always Australia Monitoring Pty Ltd into administration with debts of almost $3 million, including more than $2.1 million in unpaid taxes. A liquidators' report to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission found there was just $12 cash and $39 in a bank account when the business was shut down. Several sources told Fairfax that assets were transferred to another company Security Logistics Australia Pty Limited, which was established in 2015 and is also owned by Ms Celona. Security Logistics Australia continued to trade as TCB Security Elite, until its licence was revoked by police last month. A police spokesman claimed that LRD "undertakes thorough checks including requiring applicants to have their financial viability signed off by a CPA or CA, use of independent forensic accounts and the intelligence available to Victoria Police."

The spokesman confirmed the police investigation of TCB Elite Security was ongoing. Unexplained payments Liquidator Bent & Cougle are also aware of unexplained payments made by TCB Always Australia Monitoring to a senior executive at rival security firm Chubb. Thousands of dollars were paid in regular instalments to the Chubb manager, who is accused of referring work to TCB Always Australia Monitoring. A sworn Statutory Declaration obtained by Fairfax claims the Chubb manager "would call and request money be deposited into his accounts".

"While payments were being made...TCB Always Australia Monitoring was also successful in obtaining additional work in Brisbane for Chubb". Chubb was recently acquired by Prosegur, which is believed to be aware of the allegations and is understood to have cancelled a major contract with TCB Elite Security about two hours after the business was raided by police on October 19. Prosegur did not respond to requests for comment. Solicitor, Boris Pogoriller, who is acting for Mr and Mrs Celona did not respond to questions from Fairfax. "My clients deny all allegations against them. I advise it is not appropriate to provide any comments given the present inquiry by Victoria Police," Mr Pogoriller said in a statement.
It's perhaps the most Melbourne question ever after which footy team do you barrack for: Where did you go to school?

In the leafy streets of Malvern, the state's highest proportion of students attend non-government secondary schools, with 93 per cent enrolled at independent and Catholic schools.

And an overwhelming majority of children from affluent Toorak (90 per cent), Armadale (90 per cent), Caulfield North (87 per cent) and Brighton (86 per cent) also attend non-government secondary schools.

These areas also have some of the highest independent primary school attendance in Australia.
A 31-year-old man has been charged with assault following a random and vicious attack in East Victoria Park in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Police were called to Basinghall Street at around 4am and discovered a 36-year-old man covered in injuries to his arms, head and torso.

The man is due in court today. Credit:Andrew Quilty

He was rushed to hospital by St John's Ambulance, and he remains in a serious but stable condition.

Officers commenced an investigation into the bashing, and charged a 31-year-old man from East Victoria Park with grievous bodily harm and breaching a police order.
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Domains purchased with payment plans are not eligible to transfer until all payments have been made. Please remember that our 30-day money back guarantee is void once a domain has been transferred.

For transfer instructions to GoDaddy, please click here.
Sometimes you get to a destination and it doesn't live up to your expectations. Well, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in Iceland smashed every expectation I had.



Mr W and I are massive fans of Iceland and have been lucky enough to visit twice in the last year. Iceland really captured my heart due to its amazing and futuristic volcanic landscape, ethereal stunning beauty, breathtaking shimmering waterfalls and natural geothermal spas. The people are super cool - stylish yet traditional, and the food is amazing, with lots of fresh fish, organic produce and independent restaurants rustling up exceptional cuisine.

Our trip to

Jokulsarlon

came about during our Iceland road trip in August, going from Reykjavik, in the south to Akeruryi in the north of the country.









We were lucky to see a couple having their wedding photos taken





Now

Jokulsarlon

is one of the wonders of the natural world. I had heard about this place and seen photos but nothing can prepare you for the beauty of this place. It is literally jaw-dropping. Every year thousands of people flock to this

beautiful glacier lagoon in the south-east of Iceland.

A filming location for the James Bond films, A View To A Kill and Die Another Day as well as Lara Croft, Tomb Raider and Batman Begins, the amazing landscape is also perfect for wedding photos and we were lucky to spot a couple having their photos taken!

Jokulsarlon is a naturally formed lagoon, being about a couple of hundred meters deep. What you see is the tips of the icebergs above the water. Although it seems like the lagoon has been there forever it is only about 80 years old. The icebergs come from Breidamerkurjokull, part of the Vatnajokull glacier, developing

into a lake after the glacier started receding from the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.





















The icebergs vary in colour from bright blue to milky white due to the amount of air in the ice and the interplay of light. Every so often you can hear a whoosh and see the spectacles of icebergs breaking off. This is the reason why you should never climb on an iceberg. I'm sorry to say this but people really do and it is so dangerous, so please be safe.





If you like wildlife, be sure to go in the Winter where you will see a number of seals.





Boat tours operate between April and October and these need to be booked in advance in case they sell out, as they do. They offer Zodiac and Amphibian boat tours. The Amphibian tour is a larger boat whilst the Zodiac tour is smaller and you can get closer to the icebergs.







If you drive over the road or walk over the bridge for a few hundred meters there is an area called Diamond Beach where large icebergs get washed up on the black volcanic sand. To see these large white chunks of ice against the contrast of the coarse black sand is really a sight to behold, you can tell why they call it Diamond Beach.



Facilities







There are restroom facilities, a small cafe and food trucks at the car park of Jokulsarlon. Prices are typical Iceland prices, so very expensive. If the price is an issue bring a flask of hot drink and snacks from a supermarket.





Boat tours leave from here are well as tours of an ice cave in the Vatnajokull Glacier.



How to get there











pin for later

Jokulsarlon is a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik with no stops. It is just off the Route one ring road between Hofn and Skaftafell.



It is a good idea to split the journey, as there are lots to see along the way including the stunning waterfall of Seljalandsfoss which you can walk behind, Skogafoss waterfall, as seen in the film The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty, the black beaches at Vik and Reynisfjara, the Eyjafjallajokull volcano and much more. In fact, I would recommend splitting up the journey into two days as the south of Iceland is great for exploring nature. We managed to even Jokulsarlon is a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik with no stops. It is just off the Route one ring road between Hofn and Skaftafell.It is a good idea to split the journey, as there are lots to see along the way including the stunning waterfall of Seljalandsfoss which you can walk behind, Skogafoss waterfall, as seen in the film The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty, the black beaches at Vik and Reynisfjara, the Eyjafjallajokull volcano and much more. In fact, I would recommend splitting up the journey into two days as the south of Iceland is great for exploring nature. We managed to even hike a glacier on our trip!









There are a small number of hotels and guest houses nearby including the Hali Country Hotel and the Skyrhusid Guest House. We stayed in Fosshotel Nupar just over an hour away and loved the minimalist design and excellen t buffet breakfast. I highly recommend you book the accommodation in advance as especially in the Summer months it gets booked up.



A travel short from the Fly Drive Explore YouTube channel that I create with Mr W
A man was shot and injured Saturday afternoon after police say he was robbed at a College Station apartment complex.

According to College Station police, officers responded to The Marc apartments on Harvey Road around 2:45 p.m. on the report of gunshots in the area. While police were investigating, a 27-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the leg checked himself in to CHI St. Joseph hospital.

Police spoke with the man at the hospital and he said he had been in the parking lot of the apartments to meet two men who were going to buy merchandise from him. During the sale, a man pulled out a handgun and the three begin to fight. In the process, the man was shot in the leg.

Police have not located the two men, who fled the scene with the merchandise. They are described as being black men in their 20s with medium height and build. One was wearing blue jeans and a white shirt.

Anyone with information is asked to call College Station police at 979-764-3600.
October 3, 1923 - November 2, 2017

Bertie Nickerson, 94, of Normangee passed away Thursday, November 2, 2017. Funeral Services are set for 10AM Monday, November 6 at Sand Prairie Baptist Church George, Texas. Visitation will be from 6-8PM Sunday, November 5 also at Sand Prairie Baptist Church.

Born October 3, 1923 in Normangee she was the daughter of John James and Ethel (McClain) Simmons. Bertie liked to quilt, crochet and knit. She loved her grandchildren, great- grandchildren and great great-grandchildren. She was a loving mother, grandmother and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband of 41years, John Lee Nickerson; two brothers; and one sister.

Bertie leaves behind to cherish her memories, one son, Ronnie Nickerson and wife Linda; five grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren.

Please View and Sign the Guestbook at: TrevinoSmithFuneral Home.com Serving Your Family Is Our Family Business
Voters in College Station face two contested city council and two contested school board races on Tuesday's ballot.

The Editorial Board interviewed all the candidates in the contested College Station races and today recaps its recommendations to the voters. Our recommendations are but one source of information voters should use when making their decisions. Other sources could include news stories, advertising, campaign literature and friends and co-workers.

City Council

Place 1

Elianor Vessali vs. Bob Brick -- The Eagle recommends a vote for Elianor Vessali for Place 1 on the College Station City Council.

City Council

Place 3

Councilwoman Linda Harvell vs. Dallas Shipp -- The Eagle recommends a vote for Dallas Shipp for Place 3 on the College Station City Council.

School board

Place 6

Jackie Huff vs. Trustee Michael Schaefer -- The Eagle recommends a vote for Jackie Huff for College Station school board, Place 6.

School board

Place 7

Geralyn Nolan vs. Shana Elliott -- The Eagle recommends a vote for Geralyn Nolan for Place 7 on the College Station school board.
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While paying for a coffee at a Starbucks a few years back, Chris Fuentes noticed the change totaling $17.77 on the $20 bill he had just forked over.

The number stuck with him  and as the calendar readies to flip from 2017, he is on the cusp of launching a major brand concept to percolate ideas he believes will stick with consumers for a lifetime.

On Nov. 15, the startup The 1777 Co. expects to open its Americanas Artisans Concept Shop at 87 Water St. in South Norwalk, running the store Thursday through Sunday until Feb. 18, 2018, featuring handcrafted gifts from local artisans.

After that, Americanas will go into a hiatus as the final shape of the store is completed. A grand opening is planned for September 2018 to allow for the addition of Americanas Grubline Cafe, which will feature food, retail stock and live music.

The creation of Fuentes, a marketing executive, The 1777 Co. plans to sell an assortment of products through a limited number of product brands, to include St. Johns Fragrances and Ranger Ready Repellent tick and bug dope, the latter produced in Norwalk, with Ecometrics providing next-gen spray applicators and Fairfield-based Product Ventures lending design expertise.

And on site in a silver vault guarded by an ornate wrought iron fence, The 25th Gifts Co. is selling commemorative silver dining sets and other wares couples can have engraved marking their 25th anniversaries or other milestones.

How limited a set of brands does Fuentes have in mind? As a guide, he is sticking to the number 13 as depicted by the stars on the Betsy Ross flag that inspired the logo of The 1777 Co. In eschewing a broader catalog, Fuentes hopes to keep his people focused on developing and selling items that will resonate with consumers for the long run.

We invest (in) two types of products  consumable products or memorable, Fuentes said. Everything else in between is, frankly, irrelevant. I prefer the products we make dont up in somebodys garage or closet.

Rosie the Riveter,

Valley Forge, Americanas

In space freed up last year by Lillian August from its home goods outlet store next door, Fuentes has created a unique tableau for visitors. A sophisticated e-commerce shipping bay has been running quietly since mid-summer, with Americanas visitors allowed to take a peek at the operation as they peruse the shelves. Fuentes said he has space and systems in place to ship $25 million in merchandise annually.

Fuentes and his staff have dealt with one major operational interruption in the past month  the double-whammy of hurricanes Irma and Maria in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Johns Fragrances is made on St. Thomas. Irmas winds tore off the facilitys roof, and Marias rains inundated it.

Rhys Moore, senior vice president of The 1777 Co., is still stunned by what he saw in the Virgin Islands and the companys plant after arriving to check on employees and inspect the premises.

The part of the harbor where all the (shipping) containers are, the containers were thrown around like Legos, Moore said. We had sandbags in front of the doors to protect against the storm surge, but then Maria came and the (rains) came in  and the water stayed in because we had done such a great job of protecting it from the ocean.

We opened the doors, and  it was like a massive petri dish in there, he recalled. We spent the week cleaning the building out and salvaging what we could.

In addition to decor pegged to Old Glory and its colors  including a massive Valley Forge flag in the bay area out back  Fuentes has adopted a naval theme for much of the interior. Various elements of the back office are named for sailor stations on aircraft carriers, a mural of Sikorsky Sea King helicopters colors a back wall and salvaged or handcrafted fixtures like lamps and portholes are used throughout.

In his office overlooking Water Street, Fuentes keeps other images and mementos, including keepsakes of the S.S. United States, the fastest ocean liner ever to cross the Atlantic and a stylized poster of the World War II icon Rosie the Riveter, who helped empower a generation of women in the workplace.

And The 1777 Co. building retains a few elements of its World War II heritage, with Fuentes having left in place massive boilers that helped power a factory produced Eveready batteries during World War II.

We want to be able to evolve

If the SoNo Collection mall under construction in South Norwalk becomes the largest retail development to be built in southwestern Connecticut this century, Fuentes thinks Americanas might come to be regarded as the most unique. He pours into venture the sum of his experiences in marketing and product innovation at Yankee Candle, Cannondale and VF Corp.

It is what will be on shelves that gets Fuentes excited most, envisioning a steady stream of new and classic products that will bring curiosity seekers and regulars alike, with the kitchen aromas of Americans Grubline Cafe as an additional enticement. Fuentes promises a unique menu, but otherwise is not divulging details, except that prices will be reasonable with $15 or so covering lunch for two.

Fuentes is eager to show off in a few weeks time what he is building in South Norwalk, whether to passersby interested in perusing gifts or, in time, partaking in a nibble or two, those interested in working for the emerging brand, or even for investors wanting to take a stake in The 1777 Co. as it looks to add new brand categories. The state has authorized investments in the company for tax credits under a program designed to help startups win backing.

For Fuentes, it is an exploration he has undertaken for other big brands, and now a journey on which he is setting out himself to divine alongside with his team on what The 1777 Co. can become.

You need to be able to talk with consumers and be in touch with consumers every day, Fuentes said. Its where you get your information. ... We want to be interactive, we want to be able to evolve this amazing, 11,000-square-foot-store, innovation center and e-commerce engine into a one-of-a-kind, all-in-one brand hub.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman
Saturday, Nov. 11, marks Veterans Day, a day to recognize all of the men and women who have served in our armed forces.

From Applebees to Chipotle, companies across the country will honor vets and active military personnel. Here are 19 restaurants who are offering delicious deals on this holiday.

Related: The 5 Best Financing Options for Veterans

Applebees

Applebees has created a special menu just for veterans on this holiday. By showing your military ID, any veteran or active military can choose one of these menu items for free on Nov. 11.

BJs

Veterans and active military can stop into any BJs restaurant on Friday, Nov. 10, or Saturday, Nov. 11, and enjoy a free entree priced at $12.95 and under. By simply showing your military ID, you can score some grub, and if youre over 21, you can also get $6 alcoholic beverages.

Bob Evans

Bob Evans is another restaurant chain offering free select menu items to veterans and military on Nov. 11. All you have to do is show your military ID.

Brueggers Bagels

New York-style breakfast chain Brueggers Bagels offers veterans and current military a free small drip coffee, with any proof of service or military ID.

California Pizza Kitchen

For Veterans Day, active and retired military are offered free entree-sized pizza, salad or pasta from the California Pizza Kitchens special holiday menu. Offered all day long, all youve got to do is show up in uniform or present your ID.

Chipotle

Fast-casual chain Chipotle offers active and retired military and their spouses its annual Veterans Day BOGO deal, where military can buy any burrito, bowl, salad or tacos and get another meal free. However, the important thing to note here is the deal is actually on Tuesday, Nov. 7, from 5 p.m. until close, and requires proof of service or ID.

Cicis Pizza

Enjoy the pizza buffet for free at Cicis Pizza by showing your military ID.

Related: Military Veterans Joining the Ranks of Franchise Ownership

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Homestyle cooking chain Cracker Barrel goes above and beyond for veterans. On Saturday, any veteran customers dining at the restaurant will receive a free Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola cake, and all other diners have the opportunity to donate to the nonprofit Operation Homefront.

Dennys

Active and retired military can stop by Dennys on Friday, Nov. 10, between 5 a.m. to noon for a free Build Your Own Grand Slam. With proof of service, military can treat themselves to pancakes, eggs, bacon or sausage, hashbrowns and more.

Dunkin Donuts

Not only is Dunkin Donuts showing its support by offering active and retired military a free donut on Nov. 11, but its also donating $10,000 to Homes for Our Troops, which is a nonprofit that builds custom homes for injured vets. Along with its donation, the company will give a years worth of coffee and new Keurig brewing systems to 100 vets who receive these custom homes through Homes for Our Troops.

Golden Corral

Every year to honor veterans and active military, Golden Corral restaurants host Military Appreciation Night Thank You Meals. On Monday, Nov. 13, from 5 to 9 p.m., the chain will provide free thank you dinners to those who have served, and asks for donations to support Disabled American Veterans.

IHOP

All day long on Friday, Nov. 10, veterans and active military can indulge in a free stack of red, white and blue pancakes at IHOP -- three pancakes topped with strawberries, blueberries and whipped cream. Not only that, but for the entire month of November, the 24-hour breakfast chain will donate $1 from every purchase of red, white and blue pancakes to the Fallen Patriots Foundation.

Krystal

On Nov. 11, fast food chain Krystal will thank veterans and active military with a free breakfast sausage biscuit from 6 a.m to 11 a.m.

Menchies

The froyo chain Menchies offers active military and veterans a free six-ounce cup of frozen yogurt all day long on Veterans Day. Just bring your military ID or proof of service.

Red Lobster

If youve ever served in the military, you might want to stop by Red Lobster for a free appetizer or dessert on Veterans Day. Just show your ID or proof of service to score this deal.

Sizzler

To honor active military and veterans, Sizzler will offer a free lunch along with a beverage on Nov. 11. However, to score this deal, you have to make it in before 4 p.m. and show a proof of service.

Texas Roadhouse

To show their support, Texas Roadhouse offers all veterans and military a free lunch entree from its special Veterans Day menu. By showing military ID, you can score anything from a 6 oz. sirloin steak to some country fried chicken.

Related: These 12 Remarkable Veterans Changed Business Forever

TGI Fridays

Another restaurant chain to offer free lunch to active military and veterans is TGI Fridays. By showing your military ID, you can get a free lunch worth up to $12 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Wild Wing Cafe

On Nov. 11, veterans and active military who show their ID, proof of service or even a photograph of them in uniform can score a free meal all day long at Wild Wing Cafe.

Related:

19 Veterans Day Deals You Won't Want to Miss

Taking Command: The Crew Is Only as Good as the Captain

4 Ways This Veteran's Military Background Helps Him Run His Business



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This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com


Name: Nick Sacchinelli

Party: Democrat (Working Families Endorsed)

Office sought: Common Council (At Large)

Job Title and Employer: Channel Sales Executive @ Datto (HQ in Norwalk)

Date of Birth: February 17, 1984

Family: I married my wife Crystal in October of 2015, one month prior to the last election and my first term in office. She constantly pushes me in all aspects of life including my work in public service and is without a doubt my greatest supporter. A lot of who I am is because of her and I am very grateful to have her by my side.

My father Nick was a teacher in Norwalk Public Schools for over 30 years. Witnessing his involvement and passion towards education and supporting the youth of the city was one of my earliest motivators to get involved. For me, one of the happiest parts of this campaign has been knocking on a strangers doors to introduce myself as a candidate and hearing the response, Oh, I had your dad as a teacher. He was my favorite!

My mother Paula was a stay at home mother. She dedicated her life to making sure I had the best childhood possible, and she is without a doubt the strongest person I know. She has been fighting cancer for past 11 years and as I write this she is recovering from another surgery. If you met her today, surgery and everything, she would greet you with a smile and treat you like nothing is wrong. She is the definition of a miracle and I work tirelessly to be sure the decisions I make are ones that would make her proud.

My younger brother Christopher is one of my best friends. That said, he is also much more than that. He is a notable entrepreneur and has brought many startups to the state of Connecticut. He has more notches of success on his belt to mention, and if you are interested in a good read, he authored the Successful Young Playbook at the age of 19 (Available on Amazon). I am very proud of all of his accomplishments.

Education: I am a graduate of Norwalk Public Schools and attended the University of Connecticut focusing on Political Sciences.

Elected office experience: Two terms on the Democratic Town Committee, currently in my first term on the Common Council, Chairman of Personnel Committee of the Common Council

Three top issues, as a candidate, in order of priority: Public Safety  I am ever concerned of threats facing our city. I have specific concerns regarding the recent rash of opioid related deaths impacting the city and state and I feel we have room for improvement in proactively addressing it at a local level.

Cybersecurity is a passion of mine. I have a background in business continuity due to my role with Datto. I am reminded of the cybercrime epidemic daily. This is a big issue and a Cyber security breach at a municipal level would impact every citizen. This is something that needs to be an ever evolving plan for our city.

Responsible Progress  I think Norwalk has taken great strides over the past couple years. We are building schools, we have previously stalled projects flourishing, we are embracing technology. It is a great time to live in Norwalk, but I do believe we need to remain vigilant. Change is good, but too much change too quickly is something that needs to be monitored closely.

What sets you apart from other candidates?: Candidly, I feel that all the candidates that are running this year have something special to offer. I have learned to appreciate every one of them for different reasons and I feel that they could all do a very good job if they are elected. However, one thing I have been sure to emphasize at every public appearance is the fact that although we all bring different skills to the table, often the issues the city faces are not always in line with those skills. I feel what made me an effective Councilor in my first term, is what will make me effective if I was to be elected again. I communicate, I do the work, I research, I reach out to experts, and most importantly I listen to the citizens. At the end of the day, no matter what the candidates background and ability, it must be front of mind that we are there for the people we represent. I conduct myself with a foundation of respect, civility, and integrity and I never forget why I am there. I never forget that being a Common Councilor for the City of Norwalk is an honor, and when I vote on an issue be confident that it is for the right reason.

Website: www.facebook.com/NickSacchinelliForNorwalkCommonCouncil
Name: Heidi Keyes

Party: Democrat

Office sought: Board of Education at-large

Job Title and Employer: Educational Assistant - Westport Public Schools

Family: Ive been married for 25 years to my husband Bob, who is an attorney in Norwalk. I have three children ages of 14, 17 and 21 years old. My oldest son Jordan is a senior at UCONN; my middle daughter Hannah is a senior at Norwalk High School and my youngest daughter Rebecca is a freshman at Norwalk High School. We also have two amazing dogs, Ras a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Remi, our rescue from down south. We enjoy taking long, scenic hikes with our dogs, working out at the gym and spending time together as a family.

Education:

I am a proud graduate of Norwalk High School. I graduated from Norwalk Community College with an A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education, Phi Theta Kappa. I also received my (CDA) Certificate in Early Childhood Studies. My plan is to further continue my studies in Early Childhood Education.

Elected office experience: I was elected to the Board of Education in 2009 and 2013. As an elected official I have held several key roles on the Executive Committee, including Secretary from 2012 - 2015 and Vice Chairperson in 2016. I am currently Secretary and have been chairperson of our Policy Committee since 2014. I also serve on the Facilities Committee and am the Boards representative for the Norwalk Early Childhood Council.

List your three top issues to address if you were to be elected:

1. We need to continue to support and invest in our Early Childhood initiatives from all stakeholders and improve preschool options for our families by promoting early literacy and school readiness for our youngest learners. I will continue to advocate and stress the importance that all children be exposed to an Early Learning environment. I have first- hand knowledge of the importance of an Early Childhood Education since I ran my own preschool program for six years in Silvermine. As a Mom and Board of Education member I know how critically important this is. We have opened the Norwalk Early

Childhood Center and part of our Priority Implementation Steps is to develop a strategic plan for Early Childhood Education. The makeup of the committee represents many vested stakeholders that include representatives from our community. There are approximately 6,000 children from birth to age 5 in Norwalk and our focus will be on parent engagement, school readiness, and advocacy. Ninety percent of incoming kindergarten students have had some type of preschool experience however, only forty eight percent are ready for kindergarten. I know we can do better to make sure our children have the social, emotional and cognitive development so that they are ready and prepared to be successful.

2. It is critically important to have not only good but excellent communication between central office, board members and the community at large. I have seen over the years that we have worked hard to improve this but there is still more work to be done. Communication is an ongoing process with all stakeholders being involved in the process. We need to continually update and add pertinent information on our Norwalk Public Schools website. When prospective families think about moving to Norwalk one of the first places they will look is at our website to see what successes we have and what is happening in our district. We recently started NPS online newsletter that is sent to all parents which is a great communication tool that showcases news and information that is happening in our school district. We need to continually stay up to date in ways to reach parents, students and all residents about the great things our district is achieving and make Norwalk the town to move and raise a family.

3. We have already completed year one of our three-year Strategic Operating Plan. Weve worked diligently to get input from school administrators, senior management team as well as feedback from teachers, staff, parents and members of the community. We have a strong and viable central administration lead by Dr. Stephen Adamowski. Here is some insight in what we have been able to accomplish so far: We have upgraded our technology and financial operations and have student based budgeting in our schools. In addition, we have completely reorganized our Human Resources Department. We have made great strides in having a choice school system. To name a few - our NECA Academy at NHS partnered with NCC and IBM where we will have our first graduating class in June where we will have at least 12 students graduate with their high school diploma and their Associates Degree. In addition, we just launched our Media Pathways Program at NHS partnering with CPTV and having our Health Sciences Academy at BHMS and an International Baccalaureate (IB) program. We now have all of our School Governance Councils up and running in all 19 schools.

I fully support our Strategic Operating Plan but want to ensure that we are on track with completing the next two years and to make sure we are successful in doing so.

What sets you apart from other candidates?:

What sets me apart from other candidates is my 8 years of experience as a board member. I have a unique insight in what it means to be an active, visible, and knowledgeable board member. My experience is invaluable since I have fostered working relationships with stakeholders and understand the importance of listening to all viewpoints to ensure that the district continues to make great strides. One of our biggest accomplishments is closing the achievement gap by 1/3. I have a vested interest in our school district since I have always lived in Norwalk and have chosen to raise my family and send my three children through NPS. In addition, I have an educational and small business background running my own Early Learning program and have hands-on experience directly in the classroom. I was certified by the state of Connecticut as a facilitator for Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) and Parents Supporting Educational Excellence (PSEE) where parents learned about advocacy, governing and parent engagement. Lastly, I believe in a public school education and take pride that during the last eight years I have always worked in the best interest of our students and the taxpayers in a bi-partisan manner.

List political or community activities:

Member of the Norwalk Democratic Party and a member of District D. I frequently attend events at local schools in the community as a school board member and parent.

Website: www.norwalkexcels.com
Name: Michael Corsello

Party: Democrat

Office sought: Councilman at Large

Job Title and Employer: Attorney, employed by Law Offices of Michael R. Corsello, LLC

Date of Birth: June 6, 1957

Family: Wife  Randy, with whom I attended college and law school. She currently works in Bridgeport as a Workers Compensation Commissioner. Daughter  Alexandra, a graduate of Fashion Institute of Technology in New York; she owns a home in Norwalk and works in the apparel industry. Son  Joseph, attended Brandeis University and Cardozo School of Law. He lives in New York and works there as an attorney. Fifteen and a half year old cat, Pearl, resides with me on Lisa Lane (my home for 31 years) mostly under couches and in closets. Parents still reside near Kendall School.

Elected Office Experience: Incumbent Councilman at Large

Top Three Issues: (1) Maintaining a quality education system in these challenging economic times; (2) Keeping residential taxes down by intelligently expanding our commercial tax base; (3) The need to modify our ordinances and provide our Departments with the staffing necessary to enforce and remediate violations of zoning and housing code regulations.

What sets me apart: My lifelong residence in this community provides me with knowledge of its people, problems and potential. My Children and I attended Norwalks Public Schools. The curriculum allowed us to pursue higher education and being part of its diverse student body prepared us well for life.

Ive served Norwalk on many boards, agencies, and commissions, including Common Council the past two years. This experience provided insight in to how to effectively address our Citys problems and its promise.

For the past 35 years Ive operated a law practice in Norwalk. Ive advocated on behalf of individuals from all walks of life and every area of this City facing a variety of legal issues. I have resolved their problems and protected their rights. My training and experience have made advocacy part of my persona.

An advocate must be prepared  able to present a cause with firmness and candor while remaining open-minded and willing to compromise.

A Councilman essentially serves the citizenry as an advocate. Therefore the same skill set that my lifelong vocation requires, makes me uniquely qualified to represent the best interest of Norwalk.

Political and Community Activities: Fire Commission  Chairman (Former); Oak Hills Commission  Chairman; Oak Hills Park Authority; Fair Rent Commission; Charter Revision Commission; Connecticut Counseling Centers  Board of Directors; Norwalk YMCA  Board of Directors; Fraternal Order of Eagles; Member of Statewide Grievance Committee (2006-16); Member, Chief Justices Panel to Study the Jury Selection System; Temple Shalom Exchange Club; St. Anns Club; Sons of Italy.

Website: www.facebook.com/Michael-Corsello-for-Council-126999574671747; www.mcorsello.com
Name: Shirley Mosby

Party: Democrat, Working Family Party Line

Office being sought: Board of Education - At Large

Job Title and Employer: Corporate Tax, XL Global Services, Inc.

Family: My family is from Norwalk and attended Norwalk Public Schools. My son, Adam, attended Cranbury, West Rocks and Norwalk High School. While at Norwalk High School, my son participated in the AFJROTC (Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps) and obtained the leadership role of Commander. Adam graduated with a degree in Business from Quinnipiac University.

I am grateful to have grown up in Norwalk and thankful for my family and friends who have supported me in my community endeavors.

Education:

 Graduated from Brien McMahon, 1981

 Associates degree in Business - Sacred Heart University

 B.A. degree in Business -Albertus Magnus College

 Human Resource Management Certificate -Fairfield University

 Paralegal Certificate - University of Connecticut

Elected office experience:

 Incumbent, elected Board Member - 2013, currently serving (2013-2017),

 Curriculum and Policy Committee

 Adult Education Liaison

 Appointed to Norwalk Board of Education, 2007, (Served 2007-09), Chair of Curriculum Committee, Negotiations Committee, and Parent Advisory Committee

 Elected Co-President of Norwalks Alumni Parent Leadership Training Institute-PLTI

 Elected Chairperson of the Norwalk High School Parent Outreach Organization

 2nd Vice President, Norwalk NAACP

List your three top issues to address if you were to be elected:

1. Special Education

2. Student Achievement

3. Parental and Community Involvement

Special Education: Establishing and supporting best practices for special education should be a priority. I would encourage and support organizing a committee of parents, staff, and students to identify and determine the most effective programs across all curricular disciplines. The district was provided special funds by the City to address special education. I want to continue to be fiscally responsible and ensure that funds are allocated to provide support for children. In addition, identifying additional resources such as special education teachers, after-school programs, and tutoring are examples of what is needed to address social/emotional and academic needs of students.

Student Achievement: As a board member, I am proud of the increased student achievement based on our recent School Balance Assessment Consortium (SBAC) and Measure Academic Success (MAP) scores. I want to continue to support this work on curriculum implementation focusing on interventions programs to support all learners. I will continue to work with the Board and the superintendent to implement the most appropriate polices to improve student achievement. Parental and Community Involvement Parent and community involvement is key to improving student achievement. Parents must be engaged in partnering with the district and community. Our children spend the majority of their time at home and in school, so it is important to increase opportunities for parents and the community to be involved and in the decision making process. I will continue to encourage and support parent and community involvement.

What sets you apart from other candidates?:

I am a lifelong Norwalk resident, a community leader, and a current member of the Board of Education who is trying to support all Norwalk students and families. I believe if one child fails it is one child too many, I serve as a voice for those who dont have a voice and I can be counted on to keep the community informed about the Boards decisions. I have served on the board for six years with one purpose - to ensure our school system offers a strong, quality education to every single student.

I believe parents must be better informed about their children school performance. Our schools must be more reflective of the community they serve. I have and will continue to be fiscally responsible. I will be diligent and support that funds be directed to students and their classrooms.

I am a strong advocate for open communication, transparency and accountability. I will be a person at the Board table who will value your children and your opinions; a person who will always listen to you. . I will advocate for all to have a voice and be recognized. I always encourage parents to take an active part in their childs education. I will continue to represent the best interest of Norwalks children.

List political or community activities:

 Certified with the State of CT as a Parent Advocate

 Junior Achievement Instructor

 School to Career Mentor

 Graduate of the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI-2003)

 Past Co-President of Parent Leadership Training Institute.-(PLTI Alumni Association)

 Graduate of Parents Supporting Excellence in Education (PSEE)

 Past Chairperson of the Norwalk High School Parent Outreach group

 Norwalk NAACP, Education Chair

 Past Secretary Cranbury PTO

 Past Member, Norwalk High School Building Advisory Committee
3 injured as NC, CPN (MC) cadres clash in Gorkha

Three people were injured when cadres of Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN (Maoist Centre) attacked each other with a khukuri knife at Bhimsen Rural Municipality-5 of Gorkha on Sunday.
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NORWALK  Thanks to Norwalk Police Deputy Chief Ashley Gonzalezs ongoing efforts to recruit female and minority candidates to the department, a 30-year streak was recently broken with the hiring of former New Haven police officer Tiffany Ortiz.

Ortiz is the first female Latino officer hired by the Norwalk Police Department in 30 years. She joined the department about a month ago, leaving New Haven for Norwalk.

She brings a lot to the job, Gonzalez said. She was very well-regarded in New Haven. They were sad to see her go and we are excited to have her on board.

Gonzalez reached out to Ortiz late last year after reading about how she defused a potentially tragic situation in 2015.

As a fairly new officer at the time, Ortiz was able to convince a distraught man, who was holding a baby and sitting precariously on a roof, to hand her the infant and come inside.

I read an article about an incident involving Officer Ortiz in which there was a male on a roof with an infant and she was able to talk him down, Gonzalez said. She knew how to engage the man and deescalate the situation. I was very impressed.

Currently, the Norwalk Police Department consists of 179 officers. Of the 17 female officers on the force, two are black and 14 are white.

We find ourselves, as other police departments, having difficulty attracting minority candidates  particularly females, Gonzalez said. We are focusing on attracting minority officers who represent the community that we serve.

Overall, in there are 22 black officers, 27 Hispanic officers and six officers listed as other minorities who work in the police department.

Women are represented at every rank  from officers to deputy chief, Gonzalez said. There are not a lot of females taking the exam. We are looking to high school and college students to consider a career in law enforcement.

An experienced officer who has worked in the patrol and narcotics divisions in New Haven, Ortiz is currently undergoing a modified field training process before being assigned to the patrol division.

Ive been learning the ropes here for the past couple of weeks, she said. Norwalk is similar to New Haven, but the department is smaller and more close-knit so Im getting to know everybody.

Ortiz was born and raised in New Haven. Her father, Carlos Ortiz, is a veteran officer in the New Haven Police Department. She joined the New Haven police force after graduating from Albertus Magnus College with a bachelors degree in criminal justice.

When I first told him I was going to be a police officer, he wasnt too happy, but now hes my biggest fan, Ortiz said. Norwalk Police Department has a good reputation and he agreed that this was a great opportunity for me.
Our civilization needs zealous and dedicated young men and women to convert the barbarians. However, because the barbaric culture is pervasive, we are all barbarians now to a certain extent, and thus, we must first civilize our own souls

Nowadays the devil has made such a mess of everything in the system of life on earth that the world will presently become uninhabitable for anybody but Saints. The rest will drag their lives out in despair or fall below the level of man. The antinomies of human life are too exasperated, the burden of matter too oppressive; merely to exist, one has to expose oneself to many snares. Christian heroism will one day become the sole solution for the problems of life. Jacques Maritain

They demanded of their rulers that they remain in constant cocoons, silky and guarded by earthly authority. They did not ask for wings to soar into the sunlight, and the ominous threats of full existence. They rejected freedom for hell. Taylor Caldwell

We appear to be living through a new dark ages overrun by philosophical barbarians starving for the true, the good, the beautiful, for truth and meaning, for virtue, community, and friendshipfor God. They have been fed counterfeit intellectual and spiritual food all their lives, junk food that seems to satisfy but has left them intellectually flabby and spiritually malnourished. Wyoming Catholic College offers rich fare that truly satisfies our students and forms them intellectually, physically, and spiritually. Robust and spiritually vigorous, they are able to share in the resplendent banquet of classical culture, Christian virtue, and Catholic civilization.

The New Dark Ages

I bet it never crossed the minds of many living during the Dark Ages that they were particularly dark, or of those living during the decline and fall of the Roman Empire that it was speedily declining, let alone falling. They surely understood neither the glory from which they were falling nor the shadows into which they were descending, for reasonable men try to save valuable things from destruction. Because the Owl of Minerva flies at dusk, and hindsight is 20/20, it appears to be an inexorable law of both history and human nature that men recognize the signs of the times only after they have passed, when the possibility of salutary action to improve those times or prevent their obsolescence has disappeared.

However, this apparently intractable law of blindness has one notable exceptionthe Catholic Church. Because the Church is both in and above history, possessing both a human and divine character, it is sheinfinitely wiser than any owl of the gods and having perfect spiritual eyesightwho enables myopic men to comprehend the signs of the times and act in accordance with them for the good of their individual souls and their civilization.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI made this startling observation in April 2005, when still a Cardinal, in his homily during Mass prior to the conclave that would elect him Pope: We are moving toward a dictatorship of relativism which does not recognize anything as for certain and which has as its highest goals ones own ego and ones own desires. To use less philosophical terms, the Holy Father is telling us that western culture is descending into barbarism.

Civility is the attribute of individuals and society that recognizes that others have the right to courtesy, dignity, and respect even when we do not want to treat them that wayand others includes both other human beings and the supreme Other, God. Human society can be called civilization, then, as opposed to barbarism, insofar as others, particularly God, are held in high regard and treated well by the members of that society. Civilization thus requires piety and other virtues. When piety and the virtues are lost, esteem for others follows close behind, and civilization crumbles. Thus, a culture in which the highest goals [are] ones ego and ones own desires is nothing but barbaric.

We tend to associate barbarism with images of primitive savages looting and pillaging villages, razing the walls of cities, and enslaving women and children. However, the Holy Father suggested an entirely new kind of barbarism, one with a distinctly spiritual character. G.K. Chesterton noted, The simple sense of wonder at the shapes of things, and at their exuberant independence of our intellectual standards and our trivial definitions, is the basis of spirituality. Todays barbarism elevates the self over the rest of reality, and thus it is not so much a physical as a spiritual barbarism that has overtaken western culture, a barbarism of the soul that is camouflaged by a quite civilized facade. Fr. John Courtney Murray observed:

The barbarian need not appear in bearskins with a club in hand. He may wear a Brooks Brothers suit and carry a ball-point pen with which to write his advertising copy. In fact, even beneath the academic gown there may lurk a child of the wilderness, untutored in the high tradition of civility, who goes busily and happily about his work, a domesticated and law-abiding man, engaged in the construction of a philosophy to put an end to all philosophy, and thus put an end to the possibility of a vital consensus and to civility itself.

The philosophical barbarians of today are not only the relatively few fanatical atheists and dogmatic relativists in academe, the judiciary, the government, and the media, but also the more prevalent and ordinary practically minded sort in society at large. The Brooks Brothers barbarian does not deny the intrinsic worth of other people, but he lives as if others didnt exist or had little worth beyond how they benefit him. He neither despises virtue nor clings to vice, for neither the glory of holiness nor the pseudo-excitement of vice interests him. He does not avow that God does not exist, or that the true, the good, and the beautiful are illusions; he just does not care. This sort of practical barbarian, more so than a blatant heretic or apostate, can by example easily seduce the believing Christian. Though not as dangerous to society as the ideologue who would impose his ideology on the whole world, the philosophical barbarian is, in a sense, more spiritually dangerous, both to himself and to others, because he has a spiritual disease more subtle and contagious than ideological fanaticism.

The dogmaticand vociferousideologues in positions of influence at least believe in something, though something profoundly sad and shrunken. The death of the soul is exemplified not so much in the rigorous profession of false beliefs, but in professing no beliefs at all, in believing in literally nothing. David Bentley Hart, the great Eastern Orthodox theologian wrote:

As modern men and womento the degree that we are modernwe believe in nothing. This is not to say, I hasten to add, that we do not believe in anything; I mean, rather, that we hold an unshakable, if often unconscious, faith in the nothing, or in nothingness as such. It is this in which we place our trust, upon which we venture our souls, and onto which we project the values by which we measure the meaningfulness of our lives. Or, to phrase the matter more simply and starkly, our religion is one of very comfortable nihilism.

No one can be an absolute nihilist, for everyone at least acknowledges his own reality. Though he believes in nothing outside himself, he believes in himself, and orders and uses everything for his own benefit. This is a dangerously attractive malignancy of the soul, for in subordinating everything he encounters to himself, it is he who confers meaning on what otherwise would be meaningless to him, a meaning relative to the personal benefit he receives. He makes himself his own god.

Feeding the HungryInstructing the Ignorant

The philosophical barbarian does not wish to conform his mind to reality; he desires instead that reality conform to his presuppositions, prejudices, and plans. He is unwilling to open his soul fully to the objects and entities around him because that would make him vulnerable, and he perceives no personal gain for the risk. Rejecting the imposition of an objectively real world with infinite plenitude and profundity upon his mind, he imposes his paltry perspective upon reality; rebuffing a rich, resplendent reality, he grasps at a scanty and superficial one. The less there is to know, the less there is to love, however, and the barbaric state of soul inescapably sinks into perpetual, relentless boredom, the antithesis to the enthralling adventure of Christian holiness. Michael Hanby wrote:

A world that is beyond good and evil, in which nothing is either genuinely good or genuinely bad, and no truth, goodness, or beauty are revealed, is a world in which nothing is either intrinsically desirable or detestable. Such a world affords no possibility of seeing and using things as holy, which means to some degree letting them be, because in such a world there can be no holy things. Boredom is therefore the defining condition of a people uniquely in danger of losing their capacity to love, that is, a people uniquely in danger of failing to grasp the mystery of its own being and losing its very humanity.

Boredom is the telltale sign of a soul starving for three staple soul-foods: knowledge, sanctity, and community. Modern secular culture feeds its denizens plenty of knowledge in the form of technological know-how, scientific facts, ephemeral trivia, and politically correct aphorisms. Many people gobble it up, like malnourished children who grasp at candy and reject sound nutrition. People could have a sumptuous banquet of truth if they only recognized their hunger for it: they desire knowledge of their souls, not of material things; they pine for the meaning of things, not just for facts. Would that they had been encouraged to partake in the complex and elegant conversation with the best that has been thought and said that we call the Great Books, rather than politicized and pre-digested cant!

They have all but lost the art of reading, thinking, and conversation due largely to an overexposure to flashing images, meandering chatrooms, and Facebook friendships. They have become, to use T.S. Eliots stark phrase, hollow men:

Only a flicker

Over the strained time-ridden faces

Distracted from distraction by distraction

Filled with fancies and empty of meaning

Tumid apathy with no concentration

Men and bits of paper, whirled by the cold wind

That blows before and after time,

Wind in and out of unwholesome lungs

Time before and time after.

We all know such hollow men, people who are immersed in the digitized echoes of iPods but not the music of birds, in the virtual vertigoes of video games but not majestic mountaintops. Compared to the visceral, toes-in-the-dirt, exhilarating experience of immersing ones five senses in the splendor of reality, the abstract, vicarious, two-dimensional documentary, regardless of its cinematic quality, is like trying to touch a ghost.

Secular culture proposes not only a shadow of knowledge, but also counterfeit virtues and vices, a stunted pseudo-holiness ordered to the narrow contours of this world, not to the vast vistas of heaven. The virtuous person is not the one who cultivates the virtues esteemed by civilized society, but is well adjusted to being useful to others without getting in their way. Fortitude in adhering to truth is called dogmatism, prudence and justice, which order community life to the common good, are seen as intolerance, and supporting temperance in public life brands one as judgmental. Holiness, with its connotation of self-examination and radical change in the light of Gods love, has become an unintelligible idea for those to whom spirituality means nothing more than a feeling of well-being.

These hollow men, these practical barbarians, are starving also for friendship, for intimacy, for communion. Many have grown up as orphans in their own homes, in neighborhoods where few people know each other, in rootless communities with perpetual turnover of residents, and in cities and suburbs where the empty blandishments of consumerism and mall shopping substitute for community celebrations. Authentic friendshipto know and be knownhas become all but impossible.

Nevertheless, they are accustomed to the intellectual junk-food that pop-culture and mainstream education has been feeding them since their youth. Josef Pieper suggested that they have made their peace with illusions:

For the general public is being reduced to a state where people not only are unable to find out about the truth but also become unable to search for the truth because they are satisfied with deception and trickery that have determined their convictions, satisfied with a fictitious reality created by design through the abuse of language.

If our reading of the signs of these new Dark Ages is correct, then we are witnessing the fall of western classical and Christian civilizationand the emergence of a sophisticated, sinister spiritual barbarism. Is it too late to save civilized society? We are certainly far past preventive measures, for our society (we can barely call it a culture) has already in the late stages of a critical illness. But with the grace of God, it is not too late for a miraculous healing and full recoveryeven a resurrectionif we take the right steps now. Alasdair MacIntyre, one of the preeminent philosophical doctors of our time, offered this example:

What they set themselves to achievewas the construction of new forms of community within which the moral life could be sustained so that both morality and civility might survive the coming ages of barbarism and darkness. What matters at this stage is the construction of local forms of community within which civility and the intellectual and moral life can be sustained through the new dark ages which are already upon us.

The they to whom MacIntyre refers are St. Benedict and his followers in the sixth century, men who had read the signs of their times, the first Dark Ages, and acted accordingly. They did all they could to preserve the precious Christian and classical civilization, the literature, history, philosophy, and spirituality that had formed the basis of civilized society up to then. Their efforts were the seeds that, due to the pure water of their piety and prayers, the luminous light of their labors, the heroic example of their holiness, and the rich soil of their studies, would send shoots throughout barbaric society and bear fruit as Christian civilization.

Wyoming Catholic College: A New St. Benedict for a New Dark Age

Alasdair MacIntyre ends his penetrating analysis of modern culture, After Virtue, by calling for a new St. Benedict to plant the seeds for a new Christendom and lead the barbarians out of the spiritual desert of secular society. To lead out in Latin is ex ducere, from which we get to educate. Education is the key. That is why I firmly believe that Wyoming Catholic College is one of these new St. Benedicts.

Our civilization needs zealous and dedicated young men and women to convert the barbarians. However, because the barbaric culture is pervasive, we are all barbarians now to a certain extent, and thus, we must first civilize our own souls. Wyoming Catholic College is the ideal place for this civilizing education. WCC offers a robust classical, liberal-arts curriculum ordered by and to the Word of God and imbued with the Great Books of civilization. Through grammar, logic, and rhetoric, WCC students come to know the Word, the Bread of Life, as He manifests Himself in the very structure of language, thought, and speech. Through Euclidean geometry, astronomy, and sacred music, as well as field biology and philosophical physics, they come to know the Word as manifested in the mathematical order of space, motion, and harmony, and in the beautiful variety and richness of living beings. In literature, history, and philosophy, they come to know the Word as manifested in the imagination of men, in the events of human history, and in mans struggle to grasp the truth about himself, the world, and God.

The one Great Book found in no monastic or university library is Gods First Book, the created world. An indispensible part of the education of the whole person, WCCs intensive outdoor program includes a three-week trek into the Wyoming wilderness and a week-long excursion into the winter wilds in the freshman year, and weekends of horsepacking, rock climbing, or myriad other adventures throughout the four years. In theology and the Catholic spiritual heritage, WCC students cultivate piety and virtue, coming to know the Word as manifested in the very structure of created being, in the ultimate meaning of the universe, in the revelation of the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity, and in the Living Manna that came down from heaven.

Wyoming Catholic College also serves a banquet for the community-starved among its students. The powerful friendships forged and virtues gained in the freshman wilderness adventures are reinforced day by day through an authentically Catholic social environment. Because grace perfects nature, little can compare with the supernatural bonding effected through fellowship at the altar of sacrifice in the Breaking of the Bread. Students and faculty collaborate in the pursuit of truth, goodness, beauty, and sanctity through robust classroom discussion, works of fraternal charity, joyful conversation over meals, vigorous play, and fruitful leisureall in the peace of the Holy Spirit.

In addition to Wyoming Catholic College is another new Benedict, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, an expert reader of the signs of the times. It is no wonder that much of the world, in spite of its protestations of disbelief, looked to the Pope for spiritual guidance. In light of the Popes words on education in his 2007 address to Romes diocesan convention, Wyoming Catholic College is confident that our program is well ordered to the re-civilization of society:

Education tends to be broadly reduced to the transmission of specific abilities or capacities for doing, while people endeavour to satisfy the desire for happiness of the new generations by showering them with consumer goods and transitory gratification. Yet, in this way we are not offering to young people, to the young generations, what it is our duty to pass on to them. Moreover, we owe them the true values which give life a foundation. However, this situation obviously fails to satisfy; it cannot satisfy because it ignores the essential aim of education which is the formation of a person to enable him or her to live to the full and to make his or her own contribution to the common good. It is up to us to seek to respond to the question of truth, fearlessly juxtaposing the proposal of faith with the reason of our time. In this way we will help young people to broaden the horizons of their intelligence, to open themselves to the mystery of God, in whom is found lifes meaning and direction, and to overcome the conditioning of a rationality which trusts only what can be the object of experiment and calculation.

Caritas in Veritate, Charity in Truth, Pope Benedicts social encyclical, declares the civilizing power of love in truth and truth in love, precisely what our spiritually-sick and truth-starved barbaric world needs: Without truth, charity degenerates into sentimentality. Truth, in fact, is logos which creates dia-logos, and hence communication and communion. Fidelity to man requires fidelity to the truth, which alone is the guarantee of freedom (cf. Jn 8:32) and of the possibility of integral human development. Only in charity, illumined by the light of reason and faith, is it possible to pursue development goals that possess a more humane and humanizing value. Pope Benedict speaks also to us who call ourselves civilized, for it is all the more incumbent upon us to live charity in truth.

Have You been Chosen?

The great Jewish sociologist Philip Rieff has written:

There is no feeling more desperate than that of being free to choose, and yet without the specific compulsion of being chosen. After all, one does not really choose; one is chosen. This is one way of stating the difference between gods and men. Gods choose; men are chosen. What men lose when they become as free as gods is precisely that sense of being chosen, which encourages them, in their gratitude, to take their subsequent choices seriously.

Todays barbarians, with all their myriad choices, are in truth choiceless, because they refuse to see themselves as chosen in their heart of hearts. We have all, barbarian or not, been chosen to become saints, and it is the rejection of this truth that is the hallmark of barbarism. Yet accepting this truth carries a moral imperative: We must act. We must alert others to the call, but we must answer the call ourselves if we are to be taken seriously.

Let us answer our new Benedicts clarion-call to topple the dictatorship of relativism and help usher in a new civilization of love under the reign of Christ. You are chosen to be a saint. You have been chosen to be cultured and civilized in these uncivilized times. You have been chosen to be holy. At Wyoming Catholic College you can become one of the philosophical doctors and spiritual healers our dying culture desperately needs.

The Imaginative Conservative applies the principle of appreciation to the discussion of culture and politicswe approach dialogue with magnanimity rather than with mere civility. Will you help us remain a refreshing oasis in the increasingly contentious arena of modern discourse? Please consider donating now.

Editors note: The featured image is by Sharon Mollerus and is licensed under Creative Commons 2.0.


Members of Contract Bridge at the YWCA met Oct. 25 in the YWCAs conference room.

Beth Clare was high scorer and Susan Hauptmeier was second.

This bridge group meets at 1 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month at the YWCA. The next meeting will be Nov. 29.

Additional players are always welcome. For more information, contact Hauptmeier at (308) 384-9569.
An idea that can drastically cut household energy bills

Imagine your air conditioners, washing machines or induction cookers came with chips or devices that could store electricity.
Orrin Hatch of Utah, the Senates senior Republican, assured reporters that special counsel Robert Mueller is not gonna be fired by the president. Asked why, Hatch replied, Because I know him. He knows thatd be a stupid move, as far Im concerned.

Stupid move is a vast understatement to describe the possible firing of Mueller, whose accelerating investigation into Russian interference in last years election has already produced two indictments against former Trump aides and a guilty plea from a third. Stupid move applies as well to the idea that Trump would pardon those defendants or anyone else caught up in Muellers net.

But just because a decision is stupid does not mean Trump wont make it. His raging egotism and reckless impulsiveness render him capable of any move, at any time, no matter what his advisers or Republican lawmakers like Hatch say.

Thats exactly why Sen. Bob Corker warned that the president could lead the country on the path to World War III. And thats why Trump is fully capable of firing Mueller, or pardoning his targets, and plunging the country into a full-blown constitutional crisis.

Moreover, the president is being egged on by a rising chorus of right-wing activists and commentators to get rid of Mueller before he brings down the entire administration. Just one example: Jeanine Pirro, host of Justice with Judge Jeanine on Fox News, declared that Mueller must be fired immediately. And we know the president listens obsessively to Fox and is heavily influenced by what he hears.

Now is the time for Republicans who value the rule of law to say as loudly and as clearly as possible: We will not tolerate any attempt by Trump to subvert Muellers investigation. We will place loyalty to our country ahead of loyalty to the president or our party.

One tangible option: Get behind two bills, both with Republican co-sponsors, that would severely limit Trumps ability to fire Mueller without cause. After a hearing in September, the measures have languished, but a serious attempt to move them forward will send a strong signal to the White House: Dont even think about it.

Clearly they are thinking about it. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders told reporters that the president has no intention or plan to fire Mueller. But thats a pathetically weak statement that obviously leaves plenty of room for the president to change his mind.

White House lawyer Jay Sekulow added, I havent had a conversation with the president about pardons or pardoning individuals. Thats another evasion that deliberately fails to rule out pardons in the future.

Another White House lawyer, Ty Cobb, who has been counseling Trump to cooperate with Mueller, did tell the Washington Post that there are no discussions and there is no consideration being given to terminating Mueller. But anyone who thinks Trump will always take his lawyers advice has learned absolutely nothing about this president, especially with his conservative base loudly demanding Muellers head.

The Wall Street Journal, like many pro-Trumpers, has bought into a discredited conspiracy theory that says the FBI somehow helped promote a dossier, paid for by the Clinton campaign, which tapped Russian sources to defame Trump. And since Mueller once headed the FBI, concludes the Journal, he could best serve the country by resigning to prevent further political turmoil over that conflict of interest.

CNN reports that Steve Bannon, Trumps former adviser, is urging the president to cut funding for Muellers operation and slow down document production in court. Another Trump confidant, Roger Stone, tells The New York Times that neutralizing Mueller is Trumps only chance for survival.

All these comments, and many more, point to one conclusion: The Trump White House is petrified of Mueller. And what the president does next could be deeply dangerous. Thomas Mann, a political scientist at the Brookings Institution, was correct in telling the Post, We are in a real testing time for democracy.

Republicans have to understand the stakes here, and they have role models to follow. During Watergate, Sen. Howard Baker helped to bring President Nixon to justice. In 1950, Sen. Margaret Chase Smith denounced Sen. Joe McCarthy for fomenting a national feeling of fear and frustration that could result in national suicide and the end of everything that we Americans hold dear.

History honors Baker and Smith for their courage. It has forgotten the cowards who refused to speak out. History will judge todays Republicans on how they respond to an unhinged and unqualified president.
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Knowledge Bank: Capital gets first aviation museum

The construction of the new aviation museum at Sinamangal, Kathmandu, has completed and is ready to welcome visitors. The museum was built by the Bed Upreti Trust and Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (Caan) after success of similar museum built by Captain Bed Upreti in the mid-western district of Dhangadi.
On Nov. 6, 1947, the first guest on the first "Meet the Press" television broadcast was a retired postmaster general. It got better.

The show that popped up that day on the boxy black-and-white sets just beginning to appear in American living rooms began this way: "Tonight, the makers of Maxwell House coffee bring you America's press conference of the air, 'Meet the Press.' " The broadcast would go on to host every U.S. president since John Kennedy; world leaders, from India's Indira Gandhi to Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe; Cabinet members; presidential candidates; and just about any member of Congress who could get to NBC's Washington studios in time for the "On Air" light.

At 70 continuous years this week, it's the longest-running network show on U.S. television.

"It's been on as long as 'Guiding Light' was on," marveled television historian Robert Thompson. "From the beginning, it defined what public affairs shows were going to be like."

Kennedy made his first appearance as a young Boston congressman, already defining telegenic for a still-new medium. Ronald Reagan's first time facing the row of reporters was as head of the actors' union. Jackie Robinson was the first athlete on the show, telling the country in 1957 that "the Negro" had been waiting long enough for civil rights: "The Civil War has been over about 93 years; if that isn't patience, I don't know what is."

The show was born of an unlikely radio show, "Leave It to the Girls," a weekly roundtable on women's issues with an all-female panel, plus one guy to provide a gender counterpoint. That show was created by Martha Roundtree, a hard-charging reporter and producer with a South Carolina drawl. She persuaded magazine publisher Lawrence Spivak, who had appeared on her show in the man's seat, to pitch the idea of a similar live radio press conference in which a newsmaker would face a panel of journalists. They launched "Meet the Press" in 1945 on the Mutual Radio Network and two years later talked their way onto NBC with a television version.

Spivak joined the panel of four invited print reporters, many of them Washington correspondents for various papers. Roundtree served as moderator, a job she would hold until 1953, when she sold her share of the show to Spivak. He would book himself as a panelist for more than 30 years, developing a bulldog rep that would be a model for on-camera interrogators for a generation. His approach, as he described it to future moderator Tim Russert, was: "Learn everything about your guests' positions on the issues - and take the other side!"

Almost immediately, "Meet the Press" was camera catnip for the powerful. The show, and the many imitators it would inspire, became an institution in political journalism and, when it moved to Sunday morning, added a day to the news cycle. By putting a camera in the room with an official and a panel of interviewers (there was always a group of them in the early years), MTP gave viewers one of their first peeks inside the sometimes combative relationship between those who had information and those who tried to pry it free.

At the beginning of the television age, "Meet the Press" dented the dominance of newspapers and thrilled news junkies with the you-were-there power of live broadcasting. One day after viewers watched Adlai Stevenson squirm around questions about his interest in being the Democratic nominee for president in 1952, the New York Post blared: "Boom on to Draft Stevenson," according to a history of the show by Rick Ball. To this day, print reporters are assigned to watch the Sunday shows and report their news.

"The goal was to get stories from the Sunday show into the Monday newspapers," said Barbara Cochran, a former executive producer who now heads the University of Missouri's Washington journalism program.

The presence of Roundree in the center of the blocky, game-showy set marked MTP as the unusual haven for female journalists it would be for years. Many of the women in the Washington press corps served on MTP panels, most notably May Craig of the Portland (Maine) Press Herald, she of the fancy hats who became notorious in Cuba for her tough questioning of Fidel Castro.

A string of women held the title of executive producer, including Cochran. Women seemed to excel, she said, in the trick of easing guests through an invitational inquisition.

"Because it was a live show, they were often a little nervous," Cochran said. "I think women producers were particularly good at putting the guests at east and making them feel comfortable."

Her favorite guest? Willie Nelson, who came on to promote his Farm Aid benefit concert.

All presidents since Eisenhower have sat for the show, whether before or after their terms. Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton appeared as sitting presidents; Carter announced on the air that he would pulling Team USA from the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. Donald Trump was on in 1999, and was politely laughed at by the political class when he talked of running for the White House.

"Meet the Press" was a national confessional from the beginning. Sen. Theodore Bilbo, D-Miss., created headlines when admitted to Spivak that he was a proud member of the KKK, a point that he would use, successfully, in his own re-election campaign. Former President Richard M. Nixon appeared on "MTP" in 1988 and said he regretted having failed to pardon his imprisoned aides H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman.

The Red Scare, of course, popped up regularly on the set. Whittaker Chambers denounced Alger Hiss as a Communist on the air in 1948, and Hiss sued him for defamation. In 1948, former Communist Elizabeth Bentley named Commerce Department officer William Remington as a red, prompting him to sue her. Joseph McCarthy came on for the fifth time in 1951, sitting next to an unnerved Roundtree with a pistol in his lap because he had been warned there was an assassin in the audience.

Viewers ate it up. Nightly news shows reported the news, but "Meet the Press" sometimes showed it being made.

"'The Camel News Caravan' was giving us the headlines," Thompson said. "But 'Meet the Press' actually allowed you to see the process."

Foreign leaders, from diplomats to despots, welcomed the chance to speak directly to American households. French Premier Pierre Mendes-France disgraced himself at home by drinking milk on the air. Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos appeared so often he put a satellite uplink in his palace and came on for the last time the very morning he fled Manila in 1986.

It was seldom very hard to get the guests, said Cochran, who was involved in booking South African Zulu chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi, only to hear him spout a profanity on live television.

"People were very flattered if you asked them, even if it made them kind of nervous," she said.

And that first guest, former postmaster general James Farley? He was also a major player in the Democratic Party, an early backer of Franklin Roosevelt. The people at "Meet the Press" knew what they were doing from day one.

---

Video: "Meet the Press" launched on Nov. 6, 1947, as a radio broadcast that then turned into a television program. Here are some highlights from its 70 years on air. (Claritza Jimenez/The Washington Post)

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, November 5, 2017 10:07 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a27754ba 1 Lifestyle likable,habit,people,behavior,personality Free

As people become more hunched over of their phones and more indifferent to making friends on the internet, we may have forgotten the social habits that make us appear even more likable to others.

No worries though, as there are habits you can acquire that will make anyone like you, according to Time.

Make the person hold a warm item

In a 2008 research paper, 41 students had to hold either hot coffee or iced coffee while they rated a persons personality trait in a survey.

Sure enough, the students who held the hot coffee scored the persons warmth higher than the students who held the iced coffee.

So the next time a person is on a date, tell them to make their date order something hot.

Speak in high-pitched tone

According to a PloS ONE paper published in 2014, 320 participants had to rate 64 distinct voices which all said the same word  welcome. The consistent results showed a pattern which had a majority favoring higher-pitched voices.

Read also: Study finds link between brain shape and personality traits

Dress fashionably

It goes without saying that you need to dress well to appear well to others. This assumption was strengthened when a 2011 study made 73 freshmen introduce themselves in front of the other participants who were taking a survey to rate the participant.

Researchers found out that the students who had a more fashionable appearance had a higher rating among other students.

Appear energetic and confident

In the same 2011 study, the researchers also noted that the participants body movements, especially their speed and energy and confidence were taken into account when they tried to appear likable.

The researchers also said the persons originality of content in their introduction is also a major factor.

Mimic the person you want to befriend

This might seem to annoy the person you are trying to befriend, but there is some scientific basis to this. Another research in 1999, by New York University students, studied the effects of mirroring, also known as copying other persons actions.

The study focused on two individuals working together; one was a participant while the other worked for the researchers. When the participants were asked to rate each other, the results showed that the partner who mirrored the other was more likable than the partner who were not.

Read also: Here is why you should never go to bed angry

Spend more time with the person

This point is an obvious one, but this can be surprisingly effective even when you never interact with the person.

The University of Pittsburgh conducted an experiment where they had four different women attend a class at different times. When the researchers showed the pictures of the four women and asked the rest of the class who they felt a closer to, the majority of the class pointed towards the woman who attended the most times even though she never interacted with anyone.

So remember that coming to class has its own benefits.

Frequently come in contact with the person

As discussed previously, people tend to think you have a more warm personality if you hold something physically warm. Well, your warm hands can also be used for this trick.

A 2007 French study showed that men had a higher chance of making conversations with women if they lightly touch their arms. Another study by the University of Mississippi and Rhodes College showed that the waitresses who lightly touched customers had a noticeable rise in their tips.

Remember to always have a light person-to-person contact, but dont overdo it.

Read also: 6 things to know about introversion

Smile regularly

Some of you may not be inclined to smile and that is perfectly alright. But if you dont, studies have suggested that people will not like you as much as they would have if you smiled.

The University of Wyomings research proved this by showing four distinct pictures to about 100 female undergraduates. The results showed an overall preference to pictures that had a smile in them. A Stanford University study has also shown students having an overall positive feel from a conversation with a big smiling avatar.

It may be annoying to smile, but it works.

Listen to them about themselves

It may be boring to hear someone elses long-winded speech about themselves; it may even be tiring and lull you to sleep; or it may make you frustrated because you want to talk about something else. However, a study has shown that people feel better talking about themselves.

In the study, participants were put into an MRI with a relative sitting outside. The participants were asked a series of questions. Some were told their answers would be shared with their relatives, while others were told their answers would be kept private. Both results were identical, however. Both groups showed more activity in the brains reward-affiliated regions when they were answering questions about themselves.

In short, try not to speak all the time. Listen as well; its a skill not many of us can muster. (ezr/kes)

Topics : likable habit people behavior personality
Once the worlds greatest center of civilization, knowledge and trade, the Sriwijaya empire most recently became the focus of an exhibition titled, Kedatuan Sriwijaya: the Great Maritime Empire."

The exhibition concludes a series of events created by PT Jalur Rempah Nusantara, which includes journalistic reports, television programs and a documentary film, Banda, the Dark Forgotten Trail, which premiered earlier this year.

Officiated by Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita, PT Jalur Rempah president director Luki Wanandi and director Liliek Oetama on Friday at the National Museum Jakarta, it is slated to run from Nov. 4 to Nov. 28.

Luki said in his opening remarks: We are inspired by President Joko ['Jokowi'] Widodos speech, which stated that Indonesia must be the worlds main maritime axis with an Indonesian identity.

He added, We present this exhibition as a [reminder] of how we once reigned on our seas. We can see the future by learning our history.

Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan, who also gave a speech in the opening night, aligns the spirit of Sriwijayas glory with the current governments effort to increase Indonesias spice trade and economic growth in general.

Upon arrival at the National Museum, visitors are greeted in the Sriwijaya Aneka Rupa (The many faces of Sriwijaya) foyer. Moving forward, visitors get acquainted with I-Tsing, a monk who recorded the history of Sriwijaya.

Two important inscriptions, Kota Kapur and Kedukan Bukit, are presented in the next area, which continues on to the ship technology area, where visitors can see how advanced Sriwijayas ship-building techniques were.

Read also: Sriwijaya role model for Indonesian development

In the next area, which presents sea sovereignty, visitors will see artifacts that reflect the core theme of the exhibition, which is international trade.

Sriwijayas sophisticated takes on pluralism and education are also highlighted, as well as culture.

The exhibition comprises a total of 18 areas, each designed with eye-pleasing visuals. Knowledgeable docents are on standby in each area to answer any lingering questions.

Although the glory of Sriwijaya remains the focus of the exhibition, the fall of the empire is also presented in a unique way.

Its a call for contemporary artists [to interpret] the fall [of Sriwijaya] and the maritime world, head of exhibition and content director, Hani Fibianti, told The Post.

R.E. Hartanto, Michael Binuko and Anusapati are among the contemporary artists brought by Rachel Gallery, whose works are displayed in the Jalur Rempah Exhibition.

Kedatuan Sriwijaya: the Great Maritime Empire exhibition is open for the general public and free of charge. For more information, visit https://www.museumnasional.or.id/ and http://jalurrempah.com/.
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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post)  Sat, November 4 2017

With reference to the article, titled King Bhumibol sowed seeds of good deeds, published on page 7 of The Jakarta Post on Oct. 28, I would like to express my appreciation to you and the Post for its considerate thought to share this article regarding his majesty the late king Bhumibol Adulyadej with your readers.

However, there were several typos made in the print when it referred to his majesty the late king Bhumibol Adulyadej. As his majesty the late king is the ninth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, the correct wording should be King Rama IX instead of King Rama XI.

His majesty the late king has been regarded far and wide as the Father of the Nation and the people of Thailand have the utmost respect for his majesty the late king.

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Linkedin Nethy Dharma Somba (The Jakarta Post) Jayapura, Papua  Sun, November 5, 2017 18:16 1836 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2784497 1 National Papua,security,Papua-Police,Freeport-Indonesia,attack Free

Civilians were reportedly on the receiving end of attacks by armed assailants who set kiosks on fire following attacks against security personnel around a mining area operated by PT Freeport Indonesia in Tembagapura, Mimika regency, Papua.

Five kiosks owned by local people in Kampung Utikini were set ablaze by an armed group at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Mimika Police chief Adj. Sr. Cmr. Victor D Mackbon told journalists on Sunday.

There were no casualties as the owners had not been in theirs kiosks at that time, he added.

The arsons occurred just some 100 meters from the Tembagapura Police dormitory. The owners had left the scene on Oct. 24 following shots fired at an ambulance carrying a patient, a doctor and nurses from Utikini to Tembagapura Hospital, Victor said.

The arsons occurred just some 100 meters from the Tembagapura Police dormitory. (Courtesy of Papua Police/file)

He added that, before the kiosks were set ablaze, an unidentified gunman had been seen crossing the street to the location, and not long after that the fire started.

A fire exchange reportedly took place between the assailants and members of the Polices Mobile Brigade (Brimob) during the blaze.

Read also: Govt seeks to ensure security in Papua

Papua Police spokesman Sr. Cmr. AM Kamal said armed people had also opened fire on vehicles belonging to PT Freeport in the area between Mile 69 and Ridge Camp, hitting a windshield and a door. Only bulletproof vehicles pass the route after the incident.

A Brimob officer died in an exchange of fire with armed assailants, also in Utikini, in late October, amid escalated attacks in the mining area. (rin)
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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Sydney, Australia  Sun, November 5, 2017 16:06 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a278019a 2 World Australia,New-Zealand,refugee,Papua-New-Guinea,Turnbull,Jacinda-Ardern Free

Australia Sunday snubbed New Zealand's renewed offer to resettle 150 refugees held at remote Pacific camps, despite the closure of one detention center in Papua New Guinea which has triggered a stand-off between detainees and the authorities.

Canberra has been forced on the defensive by the move from Wellington's new government, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull saying Australia would instead prioritize a similar deal with the US to resettle refugees in America, despite slow progress.

The issue re-emerged when the conservative Australian prime minister met his center-left New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern for the first time Sunday in Sydney.

Pressure to resettle refugees increased after the Australian centre on PNG's Manus Island was shut Tuesday after the nation's Supreme Court ruled it unconstitutional.

About 600 detainees are refusing to leave citing safety fears if they move to transition centers where locals are reportedly hostile.

But conditions in the camp are deteriorating with limited food and water and electricity cut off, with the United Nations warning of a humanitarian emergency.

Under its tough immigration policy, Canberra sends asylum seekers who try to reach Australia by boat to two camps, in Manus and Nauru, and they are barred from resettling in Australia.

Australia has struggled to move the refugees to third countries such as Cambodia or PNG.

"The offer is very genuine and remains on the table," Ardern told reporters after meeting Turnbull.

But the Australian leader replied that while he appreciated the offer -- first made by Wellington in 2013 -- "we are not taking it up at this time".

"We have an arrangement with the United States... so we want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements and then in the wake of that, obviously we can consider other ones," he said at the joint press conference.

"So the priority now is the US arrangement."

Under the American deal -- struck with previous US president Barack Obama and bitterly criticized by his successor Donald Trump -- just 54 refugees have been accepted with 24 flown to the US.

The agreement had envisaged resettling up to 1,250 refugees from Manus and Nauru to America, but the vetting process has been slow.

Turnbull said his government had successfully stopped the arrival of asylum seeker boats and cited fears the people-smuggling trade could be restarted.

"Many of those people smugglers were trying to get people to New Zealand," he added.
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Linkedin Olivia Hampton (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States  Sun, November 5, 2017 10:59 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2777878 2 World US,politics,White-House,trump,Bush-era Free

Former US president George H.W. Bush voted for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election and called Donald Trump a "blowhard" who was driven by "a certain ego."

His son George W. Bush left his ballot blank and said of Trump: "This guy doesn't know what it means to be president."

The revelations, contained in historian Mark Updegrove's "The Last Republicans," available in bookstores later this month, represent the strongest criticism to date from the Bush clan on why their Republican successor is uniquely unfit to hold office.

Cover for The Last Republicans Inside the Extraordinary Relationship Between George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, a new book written by Mark K. Updegrove, which is expected to hit the shelves Nov. 14, 2017. (harpercollins.com/harpercollins.com)

"I don't like him," the elder Bush told Updegrove in May 2016 before the elections in November of that year, according to excerpts of the book obtained by AFP.

"I don't know much about him, but I know he's a blowhard. And I'm not too excited about him being (our) leader."

While traveling to Tokyo on Air Force One, Trump walked back to the press cabin and responded to the Bushes' criticism.

"I don't need headlines. I don't want to make their move successful," he said.

US President Donald Trump walks from Marine One after arriving on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC, Sept. 27, 2017, after traveling to Indiana to unveil his tax reform plan. (Agence France -Presse/Saul Loeb)

'Doesn't understand the job'

The younger Bush was skeptical about then-candidate Trump's chances in a race in which his younger brother Jeb was an early favorite.

"Interesting, won't last," was his initial reaction when Trump entered the race.

Once the bombastic billionaire real estate magnate secured the Republican nomination, Bush expressed surprise and worried about Trump's lack of humility, and thus his inability to recognize his own limitations and surround himself with more knowledgeable people.

"As you know from looking at my family," Bush said, humility "is a certain heritage, that's what they expect, and we're not seeing that" in Trump.

After Trump said, "I'm my own advisor," Bush quipped: "Wow, this guy really doesn't understand the job of president."

The comments are sure to escalate a long-running feud and come after George W. Bush gave a speech last month that condemned bigotry, bullying and lies in US politics in what was widely seen as a broadside against Trump even though the president was not mentioned by name.

The book's title was inspired by the younger Bush's concerns that he had been "the last Republican president" -- not just because Clinton was seen as favorite to win the election, but because Trump represented a major break from traditional conservatism.

A White House official hit back, telling CNN: "If one presidential candidate can disassemble a political party, it speaks volumes about how strong a legacy its past two presidents really had."

"And that begins with the Iraq war, one of the greatest foreign policy mistakes in American history," the official added.

The younger Bush also pushed back hard on the widely-held perception during his time in office that his vice president Dick Cheney and secretary of defense Donald Rumsfeld controlled the White House from behind the scenes.

They "didn't make one fucking decision," he told Updegrove.
Districts asked for poll supply plan

The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked its subordinate units to submit transportation and mobility plans focusing more on hilly areas where geographical ruggedness and erratic weather make delivery of ballot boxes and papers hard. These natural barriers also affect the mobility of election officers.
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Linkedin Arya Dipa (The Jakarta Post) Bandung, West Java  Sun, November 5, 2017 18:31 1836 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2784b9d 1 Politics ridwan-kamil,Golkar,GolkarParty,West-Java,West-Java-gubernatorial-election Free

The Golkar Party has declared support for Bandung Mayor Ridwan Kamil as a candidate in the West Java gubernatorial election next year.

The announcement was made by Golkar secretary general Idrus Marham, who visited Ridwan in Bandung, West Java, on Saturday and handed over the partys decree to support him in the election. Golkar's West Java regional executive board (DPD) would officially hand the decree to the mayor next week, Idrus added.

This has been finalized. There is no more if, he said on Saturday.

The party executives also informed Golkars West Java chairman and Purwakarta Regent Dedi Mulyadi of the final decision. Dedi, as the local chairman of Golkar, had been mentioned as a possible candidate to represent the party in next years regional election, following support from the partys members.

However, Idrus said that he believed Dedi would accept and comply with the partys final decision.

Ridwan expressed gratitude for the trust and support from Golkar.

As for his deputy candidate, Ridwan said he would leave the matter to parties supporting him. In addition to Golkar, he has gained support from the NasDem Party, the National Awakening Party (PKB) and the United Development Party (PPP).

In the coming week, the coalition party will gather, he said.
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Linkedin Rouba El Husseini (Agence France-Presse) Beirut, Lebanon  Sun, November 5, 2017 15:33 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a277e2ff 2 World Middle-East,Lebanon,resignation,Prime-Minister Free

Saad Hariri's resignation from Lebanon's premiership has raised fears that regional tensions were about to escalate and that the small country would once again pay a heavy price.

Analysts said the Saudi-backed Sunni politician's move on Saturday to step down from the helm less than a year after forming a government was more than just the latest hiccup in Lebanon's notoriously dysfunctional politics.

"It's a dangerous decision whose consequences will be heavier than what Lebanon can bear," Hilal Khashan, a professor of political science at the American University of Beirut, said.

Hariri announced his resignation in a broadcast from Saudi Arabia, accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of taking over his country and destabilising the entire region.

Hezbollah is part of the government, but the clout of a group whose military arsenal outstrips that of Lebanon's own armed forces is far greater than its share of cabinet posts.

For years now, Lebanon has been deeply divided between a camp dominated by the Shiite Tehran-backed Hezbollah and a Saudi-supported movement led by Hariri.

"Hariri has started a cold war that could escalate into a civil war, bearing in mind that Hezbollah is unmatched in Lebanon on the military level," Khashan said.

The rift in Lebanon's political class led to the assassination in 2005 of Hariri's father Rafik, an immensely influential tycoon who made his fortune in Saudi Arabia.

Investigations pointed to the responsibility of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah.

Other political assassinations in the anti-Hezbollah camp ensued, then a month-long war between the powerful militia and neighboring Israel, as well as violent internal clashes that harked back to the dark days of the 1975-1990 civil war.

Twelve years on, Lebanese politics remain just as toxically sectarian and the threat of another flare-up very real. Hariri even said on Saturday he feared going the way of his father.

His resignation came in a context of high tension between Saudi Arabia, once the region's powerhouse, and Iran, which has played an increasingly predominant political and military role in the region recently.

On Friday, Hariri met Iran's most seasoned diplomat, Ali Akbar Velayati, before flying to Saudi Arabia and resigning from there via a Saudi-funded television network.

"The timing and venue of the resignation are surprising... but not the resignation itself," said Fadia Kiwane, political science professor at Beirut's Saint Joseph University.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Fri, November 3, 2017 06:15 1839 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2778179 1 National Jokowi,Joko-Widodo,social-forestry-program,Teluk-Jambe-farmers,karawang,West-Java Free

President Joko Jokowi Widodo has granted around 1,000 farmers in Teluk Jambe, Karawang regency, West Java, permits to use 2,145 hectares of forest areas as part of the governments social forestry program.

I still remember a protest rally you staged several months ago in front of the Presidential Palace. At that time, you buried yourselves in front of the palace, right? Jokowi told Teluk Jambe farmers from Karawang and Bekasi  two West Java regencies  during an event in Muara Gembong, Bekasi.

To raise awareness and gain the government's attention on agrarian conflicts in their area, the Teluk Jambe farmers buried themselves in coffins during a demonstration in front of the Presidential Palace in March.

At that time, I asked you all: Whats the legal status of your land? You replied: Sir, I have an SKD [land ownership letter from village officers]', Jokowi said in his dialogue with Teluk Jambe farmers in March.

The President further said that using SKD as a legal document to prove someones land ownership was not effective.

Thats why I immediately asked National Land Agency head [Sofjan Djalil] to process peoples land certificates, Jokowi said.

He said that because farming land owned by the Teluk Jambe farmers was located in areas belonging to state-owned forestry company Perhutani, the government gave them certificates that would legally allow them to cultivate their farming areas.

So please take care of the forest-use permits for 35 years. If the land was truly essential for the peoples welfare, the permits would be extended for another 35 years. That means you have the right to work there. The legal basis of your land is now clear, so you dont have to demonstrate in front of the Presidential Palace anymore, he said. (hol/ebf)
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Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sun, November 5, 2017 19:50 1836 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a278674a 1 City MRT-Jakarta,work-accident,Jl-Wijaya Free

PT MRT Jakarta said on Saturday that it accepted full responsibility for an accident in South Jakarta, in which a concrete slab fell from a crane and hit a motorcycle and a car.

In the incident on Friday evening, the piece of concrete was about to be assembled for an elevated track of the MRT project on Jl. Wijaya.

Having escaped the falling concrete, the motorcyclist suffered only minor injuries. He was rushed to Pertamina Hospital (RSPP) in South Jakarta and was allowed to go home the same evening, said MRT Jakarta corporate secretary Tubagus Hikmatullah.

"We will, however, keep monitoring him until he is fully recovered. All costs for his recovery are our responsibility," he told The Jakarta Post on Saturday.

(Read also: MRT concrete piece falls on Jl. Wijaya)

He said the incident also severely damaged a car, but the driver was uninjured. The company would also pay all the costs of fixing the car.

Following Friday's incident, PT MRT Jakarta suspended lifting work to investigate the issue.

"The lifting is temporarily halted until the investigation result is issued, at the latest this afternoon," he said, adding that the company's construction director, Silvia Halim, and several officials were currently asking contractors and consultants in the project about the accident. (wit)
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Linkedin Anuj Chopra (Agence France-Presse) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia  Sun, November 5, 2017 10:15 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2775db7 2 World Saudi-Arabia,Monarchy,Prince,crackdown Free

Saudi Arabia arrested 11 princes, including a prominent billionaire, and dozens of current and former ministers, reports said, in a sweeping crackdown as the kingdom's young crown prince consolidates power.

Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves in the kingdom.

The crackdown was reported immediately after a new anti-corruption commission, headed by powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was established by royal decree late Saturday.

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported that the princes, four current and dozens of former ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into old cases such as floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009.

State-run Saudi Press Agency said the commission's goal was to "preserve public money, punish corrupt people and those who exploit their positions".

Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal was among those arrested, Saudi news websites said though there was no official confirmation. The prince was not reachable for comment.

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets in Jeddah, possibly to prevent any high-profile figures from leaving.

Meanwhile, the kingdom's top council of clerics tweeted that anti-corruption efforts were "as important as the fight against terrorism", essentially giving religious backing to the crackdown.

"The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community," Ulrichsen told AFP.
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Linkedin (Pesona Indonesia) Jakarta  Sun, November 5, 2017 15:12 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a277d2d0 2 News Tourism-Ministry-Pesona-Indonesia,tourism-ministry-wonderful-Indonesia,bali Free

The participation of Indonesia at the ITB Asia 2017 in Singapore on Oct. 25-27 resulted in the potential transaction of Rp 342 billion (US$25.4 million), or up 30.66 percent from last years event that earned Rp 262 billion.

Moreover, based on the questionnaire given to 90 industry players throughout the three-day event, up to 2,280 appointments were reportedly made and 338,770 tour packages sold.

Bali is still a favorite with 55.34 percent from the total of potential transaction, explained Tourism Ministry's Southeast Asia tourism promotion assistant deputy, Rizki Handayani.

Behind Bali was West Nusa Tenggara with 5.89 percent, East Nusa Tenggara with 5.25 percent, Jakarta with 3.17 percent and other places with 26.57 percent.

ITB Asia is a tourism business forum organized by Internationale Tourismus-Borse Berlin (ITB) that holds the biggest travelmart event in the world every year.

Read also: Sunda slow lorises undergo wildlife rehabilitation in West Kalimantan

At this years event, Indonesia adopted the traditional phinisi boat design on its 405-meter square booth and brought along a total of 90 tourism industry players who hailed from places such as Aceh, North Sumatra, Riau Islands, South Sumatra, Banten, Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, East Java, Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, Central Kalimantan, Southeast Sulawesi, South Sulawesi, Papua, West Papua.

There were also 74 industry players acting as co-delegates and six tourism departments from Aceh, West Sumatra, Bangka Belitung, South Sumatra, Central Java and South Sulawesi participating in the event.

People who visited the booth were served with Indonesian coffee, spa corner by Sariayu Martha Tilaar, Virtual Reality (VR) 360 corner, demo corner by Prijadi K. and VIP corner.

ITB Asia 2017 itself broke a new record by presenting 940 exhibitors from 113 countries, up to 11 percent from last year. This year around 22,000 business appointments were reportedly made at the event. (kes)
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Linkedin (Pesona Indonesia) Jakarta  Sun, November 5, 2017 13:02 1837 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a277ac81 2 News Tourism-Ministry-Pesona-Indonesia,tourism-ministry-wonderful-Indonesia,Lake-Toba Free

The first batch of Singaporean tourists who signed up for the special promotional tour package by the Tourism Ministry and North Sumatra provincial administration had finally arrived in Lake Toba.

These tourists are participants of Lake Toba Promotional Tour Packages by Tourism Ministry, North Sumatra Provincial Administration, eight regencies in Lake Toba, locals and industry players in Lake Toba, explained Lake Toba Authority Board director, Arie Prasetyo.

The group stayed for four days and three nights, trekking the waterfall, joined fruit picking and witnessing Gorga engraving demo. They also visited tourist sites such as Lake Toba and Eden Park 100. The latter is an ecotourism site located in Toba Samosir regency.

On their final night, there was a Cultural Night event being held at Batak TB Silalahi Museum. The event was hosted by Toba Samosir regional administration and North Sumatra provincial administration.

Read also: Jalur Rempah exhibition: Grand display of Sriwijaya's glory

They flew back to Singapore on Nov. 2 at 10:15 a.m. A few hours later, the second batch of Singaporean tourists arrived in Silangit International Airport at 1:30 p.m.

The airport itself welcomed its first international flight by Garuda Indonesia from Singapore on Oct. 28. To commemorate this occasion, 10 special promotional tour packages were offered for Singaporean tourists to travel to Lake Toba.

Dates for the trips are available from Oct. 28 until Nov. 21 and packages are divided into three categories: 3D2N (three days and two nights) priced at S$299 (US$218), 4D3N priced at S$349 and 5D4N priced at S$489 with an additional destination to Medan.

In Singapore, there are 15 million international tourists and five million Singaporeans. The travel duration is only 55 minutes from Silangit, said Tourism Minister Arief Yahya.

Moreover, the ministry that also seeks to attract Malaysian and Chinese tourists is offering incentives for airlines that open a new route from China to Silangit International Airport.

China is considered a big market for the ministry as the country has up to 120 million of outbound travelers. (kes)
Experts call for development of united treatment protocol

Experts on bone marrow transplantation have urged on developing a united treatment protocol in South Asia.
Whether we like it or not, the term fake news is here to stay.

Donald Trumps go-to catchphrase to discredit media stories and information has been named Collins Word Of The Year 2017 with its usage rising by 365% since 2016.

It is finally sinking through. 46% OF PEOPLE BELIEVE MAJOR NATIONAL NEWS ORGS FABRICATE STORIES ABOUT ME. FAKE NEWS, even worse! Lost cred.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 22, 2017

Just read the nice remarks by President Jimmy Carter about me and how badly I am treated by the press (Fake News). Thank you Mr. President!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 28, 2017

The Fake News is working overtime. As Paul Manaforts lawyer said, there was "no collusion" and events mentioned took place long before he  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2017

Defined as false, often sensational, information disseminated under the guise of news reporting, fake news will now be added to the next print edition of Collins Dictionary.

We spoke to scientists, psychologists and experts in the field of digital journalism to get a sense of how and why fake news goes viral and heres what they had to say.

1. We crave confirmation of our world views and social media is a great place for it

Dr Jens Binder, senior lecturer in Psychology at Nottingham Trent University, believes that most of the time, sharing on social media is done for emotional reasons and this applies to fake news as well.

He said: We consume news not just because of the facts in there, but also to make sense of the world, to confirm our notion of how things are working out there.

According to Dr Binder, our bias is validated through confirmation, ie, the more people share my sense of understanding, the more I am convinced that I got it right.

He said: Emotional and dramatic fake news items will attract more attention, pretty much like real news of that sort.

However, the key thing here is these news items confirm peoples world view by for example, creating more outrage targeted against opponent groups or by incriminating those people that wed like to see incriminated.

2. Information is social currency, even if its inaccurate

Digital anthropologist Nik Pollinger, who specialises in the relationship between humans and digital technology, believes objective truth can take a secondary place in a world where information acts as social currency.

He said: As individuals, we crave confirmation of our worldview. Provided we have a base level of trust in the source of information, its objective truth is of secondary importance.

We also prize information that can be used as social currency to build relationships with our networks or information that, through association with it, signifies something about our identity and group affiliation.

The more sensational the story we share with others, the more social value it can have.

3. We love a good rumour

Dr Binder believes a few people may deliberately choose what information to share on social media to influence opinion but in most cases, people love indulging in a rumour.

He said: Some people share fake news for strategic reasons, to sway or influence opinion. Most people use social media and related services for personal purposes, not to pursue a political agenda and therefore, most people share fake news for the sake of sharing, like indulging in the latest rumours.

We always do this as a social practice, online and offline, through gossip. Sharing is easy, internet technologies are optimised to encourage sharing.

In many instances, people will not verify content, a lengthy and difficult process, but will relate to the topic and will assume that the topic is relevant to their online social contacts.

4. We have a system that allows news to act like contagion

According to Dr Francisco Perez-Reche from Aberdeen University, who led a study last year where he created a mathematical model for viral content, sensational news on social media behaves in a manner similar to a virus causing an epidemic.

He said: We often witness social phenomena that become accepted by many people overnight, especially now in the age of social media.

This is especially relevant to social contexts in which individuals initially hesitate to join a collective movement, for example a strike, because they fear becoming part of a minority that could be punished.

Dr Perez-Reche explains that as more people starts accepting the idea, irrespective of whether it is fact of fiction, it creates what he calls a transmission strong enough to overcome the reluctance in sharing, resulting in an explosive contagion of travelling information.

While his research wasnt focusing specifically on fake news, Dr Perez-Reche says the way fake news travels through social media is much like viral news stories.

5. There are sneaky algorithms working in the background that shows what we want to see

Dr Philip Seargeant, who co-authored a book called the Language Of Social Media, says algorithms used by Facebook and similar social media sites has the effect of foregrounding stories from friends with likeminded opinions, and hiding or filtering out stories youre likely to disagree with.

He said: The argument is that this means youre less likely to engage with a diverse range of ideas, and instead get fed stories and ideas from perspectives you agree with (and have thus liked in the past).

Dr Seargeant calls this phenomenon a filter bubble.

He said: Because a lot of people get news from sites like Facebook, and because Facebook itself does not editorially weed out the suspect from the authoritative, the argument goes that the fact that people are shielded from views they disagree with means that misinformation can spread that much more easily and quickly.

6. Fake news publishers are driven by a strong financial motive

Behind every article click is a publisher monetising the page views.

Pollinger explained: What is different is that a majority of us now get news from social media sites, with trusted social connections replacing media such as newspapers as our prime news source.

Because of the way they work, these sites have left the field open as never before to the ideologically driven and financially incentivised to peddle fake news and for people to circulate it.

While this does not apply to trusted publishers, for websites powered by fake news, money is more important than fact-checking and accuracy.

7. The current political climate has allowed fake news to prosper

Dr Paul Elmer, principal lecturer at the Lancashire School of Business and Enterprise, believes the rise of fake news has largely been influenced by politicians.

He said: Politicians are outraged by so called fake news, but they are largely responsible for creating the environment in which it can flourish.

When policy statements and government practices move beyond parody, we are all free to meet outrage with credulity.

Yes, fake news is corrosive to democracy, but politicians have played a huge role in creating the environment needed for purveyors of fake news to gain legitimacy, which is why these stories often go viral.

If fake news indicates anything, it is that journalism has got rougher. The danger is that the professionalised cadre of journalists may be tempted to turn to sensationalism, which will only encourage the spread of fake news.
A report by WWF has warned huge volumes of endangered wildlife products are being traded illegally in South East Asias Golden Triangle as traditional medicine ingredients  to treat a range of ailments from asthma to arthritis and even cancer.

Here are the 10 most-traded endangered species facing the risk of extinction as a result of the illicit trading, according to the conservation charity.

Pangolin

(WWF)

Believed to be the most illegally traded mammal in the world, all eight pangolin species are protected under national and international laws.

Pangolin meat is considered a delicacy in China and Vietnam and its scales are used in folk remedies to treat ailments such as asthma, rheumatism and arthritis.

Tiger

(WWF)

The Golden Triangle  which is home to around 200 wild tigers  has become a hub of the tiger trade where parts are sold as decoration, medicine and wine.

Burmas Mong La market is especially notorious for tiger trade, where tourists flock to buy traditional medicines with unproven benefits.

Elephants

(Jamie Cotten/WWF)

As well as meeting the continuing demand for ivory, wild Asian elephants are being poached and skinned in Burma, with the skin being used as a treatment for stomach ailments.

Almost every part of an elephant has been found for sale in the Golden Triangle markets, including teeth, hair, bones, tails and trunks.

Bears

(YJ Rey-Millet/WWF)

Illegal bear trade is largely driven by the demand for bile used in folk remedies.

Sun bears and Asiatic black bears  mostly captured in the wild  are kept in tiny cages on bear farms. Both are listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which prohibits international commercial trade in the species, their parts and derivatives.

Helmeted Hornbills

(WWF)

The birds casque  the helmet-like structure on the head  is especially popular in China as an alternative to elephant ivory carvings.

Listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Natures (IUCN) Red List, conservationists fear this species may disappear from other parts of their range after populations in Sumatra were wiped out due to the demand for casques.

Rhinos

(Greg Armfield/WWF)

An average of three rhinos are killed every day to feed the demand for their horns.

Powdered horn is used in traditional Asian medicine as an unproven treatment for a range of illnesses, from hangovers to fevers and even cancer. In places like Vietnam, the rhino horn is seen as a symbol of wealth.

Serow

(Gerald S Cubitt/WWF)

These goat-like animals native to countries across Asia have been hunted for their meat, with their body parts being used for traditional medicine.

Serow horns, skulls, forelegs, heads, gallbladders and medicinal oil are reportedly being sold in nine different market areas in the Golden Triangle, in both individual stores and out in the open.

Leopards

(Bryan Stemp/WWF)

Once widely distributed across South East Asia, leopard numbers have depleted due to habitat loss and poaching.

Products derived from leopards  including whole skins, pieces of skin and skulls  are openly for sale in the markets of the Golden Triangle.

Gaur

(WWF)

The worlds largest species of cattle found in the Indian subcontinent and South East Asia have been targeted for their horns, gallbladders and whole heads, which are collected as trophies.

Turtles

(WWF)

Turtles and tortoises can be found on sale in the Golden Triangle markets as decorative objects and food.

Several varieties, including Asian box turtles and softshell turtles, are traded as live animals to eventually be consumed as meat.
The University of Derby have announced they will be stopping their advertisements from appearing on MailOnline as the news site contains 'ontent which contradicts our values.'

One advert for postgraduate study at Derby was featured alongside the column by Sarah Vine titled: If this hysterical Westminster witch hunt is what a world run by women looks like, count me out.

Unhappy with the ad placement, Twitter user Rufus Westwood tweeted the university asking them not to 'fund their hate' by placing ads with MailOnline.

@DerbyUni Your ads are next to this awful column in the Daily Mail. Please don't fund their hate by placing ads with them. @StopFundingHate pic.twitter.com/d3j8vAoAZA  Rufus Westwood (@BiggusDiggus) 2 November 2017

The university responded by saying they used programmatic advertising and would speak to their supplier to review where their ads were placed.

Derby later tweeted their decision to part ways with the tabloid:

our values. To ensure that one possible source of conflict is eliminated, we will be stopping our ads from appearing on MailOnline. (2/2)  University of Derby (@DerbyUni) 2 November 2017

Having spoken with our supplier, we're unable to satisfactorily exclude our ads from all webpages containing content which contradicts our values. To ensure that one possible source of conflict is eliminated, we will be stopping our ads from appearing on MailOnline.

This decision has been welcomed by many, including staff.

Proud to work here today. Thank you @DerbyUni @StopFundingHate and all those who support a more peaceful, tolerant world. https://t.co/vZN0yoWtiy  Hannah Valenzuela (@hvalenzuela88) 2 November 2017

And Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain.

That is great news xx https://t.co/4QojqSodpM  Nadiya Jamir Hussain (@BegumNadiya) 2 November 2017

Stop Funding Hate, a group which campaigns for advertisers to pull their support from newspapers whom they believe are responsible for 'using hate and division to drive sales,' have praised Derbys actions.

*Confirmed*: Congratulations to @DerbyUni, who are now blocking Mail Online from their advertising programme https://t.co/AvkHzVLCez  Stop Funding Hate (@StopFundingHate) 2 November 2017

In a statement to The National Student, Stop Funding Hates founder Richard Wilson said:

Derby University have made a brave and principled move, acting promptly to ensure that their online advertising does not fund content that fuels discrimination and division.

With experts warning that the hate in our media has fuelled hate crime on our streets, and concerns being raised internationally about the behaviour of some UK newspapers, it is vital that universities ensure their advertising supports media outlets which show respect for everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender or sexuality, rather than those that undermine this principle.

Today's positive news follows the recent decision by Oxford University's Said Business School to pull their online ads from the Sun. As more and more organisations recognise the need to advertise ethically, UK universities have the chance to play a leading role in creating a fairer and more positive media.

Stop Funding Hate began in August 2016 and has gone on to successfully campaign leading brands, such as Lego, to advertise more ethically by pulling their ads from newspapers that spread hostility.

The group is trying to persuade universities to review their ad placements and in support of this they are running a student film competition, encouraging students to start spreading love.

When contacted for a statement the University of Derby said: "We have nothing more to say on the issue other than what we posted on Twitter."
Guilty of Madi bus ambush should face legal action: Dahal

Admitting that Bandarmude incident as a grave mistake, CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said that anyone found guilty by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in the incident should face a legal action.
Milking an OX

Conducting research before forming policy is important, but the type of research conducted impacts efficacy
By Carter Howe

howethom@grinnell.edu

The Rev. Dr. Joel Koepp has been settling into his new job as pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church here in Grinnell, a job he began in late August. A Minnesota native, Koepp arrived in Grinnell after serving seven years as pastor in Wood Lake, Minn.

Being a pastor was something Koepp dreamed of since childhood. Its something that Id thought about ever since I was a little kid. I was about five years old, and I would play church  reading the bible and talking about the scriptures is something thats always interested me, he said.

Koepp graduated from Southwest Minnesota State University with a B.S. in social work and a minor in psychology. During college, he also taught tae kwon do. He then headed right to seminary at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN. After his time at the seminary, Koepp spent his vicarage year in Brooking, SD doing campus ministry.

Talking about the Bible and Gods word on college campuses I think is something that is important, something that is near and dear to my heart, he said. Thats what I did on my vicarage.

In his education and ministry, Koepp has often focused on understanding mental health. In addition to studying social work and psychology in college, in 2014 Koepp earned his Doctorate of Ministry from Sioux Falls Seminary in South Dakota, writing his dissertation on how Christians can understand and combat self-harm practices. This dedication to understanding self-harm was brought about by experiences he had talking to parishioners of his Minnesota congregation.

After the first couple months of serving in Minnesota, I started to have many conversations with people that were engaged in self-harm behaviors, and so that spurned me on to get my doctorate of ministry focusing on mental health and self-harm, Koepp said. So I wrote my dissertation and published a book based on what does Gods word have to say, or how do we as Christians understand that whole area of self-harm. There was many who would come in and ask questions  the church hasnt really been engaged in that conversation, so I thought it was kind of a way to start that.

Koepp hopes to use this experience to be a resource for people who might be struggling with mental health issues. Creating a safe space for people  to be a resource more or less. I guess on a city level, you know, I understand there isnt a whole lot of mental health resources in Grinnell, and so if opportunity presents itself to be a resource in that way too, Im open to that.

Concerning his congregation, Koepp hopes to make Immanuel Lutheran more visible and get his parishioners more involved in the community though he recognizes the challenges of doing this with a congregation where many drive in from outside Grinnell. The understanding that I had in coming here was that the people are well catechized  theyre well taught  but theyre paralyzed from the knees down, he said. A large group of the congregation that drives in from other towns, so the city of the Grinnell really doesnt know the church exists, and so I guess the biggest goal is just getting the community to know that were here and to reach the unchurched, those that dont have a church home  how do we speak to them, how do we help them, how do we bear one anothers burdens in love, as Galatians tells us.

For any Grinnellians who are looking for a new spiritual home, Koepp says he is always available to talk. Call me anytime  Im always open to questions. I love just sitting down and visiting.
The Trinamool Congress leadership on Saturday refused to attach any importance to the recent induction of Mukul Roy into the BJP, adding that he was a traitor with no popularity among the masses.

Senior TMC leader and mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation, Sovan Chatterjee, said the party was not at all bothered about Roy.

We do not have time to think about a person who does not have any mass base of his own. We have lot of work at hand and that needs to be done at the earliest, he said.

Another senior TMC leader and state cabinet member Firhad Hakim advised Mukul Roy not to dream about dislodging the TMC government in the next West Bengal Assembly polls as it might turn into a nightmare for him.

He is a traitor who had betrayed the people of Bengal. He wont be able to do any harm to the TMC. In our party, Mamata Banerjee holds the reins. It is good to dream, there is no harm in it but his dreams should not turn into a nightmare, he said.

Roy, who was long the second-most powerful leader of the Trinamool Congress, joined the BJP yesterday. He claimed that people of West Bengal wanted an alternative to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and will vote the saffron party to power in the next polls.
This book describes the swings in Indian policy towards the various contesting factions in Afghanistan between 1979 and 2015, as hard and soft liners in turn gained ascendency in New Delhi. Morality often took second place, since India did not desist from contacts when it served its interest, despite ideological and human rights considerations.

Afghanistan is no easy country to fathom; it has seen the rise and fall of communism, radical Islam and liberal democracy over the last 50 years, and India was inevitably a player there  Afghanistan is of critical strategic interest for India, writes Paliwal, the first frontier of the war on terror, and imagining India without Afghanistan and Afghanistan without India is impossible.

India needs to have good ties with Kabul irrespective of Afghanistans political and economic woes. From 1996 to 2001 when the Taliban were in power, India gave support to the Northern Alliance; from 2001 it concentrated on reconstruction and infrastructure development in that country, and from 2011 it supported an Afghanled reconciliation between all parties.

In the foreground was always the quadrilateral of conflicting interests of the Afghan government, the US, Pakistan and India. Indias main handicap is the lack of geographical contiguity, while Pakistans biggest advantage is precisely that a 2200 km border. Karachi port is landlocked Afghanistans lifeline.

All friendships fostered by India in Afghanistan indicate an anti-Pakistan bias, although India maintains a studious silence over the legitimacy of the Durand Line that is bitterly contested between Afghanistan and Pakistan. India will react to any step that gives excessive strategic weight to Pakistan and Pakistans efforts to push India out of Afghanistan will only increase Indias determination to deepen its footprint. Any attempt writes Paliwal, to exclude India would be counterproductive if the aim was to stabilise Afghanistan, and there is abundant goodwill for India in that country.

Yet, the West, anxious to mollify Pakistan, is wary of the Indian presence. Despite this, and what comes as a surprise, is that India often kept its ties with Pakistan in consideration; Foreign Minister Narasimha Rao in 1981 said, we have an abiding interest, even a vested interest, in the stability of Pakistan, and Manmohan Singh was anxious to preserve the halting peace process. While India seems to avoid measures that complicate relations with Pakistan, there seems to be no reciprocal sensitivity from Pakistan.

There are immense complications for India in contacting Afghan factions. India keeps in mind three vectors  the balance between Afghanistan and Pakistan to prevent an Afghanistan that is dependent on Pakistan; to support the Afghan state, knowing that whichever international actor plays the biggest role has the greatest leverage, and after 9/11 Afghanistan is dependent on US support, which India has to take note of.

Finally, the degree to which the political factions in Afghanistan themselves wish to engage with India, since it is difficult to have cordial ties with all. In its search for friendships, after the Taliban regimes fall in 2001, India is engaging widely. Karzai after 2004 was considered a friend, and Abdul Ghani is supported after his outreach to Pakistan failed. There is natural convergence of interest between India and Afghanistan on Baluchistan and Pashtunistan, and on separating the Taliban from Pakistan.

Afghan friends make demands to neutralise their political rivals  the same feature in our other neighbours like Nepal and Bangladesh  but the rub is that if India does not seek alliances, another country, like Pakistan, will step into the breach. India has also to consider the security of Indian residents there, the patronage network and the gross venality which are a fact of life. Despite $2.3 billion in aid, India remains politically marginalised if not inconsequential, whereas Pakistan, despite its gross interference, is considered indispensable for bringing peace. Contacts with the Taliban are a debated issue in Delhi since 1980.

The author strongly favours such contacts, and notes that the Taliban were keen on connections with India even when in power, but the Indian Airlines hijack was hardly a good portent. Paliwal writes, Indias national allergy to Muslim fundamentalism seemed misplaced at a time when even the Kabul government was engaging with Taliban. The Afghan Taliban did not attack India though the Pakistan-based Taliban did, and the Taliban want to engage with India because it gives them credibility in Afghanistan and India is the only counterweight to Pakistan.

There was never a large presence of Afghan militants in Kashmir, and most were private individuals without mujahideen backing. India can never assess to what extent the Taliban were beholden to Pakistan, though the impossibility of defeating such a heterogeneous group like the Taliban makes India think again. Paliwal makes good points here, but given the Talibans record of human rights, the debate will continue.

With both the USSR and US, India cautioned against hasty withdrawal that would facilitate Pakistan moving into the drivers seat. In fact, Vajpayee urged Bush to get involved in Afghanistan to pressurise Pakistan, contrary to Indian traditional policy to keep outsiders out of our region. For its part, Pakistan and its media charge India and Afghanistan of working together to catch Pakistan in a pincer movement and of funding the Afghan-based Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan. India does not mind Pakistan being part of an Afghan-led Afghan-owned peace process, provided it is not the prime mover, and if India and Pakistan ever get to discussing Afghanistan, it would give credibility to bilateral dialogue.

There is a wealth of material in this work, overwhelming at times but essential to those who wish to delve deeply into the problems faced by India, Pakistan and Afghanistan with the turmoil in Afghanistan. The book is more interesting as it draws nearer our contemporary period, with an excellent epilogue. We find repeated references to Indian espionage activity in Sind, Baluchistan and the Pashtun areas, but with no details  Paliwal assumes it exists and leaves it at that. Modis implied support to POK, Gilgit and Baluchistan at a time of high toxicity in Afghan-Pakistan relations he considers significant.

On the debit side, there are too many repetitions, the customary appalling copy-editing by HarperCollins, and demotic usages that should have been edited out in a serious book. Paliwal misinterprets Indian policy as having an alleged aim of neutrality on Swiss lines and genuine neutrality, neither of which is correct.

No foreign policy can afford to be static; therefore the authors critique that there is no single policy that New Delhi practices towards Afghanistan is misplaced.

(The reviewer is Indias former foreign secretary)

MY ENEMYS ENEMY

By- Avinash Paliwal Harper Collins, UP India, 2017;

Rs 699
History tells us that women in different parts of the world have been fighting against political persecution, social deprivation and gender discrimination. The Nobel Peace Prize memorialises their achievements and courage and ability to inspire hope in others. Through the life portraits of 16 women Nobel Peace laureates, peace activist and journalist Supriya Vani argues that the fate of the world is inextricably tied to the emancipation of women, and that the cause of world peace urgently requires women leaders.

After a brief foreword by Kailash Satyarthi, Vani tells us that she scripted the sagas of 16 women, who in their meeting with humanity found self-fulfilment through their unbound love and relentless struggle for peace and justice. Going from more recent times to that of the past, she begins her book with the case of Malala Yousafzai, who became internationally famous at the tender age of 14 as a child campaigner for girls education in the Swat Valley of Pakistan.

The story of the nearfatal attack by the Taliban in 2002 only afforded Malala an audience which was larger and her sacrifice immediately captured the imagination of people across the globe. Inheriting her father Ziauddins fearlessness, Malalas courage and determination is prodigious, as her passion for the emancipation of repressed women around the world is manifest. The next remarkable woman is Ellen Johnson Sirleaf from Liberia who became Africas first Woman Head of State in 2005. Just as innumerable women have done before, and almost as many since, Ellen endured her abusive marriage far beyond the dictates of reason.

During the trauma of civil and mindless violence she confronted the situation with her inner reserves and utmost fortitude. In spite of facing elimination and being hounded wherever she went, she became almost like a folk hero as she placed her concern for her country and its people above not just her personal comfort, but her safety. She has elevated womanhood in the African continent to its true place of honour and dignity.

Another recipient of the prize from Liberia in 2011 is Leymah Gbowee. As a common woman, she was able to overcome adversity to become an iconic figure for her nation and a paragon of womens empowerment for the world. And all the while she nurtured her family and rebuilt her self-worth from the ruins of an abusive relationship. It is really inspiring to read about her transformation from a povertystricken and half-starved mother to an enlightened peace activist. She had allowed herself to be sexually exploited and had become trapped in a dysfunctional relationship for the security of her children and through her work in redeeming the lives of others, Leymah had found her own redemption.

Sharing the honour of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 along with Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Leymah Gbowee, was Tawakkol Karman, the Yemeni journalist, human rights activist, politician and senior member of the Al-Islah political party. She was the second Muslim woman after Shirin Ebadi of Iran to have received the prize for being a courageous lady who has never heeded threats to her own safety. Her declaration, I am a universal citizen. The earth is my homeland and humanity is my nation, gives voice to an ethos that is the very essence of peace. She has garnered respect for her advocacy of womens rights in a country not at all noted for feminism.

As a wife, mother and practising Muslim, who removed her niqab and started wearing a colourful hijab, she is also among the most prominent activists in the Arab world. The next honour goes to Wangari Maathai of Kenya. Being the first East African woman to receive a doctorate, and subsequently dismissed from her university job on flimsy grounds, Wangari got deeply involved in the Green Belt Movement, which protested against land-grabbing by the government.

Receiving the Nobel Peace Prize for 2004, it is important to keep in mind, while judging Wangaris work, that her political machinations were intended not just to further immediate political goals but also to make way for larger, more extensive social changes, especially regarding climate change, sustainable development and a cultural renewal of the Kenyan people who had long reeled under the colonial yoke. Shirin Ebadi, Iranian lawyer, human rights activist, former judge and founding member of Defenders of Human Rights Center in Iran, was the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for 2002.

She is the only Iranian and the first Muslim woman to receive the award because of her ability to confront injustice and tyranny in her country. Along with her female compatriots, she had to come to terms with living under the tyranny of the Komiteh, the morality police. According to the Islamic Penal Code, a womans worth is equal to half that of a man.

Shirin had successfully mobilised support to change blatantly unjust laws which favoured mens primacy over common sense and childrens welfare. She continued fighting for justice for those killed for espousing freedom of expression. Jody Williams became the 10th woman and third American woman recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997. Her work also involved overseeing an endeavour to heal the broken bodies of children caught in the vicious guerrilla fighting between the government and rebel forces in Central America, especially in El Salvador.

Her efforts culminated in an international treaty banning anti-personnel mines and her campaigning against landmines can be viewed as something of a great spiritual quest, and she conducted it with religious fervour. Over the years, Rigoberta Menchu Tum has emerged as the chief leader and advocate of American Indian rights and ethno-cultural reconciliation both in Guatemala and in the Western hemisphere.

As a crusader for indigenous rights of the people of Guatemala, even at the expense of facing mounting threats to her life, she won the battle against the military establishment in her country. She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992 and eventually expanded her activities across the globe. On 14 October 1991, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced that Aung San Suu Kyi would be conferred that years Nobel Peace Prize for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights in Myanmar.

Ironically, it was only on 16 June 2012 that she could finally deliver her Nobel Lecture at Oslo City Hall, more than two decades after being awarded the prize. A long-term house-arrest and oppression by the ruling junta could not veer her from the path of non-violence. Sacrificing her personal family life for the betterment of her country, Suu Kyi was drawn inexorably into the intrigues, factionalism, treachery and outright danger of Burmese politics eventually being able to succeed in her mission.

Alva Myrdal, Swedish sociologist, diplomat, politician and staunch proponent of nuclear disarmament is often spoken of along with her illustrious husband, Gunnar Myrdal, but her personal contributions cannot be overestimated. She received the prize in 1982. Mother Teresas life and work is so well known that it needs no elaboration. Hailed by the world as the Saint of the Gutters, she has enhanced the prestige of the Nobel Peace Prize. In 1976 Betty Williams was awarded the Peace Prize along with Mairead Maguire from Ireland, who constantly strives for a non-violent world. As a Christian, Mairead assumes responsibility for all wrongs committed by Christians. From sympathising with the IRA, Williams also went on to fully denounce violence and become convinced of the virtues of pacifism.

In history, it is rare for a woman to have waged a crusade opposing ones own country and braving public condemnation as did Jane Addams. She was part of the vanguard of peace activists who successfully campaigned to stop the US from entering World War I. She became the second woman and the first American to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931. Jane is widely acknowledged as the first woman philosopher in the history of the US and her essays on peace and ethics are canonical texts in peace studies.

In 1946, in a world still traumatised by the horrors of World War II, Emily Greene Balch emerged triumphant, as she became the first Quaker and third woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. An indefatigable activist, she dedicated her life to the service of goodness and her life philosophy was that of inter-cultural cooperation. The last entry of this book is of Baroness Bertha Von Suttner, a CzechAustrian pacifist, journalist and novelist, who was also the first woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1905.

She had inspired her friend Alfred Nobels decision to institute the Prize as he wrote in a letter, The prize would be awarded to him or her who had caused Europe to make the longest strides towards ideas of general pacification. Bertha believed that universal sisterhood was necessary before universal brotherhood was possible.

Battling Injustice is a wonderful read and an inspirational text and women in the workplace, at home, as mothers and nurturers, as leaders will all find something to take away from this collection, which took the author more than six years of painstaking research and many interviews. The authors hope in writing this book is to inspire women to rise up, to come to the forefront of all human affairs and help eliminate weapons from the world. All the stories, starting from humble origins, are awe-inspiring yet relatable. It should also inspire men to forget patriarchal domination and lend support to their womenfolk who are striving for justice and to make the world a better place to live in.

(The reviewer is professor of English at Visva-Bharati University)

BATTLING INJUSTICE: 16 WOMEN NOBEL PEACE LAUREATES

By Supriya Vani

Harper Collins, 2017
NEA to sign PPA in dollars after 4-year gap

Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), the state-owned power utility, is all set to sign dollar-denominated power-purchase agreement (PPA) with Langtang Rasuwa Hydropower Limited, the developer of 120MW Rasuwa-Bhotekoshi Hydropower Project.
Chinese telecom giant Huaweis sub-brand Honor wants to take the Indian smartphone market by storm with some innovative and trend-setting products and become the countrys top smartphone brand within three years, its Global President George Zhao has said.

It plans to push its position up in the highly competitive Indian smartphone market by launching flagship products at unbeatable price, introducing cutting-edge technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), increasing presence in both online and offline platforms and boosting its marketing efforts.

We will launch Honor 7X in December at such a price that it will have no competitor in that segment, Zhao said while unveiling the smartphone makers roadmap for the Indian market to a group of journalists here over the weekend.

The bezel-less Honor 7X with dual camera technology is already available in the Chinese market.

Its price in China is 1,299 yuan.

The 4GB RAM phone that offers 32 GB internal storage and has a 5.93 inch display is already a rage among the young population here, according to Zhao, who informed the visiting journalists that Chengdu, capital city of Sichuan province in southwest China, is known as the most relaxed city in the country animated by its higher concentration of young population.

The honor will also start incorporating AI capabilities in its phones for the Indian market within the current quarter, Zhao told IANS.

We have the capability to outcompete other dominating players in the Indian smartphone market in terms of quality, but our marketing efforts need to improve, Zhao said, signalling its intention to go aggressive in the promotion of its upcoming products in India.

Globally, Honor, which has now a presence in 73 countries, spends just three per cent of its revenue in marketing.

Honor first introduced the AI capabilities in its Honor Magic phone. Although its application has so far been restricted to China because of the internet ecosystem, it wants its customers in other countries to avail the automation facilities soon.

Indian customers, it appears, would not have to wait for long.

Currently, the smartphone market in India is dominated mostly by Chinese players spearheaded by Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo and Honor, among others.

Launched in India in 2014, Honor started manufacturing in India from 2016 in partnership with leading global electronics manufacturer Flex Telecom at a facility in Chennai.

Honor began manufacturing in India with the Holly series. It is the first brand to respond to the Government of Indias request for SOS feature on phones, Zhao said, adding that it will further ramp up its manufacturing efforts in India.

Honor shipped 98.8 per cent more devices in 2017 than in 2016. But in India, we need strengthen offline channels, Zhao said, adding that exclusive Honor demo shops will also be launched in India soon.

Honor 7X will also be available offline.

India recently surpassed the US to become the second-largest smartphone market in the world after China. And yet, according to Counterpoint Research, only one fourth of Indias population uses smartphones, making the country an attractive destination for players in the mobile ecosystem.
The BJP on Sunday attacked the AAP government in Delhi for appointing former Union Minister P. Chidambaram to appear for it in the Supreme Court in a case to decide Delhis administrative head case and described it as B team of Congress.

Be it the news of Chidambaram defending Delhis Arvind Kejriwal government, hiding property or other details from Election Commission, nothing shocks us anymore, Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party Chief Manoj Tiwari told media persons here.

Right from the start we have said Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is the B team of Congress and the news reports of Chidambaram accepting Kejriwal governments brief clears that now Congress has decided to openly defend its B team, Tiwari alleged.

He added, now maybe we may soon see a merger of Delhi Congress headed by Ajay Maken into AAP.

Tiwaris remarks come two days after Chidambaram joined the legal team that will argue the pleas challenging a Delhi High Court ruling that the Lieutenant Governor is the administrative head of the National Capital Region (NCR).

The announcement of Chidambaram representing the AAP government in Supreme Court was announced by Standing Counsel of the Delhi government Rahul Mehra on Monday.

Mehra said that besides Gopal Subramanium, senior advocates such as Chidambaram, Rajeev Dhawan and Indira Jaising will argue on behalf of the AAP government.

On Friday, Maken took a dig at the Delhi Chief Minister saying that Chidambaram has been exonerated by his one-time critic.

The AAP and the Centre had locked horns after the Home Affairs Ministry passed a notification in May 2016, giving unprecedented powers on matters such as public order, police and services to then Delhi Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung.

The Kejriwal government had moved the High Court after the orders. Meanwhile, in August 2016, the Delhi High Court had ruled that the LG was the administrative head of the NCR rejecting the AAP governments plea.
BJP leader Prakash Bajaj, the narrator of the Chhattisgarh sex tape who was missing for the past nine days, surfaced on Sunday and spoke to the police and media. He, however, sounded evasive.

It was Bajaj on whose complaint senior journalist Vinod Verma was arrested from Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh. Bajaj, a Raipur resident, filed a complaint alleging Verma was trying to extort money from him.

Bajaj is considered to be a close aide of Chhattisgarh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Dharam Lal Kaushik. His sudden disappearance had sparked off several rumours and speculation.

Surfacing after nine days, he provided evasive answers to the questions put by police which confused the case further.

ALSO READ: BJP, Congress spar over sleaze CD row in Chhattisgarh

Based on his statement, it seems Bajaj was not clear if the caller was talking about a particular person.

I dont know of which boss the blackmailer was talking. He just said your boss would be defamed, Bajaj said. I have said everything to police. Now, I will speak in court, he added.

He told police that he received a call 10-12 days ago. The caller said he has a sex CD of my boss, he said.

The caller told Bajaj to come to Delhi along with the money if he wants to save his boss and disconnected the phone call. I dismissed it as a joke, he told police.

I received a call again on October 26 and the caller once again asked me to reach Delhi and meet him to save my boss. The second call got me worried and I lodged a complaint with the police, he said.

The BJP leader said he came to know about the journalists arrest on October 27. My cell phone was ringing non-stop. When I answered the call, I came to know a journalist has been arrested in Delhi.

Initially, I could not understand anything, said Bajaj. He said when he spoke to his party members, he realised on the basis of his complaint, Vinod Verma was arrested.

I started getting so many phone calls it made me jittery. My family members also started panicking. I switched off my cell phone and went to a relatives place, Bajaj told police.

When I lodged the complaint, I had no idea the matter would escalate so much. I realised the issue has become quite big when the CD was seized in Delhi, he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress government in Himachal Pradesh and said the government has now a symbol for rampant corruption.

Addressing rallies in Una, Palampur and Kullu during the day, he urged the people in Himachal to give a double impetus to development with double BJP enginein the centre and the state.

Addressing a rally at Palampur in Kangra district, where his close aide and state Mahila Morcha chief Indu Goswami is in poll fray, Modi praised the previous BJP regimes for carrying out various development works for the welfare of common man.

Former chief ministers, Shanta Kumar strived hard to provide drinking water while Prem Kumar Dhumal for improving roads infrastructure and higher education, he said.

And the Congress Chief Minister (Virbhadra Singh) is known for corruption, he said, while questioning why only Congress governments and minister face corruption charges.

Modi said Congress leaders, while in power, only focus on accumulating money through illegal means. This is the reason that the people have thrown them out of power as in democracy, public was the almighty and they are now delivering justice to those people who have looted them in the past.

He also lashed at the Congress partys plan to observe November 8, first anniversary of demonetization as black money day.

Their pain can be easily understood as they were forced to deposit ill-gotten money in banks due to demonetization and it was the reason they were holding protests, Modi said, adding such protests wont deter from his fight against corruption in the country.

In his rally at Kullu, the Prime Minister said if given the opportunity, tourism will be promoted in a big way as there was huge potential for Himachal to become an ideal tourist destination in the world.

He said it was Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who had laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Rohtang Tunnel 17 years ago. The work was expedited by our government at the centre; the tails of both the tunnels have been connected. After completion it will throw open the doors of tourism in the area.

He blamed the Congress government in Himachal for the delay in the construction of the same.

Our government at centre is making efforts to create infrastructure for tourism in Himachal. However, whenever there is a concern to bring about any development, it is, as in the nature of Congress to stall, delay and then lead people astray, he said.

Urging the people of the state to do away with the tradition of alternating, BJP and Congress government every 5 years, he said, Give our government the opportunity, we will take the state to new heights.

Alleging various mafias have taken root in the state that include drug mafia, forest mafia, transfer mafia, he promised to rid the state of all of it.

He said his promised action for a crack-down on benami properties is giving them jitters.
The BJPs chief minister face and senior party leader Prem Kumar Dhumal, who has shifted from Hamirpur to Sujanpur Assembly constituency, is facing his old prot g -turned-b te noir Rajinder Rana of the Congress.

Rana, who contested the 2012 election as an Independent and defeated his nearest Congress rival Anita Verma by 14,155 votes, is fighting the battle on his home turf and leaving no stone unturned.

Dhumal had contested from Hamirpur in 2012 but this time he is contesting from Sujanpur constituency where women outnumber men by over 2200 voters.

Rana had extended support to Virbhadra Singh after winning the polls last time and had resigned to contest Lok Sabha polls from Hamirpur in 2014 while his wife, who contested the assembly by-election from Sujanpur lost by a thin margin.

BJPs decision to project Dhumal as a CM face has given a boost to the partys campaign in all five assembly segments in Hamirpur.

Dhumal supporters are upbeat and claim that now it is a cakewalk but Rana and other Congress leaders maintain that their over-confidence was misplaced.

Prestige of both the chief minister and the Lok Sabha member from Hamirpur is at stake in this seat as margin of victory would be crucial

Rana was a close confidant of Dhumal for one decade and was appointed as chairman of the Media Advisory Committee when he became chief minister for the first time in 1998 but after denial of the ticket in 2012, he entered the fray as an Independent.

He parted ways with Dhumal and contested Lok Sabha polls against Anurag Thakur in 2014 as a Congress candidate but lost.

For the BJP, vote for the chief minister is the main poll plank in Hamirpur district and it has helped the party considerably.

Joginder Kumar Thakur (CPI-M), Parveen Thakur (BSP) and Ravinder Singh Dogra (NCP) are also in the fray but the main contest is between the Congress and the BJP.
With the medical tourism registering a global growth rate of 27 per cent, the Punjab government is also looking at the possibilities to boost medical tourism in the state which accounts for the one-third of the non-resident Indians (NRIs).

We have done our homework and major giants in the industry are ready to invest. We will use states land as equity under public private partnership. The medical tourism policy will be focused on medical facilities for NRIs, patients from abroad seeking economical medical treatment. Punjab has great potential in medical tourism with one third of NRI population is Punjabi, said Punjab Tourism and Culture Affairs minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu.

He said, the state witnesses nearly one lakh tourists in the holy city Amritsar on daily basis. He also said that the rich religious, historical legacy, rich tradition, culture, heritage, arts and handicrafts of the state provide access to more than 11 per cent of Indian population. Proximity to other larger markets like Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir is another major advantage, said Sidhu.

As per the recent figures, in 2016, Punjab has been ranked one in terms of foreign tourist visit with a whopping increase of 172.21 per cent. Similarly, the state was ranked at second spot with 50.03 per cent domestic tourist visits in 2016 as per the Union Ministry of Tourism. In the roadmap prepared for achieving targets set up for medical tourism in next 4.5 years, the state government has launched a campaign India Begins Here while aiming to hold a global summit on medical tourism.

The Tourism Department has also mooted a proposal to set up a state level medical tourism council, formation of the Punjab Association of Health Tourism while introducing special international health insurance of Punjabi NRIs. Punjab Tourism director, Shivdular Singh Dhillion said Punjab is very popular in the international community as Punjabis particularly Sikh Community have a presence in over 67 countries. Punjab is on the top in India so far as infrastructure like roads, bridges and rail is quite better than other states. He said the hospitals like All Indian Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) and Tata Cancer are upcoming.

Citing the global health trends in a detailed report submitted to the state government, the state Tourism and Cultural Affair Department has mentioned the human life expectancy has gone up to 90 years from 72 years in the last 30 years. While the United States, western Europe and middle east has aging population, Africa does not have any credible medical facilities of health care.

Aiming to bring out an exclusive medical tourism policy, the department has stated that major human organs like hip, shoulders and knees are not lasting as the population lives longer and the lifestyle related diseases are on the rise. The access to whole of central Asian countries, connected by road to Afghanistan and Pakistan which contributes over 25 per cent of Indian medical tourism in Punjab may further boost economy of cash starved Punjab in next four years.

Globally, a practice that continued for over 2,000 years, from the 18th century, wealthy Europeans travelled to Spain from Germany to the Nile. Medical tourism is diversifying from core medical treatment to prevent medical services, to luxurious health services, to the alternate system of medicines, to wellness. Medical tourism is a popular mass culture where people travel to overseas countries to obtain healthcare services and facilities such as medical, dental, surgical care, wellness whilst having the opportunity to visit the tourist spots of that country. Driving factors of medical tourism in India are the exorbitant health care costs in industrialised nation. Also, the long waiting list for surgery, favourable currency rate, giving proven safety of health in developing countries, growing International accreditation of hospitals in developing countries are among the other major factors.

Relaxation in Government Regulations

Ayurveda and Naturopathy treatment and greater natural heritage in making global patients to combine medication and tourism with medical tourists visiting home countries. Major destination for medical tourism are Thailand, India, South Korea, Singapore, Barbados, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, Malaysia, South Africa, France, Germany, Turkey, UK and US. Due to tourist places and visa relaxation the most popular destinations for medical tourism are Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea are much sought after nations.

India Medical Tourist Sector

India medical cost saving is 70 to 80 per cent, which is largest in the world. India has over 9.50 lakh world class English speaking professionals. India has over 25 lakh well trained nurses and the country is producing over 60,000 MBBS graduates per annum. Over 45 per cent of total revenue receipts of leading hospitals in India are from medical tourism. Over 60 per cent of Indian doctors have international qualifications. Chennai is termed as Indias health capital having 45 per cent share in Indias medical tourism market. Similarly, Bangladesh and Afghanistan contribute 34 per cent of the Indian medical tourism market. Also, Russia and Common Wealth Independent States shares 30 per cent of Indian medical tourism market.

Global cost savings trends in medical treatment
In 2013, Sister Niveditas one-storied house at 16 Bosepara Lane, Bagbazar, was officially acquired by the government of West Bengal from its erstwhile owners and handed over to the Archaeological Survey of India for restoration. The house has been renovated since and was unveiled a few days back on 23 October.

One wonders, however, if her reputation has been duly revamped and renovated too. Often the wallpaper of zeal and the glue of excited commemoration hides the cracks in the edifice beneath. Niveditas critical heritage as a social reformer and cultural and religious commentator is yet to be resolved: her contribution is yet to be truly put in perspective. The doubting Thomases have looked at Niveditas legacy quizzically. They have located her initiatives in a more pervasive sphere of fin-de-siecle or decadent end-of-the-century radicalism in Europe, which offered a heady blend of mysticism, socialism, suffrage, vegetarianism, homo-sexual politics and anti-imperialism.

These critics, mostly postcolonial, and quite recent, like Parama Roy, Ashis Nandy and Kumari Jayawardene have seen her as Margaret Noble, a stereotypical western seeker who assumes an easy continuity between her spiritual attachment to India on the one hand and her dis-identification from the spoils and circuits of imperialism on the other. Despite her strong sympathies for the claims of anti-colonial nationalism then taking shape in India, her detractors have always looked at Sister Niveditas spiritual proclivities with suspicion, refusing to accept the maturity and seriousness of her politics. The objections against her may be summarised as twofold.

The first set of reservations, drawing upon the nationalist idiom, are based on a narrowly orientalist typology. The second set invokes a broader, more liberal and Marxist thematic to announce the dramatic incompatibility of spiritual endeavour and progressive ethical and political capacity. In such a critical dispensation Sister Nivedita gets alienated as Margaret Noble, the Irish outsider, a mere collaborator with Swami Vivekananda, the nationalist-mystic, and her anti-colonial efforts are discredited on the grounds that her nostalgic spiritualism appealed exclusively to recessive strains within Indian nationalism, favouring orthodoxy and revivalism over rationalism and reformism.

In a letter dated 29 July, 1897 Swami Vivekananda wrote to Margaret Noble from Almora: India cannot yet produce great women, she must borrow them from other nations. Your education, sincerity, purity, immense love, determination, and above all, the Celtic blood make you just the woman wanted.  Vivekananda further added: Let me tell you frankly that I am now convinced that you have a great future in the work for India. What was wanted was not a man, but a woman, a real lioness, to work for the Indians, women specially.

Although Vivekananda invited her, he forewarned Margaret Noble about the adverse weather conditions in India, particularly the hot Indian summers and the discomforts she may have to face in a caste-ridden Indian society as a European woman. He alerted Noble to the misery, the superstition, and the slavery that were prevalent.

It was, thus, not an uncritical and emotional leap into the unknown for Noble but a decision reached in the light and shade of vision and a practical determination. For thirteen years she tirelessly dedicated herself to spreading education, taking care of people devastated by the plague, trying to eradicate superstition from Indian minds, and trying to achieve freedom for India.

Her works The Master As I Saw Him, The Web of Indian Life, Kali the Mother, Cradle Tales of Hinduism and others had a great impact on contemporary Indian society, far removed from the standards of westernised religion and belief systems.

It is interesting to note how Nivedita, an outsider, delved deeper into Indian customs and rituals than hardboiled nativists. In the essay What Books to Read, she advised the Indian youth to start with the Ramayana and the Mahabharata before trying to unravel Homer and Virgil. She felt that knowledge of the cultural heritage of ones own land was imperative for the progress of society. In the essay Revival or Reform, Sister Nivedita talked about the orthodoxies of cults and religions across the globe and stressed the need to cast away the insular sectarian dogmas in the larger interest of humanity.

As is evident, she started answering her postcolonial critics half a century before they could even formulate their objections. Though a Christian by birth and breeding, she had no hesitation in blaming the Christians for spreading insular dogmas.

The Kantian discourse against religion, Jacques Derrida reminds us in his essay Faith and Knowledge, makes a crucial distinction between two kinds of religious belief: the one dogmatic, the other reflective. Of these, it is only the first, religion of cult, which cannot be accommodated within the bounds of reason alone, in that its morally transcendent appeal to works of grace makes for an indolent morality in which doing (being) good is tantamount to doing (being) nothing.

Reflective faith, on the other hand, a moral religion entirely amenable to the limits of rationality, enjoins man to action by scrupulously withholding from him the certain knowledge of divine cooperation. Here lies the rub, however. Only Christianity gains, in Kants eyes, the prerogative of reflectivity. Of all the public religions that had ever existed, Christianity alone, according to Kant, was moral. And so, this discourse of and for the limit, and against the risky hybridity of prayer and desire, starts to limit the field of tolerance itself.

Margaret Noble had anticipated Kants diatribe and Derridas explication and comment on it. So far ahead was she of her times and its prejudices that in the introduction that Rabindranath Tagore wrote to the 1918 edition of her. The Web of Indian Life he insisted that Noble had metamorphosed into Nivedita because, she lived (our) life and came to know us by becoming one of ourselves. She became so intimately familiar with our people that she had the rare opportunity of observing us unawares.

As a race we have our special limitations and imperfections, and for a foreigner it does not require a high degree of keen sightedness to detect them. We know for certain that these defects did not escape Niveditas observation, but she did not stop there to generalise, as most other foreigners do. And because she had a comprehensive mind and extraordinary insight of love she could see the creative ideals at work behind our social forms and discover our soul that has living connection with its past and its marching towards its fulfilment.

In the journal The Queen (24 August 1904) a British commentator contrasted Niveditas sympathetic vision of India with the missionary documents or scholarly works by suggesting that it would be well if those who gather their impressions of the Indian Empire solely from missionaries, who travelled to India with preconceived (Kantian) ideas and little sympathy, or from the abstruse works of scholars, or the chatter of the AngloIndians, would do well to revise the impressions they gathered from these sources in the light of Niveditas scholarly and empathetic work. In her public lecture Kali, and her Worship delivered on 13 February 1899 at the Albert Hall in Calcutta, Sister Nivedita already made clear her difference of opinion with the missionaries: I see nothing in Calcutta today, which is more calculated, if we accept it thankfully, to strengthen and purify our thought of God as the Mother than the presence of a section who deny and distrust our worship. Instead of counter-attacking the missionaries, Sister Nivedita advised her audience to listen to the message of the Mother through their enemys utterances.

Christianity was the measuring device used by the British missionaries to judge India, its tradition, customs and rites. Christianity was used as an antithetical system of emancipation from the backwardness of Hindu practices when it came to the liberation of women.

Sister Nivedita waged almost a lone crusade against this closing of the western mind and the wrapping of Kantian sanction around its ideological perimeters. The great irony, after all these years, is that postcolonial Indian critics have used the same Kantian rat-trap to confine one of the great minds of the Indian renaissance of ideas in the late 19th century in the suburbs of national intellectual history.

Thus, when her abode is being revamped and rededicated to our grateful nation on the occasion of Niveditas 150th birth anniversary, may the house of her ideas be restored and made the subject of our edification too.

(The writers are respectively, assistant professor, department of English, Vidyasagar College for Women and visiting faculty University of Calcutta, and assistant professor, department of English, Lal Baba College and faculty, West Bengal State University)
Movies are meant to be seen in theatres  with darkness on all sides and a bright screen in front, with speakers creating a cocoon of sound, with fellow audience members heightening tension and amplifying laughs.

And despite my recent lament about the shoddy way too many theatres seem content to display the movies theyre showing to an extent that were it not for professional obligations, I would avoid theatres entirely, I still believe in the theatrical experience. Even in these dark days, the theatrical experience can still be revelatory. Christopher Nolans Dunkirk, for instance, was a movie made to be seen in cinemas  its crystal clear images blown up to the biggest size possible, its bone-rattling bombing runs inspiring involuntary flinches of terror.

Blade Runner 2049 is another example of a movie that needs to be seen on the biggest screen possible where its stunning vistas and complicated sound design can be seen and heard most effectively.

But making sure that experience is good for everyone can be tricky. Warner Bros domestic distribution president Jeff Goldstein emphasised that when I asked him about the challenges involved with showing Dunkirk, a film distributed in six different projection formats, including actual celluloid in 70mm, which is relatively rare but allows the filmmaker to capture more detail in each frame. So, the population of film projectors is really low.

Most of those projectors have been taken out of theatres and replaced with digital equipment, either 2K, 4K or better equipment. The niche locations that have film are few and far between. So what was interesting, just from an operational point of view, was to figure out how to do this, Goldstein said. Theatre operators, perhaps recognising the opportunity Dunkirk presented to get casual filmgoers back in theatres, stepped up to the challenge.

I have to say that exhibition embraced Chris and Warner Brothers in a really proactive and special way and said, OK, tell us how to do it. We dont have projectionists anymore  In many cases, we dont have equipment or if we have equipment  we dont know how to operate it and, quite frankly, it needs maintenance, Goldstein said. Its all sorts of different issues that were involved, and we figured out logistically and operationally how you get in there and bring all the equipment up to speed, and then how do you operate it.

So we provided projectionists in a lot of locations. We help train projectionists, and we used outside vendors who specialise in this very narrow field. Goldstein repeatedly highlighted the importance to Warner Bros of showing Dunkirk in the way that best shows off Nolans vision as a filmmaker  a key concern for studios who remain committed to theatrical distribution even as streaming increases in prominence. Consider the case of Amazon, a studio that, in theory, has the infrastructure and the customer base in place to skip theatres entirely and stream straight to homes. Contrary to Netflix whose executives openly sneer at theatrical exhibition  Amazon has stepped up their distribution efforts. This has a great deal of appeal to the people behind the cameras.

Filmmakers want to go where they feel their work is respected and where a company has the resources to deliver on their vision, Christine Vachon, the founder of Killer Films, told Variety when the industry mag covered Amazons increased efforts at distribution.

Amazon is delivering on all counts. But getting movies into theatres is only half the battle: you have to make the experience worthwhile for audiences. As Goldstein put it, Its one thing to advertise a show time and have a patron go to a theatre  you want to make sure that theyre seeing the perfect version every single time that movies shown.

Enter the team at IMAX, which has emerged as the gold standard in exhibition over the past decade or two. Ill admit to having been sceptical about IMAXs push into multiplexes  in large part because the screens are smaller than those we grew used to at museums  but over the past few years, IMAX has been the only format in which Ive yet to have a bad experience. In addition to properly training theatre workers and ensuring that the air quality in a screening room does not degrade the equipment, IMAX focuses on important-yet-oft-ignored technical matters such as bulb brightness. If something goes wrong at a theatre, IMAX employees can fix it almost immediately because the company literally has a command centre that monitors the quality of projection in real time.

All of our systems are connected to our INOC  our IMAX Network Operations Centre and theyre wired to that centre through the Internet, said Colin Smyth, IMAXs senior vice president of global theatre services. So for example, if a system calibration failed in a theatre in China  we would take action on that. And we would contact the theatre and perhaps remotely log in to find out why it failed and what we need to do to make sure that the system is being properly calibrated and that projectors are in alignment and the light output is, you know, right (and) it meets the standard and so on. The goal is to ensure that every audience member enjoys the same experience no matter where in the world he or she is a matter of some importance to the filmmakers who have come to rely on the IMAX brand.

When you look at a filmmaker like Christopher Nolan I think I can, I dont want to put words in his mouth  but you know we can guarantee filmmakers of that calibre, like JJ Abrams, your Zack Snyders, theyre not creating movies for you to watch them on a mobile phone or even a laptop. They are, we like to say, they dream in IMAX. They want to see their vision come to life in the biggest way possible, an IMAX spokesperson said. It is, perhaps, unrealistic to expect every single movie screen in America to be monitored in real time 24/7/365, as IMAX does.

But if you want audiences to share the dream in a theatre, as the original dreamer intended, then ensuring the highest-quality theatrical experience possible needs to be a bigger priority for everyone in the movie industry.

(By arrangement with The Washington Post Dawn/ ANN)
One of the most important reports to come out in the last few years is the August 2017 CSIR-NEERI report on poultry farms in India. The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) is an excellent scientific research institution. When I was Minister for the Environment I used them as my resource base.

The report has been done by a team of 8 scientists headed by Dr Rakesh Kumar the Director of NEERI, and SK Goyal the Senior Principal Scientist. Poultry farming means raising domestic fowls, including chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks for the production of meat and/or eggs. The total poultry population in India is 729.2million, which is 12.39 per cent higher than numbers in the previous census (Livestock Census, 2012).

The most common poultry breeds in India are: Broilers: Young males and females raised for meat. They grow from a hatch weight of 40 g to a weight of approximately 1.5 to 2 kg within 6 weeks only. Layers: Hens used for commercial egg production and then killed for meat. Layer chickens are raised from one day old. They start laying eggs at the age of 18- 19 weeks and continue till they are 72- 78 weeks of age. In nature, chickens exhibit a range of behaviour, including nesting, dustbathing, perching and roosting, scratching and foraging. Foraging is important as hens prefer to find their own plants, insects and seeds rather than take from a feeder. Chickens dust-bathe to balance oil levels in their feathers.

Nesting behaviour is triggered with a sudden rise in progesterone hormones. The need is so strong that a hen will push through a heavy swing-door to get to a nest box. They need regular movement and exercise to stay healthy. The space requirements of hens range from 475 square cm while standing, to 1150 sq cm while preening, to 1873 sq cm for flapping wings. On an average, if a chicken is to be healthy it needs a minimum of 5000 square centimetres.

The Bureau of Indian Standards, which is the most unscientific and outdated body in India, recommended 450 sq cm which is not practical for a hen even when she is resting. Poultries in India have followed this vicious and illiterate measurement. This is the reason why hens need antibiotics all the time and why people who eat chicken get ill so often. Caged hens are more fearful than those kept in cage free environments.

Small size of the cage, sloping wire floor, lack of nest boxes or perches and close proximity of other birds etc. results in suffering to the birds. Some of the serious issues with caged system are: Cage layer fatigue, beak trimming, forced moulting, transport, Fatty Liver Haemorrhagic Syndrome, osteoporosis, foot disorders, lesions and reproductive problems. In short, hens caged in this tiny space of less than A 4 square sheet of paper, called the battery cage, get sick. Studies show that even increasing the space, from about 300 square cm to 650 per bird, increases egg production, food consumption, enhances body weight and decreases mortality.

As of now, the eggs and meat you get from poultries are from very sick birds. So, the government allowed the use of antibiotics to keep them alive till they laid the required number of eggs, or reached the desired weight before being killed. Antibiotics have been routinely used in poultry production without proper regulatory limits. This unregulated use of antibiotics poses a serious threat of antibiotic resistance, affecting the health of consumers.

On 3 June, 2014, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture wrote a letter to all Directors/Commissioners of State Animal Husbandry Departments, advising controlled use of antibiotics in treatment of food producing animals and in animal feed. The Directorate General of Health Services, on 6 June, 2014, reiterated the directions to the State Drug Controllers. It has made no difference. In fact, antibiotic use has increased in poultries.

NEERI says Arsenic is fed to chickens to promote growth and weight gain with less feed. The long term exposure of arsenic can cause cancer. Growth hormones given to the fowls are another issue related to the health of the consumers. NEERI investigated the environmental problems related to poultry farming with respect to air, water and soil pollution. Poultry production is associated with a variety of environmental pollutants like ammonia, solids, nutrients (specifically nitrogen and phosphorus), pathogens, trace elements, antibiotics, pesticides, hormones and airborne bacteria. Besides, poultries attract flies, rodents, and other pests that carry diseases.

Poor management of manure, litter, and wastewater, adversely affects the environment. Besides, odour emissions from poultry farms generated from fresh and decomposing waste products, such as manure, carcasses, feathers and bedding litter and housefly infestation, affect the life of people living in the vicinity. Furthermore, intensive poultry production may be responsible for the emission of greenhouse gases, acidification, and eutrophication.

The scientists and the local Pollution Control Board visited six caged poultry farms and one cage free farm during February to May 2017: Water samples were collected from bore wells. Excreta samples were collected as this is used as manure in the fields. Air samples were collected from indoors and outdoors within the poultry. Feed grain samples were collected.

All farms with caged birds were found with similar poultry practices, therefore these are the observations: There are approximately 60,000- 70,000birds in each farm. There are 3- 8 sheds in each farm and each shed has three to four racks. Each rack has a length of 180 or 200 ft and each cage has a dimension of14x 18 x 15. Each cage houses 3-4 hens, which is insufficient and uncomfortable for them. The hens are unable to stand properly and stretch their wings. The hens are fed a mixture of grains and marble dust.

Each poultry farm had an unbearable odour due to the slurry formed at the bottom of each shed because of excreta, feathers, waste water,feed-wastes, dead hens. There was improper management, ventilation and aeration. According to the staff, the excreta slurry is sold every four to five months to local farmers.

A heavy formation of spider webs was seen in the sheds. Abnormality in the neck and foul smell from the hens was seen. Hens have to put their head and neck out of cage to feed and the wires scrape their necks creating lesions of which the staff were unaware. Stains of blood were observed on egg shells. Dead hens are thrown into a 20 ft pit and acid or salt is added over them. Subsequently, they visited the cage free poultry. There were 30,000-35,000 birds in deep-litter housing, with adequate space, proper ventilation, abundant sunshine, fan and water sprinkling system to control temperature conditions in summers.

The birds are able to express their natural behaviour like scratching, perching, dust bathing etc. The farm is found to be neat and clean. No odour and litter problem was observed in the farm in contrast to the battery cage farms. No mites and webs were observed. Each chick had 464.5 cm sq of space. Adult birds are allotted 2.5-3 sqft (2322.5 cmsq) of area each. Plastic feeders and water are placed in the housing and a 1.5 inch thick saw dust or rice husk layer is placed on the floor What did the ground water samples show from the caged poultries? Nitrates should be less than 45 milligrams per litre. Here it ranged from 60-171. Total dissolved solids (TDS) should be 500.It ranged from 753-1150. Organic phosphates shouldnt be there at all.

Here they were 0.76  0.80. Sulphates should be below 200. They went up to 286. Arsenic, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Lead and Zinc are heavy metals that should not be in food. Lead, for instance, gives everything, from mental retardation to cancer. The maximum tolerable level is 10 milligrams per kilogram. The poultries went from 10.1 to16.8 mg/kg in the feed grains and 13- 33 mg/kg in the excreta slurry. There should be no arsenic in the excreta slurry. NEERI found 0.2 milligrams per kg. Chromium levels were at 200-220 mg/kg . Iron levels exceeded the 500 limit going up to 597. In microbiology a CFU is a colony forming unit which is a unit that estimates the number of viable bacteria or fungal cells in a sample.

What bacterial load did the air have? There are no parameters made in India. Europe allows for a maximum of 10,000 cfu per cubic metre.The air inside the sheds was 650,000 cfu, and even more outside, making it deadly to breathe. What did NEERI conclude? The condition of closed-cage poultry farms is very poor when compared to cage-free poultry system. Odour generation and mites in the farms are two major problems in closed-caged system, which is not observed in cage-free system. Consumption of contaminated food from unhygienic poultry farms may result in diseases in humans due to Salmonella, E.coli and Campylobacter.

Based on the analysis of both the types, the following recommendations are made: Layered battery-cage systems should be replaced with cage-free housing and a fine should be levied on all poultries that do not make the change. The cage free housing must be such that it allows the birds to stand up straight, stretch their wings fully and provide reasonable opportunity of movement. Additionally, birds are to be provided without door access.

All new poultry farm should follow cage-free system. Concerned licensing departments should be instructed in this regard. The farm owner or the operator should ensure that the maximum housing density is not exceeded. Records of the floor area available to chickens, number of birds in the shed and the daily mortality, should be properly maintained. Cleanliness should be ensured.

Heavy spider webs, house-fly infestation, undisposed manure, odour from manure in the sheds and feed godowns of poultry farms indicate poor hygiene and attract mites, lice and parasites causing intestinal and skin infections. Outbreaks of bacterial, viral, fungal and communicable diseases, like Avian Influenza, Pox, Pasteurella, Coryza, Aspergillos is, become inevitable.

Farmers use the excreta as manure in the agriculture fields. Its toxicity should be tested before use. Use of formaldehyde for disinfection purposes should be documented because of its carcinogenic nature even with exposure in low concentrations. Residents living in the vicinity of poultry farms are prone to catch the bacterial and viral infections. It is recommended that guidelines be framed to define the placement of poultry farms. Existing laws and policies against animal cruelty should be re-evaluated on a stricter note and brought into action.

Regulations regarding the use of antibiotics must be made and their implementation ensured by the Government. Annual or six-monthly trainings maybe imparted by Central Avian Research Institute and Indian Council for Agricultural Research to poultry managers, staff, to practice good management in the poultry farms .

This report is lying with the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Agriculture. None of their officers seem to care about the health of humans or animals.

(To join the animal welfare movement, contact [email protected], www.peopleforanimalsindia.org)
BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday openly challenged the Congress to fight the upcoming elections in Gujarat on the development plank.

He accused the Congress of quoting false development related figures to put allegations on the BJP leadership, thus making a mockery of the serious issue of economic development.

Shah, who is on a five-day election tour of the state, echoed with exuberating confidence that Gujarat would return the incumbent BJP government back to the office and BJP would attain an enormous victory with 3/4th majority in the state assembly.

Shah, who was speaking at a press conference in Gandhidham, took a swipe at Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi by posing questions addressed directly to him. He asked Rahul why his party did not give permission to the Narmada project. He also asked him why the Congress did not give a special grant to Rann area in the Kutch region and why Gandhinagar was not granted the central government grant during the Congress rule.

Why for years together, injustice was done to Gujarat in the sharing of crude oil-gas royalty grant provided by the Centre? he said, adding that the Congress Vice President would have to answer these questions.

Amit Shah pointed out to the media that Congress and its leaders could only be seen during the elections. Once the elections are over, they just disappear, he said.

On the other hand, Shah termed the BJP rule in the state from 2001 till date as the golden period where the state was at its best in terms of administration, development, and improvement in services and government initiatives.

He added that the party, which had been in the Centre for more than 60 years and had little to show with regards to development, had no right to question the development model of Gujarat, which has made long strides.

In another public meeting, Shah highlighted BJPs achievements in the state saying, The condition of farmers has improved under the BJP rule. As many as 25 lakh unemployed youths got Rs 16,110 crore assistance (for self-employment) under the MUDRA Scheme. The milk production in the state went up from 46 lakh tonnes during the Congress government to 122 lakh tones during the BJP rule. The Modi government at the Centre has given gas connections to the poor and has helped them to open bank accounts. The production of food grains has touched 63 lakh tonnes annually.

Amit Shah challenged the Congress to compare the work done during their 60-year-rule at the Centre and the work done during Prime Minister Narendra Modis stint in the last three years. He said the people have understood who works for their benefit and very soon they would also let Congress party know the truth.
Nepal gearing up to draft agroforestry policy

Nepal is gearing up to draft a policy that promotes agroforestry in the country in what can be a breakthrough move towards protecting the forests and improving livelihood of farmers.
A German tourist, Holger Ereek, was beaten up allegedly by a railway supervisor for not acknowledging his greeting at the Robertsganj Railway Station in Uttar Pradeshs Sonbhadra on Saturday.

The injured German tourist was referred to Mirzapur hospital for treatment.

The accused, Aman Kumar, and Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwarihas have been arrested by the police and an investigation in the case is underway.

However, Kumar claimed innocence and said the German tourist attacked him first, when he said Welcome to India to him. Kumar has even alleged that the tourist spat on him, according to media reports. The victim has refused to talk to the media.

According to reports, Ereek was allegedly beaten up by railway supervisor Aman Kumar on Saturday after which the station master informed the police.

According to reports, the railway supervisor enquired the German national about his well-being, which angered him.

The German tourist hit the railway employee, who might have pushed him in retaliation. Based on the complaints of the two, non- congnisable reports have been registered. Their medical examination has been conducted, ADG (Law and Order) Anand Kumar told reporters in Lucknow..

The attack on the German tourist comes days after a Swiss couple was physically assaulted by a group of youths in Fatehpur Sikri in Agra. On 22 October, Quentin Jeremy Clerc and his girlfriend Marie Droz were attacked by a group of young men when they were strolling near the railway station at Fatehpur Sikri.

Clerc had alleged that a group of young men started following them and after passing comments, they forced the couple to stop so they could take selfies with Marie.

Five youths, including three minors, were arrested by Uttar Pradesh police for allegedly physically assaulting a Swiss couple in Agra.

The attack on the Swiss couple was condemned across party lines with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj seeking an immediate report from the Uttar Pradesh government into the alleged assault on the couple.

Earlier, Union Minister KJ Alphons had offered all-expense-paid hospitality at ITDC Hotel, The Ashoka, to the Swiss Couple Marie Droze and Quentin Jeremy Clerc.

Incidents of violence against tourists are not new to the historical city, as a German woman was allegedly molested by a hotel manager at Agra in 2017 and two Japanese tourists were gang-raped in the city in 2007.

Attack on tourists in Uttar Pradesh can be seen as a blow to Indias focus on promoting tourism in the country, as the historical city is already witnessing high-voltage political drama over the authenticity of Taj Mahal as a mausoleum, after Hindu religious groups alleged that the monument was initially a Lord Shiva temple.

(With agency inputs)
The opposition is planning to hold countrywide protests against last years demonetisation and the introduction of Goods and Services Tax, on November 8, calling it a Black Day. On this day last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had thrown a bombshell when he announced that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes were no longer legal tender.

Since then demonetisation has been the most hotly debated topic as it was said to have thrown the economy out of gear. Added to that was the July introduction of Goods and Services Tax which created confusion and discontent among the public. This was intended to rationalise taxation, which the government claims will be beneficial in the long run. Starved of issues to hit the Modi government, an amalgamation of 18 opposition parties including the Congress, Mamata Banerjees Trinamool Congress and the Left have declared that they will observe next Wednesday as a black day with protests and rallies in different parts of the country.

The catchline for the protests will be Bhugat Raha Hai Desh (the country is suffering). Also beginning November 8, for three days central trade unions plan to demonstrate against the Modi governments economic policies and its impact on both organised and unorganised sector workers. However, given that many regional rivals among these 18 parties, such as Trinamool Congress and Left in Bengal, Congress and Left in Kerala and SP and BSP in UP, have difficulties in lining up their respective supporters under one banner, each of these parties will stage their own protests.

While the opposition cannot fault the government for its fight against black money, it can only criticise the way demonetisation was resorted to without preparation. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said while the economy was able to withstand the torpedo of note ban, it could not withstand the GST one. Rahul Gandhi called the GST Gabbar Singh Tax referring to the notorious villain of the movie Sholay hoping that this might click in poll-bound Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh.

Modi has already made a strong pitch around demonetisation in his campaign rallies claiming the oppositions frustration was after losing huge chunks of black money. Senior politicians like P Chidambaram and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee have called demonetisation a big scam, which facilitated the conversion of black money. While the jury is still out on the impact, there is no doubt that demonetisation caused inconvenience to the public.

With the slowdown in sectors like real estate and finance, it seemed an inescapable conclusion that this decline in economic momentum was linked to demonetisation. Small traders and businessmen are affected by the introduction of the GST most while the consumers also feel the heat. Secondly, it has hit the informal sector, which employs about 90 per cent of the work force including daily wage earners, street vendors and others. There were also massive job losses, less spending by consumers and other related adverse impacts. Thirdly it hit credit growth.

Fourthly, World Bank had brought down the 2016 GDP to 7 per cent from the projected 7.2 per cent.The IMF had also brought it down to 6.7 per cent while the ADB had reduced the projection to 7 per cent. Fifthly, for demonetisation of currency notes, the RBI had to incur massive expenditure for printing of new notes.

To counter the opposition politically, the government is also planning to celebrate one year of demonetisation as Anti Black Money day on November 8 claiming that both GST and demonetisation are key structural reforms that will deliver massive benefits to the economy in the long run. Senior party leaders and NDA ministers will fan out and propagate the success of the reform measures. Much of the focus is on the economic consequences even though politics cannot be ignored. Modi has tried to project it as a dramatic measure to enhance his regimes fight against corruption. As a political decision it paid dividend particularly in UP, and projected Modi as a pro- poor leader. While the opposition is trying to take up the two economic issues for its political purposes, the government is on the defensive.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley argues that the impact of demonetisation cannot be determined solely by looking at windfall profits. He dismisses the Oppositions allegation that the note ban was a scam. The government is touting the benefits pointing out that almost ninety per cent of the demonetised notes have come back to the banking system. Secondly, people now realise that holding excessive cash at home is not good. It has instilled fear among tax evaders. Thirdly, Jaitley claims that the Income tax department showed a growth of about 41.79 per cent in the collection of Advance Tax under Personal Income Tax. Fourthly, after the demonetisation, over 37,000 shell firms were detected and registrations of more than one lakh shell companies had been cancelled. Fifthly, Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian claims that there has been a 20 per cent reduction in cash in the economy after the measure.

In the past year, Opposition parties have staged protests in different parts of the country but it did not result in a larger expression of dissatisfaction. It is not clear how effectively this divided strategy will work on the ground and also as an election issue. Will they be able to mobilise enough public support? How far will the confrontation go? Is there enough public anger for them to come out to the street? These are the questions next week might answer.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Sunday turned down a renewed offer from New Zealand to resettle some refugees from a Papua New Guinea (PNG) detention centre, the media reported.

About 600 men are refusing to leave a de-commissioned Australian centre on Manus Island saying they fear attacks from locals, reports the BBC.

Turnbull said he would not, at this time, take up the offer from his New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern.

The two leaders held talks here earlier on Sunday.

Ardern had said she could not ignore the human face of what Australia was dealing with.

Under a policy, Australia refuses to take in any asylum seekers trying to reach its territories unofficially by boat. Those who arrive are placed in camps on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea (PNG), and on the Pacific island of Nauru.

New Zealand first said it would take 150 of the asylum seekers in 2013, but the offer has been repeatedly rejected by Australia, the BBC reported.

Australia withdrew from the Manus Island centre on Tuesday, following a PNG court ruling that the centre was unconstitutional.

The men  most of whom have refugee status  have now lost access to running water, electricity and working toilets, and their food supplies are dwindling.

They have begun digging into the ground to find water and set up catchments to collect rain water.
Yemens Shiite Houthi rebels fired a long-range ballistic missile on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, a media report said.

The missile force of the army fired on Saturday night a long-range ballistic missile, Borkan H2, on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Houthis said in a statement posted on Saba, Xinhua news agency reported.

Meanwhile, the Saudi Government admitted that Houthi missile targeted the capital, saying the missile fell and exploded north of the airport, according to Saudi-run Al-Arabiya satellite TV.
Days after Islamabad summoned the British High Commissioner to lodge a protest over the display of anti-Pakistan slogans on London cabs, transport authorities in the British capital have ordered the immediate removal of offensive advertisements.

According to Radio Pakistan, the transport company confirmed initiating an inquiry into the matter while assuring disciplinary action against perpetrators of the malicious campaign.

The development came after Pakistani social media users spotted the cabs in London.

On Friday, the Foreign Office issued a statement saying: Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua called in British High Commissioner Thomas Drew to convey Pakistans serious concern over the controversial slogans.

It added: The High Commissioner is informed that Pakistan, in line with the UN Charter, rejects actions and advertisements with malicious content that impinge on our sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In September, Islamabad had summoned the Swiss ambassador over the public display of anti-Pakistan posters by a group in Switzerland.
Former President of Catalonia Carles Puigdemont on Sunday handed himself in to the Belgian police accompanied by his lawyer, according to Efe news agency.

Spain has issued an arrest warrant for the former regional, who is wanted by Madrid for actions related to his push for secession from Spain.

Puigdemont travelled to Belgium after Madrid took control of the region and now faces charges of rebellion, sedition, misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to the secessionist campaign.

On Saturday, Puigdemont called for a united Catalan political front in the face of the forthcoming elections. On Thursday, nine members of his sacked cabinet were ordered by Spains high court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial.
Iran has said that the resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is aimed at creating tension in Lebanon and the region, Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.

Hariris sudden resignation and the announcement of his resignation in another country is regretful and at the same time surprising, Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said in a statement.

It shows Hariri is playing in a field prepared by those who wish ill for the region, and the winner of this game is both Arab countries and the Zionist regime (of Israel) whose survival is contingent upon tension in regional Muslim countries, Qasemi was quoted as saying.

At a time when the life of the Islamic State and other groups in the region is coming to an end, efforts should be made to calm the situation and to fix the damage by terrorists trained and sponsored by the US and its regional allies, he said.

On Saturday, Hariri announced his resignation claiming that it stemmed from a rejection of Irans political over-extension in the region.

I declare my resignation from the premiership of the Lebanese government, with certainty that the will of the Lebanese is strong, Hariri said in an unexpected move in a televised statement he read from the Saudi capital Riyadh.

His country would be able to overcome political influence exerted by internal and external forces, he said, adding that the Islamic Republic (of Iran) has a desire to destroy the Arab world and has boasted of its control over the decisions of Arab capitals.

Irans hand would be cut off, Hariri said, adding that Lebanon would not play a role in destabilizing the region.

He also implicated the Lebanese Hezbollah Shiite group in what he views as Irans race to regional domination.

The Iranian spokesman rejected Hariris comments against Iran, saying that the resigned Lebanese premiers repetition of unfounded accusations levelled against Iran by Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United States bears witness to the fact that this resignation, too, is a new scenario to create new tension in Lebanon and in the region.

He maintained that but we believe that strong Lebanese people will easily pass through this phase too.

Iran has always wanted to see peace and stability in the Middle East countries and has defined its interests based on the security, stability and economic growth of all neighbouring and regional countries, Qasemi stressed.

Accordingly, top of Irans regional policies is to fight insecurity and instability as well as extremist and terrorist groups to ensure tranquillity for all countries, he added.
Mosques in Britain refused to perform the last rites of Salman Abedi, the suicide bomber who blew himself up at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester earlier this year, killing 22 victims.

The remains of the 22-year-old were flown to Tripoli in Libya, the country of his origin, where the burial was conducted, according to The Sun.

But he was still reportedly denied an Islamic burial ceremony.

After Manchester mosques refused to bury the remains of terrorist Salman Abedi, British authorities allowed his family to move him to Libya, where he was buried in Tripoli, claims Noman Benotman, of anti-extremist think tank Quilliam.

Abedi grew up in Britain and is thought to have visited the North African country from where his parents had emigrated regularly in the last six years.

Libya is a hotspot for the Islamic State (ISIS) terror network and Abedi is believed to have been trained in bomb- making by an ISIS explosives expert, a former car mechanic from the West Midlands region of the UK.

The news of his burial emerged as another media report claims the UKs intelligence officials missed key warnings that could have put the Manchester bomber under surveillance as a high-priority target.

The Sunday Times reports that the failure to act properly on the intelligence emerged in an MI5 internal review sent to UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd.

There were a few calls made regarding several bits of intelligence which, if judged differently at the time, would have turned Abedi into a high-priority case, an intelligence source is quoted by the newspaper as saying.

And when a target is judged a high priority, you should place them under surveillance. The greater the threat, the more resources you deploy for surveillance, he added.

The detailed analysis of all intelligence received in the build-up to the Manchester attack on May 22 is understood to focus on information passed to an MI5 regional office.

While the information was not considered of high significance when received, it was judged upon reassessment to be enough to have raised serious alarms about Abedi.

It had emerged last week that Libyan authorities are processing a request from Britain to extradite the younger brother of the bomber, Hashem Abedi, to question him on his role in aiding the attack at Manchester Arena.

Salman Abedi blew himself up at the end of the Grande concert in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Britain.

The 22 victims included seven children and more than 500 people were injured, with 112 people needing hospital treatment after the attack and 64 suffering very serious injuries.
Chameliya Hydropower Project: Technical glitch puts off transmission test

The test generation of the Chameliya Hydropower Project which was scheduled to begin on Saturday has been put off for 10 to 12 days after a problem emerged in one of the radial gates located near the power plants intake.
Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Snow this morning will give way to lingering snow showers this afternoon. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 100%. 3 to 5 inches of snow expected..

Tonight

Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this evening. Low 29F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%.


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Organisation: United States

US Embassy, US Mission in Uganda

Duty Station: Kampala,

Uganda

Salary Grade: FSN-7 Ugshs

46,440,981 p.a. inclusive of allowances

Vacancy Announcement Number: 34-17

Reports to: Information

Resource Center (IRC) Director

About US Embassy:

The United States Embassy in Kampala, Uganda has enjoyed diplomatic

relations with Uganda for over 30 years.

Ambassador Deborah R. Malac currently heads the U.S Mission to

Uganda. The Mission is composed of

several offices and organizations all working under the auspices of the Embassy

and at the direction of the Ambassador.

Among the offices operating under the U.S Mission to Uganda are:

United States Agency for International

Development (USAID)

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Peace Corps

Job Summary: The Information

Resource Center Assistant provides programmatic support to IRC programs and

promotes IRC services to target audiences within and outside the Mission. The IRC Assistant advises on collection

development and also recommends and implements innovative outreach programming

for target audiences. The assistant

supports mobile outreach efforts, including mobile spaces. The assistant uses electronic and traditional

resources to respond to inquiries of moderate complexity from the target

audience.











Experience: Qualifications, Skills andExperience:

NOTE: All applicants must address each selection

criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting

each item.

The applicants for the United States US

Embassy Information Resource Center Assistant job placement should have

completed secondary school with both O and A level is required. The applicant must possess a university

degree in business administration, liberal arts, or science

A minimum of three years of progressive

work experience in library services, office management, public relations,

or project management in a medium to a large organization is required.

Excellent service orientation,

communication and cross-cultural skills.



Proven ability to rapidly perform complex

reference services and work effectively with American and local

staff.

Ability to plan, organize, and carry out

assigned responsibilities, including a coordinated outreach plan. Work in close coordination with Public

Affairs staff to determine resource needs to support mission is required.

Extensive knowledge of electronic

retrieval and delivery tools.

Knowledge and understanding of standard

information science practices and procedures.

General knowledge of PD organization and

objectives.

Some knowledge of U.S. culture and society

as well as U.S foreign policy is required.

Language: Level IV (Fluent) in

both written and spoken English is required.

How to Apply:

All suitably qualified and interested candidates who wish to join the

United States Embassy in Kampala are encouraged to Apply Online by following

the instructions below;



under the careers page for US Embassy Kampala using the link, Click Here Applicants shall be required to registerunder the careers page for US Embassy Kampala using the link,

You will receive confirmation of

registration and proceed to apply.

On completion of this process you will

receive an auto response via your email.

NB: Applicants claiming a

U.S. Veterans preference must submit written documentation confirming

eligibility (e.g., Member Copy 4 of Form DD-214, Letter from the Veterans

Administration, or certification documenting eligibility under the VOW Act with

an expected discharge no later than 120 days after the certification is

submitted) by the closing date of the vacancy announcement. If the written

documentation confirming eligibility is not received in the HR office by the

closing date of the vacancy announcement, the U.S. Veterans preference will

not be considered in the application process. Specific criteria for receiving a

U.S. Veterans preference may be found in HR/OEs Family Member Employment

Policy (FMEP).

Deadline: 10th November 2017

The US Mission in Kampala provides equal opportunity and fair and

equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color

religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital

status, or sexual orientation. The

Department of State also strives to achieve equal employment opportunity in all

personnel operations through continuing diversity enhancement programs.
The abduction and rape of a leading actress in the Malayalam film industry, and the subsequent arrest of Dileepone of the biggest superstars in Mollywoodhas come to a turning point as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) will file the chargesheet in two days. Dileep will be named the seventh accused.

"All works related to the chargesheet have been completed, and it will be submitted in the court as soon as possible,'' DGP Loknath Behera told THE WEEK. According to him, the SIT is currently addressing some technical issues. "Apart from that, the chargesheet is ready, and we have solid evidence against the accused,'' he said. Behera said that the SIT had done "good work.''

"There is nothing like a perfect investigation. But I would call this a good investigation,'' he said. When asked about the delay, he said that certain cases were time-consuming. According to sources, the delay occurred as the prime witness turned hostile, and the SIT needed to rework the chargesheet.

Also, Dileep had filed a written complaint against Behera, before the chief minister, which caused further delay. The actor had alleged that the DGP had vested interests in the case and was deliberately trying to target him.

Sources in the know of the matter said that the chargesheet was stronger this time, as the police has gathered enough evidence. "Earlier, there was not enough evidence. But now, that is not the case,'' said the source. According to the police, the fact that Dileep was named the seventh accused did not reduce the gravity of his involvement in the crime.

"It does not make him any less of a culprit. It is just numbering, as six people have already been chargesheeted,'' said the source. According to him, there have been occasions where the 10th accused was found guilty, while the first accused was left free. "The position in the chargesheet means nothing," he said.

The actor was released on bail last month, after 85 days of judicial custody. The Kerala High Court had finally granted him bail after rejecting his plea four times. Dileep was arrested on July 10 this year for his alleged involvement in the actress assault case. He was lodged in Aluva sub-jail, after he was charged for conspiracy.

The abduction, rape and the following arrest of Dileep had shook up the Malayalam film industry like never before. "Malayalam industry will never be the same again,'' actor Sreenivasan had told THE WEEK, when asked about the incident.

READ MORE: A molestation case that exposed the sexist attitudes prevalent in the Malayalam film industry
Independent filmmaker Bornila Chatterjee has helmed a number of projects, be it a short film or a feature film, but when it came to convincing veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah to act for her in Indie feature The Hungry, it wasn't very easy.

The 100-minute film relocates Shakespeare's work Titus Andronicus to modern day India, where corruption, greed and revenge run amok at an extravagant wedding. In the adaptation, villain Tamora transforms into Tulsi (essayed by Tisca Chopra) and Titus transforms into Titus (essayed by Naseeruddin).

"With him it was interesting when it comes to convincing, because when he first met us he said: 'I think Titus is the worst thing Shakespeare ever wrote, why the hell do you want to make this. And we thought 'oh okay maybe this meeting is not going to go very well'," Chatterjee said on the sidelines of the sixth edition of Dharamshala International Film Festival.

"When we went to his house, he was literally just siting there having just finished reading the play. So we talked a bit about it and he asked similar questions like 'why now, why this, and we said that 'it was great to meet you and we are leaving this script if you can then please do read it'. He texted after a few hours that he 'loved the script and let's make it happen'.

"With everyone there is always a bit of convincing which is required but it is all a part of the process, " she added.

Why did she choose a story by Shakespeare which was so gory?

"For starters, the film came about as in 2015 in London, they were celebrating 400 years of Shakespeare. They basically decided that they are going to fund one Indian adaptation of a Shakespeare play because India shows tremendous interest in adaptations of Shakespeare plays. They wanted to fund one Independent micro budget film...That is how The Hungry happened," added Chatterjee, who has helmed projects like White Lillies and The Sun is Shining.

She also believes that the film and the context is pretty much relevant with the atmosphere today.

"This one really felt like something really very relevant. It's not something much about the violence as much as it is this face off between the families where you have a patriarch vs a matriarch," said Chatterjee.

The four-day Dharmashala International Film Festival 2017 ends today.

IANS
Cartoonist G. Bala was arrested in Chennai for criticising the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswamy, police and other district administration officials, reports emerged on Sunday.

His latest cartoon had criticised the state officials for the self-immolation of a family, caught in the hands of a loan mafia in Tirunelveli.

Daily wage labourer Esakkimuthu, who had taken a loan from two money lenders, and his wife Subbulakshmi set themselves and their two childrenMathi Saranya (4) and Akshaya Bharanitha (18 months)on fire.
One of the oddities of the current political scene is the compliments which the Shiv Sena has been paying to Rahul Gandhi.

The party's spokesman, Sanjay Raut, noted recently how the Congress vice president's "body language" has changed for the better and expressed faith in his credentials to lead the country since the Modi wave has "faded away".

As an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Sena wouldn't have been expected to be so forthcoming in its admiration for Rahul Gandhi even if it has come to regard the BJP as an enemy, as Raut has said, and called it "ghotalebaaz" or scamster in a booklet.

The surprise over the Sena's latest position is all the greater because it is by no means considered close to the Congress, although a BJP leader has said that the sainiks have always had a soft corner for the Congress ever since their supremo Bal Thackeray supported the Emergency. The Sena did support the Congress's presidential candidate, Pratibha Patil, in 2007 instead of the BJP's Bhairon Singh Shekhawat because she is Marathi, which is the only thing that counts for the Sena.

But hailing Rahul Gandhi as a possible prime minister denotes a completely different approach unless the Sena plans to walk out of the alliance with the BJP in Maharashtra and at the Centre.

Considering that the Sena chief, Uddhav Thackeray, has called upon his party men to prepare for elections, the possibility of a formal rupture between the two saffron outfits cannot be ruled out although the Sena has been blowing hot and cold for quite some time.

In fact, the Sena has never taken kindly to the BJP replacing it as the No 1 party in Maharashtra in 2014 since it apparently regards that position along with the chief minister's post as its birthright in case the Hindutva group wins.

The Sena is also aware that the BJP looks upon it as a burden of sorts because of its rough and ready ways which can put off some of the "national" party's more urbane followers.

But if the two have remained together despite the strains in their relationship, the reason is the fear that a break-up will only help the Congress.

The Sena, on the other hand, has come to believe that the BJP of today is not the BJP of 2014 although it may not go as far as Raj Thackeray of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to say that the BJP will lose in Gujarat.

It appears, therefore, that the Sena is turning up the heat vis-a-vis the BJP, perhaps as a bargaining procedure, and what better way to do so than by extolling Rahul Gandhi who is gradually emerging as the BJP's primary challenger from the opposition parties in his mother's absence because of Sonia Gandhi's indifferent health.

The Sena couldn't but have noted how the BJP is concentrating nearly all its attention on criticising someone whom it earlier used to derisively dismiss as the "shahzada" and who was lampooned as "Pappu" by the BJP's legion of foul-mouthed supporters in the social media.

All that satire and caricature are now very much in the past with the Congress's own band of followers on the Internet effectively countering the Hindu cyber warriors and Rahul Gandhi himself giving back to his detractors in good measure. The part-time, reluctant politician has seemingly come of age.

For the Sena, a BJP on the defensive is a godsent, for it will enable the party to lord over Mumbai and urban Maharashtra as before and not play second fiddle as at present.

It is obvious that the Sena and the MNS have limited ambitions. They do not look beyond the state of their origin, which has been their political arena since the party was formed in the mid-1960s by exploiting local sentiments and taking advantage of the Congress's slow decline.

All that the two parties led by estranged cousins want is to be the masters of all they survey in Maximum City and the small towns in Maharashtra. For the present, the Sena must be happy that it has an edge over the MNS, but that can change since both depend solely on the parochial Marathi vote, mainly of the lower middle class, which can hardly be considered stable.

The BJP, on its part, banks on the Hindu middle and upper middle classes and also the support of those who were expecting Narendra Modi to deliver on his promise of rapid development.

In its absence, however, the latter will tend to drift away, leaving the BJP with the pro-Hindu and anti-Muslim voters whom it will have to share with the Sena and the MNS.

The assembly elections in several states in the coming days will show whether the Sena has read the political tea leaves right about Modi's waning influence.

But even if it has misread the scene, its praise for Rahul Gandhi is noteworthy because none of the Congress's friends on the "secular" side of the political dividewhether the Rashtriya Janata Dal or the National Conference or the Marxists aligned with Sitaram Yechuryhave expressed high hopes so far about the Congress vice president's chances as the Sena has done.

Clearly, a process of political churning is on.

IANS
Three candidates withdraw nominations in Doti

Three candidates from two different parties have withdrawn their nominations in Doti district on Sunday.
A German national was beaten up by a group of people at the Robertsganj railway station in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday.

The police arrested one railway staff in this connection.

The incident comes days after a Swiss couple were attacked near the railway station at Agra's Fatehpur Sikri.

Robertsganj police reached the site of incident on the complaint of the station master and arrested railway staff Aman Yadav.

The accused, who says he is a railway engineer, has alleged that the German national first blew a fist at his mouth when the former greeted him, which led to a fight.

"I am innocent. The German national punched me when I said 'welcome to India' to him. He even abused me and spat on me," Yadav said.

According to Robertsganj Police, the accused began to question the German tourist about his whereabouts, but the tourist refused when he smelled alcohol in his breath.

The arrested accused has been handed over to the Government Railway Police (GRP), as the area of incident comes under its jurisdiction.

As per the Police, the German tourist, Holger Eric is a resident of Berlin who had come to visit Agori Fort when the incident took place.

The victim refused to talk to the media.

On October 22, a Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple was quoted as saying in a media report that they were strolling near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youths started following them and later attacked.

The couple said as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones, the report said.

All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism K.J. Alphons had dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

The couple were also offered a free stay in 5-star hotel in the national capital as a "token of concern" by Alphons.
A report by the US Government has affirmed that global warming is real and "extremely likely" caused by human activities, a stark contrast with President Donald Trump's position on climate change.



The 477-page report, part of a congressionally mandated review conducted every four years known as the "National Climate Assessment", showed that global annually averaged surface air temperature has increased by about 1.0 degree Celsius over the last 115 years.



"This period is now the warmest in the history of modern civilization," media reports quoted the assessment, officially titled the "Climate Science Special Report", as saying.



"The last few years have also seen record-breaking, climate-related weather extremes, and the last three years have been the warmest years on record for the globe," it said.



"These trends are expected to continue over climate timescales."



Based on extensive evidence, the report concluded that it is "extremely likely"  meaning a 95 to 100 per cent probability  that human activities, especially emissions of greenhouse gases, are the dominant cause of the observed warming since the mid-20th century.



"For the warming over the last century, there is no convincing alternative explanation supported by the extent of the observational evidence."



The report also warned that the magnitude of climate change beyond the next few decades will depend primarily on the amount of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide, emitted globally.



Trump once called climate change a "hoax" and his administration considered efforts to fight global warming just to "be a waste of your money", a position met with widespread criticism both at home and abroad.
Australia turned down on November 5 an offer to take 150 asylum seekers being held in an Australian-run detention centre in Papua New Guinea, where U.N. officials have warned a humanitarian emergency is unfolding.

About 600 men have barricaded themselves inside the camp on remote Manus island in Papua New Guinea, defying efforts by Australia and PNG to shut it. Food, running water and medical services were cut off by Australia five days ago.

Australian authorities want the men moved to a transit centre elsewhere on the island at the start of a process the asylum seekers fear will result in them being resettled in PNG or another developing nation. The men also fear violent reprisals from the local community.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Friday her country was willing to take 150 asylum seekers from among those held on Manus island and another camp on the tiny Pacific nation of Nauru.

Her Australian counterpart, Malcolm Turnbull, however said Canberra preferred to work through an existing refugee swap deal he negotiated with former U.S. President Barack Obama last year. Under that deal, up to 1,250 asylum seekers could be sent to the United States and Australia will in turn accept refugees from Central America.

We want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements, and then in the wake of that obviously we can consider other ones, Turnbull told Ardern during a media conference in Sydney.

Relocating the men on Manus island is designed as a temporary measure, allowing the United States time to complete vetting of asylum seekers.

Ardern acknowledged the two Tasman neighbours faced different immigration problems but said the offer remained open.

The camps on Manus island and Nauru have been key parts of Australias disputed Sovereign Borders immigration policy, under which it refuses to allow asylum seekers arriving by boat to reach its shores.

Australias offshore detention policies have been heavily criticised by the United Nations and human rights groups but are backed the centre-right government and the Labor opposition.

U.N. rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a news conference in Geneva on Friday about the unfolding humanitarian emergency in the Manus island centre, where asylum seekers have been reported digging wells to try to find water.
MAHATMA GANDHI WAS a constant presence in my family. Every letter that arrived at our home carried the name of the town where the Mahatma had built his last ashram. Mount Wardha was where I grew up. It is a short drive from the headquarters of the Malayala Manorama in Kottayam, Kerala. My parents chose this hillock to build their nest, Roop Kala. It helped that our cousins lived close by. As a kid, I often wondered why the elders named it Wardha. Maybe they saw Wardha as the last comma in the Mahatmas life story, I thought. Just before the full stop at Birla House on January 30, 1948. When I grew up, I found that there was a more pedestrian explanation. More about that later.

There is no full stop to the Gandhi story, is there? We are still discussing it, and, hence, this weeks cover. Another prominent assassination, too, is refusing to stay in the ground. President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992 stated that by October 26, 2017, the US National Archives would release the files of the investigation into his death. President Donald Trump had the power to stop the release of the files, but he did not.

Trumps clearing the release is in keeping with Section 2.2 of the act: All government records concerning the assassination of President John F. Kennedy should carry a presumption of immediate disclosure, and all records should be eventually disclosed to enable the public to become fully informed about the history surrounding the assassination.

For a journalist, that last line is most important: the right of the public to be fully informed about the history of their country. In 1992, the US Congress felt that 30-year-old secrets were inconsequential enough to be put online. But, even 70 years later, an Indian who wants to read the Gandhi files must go to the research room of the National Archives of India (NAI) and register to access the 67 digitised documents, spread over 11,186 pages. And, surely, the intelligence reports might not be there. How many governments balked at releasing the Netaji files! The Narendra Modi government released most of them, but the intelligence files are still under wraps, I understand.

Now, why must anybody read these files, you could ask. Fair enough. The agencies holding these files are competent enough to investigate, and what more can anybody find in them? Interestingly, quite a bit can be found by a diligent researcher. After Odisha-based researcher Hemanta Panda said that he could not find the final charge sheet of the Gandhi murder case and the order for the execution of

Nathuram Godse in the NAI, the Central Information Commissioner admitted that the archives did not have all Gandhi files. The CIC then issued a detailed order directing the Delhi Police to transfer all original records to the archives, in an attempt to consolidate records of the case. So, should more people read these files or not?

Now, about Mount Wardha. Long before our extended family bought the hillock, it was the haunt of leprosy patients, vagabonds and the like. So, it got the name varathakunnu (mount of outsiders). The family that bought it later picked a popular place name of those times, one that sounded like varatha. Hence, Mount Wardha!
Three suspected Indian criminals held in Pokhara

Three Indian nationals, who are on a wanted list of the Indian Police, have been arrested from Siddharthachowk in Pokhara. A Nepali youth believed to be their close aide has also been nabbed.
Sexual assault and other violent crimes against women are on the rise in the Flagstaff region, according to police and a victim advocacy group that records statistics for violent crimes against woman.

Flagstaff Police and an independent organization, Northern Arizona Care and Services after Assault (NACASA) noted increases in violent crimes against women this year to date.

These crimes include sexual assault, domestic violence and sexual assault during a domestic violence incident. An increase in medical examiners and more women reporting violent crimes are two possible explanations for the increase.

Arizona law defines sexual assault as non-consensual sexual intercourse or oral intercourse, meaning that groping or fondling a person is not sexual assault, but is still sexual misconduct.

NACASA has conducted 141 medical and forensic exams this year on women who say they have been sexually assaulted or attacked. The organization recorded 92 sexual assaults, 37 domestic violence incidents and 14 sexual assaults resulting from domestic violence.

The assaults recorded by NACASA occurred in Flagstaff, Page, Holbrook, Show Low and Springerville.

The number of violent crimes against women are slightly higher than 2016, when 135 incidents were recorded. However, this years numbers are already higher than the entirety of 2016.

NACASA Program director Jennifer Runge said an increase before the end of the year is a concern.

We are already over our total numbers from last year so I am worried about the rest of the year, Runge said. We usually see an increase in assaults during the holidays so these numbers will increase.

Native American woman have been the most affected by the increase with 44 percent of all violent crimes being perpetrated against them. Caucasian are the second biggest demographic with 35 percent reporting a violent crime to NACASA.

Northern Arizona University students are also disproportionately affected with 34 percent of all victims claiming they went to NAU.

Runge said NACASA began asking victims if they were NAU students last year.

NAU Police recorded 40 instances of rape and three reports of fondling in 2016. Current numbers were not immediately available.

Sexual assaults this year have occurred in the victims home 26 percent of the time and 43 percent of sexual assaults were allegedly committed by a friend or acquaintance, according to NACASA.

The 14 sexual assaults during domestic violence incidents were especially concerning to Runge, due to the fact they all have involved the victim being choked during an unwanted encounter.

We are seeing more sexual assaults with a strangulation component, Runge said. That component combined with domestic violence is something we are concerned about because we have not seen it before.

Runge said the increase in recorded assaults could be sign that more women are reporting violent crimes against them.

It could be that more people feel comfortable coming to us or law enforcement, Runge said. It could also be that having more volunteers to do medical and forensic exams have allowed more women to report assaults.

NACASA has dramatically increased the number of volunteer-nurses qualified to give medical and forensic exams. The organization has 17 volunteers-examiners in five locations across the county this year, which is 12 more than last year, according to records from the organization.

A different standard

Flagstaff Police have also noted an increase in sexual assaults this year but their numbers differ drastically from NACASAs.

Police have reported 35 sexual assaults in Flagstaff this year, a 43 percent increase from last year. Five of those reports stem from incidents that occurred in 2016.

Those numbers are small compared to the 108 incidents reported to NACASA.

Flagstaff Police Spokesman Sgt. Cory Runge, who is the spouse of Jennifer Runge, said the numbers are different because police are required to meet the legal definition of sexual assault in order to label the incident as such.

We define sexual assault the way Arizona Revised Statute defines sexual assault, so if we dont have enough evidence to substantiate that a crime occurred we cant call it a sexual assault, Cory Runge said. NACASA starts by saying that the event did occur and sends testing kits to law enforcement.

Jennifer Runge echoed that sentiment by stating that NACASA gives forensic exams to anyone who says they were assaulted and allow law enforcement to find the facts of the case.

Sexual assault test kits are sent to the Arizona Department of Public Safety Crime lab where they are tested if they give a report to police. Flagstaff Police hold onto test kits for women who do not want to submit a police report. Those kits are not tested until a report is filed.
Elections 2017: UML asks rebels to withdraw candidacies

The CPN-UML, which leads the left alliance with CPN (Maoist Centre), has warned rebel candidates of stringent action if they failed to withdraw their candidacies.
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Capital Region voters on Tuesday get to make choices about two potential tweaks to the state constitution, and the prospect of calling a convention to retool that document. They'll also select local community leadership and, in Saratoga Springs, decide on the fate of proposed changes to how government works.

This year's general election comes 100 years after women won the right to cast a ballot in New York State  three years earlier than much of the United States. It was a hard-fought battle.

Many of us will be able to don a "I Voted" sticker that honors that legacy and carries the image of "General" Rosalie Jones, a New York suffragist who led a hike from New York City to Albany in December 1912.

Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Click here for more coverage of Tuesday's elections.

Here's a snapshot of what's facing the women and men at the Capital Region's polling places.

Statewide

Every 20 years, automatically, New Yorkers decide whether to hold a constitutional convention. Some of the state's strongest unions, along with several environmental advocates and women's groups, hate the idea, fearing politicians could make any changes that would hurt pensions, forest protections and civil rights. Numerous good-government groups and a former chief justice are among those in favor of holding a convention, arguing that it could lead to enhanced protections for all of the above, plus elusive ethics fixes that have failed to find favor from the Legislature and multiple governors. State voters will also decide two constitutional changes: one that would allow for the stripping of public pensions from corrupt officials, the other creating a 250-acre "land bank" to ease certain kinds of development within the state forest preserve without diminishing its size.

Saratoga County

Saratoga Springs voters also have a yes or no question to answer: whether or not to OK a charter that ditches the unique commission form of government. It has become one of the most divisive issues in years. In addition, Republican Mark Baker and Democrat Meg Kelly hope to succeed Mayor Joanne Yepsen. Mechanicville has a mayoral race, and supervisor hopefuls vie in towns including Malta, Wilton, Moreau and Milton.

Rensselaer County

In one of the region's most high-profile races, state Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin  who defeated Chris Meyer in a tough Republican primary  faces Democrat Andrea Smyth and the Green Party's Wayne Foy in an effort to succeed Kathy Jimino as county executive. Rensselaer mayor, Troy council and a few town supervisor seats are up as well.

Albany County

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan has three rivals, but all appear on third-party lines. Nine of the 15 Common Council races are more contested, with choices for treasurer, auditor and judge on the ballot. Supervisor seats are up for grabs in Guilderland, Colonie, Bethlehem, Knox and Coeymans.

Schenectady County

Niskayuna Town Superintendent Joe Landry faces newcomer Yasmine Syed. Rotterdam and Princetown supervisor candidates do battle. Schenectady residents decide on three city council seats, and a county legislative seat is in play.

Judges

As well as numerous town and city positions, Jennifer Sober and Philip Danaher seek to be Rensselaer County Court judge, and Peter Crummey and Julian Schreibman are vying for a state 3rd Judicial District seat for Albany, Columbia, Greene Rensselaer, Schoharie, Sullivan and Ulster counties.

More information

Board of elections

Albany County: 518-487-5060

Rensselaer County: 518-270-2990

Saratoga County: 518-885-2249

Schenectady County: 518-377-2469

For full results after the polls close, see timesunion.com and Wednesday's edition of the Times Union.
Albany, N.Y.

Given how the Russians have been trying to deepen our cultural and political divides, I consider it my patriotic duty to suggest that Americans might agree on more than we think.

I know it doesn't feel that way. It seems as though the country is pulling apart, with liberals and conservatives increasingly seeing each other as not just wrong but evil.

That's good for business at MSNBC and Fox News, and it helps partisan fundraising. But it isn't good for the country  as Vladimir Putin knows.

More Information Contact columnist Chris Churchill at 518-454-5442 or email cchurchill@timesunion.com See More Collapse

Why else would the Russian government buy Facebook ads calling Hillary Clinton a "lying murderous criminal" while sponsoring ads that urge protests against a racist and sexist Donald Trump? Or ads touting both the Black Panthers and the Confederate flag?

It's the old divide-and-conquer technique, courtesy of the world's greatest no-goodnik. If nothing else, Putin must enjoy watching us bicker.

But as A. Barton Hinkle noted in a recent piece for Reason, our disagreements are exaggerated. We actually agree on quite a bit.

For example, 85 percent of Americans think undocumented immigrants brought to the country as children  the so-called Dreamers  should get to stay, according to a Politico poll.

Yet 80 percent of Americans disapprove of so-called sanctuary cities where officials refuse to cooperate with federal immigration laws. That's according to a Harvard-Harris survey.

Whaddaya think of that, Vlad? Who's bickering now?

OK, we are. On social media and everywhere else.

Nevertheless, you can find solid agreement even on cultural issues that have long been bitterly divisive.

Think Americans can't agree on guns?

Well, 96 percent of respondents told Gallup they want universal background checks for firearm purchases  while 71 percent said handguns should be legal. We're Second Amendment moderates!

Meanwhile, 73 percent of Americans support allowing euthanasia. Nearly as many back gay marriage.

And abortion?

There, we remain split. According to Gallup, 49 percent of Americans identify as generally pro-choice and 46 percent consider themselves pro-life.

But within that divide, there's more agreement than we might assume.

Roughly 60 percent of respondents have told Gallup that abortion should be legal during the first three months of pregnancy, while a similar percentage have said the procedure should be illegal in the second three months.

That jibes somewhat with a recent Marist poll in which 59 percent of respondents said abortion should be illegal after the 20th week of pregnancy except when the life of the mother is at risk.

OK, a few caveats are in order.

First, polls are fallible. They are subject to manipulation. So I've tried to use examples here from reputable pollsters whose results are backed by more than one survey.

Also, just because a majority of Americans believe something doesn't mean it is right. Majority opinion is often proven wrong by history, and as Mark Twain wrote: "When you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to reform (or pause and reflect)."

Good advice, Mr. Clemens.

Still, considering the agreement on even the most controversial topics, you have to wonder why our politics doesn't better reflect the consensus. Where's the compromise?

There are books written on the topic, but at the risk of oversimplification, it's obvious that our system doesn't reward moderation.

Partisan special-interest groups and voters dominate the primaries and give the most money, and smart politicians fear their wrath.

And so Republicans, mindful of the NRA and its loyalists, reject small yet popular steps on gun safety. And so Democrats, mindful of Planned Parenthood and its loyalists, reject any attempts to limit abortion in the later months of pregnancy.

"We've worked too hard and come too far to cede our rights to anti-choice extremists," tweeted U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko, the Democrat who represents Albany and surroundings, about recently proposed legislation that would prohibit most abortions after 20 weeks.

I don't mean to pick on Tonko, as there are examples of similar language from other members of Congress  and from our governor. But describing Americans with different yet common views as "extremists" doesn't win converts and certainly isn't the path to a less-divided future.

Let's turn to state politics, where there are also areas of widespread agreement.

In a new Siena poll, 84 percent of New Yorkers said members of the state Legislature should be term-limited, while 79 percent said the governor and attorney general should be, too.

Nearly 80 percent favored ending the so-called LLC loophole, which allows deep-pocketed donors to give unlimited amounts of difficult-to-trace contributions to New York politicians.

So what, do you think, are the chances that state lawmakers will submit to the desires of the public by limiting their terms and ability to rake in money?

We can all agree on the answer, so say it with me: Slim and none.

cchurchill@timesunion.com  518-454-5442  @chris_churchill
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Beirut

With new losses, the Islamic State group has been driven from more than 96 percent of the large parts of Iraq and Syria it once held, crushing its goal of establishing a "caliphate" that challenges existing borders.

The militants are left fighting for a final stretch inside Syria and desert regions along the Iraq-Syria border. Three years ago, they had defiantly erased that line, knocking down berms marking the frontier.

Since then, they have lost infrastructure, resources, supply routes, control over about 8 million people and  most importantly  administration of a contiguous territory. The extremist group may still prove to be a major challenge for months as it turns to a clandestine insurgency.

On Friday, Syrian President Bashar Assad's military announced the capture of the eastern Syrian city of Deir el-Zour, while Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi proclaimed victory in retaking the town of Qaim on the border, the militants' last significant urban area in Iraq.

What the group lost in the last 11 months, and what is left:

Qaim

Iraqi forces' last conventional military fight against IS played out in Qaim, on the western edge of Anbar province along the border with Syria. Operations began there in the last week of October. On Friday, Iraq said it now controls the town and the nearby border crossing with Syria.

The crossing in the Euphrates River Valley was used by IS to move fighters and supplies between the two countries when the group controlled nearly a third of Iraqi territory.

Brett McGurk, the U.S. envoy for the fight against the Islamic State group, said Thursday the group is now facing "annihilation" with the losses in western Iraq and nearly 96 percent of its territory. He earlier said 6.6 million people have been liberated as the group lost over 35,000 square miles in the last year.

The Islamic State "has not reclaimed a single meter of this ground. Migrant and refugee flows reversed," McGurk tweeted Thursday.

Deir el-Zour

The Syrian government declared Friday that it has taken full control of Deir el-Zour, where its troops and tens of thousands of civilians have been besieged by IS militants for nearly three years.

Gen. Ali Mayhoub, spokesman for the Syrian army, called it a strategic victory, noting Deir el-Zour's location on a crossroads linking Syria's eastern, northern and central regions, and its role in distributing the province's oil.

Mayhoub said IS militants are now isolated and encircled in the countryside east of the city. Government forces are focused on Boukamal, the last IS urban center in Syria.

Kurdish forces backed by the U.S. also are making a bid for the strategic border town from the other side of the Euphrates, renewing fears of a confrontation between the two forces seeking to control the border area.

Raqqa

Raqqa, the IS group's de-facto capital, fell to Kurdish-led forces on Oct. 17, four months after operations to reclaim it began. The city was the group's hub of operations, and its capture was a major symbolic blow.

The first city to fall into IS hands, foreign fighters flocked to Raqqa. The U.S.-led coalition estimated that 40,000 fighters from Europe, North Africa and Asia once flowed into IS territory.

The group carried out beheadings and other killings in a public square in Raqqa to try to project its ruthless nature. The city also was the center of its media operations, where videos about the benefits of life under IS were produced.

Planning for some of the major violence in Europe was traced to Raqqa, including the deadly attacks in Paris in 2015 and in Brussels in 2016.

Mayadeen

On Oct. 14, the Syrian government said its troops and allied fighters seized the town of Mayadeen, on the western bank of the Euphrates River. The town had become a refuge for the militant group's leaders from fighting in Raqqa and Deir el-Zour to the north and Iraq to the east.

Mayadeen was also a major point in the race for control of the oil-rich eastern Deir el-Zour province. Washington has feared advances by Syrian troops and allied fighters toward the Iraqi border could help Iran expand its influence in the region and establish a "Shiite corridor" of land links from Iraq to Lebanon, and all the way to Israel. Iran backs militias fighting alongside the Syrian military.

The Syrian government had feared that U.S.-backed forces would get to Mayadeen first, but the militants pulled back a few days after the battle began, disappearing into the desert.

Hawija

It took 20 days to liberate Hawija, depriving IS of its last significant urban area in Iraq.

Iraqi forces fought alongside the Kurdish peshmerga to retake the city in oil-rich Kirkuk province on Oct. 10. Hundreds of IS fighters and their families surrendered to the Kurdish forces.

The fall of the city also eliminated a unifying factor for the peshmerga and the Iraqi military and federal police along with their Shiite militia allies. That opened the way for the tension that followed among the former allies.

Tal Afar

The town was liberated by coalition-backed Iraqi forces Aug. 30, ending the IS presence in northern Iraq. Thousands of IS fighters and their families turned themselves over to Iraqi and Kurdish forces as the town fell, the first instance of mass surrenders of IS fighters on the heels of a military victory.

Unlike the nine-month battle for Mosul, the swift military victory in Tal Afar was the first sign of the battlefield losses had weakened IS as a conventional military force, according to the coalition.
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Conyers, Ga.

Last November, election officials in a small Rhode Island town were immediately suspicious when results showed 99 percent of voters had turned down a noncontroversial measure about septic systems.

It turned out that an oval on the electronic ballot was misaligned ever so slightly and had thrown off the tally. The measure actually had passed by a comfortable margin.

The scary part: The outcome might never have raised suspicion had the results not been so lopsided.

Amid evidence that Russian hackers may have tried to meddle with last year's presidential election, the incident illustrates a central concern among voting experts  the huge security challenge posed by the nation's 10,000 voting jurisdictions.

While the decentralized nature of U.S. elections is a buffer against large-scale interstate manipulation on a level that could sway a presidential race, it also presents a multitude of opportunities for someone bent on mischief.

With a major election year on the horizon, the Homeland Security Department has been working with states and counties to shore up their election systems against tampering.

States vary widely in what they are doing to tighten security. Colorado and Rhode Island have adopted more rigorous statistical methods for double-checking the votes, while others are making or weighing changes to their voting technology.

"Always, there's been a hypothetical. But clearly, now it is a real threat," said Noah Praetz, election director for Cook County, Ill. "The fact that we now have to defend against nation-state actors  Russia, China, Iran. It's a very different ballgame now."

Last year, Homeland Security disclosed that 21 states' election systems had been targeted by Russian hackers. There was no evidence they actually penetrated the systems. Experts likened the activity to a burglar jiggling a doorknob to see if it is locked.

In the U.S.  from presidential races down to school board contests  elections are run to a very large degree by local governments, usually counties. County election offices across the nation oversee some 109,000 polling places and more than 694,000 poll workers, and rely on a patchwork of voting technology, such as optical scanners and touchscreens.

Small counties are less likely than the larger and wealthier ones to have cybersecurity expertise and the latest technology.

"The proverb that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link is certainly applicable to our efforts to secure elections," Brian Hancock, director of the testing and certification division for the U.S. Election Assistance Administration, said in a blog on his agency's website.

After the "hanging chad" debacle in Florida threw the 2000 presidential election into confusion, Congress designated $3 billion to help states modernize their election systems.

But those machines are now more than 10 years old. A 2015 study by the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University Law School found that more than 40 states were using machines that were no longer being manufactured, and some election officials had to go onto eBay to find replacement parts.

In September, Virginia banned touchscreen voting machines in next week's closely watched gubernatorial election because of security concerns. Several counties had to scramble to buy replacements.

Georgia, one of five states where voting machines produce no paper trails, is testing out new ones during municipal elections in Conyers, an Atlanta suburb. Voters enter their choices electronically and are then given a paper copy. If the paper looks correct to them, they feed it into a machine that counts their vote.

"This is a wonderful step forward," said James Cabe, a 37-year-old college instructor from Conyers. "I like looking at a piece of paper and verifying that it's the vote I cast."

Georgia officials have estimated it could cost over $100 million to adopt the machines statewide.

In January, Homeland Security designated the nation's election systems "critical infrastructure," on par with the electrical grid and water supply.

A 27-member council has been formed with representatives from federal, state and local governments. The group held its first meeting last month in Atlanta, and a key priority is establishing a process for sharing intelligence.

"It would take a substantial effort to impact our elections, and one that we think is very hard to do," said Bob Kolasky, the acting deputy undersecretary at Homeland Security overseeing the program. "And we are going to make it harder to do."

One step is to provide security clearance to a top election official in each state. So far, 23 states have signed up. The department also has been working with 30 states and 31 local governments to scan their networks for vulnerabilities and provide cybersecurity recommendations.
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ROTTERDAM  The American Red Cross said it is assisting five people after fire damaged the Taylor and Vadney Sporting Goods store on Broadway late Saturday night.

Pictures shared on the Daily Gazette's website shows flames shooting out of an upstairs window of the building, possibly an apartment, along with the blaze coming through the roof at 3071 Broadway.
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STONY CREEK  Two men were arrested in the wee hours of Saturday after they allegedly shot at and damaged National Grid transformers. Roughly 200 homes were left without power for several hours while National Grid crews replaced the transformers.

Moses Corliss, 18, of Stony Creek and Trevor Bunting, 18, of Hadley each were charged with six counts of criminal mischief and one count of criminal tampering after their overnight arrest, according to the Warren County Sheriff's Office.
[November 04, 2017] Top 3 Drivers in the Global Orthopedic Medical Imaging Market | Technavio

Technavio market research analysts forecast the global orthopedic medical imaging market to grow at a CAGR of more than 5% during the forecast period, according to their latest report. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171104005072/en/ Technavio has published a new report on the global orthopedic medical imaging market from 2017-2021. (Graphic: Business Wire) The report has further categorized the global orthopedic medical imaging market into two types, based on product type (X-ray systems, CT scanners, MRI scanners, ultrasound systems, and nuclear imaging systems) and geography (the Americas, EMEA, and APAC). This report is available at a USD 1,000 discount for a limited time only: View market snapshot before purchasing Buy 1 Technavio report and get the second for 50% off. Buy 2 Technavio reports and get the third for free. Technavio analysts highlight the following three drivers that are contributing to the growth of the global orthopedic medical imaging market: Increasing incidence of orthopedic diseases and bone injuries

Increasing demand for 3D medical imaging equipment

Reimbursement penalties causing increased adoption of advanced imaging equipment Looking for more information on this market? Request a free sample report Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report including the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Increasing incidence of rthopedic diseases and bone injuries



There is a rise in the occurrence of many orthopedic diseases and bone injuries such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and serious limb trauma. In the US, in 2017, 54.4 million adults had arthritis according to the CDC and the number is expected to reach approximately 60 million by 2025. Around 75 million people across the world had rheumatoid arthritis in 2016. In the US, in 2014, approximately 16.95% of adults above the age of 50 had osteoporosis and low bone mass. According to Gaurav Mohindru, a lead analyst at Technavio for medical imaging research, "More than half of all serious limb trauma patients in developed countries who require hospitalization are hurt by falls. One-fifth are injured in road traffic accidents and a similar proportion from the use of machinery and tools. To assess the patient's condition in case of such orthopedic diseases and bone injuries medical imaging is required. This is expected to drive the orthopedic medical imaging market during the forecast period."

Increasing demand for 3D medical imaging equipment The global orthopedic medical imaging market is growing due to technological advances and product innovations. When compared to other imaging modalities such as conventional fluoroscopy or X-rays, 3D imaging can enhance orthopedic care by improving the examination of bone detail and implant position. Medical imaging has been revolutionized due to the emergence of 3D holographic imaging. OnSight 3D Extremity System software offers high-quality images when compared to traditional CT images by increasing the contrast of soft tissue and reducing the visibility of metal artifacts. Many key vendors have incorporated this technology into their products after realizing its importance. For instance, Siemens (News - Alert) Healthineers launched a mobile C-arm, which is called Arcadis Orbic 3D. Reimbursement penalties causing increased adoption of advanced imaging equipment There has been a reduction in the reimbursements for several diagnostic medical imaging procedures that use film and cassette-based technology and CR X-rays across the globe. When compared to film and cassette-based technology, the X-rays have advanced digital technology. In contrast with film and cassette-based technology, the digital X-ray systems are more accurate, fast, and convenient. "The US Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act that included a new public health policy, which has revised its policies to incentivize users to switch from film and cassette-based radiography systems to fully digital X-ray systems. In countries such as France, if the equipment is more than five years old, the reimbursements are reduced by half. Regulations in countries such as Romania and Bulgaria prevent hospitals from purchasing old equipment using loans provided by the state. Such reimbursement penalties are increasing the adoption of technologically advanced imaging equipment," says Gaurav. Browse Related Reports: 3D Medical Imaging Equipment Market in the US 2017-2021

Global Fluoroscopy Equipment Market 2017-2021

Global Vascular Imaging Market 2017-2021 About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 10,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at [email protected]. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171104005072/en/

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Golden Ghetto Domestic Drama Gun Blasts Just Now: Overland Park police take man into custody for aggravated assault
THANKFULLY . . . KANSAS CITY MORNING NEWSIE MARK ALFORD OFFERS THIS BIT OF 1ST PERSON VIDEO BLOGGING SHOWING HIS QUICK AND CONVENIENT KANSAS CITY AIRPORT JOURNEY!!!

1st person journalism has been rare in the New Kansas City Airport Question #1 airport debate in much the same way that the process has been secretive and sketchy . . .Take a look:There's no advocating here one way or another . . . Just a documentation that myth-busts so many arguments made by paid online consultants.You decide . . .
Peace conference highlights community involvement to end violence KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- A peace conference over the weekend focused on working with the community to create peace and put an end to violence. Kansas City police are doing something similar in their East Patrol Division, but Captain Stacey Graves says they need help from the public to curb the violence.

Very committed and good people talk about working to create understanding among more violent residents with which they have nothing in common:
Inside the Brookside investigation: The evidence seized from David Jungerman's van For the first time, KCTV5 is getting a look inside the investigation into the murder of well-known attorney Tom Pickert. Pickert was killed one week ago outside of his Brookside home. He recently helped a man with a $5.75 million judgment against David Jungerman.

We talked about the demand for more reporting and connections touted in the media. And now here it is . . .
T-Mobile and Sprint finally, officially, say they definitely won't merge T-Mobile USA and Sprint today finally gave a definitive answer about whether they will merge, saying that the companies have stopped negotiating and will remain independent entities. The wireless carriers "were unable to find mutually agreeable terms" and want to "put an end to the extensive speculation around a transaction," they said in a joint announcement.

A minor win for a nearly abandoned JoCo campus and so many telcom workers who justifiably welcome their luck holding out for just a while longer . . . As do we all . . . Here's the best write-up on the sordid American economic tech outlook:
"Community leaders are launching the Healthy Homes ballot initiative petition for rental housing inspection ordinance in KCMO."

Quick glimpse at a community based effort in order to encourage better living conditions for Kansas City po'folk . . .The argument against this bit of advocacy follows the same line as rent control in NYC . . . The impact might actually lead to higher prices and even less housing availability.In the meantime, a coalition of social justice workers seek to put this effort on the April ballot and will be out in full force at local polling places on Nov. 7th.Developing . . .




Tom Pickert had just finished walking his kids home from school when he was gunned down.









David Jungerman matches the descriptions of witnesses at the scene according to KCTV5.





Police have not yet named Mr. Jungerman as a suspect or a person of interest despite their claims that the murder of Mr. Pickert was " targeted " in order to reassure panicked Brookside residents.

DEMOCRATIC PARTY STRATEGISTS ARE CLOSELY WATCHING THIS CASE AND PREPARING TO USE IT AS PART OF A MIDTERM ELECTION 2018 CAMPAIGN ONSLAUGHT AGAINST PREZ TRUMP AND THE GOP!!!

"What you have here is a progressive family struck by tragedy as they're working to make the world a better place. A lawyer defending the rights of a homeless man was brutally gunned down. In the aftermath of his death there's a connection to the gun-toting right-wing supporter of President Trump. A guy who has had problems with shootings beforehand and never should have had access to weapons. Of course we have to wait for the outcome of the investigation but the story of the murder is powerful in its own right and demonstrates that progressives face horrible risks in helping to change things for the better."

"Some of the comments, from your blog and others, just prove our point. Trump supporters and those who would spit on the grave of this man and his family are trolls and unworthy of leadership. This might be a game changer that exposes the bullying of the 'alt-right' and their enablers for good."

"There are always those who argue that loss should not be politicized. Many IKC members live by the mantra that the personal IS political. This is most acute in situations like Toms death, which may be directly attributed to the failure of our politicians to enact and enforce common-sense regulations, with which even most gun owners agree. It is time to ask our representatives in state and federal government how they justify their failure to act."

A high-profile homicide in an affluent Kansas City neighborhood threatens to upset the balance of power across the nation.Just a quick recap of what we know about the murder of Kansas City attorney Tom Pickert:But all of this is is just forensic transcription that's already widely reported through various Internets clickbait outlets.Here's the news . . .Here's the word from a. . .Final word . . .Let's not forget that. . .Also . . . Indivisible KC is already using this issue as a call for more gun control - Which confirms our thesis and the words of this KC insider with the argument from this organization . . .Again, the police are doing their investigation but that hasn't stopped the widespread speculation among social media denizens and MSM continuing to make connections implicating Mr. JungermanAnd while politicos on both sides of the aisle often endure criticism for "politicizing a tragedy" . . . Make no mistake that there is already an effort to portray Tom Pickert as a progressive martyr brutally killed on Kansas City streets.Developing . . .
SIGNED INSIDER AIRPORT DEETS

A perspective from one of the best and brightest of our blog community: "I tend to believe the sincerity of this guy over anything that comes out of the Mayors mouth. Mayor James has given me every reason to think that way."

Kansas City Aviation Expert Don Hensley: KCI New Terminal Vote Nov. 7th.

Morefrom a local denizen with unmatched experience on all things related to aviation.Here's a comprehensive look at the airport issue from an industry perspective . . .Hello, I am Don Hensley who has been and always will be an "Advocate" to Aviation in Kansas City and at many other locations in my career. I have 50 years of Aviation experience, worked for the FAA for 33 years, worked at 9 airports and was the Air Traffic Manager of three major Airport, MCI, STL & DFW. I am a Commercial pilot with an instrument, multi-engine and flight instructor ratings with over 4,400 hours. I have been in the KC area for over 30 years and was directly involved when KCI/MCI developed and built the new parallel runway which more than doubled MCI capacity. In my years at MCI I lead the team that built the new ATCT and TRACON and completely overhauled the entire airspace in the KC area. I have owned and operated 7 different aircraft in my life as a pilot. I provide you this short Bio to hopefully show that I am not just a "Jonny Come Lately" that knows nothing about Aviation.KCI has been a CASH COW for Aviation in Kansas City. The Tree Terminals (A,B,& C) provide over 1M sq. ft. of space, 66 gates with 47 jet bridges, and in the Citys Moody 2016 report states that the terminals have adequate space for the future.In 2017 KCI will handle 5.3M Origin and Destination passengers (O&D). 95.4% of KCIs traffic at KCI is O&D with 4.6% being connecting passengers. Only 1% of the connecting passengers connect to a different airline. International passenger is just 1% of the 5.3M or 58,000. We have no direct flights to Europe and out of the top 50 airports in the country 23 of them are medium hub airports similar to KCI and 18 of the 23 do not have direct flights to Europe.So KCI is not unique in that since. KCI will always struggle with getting a major International carrier into KCI because of DEN, ORD, DFW, ATL, all of which are just 1.5 hours away. Besides our population of 2.4M in the Kansas City Metro area does not support a major International airline. Our current terminals are more than adequate for many years to come. The KCI Aviation Department in with City Hall decided to close Terminal A along with the 2000+ parking garage in late 2014/2015 and moved the two busiest airlines into Terminal B. So basically what they did was put 60% of all the passengers into and out of Terminal B. They then established a Valet Parking service in front of SWA terminal area. This created congestion and a shortage of parking of which they now claim is a major reason for a new terminal which was all self-imposed. Of course all you see on the news and in the paper are pictures of Terminal B during its busiest times and yes at any airport at its busiest time passenger traffic is hectic.I have watched many airlines come and go and many go bankrupt at MCI and at many other airports. A little known fact, every airline except three (SWA, Sprit, &Jet Blue) that has operated in the US has filed for bankruptcy at one time or another. The reason I bring this up is the Kansas City Aviation department is about to enter in to a new Airport Airline Agreement called a Residual Airline/Airport Agreement. KCI is abandoning the long standing Compensatory Agreement where they maintain control of the funds and expenditures. So what's the difference?Well the Residual Airport/Airline agreement will put the Signatory Airlines in control of the funding/spending at KCI. They will have major control over spending of funds on any future infrastructure. Why is this important?? Over the past 10 years the KCI Aviation Department has funded MKC and provided over $120,000,000.00 dollars (this is not a typo $120M) to MKC for infrastructure and improvements as a reliever airport for MCI (see MKC donation doc). Under the old agreement Compensatory they have accumulate 600 days of cash on hand. (some estimate that to be $300M) KCI has undergone major renovation of runways and taxiways without bond support. Furthermore, Do we want the Airlines to be in charge of our airports and the Air Traffic Control system, well based on my read of general aviation and many users/passengers the answer is NO!!If on Tuesday, Nov. 7th, the voters say Yes to the "NEW SINGLE TERMINAL" the aviation department will have a green light to destroy the current 66 gate now available and build a 35 gate single terminal (yes a 50% reduction in gates) at a cost of $1.3B. They are going to spend 1.3B to down grade our airport capacity by 50% and stifle an future growth or added airline service. This 1.3B debt will generate a $85M debt payment on top of the current $83M operating cost when KCI 2016 revenue was $127M. Do the math!!! $85M + $83M = $168M or a $41M shortfall. The Aviation department admitted that they will pay out $85.2M annually and over 30 years which equates to $2.556B when all said and done. That means we the passengers and tax payers are going to pay $72M per gate!! I have also learned that because of the new terminal issue at KCI that the funding that has been requested to build hangars where the RIS VOR (old NAVID) was located has been put on hold.Folks before Nov. 7th. I urge you to visit www.cfrgkc.com and read the truth about the New Terminal and issue surrounding this issue. I urge you to view a documentary about the process employed by City Hall on this project . Watch KCPT-TV Week In Review (Nov. 3rd at 7:30 p.m.) where finally we had a balanced open adult discussion on the various issue.I have attached several documents for easy access to information about the new proposed terminal.I urge you to vote NO! on the new terminal proposal for the sake of all Aviation in KC.Sincerely,Don HensleyAviation Advocate for Kansas City#############
World War I was a true world war. It was fought around the globe from German colonies in Africa to the disintegrating Ottoman Empire in the Middle East and throughout the oceans of the world. On the Eastern Front, a crumbling Russian Empire in the throes of revolution took huge numbers of losses. In just the summer of 1916, the Brusilov Offensive caused around a million casualties, averaging thousands a day. However, it was fighting on the Western Front that was truly horrifying. Of the deadliest battles of World War I, seven were on the Western Front. This doesnt mean that other fronts around the world were any less horrifying, just that the most industrial nations of the world focused their attention and their biggest guns on the Western Front.

Modern warfare casualty numbers are often deceiving, as they record how many soldiers can no longer fight and not how many were killed. Casualty figures include those Killed In Action (KIA) but they also count those Wounded In Action (WIA), Missing In Action (MIA) and those taken Prisoner of War (POW), as these soldiers are no longer on the units roll call. This is further complicated because a lot of nonfatal wounds that occurred on one day will eventually, days later, kill the soldier. Prisoners offer the same difficulties, as POWs often die in the horrible conditions of prison camps. For example, during World War II the Nazis were particularly brutal to their Soviet prisoners, causing 3.3 to 3.5 million deaths, or 57% of all Soviet POWs.

World War I happened just as the world was industrializing. This new technology allowed the nations involved to apply industrialization to the slaughter of their enemies. This, and the amount of soldiers packed together in the trenches, allowed for casualty numbers that had never been seen before. Historically the most soldiers killed in a single day, for most countries, were during these battles on WWIs Western Front.

10. Spring Offensive, or Kaiserschlacht (Germany)

Deadliest day: March 21, 1918

10,851 KIA

28,778 WIA

300 POW

39,929 Casualties

For four brutal years, the Allies had been fighting the central powers, the Empires of Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman, and the Kingdom of Bulgaria. In early 1918 Imperial Germany knew it finally had a chance to win against the Allies. After years of war, the United Kingdom and France were exhausted. The United States had entered the conflict in 1917 but hadnt been able to mobilize its vast resources yet. To the East fires of revolution had knocked out Russia in March of 1918. The Russian surrender freed up 50 divisions that could be refocused on the west. The Germans reasoned that they could land a death blow if they could break through the trenches of the Western Front before the Americans landed any large numbers.

To this end, the great minds of the Imperial German Council planned the March 1918 Spring Offensive, or Kaiserschlacht. The main thrust of the Offensive, Operation Michael, planned to break through the Allied lines, capture the channel ports and forcing the British out of the war. It was then hoped that the French would seek an end to hostilities. To accomplish this the Germans arranged 72 divisions of men, spearheaded by deadly stormtrooper units, against 29 British divisions and a possible 23 French divisions.

Two years earlier, the 1916 Battle of the Somme saw the Allies in 140 days of horrific trench warfare take a staggering half a million casualties, all for 98 square miles of mud around the Somme. When Operation Michael started on March 21, 1918, the Germans took almost the same ground in one day. That ground came at a price and was the Germans bloodiest day of WWI. 10,851 Germans were killed outright, and a further 28,778 were sent behind lines with wounds, and a small amount were taken prisoner for a total one-day casualty number of around 40,000 Germans.

While the Allies were pushed back they were able to retreat, prevent a breakthrough and eventually stop the German advance. When the battle ended on April 15, 1918, the exhausted Germans knew that they couldnt replace the 240,000 casualties they took while the Allies would only get stronger as more and more Americans landed in Europe.

9. Australia and New Zealand

When the Dominions of Australia and New Zealand entered the war they were grouped together as the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). The defining battle of the ANZACs and now a deep part of both countrys mythology is the brutal and ultimate failed operation against the Ottoman Empire, the Battle of Gallipoli. Even though this doomed fight cost thousands of young ANZAC soldiers no day during Gallipoli was the deadliest day for either Australia or New Zealand.

New Zealand  First Battle of Passchendaele

Deadliest day  October 12, 1917

847 Dead

On October 12, 1917, during the First Battle of Passchendaele the British High command ordered the New Zealand Division to capture the Bellevue Spur, a slight ridge that led up to the Belgian village of Passchendaele. The odds were stacked against the Kiwis. The artillery barrage didnt cut the barbed wire defending the German trenches and relentless rain made the ground a wet morass that caused Allied shells to explode harmlessly. When the whistles blew and the New Zealand Division climbed out of their trenches, they did so into the gun sites of waiting Germans machine guns. October 12, 1917, is still the darkest day in the countrys military history with 847 killed in the failed Allied attack. The many battles fought over time around Passchendaele would eventually claim close to 2000 New Zealand soldiers, a huge toll for a small country with only a population of around a million.

Australia  Battle of Fromelles

Deadliest day  July 19, 1916

1230 Dead

After the failure of Gallipoli, the Australians were transferred to Europe and their first and deadliest battle was the Battle of Fromelles which was part of the larger Battle of the Somme. Fromelles was poorly planned and bad intelligence saw that the attacking Australians were actually outnumbered by the well-defended Germans almost 2:1. Fromelles is described as worst 24 hours in Australian history  Not the worst in Australian military history, the worst 24 hours in Australias entire history. 1230 Australians lost their lives on July 19, 1916. Over the two day battle, there was a total of 7,080 British casualties, 5,533 of the losses were by the 5th Australian Division. This compares to German defenders who counted only around 2,000 casualties.

8. The Battle of La Lys (Portugal)

Deadliest day: April 9, 1918

500~ KIA

The military alliance between the United Kingdom and Portugal (known in Portugal as Alianca Inglesa) is the oldest alliance in the world that is still in force. Yet the Portuguese were latecomers, not declaring war on Germany until March 9, 1916, and the Portuguese Expeditionary Corps (CEP, or Corpo Expedicionario Portugues) didnt arrive on the front lines until the next year in April 1917.

Almost a year after they deployed they faced their biggest test on April 9, 1918, during The Battle of La Lys. The German Sixth Army deployed eight divisions, around 100,000 soldiers, which slammed into the Portuguese Second Division of around 14,000 active soldiers. Despite stubborn resistance, the Germans overran the trenches, laying waste to the beleaguered Portuguese Second Division and eliminating it as an effective unit.

The CEP faced the Germans for just three days, from April 9-11. During their advance 2,000 Portuguese were WIA and the Germans took around 7,000 prisoners. Around another 600 were killed in action, mostly on the first day. During the whole of WWI, about 7,200 Portuguese died. The Battle of La Lys accounted for around 8% of that total.

7. Dinant (Belgium)

Deadliest day: August 23, 1914

674 KIA

When Germany entered the war it activated the infamous Schlieffen Plan. Under the plan, the Germans invaded France through neutral Belgium and Luxembourg, hoping to catch the French off guard. The invasion of Belgium took a month. Even though its Army was a tenth of the size of the German invasion force, with British and French helped the shattered Belgian Army hold off the Germans, and even keep a sliver of Belgium for the rest of the war. Throughout the war, 38,170 Belgian soldiers died. This number is split between 31.7% killed in 1914 during the German invasion, another 31.1% during the 1918 Liberation of Belgium, and the remainder during the German stalemate between 1915-17. The bloodiest battle was probably the Battle of Liege where Germanys top secret giant guns leveled the fortifications surrounding city of Liege. Around 3,000 Belgians were killed, spread out over the 11-day battle. The war then settled down into a stalemate of trenches stretching from the sea to Switzerland. The remaining Belgian army occupied the westernmost portion and was too small to attack German lines. It largely sat out the war.

The bloodiest day for Belgians was for its civilian population. When Germany rolled over the Belgian border they were paranoid of Belgian guerrilla fighters. Stories quickly circulated in the German Army that the Belgians had unleashed illegal saboteurs (called Francs-tireurs). Even though the rumors were largely baseless the Germans saw enemies everywhere. Civilians were regularly massacred, there was massive looting, and whole towns were deported or just burned down. Between the start of the war in August and November of 1914, 6,427 Belgian and French civilians were killed behind the front lines. The largest massacre was in the Belgian city of Dinant. The Germans bungled a raid in Dinant and were forced out. In revenge, the Germans returned, captured the city and on August 23, 1914, 647 civilians (10% of the town) were killed on orders from the German command.

6. Battle of Delville Wood (South Africa)

Deadliest day: July 18, 1916

253 KIA

The South African Army had only recently arrived in Europe and the Somme would be their first battle. One of the key objectives during the Battle of the Somme was the heavily forested Delville Wood. South African military commander, Brigadier-General Henry Lukin, was ordered to take the wood at all costs. They achieved their goal and occupied the forest on July 15, 1916.

They quickly found out that that was the easiest part. Until July 19, the South Africans fought off a number of German counter-attacks. The terrible weather and constant German thrusts turned the forest into a graveyard of muddy stumps. 3,000 men of the 1st South African Brigade entered the forest. When they were relieved five days later, 143 men were still left standing. The deadliest day was July 18, 1916, when 253 South African soldiers were killed.

5. Battle of Vimy Ridge (Canada)

Deadliest day: April 9, 1917

2,414 KIA

The Canadians saw their first battle in WWI during the Battle of Neuve Chapelle in March of 1915. The British descendants that lived in the Domain of Canada were highly supportive of the war and sent thousands of men to Europe. By 1917 they formed their own Army under the command of Julian Byng. Seen as a formidable fighting force, they were assigned a daring task: to take Vimy Ridge. The German-occupied Ridge had seen multiple failed attacks. The French tried two times in 1915 and 1916. The British took over and were promptly defeated by the Germans. In October of 1916, the Canadians took over and started making preparations for an assault in the spring of 1917.

Adopting a number of technical and tactical innovations, intense training, and new artillery bombardment techniques, the Canadians launched their attack on April 9, 1917. In three days they took the ridge that thousands of French and British couldnt. The victory was a huge achievement for the Canadians and nationalists quickly wove the win into the mythology of Canadian nationhood. Brigadier-General Alexander Ross, who had commanded the 28th (North-West) Battalion at Vimy, later said, It was Canada from the Atlantic to the Pacific  I thought then  that in those few minutes I witnessed the birth of a nation. This birth came at a price, with Canadian Corps suffering 10,602 casualties (3,598 killed and 7,004 wounded). The deadliest day was the launch of the battle on April 9, 1917, when 2,414 Canadians died.

4. Battle of the Somme (England)

Deadliest day: July 1, 1916

19,240 KIA

57,470 Casualties

The Battle of the Somme was an immense offensive planned for the summer of 1916. After two years of trench warfare, the generals of the British and French armies were confident that total brute force would finally cause a breakthrough of the German lines. The Battle lasted from July 1, 1916, to November 18, 1916, and involved over 3 million people at each others throats. The British and French not only had people from their Motherlands, but they had both mobilized their respective Empires. The British had men from their Dominions as well as colonial forces like the brave veteran soldiers of the Indian Army, down to the men from the small Caribbean island of Bermuda. France, too, was utilizing its colonial forces and even using the French Foreign Legion. The Battle of the Somme is also famous for being the first time tanks were used.

Five days before the July 1, 1916, start date the British and French pounded the German lines with 1.5 million shells and another 250,000 shells were fired on July 1 itself. However, the Germans were often safe in their sturdy entrenchments. The massive shelling didnt even cut a lot of the barbed wire entanglements. When the bombardment stopped, 100,000 British charged the German trenches in the first wave and were quickly mowed down by German machine guns. On the first day of the battle, British casualties totaled 57,470, with 19,240 dead. It was the worst day in the history of the British Army. When the Battle of the Somme ended five months later, it cost both sides about 1,000,000 casualties.

3. Beaumont Hamel (Newfoundland)

Deadliest day: July 1, 1916

310 KIA

374 WIA

Newfoundland is now an island province of Canada, but during the war it had a population of 240,000 and was a semi-independent Dominion of the British Empire. It sent its own men to fight under the command of the British. The Royal Newfoundland Regiment arrived on the front in April of 1916. They faced off against a German army that had spent months fortifying their positions. The British, in preparation for the huge July 1, 1916, Somme offensive, had tunneled under the German front lines and planted large amounts of explosives. The one planted opposite the Newfoundlanders, the 40,000 pound Hawthorn Mine, went off at 7:20 a.m. as planned but the huge crater it caused was quickly occupied by surviving Germans before the British could take advantage of it.

In the fog of war, the British high command thought they were on the brink of a breakthrough and unknowingly ordered another push against a line of Germans that were prepared, dug in, and ready for them. At 8:45 a.m. the Newfoundland Regiment got their orders to advance but they couldnt use the support trenches to move closer to the German lines because they were filled with the Allied dead and wounded. Anxious to push forward, Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Lovell Hadow ordered the men to leave the safety of the trench and charge over open ground. When the Newfoundlanders climbed out, they were the only movement on the front lines and easy targets for the Germans. Of the 794 men who started the attack only 68 were able to show up at roll call the next day, a casualty rate of about 90 percent. 374 were wounded, 14 of whom would die days later, and 310 were killed outright on that day. The unit was effectively wiped out. Of the hundreds of thousands of men involved in battle on July 1, only one other unit had a worse casualty rate.

The loss of so many many men was a huge blow to the island of Newfoundland and July 1 was designated a day of mourning. Decades later when Newfoundland joined Canada in 1949 it inherited Canadas birthday, which is also on July 1. Tradition now follows that on the morning of July 1 they remember the WWI sacrifice of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, while in the afternoon and evening they celebrate Canadas birthday.

2. Meuse-Argonne Offensive (United States)

Deadliest day: October 4, 1918

418 KIA

The United States didnt enter the war until April 7, 1917, and basically had to build the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) from the ground up. Trained military units didnt start arriving in Europe until the fall of that year. While they were late, they did have huge resources. A major component of the Hundred Days Offensive, the last offensive push of World War I, was the American Meuse-Argonne Offensive. It was the largest battle in United States military history, involving 1.2 million American soldiers. The battle lasted from September 26, 1918, to the armistice that ended the war on November 11, 1918.

Many legends were born from these 46 days of Battle including the Lost Battalion. The Lost Battalion refers to a unit of Americans who were totally surrounded by German Forces from October 2-6 1918. Of the 554 men who first became surrounded only 194 were finally rescued, the rest being KIA or taken prisoner. Another legend and future American President, Harry S. Truman, was also present during the battle. In four days of fighting, his unit (the 35th Division) suffered 8,023 casualties out of 27,000 men, the highest daily loss rate of any American division during the war.

For the Americans, the Meuse-Argonne Offensive was the bloodiest of the war. During the battle, the largest amount of soldiers wounded in action on a single day was 8,358 on September 29, 1918. On the same day, 383 Americans died but the largest amount of Americans dead on a single day was 418 on October 4, 1918. More tragic would be the events of the last day of the war. The American generals knew a few days before that the war would end on November 11, 1918, yet they still ordered an offensive on the same day. A post-war investigation found that this senseless order cost 320 Americans their lives, and another 3,240 were seriously wounded for a war that was already over.

Shockingly, 418 dead or 8,358 wounded wasnt Americas deadliest day. On September 17, 1862, during the American Civil War, Union and Confederate armies smashed into each other during the Battle of Antietam. The result was 22,717 dead, wounded, and missing on both sides, 3,675 of which were KIA. It was the single bloodiest day in American history.

1. Battle of the Frontiers (France)

Deadliest day: August 22, 1914

27,000 KIA

Throughout the war, France suffered immensely. A large portion of the front lines was fought in France. This meant that the battles destroyed French farmland, villages, and towns while even more rich farmland was occupied by the Germans. In addition, on the battlefield France had taken huge military losses. After the war, the Germans claimed that causing huge numbers of casualties was the goal of the Imperial German war plans. Infamously, a German commander stated that the purpose of the 1916 Battle of Verdun was the industrial slaughter of Frances fighting men so that the forces of France will bleed to death. It got so bad along the French lines that in 1917 there was a series of mutinies that were barely contained by the French military authorities.

While there were over half million casualties at Verdun, Frances bloodiest day was years earlier at the start of the war. In the summer of 1914, the German armies slammed into French forces along multiple points of the Franco-German border. On August 22, 1914, circumstances born from the chaos of war saw five armies involved in 15 independent assaults. The sheer number of soldiers involved guaranteed huge casualties. On this one day, August 22, 1914, over 27,000 French died trying to stop German divisions from moving on Paris. Finally, with the British arriving in France the Allies were able to force a halt to the German advance and at the Battle of the Marne on September 6, 1914, they were able to save Paris and push the Germans back. Despite horrible battles throughout the war, August 22, 1914 still remains Frances highest ever death toll in a single day.

Jon Lucas covers WW1 live, 100 years ago. You can follow the action on Twitter, Tumblr or Instagram

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Tsakalotos said the yields on Greek bonds have dropped and demand for them has increased

The climate has changed for Greece in the past six months, Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos announced on Friday, during a press conference in Ioannina where he is attending an event on productive reconstruction.

"We are in a good path to close the [third program] review and start serious talks, to clarify what we will receive on debt and what will be the nature of our exit from the program," he noted.

Tsakalotos said the yields on Greek bonds have dropped and demand for them has increased. "The climate has changed from the institutions, the investors and I think this will eventually affect the real economy," he continued.

The minister admitted that in a period of recession and uncertainty it was not easy to investment or take initiatives, adding however that this is the right time for serious talks.

"This will give our comprehensive program a new impetus, which is not just about completing the bailout program, but exiting with a stronger economy, a growth policy that has depth and width and is based on a different growth model," he concluded.

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Sinn Fein License: CC-BY-SA

Source: ANA-MPA
Pyatt hailed the role the United States played in assisting the Greek shipping community re-conquer the seas over the past 70 years

The important role of Greek shipping in the global economy and the U.S. interest in investment in Greece were the principal points presented by the U.S. Ambassador to Greece Geoffrey Pyatt in a speech at the 17th Navigator Maritime Forum, held at the "Hellas Liberty" ship, which has been converted into a floating museum.

Pyatt hailed the role the United States played in assisting the Greek shipping community re-conquer the seas over the past 70 years. "The size and scale of the Greek shipping industry today is a tremendous achievement, and provides a bellwether for the global economy," he said.

Commenting on Prime Minister Tsipras' recent visit to Chicago and Washington, he noted it strengthened Greek-U.S. ties and that "the message Americans heard throughout the visit, at the very highest levels, was that Greece is back, open for business and a pillar of stability in its region."

Pyatt stressed this partnership includes enhanced bilateral investment cooperation, including an overall strategy where Greece serves as a regional hub and supplies energy from diverse sources to Europe, spurred by increased U.S. investment in this sector, as well as U.S. investment in Greek shipping, ports, and shipyards.

"In particular, I hope we will be able to celebrate a major U.S. investment in the Syros shipyard in the very near future," he pointed out, referring to U.S. company ONEX which has expressed an interest in investing at the Syros shipyard.

"I am glad to see that deal making progress and look forward to celebrating a major U.S. investment there in the coming weeks," he continued.

The ambassador underlined however that privatizations of state-owned assets must be done in an open and transparent way, based on free and fair competition.

"We saw this here already with the privatization of the 14 regional airports, where the winning bidders had a known track record of doing business in Greece and Europe. It was clear where their financing came from and who their shareholders were," he argued, referring to Fraport's deal to manage and operate the airports.

"An investment and privatization system based on transparency and the rule of law will help build confidence in Greece as an investment destination, and create momentum that can sustain the Greek economic rebound. I am confident that if Greece continues to commit itself to building such an environment, American investors will take a fresh look at Greece," he followed.

The U.S. is also interested in the port of Alexandroupolis, he continued. "The strategic position of this port is on full display right now: elements of the US Army?s 10th Combat Air Brigade are using it as a staging area for Blackhawk helicopters and cargo moving back to the U.S. from Romania- demonstrating, as I discussed with the Mayor of Alexandroupolis this summer, the potential of that port to play a much bigger role in regional infrastructure and connectivity," he concluded.

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: BIONIC University License: CC-BY-SA

Source: ANA-MPA
Non-oil trade between the UAE and Nigeria, Africas largest economy, stood at US$1.3 billion in 2016, reported Emirates news agency Wam, citing a report released by the Ministry of Economy on trade policy review with the West African country.



As the largest oil exporter in Africa with huge natural gas reserves, Nigeria is ranked as the 26th largest economy in the world.



Hind Al Youha, director of the Investment Department, said the trade policy review report aims to increase awareness among public and private sectors about the trade and investment systems in the UAE's key trade partners by shedding light on indexes of the economic environment and foreign trade mechanisms, based on World Trade Organisation reports.



The report noted that Nigeria's economy relies heavily on the services sector, which contributed 61 percent to the GDP in 2016.



The US according to the report, replaced the European Union as the key export market for Nigerian goods and services.



Nigeria prioritises four sectors agriculture, mining, building materials and manufacturing to diversify its economy away from the oil sector in line with its 2017-2022 development plan to become the world's 20th largest economy by 2020.
The governments of the United Arab Emirates and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan have signed an agreement allowing the latter to embed the UAE's Government Excellent System - 4G.



The agreement also provides for strengthening partnership, sharing expertise, best practices and knowledge, and joint coordination in government processes, reported Wam, the Emirates official news agency.



The agreement was signed by Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future and Majd Shweikeh, Jordanian Minister of Public Sector Development and member of the board of trustees of the King Abdullah II Center for Excellence (KACE).



The signing was attended by Ohoud bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, Mariam Al Hammadi, Assistant Director General for Government Performance and Excellence and members of a high level Jordanian delegation.



Al Gergawi said the Government of the UAE, led by the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, believes in the importance of knowledge partnership for enriching the development process.



He described the agreement as an extension to the excellent relations between the two countries and reflects the UAE's keenness to share its pioneering successful models with the governments of brotherly and friendly countries.



Majd Shweikeh applauded UAE's experience in developing government performance. She stressed the importance of cooperation between the two countries in all fields related to government sectors development, as well as sharing success stories.



A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between the Sheikh Khalifa Government Excellence Programme and KACE, to apply the Government Excellent System - 4G, in the entities of the Jordanian Government.
Streamlined and IP network security systems will double the value of the Middle Easts commercial security market to $4.8 billion over the next four years, said the organisers of the upcoming Intersec, a major security expo in Dubai, UAE, citing new research.



Analysts Frost & Sullivan (F&S) estimate the market to grow at a 17 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from its $2.2 billion value in 2016. Video surveillance accounts for a 75 per cent of total market share, followed by access control at 15 per cent, and intrusion detection at 10 per cent.



Saudi Arabia and the UAE together comprise more than half of the entire regional market according to F&S, while among the end-user sectors, hospitality will see the highest growth at a CAGR of 25 per cent, followed by commercial buildings at a CAGR of 22 per cent.



The latest in sophisticated technologies and innovation in a regional and global market that is undergoing dynamic changes will be a key focal point at Intersec 2018, the worlds leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection.



Taking place from January 21-23, 2018 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Intersec will mark its 20th anniversary edition, featuring more than 1,300 exhibitors from 58 countries.



With 580-plus exhibitors, Commercial Security is the largest of seven sections, with more than two-thirds of the worlds top 50 security solutions players on board, including Hikvision, Bosch, Dahua, Assa Abloy, Tyco, FLIR, Hanwha Techwin, Axis Communications, Avigilon, Panasonic, Infinova, IDIS, and Milestone Systems.



Safety and security is the pre-eminent priority for businesses and civic authorities not just in the region but across the globe, especially in todays scenario where a small security vulnerability can lead to major losses, said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Intersecs organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East.



Intersecs Commercial Security section reflects the increasing demand that exists in the region for cutting-edge IP-based network video surveillance, access control and monitoring systems. With a majority of the leading brands present, the exhibition presents a comprehensive line-up of the best in the industry to regional trade visitors, systems integrators, end-users and professionals.



Intersec returns with 13 exhibitors that participated in the very first exhibition in 1999, including the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), which works with the UK Government to support British security companies trade internationally.



The BSIA and supporting government partner the UK Department for International Trade, Defence and Security Organisation, will bring more than 150 UK companies to Intersec 2018, compared to the less than 10 that exhibited in the inaugural edition 20 years ago.



Simon Everest, director for Operations and Security at the UK Department for International Trade, Defence and Security Organisation, said: UK companies at Intersec grow every year and thats testament to what they get out of participating at the show in their ability to meet people, both with older acquaintances and to meet new contacts.



The UK has a long history in securing major events, most recently the London Olympics so were excited about the opportunities that will arise as a result of the Expo 2020 in Dubai. That will be a fantastic event and a really good opportunity to showcase the number of innovative products and technologies from UK providers.



Theres an increasing interest from UK companies in the Middle East and that comes back to Intersec where the fact that we have more than 150 companies, shows that they all think theres significant business to be done here in terms of forming new partnerships and building on existing relationships, he added.

Danish company Milestone Systems, a global leader in open platform video management software (VMS) for IP network-based video surveillance, is another long-time exhibitor looking forward to its 10th participation at Intersec in January 2018.



Milestone will showcase the latest version of its video management software XProtect, which covers the security needs of organisations of all shapes and sizes. Christian Ringler, Milestone director DACH, Middle East and Africa, said: The XProtect platform delivers powerful surveillance that is easy to manage, reliable and proven in thousands of customer installations around the world.



Visitors will see new features, discuss the benefits of a Milestone VMS solution and understand how to engage the Milestone Community to gain maximum value from their Milestone solutions.



Intersec is one of the most important security events for Milestone in EMEA. Milestone has participated at Intersec since 2008 and our team is looking forward to celebrate this Intersec anniversary alongside a number of key partners in the region, added Ringler.



Its a great opportunity for us to present our latest releases and showcase new and existing cutting-edge partner solutions that integrate with Milestone XProtect VMS. This is truly one of the major shows on a global scale and we are bringing our biggest stand ever.



Elsewhere, Panasonic, an industry leader in video imaging expertise and innovative technology, will showcase a comprehensive line-up of intelligent analog, hybrid, and IP video surveillance solutions at Intersecs Commercial Security section in 2018.



Okawa Tetsuo, senior sales and marketing manager for Panasonics System Solutions Department, said: The Middle East and Africa is a key market for us, and theres growing demand for surveillance technology as local governments are strongly committed to providing residents and industries with security and protection at all times.



The region is boasting some of the fastest growing economies, and is viewed as a vitally important part of the world by the global safety, security and fire protection industries.



This emphasis on greater security is felt in many ways including growing expenditure on security infrastructure, equipment and personnel by regional authorities as well as an increasing awareness in society about the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment.



At Intersec 2018, well demonstrate cost-effective security solutions for a wide range of verticals including public premises, retail and mall facilities, banks, airport, buildings, transportation industry, energy and education sectors, added Tetsuo.



Intersec 2018 will occupy 60,000 sq m across 13 halls at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the shows other six sections covering Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, Homeland Security & Policing, Perimeter & Physical Security, Cyber Security, and Smart Home & Building Automation.



New developments next year include a Drones Pavilion, an indoor Drone Zone, and a Wearable Security Pavilion, while returning features include the Safety Design in Buildings Pavilion in the Fire & Rescue section, as well as an Outdoor Demonstration Zone of the latest fire rescue applications in action.



A comprehensive three-day conference programme will be spearheaded by Dubais Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) Forum, while other topics will cover cyber security, drones, commercial security, and fire protection.  TradeArabia News Service
Leading French energy company Engie said it won a contract from the Egyptian government to develop a 250 MW wind farm in Rhas Gharib area on the Gulf of Suez together with its consortium partners Toyota Tsusho Corporation/Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation (40 per cent) and Orascom Construction (20 per cent).



The total investment for the project is likely to hit $400 million. Financing will be provided by the Japanese Bank for International Corporation (JBIC) in coordination with commercial lenders SMBC and Societe Generale.



In addition, the Japanese Export Credit Agency, NEXI, is providing an insurance cover for the commercial lenders. Construction is expected to start at the end of 2017 and will take approximately 24 months to complete.



The Gulf of Suez is the first wind farm tendered on a build, own and operate (BOO) scheme and comes as part of the Egyptian governments drive to increase the share of renewables in the energy mix with a target wind generation capacity of 7 GW by 2022.



The plan envisions significant private sector involvement, with the private sector taking the lead on more than 60 per cent of the plan.



The wind farm will be located in Rhas Gharib on the Gulf of Suez, an optimal site with more than 60 per cent of gross capacity factor. The energy will be sold under a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC).



Bruno Bensasson, the CEO of Engie Africa, said: "Egypt is a country which expects a strong power de-mand growth in the next years to accompany its economic and social development. With this large wind project, Engie becomes an important player in Egypts ongoing renewable energy transition."



"Gulf of Suez is definitely proof that good regulation can bring foreign investment at a competitive price to the benefit of African countries. For our group, it is an opportunity to scale up our presence in a strategic country with a long-term contracted asset guaranteed by the government," he stated.



In Egypt, Engie remains committed to develop additional generation capacity and is looking to extend its energy services activities and its offer for sustainable cities, taking the opportunity of the governments New Cairo and New Urban Planning of Suez Canal Area programmes.-TradeArabia News Service
Abu Dhabi Airport welcomed Latvian airline airBaltic on its inaugural flight between Riga and Abu Dhabi.



A welcome reception of the Bombardier CS 300 was held at Abu Dhabis VIP Terminal attended by The Ambassador of the UAE to Latvia Hanan Al Aleeli and The Ambassador of Latvia to UAE Astra Kurme; Wolfgnag Reuss, senior vice president Network Management Air Baltic; and Yousif Al Hammadi, vice president Business Development at Abu Dhabi Airports.



Al Hammadi stated: This new partnership is a further edition to Abu Dhabi Airports expanding network and moves us closer to becoming the world leading airport group.



Kurme added: 50 years ago, Abu Dhabi was a desert village, now it is a leading nation in worldwide technology and revolution. Every airline in the world would like to land in Abu Dhabi. AirBaltic did it. I hope that this airline will bring our nations closer."



On the sidelines, Wolfgang Reuss spoke to TTN, saying: Air Baltic will have four flights a week starting from today, and we will be flying our brand new CS 300. We believe that this aircraft is a state-of-the-art short to medium range aircraft with long range capabilities - having a maximum flight time of up to 6.5 hours. And that is why we have chosen to expand again in the medium and long haul market, with Abu Dhabi as our obvious first choice."



"This new route has been already successful with the inaugural flight flying at full capacity and glights for November and December at 50 to 60 per cent seat load factor. Looking ahead, we anticipatea good first quarter in 2018," he said.



"Our vision for expansion in this medium to long haul range will certainly be more into Russia as Riga is located closer to the the nation. We also want to further expand in the CIS countries and increase capacity into existing markets like Tbilisi and also the European network."



"We have upgraded a lot of our fleet. We now have seven CS 300 and will have eight by the end of the year, and within five years, we want to roll the whole fleet over, whether it is a single type fleet or a two type fleet," he said. - TradeArabia News Service


By Choi Ha-young



North Korea's cyber warfare capability has become a worldwide concern. The North has been accused of being behind numerous cyberattacks on the websites of government agencies and financial institutions. North Korea's cyber warfare capability has become a worldwide concern. The North has been accused of being behind numerous cyberattacks on the websites of government agencies and financial institutions.

We tend to regard the North as the prime suspect whenever the systems of banks and public organizations are hacked here. In many cases, however, it is difficult to find evidence supporting the North's direct involvement.

It is easy to blame North Korea for untraceable hacking incidents. What is embarrassing is that there has been little improvement in South Korea's cybersecurity technology, and many of its online networks remain vulnerable to attack.

During a recent National Assembly audit, lawmakers raised the issue of Pyongyang's cyberattacks on financial institutions and banks here, including the Bank of Korea.

A press release issued by Rep. Shim Jae-cheol of the Liberty Korea Party, Sept. 26, said the number of cyberattacks against the central bank has considerably increased  from 44 last year to 116 by August this year.

The report said 327 of the 400 attacks were conducted outside the nation, branding North Korea as the prime suspect. However, those attempts carried out from foreign countries don't necessarily mean they were done by Pyongyang.

The release didn't clarify the exact number of attacks suspected of being carried out by North Korea. Instead, an unnamed government source was cited as saying "North Korea is the suspect in multiple cases."

There was no convincing evidence of the North's involvement in the cyberattacks, but a story was published on the front page of a newspaper based on the lawmaker's claims.

Rep. Joo Ho-young of the Bareun Party also revealed on Oct. 9 that 1,808 cyberattacks against the country's transportation system were detected over five years from 2012, and it's showing a rising trend: 107 in 2012, 148 in 2013, 478 in 2014, 558 in 2015 and 517 in 2016.

Particularly, he said the main targets were the Korea Airports Corporation and Incheon International Airport, indicating North Korea was behind the attacks.

Many of the attacks on the firms originated from China and countries in the Middle East and Africa. However, it's almost impossible to conclude that such attacks are actually staged by North Korea or not.

Surely, the importance of the country's cyber security cannot be stressed enough. Unlike in the past, the impact of the "North Korea factor" in politics to exaggerate the enemy state's threats is not that influential anymore.

However, the characteristics of North Korean affairs make it difficult to fact-check such information. Journalists cannot double-check the statistics by reaching out to the North Korean authority, and citizens' access to information about North Korea is limited. Further, reports about the hermit state are easy to attract readers' interests.

Making tentative judgments that North Korea is behind an increasing number of cyber crimes may mislead the public to underestimate other risk elements in cybersecurity.

According to cybersecurity experts, domestic hackers could use a virtual private network to conceal their origins. Otherwise, hackers can imitate the attack patterns that are primarily used by North Koreans. It's impossible to rule out the possibility that foreign hackers or international terrorists are increasingly targeting South Korean authorities.

Judicious approaches are required before charging North Korea. The reality around us could be too complicated to blame the totalitarian regime.
Mumbai, November 5

Despite the near-normal monsoon, the farm income is expected to see only a modest growth this fiscal, due to the depressed agri-commodity prices and the still lingering impacts of the note ban and GST rollout, says a report.

Though there is a marginal uptick in consumption its driven by credit. Since wealth effect remains weak in the hinterland there is no large ticket consumption. Therefore, we see only a marginal improvement in overall rural income, though the monsoon has been near-normal, says JM Financial in the sixth edition of its annual report Rural Safari.

The report lists the low prices of agri commodities and almost nil growth in non-farm income which constitute two-thirds of the rural income, and curbs on cash transactions and sand mining and the GST related disruptions as the main reasons for the problem.

The still continuing curbs on sand mining and cash transactions, along with GST-led disruptions and lower prices of agri-commodities have all moderated economic activity levels in the first half. This will cap the overall growth in farm income for the full fiscal year, say the brokerages analysts, led by Arshad Perwez and Suhas Harinarayanan.

However, their survey indicates that the final kharif crop output could be higher than governments first estimate as so will be the rabi output, as barring central regions the water levels are adequate.

This is because of the weak global agri-commodity pricing, and the only saving grace for the farmers is the resilience in vegetable prices, they said.

Vegetables constitute 25-30 of agri income and cereals that chip in with another 20 per cent, which should ensure high single-digit growth in farm income in FY18. The only areas to watch out for are the prices of pulses and oilseeds, which were the trigger for farmer-led protests during June-July this year, the analysts said.

We expect a gradual revival in H2 backed by government spending, resumption of sand mining and easing of GST adoption. The eeal estate activity, however, has weakened further and prices have declined even in regions that were earlier resilient.

Despite this apparent waning of the wealth effect and slower than expected growth in non-farm income, we expect a gradual pick-up in rural consumption in H2 led by the modest farm income growth supported by higher government wages, higher credit availability and farm loan waivers, they said.

The report covers nearly 73 per cent of the agri-GDP spanning 11 key farming states like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh, among others.

The analysts travelled over 3,000 km across these states between July and October to prepare the report. PTI
Tribune News Service

Mohali, November 4

The Biodiversity and Natural Resources Protection Project, amounting to Rs 817 crore, forwarded by the Punjab Government to the Centre for seeking assistance from Japan Bank is lying unattended with the Central Government and needs to be forwarded to Japan Bank for initiating the process of its implementation in the state, said Forest Minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot during a talk with the Director General, Forests, and Special Secretary, Forest and Environment, GoI.

Dharamsot had demanded for relaxation under the Punjab Forest Rights Act. He said since there were no Schedule Tribes in Punjab, therefore, under the Forest Rights Act, relaxation for producing FCA certificate should be given as people have to approach the Deputy Commissioner for submitting application for obtaining the certificate which takes over a month for the whole process.

The minister said to promote agro forestry, the state government had established a forest research institute at Ladhowal, which was non-operational due to lack of scientists.

He demanded that the government should take steps to make the institute operational.

Besides, he said the decision of the tribunal for a complete ban on cutting of trees was creating a lot of problems as the tribunal was not permitting to cut dry and unsafe trees, and PLPA owners were facing financial problems due to non-issuance of permit for trees.
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 5

Dr Dharamvir Gandhi, MP, Patiala, called for lifting ban from opium to fight nexus between politicians and criminals.

You have banned it. So, people are now hooking on to synthetic drugs which have compounded the problem, said Gandhi, while speaking on the sidelines of First World NCD Congress at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh.

It doesnt kill. Infact, the government should provide it. Otherwise, people have to take other form of drugs. People have been taking it for ages and still enjoying good quality of life, he said.

Before that, during the conference, he said that today India faces a double burden of communicable as well as non-communicable diseases not only in urban but rural area as well. Middle class is in grip of lifestyle diseases. Such diseases are prevalent in rural Punjab also.

Cardiovascular diseases have engulfed younger generation in India more than in the western world. There is lack of efficient health education which should be started from childhood and we need to think out of the box to bring significant changes, he said.

The Parliamentarian forum at NCD Congress had participation from the Members of Parliament from Thailand, India and Maldives.

Jetn Sirathranont, Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development from Thailand, said, Parliament plays an important role in policy formulation. He stressed on the importance of gender equality, youth empowerment and womens empowerment. He stated India, amongst the other challenging health issues, faces the challenges of gender inequality.

Jetn highlighted the One-Stop Crisis Centre (OSCC), initiated in 2013 as a response by the parliament of Thailand (in collaboration with five ministries namely, the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labor, Ministry of Social Development and Human Sector and Ministry of Interior) to respond to and prevent violence against women and girls after Thailand joined UN Womens newest global initiative COMMIT which takes commitment from governments to take a stand by making new and concrete national commitments to end violence against women.

Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher addressed the gathering by sharing her own experience of how being a media and television person along-with handling the responsibilities of being a responsible the Member of Parliament , she maintains a healthy life style by eating home cooked meals and practicing yoga, whenever possible. Meals on wheels is a fantastic concept and should be publiciaed more. The NCDs if not completely cured can surely be controlled. She ended her oration by wishing delegates well - Swasth rahe, sampann rahe

Maldivian Health Minister Dr Hussain Rasheed gave an insight on Maldives State Action Plan for the NCDs and stated that by taking certain measures like increasing tax on tobacco and imposing taxation on sugary drinks, any nation could combat the rising burden of the NCDs. Maldives is the first country to raise tax on energy drinks to 58 per cent.
Mukesh Prasad

IN his address to the nation, on the fateful evening of November 8 last year, the Prime Minister had sought the support of all citizens for a mahayagna that would inflict a decisive blow to corruption, black money and terrorism. A few days later, he had sought the indulgence of the nation for a brief period of 50 days for delivering the promised results. The honest and the poor were assured that tax evaders and the corrupt would spend sleepless nights tossing and turning. The nation responded to this call with infinite faith, patience and good humour. The Prime Minister could not have asked for more.

Perhaps, a year later is as good a time as any to take stock of what happened actually. Were the promises made fulfilled? Was the process disruptive only for 50 days? Did the rich or the dodgy really toss and turn? Were there other collateral gains or losses? Was it a gamble that worked or did it go awfully awry?

Notebandi has occupied centre-stage in public discourse throughout the past year. The government, and its supporters, have defended the decision with all the eloquence and sophistry at their command while political opponents and many economists have gone hammer and tongs at the government for foisting a disastrous, ill-conceived, poorly implemented and totally unnecessary experiment on hapless citizens. The debate has been partisan and vitriolic.

Well, the first takeaway is that hoards of black money did not get immobilised and the hoarders of black money managed to deposit nearly all of it in banks.

The government claims this is not a bad deal as the anonymous money, supposedly stashed under mattresses and in gunny bags, now has an address. The tax authorities are going after large value depositors and very soon large sums will swell government coffers. The evidence so far is far from reassuring; tax assesssment takes its own sweet time and nobody knows when the coffers will swell substantially. The response to the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana was cool and the tax pickings so far from those having deposited unexplained cash has been very modest. Many, including this writer, had warned that the ingeniousness of Indian taxpayers and their advisers is not to be underestimated. One can say now that their daring was also discounted by the government.

Is corruption any less? Big scams have not surfaced but they had not during 2014-16 either. As for petty corruption, some change has come about by more online processes and more and more direct transfers. But the credit cannot be given to notebandi. As for the rest, the evidence is anecdotal and does not show a sea change in the habits of government functionaries or their business counerparts.

What about terrorism and fake currency? The fake currency unearthed was so minuscule that it hardly merited notebandi as the solution. Terrorism in its Maoist avatar looks relatively subdued but that sponsored from across the borders continues unabated. Any notebandi could only disrupt it and not choke terrorist funding forever.

Large sums of money got deposited in banks, improving their capacity to lend manifold. But credit offtake remains sluggish as bankers have no capacity to lend with their stressed balance sheets and investors have no appetite to borrow with a large overhang of idle capacity and poor demand. On the other hand, deposits have a cost. Not at all good for the bottom lines of struggling banks.

As black money did not get extinguished, and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had to incur heavy cost in printing new notes, the government never got the dividend bonanza it had hoped for, adding to fiscal strain.

Did notebandi lead to a less cash economy? Well, digital transactions rose, but banks have seen a spike in outstandings on credit cards. Not good for them in their present strapped conditions. As for currency in circulation, it is a bit less than before but edging towards that. So not really a much less cash economy.

So much for the evolving goalposts of notebandi. On the collateral front, it resulted in endless queues and wastage of time, many deaths too. Not too many of the rich and corrupt were found standing in queues or spending sleepless nights. Nor have inequalities diminished. Notebandi dealt a severe blow to the informal economy, to small businesses and to the real estate sector, resulting in huge job losses and a perceptible drop in the rate of economic growth. It certainly exacerbated rural distress despite good monsoons. Credit offtake and investment continue to falter and the government has had to announce a massive stimulus to push demand and expand jobs. The credibility of the RBI has taken an unfortunate hit. The continuous change in goalposts and restrictions did not indicate a well-thought-out plan.

Could it have been done better, leaving aside the question whether it should have been attempted at all? The way it was unrolled did not give the impression that it was planned with professional finesse. Secrecy, no doubt, was an inhibiting factor but had the supply of new notes been organised better and the need to recalibrate ATMs anticipated and addressed beforehand, the disruption would have been much less. It is quite mind-boggling that the RBI is still counting the notes that were deposited. So little has been shared by the government or the RBI regarding the preparations and the processes that went into this decision that a definitive take on the adequacy of the processes is not possible.

The problems of corruption and black money remain. Tackling unglamorous issues like greater use of technology, big data analytics, tax reform and phasing out of exemptions, and transparency in political funding is of prime importance. The flow of black money has to be staunched to prevent the stock from building up. There is no magic bullet. Not even an audacious move like notebandi. The biggest returns, if any, were political rather than economic.

The writer is a retired Secretary to the Government of India
Mythili Bhusnurmath

Mythili Bhusnurmath

IS Universal Basic Income (UBI) an idea whose time has come? That's the billion dollar question! Judging by the haste with which the Modi government is pushing Aadhar-linkage of bank accounts (even as a Supreme Court hearing challenging the move, is pending) and its increasing nervousness over economic growth, will the BJP be tempted to test the UBI hypothesis before the May 2019 elections?

The idea is not new. The government's Economic Survey first mooted it in February 2017. 'UBI is a powerful idea whose time, even if not ripe for implementation, is ripe for serious discussion'. But after discussing the pros and cons, the Survey conceded that while UBI is a conceptually appealing idea, it poses implementation challenges. Moreover, given the risk that it would become an add-on to, rather than a replacement of, current anti-poverty and social programmes, is fiscally unaffordable.

Indeed, when Chief Economic Advisor, Arvind Subramanian, first mooted UBI, it failed to get much traction. Most observers dismissed it as both naive and impractical in a country whose public finances are precarious at the best of times. More so, since it would be almost impossible to scrap existing subsidies! And so it was that UBI was relegated to the back-burner; as an idea that is good for textbooks, but not for real life situations.

IMF backs UDI, with caution

However, thanks to some unexpected support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in recent weeks, UBI has got a fresh lease of life. 'A UBI would outperform the PDS and energy subsidies along three key dimensions of coverage, progress and generosity,' says the IMF in its Fiscal Monitor released in October 2017. 'A UBI would actually benefit the poor more for the same budgetary costs... India may want to ponder this option,' said Vitor Gaspar, Director Fiscal Affairs Department, India, speaking at the release.

For a government that sets great store by the opinion of rating agencies and multilateral organisations, this could well tilt the balance in favour of UBI. Especially since part of the UBI's appeal is that could yield quick, short-term political dividends!

And there lies the danger! The government might rush headlong into UBI without much thought for the IMF's accompanying caveat. 'Reaping the potential gains from the introduction of a UBI would need careful planning to overcome political, social, and administrative challenges, especially when subsidy reforms involve such large price increases.' The IMF is not alone. Many noted economists have also advised caution.

What is UBI?

But first, what is UBI? Very simply, it is some minimum level of income that would raise its recipient above the poverty line. Unlike the public distribution scheme (PDS), it is universal, rather than targeted, as it is argued that it is very difficult, in practice, to identify those who are genuinely poor.

On paper, nothing could be nobler. No civilised society can claim to be civilised as long as any of its members is below the poverty line. Unfortunately, things are not so simple. Apart from the politically fraught question of what is the level of income needed to raise someone above the poverty line  a monumental task in a country where there is no agreement even on the poverty line  UBI is beset with a host of problems, conceptual and practical.

At the conceptual level, none of the three features of UBI: universality, unconditionality and agency (ie providing support in the form of cash transfers so that recipients are free to decide how to spend) has much to commend itself.

Is there a case for universality ie for giving every citizen a basic income? What is the justification for giving, say, a Mukesh Ambani or a Narayana Murthy, a universal basic income; paid with taxpayer money? The usual justification is that universality removes the problem of identification. Is that a good enough reason? Most would disagree! As the Chhattisgarh state government has shown in the context of the PDS, it is possible to greatly reduce, if not eliminate, leakages.

Apart from which, how does one identify citizens? The Aadhaar card only establishes residency, not citizenship, so it is not clear how UBS will help resolve the issue of proper identification.

Consider next, the feature of 'unconditionality'. This means no conditions are attached to the income support, quite unlike conditional cash transfers that use the carrot and stick technique to get people to, say, send their kids to school, vaccinate them etc. Is this a good idea in the Indian context where we have a long way to go to catch up on literacy and disease eradication? I believe not!

Likewise, evidence on the merits of agency, which means beneficiaries are free to do what they wish with the income support, is mixed. There is some research to show people are not entirely irresponsible when it comes to spending money. But in the Indian context of low levels of literacy, patriarchy and feudal mindset in many part of the country, this is debatable.

Practical problems

At the practical level, too, there are problems aplenty. We don't have a functional JAM (Jan Dhan account, Aadhar and Mobile) system that ensures the cash transfer goes directly into the account of the beneficiary. Second, in a federal structure like ours, UBI will require approval of both the union and state governments; not only because the Union government will not be able to defray the cost alone but also because States would be loath to let the Modi government take all the credit!

So, both at the conceptual and at the practical level, UBI falls short. Add to these the realpolitik, near-impossible task of withdrawing existing subsidies and UBI is nothing short of catastrophic for the public exchequer. The Survey says a UBI that reduces poverty to 0.5 % would cost between 4-5 % of GDP, assuming those in the top 25 % income bracket do not participate.

At a time when the combined fiscal deficit of the union and state governments is already in the range of seven - eight per cent of GDP and the debt-to- GDP ratio is close to 70%, a UBI, that adds to both  with questionable benefits  must not be pushed through in haste for narrow political ends.

The Survey tries to draw legitimacy for UBI saying Mahatma Gandhi would have approved. Possibly! Gandhi was an astute politician! But the Father of the Nation was completely out of his depth when it came to Economics!

The writer is a senior consultant at National Council of Applied Economic Research
Washington, November 5

US President Donald Trump greeted the Sikhs on the occasion of Gurpurab - the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of the faith, saying the community exemplifies the fundamental values that all Americans share.

As Trump embarked on his 11-day Asia tour on Saturday, his secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement: "Today, President Donald Trump sends warm wishes to Sikh Americans and Sikhs around the world as they celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, the founder and first guru of Sikhism.

"The Sikh community today exemplifies the fundamental values that all Americans share: peace, tolerance, compassion, and service," the statement said.

"President Trump also recognises the many contributions Sikh Americans have made to our great nation for more than 100 years, including through military and public service." Guru Nanak voiced three messages for a meaningful, fulfilling life  chant the name of the almighty, work hard and help the needy, the Prime Minister said.

Born in 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi, Nankana Sahib, now in Pakistan, Guru Nanak Dev was the first of the 10 Sikh Gurus.  IANS
A fight seems to be on in Gujarat after three successive walkovers. There is a visible difference this time. The contest does not appear to be shaping up into a BJP-led narrative about a defence of Gujarati sub-nationalism, pride and asmita versus a defensive Congress-led lineup. Instead fresh faces, who ironically emerged during Narendra Modis three-year stint as Prime Minister, may inject some much-needed verve to the Congress campaign. Three youngsters, one of them not yet eligible to contest elections, all with different political trajectories and all singed by the BJPs political handling of Gujarat after Modi moved to Delhi.

The threesome  Jignesh Mewani, Hardik Patel and Alpesh  have been independently mobilising their respective caste brethren, ostensibly for social causes. This is what makes the Congress task tough to bring them unreservedly into its party umbrella. With long political careers ahead of them, it is natural for them to play hardball. But Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhis patient mediation appears to be bringing them around. Jignesh, a Dalit and mentored by Marxist-activist Mukul Sinha, wont contest on the Congress symbol; the more well-known Hardik is waiting for the Congress to provide concrete assurances on reservation for the Patels while Alpesh, though a firebrand, is of Congress stock.

However, hard bargaining lies ahead and the lineup doesnt factor the usual dirty tricks employed by an incumbent party which has a proven past record of using the police and intelligence agencies against its rivals. Rahul Gandhi has the Election Commission to thank for delinking Himachal Pradesh from Gujarat and thus affording him time to enter into extended confabulations with the youngsters. But Gujarat is no Bihar where the castes aligned with the now-defunct Mahagathbandhan had no serious contradictions with each other. The BJP swept all Lok Sabha seats in 2014; it remains organisationally very strong. It is an unequal battle of resources  and, grievances and resentments. Political skills will compete with social aspirations. A defining battle seems to be on the cards.
Failing in their efforts to curb gangster violence, the Punjab Police are apparently feeling helpless enough to ask for laws that fundamentally undermine the constitutionally established criminal justice system. They want the government to bring in a Punjab Control of Organised Crime Act (PCOCA), a proposal that the Chief Minister seems inclined to agree with. The idea had been kept on the back burner for years essentially because of its potential to facilitate rogue policing; by way of abundant precaution it is now suggested that there should be sufficient safeguards. There is a contradiction: The law will either give the police a free hand or not; if it safeguards all constitutional rights, the police will not want it. The government must understand, it is an extreme measure; and the question to ask is whether the situation is really so bad as to warrant the draconian law?

The police have a genuine challenge in securing convictions for gangsters as no one is prepared to depose against them. But that stage comes only after investigation and arrest. The police have been unable to even trace the dreaded criminals in many cases; or they have simply escaped from prisons. These are failures that the new law will not help. It is natural for the police to seek greater leeway, but it is for the government to take the call. And the Congress government may like to revisit its approach to handling the police. For all the condemnation of the halqa system of the SAD-BJP government, repeated reports of current ruling party leaders intervention in matters of policing should be a matter of alarm. Both the government and police need to remember, crime prevention begins with checking a young man when he first jumps a traffic light.

Punjab has been through the experience of using laws fit for a police state, such as TADA and POTA. Their utility, or menace, will be debated endlessly, but by no measure the state deserves to be subjected to the experiment all over again. The Chief Minister has offered the police all help in tackling crime. That is encouraging, if only he could qualify the offer slightly  all legitimate help.
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Variably cloudy with snow showers. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

Variable clouds with snow showers. Low 28F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 50%. About one inch of snow expected.
Geetanjali Gayatri

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 5

After Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar returned from his China visit in January last year, the BJP government in Haryana had gone to town claiming that it was the next big thing on the states investment map, with Wanda Industrial New City setting up shop with investment value of $10 billion.

Khattar might have counted his chickens before they hatched because a year and a half later, the project seemed to have come a cropper. The Chief Minister had admitted in a muted voice that the promised investment was not happening anymore.

Sources in the Industries Department claimed that Chinas Wanda empire had run into rough weather in its home country and fallen on hard times, with the entire business getting liquidated, after which it stopped pursuing the Haryana project.

According to information available, the government last heard from the Wanda group about four months back, after which there had been no communication.

Earlier this year, the sources said the memorandum of understanding to develop a world-class comprehensive industrial park, to be known as Wanda Industrial New City, had hit a roadblock in Haryana as well.

While the group was not willing to offer more than 19 per cent stake to the Haryana Government in what was supposed to be a joint venture with the HSIIDC, the latter wanted 26 per cent ownership in the proposed project to have the right to veto, if and when a situation arose.

This was being termed as a deal-breaker with both parties unwilling to relent though talks were still on for the same when the Wanda group fell out with the government there. The issue of equity was still unresolved when the group lost interest, given its own ground situation.

Apart from the disputed offer of higher equity to the Haryana Government, the Wanda group, it was learnt, had also asked for many other relaxations.

The sources said the Wanda groups investment plan included construction of five industrial and theme parks, in addition to shopping malls, in the Wanda Industrial New City, which was to be located in the Delhi-Mumbai industrial corridor within the National Capital Region.

While Phase I of the project comprised an industrial park in Sonepat for companies in software, automotive manufacturing, machinery and healthcare education, the construction of Wanda Cultural Tourism City and a residential district was also on the cards.

However, not having heard from the group for four months, the government had practically written off the investment that was slated to come into Haryana and had been focussing on the other memorandums of understanding it had signed during Khattars trips abroad.

A cruel blow
Mahesh Chander Sharma

SUNDERNAGAR, November 5

Capt Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister of Punjab, today said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was afraid of state poll results so he was addressing rallies every day.

Amarinder was addressing people at Kanaid in Nachan and appealed to them to vote for Congress candidate Lal Singh Kaushal.

He said the BJP-ruled Centre was framing policies without applying mind.

He said the BJP government had burdened the public with the GST and demonetisation which had affected the life of common men.

The policies of the government was not for common man. The government was talking of bullet train the fare of which was more than aeroplane. The governance of the BJP was not good in Punjab so the public had taught it a lesson.

He said the BJP-Akali government in Punjab increased the deficit from Rs 40,000 crore to Rs 2.08 lakh crore. The present Congress government had planned to give jobs to 90 lakh people.

Pointing out that Himachal had witnessed huge development under the Virbhadra government, he said the people wanted progress which only the Congress could do.

He said these polls were being fought for the future of children. He exhorted the people to persuade their neighbours and friends to vote for the Congress in the interest of the state.

Citing the example of Punjab, which was on the path of economic revival since the Congress government took over, he said Himachal, which had witnessed a huge industrialisation under the Congress regime, would also see large-scale employment generation under Virbhadras leadership.

He appealed to the voters that it was the last election of Virbhadra Singh he should again win so that he could form government for the seventh time.

Nov 9, Dec 18 dry days
Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, November 4

Industrialists of the city today organised a press conference in Una ahead of the Prime Ministers visit to let the him know about the problems traders and manufacturers were going through due to Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The members said they had been writing to the Prime Minister for long, but to no avail. They said the dates of first month return GSTR-1, GSTR-2 and GSTR-3 had been changed three times which were to be filed on August 10, 15 and 20, respectively.Now, the deadline had been set for November 30.

Rationalisation of the GST rates, reduction of tax-on-job-work from 18 per cent to 5 per cent and replacement in the mechanism of bill matching with customers and dealer-wise summary detail matching, as it was applicable in VAT are some of the demands that the manufacturers and traders have been raising.

Their other demands include introduction of single return form with provision of revised return, if wrongly filed, and return to be filed quarterly by the dealers to profess the basic ease of doing business.

The members said they also wanted the government to abolish all slabs and to propose single slab system of 5 per cent, which may be revised to rates higher than this but not more than 10 per cent in any case, after the implementation process was successfully completed.

Chartered accountants remain on their toes

Chartered accountants (CAs) in the city have been witnessing the busiest days since July 1. They do not have time for themselves and this busy schedule has now started troubling them.

The GST has not only been keeping traders and dealers on their toes, but also the CAs as people have been discussing their apprehensions and industrialists are seeking advice from CAs.
Dinesh Manhotra

Tribune News Service

Jammu, November 5

In the Jammu region, the government has so far blacktopped only 2,550-km roads of the total 8,700 km in the last three years.

To improve the condition of roads, the state government had three years ago launched a comprehensive scheme to macadamise all roads.

Since the beginning of this scheme, 2,550-km roads have been macadamised so far in the Jammu province, said Sudhir Kumar Shah, Chief Engineer, Roads and Buildings (R&B). He said the department had set the target of macadamising 1,000-km road length per year.

As far as the Jammu region is concerned, 550-km roads have been macadamised so far this year, Shah said.

Even as the Chief Engineer claimed that there was no paucity of funds as this scheme was launched by the state government, roads in the Jammu region are in a bad condition.

Interestingly, the government has set the target of blacktopping 4,000-km roads across the state this year but only 550 km has been blacktopped so far in the Jammu region.

While addressing a meeting on May 11 this year, Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Naeem Akhtar had announced that the government had set the target of blacktopping 4,000-km road length during the current financial year. He had said the state had around Rs 5,000 crore funds available under various Centrally sponsored schemes.

The minister had said the preference would be given to the cities, towns, tourist resorts and the areas not covered under the road upgrade process because of the unrest last year.

The Chief Engineer, however, said the process of macadamisation was going on and it would be completed in a phased manner.

J&K is a unique state and its three regions have varied climatic conditions. In the plains of the Jammu province, the road construction is done between April and June and is stopped till the conclusion of monsoon. There is a brief window in November-December when the road work is taken up.

In the Valley, the working season is short from May to September as the onset of winter stops all work. In Ladakh, June-August is ideal for the road work. No road work is undertaken during winter.
Azhar Qadri

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, November 5

New Delhis representative for sustained dialogue Dineshwar Sharma is set to begin his visit to Kashmir on Monday as the region awaits some early progress in the latest talk process.

Sharma, who will arrive in Srinagar tomorrow, has already expressed readiness to talk to anyone willing to talk to him  that includes the possibility of talking to separatists.

A former chief of Intelligence Bureau, Sharma was named the representative for talks by Home Minister Rajnath Singh last month. Sharma, who had worked in Kashmir as Assistant Director of Intelligence Bureau in Kashmir in the early 1990s, is tasked to be New Dehlis representative to initiate a sustained dialogue in J&K.

Since the announcement of Sharmas appointment, separatists as well as an influential civil society group have expressed concern over the statements issued in recent weeks, including the interlocutors remarks about his priority being to prevent Kashmir from turning into Syria.

The interlocutor has so far remained silent about how he plans to move ahead in initiating the dialogue process and if any progress has been made in meeting the separatists. The tough task ahead for Sharma in the coming days will be to bring the separatists to the talking table.

The Hurriyat faction headed by Syed Ali Geelani in a statement on Sunday said it had been approached for a meeting with Sharma. The faction said a state representative had wanted to meet Geelani last night to facilitate the meeting with the interlocutor.

The separatist group, however, said forced negotiations had no political or moral justification. The faction said it had rejected the dialogue offer. No section of the Hurriyat will meet designate interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma or participate in this futile exercise, it said, placing a major challenge before Sharma.

An influential civil society group in the region had yesterday said that an engagement with the nominated representative of the Government of India can only be meaningful if and when unconditional talks are held with three key separatist leaders, including Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik.

Meanwhile, opposition party National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Sunday described the appointment of the interlocutor as nothing new and said he had very little expectations. Like it has been done before, he will come and meet people, he said.

A former three-time Chief Minister, Farooq Abdullah said New Delhis Kashmir policy had been swinging like a pendulum.

Govt must identify stakeholders: Karra

Srinagar: As Dineshwar Sharma is arriving on his maiden visit to Srinagar on Monday, the Congress has asked the Centre to remove the contradiction within over his appointment and come clean about the mandate given to him. In a statement, Congress leader Tariq Karra today demanded the government must make it clear whether Sharma was being sent to restore peace in the Valley or had the mandate to find the resolution of the Kashmir issue. If Dineshwar Sharmas task is to work for restoration of peace, then meeting police officials and mainstream politicians and stage-managed groups from different hues by certain police and civil administration officials makes some sense. But if he was appointed for resolving the Kashmir Issue, then it is imperative upon the government to identify the stakeholders first, Karra said. TNS
Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, November 5

Security forces on Sunday foiled an attack by the Pakistani Border Action Team (BAT) near the Line of Control in Uri sector of Kashmir, killing two militants.

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Director-General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid said a possible tragedy was averted

BAT action bid foiled by Army and JKP (Jammu and Kashmir Police). Two terrorists killed in Dulanja Uri. No casualty on our side. Possible tragedy averted, the DGP wrote on Twitter.

He did not share any further details.

Earlier, the Army said two unidentified militants were killed as the Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in north Kashmirs Baramulla district.

The infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector, over 110 km from Srinagar, when troops noticed suspected movement during the night hours.

The group was challenged and militants opened fire, triggering a gunfight. So far two militants have been killed in the gunfight and the operation is on, a defence official said.

The identity and the group affiliation of the slain militants could not be established immediately.

This is the second infiltration attempt that has been foiled by Army in the past two days. On November 3, a militant was killed in Machil sector in frontier Kupwara district while trying to sneak into the Valley. With PTI
Sonebhadra (UP), November 5

A German national was allegedly beaten by a railway contractor at the Robertsganj railway station in the district, the police said on Sunday.

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The incident comes days after a Swiss couple was attacked near a railway station at Agras Fatehpur Sikri.

Holger Ereek was allegedly beaten by railway contractor Aman Kumar on Saturday, after which the Station Master informed the police.

Circle officer Vivekanand Tiwari said that the accused has been arrested.

However, the railway contractor alleged that when he greeted Ereek by saying welcome to India, he hit him.

The victim refused to talk to the media.

On October 22, the Swiss couple from Lausanne in Switzerland, Quentin Jeremy Clerc (24) and his girlfriend Marie Droz (24), was chased and attacked with stones and sticks by a group of five youths in Fatehpur Sikri, triggering widespread outrage.

The couple was quoted as saying in a media report that they were strolling near the station at Fatehpur Sikri after a day in Agra when a group of youths started following them and later attacked.

The couple said as they lay on the ground bloodied and bruised, bystanders began taking videos of them on their mobile phones, the report said.

All the accused were arrested.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had sought a report from the UP government on the attack.

Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons had dashed off a letter to Yogi Adityanath, saying the incident could have a negative impact on the image of the country.

Uttar Pradesh Director-General of Police Sulkhan Singh had issued a list of guidelines, including deployment of policemen in plain clothes, more patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras, to prevent such incidents.

The couple were also offered a free stay in five-star hotel in the National Capital as a token of concern by Alphons. PTI
Rachna Khaira

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, November 5

In an embarrassment for the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia today refuted Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swarajs claim of Paramjit Kaur having beenrescued from her buyer and her return to India on November 4. Paramjit of Bilga village was allegedly sold by a travel agent for Rs 3 lakh to a family in Saudi Arabia in July.

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Swaraj in her tweet posted on November 3, along with a copy of The Tribune report, had announced Paramjits return. There seems some confusion in New Delhi. This looks like a case of mistaken identity. The case of Paramjit Kaur hailing from Bilga village is still under consideration, said an embassy officer. He refused to give any details of the other Paramjit rescued by the embassy.

Swaraj, in a tweet posted late in the evening, accepted the lapse and confirmed it was Paramjit Kaur with passport number RO 754069 who was repatriated on November 5.

The Tribune had highlighted Paramjits plight and mentioned the vehicle number of her employer, prompting the MEA to act. On Sunday evening, Paramjit Kaur, while speaking over the phone from Saudi Arabia, had refuted Swarajs claim and said she was still held up at her buyers house.

After the news of my release appeared in the media, the agent called up my buyer, who beat me up. His daughter intervened and saved my life, she claimed.

She said after Swarajs tweet, embassy officials called up her buyer and later told her she had to pay Rs 4.5 lakh to terminate the job contract, which she was made to sign by her travel agent.
Bhopal, November 5

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday called upon his party workers in Madhya Pradesh to prepare the ground for "uprooting" the "corrupt" BJP government in the state.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh in November- December next year.

Kejriwal accused Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of indulging in massive corruption and misrule.

The Delhi chief minister was addressing a convention -- the 'Shankhnaad Rally' -- at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan here.

AAP workers, who had gathered from across the state, responded with a huge applause after Kejriwal asked them about contesting the 2018 state Assembly polls.

"The BJP has been ruling Madhya Pradesh for the last 14- 15 years. The time span is sufficient for making a new Madhya Pradesh. But, can you point out a single achievement of Shivraj Singh Chouhan during this period," the AAP supremo asked the gathering amid slogan shouting.

He claimed that all the sections of society, including teachers, farmers, students, women, traders, scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), were facing problems in the state.

"Shivraj sucked Madhya Pradesh like a mango. What is happening in Madhya Pradesh was happening in Delhi as well.

But, the situation there has changed now.

"The power tariff in Madhya Pradesh is the costliest in the country, despite it being a power-surplus state. On the other hand, the Delhi government purchases electricity from Madhya Pradesh and supplies it to the citizens at one-third of the rates in MP," Kejriwal said.

He added that while the electricity bill for 200 units would come to Rs 1,370 in Madhya Pradesh, it would be for Rs 462 in Delhi.

Taking a swipe at Chouhan over the Vyapam scam, Kejriwal said Madhya Pradesh had earned notoriety for the entire episode and added that 40 young people were killed following this massive corruption.

"The young students, aspiring for a good life, were killed in the Vyapam scam, though officials and leaders were responsible," he alleged.

Kejriwal claimed that corruption had reduced in Delhi after the AAP government took charge.

"A report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), an agency of the BJP-led central government, has said corruption has reduced by 81 per cent in two-and-a-half years in the Delhi government, while graft has increased by 67 per cent in three years in the central government," he said.

Claiming that the success rate of the students of government schools in the national capital had gone up compared to the private schools, Kejriwal said, "If you want cheap electricity, good government schools, health facilities and a corruption-free Madhya Pradesh, you will have to fight."

Referring to his government's achievements in developing the school infrastructure and in the health sector, the AAP leader sought to know that if Delhi could be developed in the last two-and-a-half years, why was Madhya Pradesh not developed in 14 years.

He said the BJP and Congress were hobnobbing with each other in Delhi, where the people had found an alternative in the AAP.

"The work done in Delhi in the last two-and-a-half years has never happened in any city of the country in the last 70 years," Kejriwal claimed.  PTI
Manas Dasgupta

The Assembly elections next month is being seen as a semi-final bout between PM Narendra Modi and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi before the final showdown in 2019. With state leaders merely playing the second fiddle, neither the BJP nor the Congress has announced a CM-candidate. Nor are voters asking for the same.

Gujarat is the home-state of both Modi and BJP national president Amit Shah. Hence, the poll outcome will be crucial for their political future. But a hype has been created that any party that wins Gujarat will also win the Lok Sabha elections in 2019 and rule the country. The BJP, and perhaps Modi himself, is partly responsible for the hype. He is the first PM to have devoted so much time to any Assembly elections, home state or not. Modi did not set foot in Gujarat for 18 months after he was made PM. But he made more than a dozen trips to Gujarat this year. These became weekly in the last two months.

Scheduled to address at least 50 election meetings, the PM would be spending 12 to 15 days in Gujarat in the next 36 days, if he addresses on an average four meetings a day. The BJP is also throwing into the ring a few Union Ministers and some better-known CMs besides Shah who has already made Ahmedabad his headquarters till the state elections are over.

Rahul, who already has campaigned for nine days, three days each in Kutch-Saurashtra, central and south Gujarat, is expected to make another three-day trip to cover north Gujarat region beginning November 11. Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh and former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram are also slated to address election meetings in the state.

The Congress hopes that young emerging leaders of the Other Backward Classes, Patidars and Dalits spearheading its campaign would be able to garner a sizeable chunk of votes. While OBC leader Alpesh Thakore has already joined the Congress, Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti convener Hardik Patel and Dalit leader Jignesh Mevani are playing truant. But in all probability, they will lend the party outside support. All three have declared they will work for the defeat of the BJP.

It would be a tough ask for Hardik to unite the entire Patidar community behind the Congress. But the Congress can hope for solid backing from OBCs and Dalits. Mevani also enjoys considerable support of the Muslims because of his bitter opposition to self-styled cow vigilantes. Then there is young Pravin Ram, 27, who has opened a front against the BJP government on the issue of contractual jobs.

After the loss of senior leader Shankarsinh Vaghela, who revolted against the party in July and is in political wilderness, the Alpesh, Jignesh and Hardik trio has come as a big catch for the Congress. A worried BJP has launched a massive fire-fighting operation to try to discredit the three young leaders.

The BJP came out with a tape, alleging that the reservation agitation was funded by Ahmed Patel, Sonias political secretary. This failed to cut ice with voters. Then, the CM summoned a late-night media briefing, accusing Patel of links with ISIS terrorists, saying he was a former trustee of a hospital where one of the two alleged ISIS operatives, arrested by the Anti-Terrorist Squad from Surat, worked as a lab technician. He demanded Patels resignation from the Rajya Sabha.

But details released by the police made it clear that the MP had ceased to be a trustee of the private hospital since 2014 while the alleged terrorist was employed only six months ago and had resigned 24 days before he was arrested.

It is too early to predict the outcome of the elections, but if the Modi magic works, nothing will stop the BJP from securing 130 plus seats. And if Modis charisma is on the wane, as claimed by the Congress, it will be the end of the era of oblivion for the Congress.

Cong catch-line

The anti-BJP catch-line Vikas gando thayo chhe (Development has gone crazy) has turned out to be a creation of a frustrated Patidar youth of Ahmedabad, Sagar Savalia. It was picked up by the IT cell of the state Congress to ridicule the BJPs Gujarat model of development. Now it has gone viral on the social media that the BJP has come up with a counter-tagline, Hun chu vikas, hun chu Gujarat (I am development, I am Gujarat).

The 20-year old Savalia, a civil engineering student, was a victim of a police lathi-charge at Hardiks mega rally in Ahmedabad on August 25, 2015. He was brutalised by the police though he was not a member of the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti then. A day before the second anniversary of the mega rally, Savalia posted on his facebook page a picture of a state transport bus resting on its broken axle with its wheels running backwards with the tagline, Vikas gando thayo chhe that became an instant hit.
Pritam Singh

Demonetisation, hyped as an economic policy of 'surgical strike' against black money and terrorism, can be viewed with hindsight as more of 'carpet bombing' on Indian people especially those in the informal economy.

Demonetisation was paraded as a big leap towards creating a cashless economy in India. The work of Prof Barbara Harriss-White of Oxford University and of the late Arjun Sengupta had conclusively demonstrated that the informal sector, dependent on cash transactions, constituted the overwhelming sector of the Indian economy. As this research was well known in economic policy circles, the demonetisation move indicated both its flawed nature as an instrument of economic management as well as aloofness, or even perhaps contempt, for ordinary working people of the country.

The constant references to demonetisation as an economical 'surgical strike' akin to the Indian military's 'surgical strike' against a neighbouring country and terrorism of a certain brand also revealed a thinly disguised political attempt to seek approval for the move by invoking majoritarian communal and sectarian sentiments.

The hollowness of the claim that this move was aimed at curbing black money becomes clear from a report 'Measures to tackle black money' produced by the Central Board of Direct Taxes in 2012. This report, in an understated way, argued that demonetisation might not be a solution for tackling black money or economy because black money is held largely in the form of benami properties, bullion and jewellery. Income tax investigations showed that black money holders kept only six per cent or less of their wealth as cash. Targeting this cash as a central component of anti-black money strategy is plainly ridiculous if not criminal negligence.

This raises the question: why did the BJP-led government launch this policy? What were its political motives as no economic policy anywhere in the world is without political motives of the ruling party. The answer lies in understanding the close ties between BJP and the big business, and the party's social-electoral base. It has been reported in media that the Indian banking sector was bedevilled with large loan defaults by top corporates . Consequently, the banks, especially public sector ones, were virtually starved of funds to lend and thus creating a condition of credit crunch. The BJP's big business ties meant that it could not hit the large corporate defaulters to recover the loans but it needed banks to have sufficient funds to lend to its social-electoral base in the small and medium trading communities.

Demonetisation was viewed as a way of recapitalising the banks to ensure sufficient lending to BJP's socio-electoral base but without hitting the ruling party's corporate friends.

Demonetisation has failed in meeting its stated objective of attacking black economy cash as well as in its consequences for the Indian economy. A recent RBI annual report revealed low efficacy of demonetisation. It pointed out that of the Rs 15.44 lakh crore taken out of circulation, Rs 15.28 lakh crore had returned to the system by way of public deposits. Most of this was already 'white' coming out of the earnings of millions of ordinary households and if there were black money holders, they have made it 'white' now.

Its consequences have been devastating for certain social groups who are not normally BJP's vote bank. Farmers and informal sector workers such as weavers, embroiderers, tailors and crafts persons in the textile/apparel activities were particularly hit hard. Industrial production has also suffered. According to one estimate, demonetisation had led to a loss of GDP of Rs 2.25 lakh crore.

Overall, it was a badly designed policy with sectarian political objectives. It had negligible gains, if any, but huge losses in the form of cost of printing new notes, adverse impacts on agriculture, industry and GDP; destruction of many livelihoods and causing many deaths.

 The writer is Professor of Economics, Oxford Brookes Business School, Oxford
Jupinderjit Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 5

Refuting his alleged links with drug smugglers, Leader of the Opposition and senior AAP leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira today confirmed that he made phone calls to police officials to enquire about the case against a drug smuggler, but insisted that he didnt pursue the matter after the police shared evidence.

Gurdev Singh was a prominent politician in my constituency (Bholath). He was chairman of the local market committee. He had sought my help after he was booked under the NDPS Act. I made calls to an IG and a DIG to enquire about the matter. But I withdrew when the officials explained the case details and evidence against him, Khaira said.

Gurdev Singh was among the nine persons convicted for up to 20 years imprisonment by a Fazilka court last week. They were found carrying 200-350 gm of heroin and a Pakistani SIM card.

Khaira said he knew the family of Gurdev Singh for some time. It is usual for a politician to be approached for help and call up the police to know the facts. I only made six or seven calls to the accused. The police claims of 65 calls are false and are not certified by any telecom agency, he said.

2015 case

Khairas name cropped up during the investigation of a case registered against Gurdev Singh and eight others on March 5, 2015, at Sadar police station, Jalalabad, the constituency of SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal.

After the conviction of the nine smugglers recently, the court admitted a plea moved by public prosecutor seeking summoning of Khaira, his personal security officer Joga Singh, PA Manish and Charanjit Kaur and Major Singh Bajwa owing to their links with the smugglers.

The prosecutor termed Khaira as the kingpin. He said there were 65 telephone calls between Khaira and his aides and Gurdev, who evaded arrest between March 5 and April 23.

The prosecutor also attached a statement of the investigating officer, SP Ajmer Singh, claiming that Gurdev had given funds and a vehicle to Khaira during the Assembly elections.

The defence

Khaira alleged that the police fabricated the call details. Why didnt they include my name in the FIR ever in the challans? he questioned.

The AAP MLA said: The police had questioned Joga Singh for 15 days but could not find any evidence. But now out of the blue, there is a plea terming me an accused. This is sheer political vendetta.

The then Akali government had constituted an SIT headed by IG PS Umranangal with DIG AS Chahal and Fazilka SSP as members. It also did not find anything against me.

Even SP Ajmer Singh, in an earlier statement in the court, did not accuse me. When I moved the Punjab and Haryana High Court against the allegations, the state police did not respond for months, but later said in an affidavit that there was no incriminating evidence against me.

Bibi Jagir Kaur seeks AAP leaders arrest

Jalandhar: Senior SAD leader Bibi Jagir Kaur on Sunday sought Sukhpal Khairas arrest, citing court records on the phone calls exchanged by him and convicted drug smuggler Gurdev Singh Debi in February-March 2015. Speaking to mediapersons here, she accused the Congress government of shielding him. If non-bailable warrants have been issued against Khaira, why is the government not arresting him? A supplementary chargesheet should be filed against him for aiding Debi, she said. TNS
Rajmeet Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 5

Private educational societies, operating nine Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) from leased-out government buildings across Punjab, continue to be a burden on the state exchequer.

The inability on the part of the Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training to recover the lease money in the past 12 years has resulted in the overdue amount touching Rs 3 crore (rough estimate).

Senior officials of the department said the private promoters also violated the clause of increasing the lease money when the fee (charged from students) was increased in 2013.

Each ITI has strength of 300 students. The connivance of officials with the promoters resulted in non-recovery of money, officials said, adding that no action was taken against erring officials.

Notices were issued to the defaulting societies from time to time, but in vain. Political interference during the previous SAD-BJP government delayed the recovery, an officer said.

Technical Education Minister Charanjit Singh Channi said he had already marked an inquiry into the matter.

Parveen Thind, Director (Technical Education), said the departmental probe was at an advanced stage and the total amount due against nine defaulting societies was being calculated. Action will be taken against the promoters after getting the details, he said.

Short of funds, the then Capt Amarinder Singh government had, in 2004, leased out nine government ITIs to private players for 33 years. As per the agreement signed between the government and private players, the lessees had to complete the infrastructure, get approval for courses as per their requirement and pay the lease money (termed as concession fee).

Another point of contention is that two of the nine lessees  Shyama Shyam Society, Benarshi, and Guru Angad Dev Soceity, Khadoor Sahib  contested that because of the delay in completing the formalities, the lease money should be charged from August 2008 instead of August 2005.

Based on a report of a departmental committee, then Technical Education Minister Anil Joshi had changed the date of operation of the agreement. The same benefit, however, was not given to seven other ITIs.
Tribune News Service

Amritsar, November 5

The state government today announced Rs5-lakh compensation and a government job for the family of slain Vipin Sharma, district president, Hindu Sangharsh Sena.

Local Bodies Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu made the announcement during his visit to the family. He told them that the police had identified the culprits, who would be arrested soon.

Speaking to the media, he said the Congress government was taking measures to nail those who were trying to disrupt communal harmony. He said every political party should rise above politics over the issue.

The DGP, Suresh Arora, yesterday claimed that the killing Sharma was not the handiwork of radicals as was being suspected in the initial stage.

During the investigation so far, one thing is clear that it is not radical-sponsored crime, he said, adding that the suspects had been identified and efforts were on to nab them. One of the suspects was identified with the help of CCTV footage, while his accomplices have also been identified, he said.
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 5

The Punjab Forest Department has been wrongly spending compensatory afforestation funds to legally defend cases of large-scale tree felling in the state.

Nearly Rs88 lakh has been spent by the Forest Department to pay lawyers fee and on other related expenditure in the past one-and-a-half years to defend cases of deforestation before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and other courts.

Information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act by RTI activist Amandeep Aggarwal has revealed that funds under compensatory afforestation fund management and planning authority (CAMPA) were used for litigation.

Aggarwal, who has filed cases before the NGT against tree felling along the Bathinda-Zirakpur stretch of the national highway in March 2016, has been alleging that the department has been spending the money to cover its wrong acts.

He pointed out that the department was also contesting the case of large-scale felling of trees along the Bist-Doab canal. The CAMPA funds were also being spent on contesting that the trees were not on the forest strip, he said.

The RTI activist got the information on funds only after filing an appeal before the Punjab Information Commission as he had been denied the information.

He further pointed out that the department was violating the norms to utilise the CAMPA funds to pay fees to advocates in its legal battle in the NGT and the Supreme Court to defend and justify deforestation.
Tribune News Service

Sangrur, November 5

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders threatened to launch an agitation if the police failed to arrest the killers of Harkirat Singh, the husband of SAD-supported sarpanch Manpreet Kaur of Mubarakpur Chungha village.

They said this at the bhog of Harkirat, who was shot dead by two assailants near Burj village (Malerkotla ) on October 30. He was a government teacher and leader of the Punjab Adhyapak Dal affiliated to the SAD.

Parminder Singh Dhindsa, SADs Lehragaga MLA, said: The delay in the arrest of killers has raised questions about the working of the police.

Harkirat was murdered because he supported the SAD. We will construct his memorial in the village for Rs5 lakh, said Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, sectary general, SAD.

Malerkotla DSP Yogi Raj could not be contacted in spite of repeated attempts.
Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 5

Over seven months after the Punjab Government was castigated for a shoddy probe into the Rs 10.52-crore paddy milling scam, it has constituted a special investigation team (SIT).

As the case came up for resumed hearing, the state counsel sought time for placing on record a status report in the form of an affidavit, after submitting that the SIT was looking into the matter.

Justice Surinder Gupta fixed the case for hearing in January. The Bench, on the previous date of hearing, had asked the Director General (Vigilance) to look into the matter.

Before considering the reference of the case to the CBI as per an earlier order, Justice Gupta asked the Director General to constitute a high-level team for the purpose before submitting its report on an affidavit. The High Court has already impleaded the CBI as a party.

The developments took place on a petition by Punjab Agro Food Grains Corporation Limited for the cancellation of bail granted to respondent Manoj Jain. The High Court was initially told that only one person was arraigned as an accused in the case, prompting it to observe that thousands of quintals could not have been misappropriated by one accused.

The High Court had stated that the prosecution case was that about 89,006 quintals of paddy were supplied by the petitioner (corporation) to the respondent for milling in pursuance of an agreement dated October 24, 2012. However, only about 36,908 quintals were milled and the rest was misappropriated. The assessed loss to the corporation was over Rs 10.52 crore.

Justice Deepak Sibal had added that the respondent was the only accused arraigned in the challan filed before the trial court after an investigation by the Vigilance wing.

The investigation apparently is shoddy as it is highly improbable, if not impossible, that in a scam of this magnitude, only one person was involved. Thousands of quintals of paddy could not have been misappropriated without the active connivance of others, who may include officials of the petitioner, Justice Sibal had said.
Beirut, November 5

At least 75 civilians were killed in an Islamic State group car bombing that struck a gathering of people displaced by fighting in eastern Syria, a monitor said today.

Yesterdays attack in the eastern province of Deir al-Zor killed at least 75 displaced civilians including children and wounded 140, said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Abdel Rahman said the victims had fled battles in the province, where Syrian regime forces and a US-backed Kurdish- Arab alliance, the Syrian Democratic Forces, are fighting the extremist group.

The Britain-based war monitor, which relies on a network of sources on the ground inside Syria for its information, reported yesterday that dozens had died in the blast. Fighting across Deir al-Zor province has sent thousands of civilians fleeing for their lives.

Some had sought refuge in a desert area controlled by the SDF on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River where the yesterday bombing struck. It was not the first attack attributed to IS against civilians fleeing Deir al-Zor. On October 12, a car bombing in the northeastern province of Hasakeh killed at least 18 persons, the Observatory said.  AFP
Washington, November 5

Former US president George HW Bush voted for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election and called Donald Trump a blowhard who was driven by a certain ego. His son George W. Bush left his ballot blank and said about Trump: This guy doesnt know what it means to be president.

The revelations, contained in historian Mark Updegroves The Last Republicans, available in bookstores later this month, represent the strongest criticism to date from the Bush clan on why their Republican successor is uniquely unfit to hold office.

I dont like him, the elder Bush told Updegrove in May 2016 before the elections in November of that year, according to excerpts of the book obtained by AFP.

I dont know much about him, but I know hes a blowhard.

And Im not too excited about him being (our) leader.

The younger Bush, meanwhile, was skeptical about then- candidate Trumps chances in a race in which his younger brother Jeb was an early favorite.

Interesting, wont last, was his initial reaction when Trump entered the race.

Once the bombastic billionaire real estate magnate secured the Republican nomination, Bush expressed surprise and worried about Trumps lack of humility, and thus his inability to recognize his own limitations and surround himself with more knowledgeable people.

As you know from looking at my family, Bush said, humility is a certain heritage, thats what they expect, and were not seeing that in Trump.

After Trump said, Im my own advisor, Bush quipped: Wow, this guy really doesnt understand the job of president.

The comments are sure to escalate a long-running feud and come after George W. Bush gave a speech last month that condemned bigotry, bullying and lies in US politics in what was widely seen as a broadside against Trump even though the president was not mentioned by name.

The books title was inspired by the younger Bushs concerns that he had been the last Republican presidentnot just because Clinton was seen as favorite to win the election, but because Trump represented a major break from traditional conservatism.

A White House official hit back, telling CNN: If one presidential candidate can disassemble a political party, it speaks volumes about how strong a legacy its past two presidents really had.

And that begins with the Iraq war, one of the greatest foreign policy mistakes in American history, the official added.

The younger Bush also pushed back hard on the widely-held perception during his time in office that his vice president Dick Cheney and secretary of defense Donald Rumsfeld controlled the White House from behind the scenes.

They didnt make one fucking decision, he told Updegrove.  AFP.
Brussels, November 5

Catalonias sacked separatist leader Carles Puigdemont and four of his former ministers turned themselves in to Belgian police today after Spain issued a warrant for their arrest.

The five, who face accusations of rebellion and sedition in Spain, are due to appear before a judge who will decide within 24 hours whether to detain or release them.

It is the latest dramatic development in the crisis unleashed by the Catalan separatists push for independence from Spain that sent shock waves across Europe.

Puigdemont and his allies fled to Belgium last Monday after Spain sacked the Catalan executive and imposed direct rule on Madrid following the regional parliaments declaration of independence last month. They were deprived of their liberty at 9.17 am, the Belgian prosecutors office said. We were in regular contact with the lawyers of the five people and they agreed to turn up at the police station, prosecution spokesman Gilles Dejemeppe said. They honoured that commitment. Only the five, their lawyer and an interpreter will be present at the hearing.

Spain issued a warrant for their arrest on Friday after they failed to appear before a judge on claims of sedition, rebellion and misuse of public funds over the move to declare Catalonia an independent republic.

The judge in Madrid had on Thursday put Puigdemonts deputy and seven other deposed regional ministers behind bars because of a risk that they would flee.

Puigdemont, who insists that Catalonia earned the right to declare independence following a disputed referendum last month, had said Friday that he was willing to cooperate with Belgian authorities.  AFP

Pro-Catalonia parties seen winning: Polls
Riyadh, November 5

Saudi authorities detained a billionaire global investor and the head of the National Guard as part of an anti-corruption purge that consolidates Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans hold on power.

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding, was among 11 princes, four ministers and tens of former ministers detained, two senior Saudi officials told Reuters on Sunday.

A top security official, Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, was detained and replaced as minister of the powerful National Guard by Prince Khaled bin Ayyaf. This consolidates Prince Mohammeds bin Salmans control of security institutions which had previously been headed by separate branches of the ruling family.

News of the purge came in the early hours of Sunday after King Salman decreed the creation of an anti-corruption committee chaired by his 32-year-old son Prince Mohammed, who has amassed power since rising from obscurity less than three years ago.

The new body was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions and freeze assets. The homeland will not exist unless corruption is uprooted and the corrupt are held accountable, the royal decree said.

Analysts said the goal of the purge went beyond corruption and aimed to remove potential opposition to Prince Mohammed as he pushes an ambitious and controversial reform agenda.

In September he announced that a ban on women driving would be lifted and he is trying to break decades of conservative tradition. In economic policy, he has slashed state spending in some areas and plans a big sale of state assets.

The crackdown breaks with the tradition of consensus within the ruling family whose secretive inner workings are equivalent to those of the Kremlin at the time of the Soviet Union, wrote James Dorsey, a senior fellow at Singapores S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.  Reuters

Billionaire Prince Alwaleed among detained

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding, was among 11 princes, four ministers and tens of former ministers detained. A flamboyant character, he has sometimes used his prominence as an investor to aim barbs at the kingdoms rulers

In December 2015, Prince Alwaleed called US President Donald Trump, who was then a candidate, a disgrace to all America and demanded on his Twitter account that he withdraw from the election

Trump responded by tweeting: Dopey Prince @Alwaleed_Talal wants to control our US politicians with daddys money. Cant do it when I get elected

MBS cements his grip on power
Santiago, November 5

A top Venezuelan opposition lawmaker has requested Chiles protection after Venezuelas high court announced he would be prosecuted on charges punishable by a decade in prison.

Freddy Guevara, the opposition  stacked National Assemblys number two official, sought refuge at Chiles embassy in Caracas after the pro-government dominated Supreme Courts announcement Friday.

Chiles foreign ministry said in a statement that Guevara, 31, was received at the residence of its ambassador as a guest, and that he had requested the protection of Chile based on what he considers to be imminent threats to his security and personal integrity.

The prominent opposition leader became the sixth Venezuelan to seek protection at the embassy in under three months, including four judges who are already protected in Chile and a fifth who has remained at the diplomatic residence since April.

Venezuelas top court on Friday announced the suspension of Guevaras immunity to enable him to be tried for crimes of association, persistent public instigation and the use of an adolescent to commit crimes, without specifying when the allegations date from.

The pro-government constitutional assembly  which governs crisis-stricken Venezuela with absolute power  is meanwhile investigating the lawmaker in connection with mass protests against the embattled President Nicolas Maduro that left 125 dead between April and July.

Spain has rejected the measures taken against Guevara, while the so-called Lima Group  comprised of 12 American states  described it as a new attack against the rule of law and the division of powers in Venezuela.  AFP
A draft of a possible settlement in the statewide charter school associations lawsuit shows that the state Board of Education could have agreed to certain charter schools having new access to public dollars that currently only go to traditional public schools.

The Tulsa World obtained a copy of the four-page draft agreement and confirmed its authenticity with parties involved in the case.

In July, the Oklahoma Public Charter School Association sued the state Board of Education to try to make a legal case that existing Oklahoma laws are being misinterpreted.

Charter schools say they are due an equal share of revenues from Oklahomas gross production, motor vehicle and rural electrification association tax collections, state school land earnings and county tax collections, which currently flow only to traditional public schools.

According to the document, terms in the draft agreement called for school district-sponsored charter schools to receive from their sponsoring districts proportionate shares of the general fund, building and all other local revenue and state-dedicated revenue, as of July 1, 2018.

Tulsa Public Schools and Oklahoma City Public Schools, which sponsor most of the states 28 charter school districts, estimate their first-year losses alone at between $1 million and $1.5 million each.

Those estimates do not count possible losses from sought-after funds for virtual charter school students, which school district attorneys have claimed would cut down on funding to every traditional public school in the state.

State education officials deny the existence of any such settlement agreement, but attorneys for the Tulsa and Oklahoma City school districts confirmed to the Tulsa World that they were approached with the settlement terms by representatives of the state Board of Education.

What agreement? said Brad Clark, the state Board of Educations attorney, when the Tulsa World asked about the document.

I didnt know there was one, added Steffie Corcoran, spokeswoman for the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Then Clark interjected: Not that Im aware of. Were very perplexed.

After being shown the document, state education officials would not take questions, instead issuing this written statement from Clark: There is not and never has been a settlement agreement. Any characterization otherwise is false.

Oklahoma Watch has reported that Clark is the former law partner of William Hickman, the attorney for the plaintiff charter school group, but state education officials defended Clarks role in the case, saying it does not present a conflict of interest.

With a settlement of the lawsuit appearing imminent, school boards in Oklahoma City and Tulsa moved swiftly two weeks ago to authorize their attorneys to try to intervene in the case.

Amid the school districts legal maneuvering, the state Board canceled its regular October monthly meeting at which it could have voted on a settlement deal with the charter school group.

On Friday, an Oklahoma County District Court judge ruled that the Tulsa and Oklahoma City school districts be allowed to intervene in the statewide charter school associations lawsuit, effectively halting any possible settlement.

Attorneys representing the Oklahoma City and Tulsa school districts confirmed those districts were made privy to the states possible settlement of the lawsuit.

I have seen that document and was aware of that document as well as conversations that took place with representatives of Oklahoma City Public Schools about a possible settlement  conversations that were prior to the districts motion to intervene, said Laura Holmes, an attorney for that school district.

Jana Burk, general counsel at TPS, said, We were approached by representatives of the state Board about the settlement terms of a draft agreement.

Public education watchers not even engaged in the case say the settlement dealings moved swiftly and were not a well-kept secret.

Richard Wilkinson, general counsel at the Oklahoma Education Association, said he is among a growing number of people who have seen the four-page draft proposed settlement.

Its an incomplete document of something you would put into a proposed stipulation for a judge to sign to resolve a matter, Wilkinson said.

Wilkinson characterized his organization as an interested observer of the case because some of its members could become involved at some point. He said the lawsuit is noteworthy because it appears to be an attempt to change how this is supposed to work according to existing state statutes and the state constitution.

There is potential for other school districts to be impacted, and this needs to be litigated with every interested party having an opportunity to weigh in on how this ought to play out, Wilkinson said. The concern is if there was a settlement, there would be no opportunity to have the (state) Supreme Court look at it or anything.

Wilkinson also commented that he thinks the charter school lawsuit evaded widespread notice because of the timing of its filing in July. He said by the time the case hit his radar, the possibility of a settlement was already somewhat imminent.

I thought, oh, its going along really quickly. It kind of surprised me a little bit, Wilkinson said.
Oklahomans whove tested positive for syphilis all need antibiotics, but some need help for much deeper problems that put them at risk of getting sick again.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health announced in March that Oklahoma County was facing a syphilis outbreak. In the first six months of this year, the Oklahoma City-County Health Department reported 215 positive syphilis tests, raising the possibility the county could pass the 284-case mark set last year.

Syphilis cases in the state of Oklahoma and Oklahoma County have more than doubled since 2011, and other sexually transmitted diseases also are on the rise.

Read the rest of this story online at NewsOk.com. A subscription may be required.
Gun-toting youths are being blamed in part for Tulsas recent surge in violent crime.

Tulsa Police homicide Sgt. Dave Walker says he is seeing it more and more.

Im looking at the ones that make absolutely no sense, like the one who shoots his partner through the trunk of the car, Walker said.

The sergeant is referring to the case of a 19-year-old who said he accidentally shot his 16-year-old partner while the two were allegedly burglarizing a neighborhood Oct. 21.

If he didnt have a gun, then it would have been a larceny report, Walker said.

After enjoying a lull in violent crime, Tulsa has taken a turn.

In the past two years, the number of reported violent crimes  homicides, rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults  has increased 38 percent in Tulsa.

Led by Tulsas modern-day-record number of homicides, reports of violent crime jumped both in 2015 and 2016, according to a World review of Tulsa crime statistics.

From 2015 to 2016, violent crime reports increased 22 percent, which is the largest single-year increase in total reported violent crimes since 1989.

The violent crime rate has followed a similar trend.

In 2014, the Tulsa violent crime rate was 805 reports per 100,000 residents, the lowest it had been since 1985, when the rate was 774 reports per 100,000 residents.

Since 2014 though, the violent crime rate has increased 36 percent to 1,095 reports per 100,000 residents in 2016.

Tulsa ranked 26th in violent crime rate among other cities in the U.S. with a population of more than 100,000.

However, the FBI cautions against using only the agencys annual crime figures to draw comparisons with jurisdictions based on population size. The FBI cites a range of variables that can affect the criminality of a city or county, including population density, effective strength of law enforcement agencies and the communitys willingness to report crime.

Until data users examine all the variables that affect crime in a town, city, county, state, region or other jurisdiction, they can make no meaningful comparisons, the FBI stated in 2013.

Meanwhile, the homicide pace hasnt shown any signs of slowing this year. With 71 homicides reported thus far in 2017, Tulsa may eclipse the record in the record 82 homicides that were reported in 2016.

Homicide isnt the only category of violent crime that has seen an increase in Tulsa.

The 439 rapes that were recorded in 2016 in Tulsa is the largest single-year number reported since at least 1985, according to statistics from the FBI.

The number of rapes reported in 2016 in Tulsa was 20 percent more than reported in 2015 and is nearly double the number reported in 2000.

Tulsa police attribute the increase in part to more victims coming forward, rather than an occurrence of more crime.

Robberies, which had been on the decline in Tulsa for five years, also increased from 854 to 1,088, a 27 percent rise from 2015 to 2016.

Aggravated assaults, which had been on the decline for six years in Tulsa, have increased 47 percent over the past two-year period, from 1,938 in 2014 to 2,845 in 2016.

And while the numbers of reported assaults and robberies are still below those from six to eight years ago  when violent crime reports last peaked  the recent trend still has many concerned.

Walker cant say for sure why violent crime is on the rise but said he has noticed a couple of things during the current homicide blitz.

I see more guns on the street, Walker said. Guns are being carried by younger people.

Youths as young as 13, 14 and 15 are equipping themselves with firearms, Walker said.

A 15-year-old confronts me on the street unarmed, its like What the heck,  Walker said. But the outcome is going to be a little different when they confront you with a gun.

A Tulsa World review of homicides committed in 2016 and 2017 shows 74 percent of the 153 homicide victims in the city through Oct. 24 had been shot.

And while only four of the suspects in homicide cases were minors, Walker points out how many more shootings there were that didnt result in a death.

We dont really have a lot of young criminals attacking, killing innocent people like that, Walker said. So what happens is youve got young minds with guns attacking young minds with guns and you end up with bigger gunfights, and eventually they are going to start hitting.

I think thats the reason. Its just become a little bit more violent in that industry, and everybodys carrying a gun out there, he said.

I would venture to say if you take the number of illegal gun-carrying people out there, then our numbers would go down.

Efforts to take illegal guns off the streets are ongoing.

In April, Tulsa Police and other agencies announced they had arrested 92 people, recovered 29 guns and seized pounds of drugs during a five-day sweep to curb violent crime.

In June 2013, federal, state and local authorities announced they had made 110 arrests and seized 24 guns during an operation targeting violent crime offenders.

Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, said violent crime will continue to be a top priority for his office.

Our prosecutorial focus will be on violent crimes which involve the use of a firearm as well as human trafficking and crimes against children and domestic violence in Indian Country, Shores said. Our approach will be holistic in that we will use multi-jurisdictional task forces and multi-disciplinary teams to confront violent offenders and help give voice to their victims.

Public housing a concern

Public housing apartment complexes have seen a dozen homicides since January 2016.

One complex, Towne Square, 1607 E. Young Place, near Booker T. Washington High School, has been the site of four homicides over a 12-month period ending in February. In all, homicides have been recorded at six public housing complexes since February 2016.

Tulsa Housing Authority officials attribute the underlying source of the increase in homicides to domestic violence.

Beginning in June, THA began requiring potential residents to complete training offered by Domestic Violence Intervention Services. The training  which includes providing information about healthy relationships, types of abuse and individual rights under the Violence Against Women Act  is a condition for those seeking to qualify for rental assistance through the housing authority.

The agency has taken other steps to reduce violent crime, according to CEO Aaron Darden.

One of my top priorities has been putting in place measures to increase security at our properties, Darden said. One of these measures included removing the guard shacks at Towne Square, Comanche and Apache, and replacing this method of securing our properties with bringing on a professional security company that would provide foot and car patrols.

Matt Letzig, chief operating officer for Tulsa Housing Authority, said crime rates are beginning to decrease as a result of the changes made by the agency.

Homicides by the numbers

The record 82 homicides recorded in Tulsa in 2016 is 10 more than the official figure reported by the FBI. The FBI figure excludes officer-involved fatal shootings, vehicular homicides and other cases where the death was ruled justified.

With 71 homicides recorded through Oct. 30, the city is on pace this year to exceed the 2016 record.

Of the 153 homicides since last year, 119 were male, 33 were females and one was an 12-to-16-week-old fetus whose mother was fatally shot.

Blacks, who constitute 14.9 percent of the city population, accounted for 46 percent of the victims. Non-Hispanic whites, 56 percent of the city population, were victims in 40 percent of homicides since January 2016.

Hispanics, 15 percent of the city population, accounted for 8.5 percent of the total number of victims. Native Americans, who make up about 4 percent of the total population, constituted 2.6 percent of the victims, with other races accounting for the balance. Blacks, meanwhile, were named as suspects in 56 percent of the homicides in which police made public the name of the accused.

Whites constituted about 36 percent of the suspects, while Hispanics totaled about 8 percent and Native Americans made up 3 percent.

Cases involving black victims and black perpetrators were the most common racial combination of suspect and deceased, accounting for about 2 in 5 homicides.

About 27 percent of the homicide cases in 2016 and 2017 involved white suspects and white victims.

The third most common scenario involved black perpetrators and white victims, accounting for about 10 percent of the cases. About 5 percent of the total number of homicides involved Hispanic perpetrators and Hispanic victims.

Whites killing blacks accounted for about 3 percent of the total reported in 2016 and 2017.

The average age of the victims was 32. The average age of the perpetrators was 31.

Walker said suspects linked to gangs were to blame for a significant number of homicides in 2015, but that was not the case in 2016. This year gang-linked suspects have been responsible for a handful of the crimes, Walker said.

A Tulsa World analysis of where the homicides since January 2016 occurred show they are scattered across the city, with concentrations of murders occurring in about five different areas of the city.

One of the hot spots was near Apache Street and Peoria Avenue, where about 21 homicides occurred within about 1.5 miles of the intersection, making it the area with the largest concentration of murders in the city since January 2016.

The area includes Towne Square, a public housing apartment complex operated by the Tulsa Housing Authority, that recorded four homicides in a one-year period ending February 2017.

Locations of the next highest concentrations of homicides, with 13 cases in each, are the areas within 1.5 miles of 56th Street North and Martin Luther King Boulevard, 11th Street and U.S. 169, and 61st Street and Peoria Avenue.

Finally, the area within one mile of 71st Street and South Mingo Road was another hotspot, accounting for eight killings in the past 22 months.

Walker said he is skeptical of efforts to focus a large amount of resources on one area of town.

I dont think you can say Lets send all of our assets to Apache and Peoria and bother them for a while,  Walker said. They are going to be very mobile and go somewhere else.

I dont really look at the areas of town as being the issue. Whats causing it is more the drugs, sex, vendettas  and you can get caught anywhere; theyll shoot you up and move on.

More often than not, the victim and the perpetrator knew each other, Walker said.

Last year there was just no rhyme or reason that I could figure out other than the people were in a relationship in some way, somehow the victim and killer knew each other, Walker said.

More focus on illegal gun possession by felons cant help but drive down the crime numbers, Walker said.

If we catch them and they havent shot anybody, ... then those are the ones Id like to swap out with the marijuana dealers, Walker said about prioritizing law enforcement efforts.
A man was killed and another was wounded in a north Tulsa shooting before 1 a.m. Sunday, the Tulsa Police Department said in a news release. It was the citys 73rd homicide of 2017.

Tulsa Police Sgt. Dave Walker said 27-year-old Byron Roland was walking up to a house in the 4200 block of North Frankfort Avenue when shots were fired from a vacant home across the street, striking him.

That man died of his wounds at the scene, Walker said.

An 18-year-old man approaching the same house was also wounded in the shooting, Walker said. The 18-year-old was transported to a local hospital, released and interviewed by police.

Walker said police spoke with Rolands family and determined that Roland wasnt involved in any activities that wouldve made him a target.

A friend of the victim came outside the house and didnt see any suspects, Walker said, adding that the motive was unknown and police had no suspect descriptions for release.

Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers at 918-596-2677, the Homicide Tip Line at 918-798-8477 or email homicide@cityoftulsa.org.
SPARTA  When Erica Olson moved to Sparta this summer and set to work on her hobby farm, she never imagined shed be getting a helping hand from the Bangor FFA.

More than a dozen FFA students filed off a bus Oct. 8 and set to work removing more than 200 sapling pine trees from the property.

By early afternoon, all 216 pots, donated by Cottage Grove Nurseries in West Salem, had been filled.

We were done by 1 p.m., FFA adviser Rick Bierbaurer said. We filled every single one. ... Id expected to be out until 4 p.m.

The trees could make a big difference for Bangors small FFA chapter. Bierbrauer said the trees could bring in more than $2,000 in profits that will go to aid projects including the chapters annual trip to the FFA National Convention.

The project was also an excellent opportunity for students to rack up some community service time.

Seeing kids get excited just to help someone for some community service is really great, he said.

Olson said the project ended up benefiting everyone.

The saplings were planted by the previous owner shortly before selling the property.

Olson, who moved to Sparta in July, had different plans for the property. She wanted to convert the land to pasture where shed raise a handful of goats, Icelandic sheep and Guinea hogs.

The single mother of three and education and therapy coordinator at Coulee Region Humane Society said it was an opportunity to live out her dream and start her farmstead.

Knowing Olsons plans, Castle Realty agents Stephany ODriscoll and Katie Wood called, Bierbrauer with a proposal.

ODriscoll and Wood saw the opportunity to help Olson reach her goal a little sooner and benefit the Bangor FFA at the same time.

It would be a shame to till the trees, ODriscoll said. We knew they (the Bangor FFA) were fundraising.

Wood said it was nice to find a new home for the trees and to help Olson out.

I was really glad those realtors called, Bierbrauer said. It was a nice opportunity that kind of fell together. It is kind of a good no-risk fundraiser.

In addition to getting Olson and the Bangor FFA connected, Wood and ODriscoll provided a moving truck to transport the trees and lunch for the kids.

Eighth-grader Rebecca Schaub said the project was a great way to give back the community.

Its a good way to take part in the community and for people to experience something great about the Bangor FFA, she said.

Thanks to the success of the collaboration, Wood and ODriscoll are now on the lookout for their next opportunity to help the district.

Anyone interest in purchasing a tree is encouraged to contact the agriculture department at 608-468-5241. The trees are available for purchase by appointment or any time after 5 p.m.
To determine the significance and need for investigation of incidental prostatic uptake in men undergoing (18)F-labelled fluorodeoxyglucose ((18)F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for other indications.

Hospital databases were searched over a 5-year period for patients undergoing both PET/CT and prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For the initial analysis, the prostate was divided into six sectors and suspicious or malignant sectors were identified using MRI and histopathology reports respectively. Maximum and mean (18)F-FDG standardised uptake values were measured in each sector by an investigator blinded to the MRI and histopathology findings. Two age-matched controls were selected per case. Results were analysed using a paired t-test and one-way ANOVA. For the second analysis, PET/CT reports were searched for prostatic uptake reported incidentally and these patients were followed up.

Over a 5-year period, 15 patients underwent both PET/CT and MRI and had biopsy-proven prostate cancer. Malignant prostatic sectors had a trend to higher (18)F-FDG uptake than benign sectors, however this was neither clinically nor statistically significant (3.13  0.58 vs 2.86  0.68, P > 0.05). (18)F-FDG uptake showed no correlation with the presence or histopathological grade of tumour. (18)F-FDG uptake in cases with prostate cancer was comparable to that from age-matched controls. Forty-six (1.6%) of 2846 PET/CTs over a 5-year period reported incidental prostatic uptake. Of these, 18 (0.6%) were investigated by PSA, 9 (0.3%) were referred to urology, with 3 (0.1%) undergoing MRI and/or biopsy. No cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in patients with incidental (18)F-FDG uptake in our institute over a 5-year period.

(18)F-FDG uptake overlaps significantly between malignant and benign prostatic conditions. Subsequent patient management was not affected by the reporting of incidental focal prostatic uptake in this cohort.

World journal of radiology. 2017 Sep 28 [Epub]

Madhurima R Chetan, Tristan Barrett, Ferdia A Gallagher

School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SP, United Kingdom., Department of Radiology, Addenbrooke's Hospital and University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom.

PubMed http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29098068


It has been said that those who cant do, teach. But what is absolutely true is those who can do teach well! Made up entirely of local music educators, Teddi and the Northern Lights is set to celebrate the release of their newest EP Mother Mercury on Friday, Nov. 10, 2017!

School of Rock is the launching pad for many of the newest and brightest musicians emerging onto the Vegas scene and all over the country. With over 200 locations internationally, the school and its format are a force to be reckoned with due to its innovative and inspiring performance based curriculum. Coming up on its six-year anniversary, School of Rock Las Vegas West has become a fixture of the community helping to build a safe space and support system for young aspiring musicians here in Las Vegas. There are few things more rewarding than helping a young person reach their full potential, says Teddi Tarnoff, the schools Director and the front person for The Northern Lights. Whether it be musically or socially, we get to work with so many different kinds of kids here, and getting to watch them be successful at the things theyre most passionate about is a true joy.

Originally from the east coast, Teddi moved to Las Vegas five years ago to assume the Director position at the school. An original student of the program at its first location in Philadelphia, PA, Teddi appreciates the unique and important role a school like hers can play in a young persons life. A classically trained vocalist from a young age, Teddi joined the School of Rock in her teens to learn guitar but what she got out of it was so much more. I found my people, the weirdos, the art nerds who felt as strongly and deeply as I did and do about music. In a world of standardizing and popularity, I was fortunate to make those connections so early in life. I would not be the person I am today and I would not feel so free to create as an artist if I hadnt. I hope thats the experience I am offering to my students here in Vegas.

By Teddis side as the schools Music Director and as the guitarist in The Northern Lights is Erik Carlsson. A Warped Tour and Ozzfest alumni having previously toured with his band 3rd Strike, Carlsson adds a lot to the School of Rock family offering his industry experience as well as his many years as an educator. School of Rock drum instructor Jeremy Strawn, who also teaches drum-line at Coronado High School, provides the beats and grooves for The Northern Lights. Rounding out the band is Will McLean on bass, an instructor that helped to open the Vegas School of Rock. Teddi and the Northern Lights is made up of some of the citys most refined musicians who lead by example showing their students what dedication to ones craft can produce and how to be a servant to your own artistic pursuits.
Vietnam has pursued various initiatives to facilitate trade liberalisation, enabling it to diversify its production base to higher value-added areas, source inputs from a wider range of overseas markets at more competitive prices, enhance the transfer of technology, and boost the competitiveness of its exports.

Since 1990, when Vietnam started to transition to a market-oriented economy, the economy has expanded at a spectacular pace, propelling the country to middle-income status. It has kept growing at a rate of more than 6 per cent for the last three years. This transition was underpinned by a set of reforms adopted in 1986, which paved the way for Vietnam to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1995 and sign numerous bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs).

An important milestone in solidifying Vietnams commitment to free and open trade was the adoption of the Bogor Goals, agreed upon by APEC member economies in 1994. The Bogor Goals provide a framework aimed at reducing barriers to trade and investment.

Following the completion in 2010 of the first phase targeting trade with developed economies, Vietnam is pushing efforts to meet the second phase for developing countries by the 2020 target as it hosts APEC 2017, a year of APEC meetings held in Vietnam, which will culminate with the 2017 APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in the central city of Danang from November 6-11.

Notably, it was Vietnams entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2007 which encouraged a massive inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI). FDI jumped from $2.4 billion in 2006 to $7 billion in 2007. A hub for low value-added manufacturing, together with its low wages, the country brought in billions of US dollars in FDI. From January 2016 to September 2017, Vietnam recorded $28.3 billion in disbursed FDI as the economy moved up the value chain in a shift to high value-added production. The state has also played a pivotal role in steering foreign investment into priority areas to optimise the capacity of capital inflows as engines of growth.

Vietnams trade evolution has progressed at a similar rate as APECs implementation of the Bogor Goals

Vietnams advantages for APEC investors and enterprises

Attractive opportunities for investment, socio-political stability, membership in the WTO, participation in multiple global economic

integration frameworks, and favourable corporate tax rates in special economic zones have made Vietnam one of the most attractive investment destinations globally.

APEC partners are among the top investors in Vietnam, thanks to lucrative investment opportunities and targeted initiatives by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry to connect businesses directly and build partnerships at the executive level across all economies, such as the APEC CEO Summit.

Vietnams membership in APEC has also enabled it to enhance its infrastructure development, increase the transfer of technology and management skills, and improve market development through technical and economic co-operation exchange programmes.

Moreover, Vietnam remains focused on improving its business climate. A new draft Law on Special-Administrative Economic Zones is expected to be discussed by the National Assembly later this month or next. The draft law focuses on building a more favourable business environment in three special economic zones in Quang Ninh, Khanh Hoa, and Kien Giang provinces. It aims to simplify investment at a regional level, especially for public-private partnerships and offshore investment projects.

The law would also provide improved access to land for domestic and foreign investors. Investment projects in the priority areas of research-and-development, healthcare, education, and projects advancing strategic interests would be granted 99-year land leases. Furthermore, it would provide tax incentives, especially for startups and enterprises operating in the aforementioned industries.

Other key initiatives to liberalise trade and their expected benefits

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which was launched in 2012 and is currently under negotiation, is an initiative that would help Vietnam achieve the Bogor Goals by the target year of 2020, by reducing barriers to trade and investment and strengthening co-operation between developing economies.

The initiative aims to connect the 10 ASEAN economies, including Vietnam, with six existing FTA partners (China, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, and New Zealand) under one overarching FTA, thereby establishing one of the worlds largest free-trade zones. The partnership, which would represent around 30 per cent of global GDP, seeks to deepen ties between the participating economies, including strengthening connections between leading regional manufacturing hubs.

The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), also launched five years ago and expected to be ratified in 2018, has a similar premise: to widen economic prospects through further trade liberalisation. The EVFTA is seen as one of the furthest-reaching and most ambitious trade and investment bilateral agreements ever between the EU and a developing country. Under the agreement, over 99 per cent of existing tariffs would be dismantled over the next decade, with different tariff elimination timelines for different export goods.

Both agreements promise to improve access to Europe and Asia-Pacific, respectively, for Vietnams exports by reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers in Vietnams areas of interest, including textiles and apparel and agricultural products. Vietnam would also be able to obtain inputs at more favourable prices through access to a greater number of markets.

Furthermore, improved technology transfer would help it achieve its mission of diversifying production and participating in higher value-added areas, which would not only strengthen trade and investment and accelerate economic development, but also help build the economys resilience to external shocks.

Risks around trade liberalisation

FTAs are not in themselves a panacea for growth, however, and their limitations must be addressed. One drawback of having multiple FTAs is the widely-criticised investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanism. The ISDS gives exclusive rights to corporations to sue host governments at international tribunals for treatment that is deemed unfair and discriminatory, circumventing domestic regulations and legal procedures.

The laws an ISDS can challenge include ones upholding environmental protection and labour rights, which are critical to ensuring sustainable and inclusive long-term development. While the European Commission is taking steps to find an alternative by proposing a multilateral investment court system for the EVFTA, the RCEP includes the controversial ISDS clause.

Steps to attract more FDI

As the economy shifts to high value-added manufacturing, these risks must be factored in, and there is a need to improve the efficiency of technology transfer from foreign-invested enterprises  which has been found to be surprisingly low in the garment and textile and footwear industries by the World Economic Forum.

Upgrading the quality of physical infrastructure and the connectivity of technology and communication are also important steps. In addition, it is imperative that Vietnam restructures state-owned

enterprises and expands highly-skilled labour through increased investment in education along with other public services to become an even greater magnet for foreign investment.

Completion of the current wave of trade liberalisation should help Vietnam meet the Bogor Goals by reducing trade and investment barriers, boosting export capacity, and enabling the development of high value-added industries. The country aims to climb to high middle-income status and eventually break out of the middle-income trap that has gripped countries like China, Brazil, and Malaysia.

At the core of making this successful is improving the efficiency of technology transfer and enhancing both physical and digital infrastructure, aided by initiatives such as the RCEP and the EVFTA. Moreover, by sustaining a strong business environment, reducing the impact of risks from FTAs by making the processes more transparent and efficient, and building buffers to geo-political risks, the country can become even more attractive to overseas investors while also ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Deputy PM, FM Pham Binh Minh

Hosting APEC is a vivid illustration of the dynamic, leading, and responsible role played by each member of this prominent economic cooperation mechanism in the Asia-Pacific region. APEC Vietnam 2017 has been sailing only halfway of the voyage. For what has been achieved, APEC friends and partners all highly appreciate Vietnams organisation of the year in a thoughtful and professional manner as well as her active and constructive initiatives to promote co-operation and connectivity in APEC.

Vietnam hosts the APEC Year for the second time when the world and the region are undergoing complicated transformation and developments. While APEC is accelerating the attainment of the Bogor Goals of free and open trade and investment by 2020, some obstacles against globalisation and economic linkages have emerged. However, nearly 10 years has gone by since the global financial crisis in 2008-2009, and we are now witnessing more positive developments, including new prospective signals in global and regional economic and trade growth. The reality presents the navigators of the APEC ship with major responsibility to work together so as to carry more significant new ideas to the forum, and hence bringing about more substantial benefits to the people and businesses. Therefore, the international community considers APEC Vietnam 2017 both as a challenge and an opportunity to boost growth and connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region and in the world, thereby contributing to the maintenance of peace, stability, and development in a turbulent world.

APEC Vietnam 2017  the strategic vision of Vietnams foreign policy

The APEC Year 2017 is an important opportunity to highlight the spirit and intellectual capacity of Vietnams diplomacy, particularly the multi-lateral diplomacy in the comprehensive integration of the country. The successes of APEC Year 2006 and the prestige gained through her high responsibility in various international organisations have brought Vietnam to APEC Year 2017 spotlight with a new stature.

It is by no accident that the theme Creating new dynamism, fostering a shared future is welcomed and nurtured by international friends and partners. In the continuation of recent achievements of APEC co-operation, Vietnam has introduced four

priorities on fostering sustainable, innovative, and inclusive growth; deepening regional economic integration; strengthening micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) competitiveness and innovation in the digital age; and enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture in response to climate change. These meet the interests and benefits of member economies, reflecting the common trend in international co-operation, and equally serving the socio-economic development demand of our country in a new period as well.

The identification of the right theme, priorities, and directions of co-operation for APEC Year 2017 clearly reflects the strategic vision of Vietnams foreign policy. First and foremost, it is the vision of a peaceful, stable, and dynamic Asia-Pacific which continues to be the driver of regional and global economic growth and linkages in which the APEC Forum, the ASEAN Community, the Mekong Sub-

regional Cooperation Mechanisms, and bilateral and multilateral Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) co-developed and complemented each other, thereby forming a sustainable and comprehensive regional architecture. That strategic vision is driven by the strong belief that the 21st century needs to be shaped by equality, mutual benefit, and fundamental principles of international law, not by the zero sum (lose-win) principle, especially in economic, trade, and investment co-operation. All economies in the region, whether they are APEC members or not, share the common interest in building Asia-Pacific partnerships for sustainable and inclusive development in the 21st century.

Second, APEC activities this year should create the new impetus to promote growth and increase regional economic integration to a new height and to reiterate that the Forum is for the people and businesses. APEC needs more impetus for quality growth, structural reform, and inclusive socio-economic and financial development. It should also help strengthen connectivity, develop global value chains, and facilitate collaboration on the next-generation of economic-commercial issues. At the same time, other pressing needs include accelerating efforts to completely obtain the Bogor Goals and maintaining regional momentum in such frameworks as the Transatlantic Economic Partnership (TPP) and the Economic Partnership Comprehensive Regional (RCEP) toward the formation of the Asia-Pacific Free Trade Area (FTAAP).

Third, 2017 is expected to be the year to continue affirming APECs role as a forum for initiating ideas, directing and co-ordinating economic linkages, thereby promoting the building of a sustainable, transparent, and highly-adaptable regional architecture which ensures the complementarity and harmonisation of multi-layered mechanisms.

Accounting for 39 per cent of the worlds population, 57 per cent of GDP, and 49 per cent of global trade, APEC should continue to promote its pioneering role in the global effort for sustainable development and adaptation to climate change, for the promotion of multilateral trading systems and to address common challenges such as the adverse effects of globalisation and digitalisation and increased inequality.

Fourth, after 28 years into its formation and development, this is also an important time to shape the APEC Vision for the post 2020 period. That vision should clearly define the objectives, long-term direction, and pillars of co-operation for the forum in the next 10-15 years. Promoting the spirit of equal, voluntary, and non-binding co-operation for mutual benefits is necessary to guarantee the dynamism and attractiveness of APEC with a diverse history of culture and development levels.

Bearing that in mind, the APEC Year 2017 promises to create a new momentum for the forum. This is also a great opportunity for Vietnam to join hands with other members to shape the future of not only APEC, but also the regional economic structure. APEC 2017 again serves as a solid testimony that multilateral diplomacy is an important mainstay for nations, large or small, to foster their interests and improve their position in a world of extensive globalisation.

Higher position, more substantial benefits

For Vietnam, APEC is one of the most important multilateral fora, which offers the most substantial benefits. Thirteen out of 25 of Vietnams major strategic and comprehensive partners and many of Vietnams leading economic and trade partners come from the Forum. Eighteen APEC members are key partners in bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements (FTAs), to which Vietnam is a signatory. APEC members account for 78 per cent of foreign direct investment (FDI), 75 per cent of trade in goods, 38 per cent of official development assistance (ODA), and 79 per cent of Vietnams international tourist arrivals. Approximately 80 per cent of overseas Vietnamese students are studying in APEC member economies.

Therefore, the APEC Year 2017 is an important lynchpin of Vietnams diplomacy and the most significant contribution of our country to APEC co-operation in the period of extensive and intensive international integration.

Together with assuming the role of ASEAN Chair in 2020, running for the United Nations Security Council 2020-2021 and fulfilling the WTO accession commitments by 2018, the successful APEC Vietnam 2017 will contribute to the consistent realisation of the very important policy of the 12th National Party Congress to improve the quality and effectiveness of multilateral diplomacy and proactively contribute to the building and shaping of multilateral mechanisms.

The support and active participation of APEC member economies, regional and international organisations to APEC 2017 efforts will serve as a lever for Vietnam to promote soft power. It is by no accident that Vietnam became the first APEC host to be invited to the G-20 meetings this year. That reflects the trust and appreciation of international friends for initiatives and ideas above and beyond the regional norms that Vietnam has proposed for APEC. Obviously, the APEC Year 2017 activities have and will continue to affirm the increasingly important role of the forum and Vietnams deserving stature in regional and global governance.

Activities in 2017 will also provide opportunities for our country to deepen the established partnership within stable and sustainable frameworks, and particularly enhance long-term and interwoven interests with key APEC members. During the 2017 APEC Economic Leaders Week in November, several meetings and official visits by senior APEC leaders and officials to Vietnam have been scheduled to further strengthen bilateral relations and reinforce co-ordination in regional and international affairs.

From a socio-economic perspective, the endeavor to complete the Bogor Goals, to implement APEC Strategies and Action Plans, together with our efforts to fulfill commitments under ASEANs FTAs will provide the driving force for economic reform and restructuring, transfiguration of the growth model, and improvement of the business and investment environment of our country. It is a prerequisite to realise the determination to build a government of development facilitation and integrity whose mission is to act and serve the people and businesses.

For localities and businesses, various opportunities for co-operation, businesses, investment, and tourism will be brought about through approximately 200 APEC activities in 2017. The 2017 APEC Economic Leaders Week in Danang will attract some 10,000 delegates from regional and international leading businesses and major mainstream media. This will serve as a golden opportunity to promote the image of a dynamic and active Vietnam, and to improve the comparative advantages of localities and regions across the country. This is also a chance for ministries, government agencies, industries, localities and enterprises to acuminate their capabilities to integrate into the world, thus contributing to promoting the countrys culture of integration.

It can be said by now that APECs activities have proceeded smoothly, meeting the set objectives. This achievement is attributed to the unanimity of all state levels and sectors from central to local as well as the business community, experts, scholars, and the people.

With the new strength and position of the country after over 30 years of Renovation (Doi moi), with the support and precious assistance of our friends and partners, the APEC Vietnam 2017 will definitely be a great success, contributing to our development and security interests, while highlighting our countrys new vision and position.
Global favourite websites could be required to affect great changes by a Vietnamese draft bill

Drafted by the Ministry of Public Security, the passage of the cyber Security Law is scheduled for mid-2018.

The draft stipulates principles, measures, content, operations, favourable conditions for the operation, the responsibilities of the ministry, businesses, and any individuals engaged in the cyberspace and involved in the countrys internet security.

Currently, the law is in the drafting process.

A notable majority of members in the Standing Committee of the National Assembly (NA) voiced that an internet security bill was vital in the context of arising cybercrime, virtual attacks, and terrorism which could pose threats to national security.

Likewise, the security of the virtual space could trigger major threats to internet users privacy and personal information.

However, regulations stated in the bill should take the consumers benefit into account in order to catch up with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) and digital growth.

According to Article 34(4) regarding reinforcing internet security, foreign-owned businesses shall comply with the nations law by attaining a business license and setting up representative offices, servers in the territory of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Accordingly, foreign-owned businesses whose services are being distributed in Vietnam, such as Facebook, Google, Viber, and Amazon, would be requested to obtain business licences and configure administrative servers in Vietnam after the draft bill is passed.

Meanwhile, the request of structuring servers as for foreign-owned businesses is appraised as complicated and unnecessary.

Article 47(2) of the draft bill stipulates that telecommunication and Internet providers block and delete anti-state and false information on the Internet within 24 hours.

Phan Thi Hoai Thu, vice president of the Vietnam Internet Association, proposed to alter this section, stating such regulation would be impossible to abide as service providers are only in charge of a minor proportion of cyber information.

Dau Anh Tuan, director general of the legal department of Vietnam Chamber of Commerce (VCCI), accentuated the agencys commitment to fully support cooperation between domestic and international legal departments with the intent of gathering maximum constructive criticism for an optimal legal system of Internet security.

Earlier, Silicon Valley tech firms, such as Google, Facebook, and other social networking sites like Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, Dropbox, and even Bloomberg were blocked from the Chinese Great Firewall.

According to newswire CNBC, Googles services, mostly Gmail, almost made their way to the Chinese digital space by ending the six-year embargo with a two-hour logging in session in 2016, followed by another Internet blackout which did not specify the returning time for the tech giant.

Leading technology firms, like Google, seem to encounter major challenges with tight legal barriers in countries like Vietnam, Russia, Egypt, Turkey, especially China, Iran and Congo, according to Googles 2015 transparency report regarding known disruptions of traffic to Google products and services.
Construction work has filled Wisconsin wetlands at a quickened pace since 2012 when a law was enacted that loosened regulations while requiring builders to minimize the damage they do, data reviewed by the Wisconsin State Journal show.

Over the same five years, demand for state permits allowing wetland elimination accelerated even more rapidly.

Now, two leaders of the Republican-controlled state Legislature are trying to repeal the laws provisions that force builders to adapt site plans to reduce or avoid damage to the watery resources that prevent floods, purify ground water and nurture wildlife.

Conservation, hunting and fishing groups say the 2012 law is working well, but the repeal proposal introduced in October would leave 1 million acres of state wetlands vulnerable for the first time in 16 years.

Were going to see a lot of key wildlife habitat disappear with the stroke of a pen, said Kyle Rorah, government affairs representative for Ducks Unlimited.

As extreme rain events have grown more frequent, wetland preservation is more important than ever because they soak up water that otherwise rushes downstream all at once, said Tracy Hames, executive director of the Wisconsin Wetlands Association.

But Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke, R-Kaukauna, lead author of Assembly Bill 547, says existing law needlessly preserves low-value wetlands, impedes development, increases housing costs and threatens builders profits.

It became clear that something needed to be done to assure that we can protect those high-quality wetlands while at the same time not slowing down development, the Kaukauna Republican said in a video posted on YouTube.

Any rational person would look at this, Steineke says while standing in a construction site at an unspecified location, and say theres no way this is a wetland.

In defense of the proposal, Steineke and co-author Sen. Roger Roth, R-Appleton, point out that their proposal wouldnt change the way 80 percent of state wetlands are protected, and requirements for replacing certain filled wetlands would remain in place.

Bill would deregulate state wetlands

Scientists estimate there were 10 million acres of Wisconsin wetlands before European settlement. Half of that acreage has been drained and filled for farms and other development.

Of the remaining 5 million acres, 80 percent are considered federal wetlands because of their connections to lakes and streams. Federal wetlands are regulated jointly by the state Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under state and federal laws requiring developers to avoid or minimize impacting them.

The remaining 20 percent  or 1 million acres  are protected under state law only. These are sometimes called isolated wetlands, although some state wetlands serve as headwaters for rivers and streams.

Steinekes proposed legislation would affect state wetlands, allowing developers to fill them with no requirement to avoid and minimize.

In a recent 22-month period for which federal data were available, 1,778 applications were filed seeking permits to disturb state and federal wetlands in Wisconsin. Of those, about 37 applications  or 2 percent  affected the wetlands covered by state law only. The data didnt make clear how much acreage was involved.

Acceleration in

filling wetlands

Looking at state and federal wetlands combined, in the first four years after the 2012 law took effect, the acreage approved for filling  396 acres  topped the 372 approved in the previous six years, according to DNR data.

In the video Wisconsin Assembly Republicans posted on YouTube in September, Steineke and Roth focused on one accidentally created artificial wetland to argue for removing current restrictions on all state-regulated wetlands.

I think the biggest thing people need to know is we are only one of three states that regulates isolated artificial wetlands the way we do, Steineke said.

Efforts to reach Steineke and Roth were unsuccessful. Their video clip describes a housing deal that fell through in 2006 after heavy equipment had begun working on the site. The equipment left low spots in the soil that filled with water. By the time work resumed, the DNR said the wet areas were wetlands, and that meant the site needed to be redesigned, Steineke said.

Were bringing this bill forward because we want more high-quality wetlands in Wisconsin, said Roth, who serves as Senate president. We do that by removing the DNRs oversight on isolated nonfederal wetlands and thats so very important because right now the DNR is standing in the way of our businesses being able to expand.

Its not known how many of the 1 million acres of state-regulated wetlands were created artificially, said Steineke spokeswoman Alesha Potter. But Potter said Steineke has received numerous complaints about wetland regulations, including some about low-quality wetlands that have occurred naturally.

Replacement wetlands

Roths statement about creating more high-quality wetlands is based on existing state law that in some cases requires developers to pay for at least 1.2 acres of replacement wetlands per acre filled.

Steinekes spokeswoman said the cost of replacement wetlands would prevent wholesale filling of larger wetlands that provide extensive hunting grounds. Last year, businesses participating in one DNR program paid an average of about $47,000 for each acre of wetland they destroyed.

Under current law, developers pay for replacement wetlands, but the DNR has had trouble finding enough acreage that meet standards for flood protection, water quality and wildlife habitat.

By early last month the DNR had collected $15.6 million as part of a new wetland replacement program it began developing several years ago. But the department spent only about $43,000 on wetland replacement acreage. Obtaining federal approvals and hiring staff has been complicated and time-consuming.

Investors who create replacement wetlands often remove drainage tiles from abandoned farm fields so that water will gather. The land is seeded with wetland vegetation. However, experts have long questioned the environmental value of replacement wetlands.

Not everything is replaceable, said Erin OBrien, policy programs director of the Wisconsin Wetlands Association. It can be difficult to replicate the form and function of wetlands that have been on the landscape for a very long time.

Replacement acreage should be near the filled wetlands, but that doesnt always happen.

They may not even be in the same watershed, and if youre talking about flood control, thats a problem, said Wisconsin Wildlife Federation executive director George Meyer, who is a former DNR secretary.

Meyer was running the DNR in 2001 when the states first wetland protection bill was passed after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the federal government couldnt regulate isolated wetlands.

Uncertain prospects

Meyer said the business interests pushing for the Roth-Steineke bill have declined to meet with conservationists to seek a compromise, and the bill was written without advice of conservation groups, and largely without the help of professional wetland permitting consultants.

Lobbyists registered in favor of the bill include Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, the state Builders Association and the chamber of commerce for the Fox Cities region that Roth and Steineke represent.

Roth has said the bill would pass the Legislature this fall.

Backing of lawmakers in leadership posts usually means a bill has a bright future.

But Meyer said the proposals momentum may have been slowed by recent efforts to inform other lawmakers about high-quality wetlands that would be left unprotected.

Conservationists said they agreed with the bills authors that regulation of artificially created wetlands should be relaxed.

Conservation groups said accidentally created artificial wetlands are addressed in a narrower proposal, Assembly Bill 388, which along with its Senate counterpart was introduced in June and passed out of committees last month on unanimous, bipartisan votes.

In addition to deregulating all non-federal wetlands, the Roth-Steineke bill also includes a provision Potter, the Steineke spokeswoman, said was aimed at laying the groundwork for reducing the Army Corps of Engineers role in Wisconsin.

The provision would grant DNR the authority to assume control over an unknown portion of federal wetlands if Walker seeks and wins permission from the Environmental Protection Agency to do so. Walkers spokesman didnt respond to a request for comment.

Many wetlands that fit the definition of federal wetlands have been specifically identified as such in agency studies and court rulings.

The Army Corps of Engineers makes its own determinations about federal jurisdiction for others.

States may ask the EPA for jurisdiction over any wetlands  even those that seem to fit the federal definition  as long as they havent been identified as federal by studies or the courts.
Photo: Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

Earlier this weekend, before he reprised his Donald Trump impression on SNL, Alec Baldwin announced he would be quitting Twitter for an undisclosed amount of time, owing to some widely criticized comments he made in regards to Harvey Weinstein and sexual assault. Specifically, during an interview with PBS News Hour, Baldwin was accused by many prominent women in Hollywood  such as Patricia Arquette and Asia Argento  of mansplaining the concept of sexual harassment, assault, and victim-blaming. What happened was that Rose McGowan took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him, and it was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case, Baldwin said in the interview, admitting hed heard rumors about Weinsteins predatory behavior for decades. When women take money and are silenced by that money, even though they took the money and were silenced because they were told, beyond the money, it was the right thing for them to do, keep quiet, dont make too many waves, it is going to hurt your career. When they do it nonetheless, does it set back the cause of change?

8 women went to lawyers who basically told them they didn't have a hope in hell in court against a multi millionaire.That's why they settled  Patricia Arquette (@PattyArquette) November 4, 2017

Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more. #ROSEARMY https://t.co/ixjnndLnEH  rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) November 4, 2017

Alec Baldwin mansplaining 'the cause' for women everywhere. That's a good caption for that video. https://t.co/aG7zSMn3T4  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 4, 2017

Bombarded with an overwhelming amount of negative messages  especially because, a few days before, Baldwin admitted he had bullied women and treated women in a very sexist way in the past  Baldwin chose to shutter his personal Twitter page for awhile. It is with some degree of sadness that I will suspend posting on this a Twitter account for a period of and in the current climate, he wrote among other tweets. It was never my intention, in my public statements, to blame the victim in the many sexual assault cases that have emerged recently  my goal is to do better in all things related to gender equality. Au revoir. Argento, who has been one of the many women to accuse Weinstein of rape, was pleased by this departure, and a war of words between Baldwin, Argento, and Argentos boyfriend, Anthony Bourdain, soon began.

So @AlecBaldwin is taking a hiatus from Twitter to meditate about his words on @rosemcgowan & gender equality. We won't miss you bully boy. pic.twitter.com/btADYaWdVf  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 4, 2017

But instead of posting from his personal Twitter account, Baldwin was sending messages from his foundations social media page.

If you paint every man w the same brush, youre gonna run out of paint or men.



@AsiaArgento  HABFoundation (@ABFalecbaldwin) November 4, 2017

I can't reply because you blocked me. I don't need to paint you #AlecBaldwin, or any man. You did your own self-portrait & it's despicable. pic.twitter.com/MzJiBQNWN4  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 5, 2017

Baldwin then sent a since-deleted tweet to both Bourdain and Argento.

You are really too dumb to pour piss out of a boot  Anthony Bourdain (@Bourdain) November 4, 2017

So many self-seeking liars to block, so little time....@Bourdain  HABFoundation (@ABFalecbaldwin) November 5, 2017

@AlecBaldwin blocks victims, shuts down account, scurries over to his foundation account and throws pebbles from behind wall @AsiaArgento  Anthony Bourdain (@Bourdain) November 4, 2017

Who knows what Sunday will bring forth.
Depending on your personal taste in humor, you either responded to Larry Davids SNL monologue with a bellyful of laughs or a massive cold shoulder. Well then, what are we dealing with here? Throughout Davids seven-minute session of jokes, the comedian tackled two topics that proved to be a bit divisive: Hollywoods sexual assault and harassment problem, and concentration camps. To start, David couldnt help but notice a very disturbing pattern among all of the sexual harassers emerging from the headlines: Almost all of them all Jewish. I dont like when Jews are in the headlines for notorious reasons, he explained. I want Einstein discovers the theory of relativity. Salk cures polio. What I dont want? Weinstein took it out. I consistently strive to be a good Jewish representative. When people see me I want them to say, Oh, there goes a fine Jew for you!

Switching up his comments from harassment to flirtation techniques, David then weighed in on what it wouldve been like to approach women in a very different, very grisly scenario. Ive always been obsessed with women, and Ive often wondered: If Id grown up in Poland when Hitler came to power and was sent to a concentration camp, would I still be checking out women in the camp? he joked. The problem is, there are no good opening lines in a concentration camp. Hows it going? They treatin you okay? You know, if we ever get out of here, Id love to take you out for some latkes. You like latkes? Honestly, hes not sure what his success rate wouldve been.
Photo: Amanda Edwards/WireImage

Adding his name to a growing list of men who have come forward to allege Kevin Spacey sexual harassed or assaulted them in some way over the past 30 years, actor and writer Harry Dreyfuss  the son of Richard Dreyfuss  is claiming Spacey groped his crotch when he was 18. Per his account to BuzzFeed News, Dreyfuss was in London with his father at the time of the groping, where Spacey and the elder Dreyfuss were undergoing rehearsals for a play called Complicit at the Old Vic in London. Harry Dreyfuss had been excitedly waiting to meet Spacey, one of his favorite actors, and was surprised at how kind and easygoing he was during their first introduction. He gave me such a warm smile, and instead of shaking my hand, he gave me a hug. Instantly, my young-man-perpetually-seeking-father-figures heart melted, the younger Dreyfuss explained. All I remember thinking was youre so nice.

A few days later, when Spacey and the elder Dreyfuss met to rehearse lines for the play, everything started to change. (Harry tagged along.) Although the Harry didnt get any red flags when Spacey wrapped his fingers between his own and gave him some advice, a sexual advance occurred shortly thereafter on a couch that finally made him suspicious of Spaceys motives. After a few minutes, he put his hand on my thigh, Dreyfuss explained. It took that long because it just never occurred to me that Kevin would be interested in me in the first place. He was an adult man, a hero of mine, my dads boss, none of which were categories on my radar for sexual interactions. Besides, I thought, Surely he cant be coming on to me like this right in front of my dad. But his hand stayed there.

Despite moving couches a few times and firmly putting his hands on his lap to prevent anything from transpiring, Spacey kept following him and ultimately groped him. Once again Kevin followed me, sat down, and with considerable effort, slid his hand between my right hand and my right leg. Hed snuck in, Dreyfuss continued. Over the course of about 20 seconds, centimeter by centimeter, Kevin crawled his hand from my thigh over toward my crotch. My mind went blank. Suddenly, he had completed his journey and now he had all of me in his hand  Kevin had no reaction and kept his hand there. My eyes went back to the script and I kept reading.

Harry Dreyfuss didnt tell his father until many years after the groping occurred, fearing the story would negatively affect his career. And while Dreyfuss would also go on to downplay this experience into a funny story to tell at parties in the subsequent years, he realized how important it was for him to speak up now with all of the allegations coming forth against Spacey, Harvey Weinstein, and other prominent men in Hollywood. As he perhaps puts it best: Rather than a punchline, I hope my story can serve as inspiration to others who may have felt that they couldnt or shouldnt speak up until now.
The opioid abuse epidemic may have only recently received formal recognition from the federal government and prompted McLennan County to file suit against drug companies, but the problem isnt new to some local law enforcement and drug abuse treatment officials.

Several local law enforcement agencies are considering equipping officers with naloxone, a drug that can reverse opioid overdoses and already sees widespread use by emergency medical personnel.

Misuse of prescription opioid painkillers has continued, and a rise in heroin use has followed. Heroin, also an opioid, can be cheaper and more accessible than prescription painkillers that have similar effects, several local police officials said.

National and local elected officials have taken note. President Donald Trump designated the opioid abuse epidemic a national public health emergency Oct. 26, and the McLennan County Commissioners Court filed a lawsuit last week against large opioid manufacturers and wholesale distributors.

The city of Waco has seen heroins resurgence, Waco police Sgt. W. Patrick Swanton said. Interstate 35 is a busy drug trafficking corridor, Swanton said.

A McLennan County grand jury indicted two South Texas men in January last year on charges of possession of heroin with intent to deliver and possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. Department of Public Safety officials arrested the pair in Waco and reported they discovered 8 pounds of heroin and 9 pounds of methamphetamine. According to records filed in the case, the men told police they were bringing the drugs to Waco from the McAllen area.

In March last year, Woodway police arrested a 28-year-old man on charges that he provided heroin that led to another mans overdose death in 2015.

At least 38 people have been indicted so far this year in McLennan County on possession or delivery of heroin charges, according to Tribune-Herald records. There were also four indictments for possession or delivery of oxycodone, three for methadone, 441 for methamphetamine, 107 for cocaine and 33 for THC or marijuana.

One of the many dangers of heroin, which has no approved medical use in the U.S., is that users dont know the purity of what they buy, Swanton said. A user may gauge dosage based on a batch that is just 5 percent heroin, then get a pure batch the next time they buy and overdose because of it, he said.

Though heroin presents its own risks, all opioids can lead to deadly overdoses.

Last year alone, there were 64,000 opioid overdoses in the United States, Woodway Public Safety director Yost Zakhary said. However, Narcan has prevented hundreds of thousands of overdoses from becoming fatal, said Zakhary, who is on the Narcotics and Dangerous Drug Committee of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Narcan is a brand of naloxone administered as a nasal spray.

One of its best qualities is that it is harmless to someone who is not overdosing, Zakhary said.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued an opinion last month stating police officers can be equipped with and administer naloxone.

Waco police are looking into buying Narcan for its officers, which costs about $37.50 per dose, Swanton said. The upfront costs would be significant, but it would be more that worth it to save even a single life, he said.

In many cases, police could administer the drug before medical personnel arrive.

So many times, law enforcement, were out there 24-7. Theres never a time that police are not on the streets, Swanton said. Very frequently we are the first to arrive on a man down or sick person call. Well train officers the proper way to administer that dosage so they are comfortable supplying what very easily could be a life-saving effort.

The officers first priority in those cases would be saving a life. The second would be investigating violations of the law, he said.

Over the last decade, opioid arrests have increased, Hewitt Police Chief Jim Devlin said.

Though they are trained to identify heroin and handle all drugs safely, there are some officers in the Hewitt Police Department who have never even seen heroin, Devlin said. The last two years have changed that for some.

A draft policy to adopt Narcan procedures and training sits on Devlins desk, he said.

The Hewitt Police Department may not be at a point where it is ready to implement the policies and ask the city council for the money needed, but Devlin said hes going to be prepared.

I hope we dont get to that point. I hope that it flattens out, but I honestly dont think its going to, Devlin said.

McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara did not return repeated calls for comment.

For every 100 people in McLennan County, 77 opioid prescriptions were dispensed in 2015, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The state average was 59.8 prescriptions per 100 people, and the national average was 70.6 prescriptions per 100 people.

The Cenikor Foundations drug abuse treatment programs in Waco have seen an 18 to 20 percent increase in people seeking treatment for opioid addiction, said Eric Jeter, senior manager at Cenikors detoxification and residential treatment program.

Opioid addiction often starts when a patient is prescribed an opioid painkiller after surgery or an injury, Jeter said. Once their doctor stops filling the prescription, many people discover the less-expensive alternative of heroin, he said.

Initially, someone might notice warning signs in a loved one, which can include changes in behavior, severe mood swings or frequent trips to the doctors office, Jeter said. Withdraw symptoms can make someone shaky, cause cold sweats, high levels of anxiety or an achy feeling, he said.

While the increase in cases has been obvious in the last two years, it has likely stemmed from an incremental increase in use, he said. As doctors started a systemwide crackdown on the way they prescribe painkillers, more people started seeking treatment, Jeter said.

The Waco Cenikor location added a program in the past year specifically aimed at helping people trying to get off painkillers, he said. The program allows patients to go through a mild detox in their own homes with the help of medication, allowing the patient to continue to work and be around family, he said.
Barbara Ellon Price

March 20, 1933 - Nov. 3, 2017

Barbara Ellon Price of Waco passed away on Friday, Nov. 3, 2017 at Providence Hospice Center at St. Catherine's. Graveside services will be at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 7, at Rosemound Cemetery with the Rev. Tim Jarrell officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, Nov. 6, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey.

Barbara was born March 20, 1933, in Waco, Texas, to Woodrow and Ellen Barron. She graduated from Waco High School in 1951 and she attended Baylor University. She worked in downtown Waco for the telephone company during the May 1953 tornado. Following a blind date, she married Bowman A. Price of Georgia. He retired in 1971 as a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Air Force. They were happily married for 61 years.

Barbara was a member of Austin Avenue United Methodist Church, where she and Bowman were presidents of the Friendship Class. She also served on the Building and Grounds Committee and the Archives Committee. She was an active member of the Central Texas Genealogical Society and volunteered at the Waco-McLennan County Library.

She was a member for 20 years of the Elizabeth Gordon Bradley chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, where she served as registrar.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bowman Price; parents, Woodrow and Ellen Barron; and brother, Woody, Jr.

She is survived by one daughter, Suellen Price, of Waco; two sons, Eric Price of Seguin, Texas, and Mark Price of Waco; three grandchildren, Robyn Davis of Conroe, and Jessica and Alex Smith of Waco; and two great-grandchildren, Jaylyn and Declan Davis of Conroe.

The family would like to thank Right at Home, Providence Hospital, Providence Hospice, Healthcare Resort and The Brazos.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Austin Ave. UMC or the DAR.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.
Approximately one in 10 police calls involves a person with mental illness, making police the nations de facto first responders to mental-health crises. Although police are on the front lines, they often do not have the training to recognize and appropriately respond when an emergency involves a mental-health crisis.

When police officers in Providence, Rhode Island, encountered a distressed young man brandishing a knife, the situation could have gone horribly wrong. The youth ignored officers commands to drop the knife and began advancing on them.

But the officers didnt draw their weapons. Instead, Lt. Daniel Gannon drew on his training in Mental Health First Aid for Public Safety. He spoke to the young man in a reassuring voice about his desire to help.

Eventually, the young man dropped the knife. Instead of being charged with a crime, he agreed to be evaluated at a local hospital. Lt. Gannons Mental Health First Aid training gave him the skills needed to identify, understand and respond to the signs of an emerging mental-health crisis. His reaction may well have saved both their lives that day.

One in four people killed by police in 2017 were mentally ill. Police officers join law enforcement to help people and support their communities, but when officers arent prepared to respond effectively to a behavioral health crisis, they put themselves and the individual who is mentally ill at risk. They need training to help respond to those affected by mental illnesses and addictions.

The National Council for Behavioral Health offers Mental Health First Aid, a public safety training program to help officers better understand mental illnesses so they can safely de-escalate crises without compromising safety. The program also focuses on early intervention, diversion and referral to clinical support.

Recognizing the effectiveness of this training, the International Association of Chiefs of Police instituted the One Mind Campaign, which includes a commitment to train and certify 100 percent of their agencys sworn officers in Mental Health First Aid for Public Safety. To date, 246 law enforcement agencies around the country have taken the One Mind Pledge. Agencies from Alpharetta, Georgia, to Yarmouth, Massachusetts  including the Baltimore, Houston and Minneapolis police departments  are working with Mental Health First Aid to make this groundbreaking training part of their commitment to protect and serve.

Mental Health First Aid for Public Safety ensures that every officer in the field  even those without specialized crisis intervention team training  has tools to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations. Mental Health First Aid training has also helped many officers in their personal lives by providing strategies to help themselves, their families and their partners.

For the last four years, federal funding has supported Mental Health First Aid training for individuals who work with youth. The National Council for Behavioral Health joins with the Major Cities Chiefs Association in thanking Congress for extending their support to the training of police and first responders. Mental Health First Aid for Public Safety gives police additional tools to de-escalate incidents and connect individuals to needed care.
BlackRock, the world's biggest fund manager, has backed calls for boosted shareholder powers to put issues on the agenda at Australian company shareholder meetings  but says ground rules are needed to stop the process being used for frivolous purposes.

A case in point? Japan, where a shareholder proposal once called for investment bank Nomura Holdings, then battling an insider-trading scandal, to change its name to "Vegetable Holdings".

Pru Bennett, BlackRock's Hong Kong-based head of investment stewardship for the Asia-Pacific region, says any move to give shareholders the right to put proposals forward for non-binding, or advisory, votes at AGMs should come with measures to prevent Vegetable Holdings-type scenarios.

These could include a minimum period of time that shareholders must hold shares  potentially 12 months  before they have the right to put an issue forward for a vote, and a body acting as an independent arbiter to sift out inappropriate proposals, a role filled in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, but not undertaken at all in Japan.
Papua New Guinea immigration minister Petrus Thomas says it is "no longer possible" to restore services at the Manus Island detention centre and has urged detainees to call off their protest and relocate to three new facilities.

A week since the Manus compound was shut down to comply with a 2016 court ruling, up to 600 men are refusing to relocate, citing safety fears and asking for permanent resettlement in another country.

On Tuesday morning, PNG's Supreme Court will announce its decision on an application to restore food, water, power, security and medical services at the detention centre. The application, made last week on behalf of Iranian refugee Behrouz Boochani, argues the termination of basic operations is in breach of the country's constitution.

The stand-off  which has seen the men stockpile rainwater in garbage bins and lose access to medication  has been labelled an "unfolding humanitarian emergency" by the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Authorities have reportedly been turning away PNG locals coming to the centre offering food.
Given the oddball Sydney Opera House-inspired contraption being passed off as Australia's "national costume" for our entrant in the next Miss Universe pageant, our country's sartorial pride is lamentable at best, and just a little bit lop-sided.

But while Australia does not have an official national costume worthy of note, we most certainly do have a national day when we embrace wearing costumes, and no, it's not Halloween.

Final day winners of the Fashions in the Field contest held during the spring racing carnival at Flemington in 1967. Pictured were, from left: Mrs Ann Faulkner (open section), Mrs Cara Brett-Hall ($80 to $140 section), Miss Louise Strauss (under $80 section), Maggie Eckhardt (professional models section and designer's award) and Miss Gail Upton (most elegant hat).

On Tuesday it is not only the race that stops the nation for the Melbourne Cup, but there will be a multitude of frocks, fascinators and top hats in the mix too.

Our love of thoroughbred racing has sparked an obsession with racing attire, the Australian interpretation of which is infinitely more glamorous than anything you would find among the T-shirts and jeans worn at most American racetracks, and way more fun than the stitched-up British aristos in the royal enclosure at Ascot.
The key to taking a fashion risk is knowing when to take one, and when to take a second look.

Monelle Mondello took one of the greatest risks at Derby Day by entering Fashions on the Field for the first time, in an outfit she sourced entirely online.

Her long, striped skirt, by an Italian designer, sleeveless top and angular hat may not have had traditional racewear all over it but it won the debutante prizes worth more than $5000 in the daily competition.

"I didn't know what to expect ... it was all very last minute; my skirt only arrived in the post on Friday," Ms Mondello said.
The most striking difference, though, is not in the physical landscape but the mental one. "Sometimes people don't know their mother's birthday, but we have to know [the leaders'] birthdays." Credit:AP "Sometimes people don't know their mother's birthday, but we have to know their [the leaders'] birthdays," she says. "North Korean people cannot compare with others. There is no internet or information. Just about Kim Jong-il and Kim Il-sung, that's why, when Kim Jong-il died, you saw all the people crying ... It is true, 50 per cent of North Korea people believe everything." Eunhee now believes much of what she was taught was lies. But getting to this point has been a very long journey. "When I was 18 years old I decided I would escape my country because my grandma told me, 'if you want to have freedom and if you want to live like a human being, you can escape your country'," she says.

Her grandparents had a more open outlook than most. They visited relatives in China, and had a glimpse of a world outside of the secretive regime. American and South Korean movies were smuggled in on the black market and watched furtively. A dangerous crossing These small glimpses were enough to spark Eunhee's desire to escape. Once she had made the decision to flee, she distanced herself from her family to avoid suspicion. Four years later, at 22, she engaged a people smuggler. "It is true, 50 per cent of North Korea people believe everything." Credit:AP "I had a dream to go to other countries," she says. "It was OK, even if I died. Even if police caught me and killed me, it doesn't matter, I must go."

One night, wearing only the clothes on her back, she crossed the dangerous Yalu river at the border with China. Water reached her shoulders as she crossed with four other people, including an infant. "The baby started to cry, I was so worried because I thought the soldier would hear her crying and he would shoot his gun," she said. What followed was a seven-day journey through China via taxi, truck and track. The group hid in the secret compartment of a truck, where she was sexually harassed. "[There] were some guys ... three guys approached us and touched us but we couldn't say anything, we couldn't scream," she said. "Maybe the police would catch us and we'd go back to North Korea ... It was a terrible and horrible time for me."

Women for sale Sokeel Park is the South Korean country director at an organisation called Liberty in North Korea, which helps extricate refugees from North Korea, through China and reintegrate them once they've reached South Korea. He says 70 per cent of defectors are women, who are often left out of the workforce in North Korea's patriarchal society and relegated to the home. Sokeel Park is the South Korea country director of Liberty in North Korea. It gives them the opportunity to create their own source of income in black market trades. The other tragic reason for the large number of female defectors, he says, is that North Korean women are sometimes sold to Chinese men. For some it's a way out.

In her desperation to leave North Korea, it was an option Eunhee considered. But Eunhee's journey did not end in China. On the secret mountain track into Laos, Eunhee wondered if she'd made the right decision. "At the time I wanted to go back to North Korea because I couldn't imagine it was so hard," she said. She pressed ahead, and the trail led to Thailand, where she was jailed while waiting to be granted refugee status. "We stayed with real criminals," she says. "We wanted to fight with [the Thai authorities] but we don't have citizenship." After 50 days the group was taken to a South Korean detention centre. They stayed for three months.

"The [South Korean] government checked how we lived in North Korea and if one of us was a spy," she says. Blade runners and coffee After that it was another three months of de-conditioning, with North Korean refugees being taught history, how to use a computer and "Konglish", a version of Korean language which includes Americanisms. Sokeel says that for a North Korean, a Western city looks like "a nicer version of Blade Runner". "Some North Korean friends have described it as like coming out of a time machine to a future version of society," he adds.

"If you are from a provincial city, even more so if you are from rural Korea, you are looking at like 100 years back in time, in the towns, maybe it's like South Korea in the '60s or '70s." In Melbourne, Eunhee works in a cafe, but she did not learn how to order a coffee until her retraining in South Korea. She had to learn what a macchiato was, and a cappuccino. "We cannot remember everything because everything was new for us," she said. "I wanted to say, 'I'm a North Korean, even if North Koreans don't have information, I can do everything'." Credit:Nicole Precel "Six months I stayed with the government program and finally I got freedom in South Korea, but also I don't have time to think about a new country and new life." Eunhee says leaving North Korea has had its challenges.

Used to eating rice, kimchi, pork and fish, she had to get used to Western foods and beef (cattle are considered a working animal used only in farming). "We cannot eat American food in North Korea, because America is our enemy," she says. She has also enjoyed the trees in Melbourne. "Here there's a lot of nature, there are no trees [in Wonsan] because people use trees to make fire to cook," she said. Sokeel says LiNK helps defectors with the challenges they face, but also helps "fulfil their potential as agents of change".

"[Defectors] are an irreplaceable source of information and advocacy," he says. Isolation and ignorance Eunhee is often frustrated with misconceptions and closed-mindedness within Australia when it comes to North Korea and its population of 25 million people. "Sometimes it made me angry and upset, because [people] have to know that North Korea is also a country, there is a middle class and rich people, but they just [talk] about its poverty," she said. "That's why I came out and I wanted to say, 'I'm a North Korean, even if North Koreans don't have information, I can do everything'."

Sokeel says although the country is cut off, there are ways to re-establish contact with family and even send money. "They are speaking on Chinese mobile phones, being able to have these illicit phones, that information is accelerating economic and social change inside the country. We see those things happening and we think those things are  empowering the North Korean people for broader change in the long term," he said. Eunhee has only spoken to her grandma over the phone once, three years ago. "I didn't say anything. She cried, then I cried and she didn't even understand my talking because my accent and my pronunciation had changed," she said. Her grandma often appears in her dreams. "I miss her so much, I want to say, 'I love you and thank you for growing me for 20 years'," she said.
Cade Turland is the founder of Hemple. Australian Primary Hemp sells two hemp products  hemp protein and hemp oil. In 2018, they will expand their range to include hulled hemp seeds, hemp high fibre powder and a 50 per cent + hemp protein powder. So buoyant is the outlook, the company is expecting its turnover to increase around five times over. Last year, its turnover was between $500,000 to $1 million. "Our target, following the legislation change and our second year of trading, is aimed at roughly $5 million." Paul Benhaim, founder of Hemp Foods Australia. Research drives products

A newborn enterprise in this space is Hemple. Founder Cade Turland says the legislation has allowed him to have a business, which he launched in August. "It gives us  and health food consumers  the opportunity to explore a whole new category of 'superfoods'." Their products to hit shelves post-legislation are Hemple High Fibre, Hemple Raw (a cold, sifted protein with a higher protein content), Hemple Divine Vanilla and Hemple Oil. Australian Primary Hemp's protein product. At the moment, a lack of education about hemp and the laws have really held the industry back from its full potential. Skye Patterson Turland says he did a huge amount of research into Australian hemp food products.

"I've travelled around the country meeting farmers, learning what variety of hemp crops grow best in different climates and tasting different varieties of hemp seed to determine the best tasting seed for our products." He says based on the way their model is worked he is targeting a turnover of $6.4 million for the current financial year. Hemple has taken Bondi surfing chef Guy Turland as ambassador. "Guy is my brother, and a huge hemp foods advocate," says Turland. "He's been using hemp foods for years in his Californian cafes, so it was a no-brainer to get him on board with Hemple. "He's already created videos and recipes for us  a favourite are his raw hemp brownies."

Does he see any difficulty in marketing the product when consumers might think they would get high eating it? "That's definitely a question we're asked, but there's no risk people will fail a roadside drug test if they're eating hemp foods." 'About to explode into the health food scene' Healthy food enterprise The Wild Food Group, founded by Melbourne duo Melisa Alizzi and Romana Camillo, is set to launch its Hempnola cereal in November. "Hemp is about to explode into the health food scene in Australia," says Camillo. "We will see it on cafe menus, in smoothies, muffins, cookies (not the hallucinogenic kind), cakes, and even vegan cheeses.

"The health properties are so high that it is probably one of the few super foods that lives up to its name. "Not only as a source of food but as a crop for farmers. Hemp can be grown all year round and needs no pesticides as it's super hardy." Last year the company turnover was around $600,000. "We are expecting to break $1 million this financial year with the launch of hemp contributing a forecasted 20 per cent on top of that, but hopefully it generates more than that," says Camillo. Hempnola is a hemp-based breakfast blend created under the brand The Wild. It is sweetened with goji berries and diced dates, alongside buckwheat clusters, premium grains, whole almonds and nutrient-dense seeds. "Not only are we able to release a new blend using insanely nutritious hemp seeds throughout the food service and retail industry within Australia," says Camillo, "we are Australia's first hemp-based cereal, so we will be able to market it like that overseas. We are currently looking into distribution within the US."
Coming on the heels of the OECD and its G-20 and European Union (EU) members threatening blacklistings a few short months ago Mr. K. Peter Turnquest, Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Finance suggests The Bahamas might have to look at implementing a low rate corporate income tax in order to comply with demands from the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

How the Bahamas will comply and whether it will be forced to adopt a corporate income tax is disconcerting.

Bearing in mind businesses already pay a business license tax on gross income, the threat of even more taxation, following the introduction of Value Added Tax that has had such a negative impact on local businesses in 2015, is casting a very gloomy outlook for meaningful economic growth.

Another aspect of these proposals that appears to be going unchallenged is the fact that they are being forced on us by a supranational organization.

Even Mike Moore, former Director-General of the World Trade Organization and former New Zealand Prime Minister, called for better transparency with decisions like these.

He put it this way:



Citizens of individual countries will not, and should not, accept any form of international regulation or institution over which they have little control. Keeping control of bureaucrats at a domestic level is tough enough: at an international level it will be tougher.

In the end there is no single structure, institution, theory, flow chart or magic bullet. Domestic civil society was painfully built up over centuries by thousands of concerned individuals and their interaction. Trust in law and societys institutions was eventually earned. International civil society will be built on integrity, and respect will be earned on the basis of results. But its a long, imperfect process.

The Bahamas taxation system needs rationalization but surely that does not mean simply adding another layer of extraction?

The OECD continues to move the goal posts as they relate to compliance issues.

As the sitting Minister of Finance said back in May 2017; No business can continue with a constantly evolving set of standards. There must be some period of consistency. They [the OECD] have to stop themselves. Otherwise the world will see it for what it is: Unfair competition, and the strong preying on the perceived weak.

The Bahamas is stark proof that increased taxes, bureaucracy and regulations do not solve economic woes but add to them. Adding yet another layer - more business income taxes - will more than likely slow prospects for economic growth even further.
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By West Kentucky Star Staff

Oct. 31, 2017 | MURRAY, KY

By West Kentucky Star Staff Oct. 31, 2017 | 03:15 PM | MURRAY, KY

On Tuesday, the award-winning Jazz Orchestra at Murray State University, along with the Universitys Jazz Band, will present the Fall Campus Concert. The performance begins at 7:30 pm in Lovett Auditorium and is free to the public.



Throughout the concert, the Jazz Orchestra will play a versatile repertoire, including selections from Count Basies version of Go Away, Little Girl, Mark Taylors Full Count, Duke Ellingtons Harlem Air Shaft, Gordon Goodwins Absoludicrous and Mike Tomaros Del Corazon.



Meanwhile, the Jazz Band will also be performing Basies Shiny Stockings, After Youve Gone, Another Song to Swing and Brass Machine.



In addition to the instrumental performances, two Murray State vocalists will take the stage to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Ella Fitzgerald who, along with Billie Holiday, became the initial standard for female vocalists. Melanie Davis, a senior from Mount Vernon, Indiana, will join the Jazz Orchestra for various vocal selections, including Too Darn Hot, written by Cole Porter and recorded by Fitzgerald, in addition to Billie Holidays Travelin Light. Then, in a performance with the Jazz Band, Kayla Marie Little, a junior from Murray, will perform Fitzgeralds breakthrough hits: A-Tisket, A-Tasket and Bewitched, a Rodgers and Hart classic.



The Murray State Gold and Blue Jazz Combos will then make appearances on the program as the Gold Combo performs Horace Silvers Song for My Father and the Blue Combo performs Dizzy Gillespies Night in Tunisia.



Dr. Todd E. Hill, professor of music, is the director of Murray States jazz studies program and conducts both the Jazz Orchestra and the Jazz Band with Jonathan Nash of Paris, Tennessee, serving as the graduate assistant director for the Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Band.



Under Hills leadership, the Murray State Jazz Orchestra has appeared by invitation at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic; appeared three times at the Elmhurst College Jazz Festival, garnering the award for Outstanding Big Band in addition to a number of soloist awards; and was invited to perform in February 2018 at the Kentucky Music Educators Association Conference hosted in Louisville.



The group has also released three albums, one of which qualified for Grammy nomination. A fourth album consisting of holiday classics is now available and may be purchased at the concert for a suggested donation.




GROUND BREAKING FOR NEW EMERGENCY SERVICES BUILDING WAS FRIDAY

JIMMY BRISSIE DESCRIBED IT AS "A GREAT EVENT"

THE OLD BALFOUR SCHOOL HAS BEEN DEMOLISHED==GROUND IS READY TO BE BROKEN FOR NEW EMERGENCY SERVICES BUILDING

Henderson County Emergency Services Headquarters Groundbreaking Ceremony

HC-2017-49Hendersonville, NC  October 31, 2017

Henderson County residents were invited to attend a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Emergency Services Headquarters on Friday, November 3rd, 11:00 a.m., at 2529 Asheville Highway (Old Balfour School site).

The new Emergency Services Headquarters will amplify our ability to provide a high level of service for Henderson County, said Henderson Countys new Emergency Services Director, Jimmy Brissie.

Planning for this project began in 2014. The new facility will be located on the site of the former Balfour Education Center. ClarkNexsen designed this new 57,000 square foot facility and Cooper Construction is the General Contractor. The new facility will house EMS, Emergency Management and Rescue Squad operations. Completion for this project is set for August 2018.

For more information regarding the groundbreaking or the construction project, please contact the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners, Terry Wilson at (828) 697-4808.

###
SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas (AP)  A man opened fire inside of a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing 26 people and wounding about 20 others in the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history, the governor said.

Officials didn't identify the attacker during a news conference Sunday night, but two other officials  one a U.S. official and one in law enforcement  who were briefed on the investigation identified him as Devin Kelley. They spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss the investigation.

The U.S. official said Kelley lived in a San Antonio suburb and doesn't appear to be linked to organized terrorist groups. The official said investigators are looking at social media posts Kelley may have made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon.

Authorities said a civilian with a gun confronted the attacker and chased him away. The gunman was later found dead in his vehicle along with several weapons.

A Department of Public Safety official said at the news conference that investigators weren't ready to discuss a possible motive for the attack. He said the dead ranged in age from 5 to 72 years old. Twenty-three were found dead in the church, two were found outside and one died after being taken to a hospital.

Federal law enforcement swarmed the small community 30 miles southeast of San Antonio after the attack to offer assistance, including ATF investigators and members of the FBI's evidence collection team.

Among those killed was the 14-year-old daughter of the church's pastor, Frank Pomeroy, and his wife, Sherri. Sherri Pomeroy wrote in a text message to the AP that she and her husband were out of town in two different states when the attack occurred.

"We lost our 14 year old daughter today and many friends," she wrote. "Neither of us have made it back into town yet to personally see the devastation. I am at the charlotte airport trying to get home as soon as i can."

The wounded were taken to hospitals. Video on KSAT television showed first responders taking a stretcher from the church to a waiting AirLife helicopter. Eight victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, the military hospital said.

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds. She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen.

Alena Berlanga, a Floresville resident who was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said everyone knows everyone else in the sparsely populated county. Sutherland Springs has only a few hundred residents.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

Regina Rodriguez arrived at the church a couple of hours after the shooting and walked up to the police barricade. She hugged a person she was with. She had been at an amusement park with her children when she heard of the shooting.

She said her father, 51-year-old Richard Rodriguez, attends the church every Sunday, and she hadn't been able to reach him. She said she feared the worst.

Nick Uhlig, 34, is a church member who didn't go Sunday morning because he was out late Saturday night. He said his cousins were at the church and that his family was told at least one of them, a woman with three children and pregnant with another, is among the dead. He said he hadn't heard specific news about the other.

"We just gathered to bury their grandfather on Thursday," he said. "This is the only church here. We have Bible study, men's Bible study, vacation Bible school."

"Somebody went in and started shooting," he said, shaking his head and taking a long drag of his cigarette.

President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan, where is his on an Asian trip, that he was monitoring the situation. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called the shooting an "evil act," and promised "more details" from the state's Department of Public Safety soon.

Sutherland Springs is in a rural area where communities are small and tight-knit. The area is known for its annual peanut festival in Floresville, which was most recently held last month.

"We're shocked. Shocked and dismayed," said state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, a Laredo Democrat whose district includes Sutherland Springs. "It's especially shocking when it's such a small, serene area. These rural areas, they are so beautiful and so loving."

Zaffirini said she had called several county and local officials but not been able to get through and didn't have any firm details.

The church is a white, wood-framed building with a double-door at the entrance and a Texas flag on a pole at the front area. A morning worship service was scheduled for 11 a.m. The first news reports of the shooting were between noon and 12:30 p.m.

The church has posted videos of its Sunday services on a YouTube channel, raising the possibility that the shooting was captured on video.

In the most recent service, posted Oct. 29, Frank Pomeroy parked a motorcycle in front of his lectern and used it as a metaphor in his sermon for having faith in forces that can't be seen, whether it be gravity or God.

"I don't look at the moment, I look at where I'm going and look at what's out there ahead of me," Pomeroy said. "I'm choosing to trust in the centripetal forces and the things of God he's put around me."
Every few years someone in state government laments, We need a better brand for Wisconsin! Cabinet secretaries scurry about, agency communications directors scratch their heads over possible slogans and marketing campaigns go largely unfunded.

Heres an idea: Lets talk about Wisconsins tangible business assets without making it all about tourism and cheese (as much as Badger state loyalists value both).

One such asset is quality health care, a commodity largely taken for granted inside Wisconsin and largely unknown to people and companies who may be thinking of moving or expanding here.

Much like an educated workforce, reliable public utilities and affordable business costs for land and talent are worth bragging about, so is quality health care. Thats the conclusion of a report issued this month by the Wisconsin Technology Council.

Taking the pulse: How quality healthcare builds a better bottom line examined leading indicators of health-care quality, based on public and private data. It also compared quality rankings to costs. Key findings were:

Wisconsin is consistently one of the top states for quality health care, as measured by 200 metrics compiled by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. It ranked No. 1 in the nation in 2017. In the seven-state region surrounding or within a days drive of Wisconsin, only two other states (Iowa and Minnesota) ranked in the top quartile. Wisconsin has ranked no lower than 7th nationally since 2006.

Wisconsin ranked just $3 above the national median ($4,666 versus $4,663) in the average employer share of single premium health insurance in 2015. That placed the state in the second-lowest cost quartile among the 50 states. Wisconsin was $800 above the national median ($13,187 versus $12,387) in the average employer share of family premium health insurance for the same year, still outside the most expensive quartile.

Wisconsin health insurance premiums are growing slower than other states in the seven-state region and the nation, especially since 2010. For single coverage, the cost increase has averaged 2.2 percent per year versus 3.8 percent nationally. Wisconsin ranked second best in the nation in this category. For family coverage, the cost increase has averaged 4 percent versus 4.5 percent nationally. Wisconsin is tied for 10th nationally in controlling the growth in family coverage premiums since 2010.

Wisconsin also ranks favorably in national and regional comparisons of deaths that could have been avoided by proper health care, Medicare 30-day hospital re-admissions, hospital length of stays, mean inpatient charges, the percentage of the total population covered by health insurance and use of electronic health records. All are rankings that speak to quality while controlling costs.

The logjam over Obamacare in Washington. D.C., has upended the health insurance market as companies and workers come to grips with rising costs. That confusion is playing out this fall in Wisconsin and elsewhere as group health plan enrollments come due for employers and employees alike.

One potential asset for Wisconsin is that its not a captive health insurance market. The report revealed that Wisconsin is one of only two states (New York is the other) in which the three largest insurers control less than 60 percent of the market. Other states in the seven-state region showed top three insurance market shares ranging from 67 to 97 percent. The U.S. median is 90 percent. More choice may lead to more competition over time, even if Obamacare is dismantled.

Employers have a right to complain about health-care costs, but they arent powerless to control the rate of increase or the outcomes.

As the report noted, individual companies, groups of companies or institutions have found ways to work with health systems. This is often accomplished through on-site clinics, incentive programs and prevention strategies that engage employees. Results include lower rates of absenteeism and people showing up sick; avoiding procedure costs through preventive care; and lower costs of care due to better physical fitness and health habits.

Examples cited in this report include Colony Brands and Monroe Clinic; Ashley Furniture and Gundersen Health System; Hoffmaster and Thedacare; Organic Valley and Vernon Memorial Healthcare; Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and Bellin Health; a collection of companies working with Columbus Community Hospital; and a mix of Chippewa Valley institutions working with Mayo Clinic.

Quality health care is not only nice to have; its an asset in the state-to-state race to attract and retain companies and workers. Lets market one of the things Wisconsin does best.
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ST. PAUL (AP)  A Minnesota researcher is turning to crowdfunding to pay for research of a parasite that kills moose.

Up to 30 percent of moose are killed by the brainworm parasite, which is transmitted through snails and slugs.

While the parasite can live in whitetail deer without any ill effects, its deadly to moose.

Its like they dont have the right roadmap for the moose, said Tiffany Wolf, an assistant professor of veterinary population medicine at the University of Minnesotas College of Veterinary Medicine.

The parasite invades a mooses brain. It debilitates it, making the animal unable to eat or evade predators. The moose and the parasite eventually die.

Wolf has been researching moose in northern Minnesota for several years, primarily with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. Wolf aims to raise $6,000 to fund her collection of slug and snail DNA in order to determine which types carry the parasite.

Different slugs and snails prefer different types of plants and habitats. Identifying which ones carry the parasite can help biologists and land managers determine what food can be problematic for moose.

Are there things in the environment that we can manipulate that could reduce the brainworm prevalence? We dont know, Wolf said. Its a really complex system, and there doesnt appear to be just one thing killing the moose. In complex systems, there isnt just one lever to pull.

There are about 3,700 moose in the state, compared to more than 8,800 moose in 2006, according to a survey by the state Department of Natural Resources.

The moose population has been threatened by warmer weather, wolves, habitat changes, winter ticks, liver flukes and the brainworm parasite.
It is time for Winona City Council to stop doing business with Wells Fargo. Here are two good reasons.

First, Wells Fargo bankrolls Enbridge corporation, which builds dangerous and polluting oil pipelines like the one at Standing Rock. Enbridge now wants to build one called "Line 3" across Minnesota, which would carry dirty tar sands oil over sensitive wetlands.

Enbridge has a long history of pipeline oil spills. Its Michigan pipeline spilled over a million gallons of oil and polluted a major river. Now Enbridges Line 3 would put at risk wild rice lakes that are crucial to the way of life of Native Americans in Minnesota.

Winona entered into a Covenant of Friendship with the Dakota people, but our city council has been unwilling to help protect them from pipelines, which it could do by pulling its money from Wells Fargo.

A second compelling reason for Winona to divest is that Wells Fargo is an outlaw corporation, by its own admission.

Wells Fargo opened fake bank and credit card accounts on 3.5 million loyal customers without their knowledge or permission.

It forced half a million people into unneeded auto insurance, causing tens of thousands of innocent people to have their cars repossessed.

It charged hundreds of thousands of people unjustified fees.

It enrolled thousands of customers in on-line bill pay without their authorization.

Wells Fargo has given Winonas leaders plenty of evidence that it is an immoral corporation, ripping off millions of Americans, and now is threatening the way of life of Native Americans by being an investor in Enbridge.

Winona City Council: Its time now to stop hiding behind excuses and to do the right thing.

Jim Gurley, Winona
Wisconsin Republicans, eager to extend their recent electoral success but frustrated by a U.S. Senate they view as blocking President Donald Trumps agenda, want to replace Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin in 2018.

A year before the general election, businessman Kevin Nicholson and state Sen. Leah Vukmir are running full-tilt for the GOP nomination.

The race pits a Democrat-turned-Republican outsider against an outsider-turned-insider Republican.

At least one other potential candidate, Madison businessman Eric Hovde, is weighing a bid. The filing deadline is June 1, with a primary scheduled for Aug. 14 and the general election Nov. 6.

Major policy differences between Nicholson and Vukmir have yet to emerge, and both are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Trump. That puts the candidates starkly different personal biographies at the fore.

Nicholson, of Delafield, is emphasizing his political newcomer status and his military and private-sector experience. If elected, he pledges to limit his Senate service to two terms. Others who billed themselves as conservative outsiders, such as Trump and U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Oshkosh, fared well in 2016, he noted. Johnson was a businessman with no political experience before he first ran for Senate in 2010.

Voters want to put people with outside experience into politics now  because they want that perspective to be injected into Washington, Nicholson said.

A former president of the College Democrats of America, Nicholson says his life experience, including serving as a U.S. Marine Corps officer in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, made him a conservative Republican.

Despite being a newcomer, Nicholson won early support in the race, including a $3.5 million stake for a pro-Nicholson super PAC from Illinois GOP super-donor Richard Uihlein. Another endorsement, from a group tied to former Trump strategist Steve Bannon, has given Nicholson both support and skepticism from fellow Republicans.

Vukmir, R-Brookfield, got into politics as an education activist in the 1990s, seeking to push her state and party in a more conservative direction. Elected to the Legislature in 2002, she has done that, while helping enact some of Gov. Scott Walkers most sweeping laws.

Vukmirs legislative record and credibility in the world of conservative activism made her beloved by the GOP grassroots and conservative talk radio in southeastern Wisconsin.

She also has her own wealthy and influential backers, including Afton roofing magnate and Republican donor Diane Hendricks and former Bradley Foundation Chairman Michael Grebe. She also is a board member of the American Legislative Exchange Council, or ALEC.

GOP primary voters are looking for someone with a proven conservative track record, Vukmir said.

Kevin is going to have to make that case to the voters. We know a lot about his record as a Democrat, but not as a conservative, Vukmir said. Ive established myself with a proven record that voters can trust.

Candidates court

Trump supporters

Both Vukmir and Nicholson have cast themselves as strong allies of Trump despite his overall unpopularity. Polls show Trump, while despised by Democrats and disliked by a majority of independent voters, continues to be viewed favorably by Republicans.

So far, conservative activists have laid blame on the GOP Congress  not Trump  for failure on priorities such as repealing Obamacare, said Mark Graul, a Republican strategist in Wisconsin.

People are frustrated and surprised there hasnt been more traction on these things weve been talking about for quite a while, Graul said.

Something that could help break the stalemate is flipping Wisconsins Democrat-held U.S. Senate seat and bolstering the Republicans Senate majority, said Matt Batzel, who directs the conservative grassroots training group American Majority.

Batzel said any Republican nominee capable of winning a general election must court the voters most solidly in Trumps corner.

Anyone whos going to win this state has to put together a coalition, Batzel said. Pro-Trump Republican voters are a key part of that.

Nicholson has emphasized he voted for Trump in the presidential primary as well as the general election.

Vukmir initially endorsed U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida in last years primary. When Rubio dropped out, Vukmir said she voted for Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.

Jumping on board

But Vukmir said she believes her support of Trump in the general election helped him carry Wisconsin, which had not swung Republican since Ronald Reagans victory in 1984.

Vukmir, along with other widely known conservative women from southeast Wisconsin, cut an ad on Trumps behalf that aired in the campaigns closing days.

She said it helped sell many conservatives on Trump in southeastern Wisconsin, where Trump was viewed skeptically by some suburban Republicans.

People kept coming up to all of us who were in that ad and said: You know, I was going to stay home, but because of you, Im going out to vote. So we know that it made a difference, Vukmir said.

The endorsement from the Bannon-linked Great America PAC assured Nicholson not just financial support but the backing of a top Trump ally.

Yet Bannons presence makes some conservatives uneasy. They balk at his views on issues such as global trade and foreign policy, as well as his eagerness to take on members of the GOP establishment, including House Speaker Paul Ryan of Janesville and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

Im a Marine  I lead

Nicholson, if elected, has said hed support a new Senate Republican leader to replace McConnell.

Nicholsons embrace of Bannon has brought him some criticism recently on talk radio programs that are influential in Milwaukee-area conservative circles. Radio host Mark Belling, in a recent interview with Vukmir, said Nicholson has been spending his time giving Steve Bannon a shoeshine with his tongue.

Belling added: Kevin is going to have to decide if hes simply going to be Steve Bannons tool or hes going to run as an individual candidate, as his own man.

Nicholson, speaking to the State Journal, brushed aside Bellings suggestion.

I dont cater to people. Im a Marine  I lead, Nicholson said. Id sooner cut off my tongue than give someone a shoeshine with it.

Bannon is chairman of the conservative news website Breitbart, which he called the platform for the alt-right. The loosely defined movement sprung up in the 2016 campaign and includes some white nationalists and white supremacists.

Asked if he supports the alt-right movement or views it as part of his electoral coalition, Nicholson said, I dont even know what that phrase means  Im not even going to discuss that.

Pressed further, Nicholson said my vision for the future of this country is one where black, white, Hispanic, Asian American, Native American, all have an opportunity to capitalize on their opportunities and their talents.

Vukmir has sought to frame Nicholson as the favorite of national groups and herself as the choice of Republicans in Wisconsin.

On Thursday, Vukmir rolled out a list of more than 100 endorsements from state lawmakers, local and business leaders and activists, including the majority leader of the state Senate, Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau.

Hovde a wild card

Hovde, who ran in the GOP U.S. Senate primary in 2012, losing to former Gov. Tommy Thompson, did not respond to State Journal inquiries last week about his 2018 plans.

As a potential self-funder of his campaign, Hovde may be on a different timeline than Vukmir or Nicholson.

But Graul said the window for Hovde to enter the race is closing.

People have chosen sides quite a bit  theres not a lot of free agents out there, Graul said. A path for him is getting harder to see.
The U.S. government comprises three coequal branches, each imbued with mechanisms to regulate the other.

Last November, when the Electoral College (not a majority of voters) elevated Donald Trump to the presidency, many wondered how markedly our society would change. Fifty weeks in, our institutions hold firm against him -- most notably, the judiciary.

A reality television star now leads the executive. A man prone to launching personal insults on Twitter. Hundreds of jelly-spined Republicans who quake in fear of his wrath, but privately whisper their condemnations to reporters in corridors on the condition of anonymity constitute the legisative. But the judiciary, time and again, openly denounces his attempts to buck the Constitution and remake us in his image.

Trump has hurled slings and arrows at federal judges who answer -- not to him -- but to the U.S. Constitution and legal precedent. And he has voiced his displeasure: federal judges in Indiana, California and Hawaii all turned the other cheek to faithfully apply the laws they are duty-bound to interpret.

Providing life tenure to federal judges is a source of contentious debate. While some view it as insulating a class of individuals from accountability, given our present state of affairs, I rest easier knowing that a reality television star cannot dismiss federal judges who dare to place sound legal reasoning above his Fox News approval rating. The judiciarys steadfastness in the face of Trumps blustery rhetoric suggests that, in addition to being blind, it may also, thankfully, be deaf, too.

Storm Larson, La Crosse
For the third time in 14 days, the Tomah Fire Department was called to a residential fire.

Twenty-nine firefighters spent 2 hours Friday battling a blaze at 518 W. Jackson Street that closed the street for nearly three hours. It capped a busy two weeks for the department, which responded to a residential fire Oct. 20, a fire at an assisted living facility Oct. 24 and a natural gas leak Thursday.

It has been very busy for (our) department, Tomah fire chief Tim Adler said. Thankfully there have been no injuries.

Crews were paged shortly after 2 p.m. and arrived to see heavy smoke coming from the top of the Jackson Street residence. Adler said firefighters entered the building for an interior attack but were forced back outside when the heavy flames spread to the second floor.

Due to the older style balloon construction of the home, the fire spread rapidly and got into the attic area, which contained multiple roofs, which made it very difficult to extinguish, Adler said.

He said there were four layers of shingles on the roof, which also made it a challenge for us.

Two dogs inside the home were safety evacuated.

The Red Cross was called in to assist the family that lived in the home, which was deemed uninhabitable due to the fire, smoke and water damage.

The department was assisted at the scene by the Tomah Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, Tomah Area Ambulance Service, Oakdale Fire Department and Monroe County 911 communication center.

The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.

The gas leak occurred shortly before 8:30 a.m., when a contractor performing an underground boring procedure struck a natural gas line at the corner of Kilbourn Avenue and Clifton Street. Firefighters were at the scene for five hours and had to temporarily close a section of Hwy. 12-16. WE Energies was called to the scene to fix the leak.




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(Scroll down for video) A journalist from the United States was arrested in Zimbabwe over a tweet after she was accused of insulting their president.

25-year-old Martha ODonovan from Martinsville, New Jersey, is now facing 20 years in prison and she is being held in jail pending her court appearance.

The arrest came after authorities said that someone with the Twitter handle @matigary called 93-year-old President Robert Mugabe a sick man in a post, which included a photo illustration of the elderly president with a catheter.

The post read: We are being led by a selfish man and a sick man.

Authorities said that the Cyber Security Ministry tracked tweets to ODonovans IP address, a claim she denied.

OaDonovan was charged with undermining or insulting the president and attempting to overthrow the government, according to her attorney Obey Shava.

Shava tried to get the charges dismissed, saying that officers did not tell his client the reason for her arrest at the time she was taken into custody, but a high court denied the request.

ODonovan studied human rights in Africa at NYU in New York City.

She spent time in Africa, where she taught young people how to become radio journalists. Her trip was part of her NYU fellowship on human rights.

She returned home and she eventually went to Zimbabwe.

She has been there for over a year working for TV station Magamba TV, which describes itself as a news satire show.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - A Florida man is accused of running over and killing his friend in a parking garage.

Orlando police tell news outlets that surveillance video shows 25-year-old William Aloupis walking out of an elevator in the downtown Orlando parking garage with two friends Wednesday morning.

The report says Jonathan Anglada sat against a wall while Aloupis went with Matthew Molina to get the car. Aloupis put the car in reverse and backed toward where Anglada was sitting. The car moved forward, then reversed again, pinning Anglada.

They put him in the car and flagged down an Orlando firetruck. Anglada was pronounced dead at a hospital.

Aloupis is charged with manslaughter by culpable negligence. Jail records don't list a lawyer.
PORT ORANGE, Fla. (AP) - A Florida police chief says his officers fatally shot a suspect who had fired at them.

Port Orange Police Chief Thomas R. Grimaldi told reporters that the suspect fired shots at three officers late Friday after being chased to a neighborhood. He says they returned fire, killing the suspect.

Further details were not immediately released. No officer was seriously injured.

Port Orange is on Florida's north Atlantic coast, near Daytona Beach.
Three Israelis were among the 150 influential and promising leaders from around the world featured at the first Obama Foundation Summit on Thursday evening.

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The Israelis, who were handpicked by the Obama Foundations, are comedian and TV personality Lior Schleien, Peres Center for Peace Deputy Director General Yarden Leal-Yablonka, and cyber security expert and founder of CyberX Omer Schneider.

Former US President Obama and Lior Schleien (Photos: Reuters, Tomeriko)

The guests of honor at the event were Prince Harry, actress Rashida Jones, actor and creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, former US National Security Advisor Susan Rice, and former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.

Former US President Barack Obama encouraged participants to forego selfies and instead focus on creating interpersonal relationships, so they could work together to improve life on Earth.

Over the past decade, Yarden Leal-Yablonka, 37, has been leading many projects on coexistence in education, sports, medicine, innovation and entrepreneurship, and has been representing the Peres Center for Peace all over the world.

Yarden Leal-Yablonka (Photo: Obama Foundation)

"It is a great honor to represent the vision and work of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, which has been my home for the past 13 years," said Leal-Yablonka. "I'm happy and thankful for the opportunity to represent Israel and Peres's legacy. Learning together with representatives from all over the world could bolster our work to building a better future."
President Reuven Rivlin and his wife Nechama will leave early Sunday for a state visit in Spain as the guests of the King of Spain, Felipe VI.

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The Israeli president is heading to Madrid to mark 30 years to the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, as well as 100 years to the return of Spanish Jews to the country after the expulsion in 1492.

Rivlin's visit comes in the midst of a political crisis in Spain after the region of Catalonia announced its independence.





President Reuven Rivlin (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Catalans protested the Israeli president's visit, calling to cancel it, following the imprisonment of eight Catalan ministers and the arrest order issued against Catalonia's president, who is currently in Belgium.

Rivlin's trip would be the first state visit by a foreign leader, and it's important to Madrid to send out a message of "business as usual."

"This is a historic and significant visit to a country that is a true friend, and it also shows the deep friendship between the two peoples," Rivlin said ahead of the visit.

"Israel and Spain are tied together by the bonds of a shared past. Thirty years ago, our prime ministersthe late Shimon Peres and Felipe Gonzalez, may he live longlaid the foundations for the future and established the diplomatic relations between the two nations," he continued.

"We must realize the unique potential in our ties, which are based on shared values and vision, alongside ability and strength," the president concluded.

Rivlin will be accompanied by a 37-person business delegation of leading Israeli companies and trade figures, and an academic delegation including leading figures and Nobel Prize laureates. During the visit, Spain and Israel are expected to sign agreements in many different fields.

On Monday, Rivlin and his wife will be received at an official state reception by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano at the Royal Palace (Palacio De Oriente). The ceremony will include the playing of national anthems and an honor guard.

Later in the day, Rivlin and his wife will be hosted at the royal residence, the Palace of Zarzuela, for lunch with the king and queen, followed by a private meeting between Rivlin and King Felipe.

The king and queen will also host Rivlin and his wife at a state dinner, where both Rivlin and King Felipe are expected to speak.

The next day, Rivlin will open an economic conference at the offices of the Spanish manufacturers association. Later, he will meet with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy and the two will oversee the signing of bilateral agreements between the two countries.

Rivlin will also address a special plenary of both the Senate and Congress of the Spanish parliament, where he is expected to also speak about Catalonian independence. He will express Israel's support for the Spanish people and talk about the importance of maintaining unity in Spain and reaching understandings and agreements in peaceful ways. The Israeli president will be then awarded medals of both houses and sign the official guest book.

Rivlin and his delegation will return to Israel on Wednesday morning.

Joining the visit are Minister Gila Gamliel (Likud); Israel's Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef; the head of the Association of Imams in Israel, Sheikh Muhammad Kiwan; the spritual leader of Druze in Israel, Mowafaq Tarif; Archbishop George Bacouni, the leader of the Melkite Greek Catholic Archeparchy; Israeli Nobel Prize laureate Ada Yonath; and Amos Yadlin, the head of the Institute for National Security Studies.
US President Donald Trump used the first moments of his Asia trip on Sunday to denounce North Korea as "a big problem" that must "be solved."

Trump told reporters traveling with him to Japan on Air Force One that "there's been 25 years of total weakness" in dealing with the North.

Some regional analysts have speculated that Trump's presence in Asia may prompt North Korea to take provocative action, such as carrying out a missile test.

When asked about that possibility, Trump said: "We'll soon find out."
RIYADH - Saudi Arabia has reportedly arrested 11 princes, 38 former government ministers, deputies and businessmen as it announces a new anti-corruption campaign, further cementing King Salman and his crown prince son's control of the kingdom.

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The Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya satellite news channel reported that the anti-graft committee is looking into deadly floods that overwhelmed parts of the city of Jiddah in 2009 and the government's response to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus that has killed several hundred people in the past few years.

The anti-corruption effort is being headed by the kingdom's powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was named to oversee the new committee.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (Photo: AFP)

Al-Arabiya did not name those detained, though reports indicate they included some of the most powerful businessmen in the country.

A senior Saudi official told Reuters the detainees include billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding; Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, minister of the National Guard; Prince Turki bin Abdullah, former governor of Riyadh province; Khalid al-Tuwaijri, former chief of the Royal Court; Adel Fakeih, Minister of Economy and Planning; Ibrahim al-Assaf, former finance minister; Abdullah al-Sultan, commander of the Saudi navy; Bakr bin Laden, chairman of Saudi Binladin Group; Mohammad al-Tobaishi, former head of protocol at the Royal Court; Amr al-Dabbagh, former governor of Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority; Alwaleed al-Ibrahim, owner of television network MBC; Khalid al-Mulheim, former director-general at Saudi Arabian Airlines; Saoud al-Daweesh , former chief executive of Saudi Telecom; Prince Turki bin Nasser, former head of the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment; Prince Fahad bin Abdullah bin Mohammad al-Saud, former deputy defense minister; Saleh Kamel, businessman; Mohammad al-Amoudi, businessman.

Reports also suggested those detained were being held in the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, which only days earlier hosted a major investment conference. The phone number for the hotel had been disconnected by Sunday morning and a Dubai-based spokeswoman for the hotel chain did not respond to a request for comment.

Meanwhile, the kingdom's top council of clerics issued a statement saying it is an Islamic duty to fight corruptionessentially giving religious backing to the high-level arrests being reported.

The government said the anti-corruption committee has the right to issue arrest warrants, impose travel restrictions and freeze bank accounts. It can also trace funds, prevent the transfer of funds or the liquidation of assets, and take other precautionary measures until cases are referred to the judiciary.

The royal order said the committee was established "due to the propensity of some people for abuse, putting their personal interest above public interest, and stealing public funds."

Saudi nationals have long complained of rampant corruption in government and of public funds being squandered or misused by people in power.

The 32-year-old crown prince has been seeking to attract greater international investments and improve the country's reputation as a place to do business. It's part of a larger effort to diversify the economy away from dependence on oil revenue.

"The scale of the arrests goes beyond the allegations of corruption, and are designed to further smooth the eventual succession," said Kristian Coates Ulrichsen, a research fellow at the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"As a leader who is set to remain in power for decades, Mohammed bin Salman is remaking the kingdom in his own image and signaling a potentially significant move away from the consensual balancing of competing interests that characterized Saudi rule in the past."

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, among those arrested (Photo: AP)

The king also ousted one of the country's highest-level royals from power, removing Prince Miteb bin Abdullah as head of the National Guard. He was replaced by Prince Khalid bin Ayyaf al-Muqrin, who had held a senior post with the guard.

Prince Miteb's father was the late King Abdullah, who also had led the National Guard and had transformed it into a powerful and prestigious force tasked with protecting the ruling Al Saud family, as well as important holy sites in Mecca and Medina, and oil and gas sites.

Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne. His ouster as head of the National Guard essentially sidelines one of the most formidable rivals to the current crown prince, who has amassed enormous power in less than three years since his father, King Salman, ascended to the throne.

Three months ago, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef was ousted from the line of succession and from his post as interior minister, overseeing internal security.

With the two princes now sidelined, control of the kingdom's security apparatus is now largely centralized under the crown prince, who is also defense minister.

Only hours earlier, Lebanese prime minister Saad Hariri resigned from his post in a televised address from Riyadh, offering a vicious tirade against Iran and its Lebanese proxy Hezbollah group for what he said was their meddling in Arab affairs.

"Iran's arms in the region will be cut off," Hariri said.

Saudi Arabia then said its forces intercepted a ballistic missile fired Saturday night by Shiite rebels in from Yemen toward one of the kingdom's major international airports on the outskirts of the capital, Riyadh. A Saudi-led coalition launched a war against the Houthi rebels and their allies in March 2015 that grinds on today, a campaign overseeing by Crown Prince Mohammed.

The missile fire drew an immediate rebuke from US President Donald Trump, who blamed Iran in part for the attack.

"A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia. And our system knocked it down," Trump said, referring to the Patriot missile batteries Saudi Arabia has purchased from the US. "That's how good we are. Nobody makes what we make and now we're selling it all over the world."

It's unclear if the US had any advance word of the coming arrests. Trump's son-in-law and White House adviser Jared Kushner and others made an unannounced trip recently to Riyadh. Trump earlier Saturday said he spoke to King Salman about listing the kingdom's massive state-run oil company, Saudi Aramco, in the United States.
Israels finest speech writers couldnt have produced a better speech for Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri against Hezbollah and Iran.

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The speech accurately described, in a disparaging manner, the challenge presented to Israel and the entire Middle East by the Iran-Syria-Hezbollah axis. It concluded a week of turbulent events in the north, which appeared to be unrelated at first, but all point to the extremely explosive situation in the region andmost importantlymark the end of the civil war in Syria, with its implications on Lebanon as well.

On Wednesday, according to foreign reports, Israel attacked a shipment of precision-guided missiles en route to Hezbollah warehouses in Lebanon. If Israel indeed carried out the strike at such a sensitive time, the shipment was likely an unusual one and the timing of the attack must have been critical to prevent the missiles arrival in Lebanon, where Israel avoids attacking.

Hezbollah fighters in Syria. While none of the parties in the region is interested in a war at this time, Israel must be prepared

Fridays incident in the Syrian village of Hader , which is located near the Israel border, is part of an attempt to shape the border with Israel at the end of the fighting in Syria. The rebels, members of the al-Nusra Front, managed to kill nine residents of the Druze village. After their attack, and following heavy pressure from the leaders of Israels Druze communitywho had already dispatched hundreds of young people to the Druze Israeli town of Majdal Shams and demanded Israel take action for their brothers sakethe IDF issued a rare statement saying it would not allow an occupation of the village.

During the incident, dozens of Israeli Druze crossed the fence toward Syria, forcing the soldiers to chase and bring them back. Lets hope they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

It's important to note, however, that the IDF had no intention of sending the Golani Brigade to occupy the village with infantry forces. The IDF has excellent control from Mount Hermon, and it can achieve control through intelligence and both aerial and ground fire.

Back to Hariri, who delivered his speech from Saudi Arabia, where the exposed plot to assassinate him was first reported. Assuming this information is reliable, its quite possible Western sources helped bring it to Hariris knowledge, but its also possible this is some kind of a spin.

In the web of interests, none of the parties in the region wants to launch a war right now, but that doesnt mean a war wont break out. Hezbollah needs peace and quiet to lead the rehabilitation of its forces after they return to Lebanon from Syria. Furthermore, the organization is going to be up to its neck in internal Lebanese politics from now on.

The Iranians have no interest in using Hezbollah at this time. They would rather keep the organization for its original purpose, and use it against Israel in the event of an attack on Irans nuclear facilities.

Israel has no interest in launching a war either, but the developments on the ground call for legitimate military activities, and one of these activities could lead to an escalation to war. These activities must therefore be managed with the required caution, and we must be prepared for the possibility of wareven an unplanned one.
Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman made a recommendation to President Reuven Rivlin on Sunday to grant pardon to former IDF soldier Elor Azaria , who was convicted of manslaughter after shooting dead a neutralized terrorist

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"We must put an end to the affair that shook Israeli society, and at this time show leniency and mercy to the soldier," Lieberman stated in his recommendation.

Azaria submitted his official request for clemency to the president last month, asserting: "I unfortunately did not receive a just trial."

Lieberman, prior to being appointed defense minister, attends court hearing in Azaria's case (Photo: Avi Rokach)

"I ask for a measure of justice and mercy, the essence of the presidential pardon, from His Honor the President in this request," Azaria added.

Azaria was sentenced to 18 months in military prison, but in late September IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot decided to shorten his sentence by four months. He began serving his sentence in August, after a series of appeals and postponements.

Lieberman's recommendation to pardon Azaria contradicts that of IDF officials, who are of the opinion the IDF chief of staff's decision to shorten Azaria's sentence is sufficient.

If the president accedes, even partially, to Azaria's request, the former soldier could be released from prison within several months, as the military parole board is also expected to cut a third of his sentence based on good behavior.

Elor Azaria (Photo: Shaul Golan)

"Mr. President, few are the affairs in which the matters of one person mirror the entire Israeli society like the case before us," Lieberman wrote to Rivlin. "Israeli society faced a test in this affair that demonstrates, perhaps more than any other incident in recent years, the rifts and divisions among it," he continued.

"I was among the many who believed that in light of the circumstances, it was unsuitable to charge the soldier with a criminal offense. This case is about an excelling soldier and a terrorist who had the intention to kill," the defense minister asserted.

"But since he was put on trial and since the court made its ruling, I backed the military justice system. And despite harsh criticism against me, I declared that we live in a country that honors the rule of law, and we must honor the ruling of the military court," he continued. "Elor Azaria and his family paid a heavy personal and familiar price in dealing with Elor's trial and the long and unprecedented public exposure, which appears to have also exacted a cost on their health."

Lieberman asserted that "In this unique case, the public interest must also come into considerationthe need to mend rifts in society, and the effect the incident and the trial had on Israeli citizens and IDF soldiers. We send our sons and daughters to defend state security and the public peace, putting them in complex situations the likes of which don't exist anywhere in the world, and demand of themand we will continue doing soto act courageously, with determination, professionally and morally. I believe pardoning Elor Azaria will not detract from these demands, and create the right balance between the immense importance of the rule of law and the public and personal considerations concerning this matter."

The President's Residence said in response to Lieberman's request: "The president has received the relevant opinions to continue examining the soldier Elor Azaria's pardon request. He will examine all opinions submitted to him, alongside the relevant case materials, and discuss the matter with the professional ranks."
Dozens of settlers clashed with Palestinians near the settlement of Yitzhar on Sunday morning.

An IDF force arrived at the scene to separate the warring sides.

The IDF's Spokesman's Office said the Palestinians were harvesting olives, which they coordinated in advance with Israeli security forces.
All terrorists who were inside or near the tunnel the IDF blew up were killed, the state said Sunday in its response to a High Court of Justice petition asking to allow Palestinian rescue forces to enter the security zone on the Gaza border in an attempt to extract five missing terrorists believed to be trapped underground.

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Adalah, the Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel, asked the High Court to "allow Palestinian search and rescue teams and civil defense to enter the buffer zone on the Gaza border to extract people currently trapped underground, some 50 meters from the border fence and inside the Gaza Strip."

IDF demolishes terror tunnel

X

In its response, the state asked the High Court to reject the petition out of hand, due to the fact "it is not relevant and the assistance requested is not relevant," because the missing terrorists have been declared dead.

Hamas forces searching through demolished tunnel area (Photo: EPA)

The state further noted that "there is operational activity that has not yet been completed. At present, IDF forces are still carrying out different operations in the field relating to the tunnel."

The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), Maj. Gen. Yoav Mordechai, spoke to Jacques De Maio, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross delegation to Israel, on Thursday stressing to him that Israel "would not allow search efforts in the Gaza Strip security zone without progress on the issue of Israeli POWs and MIAs ."

Hamas forces searching through demolished tunnel area (Photo: EPA)

COGAT's statement came hours after the families of Lt. Hadar Goldin and Sgt. Oron Shaul, whose bodies are being held by Hamas, raised objections to a request by the Palestinians to allow international forces to aid in the search for the five terrorists.

Hamas forces searching through demolished tunnel area (Photo: EPA)

"Any Israeli humanitarian gesture toward Hamas must be conditioned on the return of our sons home," the Goldin family said. "If the Israeli government accedes to Hamas, it would constitute a moral injustice and diplomatic weakness. It cannot be that the government continues acceding to Hamas's humanitarian caprices while IDF soldiers are being held by it."

The Shaul family expressed hope that "the Israeli government doesn't dare accede to Hamas's request as long as they're not returning Oron. Oron was kidnapped into a tunnel the Hamas fighters dug, and is has been held in Gaza by them for three years, while they refuse to allow the Red Cross to ascertain his situation."

Hamas forces searching through demolished tunnel area (Photo: Reuters)

Both Shaul and Goldin, who were killed in Gaza during the 2014 Operation Protective Edge, were declared fallen soldiers whose place of burial is unknown by the IDF's chief rabbi.

In response to COGAT's announcement, Hamas and Islamic Jihad declared the five missing terrorists were dead, bringing the death toll to 12, with 11 others injured.

"The demolished tunnel is not the only tunnel we have that crosses into Israel," Hamas said, stressing it would not provide information on Israel's MIAs and POWs in return for the five missing terrorists' bodies.
The Ministerial Committee for Legislation gave the green light on Sunday to a bill proposal to bar police recommendations on indictments

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At the same time, the coalition decided the legislation would only be promoted with the backing of Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan, who expressed his objection to the bill in its current version.

Following the discussing at the ministerial committee, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked (Bayit Yehudi) said "the bill will be changed in the Knesset with the approval of the justice minister and the public security minister and will return to the ministerial committee before its first reading."

State Attorney Shai Nitzan at the Ministerial Committee for Legislation

She added the ministers have already reached an understanding the bill would bar police from making their investigation conclusions public, rather than entirely stop investigators from making recommendations.

State Attorney Shai Nitzan, who made an unusual appearance at the ministerial committee, called the legislation "a harmful bill that seeks to silence the police."

"In my view, the police's recommendation is very significant. I want to hear them, they were involved. I don't see any benefit in silencing the police," Nitzan said.

He explained that without the police's recommendations in the case, he would need an additional 100 employees at the State Attorney's Office to go over every aspect of each case before making a decision on it.

Nitzan further stated the police recommend to close about 40 percent of cases, and that often the police recommend filing an indictment but the State Attorney's Office decides to close the case.

Earlier, MK David Amsalem (Likud), who initiated the bill, insisted both this legislation and another one seeking to shield a sitting prime minister from police investigation had nothing to do with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the ongoing criminal investigations against him.

"The State of Israel and the citizens of Israel need this legislation. This is a bill that concerns hundreds of thousands of citizens in the State of Israel," Amsalem told Ynet.

"Perhaps you're not used to it, but I take care of the people of Israel. Perhaps this isn't an answer you can accept or believe," he went on to say.
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariris resignation took everyone by surprise, apart from the Saudis.

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On Tuesday, Saudi Arabias Gulf affairs minister tweeted that the evil hands of Iran must be cut off and promised a dramatic development in the very near future. Knowledgeable sources didnt miss the pun, as the name of the largest party in the Lebanese parliament, which is led by Hariri, is Future Movement.

So the Saudis likely werent surprised, and its no coincidence that Hariri chose to issue his resignation from Riyadh. The Saudis are the resigning prime ministers patrons. Thats where he was born 47 years ago and thats where he took his first steps in the Oger construction company, which made him one of the wealthiest people in the world with a net worth of $2 billion.

From left to right: Saudi Crowne Prince Mohammad bin Salman, resigning Lebanese PM Saad al-Hariri and Hezbillah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Hariris departure aimed at paving the way to an escalation in the Saudi-Iranian conflict (Photo: EPA, Getty Images, AFP)

Those who knew him well, including in Israel, are willing to swear that he didnt even want to jump into Lebanons muddy and dangerous waters. It was the Saudi royal family that pulled him out of the luxury palaces in Paris, sent him to run for prime minister and even funded his election campaign.

As far as the Lebanese are concerned, the assassination plot revealed in Hariris resignation speech on Saturday is just an excuse. Theres no one in Beirut who believes the prime minister resigned to avoid the fate of his father, former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, who was assassinated in the heart of Beirut in 2005.

After all, within less than a week he visited Saudi Arabia twice and met with Crowne Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Its reasonable to assume that the Saudis drafted his resignation speech for him in a bid to send Lebanon into a political tailspin that would weaken Hezbollah.

Hariri is leaving a split Lebanon behind him: The Sunni camp, which supports Saudi Arabia, against the Hezbollah-led Shiite camp, which supports Iran. In recent months, the Shiite camp has grown stronger and it control all the government institutionsthe army, the security and intelligence apparatuses, the government ministries and the presidential palace.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun isnt hiding his blind loyalty to the Revolutionary Guards representatives. On the other hand, Israeli planes are circling in Lebanese airspace as if its their home court on their way to attack targets in Syria. Behind the scenes, Israel is sticking its fingers in Lebanons political mud as well.

Hariris departure is aimed at paving the way to an escalation in the Saudi-Iranian conflict. The royal family in Riyadh has had enough of seeing the Iran expanding in Syria and the Revolutionary Guard taking over Lebanon. The Saudi crowne princes plans have yet to be revealed in full, but sources in Beirut believe Hezbollah is already on defensive alert.
KIRKUK - Two suicide bombers struck in the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk on Sunday, killing at least five people and wounding more than 20, police and medical sources said.

The interior ministry said the attacks targeted a Shi'ite Muslim mosque on Atlas Street in central Kirkuk, giving an initial casualty toll of one killed and 16 wounded.
BRUSSELS - Sacked Catalonian leader Carles Puigdemont has turned himself in to Belgian police, Belgian public broadcaster VRT said on Sunday, citing a source.

Belgian prosecutors, who have a European arrest warrant from Spain for Puigdemont and four of his associates, will brief media on the case at 1pm GMT.
DUBAI - The head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards denied on Sunday accusations by Donald Trump that Iran was behind the firing of a ballistic missile at Saudi Arabia from warring Yemen, rejecting it as one of the US president's "slanders."

Saudi Arabia's air defenses intercepted the missile, bringing it down near the capital Riyadh's airport on Saturday and it did not cause any casualties, state news agencies reported.

"A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia ... and our system knocked the missile out of the air" Trump told reporters on Air Force One en route to Tokyo.

But Mohammad Ali Jafari, head of the Revolutionary Guards who are in charge of Iran's missile program, said: "Mr Trump has said many baseless things and told many lies and frequently falsely accused Iran and this one of those slanders," Iran's state news agency IRNA reported.

"We do not have even the possibility to transfer missiles to Yemen. The missiles belong to them and they have increased their range," Jafari added.
Sacked Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont and four associates turned themselves in to Belgian police on Sunday, the Brussels prosecutor's office said, following Spain's issuing of an arrest warrant

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He is wanted by Madrid for actions related to his push for the region's secession from Spain.

Puigdemont's move comes as two polls suggested pro-Catalonia independence parties will together take the most seats in December's regional election, although they may fall just short of a majority needed to revive the secession campaign.

Ousted Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont (Photo: AFP)

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy called the December 21 election after firing the previous government and imposing direct rule over the autonomous region following a unilateral declaration of independence by Catalan lawmakers on October 27.

According to a GAD3 survey of 1,233 people conducted between October 30 and November 3 and published in La Vanguardia newspaper, pro-independence parties ERC, PDECat and CUP would take between 66 and 69 seats in the 135-seat parliament.

A second poll taken over the same period for the conservative newspaper La Razon echoed the GAD3 survey, showing pro-independence parties would capture the most votes though still fall just shy of a parliamentary majority with 65 seats.

Other seats would be generally divided between parties supporting the region continuing to be part of Spain, but these parties are not allied.

Voter participation, however, will rise to a record of 83 percent, the GAD3 poll showed.

Catalonia's statehood push has tipped Spain into its worst political crisis since its return to democracy four decades ago as surging pro-secession sentiment in the region has in turn kindled nationalism across the country.

Politicians on remand

Puigdemont travelled to Belgium shortly after Madrid took control and now faces charges for rebellion, sedition, misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to the secessionist campaign.

On Saturday, Puigdemontwho PDECat said on Sunday would lead the party in the electioncalled for a united Catalan political front in the face of the elections.

Ousted Catalonia leader Carles Puigdemont (Photo: Reuters)

On Thursday, nine members of his sacked cabinet were ordered by Spain's High Court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial.

One member of the dismissed cabinet, Santi Vila, was freed after paying bail of 50,000 euros ($58,035) on Friday. The other eight could remain in custody for up to four years.

According to the GAP3 survey, 59 percent believed legal action against Puigdemont was unjustified while 69.3 percent said that the jailing of the Catalan politicians would give the independence cause a boost at the ballot box.

Catalan civic groups Asamblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Culturalwhose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition chargescalled for a general strike on November 8 and a mass demonstration on November 11 to protest the detentions.

A rally in Barcelona on Sunday, however, attracted just a few hundred people, a long way from the hundreds of thousands to join pro-independence marches in October, many waving the regional flag and carrying protest signs.
A prominent Nubian activist arrested in Egypt last month for taking part in a peaceful protest has died in detention, a lawyer and a long-time friend said on Sunday, in a case likely to fuel debate on medical care in Egyptian prisons and the widespread use of lengthy detention without trial or formal charges.

They said Gamal Sorour, a businessman in his early 50s, died Saturday; reports conflicted on whether he died in his place of detention in the southern city of Aswan or shortly after his arrival at a hospital. Police in Aswan said he died soon after he arrived at the hospital.

Sorour, who has had long-term health issues and underwent life-saving surgery several years ago, suffered a diabetic coma on Saturday.
The United Nation's refugee agency says the bodies of 26 migrants who apparently drowned have arrived at the Italian port of Salerno as rescues intensify on the Mediterranean Sea.

The bodies arrived Sunday on a Spanish naval ship carrying another 400 migrants rescued in the central Mediterranean.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees spokesman Marco Rotunno says the 26 dead were involved in a shipwreck two days ago off Libya. Details remained sketchy, but Italian media say others are believed to have perished and 60 people were rescued.

Humanitarian groups say some 2,500 migrants were picked up at sea in recent days, making it one of the most intense periods for rescues on the Mediterranean since Italy reached a deal with Libya to slow departures of smugglers' boats carrying migrants.
It was cleared for publication Sunday that the bodies of the five Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorists killed in the terror tunnel that the IDF blew up last Monday are being held by the IDF.

The IDF Spokesperson stated that the bodies were located during the supplementary operations to expose and thwart the terror tunnel and the operatives inside it.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  Bahrain ordered its citizens in Lebanon to "leave immediately" Sunday after the country's prime minister resigned in a sudden televised address, citing Iranian meddling in Lebanese and regional affairs.

Bahrain's Foreign Ministry said citizens were banned from traveling to Lebanon, as well.

Bahrain is a bellwether nation for the Saudi Arabia-dominated Gulf Cooperation Council and often the first to announce sanctions and travel bans, usually targeting countries seen as close to Iran.
Special Counsel Robert Mueller has collected sufficient evidence to charge Michael Flynn, US President Donald Trump's former national security adviser, and his son, NBC News reported on Sunday, citing multiple sources familiar with the investigation.

NBC News said Mueller's team is looking at possible money laundering charges, lying to federal agents, and Flynn's role in a possible plan to remove an opponent of the Turkish president from the United States in exchange for millions of dollars.

Mueller is increasing pressure on Flynn following his indictment of Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort, NBC News said.

Flynn served 24 days as Trump's national security adviser but was fired after it was discovered he had misrepresented his contacts with a Russian diplomat to Vice President Michael Pence.

Barry Coburn, a lawyer for the younger Flynn, declined to comment. Robert Kelner, Flynn's lawyer, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

NBC said that Mueller's office also declined comment.

Reuters was not immediately able to confirm the report.
Masked militants set off a large car bomb outside a security headquarters in Yemen's southern port city of Aden early Sunday killing at least 17 people before storming the compound, officials said, sparking combat that continued well into the night.

Speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief reporters, the security officials said the militants placed snipers on the roof and gunned down most of the security forces inside. The officials gave conflicting accounts of what happened next inside the building. They initially said that the militants had taken an unknown number of people hostage. Later they said that they opened cell gates and released prisoners.

Security forces backed by an Apache helicopter continued to fight for control of the installation after nightfall, chasing down militants in the surrounding structures and neighborhood. Some hostages were killed, they added, without providing specific figures. They said at least five soldiers were among the dead.

Witnesses said at least four militant snipers could be seen on the roof of the compound. They also described mayhem as dead bodies littering the compound's front courtyard couldn't be retrieved because of the continuous sniper fire. Shallal al-Shayae, the security chief, was not inside the compound at the time of the attack, the officials said.
Minister of Defense Avigdor Lieberman will take off for an official work visit in Greece.

As part of his visit, Lieberman will hold a three-way meeting with his Greek and Cypriot counterparts.

In addition, the minister of defense will meet the president of Greece, the country's minister of foreign affairs and the Greek parliament's Foreign Affairs and Security Committee.
President Reuven Rivlin said during a meeting with the heads of Spain's Jewish communities that "According to reports on anti-Semitism provided to the Spanish minister of the interior, there has been a hundreds-percent spike in anti-Semitic incidents in Spain."

"We mustn't give in to anti-Semitism, we have to fight it. I'm pleased the Spanish government is taking legislative and enforcement steps to counteract this repulsive phenomenon," he added.
The Lahav 433 interrogation of David Shimron, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attorney and cousin, and an additional attorney considered a confidante of the prime minister concluded after 15 hours.

The pair were detained for questioning Sunday morning as part of the submarine affair, purporting senior Israeli military and government officials received illegal payments from the German company that supplied all six of the IDFs submarines.
News

Laredo, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers early this morning took custody from Mexican immigration officers of a West Virginia prison escapee who also was wanted for attempted murder and armed carjacking following his capture by Mexican authorities.

CBP maintains a strong working relationship with our law enforcement partners from the Government of Mexico and the swift transfer of a dangerous fugitive wanted on multiple violent charges is a testament to the strength of that relationship and our ongoing international cooperation and coordination, said Port Director Gregory Alvarez, Laredo Port of Entry.

Shortly after 2 a.m. today, CBP officers at Gateway to the Americas Bridge took custody from Mexican immigration officers at mid-bridge of Todd Wayne Boyes, 44, a U.S. citizen deported from Mexico. CBP officers escorted Boyes to secondary inspection where they verified his identity, citizenship and confirmed that he had the following outstanding state arrest warrants: attempted murder, from West Virginia State Police in South Charleston, West Virginia, armed carjacking from Ohio Highway Patrol in St. Clairsville, Ohio, flight-escape from the Charleston, West Virginia State Prosecutors Office and larceny from the sheriffs office in Marietta, Ohio.

Boyes appeared to be in need of medical assistance and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. Following his clearance from the hospital, Office of Field Operations (OFO) Special Response Team (SRT) operators assisted in transporting Boyes to Webb County jail pending the adjudication of his outstanding warrants.
Arizona News

Tucson, Arizona - Twenty-three law enforcement students completed the Tucson Sector Border Patrols Emergency Medical Technician course on October 27.

The Sectors course, which lasts five days a week for two months, prepares Border Patrol agents and partner law-enforcement personnel for their state-level EMT licensing. The EMT students, 18 of which were Border Patrol agents, train in all aspects of pre-hospital emergency medical care, which includes advanced training on infectious diseases and administering medications and intravenous fluids.

Following the training, Border Patrol agents are required to pass the national certification exam from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians so agents may be deployed nationally should the situation arise. EMT training and certification is especially beneficial for Border Patrol agents working in remote areas as they are often the first to respond to emergencies.

Tucson Sector currently employs more than 200 EMTs and conducts two classes per year to continually invest in humanitarian efforts to save lives. Recently, Tucson Sector deployed Mobile Response Team (MRT) agents to areas effected by the recent hurricanes, many who have attended this EMT program.
Border News

Tucson, Arizona - Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents arrested five U.S. citizens during three incidents after finding undocumented aliens concealed inside vehicle trunks at immigration checkpoints.

The first incident occurred Friday afternoon when Nogales agents at the immigration checkpoint on Interstate 19, south of Amado, Arizona, referred an 18-year-old Phoenix woman driving a Nissan Sentra, along with her 16-year-old male passenger, for further inspection. When agents opened the vehicles trunk, they discovered a 24-year-old Guatemalan man inside.

A few hours later, agents at the same checkpoint referred a 39-year-old Tucson woman for a secondary inspection of the Mercury Sable she was driving. When agents opened the cars trunk, they found a 21-year-old Guatemalan man concealed inside.

Saturday evening, Willcox agents at the immigration checkpoint on State Route 90 near Benson referred two Phoenix women, ages 20 and 21, for a secondary inspection of a Mazda sedan after a Border Patrol canine alerted to an odor it was trained to detect. When agents opened the back of the vehicle, they discovered two male Mexican nationals, ages 18 and 20, hiding inside.

Agents arrested the U.S. citizens for human smuggling and seized the vehicles involved. The undocumented aliens will be processed for immigration violations, in accordance with Tucson Sector guidelines.
Border News

Nogales, Arizona - Customs and Border Protection officers at Arizonas Port of Nogales arrested four individuals during separate smuggling attempts involving almost $840,000 worth of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana.

Friday morning, officers referred a 23-year-old woman from Eloy, Arizona for a secondary inspection of her GMC SUV as she was returning to the U.S. through the Dennis DeConcini crossing. During the inspection, a CBP canines alert led officers to find almost 133 pounds of marijuana, worth in excess of $66,000, hidden throughout the vehicle.

That afternoon, a 24-year-old man and his 22-year-old female passenger, both from Mexico, were referred for further inspection of their Hyundai SUV when they applied to enter the U.S. through the DeConcini crossing. As a result, a CBP narcotics-detection canines alert led officers to find more than 120 pounds of meth, valued in excess of $360,000, within the vehicles spare tire compartment.

Sunday morning, officers at the DeConcini crossing found more than 36 pounds of cocaine, worth approximately $413,000, within a quarter panel of a Dodge Caravan driven by a 42-year-old Mexican woman.

Officers arrested all subjects for narcotics smuggling and seized their vehicles, along with the drugs. All subjects were then turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations.
Border News

Tucson, Arizona - Border Patrol agents from the Tucson Station apprehended a Mexican man Tuesday morning for illegally entering the United States and later discovered he is a convicted felon and sex offender.

While processing 50-year-old Gerardo Lopez-Armenta, agents conducted a records check and learned he was convicted in Superior Court of Arizona, Pima County, for sexual assault. Agents also found two prior convictions for re-entering the U.S. as an aggravated felon.

Lopez is now in federal custody pending prosecution for criminal immigration violations.

All individuals apprehended by the Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks using biometrics to ensure illegal immigrants with criminal histories are positively identified.
Border News

Yuma, Arizona - Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sectors Special Operations Detachment (SOD) apprehended eight illegal aliens Monday night and seized more than 350 pounds of marijuana, valued in excess of $175,000.

SOD agents were working southeast of Wellton, Arizona, when they received a report of a group of individuals walking toward Interstate 8 with what appeared to be large narcotics bundles. When agents approached the group, the suspects abandoned their cargo in an attempt to flee the area. Agents captured all eight individuals, later identified as male Mexican nationals, two of whom were juveniles.

Agents also learned that one of the men, age 52, was previously deported from the U.S. five times. His lengthy criminal history, mostly out of Los Angeles, California, dates back to 1987, which includes multiple convictions and incarcerations for vehicle theft, obstructing a police officer, and possession, use and sale of narcotics.

Agents seized the marijuana and arrested the subjects for narcotics smuggling; all now being processed in accordance with Yuma Sector guidelines.

Yuma Sectors Special Operations Detachment is comprised of certified special operations agents from the Special Operations Group; the Border Patrol Search Trauma & Rescue Unit (BORSTAR); and the Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC). Agents assigned to this unit undergo a difficult training regimen before being certified SOD agents.

Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents effectively combat smuggling organizations attempting to transport people and contraband through southwestern Arizona and California. Citizens can help the Border Patrol and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by calling 1-866-999-8727 toll-free to report suspicious activity. Callers may remain anonymous.
Border News

Ajo, Arizona - Border Patrol agents rescued five undocumented aliens in distress this week thanks to the activation of three rescue beacons in the desert outside of Ajo.

Ajo Station agents first responded to a beacon activation in a remote mountain pass approximately 10 miles west of Ajo just before midnight on October 25. When agents arrived, they discovered three Mexican nationals - two men and a woman.

On October 31, Ajo agents responded to separate beacon activations west of Ajo involving one male Mexican national at each location who had been abandoned by smugglers.

None of the five migrants requested medical attention and were subsequently taken to the Ajo Station to be processed for immigration violations in accordance with Tucson Sector Guidelines.
The registration of deaths of Maori is very incomplete and it is likely that less than half were registered in some regions like Northland and Waikato, says Dr Rice, who will be giving a paper on the subject of Maori death records in 1918, on the centennial of the pandemic, at an international conference in Madrid in November.
Border News

Amado, Arizona - Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents from the Nogales Station apprehend an armed 29-year-old Tucson man at the Interstate 19 immigration checkpoint near Amado, for smuggling three Mexican nationals Wednesday evening.

Agents referred the man for a secondary inspection of his Dodge Dart after a Border Patrol canine alerted to an odor it was trained to detect coming from the vehicle. Agents discovered the illegal aliens when they opened the vehicles trunk. Agents also found a loaded 9 mm pistol in the center console.

Agents arrested the man for human smuggling and seized his vehicle and weapon.

As part of a campaign to discourage illegal entries within the Nogales corridor, the three men arrested will face criminal prosecution for illegal entry into the United States. Prosecution for illegally crossing one time results in a misdemeanor charge, with multiple crossings amounting to a felony. Misdemeanor charges include a 5-year ban from entering the United States, with subsequent entries increasing it to 20 years and then a lifetime ban.
Border News

Ajo, Arizona - Border Patrol agents from the Ajo station apprehended a Mexican national Thursday afternoon for illegally entering the United States and later discovered he had been convicted of a felony sex offense.

While processing 29-year-old Raul Cano-Garcia, agents conducted a records check and learned he had been convicted in Fresno, California for Lewd and Lascivious Acts with Child Under the age of 14. Cano had been sentenced to three years in prison.

Cano is being held in federal custody pending prosecution for criminal immigration violations.

All individuals apprehended by the Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks using biometrics to ensure illegal immigrants with criminal histories are positively identified.
Border News

Nogales, Arizona - Nogales Station Border Patrol agents at the immigration checkpoint on Interstate 19 near Amado, Arizona arrest one U.S. citizen Wednesday morning after finding more than 50 pounds of methamphetamine.

The driver of a Toyota Corolla was referred to secondary inspection after a Border Patrol canine alerted to an odor it was trained to detect. Agents subsequently found 40 packages of meth hidden throughout the vehicle. The drugs were worth more than $150,000.

Agents arrested the driver, an 18-year-old male, for narcotics smuggling and seized the drugs and vehicle; all were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for processing.
Latest News

Nogales, Arizona - To deter illicit and dangerous human smuggling attempts, the Tucson Sector Border Patrol is focusing on presenting illegal aliens to the United States Attorneys office for criminal prosecution of first-time illegal border crossers apprehended in Nogales.

In October alone, more than 200 people arrested in the Nogales corridor, many of whom were first-time offenders, were found amenable for prosecution. Prosecution for illegally crossing one time results in a misdemeanor charge, with multiple crossings amounting to a felony. Additional penalties include a 5-year ban from the United States, with subsequent entries increasing it to 20 years and then a lifetime ban.

This criminal prosecution program is intended to discourage illegal entry and prevent injury and death to illegal immigrants within the Tucson Sectors area of operations, specifically Nogales. Similar programs have reduced the number of recidivism in neighboring sectors.
Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents apprehended a 24-year-old Yuma man riding a stolen motorcycle Friday evening after he failed to yield to agents during a traffic stop.

Agents patrolling near the U.S./Mexico border and Avenue F attempted to stop the rider, but the rider failed to yield and fled into a lettuce field before abandoning the motorcycle. Agents continued to pursue the man on foot before finally apprehending him. Records checks conducted on the motorcycle revealed it had been reported stolen the day before.

Agents later turned the man and motorcycle over to the Yuma Police Department.
Muzaffarabad: A protest was held in Muzaffarabad area of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Sunday by several government employees working on contract basis demanding clearance of their monthly emoluments.

As protesting employees alleged that they have not been given their salaries since past many months.

The protesting members, most of whom are employed in health, education and other government sectors in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, have been demanding regularisation of their jobs.

"One of our colleagues who had not received the salaries for the past 8 months died because of illness. In July 2017, the government assured us to provide regular salaries as it was passed in the assembly. But, we have not received our salaries," Syda Sarvar Abbasi, a woman protester told ANI.

"In Pakistan's all four provinces the workers are getting regular salaries, but here, we have not received our pay for the past 8 months," she added.

Shamim Bibi, another woman protester said, "Whenever we come to protest, they give us 3-4 months' salary. We don't want salaries. We demand regular jobs. We have been doing all sort of work. In July 2017, the Supreme Court of Pakistan declared that our jobs should be made regular and the Government will give our salaries. Now, we will go to Supreme Court of Pakistan, which will decide our fate".

Another protestor raised a question to the authorities the reason for the discrimination they have been facing at the work.

Another protester accused the politicians and said, "They (politicians) have increased their salaries manifold whereas our salaries are very less".

The Pakistani establishment, on number of occasions, have assured to bring development in PoK, however, the corrupt administrative system has made it one of the most backward regions under its rule.

PoK area has a Prime Minister and a President but is ruled from Islamabad. The Prime Minister of Pakistan is the chairman and chief executive of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council that manages all affairs related to PoK.
Beijing: China has successfully conducted a maiden test flight of its first electric plane earlier this week, which experts hailed as a major step in the development of the domestic aviation industry.

With the successful test flight of the two-seater aircraft, the researchers hope to launch a four-seater version of the plane in the near future.

"We believe there's a big demand for that type of electric plane, which can carry a bigger load on longer flights, China Daily quoted Zou Haining, deputy head of the Liaoning General Aviation Academy, as saying on Friday.

He said the future electric plane in China would transport both people and goods with the improvement of the technology.

The academy had conducted the test flight, which lasted for two hours, on Wednesday in Faku county.

Zou said it demonstrated China's leading role in the industry.

China's electric plane project started in 2012, led by Yang Fengtian, an academic at the Chinese Academy of Engineering.

The team took several years to design the light aircraft.

The aircraft is equipped with a parachute which can bring both pilot and plane down safely in the event of an emergency, the report said.
NEW DELHI: In a big diplomatic win for India, a global watchdog has asked Pakistan to do more to freeze assets of terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jamaat-ud Dawa.

This came after India's latest bid to designate Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar a terrorist was foiled by China at the United Nation Security Council.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has sought from Pakistan a compliance report by February 2018 on action taken by Islamabad against terror groups like LeT and JuD.

This decision was taken on Thursday at the Buenos Aires plenary of the FATF, where India raised the issue at the International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) meet.

As per reports, China attempted to be a roadblock again at the Buenos Aires plenary of the FATF, but failed. Since two speaking countries are needed to block a consensus, China was isolated.

India has been raising the issue of Pakistan's blatant support to terrorists and terrorist groups at all international forums.

After the FTP's submission of the report, the ICRG noted that "Pakistan made some progress to implement UNSCR 1267. However, concerns related to UNSCR 1267 remain, specifically that designated individuals and entities of concern continue to receive and disperse funds without controls being applied by the competent authorities."

Earlier this year, the FATF at its meeting in Spain had slammed Pakistan for continued complicity in financing terrorist entities.

The FATF was established in 1989 to set standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and combat other related threats to the international financial system. It has developed a series of recommendations that are recognised as the international standard for combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism.
ISLAMABAD: Refuting Pakistani officials' claim that stubble burning and coal-fired power plants in India are to be blamed for the deadly smog in Punjab, the country's top scientists have asserted that its source is in the Middle East.

Citing the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission, the officials had claimed that it had spotted 2,620 fire incidents in Indian Punjab on November 2, while there were only 27 such cases in Pakistans Punjab.

A large swath of Pakistan's Punjab has been reportedly covered with a thick blanket of smog for the past three days, causing traffic problems, power outages, and respiratory illnesses among people.

The situation is particularly alarming in the south and central districts of Punjab which had witnessed a similar situation around the same time last year, the Express Tribune reported.

Pakistani officials fear that the smog, besides affecting health, would also affect agriculture and livestock, which in turn will hurt the national economy.

However, a top Pakistani scientist has refuted the claim, saying the main source of the smog is trans-boundary pollution originating in the Middle East.

Every year the Middle Eastern countries, especially Iraq, Syria, and Iran, are hit by heavy sand and dust storms, which form dust clouds, Asif Shuja, an ex-director general of the Environmental Protection Agency was quoted as saying.

These dust clouds travel thousands of kilometers to other countries, including Pakistan, mostly in April-June and September-November, he said.

Shuja said the impact is severe this year due to the continued dry spell in the country.

This situation would have a negative impact on health, livestock, besides affecting agriculture, transport and flight operations, said Pervaiz Amir, former member of the Prime Ministers Task Force on Climate Change.

At least 17 people were reportedly killed in road accidents in Punjab because of poor visibility due to smog.

The authorities had to also shut down several nuclear power plants of 1,200-megawatt capacities on Friday due to the heavy smog.
Tokyo: A top official of President Donald Trump's entourage here on Sunday asserted that the United States' proposed quadrilateral dialogue with India, Japan and Australia is 'certainly' not about containing China.

Responding to a media query, the White House official said the proposed strategic dialogue between the four nations is not about containing China.

The reaction comes hours after the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that it hoped the 'quadrilateral meeting' would not target a 'third party' interest.

The US official said neither America nor Australia or Japan have a security alliance with India.

"India is an increasingly important security partner, no doubt.

It's natural that they should be, given that they are really, sort of, conceptually the western edge of the Indo-Pacific region, the United States making up the eastern edge of that.

"On the question of cooperation between allies and partners, the US is always talking very closely, from the leader level all the way down to our close allies, Australia and Japan," the official added.

The State Department had said last month that the United States was looking to offer countries in the Indo-Pacific region an alternative to predatory financing or unsustainable debt.

The Trump administration also defended the use of 'Indo-Pacific' phrase instead of 'Asia Pacific', saying it captures the importance of the rise of India.

"We have strong and growing ties with India. We talk about 'Indo-Pacific' in part because that phrase captures the importance of India's rise," the official said.

"It (Indo-Pacific) captures the importance of the maritime free commons that allow our security and our prosperity to continue," the official added.

President Donald Trump arrived here on Sunday as part of his 9-day tour of Asia during which he will also visit South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines.

En route to Japan on Air Force One, President Trump ramped up his tough rhetoric against North Korea, saying the United States and its allies are prepared to defend freedom and 'no dictator' should underestimate the US resolve.

He told reporters that North Korea would figure prominently in discussions during the trip.

After Japan, he will head to South Korea, China, and Vietnam where he will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit in Danang. He is also likely to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Vietnam.

His final engagement will be a summit of South-East Asian nations in the Philippine capital, Manila.

(With agency inputs)
NEW DELHI: President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a two-day visit to Chhattisgarh on Sunday.

He will be participating in the valedictory function of the 18th statehood day celebrations this evening at Naya Raipur, the new state capital of Chhattisgarh.

The president will also be paying homage to martyrs at Mana Shahid Smarak.

As per reports, during the Rajyotsav function, President Kovind will present state-level awards to 18 personalities and five organisations for their outstanding contribution in their respective fields.

He will also visit the stalls set up by various departments depicting the development initiatives taken up by them.Ahead of the valedictory function, an Indian Air Force team comprising of four helicopters will perform an impressive and colourful air show at Naya Raipur.

On the second day of his visit, the President will pay a visit to Girodhpuri, the birth place of Guru Ghasidas. He will be the first President of India to visit Girodhpuri. The President will also lay foundation stone for the new community building to be built in the region.
London: Prime Minister Theresa May`s most senior minister has denied an allegation that police found pornography on one of his computers in the Houses of Parliament in 2008 as the British government struggles to contain a scandal about sexual harassment.

First Secretary of State Damian Green said the claims by a former senior police officer in a Sunday newspaper were "completely untrue" and "political smears."

"This story is completely untrue and comes from a tainted and untrustworthy source," Green said in a statement on his Twitter page. The claims amount to "little more than an unscrupulous character assassination," he said.

The Sunday Times reported on its front page that former Metropolitan police assistant commissioner Bob Quick alleged the material was discovered by officers during an inquiry into government leaks in 2008.

Quick, who was involved in the leak investigation, told the newspaper that officers had reported finding the "extreme" pornography on a parliamentary computer from Green`s office.

The claims against one of the prime minister`s closest allies risk deepening a growing sexual harassment scandal that led Britain`s defence minister Michael Fallon to resign last Wednesday.

Fallon said his behaviour has "fallen short" of the standards expected by the British military.

May`s minority government is already struggling with divisions over Britain`s departure from the European Union.

Britain`s interior minister Amber Rudd said the issue would be investigated by the Cabinet Office on Monday and she denied the government was on the verge of collapse if Green resigned.

Rudd said Britain needed to address allegations of sexual harassment in the corridors of power.

"It is something that will take place, in terms of clearing out Westminster of that sort of behaviour, and Westminster, including the government, will be better off after it," she said.

Green, 61, has also denied a previous allegation that he made an inappropriate sexual advance on a young woman.

He said it was not true that he had touched the woman`s knee and told her that his "wife was very understanding" during a meeting in a pub in which the pair discussed her career aspirations and gossiped about sexual affairs in parliament.
SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh on Sunday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not moving the stalled Women`s Reservation Bill, accusing him of betraying the "nation builders".



"Once hailed as `nation builders` by PM Modi, the already marginalised Indian women have been most brutally betrayed by the BJP government," the Chief Minister said attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) central government in a series of tweets.

"Deference of the Women`s Reservation Bill is BJP has gone back on its primary manifesto promise for women. And it was only the beginning," he said.

On September 21, Congress President Sonia Gandhi urged the Prime Minister to urgently pass the Women`s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha where the BJP has a majority.

In a letter to Modi, Sonia Gandhi said: "You may recall that the Rajya Sabha had passed the Women`s Reservation Bill on March 9, 2010. Since then, however, it has languished in the Lok Sabha for one reason or another."

The Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister also referred to the Panchayati Raj Bills passed in Haryana and Rajasthan in 2015, fixing educational and other qualifications for the candidates contesting Panchayati elections.

"Then came along arbitrary conditions on educational qualifications for contesting panchayat elections in Rajasthan and Haryana. Anti-constitutional!"

According to the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj (amendment) Bill, 2015, a candidate should be Class 8 pass for the post of Sarpanch -- except in tribal reserved areas, where the minimum qualification is Class 5 -- and Class 10 for Zila Parishad or Panchayat Samiti elections.

While in Haryana, matriculation is essential qualification for general candidates contesting the Panchayat elections while the qualification for the women (general) and Scheduled Caste candidate will be middle standard (Class 8).

Virbhadran Singh flaunted Himachal`s women literacy rate, claiming ut was higher than the national average.

"Meanwhile in Himachal Pradesh, female literacy of 75.9 per cent exceeded national average. Sixty-four per cent women constituted workforce, highest in India. True empowerment!" the Chief Minister added.

Votes for 68-seat assembly in Himachal Pradesh will be cast on November 9 and the counting will take place on December 18.
Shimla: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed a rally in Himachal Pradesh's Palampur district.

PM Modi's speech:

- PM Modi concludes speech with 'Bharat Mata ki Jai chant'

- PM Modi urges urge people and especially women of Himachal Pradesh to turn out in large numbers and vote for the BJP on November 9.

- There is no future of the Congress, so vote for BJP - PM Modi appeals to the electorate.

- Seeding Aadhaar cards with bank accounts eliminated middlemen, subsidies now reach the beneficiaries directly, says PM Modi.

- I am not afraid of my effigies being burnt, says PM.

- PM Modi hits out at some Opposition parties like Congress, Trinamool, Left for deciding to observe black day on November 8.

- Congress is using all possible means to blame us but our fight against black money and corruption will continue, announces PM amid huge applause.

- Congress ko takleef iss baat ki hai ki ek chai wala Pradhan Mantri ban gaya? Ek gareeb maa ka beta yahan pohoch gaya?: PM Modi in Himachal

- Congress has nothing to do except grieve in coming days: Narendra Modi on protests over note ban anniversary.

- We are only focussing on development.

- The BJP-led NDA government at the Centre helped reduce the prices of LED bulbs for middle class.

- We want to fulfill the aspirations of poor and neo-middle class. Our initiatives are aimed at strengthening and empowering them, says PM.

- Prime Minister Narendra Modi promises a house for every citizen of the country.

- If BJP is voted to power, it would provide electricity to all.

- People of Himachal Pradesh have decided to teach a lesson to those who have cheated them, PM says while hitting out at the Congress.

- Congress failed in providing electricity, education and better health facilities to the people of Himachal Pradesh.

- Congress has not done anything for the Himachal people. The people of Himachal Pradesh have decided to teach a lesson to those who have cheated them, PM says.

- PM takes pot shots at Congress, says Corruption is the only identity of the grand old party.

- PM Modi heaps praise on former chief minister of Himachal Pradesh Shanta Kumar and Prem Kumar Dhumal.

- 2017 Himachal Pradesh Assembly Elections are not about who will form the government or who will become the CM, but are about transforming lives of people., says PM.

Himachal Pradesh will go to polls on November 9. Counting of votes in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly Elections would be held on December 18.

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi will campaign in Himapchal Pradesh on November 6.
New Delhi: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat in an interview with Zee Media's Executive Director and CEO of its Regional Channels Jagdeesh Chandra on Sunday underlined the priority areas of his government and talked about his journey to the top post in the state.

"I never thought I would join politics. I was active in politics but never thought would contest elections. But had surely thought of doing social work. I was studying in Intermediate when I came in contact with the RSS. I met PM Narendra Modi when he was in-charge of Uttarakhand. I got an opportunity to learn from him... By 2002, the political atmosphere had changed. At that time Narendra bhai told me not to say no to contesting elections," he said.

On asked as to what he thought was PM Modi's biggest contribution, the Uttarakhand CM said, "His biggest contribution is the fact that the whole world is giving importance to India. We are respected everywhere. Today, 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' is chanted all over the world. Secondly, PM Modi kept his word of a corruption-free India. In the last three years, no finger has been raised at this government over corruption. The whole world is appreciating the note ban decision. Whatever decisions PM Modi has taken, it has been for the nation. The nation is first for him."

Speaking about BJP chief Amit Shah, he said, "Amit bhai is a very good strategist. He also has the capacity to take quick decisions. For example, to decide to contest the elections alone in Maharashtra was a historic decision by him."

Exuding confidence about BJP's prospects in upcoming Assembly elections, Rawat maintained, "I can say that in Karnataka and Odisha BJP will form the government. In Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat too we are winning."

On being asked as to whether it was odd to have Congress rebels in his Cabinet, Rawat they had adopted the BJP in totality. "Nothing odd in it as they have accepted BJP's ideology completely," he said.



Rawat also said that there were no differences with the former Congress leaders who were in BJP now.

Throwing light on talks about CBI inquiry regarding national highway, the he said that the SIT had completed its investigation to an extent. "I want to assure that the investigation is solid," he said.

Moving further, Uttarakhand CM said that his government was working for farmers and sanctioning them easy loans.

On 'mining mafia' Rawat said, "We have handled the mining mafia within two months. We are also arresting those who are dealing with illegal liquor."

However, he clarified that as of now his government was not thinking of liquor ban.

Describing steps taken by the BJP government regarding 'chardham', Rawat said there was rail, road and air connectivity.

Backing Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, he said that there was no fresh controversy between minorities and the BJP government regarding Ayodhya. "If Ram temple is built, it will be within the legal framework," he pointed out.

Talking about 2019 General Elections, Rawat was of the view that people wanted Modi to become PM again. "There is no leadership like PM Modi. He has taken historic decisions like GST. His support has increased."
New Delhi: Leading tech giant Apple Inc. will reportedly hire Indian students through a campus recruitment for the first time in the country.

It plans to hold its first campus interviews at the International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIIT-H), media reports said.

About 350 techies (BTech, BE, MTech and MSc research students) have already registered for the placement drive.

The IIIT-H is an autonomous university and was founded in 1998 as a not-for-profit public private partnership (N-PPP), first such model in India.

The university focuses on Computer Science, Electronics and Communications, and their applications in other domains.

Earlier during his visit to India, Apple CEO Tim Cook had said that he was very happy with the progress made by the company so far in the country.

I am very bullish on India because of its people, its culture, and the leadership. I love the culture and warmth of people.

Every time I meet Prime Minister Modi and listen to him and then see his actions, including GST, I see bold things that I dont see in any other place.

I am super impressed and optimistic. So what we are doing in India is to ramp up, Cook had said in an interview to an Indian newspaper.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday asked the Indian embassy in Kenya to look into an incident where an Indian boy has been allegedly shot dead in Nairobi.

A Twitter user Netra Parikh brought the incident to Swaraj's notice.

Madam Indian Family boy shot dead in his home in Nairobi.Can you pls check reports & help/support them. Thanks, she tweeted.

Taking note of the incident, the External Affairs Minister tweeted late on Saturday night following a request by one Netra Parikh. "Suchitra (Suchitra Durai, India's High Commissioner to Kenya) - Please send me a report on this."

Kenya is home to around 80,000 people of Indian origin.

In a separate tweet, Sushma Swaraj asked the Indian High Commissioner to South Africa Ruchira Kamboj to extend help after an Indian national died of natural causes while on a tour in that country.

'Sikh boy beaten in US school'

Earlier on Saturday, Swaraj asked the Indian embassy in the United States to look into an incident where a Sikh boy was allegedly beaten.

According to media reports, a 14-year-old boy of Indian origin was beaten by his classmate in Washington. The boy's family has alleged that it was a hate crime and that the boy was targeted for being of Indian origin. A video of the incident was also posted on Snapchat and the consequent outrage has led Swaraj to seek a report from the Indian embassy.

Even as local authorities investigate the incident, school officials have reportedly denied any link to the boy's origin as a reason for the attack. Instead, it is learnt that they have blamed a previous classroom dispute.

The boy's father - who has refused to be identified - however told a news channel that his son had never interacted with the attacker. "I am feeling so, so bad because this happened with my son," he said. "He never interacted with this guy. He did not know his name, I don't want to see this happen again with my son or anyone else. I don't want to see this."

Hate crimes in the US have increased in recent months - especially in the wake of attacks claimed by groups like ISIS. The Sikh community has been especially vulnerable and were also targeted in the months after the September 11 attack.
Fremantle: Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini left Australia's Fremantle on Sunday morning for its onward journey to New Zealand`s Lyttleton, a defence statement said.

INSV Tarini had arrived at Fremantle on October 23, after completion of the first leg of its maiden voyage to circumnavigate the globe.

This historic circumnavigation attempt by an all-women crew is being led by Lt Commander Vartika Joshi, and the crew comprises Lt Commanders Pratibha Jamwal and P. Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta.

The crew of INSV Tarini was officially welcomed to Western Australia by its Tourism, Defence Issues and Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia and Women`s Interests Minister Simone McGurk on November 1. Western Australia Ministers were accompanied by two Indian-origin members of WA Parliament.

Royal Australian Navy chief, Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, also visited the vessel on November 1 to welcome the crew.

He also handed over a personal message from Australian Minister for Defence Marise Payne for the crew.

The crew had several engagements during its stay in Fremantle, including call-in meetings with Western Australia Governor Kerry Sanderson and Freemantle Deputy Mayor Ingrid Waltham. WA Legislative Council President Kate Doust also hosted the crew at WA Parliament for an interaction with female MPs from all major parties.

The INSV Tarini crew had an opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders during the welcome reception hosted by the Indian Consulate on October 28, which was attended by about 100 distinguished guests, including members of WA Parliament, state officials, businessmen, academicians, consular corps, leaders from Indian community and media persons.

The crew of INSV Tarini also had an opportunity to interact with strategic thinkers and academia during a presentation and reception event hosted by Perth US-Asia Centre, a leading think tank focusing on geopolitical issues based at the University of Western Australia, on October 31. More than 200 students attended a presentation and interactive session with the crew at Perth Modern School on the same day.

The crew also visited the scientific facilities at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre at the University of Western Australia. They also had a chance to meet renowned Australian scientist & Australian of the Year 2017 Professor Alan Mackay-Sim, who is famous for his work on stem cell research. The crew also had a trip to few tourist places in Perth and Fremantle, including Rottnest Island.
NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday confirmed that Bunty Shah was shot dead due to confusion during anti-terror operations being conducted by the Kenyan security forces in Nairobi.

Deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin. Kenyan security forces were conducting anti-terror operations on the building across Shah's residence. Bunty thought this as an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air. The security forces returned the fire resulting in Bunty's death. Kenyan Police have regretted the incident, Swaraj said.

While offering condolences to Shah's family, the External Affairs Minister assured all help.

Earlier, Swaraj sought a report from the Indian High Commission in Kenya following reports of an Indian boy being shot dead in Nairobi.

"Suchitra (Suchitra Durai, India's High Commissioner to Kenya) - Please send me a report on this," Sushma Swaraj tweeted late on Saturday night following a request by one Netra Parikh.

In her message on Twitter, Parikh said that the boy named Bunty Shah of Bombil Industries was shot dead at his home and sought support for the family.

Kenya is home to around 80,000 people of Indian origin.
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and actor Shatrughan Sinha on Sunday took a dig at the move to cook 918 kg of Khichdi at the World Food India to make a world record.

Taking to Twitter, the BJP leader, who has been quite vocal about his disagreements with the party leadership, said that while he felt happy about the world record size Khichdi, it should also be thought as to how many poor people can be fed with it for how long.

Great to feel happy about world record size Khichdi...but also need to think of how many poor people can be fed...and for how long? pic.twitter.com/BEoaHjILES  Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) November 5, 2017

In his next tweet, the actor-politician targeted the Narendra Modi government over its claims on ease of doing business. He questioned as to what progress was made by the country on hunger and malnutrition indices.

We're told India is now ranked 100th on 'ease of doing business'. Wud be good to also know our progress on hunger & malnutrition indices.. November 5, 2017

A team led by renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor cooked about 918 kgs of khichdi at the World Food India to make a bid to enter the Guinness Book of World Records.

The dish was prepared using multigrains like rice, pulses, coarse cereals and vegetables in a giant 1,200 kg wok. Yoga guru Ramdev added the 'tadka' to the dish. The khichdi will be distributed to orphans by Akshaya Patra Foundation and Gurudwara to about 60,000 people.

Apart from yoga guru Baba Ramdev, several politicians including Food Processing Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal Minister and Minister of State for Food Processing Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti took part in making the khichdi. Promoting the traditional Indian dish, Kaur said: "It is a wholesome food as it contains most of the nutrients. It also symbolises the country's unity in diversity."

Denmark Food Minister Esben Lunde Larsen, ITC CEO Sanjiv Puri, Tata Chemicals COO of the consumer business Rich Arora, LT Foods Chairman Vijay Arora and Akshaya Patra Foundation officials were also present at the event.

The night-long preparation was supervised by chef Sanjeev Kapoor.

Other leading chefs including Imtiaz Qureshi, Ranveer Brar, Sudhir Sibal, Rakesh Sethi, Akshay Nayyar, Satish Gowda helped in the cooking. Qureshi, master chef at ITC Hotels, praised the government's initiative to promote Indian foods like khichadi and recognise the talent of Indian chefs.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday condoled the death of Indian-origin Kenyan national Bunty Shah, who was killed in police firing in October in Nairobi, and assured of all help to Shah's family.

Replying to a tweet by Netra Parikh who asked Sushma Swaraj to help the bereaved family, the Minister said: "I have received a report from the Indian High Commission in Nairobi. Deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin."

"The Kenyan security forces were conducting anti-terror operations in a building across Shah`s residence. Bunty thought this was an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air," she wrote on Twitter.

"The security forces returned fire, resulting in Bunty`s death. The Kenyan Police have regretted the incident. The Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family," Sushma Swaraj added.

The incident occurred at 3 a.m. on October 22 in Nairobi when Bunty Shah, 32, woke up after hearing some commotion and fired two shots in the air from his first-floor bedroom window.

One of the police officers reportedly returned fire and hit Shah in the chest, resulting in his death. Shah is survived by his wife and a six-month-old infant.

The local administration had promised a thorough probe into the circumstances leading to Shah`s death, who had a licensed weapon.
NEW DELHI: Suspected Islamic State terrorist Abu Zaid was apprehended from Mumbai airport by Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad.

"Abu Zaid, suspected ISIS terrorist was arrested by the ATS team from Mumbai Airport yesterday after he came from Saudi Arabia," ADG (Law and order) Anand Kumar told reporters here.

"He will be brought to Lucknow on a transit remand and will be produced in the court. We will take him in police custody for interrogating him," the ADG said.

Zaid, based out of Riyadh, had formed a social media group to allegedly radicalise youths and lure them to ISIS. He was found to be in touch with terror suspects who earlier arrested by police in Bijnore and western UP as well.

In April, the ATS had arrested four suspected ISIS terrorist Umar alias Nazim, Ghazi Baba alias Muzammil, Mufti alias Faizan and Jakawan alias Eihtesham. Zaid's name had cropped up during interrogation.

"They used to talk via an application on the Internet and Zaid was their ideologue," the ADG said.

On Thursday, Kerala Police confirmed that six youth from Kannur have joined the Islamic State in Syria. The police claimed that these youngsters were active workers of the Popular Front of India (PFI) in Kerala.

Earlier on October 25, three men - Mithilaj, Abdul Razzak and Rashid - with suspected links to the IS were arrested by the Valapattinam police.

Reports suggest that nearly 100 Indians are fighting for Islamic State mainly in Syria and Iraq.

With ANI inputs
Washington: The Trump administration on Sunday defended the use of 'Indo-Pacific' phrase instead of 'Asia Pacific', saying it captures the importance of the rise of India.

"We have strong and growing ties with India. We talk about 'Indo-Pacific' in part because that phrase captures the importance of India's rise," a senior White House official told reporters in Tokyo.

"It (Indo-Pacific) captures the importance of the maritime free commons that allow our security and our prosperity to continue," the official added.

He was responding to queries on the increasing use of the phrase 'Indo-Pacific' by the Trump Administration, its talk about free and open trade in the region and how the Chinese should regard that.

The White House official further said on condition of anonymity that the strategy was 'certainly' not to contain China. PTI reported

Reaffirming that the United States is a Indo-Pacific power, the official said America's security and prosperity depends on the US maintaining access for free flow of commerce to this region, because it is a Pacific nation.

To a question on talks about a strategic dialogue between India, Japan, Australia and the US, the official said this is not about containing China.

"On the question of cooperation between allies and partners, the US is always talking very closely, from the leader level all the way down to our close allies, Australia and Japan. That is longstanding," the official said.

Neither the US nor Australia or Japan have a security alliance with India, the official said, adding, "India is an increasingly important security partner, no doubt. It's natural that they should be, given that they are really, sort of, conceptually the western edge of the Indo-Pacific region, the United States making up the eastern edge of that."

"India to the west, the United States the east," the official said.

Trump lands in Japan:

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump ramped up his tough rhetoric against North Korea when he arrived in Japan on Sunday, saying that the United States and its allies are prepared to defend freedom and that 'no dictator' should underestimate US resolve.

He told reporters on Air Force One en route to Asia that North Korea would figure prominently in discussions during the trip, as per Reuters.

Trump also singled out trade, which he said had been 'badly handled' in the region for years.

After Japan, he will head to South Korea on November 7 where he will visit Camp Humphreys, a US military complex south of Seoul but will not go to the heavily fortified demilitarized zone (DMZ) on the border between the South and North.



Trump will then visit China on November 8 where he will participate in a series of events with his counterpart Xi Jinping.



In Vietnam (November 10-11), he will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit in Danang and make a state visit to Hanoi. He is likely to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin here.



His final engagement will be a summit of South-East Asian nations in the Philippine capital, Manila (November 12-13).

(With Agency inputs)


New Delhi: Billionaire Saudi Arabian Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding, is among people detained and under investigation by a new anti-corruption body.

King Salman announced late on Saturday the creation of a new anti-corruption committee chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television said had detained 11 princes, four current ministers and tens of former ministers.

Also detained and under investigation is former Saudi finance minister Ibrahim al-Assaf, said the official, who declined to be identified under briefing rules. Neither man could be reached immediately for comment.

As per the New York Times, Alwaleed bin Talal investment list is so vast are that he has been referred to as the Warren Buffett of the Middle East.

The NYT has reported that the Saudi Arabian Prince has sizable stakes across dozens of top companies in the world.

Alwaleed has gone into business with some of the corporate worlds biggest titans, from Bill Gates to Rupert Murdoch and Michael Bloomberg, NYT stated.

The following is a list of entities in which he has holdings either through personal investment or via Kingdom Holding:

Financial Services



- Banque Saudi Fransi: 16.19 percent

- Citigroup, *ownership percentage not known



Technology



- Apple Inc , 5 percent

- Careem

- Lyft

- Motorola Solutions Inc

- Twitter Inc : 4.9 percent



Consumer and retail



- EBay Inc

- Fashion Village Trading Company

- Jingdong (JD.com): 2.2 percent

- Saks Incorporated

- Savola Group Company Publishing

- Time Warner Inc

- Twenty-First Century Fox Inc : 4.98 percent

- News Corp : 1 percent



Entertainment



- Euro Disney

Petrochemicals

- National Industrialisation Company: 6.23 percent



Aviation



- Parent company of Flynas: 34.08 percent



Education



- Kingdom Schools



Healthcare



- Medical Services Projects Company



Private equity



- Kingdom Africa Management



Hotel Real Estate



- Four Seasons, George V Hotel, Paris

- The Plaza, New York

- Savoy Hotel, London



Hotel Management Companies



- Fairmont Raffles Holding International

- Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

- IFA Hotels and Resorts Co

- Kingdom Hotel Investments

- Movenpick Hotels and Resorts



Real Estate



- Ballast Nedam

- Canary Wharf (Songbird Estates)

- Jeddah Economic Company

- Kingdom Centre

- Kingdom City
NEW DELHI: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Sunday lashed out at Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti over her demand for Article 370 to the people of the state, stating that the latter needs to go back to school and learn some law.

Swamy`s statement comes a day after Mehbooba Mufti said that Article 370 of the Constitution, which guarantees special status to the state, is the nation`s commitment to the people of J-K and should be honoured.

Speaking to ANI, Swamy said, "I urge that Article 370 is totally become irrelevant and has been used one sided because more than 5,000 Kashmire pandits have been driven out of the state and not being allowed to return back. So why does Mehbooba Mufti want 307?...is it for the protection of Muslims and not Hindus. Mufti needs to go back to school and learn some law".

"As far as Jammu and Kashmir Constituent Assembly is concerned, the Centre has finished their work and given a Kashmir constitution in which the first line is- `Kashmir is an integral part of India` so where is 370..there is no mention of 370 in the Jammu and Kashmir Constitution. Also in the Indian Constitution it`s only mentioned as a temporary provision so where is the guaranteed of the people," he said.

Mehbooba Mufti also said that dialogue is the only way forward to resolve the Kashmir issue and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has a huge mandate, can create history by changing the narrative on Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief took to Twitter saying "Article 370 is the nation`s commitment to the people of J-K and therefore should be honoured," (sic). (
New Delhi": The central government`s newly-appointed interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma will begin a six-day visit to the Kashmir Valley from Monday.



This will be his first trip to the Valley after he was appointed the government`s Kashmir pointsman on October 23.



"I am going there without any preconceived notions. Everyone is welcome to meet me. I don`t want any new effort (to bring peace in Jammu and Kashmir) to be seen from the prism of the past," Sharma told IANS.



He said he would return to Delhi on November 11, hoping that his efforts will result in "peace and prosperity" in Jammu and Kashmir.



"I am hopeful I will be able to contribute towards peace and prosperity in Kashmir," Sharma added.



Asked who did he plan to meet during his visit, he said, "I want to understand the pain and suffering of Kashmiris. I know it is not a problem that can be solved overnight or in just one visit. It is a step one towards bringing peace in the state. I am open to talking to everybody. Anybody who believes in peace and wants to come and give me some ideas how to go about, I am willing to listen."



However, separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yaseen Malik have declined to have parleys with the interlocutor.



On October 23, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had said that the move was to carry forward the "the conviction and consistency" in the government`s Kashmir policy.

"We have decided that a sustained dialogue process should begin in Jammu and Kashmir," he had said.



"As a representative of the government of India Sharma will initiate a sustained interaction and dialogue to understand legitimate aspirations of people in Jammu and Kashmir. He will meet elected representatives, political parties, different organisations and individuals he wants to," the HM had added.



(With IANS inputs)
JAMMU: The Indian Army on Sunday foiled a major infiltration bid and killed two terrorists in an encounter Uri sector of north Kashmir's Baramulla district.

Defence Ministry spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia confirmed the report and said, "The terrorists were killed in Uri sector after alert troops foiled the infiltration bid."

A weapon was recovered from the deceased militant, the official told the reporters.

The security personnel have cordoned off the area completely and have launched a search operation.

More details awaited.
SRINAGAR: Centre's special representative for Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma says he does not have a magic wand, but wants to be judged by his actions when he starts the process of talks in the Valley tomorrow.

"I do not have a magic wand but my efforts have to be judged with sincerity and not through the prism of the past," Sharma, 61, said.

The former Intelligence Bureau director added that no one should jump to conclusions before the process of talks with various stakeholders in Kashmir began.

"I would like to be judged by my actions," he told PTI from Delhi.

Describing his work as a "serious effort", he added that "one should refrain from fishing in the desert".

"I am going there tomorrow to be with my people and understand their pain and suffering and find a suitable remedy to their problems," Sharma said.

Responding to criticisms which have appeared in sections of the media, he said in due course he would also meet intellectuals for their advice in achieving "this difficult national task".

Sharma, who is originally from Bihar and was a Kerala- cadre IPS officer of the 1979 batch, held the country's top- most post for a police officer from 2014 to 2016.

He said Kashmir was his "second home" as his professional journey in the premier intelligence unit began here in 1992.

"Nothing has changed since I was there for the first time. Kashmiriyat, which means compassion and brotherhood, has not changed even an iota. Therefore, I am hopeful that I will be at least able to contribute towards a new Kashmir, a peaceful Valley where prosperity will be the order of the day," he said.

Last month, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, while announcing that Sharma would be the interlocutor for Kashmir, had referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech from the Red Fort this year.

PM Modi had said on August 15, "Na gaali se, na goli se, parivartan hoga gale lagaane se (Only by embracing the people, and not with abuses or bullets, can there be a change in Kashmir)."

Asked about the course of action he would follow, Sharma said, "I do not have a magic wand to change the situation overnight. But having said that, I will like to emphasise during my proposed meetings beginning tomorrow, my every effort will be to work towards ensuring permanent peace in the state."

The special representative will meet political leaders, traders and other delegations tomorrow, according to a list drawn up by the state government.

However, he made it clear he had his own list of people whom he would meet as well.

To a question about a statement made by the Joint Resistance Front comprising separatist groups including moderate and hardline factions of the Hurriyat and JKLF that they would not meet him, Sharma said the government's effort should not be seen through the "prism of the past".

"It is purely their choice whether they want to be a partner in peace or on the opposite side of the fence where destruction has been topping the agenda. My suggestion to everyone is that they should not see this effort of the government through the prism of the past." he said.

Efforts had previously been made by successive central governments too, he said.

"I have no idea what happened to them and, therefore, I would not like to comment. I can only talk about this initiative which has been done with a serious thought process and months of hard work by many," he said.
Bhopal: In the latest development in the Bhopal gang-rape case, 10 top police officers have been transferred .

Anita Malviya, who was Bhopal Railway Superintendent of Police, has now been posted as Assistant Inspector General at Bhopal Police Headquarter.

Bhopal Railway SP Anita Malviya has been made Assistant Inspector General, Bhopal.

Inspector General Jabalpur Jaydeep Prasad is now IG Bhopal.

The 19-year-old woman who was allegedly gang-raped by four men in the state capital on Tuesday had accused some police officers of initially refusing to lodge her complaint.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had assured of strict action against the errant cops.

The rape survivor had accused the Madhya Pradesh Police officers of not cooperating with her and made to shuttle from one police station to another before an inspector posted at Habibganj Police Station agreed to file a case.

The survivor, daughter of a police couple, was allegedly raped by four men on Tuesday night in the vicinity of the Habibganj railway station here. The accused have been arrested.

The four men allegedly tied the girl and took turns to sexually assault her. The accused, as per the reports, even took tea and gutkha breaks before returning to repeatedly rape her.

Four police officials in Madhya Pradesh were suspended on Friday and the city Superintendent of Police (SP) was transferred over a delay in lodging a complaint of the victim.

Two city police stations kept dilly-dallying over registering of the FIR, saying the place of occurrence did not fall within their area. Finally, the case was registered two days after the incident. Two of the accused have been arrested.

The Congress on Friday launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Chouhan over the gang-rape and the subsequent delay in lodging of the FIR.

In a sarcastic remark, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in state assembly Ajay Singh said: "Our Chief Minister claims that Madhya Pradesh is ahead of even America, but when it comes to women empowerment the claim stands exposed in the state capital."
Bhopal: The 19-year-old woman, who was gang-raped by four men on Tuesday evening, wants the culprits to be hanged.

Speaking to news agency ANI, the victim said, Rapists should not be left alive. They should be hanged on the streets.

The woman also accused the Madhya Pradesh Police of not cooperating with her and made to shuttle from one police station to another before an inspector posted at Habibganj Police Station agreed to file a case.

The survivor, daughter of a police couple, was allegedly raped by four men on Tuesday night in the vicinity of the Habibganj railway station here. The accused have been arrested.

The four men allegedly tied the girl and took turns to sexually assault her. The accused, as per the reports, even took tea and gutkha breaks before returning to repeatedly rape her.

Four police officials in Madhya Pradesh were suspended on Friday and the city Superintendent of Police (SP) was transferred over a delay in lodging a complaint of the victim.

Two city police stations kept dilly-dallying over registering of the FIR, saying the place of occurrence did not fall within their area. Finally, the case was registered two days after the incident. Two of the accused have been arrested.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday announced that a Special Investigation (SIT) has been formed to probe the case.

Chouhan on Friday held a meeting with senior police officers and ordered action against the errant officers.

The Congress on Friday launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Chouhan over the gang rape and the subsequent delay in lodging of the FIR.

In a sarcastic remark, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in state assembly Ajay Singh said: "Our Chief Minister claims that Madhya Pradesh is ahead of even America, but when it comes to women empowerment the claim stands exposed in the state capital."
BHOPAL: A 12-year-old girl was found dead at her residence in a semi-naked state in Dewas in Madhya Pradesh on Sunday.

As per prima facie, police suspect that the minor was raped before being murdered.

The police are yet to identify the victim.

The incident comes days after a 19-year-old daughter of a police couple was gang-raped by four men in the capital city of the state. The incident has caused much furore on the social media.

The four men allegedly tied the girl and took turns to sexually assault her. The accused, as per the reports, even took tea and gutkha breaks before returning to repeatedly rape her.

Two city police stations kept dilly-dallying over registering of the FIR, saying the place of occurrence did not fall within their area.

The case was registered only two days after the incident. Two of the four accused have been arrested so far.

On Saturday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a meeting with senior police officers and ordered action against the errant officers. He also announced that a Special Investigation (SIT) has been formed to probe the case.
Damoh: A class 10 student and her friend were allegedly forced to strip inside school premises on suspicion of theft in Madhya Pradesh's Damoh.

The incident took place after a student lost Rs 70 in the school.

The teacher, wanting to ensure the victim didn't steal the money, first checked the bag and threatened her to admit.

On the victim's refused to admit to theft, the teacher made her strip.

"My classmate lost her money. When I refused, the teacher made me and my friend strip," said the victim.

Meanwhile, a show cause notice has been issued to the school principal over this issue, Damoh district education officer. He added that "strict action" will be taken against those responsible for this incident.

Earlier this year, nearly 70 girl students of a residential school at Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh were stripped naked by a warden to check for menstrual blood.



With ANI inputs
Mumbai: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Saturday alleged that people living in slum areas like Behrampada in Mumbai were illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

The outspoken MNS leader claimed that such people easily get Aadhaar cards and warned that "if this trend continues, India would have to fight a war against them, instead of Pakistan".

He expressed anguish over no official records being maintained of such people, saying that nobody knows where these people come from.

Raj Thackeray claimed that the fire that broke out on October 26 in a slum near Bandra railway station was not an accident, but a planned incident.

Speaking at a press conference here, Thackeray said, "The fire was set in the slum; it was planned, as there are all Bangladeshi people, who live there.. I don't know from where they come and reside in the city. We don't have any account of them all. But the fire was imposed and not an accident".

On October 26, a fierce fire broke out at Behrampada near Bandra railway station in Mumbai. At least 16 fire engines and 12 water tankers reached the spot to douse the flames. No casualties were reported then, but properties and houses worth several crores suffered damage.

The incident had resulted in a disruption of services on the Harbour Line which were suspended briefly as a precautionary measure.
Mumbai: The frayed relationship between the BJP and the Shiv Sena might come under fresh strain after the latter in its Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' called West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee a 'tigress', days after it had praised Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, saying he is capable of leading the country.

The Sena in its mouthpiece heaped praised on the Trinamool Congress supremo for single-handedly decimating the Left in West Bengal. The BJP alliance partner said Banerjee won the West Bengal Assembly Elections without tampering of EVMs or distributing money.

Interestingly, some political parties like the Mayawati Mayawati's BSP, Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress had earlier raised their concern on alleged EVMs tampering.

"The tigress did what the Congress and the BJP could not do. She brought to an end the 35-years long rule of the communists," the Sena said in an editorial in the party mouthpiece Saamana.

"For doing so, she did not have to tamper with the EVM machines or buy votes. People gave her the responsibility to lead the state with a lot of trust. But attempts are now being made to stall development and create financial problems in West Bengal. It is not right to add to the woes of a state and push it backwards just because it does not subscribe to your school of thoughts. That state (Bengal) is a part of India and derailing its development hinders the development of the nation," the editorial said.

The editorial page comes after Uddhav Thackeray met the TMC supremo at a south Mumbai hotel earlier this week.

While addressing a discussion on a TV channel, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is capable of leading the country. It is wrong to call him Pappu. Raut was referring to the nickname 'Pappu' used to mock the Congress vice president by a section on social media.

Sena, the oldest constituent of the NDA, shares a blow hot-blow cold relationship with its senior ally, the BJP, in the Centre and Maharashtra. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party has been attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi regularly and has often taken potshots at the BJP through editorials in the party mouthpiece Saamana.

In 2015, Shiv Sena had said that even 100 Rahul Gandhis cannot match Prime Minister Narendra Modis mega wave and had mocked the Congress vice president for his suit-boot ki sarkar jibe.
New Delhi: Did the header made you open your eyes wide? Well, it had the same effect on us! Ex Bigg Boss contestant Swami Om has said in an interview with Aaj Tak that he is lyricist of the 'epic' song Selfie Maine Leli Aaj sung by Dhinchak Pooja.

The video of the interview has surfaced online.

In the interview, Om was asked about Dhichak Pooja whom he had reportedly met a couple of times.

When this question came forward, Swami Om claimed that the song Selfie Maine Leli Aaj was written by him. He said that it was he who had written the song and given it to Pooja.

He also said that Pooja had come to take his blessings as she wanted to be a popular artist.

In the same video, Swami Om also said it is wrong to call Ram Rahim a rapist as there's no proof against him Also, that he met Honeypreet in Delhi and will continue to stand by her.

'Honeypreet is innocent', Swami Om claimed in the interview with Aaj Tak.

Well, now that's something to ponder upon. We wonder what Dhinchak Pooja has to say about this. Selfie Maine Leli Aaj is the song because of which Pooja rose to fame.

The young artist is currently in Bigg Boss season 11 and is entertaining everyone with her songs in the house. She seems to have found a friend in Akash Dadlani and sings with him from time to time.
Los Angeles: Director Ava DuVernay said that Hollywood has intentionally avoided working with black actors and filmmakers.

The director said there have been efforts to sideline talent on the basis of colour, reported People magazine.

"I would say that it's quite intentional. You're basically saying, 'This is what we want, and this is what we're going to have.' There's no way you can tell me that there hasn't been effort put into exclusion," said DuVernay, when asked about the racial disparity in Hollywood

A Wrinkle In Time director also talked abut her organisation Array Now, which she created in 2010 with an aim to help and fund promising films by minority directors.

"I wanted to make films about the interiority of women of colour, people of colour, and I knew there wasn't a large market out in the studio system for those kinds of films, so I decided to just distribute on my own.

"It started as a function of survival. I just finance it from my directing money and from donations from those who believe in inclusive film ... It's imperative to equalise the playing field," she said.
New York: Television host Jimmy Fallon is mourning the death of his mother Gloria, who passed away on November 4.



"Jimmy Fallon's mother, Gloria, died peacefully on November 4," said a Fallon family spokesperson, reports people.com.



"Jimmy was at his mother`s bedside, along with her loved ones, when she passed away at NYU Langone Medical Center in NYC. Our prayers go out to Jimmy and his family as they go through this tough time."



The news comes after Fallon cancelled taping of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" on November 4 due to a "private Fallon family matter".



According to a source, Gloria was sick and Fallon had gone to the hospital to be by her side.



"Jimmy comes from a very close knit family, and together with the rest of his loved ones they are by her side right now," the source added.



Fallon is known to keep his family life private, but he has shared funny stories and sweet moments about his mother over the years.



In June, he told Howard Stern that his mother used to be a nun. A month earlier, he shared a memory about Gloria as part of a "#MomQuotes" segment for the talk show.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday said she has requested Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh to file criminal cases against recruitment agents who allegedly mislead and cheat people.

Swaraj said she has also asked the Protector General of Emigrants, the authority responsible for protecting the interest of Indian workers going abroad, to proceed against all such recruitment agents.

"I have requested @capt_amarinder to register criminal cases and proceed against all Recruitment agents who mislead and cheat our citizens," the minister said in a tweet.

There have been cases of fraud against certain recruitment agents who allegedly exploit local people going abroad in the search of greener pastures.

"I have also asked @ProtectorGenGOI to proceed against all such Recruitment agents," Swaraj said.
Chennai: Kamal Haasan on Sunday said that the first step of his political plunge will be the launch of a mobile software app on November 7 - his 63rd birthday.

At a function to mark the 39th anniversary of his fan/welfare club, the actor said that the political party launch will happen in a calm manner.



Haasan said his fans would contribute funds for the political party and the mobile app will facilitate keeping proper accounts of funds collected.



According to him, there is no shame in stretching out one`s hands for the welfare of the people and if only the rich pay their taxes properly, the country would be on the right path.



Kamal said November 7 is a day not to cut a cake and celebrate but a day to cut canals, obliquely referring to the flooding of several localities in the city due to recent rains.



The actor added natural disasters does not differentiate between rich and poor and all should be ready to take preventive measures then acting after the loss of dear ones.



According to him, suppression has become part of politics and it is not important how many people are threatening you, but what is important is what you are going to do, IANS reported.

Meanwhile, a case was filed against veteran film actor Kamal Haasan in a court in Varanasi on November 03 for his comments on 'Hindu terror'.



The case has been filed under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) that pertain to defamation, attempt to cause offence, intent to hurt religious feelings and to incite communal disharmony.



In an article in a Tamil magazine that came into public domain on Thursday, the film actor has observed that "Hindu right-wing groups have unprecedentedly started indulging in acts of violence".

Haasan`s remark drew flak from various quarters, especially the BJP and RSS.



(With IANS inputs)
Mumbai: Filmmaker Hansal Mehta praised actor and close friend Rajkummar Rao and said that he cannot express enough how much he loves the actor by sharing a photo from the sets of their web series.

Mehta on November 4 shared a photograph of Rajkummar from the sets of Bose: Dead or Alive.

The filmmaker took to Instagram and shared a photograph from the set which leaves us in awe.

Here is the Instagram post by Hansal Mehta:

Force of nature @rajkummar_rao preparing to do a scene in Bose -Dead/Alive. Cannot express enough how much I love you Raj. A post shared by Hansal Mehta (@hansalmehta) on Nov 4, 2017 at 12:22am PDT

"Force of nature @rajkummar_rao preparing to do a scene in Bose -Dead/Alive. Cannot express enough how much I love you Raj.," he captioned the photograph.



Mehta and Rajkummar have worked together in films like CityLights, Shahid and Aligarh.

(With Inputs from IANS)
Gorakhpur: At least 30 children have died within 48 hours at Gorakhpur's Baba Raghav Das (BRD) Medical College Hospital.

"15 infant were younger than one month. Six of the remaining 15, who were older than a month, passed away due to encephalitis. Others died due to various other reasons," Professor Dr DK Srivastava, Head of the department of Community Medicine Srivastava told ANI.

The BRD Medical College hit the headlines earlier in August this year when 63 children, including infants, died within a span of one week due to disruption of oxygen supply by the vendor.

The FIR was lodged against nine people, including the owner of the oxygen supplying company and the principal of BRD Medical College.

JE and AES have claimed thousands of lives in eastern UP over past few years:

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) have been creating havoc in eastern UP for years.

The most severely affected districts are Gorakhpur, Maharajganj, Kushinagar, Basti, Siddharthanagar, Sant Kabir Nagar, Deoria and Mau.

As per the data on the website of the Directorate of National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP), in 2010, UP reported 3540 cases of AES, which claimed 494 lives. JE saw 325 cases being reported in that year, and 59 lives were lost.

Similarly in 2011, 579 deaths in 3492 cases of AES were reported, while JE claimed 27 lives out of 224 cases.

In 2012, 3484 cases of AES were reported and 557 patients died, while 139 cases of JE and 23 deaths were also reported.

The AES death toll breached the 600 mark for the first time in 2013. 609 out of 3096 cases reported resulted in deaths. JE deaths too crossed the 40-figure-mark in the same year with 47 deaths reported in 281 cases.

In 2014, out of the 3329 AES cases reported, there were deaths, while for JE it was 34 deaths out of 191 cases.

In 2015, as many as 479 lives were lost due to AES of which 2894 cases were reported. JE claimed 42 lives from the 351 reported cases, according to the official data.

In 2016, 3919 cases of AES were reported in which 621 lives were lost. The death toll due to JE stood at an all time high of 73 out of 410 cases reported.
LUCKNOW: A German national was beaten up by a man after he reportedly ignored his greetings at Sonebhadra railway station in Uttar Pradesh.

The victim has been identified as Holger Erik, a native of Berlin.

As per reports, Erik was looking for directions to go to Agori fort when he was approached by accused, Aman Kumar, an electrician, employed by a private company.

The German national didn't respond to him, which reportedly infuriated the accused, who then pushed him to the ground and hit him repeatedly.

The victim was taken to a hospital where he was given medical treatment.

A passerby alerted the cops about the incident following which the accused was taken into the arrest.

Kumar, on the other hand, rejected Erik's allegations of beating him and instead accused the latter of misbehaving with him. "I am innocent, the German national punched me when I said welcome to India to him. He even spit on me," he said.

I am innocent, the German national punched me when i said 'welcome to India' to him. He even spit on me: Aman Yadav,arrested accused pic.twitter.com/PrcO2gudIw  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 5, 2017

A complaint has been filed against the accused an investigation is underway.
BERLIN: A German man was detained for carrying nearly half a kilogram of explosives that he claimed he found on his travels through Europe, police said.

An employee at a petrol station in central Vienna alerted officers on Friday after the 54-year-old from Frankfurt told her about his possession, police said.

Numerous police as well as sniffer dogs were deployed to the scene, where the man was detained and his 400 grams of TNT seized, along with a military cartridge and a knife.

"He handed it over voluntarily," Xinhua news agency quoted a police spokesman as telling German news agency DPA on Saturday, adding that "this is not related to terrorism in any way".

The man told police that he left Germany in 2008 and has been roving Europe by bike ever since. He said he had found the block of explosives on a military training range in Slovakia.

Although the man was let free, he now faces charges of illegally possessing and importing war materials.
Washington: A shooting at a church in Texas on Sunday resulted in multiple casualties. The shooter was later killed.

The shooting took place at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, southeast of San Antonio.

The shooting comes just over a month after a gunman in Las Vegas, firing down from a hotel room, killed 58 people and wounded hundreds attending an outdoor concert.

Following are some of the worst shootings in US' history:

- The mass shooting at a country-music concert in Las Vegas on October 01, 2017 was the worst ever to happen in modern US history. At least 59 people were killed when a gunman opened fire on people attending a country music festival in Las Vegas. The shooter was 64-year-old Stephen Paddock.

- In Orlando, on June 12, 2016, 49 people were killed when a 29-year-old Omar Mateen opened fire at a gay nightclub that was hosting a Latin night. Mateen was killed by police.

- On December 02, 2015, Syed Farook and Tashfeen Malik, a married couple, opened fire at a San Bernardino County Department of Public Health event and killed 14 people. Malik, an American-born US citizen of Pakistani descent, had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State in a Facebook post.

- On June 18, 2015, a gunman opened fire at a weekly Bible study at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, killing nine people. Later, police arrested a suspect, Dylann Roof, 21. He said he wanted to start a race war. Roof was convicted of hate crimes charges and sentenced to death.

- In Blacksburg on April 16, 2007, 33 people were killed (including 23-year-old shooter Seung-Hui Cho) on the campus of Virginia Tech. He was said to have mental health issues.

- On December 14, 2012, a 20-year-old man gunned down about 20 children in Sandy Hook Elementary School located in Newtown, Connecticut. Identified as Adam Lanza, the gunman shot dead his mother before arriving at the school. Lanza, later, committed suicide by shooting himself.

- On April 20, 1999, two teens identified as Eric Harris (18) and Dylan Klebold (17) gunned down at least 13 people at Columbine High School. Following the incident, both of them committed suicide.

- A gunman on October 16, 1991, opened fire in a Texas-based restaurant killing 23 civilians and injuring a score. The perpetrator, George Hennard, then shot and killed himself.

- The San Ysidro mass shooting on July 18, 1984, took place around a McDonald's outlet killing 21 people and wounding another 19. The gunman was identified as James Huberty, 41. He was shot dead by a SWAT team sniper.

- On August 1, 1966, an ex-marine sharpshooter went on a shooting spree killing over dozen persons at the campus of the University of Texas at Austin. He was identified as Charles Whitman.
Cairo: An Egyptian lawyer has sparked a public outrage for saying raping skimpily-dressed girls is a national duty.

Nabih al-Wahsh reportedly made the controversial remark during a television debate on a draft prostitution law.

"Are you happy when you see a girl walking down the street with half of her behind showing?" The Independent quoted him as saying earlier this month.

I say that when a girl walks about like that, it is a patriotic duty to sexually harass her and a national duty to rape her, he was quoted as saying.

The incendiary comments have prompted a national fury with the country's National Council for Women planning to file a complaint against the channel.

It also asked the media outlets to stop giving platforms to individuals who incite violence against women.

All the members of the council denounce and decry this statement that explicitly promotes rape and sexual harassment, it said in a statement.

Citing a 2008 study, the report said that 83 percent of Egyptian women suffered sexual harassment.
ISLAMABAD: Stubbles burnt by the Indian farmers after wheat harvest caused a thick blanket of fog in east Punjab province of Pakistan, said officials.



Officials with the Environment Protection Department of Punjab province told Xinhua news agency on Saturday night that smog is causing various diseases among residents of Punjab and the provincial government is taking measures to control the situation.



Environment Protection Department Minister Zakia Shah Nawaz Khan said that the smog has been engulfing the province for two weeks and is feared to continue for the coming week or so.



She added that the smoke of the stubbles from the Indian farms moved at a velocity of 7 to 8 km per hour and travelled to Punjab, resulting in dense fog in the province.



Experts said that the total Air Quality Index in provincial capital of Lahore is 357 whereas the maximum limit should be around 100, adding the highest level is feared to exceed 500 in the coming days.



A total of 197 FIRs have been filed against violators and 65 people have been arrested due to stubble burning and solid waste burning.
BEIJING: When they met at US President Donald Trump`s Mar-a-Lago estate in April, China`s President Xi Jinping found a way to charm the mercurial former real estate mogul. Trump hailed the "good chemistry" of the sunny summit in Florida and predicted, lots of very potentially bad problems will be going away.

The "bromance" is set to continue when Xi returns the favour by laying on a lavish welcome for Trump`s visit starting on Wednesday. Xi has grown more powerful since their last meeting, while Trump is under a political cloud after his former campaign manager was indicted in an intensifying investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.

Chinese experts say Beijing has learned to manage Trump, a real-estate mogul who had never held elective office before becoming president, and whose administration in its first 10 months has been turbulent.

"China has an objective view of him. We`re going to make him feel comfortable," said Wang Yiwei, a professor of international relations at Renmin University. "He may end up being re-elected. We need to look at this from a long-term perspective, and not view him as an `other` or a joke."

Trump clearly respects Xi.

In a congratulatory phone call, Trump hailed the "extraordinary elevation" of Xi, whose political thoughts were enshrined in the Communist Partys constitution last month during a congress marking the start of his second term.

Aboard Air Force One on his way to Asia, Trump cited record stock market levels, low unemployment and Islamic State "virtually defeated in the Middle East" as evidence of his own success.

"(Xi) knows that and he respects that," Trump said, adding trade is still an irritant in ties.

I think hes viewing us as very, very strong and also very friendly. Look we have to do better with trade with China because its a one way street right now. It has been for many years. And we will."

STATE-PLUS

China`s ambassador to the United States, Cui Tiankai, said Trump will receive a "state visit-plus" experience in Beijing.

It`s unclear what the "plus" means. Trump is expected to go to the Forbidden City and participate in an inspection of Chinese troops, though China has released few other details. The protocol will let Trump "rejoice in grandiosity", important to keeping relations stable, said Teng Jianqun, head of American Studies at Foreign Ministry think-tank China Institute for International Studies.

"We must seize upon his special characteristics, such as liking instant gratification, and set up some things that bring immediate results," he said.

On the commercial front, that means a slew of deals - and worries among some in the U.S. business community that the transactional Trump will be placated by a handful of contract wins instead of resolving long-standing complaints over discriminatory Chinese policies and market access restrictions. [L4N1N304G]

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang told reporters on Friday that China would "create a good atmosphere" with informal activities for the two presidents, so they have ample time to talk about important issues.

Zheng said that at the April summit, Trump and his wife Melania had extended an "extremely warm, friendly and thoughtful" reception to Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan. "The Chinese people demand that courtesy be repaid in kind," he said.

Trump is a popular figure for many in China, who admire his business acumen; he is not the divisive figure he is in the United States and its allies in Europe and elsewhere.

The WeChat account of the ruling Communist Party`s official People`s Daily marked China`s announcement of his visit with a picture of a beaming Trump and the headline "Trump`s coming!"

STARK CONTRAST

A contrast between the two presidents was set at the start of the year.

Days ahead of Trump taking office, Xi was the keynote speaker at the World Economic Forum in Davos, offering a vigorous defence of globalisation. Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership his first week in office, distancing America from its Asian allies.

One Beijing-based Western diplomat said Xi`s strong and confident vision for China contrasts with perceptions that Trump often seems to pick arguments.

But not with China. Trump in office put aside his grievances about China`s trade and currency practices, aired vociferously during the campaign, to get China behind his strategy of punishing sanctions on North Korea for its escalating missile and nuclear tests.

And Beijing accommodated him when he grew frustrated.

Days after Trump`s Sept. 4 tweet that the United States was considering stopping all trade with any country doing business with North Korea, Beijing ordered North Korean companies operating within its borders to shut down, banned its exports of textiles and reduced Chinas oil exports to the North.

But with North Korea occupying most of the Trump administration`s attention in Asia, China`s construction of military facilities on artificial islands in disputed waters of the South China Sea has seemingly fallen off the radar. Beijing does still get irritated about U.S. navy "freedom of navigation" patrols there, which have continued under Trump.

"Trump is very popular with the (Chinese) military," said a Chinese official with ties to the military, speaking on condition of anonymity. "It`s great for China that the United States is in chaos. It means we don`t have to worry about them challenging us."

Trumps 12-day trip to Asia  the longest by a U.S. president in a quarter-century - will give him a chance to reassure friends and allies in the region, who have expressed uncertainty about his America First policies.

Tillerson has already signalled the limits of Washingtons patience with China.

Ahead of a trip to India last month, Tillerson said that China, while rising alongside India, has done so less responsibly, at times undermining the international, rules-based order," and he criticized China for its predatory economics and its "provocative actions in the South China Sea.

At last month`s party congress, Xi laid out a vision for a prosperous and assertive China taking a bigger place on the global stage.

The congress left China with "greater confidence and lung power, more unhurried in its dealings with the United States," Wang Wen, president of Renmin University`s Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, wrote in a front page commentary on Friday in the overseas edition of the People`s Daily.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile over Riyadh after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, with debris landing inside the capital's international airport, officials said.

The missile attack claimed by Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels was the first aimed at the heart of the Saudi capital, underscoring the growing threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen.

Residents in Riyadh reported a loud explosion near the King Khalid International Airport just north of the city after the missile was shot down yesterday, but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life.

"This evening a ballistic missile was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom," the Saudi Press Agency quoted coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki as saying yesterday.

"The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas. Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries," he added.

Huthi rebels, who fired the missile from Yemeni territory more than 1,200 kilometres from Riyadh, said they were targeting the airport, according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television channel.

Civil aviation authorities said the airport was functioning normally and that flights were operating as scheduled, though residents said security vehicles had closed off some roads.

Saudi forces have shot down Huthi missiles before with Patriot surface-to-air missiles purchased from the United States, but few have come so close to a major population centre.

In July, a ballistic missile fired from Yemen was shot down close to Mecca, a month before the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Islam's holiest site.

The attacks highlight how the war in Yemen is increasingly spilling across the border since a Saudi-led coalition began its military intervention in 2015.

Saudi Arabia led the intervention to prop up the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi after the Huthi rebels forced him into exile.

But two years later, the kingdom appears to be in a quagmire.

Hoping for a quick victory against what it saw as Iranian expansionism in its back yard, Riyadh has so far been unable to remove the Huthis from Yemeni capital Sanaa.

Aside from occasional missiles, Saudi territory has also been hit repeatedly by the rebels' cross-border incursions, raising fears the conflict could drag out yet further.

In the frontier provinces of Jizan and Najran, thousands of mortar rounds and crude rockets have hit schools, mosques and homes.

Thousands of residents have been evacuated from border towns across the southwest to create a buffer zone.

Saudi Arabia does not officially disclose military fatalities, but state media has frequently featured funeral notices for "martyred" soldiers.

United Nations-backed talks have failed to broker a political settlement to end the fighting in Yemen, which has left more than 8,600 people dead since the coalition intervened.

A cholera outbreak has claimed more than 2,100 lives in Yemen since April as hospitals struggle to secure supplies amid a coalition air and sea blockade.

The UN has warned that Yemen now stands on the brink of famine.
Washington: US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that he was monitoring from Japan the shooting at a Baptist church in Texas.

He also said, "May God be with the people of Sutherland Springs."

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

Texas Governor Greg Abbott also offered his condolences.

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

Many people were killed when a gunman opened fire during Sunday morning services at a Baptist church in Texas.

The gunman was later killed. It was unclear whether the shooter died from a police bullet or at his own hand, as per media reports.

Sutherland Springs is a small rural community about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio.

The shooter reportedly walked into the church shortly before noon - at a morning service that witnesses said was normally attended by some 50 people - and opened fire.

The shooting comes just over a month after a gunman in Las Vegas, firing down from a hotel room, killed 58 people and wounded hundreds attending an outdoor concert.

And it came just over two years after a white supremacist, Dylann Roof, entered a historically black church in Charleston, South Carolina, and shot nine people to death.
Washington: An American woman has been jailed in Zimbabwe for calling President Robert Mugabe "a selfish and sick man" in a tweet.

Martha O'Donovan, 25, who works for a satirical video website, has meanwhile moved the country's highest court for bail.

She landed into trouble after she reportedly tweeted: "'We are being led by a selfish and sick man."

Citing court documents, the CNN reported that O'Donovan has been accused of plotting to overthrow the Mugabe government.

The case comes after the Zimbabwe government had last month created a cybersecurity ministry to monitor social media posts.

O'Donovan has rejected the charges as baseless and malicious.

"I deny the allegations being leveled against me as baseless and malicious. That is all I wish to say," the report quoted her as saying.

She will remain in prison till the Court decides her bail plea.

If convicted, she faces 20 years in prison.

Zimbabwe said the Ministry for Cyber Security, Threat Detection and Mitigation was intended to "trap all rats" that abused social media.

93-year-old Mugabe, who ruled Zimbabwe since 1980, has long been criticized for corruption and abuse of power.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. As part of the implementation of the protocol of the 12th session of the Armenian-Russian intergovernmental commission on military-technical cooperation, the delegation of the Russian Irkut Corporation JSC arrived in Armenia on a working visit from October 30 to November 3.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Defense Ministry of Armenia, during the visit the members of the delegation met with the group led by Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Armenia - Head of military industrial state committee of the Ministry of Defense David Pakhchanyan and Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Armenia, Lieutenant-General Stepan Galstyan.

During the meeting the sides highlighted the implementation of the provisions of the 12th session of the Armenian-Russian intergovernmental commission on military-technical cooperation, as well as multi-layered cooperation between the Defense Ministry of Armenia and Irkut Corporation JSC.

Protocols were signed based on the results of the talks.
The Democrat leadership has made constant, profound and incredible pronouncements that one's supportive vote for Republicans is tantamount to surrendering Democracy forever. Understanding their sincere thinking in their extreme position: How will you still vote on this election day?

Democrat; because the continuance of this Democracy from the existential threat of extreme Republicans is paramount.

Republican; the process of having a choice is the democratic method within what so called "Democracy" does exists.
On Friday, traitorous Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, who left his post and wandered into Taliban territory, only to be taken prisoner and held for years, then exchanged for Taliban terrorists by President Obama, received no prison time. That freedom came despite the fact that Bergdahl's desertion apparently led to the deaths of six Americans who went searching for him. The judge did give Bergdahl a dishonorable discharge, and reduced him to private while giving him a $10,000 fine. Bergdahl had already pled guilty to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, and could have gone to prison for life.The rationale for the sentence is unclear, but the judge in the case had commented on it previously: he had stated that he would take into account President Trump's negative comments about Bergdahl when considering sentencing. Col. Jeffrey Nance stated,According to The New York Times:The judge rejected a request that he dismiss the case or cap the length of the sentence on the grounds that the president's comments had precluded a fair hearing. The judge said he had not been influenced by the remarks and that the public's confidence in the military justice system had not been undermined.So instead of recusing himself, the judge did what the defense wanted and simply let Bergdahl off the hook.The sentence is as repulsive as Obama's decision to trade away top terrorists in exchange for a deserter. Americans lost their lives searching for a man who deliberately left his post; more Americans will lose their lives to the terrorists Obama released in order to return Bergdahl to the country. Now, Bergdahl will go free, with virtually no penalty.
Here comes the judge: Alison Ryan is the other Newfoundlander at Skate Canada

Expat Newfoundlander Alison Ryan came a long way to be at the Skate Canada International competition in Regina last weekend.

Ryan flew more that 13,000 kilometres from her home in Brisbane, Australia  where she has lived for 17 years  to be there, as another Newfoundlander, Kaetlyn Osmond, picked up a gold medal.

"I had one of the best seats for her short program and her free program."

But Ryan wasn't there just to watch Osmond; she was on the judging panel.

Ryan's journey to become a figure-skating judge began more than 30 years ago in St. John's.

"I was probably 15 when one of the senior judges in Newfoundland asked me if I would be interested in judging. Because she was still judging me, I thought I'd better say yes," said Ryan.

"I went to trial judging, did exams, and as soon as I turned 16, I was ready to judge. I started those very many years ago and continue. It's certainly rewarding."

While Ryan has been qualified to judge national competitions for some time, it was only a couple of years ago that she did the necessary exams to become an international judge.

"I did Oberstdorf in Germany. I've done a junior Grand Prix in Estonia, and I also judged in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates in January of this year. And now Skate Canada," she told CBC News.

"So, it's little bits of the world I'm seeing that I would never otherwise have had the chance. It's quite exciting and I can't wait to see where it will take me."

It was an invitation from Skate Canada that brought Ryan to Regina, and the chance to judge Osmond, the pride of Marystown, N.L., who Ryan said was "phenomenal" in her short and free programs.

'She owned the ice'

Ryan said she and the other judges pay attention to everything.

"You have to look at how strong their basic skating is  what they are doing in between the elements," she said.

"How the skater interacts with the audience, the level of performance and connection, the use of the entire ice surface, and the interpretation of how everything relates to the music."

Story continues

Ryan said there were times she wanted to put down her pen and just watch Osmond.

"Kaetlyn did really stand out. Her speed, flow, body line. Mastery of the nuances of the music," she explained. "Her confidence was unbelievable. She owned the ice. She owned the whole stadium. It was a great performance."

"She is definitely one of the very top skaters in the world," Ryan said.

"I'd be very surprised if she isn't in the top cluster of skaters for the Olympics."

Ryan said judging at Skate Canada was no small thing for her.

"I was a bit nervous, it being so big," she said. "But when the skaters start to skate, you are just involved and focused in their performance and identifying their strengths and noting their weaknesses and coming up with where your evaluation fits in to get the best result."

Labour of love

Ryan said she didn't become a figure-skating judge for the money. Apart from getting some expenses covered, there is no money in it. The judges don't get paid.

"It's a complete labour of love. A lot of people assume that judges are paid, but it is a complete volunteer program," she said. "To get off Australia to go anywhere, it's about $3,000."

Ryan said no one should be surprised that Newfoundland and Labrador could produce a skater like Osmond.

"Kaetlyn is an amazing athlete  very dedicated, very focused. Newfoundland gives you such a solid basis, solid life skills, that you shouldn't be afraid to take advantage of any opportunity."

Wouldn't rule out judging Olympics

Her advice to skaters: "Follow your dreams, and be prepared to adjust and still push forward. Move your goal posts and keep progressing. You will probably achieve success," she said.

"It's not limited to just Kaetlyn. I think anyone who sets good goals can be a complete success."

Ryan is contemplating another goal for herself  judging at the Olympics.

"If I'm asked to officiate at that level, that would be wonderful. There is one more exam that I have to take with the International Skating Union. Maybe in a couple of years," she said.

"I would like to have more experience at the international level before I do that. Wouldn't rule it out. Don't think we should rule out anything in our lives. Just see what happens and take every opportunity that comes."
When it comes to robberies in Halifax, it's the people you know who will hurt you the most, according to the regional police.

If a person gets robbed by a stranger on the street, most times they'll only be threatened with violence and not hurt. But if the robber knows the victim, that person stands a greater chance of actually being attacked.

"I've seen people that are known to each other get more injured in a street-level robbery where they recognize one another and  there's a demand for cash or drugs or whatever," said Det. Greg Robertson of the Halifax Regional Police.

"I've seen those victims sustain more injuries than your total-stranger, street-level robbery."

The offence of robbery is defined by violence, either the threat of injury, or an actual attack when someone tries to take another person's property. It differs from theft, which doesn't involve violence.

Most people robbed on the street

Statistics obtained by CBC News through freedom-of-information laws show that from Jan. 1, 2012, until June 30, 2017, 960 robberies were reported to the Halifax Regional Police.

Many of those robberies took place late at night when people were walking home, Robertson said.

Since the start of 2012, 306 people were robbed on the street.

Robbers are often motivated by the desire to feed an addiction to illegal drugs, pay off debt, get extra cash or occasionally as a last-ditch effort to get necessities like food, Robertson said.

Victims are sometimes simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, or they're targeted because they're wearing an expensive set of headphones or are spotted with a phone that the robber wants, Robertson said.

In other cases, robberies are planned well in advance.

"I've seen it, you know, where the robbery is related to something that happened two to three days ago or a week ago and they know that the victim is going to this event and they meet them there," said Robertson.

Story continues

The social media-home invasion connection

Home invasion robberies often target someone the robber knows. Many times the robber has been to the victim's home before and spotted something desirable, so a plan is hatched to rob the person, said Robertson.

There were 126 robberies in people's homes in the last five and a half years.

Robbers don't always need to get inside a home to know there's something they want inside, as people sometimes display their belongings a little too prominently online, Robertson said.

He's even seen people posting pictures on social media of stolen or illegal goods such as drugs or weapons.

"If you do display these things, you do pose a greater risk of home invasion," said Robertson.

Robbery hot spots

While most robberies took place on the street or in homes, Haligonians ran into trouble at a few other common sites over the last five and a half years, including:

- Convenience stores and gas stations - 97 robberies.

- Parking lots - 90 robberies.

- Open fields, woods and parks - 90 robberies.

- Bars and restaurants - 36 robberies.

- Banks and financial institutions - 24 robberies.

- Other commercial/corporate places - 125 robberies.

- Other locations - 66

The most commonly stolen items were cash, purses or wallets, phones and large electronics like TVs and stereos.

Robertson said robbers usually steal cash from businesses rather than people on the street because they know most people don't carry much cash anymore.

"Street-level robberies you're more so looking at what's being displayed on the person as they walk by  if they have a purse or they have a set of nice headphones or they're on their phone, flashy jewelry, stuff like that."
"Klondike" Joe Boyle is not quite a household name in Canada, or even Yukon, and Max Fraser thinks that's a real shame.

"He was a man of incredible accomplishments on a number of fronts. And I'm quite passionate about trying to champion his legacy," said Fraser, a Whitehorse-based filmmaker and history buff.

"He was one of many larger-than-life characters out of the Klondike gold rush."

Boyle died nearly a century ago (in 1923), but Fraser's working hard to keep his memory alive with a birthday celebration this weekend in Whitehorse. Monday marks the 150th anniversary of Boyle's birth.

He was born just a few months after Confederation, making him "one of the first Canadian-born Canadians," Fraser says.

"So, now's the time to have a party."

'Indiana Jones-style heroics'

Boyle's life involved a string of improbable adventures that spanned the world  from small town Ontario, to the Klondike, to Bolshevik Russia, to the Romanian royal palace.

Along the way, he demonstrated a knack for "Indiana Jones-style heroics," Fraser says.

Boyle was raised in Woodstock, Ont. and came to Yukon as a young man in search of gold. He found it.

He became a major player in the Klondike, making a fortune in gold and timber, and bringing the first large-scale dredges to the Klondike gold fields. He was soon a local legend, but didn't stick around long to enjoy the success.

"He vanquished his rivals  he was the king of the Klondike. Then war broke out," Fraser said.

Boyle was too old to enlist as a soldier in the First World War, but he left for Europe anyway. He ended up in Russia, helping re-organize the country's railway system as the war raged on, and the Bolsheviks took over the country.

Soon, Boyle made his way to Romania where he helped repatriate some of its treasures from Moscow. He was then also maintaining a ring of hundreds of British spies, in eastern Europe.

Story continues

"It's hard to fathom that there could be a character out of history that accomplished this many things," Fraser said.

"By the end of World War One, Joe Boyle had been awarded medals from France, England, Romania and Russia. He never got a medal from Canada because he never reported to the Canadian army  he acted on his own."

A Romanian royal romance?

In 1918, Boyle met Marie of Edinburgh  Queen of Romania  and "became smitten," Fraser says.

The royal and the rogue quickly formed a bond, but it's not clear whether there was any romance. Fraser says it's one of the enduring mysteries of Boyle's life.

"They hit it off in a big way, and the historical record's a little vague on exactly the true nature of their relationship. But it's a lot of fun to talk about and to speculate!" Fraser said.

After the war, Boyle again helped the country, by securing an extraordinary $25 million in aid for Romania from the Canadian government.

Mover of mountains

To Fraser, Boyle is a truly heroic figure that deserves special recognition in Yukon, where he first made his name.

"He always thought big, and acted big, and he was a personality  even if he didn't have the dredges  who could literally move mountains and rivers."

The birthday party on Saturday afternoon is a free event open to everybody, with cake, dancing, and a life-size cardboard figure of Boyle, so people can take pictures with the legend. It's at the Mount McIntrye Recreation Centre in Whitehorse, from 12 until 4 p.m.

Fraser is also promising something special  a historic artifact that's being brought down from Dawson City. He won't say what it is, but says it hasn't left Dawson since 1922.

"It's a surprise for Joe's birthday."
A volunteer firefighter from Brookfield, N.S., is getting some help from a container company to store hundreds of pieces of equipment destined to be donated to Mexican fire stations next year.

Shaun Burke has been collecting the jackets, pants, helmets and flashlights for two years and was storing it all above his garage in an area that was quickly running out of room.

An unexpected call from the company Sea Can Guy offering to give him one of their 16.1-metre containers for free came as a relief.

"It was great," said Burke. "It solves a whole lot of problems."

'A good time to give back'

Neil Myers, owner of the Sea Can Guy, said being in a position to help, he felt compelled to reach out to Burke after reading about his storage troubles.

"We just figured it was a good time to give back to them for all the great work they're doing," said Myers.

In addition to running out of space above his garage, Burke was also worried about mice getting into the gear. He said rodents love the insulation the jackets provide, but their presence could mean all the donations could get rejected from Mexico.

Myers said his containers are rodent-proof, virtually theft proof, are fireproof and are wind and watertight.

'It's his to keep'

"It's his to keep," said Myers. "It's his for after, it's his for the fire hall, whatever they deem necessary after he's done with the storage that's required. I'm sure they'll have other needs for it as well."

Burke said the container will also make it easier to keep track of everything that has so far been donated.

"I can back up to the door with a truck or trailer or car, open the door, put it all on a shelf, close the door and drive away rather than [going] up and down the stairs trying to make sure the pile doesn't fall over," said Burke

"Just to have everything in one place and be able to inventory it and count what we have and sort it is phenomenal. It's going to progress this venture leaps and bounds."

Story continues

Container to arrive Monday

Burke said he was inspired to donate fire gear to Mexican firefighters after reading about P.E.I. firefighter Kory MacAusland's donation campaign.

MacAusland had helped train firefighters in the Mexican state of Queretaro and noticed some of the gear they had was in rough shape.

The container is set to arrive in Brookfield by Monday afternoon.
The head of Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah says the country's prime minister, Saad Hariri, was forced by Saudi Arabia to resign.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in a speech Sunday urged patience after Hariri resigned suddenly in a televised address from the Gulf kingdom a day earlier. Hariri is not believed to have returned to Lebanon.

Nasrallah accused Saudi Arabia of drafting Hariri's resignation letter and forcing him to read it on Saudi TV. He even asked whether Hariri is being held against his will.

Nasrallah's broadsides against Saudi Arabia have only grown harsher as the rivalry deepens between the Gulf kingdom and Iran over wars in Syria and Yemen. Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of its men to fight in Syria, is supplied and financed by Iran and seen as its proxy in Lebanon.

Bahrain imposes travel ban on Lebanon

In neighbouring Bahrain, the government on Sunday ordered its citizens in Lebanon to "leave immediately" and banned travel to Lebanon. Bahrain is a bellwether nation for the Saudi Arabia-dominated Gulf Cooperation Council and often the first to announce sanctions and travel bans, usually targeting countries seen as close to Iran.

Hariri became prime minister in late 2016 in a coalition government that included the Shia militant group Hezbollah, one of Saudi Arabia's chief detractors in the region. He could not have formed a government without the group, which operates its own militia freely in Lebanon.

Hezbollah and its allies have been given veto power in Lebanese politics since Hezbollah forces seized the streets of Beirut in brief clashes in 2008. Their political bloc controls the largest share of seats in Lebanon's parliament.

Hezbollah was founded with Iranian support in 1982 to resist the Israeli invasion of Lebanon and has since emerged as a regional power in its own right.

It is fighting alongside Iranian advisers and militias in the civil war in neighbouring Syria, providing crucial support to

President Bashar al-Assad's forces as a crackdown on anti-government demonstrations morphed into full-fledged war.

Story continues

Dozens of rebel factions in Syria are or have been backed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Saudi Arabia's Gulf allies.

Lebanon, once one of the key flashpoints of the Saudi-Iran rivalry, officially declared itself neutral with respect to the

Syrian war. But Hezbollah fighters poured into Syria, angering Saudi Arabia.

Assad and his Iranian-supported allies are now firmly in command of the war in Syria, in a humiliation to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf.
The charity used to be on people's lips.

Now the fundraiser that prompted thousands of men to grow moustaches for a month has a much lower profile and is trying to shift attention away from facial hair to advancing men's health research.

At the peak of Movember's popularity in 2012, it pulled in more than $40 million in donations in Canada to help fight prostate and testicular cancer and people frequently grew mustaches to show that they were part of the fundraising efforts.

"It exploded bigger than we ever thought it could," said Mitch Hermansen, business development director for Movember Canada.

As Movember marks its 10th anniversary in Canada, donations are down. But Hermansen said the movement for men's health is still strong with 55,000 Canadians taking part last year, raising more than $15 million.

Getting past the gimmick

While the moustache remains a major part of Movember's brand, Hermansen said the campaign has expanded its focus to include raising money for men's mental health and suicide prevention.

"People will get bored of the moustache if that's all your talking about. The good news is that we've got a great cause and that's going to be the sustainable piece when people get on board," he said.

Benoit Beaulne, who registered with the charity for the first time this year, said he'll grow a moustache, but he said he was mostly drawn to Movember's focus on prostate cancer detection.

"Knowing that the impact of science and technology these days has grown exponentially has been a huge motivator," he said.

Focus on exercise, mental health

In Movember's branding, the moustache logo is now fairly modest with the message "Stop men dying too young" in the forefront.

This year the Movember Foundation is also emphasizing a new campaign focused on getting people to do more exercise. The idea is to "move" for Movember.

Part of the reason the moustache is no longer at the fundraising forefront may have to do with the success of Movember itself.

Story continues

New facial hair trend

Mark Peyton, who owns several barbershops in Halifax that cater to men who grow out their facial hair, said moustaches have become more popular over the past decade, particular among younger men.

He said Movember helped drive that trend, which is why it may not be as effective now as a fundraising tool.

"I think some guys, they just saw it, maybe the reaction was good, maybe they heard 'Oh, you look good with that,' or whatever and it just kind of stuck around."

Loyal supporters

Cathy Mann knows all about trendy fundraisers. In addition to taking the Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS in 2014, she runs Ryerson University's Fundraising Management Program.

"In the world of philanthropy, we straddle a delicate balance between marketing and engaging people in cause they really care about," she Mann.

"[Movember] now has what appears to be a base of loyal supporters who are going to stick with the cause over time."
Omnitrax is raising fees, cutting service and moving equipment out of Manitoba, prompting even more concern about how people will get the goods and services they need in the north, sources tell CBC News.

And they say the rail company has reduced staff and is doing the bare minimum when it comes to maintaining the rail line.

"It's hard to explain what's happened. It's sad what they [Omnitrax] have done to the railway in northern Manitoba," said one person with intimate knowledge of the rail business in the region, who CBC has agreed not to identify.

After a winter of blizzards and a spring of severe flooding, sections of the Omnitrax-operated rail line to Churchill, a community of 800 located about 1,000 kilometres north of Winnipeg, washed out. That's left the town without a ground transport connection.

Omnitrax has been engaged in a battle with Ottawa over who should pay for the repairs to the line.

And now, one of Omnitrax's partners says the Denver-based company has started charging it extra fees.

For the first time in 11 years, Omnitrax started charging the Keewatin Rail Company $250 per freight car, plus an additional $1,500 fee, to add freight cars to a passenger train, said Anthony Mayham, KRC's chief executive officer.

Keewatin Rail operates a short-haul line from the Manitoba communities of The Pas to Pukatawagan in partnership with Omnitrax.

"It just came out of the blue. We heard it through local staff. We didn't get it from the company," Mayham says.

Mayham says KRC has no choice but to pass the new charges along to its customers on the line. Pukatawagan First Nation, which is in the midst of extensive infrastructure improvements for housing and sewage, will have to bear the extra costs.

"It's discouraging," Mayham says. "It's forcing us to raise the price to the community."

Maintenance work piles up as company sheds workers: sources

According to people with knowledge of Omnitrax's operations, something changed in the company's strategy on its Manitoba operation, starting perhaps a decade ago.

Story continues

"[Omnitrax] started out with such high hopes," said another source, who has years of experience with the rail line. "But then [around] 10 years ago they started only doing the bare minimum to get the trains down the line. It's just got worse and worse."

CBC News is not naming individuals who provided background of the operations of the Omnitrax-owned Hudson Bay Railway, which runs the line between The Pas and Churchill, as they expressed fear of reprisal.

The tracks are still safe, says one source, because the speed at which the trains operate  under 20 kilometres per hour in many sections  is so low.

But according to sources, there has been a steady decline in the maintenance on the 1,000 kilometres of Hudson Bay Railway track for years.

"There are still [unused] crib ties lying on the ground along the track for two years now," one person told CBC News.

The maintenance crew working on the line from The Pas to Gillam has included between 60 and 70 employees in the past. It's now down to approximately 23 workers, the source says.

The operational staff complement at the Omnitrax yard in The Pas was halved from approximately 16 to eight, CBC News was told.

"I can't believe they are running a railway with eight employees," the source says.

Ottawa's lawsuit threat a turning point

One source said there was an immediate reaction inside Omnitrax's Manitoba operations when the federal government told the company in October it had 30 days to repair the line to Churchill or face a lawsuit.

"As soon as the lawsuit was threatened, people started to get laid off," the source said. "You could absolutely feel a ripple."

"Absolutely," said a second source. "They stopped spending. We noticed [it] instantly."

Across the region, there are signs of Omnitrax slowly collapsing its operations.

Sources with knowledge of the company's operations tells CBC News that equipment is being moved away.

"That has started," one source told CBC News. "Eight locomotives are gone. [They] left attached to a CN train."

Another source confirmed a number of locomotives had been moved south but wasn't sure if the total was seven or eight.

The source couldn't be sure where the equipment was destined but believed they "are probably headed to the [United] States."

'An effort to limit our financial losses': Omnitrax

Omnitrax acknowledges equipment has been removed from the region, saying it has reduced rail service along the line and the decision was a matter of economics.

"These decisions were made in an effort to limit our financial losses in this business, and for no other reason," wrote Peter Touesnard, the chief commercial officer for Omnitrax.

"Since June, we have consistently made clear that the Hudson Bay Railway is not a profitable or commercially viable operation. The company is reducing operations on the line to correspond with the decline in demand."

Another source familar with northern rail operations told CBC News "the sense we are getting is they are slowly abandoning the line."

The same source said the company is moving track maintenance equipment back to companies from which it was leased.

Omnitrax, which has owned the railway and the now-closed Port of Churchill since 1997, received nearly $40 million from the federal and provincial governments starting in 2008 to upgrade the railway, with the expectation that the company would kick in another $20 million.

A spokesperson for Transport Canada said the contract with Ottawa requires Omnitrax to operate, maintain and repair the entire Hudson Bay Railway line in a diligent and timely manner until March 31, 2029.

CBC News requested the number of inspections and orders made by Transport Canada to Omnitrax for the line from The Pas to Churchill, but was only provided with details on the the farthest north section of track damaged by the flood.

Omnitrax responded to concerns over maintenance.

"We unequivocally reject any implication that work done on the line up until this catastrophe [the flood in May] wasn't quality work," wrote Touesnard.

"That suggestion is not only false, but an insult to our employees who have worked tirelessly over the years to ensure service to the people of northern Manitoba in extremely challenging environmental circumstances," he wrote.

"The operating portion of the line is, and will continue to be, maintained to Transport Canada standards."

Thompson mayor 'very, very concerned' about fuel shipments

Thompson Mayor Dennis Fenske has short-, medium- and long-term headaches on his desk from the rail-line problem.

In a region already battered by mine closures and layoffs, he says the Omnitrax/Hudson Bay Railway staff presence is now down to zero, draining precious jobs from the region.

Fuel suppliers to the community told his office Omnitrax is cutting the number of shipments of vital supplies of propane and gas, forcing the companies to use trucks to haul some of it north.

Fenske sees the 760 kilometres from Winnipeg to Thompson on Highway 6 becoming a safety issue as the route gets loaded with extra trucks hauling commodities such as propane.

"In the winter time, with the additional truck traffic and the winter storms, it's just a recipe for a safety issue that we are very, very concerned about," Fenske says.

Fuel is not the only commodity normally shipped from the south to the north by rail, and Fenske sees supply issues for a variety of goods looming as Omnitrax cuts service along the line from The Pas going north.

Fenske, long resigned to looking for metaphors that southerners can appreciate, draws a comparison between Canada's signature highway and the northern rail line to illustrate its importance.

"If you shut down the Trans-Canada Highway to Saskatchewan or Ontario, that's what's happened by shutting down the line from Gillam to Churchill, and that's the pending action that may happen if the line from The Pas to Gillam is affected any more than it already is," Fenske said.

Transport Canada responded by email to CBC News questions about Omnitrax's decision to cut the number of fuel deliveries to Thompson, promising the department is "monitoring the situation."

"The Government of Canada understands the concerns of the residents of Thompson regarding fuel delivery and Omnitrax Inc.'s decision to reduce freight service from The Pas to Thompson to once per week," a spokesperson wrote.

"The Government of Canada remains committed to delivering a successful outcome for the people and communities in northern Manitoba."

'Why don't they just fix it?'

The ripples of Omnitrax's downshift in operations are being felt across the north. The Pas Mayor Jim Scott has seen the company's presence dwindle as staff have been laid off.

Scott, like his counterparts in other northern communities, has deep scorn for how Omnitrax has treated the region, but his frustration with the federal government is nearly as strong.

"Why don't they just fix it?" Scott said with more than a hint of exasperation, asking a question on the lips of many northerners.

If Scott is exasperated, Churchill Mayor Mike Spence is ready to explode.

For months, the political head of that small northern Manitoba town has fronted the effort to get the rail line repaired, shunting back and forth between Omnitrax, the federal government, and One North  the group he co-chairs that wants to buy the railroad and port.

Spence has long argued maintenance on the rail line is an issue and said many people in the region don't see Omnitrax as a good corporate citizen.

"With northern partners like us and the importance of relationships  that's all deteriorated. These are missed opportunities," he said.

"And here we are, you know, such a strategic location. We know the investment hasn't gone into the asset."

Spence sees the cost of several programs and short-term solutions as a waste compared to simply repairing the damaged line in the first place.

"Fuel, food subsidy, the extra cost to move petroleum products, enhancing their storage facilities at the airport, increased construction costs  that's 10s of millions of dollars," Spence told CBC News.

But Spence remains optimistic. He said if he can get all the players around a table and get a deal to buy the rail line and port from Omnitrax, the future for his town looks bright.
Iran Human Rights (Nov 1 2017): One prisoner was executed at Mashhad Central Prison; one at Urmia Central Prison, both on murder charges, and one at Maragheh Prison.





Execution in Urmia (Northwestern Iran)





According to a report by Kurdistan Human Rights Network which was also confirmed by Iran Human Rights (IHR), on the morning of Wednesday November 1, a prisoner was hanged at Urmia Central Prison (Darya) on murder charges.





The prisoner, identified as Tohid Mohammad-Bagherloo, 30, was from Khoy and was in prison on murder charges for six years. He was transferred to solitary confinement from Ward 1 and 2 of Urmia Central Prison on Tuesday.





The execution of this prisoner has not been announced by the state-run media so far.





Execution in Mashhad (Northeastern Iran)





According to a report by Khorasan Newspaper, on the morning of Wednesday November 1, a prisoner was hanged at Mashhad Central Prison (Vakilabad) on murder charges.





The prisoner, identified as M.T., was sentenced to death on murder charges.





The report stated that the prisoner murdered a 67-year-old man with the help of his friend in 2011.





Execution in Maragheh Prison





A prisoner was hanged at Maragheh Prison (East Azerbaijan province) on murder charges.





According to a close source, on the morning of Tuesday October 31, a prisoner was executed at Maragheh Prison (Northwestern Iran) on murder charges.





The prisoner, identified as Hooshang Delijan, 29, was from Hashtrud. He was arrested and sentenced to death on the charge of murdering a taxi driver in Maragheh four years ago.





The execution of this prisoner has not been announced by the state-run media so far.





According to Iran Human Rights annual report on the death penalty, 142 of the 530 execution sentences in 2016 were implemented due to murder charges.





There is a lack of a classification of murder by degree in Iran, which results in issuing death sentence for any kind of murder regardless of intensity and intent.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde
When asked if I would be willing to represent a Utah death-sentenced inmate, Floyd Maestas, I said absolutely not. I was well aware of the emotional, physical and financial toll the representation would place on me and on my practice. Yet I eventually agreed because I believe those on death row deserve good representation.





Floyd insisted he was not there during the murder, even though at trial 2 eyewitnesses placed him there, his fingerprint was at the scene and there was DNA under the victim's fingernails. But I took my charge seriously and worked feverishly to find evidence of innocence.





The United States Supreme Court has consistently held that post-conviction lawyers must diligently scour the evidence, investigate the case for innocence, and search for any evidence that could "mitigate" or reduce a defendant's death sentence. These efforts have resulted in the reversal of death sentences around the nation, where innocent people have been exonerated.





Given a shoe-string budget of $30,000, our investigators discovered serious evidence to support Floyd's innocence. This included a letter from 1 of the eyewitnesses, saying he and his friend framed Floyd and that his friend was the real murderer. The DNA "match" was not a match at all, but a Y-chromosome test that would match 421 of 591 Hispanics, Floyd's race. Our fingerprint expert also believed there were serious problems with the fingerprint identification.





We discovered a very traumatic family history. Floyd was raised in the ghetto in a cardboard house with no running water. His father froze to death from alcoholism and 2 of his siblings were murdered. As a boy, Floyd held his dying sister in the living room after her boyfriend stabbed her. A few days after Christmas, police found 13-year-old Floyd passed out on the street from extreme intoxication.





Before his trial, all but one expert concluded Floyd was intellectually disabled, a finding that prohibits his execution. While the judge sided with the one expert at trial, even that expert has now indicated that under newer diagnostic criteria, he also believes Floyd is intellectually disabled.





But we were out of money and time. I had exhausted our limited budget. My investigators had fronted $17,000 of their own money for evidence and the court would not reimburse them. They told me that they could no longer work on the case. I still had not read all Floyd's file given its enormity and asked the court for more time. The request was denied.





The court denied funding for almost all of my work, resulting in around $100,000 of losses. My co-counsel has never been paid for hundreds of hours of donated time. I had to put my expenses on credit cards and my wife took a 2nd job. The stress culminated when I woke in the night feeling chest pain and ended up in urgent care. My doctors believed the heart stress was related to the case and asked me to withdraw. I asked the court to let me off and was denied. In desperation, I reached out to the American Bar Association, who located a large firm who was willing to assist on the case on a pro bono basis.





In capital cases, states provide counsel to the lowest bidder and encourage attorneys to do little work and then get out. And courts don't fix the problems either. They have refused to find that a defendant was deprived an effective attorney, even if he sleeps or is drunk during trial. In my case, the state believes my client has no right to an effective attorney at all and that he should be grateful they even gave him someone.





The system is full of errors. Since 1976, we have executed 1,452 nationally but exonerated 159, a shocking number for so serious a penalty. An astonishing 47 of 100 death sentences are reversed at some point. These reversals happen because of good lawyering, but this safety net is often lacking. Nationwide, public defenders work under enormous pressure, with massive caseloads and have seen little sign of reprieve.





Our capital punishment system is a charade. We provide a "defense lawyer" but either give someone with no experience or refuse to give the necessary resources to experienced attorneys. In Utah, a state with one of the lowest death penalty populations in the United States, which has not executed a defendant since 2010, almost every attorney to take a death penalty case has suffered extreme personal loss. The result is a crisis-level lack of qualified attorneys willing or able to take on capital cases.





If we have the death penalty, we must commit to protecting the innocent from execution. We must also commit to adequately support the attorneys who are called upon to perform these difficult tasks.





Source: Salt Lake tribune, Commentary, Samuel Newton, November 3, 2017. Mr. Newton has been a criminal defense attorney since 2003. He has worked as a public defender in Salt Lake City, a professor of criminal justice at Weber State University and as a private practitioner focusing on criminal appeals and capital litigation

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde
Some of the worst human rights abuses in the world are perpetrated by the government and officials of North Korea, also referred to as DPRK. That is the conclusion reached by the State Departments third report detailing serious human rights abuses in North Korea. The report also identifies some of the most serious abusers.

Like the two prior reports, this report shines a spotlight on serious human rights abuses committed by the DPRK regime, including extrajudicial killings, forced labor, torture, prolonged arbitrary detention, as well as rape, forced abortions, and other sexual violence, said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Scott Busby:

In particular, this report focuses on the many human rights abuses that underwrite the regimes weapons program, including forced labor, re-education through labor camps, and overseas labor contracts. Thousands of North Koreans are sent abroad every year to work in slave-like conditions, earning revenue for the regime. The government also deploys security officials abroad to monitor the activities of North Korean citizens and to forcibly repatriate individuals who seek asylum.

North Korean workers overseas are subjected to 12-16 hour workdays with only one or two rest days a month. Overseas workers have no choice in the work they perform. Their wages and passports are typically withheld, and workers face threats of reprisals against them or their relatives if they attempt to escape or complain to outside parties.

The report identified seven individuals and three entities as responsible for serious human rights abuses against North Korean citizens, both inside the DPRK and abroad. For that reason, the U.S. Departments of State and Treasury imposed economic sanctions on them. This means that all assets of these individuals and companies that are under the jurisdiction of the United States or in the control of U.S. persons are frozen, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with them.

With these efforts, said Deputy Assistant Secretary Busby, we aim to send a signal to all DPRK Government officials, particularly prison camp managers and mid-level officials, that we can and we will expose human rights abuses and censorship in the DPRK and that these individuals will suffer consequences for such actions.
U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson recently completed visits to both Afghanistan and Pakistan.

On his recent trip to Afghanistan, U.S. Secretary of State Tillerson reinforced the United States' long-term commitment to Afghanistans security and to eliminating the safe havens and the external support that has contributed to the Taliban's resilience. He also talked with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and CEO Abdullah about how the Afghan government can better facilitate a reconciliation process in the interest of a stable Afghanistan.

Secretary Tillerson welcomed the Kabul compact, which details economic, political and security reforms proposed by the Afghan government. Externally, Afghanistan's neighbors have a role to play in reintegrating the country into the region through trade, energy, and infrastructure.

With regard to Pakistan, Secretary Tillerson laid out some very specific expectations of how Pakistan can help create the conditions that will help bring the Taliban to the table.The United States would like to see a strategic commitment by the Pakistani government to root out all militant groups operating in Pakistan.

"All of this is about Pakistans sovereign choice," said Acting Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice G. Wells. Speaking during a recent briefing, she said, "This is not about America giving dictation. Weve described our strategy, weve described a very important role for Pakistan, who we see as a very important country in the region, but its up to them whether or not they want to work with us on this strategy." And if they dont, the United States will "adjust accordingly."

The United States looks forward to productive relations with both Afghanistan and Pakistan going forward.
Following an avalanche of criticism by lawyers and journalists, President Hassan Rouhanis government decided to return a new controversial bill to its Cultural Commission for further review.

The bill titled the Media Governance Organization, MGO, had triggered opposition among journalists and lawyers who believe it would totally deprive Iranian media of their fundamental right to freedom of expression.

Citing unnamed government officials, Iran Students News Agency, ISNA had earlier maintained that the new bill was adopted to support journalists legitimate rights.

However, dozens of journalists, lawyers and legal experts begged to differ.

The bill, as first proposed, would have required all journalists to apply for a special license; otherwise they would have been barred from reporting on public and state matters.

Furthermore, had unlicensed journalists committed a media offense, they would have been tried without a jury.

The returned bill, according to governments official news agency, IRNA, was compiled in seven Chapters and 66 Articles that were at least partly endorsed by Rouhanis administration.

Currently, the government has called on its cultural commission to define references to the penal and legal matters in the bill with special care and report the outcome to the cabinet.

Meanwhile, Rouhanis administration has asked the Employment and Administrative Organization to weigh the possibility of launching MGO as a public and non-governmental organization.

The new bill was mainly attacked for the fact that MGO was designed to be totally controlled by the government, without journalists having a say in it.

However, ISNA, quoting a cabinet meeting, had presented a long list of advantages the new bill was expected to award Iranian journalists; including supporting the freedom of media staff who are responsibly active in covering events and developments, free flow of information, publics right to have access to information and promoting moral ethics and professional code of conduct among journalists.

The bill was at the verge of adoption at a time that Iran, along with Turkey and China, is described as the largest prison for journalists and broadcasters in the world.

The bill was at the verge of adoption at a time that Iran, along with Turkey and China, is described as the largest prison for journalists and broadcasters in the world.

In her latest report, UNs Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran, Asma Jahangir once again announced receiving reports on violations of freedom of expression and persecution of journalists in the Islamic Republic.

Irans harsh treatment of journalists has recently reached a point that the Islamic Republics judiciary issues bills of indictment against Iranian journalists working abroad and even deprives them of their civic rights, including the right to transaction in their homeland.

On October 25, the BBC filed a complaint with the United Nations over Iran freezing the assets of more than 150 people associated with its Persian service, calling the Islamic Republic's actions "a deprivation of human rights."

The British broadcaster also said that Iran's move was part of a "criminal investigation" into the BBC's staff, former employees, and contributors over allegations they fomented a "conspiracy against national security" in Iran.

Those swept up in the investigation include Iranian dual nationals from Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Britain, and the United States, the BBC said.

"BBC Persian staff are unable to return to Iran as they risk arrest, interrogation, and imprisonment," the complaint said. "Many BBC Persian staff have been separated from their families for years and, in a number of cases, were unable to see loved ones before they have died."

MGO, if launched, will lead to creating a government controlled journalism, denying the necessity of independence for the profession and imposing more restrictions on Iranian media

The BBC's complaint was sent to David Kaye, the UN's independent investigator on freedom of expression. He told journalists at UN headquarters in New York that he had received the BBC's complaint.

Numerous official acts of intimidation and harassment have also been reported against many Radio Farda journalists abroad.

Many journalists in Iran already dismissed MGO as a useless tool incapable of addressing the problems Iranian journalists and journalism are confronting in the Islamic Republic.

In an article for the reformist daily Sharq, a renowned lawyer-journalist, Kambiz Norouzi insisted that MGO explicitly contradicts the principle of respecting the freedom for social and public media, as well as the necessity of having an independent media staff, in a civilized society.

Norouzi also noted that the new bill is suffering from at least 47 fundamental legal shortcomings.

MGO, if launched, will lead to creating a government controlled journalism, denying the necessity of independence for the profession and imposing more restrictions on Iranian media, Norouzi elaborated further.

In a letter dated Sunday, May 21 and addressed to President Rouhani, hundreds of Iranian journalists reminded him of his earlier promises to re-open Tehrans Professional Trade Society of Journalists (TPTSJ) and paving the way for its registration as a legal institution.

The letter has not been officially answered, so far.

Earlier in an interview with Radio Farda, a former government official responsible for supervising the media, Issa Saharkhiz had noted that Rouhanis minister for Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare, Ali Rabiei had a pivotal role in blocking the registration of TPTSJ as a legal institution.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman has vehemently dismissed Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariris latest remarks against the Islamic Republic accusing Tehran of meddling in Arab countries.

Rejecting Hariris decision to resign as a plot jointly designed by Saudi Arabia and Israel, Bahram Ghasemi said on Saturday, October 4, The sudden resignation of Mr. Hariri and its announcement in another country is not only a matter of surprise and regret, but also an indication of his play at an arena concocted by the regions ill-wishers.

Furthermore, Ghasemi insisted, The winners in this arena are not Arab and Muslim countries but the Zionist regime (Israel) which has defined its existence in creating tensions in and among the Muslim countries of the region.

Hours before Ghasemis response, in a speech aired by a Saudi Television channel, Al Arabia network, Saad Hariri unexpectedly announced his resignation and asserted that the current situation in Lebanon is the same as the one immediately before his father [then Lebanon PM] Rafiq Hariris assassination.

I sense that a plot has also been hatched against my life, Hariri affirmed.

Meanwhile, Hariri accused the Islamic Republic of meddling in Arab countries internal affairs, but emphasized that Tehran is going to fail.

Iran has taken Lebanon as hostage, but its ill intentions are going to backfire, Hariri noted.

Responding, Bahram Ghasemi described Hariris comments as repeating baseless accusations already made by Zionists (Israelis), Saudis and Americans against Iran.

Ghasemi also maintained that Hariris speech is a testament to the fact that his resignation, too, is a new scenario for creating tension in Lebanon and the region.

Hariris sudden resignation and its announcement from a foreign country, Ghasemi said, is not only regrettable but stupendous too.

Referring to Hariris sudden resignation, Reuters reported that it Thrusts Lebanon into the front line of a regional competition between Sunni Saudi Arabia and Shiite Iran that has also buffeted Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Bahrain. A Saudi government minister said Hariri was in Riyadh to ensure his safety.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking on Friday at Chatham House in London expressed surprise at how concern over Irans actions has brought Arab and Israeli positions closer together, making an alliance possible.

"Iran is devouring one nation after the other," Netanyahu said at Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs think-tank in London.

"The good news is that the other guys are getting together with Israel as never before. It is something that I would have never expected in my lifetime."

Netanyahu reiterated that his warnings about Iran are shared by many countries, including Arab states, which repeat the same concerns behind closed doors, but are happy to see Israel saying it loud.

He said Israel was working "very hard" to establish an effective alliance with "the modern Sunni states" to condemn and counter Iranian aggression. This can help the cause of peace Netanyahu insisted.

He said the Middle East was witnessing "the emergence of a battle between the Islamists and the modernists", precipitating a "new alliance between Israel and Islamic states".

Using a map during his remarks, Netanyahu told the audience that Iran is working to create a corridor all the way to the Mediterranean and was supporting the Houthis in Yemen to establish control over Bab el-Mandab waterway.

Netanyahu also repeated his tough position on the Iran nuclear deal, saying that it does not go far enough to eliminate the danger of a nuclear Iran. He demanded tougher sanctions and stricter inspections.

With Reporting by AP and Reuters
President Donald Trump has blamed Iran for a missile attack on Saudi Arabias capital Riyadh, while on a tour of Asia.

Saudi Arabia's air defense forces intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen over the capital Riyadh on Saturday, state news agencies reported.

The missile was brought down near King Khaled Airport on the northern outskirts of the city and did not cause any casualties, said Saudi state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV.

Rocket fragments fell near the airport grounds, but air traffic carried on normally, the Saudi civil aviation authority announced.

Yemeni Houthi forces have fired missiles in the past at Saudi targets, some of which have been intercepted by anti-ballistic missile systems.

The missile fire drew a sharp response from President Donald Trump, who blamed Iran in part for the attack.

"A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia. And our system knocked it down," Trump said, referring to the Patriot missile batteries Saudi Arabia has purchased from the U.S.

"That's how good we are. Nobody makes what we make and now we're selling it all over the world", he told reporters on Air Force One, while flying to Japan.

The missile incident coincided with the sudden resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister, Saad Hariri who made a televised address while visiting Saudi Arabia, strongly condemning Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah for fomenting conflict in the region and endangering Lebanons peace and security.

At the same time, reports from Saudi Arabia speak of the arrests of dozens of influential Saudi princes and officials on corruption charges.

With reporting by Reuters and AP
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

Trend:

Over the past 24 hours, Armenias armed forces have 125 times violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said Nov. 5.

The Armenian armed forces were using heavy machine guns.

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.1

By Gulgiz Muradova - Trend:

The International Labor Organization encourages Azerbaijan to take all the necessary measures to guarantee the proper functionality of the Labor Inspection, in line with the international standards ratified by the country.

Olga Koulaeva, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Country Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia announced about this in an interview with Trend.

Azerbaijan is one of the target countries of the ILO Project "Partnerships for Youth Employment in the CIS". The project aims to support the Government of the country and social partners in dealing with youth employment challenges and labor market mismatches, through development of policy tools based on good youth employment practices, promoting policy coherence and comprehensive employment policy framework.

Koulaeva said that the project also helps the government improve working conditions in the country, including in matters related to occupational safety and health. The ILO underlines the importance of the State Labour inspection in this area.

The Government of Azerbaijan is pursuing policy of diversification of economy prioritizing several areas, such as infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, and development of IT sector.

However, Koulaeva said, the economic downturn demands new approaches to stabilize the situation on labour market and lay grounds for sustainable development of labour force through the development of non-oil sectors of economy.

"The ILO designed a package of policy measures aimed to support the government in tackling a new economic reality. The package covered macroeconomic approaches, employment policy, economy diversification measures and modernization of PES," she said.

Follow the author on Twitter:@GulgizD
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Fatih Karimov Trend:

Iran has spent almost one year without Turkmen gas, and despite the preliminary threats on suing Turkmenistan, the Islamic Republic still prefers to settle the disputes via talks.

Turkmenistan halted supplying gas to Iran on January 1 due to long-delayed claimed $2 billion debt.



Turkmenistan has been exporting gas to Iran under a 1997 agreement. During 2015, Turkmenistan doubled gas export to Iran to 9 billion cubic meters, but it again halved that in 2016 and stopped gas delivery on January 1, 2017.

At that time, Iranian officials said that Tehran is preparing to file a complaint against Turkmenistan in the International Court of Arbitration over the gas dispute.

Hamidreza Araghi, Oil Minister and Managing Director of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC), said earlier in May that the Islamic Republic has prepared documents to sue Turkmenistan for cutting gas export to Iran, and Ashgabat has already been informed about the issue.

According to him, Iran would sue Turkmenistan for three disputes: gas price, damage from sudden gas export cut to Iran, as well as the quality of gas.

However, Tehran did not close the doors for negotiation and preferred not to pursue the legal case so far.

On the other hand, Tehran accelerated steps to complete a pipeline to north-eastern region, increasing underground gas storage facilities capacity, as well as developing new fields in area, preparing for the second winter after Turkmenistan cut the gas supply to the Islamic Republic.

On August 1, Iran inaugurated a 170-km Damghan-Sari pipeline with 40 mcm/d of carrying capacity, a source in Irans Oil Ministry told Trend. The project is worth about $250 million. The pipeline will enable to transport gas to six north-eastern regions: Semnan, Golestan, Mazandaran, North Khorasan, Khorasan Razavi, and South Khorasan. Irans gas production capacity in northeast regions stands at about 14 bcm/y, about 12 bcm/y less than the demand.

Araqi said Nov. 5 that talks are underway between Iran and Turkmenistan over gas disputes and Iran still has time to sue Turkmenistan.

In an interview with ISNA news agency he expressed hope that the disputes would be settled via negotiations.

After all the South Pars gas field phases are put into operation, Iran will have volumes sufficient for feeding north-eastern provinces, as well as for exporting its own gas to Pakistan and/or Europe in case of need.

However, for now Tehrans reliance on Turkmen gas import continues. Araqis recent comment actually is the issues confirmation.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Azad Hasanli  Trend:

NIKOIL Bank and AccessBank, the two banks with foreign capital in Azerbaijan, are negotiating the merger, a source in the countrys banking market told Trend.

The negotiations are at an early stage, the source noted, adding that NIKOIL Banks takeover of AccessBank is being discussed.

AccessBank owns a 100 percent foreign capital. AccessBanks shareholders include the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the International Finance Corporation, KfW Development Bank, Germanys LFS Financial Systems and AccessHolding companies.

Although the shareholders of NIKOIL Bank include local companies (Topaz Investments, ISR Holding) and individuals, Vagit Alekperov, head of Russias LUKOIL oil and gas company, is the final beneficiary.

It is yet unknown known how the shares of the merged bank will be distributed, considering the presence of such a great number of shareholders, the source noted. It is possible that the foreign shareholders of AccessBank completely sell their shares, said the source.

Despite all this, the bank maintains its stability, as it has a capital of 140 million manat, and the main guarantor is the availability of such a list of foreign shareholders.

NIKOIL Bank has been operating in Azerbaijan since 1994, and AccessBank since 2002.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Azad Hasanli  Trend:

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) does not exclude the possibility of allocating another tranche in the amount of $250 million in 2018 for the project on the reconstruction and modernization of the Azerbaijani energy system, Nariman Mannapbekov, director of ADBs permanent representative office in Azerbaijan, told Trend.

An agreement on the abovementioned project worth $1 billion ($750 million will be provided by ADB, while $250 million by the Azerbaijani government) was signed in 2015.

Mannapbekov said that the contracts worth $250 million were signed and payments on 32 subprojects worth over $108 million were made from September 2016 to September 2017.

In general, the bank implements about 25 projects in the energy sector in the region.

"This is the most successful ADB project in terms of implementation," Mannapbekov stressed.

According to the bank's business plan on Azerbaijan for 2018-2020, the allocation of the second tranche of the loan worth $250 million was postponed for 2020, while the third tranche - for the period after 2020.

The allocated funds within the project are planned to be used for the renewal of the countrys electricity distribution network, substations and improvement of the services rendered to customers.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Fatih Karimov Trend:

Iran is negotiating with domestic and foreign companies for developing Esfandiar oilfield  in the Persian Gulf,  Hamid Bovard, managing director of Iranian Offshore Oil Company (IOOC), said.

Currently talks are underway with MAPNA Group, an Iranian enterprise involved in power, oil and infrastructure projects, as well as Japanese and South Korean companies on the issue, he told reporters on Nov. 5, expressing hope that the talks will be concluded by March 2018.

The official added that former talks with Norwegians about development of the oilfield failed due to technical reasons, without unveiling further details.

Iranian officials said in 2015 that a confidentiality agreement with a Norwegian-Austrian company for developing Esfandiar oil field and the required information about the field's development plan has been exchanged.

Later it was revealed that talks are underway between National Iranian Oil Company and Norwegian Energy One Company to develop Esfandiar oilfield.

Bovard said that the main problem for the fields development is providing capital, adding that the development of Esfandiar oilfield is not a complicated issue.

Esfandiar offshore oilfield discovered in 1966 is estimated to contain 532 million barrels of crude oil. Iran shares the field with Saudi Arabia. Located at 95 kilometers southwest of Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf, Esfandiar is one of Iran's least developed oilfields.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Fatih Karimov  Trend:

Irans oil exports to Japan (including gas condensates) in September 2017 decreased by 31 percent year-on-year and reached 6.467 million barrels.

Compared to the preceding month, the figure indicates an increase by 94 percent, Japans ministry of economy, trade and industry said.

The figure includes 1.003 million barrels of condensates exported from Irans South Pars gas field.

Iran was Japans fifth oil supplier after Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar, with a share of 6.8 percent in September 2017, while the country supplied 9.7 percent of the Asian countrys oil demand in September 2016 (9.4 million barrels).

Saudi Arabia exported 35.379 million barrels of oil to Japan in September (37.2 percent of the countrys total crude imports.)

Irans oil exports to Japan reached 83.94 million barrels in the fiscal year of 2016, which is a 38-percent increase compared to the preceding year.

Iran supplied 7 percent of Japans oil demand in 2016.

Irans oil exports increased by 1 million barrels per day (mb/d) last year to 2.42 mb/d and the figure would increase to 2.5 mb/d in 2017 and 2.59 mb/d in 2018, IMF previously said in a report.

Irans oil and condensate exports amounted to 2.6 mb/d in September 2017, the countrys oil ministry said recently. The country exported 2.25 mb/d of oil to Asian and European markets in the mentioned period. China, India, South Korea and Japan imported more than 1.9 mb/d in September, highest level since March 2017.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Khalid Kazimov  Trend:

While majority of Iranians have refused to obtain life insurance, over 90 percent of vehicles in the country have no Collision and Comprehensive Insurance.

Head of the Central Insurance of Iran Abdolnaser Hemmati has said that there are about 25 million vehicles in the country but only three million cars have Collision and Comprehensive Insurance, Mehr news agency reported.

Meanwhile, about 80 percent of Iranians have failed to receive life insurance services as only 14 million have bought life insurance in the country, so far, he added.

The official further mentioned that insurance penetration has reached 2.1 percent in the country.

Speaking about opportunities to invest in Irans insurance industry, he said despite the low number of purchased life insurance, the figure has increased by 70 percent over the past two years.

In the meantime, the insurance penetration has grown 4.5 folds.

Hemmati also said that two European insurance firms are now in talks with Iranian counterparts to enter the market.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 5

By Fatih Karimov  Trend:

he trade turnover between Iran and Turkey stood at $8.151 billion during the first nine months of 2017, according to the latest statistics released by the Turkish Statistical Institute.

The figure indicates a rise by 14.24 percent compared to same period of the preceding year ($7.135 billion).

The trade turnover between the two countries reached $899.169 million in September 2017.

The exports of Turkey to Iran in September 2017 was valued at about $218.092 million ($456.207 million in September 2016), meanwhile the country imported goods worth $681.104 million from Iran in the same month ($358.574 million in the same period of 2016).

Turkey's exports to Iran in the first nine months of 2017 amounted to $2.315 billion, compared to $3.814 billion in the first nine months of 2016.



The country also imported $5.836 billion worth of goods from Iran in the period, 75.7 percent more compared to the first nine months of 2016 ($3.321 billion).

So, the trade balance between the two country was $3.521 billion in favor of Iran.

The trade turnover between the two countries was $13.71 billion in 2014, which stood at $9.76 billion in 2015, indicating a 29-percent plunge.
A total 1,968 flood victims have been evacuated due to the massive floods that hit Penang beginning last night, Malay Mail reported.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who also heads the Floods Operations Centre, said a total 1,125 victims were evacuated in Central Seberang Perai, 615 from North Seberang Perai, 70 from the Northeast district on the island and 158 from the Southwest district on the island.

Speaking on a live video in his Facebook page at about 8am today, Lim said the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (JPAM) has already sent help to assist victims at the northeast district on the island.

We are still waiting for more help from JPAM to assist victims stranded in Seberang Perai. JPAM personnel from Sungai Petani will be arriving to lend their assistance there soon so we hope everyone remain calm as help is on the way, he said.

Sungai Petani is a district in Kedah state.

Lim said the rains have stopped temporarily and the flood situation has improved slightly but in some areas, the flood waters have not receded.

The wind is still strong, we are worried about any more unwanted incidents and that the heavy rain will continue, he said.

He said the strong winds coupled with the torrential rains last night were highly unexpected and that the state did not have enough resources to assist all affected.

The situation has exceeded our resources and I want to thank the police, the fire and rescue department, JPAM and all rescue workers for working through the night to help those affected, he said.

Read more at http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/penang-floods-cause-nearly-2000-evacuees#ItZVtZzJuWkiTy56.99
At least 100 people were killed in the deadly blast, which took place at a refugee center near the city of Deir ez-Zor in eastern Syria, Sputnik reported referring the country's state media.

According to the Syrian state television, dozens of people were injured.

The incident took place at a major refugee center to the northwest of Deir ez-Zor, where the suicide bomber detonated an explosive device installed in his car. The refugee center is located in the area between Koniko and Jafra. The exact number of victims is unknown.

Responsibility for the attack was not assumed by any of the terrorist organizations.

According to the media reports, the majority of the victims of the terrorist attack are women and children.
One of Saudi Arabias most prominent businessmen and a former finance minister are among dozens detained in a probe by a new anti-corruption body, a senior Saudi official said on Sunday, Reuters reported.

The official, who declined to be identified under briefing rules, said billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding 4280.SE, and former finance minister Ibrahim al-Assaf had been detained.

Neither man nor Kingdom Holding officials could be reached immediately for comment. Aside from being one of the largest shareholders in Citigroup C.N, Kingdom owns stakes in Rupert Murdochs News Corp (NWSA.O) and microblogging site Twitter.

Saudi King Salman announced late on Saturday the creation of a new anti-corruption committee chaired by his son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television said the body had detained 11 princes, four current ministers and tens of former ministers.

The crown prince is spearheading an ambitious economic reform program that aims to draw more foreign and private sector investment into the kingdom, which is the worlds top oil exporter and the most powerful country in the Gulf Arab region.

King Salman also appointed two new ministers on Saturday to key security and economic posts, removing one of the royal familys most prominent members as head of the National Guard.

Prince Miteb bin Abdullah was replaced as minister of the National Guard by Khaled bin Ayyaf, while Economy Minister Adel Fakieh was removed in favor of his deputy Mohammed al-Tuwaijri, according to a royal decree carried by state-run media.

Prince Miteb, the preferred son of the late King Abdullah, was once thought to be a leading contender for the throne before the unexpected rise of Prince Mohammed two years ago.

The Cabinet reshuffle helped to consolidate Prince Mohammeds control of the kingdoms security institutions, which had long been headed by separate powerful branches of the ruling family.

Prince Mohammed, who has pledged to go after graft at the highest levels, will head the new anti-corruption body, which was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions, and freeze assets.

The homeland will not exist unless corruption is uprooted and the corrupt are held accountable, the royal decree said.
US President Donald Trump said after landing in Asia for his longest official foreign trip, he believed the improvement of the US bilateral trade relations with China was necessary, Sputnik reported.

"Well I think [China] viewing us very, very strong, and also very friendly. But we have to do better with trade with China, because its a one-way street right now and it has been for many years. And we will," Trump told journalists on board Air Force one, after having landed in Tokyo.

Last year, US goods and services trade with China totalled an estimated $648.2 billion, according to the figures of the Office of the United States Trade Representative.

However, Trump, as well as other US officials, have threatened to halt trade with the countries doing business with North Korea. Trump also noted that trade would be one of the major focuses of his Asia trip.

"One of the things were going to be very focused on is trade, because trade has not been done well for 25 years by the United States, with this part of the world or with any part of the world, so well be discussing reciprocal trade, reciprocal trade, fair trade, but reciprocal Our big focus is going to be obviously on North Korea. But a very, very big focus is going to be on fair trade. And thats very important to me," Trump told reporters.

Earlier in the day, Trump arrived in Tokyo as part of his longest official foreign trip, which has started on Saturday in Hawaii. Apart from Japan, the
Ousted Catalonian leader Carles Puigdemont and four former ministers have reportedly turned themselves in to Belgian police, The Independent reported.

Belgian state broadcaster VRT said all five have arrived at the Brussels prosecutor's office.

The prosecutor is due to make a statement about a European arrest warrant issued for Mr Puigdemont and the other four as Spain seeks their return for an investigation related to Catalonia's independence bid.

They had fled to Belgium this week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to impede the region's illegal declaration of independence.

Federal prosecutors in Belgium had said on Saturday that they were studying the warrants and that they had shared them with city counterparts in Brussels.
A White House spokesperson said on Sunday that the North Korean crisis will be a "primary subject  or topic" when President Putin will meet his US counterpart, Sputnik reported.

"Russia borders North Korea. They are also very concerned, I think, with the direction that North Korea is leading the region toward  into this crisis. And, naturally, Russia should have a role in that future," the spokesperson said.

The spokesman noted that as a member of the UN Russia is obliged to uphold UN Security Council resolutions on North Korea, including "two significant increases in sanctions that were passed in 15-0 votes" earlier this year.

Also on Sunday, President Trump who was on board Air Force One heading to Tokyo, said he was expecting to hold a conversation with Vladimir Putin during his ongoing Asian trip. He said he hopes the Russian leader will help Washington resolve the North Korean issue.
A traffic police checkpoint in the countryside of Nazran district of Russias North Caucasus region of Ingushetia has been attacked, a source with the regional law enforcement agencies said on Sunday, TASS reported.

The attack occurred at 18.00 Moscow time (15.00 GMT).

Russias National Anti-Terrorism Committee (NAC) told TASS that two gunmen have been neutralized in an exchange of fire at a traffic police checkpoint in the Nazran district.

"Two gunmen were neutralized in a gunfight," NAC said.

Civilians were not hurt during the operation.

"Two police officers have been wounded and one killed," NAC added.

Firearms, ammunition and a homemade explosive device stuffed with a large amount of projectiles were found at the scene.

At 17.30 Moscow time, traffic police officers got engaged in a firefight with gunmen who were trying to secretly approach the police checkpoint near the village of Yandare in Ingushetias Nazran district and attack it.

A counterterrorism operation was launched in the area.

"Investigators of the regional branch of the Russian Investigative Committee are working at the scene. Required search activities are underway," NAC said.

Earlier reports said that according to a source with Ingushetias law enforcement agencies, four unidentified persons had attacked a traffic police checkpoint in the village of Yandare in Ingushetias Nazran district. One of them entered the checkpoint and detonated his suicide belt. The other three tried to get away from the scene.

They are reported to be cordoned off on the premises of a private enterprise some 200-300 meters from the checkpoint.
Turkeys presidency on Sunday said Moscow has postponed a Syrian National Dialogue Congress to a later date, adding that Turkey will not attend but may send an observer, Anadolu reported.

Ibrahim Kalin, presidential spokesman, said that Turkey had been in the middle of deciding whether to accept or decline the invitation to the congress -- originally set for Nov. 18 -- when news came it had been postponed.

We found out that the congress was announced as a fait accompli. We immediately objected, he told news channel NTV. Afterwards, the Kremlin contacted us and stated that they had postponed this meeting.

Moscow invited all Syrian opposition forces to attend the planned congress in the city of Sochi, Russias foreign minister said Friday.

Kalin said that Turkey will not be attending the meetings but may send an observer.

Its not certain yet. But what Russia has told us is that the meeting has been postponed now and the PYD would not be invited", he added.

The Turkish government considers the PYD/YPG to be the Syrian offshoot of the PKK, a designated terrorist organization by Turkey and the U.S., and would object to it attending the conference.

During the last round of Syria peace talks in the Kazakh capital Astana late last month, three guarantor countries -- Russia, Turkey and Iran -- agreed to discuss proposals for holding a national dialogue conference.

However, the Syrian oppositions High Negotiations Committee and the Syrian Coalition of Revolutionary and Opposition Forces both appear to have declined invitations to attend the gathering.

Syria has been locked in a vicious civil war since 2011, when the Assad regime cracked down on pro-democracy protests with unexpected ferocity.

Since then, hundreds of thousands of people have been killed in the conflict, according to UN figures.
By Mohammad Gharebag, KYODO NEWS - Nov 5, 2017 - 17:36 | World, All

Thousands of Iranians on Saturday attended anti-U.S. rallies all around the country to commemorate the 38th anniversary of the seizure of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran.

In the capital Tehran, thousands of students and citizens gathered in front of the former U.S. Embassy, which was closed following the hostage crisis. They chanted "Death to America" and "Death to Israel," two slogans often heard at rallies in the country since the Islamic Revolution.

On the Iranian national calendar, Nov. 4 is marked as the "National Day of Combating International Imperialism" as well as "Students Day." Therefore, hundreds of students are each year brought to the venue of the event to attend the "Anti-Arrogance, Anti-U.S." campaign.

Demonstrators in Tehran set fire to effigies of U.S. President Donald Trump. The angry students also set fire to the flags of Israel and the United States.

Despite the annual display of hostility, one of the student leaders of the 1979 takeover told Kyodo News in Tehran last weekend that peace is achievable between Tehran and Washington if the two sides abandon hostile policies and commit themselves to joint principles.

"At the time, we were thinking that the takeover of the U.S. Embassy was the correct decision to prevent any foreign threat including U.S. interference in the process of the revolution, but keeping the hostages for longer than four to five days, which was the initial plan, was not an appropriate decision," Mohsen Mirdamadi said.

On Nov. 4, 1979, members of Islamic student unions of Tehran's major universities stormed and seized the U.S. Embassy as punishment for the U.S. government's decision to admit the shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, into the United States for medical treatment.

The founder of the Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Khomeini, called the takeover the "second revolution" and voiced support for the students repeatedly in his public speeches.

"U.S. diplomats were the symbols of arrogance for us, a country that backed the shah for decades. The embassy's occupation was the consequence of United States' wrong policies in the past," Mirdamadi added.

It was thought by the students that taking U.S. hostages would force the U.S. administration to deport the shah back to Iran, where he would be punished for his crimes. However, keeping U.S. hostages for 444 days served to create a four-decade-long crisis in bilateral relations.

"Once we took over the embassy, it changed to a 'national movement' and hundreds of people supported the students by gathering around the occupied embassy. After the intervention of revolutionary organizations, students lost control of situation and could not finish the takeover as it was planned," Mirdamadi said.

Mirdamadi, who was the leader of Iran's most powerful reformist political party and a former parliamentarian, thinks that the takeover belongs to the past that in 2017, both Iran and the Unites States should come together with an eye toward the future.

"Today, the world is changed. Iran is changed as well and we should make decisions based on new requirements. Iran and U.S. can have interactions. If both sides are committed to needed principles it is possible to restart dialog," he said.

Trump's policies are working against the chance of dialogue between Tehran and Washington, he said, and therefore "to have a better chance we should wait for a proper time after Trump's administration."

Speaking to Kyodo News this week, Vice President Masoumeh Ebtekar, who acted as the spokeswoman and translator of the revolutionary students in 1979, called the embassy takeover "a proper reaction to Washington's interventions in our domestic issues."

"I think that the students averted an imminent threat by taking over the U.S. Embassy and it was a right decision in the context of those days' conditions," she added.

"With the takeover, Iranians sent a strong message to the world that they will not allow intervention in their affairs and they will not allow a superpower to dictate their foreign policy," Ebtekar said.

U.S. foreign policy had been a "disgrace for humanity," she said, adding that U.S. politicians are "continuing an anti-human and interventionist foreign policy."

Ebtekar, who is today a prominent reformist politician advocating better relations with the West, said that the Islamic Republic is not "vulnerable" anymore but needs to strengthen its economy.

The country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is the final decision maker on foreign policy, on Thursday criticized the decades-long "hostile stance" of the United States toward Iran "since the victory of the revolution in 1979."

"Backing down against the Americans will make them pushy and brazen. Therefore, the only way is confrontation and resistance," the supreme leader's official website quoted him as saying to a gathering of students.

Speaking to Kyodo News, Reyhaneh Ahmadi, a 16-year-old high school student who attended Saturday's rally in front of the former U.S. Embassy, said Trump's latest remarks against Iran brought her and her friends to the event.

"Today, we are here to show the U.S. administration that we are not scared of their political stances. We love our country and we will defend it with the last drop of our blood," she said while carrying a poster with the slogan "Death to America."

Mehdi Fakhravar, a 17-year-old high school student in Tehran who was leading a group of school mates, said that their presence at the demonstration sends the message that they will follow the direction of the students who took over the embassy in 1979.

"We will not allow any intervention of the U.S. in our domestic affairs. We don't have a problem with the American people, but U.S. foreign policy is shameful," he said while carrying a poster of Trump bearing the message "Go to hell."
KYODO NEWS - Nov 5, 2017 - 09:33 | World, All

U.S. President Donald Trump has said Japan should have shot down the North Korean missiles that flew over the country before landing in the Pacific Ocean earlier this year, diplomatic sources said Saturday.

The revelation comes just ahead of Trump's arrival in Japan on Sunday, at the start of a trip to five Asian nations. Threats from North Korea's nuclear and missile development will be high on the agenda when Trump holds talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday.

Trump questioned Japan's decision not to shoot down the missiles when he met or spoke by phone with leaders from Southeast Asian countries over recent months to discuss how to respond to the threats from North Korea, the sources said.

The U.S. president said he could not understand why a country of samurai warriors did not shoot down the missiles, according to the sources.

In defiance of international sanctions imposed to compel Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear weapon and missile development programs, North Korea test-launched ballistic missiles on Aug. 29 and Sept. 15 that flew over Japan's northernmost main island of Hokkaido before falling into the Pacific Ocean.

But Japan's Self-Defense Forces did not try to intercept the missiles, with the government saying the SDF had monitored the rockets from launch and judged they would not land on Japanese territory.

Defense Ministry officials said there were also legal issues to clear, and it would have been very difficult to shoot down the missiles given the altitudes at which they flew.

On Sept. 3, North Korea also conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test by detonating what it said was a hydrogen bomb that could be mounted on an intercontinental ballistic missile.

While the United States and its allies and partners have been pressing North Korea to denuclearize, the Trump administration says it is keeping all options -- including military action -- on the table in dealing with the situation.
By Julie Gordon VANCOUVER (Reuters) - Amazon.com Inc said on Friday that it will a open second corporate office in Vancouver, doubling its staff in the western Canadian city by early 2020 as it looks to tap into a burgeoning local tech workforce. The Seattle-based company said the Vancouver expansion has been in the works for some time and is not related to the hotly contested race by cities across North America to land the e-commerce company's $5 billion HQ2. "These will be largely software engineering, tech and non-tech jobs, and they'll be contributing to products that are used globally," Jesse Dougherty, general manager for the Vancouver office, told reporters. The Vancouver expansion comes as companies in the United States have struggled to secure visas in a timely fashion to import foreign workers to fill highly skilled and technical jobs. President Donald Trump's administration has made it tougher for skilled foreigners to work in the United States, challenging visa applications more regularly than at nearly any point under former U.S. President Barack Obama. Tech companies have come to rely on such visas to fill many highly specialized jobs. Amazon officials did not answer questions on whether the new office was in response to difficulties bringing foreign talent to its U.S. offices. "Amazon likes to hire the smartest people we can find, and so Vancouver certainly is a place where we like to get that growth," said Dougherty. Canada launched a fast-track visa program for highly skilled workers in June, as it seeks to take advantage of a tougher immigration environment in the United States. The expansion will see Amazon double its workforce in Vancouver to 2,000 by early 2020. The company currently employees about 4,400 people full time in Canada. Amazon employs more than 380,000 globally, with around 150,000 working outside of the United States. (Reporting by Julie Gordon; Editing by Phil Berlowitz)
President Donald Trump woke up Friday morning and continued tweeting about the alleged corruption of Hillary Clinton and the Democratic Party.

These tweets come a day after Politico published a fiery book excerpt by Donna Brazile, former interim chair of the Democratic National Committee, in which she wrote that Hillary Clintons 2016 presidential campaign and the national party struck a deal that would in effect grant the campaign control of the partys finances and strategy.

Everybody is asking why the Justice Department (and FBI) isnt looking into all of the dishonesty going on with Crooked Hillary & the Dems, Trump wrote on Twitter. New Donna B book says she paid for and stole the Dem Primary. What about the deleted E-mails, Uranium, Podesta, the Server[?]

He continued: Plus, plus People are angry. At some point the Justice Department, and the FBI, must do what is right and proper. The American public deserves it!

Everybody is asking why the Justice Department (and FBI) isn't looking into all of the dishonesty going on with Crooked Hillary & the Dems..  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

The real story on Collusion is in Donna B's new book. Crooked Hillary bought the DNC & then stole the Democratic Primary from Crazy Bernie!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

According to the Brazile story, in August of 2015, a deeply indebted Democratic National Committee took a loan from the Clinton campaign, and in exchange by and large granted the campaign the rights to dictate how the party would operate in the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election.

Brazile writes that the deal brings evidential heft to the argument that the Democratic primary was rigged against Sen. Bernie Sanders, a frequent rallying point for his supporters  and also for Trump, who has cited the primary as yet another example of Crooked Hs supposed malfeasance.

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This was not a criminal act, but as I saw it, it compromised the partys integrity, Brazile writes.

Trumps Friday morning comments on the election followed his tweet about his own Twitter account, which briefly disappeared from the site late Thursday night  something Twitter had first chalked up to human error by a Twitter employee.

My Twitter account was taken down for 11 minutes by a rogue employee. I guess the word must finally be getting out-and having an impact.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

Twitter later said that after an investigation, it determined the account was deactivated by a customer support employee who did this on the employees last day.
TipRanks

The elections are behind us, the latest inflation data showed an easing back in the rate of increase, and markets finished last week with their best trading sessions in months. The signs have aligned for investors to feel good. Or should they? Billionaire investor Carl Icahn believes otherwise, and in a recent interview he laid out the case for the bears. I am still quite bearish on what is going to happen. A rally like this is of course very dramatic to say the least, but you have them all the
Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC) has gotten into its fair share of trouble of late, but that doesn't change the progress the California-based bank has made over the past decade at growing market share.

There are few charts that illustrate this better than one that tracks the growth of the four biggest banks in the United States, all of which sport balance sheets with assets in excess of $1 trillion.

JPM Total Assets (Quarterly) Chart

JPM Total Assets (Quarterly) data by YCharts.

No other megabank comes close to matching Wells Fargo's growth rate since the beginning of 2008 -- i.e., the eve of the financial crisis. Wells Fargo's balance sheet has since grown by 236%, according to YCharts.com.

At the end of 2007, Wells Fargo's balance sheet weighed in at $575 billion in assets. Fast forward to today and that has increased to $1.9 trillion.

Much of Wells Fargo's growth since the onset of the crisis came in one fell swoop, by way of Wells Fargo's 2008 acquisition of Wachovia. The deal singlehandedly more than doubled the size of Wells Fargo's balance sheet. It also gave the bank a branch network that spanned the entire continent, as opposed to operating principally throughout the western United States before that.

A Wells Fargo building in Philadelphia.

Image source: Getty Images.

The most stark contrast to Wells Fargo's ascent is Citigroup (NYSE: C), which, not coincidentally, was also trying to buy Wachovia at the same time as Wells Fargo. As the preceding chart makes clear, Citigroup is the only multitrillion-dollar megabank to contract in size over the past decade.

Going into the crisis, Citigroup was the biggest bank in the country. But its troubles through the downturn, combined with the fact that it was the only one of the four not to consummate a major acquisition in the crisis, caused it to drop to fourth place, surpassed most recently by none other than Wells Fargo.

The other two banks in the chart are JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM) and Bank of America (NYSE: BAC), the first and second biggest banks in the country, respectively. JPMorgan Chase weighs in at $2.6 trillion in assets. Bank of America comes in at $2.3 trillion.

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JPMorgan Chase's growth over the past 10 years can be traced to organic growth, as well as its acquisitions of Bear Stearns and Washington Mutual in 2008. Bank of America, meanwhile, bought Merrill Lynch the same year.

The net result is that, while Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase, and Bank of America have all seen their balance sheets expand since the crisis -- though, Citigroup's has gone in the other direction -- none comes close to Wells Fargo in terms of the magnitude of growth.

More From The Motley Fool

John Maxfield owns shares of Bank of America and Wells Fargo. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
FILE PHOTO: A building belonging to Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, the world's biggest generic drugmaker and Israel's largest company, is seen in Jerusalem February 8, 2017. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Billionaire businessman Len Blavatnik is looking to buy a significant stake in debt-ridden Israeli drugmaker Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (TEVA.TA), according to Israeli media reports.

Two of Israel's leading financial news outlets, Globes and The Marker, reported on Sunday that Blavatnik has been examining a large share purchase in Teva, whose stock price hit a 17-year low last week after the company again cut its annual profit forecast.

A spokesman for Blavatnik's U.S.-based industrial group, Access Industries, declined to comment. Teva (TEVA.N), the world's biggest generic drugmaker, also declined to comment.

The Marker reported that Blavatnik was looking to acquire up to a $3 billion(2.29 billion) stake in Teva. The company has a $12.3 billion market cap.

The investment could either be done through a private stock listing, which would help Teva deal with its nearly $35 billion debt burden, or the shares could be bought from pharmaceutical firm Allergan (AGN.N), the report said.

Allergan received a 10 percent stake in Teva as part of a 2016 deal in which Teva bought its generics business for $40.5 billion. Allergan announced last week that it would begin selling down that stake.

Blavatnik's Access has investments in real estate, chemicals, media and technology with Warner Music among its highest profile businesses.

(Reporting by Ari Rabinovitch, Tova Cohen and Steven Scheer; Editing by Keith Weir)
By Liana B. Baker and Greg Roumeliotis (Reuters) - Communications chipmaker Broadcom Ltd is planning to unveil a bid for smartphone chip supplier Qualcomm Inc by Monday, three sources familiar with the matter said on Friday, an attempt to create a roughly $200-billion company through the biggest technology acquisition ever. A tie-up would combine two of the largest makers of wireless communications chips for mobile phones and raises the stakes for Intel Corp , which has been diversifying into smartphone technology from its stronghold in computers. The value of Broadcom's bid has not been decided, though an offer in the range of around $70 to $80 per share is being contemplated, one of the sources said. At $70 a share, an offer would value Qualcomm at $103 billion. Qualcomm is not aware of the details of Broadcom's bid, and it is far from certain whether it will entertain this deal, the sources said. "It's a smart move that would make Broadcom into a tech juggernaut," said GBH Insights analyst Daniel Ives. Qualcomm declined to comment, while Broadcom did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The bid comes as Broadcom plans to move its headquarters to the United States from Singapore. U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the move on Thursday at a White House event where Chief Executive Hock Tan cited Republican tax efforts. It is currently incorporated in Singapore and co-headquartered there and in San Jose, California. Broadcom's acquisition would be the most ambitious move by Tan, who has turned a small, scrappy chipmaker into a $100-billion company with a string of deals, since he took the helm a decade ago. The proposal comes as Qualcomm is trying to close its pending $38-billion acquisition of NXP Semiconductors NV . NXP is one of the largest makers of chips for vehicles and expanding into self-driving technology, and Broadcom also is open to acquiring NXP, according to one of the sources. Antitrust officials, who also would have to approve a Broadcom-Qualcomm deal, are still considering Qualcomm's purchase of NXP. Activist investor Elliott Management Corp has taken a large stake in NXP and has been pushing for Qualcomm to pay a higher price for the company, Reuters has reported. Qualcomm, an early pioneer in mobile phone chips, supplies so-called modem chips to phone makers such as Apple, Samsung and LG that help the phones connect to wireless data networks. Broadcom is also a major supplier to many of the same companies for Wi-Fi chips. Broadcoms Wi-Fi chips are essentially a commodity and priced much lower than the modem chips. The only other major supplier of high-end chips is Intel Corp , which supplies about half of the modem chips in Apples iPhones. Purchasing Qualcomm would give Broadcom a much more lucrative line of business in the mobile phone markets. Intel shares fell 1.6 percent to $46.34. Broadcom is considering a cash and stock offer of about $70 a share, Bloomberg reported earlier. https://bloom.bg/2h8pnlS Broadcom is looking to complete its $5.5 billion purchase of Brocade Communications Systems Inc while Qualcomm is in the process of closing its deal for NXP. Shares of Qualcomm jumped 12.7 percent to $61.81, while Broadcom's stock climbed nearly 6 percent to $273.63 on Friday afternoon. Shares of NXP fell 2 percent and Brocade slipped 2.6 percent. Shares of Broadcom have rallied this year while Qualcomm has fallen, making the target more vulnerable. The forward price-to-earnings ratio for Broadcom recently stood at 14.6, slightly above its 13.5 average. Qualcomm's recent forward PE of 15.4 was well below its 25.9 average. Broadcom is working with five financing banks to offer a significant cash component for its bid, according to one of the sources. Qualcomm faces a multinational legal battle with Apple Inc over Qualcomm's licensing terms to Apple and Apple is considering dropping Qualcomm chips from its phones. Qualcomm sells chips but also licenses a patent portfolio of related technologies. It requires customers like Apple and Samsung to license its patents if they use its chips, typically asking for a percentage of the price of the final device. Apple has objected to that practice, however, and it has a closer relationship with Broadcom than with Qualcomm. If Broadcom were to acquire Qualcomm's patent portfolio and change the licensing, it could have far-reaching effects on the mobile phone industry. Qualcomm and Broadcom have patent portfolios in wireless communications that are largely adjacent to each other, with Qualcomm covering mobile data networks and Broadcom covering WiFi and Bluetooth, experts said. Adjacent products are often cheaper when offered by one company, according to standard economic theory, which could be good for phone makers and potentially incline regulators toward allowing the deal, said Henry C. Su, a former Federal Trade Commission trial attorney. Antitrust concerns over a Broadcom-Qualcomm deal also may be muted because the companies have few areas of overlap beyond Wi-Fi solutions for wireless routers, Bluetooth drivers and some RF semiconductors, said Rob Lineback, a research analyst at IC Insights. "These companies are leaders in those areas but there are other companies supplying them," said Lineback, who added that asset sales in those areas, if needed to address antitrust concerns, would not affect the value of the deal. Kevin Krewell, principal analyst at Tirias Research, said that the deal would still make sense for Broadcom and Qualcomm if divestitures were needed to address antitrust issues. Broadcom may be able to skip review by regulators concerned about foreign ownership of U.S. assets, since it is moving its headquarters to California. Broadcom plans to complete that change before completing any Qualcomm deal, avoiding scrutiny by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, according to one of the sources. (Reporting by Sonam Rai in Bengaluru, Chuck Mikolajczak in New York, Diane Bartz in Washington and Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; writing by Anna Driver and Peter Henderson; editing by Nick Zieminski and Tom Brown)
Lawyer Sergei Magnitsky died in detention after spending 11 months in squalid Russian prisons in 2009 (AFP Photo/HO) (HERMITAGE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT/AFP/File)

Ottawa (AFP) - Canada imposed sanctions Friday against 52 people in three countries for human rights abuses and corruption under a new law enacted in memory of late Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky.

The sanctions targets three government and military officials in South Sudan accused of profiting from corruption or believed to be behind attacks on local human rights defenders.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and members of his regime also face fresh sanctions for rights violations and corruption, as did 30 Russians linked to a US $230-million tax fraud uncovered by Magnitsky in 2008.

The move, said Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland, "sends a clear message that Canada will take action against individuals who have profited from acts of significant corruption or who have been involved in gross violations of human rights."

The Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act, also referred to as the "Magnitsky Act," was passed on October 18.

It bans listed individuals from Canada and prohibits Canadians from dealing with them.

The consequences of being listed also includes the effective freezing of their assets in this country.

William Browder, a former Moscow financier turned anti-Kremlin campaigner, had pressed Canada to enact the legislation.

Browder was the founder of the hedge fund where Magnitsky worked when he went public with details of massive fraud by state officials.

Shortly afterward Magnitsky himself was charged with tax evasion, and spent 11 months in squalid Russian prisons before his death in 2009, which has been highlighted by activists as one of the most flagrant rights violations in Russia.

Magnitsky's widow Natalia and son Nikita joined Browder in Ottawa on Wednesday to celebrate the passage of the law.
J.C. Penney Co. Inc. (JCP) trades at a multiyear low and has fallen relentlessly for the past 10 days. The company deeply injured its investors with a bleak assessment of its future. Among the things that appear inevitable of the century-old retailer is that it will need to close more of its nearly 900 stores.

An army of downgrades to J.C. Penney shares and the shock of a sell-off of the stock with heavy volume was precipitated by this announcement:

Outlook

The Company has updated its 2017 full year guidance for comparable store sales, cost of goods sold, adjusted earnings per share, and free cash flow and reaffirmed its guidance for SG&A. The fiscal 2017 full year guidance has been updated as follows on October 27:

Comparable store sales: now expected to be -1 % to 0 %;

Cost of goods sold: now expected to be up 100 to 120 basis points versus 2016;

SG&A dollars: expected to be down 1 to 2 % versus 2016;

Adjusted earnings per share: now expected to be a positive $0.02 to $0.08; and

Free cash flow: now expected to be $200 million to $300 million.

ALSO READ: Why Does Sears Bother to Stay Open?

Before the news, a limited number of investors believed the company was on the mend and would post an advance in same-store sales for the holidays.

J.C. Penney lists its retail operations as approximately 875 stores in the United States and Puerto Rico. For some reason, the company is not confident enough to give an actual store count. Its other operation is JCPenney.com. The company made no mention that e-commerce would soften the blow of poor results for the balance of the year. Such news would have given investors a straw to hang onto.

Any retailer with J.C. Penney's admitted weakness has too many locations. As it skates on razor-thin margins (which are sometimes losses), some of its locations must be losing money, and in some cases a fair amount. Those locations need to disappear, as quickly as possible, for J.C. Penney to have a chance to survive. Store closings have been routine at other retailers recently. For example, Sears announced it will shutter another 63 stores in January.

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ALSO READ: The Best and Worst Customer Service Among Department Stores

J.C. Penney does face a problem when it closes stores, which is more pressure on its own finances. Some stores have leases, and workers released have to be paid severance. Neither of those things offsets the need for the obvious, however.

The only group with the data on which J.C. Penney stores are bleeding is J.C. Penney management itself. It needs to use the information. Its future is running out of daylight.

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President Donald Trump kicked off his Friday by ranting about Democrats on Twitter and calling, once again, on the Justice Department to investigate his former presidential opponent, Hillary Clinton.

President Donald Trump kicked off his Friday by ranting about Democrats on Twitter and calling, once again, on the Justice Department to investigate his former presidential opponent, Hillary Clinton.

In a flurry of tweets insulting several prominent Democrats, Trump claimed, citing no evidence, that everybody is questioning why the FBI and Justice Department havent yet looked into dishonesty going on with Clinton and the Democratic National Committee.

Everybody is asking why the Justice Department (and FBI) isn't looking into all of the dishonesty going on with Crooked Hillary & the Dems..  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

Trump attempted to bolster his argument by mentioning former interim DNC chair Donna Braziles recent accusations that Clinton had gained control of the committee during the 2016 election well before becoming the partys nominee.

...New Donna B book says she paid for and stole the Dem Primary. What about the deleted E-mails, Uranium, Podesta, the Server, plus, plus...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

....People are angry. At some point the Justice Department, and the FBI, must do what is right and proper. The American public deserves it!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

The real story on Collusion is in Donna B's new book. Crooked Hillary bought the DNC & then stole the Democratic Primary from Crazy Bernie!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

Brazile wasnt having it, tweeting that Trump was misquoting her.

Todays lesson: Being quoted by Donald Trump means being MIS-quoted by Donald Trump. Stop trolling me. #NeverSaidHillaryRiggedElection  Donna Brazile (@donnabrazile) November 3, 2017

Mr President, pleasego back to attacking me. Its better than having my own words scrambled and spewed out by you.  Donna Brazile (@donnabrazile) November 3, 2017

Thank you Mr President (a few others trollers), for translating my new book into Trumpspeak. #NotWhatISaid. Watch @ThisWeekABC for my views.  Donna Brazile (@donnabrazile) November 3, 2017

Trump also managed to simultaneously cite and insult Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who said on Thursday that she believed the Democratic nomination had been rigged, by once again referring to her as Pocahontas.

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Pocahontas just stated that the Democrats, lead by the legendary Crooked Hillary Clinton, rigged the Primaries! Lets go FBI & Justice Dept.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

Warren quickly responded in a series of tweets.

You might think your tweets are cute, @realDonaldTrump, but they wont stop Mueller's investigation or keep your people out of jail.  Elizabeth Warren (@elizabethforma) November 3, 2017

The DNC shouldn't play favorites. But that's a whole lot different from illegally conspiring with Russia. The FBI knows the difference.  Elizabeth Warren (@elizabethforma) November 3, 2017

Slurs, lies & trash talk wont stop the FBI from doing its job. This isn't a dictatorship. It's our democracy. And it's stronger than you.  Elizabeth Warren (@elizabethforma) November 3, 2017

Hours after dubbing Sanders Crazy Bernie, Trump also attempted to appeal to Sanders supporters by tweeting that they had every right to be apoplectic over what he called the complete theft of the Dem primary.

Bernie Sanders supporters have every right to be apoplectic of the complete theft of the Dem primary by Crooked Hillary!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

I always felt I would be running and winning against Bernie Sanders, not Crooked H, without cheating, I was right.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

The rigged Dem Primary, one of the biggest political stories in years, got ZERO coverage on Fake News Network TV last night. Disgraceful!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

Sanders responded by telling Trump to do his job.

We won't be distracted from your efforts to give billionaires tax cuts, take health care from millions and deny climate change. Do your job. https://t.co/35eWaiMuYt  Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) November 3, 2017

Throughout his presidency, Trump has repeatedly blurred the traditional lines between the Justice Department and the White House. Past presidents typically avoided speaking out about ongoing criminal cases, and it would have been a major scandal if one of them had suggested that the Justice Department investigate a political opponent. Trump just tweets it out.

Trump has also undermined his own attorney general and deputy attorney general, both of whom he has blamed for the special counsel investigation into his campaigns possible links to Russian interference with the 2016 election.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Okay, okay, I know the future has, so far, been kind of lame in a lot of ways. Back in the 1950s, everyone assumed that by 2017 wed all be cruising around in flying cars and taking regular trips to the moon for picnics, but that hasnt quite worked out. But technology has met its futuristic promises in other, sometimes less noticeable ways, like phones that can identify your face and farms with lasers to eliminate birds. Wait what?

It might sound nuts, but its true: lasers are now being used for bird control and its already saving farmers money. As IEEE Spectrum reports, one blueberry farm in Oregon has benefited greatly from the high-tech pest control, though its probably not quite as crazy as youre imagining.

The $90 sound bar everyone flipped out over is back on Amazon: The $90 sound bar everyone flipped out over is back on Amazon

The system, which uses automated laser guns to fire beams over large areas of the blueberry crop, is designed to scare birds away so they dont sit around and gorge themselves on the tasty fruit. In 2016, the farm estimated that it had lost a whopping 25% of its entire crop to hungry birds, but that all changed this year.

Six laser turrets were installed on the farm, covering the 168 acres of blueberries that are grown there. The devices fire a green laser in a sweeping motion, going back and forth to cover the entire field. Green lasers were used because, in testing the devices, it was discovered to be the most effective color. The birds, which see the green laser and become frightened, take off before they have a chance to feast, and the farm reaps the benefits.

On just this one blueberry farm, the laser systems have reduced bird damage to the crop by 99%, saving over half a million pounds of blueberries and the nearly $100,000 that it is worth. Thats a pretty dramatic change, and the company behind the laser systems, Bird Control Group, says the devices typically curb bird damage by between 70 and 99 percent.

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Trending right now:

See the original version of this article on BGR.com
FILE PHOTO: Workers from Montana-based Whitefish Energy Holdings help fix the island's power grid, damaged during Hurricane Maria in September, in Manati, Puerto Rico October 25, 2017. REUTERS/Alvin Baez/File Photo (Reuters)

By Nick Brown

(Reuters) - A former Puerto Rico official who has been mentioned in connection with a controversial contract to restore electricity to the bankrupt U.S. territory after Hurricane Maria has denied having any role in securing it.

In papers filed on Friday in federal court in San Juan, Elias Sanchez, a friend and one-time adviser to Governor Ricardo Rossello, said under penalty of perjury that he never had any kind of relationship" with contractor Whitefish Energy or its principals.

Rossello has come under fire for his handling of cleanup efforts since the September hurricane, the most powerful storm to hit Puerto Rico in 90 years.

After Maria knocked out electricity, the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, which is also in bankruptcy, awarded a no-bid, $300 million repair contract to Whitefish, a small Montana company with no experience in handling large-scale destruction.

Rossello canceled the contract after an uproar over its provisions.

But the saga was not over. Island creditors and federal lawmakers have questioned how the deal got done, with some speculating it was facilitated by lobbyists, namely Sanchez, a lawyer who ran Rossellos 2016 gubernatorial campaign.

In court papers earlier this week, holders of PREPAs $9 billion in debt cited local news reports mentioning Sanchez in connection with the Whitefish deal and asked the judge overseeing the utility's bankruptcy for permission to investigate it.

Sanchez asked the court to strike references to his name in that filing, saying he had no contact with PREPA about Whitefish. Ken Luce, a spokesman for the company, said on Friday that its chief executive officer, Andy Techmanski, never met Sanchez.

The U.S. House of Representatives' Energy Committee on Wednesday said it wanted the Federal Emergency Management Agency to explain how it is overseeing contracts for rebuilding Puerto Rico's power grid.

Another contract, one PREPA signed with Mammoth Energy's Cobra Acquisitions subsidiary, is also being scrutinized by Congress. Sanchez noted in his statement that he had no role in that deal, either.

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Six weeks after the hurricane, only about 37 percent of homes and businesses on the island have had power restored.

'A GOOD FRIEND'

Sanchez has said he no longer works in Rossellos administration and has largely moved off the island since Maria.

Rossello called Sanchez a friend in an interview with Reuters on Thursday.

"He makes no government-related decisions, period," the governor said. "But he was my campaign manager, and hes a good friend."

After Rossello won office in 2016, Sanchez became his liaison to the federal board overseeing Puerto Ricos troubled finances. Sanchez helped shape Rossellos financial policy as the island entered bankruptcy in May to restructure $72 billion in debt. He resigned from that position in July.

Investors had criticized Sanchez for making sparse financial disclosures and speculated that he was concealing income that would present a conflict of interest.

Sanchez said his decision to resign was personal and that he was "very comfortable with everything" he did on the board to represent the island's best interests.

(Reporting by Nicholas Brown; Additional reporting by Jessica Resnick Ault; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)
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The GOP call to eliminate tax breaks for students will deliver relatively small savings to the federal budget.

But it could have a sizable impact on people struggling to afford college.

The Republican tax plan unveiled Thursday would cut taxes by $1.5 trillion over the next decade, largely by delivering significant tax savings to corporations. To offset some of that lost revenue, it would also eliminate tax breaks for education totaling $65 billion over the same time period.

"They are cutting resources with no plans to reinvest that money to help people better afford higher education," says Jessica Thompson, policy and research director at The Institute for College Access and Success (TICAS), a nonprofit focused on making higher education more affordable. "This will raise the cost of borrowing for many people and raise the cost of college."

Here are the higher education tax breaks being targeted:

Student loan interest deduction. Borrowers paying off education loans would no longer be able to deduct up to $2,500 of interest paid on student loans. That deduction doesnt yield big savings: a maximum of $625 annually, while the average amount taken is much lower, just $202 a year, according to the American Enterprise Institute. The deduction also tends to help higher earners. That's because a deduction reduces taxable income, so it doesnt help people who dont earn enough to owe taxes. But its a popular tax break, used by about 12 million people a year, and benefits people who have higher levels of debt.

Tuition discounts for college workers. Employees of nonprofit universities and their dependents who get tuition discounts from their schools will now have to count the discount as taxable income. Colleges say its an important employee benefit that helps them recruit workers. Tuition waivers that graduate students receive when they work as teaching assistants or researchers would also be taxed as income.

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Employer tuition and debt assistance. Currently, workers who participate in tuition assistance plans can exclude up to $5,250 in tuition from income taxes. Also being cut: a tax break for employers providing workers help with paying off student loans.



Coverdell Savings Accounts. Coverdells, in which you can invest money tax-free if you spend it on qualified education expenses, including both college and K-12 tuitions, would be phased out. Existing Coverdells would be rolled over into 529 plans, and 529 savings can be used to pay elementary and secondary school education expenses, as well as college costs.



It's Not All Bad News

Thompson says she agrees there's a need to simplify the tax code as it pertains to education expenses. The current web of higher education tax benefits is complicated for people to figure out how to use, she says. "But we dont think you should gut these benefits if you're not going to reinvest the savings into other ways to help people afford higher education.

Still, Thompson sees some positive aspects to the changes proposed, too. The GOP tax plan would also:

Eliminate income tax on some types of loan forgiveness. Under current law, if a person with federal student loans becomes permanently disabled or dies, their debt will be discharged. But they or their heirs would be taxed on the amount of the loan forgiven. That would no longer be the case.

Beef up tax credits. The American Opportunity Tax Credit would be extended from four years to five. The way it works now, you can get up to $2,500 a year back on your taxes if you spend $4,000 on tuition and fees. The proposed plan would give you another $1,250 credit for a fifth year.





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Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright  2017, Consumer Reports, Inc.
DUBAI (Reuters) - The head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards denied on Sunday accusations by Donald Trump that Iran was behind the firing of a ballistic missile at Saudi Arabia from warring Yemen, rejecting it as one of the U.S. president's "slanders". Saudi Arabia's air defenses intercepted the missile, bringing it down near the capital Riyadh's airport on Saturday and it did not cause any casualties, state news agencies reported. "A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia ... and our system knocked the missile out of the air" Trump told reporters on Air Force One en route to Tokyo. But Mohammad Ali Jafari, head of the Revolutionary Guards who are in charge of Iran's missile program, said: "Mr Trump has said many baseless things and told many lies and frequently falsely accused Iran and this one of those slanders," Iran's state news agency IRNA reported. "We do not have even the possibility to transfer missiles to Yemen. The missiles belong to them and they have increased their range," Jafari added. A Saudi-led coalition has launched thousands of air strikes against Houthi rebels and allied forces loyal to former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh who have fired dozens of missiles into Saudi territory over the course of a 2-1/2 year war. Regional and Western sources have said Iran is sending advanced weapons and military advisers to the Houthi movement, stepping up support for its Shi'ite ally in the countrys civil war. Iran rejects accusations from Saudi Arabia that it is giving financial and military support to the Houthis, blaming the crisis on Riyadh. (Reporting by Dubai newsroom; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg)
MUMBAI (Reuters) - India's antitrust regulator has approved Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC's bid to acquire a stake in a firm owned by DLF for 89 billion rupees ($1.38 billion), the country's biggest real estate developer said in a statement late Saturday.

As part of the deal, Reco Diamond Pvt Ltd, an affiliate of GIC, will own a 33.34 percent stake in DLF's property rental company, DLF Cyber City Developers.

DLF had announced in 2015 that three shareholders in DLF Cyber City Developers would look to sell their stake to reduce conflicts of interest. The three shareholders were also among the founders of DLF.

($1 = 64.5500 Indian rupees)

(Reporting by Sankalp Phartiyal; Editing by Shri Navaratnam)
Ivanka Trumps short skirt in Japan wasnt a style hit. (Photo: AP Images)

The Japanese have been huge fans of Ivanka Trumps style, but the miniskirt she wore to a womens conference in Tokyo may have changed that.

Wearing a $1,960, bubble-gum pink Miu Miu crepe jacket with a matching miniskirt, Ivanka, 36, took the podium at the World Assembly for Women on Friday. After being introduced by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is reputed to have established a bromance with President Trump over their united front against North Korea, Ivanka spoke on workplace harassment and economic empowerment for women.

But the public questioned her hemline.

Skirt is to short for a meeting with any PM.  TAMMIE (@hiddensandbar) November 3, 2017

Her skirt is too short. Inappropriate!  Karen Lee Coyle (@KarenLeeCoyle20) November 3, 2017

Ivanka skirt is too short. Shes working.  Marcia Zaninetti (@MarcitaZa) November 3, 2017

Ivanka, what on earth are you wearing?! How can you wear a pink skirt so SHORT? Youre a conservative woman in a conservative country!!!  Shaka Zulu (@LauraD_online) November 3, 2017

Ivanka's skirt is about 6 inches short of classy  Patricia Marie (@PatrciaMarie) November 3, 2017

The scrutiny felt familiar. In September, Melania Trump appeared at the United Nations to give a speech denouncing bullying, in a $2,950 oversized pink dress by Delpozo, and was ridiculed for the overly bright outfit.

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Social media critics disapproved of the fluorescent pink dress the first lady wore to give an anti-bullying speech at the United Nations. (Photo: Getty Images)

Casting further shade on Ivankas trip were reports of the meager audience that turned out to hear her speak. After media outlets reported that the room was half-empty, commenters on social media drew parallels with the controversial issue of attendance at President Trumps inauguration.

The hall is half empty as Ivanka Trump gives a speech in Tokyo at the Japanese governments World Assembly for Women (WAW!) pic.twitter.com/8OchiSzgHa  Anna Fifield (@annafifield) November 2, 2017

Later that evening, Ivanka joined Abe for dinner wearing a $1,995 pink, silk kimono-inspired dress with a black obi bow designed by Johanna Ortiz, with black pumps and her hair in beachy waves.

(Photo: AP Images)

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President Donald Trump will not agree to a NAFTA deal he doesn't like, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross warned, though he added that he expects the renegotiations talks to be a success (AFP Photo/Paul Morigi) (GETTY/AFP)

Washington (AFP) - US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has business ties to a shipping firm linked to Vladimir Putin's inner circle, leaked documents showed Sunday.

Ross, a billionaire investor, holds a 31 percent stake in Navigator Holdings through a complex web of offshore investments detailed in leaked documents from a law firm examined by nearly 100 news organizations as part of an international collaboration.

The 79-year-old reduced his stake when he took public office, according to public filings.

Navigator Holdings runs a lucrative partnership with Russian energy giant Sibur, which is partially owned by Putin's son-in-law Kirill Shamalov and Gennady Timchenko, the Russian president's friend and business partner who is subject to US sanctions.

The US imposed sanctions on Russian entities and individuals following its annexation of Crimea and aggression in Ukraine.

While there is no evidence Ross acted illegally, the documents -- part of millions of documents dubbed the Paradise Papers obtained from offshore law firm Appleby -- raise questions about whether his investments undermine the US measures.

Ross's private equity firm has been the biggest shareholder in Navigator. His personal share of the firm's stake was reduced when he took office in February, but the commerce chief's investment is still valued at between $2 million to $10 million, according to his security filings and government ethics disclosure.

The New York Times reported that Ross's stake in Navigator has been held by companies in the Cayman Islands. His wealth, estimated to exceed $2 billion, is said to be tied to similar arrangements in various tax havens like the Cayman Islands.

"Secretary Ross was not involved with Navigator's decision to engage in business with Sibur, a publicly traded company, which was not under sanction at the time and is not currently," said James Rockas, a Commerce Department spokesman.

"Moreover, Secretary Ross has never met the Sibur shareholders referenced in this story and, until now, did not know of their relationship."

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He added that Ross recuses himself from matters focused on transoceanic shipping vessels, "but has been supportive of the administration's sanctions against Russian and other entities."

The investments emerged as part of the Paradise Papers leak by the US-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which was behind the 2015 Panama Papers release.

The latest haul contains 13.4 million documents mainly from Appleby, an offshore law firm with offices in Bermuda and beyond.

The files were first obtained by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, and shared with the ICIJ and partner media outlets.
While at the AFM, London-based Embankment Films is kicking off sales on Nick Hamms Driven, an 1970s action-packed film with Jason Sudeikis and Lee Pace that wrapped shooting Nov. 2.

The film is inspired by the true story of an FBI operation that was conceived to bring down John DeLorean, the maverick auto executive who launches the DeLorean but was brought down in a drug scandal.

Piers Tempest, who is producing the film with Luillo Ruiz, told Variety that filming Driven turned out to be apocalyptic because it shot in Puerto Rico in between two hurricanes, Irma and Maria.

Puerto Rico had not have a hurricane for eight years so I thought it would OK. But first, Hurricane Irma came on during last week of pre-production and we had to fly back the non-resident crew members, said Tempest.

Then, during the last week of shoot, when category-5 Hurricane Maria hit, it really decimated the island  we had to evacuate everyone and shut everything down for two weeks, added the producer.

Tempest said the two-week hiatus was challenging because of the actors schedules but eventually everyone was back on board, even the Puerto Rican crew.

The Puerto Rican crew wanted us to come back and wanted to work, to normalize things. It was so brave of them to be working full days and go back to their homes, where they had no water and no power, said Tempest.

The producer said the actors worked with the aid relief programs and helped raised thousands of dollars on their days off.

Adverse situations really bring out the best in people. Im so glad we got everyone back and the movie is turning out really well, said the producer, who now has a hurricane app on his phone.

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Workers of Puerto Rico's Electric Power Authority (PREPA) repair part of the electrical grid after Hurricane Maria hit the area in September, in Manati, Puerto Rico October 30, 2017. REUTERS/Alvin Baez (Reuters)

By Nick Brown

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Bondholders of Puerto Rico's bankrupt power utility, PREPA, said on Friday that the damage to the local electric grid by Hurricane Maria is not as bad as the island's government says, and could be fixed quickly with an outside energy expert in charge.

The PREPA bondholders made the argument in a written filing in federal court in San Juan. The utility filed for a form of bankruptcy in June to shed $9 billion of debt, while Puerto Rico's government filed for bankruptcy in May. It has $72 billion of total debt.

The bondholders want to persuade the judge overseeing the island's bankruptcy to pick an energy industry expert to run PREPA, from a list of names on which creditors may or may not have input.

Citing their own assessment of grid damage, led by energy consultant Derek HasBrouck, the bondholders said some 95 percent of transmission assets are fully functional, and observed only "a few broken poles" among 75 distribution substations that were visually inspected.

Those numbers contrast starkly with the Puerto Rican government's assessment that 80 percent of the electric grid was destroyed when Maria made landfall on September 20, the most powerful storm to hit Puerto Rico in decades.

Maria knocked out power to the entire island, and six weeks later only about 30 percent of electricity has been restored.

The PREPA bondholders, who include mutual funds like Oppenheimer and Franklin Advisers, say HasBrouck's findings prove Governor Ricardo Rossello's administration has botched the response to Maria and that PREPA needs an outside manager.

"It is imperative to retain an experienced, seasoned electric utility executive to run PREPA," the bondholders said.

In an interview with Reuters on Thursday, though, Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello dismissed the idea that damage has been overstated.

"To be clear and blunt, the devastation was severe," Rossello said. "There is no way to minimize how significant that devastation was."

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'NOT ZAMOT'

Whoever Puerto Rico's bankruptcy judge appoints to step in at PREPA, the bondholders argued, it should not be Noel Zamot.

The retired U.S. Air Force colonel was tapped for the role by a federal board that has a mandate to manage Puerto Rico's finances. Zamot has worked with the board already on separate issues.

His appointment must be confirmed by the judge. But Zamot, the bondholders argued, has no experience running a power utility.

Their opposition hints at a broader power struggle over control of Puerto Rico's financial turnaround between the board and investors bracing for big debt cuts.

The squabble marks a return to a focus on Puerto Rico's debt, after creditors stayed largely quiet for weeks following Maria, which killed at least 50 people on the island.

(Reporting by Nick Brown; editing by Daniel Bases and Rosalba O'Brien)
By Stephen Kalin and Katie Paul RIYADH (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's future king has tightened his grip on power through an anti-corruption purge by arresting royals, ministers and investors including billionaire Alwaleed bin Talal who is one of the kingdom's most prominent businessmen. Prince Alwaleed, a nephew of the king and owner of investment firm Kingdom Holding <4280.SE>, invests in firms such as Citigroup and Twitter . He was among 11 princes, four ministers and tens of former ministers detained, three senior officials told Reuters on Sunday. The purge against the kingdom's political and business elite also targeted the head of the National Guard Prince Miteb bin Abdullah who was detained and replaced as minister of the powerful National Guard by Prince Khaled bin Ayyaf. News of the purge came early on Sunday after King Salman decreed the creation of an anti-corruption committee chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, his 32-year-old favorite son who has amassed power since rising from obscurity three years ago. The new body was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions, and seize assets. "The homeland will not exist unless corruption is uprooted and the corrupt are held accountable," the royal decree said. Analysts say the arrests were another pre-emptive measure by the crown prince to remove powerful figures as he exerts control over the world's leading oil exporter. The round-up recalls the palace coup in June through which he ousted his elder cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, as heir to the throne and interior minister. MbS, as he is known, was expected to follow at least by removing Prince Miteb from leadership of the National Guard, a pivotal power-base rooted in the kingdom's tribes. Over the past year MbS has become the ultimate decision-maker for the kingdom's military, foreign, economic and social policies, causing resentment among parts of the Al Saud dynasty frustrated by his meteoric rise. Saudi Arabia's stock index <.TASI> was dragged down briefly but recovered to close higher as some investors bet the crackdown could bolster reforms in the long run. The royal decree said the arrests were in response to "exploitation by some of the weak souls who have put their own interests above the public interest, in order to, illicitly, accrue money." REFORM AGENDA The line between public funds and royal money is not always clear in Saudi Arabia, an absolute monarchy ruled by an Islamic system in which most law is not systematically codified and no elected parliament exists. WikiLeaks cables have detailed the huge monthly stipends that every Saudi royal receives as well as various money-making schemes some have used to finance lavish lifestyles. Analysts said the purge aimed to go beyond corruption and aimed to remove potential opposition to Prince Mohammed's ambitious reform agenda which is widely popular with Saudi Arabia's burgeoning youth population but faces resistance from some of the old guard more comfortable with the kingdom's traditions of incremental change and rule by consensus. In September, the king announced that a ban on women driving would be lifted, while Prince Mohammed is trying to break decades of conservative tradition by promoting public entertainment and visits by foreign tourists. The crown prince has also slashed state spending in some areas and plans a big sale of state assets, including floating part of state oil giant Saudi Aramco [IPO-ARMO.SE] on international markets. Prince Mohammed also led Saudi Arabia into a two-year-old war in Yemen, where the government says it is fighting Iran-aligned militants, and a row with neighboring Qatar, which it accuses of backing terrorists, a charge Doha denies. Detractors of the crown prince say both moves are dangerous adventurism. The most recent crackdown breaks with the tradition of consensus within the ruling family, wrote James Dorsey, a senior fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. "Prince Mohammed, rather than forging alliances, is extending his iron grip to the ruling family, the military, and the National Guard to counter what appears to be more widespread opposition within the family as well as the military to his reforms and the Yemen war," he said. Scholar Joseph Kechichian said the interests of the Al Saud, however, would remain protected. "Both King Salman and heir apparent Mohammed bin Salman are fully committed to them. What they wish to instill, and seem determined to execute, is to modernize the ruling establishment, not just for the 2030 horizon but beyond it too," he said. Many ordinary Saudis praised the crackdown as long-awaited. OPULENT HOTEL Other detainees include former Finance Minister Ibrahim al-Assaf, a board member of national oil giant Saudi Aramco; ousted Economy Minister Adel Fakieh, who once played a major role in drafting MbS' reforms; former Riyadh Governor Prince Turki bin Abdullah and Khalid al-Tuwaijiri, who headed the Royal Court under the late King Abdullah. People on Twitter applauded the arrests of certain ministers with some comparing them to "the night of the long knives", a violent purge of political leaders in Nazi Germany in 1934. Bakr bin Laden, chairman of the big Saudi Binladin construction group, and Alwaleed al-Ibrahim, owner of the MBC television network, were also detained. At least some of the detainees were held at the opulent Ritz-Carlton hotel in the diplomatic quarter of Riyadh, said sources in contact with the government and guests whose plans had been disrupted. The hotel's exterior gate was shuttered on Sunday morning and guards turned away a Reuters reporter, saying it had been closed for security reasons though private cars and ambulances were seen entering through a rear entrance. The hotel and an adjacent facility were the site of an international conference promoting Saudi Arabia as an investment destination just 10 days ago attended by at least one of those now being held for questioning. The detentions follow a crackdown in September on political opponents of Saudi Arabia's rulers that saw some 30 clerics, intellectuals and activists detained. Prince Alwaleed, a flamboyant character, has sometimes used his prominence as an investor to aim barbs at the kingdom's rulers. In December 2015, he called then-U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump a "disgrace to all America" and demanded on Twitter that he withdraw from the election. Trump responded by tweeting: "Dopey Prince @Alwaleed_Talal wants to control our U.S. politicians with daddys money. Can't do it when I get elected." His father, Prince Talal, is considered one of the most vocal supporters of reform in the ruling Al Saud family, having pressed for a constitutional monarchy decades ago. (Additional reporting by Reem Shamseddine in Khobar and Rania El Gamal, Tom Arnold and Sylvia Westall in Dubai; Editing Samia Nakhoul, Matthew Mpoke Bigg and Edmund Blair)
Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc. SPPI incurred a loss of 22 cents per share in the third quarter of 2017, slightly narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 23 cents and in line with the year-ago loss. However, adjusted loss came in at 11 cents, wider-than the year ago loss of 7 cents.

Shares of the company are up more than 4.42% in after-hours trading on Nov 2 following the earnings release. Spectrum Pharmas shares have significantly outperformed the industry so far this year. The stock has gained 334.1% against the industrys registered decline of 0.1%.

Quarterly revenues came in at $36.4 million, up almost 9% from the year-ago quarter. The top line also surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $33.15 million.

Quarter in Detail

Total product sales came in at $31.2 million, up 3.2% year over year. Spectrum Pharma earns revenues from six marketed products  Fusilev ($1.8 million), Folotyn ($11.6 million), Zevalin ($2.7 million), Marqibo ($1.2 million), Beleodaq ($3.4 million) and Evomela ($10.5 million).

License fees and service revenues surged 65.4% year over year to $5.2 million, which includes a milestone payment of $5 million for achieving approval of Folotyn in Japan.

Adjusted research & development expenses were $13.2 million, up 3.3%. Adjusted selling, general and administrative spending was up 3.1% to $16.1 million.

Pipeline Update

Spectrum Pharma is evaluating its lead pipeline candidate, poziotinib, in two separate phase II studies for the treatment of lung and breast cancer. During the quarter, the company had announced results from a preliminary analysis of the lung cancer study. The candidate achieved an objective response rate (ORR) of 73% in patients with EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. A multicenter study has also been initiated to expedite the development of poziotinib for this indication.

The company completed enrolling patients in phase III study, ADVANCE, on Rolontis in July, which is ahead of schedule. The study is conducted under a Special Protocol Assessment (SPA) agreement with the FDA evaluating Rolontis for treatment of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in patients with breast cancer. Top-line data from the study is expected in the first quarter of 2018. The company expects to file a biologics license application (BLA) in 2018.

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It is currently enrolling patients for an additional phase III study, RECOVER, to support the ADVANCE study data, to be filed with the BLA.

The companys bladder cancer candidate, Qapzola, is currently in a phase III study.

Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise

Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise | Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Quote

Zacks Rank & Stocks to Consider

Spectrum Pharma carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Some better-ranked stocks in the pharma sector include Agenus Inc. AGEN, Myriad Genetics, Inc. MYGN and Exelixis, Inc. EXEL, each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Agenus loss estimates remained stable at $1.17 for 2017 and narrowed from $1.40 to $1.36 for 2018 over the last 30 days. The company delivered a positive earnings surprise in three of the trailing four quarters with an average beat of 4.27%.

Myriads earnings per share estimates increased from $1.02 to $1.04 for 2017 and from $1.15 to $1.19 for 2018 over the last 30 days. The company delivered a positive earnings surprise in three of the four trailing quarters with an average beat of 6.17%. The companys shares soared 71.3% so far this year.

Exelixis earnings per share estimates remained stable at 26 cents for 2017 and increased from 63 cents to 68 cents for 2018 over the last 30 days. The company delivered positive earnings surprises in all the trailing four quarters with an average beat of 572.92%. The companys shares rallied 71.2% so far this year.

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The longest running soap opera in the telecommunications world came to an end on Saturday afternoon when T-Mobile and Sprint finally ended their on again, off again merger talks. Sprint majority owner and SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son couldnt convince T-Mobiles owner, Deutsche Telekom, to either give him enough say over the combined carrier to agree to a deal or enough money to make him go away happy.

Son was facing the ugly prospect that he might be getting little or no more value per share for SoftBank and other shareholders than the $7.65 he paid back in 2013 when he acquired almost 80% of struggling Sprint for $22 billion. And since T-Mobile, resurgent under CEO John Legere, had surpassed Sprint in stock market value, Son also was looking at having a minority stake with little influence in the combined carrier.

But Sons losswhich could grow quite large when trading opens in Sprints stock on Mondayis a huge win for wireless consumers. With four major players remaining in the wireless market, consumers should continue to benefit from competition that has lowered prices, eliminated two-year contracts, and done away with all sorts of annoying fees and extra charges. Had the market consolidated down to three, competition would likely have waned.

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In fact, antitrust regulators twice before prevented T-Mobile from being acquired (by AT&T in 2011 and by Son in 2014). It was only the surprise election of Donald Trump and his pro-business agenda that revived hopes that a deal could get done. And Trumps appointees seemed to be meeting those expectations. Under Trump-appointed chairman Ajit Pai, the Federal Communications Commission declared the wireless market had effective competition for the first time in eight years. Ironically, when the legal barriers to a merger were lowered, it was the economics of the deal that couldnt be worked out.

Other big winners are the workforces of the two carriers. One major rationale of combining the two companies was to drastically reduce expenses. Analysts estimated that 20,000 to 30,000 workers could have been laid off and thousands of retail store locations closed.

Story continues

The two dominant carriers, AT&T t and Verizon vz , will probably be sad to see the deal die, however. They have been competing harder this year, making some progress with new unlimited data plans, but getting whacked by investors. Shares of AT&T have lost 22% so far this year and Verizon is off 11%. Consolidation could have eased the pressure from the two smaller carriers, which have led the way on lower prices and better deals.

Son now faces the daunting task of continuing to bolster Sprint, already weighed down by more than $30 billion of debt, or find another merger partner. It doesnt help that Son promised Saturday that SoftBank would buy another 5% or so of Sprints outstanding shares that it doesnt already own. That may prop up Sprints stock price a bit in the short run, but it also diverts more than $1 billion that could have been used for improving the carriers network, attracting more customers or other uses with more of a long-term payoff.

The heavy debt load and mixed operating record may have been a large part of what torpedoed the deal in the first place. Long-time telecom analyst Craig Moffett, of MoffettNathanson Research, had been warning for months that Sprints s rising stock price, largely due to merger speculation, couldnt be supported by the carriers financial results. T-Mobile tmus and Deutsche Telekom would be unlikely to pay a premium to what he saw as an inflated valuation, Moffett had warned.

Were not saying it cant be done, but we are saying that the odds being assigned to success are simply too high, the analyst noted back in December.

In the end, the odds of completing a deal turned out to be zero.
President Donald Trump's pro-business agenda has been welcome news for U.S. manufacturing icons like Boeing.

The airplane manufacturing giant inked a $13.8 billion deal with Singapore Airlines recently that would create 70,000 jobs in the United States.

House Republicans have adhered to the Trump administrations promise, proposing a reduction in the corporate tax rate to 20% from the current 35% rate, which will increase the average U.S. household income and grow the economy.

I know things like a 20% corporate tax rate will allow us to be more competitive in the global marketplace. That's what our competitors enjoy today around the world. And when we're more competitive, we win in the marketplace, and that allows us to invest and grow for the future, Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in an exclusive interview with FOX Business Maria Bartiromo.

The Boeing CEO said tax reform is detrimental to generating job growth and energizing economy.

I would say tax reform is the single most important thing we can do to generate jobs growth in the U.S., the single most important thing we can do to energize economic growth, Muilenburg said.

Boeing, the worlds largest airplane manufacturer, is a big part of the aerospace trade surplus sector with more than 13,000 medium and small businesses and 1.5 million manufacturing jobs as part of that supply chain.

[Corporate tax reform] certainly benefits big companies like Boeing, but even more importantly, it benefits our supply chain, those medium and small businesses, where a lot of the job generation is happening. And corporate tax reform will allow us to invest for the future, make additional capital investments, and continue to grow and win in the marketplace, Muilenburg said on FOX Business Wall Street Week.

The strong demand for commercial airlines has allowed Boeing (NYSE:BA) to have a solid cash flow and a strong operating performance that has pushed the stock to lead the Dow, up over 80% since the election.

Story continues

We have a tremendous backlog right now, almost $500 billion of backlog in our company across commercial and defense. So translating that backlog into top line growth over the next many years we think is a big opportunity.

Muilenburg said the long--term sustained cash growth business and year-over-year cash growth will allow the worlds largest airplane manufacturing to invest in innovation.

Boeing has won in the marketplace for 100 years because of innovation, and we need to continue to invest in innovation for the future. And our cash generation strength is what allows us to do that, he said.

Related Articles
Saudi Aramco just got a high-profile pitch for its upcoming initial public offering. It came from the president of the United States himself.The world's largest oil company will debut its shares on the Saudi domestic market, called the Tadawul, but it is also expected to list on at least one foreign exchange in the second half of next year. Its decision, which it has yet to announce, is being closely watched. On Saturday, President Donald Trump specifically requested the company opt for the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ICE) , tweeting that the IPO would be "important" to the U.S. Trump is currently in Hawaii ahead of a 13-day tour through Asia. Trump tweet The Big Board is the world's largest equity market trading companies with a combined market capitalization of $21.3 trillion as of June and is seen as an enduring symbol of American capitalism. Where Saudi Aramco lists also carries weighty regulatory implications for the company, as listing on a U.S. or European exchange comes with financial disclosure requirements, as well as Western-style corporate governance and transparency expectations. The Trump administration has been engaged in an aggressive courtship of Saudi Arabia, in part as a check against the ambitions of Iran. In May, as part of Trump's maiden trip abroad, the U.S. inked a $350 billion arms deal with the nation, in a move that solidified an alliance marred by controversy over the years. Saudi Aramco's offering is likely to be one of the biggest, if not the biggest, in history. Depending on who's being asked, the company's valuation is pegged at somewhere north of $1 trillion . Recently, the company has appointed JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM) , Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) and HSBC (: HSFC'B) to assist with its mammoth IPO next year. Last month, Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser told CNBC the plan to take a portion of the state-owned oil giant's business public next year remained on track , but was cagey about its choice of an international listing venue. In that interview, Nasser said that the Saudis "enjoyed" Trump's trip to the kingdom, calling it "a very successful visit... [that] gained a lot of support here in terms of strengthening relations and collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the U.S."Spokespeople for both Saudi Aramco and the NYSE declined to comment on Saturday.CNBC's Sam Meredith and Holly Gamble contributed to this article. Saudi Aramco just got a high-profile pitch for its upcoming initial public offering. It came from the president of the United States himself. The world's largest oil company will debut its shares on the Saudi domestic market, called the Tadawul, but it is also expected to list on at least one foreign exchange in the second half of next year. Its decision, which it has yet to announce, is being closely watched. On Saturday, President Donald Trump specifically requested the company opt for the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ICE) , tweeting that the IPO would be "important" to the U.S. Trump is currently in Hawaii ahead of a 13-day tour through Asia. Trump tweet The Big Board is the world's largest equity market trading companies with a combined market capitalization of $21.3 trillion as of June and is seen as an enduring symbol of American capitalism. Where Saudi Aramco lists also carries weighty regulatory implications for the company, as listing on a U.S. or European exchange comes with financial disclosure requirements, as well as Western-style corporate governance and transparency expectations. The Trump administration has been engaged in an aggressive courtship of Saudi Arabia, in part as a check against the ambitions of Iran. In May, as part of Trump's maiden trip abroad, the U.S. inked a $350 billion arms deal with the nation, in a move that solidified an alliance marred by controversy over the years. Saudi Aramco's offering is likely to be one of the biggest, if not the biggest, in history. Depending on who's being asked, the company's valuation is pegged at somewhere north of $1 trillion . Recently, the company has appointed JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM) , Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) and HSBC (: HSFC'B) to assist with its mammoth IPO next year. Last month, Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser told CNBC the plan to take a portion of the state-owned oil giant's business public next year remained on track , but was cagey about its choice of an international listing venue. In that interview, Nasser said that the Saudis "enjoyed" Trump's trip to the kingdom, calling it "a very successful visit... [that] gained a lot of support here in terms of strengthening relations and collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the U.S." Spokespeople for both Saudi Aramco and the NYSE declined to comment on Saturday. CNBC's Sam Meredith and Holly Gamble contributed to this article.



More From CNBC


The Waymo logo is displayed during the company's unveiling of a self-driving Chrysler Pacifica minivan during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., January 8, 2017. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/Files (Reuters)

By Peter Henderson

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - A federal judge in San Francisco made it more difficult for Alphabet Inc's Waymo unit to prove it suffered financially from the alleged theft of autonomous car trade secrets by Uber Technologies Inc , ruling to exclude testimony from Waymo's damages expert.

Waymo has estimated damages in the case at about $1.9 billion, according to court filings. Uber has denied using any of Waymo's trade secrets and rejects the financial damages claim.

Uber and Waymo, rivals in the development of autonomous car technology, have been fighting in court since earlier this year about whether Uber benefited from trade secrets and other intellectual property allegedly stolen by former Waymo engineer Anthony Levandowski. Trial is set for early December.

U.S. District Court Judge William Alsup late on Thursday issued an order excluding Waymo's damages expert, Michael Wagner, from the case and restricting use of financial evidence at trial and denying other relief, according to a docket entry.

The docket summarizes the decision, but the details are under seal until later on Friday.

University of Florida law professor Elizabeth Rowe said it was a setback for Waymo to have its damages expert excluded, but noted there were still ways to include the information, were the scope of the exclusion limited to the one person.

In a statement, Waymo said the company could still pursue full damages using "the same documents" relied upon by their expert.

Uber described the ruling on the expert as a sign of success, together with Alsup's exclusion of Otto Trucking as a defendant in the case. Levandowski is the primary shareholder of Otto Trucking.

"Waymo's case continues to shrink," the ride-services company said in a statement.

Alsup recently agreed to Waymo's request to delay a trial to decide the dispute from October to early December, citing the need to investigate evidence Uber had not disclosed earlier.

Story continues

Waymo sued Uber in February, claiming that Levandowski - the former head of Uber's self-driving effort who was previously at Waymo - downloaded more than 14,000 confidential files before leaving Waymo to set up a self-driving truck startup company that Uber then acquired.

Waymo in settlement talks had sought at least $1 billion from Uber, which rejected that and other terms as non-starters, sources previously told Reuters. [nL2N1MN02X]

Waymo main priority is to win a permanent injunction against Uber using any Waymo intellectual property, another source familiar with the company's thinking said.

(Additional reporting by Alexandria Sage, editing by G Crosse and Lisa Shumaker)
The documents also show around 10 million ($13 million) of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II's private money was placed in funds held in the Cayman Islands and Bermuda (AFP Photo/Yui Mok) (POOL/AFP/File)

London (AFP) - Millions of pounds from the private estate of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II have been invested in offshore tax haven funds, a huge new leak of financial documents revealed on Sunday.

Around A10 million ($13 million, a11.3 million) of the Queen's private money was placed in funds held in the Cayman Islands and Bermuda, according to the leaked papers, which were first reported in Britain by the BBC and the Guardian newspaper.

They said the funds reinvested the money in an array of businesses, including controversial rent-to-own retailer, BrightHouse, which has been accused of exploiting the poor, and a chain of alcohol stores which later went bankrupt.

The investments, which were entirely legal, were made through the Duchy of Lancaster, which provides the monarch with an income and handles investments of her vast estate and remain current, the media outlets said.

There is no suggestion that the Queen's private estate acted illegally or failed to pay any taxes due.

But the leaks may raise questions over whether it is appropriate for the British head of state to invest in offshore tax havens.

- 'One rule for the super-rich' -

A spokeswoman for the Duchy of Lancaster said: "All of our investments are fully audited and legitimate."

"We operate a number of investments and a few of these are with overseas funds."

She added: "the Queen voluntarily pays tax on any income she receives from the Duchy."

The spokeswoman noted that one of the fund investments represents only 0.3 percent of the total value of the Duchy.

Meanwhile the money put into BrightHouse "is through a third party", and equates to just 0.0006 percent of the Duchy's value, she added.

The investments emerged as part of a new mass leak -- dubbed the Paradise Papers -- by the US-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), which was behind the 2016 Panama Papers release.

The latest haul contains 13.4 million documents mainly from Appleby, an offshore law firm with offices in Bermuda and beyond, which were first obtained by the German newspaper SAddeutsche Zeitung, and shared with the ICIJ and partner media outlets.

Story continues

A spokesman for the British government's taxation department on Sunday defended its efforts to tackle avoidance, noting it had secured an additional A160 billion ($209 billion, a180 billion) in taxes since 2010.

"This includes more than A2.8 billion from those trying to hide money abroad to avoid paying what they owe," he said in a statement.

The spokesman added the department has 26,000 staff working on tax avoidance and evasion, while the government has provided an extra A800 million ($1 billion, a900 million) to fund their efforts.

Jeremy Corbyn, the left-leaning leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party, reacted to the leaks on Twitter, linking to a video in which he had challenged the government on the issue in Parliament.

"There's one rule for the super-rich and another for the rest when it comes to paying tax," he wrote.
pierrealexandre77 wrote:

Once they had seen the report from the medical examiner, the investigators did not doubt whether the body recovered from the river was the man who had attempted to escape from the state prison.



(A) did not doubt whether the body recovered from the river was



(B) have no doubt whether the body recovered from the river was



(C) had not doubted that the body recovered from the river was



(D) have no doubt whether the body recovered from the river was that of



(E) had no doubt that the body recovered from the river was that of

Concepts tested here: Tenses + Comparison

A:

B:

C:

D:

E:

Correct.

Hence, E is the best answer choice.

Dear Friends,Here is a detailed explanation to this question- A comparison can only be made between similar things. If a sentence contains multiple past actions, the past perfect tense (marked by the use of the helping verb had) is used to refer to all but the most recent action; the simple past tense is used to refer to the most recent action. The simple present tense is used to indicate actions taking place in the current time frame, indicate habitual actions, state universal truths, and convey information that is permanent in nature.Trap:1/ This answer choice incorrectly compares "the body recovered from the river" to "the man who had attempted to escape from the state prison"; remember, a comparison can only be made between similar things.1/ This answer choice incorrectly uses the simple present tense verb "have" to refer to the latest of multiple actions that concluded in the past - the man attempting to escape, the investigators seeing the report from the medical examiner, and the investigators having no doubt that the body was that of the man; remember, if a sentence contains multiple past actions, the past perfect tense (marked by the use of the helping verb had) is used to refer to all but the most recent action; the simple past tense is used to refer to the most recent action, and the simple present tense is used to indicate actions taking place in the current time frame, indicate habitual actions, state universal truths, and convey information that is permanent in nature.2/ Option B incorrectly compares "the body recovered from the river" to "the man who had attempted to escape from the state prison"; remember, a comparison can only be made between similar things.1/ This answer choice incorrectly uses the past perfect tense verb "had not doubted" to refer to the latest of multiple actions that concluded in the past - the man attempting to escape, the investigators seeing the report from the medical examiner, and the investigators having no doubt that the body was that of the man; remember, if a sentence contains multiple past actions, the past perfect tense (marked by the use of the helping verb had) is used to refer to all but the most recent action; the simple past tense is used to refer to the most recent action.2/ Option C incorrectly compares "the body recovered from the river" to "the man who had attempted to escape from the state prison"; remember, a comparison can only be made between similar things.1/ This answer choice incorrectly uses the simple present tense verb "have" to refer to the latest of multiple actions that concluded in the past - the man attempting to escape, the investigators seeing the report from the medical examiner, and the investigators having no doubt that the body was that of the man; remember, if a sentence contains multiple past actions, the past perfect tense (marked by the use of the helping verb had) is used to refer to all but the most recent action; the simple past tense is used to refer to the most recent action, and the simple present tense is used to indicate actions taking place in the current time frame, indicate habitual actions, state universal truths, and convey information that is permanent in nature.1/ This answer choice correctly uses the simple past tense verb "had" to the latest of multiple actions that concluded in the past - the man attempting to escape, the investigators seeing the report from the medical examiner, and the investigators having no doubt that the body was that of the man; remember, if a sentence contains multiple past actions, the past perfect tense (marked by the use of the helping verb had) is used to refer to all but the most recent action.2/ Option E correctly compares "the body recovered from the river" to "that (the body) of the man who had attempted to escape from the state prison".To understand the concept of "Simple Tenses" on GMAT, you may want to watch the following video (~2 minutes):To understand the concept of "Past Perfect Tense" on GMAT, you may want to watch the following video (~2 minutes):All the best!Team_________________
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New Delhi, Nov 3 (IBNS): Maris Kucinskis, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Latvia, called on President of India Ram Nath Kovind, at Rashtrapati Bhavan here on Friday.

Welcoming the Latvian Prime Minister to India, the President said that this visit is of historic significance as it is the first ever visit of a Latvian Prime Minister to India. It takes place as we are celebrating 25 years of establishment of our diplomatic relations.

The President said that bilateral relations between India and Latvia are warm and friendly.

"We should work together to enhance our economic relations. We deeply appreciate Latvias participation in the World Food India 2017 event. Latvia has acquired strengths in the agro-food processing sector and the participation of Latvian companies at World Food India will benefit both sides," he said.

The President stated that the Government of India has introduced programmes like Make in India, Smart Cities, Digital India and Clean India which present opportunities for Latvian companies. Latvia can also gain from the strengths of Indian industry, particularly in the IT and pharma sectors.

The President said that we deeply value our strong cultural ties and people-to-people connect with Latvia.

He expressed happiness that the Centre for India Studies and Culture established in the University of Latvia is promoting yoga and Hindi.

He was glad that a new Centre for Baltic Culture and Studies has been opened at the Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya in Haridwar.

He stated that this will further deepen cultural and academic contacts between India and the Baltic region.

The President noted that the Latvian Prime Minister will be inaugurating the Honorary Consulate of Latvia and attending business meetings in Mumbai tomorrow. He expressed confidence that these will help in further strengthening our bilateral ties.
The Iranian opposition movement and its President-elect, Maryam Rajavi, is leading a campaign to isolate the regime in Tehran. It welcomes the new White House strategy that delegitimizes the Iranian regime. Rajavi called on Trump and the international community to work toward the ultimate solution, regime overthrow and the establishment of freedom and democracy in Iran.

By refusing to give approval to the nuclear deal, and designating the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on the list of terrorist organizations, the new US policy is targeting at the heart of the Iranian regime. According to the Washington Post the strategy marks an important change in US policy on the Middle East: a shift from focusing on war against ISIS and towards the end of Irans expansionism in the region.

The steps taken by the White House to carry out this policy include the visit by US Secretary of State to Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region, imposition of sanctions on Hezbollah for being the military wing of IRGC in Lebanon, and sanctions on companies, financial institutions and individuals related to the regimes ballistic missiles programs.

According to F. Mahmoudi, Kurdish-Iranian political and human rights activist, in his Al Arabiya article, Therefore, there is no reason for any objection by European countries to the new White House policy. European states are only thinking of securing their financial and economic interests with Iran, as not only the political and military power of the Iranian regime but also economic control lie in the hands of the IRGC.

Sanctions against the Iranian regime, IRGC and Hezbollah will put European companies and banks in serious danger if they deal with this regime and its affiliates.

Additionally, the sanctions and the terrorist designation of IRGC have put Hasan Rouhani, who earlier presented himself to the West as a moderate, in a position of fully supporting the IRGC.

Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, reacting to the new US strategy, defended the IRGCs presence in Iraq, Syria and Yemen and asked Europeans to stand strongly against Trumps policy. However, it is believed that Europe will eventually choose the US instead of Iran and it will not sacrifice billion of dollars in trade benefits with the US. Additionally, Europe cannot accept the risk of Trumps threat of leaving NATO.

It appears that the only options left with Iranian authorities are confronting, retreating, or buying time until the end of the Trump presidency. Still, the regime must face the other factors at work against it, like the social disaffection within Iran towards the regime, and the recognition of the main opposition movements  the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and Peoples Mujahideen of Iran (PMOI)  by US and its allies in the region.

There is now an opportunity, with the current international situation, for the Iranian people and its main opposition movement (NCRI and PMOI), as well as for the people of Middle East and the whole world, for these factors that can lead to regime change and put an end to Irans destabilization activities in the Middle East.
Turnout for the annual Iranian street rallies that commemorate the embassy takeover, a pivotal event of the Islamic Revolution, appeared higher this year, than when Barack Obama pursued detente with Tehran.

The 2015 nuclear deal with six world powers was reached during Obamas tenure. Under that deal, most international sanctions on Iran were lifted in exchange for Tehran curbing nuclear activity. Trump broke ranks with European allies, Russia and China last month, and refused to re-certify Irans compliance, even though Iran reaffirmed its commitment to the deal and UN inspectors have verified Tehran is complying with its terms.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened to shred the pact if the United States pulls out. Additionally, a senior official accused President Donald Trump of a crazy return to confrontation with Tehran. State media reported that when Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, spoke to a rally in Tehran, he said, All the governments confirm that the American president is a crazy individual who is taking others toward the direction of suicide. Trumps policies against the people of Iran have brought them out into the streets today.

The other parties to the nuclear deal  Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany  have voiced concern over Trumps opposition, fearing this could stir new Middle East instability. Still, the Europeans share US concern over Irans ballistic missile program and destabilizing regional behavior. Senior Iranian officials continue to claim that the Islamic Republics missile program is solely defensive in nature, and state that it is not negotiable.

According to Tasnim news agency, as a sign of defiance, a Ghadr ballistic missile with a range of 2,000 kilometers was put on display near the ex-US embassy in Tehran, which is now a cultural center, during Saturdays street demonstration.

Tasnim added that Brig. General Hossein Salami, deputy head of the Revolutionary Guards, who oversee missile development, said, That America thinks Iran is going to put aside its military power is a childish dream.

Pictures of demonstrators nearby burning an effigy of Trump and holding up signs saying Death to America were posted by Fars news agency.

Soon after the 1979 revolution, when hard-line students seized the embassy and took 52 Americans hostage for 444 days, Iran and the United States severed diplomatic relations.

Tensions between the US and Iran have risen again, at a time when Tehran has been improving political and military ties with Russia. In fact, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Tehran on Wednesday, where Khamenei told him that Tehran and Moscow must step up cooperation to isolate the United States and help defuse conflict in the Middle East. Iran and Russia both fight on the side of Syrian President Bashar al Assad.
In his televised resignation speech, delivered from the Saudi capital of Riyadh, Hariri blindsided both his government and staff in Beirut, bringing a dramatic end to an 11-month government that had largely failed to impose authority on a parliament split along regional lines, or on an economy weighed down by debt and corruption.

In his statement, Hariri warned, Iran has a strong desire to destroy the Arab world. He said, the evil that Iran sends to the region will eventually backfire on Tehran. He said, Iran controls the region and the decision-making in both Syria and Iraq, but added, that Iran was losing in its interference in the affairs of the Arab world, and stated that Lebanon would rise as it had done in the past and cut off the hands that wickedly extend into it.

Stressing his rejection of the use of Hezbollahs weapons against the Lebanese and Syrians, Hariri pointed out that the intervention of Hezbollah caused us problems with our Arab neighborhood.

Hariri said that he is aware that there are assassination plots against his life saying: I sensed that there are people who secretly want me dead.

He said the atmosphere in the country is similar to the one that existed before his father, the late prime minister Rafik Hariri, was assassinated in 2005. He claimed that he feared the same fate as his assassinated father if he remained as leader. We are living in a climate similar to the atmosphere that prevailed before the assassination of (his father the late prime minister) martyr Rafik al-Hariri. I have sensed what is being plotted covertly to target my life, he said.

We will not allow Lebanon to become a trigger for the security of the region, Hariri explained, and said that frustration and fragmentation in Lebanon is unacceptable.

Lebanese President Aoun confirmed that Prime Minister Hariris office called him from Saudi Arabia with the news of the resignation.

Leader of the Future Movement, Dr. Mustafa Alloush, stated that that the upcoming days will be a period of militarization.

Hariri was appointed prime minister in late 2016 and headed a 30-member national unity cabinet that included the Shiite militant Hezbollah.

The country has been protected by the government from the effects of the civil war in neighboring Syria.

It is expected that tensions will in the country, with Hariris resignation.
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What if you could wave your phone over a piece of fish at a store and immediately see a record of its path through the supply chain?

This may soon be possible. Current experiments are testing technology that can show how the fish was caught, when it was shipped and how it was processed at a factory.

This technology, called Blockchain, is being tested for its potential to bring light to secretive industries in Southeast Asia.

Same technology, new uses

Blockchain was first developed to confirm dealings in bitcoin, a digital money. In that case, the technology creates a public financial record.

In Southeast Asia important records, including those of identity information and property ownership, are often not carefully kept.

Erin Murphy is the founder and leader of Inle Advisory Group, a business advisory company working in Myanmar and other countries with developing markets. She said Blockchain technology helps make business operations in such countries safer and easier.

"Ideally, we would want to see adoption of Blockchain at an official level all across the region. But perhaps not surprisingly, the governments that are leading Blockchain adoption are those that are already low-corruption," she told VOA.

In some countries like Singapore, Murphy said Blockchain is being used to improve customer service processes. However in other countries, like the Philippines, Blockchain helps citizens safely send money home from foreign countries.

Murphy said the technology will help development, lower poverty, and increase foreign investment.

Observing the flow

Right now, there are many programs in Southeast Asia experimenting with Blockchain technology.

In June, the United Nations presented a Blockchain-based system built in partnership with the technology company Microsoft and professional services company Accenture. The system gives stateless refugees a permanent identity record based on biometric data.

The technology is also being explored in connection with efforts to improve voting system security.

A Blockchain based app developed to observe the supply chain of fish from Indonesia is now being used with other industries, including clothing.

Results from a pilot project can be found on the internet. Viewers can observe the movement of a piece of clothing from an alpaca farm in Dulverton, Britain, through every step of production to its final stop at a shop in London.

Alisa DiCaprio is the head of research at R3, a banking software company that uses technology similar to Blockchain. She said getting the technology and being able to use it are separate issues.

Most countries have engineers who can rightly code the technology, she said. However, they do not always understand how to make it work for businesses and industries.

DiCaprio predicts it will take about five years before we actually see Blockchain used widely. She said she believes the most important effects of the technology will be seen on a macro-economic level.

Division in the community

However, the Blockchain community is divided on how the technology should be used.

Some see Blockchain as a tool that can interfere with a global financial system they believe is corrupt.

"There is a serious opportunity for us here to remove money out of government," said a Southeast Asia based bitcoin trader.

He said billions of people who are unable to use an official banking system will be able to move money with just a phone.

Another group wants to see Blockchain technology used by states, such as Canada, Singapore, China and Germany. All of these countries are exploring or experimenting with digital money using Blockchain.

Michael Hsieh is with the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University. He suggested that Blockchain creates a threat for governments only if they ignore the technology. Countries that use it to establish safe and honest systems for money exchange will appeal to business and investment interests, he said.

Im Phil Dierking.

This story was originally written for VOANews by David Boyle. Phil Dierking adapted the story for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor.

Do you think digital money services like bitcoin and Blockchain are safe? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

code - v. to change information into a set of letters, numbers, or symbols that can be read by a computer.

customer - n. someone who buys goods or services from a business.

potential - n. a chance or possibility that something will happen or exist in the future.

biometric data - n. computer information including samples, models, fingerprints, similarity scores and all verification of a person excluding the individual's name and demographics.

macro - adj. large

supply chain - n. the sequence of processes involved in the production and distribution of a commodity.

transaction - n. an occurrence in which goods, services, or money are passed from one person, account, etc., to another.
For most college students, the main goal of higher education is earning a degree that will lead to a successful and satisfying career.

The years spent working on a program of study can be fun and include life-changing experiences. And many college classes provide students with interesting information that they may not have even thought about before.

Still, the most important thing for most students is what those years of hard work and studying can bring them once they graduate.

But Jennifer Simons argues that there are many valuable things people can learn before they even attend their first college class. Simons is the director of undergraduate admissions and recruitment at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts.

Simons says the college application process can teach young people a lot about supporting themselves and making connections with others.

In the United States, the process starts in the final two years of high school, when students are about 16 or 17 years old. This is the time when young people are forced to consider what happens after they leave high school. They face questions like, Where do you want to go to college? and What will you study?

There are so many choices available to students that these questions can seem very difficult to answer, Simons says. So she suggests that young people try to get a better understanding of themselves before making any decisions.

Simons says that young people should start keeping a journal, or written record, of their ideas well before they start thinking about college. They should ask themselves questions, like Who am I?, What do I want out of life?, and What are my strengths and weaknesses? Students should then try to write down answers to these and other questions once a day, or even weekly. Also, Simons adds, they should try to take note of meaningful events that teach them something about the world or themselves.

The answers to these general questions, she says, will likely give students a better understanding of how to answer more specific questions. They will have a better idea about where they might want to spend four years of their lives while working toward a college degree, for example. It can also give young people ideas of what to talk about in writing samples that most college applications require.

In addition, she says, students who know their own strengths will better understand how to ask people they know to write letters of recommendation for them.

Simons says the more young people know about themselves, they more likely they are to make decisions that will make them happy. This includes more than just decisions about college.

"If you understand who you are," she told VOA, "you are less likely to fall prey to somebody elses vision for what you should be or where you should go."

Something else students can take from the application process, Simons notes, relates to how busy the process makes them. High schoolers already have their studies, personal relationships and possibly jobs to worry about. The application process requires them to find schools that interest them, find out how to request admission and prepare application materials.

Simons argues that balancing responsibilities is one of the most important skills anyone can learn.

She said, "I think that you really are laying the groundwork for becoming an adult by learning how to prioritize your time."

However, Simons admits that learning time management can be very difficult for young people. So learning to ask for help when you need it is another equally important lesson. School counselors, older students, and friends and family members who have attended college can all be important resources.

But with asking for help also comes thanking people once you have received it, Simons says. A simple thing young people can learn to do is sending a letter or an email thanking those who helped them get into their school of choice.

Relationship-building like this is important outside the college application process. Simons suggests that students should make such efforts with teachers, classmates and anyone they meet. This can help them in the future as they look for jobs or continue their education.

One final lesson students can take from the application process is accepting that their control of the situation is limited, Simons says. She points out that every college and university in the United States receives hundreds, if not thousands of applications every year. Competition is fierce, so not everyone is going to get into their first or even second choice of school.

"There are many places where you could be happy," she said. "I think that is human to  feel like, Oh, this is the perfect fit. And that happens in relationships, too. But, theres more than one place where you could be satisfied  and thats a good thing to know, that nothing is the only option."

Simons says that accepting defeat and learning how to move past it is probably the most important lesson of all.

Im Pete Musto. And Im Dorothy Gundy.

Pete Musto reported this for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

We want to hear from you. If you are a current or former college student, what did you learn from the process of applying to your school? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

degree  n. an official document and title that is given to someone who has successfully completed a series of classes at a college or university

graduate  v. to earn a degree or diploma from a school, college, or university

application  n. a formal and usually written request for something (such as a job, admission to a school, or a loan

specific  adj. special or particular

recommendation  n. the act of saying that someone or something is good and deserves to be chosen

fall prey to  idm. to be harmed or affected in a bad way by (someone or something

vision  n. something that you imagine

prioritize  v. to organize things so that the most important thing is done or dealt with first

time management  n. the act or process of deciding how to best use ones time

counselor(s)  n. a person who provides advice as a job
S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit

S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit

S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine Invest in Innovative Tech for the Smart Home (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit
Brookfield Asset Management is an alternative asset manager and REIT/Real Estate Investment Manager firm focuses on real estate, renewable power, infrastructure and venture capital and private equity assets. It manages a range of public and private investment products and services for institutional and retail clients. It typically makes investments in sizeable, premier assets across geographies and asset classes. It invests both its own capital as well as capital from other investors. Within private equity and venture capital, it focuses on acquisition, early ventures, control buyouts and financially distressed, buyouts and corporate carve-outs, recapitalizations, convertible, senior and mezzanine financings, operational and capital structure restructuring, strategic re-direction, turnaround, and under-performing midmarket companies. It invests in both public debt and equity markets. It invests in private equity sectors with focus on Business Services include infrastructure, healthcare, road fuel distribution and marketing, construction and real estate; Industrials include manufacturers of automotive batteries, graphite electrodes, returnable plastic packaging, and sanitation management and development; and Residential/ infrastructure services. It targets companies which likely possess underlying real assets, primarily in sectors such as industrial products, building materials, metals, mining, homebuilding, oil and gas, paper and packaging, manufacturing and forest product sectors. It invests globally with focus on North America including Brazil, the United States, Canada; Europe; and Australia; and Asia-Pacific. The firm considers equity investments in the range of $2 million to $500 million. It has a four-year investment period and a 10-year term with two one-year extensions. The firm prefers to take minority stake and majority stake. Brookfield Asset Management Inc. was founded in 1997 and based in Toronto, Canada with additional offices across Northern America; South America; Europe; Middle East and Asia.
S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit

S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit

S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine The 3-Stock Retirement Blueprint (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit
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.
The following companies are subsidiares of Ingersoll Rand: 13125882 Canada Inc., 211 E. Russell Road LLC, 4458664 Canada Inc., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES ASIA PTE. LTD., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES BORROWER S.C.A., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES LLC, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES MIDDLE EAST FZE, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES SERVICES LIMITED, ASTRUM IT GmbH, Accudyne Industries Acquisition S.A r.l, Accudyne Industries Canada Inc., Accudyne Industries S.A r.l., Air Dimensions, Air Dimensions Inc., Albin Pump SAS, BOC Edwards Global Low pressure Air business, CISA S.p.A., Cameron-Centrifugal Compression, Comercial Ingersoll-Rand (Chile) Limitada, Comingersoll-Comercio E Industria De Equipamentos S.A., CompAir, CompAir (Hankook) Korea Co. Ltd., CompAir Acquisition (No. 2) Ltd., CompAir Acquisition Ltd., CompAir BroomWade Ltd., CompAir Finance Ltd., CompAir GmbH, CompAir Holdings Limited, CompAir International Trading (Shanghai) Co Ltd, CompAir Korea Ltd, CompAir South Africa (SA) (Pty) Ltd., Consolidated Distribution Holdings Ltd., DV Systems Inc., Dosatron International SAS, Emco Wheaton Gmbh, Emco Wheaton USA Inc, Enza Air Proprietary Limited, FlexEnergy Holdings LLC, Frigoblock Grosskopf Gmbh, GD Aria Holdings Limited, GD Aria Holdings Limited, GD Aria Investments Limited, GD First (UK) Ltd, GD German Holdings GmbH, GD German Holdings I Gmbh, GD German Holdings II GmbH, GD German Investments GmbH, GD Global Holdings II Inc., GD Global Holdings Inc., GD Global Holdings UK II Ltd., GD Global Ventures I B.V., GD Global Ventures II B.V., GD Global Ventures III B.V., GD Industrial Products Malaysia SDN. BHD., GD Investment KY, GD UK Finance Ltd., GPS Industries, Gardner Denver (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Austria GmbH, Gardner Denver Bad Neustadt Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Belgium NV, Gardner Denver Brasil Industria E Comercio de Maquinas Ltda., Gardner Denver CZ + SK sro, Gardner Denver Canada Corp (Canada), Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments II Limited, Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments Limited, Gardner Denver Deutschland GmbH, Gardner Denver Engineered Products India Private Limited, Gardner Denver FZE, Gardner Denver Finance II LLC, Gardner Denver Finance Inc & Co KG, Gardner Denver France SAS, Gardner Denver Group Svcs Ltd, Gardner Denver Holdings Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Investments Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Ltd, Gardner Denver Iberica SL, Gardner Denver Inc., Gardner Denver Industries Ltd., Gardner Denver Industries Pty Ltd., Gardner Denver International Inc., Gardner Denver International Ltd., Gardner Denver Investments Inc., Gardner Denver Italy Holdings S.r.L., Gardner Denver Japan Ltd., Gardner Denver Kirchhain Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Korea Ltd., Gardner Denver Ltd., Gardner Denver Machinery (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Nash Brasil Industria E Comercio De Bombas Ltda, Gardner Denver Nash LLC, Gardner Denver Nash Machinery Ltd., Gardner Denver Nederland BV, Gardner Denver Nederland Investments B.V., Gardner Denver Oy, Gardner Denver Polska Sp z.o.o., Gardner Denver Pte. Ltd., Gardner Denver S.r.l., Gardner Denver Schopfheim GmbH, Gardner Denver Schopfheim Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Schweiz AG, Gardner Denver Slovakia s.r.o., Gardner Denver Sweden AB, Gardner Denver Taiwan Ltd., Gardner Denver Thomas GmbH (f/k/a ILMVAC GmbH), Gardner Denver Thomas Inc., Gardner Denver Thomas Pneumatic Systems (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Thomas Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Garo Dott. Ing. Roberto Gabbioneta S.r.l., Ghh-Rand Schraubenkompressoren Gmbh, HASKEL EUROPE LTD., HASKEL HOLDINGS UK LIMITED, HASKEL INTERNATIONAL LLC, Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom, Haskel France SAS, Haskel Sistemas de Fluidos Espana S.R.L., Hibon Inc., Highspeed Newco LLC, Hingerose Limited, ILMVAC (UK) Ltd., ILS Innovative Labor Systeme, ILS Inovative Laborsysteme GmbH, INGERSOLL RAND ITS JAPAN LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHANG ZHOU) TOOLS CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHINA) INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND CHINA LLC, INGERSOLL-RAND COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE MAQUINAS E EQUIPAMENTOS INDUSTRIAIS LTDA., INGERSOLL-RAND DE PUERTO RICO INC., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL COMPANY B.V., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL SP. Z O.O., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL U.S. INC., INGERSOLL-RAND PHILIPPINES INC., INGERSOLL-RAND SPAIN S.A., INGERSOLL-RAND U.S. HOLDCO INC., IR HPS Holdco. Inc., ITO Emniyet, Ingersoll Rand Cyprus Investments Ltd., Ingersoll Rand Finance LLC, Ingersoll Rand Global Investments LLC, Ingersoll Rand Global Ventures LLC, Ingersoll Rand Hong Kong Investments Limited, Ingersoll Rand Inc., Ingersoll Rand Investments (SG) Pte. Ltd., Ingersoll Rand Investments B.V., Ingersoll Rand Schweiz Investments Gmbh, Ingersoll Rand Technology R&D (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand (Australia) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand (China) Investment Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Guilin) Tools Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Hong Kong) Holding Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (India) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Air Solutions Hibon Sarl, Ingersoll-Rand Beteiligungs Und Grundstucksverwaltungs Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Colombia S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Company Limited (Uk), Ingersoll-Rand Company South Africa (Pty) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Cz S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand De Mexico S.A. De C.V., Ingersoll-Rand Equipements De Production S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Industrial Ireland Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International (India) Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Italia S.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Italiana Manufacturing S.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Korea Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Korea Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Lux Investments II S.A R.I., Ingersoll-Rand Lux Investments S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Industrial Company S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Machinery (Shanghai) Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Malaysia Co. Sdn. Bhd., Ingersoll-Rand S.A. De C.V., Ingersoll-Rand Services And Trading Limited Liability Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Singapore Enterprises Pte. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand South East Asia (Pte.) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Superay Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technical And Services S.A.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Technologies And Services Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technology R&D (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Tool Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Trading Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Vietnam Company Limited, Instrum Rand JSC, Interflex Datensysteme, Ir Canada Holdings Ulc, Ir Canada Sales & Service Ulc, Ir France Sas, Kryptonite corp, Lawrence Factor Inc., LeROI, LeRoi International Inc, MILTON ROY (HONG KONG) LIMITED, MILTON ROY (UK) LIMITED, MILTON ROY EUROPA B.V., MILTON ROY EUROPE SAS, MILTON ROY INDUSTRIAL (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., MILTON ROY LLC, MILTON ROY US PURCHASER INC., MP Pumps Inc., Maximum AG Technologies Inc., Maximus Solutions, Mb Air Systems Limited, Nash Elmo, Officina Meccaniche Industriali Srl, Oina VV, Oina VV Aktiebolag, Plurifilter D.O.O., Pt Ingersoll-Rand Indonesia, Robuschi, Runtech Systems, Runtech Systems (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Runtech Systems Inc., Runtech Systems OY, SEEPEX, Seepex (M) SDN, Seepex Australia Pty Ltd, Seepex Beteiligungs-Gesellschaft mit Beschrankter Haftung, Seepex France S.a.r.l., Seepex GmbH, Seepex Inc., Seepex India Private Ltd., Seepex Italia SRL, Seepex Japan Co. Ltd., Seepex Nordic A/S, Seepex OOO, Seepex Pumps (Shanghia) Co. Ltd., Seepex UK Ltd., Shanghai CompAir Compressors Co Ltd, Shanghai Compressors & Blowers Ltd., Shanghai Ingersoll-Rand Compressor Limited, Shenzhen Bocom System Engineering Co., Superay, Syltone, TIWR Real Estate GmbH & Co. KG, Tamrotor Marine Comp AS Norway, Tecno Matic Europe s.r.o., Thomas Industries Inc., Trane Technologies, Tri-Continent Scientific Inc., Vacuum and Blower Systems division, Welch Vacuum Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zaxe Technologies Inc., Zeks Compressed Air Solutions Llc, Zinsser Analytic, Zinsser Analytik GmbH, Zinsser NA Inc., and crayon interface.

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AbbVie Inc. discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals in the worldwide. The company offers HUMIRA, a therapy administered as an injection for autoimmune and intestinal Behcet's diseases; SKYRIZI to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults; RINVOQ, a JAK inhibitor for the treatment of moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients; IMBRUVICA to treat adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and VENCLEXTA, a BCL-2 inhibitor used to treat adults with CLL or SLL; and MAVYRET to treat patients with chronic HCV genotype 1-6 infection. It also provides CREON, a pancreatic enzyme therapy for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency; Synthroid used in the treatment of hypothyroidism; Linzess/Constella to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation; Lupron for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer, endometriosis and central precocious puberty, and patients with anemia caused by uterine fibroids; and Botox therapeutic. In addition, the company offers ORILISSA, a nonpeptide small molecule gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist for women with moderate to severe endometriosis pain; Duopa and Duodopa, a levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel to treat Parkinson's disease; Lumigan/Ganfort, a bimatoprost ophthalmic solution for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension; Ubrelvy to treat migraine with or without aura in adults; Alphagan/ Combigan, an alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist for the reduction of IOP in patients with OAG; and Restasis, a calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppressant to increase tear production, as well as other eye care products. AbbVie Inc. has a research collaboration with Dragonfly Therapeutics, Inc. The company was incorporated in 2012 and is headquartered in North Chicago, Illinois.
The following companies are subsidiares of PepsiCo: Alimentos Quaker Oats y Compania Limitada, Alimentos del Istmo S.A., Amavale Agricola Ltda., Anderson Hill Insurance Limited, Asia Bottlers Limited, BAESA Capital Corporation Ltd., BFY Brands, BFY Brands LLC, BFY Brands Limited, BUG de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Balmoral Industries LLC, Bare Foods Co., Barrhead LLC, Be & Cheery, Beaman Bottling Company, Bebidas Sudamerica S.A., Beech Limited, Bell Taco Funding Syndicate, Bendler Investments II Ltd, Bendler Investments S.a r.l, Beverage Services Limited, Beverages Foods & Service Industries Inc., Bishkeksut OJSC, Blaue NC S. de R.L. de C.V., Blue Cloud Distribution Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Arizona Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Arkansas Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Colorado Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Florida Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Georgia Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Illinois Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Indiana Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Iowa Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Kentucky Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Louisiana Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Minnesota Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Mississippi Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Missouri Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Nebraska Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Nevada Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of North Carolina Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Ohio Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Oklahoma Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Pennsylvania Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of South Carolina Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Tennessee Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Texas Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Virginia Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Wisconsin Inc., Blue Ridge Sales LLC, Bluebird Foods Limited, Bluecan Holdings Unlimited Company, Bokomo Zambia Limited, Bolsherechensky Molkombinat JSC, Boquitas Fiestas LLC, Boquitas Fiestas S.R.L., Bottling Group Financing LLC, Bottling Group Holdings LLC, Bottling Group LLC, Bronte Industries Ltd, C & I Leasing Inc., CB Manufacturing Company Inc., CEME Holdings LLC, CMC Investment Company, Caroni Investments LLC, Centro-Mediterranea de Bebidas Carbonicas PepsiCo S.L., Ceres Fruit Juices Pty Ltd, ChampBev Inc., China Concentrate Holdings Hong Kong Limited, Chipsy International for Food Industries S.A.E., Chipsy for Food Industries S.A.E., Chitos Internacional y Cia Ltda, Cipa Industrial de Produtos Alimentares Ltda., Cipa Nordeste Industrial de Produtos Alimentares Ltda., Cocina Autentica Inc., Comercializadora CMC Investment y Compania Limitada, Comercializadora Nacional SAS Ltda., Comercializadora PepsiCo Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., Compania de Bebidas PepsiCo S.L., Concentrate Holding Uruguay Pte. Ltd., Concentrate Manufacturing Singapore Pte. Ltd., Confiteria Alegro S. de R.L. de C.V., Copella Fruit Juices Limited, Copper Beech International LLC, Corina Snacks Limited, Corporativo Internacional Mexicano S. de R.L. de C.V., CytoSport Holdings Inc., CytoSport Inc., Davlyn Realty Corporation, Defosto Holdings Limited, Desarrollo Inmobiliario Gamesa S. de R.L. de C.V., Dilexis S.A., Donon Holdings Limited, Drinkfinity USA Inc., Drinkstation Inc., Drinkstation Innovation Co. Ltd., Drinkstation Limited, Dutch Snacks Holding S.A. de C.V., Duyvis Production B.V., EPIC Enterprises Inc., Echo Bay Holdings Inc., Elaboradora Argentina de Cereales S.R.L., Enter Logistica LLC, Environ at Inverrary Partnership, Environ of Inverrary Inc., Eridanus Investments S.a r.l, Evercrisp Snack Productos de Chile S.A., FL Transportation Inc., FLI Andean LLC, FLI Colombia LLC, FLI Snacks Andean GP LLC, Fabrica PepsiCo Mexicali S. de R.L. de C.V., Fabrica de Productos Alimenticios Rene y Cia S.C.A., Fairlight International SRL, Far East Bottlers Hong Kong Limited, Food Concepts Pioneer Ltd., Forest Akers Nederland B.V., Forty-Six Peaks Holding Inc., Fovarosi Asvanyviz es Uditoipari Zartkoruen Mukodo Reszvenytarsasag, Freshwater International B.V., Frito Lay Gida Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Frito Lay Poland Sp. z o.o., Frito Lay Sp. z o.o., Frito Lay de Guatemala y Compania Limitada, Frito-Lay Australia Holdings Pty Limited, Frito-Lay Dip Company Inc., Frito-Lay Dominicana S.A., Frito-Lay Global Investments B.V., Frito-Lay Inc., Frito-Lay Investments B.V., Frito-Lay Manufacturing LLC, Frito-Lay Netherlands Holding B.V., Frito-Lay North America Inc., Frito-Lay Sales Inc., Frito-Lay Trading Company Europe GmbH, Frito-Lay Trading Company GmbH, Frito-Lay Trading Company Poland GmbH, Frito-Lay Trinidad Unlimited, Fruko Mesrubat Sanayi Limited Sirketi, GB Czech LLC, GB International Inc., GB Russia LLC, GB Slovak LLC, GMP Manufacturing Inc., Gambrinus Investments Limited, Gamesa LLC, Gamesa S. de R.L. de C.V., Gas Natural de Merida S. A. de C. V., Gatorade Puerto Rico Company, General Bottlers of Hungary Inc., Golden Grain Company, Goveh S.R.L., Grayhawk Leasing LLC, Green Hemlock International LLC, Grupo Frito Lay y Compania Limitada, Grupo Gamesa S. de R.L. de C.V., Grupo Mabel, Grupo Sabritas S. de R.L. de C.V., Gulkevichskiy Maslozavod JSC, Hangzhou Baicaowei Corporate Management Consulting Co. Ltd., Hangzhou Haomusi Food Co, Hangzhou Haomusi Food Co. Ltd., Hangzhou Tao Dao Technology Co. Ltd., Health Warrior, Health Warrior Inc., Heathland LP, Helioscope Limited, Hillbrook Inc., Hillgrove Inc., Hillwood Bottling LLC, Hogganfield Limited Partnership, Holding Company "Opolie" JSC, Homefinding Company of Texas, Hudson Valley Insurance Company, IC Equities Inc., IZZE Beverage Co., Inmobiliaria Interamericana S.A. De C.V., Integrated Beverage Services Bangladesh Limited, Integrated Foods & Beverages Pvt. Ltd., International Bottlers Management Co. LLC, International KAS Aktiengesellschaft, Inversiones Borneo S.R.L., Inversiones PFI Chile Limitada, Inviting Foods Holdings Inc., Inviting Foods LLC, KAS Anorthosis S.a r.l, KAS S.L., KFC, Kevita Inc., Kinvara LLC, Kungursky Molkombinat JSC, Larragana S.L., Latin American Holdings Ltd., Latin American Snack Foods ApS, Latin Foods International LLC, Lebedyansky, Lebedyansky Holdings LLC, Lebedyansky LLC, Limited Liability Company "Sandora", Linkbay Limited, Lithuanian Snacks UAB, Mabel, Marbo Product d.o.o. Beograd, Marbo d.o.o. Laktasi, Matudis - Comercio de Produtos Alimentares Limitada, Matutano - Sociedade de Produtos Alimentares Lda., Mid-America Improvement Corporation, Mountainview Insurance Company Inc., Muscle Milk, NCJV LLC, New Bern Transport Corporation, New Century Beverage Company LLC, Noble Leasing LLC, Northeast Hot-Fill Co-op Inc., Office at Solyanka LLC, Onbiso Inversiones S.L., One World Enterprises LLC, One World Investors Inc., P-A Barbados Bottling Company LLC, P-A Bottlers Barbados SRL, P-Americas LLC, PAS Luxembourg S.a r.l, PAS Netherlands B.V., PBG Canada Holdings II LLC, PBG Canada Holdings Inc., PBG Cyprus Holdings Limited, PBG Investment Partnership, PBG Midwest Holdings S.a r.l, PBG Soda Can Holdings S.a r.l, PCBL LLC, PCNA Manufacturing Inc., PR Beverages Cyprus Holding Limited, PR Beverages Cyprus Russia Holding Limited, PRB Luxembourg S.a r.l, PRS Inc., PSAS Inversiones LLC, PSE Logistica S.R.L., PT Quaker Indonesia, Papas Chips S.A., Pei N.V., Pep Trade LLC, Pepsi B.V., Pepsi Beverages Holdings Inc., Pepsi Bottling Group Global Finance LLC, Pepsi Bottling Group GmbH, Pepsi Bottling Group Hoosiers B.V., Pepsi Bottling Holdings Inc., Pepsi Bugshan Investments S.A.E., Pepsi Cola Colombia Ltda, Pepsi Cola Egypt S.A.E., Pepsi Cola Panamericana S.R.L., Pepsi Cola Servis Ve Dagitim Limited Sirketi, Pepsi Cola Trading Ireland, Pepsi Logistics Company Inc., Pepsi Northwest Beverages LLC, Pepsi Overseas Investments Partnership, Pepsi Promotions Inc., Pepsi-Cola Advertising and Marketing Inc., Pepsi-Cola Bermuda Limited, Pepsi-Cola Bottlers Holding C.V., Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company Of St. Louis Inc., Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Ft. Lauderdale-Palm Beach LLC, Pepsi-Cola Company, Pepsi-Cola Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Pepsi-Cola Far East Trade Development Co. Inc., Pepsi-Cola Finance LLC, Pepsi-Cola General Bottlers Poland Sp. z o.o., Pepsi-Cola Industrial da Amazonia Ltda., Pepsi-Cola International Cork, Pepsi-Cola International LLC, Pepsi-Cola International Limited, Pepsi-Cola International Limited U.S.A., Pepsi-Cola International Private Limited, Pepsi-Cola Korea Co. Ltd., Pepsi-Cola Management and Administrative Services Inc., Pepsi-Cola Manufacturing Company Of Uruguay S.R.L., Pepsi-Cola Manufacturing International Limited, Pepsi-Cola Manufacturing Mediterranean Limited, Pepsi-Cola Marketing Corp. Of P.R. Inc., Pepsi-Cola Mediterranean Ltd., Pepsi-Cola Metropolitan Bottling Company Inc., Pepsi-Cola Mexicana Holdings LLC, Pepsi-Cola Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Pepsi-Cola National Marketing LLC, Pepsi-Cola Operating Company Of Chesapeake And Indianapolis, Pepsi-Cola Sales and Distribution Inc., Pepsi-Cola Technical Operations Inc., Pepsi-Cola Thai Trading Co. Ltd., Pepsi-Cola de Honduras S.R.L., Pepsi-Cola of Corvallis Inc., PepsiAmericas Nemzetkozi Szolgaltato Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, PepsiCo ANZ Holdings Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Alimentos Antioquia Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos Colombia Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos Ecuador Cia. Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos Z.F. Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos de Bolivia S.R.L., PepsiCo Amacoco Bebidas Do Brasil Ltda., PepsiCo Asia Research & Development Center Company Limited, PepsiCo Australia Financing Cyprus Limited, PepsiCo Australia Financing Limited Partnership, PepsiCo Australia Financing Partner 1 LLC, PepsiCo Australia Financing Partner 2 LLC, PepsiCo Australia Financing Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Australia Holdings Pty Limited, PepsiCo Australia International, PepsiCo Austria Services GmbH, PepsiCo Azerbaijan Limited Liability Company, PepsiCo BeLux BV, PepsiCo Beverage Sales LLC, PepsiCo Beverage Singapore Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Beverages Bermuda Limited, PepsiCo Beverages Hong Kong Limited, PepsiCo Beverages International Limited, PepsiCo Beverages Italia Societa' A Responsabilita' Limitata, PepsiCo Canada Finance LLC, PepsiCo Canada Holdings ULC, PepsiCo Canada Investment ULC, PepsiCo Canada ULC, PepsiCo Captive Holdings Inc., PepsiCo Caribbean Inc., PepsiCo China Limited, PepsiCo Consulting Polska Sp. z o.o., PepsiCo De Bolivia S.R.L., PepsiCo Del Paraguay S.R.L., PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH, PepsiCo Eesti AS, PepsiCo Euro Bermuda Limited, PepsiCo Euro Finance Antilles B.V., PepsiCo Europe Support Center S.L., PepsiCo Finance Americas Company, PepsiCo Finance Antilles A N.V., PepsiCo Finance Antilles B N.V., PepsiCo Finance South Africa Proprietary Limited, PepsiCo Financial Shared Services Inc., PepsiCo Food & Beverage Holdings Hong Kong Limited, PepsiCo Foods A.I.E., PepsiCo Foods China Company Limited, PepsiCo Foods Group Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Foods Guangdong Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Foods Nigeria Limited, PepsiCo Foods Private Limited, PepsiCo Foods Sichuan Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Foods Taiwan Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Foods Vietnam Company, PepsiCo France SAS, PepsiCo Global Business Services India LLP, PepsiCo Global Business Services Poland Sp. z o.o., PepsiCo Global Holdings Limited, PepsiCo Global Investments B.V., PepsiCo Global Investments S.a r.l, PepsiCo Global Mobility LLC, PepsiCo Global Real Estate Inc., PepsiCo Global Trading Solutions Unlimited Company, PepsiCo Golden Holdings Inc., PepsiCo Group Finance International B.V., PepsiCo Group Holdings International B.V., PepsiCo Group Spotswood Holdings S.a r.l, PepsiCo Gulf International FZE, PepsiCo Hellas Single Member Industrial and Commercial Societe Anonyme, PepsiCo Holding de Espana S.L., PepsiCo Holdings, PepsiCo Holdings LLC, PepsiCo Holdings Toshkent LLC, PepsiCo Hong Kong LLC, PepsiCo Iberia Servicios Centrales S.L., PepsiCo India Holdings Private Limited, PepsiCo India Sales Private Limited, PepsiCo Internacional Mexico S. de R. L. de C. V., PepsiCo International Hong Kong Limited, PepsiCo International Limited, PepsiCo International Pte Ltd., PepsiCo Investments Europe I B.V., PepsiCo Investments Ltd., PepsiCo Ireland Food & Beverages Unlimited Company, PepsiCo Japan Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Light B.V., PepsiCo Logistyka Sp. z o.o., PepsiCo Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., PepsiCo Management Services SAS, PepsiCo Manufacturing A.I.E., PepsiCo Max B.V., PepsiCo Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., PepsiCo Nederland B.V., PepsiCo Nordic Denmark ApS, PepsiCo Nordic Finland Oy, PepsiCo Nordic Norway AS, PepsiCo Nutrition Trading DMCC, PepsiCo One B.V., PepsiCo Overseas Corporation, PepsiCo Overseas Financing Partnership, PepsiCo Panimex Inc, PepsiCo Products B.V., PepsiCo Products FLLC, PepsiCo Puerto Rico Inc., PepsiCo Sales Inc., PepsiCo Sales LLC, PepsiCo Services Asia Ltd., PepsiCo Services CZ s.r.o., PepsiCo Services LLC, PepsiCo Twist B.V., PepsiCo UK Pension Plan Trustee Limited, PepsiCo Ventures B.V., PepsiCo Wave Holdings LLC, PepsiCo World Trading Company Inc., PepsiCo Y LLC, PepsiCo de Argentina S.R.L., PepsiCo de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., PepsiCo do Brasil Industria e Comercio de Alimentos Ltda., PepsiCo do Brasil Ltda., PepsiCola Interamericana de Guatemala S.A., Pet Iberia S.L., Pete & Johnny Limited, Pine International LLC, Pine International Limited, Pinstripe Leasing LLC, Pioneer Food Group Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods Groceries Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods Group Ltd., Pioneer Foods Holdings Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods UK Ltd, Pioneer Foods Wellingtons Pty Ltd, Pipers Crisps Limited, PlayCo Inc., Pop corners, PopCorners Holdings Inc., Portfolio Concentrate Solutions Unlimited Company, Premier Nutrition Trading L.L.C., Prestwick LLC, Prev PepsiCo Sociedade Previdenciaria, Productos Alimenticios Rene LLC, Productos S.A.S. C.V., Productos SAS Management B.V., Punch N.V., Punica Getranke GmbH, Q O Puerto Rico Inc., QFL OHQ Sdn. Bhd., QTG Development Inc., QTG Services Inc., Quadrant - Amroq Beverages S.R.L., Quaker Development B.V., Quaker European Beverages LLC, Quaker European Investments B.V., Quaker Foods, Quaker Global Investments B.V., Quaker Holdings UK Limited, Quaker Manufacturing LLC, Quaker Oats Asia Inc., Quaker Oats Australia Pty Ltd, Quaker Oats B.V., Quaker Oats Capital Corporation, Quaker Oats Europe Inc., Quaker Oats Europe LLC, Quaker Oats Limited, Quaker Sales & Distribution Inc, Raptas Finance S.a r.l., Rare Fare Foods LLC, Rare Fare Holdings Inc., Reading Industries Ltd, Real Estate Holdings LLC, Rockstar Energy Drink, Rolling Frito-Lay Sales LP, S & T of Mississippi Inc., SIH International LLC, SVC Logistics Inc., SVC Manufacturing Inc., SVE Russia Holdings GmbH, Sabritas LLC, Sabritas S. de R.L. de C.V., Sabritas Snacks America Latina de Nicaragua y Cia Ltda, Sabritas de Costa Rica S. de R.L., Sabritas y Cia. S en C de C.V., Sakata Rice Snacks Australia Pty Ltd, Sandora Holdings B.V., Saudi Snack Foods Company Limited, Sea Eagle International SRL, Seepoint Holdings Ltd., Senselet Food Processing PLC, Senselet Holding B.V., Servicios GBF Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Servicios GFLG y Compania Limitada, Servicios Gamesa Puerto Rico L.L.C., Servicios SYC S. de R.L. de C.V., Seven-Up Asia Inc., Seven-Up Light B.V., Seven-Up Nederland B.V., Shanghai PepsiCo Snack Company Limited, Shanghai YuHo Agricultural Development Co. Ltd, Shoebill LLC, Simba (Proprietary) Limited, Simba Proprietary Limited, Sitka Spruce, Smartfoods Inc., Smiles and Bites Holdings S.de R.L. de C.V., Smiths Crisps Limited, Snack Food Investments GmbH, Snack Food Investments II GmbH, Snack Food Investments Limited, Snack Food-Beverage Asia Products Limited, Snacks America Latina S.R.L., Snacks Guatemala Ltd., So Spark Ltd., Soda-Club CO2 Atlantic GmbH, Soda-Club CO2 GmbH, Soda-Club CO2 Ltd., Soda-Club Switzerland GmbH, Soda-Club Worldwide B.V., SodaStream, SodaStream Australia Pty Ltd, SodaStream CO2 SA, SodaStream Canada Ltd., SodaStream Enterprises N.V., SodaStream France SAS, SodaStream GmbH, SodaStream Iberia S.L., SodaStream Industries Ltd., SodaStream International B.V., SodaStream International Ltd., SodaStream Israel Ltd., SodaStream K.K., SodaStream New Zealand Ltd., SodaStream Nordics AB, SodaStream Poland Sp. z o.o., SodaStream SA Pty Ltd., SodaStream Switzerland GmbH, SodaStream USA Inc., SodaStream Osterreich GmbH, South Beach Beverage Company Inc., South Properties Inc., Spitz International Inc., Sportmex Internacional S.A. de C.V., Springboig Industries Ltd, Spruce Limited, Stacy's Pita Chip Company Incorporated, Star Foods E.M. S.R.L., Stokely-Van Camp Inc., Stratosphere Communications Pty Ltd, Stratosphere Holdings 2018 Limited, Streamfoods Ltd, TFL Holdings LLC, Tasman Finance S.a r.l, The Gatorade Company, The Good Carb Food Company Ltd., The Pepsi Bottling Group Canada ULC, The Quaker Oats Company, The Smith's Snackfood Company Pty Limited, Thomond Group Holdings Limited, Tobago Snack Holdings LLC, Tropicana Alvalle S.L., Tropicana Beverages Limited, Tropicana Europe N.V., Tropicana United Kingdom Limited, Troya-Ultra LLC, United Foods Companies Restaurantes S.A., V-Water, VentureCo Israel Ltd, Veurne Snack Foods BV, Vitamin Brands Ltd., Walkers Crisps Limited, Walkers Group Limited, Walkers Snack Foods Limited, Walkers Snacks Distribution Limited, Walkers Snacks Limited, Whitman Corporation, Whitman Insurance Co. Ltd., Wimm-Bill-Dann Beverages JSC, Wimm-Bill-Dann Brands Co. Ltd., Wimm-Bill-Dann Central Asia-Almaty LLP, Wimm-Bill-Dann Foods LLC, Wimm-Bill-Dann Georgia Ltd., Wimm-Bill-Dann JSC, and Wimm-Bill-Dann Ukraine PJSC.

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Target Corporation has a long history dating back to 1902. The company began as Goodfellows Dry Goods, operated by George Dalton, and later changed its name via a progression of mergers and acquisitions. The first Target store was opened in Roseville, Minnesota in 1962 as the discount division of the parent company. The idea was discount or low-priced items could still be fashionable and desirable. After meeting great success in the home territory, the concept went public in the late 1960s was later expanded on a national level during the 1980s. Target Corporation is now the 7th largest retailer in the US and is projected to bring in more than $113 billion in revenue for fiscal 2023.

The department stores were shed in 2004 so today Target operates as a general merchandise retailer that serves on-trend items at discounted prices. It is known as a big box retailer and is a member of the S&P 500. The company listed about 2,000 stores in mid-2022 and had plans for growth. The company offers an assortment of everyday, household, and food goods in a bright and cheery atmosphere. It has set itself apart from other low-priced retailers as the chic choice for savvy shoppers. The companys stated purpose is to help families discover the joy of everyday life and it does so by offering quality products that families can afford.

The company sells its products through a chain of stores as well as eCommerce. eCommerce is about 20% of Targets total revenue and was boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Services like delivery, same-day pickup, and access to thousands of necessary and discretionary items are also driving adoption. Target also offers amenities like cafes and opticians, and it hosts Starbucks inside the stores.

Target Corporation has paid and increased its dividend for more than 5 decades. The company issued its 53rd consecutive distribution increase in calendar 2022 bringing the total annual payout to $4.32. In late October 2022, the payout was worth 2.7% in yield and came with a 40% payout ratio and a 9% distribution compound annual growth rate.

Target is a leader in ESG and giving back to the community. Among its many endeavors is to return 5% of its profits to community charities as well as to inspire its employees to volunteer. Volunteers donate more than 1 million man-hours per year.
The following companies are subsidiares of NOV: APL France SAS, APL Norway AS, APL do Brasil Ltda., ASEP Otomotiv Sanayi Ticaret Ltd., Acker Holdings LLC, Ackerman Holdings C.V., Ackerman Holdings GP LLC, Advanced Production and Loading, Advanced Wirecloth S. de R.L. de C.V., American Pipe and Construction International, Ameron B.V., Ameron International, Ameron International Corporation, Ameron Pole Products LLC, Ameron Polyplaster Industria E Comercio de Tubos Ltda., Ameron Singapore Holding LLC, Andergauge Limited, Andergauge Redback LLC, Arabian Rig Manufacturing Company, Big Red Tubulars Limited, Bondstrand Ltd., Brandt Oilfield Services (M) Sdn. Bhd., C.M.A. Canavera S.R.L., CJSC Fidmash, CJSC Novmash, Chemineer Inc., Coil Services Middle East LLC, Cooperatie Intelliserv Holding U.A., Cooperatie NOV NL U.A., Danco AS, Elmar Far East Pty Ltd, Enerflow Industries, Environmental Procedures LLC, Fiber Glass Systems (Qingdao) Composite Piping Co. Ltd., Fiber Glass Systems L.P., Fiber Glass Systems Oman L.L.C., Fiberspar, Fiberspar Australia Pty. Ltd., Fibra Ingenieria y Construccion S.A., FidService LLC, Fjords Processing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Fjords Processing AS, Fjords Processing Australia Pty Ltd, Fjords Processing France SAS, Fjords Processing Korea Co. Ltd., Fjords Processing Limited, Fjords Processing Middle East DMCC, Fjords Processing UK Ltd., Fryma S.a.r.l., GPEX L.P., Grant Prideco (Jiangsu) Drilling Products Co. Ltd, Grant Prideco (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Grant Prideco III C. V., Grant Prideco Inc., Grant Prideco Jersey Limited, Grant Prideco Mauritius Limited, Grant Prideco Netherlands B.V., Grant Prideco PC Composites Holdings LLC, Grant Prideco S. de R.L. de C.V., Grant Prideco de Venezuela S.A., GustoMSC B.V., Hebei Huayouyiji Tuboscope Coating Co. Ltd., Hydralift AmClyde Inc., Hydralift France SAS, Inspecciones y Pruebas No Destructivas S. de R.L. de C.V., IntelliServ Norway AS, Intelliserv GP Holdings LLC, Intelliserv Inc., Intelliserv International Holding Ltd, Intelliserv LLC, JiangYin Tuboscope Tubular Development Co. Ltd, Keystone Tower Systems Inc., MSI Pipe Protection Technologies UK Limited, Merpro Group Limited, Midsund Bruk AS, Mono Group Pension Trustees Limited, Mono Pumps New Zealand Company, Monoflo NOV S.A.I.C., Moyno Inc., NKT Flexibles I/S, NOV (Asia) Inc., NOV (Barbados) Holding SRL, NOV (Barbados) SRL, NOV (Caymans) Ltd., NOV (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., NOV - Oil Services Angola LDA., NOV APL Limited, NOV Africa Pty Ltd, NOV Australia Pty Ltd, NOV Azerbaijan LLC, NOV Brandt Europe France, NOV Brandt Oilfield Services Middle East LLC, NOV CAPS Pte. Ltd., NOV CV1 GP LLC, NOV CV2 GP LLC, NOV Canada ULC, NOV Completion Tools LLC, NOV Completion and Production Solutions Korea Ltd., NOV Denmark Cooperatief U.A., NOV Downhole Argentina LLC, NOV Downhole Bolivia S.R.L., NOV Downhole Colombia LLC, NOV Downhole Comercializacao de Equipamentos para Petroleo Ltda., NOV Downhole Congo LLC, NOV Downhole Eurasia Limited, NOV Downhole Italia S.R.L., NOV Downhole Kazakhstan LLC, NOV Downhole Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., NOV Downhole Pty Ltd, NOV Downhole Thailand LLC, NOV EU Acquisition SNC, NOV Elmar (Middle East) Limited, NOV Eurasia Holding LLC, NOV Expatriate Services Inc., NOV FGS Malaysia Sdn Bhd, NOV FGS Singapore (Pte.) Ltd, NOV Flexibles Equipamentos E Servicos Ltda., NOV Flexibles Holding ApS, NOV Fluid Control B.V., NOV GEO GP LLC, NOV GEO LP1 C.V., NOV GEO LP1 LLC, NOV GEO LP2 C.V., NOV GEO LP2 LLC, NOV Gabon SARL, NOV Germany GmbH, NOV Germany Holding GmbH, NOV Ghana Limited, NOV Grant Prideco Drilling Equipment Manufacturing LLC, NOV Grant Prideco Drilling Products Middle East FZE, NOV Grant Prideco L.L.C., NOV Holding Danmark ApS, NOV Holding Sub UK 1 Limited, NOV Holding UK 1 Limited, NOV Holding UK 2 Limited, NOV Holdings B.V., NOV India Private Limited, NOV Intelliserv UK Limited, NOV International Holdings C.V., NOV International Holdings GP LLC, NOV International Holdings LLC, NOV Intervention & Stimulation Equipment US LLC, NOV Intervention and Stimulation Equipment  Aftermarket Comercio de Equipamentos e Servicos Ltda., NOV Kenya Limited, NOV Kostroma LLC, NOV Kuwait Light & Heavy Equipment Repairing & Maintenance Co., NOV LP (Trading) LLC, NOV MFG India Private Limited, NOV Mexico Holding LLC, NOV Middle East FZCO, NOV Mozambique Limitada, NOV NL Mexico Holding B.V., NOV Oil & Gas Services Egypt (S.A.E), NOV Oil & Gas Services Senegal S.A.R.L., NOV Oil & Gas Services Uganda Limited, NOV Oil and Gas Services Ghana Limited, NOV Oil and Gas Services Namibia (Proprietary) Limited, NOV Oil and Gas Services Nigeria Limited, NOV Oil and Gas Services South Africa (Pty) Limited, NOV Oilfield Services Tanzania Limited, NOV Oilfield Services Vostok LLC, NOV Oilfield Solutions Ltd., NOV Park II B.V., NOV Process & Flow Technologies AS, NOV Process & Flow Technologies Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., NOV Process & Flow Technologies Pte. Ltd., NOV Process & Flow Technologies UK Limited, NOV QFZ LLC, NOV Rig Solutions Pte. Ltd., NOV Romania LLC, NOV Saudi Arabia Co. Ltd., NOV Saudi Arabia Trading Co., NOV Services Ltd., NOV Servicios de Personal Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., NOV Tanajib Kuwait for Services and Maintenance of Oil Rigs Refineries and Petrochemicals W.L.L., NOV Tuboscope Italia S.R.L., NOV Tuboscope Middle East LLC, NOV Tuboscope NL B.V., NOV Tubulars and Connectors Ltd., NOV UK (Angola Acquisitions) Limited, NOV UK Finance Limited, NOV UK Holdings LLC, NOV UK Holdings Limited, NOV UK Korea LP, NOV Wellbore Technologies Norway LLC, NOV Wellbore Technologies do Brasil Equipamentos E Servicos Ltda., NOV Wellsite Services Germany GmbH, NOV Worldwide B.V., NOV-BLM SAS, NOVM Holding LLC, NOW International LLC, NOW Nova Scotia Holdings LLC, NOW Oilfield Services LLC, NQL Holland B.V., National Oilwell (U.K.) Limited, National Oilwell Algerie, National Oilwell Varco (Beijing) Investment Management Co. Ltd., National Oilwell Varco (Thailand) Ltd., National Oilwell Varco Algeria, National Oilwell Varco Almansoori Services, National Oilwell Varco Bahrain WLL, National Oilwell Varco Belgium SA, National Oilwell Varco Denmark I/S, National Oilwell Varco Egypt LLC, National Oilwell Varco Eurasia LLC, National Oilwell Varco Guatemala Limitada, National Oilwell Varco Guyana Inc., National Oilwell Varco Hungary Limited Liability Company, National Oilwell Varco Korea Co. Ltd., National Oilwell Varco L.P., National Oilwell Varco MSW S.A., National Oilwell Varco Mexico S.A. de C.V., National Oilwell Varco Muscat L.L.C., National Oilwell Varco Norway AS, National Oilwell Varco Peru S.R.L., National Oilwell Varco Petroleum Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., National Oilwell Varco Poland Sp.z.o.o., National Oilwell Varco Pte. Ltd., National Oilwell Varco Rig Equipment Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., National Oilwell Varco Romania S.R.L., National Oilwell Varco Solutions S.A. de C.V., National Oilwell Varco UK Limited, National Oilwell Varco Ukraine LLC, National Oilwell Varco de Bolivia S.R.L., National Oilwell Varco de Chile - Servicios Limitada, National Oilwell Varco do Brasil Ltda., National Oilwell de Venezuela C.A., National-Oilwell Pte. Ltd., National-Oilwell Pty. Ltd., PT Fjords Processing Indonesia, PT H-Tech Oilfield Equipment, PT NOV Oilfield Services, PT National Oilwell Varco, PT PROFAB INDONESIA, Pesaka Inspection Services SDN.BHD., Pipex Limited, Pipex PX Limited, Pridecomex Holding S. de R.L. de C.V., R&M Energy Systems Australia Pty Ltd, R&M Energy Systems de Argentina S.A., R&M Energy Systems de Venezuela C.A., R&M Singapore Holding LLC, RE.MAC.UT. S.r.l., RHI Holding LLC, ReedHycalog International Holding LLC, ReedHycalog L.P., ReedHycalog LLC, ReedHycalog UK Limited, Robannic Overseas Finance A.V.V., Robbins & Myers B.V., Robbins & Myers Foundation, Robbins & Myers GP LLC, Robbins & Myers Holdings LLC, Robbins & Myers Holdings UK Limited, Robbins & Myers Inc, Robbins & Myers Inc., Robbins & Myers Italia S.R.L., Robbins & Myers N.V., Rodic S.A. de C.V., Romaco S.a.r.l., STAR Sudamtex Tubulares S.A., STSA, Screen Manufacturing Company Unlimited, Slip Clutch Systems Limited, South Seas Inspection, Subseaflex Holding ApS, T-3 Energy Preferred Industries Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., T-3 Energy Services Cayman Holdings Ltd., T-3 Energy Services Cayman Ltd., T-3 Energy Services LLC, T-3 Energy Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., T-3 Investment Corporation IV, T-3 Mexican Holdings Inc., Telluride Insurance Limited, Tianjin Grant TPCO Drilling Tools Company Limited, Tuboscope & Co. LLC, Tuboscope (Holding U.S.) LLC, Tuboscope Brandt de Venezuela S.A., Tuboscope Norge AS, Tuboscope Vetco (France) SAS, Tuboscope Vetco (Osterreich) GmbH, Tuboscope Vetco Capital Limited, Tuboscope Vetco Moscow CJSC, Tuboscope Vetco de Argentina S.A., Tubular Coatings Solutions Ltd., Tucom Composites Polyester Sanayi Ticaret Ltd., Urban WLY LP, Varco BJ B.V., Varco CIS LLC, Varco International de Venezuela C.A., Varco L.P., Varco US Holdings LLC, Vetco Enterprise GmbH, Vetco Saudi Arabia Ltd., Visible Assets Inc., Wilson International, Woolley Inc., XL Systems Antilles N.V., XL Systems Europe B.V., XL Systems International Inc., voestalpine Tubulars Corporation, voestalpine Tubulars GmbH, and voestalpine Tubulars GmbH & Co KG.

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PET scan of a human brain with Alzheimer's disease. Credit: public domain

Stanford University School of Medicine investigators have reported success in an early-phase clinical trial examining the safety, tolerability and feasibility of administering infusions of blood plasma from young donors to participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. There were also some signs suggesting improvements in participants' conditions.

Results from the PLASMA trial, short for Plasma for Alzheimer's Symptom Amelioration, will be presented Nov. 4 at the 10th annual Clinical Trial on Alzheimer's Disease conference in Boston by Sharon Sha, MD, a clinical associate professor of neurology and neurological sciences at Stanford and the trial's principal investigator.

Sha noted that the finding of safety wasn't surprising, given that blood-plasma infusions have long been in widespread use for other indications and are considered extremely safe. More surprising, she said, were hints of recipients' improvement on tests of functional ability: the capacity to perform basic tasks essential to independent daily life, such as remembering to take medications and being able to pay bills and prepare one's own meals.

The PLASMA trial was designed to test a hypothesis advanced by Tony Wyss-Coray, PhD, Stanford professor of neurology and neurological sciences and a senior research career scientist at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, whose research has shown that factors in the blood of young mice can rejuvenate the brain tissue and improve cognitive performance in old mice.

Larger studies needed

Sha, the clinical core co-leader of the Stanford Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the medical director of the Stanford Neuroscience Clinical Trials Group, cautioned that these assessments were based on caregiver reports and that the number of participants in the study18was small. Further studies on larger numbers of participants would be necessary before conclusions about efficacy could be reached, Sha said.

The trial took place at Stanford Hospital and was sponsored by Alkahest, a privately held biotechnology company headquartered in San Carlos, California. Alkahest holds intellectual property associated with the treatment regimen. Wyss-Coray, a co-founder of the company and chair of its scientific advisory board, continues to work full-time at Stanford. He was not involved in the clinical study.

The trial proceeded in two stages. In the first stage, nine participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease were given four weekly infusions either of plasmathe liquid, cell-free part of bloodobtained from donors 18-30 years old, or of placebo (a saline solution). Neither the participants nor those administering the infusions knew which of the two infusions any given participant was getting. Then, after a six-week "washout" period, the regimens were reversed: Those initially receiving plasma got four weekly infusions of placebo, and vice versa.

"Those participants served as their own controls," said Sha.

Multiple tests and questionnaires to ascertain mood, cognition and functional ability of the participants were administered to either participants or their caregivers before and after the first four-week infusion period, and again before and after the second four-week infusion period.

The total time elapsing between a participant's first and final visits, including a preliminary screening and a final visit, approached six months. The participants needed to make nearly a dozen round trips to Stanford, accompanied by a caregiver. So, to reduce the travel burden, the investigators decided to modify the design for their next group of nine participants.

These newcomers all received young-donor plasma infusions, and they and their caregivers, as well as the administrators, all knew it. This change cut the time between the first and final visits to 10-12 weeks for the second group of participants, and required commensurately fewer trips. These participants, like the first group, received the full battery of mood, cognition and functional-ability assessments.

Only a single, minor instance of a trial-related adverse eventexcessive itchingoccurred. Sha said this wasn't entirely unanticipated, as it can arise as a side effect of the infusion of any blood product. Another participant had a stroke, but this was considered unrelated to the treatment; the participant had received only four infusions of saline and, furthermore, had suffered the stroke at the end of the ensuing washout period, during which no infusions of any kind were administered.

Improvements in functional ability

An analysis of assessments once all participants had been treated showed no significant changes in participants' mood or their performance on tests of cognition involving tasks such as memorizing lists or recalling recent events, Sha said. These kinds of changes are typically observed only in clinical trials whose durations exceed one year, she added, so the absence of an effect here wasn't particularly unanticipated.

But on two of three different assessments of functional ability, participants showed statistically significant improvementthis, despite the trial's small size.

"That was surprising, to me," said Sha. "The trial wasn't powered to show efficacy."

At first, the investigators suspected that the report of improvements in functional ability might have been driven by the second group of participants, who along with their caregivers and the investigators themselves knew they were getting plasma; this could perhaps predispose caregivers to optimistic reporting. But examination of the data indicated that, to the contrary, it was the first group of participantswho had no idea whether they were getting plasma or placebowho showed the most improvement in functional ability after receiving plasma infusions.

"Our enthusiasm concerning these findings needs to be tempered by the fact that this was a small trial," Sha said. "But these results certainly warrant further study."

Alkahest has stated in a news release that based on the safety profile and signals of efficacy seen in the PLASMA trial, it is planning to advance the clinical development of a next-generation, proprietary plasma-derived product for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.

"I'm excited to see that giving repeated infusions of plasma to elderly people with Alzheimer's disease is safe and that we can move forward to larger studies," Wyss-Coray said. "But I'm also realistic enough to know that it is very easy to cure diseases in small animals and a million times more difficult in humans."
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Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping days in South Africa, especially for online retailers.

Over the past few years, many South African retailers have joined their American counterparts in offering big savings on a wide range of products on Black Friday.

This US tradition has taken hold in South Africa, and this year it is expected to be the biggest Black Friday ever.

Black Friday falls on 24 November in 2017, with many online and brick-and-mortar retailers running multi-day specials and one-day-only deals.

South African retailers which will offer top Black Friday deals are listed below.

Makro

Expect excellent deals on tech products, gadgets, and other goods from Makro.

Dion Wired

Dion Wired will offer great discounts on a wide range of tech and other products.

Takealot

Takealots 2017 Blue Dot Sale will run across every department of the online store, offering all the best Black Friday deals in one place.

Raru

Raru will offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, with unique, attractive offerings.

MultiChoice and DStv

MultiChoice will offer fantastic specials, and encourages people to keep an eye on its website on 23 November.

FirstShop

Expect big discounts on a range of technology products from FirstShop.

iStore

If you love Apple products, you do not want to miss its Black Friday deals.

eBucks

eBucks plans to give members great value by offering a 50% discount on its products.

OneDayOnly

OneDayOnly will have a large offering of products at incredible discounts.

The Digital Experience

The Digital Experience will slash prices on a range of technology products and appliances.

Loot

South Africans can look forward to great Black Friday deals from the shop.

Sage

Businesses can expect excellent deals from Sage.

MTN

MTN will hold exclusive deals that will make lives even brighter this summer.

PriceCheck

PriceCheck will offer deals in 24 categories for 24 hours.

Standard Bank

Standard Bank Business will offer South Africans something special on Black Friday.

Syntech

You can expect great deals on PC products, gadgets, and other goods from Syntech on Black Friday.

Travelstart

Travelstart has committed to offering flights at big discounts.

Spree

Spree is giving away R100,000 in Black Friday Vouchers through OneDayOnly.

Zando

Zando confirmed it will launch a Black Friday sale this year, offering discounts on clothing.

Checkers

Checkers promises that no other supermarket is going to bring you bigger savings or massive deals on Black Friday.

Chain Reaction Cycles

Chain Reactions Cycles is running 4 weeks of Black Friday deals, with discounts on bicycles and clothing.
Thanasis Bakolas shares concerns that Armenian politician banned from leaving Armenia

Biden and Sunak discuss missile incident in Poland at G20 summit

Erdogan: Biden administration is determined to sell F-16s to Turkey

Gold price remains stable

Copper falls in price

Microsoft to leave Azerbaijan

G7 and NATO leaders say they are ready to support Poland in investigation of bombings

Joe Biden asks Congress for new funding for Ukraine

Finance Minister: Capital expenses will greatly increase in Armenia in 2023

Azerbaijani MFA accuses French Senate of undermining relations normalization process between Baku and Yerevan

Armen Grigoryan to pay working visit to India

AP: Missile falls in Poland may have been fired by Ukraine to shoot down Russian missile

Erdogan plans to discuss fertilizer transportation and grain deal with Putin

Oil price falls

Blinken calls on Armenian Prime Minister to maintain momentum of peace talks with Azerbaijan

CNN: NATO aircraft tracked the trajectory of the missile that fell in eastern Poland

Armenian FM to visit Tunisia

Yerevan draft budget 2023 revealed

U.S. Embassy: Major General Daniel Lasica arrives in Armenia

Armenian MOD refutes another misinformation of Azerbaijani MOD

Media: Fire in Istanbul is caused by several explosions, not just one

Drone 'allegedly' blows up oil depot in Oryol Oblast

Trump officially announces that he will run for president in 2024

Anwar Gargash: UAE has no interest in choosing sides between great powers

Ukraine suspends oil pumping through Druzhba pipeline towards Hungary

Germany urgently needs gas turbines to stabilize power grids

Polish media report on fall of two missiles on country's territory

Economic downturn worsens in eastern EU due to a spike in inflation

U.S. believes that meeting between Biden and Jinping was strong signal to rest of world

Karabakh MFA welcomes resolution adopted by French Senate

Italy bans facial recognition technology and smart glasses

Germany to establish maintenance center in Slovakia for weapons supplied to Ukraine

Energy Ministry: Russia carried out most massive shooting of Ukraine's energy system since war starts

French Senate passes resolution calling for sanctions against Azerbaijan

Rishi Sunak hints that he will abandon plans to declare China 'threat' to national security

EU supports any call to phase out fossil fuel use

Secretary of Security Council of Armenia receives delegation of EU special envoys, member states

Armenian President Vahagn Khachatryan receives newly appointed ambassador of Cyprus

Zelenskyy's adviser: The situation after Russian shelling is critical

Newly appointed ambassador of Cyprus visits Armenian Genocide memorial

Borrell: EU countries must work together to replenish their military stocks

French Senator: Are the lives of Armenians worth less than the lives of Ukrainians?

Turkey plans to strike targets in northern Syria

Emergency power outages in Kyiv due to explosions

Lavrov calls Zelenskyy's speech at G20 summit performance beyond all regulations and decency

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince embarks on Asian tour

Ukrainian media report missile strikes in number of areas

Chinese 50-year-old man runs marathon smoking

Pashinyan receives delegation of EU special envoys, EU member states on Eastern Partnership

Bloomberg: Paris overtakes London to become Europe's largest stock market

Anti-Iranian rally held in Baku

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin: Pashinyan's approaches and wordings do not contribute to solving urgent problems

Borrell announces appearance of EU rapid reaction force in 2023

Norwegian Defense Minister pledges $30 million to NATO fund for Ukraine

Italy auctioned biggest truffle for record 184 thousand euros

Serviceman kills fellow soldier in Armenia

Kyodo: 67-year-old Japanese princess diagnosed with breast cancer

Mehriban Aliyeva hurriedly gives up her role of UNESCO 'Goodwill Ambassador' before French Senate meeting

Jeff Bezos says he's ready to give away most of his fortune

Britain to allocate $11.8m to rebuild Ukraine's energy infrastructure

Peskov: Kyiv cannot and doesn't want to negotiate, SVO will continue

Turkey detains another suspect in planning terrorist attack in Istanbul

Tasnim: Iranian authorities released 38 protesters in southeast

Terrorist attack: Number of detainees in Istanbul grows to 50

Armenian FM presents to Europeans consequences of September Azerbaijani aggression

Biden and Erdogan back extension of grain deal

Macron and Erdogan meet on G20 margins

UN: Earth's population is 8 billion people

Indian PM urges G20 countries to find peaceful solution to Ukraine

Minimum wage to rise in Armenia

Ministry: Air pollution level in Armenia up by 30-40% over the past five years

Erdogan and Biden hold talks in Bali

Media: Macron asks Xi Jinping to 'pressure' Putin to return to negotiations

UN: Armenia's population will decrease by 2050

Zelenskyy states that only realistic model of POW exchange is all for all

Ameriabank launches Google Pay, Google Wallet support for card users in Armenia

Argentine President Fernandez feels ill at G20 summit

Ruben Vardanyan receives head of ICRC mission: We must ensure a peaceful childhood for children living in Artsakh

Copper rises in price

Newspaper: Armenian Prime Minister wants to hold referendum on constitutional amendments in spring

Ardshinbank showcases the Google Pay for Android fans in Armenia

Zelenskyy calls not to offer Ukraine compromise with territory and independence

Secretary of State: U.S. stands ready to continue support for Karabakh settlement

Google Pay is a new contactless payment option for Converse Bank customers

French Senate to consider resolution on sanctions against Azerbaijan

Zelenskyy addresses G20 leaders: It's time to stop Russia's war

Karen Vardanyan donated 112 million drams for the medical equipment for National Center for Infectious Diseases

Another four-day parliamentary session begins in Yerevan

Gold declines in value

World oil prices go down

Plans to build 'death pyramid' in London that will hold millions of bodies

Armenian and Georgian Foreign Ministries hold consultations in Tbilisi

Azerbaijani and Iranian FMs hold phone conversation

Steve Jobs' sandals sold for more than $200,000

Armenian PM accuses Azerbaijani leader of terrorizing Armenian civilians

Azerbaijan shells Armenian positions on border again

OPEC downgrades its forecast for global oil demand growth in 2022

White House: Biden and Xi Jinping agree on Blinken's visit to China

CNN: CIA chief Burns meets with SVR director Naryshkin in Ankara

Turkish FM Cavusoglu thanks Ararat Mirzoyan for condolences
BURLEY  The 35th concert season of the Magic Philharmonic Orchestra commences this week with its Fall Concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 in the King Fine Arts Center concert hall.

The Magic Philharmonic Orchestra is a non-profit group of over 60 musicians from the Mini-Cassia area. The selections performed range from classical works to modern show tunes.

The guest conductor for Thursdays concert is Melissa Dayley. Born and raised in Texas, Dayley studied violin in high school with Dr. Stephanie Schweigart-Meyers of UTEP, and was a member of the El Paso Symphony her senior year of high school. She earned a B.M. in Music Education at USU, and her M.M. in Instrumental Conducting from BYU. She also completed an internship performing violin with the Vietnam National Opera and Ballet orchestra in Ha Noi, Vietnam. Dayley taught middle school orchestra in Houston for four years, but after finding and marrying an Idaho boy, she relocated to the Burley area, and currently teaches music at White Pine Elementary School and private violin lessons.

Featured artists for this concert are clarinetists Nichelle Holloway and Cortney Pearson, as the orchestra performs Concerto for Two Clarinets and Orchestra by Franz Krommer. Holloway grew up in Burley and graduated from Burley High School in 1999. She holds a bachelors degree in music performance on clarinet and a minor on cello from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash. While living there, she toured Germany and recorded a few CDs. She is currently playing clarinet in the Magic Philharmonic and teaches private lessons.

Pearson has been playing clarinet for 19 years. She placed first in the Idaho State Solo competition in 2002 and went on to play with the BYU-Idaho Symphony Orchestra and the Rexburg Tabernacle Orchestra. She has played in concerts featuring Jon Schmidt and Jim Brickman, and is now second clarinetist in the Burley Philharmonic Orchestra. She lives in Burley with her husband and three small sons.

Other pieces being performed will be selections from The Phantom of the Opera and West Side Story.

Tickets may be purchased at the door. Cost is $10 for adults, $3 for students, and adult season tickets for $25 until after the first concert. Season tickets cover the Fall Concert, Christmas Concert (December 19), Mini-Cassia Youth Orchestra concert (February 9, 2018), and the Spring Concert (April 6, 2018).
Argam Hovikyan, who had taken a 3-year-old hostage at a preschool in Armenias Armavir town, has been taken out of the medical center.

Hospital Director Sargis Khachatryan on Sunday informed about the aforesaid to Armenian News-NEWS.am.

He noted that Hovikyans health condition was satisfactory after his diaphragm and abdominal surgeries.

Khachatryan added, however, that he did not know where the man was taken.

Argam Hovikyan, armed with a knife, on Monday broke into the aforementioned preschool and kidnapped a 3-year-old boy.

Also, he injured his ex-wife with the knife at the preschool yard, and she was hospitalized.

A criminal case is launched.

Charges have been filed against Hovikyan
STEPANAKERT.  After undergoing surgery, military serviceman Sergey Alumyan, who was wounded in Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic/NKR), has been transferred from the military hospital in capital city Stepanakert to the Ministry of Defense Central Clinical Military Hospital in Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia.

The staff of the military hospital in Stepanakert on Sunday informed about the above-said to Armenian News-NEWS.am.

But serviceman Gevorg Hyusnunts remains in the Stepanakert hospital; he is in satisfactory condition.

The NKR Defense Army press service had informed that Defense Army serviceman Hrant Mangasaryan, 20, was fatally wounded, whereas servicemen Gevorg Hyusnunts and Sergey Alumyan had sustained shrapnel wounds, on Saturday at around 12:10pm, as a result of an anti-tank grenade explosion at an Artsakh defense army unit.

An investigation is underway to find out the details of this incident.
Riyadh (AFP) - Saudi Arabia pursued a sweeping purge of the kingdom's upper ranks on Sunday, saying it would freeze the accounts of dozens of princes, ministers and a tycoon arrested as the crown prince cements his hold on power.

Prominent billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal was among the princes arrested late Saturday, a government source told AFP, immediately after a new anti-corruption commission headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was established by royal decree.

Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves through the kingdom.

The dramatic shake-up comes at a time of unprecedented social and economic transformation in ultra-conservative Saudi Arabia, as Prince Mohammed steps up his reform drive for a post-oil era.

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported that 11 princes, four current ministers and dozens of ex-ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into old cases such as floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009.

The government official gave AFP a list of 14 of the most high-profile names including Prince Al-Waleed, ranked among the richest men in the world.

The information ministry separately said the bank accounts of those arrested will be "frozen" and any assets related to the corruption cases will be registered as state property.

"The suspects are being granted the same rights and treatment as any other Saudi citizen," attorney general Sheikh Saud al-Mojeb said in a statement, adding that a number of investigations had been initiated.

"A suspect's position or status does not influence the firm and fair application of justice."

- 'A new era' -

Shares in Kingdom Holding, 95 percent of which is owned by Prince Al-Waleed, fell sharply as the Saudi stock exchange opened Sunday after reports of his arrest.

Story continues

In a statement Kingdom Holding said it was "aware" of Saturday's developments but insisted that it was "business as usual" after the chief executive of the company was assured of support from the government.

Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan said the crackdown "heralds a new era and policy of transparency, clarity and accountability".

The kingdom's top council of clerics also lauded the anti-corruption efforts as "important", essentially giving religious backing to the crackdown.

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets at airports, possibly to prevent high-profile figures from leaving the country.

There was fevered speculation on social media that the arrested figures were being held at Riyadh's Ritz Carlton, a palatial hotel originally planned as a palace for guests of the royal family.

The hotel appeared to be closed off to the public on Sunday and its website said the property was fully booked.

In another development, state television announced the death of Prince Mansour bin Moqren, the deputy governor of Asir province and son of a former crown prince, in a helicopter crash near the southern border with Yemen. It did not reveal the cause of the crash.

The purge comes less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business leaders to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his reform drive that has shaken up the kingdom.

"The breadth and scale of the arrests appears to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal... would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community," Ulrichsen told AFP.

- Meteoric rise -

The crackdown follows a wave of arrests of influential clerics and activists in September as the 32-year-old prince, often known as MBS, consolidates his hold on power.

Analysts said many of those detained were resistant to Prince Mohammed's aggressive foreign policy that includes the boycott of Gulf neighbour Qatar as well as some of his bold policy reforms, including privatising state assets and cutting subsidies.

The latest purge saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah sacked as the head of the National Guard, an elite internal security force. His removal consolidates the crown prince's control of the kingdom's security institutions.

To analysts, Prince Mohammed's meteoric rise has seemed almost Shakespearean in its aggression and calculation. In June, he edged out a 58-year-old cousin, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, to become heir to the throne.

Already viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major levers of government, from defence to the economy, the prince is widely seen to be stamping out traces of internal dissent before a formal transfer of power from his 81-year-old father King Salman.

At the same time, he has projected himself as a liberal reformer in the ultra-conservative kingdom with a series of bold moves including the decision allowing women to drive from next June.

burs-abh-ac/hkb
they're at least reunited at some point (assuming near the end) in the movie, i think so. i'll take that.

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yeah, I ship Finn/Rey so much so I hope that they'll be a thing in Episode 9 </3

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same here... they better not make this a kylo/rey thing

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I am both ready and not at all ready for this movie.

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can someone post the gif of him doing pull ups in a towel?

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So Finn and Rose arent gonna be a thing?

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idg where people got that they were gonna be a thing other than a)man and woman together + b)convenient for a certain ship to pair them off. reminds me of the time before TFA where ppl were legit passing as spoilers that Lupita would play John's character's love interest 

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gtfo Maz/Finn forever 

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Reylos trying hard to make Finn/Rose a thing, that's where.

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i'm honestly at the point of hypeness that reylo could happen and i'd probably cheer in theaters for it.



like they could go a lot of different ways with this movie and i honestly wouldn't be disappointed.



sidenote: did anyone else hear that they left the KOTOR planets on the updated map for the new sequels?

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the conglomerate of racist neckbreads and r*ylos picked this interview apart & to hell lmao 



I don't mind normie Finn but force-sensitive Finn would make all these flops cry so I want that more



Edited at 2017-11-05 06:40 pm (UTC)

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does there *have* to be a romance plot line tho?

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The director already said there was no time for romance in this one, so no.

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I'm gonna cry every time Carrie's onscreen.



I think it's great Finn and Rey have their own stories, but they meet up at some point in the movie, right? Please?

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[ Spoiler (click to open) ] in the behind the scenes videos you can see John, Daisy and Oscar talking/laughing together on a set

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Oh yeah, I think I've seen that. *fingers crossed*

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Damereys were over the moon because Rey and Poe will share the frame at least once for sure, awww.

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FinnRey all the way





fuck Han Solo, I've never liked him

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I'm both looking forward and dreading this movie. I honestly can't believe one thing anyone says in interviews...



(Just wait, they'll bait and switch or just never do anything to confirm or deny a ship. Just you wait. In any case, someone on tumblr is going to be insufferable. lol)



But god, it's going to be so surreal and sad for me bc of Carrie. I still can't believe she's gone.









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I know Mark said Han having the spotlight in TFA, Luke in TLJ and Carrie in episode 9 was planned from the beginning. And there was no way to predict Carrie's passing but I hope given this will be the last time we see Leia, they had time to find a way to make her role bigger.

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My bf has this dream of Leia living through Last Jedi but the first line of the opening scroll of episode IX is "The Princess has died" (without the music lol) and it'll be like Revenge for the Princess or something, with the opening as her huge Star Wars funeral. I can't get the idea out of my head, I want it so bad. I don't wanna watch them try to kill off Leia, Han's death was so shit.

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She just wants privacy ok



Celebs can't read books to kids these days without being papped in HD quality smh

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Hillsong is disgusting. Not here for this evangelical cult disguised as ~cool hipster church~. Plus, the guy behind it is a paedo.

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i grew up going to church regularly and even then hillsong creeped me out.

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yeah i know a girl from my school who is part of that shit and she's literally incapable of talking of anything other than hillsong, its very creepy/sad

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i always felt like it was kinda cult like but i didn't know the guy behind it is a paedo? wtf

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The founder was a paedo. I think the one who runs Hillsong today is his son (who says his father was a closeted gay man so it's understandable he went after kids?????)



Edited at 2017-11-06 03:05 am (UTC)

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The older I get the more religions just seem like brain-washing cults to me... all of them. Hillsong is extra creepy. They know what they're doing, recruiting the dumbest celebs like Bieber



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Evil genius the one who decided to make a church for celebrities.

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mte. we need the leah remini of hillsong to come through

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I'm still trying to figure out why they went to buy drugs alone, like are they trying to hide from their team bc that's the only reason that would make sense to me.

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yeah that's the only reason i can think of. if she got a new kidney maybe her team is refusing to buy drugs so she won't damage it? i have no idea.

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Addiction is no joke. If my mom saw pics of me with my toxic ex in a sketchy ass location months after I had a kidney transplant I might as well be dead bc she would rip both those kidneys out herself. But I also don't understand how they were ok with her dating The Weeknd either.

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Mte. Why they gotta be there in first place other than the obviousness

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Smh. Francia needs to come collect her kidney

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they bought drugs?

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WAIT WHAT????? OMG.

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Theyre drug buddies and part of the experience is picking up their fix together. Its not complicated.

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The Hillsong Cult is really putting in work.

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They're already messy people, and their fanbase is young and vulnerable. They know what they're doing.



Also, what is this damage control?

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Thats some Speidi level pap staging right there.



Edited at 2017-11-05 06:47 pm (UTC)

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i wish i could have found a church like that and make a shit ton of money

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Church people love me for some reason. It would be so easy to cultivate a following of people willing to throw money at me, but this damn moral compass is keeping me from going full sociopath.

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Same here. It's so easy to make money from people's desperation.

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i always wonder if any of those people actually believe in God...cause surely if they do they'd fear the fucking wrath for making a scam out of church to steal people's money. God ain't cool with that.



oop and as we say this...there's a shooting in a church right now. yikes.



Edited at 2017-11-05 07:34 pm (UTC)

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not to mention all the money they make from their music/tours/conferences as well

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Who were the people talking about not being able to look past her twisted front teeth? I think she fixed them for y'all...

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The future documentaries made about this cult will be a wild watch.

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I hope theres a brawl with Scientology somewhere in there.

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what's the dirt on it so far?

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Lmao yaaasss

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I cant wait

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Lmao mte.

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I just watched ONE OF US on Netflix about the Hasidic community in NYC and it had a lot of those trappings (being exiled from your community, no education to survive outside of the group, legal attacks, following you). It was really scary.

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that enraged me so much I couldn't finish it

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Also, I don't know why but I have such a strong feeling she has a toxic team of advisers and managers. The "treat your coke addiction with the bible"/"you are heavily depressed and unable to cope with pressure but we will coerce you to do huge world tour which will bring millions and start a showmance"/"that's not a good time for you to seek treatment, you just signed this million dollar contract and you need to honor it" type.



That "squeaky clean highly marketable" image combined with her obvious issues with alcohol/drugs/depression is usually the product of a very, very toxic environment. Obviously that's super common in Hollywood but I think it's even more obvious with her, idk.

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Nah, this would make sense. There's a lot of young celebs with teams like that. It's really sad because I feel like she had potential, years ago, to be something great and now she's a mess. And it's clear to me she's a very unhappy person.

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yup. I think the majority of young celebs have management like this (no wonder literally all of them end up addicted to drugs etc). But I think with her it's even more obvious because she, more than anyone else, is seen as a commodity. This girl is partnering with brands left and right thanks to her perfect public image and highly-curated social media. And there's such a weird level of control, because all of her scandals are successfully brushed under the carpet.



Most of this is not her fault, I just think it's obvious she has way too many issues but is seen as a cash cow by everyone around her which only increases the pressure for her to have a perfect, immaculate public image.



Most of her peers -- Miley, Demi, Bieber -- have already liberated themselves from this type of expectation and have took control of their own narratives more or less. Selena's clearly just as messed up as any of them but her brand still relies on this obviously fake level of family-friendly "perfection". It's kind of sick tbh.

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That's exactly how Demi's team handled her addictions too. They enabled, pushed her into promoting a sober lifestyle and all along, it was a lie. At least Demi's team woke up and got her real help.

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what a mess, they're really going all in with this cult promotion, aren't they. given how rabid & susceptible their fans are this can be sf dangerous...

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What a downward spiral this girl is on. :/

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He deserves to die after that shit he said about Finn Wolfhard's name, fucking creep. You don't talk to kids like that. Looking like one of those thumbs from Spy Kids. I'm tired of people treating these kids like this they're CHILDREN.

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I feel like I'm missing something

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He deserves to die for this? https://www.facebook.com/highsnobiety/posts/10155756326457871

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What are you talking about

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"Finn Wolfhard, an actor born with the greatest porn name ever."



in poor taste, for sure, but sis calm down

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Why does ontd do this? You know what? I don't care what he said keep it.

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Go take a Xanax

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lol um?

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came in to mention that weird as fuck and highly inappropriate incident

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...chill. Its a bad joke.

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That's a little much

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It was a bad joke in poor taste but no he doesn't deserve to die. Serisouly?

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u ok hun?

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Go outside lol

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Screaming @ this thread

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Lmao was not expecting this thread when I opened this post

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That's a little dramatic.

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lmao go outside

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hope it works out

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Isnt this guy a creep?

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Yeah, he pretty much killed his wife.

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Why do you say that? I have followed a couple things on her death on ID. Never got that vibe.

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omg so the russian mob hit rumours are true?

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I don't know how I'd feel if my father had remarried that quickly after my mother died.



BUT, it's his life & his family and they need to do what they need to do. so congrats

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my bf's dad remarried nearly 2 years after his wife died - she died in feb 2013, he remarried sept 2014.



we'd side eye it except for the fact that he's obviously very happy/very healthy (which he 100% wasn't after his first wife died) and his new wife is a great person/greatest step mom you could ask for



i do think it's unreasonable to expect a person to mourn/be sad. that's awful. it's awful losing someone you love. we shouldn't want that awfulness to continue.

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damn girl, thats even closer to 18 months than 2 years. but yeah, i cant say what i would do in that situation, and some people seem to desperately need to be with someone.

i've always romanticised the way some people (lol, it's usually women) never re-marry their entire lives and raise their children alone. but men are different. they're like "i'm supposed to do my own washing and ironing now? AND feed myself and the children?"

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Something like this happened to my friend. Her mom died from cancer and it was a slow, grueling process unfortunately. Her dad got remarried less than a year after her mom's passing. He couldn't cope with being alone and a single dad, I think.

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i remember hearing something like people that were really happy in their marriages often times will quickly remarry after the death of a spouse which can seem counter-intuitive but i think makes sense.

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ONTD had a post about this before and brought up a good point how men seem to always remarry soon after their wives pass because they can't seem to deal with being alone/having to do shit for themselves. Women who've lost their husbands seem to not remarry bc they don't feel the need to. It was fascinating. I don't have a link tho.

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Yeah, I don't think you can put a specific time limit on it before it's 'too soon', it's up to the individual; but I do think with kids, you owe it to them after what they've been through to ensure you're not just rushing into a relationship, and that the new person is 100% in and committed (more of an issue with moms moving on than dads, tbh, more women marrying a guy with kids are up for the gruntwork of kids than the reversed situation.)

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My dad did-- very quickly after his wife (my step-mom) did. I think my half-sister really struggled with it. I think (generalization) (straight) men just move on quickly and ~need~ women more.

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All the best...feels a little rush to me, but y'all aint me



Edited at 2017-11-05 07:24 pm (UTC)

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Thoughts & Prayers

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She looks exactly like his first wife

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like dude...exactly the same!!!

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she does. i can't judge him, i've never lost a spouse in such a sudden way but the optics of it all are interesting...

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That makes it sadder somehow.

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who is who tbh





yo wtffffwho is who tbh

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oh wow :/

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damn

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Jesus that is freaky.

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how does she not feel weird about this?

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for real



I don't know whether that is sweet, creepy, sad...

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Dude....I hope this isn't a rebound/distracting himself from mourning his wife. That's not gonna help anybody.

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it's not as bad as the freckled fox, a mommy blogger who remarried legit like 3 months after her husband passed away from cancer

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the gomi post was wild. everyone went from "oh she's dating again good for her" to "SHE'S WHAT NOW?"

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oh her, everything about her just makes me sad



she's what, 27 now? and pregnant with baby #6. and her new hubby is a total idiot

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also the fact that shes only 26.... like sis

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yikes, looking at all her photos rn. what's the deal with her?

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one of my old bosses was fucking an 18 year old not even a month after his wife passed

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I watched his standup special (it was okay) but he spent a lot of the last piece of it talking about his wife and how to talk to his child about it and it was really sad.

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The part about the little old Polish lady who ruined their Mothers Day at the airport had me laughing

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arbor day without my moooother

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nhf some of these headlines i've been seeing of judging him for marrying now. grief is not something you can judge, it is 100% different for every person.

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Odd, to say the least but congrats or whatever.

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people get so weird over widowed spouses moving on

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mte. i can't believe the comments in this post are from actual adults lol

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I agree. Love your life and be happy best you can. Hes not hurting anyone by getting married.

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His daughter looks really happy, that's enough for me to be satisfied. And I'm sure he's genuinely happy as well, just because we haven't heard about this relationship doesn't mean they don't genuinely love and care for one another.

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i mean, a lot of ppl who were in long-term relationships/marriages and their S/O dies re-marry/move onto a new relationship v quickly. someone suddenly dying isn't like a divorce where you see the writing on the wall, so i don't blame him or anyone really who moves on so quickly after something so awful. i don't think it means you loved your previous partner any less, but more like you enjoyed having that campionship so much and it was so lovely that you feel empty without it. idk i'm on the rag and i'm emotional rn.

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see but to me, this is different. with a divorce, you can be falling out of love for a year+, you know you're going to be moving on, you're mentally set up for it. someone dying overnight in a flash... it takes time to get over that.

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This is different, but I met my spouse while still reeling from a trauma. Some might say I should have been ~totally healed or w/e before embarking on a relationship, but that's not how it works. Life goes on. I'm not going to act like I'm privy to Patton's marriage, so for all I know he had a wandering eye, but in the words of Anna Nicole "life's a bitch and then you live." Not gonna hold moving on against him.

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ia



Kinda makes me think that to some people other people seem to be exchangeable and it's only being in a relationship that matter for them.



Talking generally, not specifically Oswalt.

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ia. I've also seen studies where the happier the marriage, the more likely the widow is to marry quickly.



Basically, with all due respect to the dead spouse, they're dead.... it's no one's business what the spouse does afterwards.

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ia



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Quentin will always have a film in mind w/ sameul L. Jackson in it, ALWAYS.

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Interesting how SLJ seems to tolerate Tarantino using the n-word freely

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I will always love him for this:





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this sounds like an incredibly boring movie already

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mte it's so paint by numbers for him

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And its going to be over the top nonsense with un-needed everything.



The victims don't deserve this.

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Is Hollywood having some sort of serial killer renaissance right now?

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Dahlmer, Manson, Tsarnayev, who's next?

Waiting for the Mark Wahlberg produced Clint Eastwood directed film about the New York truck massacre and the fictional guy with savior complex who saved ppl from getting hit.

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We have 'My Friend Dahmer', Zac Efron will be playing Bundy, this, Mindhunter with Ed Kemper, Speck, BTK and god knows who else... I enjoy true crime, but what is happening???/???

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yes. true crime has been having a resurgence since Serial came out, and it's just now hitting movies

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i'm noticing a cult trend rn too, with AHS, the Waco mini-series, The Girls (book) not that long ago, now this... i'm not complaining tho lol.

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In the '00s, the straight to video market was flooded with shitty serial killer movies then Fincher did Zodiac (which is fucking amazing and everyone should see) and now we're where we are.



I'm not complaining as long as the movies are good, unfortunately the best serial killer movies are few and far between.

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I'm okay with it, I love true crime stuff.

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thank podcasts TBH. true crime is super popular right now because of them

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just NO to the entire concept of that movie

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Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate? Haha no.

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i think she could be good at it tbh. she might not look *exactly* like sharon but she has the same type imo & going by wolf of walt street she can actually act

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You're a repetitive bore, Quentin. Go lick a toe.

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there are other actors Quentin.....i'm so bored with his movies always having the same fucking cast basically

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A lot of directors have their own stock company of actors they just like to direct and are comfortable with, at least Quentin uses talented people in his movies.

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To be fair, I think that would only be his second movie with Pitt and Dicaprio, and his first with Robbie. With Jackson, tho... Damn, he sure loves that man.

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This only ever annoyed me with Christopher Nolan's films.



Tarantino casts are almost always 

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at least when Paul Thomas Anderson does it, it's interesting

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i've wanted a good manson family / tate-labianca film for a long time, but i'm disappointed tarantino is the one who ended up doing it. it's gonna be cliche af & the subject deserves a more careful in-depth treatment than the usual ott comedy-action that tarantino does

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and i don't see who pitt & dicaprio could be? i mean, they're too old to be either one of the manson family murderers or one of the tate victims, idgi.

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DiCaprio could easily be Manson, he's only 6-7 years older than Manson was when all that shit went down.

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true, and since dicaprio is a man, being almost 10 years older than the character he's supposed to portray isn't exactly an issue in hollywood, so yeah. entirely possible.

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he's way too tall and stocky.

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Why won't they let Sharon Tate rest in peace?

Recently some old family friends went to Hollywood and ate at this restaurant so they could sit in the "Sharon Tate booth". It was weird to me.

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i gotta say i don't really get the 'let her rest in peace' argument tbh. these murders were a huge cultural turning point & probably the most widely famous crime ever, of course they're gonna be portrayed endlessly in tv, movies, literature etc. she's dead, so it doesn't affect her anyway; as for her surviving family, one is polanski, and the other is her youngest sister who's far from a good person & doesn't hesitate to explore her life & death for her own personal gain, so there's not exactly an ethical conflict there either imo

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I just looked up Sharon Tate booth and realized I've sat in it a ton of times. It's in a shitty Mexican restaurant that's cheap near my job. Weird.

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This Harvey Weinstein enabler .



And He called Roman Polanski rape that It was European thing something like that .

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wait, WHAT

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brad pitt was so underwhelming in inglourious basterds. he had such a good character with the potential to be iconic but it was just a total missed opportunity. he had one good moment and that was 'bon-jaw-no'

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Inglourious Basterds was airing yesterday and I had those exact thoughts. I don't know if Brad is usually known for being a really good actor but he left me really underwhelmed, which was particularly disappointing because, like you said, his character had a lot of potential.

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I'm always surprised when I see a Brad Pitt film how bad he is. Like, Seven always comes up in crime movie posts as a recommendation, and he's laughable in that.

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He tends to do a caricature instead of building a character. Missed opportunity is so right. Quentin's writing doesn't help matters. Thinking back on so many of his characters, Jackson seems to be one of the few who understands how to balance ott and subtlety.

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It was cold and wet walking among Wisconsins veterans in the staging area before Saturdays Veterans Day parade. The weather might have seemed depressing, but the actual event was anything but.

Grover Castine, a former Marine Lance Corporal served in Vietnam from 1960 to 1964, relayed that the parade today "means the world." His son, also a veteran, passed away a week ago. In a voice heavy with emotion, Castine said that even if it "had been snowing, I wouldve been here." Former Gunnery Sergeant Craig Martin, who served from 1973 to 1987, had similar sentiments. He affirmed that seeing so many vets coming together was a wonderful thing, and knowing how many volunteers worked so hard to put the parade together impressed him in a touching way.

Former Gunnery Sergeant Craig Martin

I ran into another veteran, Ward Sikorowski, whose service dog, Princeton, had his own Harley trailer. Ward left the Navy with some anger issues; Princeton helps to keep Ward calm. As the parade started, Ward lovingly put a pair of goggles over Princetons eyes.

So really, its safe to say that gratitude carried the day  and not just the immense gratitude that we non-serving citizens feel for our vets, putting their lives on the line to protect our most basic freedoms, but gratitude that the vets feel for those who came out to support them, to remember them and to honor them.

After the parade started, I rode to the War Memorial and ran inside to warm up. There I met up with Ralph C. Ast, 86 years old, who served during the Korean War. He first told me a story about his brother getting hit by a Milwaukee streetcar. He was also full of stories about serving in Korea. Its incredible that this sweet man saw so many horrible things and talked about them like they happened yesterday.

This year, the parade honored the Combat Medics and Corpsman, highly decorated men who did incredible things to save other soldiers. George Banda, Bill Goralski, Kippert Hammond and Romain Monarski served as special guests of honor, and the parade was filled with an incredible number of veterans  some walking, some riding in vans and cars. There were a couple of buses filled with disabled veterans from the VA and the Luther Home. So many people waved and clapped as they went by, and you could see the vets waving back. It was so uplifting to know that these small gestures  waving a small flag, waving, clapping  maybe made their way to these veterans' hearts for just a little while.

I stood next to Vietnam veteran, whose son  also a veteran  was with him. We chatted and joked throughout. He explained to me what some of the ranks and uniforms meant. Quite often, veterans who were walking in the parade would come over and shake their hands to thank them for their service. Hed come home from Vietnam and lived a quiet life. The thing that struck me about him, and exponentially applied to most veterans, is that his time of service left marks on his life, things he might not even notice. One outward sign: Every time someone marched by with an American flag, he saluted. An incredible tribute to our flag and our country by a veteran who came home to such a hostile, ungrateful environment.

The woman standing next to me had a box full of hundreds of flags. She was handing them out to anyone who wanted one. One veteran marching along the route came over to her and started crying. He was so thankful for this small gesture.

There were at least 50 students from Wisconsin Lutheran High School marching today. They carried handmade cards thanking vets and handed them out to every veteran they saw along the route. The sign they carried read "Thank God for Veterans." There were Gold Star parents and Blue Star moms. Marquette University ROTC and St. Johns Military cadets marched as well. There were dignitaries, County Executive Chris Abele and Mayor Tom Barrett alongside the veterans. Congresswoman Gwen Moore joined the parade, too.

The veterans, though, carried the day. Despite the cold, wet and chilly conditions, there was warmth and light all along Wells Street today.

If you have the chance, thank a veteran. It doesnt matter where or when. Its not awkward. Theyre as thankful for you as we are for them.
The latest

Kohler unveils striking new lakeside Whistling Straits chapel

With its striking white steel exterior set amid the lush green of rural Sheyboygan County and the striking blue hues of Lake Michigan and the sky behind it, Kohleras new Straits Chapel cuts a dramatic figure. The chapel is the newest venue in a family of related properties.
Saudi Arabia on Saturday intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile near Riyadh's international airport after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, in an escalation of the kingdom's war against Iran-backed Huthi rebels. The missile attack was the first aimed by the Shiite rebels at the heart of the Saudi capital, underscoring the growing threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen. A loud explosion was heard and smouldering debris landed inside the King Khalid International Airport, just north of Riyadh, after the missile was shot down but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life. "This evening a ballistic missile was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom," the Saudi Press Agency quoted coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki as saying late Saturday. "The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas. Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries," he added. Huthi rebels, who fired the missile from Yemeni territory more than 1,200 kilometres (750 miles) from Riyadh, said they were targeting the airport, according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television channel. Civil aviation authorities said the airport was functioning normally and that flights were operating as scheduled, though residents said security vehicles had closed off some roads. Saudi forces have shot down Huthi missiles before with Patriot surface-to-air missiles purchased from the United States, but few have come so close to a major population centre. The brazen attack could escalate the proxy conflict between Riyadh and Tehran in Yemen. The bitter regional tensions were underlined earlier Saturday when Lebanon's Saudi-allied Prime Minister Saad Hariri resigned while on a trip to Riyadh, citing Iran's "grip" on his country and threats to his life. - Escalating conflict - The missile attack highlights how the war in Yemen is increasingly spilling across the border since a Saudi-led coalition began its military intervention in 2015. Saudi Arabia led the intervention to prop up the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi after the Huthi rebels forced him into exile. But two years later, the kingdom appears to be in a quagmire. Hoping for a quick victory against what it saw as Iranian expansionism in its back yard, Riyadh has so far been unable to remove the Huthis from Yemeni capital Sanaa. Aside from occasional missiles, Saudi territory has also been hit repeatedly by the rebels' cross-border incursions, raising fears the conflict could drag out yet further. In towns along the southern border, thousands of mortar rounds and crude rockets have struck schools, mosques and homes, forcing thousands to be evacuated. Saudi Arabia does not officially disclose military fatalities, but state media has frequently featured funeral notices for "martyred" soldiers. United Nations-backed talks have failed to broker a political settlement to end the fighting in Yemen, which has left more than 8,600 people dead since the coalition intervened. A cholera outbreak has claimed more than 2,100 lives in Yemen since April as hospitals struggle to secure supplies amid a coalition air and sea blockade. The UN has warned that Yemen now stands on the brink of famine.
TWIN FALLS  The 17th annual 60-Hours-to-Fight-Hunger event kicks off at noon Nov. 16 at the KMVT studios, 1100 Blue Lakes Blvd. N., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by the Twin Falls Chamber Ambassadors. It will run through Nov. 18 until 10 p.m. The goal this year is to collect over 2,000 turkeys for Magic Valley families in need. If you would like to volunteer or would like more information, contact Misty McEwen at 208-733-9351, ext. 1010, or misty@sccap-id.org.
ODON, Ind. and CRANE, Ind.  Purdue@WestGate, aimed at boosting regional development for southern Indiana, launched its first Firestarter program with 11 high-potential startups at the WestGate Academy.

Firestarter is a cohort-based program that connects entrepreneurs with the resources they need to move their innovations to commercialization. The six-week program covers a wide variety of entrepreneurial topics including business plan development, value proposition, ideation, validation and market discovery.

In West Lafayette, the Purdue Foundry Firestarter program has a proven track record with 165 startups having gone through or been assisted by the program from 2013 to 2017. One hundred of these startups are based on Purdue University patented innovations and the other 65 originate from community-based intellectual property.

The response to the program exceeded what we anticipated and is a tremendous first stride toward growing WestGate as a regional innovation hub, said Jason Salstrom, director of Purdue@WestGate. This kind of a response indicates considerable entrepreneurial potential.

Firestarter participants include current and former NSWC Crane engineers as well as incubator tenants at WestGate Academy. Some startups in the cohorts are affiliated with higher education institutions such as Indiana University and University of Southern Indiana.

Brooke Pyne is the technology transfer director at NSWC Crane.

Technology transfer (T2) is about the transition of Crane-developed technologies into the commercial sector," Pyne said. "The Firestarter program is a great way to assist entrepreneurs with commercialization efforts and the progression to the marketplace."

Mike Sandefur is senior project manager of 3rd Millennium Project, a startup in the first Firestarter session.

The resources, education, and confidence provided by this program and programs like it, will promote innovations that will advance the human spirit, Sandefur said. I am blessed to take part in Firestarter alongside other like-minded entrepreneurs.

Samantha Nelson, program facilitator at Purdue@WestGate, said Firestarter is a Purdue Foundry program, a startup accelerator at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.

The next set of cohorts will launch in early 2018, Nelson said. We anticipate that the program will grow even more and draw entrepreneurs from areas such as Vincennes, Jasper and Terre Haute in addition to our current areas.

Purdue@WestGate offers a range of resources to accelerate business growth, including experienced entrepreneurs-in-residence to provide mentorship, Purdue Polytechnic CareerMaker to help businesses develop workforce talent and monthly Spirited Entrepreneur networking events to provide a forum to share ideas and connect with other entrepreneurs.

For more information about Purdue@WestGate, contact Salstrom at 812-483-0935, jdsalstrom@prf.org.

About Purdue@WestGate

Purdue@WestGate is an economic development accelerator formed by the partnership between WestGate Authority, Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division (NSWC Crane), Purdue University and Purdue Research Foundation. The Indiana-based collaboration combines strengths to advance educational, research and development and technology commercialization across Indiana and elsewhere. Purdue@WestGate offers tools for startups, entrepreneurial experts, programs, educational opportunities and workforce development to help southern Indiana businesses grow and thrive. For more information about the resources available to businesses, visit Purdue@WestGate.

About Purdue Foundry

The Purdue Foundry is an entrepreneurship and commercialization accelerator in Discovery Park's Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship whose professionals help Purdue innovators create startups. Managed by the Purdue Research Foundation, the Purdue Foundry was named a top recipient at the 2016 Innovation and Economic Prosperity Universities Designation and Awards Program by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities for its work in entrepreneurship. For more information about funding and investment opportunities in startups based on a Purdue innovation, contact the Purdue Foundry at foundry@prf.org.

Writer: Sarah K. Miller, 812-863-2756, sarah.miller@stimulusengineering.com

Source: Samantha Nelson, 812-863-4080, samantha.nelson@stimulusengineering.com

Jason Salstrom, 812-483-0935, jdsalstrom@prf.org

Mike Sandefur, mike@3rdMillenniumProject.org, 812-449-5695
Russia's decision two years ago to intervene militarily in Syria appears to have saved Bashar al-Assads regime but a peace settlement seems ever more elusive, analysts say. On Friday, Syrian government troops retook Deir Ezzor, the last major city where the Islamic State group had a presence. Assad's forces did so with Russian air support. The successful action edged the Syrian president closer to what looks like victory in the six-year-long war. "Russia has won the war," foreign affairs analyst Vladimir Frolov told AFP, "but it remains unclear if it can win peace in Syria." When the Russian army began its bombing campaign in support of Assad's government in September 2015, the regime seemed fragile and its army was exhausted and demoralised by major setbacks against rebel groups and jihadists. Moscow demonstrated its military force by sending helicopters, submarines, bomber aircraft and long distance missiles to hit groups fighting the regime. Supported by Russia's unrelenting bombing, Assad's forces regained control of more than half the country, recapturing the ancient city of Palmyra from IS in a symbolic victory and chasing rebel groups out of their stronghold of Aleppo in the north. - 'Get out of Syria' - The difficulty for Moscow now is to balance its military success with a political process and put an end to a conflict that has killed more than 330,000 people and displaced millions. "The strategy is simple: get out of Syria through the negotiation process," said Alexander Shumilin, a Middle East scholar at the Institute for US and Canadian Studies. "It is clear that these military operations will not lead to political solutions, without which nothing can be achieved." The attempts for peace talks under Moscow's watch started in January this year with the first conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, when regime envoys and representatives of Syrian rebel groups that still control considerable territories gathered for the first time. Initiated by Assad's allies Russia and Iran, the Astana negotiations led to the creation of "de-escalation zones," which limit the violence inside designated areas without implementing a real cease fire. Under the agreement that also involves rebels' backer Turkey, Russian military police were deployed to monitor the zones. The Astana talks have run in parallel to repeated negotiations held in Geneva with the backing of the United Nations. The latter have failed to gain traction. The fate of Assad remains a huge stumbling block, preventing global players from reaching a peace settlement over Syria. Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly blocked Western efforts to oust Assad but his departure remains a critical point Syrian opposition groups insist on. - 'Never ending trap' - Frolov said Moscow could not and did not want to remove Assad. "Russia expects Assad's regime to stay forever with slight modifications and embellishments sold internationally as an all-inclusive national reconciliation government," he said. Alexei Malashenko, head of research at the Dialogue of Civilisations Institute, added: "Russia has found itself in a never ending trap because it cannot reach a consensus on Syria." He also said that Moscow cannot bear the costs of reconstructing the country alone. Aware of the deadlock, Russia, Turkey and Iran announced a new initiative this week, pledging to bring Assad's regime and its opponents together for a "congress" in the Black Sea resort of Sochi on November 18. Moscow said 33 Syrian organisations including pro-regime forces and the full spectrum of opposition groups had been invited. But Syrian opposition groups in exile have said they will boycott the talks, calling them a joke. "Sochi will not work because Assad, supported by Iran, is uncompromising and thinks he has nothing to sacrifice," said Shumilin. "Assad wants a military victory while Russia wants negotiations."
AFP News

Kenya's former president Uhuru Kenyatta arrived Tuesday in eastern DR Congo's main city of Goma, as fresh clashes with M23 rebels occurred just to the north, sending thousands fleeing. Troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were battling M23 fighters in Kibumba, 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Goma, security officials and local residents said. The M23 has recently seized swathes of territory in North Kivu province, displacing tens of thousands of people in their advance. Kibumba is considered one of the last obstacles to the rebels before Goma, a commercial hub of one million people on the Rwandan border. On Tuesday afternoon, rumours that the M23 was approaching sent a fresh wave of people fleeing to the Kanyaruchinya displacement camp, south of Kibumba. About 40,000 people are currently in the camp, according to its head. A security official who asked for anonymity said that people began to flee after seeing soldiers themselves retreating towards Goma after clashes with M23 rebels. North Kivu's military governor, General Constant Ndima, urged people to remain calm late Tuesday. "I want to reassure you... Loyalist forces are containing the enemy on the heights of Kibumba," he told reporters. The crisis has cratered relations between the DRC and its smaller central African neighbour Rwanda, which Kinshasa accuses of backing the militia. Uhuru Kenyatta, a mediator for the seven-nation East African Community (EAC), arrived in Goma on Tuesday and visited Kanyaruchinya. He told reporters late Tuesday that the stories he had heard were "heart-breaking". "I cannot ignore what I have seen," Kenyatta said. "I must say to all parties: You cannot negotiate in the face of human catastrophe". - 'De-escalation' - Kenyatta's visit to the DRC is the latest in a round of diplomatic bids to defuse the crisis in the impoverished country's volatile east. The former president landed in the Congolese capital Kinshasa on Sunday for talks, following on the heels of a visit from Angolan President Joao Lourenco. The EAC has also called for a "peace dialogue" in Kenya's capital Nairobi on November 21. In addition, the bloc has agreed to send a peacekeeping mission to eastern DRC. Kenyan troops arrived in Goma over the weekend, as part of that operation. On Monday, Kenyatta urged armed groups to put down their arms and return to the negotiating table. "There is nothing that can be gained through the barrel of a gun," he had told reporters. On Tuesday, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had discussed the situation with Rwanda's Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta, on the margins of the G20 meeting in Indonesia. "I underscored the United States deep concern about the continuing violence in eastern DRC, and called on Rwanda to take active steps to facilitate de-escalation," he said in a tweet. - Rebel return - Biruta, for his part, tweeted that Rwanda is committed to regional diplomatic mechanisms to bring peace to eastern DRC, as well as to finding a political solution to the crisis. Over 120 armed groups roam the region, many of which are a legacy of regional wars which flared at the turn of the century. The M23 -- a mostly Congolese Tutsi group -- first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured Goma before being driven out. But the rebel group returned in late 2021 after years of dormancy, claiming the DRC had failed to honour a promise to integrate its fighters into the army, among other grievances. It captured the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June. In recent weeks, the rebels have also won a string of victories against the Congolese army, edging closer towards Goma. The DRC expelled Rwanda's ambassador in late October amid the renewed M23 offensive. Despite official denials from Kigali, an unpublished report for the UN seen by AFP in August pointed to Rwandan involvement with the M23. Rwanda accuses the Congolese government of colluding with Hutu militants who fled across the border after the 1994 Rwandan genocide. hbm-at/eml/kjm
By Matthew Tostevin

BATTAMBANG, Cambodia (Reuters) - Sin Rozeth's attempts to show the benefits of grassroots democracy to some of the poorest people in the Cambodian city of Battambang are in peril.

The 30-year-old daughter of a vegetable seller became the head of Ochar commune, the equivalent of local council leader, in elections in June. Her victory was part of an "all politics is local" strategy that helped the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) win 40 percent of the 1,646 local seats at stake. Previously it had just 2 percent.

But the authoritarian government of former Khmer Rouge commander Hun Sen is now cracking down at every level on a party that had shown it might beat him at elections due next July. The longest-serving prime minister in the world accuses the CNRP of doing the bidding of the United States.

Hun Sens government has arrested CNRP leader Kem Sokha on treason charges and taken steps to have the party dissolved altogether. Once vocal rights groups have also been silenced and media critical of the ruling party have been repressed.

For Sin Rozeth, it has meant warning letters from city and provincial authorities threatening to remove her.

Now voters are showing signs of discouragement in Ochar, a community of 18,000 where Battambang spills into rice fields and dwellings patched from metal sheet and wood sit alongside low-rise cinderblock homes.

Few new voters in the commune have registered ahead of next year's national elections, she said.

It is the same picture across Cambodia. The electoral commission estimated 1.6 million people needed to register - either because they had come of age or had been missed before  and barely a quarter have done so ahead of a Nov. 9 deadline.

At stake is the shaky democracy that Western donors spent billions of dollars trying to build after the genocide of the Khmer Rouge killed an estimated 1.7 million people - around a quarter of the population - between 1975 and 1979.

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Hun Sen's dominance dates from 1985, when he became prime minister under the patronage of occupying Vietnamese forces he had helped to drive out his former Khmer Rouge comrades. A 1991 peace deal ended civil war and U.N.-supervised elections were held in 1993. Hun Sen lost, but manoeuvred to keep power and has used force and the courts to undermine opponents ever since.

BUDGET FROZEN

Sin Rozeth, who took up politics after dropping out of university for lack of money, said she made some money through helping others with real estate deals in Battambang province to support herself and her single mother, who raised her.

Her commune's official budget had been frozen and she had to pay the office's electricity bill from her own pocket, she said. Donors in Cambodia and abroad also helped. They bought a computer and plastic chairs for the office.

"It is very hard to work," Sin Rozeth said.

City and provincial authorities have sent three warning letters. Among the accusations: offering services free of charge, discriminating against ruling party officials, usurping the role of the commune clerk and holding meetings on Saturdays.

The CNRP's commune chiefs elsewhere complain, too.

Va Sam, of Kok Khleang commune in Phnom Penh, said the interior ministry had taken over issuing documents such as land titles and birth certificates, previously a big source of funds for the commune.

Discrimination against CNRP commune chiefs was widespread, said Mu Sochua, a deputy of Kem Sokha who fled into exile fearing arrest.

"Other communes face the same targeting if we shine and show too much competence," she told Reuters.

Battambang's provincial governor, Nguon Ratanak, from the government of the ruling Cambodia People's Party (CPP), told Reuters local leaders had to obey the law and denied stopping anyone from developing their communes.

"They still want to apply the political policies used during the campaign," he said. "Commune chiefs must work under the guidelines of the interior ministry, not their political party."

If the CNRP is banned, with a court decision due on Nov. 16, the ruling party would take control of all the communes the CNRP currently leads, based on a change to the election law approved by Cambodia's CPP-dominated parliament last month.

The government dismisses criticism that the crackdown ahead of next July's election is turning Cambodia into a one-party state. It says it is only acting against those who have broken Cambodias laws.

'COLOUR REVOLUTION'

Arrested in a midnight raid on Sept. 3, CNRP leader Kem Sokha was accused of plotting with Americans to organise a 'colour revolution' like those that toppled eastern European strongmen.

"We cant let this dangerous revolution happen in Cambodia," said senior interior ministry official Huy Vannak. "You try to put an American jacket onto a Cambodian and it doesn't fit."

Among those forced out even before Kem Sokha's arrest was the U.S. State Department funded National Democratic Institute (NDI), which spent 25 years on a democracy-building mission that cost an average $2 million a year for the past five years.

Sin Rozeth, who was born two years after Hun Sen came to power in 1985, has benefited from its training, as did many members of the ruling party. It included lessons in campaigning - trainers taught her not to attack other parties, she said - and how to present her own policies.

NDI said that since the recent elections, 138 ruling party members had participated in NDI activities along with 153 members of the opposition.

"If this was an effort to try to collude with the opposition then were guilty of colluding with the ruling party as well," NDI president Kenneth Wollack told Reuters.

Within days of Kem Sokha's arrest, a top Chinese official flew to Phnom Penh with words of support. China has replaced the United States as Cambodia's biggest single donor by far.

In the U.S. Congress, Senators John McCain and Dick Durbin have introduced a resolution that could lead to travel restrictions on Cambodian leaders.

Cambodian officials say they don't fear any penalties.

"The Americans can't even control North Korea," government spokesman Phay Siphan told Reuters.

FACEBOOK LIVE VIDEOS

Sin Rozeth believes the strategy of promising change locally as well as nationally helped explain her party's success.

Facebook Live videos show the diminutive and energetic figure getting drains built through muddy streets of Battambang, famed for Cambodia's finest jasmine rice and its French colonial architecture, winning her followers far beyond the city.

"I went out to meet people and get to know their problems. I went to funerals to pay condolences even if I didn't know the people," said Sin Rozeth.

"We just have to show what we can deliver day by day," she said. "We're a new generation and we want to show that administration can be effective and clean and free of charge."

A 2013 video about that strategy was used as evidence against Kem Sokha.

In it, he says he has the backing of unnamed Americans for a plan to win power requiring that "before changing the top level, we need to uproot the lower one".

For Kem Sokha, it was a legitimate political strategy in a democracy.

The government called it treason.

(Additional reporting by Prak Chan Thul; Editing by Martin Howell and Bill Tarrant)
Greece's prime minister received on Saturday an Afghan boy whose home in Athens was attacked days after a dispute over his right to carry the Greek flag during a national parade. The 11-year-old boy, Amir, was accompanied by his mother and Greek migration minister Yiannis Mouzalas when he met with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, who gave him a Greek flag as a gift. Amir came to the spotlight last week because while he had been drawn in a lottery to carry the Greek flag in a parade commemorating Greece's World War II struggle, he was ultimately prevented from doing so by his school. Instead of being given the flag, Amir carried a sign bearing the school's name for the march in Athens. The ministry of education has launched an investigation into why the school prevented him from carrying the flag. The annual parades by schools take place around the country on October 28. "As they haven't given you the Greek flag, I will give you one as a present", Tsipras told Amir, according to the state news agency ANA. "Some people deprived Amir of the honour to carry our flag. Today I gave it to him so he will remember and honour our principles and values", Tsipras tweeted after the meeting. Tsipras's symbolic gesture comes after the family's residence in Greece was attacked on Friday. The assailants broke a window in the room where the family's three children sleep, throwing inside a note warning them to "get out" of Greece. "It was around three in the morning," Amir's mother told state news agency ANA. "The room was full of glass. The children were scared and were crying. Stones kept coming and a beer bottle was found on the bed." The family, who have been in Greece for about 18 months, was staying in a flat provided by the city of Athens under a UN-sponsored programme. Athens mayor Yiorgos Kaminis condemned the incident, insisting that "fascist-style tactics" would not dampen the capital's determination to house and integrate refugees. Greece is running a programme to house and educate thousands of refugees trapped in the country after a succession of European countries shut their borders last year. Far-right groups including neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn strongly oppose having the Greek flag carried by non-Greeks in parades. Golden Dawn supporters disrupted another of the October 28 parades, on the island of Santorini, because the flag was being carried by an Albanian girl.
Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah movement, said on Sunday the previous day's resignation of the country's premier Saad Hariri had been "imposed" by Saudi Arabia. "It is clear that the resignation was a Saudi decision that was imposed on Prime Minister Hariri. It was not his intention, not his wish and not his decision" to quit, Nasrallah said in a televised address. Hariri, a protege of Riyadh, on Saturday announced his surprise resignation in a broadcast from the Saudi capital. He cited the "grip" of Hezbollah ally Iran on the country, and also said he feared for his life. "We did not seek this resignation," said Nasrallah, whose powerful movement has participated in Hariri's government for almost a year. The Hezbollah chief did not directly address the accusations levelled by what he called Hariri's "very hard" speech, saying only that these were "a matter for Saudi Arabia". Hariri, a two-time premier whose father Rafik held the same position for years and was assassinated in 2005, accused both Iran and Hezbollah of seeking hegemony in the region. Nasrallah questioned the timing of Hariri's announcement at a time when "things are proceeding normally... in the heart of government" in Lebanon. The resignation sparked fears that Lebanon -- split into rivals camps led by Hariri and Hezbollah -- could once again descend into violence. But Nasrallah on Sunday called for "calm, patience and waiting until the reasons become clear" for Hariri stepping aside. The Hezbollah leader also questioned why Hariri gave his resignation speech from Saudi Arabia. "Is he at home? Will they let him return? These are legitimate concerns," he said, referring to a purge of princes, ministers and businessmen in Saudi Arabia in an anti-corruption operation. - Tussle for influence - He said Hariri was expected in Lebanon on Thursday "if they let him return". Riyadh considers Hezbollah, a close ally of Saudi regional rival Iran, to be a "terrorist" organisation. The Saudi-Iran tussle for influence has also played out in ongoing conflicts in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. Hezbollah is the only organisation in Lebanon to have retained its weapons after the end of the 1975-1990 civil war. Nasrallah on Sunday played down the risks of conflict between rival camps in Lebanon or with his movement's arch-foe Israel. "Do not listen to alarmist speeches ... do not worry, there is nothing to worry about," he said. "We will react responsibly and calmly... we are concerned about the security" of Lebanon, Nasrallah added. On Israel, he said the Jewish state "will not embark on a war against Lebanon unless it is guaranteed a quick, decisive and inexpensive war". Israel and Hezbollah in 2006 engaged in a brief but costly summer war, and for months Israeli leaders have been threatening a new conflict in Lebanon. It remains unclear who will succeed Hariri as prime minister in Lebanon. Under the power-sharing system that helped end Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war, the president must be a Christian, the premier a Sunni and the speaker of parliament a Shiite.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday that the resignation of Lebanon's premier, and his stated reasons, should serve as an "alarm call" to the world about Iran's ambitions. Lebanese prime minister Saad Hariri said earlier he was stepping down, citing Iran's "grip" on his country and what he called threats to his life. "The resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Hariri and his remarks are a wake-up call to the international community to take action against Iranian aggression," Netanyahu said in a Hebrew-language statement released by his office. Israel says that Lebanon's Iran-backed Shiite movement Hezbollah has long held the reins of power in Lebanon and is seeking to strengthen its role in neighbouring Syria, where it is allied to President Bashar al-Assad in the country's brutal civil war. Iran, said Netanyahu, "is trying to turn Syria into Lebanon II". "This aggression endangers not only Israel, but the entire Middle East," he added. "The international community must unite and stand up against this aggression." In a speech broadcast from Saudi Arabia by the Al-Arabiya news network, Hariri accused Tehran of "creating a state within the state... to the extent that it gets the final say on how Lebanon's affairs are run". "Iran has a grip on the fate of the region's countries," Hariri said. "Hezbollah is Iran's arm not just in Lebanon but in other Arab countries too." Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman said that Hariri confirmed what Israel has long been saying. "In practice Lebanon has been occupied by Hezbollah and the Iranians," he told the private Reshet TV channel on Saturday. "This axis is operating inside Lebanon, inside Syria and is extending its patronage into the Gaza Strip," Lieberman said.
Catalonia's deposed separatist leader Carles Puigdemont and four of his allies turned themselves in to Belgian police on Sunday ahead of a court appearance to decide whether they should be extradited to Spain. A judge will decide whether to detain or release them after warrants were issued for their arrest on charges of rebellion, sedition and misuse of public funds following the Catalan separatists' push to break away from Spain. - What would the arrest warrant mean? - European arrest warrants were introduced in 2004 to replace lengthy extradition processes within the EU, making it easier to return fugitives suspected of serious crimes. They can be issued for crimes where the maximum penalty is at least one year in prison or where the fugitive has already been sentenced to at least four months in prison. The judicial authority and police in the receiving country, in this case Belgium, are sent the warrant and tasked with arresting and returning the suspect. After arresting the suspect, the country has a maximum of 60 days to send him or her back, though in practice most people held under European arrest warrants are returned much more quickly. Of the 140,000 such arrest warrants issued around Europe between 2005 and 2014, 38 percent of suspects were found, of whom nearly three-quarters were sent back, official EU figures show. - Could Belgium reject it? - In Puigdemonts case, the rebellion charge can bring a 30-year sentence, and Belgian lawyer Maxime Home said that if the warrant was issued "there would be very little room for Belgium to refuse it." There are avenues of appeal but they succeed "extremely rarely", Home told AFP. "The basic idea with the European arrest warrant is that you have confidence in the fundamental rights situation in the issuing country. With Spain, you're not talking about a country that practises torture," Home said. Puigdemont has denounced the Spanish legal proceedings as a "political trial" seeking to "punish ideas". Anne Weyembergh, an expert in European law at the Free University of Brussels, said an arrest warrant could in theory be refused on the grounds that it would go against fundamental rights, but cautioned that such cases were very rare. "These are really exceptional cases. I only know of one in Belgium," she said. "It would be necessary for Puigdemont and his lawyer to show that there was a genuine threat to his fundamental rights." - Could he be questioned in Belgium? - Puigdemonts Belgian lawyer Paul Bekaert has said his client will not go to Spain and suggested the Spanish authorities question him in Belgium instead. This can be done if a Spanish judge makes a formal request -- either by Madrid providing a list of questions to be put by a Belgian police officer or by sending a judge to ask the questions in person. - Could Puigdemont claim asylum? - EU citizens can claim asylum in Belgium, according to the country's GRA refugee agency. But Puigdemont has denied planning to do so, and even if he did, the chances of success would seem to be very slight. "It's quite exceptional to obtain asylum for a citizen of a European Union country," Dirk Van Den Bulck of the GRA told FORT television. Belgium will consider asylum applications from other EU countries, but works on the principle that members of the bloc are safe and respect human rights. In the last five years Belgium has not granted asylum to any EU citizens. Puigdemont would have to prove a "threat of persecution" in his country of origin and an impossibility of being protected there, Van Den Bulck said. - What are the implications for Belgium? - The Spanish standoff is already causing problems for the Belgian government led by Prime Minister Charles Michel, who rules in a coalition with Flemish separatists sympathetic to the Catalan cause. The French-speaking Belgian leader was quick to stress that his government had "not undertaken any step to encourage Mr Puigdemont's arrival on Belgian soil" and warned him not to expect special treatment. But Michel's immigration minister Theo Francken, from the Flemish separatist N-VA party, said Belgium could offer asylum to Puigdemont, infuriating Spain. The EU and its member states have been resolute in their support for Madrid during the Catalan independence crisis, but Michel has been more muted, calling for dialogue to resolve the standoff.
By Tova Cohen TEL AVIV (Reuters) - Japan's Toyota Motor Corp is seeking more investments in Israeli robotics and vehicle technologies after its venture arm led a $14 million investment in Intuition Robotics in July. The startup, which makes robots for the elderly, was the first Israeli investment for Toyota AI Ventures, a new $100 million fund investing in artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous mobility and data and cloud computing. "We will see more involvement of Toyota in the Israeli market in the future," said Jim Adler, managing director of California-based Toyota AI Ventures, which is part of the $1 billion Toyota Research Institute. "There's more in the pipeline," he told Reuters during a visit to Israel, adding that technologies dealing with perception and prediction and planning were of particular interest to Toyota. Perception technology enables a self-driving vehicle to understand the world around it while prediction and planning can help a car interpret situations such as whether a child at an intersection might try to cross at a red light. "There's a tremendous amount of innovation happening in Israel as cars become more produced by data," said Adler, who is in the country meeting companies whose technologies interest Toyota. Israel is a growing center for automotive technology. Earlier this year Intel Corp bought autonomous vehicle firm Mobileye - one of Israel's biggest tech companies - for $15.3 billion. On Friday Germany's Continental AG said it was buying Israel's Argus Cyber Security, whose technology guards connected cars against hacking. Toyota AI Ventures has made five investments and expects to invest in at least 20 companies worldwide. Regarding its investment in Intuition Robotics - which plans to begin trials of its robots with older adults in their homes early next year - Adler said there were many common features between robotics and autonomous vehicles, which he referred to as "big robots with wheels". Japan's population is aging, with 40 percent expected to be over 65 in 20 years, he said, and there will be demand for technologies that help the elderly stay in their homes, rather than have to move to assisted-living facilities. "We think Toyota will have a role there," he said. (Editing by Keith Weir)
Back in 2006, Ben Grove could be found riding for Unabomber Skateboards and Vans, residing in Sheffield, and holding down a full part in the last full length Bomber release Urbane Mob.

This was a prolific period for Champagne Supergrover, who only the year before had put out a short but powerful part on Blueprints Lost and Found, got a section together for Joe Gavins Note Skateshop backed Manchester scene offering Workers and Lurkers, and made appearances at every UK event possible. Having jumped ship from Blueprint to Unabomber in mid-2005 and being awarded a pro board as a result, its safe to say that Grove was undeniably focused and on one as a result.

His section in Urbane Mob was filmed by a number of camera-wielders stationed all over the country, and the footage was varied in terms of geography and terrain as a result. Edinburgh, Manchester, Brighton, the North East, his then hometown of SheffieldGrove turns up everywhere over the course of this Necro assisted 3 minute section.

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What does your business need to know about dealing with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)?

The commission is the federal body policing the countrys anti-discrimination laws. They investigate charges of discrimination against small businesses. They are an entity with arms in every state.

Long story short its a good idea to have good policies in place thus avoiding conflicts with the federal agency. Small Business Trends spoke with Labor and Employment Attorney Todd Wulffson at Carothers DiSante and Freudenberger. He has 25 years of experience in labor and employment law. Wulffson provided some best practices for small businesses to avoid clashes with the commission.

What You Must Know about Discrimination Law and Your Small Business

The laws the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces make it illegal to discriminate in the workplace against an employee or job applicant based on sex, religion, color, race, age, genetic information or disability. Employers cannot discriminate against a person who has complained about discrimination or filed a charge. Its also illegal to discriminate on the basis of participating in an employment discrimination lawsuit or investigation. All of that creates a body of law that you need to comply with if you have 15 or more employees, Wulffson says.

What You Must Understand About Your Businesss Responsibilities

The bottom line is if youre a small business with 15 or more employees you can be sued based on failure to hire due to discrimination. Firing someone outside the guidelines suggested by the law can also land you in legal hot water too. In fact, taking any kind of negative action against employees before reviewing the law in this matter can be trouble.

What You Should Know About the EEOCs Role

This government agency has the power to do one of two things according to Wulffson.  At the end of their investigatory process, they can issue whats called a right to sue letter, he says. That letter gives an individual the right to file a private lawsuit against your company for violation of the law.

What You Must Know About Worst-Case Scenario

In a worst-case scenario, the EEOC can actually file a lawsuit on someones behalf. In the end, this agency is the stopgap that dictates whether youll be sued for discrimination. It stands to reason small business will want to know how to prevent that from happening.

What You Must Know to Protect Your Small Business

Theres no need for small business to be afraid of the long arm of the EEOC. Being prepared by educating management and supervisors is a great first step. The owners and the managers need to understand what the rules are, Wulffson says. The EEOC website has a great resource page to start bringing management up to speed on what they need to know. Click here.

EEOC Best Practices

Have Policies and Procedures in Place

Small businesses also need to have policies and procedures in place they can show the EEOC if need be. Being thorough here pays off because there are some areas youll need to cover that might be surprising. Wulffson explains.

Include Anti-Retaliatory Policies

You need to make sure youre applying the policies in an anti-retaliatory way as well, Wulffson says. That means your policies need to be clear retaliation will not be tolerated against people who have laid unsuccessful discrimination claims. Small businesses need solid recruitment and hiring procedures promoting anti-discrimination principles. Performance appraisals should be carefully checked over for discriminatory trends. Transparency is one of the keys to steering clear of any issues. For example, promotion criteria needs to be well known and open jobs need to be posted in accessible areas.

Add Anti-harassment Policies

All small businesses need a solid anti-harassment policy. The policy needs to explain in clear language what is prohibited conduct and supply examples. The complaint process needs to be clearly laid out. All anti-harassment policies for small business need to assure employees management will take prompt and thorough action.
Two other restaurants in Strasbourg are interested as well.

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The Slovak wine Dunaj will appear on the menu of the prestigious restaurant lEpuisette, with a Michelin star, in Marseille.

Karine Blanc who cooperates with chief cooks of the best Michelin restaurants in Provence was charmed by Slovak wine so much that she created a unique starter for this wine  pumpkin custard with mushrooms. The starter together with wine will be on the menu starting in December.

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Foreign wines beat local wines only rarely. When choosing foreign wine, French restaurants are very picky. They prefer interesting wines from small wineries.

Wines are chosen by a degustation committee of experts and it is led by Jean Daniel Angibaud from Bordeaux, holder of several prestigious global prizes.

When I have the possibility I like to let experts taste wine from Slovenske Vinice , said J.D. Angibaud, as quoted by the SITA newswire. Thanks to the one tasting, Slovak wine will get into a Marseille restaurant.

News in gastronomy spreads fast and two top restaurants in Strasbourg want to taste wines from Slovenske Vinice (Slovak Vineyards) as well  Buereiheisel with two Michelin stars and Oenosphere.

The wine that charmed French experts originated in the southern Slovak vineyard area, Svodin village, and belongs to the autumn collection of the Slovenske Vinice brand. Dunaj is a dry red wine with a piercing smell of dark berry fruit and has a spicy, fruity taste.

We are proud that our wines are appreciated abroad, specifically in those restaurants with Michelin stars, said Peter Havrilak, the manager of Slovenske Vinice, as cited by SITA.

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The Bratislava Region stays faithful to the right.

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The regional elections resulted in some surprises in the Bratislava Region. Despite the pre-election polls that indicated a close fight between the independent candidates, the race was won by a nominee for the right-wing coalition. The results, though still unofficial, confirm that the smallest region in Slovakia stays faithful to the right.

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Read also: Regional vote: No to extremism, no to Smer Read more

Moreover, the results suggest that the governor of the Bratislava Region will change after eight years. Pavol Freso, leader of the once strongest opposition party, the Slovak Democratic and Christian Union (SDKU) will be replaced by joint opposition candidate, Juraj Droba.

I like to be an outsider, Droba commented on his victory in an interview with the Sme daily. I knew from the beginning that I would not stick out in the polls as the Droba brand is not as strong as the Freso or Ftacnik brands but I believed in a strong team, the right-wing coalition and hoped people would vote for me even if they dont know me personally.

Droba, who was only fourth in the October poll carried out by the Focus agency, won the race, harvesting 20.42 percent of the vote, as the unofficial results suggest.

He defeated the current mayor of Bratislavas New Town borough Rudolf Kusy (18.55 percent), former Bratislava mayor Milan Ftacnik (17.52 percent), and also the incumbent governor Pavol Freso (10.88 percent).

(Source: SME)

Final result unclear at first

At first, it was not clear who would win the Bratislava Regions race, as the first preliminary results suggested independent candidate and current mayor of Bratislavas Vajnory borough Jan Mrva was leading. He finished fourth with 15.97 percent of the vote, according to the unofficial results.

The race was initially led by Ftacnik. It was not until one oclock in the morning that Droba took the helm, with a gradually increasing lead.
TWIN FALLS  From now until Dec. 4, patrons of Subway restaurants in the Twin Falls area can participate in the Subway Cares program to raise funds for the South Central Community Action Partnership. At checkout, customers will be able to donate by rounding up to the nearest dollar. All donations will go directly to SCCAP to help feed families in need.

According to The Idaho Food Bank, one in eight Idahoans face food insecurity  not knowing where their next meal will come from. The South Central Community Action Partnership feeds more than 2,500 families in the Twin Falls area each year. Last year, local Subway restaurants were able to raise more than $1,000 for SCCAP. According to Maycock, the hope is to increase that amount by $500.
The ruling Smer party will only fill two out of eight governor chairs after this election; their numbers in the regional parliaments are also significantly reduced.

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Who will be new regional governors? Bratislava: Juraj Droba (20.42 percent)

Trnava: Jozef Viskupic (42.90 percent)

Trencin: Jaroslav Baska (49.98 percent)

Nitra: Milan Belica (34.10 percent)

Zilina: Erika Jurinova (43.67 percent)

Banska Bystrica: Jan Lunter (48.53 percent)

Presov: Milan Majersky (40.36 percent)

Kosice: Rastislav Trnka (37.80 percent)

For the past four years, Smer has had a candidate in six of Slovakias eight regional governor posts. After Saturday night, its candidates have a mandate only in Trencin and Nitra.

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Moreover, as the party that is strongest in the national parliament and has, until now, been the strongest in regional parliaments, it will have to give way to independent candidates and candidates of the centre-right opposition in most of the regions.

The election results reflect a more general shift of voter-sympathy, Grigorij Meseznikov told The Slovak Spectator.

The observers concerns have however been much more about the support for the far-right Peoples Party  Our Slovakia (LSNS) ahead of the vote. Those concerns have not materialised. After four years, extremist Marian Kotleba will have to leave his post as regional governor in Banska Bystrica. He will also be the regions only deputy in the regional parliament, and one of only two regional councillors the party will have in all the eight regions.

The Bratislava Region has elected a centre-right candidate, Juraj Droba, in line with its tradition of being the only region that has never been ruled by Smer. While a tight race between the three top candidates was expected, the eventual loss of former Bratislava mayor Milan Ftacnik came as a surprise in the capital.

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Read also: Opposition's Droba wins the Bratislava race Read more

Smer counts its losses

Preliminary results from Sunday morning, with almost all the votes counted, show Smer losing its majority in the regional parliaments in Trencin, Presov, and Kosice. Many of the chairs in those regions will be taken by candidates from the centre-right parties, as well as independent candidates.

Coalitions in the regional parliaments do not always mirror national-level politics and it might be that Smer will team up with other parties who control chairs in the new regional parliaments and thus gain a say in many of the eight regions. The big picture presented by the preliminary results also does not make it clear which of the many independent candidates will in the end show their allegiance to either Smer or the opposition parties.
It would be too early to say extremism has been defeated but the results present a new chance for democracy.

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Neither money from the state nor the media attention that Marian Kotleba and his far-right party received after they first made it to the top in the Banska Bystrica region and subsequently the national parliament are enough to secure their positions on a regional level now.

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Marian Kotleba wraps up his four-year term as regional governor and a pro-democratic candidate behind whom all the anti-extremist votes united, will take over.

First, I want to open the doors and air the place, and then I would like to fly the EU flag over our regional office, the Banska Bystrica regional governor-elect Jan Lunter said on election night when his victory became obvious.There will no longer be an extremist governor in Slovakia after the November 4 regional elections and there are only two regional councilors from the far right party for the next four years.

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Read also: Regional vote: No to extremism, no to Smer Read more

It is now very important that all the other governors and all the councilors start to very intensively build trust in institutions, Elena Gallova Kriglerova from the Center for the Research of Ethnicity and Culture (CVEK) non-governmental think tank told The Slovak Spectator.

The fight should not be against extremists but for democracy and its institutions, she stressed.

Banska Bystrica votes out the extremist

Lunter got the votes of 99,169 citizens of the Banska Bystrica region, which represents 48.5 percent of the total vote, while Kotleba received only 47,502 votes (23.2 percent).

The turnout in the region was extremely high, more than 40 percent. In the first round of the 2013 race, only 24.59 percent of registered voters came.

It seems we won, Lunter said shortly before 01:00, when more than 65 percent of the votes were counted. He thanked his family, and also the two candidates who withdrew from the race in his favour: Freedom and Solidarity (SaS) MP Martin Klus and head of the SNP Museum Stanislav Micev.

I had two goals: to remove the green men from office and to make sure a democratic candidate won, said Micev, as quoted by the Sme.sk website, adding that both have been achieved.

In the Banska Bystrica regional council independent candidates will fill 22 out of 49 seats. Altogether 15 seats will be filled by nominees of the ruling Smer party, while five will go to the Party of the Hungarian Community (SMK), and four to the candidates of the right-wing coalition of SaS, Ordinary People and Independent Personalities (OLaNO), NOVA, the Christian Democratic Movement (KDH) and the Civic Conservative Party (OKS). The Slovak National Party (SNS) and Most-Hid will have one deputy each, as will Peoples Party  Our Slovakia (LSNS), which will be represented by Kotleba.

Where do the results leave the Slovak far-right?

Head of the extremist party LSNS, Marian Kotleba, and his right-hand man Milan Uhrik, ran for the governor posts in the Banska Bystrica and Nitra regions respectively. Despite the concerns that they could have stood a chance in the race, they were both defeated by tens of thousands of votes in their respective regions.
Fair Isaac Corporation develops analytic, software, and data management products and services that enable businesses to automate, enhance, and connect decisions in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates through two segments, Scores and Software. The Software segment offers pre-configured decision management solution designed for various business problems or processes, such as marketing, account origination, customer management, customer engagement, fraud detection, financial crimes compliance, collection, and marketing, as well as associated professional services. This segment also provides FICO Platform, a modular software offering designed to support advanced analytic and decision use cases, as well as stand-alone analytic and decisioning software that can be configured by customers to address a wide range of business use cases. The Scores segment provides business-to-business scoring solutions and services for consumers that give clients access to analytics to be integrated into their transaction streams and decision-making processes, as well as business-to-consumer scoring solutions comprising myFICO.com subscription offerings. Fair Isaac Corporation markets its products and services primarily through its direct sales organization and indirect channels, as well as online. The company was formerly known as Fair Isaac & Company, Inc. and changed its name to Fair Isaac Corporation in July 1992. Fair Isaac Corporation was founded in 1956 and is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana.
There was a sense in this past weeks congressional hearings with executives from Facebook, Twitter and Google that Russias meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign was a raging success. If you look back the results, said Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., its a pretty good return on investment. Facebook lawyer Colin Stretch, testifying before the House Intelligence Committee, concurred: Its clear that they were able to drive a relatively significant following for a relatively small amount of money. Its why this activity appears so pernicious.

Lawmakers made much noise about how such intervention undermines American democracy and threatens national security. And some went as far as to suggest that it tipped the presidential contest. In an election where a total of about 115,000 votes would have changed the outcome, can you say that the false and misleading propaganda people saw on . . . Facebook didnt have an impact on the election? asked Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii.

Ive run digital advertising campaigns on behalf of candidates in contested battleground states. And if the ads revealed this past week were an attempt to influence the election, they were a laughably botched and failed attempt. The total amount spent was less than what Ive seen spent online in competitive congressional races. The ads were not well targeted to the battleground states that were most decisive. And the subject matter was designed to engage extremist voices on the political fringe, not persuadable voters undecided between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.

Vladimir Putins propaganda victory is not the advertising itself, but the notion that just over $100,000 worth of poorly targeted Facebook advertising could swing a presidential election. It cant.

It is important for the United States to acknowledge that Russias efforts were a direct attack on our democracy. But in the same way that we do not describe a terrorist attack as a victory for the terrorists, those seeking other explanations for Novembers results shouldnt succumb to the temptation to declare Russias meddling decisive. Besides that being a greatly exaggerated view of Russias capabilities, deeming the effort a geopolitical success emboldens Russia in its efforts to undermine Western democracies.

News of Russias meddling has produced some scary-sounding numbers: as many as 126 million Americans reached on Facebook alone, a further 20 million on Instagram, and 1.4 million tweets sent by Russian-affiliated accounts in the two months leading up to the election.

Yet, the Russian content was just a tiny share of the 33 trillion posts Americans saw in their Facebook news feeds between 2015 and 2017. Any success the ads had in terms of reach seems attributable largely to the sheer doggedness of the effort, with 80,000 Facebook posts in total. Facebook reported that a quarter of the ads were never seen by anyone. And  with the average Facebook user sifting through 220 news-feed posts a day  many of the rest were simply glanced at, scrolled past and forgotten.

With $81 million spent on Facebook by the Trump and Clinton campaigns, mostly to mobilize core supporters to donate and volunteer, a low-six-figure buy is unlikely to have tipped the election. The Russian effort looks even less influential when one considers the tiny amount of Russian Facebook spending directed at key battleground states  $1,979 in Wisconsin, $823 in Michigan and $300 in Pennsylvania. From an electoral perspective, the campaign was remarkably unsophisticated.

Of course, some people did click and like and share. Where Russia appears to have made more headway  before and after the election  is in further animating partisans, capitalizing on their need to have their existing beliefs confirmed. It didnt matter that those confirming their beliefs were foreign adversaries.

In at least some cases, that translated into action. The most successful case appears to be an anti-Trump rally in New York City on Nov. 12, just five days after the election. More than 33,000 people expressed interest in an announcement of the event posted by Russian agents, and thousands ended up attending. The ad spending that we know of to promote the rally was piddling  $1.93 to serve the post to 188 people. Yet, touching a raw nerve, news of this event spread organically. And no one bothered to dig into the sockpuppet Facebook page behind the announcement.

Despite all the focus in the past week on ads, compared to organic, friend-to-friend sharing, a relatively small share of the Russian campaign was driven by advertising. Just 10 million of the people reached came in through the advertising campaign, out of 29 million who directly read Russian posts in their news feeds, and up to 126 million who were exposed indirectly through their Facebook friends. The Russian effort depended on the willingness of some Americans to go along with it and share. The credulity of these social media users is a fact more troubling than the advertising itself, and one not as easily addressed by policy.

Broken English aside, if the Russian content struck some Facebook users as perfectly normal and even share-worthy, thats because it mimicked the hallmarks of popular social media content. Social media often performs best when it speaks emotionally to deep-seated cultural identity. Thats why debates about race, gender and religion can rage in social media in a way that discussions of economic policy dont. The Russian posts deliberately spoke to the identity of their potential audience  as Christians or Muslims, as gun owners or LGBT Americans, as military veterans or supporters of Black Lives Matter. A 14-year-old Royce Mann brought hundreds of people to tears after he performed a slam poem on white privilege, police brutality, and the Black Lives Matter movement, read the most successful post, from the Russian-backed Blacktivists Facebook page  inspiring more than 300,000 interactions around a message indistinguishable from something homegrown. Other content was more vile and sinister, likening a Clinton victory to a Satanic triumph.

In the wake of these revelations, social media companies are likely to adopt policy fixes that will reduce the likelihood of foreign agents advertising directly to Americans. These include restrictions on the use of foreign currency to buy political ads and voluntary transparency measures. Proposals to warn users before sharing false content from dubious sources are positive, too. Legislative initiatives such as the Honest Ads Act also would bring greater transparency to political advertising, but would do very little to stop the vast majority of Russian ads that did not expressly support a candidate. Short of an upheaval significantly curtailing the use of social media as a vehicle for free expression, no legislation can prevent their use as vectors for misinformation or propaganda from foreign powers, particularly when social media is largely free and open for anyone to use. Only a more vigilant citizenry can provide a full-proof defense.

Changes by Congress or social media companies may solve this problem at a surface level. But the reason Russia was able to blend in to Americans news feeds is that those ugly divisions were there to be exploited, and, in fact, that exploiting them remains a potentially effective and lucrative social media strategy  one thats used right here in the United States every day. Thats an issue much bigger than stopping ads from being purchased in rubles.
The decades-old Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival is an annual spectacle, held on the ninth day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar, where thousands of locals in Hai Phong Citys Do Son District gather around a giant ring to cheer water buffalo as they are made to fight one another until a single contender is crowned the years champion.

In his letter addressed to Hai Phong chairman Nguyen Van Tung, Neale expressed his concerns over the welfare of buffalo pitched against each other during the festival, as well as the communitys safety at the event.

In July, a man was gored to death by his own buffalo that he had brought to the 28th edition of the festival.

During the 2007 festival, a 73-year-old referee was seriously injured from a slam by one of the participating buffalo, Neale recounted in his letter.

A man is thrown into the air by his own buffalo during the qualifying round of the 2017 Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival in Hai Phong City, July 1, 2017. Photo: Tuoi Tre

In his letter, Neale cited how fighter buffalo are fed bagasse, beer, vitamin supplements, bear bile, ginseng and python fat to increase their aggressiveness and stamina for the festival.

The animals are also trained in harsh conditions for long periods of time prior to the event without regard for their suffering, he added.

According to the animal rights activist, all aspects of the festival, from the method of training the buffalo to fight to the way they are slaughtered for meat after the event, are no longer compatible with Vietnams vision of developing a civilized and modern culture.

This vision, he wrote, seeks to promote humanity and good traditional cultural values, while eliminating evil and outdated customs.

Neale called for the administration of Hai Phong to work with Animals Asia to put an end to the festival out of concern for the safety of the community and respect for the law.

Two buffalo engage in a fight at the 2017 Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival in Hai Phong City, July 1, 2017. Photo: Tuoi Tre

In related news, Animals Asia on Saturday held a debate in Hanoi on maintaining ceremonial sacrifices in festivals as a way of conserving traditions.

Most youths and animal welfare workers who attended the event agreed that fests involving the abuse of animals should be terminated to fit with the development of a modern and civilized society.

Buffalo are slaughtered for meat after a fighting festival in Vietnam. Photo: Tuoi Tre

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Typhoon Damrey killed at least 19 people in central and southern Vietnam on Saturday, the government said, after the storm swept into the country just days ahead of the APEC summit of Asia-Pacific leaders.

Damrey reached land at 4 a.m. local time on Friday with winds gusting at up to 90 kmph (56 mph) that tore off more than 1,000 roofs, knocked down hundreds of electricity poles and uprooted trees.

At least 12 people were missing and over 370 houses had collapsed, the countrys search and rescue committee said. Over 33,000 people had been evacuated.

The government earlier said six ships had capsized with 61 people on board in the East Vietnam Sea and that 25 people had been rescued, but gave no details as to the possible fate of the others.

A truck is knocked sideways by strong winds in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The storm made landfall near the city of Nha Trang, which is around 500 km (310 miles) south of the coastal city of Danang, where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit is taking place next week.

There were reports of high winds and rain in Danang, but no immediate reports of casualties. The city will host U.S. President Donald Trump from Nov. 10 as well as Chinas Xi Jinping, Russias Vladimir Putin and counterparts from other APEC members.

The storm moved from the coastal area into a key coffee-growing area of the worlds biggest producer of robusta coffee beans. Traders had expected the storm to delay harvesting, but were not sure whether it would damage the crop.

Houses along National Highway 1A in Khanh Hoa Province are devastated. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The government said more than 40,000 hectares of crops had been damaged, including sugar cane, rice fields and rubber plantations. More than 40 flights were cancelled.

Floods killed more than 80 people in northern Vietnam last month while a typhoon wreaked havoc in central provinces in September. The country of over 90 million people is prone to destructive storms and flooding due to its long coastline.
Have a nice Sunday!

Society

-- The government has approved a proposal to scrap procedures related to residence record books and identity cards in residential administration, and replace the documents with personal identification codes.

-- Typhoon Damrey, which ravaged south-central provinces, including Khanh Hoa, home to Nha Trang City, and the southern parts of the Central Highlands on Saturday, killed 20 people and left 17 others missing while destroying over 24,000 homes, preliminary statistics as of late Saturday showed.

-- Forty-six flights and several train journeys were canceled or delayed over Typhoon Damreys landfall on Saturday, according to representatives of airlines and the Vietnam Railways, the state-owned operator of the national railway system.

-- A 2016 national environment report released recently has revealed air pollution in cities is aggravating and adversely impacting city dwellers health.

-- Animals Asia Foundation has filed a petition to the chair of the Peoples Committee in northern Hai Phong City to put an end to its iconic Do Son Festival over animal welfare concerns and safety of participants and spectators at the bloody event.

Business

-- Despite a 26-percent rise in foreign tourist arrivals to Vietnam, hoteliers in Ho Chi Minh City disclosed they could not hike room rates but had to offer lower prices and diverse services instead to draw lodgers considering a wide array of accommodation available.

-- Many banks in Vietnam have come up with different measures to tighten security and reduce risks in Internet banking transactions amidst a recent relapse of frauds despite the inconvenience that may cause to their clients.

Lifestyle

-- Japans Brain Works Group on Saturday held a press conference to announce a project to make a film that revolves around a fictional love story in the setting of a real incident with the Can Tho Bridge, located in the namesake Mekong Delta city, a decade ago.
Many locations in central Vietnam have been severely flooded due to prolonged downpours brought about by tropical storm Damrey.

Since the typhoon made landfall in the south-central province of Khanh Hoa on Saturday, torrential rain has battered a large area of the central region and lingered until Sunday.

In Thua Thien-Hue Province, water in the Huong River has reached an alarming level and is still rising, causing floodwaters as high as 0.3 to 0.5 meters in low-lying areas.

In the provincial capital city of Hue, many residential areas and major streets were severely flooded.

According to the provincial committee for flood and storm control, rainfall between 200 and 630 millimeters has been recorded in the locality, resulting in serious inundation in local rivers.

In the central city of Da Nang, heavy rain has also led to flooding, exacerbated by the water discharge of nearby reservoirs.

The situation is most devastating in Hoa Vang District as many major streets were submerged and over 20 villages isolated, forcing local residents to travel by boat.

Floodwaters are expected to continue rising on Sunday, Nguyen Van Ly, head of the Hoa Vang Office of Natural Resources and Environment, said, adding that residents in dangerous areas would be evacuated.

Meanwhile, about 24,000 houses in Dai Loc District, located in the central province of Quang Nam, have been ravaged by the flooding, of which 2,500 were submerged by over one meter high floodwaters.

About 716 trees have been uprooted in the locality, Ho Ngoc Man, chairman of the Dai Loc Peoples Committee, said, adding that landslides have damaged several local streets.

In the central province of Quang Ngai, multiple streets including Quang Trung, Nguyen Nghiem, Phan Dinh Tung, and Tran Hung Dao, were sunk by water as high as up to 0.5 meters.

Residential areas in Binh Son, Nghia Hanh, Mo Duc, and Tu Nghia were isolated by the inundation, while hundreds of families have been evacuated to safe areas.

Damrey is the 12th storm to hit Vietnam this year and is the strongest typhoon to make landfall, in Khanh Hoa Province, in the past two decades.

As of Sunday afternoon, at least 27 deaths have been reported while 22 others remain nowhere to be found.

More than 40,000 houses were destroyed and countless utility posts and trees were knocked down.

Flooding in Hue City, located in Thua Thien-Hue, on November 5, 2017. Photo: Tuoi Tre

People travel on a boat in Hue City. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Serious flooding in Hoa Nhon Commune, Hoa Vang District, located in the central city of Da Nang. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Local residents are being evacuated in Hoa Vang District, Da Nang. Photo: Tuoi Tre

A resident in Dien Ban Town, Quang Nam Provicne, travels on a boat. Photo: Tuoi Tre

A house is surrounded by floodwaters in the central province of Quang Nam. Photo: Tuoi Tre

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This week on SBS Insight speaks to people who are Intersex about how they navigate life and the medical system.



Alex David was raised as a girl but is chromosomally male, born with ambiguous genitalia and internal gonads that did not turn into anything. Alex is Intersex which is when someone is born with male and female characteristics. Alex had surgery when young to look more female because doctors reportedly didnt have a clue about Alexs sex. Growing up, Alex felt out of place and from the age of 17 tried to live as a male. Alex now identifies as non-binary.

Bonnie and Phoebe Hart were born with testes in their abdomens instead of ovaries and a uterus. At the age of 12 and 17 they both had surgery to remove the testes because they were told there was a high cancer risk. They were then instructed to do vaginal dilation which would better enable them to have heterosexual sex. They said it was a painful and unsupervised process.

Sophia Young was born with an Intersex variation called mosaic Klinefelters Syndrome and says she was born with both a penis and vagina. She wasnt operated on as a child but sometimes wished she was. She was raised as a girl but at the age of eight says her parents changed her into a boy and changed her name to Harrison. She later changed her identity back to a girl and started modelling in an effort to raise money to have corrective surgery on her genitals.

Louises first child was born with a condition called congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Louise and her husband decided to operate on their daughter when she was a baby. She had a clitoral reduction, labiaplasty and her vagina was formed. They dont regret the decision and say it was to ensure she lived as a normal girl.

Nearly two per cent of Australians have some sort of Intersex variation. Its as common as people with red hair. Intersex advocates are calling for a ban of surgery on Intersex infants and say procedures on people before they are old enough to consent are a violation of human rights. However, doctors say any ban would affect many families and individuals who are happy with the surgery they had as children.

8:30pm Tuesday on SBS.
JUBA, South Sudan (AP)  Tensions are high in South Sudan's capital after President Salva Kiir sent troops to surround the home of former military chief of staff Paul Malong, disarm his bodyguards and remove all weapons.

The order seen by The Associated Press says any resistance "should be met with reasonable force."

Malong's wife, Lucy Ayak Malek, says bodyguards refused to hand over arms and the situation has escalated, with hundreds of soldiers deployed.

The United Nations issued an emergency notification advising staff to remain vigilant.

Malong was fired in May and had been one of Kiir's closest allies. He was accused of directing last year's fighting in Juba that killed hundreds. The United States has imposed sanctions on him.

Army spokesman Col. Santo Domic Chol says whatever is taking place now is "political."

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FILE PHOTO: Saudi Arabian Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih waits before a meeting with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak and OPEC Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo in Moscow, Russia, May 31, 2017. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov (Reuters)

DUBAI (Reuters) - The Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan may attend a meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC producers in Vienna this month as an observer, Saudi Arabia's Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said on Sunday.

Falih met his counterparts from Russia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in Tashkent on Saturday. The Saudi minister said after the meeting that more work was needed to cut inventories.

"Uzbekistan has responded (positively) to participating at the Vienna meeting this month, and has expressed its readiness to attend as an observer," Falih said on his Twitter account.

Uzbekistan is a small oil producer with around 594 million barrels of proven crude oil reserves. In 2015, its total petroleum and other liquids production was 78,900 barrels per day (bpd), according to the EIA.

Saudi Arabia and Russia are leading a deal between OPEC and non-OPEC producers to cut oil supply, with the aim of draining global inventories and propping up oil prices.

OPEC, led by Saudi Arabia, has been urging other producers to join the supply cut pact. Riyadh holds the presidency of OPEC this year.

The involvement of Uzbekistan is a sign of how the pact is gaining more support from other producers, OPEC sources said.

OPEC, Russia and other oil producers are due to meet on Nov. 30 in Vienna to decide whether to extend the current agreement which expires in March 2018.

(Reporting by Rania El Gamal; Editing by Keith Weir)
KABUL (Reuters) - Afghanistan's telecoms regulator wrote to internet service providers this week ordering them to block the messaging services WhatsApp and Telegram but it was not immediately clear whether they had complied.

Use of social media and mobile instant messaging services has exploded in Afghanistan over recent years. Social media users and civil rights groups reacted with outrage to initial reports of the move and the letter sent by telecoms regulator ATRA was widely shared on social media.

Some media reports, citing unidentified sources, said the move had been ordered by the National Directorate for Security to thwart the use of the encrypted messaging services by the Taliban and other insurgent groups.

It was not immediately possible to confirm the reports.

The acting minister for telecommunications, Shahzad Aryobee, posted a message on Facebook saying that the telecoms regulator had been ordered to put a gradual block on the services to improve their functioning after complaints had been received.

"The government is committed to freedom of speech and knows that it is a basic civil right for our people," he wrote.

The letter by telecoms regulator ATRA, dated Nov. 1 and signed by an official of the regulator, directed internet companies to block Telegram and Facebook Inc's WhatsApp services "without delay" for a period of 20 days.

However, the service worked normally this week and still appeared to be working normally on Saturday on both state-owned operator Salaam and private service providers.

On Friday, there were reports of interruptions but it was not clear whether they were caused by a deliberate shutdown or by the unrelated issues with WhatsApp services that were experienced in several countries.

Mobile phone services have been one of the big success stories in Afghanistan since the Taliban were ousted from power by a U.S.-led campaign in 2001, but there are also frequent complaints from users about quality and coverage.

Story continues

WhatsApp and similar services, including Facebook Messenger and Viber, are widely used by Afghan politicians and members of the government as well as by the Taliban, which has a sophisticated social media operation of its own.

The movement's main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, wrote to reporters this week giving his Viber number "in case WhatsApp is not working".

(Reporting by Mirwais Harooni; Writing by James Mackenzie; Editing by Paul Tait)
Asylum seekers are seen at a detention centre on Manus Island, Papua New Guinea, in this still image taken from social media video November 3, 2017. Abdul Aziz Adam/via REUTERS (Reuters)

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia turned down on Sunday an offer to take 150 asylum seekers being held in an Australian-run detention centre in Papua New Guinea, where U.N. officials have warned a humanitarian emergency is unfolding.

About 600 men have barricaded themselves inside the camp on remote Manus island in Papua New Guinea, defying efforts by Australia and PNG to shut it. Food, running water and medical services were cut off by Australia five days ago.

Australian authorities want the men moved to a transit centre elsewhere on the island at the start of a process the asylum seekers fear will result in them being resettled in PNG or another developing nation. The men also fear violent reprisals from the local community.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Friday her country was willing to take 150 asylum seekers from among those held on Manus island and another camp on the tiny Pacific nation of Nauru.

Her Australian counterpart, Malcolm Turnbull, however said Canberra preferred to work through an existing refugee swap deal he negotiated with former U.S. President Barack Obama last year. Under that deal, up to 1,250 asylum seekers could be sent to the United States and Australia will in turn accept refugees from Central America.

"We want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements, and then in the wake of that obviously we can consider other ones," Turnbull told Ardern during a media conference in Sydney.

Relocating the men on Manus island is designed as a temporary measure, allowing the United States time to complete vetting of asylum seekers.

Ardern acknowledged the two Tasman neighbours faced different immigration problems but said the offer remained open.

The camps on Manus island and Nauru have been key parts of Australia's disputed "Sovereign Borders" immigration policy, under which it refuses to allow asylum seekers arriving by boat to reach its shores.

Australia's offshore detention policies have been heavily criticised by the United Nations and human rights groups but are backed the centre-right government and the Labor opposition.

U.N. rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a news conference in Geneva on Friday about the "unfolding humanitarian emergency" in the Manus island centre, where asylum seekers have been reported digging wells to try to find water.

(Reporting by Benjamin Cooper; Editing by Paul Tait)
This column is the fourth in a series of recent columns to carry on a discussion with Idahoans about the comprehensive tax reform efforts underway. This guest column, as well as the other tax reform-related op-eds in this series and links to cited reports and proposals, can be viewed on my official website at: www.crapo.senate.gov/media/editorials. In this column, I will write about the importance of considering the broad range of potential effects of the tax reforms being considered.

Those following the tax reform process will hear much debate about the distributional effects of proposed reforms, and how different plans will affect different income demographics. In fact, some stakeholders have drawn lines in the sand about what particular distributional effects are or are not acceptable to them. As with revenue estimates, it is also necessary to understand the capabilities and limitations of the different distributional estimating methods. Some have stated their insistence that tax reform not provide one penny in tax relief for taxpayers above a certain income threshold. Such a standard is not as easy to evaluate as one may think and may have negative consequences on efforts to provide needed assistance in our communities.

For example, in August, the Senate Finance Committee held a hearing on the low income housing crisis, which included a focus on a bipartisan proposal to expand the Low Income Housing Tax Credit. LIHTC is considered one of the federal governments key programs for encouraging investment in the development of affordable housing for seniors and low-income families. As described by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the IRS allocates federal tax credits to state housing credit agencies based on each states population. The state agencies award LIHTCs for qualified affordable housing projects based on point systems reflecting each states priorities for the desired type, location and ownership of affordable housing. Project sponsors use the tax credits to raise equity from private investors. The equity investment reduces the debt burden on the tax credit property, making it financially feasible to offer lower, more affordable rents. Often institutional investors such as banks use the tax credits and real estate losses to lower their federal tax liabilities.

The primary purpose of the LIHTC program is to serve a very important public policy purpose of providing important affordable housing opportunities that would otherwise not be available to low-income Americans. But, this credit also allows banks and wealthy investors to offset about $9 billion of their taxable income each year, in exchange for their capital investments in these low-income housing developments.

This is only one of many examples one could find in the tax code, where Congress has developed particular credits, deductions or exemptions that are designed to serve very important, and broadly-supported, public policy purposes, that, if one simply follows the flow of that tax relief on paper, without taking into account the public policy effects, would be seen simply as tax relief for higher income taxpayers. As we move forward with developing comprehensive tax reform, it is important that we avoid just looking at the simple numbers on paper, and also give full consideration to the broader and secondary economic and public policy effects of these proposals. Thank you to all Idahoans who are engaging in this effort to achieve comprehensive tax reform to lower the burden on all Americans and make the tax code fairer, flatter and simpler.
ADEN (Reuters) - A suicide car bomber blew himself up at a security checkpoint in the southern Yemeni port city of Aden on Sunday, killing 15 people and wounding at least 20, residents and a security official said.

Islamic State militants claimed responsibility for the assault, without providing evidence.

The attack occurred outside the main security headquarters in Aden's Khor Maksar district, according to Aden residents and the security official. The blast was heard across the city and a plume of smoke could be seen from miles away.

Clashes erupted in the area immediately afterward, witnesses reported. It was unclear who was behind the attack or the clashes that followed.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement posted on the internet, though without immediate evidence to back up its assertion. IS said at least 50 people had been killed by the blast and in clashes.

Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), the local branch of the global Islamist militant network, has been the most active jihadist group in southern Yemen in recent years.

Aden is the interim headquarters of Yemen's internationally recognised government, which had to move there when Houthi rebels took control of the capital, Sanaa, in 2015 during Yemen's civil war.

More than 10,000 people have been killed in the conflict since the Houthis advanced on Aden, forcing President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi to flee and seek help from Saudi Arabia.

Aden is dominated by Yemeni forces backed by the United Arab Emirates, a key member of the Saudi-led coalition that intervened in Yemen's war to restore Hadi.

Saudi Arabia's air defence forces intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen over the capital, Riyadh, on Saturday, state news agencies reported.

The missile was brought down near King Khaled Airport on the northern outskirts of the city and did not cause any casualties.

(Reporting by Mohammed Mukhashaf and Ahmed Tolba,; Writing by Aziz El Yaakoubi; Editing by Mark Heinrich)
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said on Friday, November 3, that her government would not support a loan for the controversial Adani coal mine ahead of the state election on November 25.

At the last election I promised to stop the Newman-Nicholls LNP government from gifting $500 million of tax payers money to Adani, Palaszczuk said. I also promised that not one cent of tax payers money would go to this project. I have kept those promises to Queenslanders.

The Premier said she intended to write to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to confirm her government would exercise its veto, after revealing her husband worked on the Adani project in his role with PricewaterhouseCoopers, a perceived conflict of interest, ABC reported. Credit: Annastacia Palaszczuk via Storyful
Scottish childcare minister Mark McDonald has resigned over allegations regarding his private life.

In a statement released on Saturday, the SNP MSP for Aberdeen Donside apologised "unreservedly to anyone I have upset or who might have found my behaviour inappropriate".

He said he was standing down as minister because "some of my previous actions" were "considered to be inappropriate".

"Where I have believed myself to have been merely humorous or attempting to be friendly, my behaviour might have made others uncomfortable or led them to question my intentions," he said.

Mr McDonald added that he considered his behaviour "entirely my responsibility" and said that, "in light of my position in government... it would not be appropriate to continue to serve in my role in the Scottish Government".

"I hope that in taking this step, neither any particular woman, or my family, will be the focus of undue and unwarranted scrutiny," he added.

"It has been an honour to serve in the Scottish Government and I will continue to serve my constituents in Aberdeen Donside to the best of my ability."

A government spokesperson confirmed the news, saying: "Mr McDonald tendered his resignation to the First Minister on Saturday."

"The Education Secretary is responsible for all aspects of the education portfolio including those led by the minister for childcare and early years," the spokesman said.

"The First Minister will appoint a new minister in due course."

It is as yet unclear what type of "inappropriate behaviour" the former minister is referring to.
By Lisa Maria Garza

SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas (Reuters) - A gunman massacred at least 26 worshippers and wounded 20 others at a church in southeast Texas on Sunday, carrying out the latest in a series of mass shootings that have plagued the United States, authorities said.

The shooting occurred at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in Wilson County, about 40 miles (65 km) east of San Antonio.

The lone suspect, wearing black clothing, entered the building and began firing, according to a statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety. After the shooting, he fled in his vehicle and was later found dead in neighbouring Guadalupe County. The circumstances of the gunmans death are still under investigation, the state agency said.

Neither the suspect's identity nor motive were disclosed by authorities. But law enforcement officials who were not identified have said the gunman as a white, 26-year-old man, the New York Times and other media reported.

The 14-year-old daughter of pastor Frank Pomeroy was killed, the family told several television stations.

Jeff Forrest, a 36-year-old military veteran who lives a block away from the church, said what sounded like high-caliber, semi-automatic gunfire triggered memories of his four combat deployments with the Marine Corps.

I was on the porch, I heard 10 rounds go off and then my ears just started ringing, Forrest said. I hit the deck and I just lay there."

The massacre comes just weeks after a sniper killed 58 people at an outdoor concert in Las Vegas, the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. The shootings have stirred a years-long national debate over whether easy access to firearms was contributing to the trend.

President Donald Trump said he was monitoring the situation while in Japan on a 12-day Asian trip.

"May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene," he said on Twitter.

According to the witnesses, about 20 shots rang out at 11:30 a.m. (1730 GMT) during the church services, according to media reports. It was unclear how many worshippers were inside at the time.

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After the shooting, the suspect sped away in a car and was soon cornered by sheriff's deputies just outside of Wilson County in Guadalupe County, Wiley told Reuters. He did not know if the shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot or was killed by deputies.

Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville received eight patients, the hospital said in a statement, while Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston received another eight.

At Connally, three people were treated and released, one is in critical condition and four were transferred to the University Hospital in San Antonio for a higher level of care.

The First Baptist Church is one of two houses of worship in Sutherland Springs, an area that is home to fewer than 900 residents, according the 2010 Census. There are also two gas stations and a Dollar General store in town.

The white-painted, one-story structure features a small steeple and a single front door. On Sunday, the Lone Star flag of Texas was flying alongside the U.S. flag and a third, unidentified banner.

Inside there is a small raised platform on which members sang worship songs to guitar music and the pastor delivered a weekly sermon, according to videos posted on YouTube. In one of the clips, a few dozen people, including young children, can be seen sitting in the wooden pews.

Pastor Paul Buford of River Oaks Church, about 2 miles from First Baptist, said the community was deeply shaken.

"We are holding up as well as we can," he said. "We are a strong community."

The shooting occurred on the eighth anniversary of the Nov. 5, 2009 massacre of 13 people at the Fort Hood Army base in central Texas. A U.S. Army Medical Corps psychiatrist convicted of the killings is now awaiting execution.

In 2015, a white gunman killed nine black parishioners at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. The gunman was sentenced to death for the racially motivated attack.

In September, a gunman killed a woman in the parking lot of a Tennessee church on Sunday morning and wounded six worshippers inside the building before shooting himself in a scuffle with an usher who rushed to stop the attack.

(Additional reporting by Bernie Woodall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Jon Herskovitz in Austin, Texas; Writing by Frank McGurty; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Typhoon Damrey brought heavy rain and strong winds to south Vietnam in the early morning of Saturday, November 4.

This footage, taken from the Novotel Hotel in Nha Trang, shows fierce waves and extreme winds hitting the coastal resort city. The user told Storyful the building and windows were shaking due to the force of the storm.

Local news outlet VN Express reported at least one Damrey-related death. A collapsed wall of a Nha Trang home was reported to have killed a child. Credit: Instagram/charmjin___ via Storyful
On behalf of the Bosnian Community of Twin Falls, we would like to endorse candidate Liyah Babayan for Twin Falls City Council Seat 1. Having worked alongside Liyah on several projects such as, the Srebrenica Genocide Awareness Week, I can personally attest to her strong work ethic and integrity. She stands up for what is right, and never gives up. She is unbiased, strong, and intelligent. She is most definitely qualified to represent the people and to put the peoples voice first. She is a respected individual in our community because she stands up for what is right and never backs down from a challenge. She not only represents the refugee community, she represents us all as American citizens. Liyah is able to deal with all personalities and variations of people, all while getting the job done. Shes a true definition of a leader and has proved herself to be someone worthy of following. We, the Bosnian Community of Twin Falls, fully endorse Liyah Babayan for City Council Seat 1.
Omega said the agreement - which covers its microarray-based food intolerance product FoodPrint - is for an initial three-year term and is automatically renewable on the mutual agreement of both parties. It will allow the group to increase traction in the US for FoodPrint, which provides laboratories with a high throughput food sensitivity testing solution.

Omega said it expects a modest contribution from this arrangement in the current financial year.

Chief executive officer Andrew Shepherd said: We are pleased to have signed this agreement that enables us to broaden our food intolerance product offering in the important US market. We are excited by the prospects for this relationship and believe the capabilities of our chosen partner will enable us to deliver better health outcomes for patients."

At 1010 BST, the shares were up 6.1% 23.35p.
Londons FTSE 100 is expected to open 12 points lower on Friday as oil prices fell and as concerns on this months European Union referendum persisted.

Oil prices dropped after rising earlier this week on continued supply disruptions and government data showing a decrease in US weekly crude inventories.

At 0731 BST Brent crude fell 0.58% to $51.65 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate dipped 0.69% to $50.21 per barrel.

Meanwhile, uncertainty grew on Britains 23 June EU referendum as former London Mayor Boris Johnson tried to persuade voters to side with the Leave campaign in a televised debate on Thursday night. Johnson urged Britain to take back control and prosper as never before outside of the EU as he put forward his case alongside Conservative lawmaker Andrea Leadsom and Labour's Gisela Stuart.

On the opposing side were Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister of Scotland, Angela Eagle, a senior Labour Party politician, and Amber Rudd, Britains energy secretary.

With the referendum just around the corner, investors will continue monitor developments on Friday. Labour Party deputy leader Tom Watson and shadow cabinet colleagues are expected to warn in a report on Friday that leaving the EU would lead to an emergency budget, further cuts in public spending and tax rises.

In economic data, UK construction output figures are due at 0930 BST and the University of Michigans consumer confidence index will be released at 1500 BST.

In company news, J Sainsbury has announced it will appoint its chief financial officer John Rogers as chief executive of Home Retail Group on completion of its 1.4bn takeover. Rogers will replace John Walden, who is stepping down from the company. The takeover deal is expected to be completed in the third quarter.

BP and Det norske oljeselskap on Friday said they were creating of Aker BP ASA, an independent oil and gas company combining the assets and expertise from both companies' Norwegian exploration and production operations to form the largest Norwegian independent oil and gas producer. Under the terms of the proposed deal, Aker BP will be independently operated and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. It will be jointly owned by current Det norske shareholder Aker (40%), other Det norske shareholders (30%) and BP (30%). BP will also receive a cash payment of $140m plus positive working capital adjustments as part of the transaction

Grocery giant Tesco confirmed the proposed sale of its Kipa and Giraffe businesses on Friday, as it continues to slim down and focus on its core retail business. The FTSE 100 firm said it has agreed to sell its 95.5% controlling share in Turkish supermarket chain Kipa to Swiss retail group Migros.

In a separate transaction, Tesco confirmed it is also selling the Giraffe restaurant chain which it picked up in 2013, to Harry Ramsdens owner Boparan Restaurants Holdings.
Liyah Babayan, a first-generation small-business owner in downtown Twin Falls, is a woman whose sole mission is to put the people first. I am elated to hear that she is running for Seat 1 of the Twin Falls City Council. I believe she has all of the necessary qualifications, skills and ambition to be an immensely successful city councilwoman.

Miss Babayan is tuned in and knows our community from the ground level up. Over the last 10 years, Liyah has been available and accessible to the public she serves at her business downtown. As a councilwoman, she will be right there on Main Street, available eight hours a day to the public. She served seven years on the Parks and Recreational Commission and three years on the Twin Falls School Board. She consistently represents the community with charities, fundraisers and raising awareness in everything varying from breast cancer to domestic violence  all of which is not in her job description. This also includes the mentoring of our youth, guiding them in real issues they face such as addiction and teenage pregnancy. Miss Babayan is even kind-hearted to organize multiple vigils throughout the past few years for the devastating events that occurred around the nation, such as the Orlando night club shooting in June of 2016 and others.

In moments of fear and division, she has an uncanny ability to bring people together to spread a positive and powerful message of unity. Our community is vastly rich in diversity, and that has not been represented to its maximum potential. She is someone I believe can bring change to that and many other issues.

I write in support of Liyah Babayan for city councilwoman of Twin Falls, Idaho so that she may use her vast influence as an asset to the community to inspire others to embrace diversity and inclusion, raise awareness for all issues and above all, to show that it will always be the people first.

Senada Kadric

Twin Falls
CA, Inc., doing business as CA technologies, develops, markets, delivers, and licenses software products and services in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Mainframe Solutions, Enterprise Solutions, and Services. The Mainframe Solutions segment offers solutions for the IBM z Systems platform, which runs various mission critical business applications. Its mainframe solutions enable customers enhance economics by increasing throughput and lowering cost per transaction; increasing business agility through DevOps tooling and processes; increasing reliability and availability of operations through machine intelligence and automation solutions; and protecting enterprise data with security and compliance. The Enterprise Solutions segment provides a range of software planning, development, and management tools for mobile, cloud, and distributed computing environments. It primarily provides customers secure application development, infrastructure management, automation, and identity-centric security solutions. The Services segment offers various services, such as consulting, implementation, application management, education, and support services to commercial and government customers for implementation and adoption of its software solutions. The company serves banks, insurance companies, other financial services providers, government agencies, information technology service providers, telecommunication providers, transportation companies, manufacturers, technology companies, retailers, educational organizations, and health care institutions. It sells its products through direct sales force, as well as through various partner channels comprising resellers, service providers, system integrators, managed service providers, and technology partners. The company was formerly known as Computer Associates International, Inc. and changed its name to CA, Inc. in 2006. CA, Inc. was founded in 1974 and is headquartered in New York, New York.
Natural Gas Services Group, Inc. provides natural gas compression services and equipment to the energy industry in the United States. It fabricates, manufactures, rents, and sells natural gas compressors and related equipment. The company primarily engages in the rental of compression units that provide small, medium, and large horsepower applications for unconventional oil and natural gas production. As of December 31, 2021, the company had 2,023 natural gas compression units in its rental fleet with 418,041 horsepower. The company also engages in the design, fabrication, and assembly of compressor components into compressor units for rental or sale; engineers and fabricates natural gas compressors; and designs and manufactures a line of reciprocating compressor frames, cylinders, and parts. In addition, it is involved in the design, fabrication, sale, installation, and service of flare stacks and related ignition and control devices for the onshore and offshore incineration of gas compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gases. Further, the company offers customer support services for its compressor and flare sales business; and exchange and rebuild program for small horsepower screw compressors. Its primary customers are exploration and production(E&P) companies that utilize compressor units for artificial lift applications; E&P companies that focuses on natural gas-weighted production; and midstream companies. Natural Gas Services Group, Inc. was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Midland, Texas.
The following companies are subsidiares of Accenture: 2nd Road, ?What If!, ?What If! China Holdings Limited, ?What If! Holdings Limited, ?What If! Limited, ACN Consulting Co Ltd, AD.Dialeto (Digital Agency acquired by Accenture), AFD.TECH, AGS Business and Technology Services Limited, AIG Shared Services Business Processing Inc, ASM Research Inc., ASM Research LLC, ATAN, Accenture (Botswana) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (China) Co. Ltd., Accenture (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., Accenture (South Africa) Pty Ltd, Accenture (UK) Limited, Accenture 2 Business Process Services S.A., Accenture 2 LLC, Accenture A/S, Accenture AB, Accenture AG, Accenture AS, Accenture Africa Pty Ltd, Accenture Agencia Interativa Ltda, Accenture Australia Holding B.V., Accenture Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture B.V., Accenture BPM Operations Support Services S.A., Accenture BPM S.C.R.L., Accenture BPS Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Branch Holdings B.V., Accenture Bulgaria EOOD, Accenture Business Services for Utilities Inc, Accenture Business Services of British Columbia Limited Partnership, Accenture Business and Technology Services LLC, Accenture C.A., Accenture Canada Holdings Inc, Accenture Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Capital Inc, Accenture Central Europe B.V., Accenture Chile Asesorias y Servicios Ltda, Accenture Cloud Services GmbH, Accenture Cloud Software Solutions Limited, Accenture Cloud Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions LLC, Accenture Cloud Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd, Accenture Co. Ltd, Accenture Communications Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, Accenture Company Ltd, Accenture Consulting Pty Ltd, Accenture Consulting Services Ltd Tanzania, Accenture Consultores de Gestao S.A., Accenture Consultoria de Industria e Consumo Ltda, Accenture Consultoria de Recursos Naturais Ltda, Accenture Credit Services LLC, Accenture Customer Services Distribution SASU, Accenture Customer Services Ltd, Accenture Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, Accenture Defined Benefit Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Delivery Poland S.p. z o.o., Accenture Dienstleistungen GmbH, Accenture Digital Holdings GmbH, Accenture East Africa Limited, Accenture Ecuador S.A., Accenture Egypt LLC, Accenture Enterprise Development (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Accenture Federal Services LLC, Accenture Finance II Limited, Accenture Finance Limited, Accenture Finance and Accounting BPO Services S.p.A., Accenture Finance and Accounting Services S.r.l., Accenture Financial Advanced Solution & Technology S.r.l., Accenture Flex LLC, Accenture GP LLC, Accenture Global Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Global Engagements Limited, Accenture Global Holdings Limited, Accenture Global Services Limited, Accenture Global Solutions Limited, Accenture GmbH, Accenture HR Services S.p.A., Accenture Healthcare Processing Inc, Accenture Holding Brasil Ltda, Accenture Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Accenture Holdings (Iberia) S.L., Accenture Holdings B.V., Accenture Holdings France SASU, Accenture Hungary Holdings Kft, Accenture Inc, Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions Kft, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions SA, Accenture Insurance Services B.V., Accenture Insurance Services LLC, Accenture International B.V., Accenture International LLC, Accenture International Limited, Accenture Japan Ltd, Accenture Korea B.V., Accenture LLC, Accenture LLP, Accenture Lanka (Private) Ltd, Accenture Limited, Accenture Lithuania UAB, Accenture Ltd, Accenture Ltda, Accenture Maghreb S.a.r.l., Accenture Managed Services SRL, Accenture Management GmbH, Accenture Marketing Services LLC, Accenture Marketing Services Limited, Accenture Middle East B.V., Accenture Minority I B.V., Accenture Mozambique Limitada, Accenture Mzansi Pty Ltd, Accenture NV/SA, Accenture NZ Limited, Accenture Nova Scotia Unlimited Liability Co., Accenture OOO, Accenture Operations GmbH, Accenture Operations S.p. z o.o., Accenture Operations Services Private Limited, Accenture Operations Services Sdn Bhd, Accenture Outsourcing S.r.l., Accenture Outsourcing Services S.A., Accenture Oy, Accenture Panama Inc, Accenture Participations B.V., Accenture Participations II Limited, Accenture Peru SRL, Accenture Post Trade Processing SASU, Accenture Post-Trade Processing Limited, Accenture Process (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Pte Ltd, Accenture Puerto Rico LLC, Accenture Qiyun Technology (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd, Accenture S.C., Accenture S.L., Accenture S.R.L., Accenture S.p. z o.o., Accenture S.p.A., Accenture SASU, Accenture SG Services Pte Ltd, Accenture SRL, Accenture Saudi Arabia Limited, Accenture Sdn Bhd, Accenture Service Center SRL, Accenture Services (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Services AB, Accenture Services AG, Accenture Services AS, Accenture Services GmbH, Accenture Services Morocco SA, Accenture Services Oy, Accenture Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Services SRL, Accenture Services and Technology S.r.l., Accenture Services s.r.o., Accenture Single Member S.A. Organization Information Technology & Business Development, Accenture Solutions Co. Ltd, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Accenture Solutions Pte Ltd, Accenture Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Solutions S.p. z o.o, Accenture Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture State Healthcare Services LLC, Accenture Sub II Inc, Accenture Sub III Inc, Accenture Sub LLC, Accenture Systems Integration Limited, Accenture Sarl, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Accenture Technology Solutions (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (HK) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas S.A., Accenture Technology Solutions GmbH, Accenture Technology Solutions Oy, Accenture Technology Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions S.A. de C.V., Accenture Technology Solutions S.r.l., Accenture Technology Solutions SASU, Accenture Technology Solutions SRL, Accenture Technology Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture Technology Solutions Slovakia s.r.o., Accenture Technology Ventures B.V., Accenture Technology Ventures SPRL, Accenture Tecnologia Consultoria y Outsourcing S.A., Accenture Uruguay SRL, Accenture Vietnam Co. Limited, Accenture Zambia Limited, Accenture do Brasil Ltda, Accenture plc, Accenture s.r.o., Acceria, Acquity Group, Adaptly LLC, Adaptly UK Limited, AddVal Technology, Adqptly, Advantium Inc., Advoco, Agilex Technologies Inc., Alfa Consulting, Allen International, AlphaBeta Advisors, Altevie Technologies S.r.l., Altima, Altima (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Altima Asia Ltd, Altitude, Altitude LLC, Altius Consulting Limited, Altius Data Solutions Private Limited, Analytics 8 LP, Analytics 8 Pty Ltd, Analytics8, Aorui Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Apis, Apis Group Pty Ltd, Appaloosa Technology SASU, AppsPro, AppsPro, Arca, Arca Ingenieros y Consultoria S.L., Arca Telecom S.L., Ariba - BPO, Arismore, Artio People (Payroll) Pty Ltd, Artio People Pty Ltd, Aspiro Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Automation Partners Pty Ltd, Avanade (Guangzhou) Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd., Avanade Asia Pte Ltd, Avanade Australia Pty Ltd, Avanade Belgium SPRL, Avanade Canada Inc, Avanade Consulting Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Denmark A/S, Avanade Deutschland GmbH, Avanade Europe Holdings Limited, Avanade Europe Services Limited, Avanade Finland Oy, Avanade France SASU, Avanade Holdings LLC, Avanade Hong Kong Ltd, Avanade Inc, Avanade International Corporation, Avanade Ireland Limited, Avanade Italy S.r.l., Avanade Japan KK, Avanade Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avanade Middle East Limited, Avanade Netherlands B.V., Avanade Norway AS, Avanade Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Schweiz GmbH, Avanade South Africa Pty Ltd, Avanade Spain S.L., Avanade Sweden AB, Avanade UK Limited, Avanade do Brasil Ltda , Avanade Osterreich GmbH, Avenai, Avieco, Axia Ltd., BABCN LLC, BCS Consulting, BCT Solutions, BCT Solutions Pty Ltd, BENEXT, BPO Servicos Administrativos Ltda, BRIDGE Energy Group, BRIDGEi2i, Beacon Consulting Group Inc., Beijing Genesis Interactive Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing Zhidao Future Consulting Co. Ltd, Benext, Berico Technologies LLC, Bionic, Bionic Solution LLC, Blue Horseshoe, Boomerang Pharmaceutical Communications, Bow & Arrow, Bow & Arrow Limited, Brand Learning, Brand Learning Group Limited, Brightstep AB, Byte Prophecy, Byte Prophecy Private Limited, CAS, CRMWaypoint, CS Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd, CS Technology (UK) Limited, CS Technology Group LLC, CS Technology LLC, CadenceQuest Inc., Callisto Integration Europe B.V., Callisto Integration Europe Limited, Callisto Integration LLC, Callisto Integration Ltd, Capgemini - North American health practice, Capital Consultancy Services Inc, Certus Solutions Consulting Services Limited, Certus Solutions Ltd, ChangeTrack Research Pty Ltd., Chaotic Moon Studios, Chengdu Mensa Advertising Co. Ltd., Cimation, Cirrus Connect Australia Pty Ltd, Cirrus Connect Limited, Cirruseo, Clarity Insights, ClearEdge Partners, Clearhead, Clearhead Group LLC, ClientHouse GmbH, Cloud Sherpas, Cloud Sherpas (GA) LLC, Cloud Sherpas Japan G.K., Cloud Sherpas New Zealand Limited, Cloudeasier SAS, Cloudpoint Limited, Cloudsherpas Inc, Cloudworks, Cloudworks Consulting Services Inc, Cloudworks Technology LLC, Computer Research and Telecommunications LLC, Concrete Desenvolvimento de Sistemas Ltda, Concrete Solutions, Concrete Solutions Ltda, Context Information Security, Context Information Security LLC, Context Information Security Limited, CoreCompete LLC, CoreCompete Limited, CoreCompete Private Limited, Corliant Inc., Creative Drive LLC, Creative Drive US LLC, CreativeDrive, CreativeDrive Digital Content Services (Shenzhen) Co Ltd., CreativeDrive EMEA Limited, CreativeDrive Singapore Pte Ltd, CreativeDrive UK Group Limited, Cutting Edge Solutions Limited, Cygni AB, Cygni Norrsken AB, Cygni Stockholm AB, Cygni Syd AB, Cygni Vast AB, Cygni Ost AB, Cygni Ostersund AB, DAZ Systems Inc, DAZ Systems LLC, DAZSI Systems (India) Pvt. Limited, DI Futures Corporation, Data Essential SARL, Davies Consulting, DayNine Consulting, DayNine Consulting (New Zealand) Limited, DayNine Consulting LLC, Declarative Holdings LLC, Decora Marketplace LLC, Decorado Marketplace Ltda-EPP, Defense Point Security, Deja vu Security, Design Strategy and Research de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Designaffairs LLC, Digiplug S.A.S., Digital Results Group LLC, Double Digit Limitada, Double Digit Pty SA, Droga5, Droga5 LLC, Droga5 Studios LLC, Droga5 UK Limited, Duck Creek Technologies, ESR Labs, ESR Labs AG, EdenOne Solutions Limited, Edenhouse ERP Holdings Limited, Edenhouse Solutions Limited, Enaxis Consulting, Enaxis Consulting LP, End to End Analytics LLC, End-to-End Analytics, Endorphin Medici (M) Sdn Bhd, Energuia Web S.A., Energy Management Brokers Limited, EnergyQuote JHA, Enimbos, Enimbos Global Services S.L., Enkitec, Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions LLC, Enterprise System Partners, Enterprise System Partners B.V., Enterprise System Partners Bilisim Danismanlik Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Enterprise System Partners Global Corporation, Enterprise System Partners Limited, Enthusian Pty Ltd, Entropia, Entropia (M) Sdn Bhd, Entropia Holdings Pte Ltd, Entropia Intercraft Sdn Bhd, Epylon, Ergo, Espedia S.r.l., Ethica Consulting Group, Ethica Consulting S.p.A., Evopro Group, Exactside Limited, Experity, Exton Consulting, Exton Consulting Spain Strategy&Management S.L., Exton Germany GmbH, Exton International SAS, Exton Italia S.r.l., Exton SAS, FGM LLC, Fairway Technologies Inc, Farah BidCo Limited, Farah MidCo Limited, Farah Topco Limited, Filmproduction ApS, First Annapolis Consulting Inc., First Annapolis Consulting LLC, Fjord, Focus Group Europe, Formicary, Founders Intelligence, Fruendo S.r.l., FusionX, Future State Consulting LLC, FutureMove (Beijing) Automotive Technology Co. 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Cook, TXF LLC, Tambourine, TargetST8, Tech - Avanade Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Tecnilogica Ecosistemas S.A., Tecnilogica, The Brand Learning Partners Limited, The Callisto Integration Corporation, The Monkeys, The Monkeys Pty Ltd, The Myrtle Group, Total Logistics, Tquila, Trivadis, Trivadis AG, Trivadis Austria GmbH, Trivadis Denmark AS, Trivadis Germany GmbH, Trivadis Holding AG, Trivadis Partner AG, Trivadis Services AG, Trivadis Services SRL, Troop Studios Pty Ltd, VanBerlo, Vector Acquisition Company LLC, Vector Topco LLC, Verax Solutions, Vertical Retail Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd, Vertical Retail Consulting Ltd, Vivere Brasil Servicos e Solucoes SA, Vivere Brasil Solucoes De Credito Ltda., Wabion GmbH, WaveStrike LLC, White Cliffs Consulting LLC, Wire Stone, Wire Stone LLC, Wise Partners SAS, Wolox, Wolox Colombia S.A.S, Wolox LLC, Wolox Mexico S.R.L de C.V., Wolox S.A., Wolox SpA, Workforce Insight, Workforce Insight LLC, Yesler, Yesler LLC, Yesler Limited, Yesler Singapore Pte Ltd, Zag, Zag Australia Pty Ltd, Zag Limited, Zag USA LLC, Zebra Worldwide Australia Pty Ltd, Zebra Worldwide Group Limited, Zebra Worldwide Media Pty Ltd, Zenta, Zenta Global Philippines Inc, Zenta Mortgage Services LLC, Zenta Recoveries Inc, Zenta US Holdings Inc, Zestgroup, Zielpuls, Zielpuls (Shanghai) Co. 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Brown County approves Bailey Pro Rodeo as new stock provider

Bailey Pro Rodeo out of North Dakota has been selected as the new rodeo stock provider for the Dacotah Stampede Rodeo, a two-day event at the fair.
Joe Badal Nasario Garcia Nancy Owen Lewis Paula Paul Prev 1 of 4 Next

A pride of New Mexico writers  about 25 of them  will take part in the Albuquerque Museums second annual Author Festival on Saturday, Nov. 11.

A 1 p.m. panel discussion stars authors Joseph Badal, Steve Brewer, Don Bullis and Steve Havill. The writers will discuss Your Path from Writer to Author.

Four authors will give solo presentations.

At 10 a.m., Nasario Garcia will talk about his roots in the rural Rio Puerco Valley as a source of literary inspiration. Garcia is a memoirist, oral historian and childrens book author.

At 11 a.m., Nancy Owen Lewis will discuss the role of canines in the defense industry during World War II. Shes working on a manuscript on that topic. Here most recent book is Chasing the Cure in New Mexico: Tuberculosis and the Quest for Health. Lewis is Scholar-in-Residence at the School for Advanced Research in Santa Fe.

At noon, David Morrell will discuss his motivation for setting four best-selling mysteries in Victorian England, known as the Thomas DeQuincy Series. Morrell also wrote the Rambo series.

And at 2 p.m., Albuquerques Paula Paul will chat about the rules of becoming a successful author. Paul has written mysteries, historical fiction, literary fiction and young adult novels.

Throughout the festival, the public gets to meet the authors, talks to them, and can have books inscribed by them, said Denise Crouse, the museums communications director.

There will be a 3 p.m. Writing Contest Awards ceremony. The awards will go to the best unpublished work of fiction and of nonfiction. The fiction prize is named for Morrell and the nonfiction prize for New Mexico author Lesley Poling-Kempes.

The festival is partly a fundraiser for the Albuquerque Museum Foundation. Badal, of Sandia Park, said he suggested the idea for the event to the museum. I said, Heres a great way to spotlight New Mexico authors and maybe raise money for the museums education programs,  he recalled.

Emily Blaugrund Fox, the foundations executive director, said that for each book sold at the event, the foundation receives 40 percent of the proceeds, with 60 percent for the authors. The foundation uses its share to support the educational programs at the museum and at Casa San Ysidro in Corrales.

In addition, Fox said, the foundation will receive a $5,000 donation from festival sponsor the Garcia Automotive Group. That donation will also be applied to the educational programs.

The additional listed authors include Sue Boggio, Janet Brennan, Rani Divine, Ashley Gallegos, Melody Groves, Betsy James, Robert Kidera, Jane Lindskold, Rory McClanahan, Ana Pacheco, Mare Pearl, Gail Rubin, Margaret Tessler, James Tritten, Neecy Twinem, Ross Van Dusen, Robert E. Vardaman and Patricia Wood.

If you go

The 2017 Albuquerque Museum Author Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11. The event is free. The museum is at 2000 Mountain NW.
Theres no better time to talk about equality for women in film.

With the explosive sexual allegations against Harvey Weinstein and others in the film and TV industry, Linda McDill sees the next conversation for New Mexico Women in Film as an important one.

On Friday, Nov. 10, NMWIF will host Swedish filmmaker Helene Granqvist in Santa Fe for a conversation on gender issues in the film industry.

The timing couldnt be better, McDill says. We didnt plan it in advance. This all just fell together.

McDill, past president of NMWIF, met Grandqvist in London in May while attending the Women in Film & TV International Chapter Executives Conference.

Granqvist is president of the Nordic chapter of Women in Film & TV.

She will speak on the ways Sweden and the other Nordic countries have dealt successfully with inequalities and harassment issues to become some of the most gender-balanced nations in the world.

Through her work with WIFT-Nordic and the Swedish Film Institute, Granqvist has been traveling the world recently to share the findings and encouragements of five research reports on these issues by the Swedish Film Institute, including an important discussion at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.

I knew she was going from the event in London to the Cannes Film Festival, McDill says. She presented a panel of women discussing gender issues. Sweden and the Nordic countries are socially ahead of everybody when it comes to gender issues.

McDill, Women in Film & Television International board member and immediate past president of NMWIF, will moderate the discussion.

According to current NMWIF President Christine McHugh, this is an amazing opportunity to hear firsthand how other countries are successfully dealing with womens issues.

Granqvist, a film producer, will be in Albuquerque shooting scenes for a documentary at the Western Music Association convention Nov. 8-11.

Sweden is a small country, but when it comes to gender equality in the film business, we come in at the top and serve as a role model for the rest of the world, Granqvist says in a statement. It is an honor to be an inspiration to others and to share our knowledge around the world.

If you go

WHAT: A conversation on gender issues in film and TV with Helene Granqvist

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10

WHERE: Lightningwood Studio, 2350 Fox Road, Suite 200, Santa Fe

HOW MUCH: $15 guests, free for New Mexico Women in Film members
NEW YORK  It took less than a week for two-time Oscar winner Kevin Spacey to go from admired stage, TV and film star to a pariah, under investigation by the police and fired from his Emmy-winning role in House of Cards. Heres a look at key developments in his still-unfolding case.

BLOCKBUSTER CLAIM

Sunday, Oct. 29

In an interview with BuzzFeed, actor Anthony Rapp said he attended a party at Spaceys New York apartment in 1986, when he was 14. At the end of the night, an inebriated Spacey picked him up, placed him on his bed, and climbed on top of him, Rapp said. Rapp said the 26-year-old was holding him down tightly, but he was able to get away and left the apartment. Rapp said he was inspired to come forward in the wake of allegations swirling around Harvey Weinstein.

APOLOGY AND MORE

Monday, Oct. 30

Spacey posted on Twitter that he didnt remember the Rapp encounter. But if I did behave then as he describes, I owe him the sincerest apology for what would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior, he said. Spacey, who has fiercely protected his private life, had never disclosed his sexuality before but said Rapps story encouraged him to speak and he came out as a gay man. Many observers thought it was an odd time for Spacey to address his sexuality or was even an attempt to deflect blame.

ONLINE FIRESTORM

All day, Spacey faced condemnation from gay activists and fellow performers, including actor Zachary Quinto, comedian Wanda Sykes and musician Lance Bass, as well as the gay rights group GLAAD. Netflix and the House of Cards producer, Media Rights Capital, announced the show would end after the conclusion of season six (though they added that such a decision had been made before the allegations) and some show executives arrived in Baltimore, where the series is shot, to make sure actors and crew continue to feel safe and supported.

ANOTHER ALLEGATION

Tuesday Oct. 31

Mexican actor Roberto Cavazos wrote on his Facebook page that he encountered Spacey at the bar of Londons Old Vic Theatre, where Spacey was artistic director from 2004-15, and the actor tried to fondle him against his will. It was more common for this guy, when he was in the bar of his theater, grabbing whoever caught his attention, Cavazos wrote. I didnt stand for it, but I know some people who were afraid to stop it. In a statement, the Old Vic expressed deep dismay at the sexual assault allegations and said inappropriate behavior by anyone working at The Old Vic is completely unacceptable. Spacey did not respond to requests for comment. Tuesdays episode of the NBC drama This Is Us, which had initially referred to a Spacey film, was reedited to replace him with Christian Bale.

TOXIC SET

Thursday , Nov. 2

CNN reported that eight current or former House of Cards workers claimed that Spacey made the production a toxic workplace and one ex-employee alleged the actor sexually assaulted him. CNN reported that all of the people described Spaceys behavior as predatory. The report accused Spacey of allegedly targeting staffers who were typically young and male with nonconsensual touching and crude comments. More fallout came when Spaceys talent agency Creative Arts Agency said it was no longer representing Spacey, and his publicist also parted ways with the actor.

DEEPENING CRISIS

Friday, Nov. 3

London police said they had begun investigating an alleged 2008 sexual assault reportedly linked to Spacey. The Sun newspaper said the new allegation comes from a man who was in his early 20s at the time. In America, Netflix said it would cut all ties with Spacey, and will not be involved with any further production of House of Cards that includes him. The company also said it will not release the film Gore, starring Spacey, which was in post-production. In another blow to Spaceys wallet, a Dutch business forum canceled his headline appearance at their conference Nov. 29 in Rotterdam.
BEIRUT  With new losses, the Islamic State group has been driven from more than 96 percent of the large parts of Iraq and Syria it once held, crushing its goal of establishing a caliphate that challenges existing borders.

The militants are left fighting for a final stretch inside Syria and desert regions along the Iraq-Syria border. Three years ago, they had defiantly erased that line, knocking down berms marking the frontier.

Since then, they have lost infrastructure, resources, supply routes, control over about 8 million people and  most importantly  administration of a contiguous territory. The extremist group may still prove to be a major challenge for months as it turns to a clandestine insurgency.

On Friday, Syrian President Bashar Assads military announced the capture of the eastern Syrian city of Deir el-Zour, while Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi proclaimed victory in retaking the town of Qaim on the border, the militants last significant urban area in Iraq.

What the group lost in the last 11 months, and what is left:

QAIM

Iraqi forces last conventional military fight against IS played out in Qaim, on the western edge of Anbar province along the border with Syria. Operations began there in the last week of October. On Friday, Iraq said it now controls the town and the nearby border crossing with Syria.

The crossing in the Euphrates River Valley was used by IS to move fighters and supplies between the two countries when the group controlled nearly a third of Iraqi territory.

Brett McGurk, the U.S. envoy for the fight against the Islamic State group, said Thursday the group is now facing annihilation with the losses in western Iraq and nearly 96 percent of its territory. He earlier said 6.6 million people have been liberated as the group lost over 90,000 square kilometers (35,000 square miles) in the last year.

The Islamic State has not reclaimed single meter of this ground. Migrant and refugee flows reversed, McGurk tweeted Thursday.

___

DEIR EL-ZOUR

The Syrian government declared Friday that it has taken full control of Deir el-Zour, where its troops and tens of thousands of civilians have been besieged by IS militants for nearly three years.

Gen. Ali Mayhoub, spokesman for the Syrian army, called it a strategic victory, noting Deir el-Zours location on a crossroads linking Syrias eastern, northern and central regions, and its role in distributing the provinces oil.

Mayhoub said IS militants are now isolated and encircled in the countryside east of the city. Government forces are focused on Boukamal, the last IS urban center in Syria.

Kurdish forces backed by the U.S. also are making a bid for the strategic border town from the other side of the Euphrates, renewing fears of a confrontation between the two forces seeking to control the border area.

___

RAQQA

Raqqa, the IS groups de-facto capital, fell to Kurdish-led forces on Oct. 17, four months after operations to reclaim it began. The city was the groups hub of operations, and its capture was a major symbolic blow.

The first city to fall into IS hands, foreign fighters flocked to Raqqa. The U.S.-led coalition estimated that 40,000 fighters from Europe, North Africa and Asia once flowed into IS territory.

The group carried out beheadings and other killings in a public square in Raqqa to try to project its ruthless nature. The city also was the center of its media operations, where videos about the benefits of life under IS were produced.

Planning for some of the major violence in Europe was traced to Raqqa, including the deadly attacks in Paris in 2015 and in Brussels in 2016.

___

MAYADEEN

On Oct. 14, the Syrian government said its troops and allied fighters seized the town of Mayadeen, on the western bank of the Euphrates River. The town had become a refuge for the militant groups leaders from fighting in Raqqa and Deir el-Zour to the north and Iraq to the east.

Mayadeen was also a major point in the race for control of the oil-rich eastern Deir el-Zour province. Washington has feared advances by Syrian troops and allied fighters toward the Iraqi border could help Iran expand its influence in the region and establish a Shiite corridor of land links from Iraq to Lebanon, and all the way to Israel. Iran backs militias fighting alongside the Syrian military.

The Syrian government had feared that U.S.-backed forces would get to Mayadeen first, but the militants pulled back a few days after the battle began, disappearing into the desert.

___

HAWIJA

It took 20 days to liberate Hawija, depriving IS of its last significant urban area in Iraq.

Iraqi forces fought alongside the Kurdish peshmerga to retake the city in oil-rich Kirkuk province on Oct. 10. Hundreds of IS fighters and their families surrendered to the Kurdish forces.

The fall of the city also eliminated a unifying factor for the peshmerga and the Iraqi military and federal police along with their Shiite militia allies. That opened the way for the tension that followed among the former allies.

___

TAL AFAR

The town was liberated by coalition-backed Iraqi forces Aug. 30, ending the IS presence in northern Iraq. Thousands of IS fighters and their families turned themselves over to Iraqi and Kurdish forces as the town fell, the first instance of mass surrenders of IS fighters on the heels of a military victory.

Unlike the nine-month battle for Mosul, the swift military victory in Tal Afar was the first sign of the battlefield losses had weakened IS as a conventional military force, according to the coalition.

___

MOSUL

Iraqi forces declared victory in Mosul on July 10. While clashes continued between small groups of IS fighters in tunnels under the old city for weeks after, the loss of Mosul effectively broke the back of the caliphate.

Iraqs second-largest city, Mosul was a hub for meetings of the IS leadership. It was the largest city under the militants control and was an important site of facilities for making car bombs, smaller explosives and mortar rounds. The militants used civilians as shields to prevent the weapons factories from being targeted by coalition airstrikes.

The fight for Mosul was long and costly, killing thousands of civilians and Iraqi security forces. IS fighters used years of tight control of the city to build defenses that prolonged the battle and caused widespread death and destruction.

___

WHAT IS LEFT

The Syrian city of Boukamal is the last major urban center in the hands of IS.

The group also is spread along the Syria-Iraq border in villages in the provinces of Hassakeh and Deir el-Zour in eastern Syria.

There also are small IS cells in Iraqs Nineveh, Anbar and Salahudin provinces, where the central government has lacked strong control for years.

Along this thin line on the border of the two countries, the militants still have a presence in a region running west of the Euphrates River toward the Syrian desert, between Deir el-Zour and Homs provinces. There also is a small IS presence near Damascus.

In a briefing last week, Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, said small numbers of IS leaders are attempting to leverage local insurgencies in Africa and Asia as they lose territory in Iraq and Syria.

The groups militants and local affiliates in Egypt, Libya, the Sahel area of Africa and the Philippines continue to challenge authorities, carrying out regular attacks.

___

George reported from Baghdad. Brian Rohan in Cairo contributed.
BERLIN  Climate change is back on the agenda with a global climate conference kicking off Monday in the German city of Bonn.

Whos coming, what are the key debates about and how green will this meeting be? Five things to know about the U.N. conference known as COP23, which runs from Nov. 6-17.

____

WHO IS COMING TO BONN?

Up to 25,000 people are expected to attend the talks, which will be presided over by Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama of Fiji  the first time that a small island nation will be at the helm of a major international climate conference. Participants will include diplomats from 195 nations, as well as scientists, lobbyists and environmentalists.

The United States, which has announced its intention to pull out of the landmark Paris climate accord, will be represented by Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon.

Key countries to watch during the talks are the emerging economic powers China and India. Other nations  Estonia, Peru, Ecuador, Iran, Mali, Ethiopia and the Maldives  will also be in the spotlight for leading major international groupings.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other leaders are expected to fly to Bonn toward the end of the summit to give the talks a final push and signal their commitment to fighting climate change.

___

WHAT ARE THE BIG CLIMATE CHANGE TOPICS NOW?

The 2015 Paris accord set a target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit)  or 2 degrees at the most  by the end of the century.

But diplomats didnt agree on the details of how their nations will reach that ambitious goal. The Bonn talks will flesh out the rule book that countries have to abide by.

This includes coming up with international standards for how to measure carbon emissions, to make sure that one nations efforts can be compare to anothers. A second debate centers around how countries take stock of whats been achieved and set new, more ambitious goals for curbing carbon emissions after 2020.

The third big issue concerns money. Experts agree that shifting economies away from fossil fuels and preparing countries for some of the inevitable consequences of climate change will require vast financial resources  including some from the U.S. administration of President Donald Trump, which is doubtful about man-made climate change.

___

WHY BONN?

Organizing a massive global conference in Fiji would have strained the Pacific nations resources and posed a travel nightmare for thousands of delegates. Germany offered to host the talks in Bonn, the countrys former capital, because it has ample conference space and is already home to the U.N. climate change agency.

Still, they are going to miss the sunshine of Fiji. The weather in Bonn is generally dreary at best in November.

___

HOW GREEN WILL THE CONFERENCE BE?

Germany says the two-week talks will as environmentally friendly as possible. The country is setting aside part of the 117 million euro ($136.3 million) budget for a fleet of bicycles and electric buses to ferry people between venues.

Each participant will receive a bottle to fill with tap water  a move organizers say will save half a million plastic cups.

Germanys environment ministry is also investing in renewable energy projects to compensate for the greenhouse gas emissions caused by people from all over the world flying into Bonn for the talks.

___

AND WHAT ABOUT GERMANYS COAL USAGE?

Germany likes to portray itself as a leader in the fight against global warming and Merkels reputation as the climate chancellor is partly built on the pivotal role she played during past negotiations.

But environmentalists note that Germany still gets about 40 percent of its electricity from coal-fired plants  one of the most carbon intensive sources of energy. And German highways are also virtually unique in having no general speed limit, despite the fact that auto emissions rise dramatically at higher speeds.

If prosperous Germany fails to meet its own emissions targets, as current predictions suggest, critics say that would send a bad signal to the rest of the world.
This was not the usual pay-up-now-or-we-kneecap-your-computer type of scam.

Yes, it started out that way, but the following tale courtesy a co-worker has some twists in the usual ransomware scam that might serve as a warning. This one involves a computer-photographed check, a Fed-Ex delivery guy and a near-loss of hundreds of dollars.

It began when the co-workers father tried to log on to his AOL account in the usual manner. He was quickly interrupted when a message popped up saying his password was rejected and that he should call the phone number on the screen.

Dad, knowing not to trust a phone number given in this way, looked up the number for AOL on his own and called it from his land-line.

Right then, his cell phone rang. It was Robert, who said he was calling at the direction of AOL. When dad explained that he was already talking to AOL on the other line, Robert told him to hang up on that call. Unfortunately, the real AOL representative believed Robert was a legitimate tech and agreed Dad should hang up and sort things out with Robert, according to a police report.

Dad did so, thereby landing feet first into the scam.

There were two people talking to him at the same time, my co-worker said. He was stressed out.

Next up was the usual: the scammers talked him into letting them take over his computer. They talked him into providing access to his checking account (We need to make sure no one has hacked into your account, they told him, with no small degree of irony.)

For good measure, they persuaded him to buy a special firewall to protect his online records, and they offered him a deal: instead of paying the full price of $1,600 for the protection, he could have a senior discount for a price of only $700.

So Dad wrote out a check and, at Roberts direction, held it up to his computers camera so he could send a picture of it (and so the thieves could get his routing number and home address).

And, the scammer instructed, dad should put the same check in an envelope so a Federal Express agent could pick it up at his house later that day.

Despite all this, there was good news for dad. His son-in-law who was visiting from out of town walked into the room just after the scam unfolded. He got on the phone with the supposed Microsoft tech, yelled at him to get out of dads computer and told him he was canceling payment on the check.

The scammer said he would release the computer but instead added a new password requirement and removed chunks of code that made the computer hopelessly unusable.

Dad was saved from losing the $700, but he had to get a new computer, a new debit card and checking account and new passwords on everything electronic in his life, including his WiFi. The relatives called police to report the incident.

But heres the kicker: A Fed-Ex truck actually did pull up later that afternoon, and the driver, dressed in a Fed-Ex uniform, came to the door looking to pick up the $700 check. Of course, dads relatives sent him away.

Sgt. Will Dorian, with the Albuquerque Police Departments Organized Crime Unit, said what the episode shows is that some scammers are getting more sophisticated when it comes to ransomware.

He pointed to the cell phone call, which showed the scammers had done enough research to know how to reach dad when he failed to call the fraudulent phone number that popped up on his computer.

This was not just a random pop-up, Dorian said. They were pretty prepared.

Ellen Marks is assistant business editor at the Albuquerque Journal. Contact her at emarks@abqjournal.com or 505-823-3842 if you are aware of what sounds like a scam. To report a scam to law enforcement, contact the New Mexico Consumer Protection Division toll-free at 1-844-255-9210.
WASHINGTON  While the Caucasus region rarely makes national news in the United States, the complex area at the border of Europe and Asia  and especially the nations of Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan  remains a hotbed of conflict and intrigue.

Julie George, an expert in the region and an associate professor at Queens College and City University of New York, will discuss the tumultuous geographic area and the long-standing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh during a lecture in Albuquerque on Friday.

The lecture at the UNM Continuing Education Auditorium is part of the Albuquerque International Associations ongoing series examining geopolitical trends. Georges talk, which includes a question-and-answer session, is sponsored by the New Mexico Humanities Council, Sandia National Laboratories and Los Alamos National Bank.

Along with the Baltics, the Caucasian republics  Georgia and Azerbaijan  were among the most restive in pushing for secession from the Soviet Union during the waning days of the empire. Yet the Caucasian countries have also had the most destabilizing and intractable wars of the post-Soviet era, with unresolved and intermittently violent conflicts in Nagorno-Karabakh and the breakaway Georgian republics of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

One of my goals is to get people to think about the conflicts and how they integrate with domestic politics inside the countries, George said. Each of the Caucasus countries is kind of born in violence. For Azerbaijan and Armenia, it has been crippling to their development. They have not been able to develop in a way, politically, without the lens of the conflict being front and center.

It affects how they understand themselves and their trajectory, and it affects their leaders ability to either claim a mandate or success, she added.

Azerbaijan remains vexed by a seemingly intractable and expensive conflict with Armenia over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, a predominantly ethnic Armenian region within Azerbaijan. The conflict dates to 1988, when ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia began to loudly protest against Azerbaijani government policy and Nagorno-Karabakh voted to secede from Azerbaijan.

In the early 1990s, violence flared in Nagorno-Karabakh, and Moscow supported Azerbaijani efforts to quell the unrest until 1991, when Azerbaijan declared its independence from Moscow. At that time, Armenian militants became more aggressive. More than 30,000 people were killed, and hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis fled the conflict from 1992 to 1994, when a cease-fire, which remains fragile to this day, was declared.

Georgia, which has struggled with the breakaway republics of South Ossetia and Abkhazia over the past decade, has fared better in looking ahead.

The political debates inside of Georgia arent centered on the conflicts; they are centered on corruption and procurement issues, human rights issues, she said.

George said the Trump administration  like the Obama administration before it  is not likely to place much foreign policy emphasis on helping to quell the conflicts a world away.

The George W. Bush administration was much more interested, she said. These are arenas  they are so messy  that whether its Trump or Obama, the U.S. kind of wanted to stay out of. There is no sign that Trump is wanting to change that trajectory  given his kind of domestic-first agenda.

If you go

WHAT: Lecture on Transcaucasia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia  Independence, Conflict, and Legitimacy by Dr. Julie A. George, associate professor at Queens College & City University of New York

WHEN: Friday, November 10 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: UNM Continuing Education Conference Center at 1634 University NE (free parking)

HOW MUCH: $15/AIA members, $20/non-members; students (under 30) with ID  free.
Hes one of Americas richest men  a massive fundraiser for President Donald Trump, a close confidant of Steve Bannon, and, at least until last week, a primary benefactor of the combative, conservative website Breitbart News.

As it turns out, New York hedge fund mogul and computer genius Robert Mercer is also a graduate of Sandia High School and the University of New Mexico.

Mercer, 71, usually shuns the limelight, preferring to wield his immense political power behind the scenes. But the former New Mexican landed in the media glare last week after he sold his Breitbart stock to his daughters and issued a statement denouncing Milo Yiannopoulos, the inflammatory former Breitbart editor and internet troll who triggered protests at UNM earlier this year. Mercer had previously been supportive of Yiannopoulos  or at least his right to express his views.

Mercer also resigned as CEO of Renaissance Technologies last week, issuing a statement to the companys staff that accused the media of misrepresenting his own views.

Of the many mischaracterizations made of me by the press, the most repugnant to me have been the intimations that I am a white supremacist or a member of some other noxious group, Mercer said. Discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, creed, or anything of that sort is abhorrent to me. But more than that, it is ignorant.

According to Forbes magazine, Mercer donated $24.6 million to the Republican Party in 2016. He has reportedly invested $10 million into Breitbart. Financial journals place his net worth at from $900 million to more than a $1 billion.

A must-read New Yorker profile published in March quoted former Renaissance executive Nick Patterson musing on his enigmatic former colleagues outsize influence on politics.

Bob has used his money very effectively, Patterson said. Hes not the first person in history to use money in politics, but in my view Trump wouldnt be president if not for Bob. It doesnt get much more effective than that.

If you think it all seems a bit much for a reportedly low-key guy who was once a member of the car club at Sandia High, youre not alone. Deanna Cooper Koloc, who graduated from high school with Mercer, said she enjoyed catching up with her old classmate at their 50th reunion in Albuquerque three years ago.

Mercer attended with his daughter, Rebekah, who is a force in conservative politics herself, having introduced Bannon to Trump. The father-daughter duo took an alumni tour of the school, attended the reunion dinner and reminisced with his old friends just like regular folks.

And Robert Mercer, one of the biggest financial contributors in U.S. politics, apparently didnt talk politics  at all.

It wasnt until after the reunion that Cooper Koloc realized who her old friend had become.

I was excited to see him at the reunion because he was one of the students I remembered well as part of a group I identified with, and I found him very pleasant and interesting to talk to, Cooper Koloc recalled. We were both interested in hearing about mutual friends, and exchanged the sort of chitchat that always occurs at high school reunions. Im glad I didnt find out until later about his political leanings. I admire Bob for his accomplishments but vehemently oppose his politics.

According to the 1964 edition of The Crest  the Sandia High yearbook  Mercer was active in extracurricular activities. The yearbook shows the bespectacled student as a member of the schools chess, auto and Russian clubs.

An Albuquerque Journal article from the same year shows that Mercer  who later went on to become a pioneer in artificial intelligence and computer science  had a promising mathematical mind. He took top honors for New Mexico in the 1964 national high school math contest.

Neither Mercer nor his daughter, Rebekah, returned phone messages or emails seeking comment on his New Mexico past.

Mercers interest in politics didnt fully bloom until he got rich. And his political activism eventually put him at odds with his colleagues at Renaissance Technologies.

A New York Times report last week suggested that Mercer stepped down under pressure from the companys board because the giant hedge fund was starting to encounter protests, with the Baltimore firefighters and police retirement fund pulling its $33 million investment just last week.

In addition to investing $10 million in Breitbart, Mercer also plowed cash into Cambridge Analytica, an online data mining firm that helped both the Trump campaign in the U.S. and the Brexit movement in the United Kingdom. The firm claims to use secret psychological methods to help mine online data that can be used to reach and influence potential voters.

In his letter to Renaissance staff last week, Mercer not only aimed to put distance between himself and Yiannopoulos, but also Bannon, a founding member of Breitbart News and former White House adviser to Trump. Mercer insisted his politics are not in lockstep with Bannons.

I have great respect for Mr. Bannon, and from time to time I do discuss politics with him, Mercer said. However, I make my own decisions with respect to whom I support politically. Those decisions do not always align with Mr. Bannons.

The onetime Sandia High student, whose life is now centered in Long Island, N.Y., also sought to shed some light on his worldview.

I believe that individuals are happiest and most fulfilled when they form their own opinions, assume responsibility for their own actions, and spend the fruits of their own labor as they see fit, Mercer said. I believe that a collection of individuals making their own decisions within the confines of a clear and concise set of laws that they have determined for themselves will advance society much more effectively than will a collection of experts who are confident in their knowledge of what is best for everyone else. This is why I support conservatives, who favor a smaller, less powerful government.

UpFront is a regular Journal news and opinion column. Comment directly to Washington correspondent Michael Coleman at mcoleman@abqjournal.com. Go to www.abqjournal.com/letters/new to submit a letter to the editor.
In 2012, six teenagers and young adults from the OchiichagweBabigoIning Ojibway Nation in Ontario  tired of having little internet connectivity on their rural tribal lands  took matters into their own hands. A year later, they launched the First Nations community ISP, offering high speed, unlimited bandwidth broadband service for $40 a month to anyone who wants it.

This is one of the best examples of a rural indigenous community forging its own path to the network, but its certainly not the only one.

Community internet networks like this  DIY infrastructures created by and for groups of individual citizens to meet their own communications needs  are increasingly being built and employed as an effective and affordable connectivity option in regions where the geography is a challenge and internet service is either nonexistent or big service providers have too little competition to be affordable.

On the Eastern Cape of South Africa, in Mankosi, one community created its own telephone and internet company. In Guerroro, Mexico, another community built a wireless network that provides access to emergency resources. And in Chanderi, India, internet connectivity and education through the Wireless for Communities project has fostered micro-enterprises that have helped household incomes double since 2010.

This community networking movement is an important one to all of us. At its most basic, the internet brings health care and educational options to people in underserved areas. But in the right hands, it can also spark ideas, innovation and economic development that can reverberate with opportunity across entire regions.

What this means is that if the internet isnt in the hands of everyone, were missing genius  and nowhere does that potential loss feel more acute than in a place as culturally rich, and creatively prolific, as New Mexico.

So how far do we have to go? According to the Federal Communications Commissions most recent Broadband Progress Report, 10 percent of all Americans lack access to quality, high-speed internet, compared to 4 percent of urban Americans. This number jumps to 39 percent for rural Americans. The divide is even more stark for those living on tribal lands, where 41 percent lack access to high-speed internet, and 68 percent living on rural tribal lands dont have internet access at all.

Just as technology has played an ongoing and irrefutable role in bridging cultural and economic divides, the lack of technology has the opposite effect. Its now more urgent than ever to recognize that if we are going to be able to build a digital future that benefits everyone, we need to embrace new ways of working and new ways of thinking about the issue of internet connectivity. We need to consider community networks as an option within reach, and we need new ways of sharing information and best practices about building them.

Were taking an important step in that direction with the Indigenous Connectivity Summit (this Wednesday and Thursday), Nov. 8-9. Presented by the Internet Society, in partnership with its newly launched New Mexico Chapter, New Mexico Techworks, the 1st-Mile Institute and the First Mile Connectivity Consortium, the summit will bring indigenous people from around the world together to share how they have successfully built and utilized networks in their own communities  on their own terms.

The free two-day event at the Hotel Santa Fe will facilitate dialogue between community network managers/operators, indigenous-owned internet service providers, community members, researchers, policy makers and indigenous leadership. Dialogue will address building and using a network, with topics including using digital platforms for cultural preservation. And while the goal is to support increased network access for indigenous communities, anyone interested in building a network is welcome.

Through community-led networks, we can finally democratize connectivity in the United States, and theres no better place than New Mexico to serve as the catalyst.
Taxes are perhaps the most pervasive, most apparent manner by which government affects the daily lives of its citizens.

So why do we have a tax system that takes more than it should from working families, burdens businesses with unnecessarily complicated rules, and still allows loopholes for special interests?

We shouldnt. And if we take the opportunity to pass the first major tax reform plan in three decades, we wont.

However, we can start by passing a tax cut that will let working New Mexicans keep more of the money they earn and embracing policies that will kick start wage and income growth so families have the chance to prosper.

Under the tax plan currently on the table, the first $24,000 of income earned by a married couple would be completely tax-free. For once, our tax code will provide relief for the middle class instead of special interests. And according to the Council of Economic Advisors, the average American household income could increase between $4,000 and $9,000 per year if we reduce the tax rate on businesses from 35 percent to 20 percent.

A tax reform plan that includes significant rate cuts can steer our economy back in the right direction  we know because its happened before. The American standard of living effectively rose 20 percent thanks to real per-capita income growth of 18 percent from 1982 to 1989. The Tax Foundation says this tax reform effort will put us on the same track. Combining a rate cut on business taxes with full expensing  allowing businesses to immediately deduct capital expenses like new equipment and facilities  would create 861,000 full-time equivalent jobs, raise wages by almost 4 percent, and significantly grow the economy. In fact, the Tax Foundation study says our gross domestic product (GDP) could increase by 4.5 percent under these conditions.

I travel all over New Mexico, talking to folks from every corner of the state and every background. And when I talk to people who make their living owning or working for a small business, I hear the same thing over and over: the tax code is just too complicated.

As of 2016, there were more than 150,000 small businesses in New Mexico. There is no reason these job creators, whether theyre start-ups or mom-and-pop shops, should be buried by mountains of incomprehensible rules and stipulations. The time of small business owners is better spent on first making sure they can keep their doors open. Then they can figure out how to invest, expand, hire new workers, and build a solid foundation for future growth. Deciphering the tax code should be low on that list.

The National Federation of Independent Businesses says small businesses spend between $15 billion and $16 billion each year sorting out tax compliance. A simpler tax system, combined with the largest tax cut for small and midsize businesses in 80 years, will let New Mexicos entrepreneurs focus on the things that matter most.

The system isnt any simpler for individuals and families. The IRS says Americans spend an average of 13 hours filling out the most basic tax form we have, the 1040, which has nearly doubled in length. Tax laws have tripled in size since 1986, spanning nearly 2,700 pages and requiring more than 70,000 pages of forms, instructions and guidance. Weve grown from two tax brackets to seven. The National Taxpayers Union says tax compliance overall puts a $262 billion burden on the economy, with 90 percent of taxpayers needing help to complete their taxes.

Its just too much. New Mexicans deserve a tax system thats fair, simple and focused on growth. The tax code should benefit our working families, our job creators, and our small business owners  not special interests that lobby for their own loopholes. I support tax reform because its good for our economy, and its good for New Mexico.
For all the obvious reasons, the Republican Party gets most of the attention these days. For starters, it controls the White House, the Senate and the House, and the party in power always warrants more scrutiny, even when its operating smoothly.

Of course, thats not happening.

The GOP is running as smoothly as a dry Slip N Slide made from sandpaper. That the party is as dysfunctional as the human resources department at the Weinstein Company stems from a host of ideological, political and structural problems that are only compounded by the fact that the president grabs the publics attention like a spider monkey running through a church with a lit stick of dynamite.

The Democratic Party, meanwhile, has gotten drunk on the spectacle. And as with many a drunk, its grown oblivious to its own decrepitude. Like a bitter lush sitting in his own filth amidst a sea of empty bottles, moldering pizza boxes and fried chicken bones, it shouts at the TV and boasts how it could do better.

Donna Brazile, the longtime high-ranking Democratic functionary, was made interim chair of the party shortly before the 2016 election in the wake of revelations that the previous chair, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, seemed to be playing favorites in the primaries, tilting the scales toward Hillary Clinton and against Bernie Sanders. In an excerpt from her forthcoming book, Hacks, Brazile reports that Wasserman Schultz wasnt simply partial toward Clinton. She was in fact Clintons vassal.

Its widely known that Barack Obama left the Democratic Party in shambles. On his watch, the party lost more than 1,000 elective offices at the federal, state and local level. One underreported reason for this is that Obama opted to create a parallel institution out of his 2012 campaign outfit, Organizing for America. The renamed Organizing for Action siphoned money and the presidents energies from the DNC.

Brazile reports that the party was so hollowed out with debt that Hillary Clinton essentially scooped it up in a distress sale. Wasserman Schultz cut a deal with the Clinton campaign in which Clinton would raise millions ostensibly for the party, particularly at the state level. But those funds were sluiced back into the Clinton campaign coffers in Brooklyn, and the campaign extracted de facto control of the partys messaging and hiring. Team Clinton mocked Sanders as a paranoid dotard for claiming that the Democratic primary system was rigged against him. As it happens, his paranoia didnt go far enough.

It seems axiomatic that any party weak enough to be taken over by Hillary Clinton is not in good health.

Today, the Democratic Partys sole unifying principle is opposition to Donald Trump. Given Trumps standing in the polls, that may be good enough for the 2018 midterm elections. But when it comes to ideas about governing, all of the passion is reserved for two things.

First, there is Sanders idea of socialism, which is really an unworkable stew of banalities and nostrums stemming from a nostalgic idea of a Scandinavian model that no longer exists  if it ever did. Its as if Fabian socialists created an Epcot Center exhibit of Sweden in the 1950s, and irascible tour guide Bernie rides by in a trolley, shouting: This could be us!

The second source of passion is the angry, sanctimony-besotted identity politics popular on college campuses and a handful of left-wing websites. The DNCs data services manager recently sent out an email soliciting applications for new hires in the IT department. She cautioned that she wasnt looking for any cisgender straight white males.

If you want to know how Trump was elected, ask yourself how a laid-off, cisgender, straight, white, male coal miner who went back to community college to learn computers might react to that.

Again, you wouldnt be crazy for thinking the GOP is like a runaway fire at a soiled diaper reclamation center. And Im sure Ill have opportunities in the near future to expand on that.

But the important point is that dysfunction isnt zero-sum. Right now, the best argument Republicans have is were not Democrats, and the best argument Democrats have is were not Republicans. Like two punch-drunk pugilists leaning on each other in the 12th round, if one falls, the other may well fall, too.

Everywhere else in America today, disrupters  Uber, Amazon, etc.  are dismantling established institutions. Perhaps both political parties are the next institutions to crumble under creative destruction. Or maybe not. But if it happens, no one can say they didnt have it coming.

Jonah Goldberg is a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a senior editor of National Review. E-mail goldbergcolumn@gmail.com, Twitter @JonahNRO. Copyright, Tribune Media Services Inc.
A Nov. 5, 2015, Journal headline accompanying a story about the future of the Rail Runner Express was prescient: Were stuck with Rail Runner.

That story was based on a state Department of Transportation study that found selling the Rail Runner isnt feasible because no one with an iota of business sense would want to buy it. And replacing the Rail Runner with bus service, which would require purchasing at least 50 buses to make 89 one-way trips to replicate the trains daily passenger load, would cost $15 million annually to operate, compared to $27 million for the train  with the state still having to pay off the Rail Runners debt.

Debt service on the 97-mile commuter train, which runs from Belen to Santa Fe, costs the state $28 million to $30 million a year, and the two final payments will balloon to $110 million in 2025 and again in 2026. And lets not forget the Federal Railroad Administration demand Rail Runner be outfitted with a positive train control system expected to cost between $50 million and $75 million, according to Rio Metros board member handbook.

Ridership is another challenge. Since 2010, when Rail Runner had 1,240,518 boardings, ridership has declined every year. In fiscal 2017, the system had 835,561 boardings  a 32.6 percent drop from its 2010 peak.

Its little wonder then that despite the fares, rail fees, local taxes and federal cash that offset the operations and maintenance expenditures, every few years legislators and taxpayers, faced with Rail Runners track record of hauling big money out of the state highway budget, toy with the idea of selling, shutting down or replacing Gov. Bill Richardsons pet project.

The Rio Metro Regional Transit District Board  the 22-member panel of elected officials from local governments in Bernalillo, Sandoval and Valencia counties that runs the Rail Runner Express  dreams up ways to stanch the flow of red ink, but so far it has been a losing battle. Boosting ridership in a state with microscopic increases in population, improving the trains spotty wi-fi, hoping for better connections to the Sunport and launching marketing campaigns can only do so much. Its hard to imagine all those efforts combined would make a dent in the annual $27 million shortfall.

So its time to take a hard look at the trains future.

First, there should be an analysis of how much the train would cost if the state simply walks away vs. how much it costs to provide service. If New Mexico saves little to nothing by garaging the train, then it likely makes sense to keep providing around a million rides a year to commuters and tourists  especially if that keeps the train viable after its debt is retired.

And if thats the case, no stone should go unturned in looking for ways to reduce the current gargantuan drain on state resources. Its evident the train will never come close to operating without a loss  but few public transportation projects ever do. Still, its prudent on the part of the transit district board, legislators and other public entities (UNM comes to mind) to crunch the numbers and research any and all viable options to cover the annual debt service and two looming balloon payments. Eight years is not that far away, and simply going with a re-fi deal that sends the bill down the track to future taxpayers shouldnt be the first, or only, stop.

But to keep it running, taxpayers need their elected leaders to show how the Rail Runner can become the little engine that can do better. Or face having it make its final run.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

The surge in crime over the last few years has Albuquerque residents fearing that they, too, will become victims in the near future, so its no surprise that voters are wanting a mayor who will turn things around.

State Auditor Tim Keller, a Democrat, and City Councilor Dan Lewis, a Republican, have each presented themselves to voters as the mayoral candidate who can get it done.

Were going to make sure (officers are) well led and well paid and have everything they need to do their job, Lewis said during a recent debate.

Weve got to attack crime from all sides and that does mean reforming the Albuquerque Police Department, Keller said. But that means changing the way our entire department is run.

Lewis and Keller agree on several points:

 Both would launch a national search for outgoing APD Chief Gorden Edens replacement.

 Both say APD needs 1,200 officers, although Keller has said the department may need as many as 1,400 officers.

 Both say APD should return to community policing, where officers are assigned to a specific beat and work closely with their neighborhoods to solve problems.

 Both say they would ensure that APD completes the U.S. Department of Justice reforms outlined in a settlement agreement as quickly as possible. The settlement agreement was reached after the DOJ found that the department engaged in a pattern and practice of unconstitutional use of force, including fatal shootings.

 Both favor significant boosts in officer pay.

But there are also things that set the two candidates apart.

Lewis says one of his first acts as mayor would be to propose a midyear budget substitute that would pump $15 million more into APD to boost police officer pay. He has said the money would come from reprioritizing spending, citing as an example the millions of dollars the city spends every year on Albuquerque Public Schools related programs, including school crossing guards.

We dont have a money problem at City Hall, we have a priorities problem at City Hall, he said during a recent debate.

Lewis has also said that APD offers one of the best retirements in the country, and hell use it to attract good officers, put them through a shortened academy and get them on the streets responding to calls. APD officers have the opportunity to retire with 90 percent of their top pay, and they can retire after 25 years.

Aggressively recruiting public safety aides who want a law enforcement career would also be on his to-do list.

And he has pledged to hold judges accountable.

Were going to judge the judges, he said. Were going to have a scorecard  We have a broken criminal court system in this city thats dumping dangerous people back out on our streets.

Keller, meanwhile, has been endorsed by the Albuquerque Police Officers Association, which applauded his crime plan and his commitment to bring competitive wages to APD, fund equipment for the department and launch an aggressive recruiting effort.

He has pledged that every officer, from the chief on down, will field calls for service.

Weve got to rededicate everything we do to community policing, to block by block policing, Keller said during a recent debate. The old-fashioned way of beat cops, officers on bike and on foot that we actually know and that are in our neighborhood year after year, and that we problem solve together with on a weekly basis.

Keller has suggested that APD could increase its ranks by bringing its officer recruitment standards in line with state standards. APD currently has higher standards.

APD currently requires 32 credit hours from an accredited college or university with a minimum 2.0 grade point average in order to qualify as a police cadet, although it does allow for exceptions. The state academy doesnt require college credits. Similarly, the state academy doesnt require a polygraph test, while APD does. APD candidates are also disqualified if they have been convicted of DWI within five years, while the state academy rules prohibit a DWI conviction within three years.

Keller has also suggested an ROTC-like after-school program for high school students interested in a career in law enforcement.

And he has said a city like Albuquerque should have a professional head-hunting operation recruiting officers, particularly in times of shortage. Keller said he would stand up for officers and the community by working to come up with a use-of-force policy that protects both.

To be sure, getting a handle on Albuquerques crime problem will be an enormous undertaking, regardless of which candidate prevails in the Nov. 14 mayoral runoff.

Albuquerque is in the midst of a crime wave, with violent crime increasing by 15.15 percent from 2015 to 2016 and murders jumping by 41.8 percent during the same period. The FBIs most recent Crime in the United States report also reveals that auto thefts are up by almost 50 percent.

Indeed, 2016 data show New Mexico with the highest property crime rate in the nation and the second highest rate for violent crime. That ranking is largely driven by whats been happening in Albuquerque.

Then there are the outrageous  and at times horrifying  stories that have thrust Albuquerques crime problem into the national spotlight.

Ten-year-old Victoria Martens was raped, murdered and dismembered inside her West Side apartment 15 months ago. Victorias mother and two others are awaiting trial.

A television news stations SUV was stolen from Downtown Albuquerque in June while the crew was gathering footage for a story about crime in the area.

A family stopping in Albuquerque for the night in September had their Chevy Trailblazer and U-Haul stolen from outside the southeast Albuquerque hotel where they stayed. Inside the trailer was the body of their loved one, which they were transporting from Oklahoma to Kirtland for burial.

To be sure, concern about crime has been front and center in Albuquerque mayoral elections for decades. But this time around, Albuquerques spike in crime is bucking the national trend of only modest increases in violent crime and decreases in burglaries and larcenies.

Outgoing Mayor Richard Berry has pointed to several causes for Albuquerques crime woes, including a shortage of officers that he blames, in part, on the state Legislatures decision to not allow retired officers to return to work and continue collecting their pensions.

The city has budgeted for 1,000 officers but has only about 850. Berry has said there will be 925 officers in the queue for the next mayor, people who will have either completed the academy or prequalified for the academy by Dec. 1, when the new mayor takes over.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

The University of New Mexico is scrapping a controversial plan to uproot its graduate art studios as part of a larger campus realignment after an architects review raised issues about the financial feasibility.

Masters of fine arts students currently use a historic UNM building along Central Avenue as studio space for their painting, photography and printmaking.

But a plan to convert what is known as the Art Annex into space for the Honors College  which will be displaced when the Student Health and Counseling center expands in its building  would have meant relocating the art programs to the currently vacant Biology Annex.

Some UNM regents defended the domino series of moves as the best use of available space, but it provoked strong opposition from the department of art and others on campus.

After students and faculty voiced their concern during the Board of Regents August meeting, administrators assembled a task force to evaluate the situation. They also asked an outside architect to review the plan.

The architect determined that repurposing the 91-year-old Art Annex for the Honors College was cost-prohibitive, given the budget and age of the building, interim Provost Craig White said.

The university will look elsewhere for the Honors Colleges new home, allowing the art studios to stay in place.

Its a great relief for everyone, art department Chairwoman Justine Andrews said, adding that she was grateful to UNMs leadership.

Students are thrilled, and I think it means that we get to continue a really rigorous national program in a space that people both love and find to be an inspiring place for art-making.

Art students, art faculty and Honors College students spoke against the move at the August meeting, arguing that the plan did not meet their respective needs.

Art representatives have hailed the Art Annex  with its high ceilings and natural light  as one of their departments chief recruiting tools; they also bemoaned moving to a building that would cut their available space by nearly half. Honors students, meanwhile, expressed desire for a building closer to campus dormitories.

MFA printmaking student Robbie Sugg said the Art Annex was key to his choosing UNM and that he had lost sleep fearing he would have to relocate his studio. He said he was elated and relieved to learn that would not happen.

This building is a legacy building for our department; major figures of 20th century and contemporary art have worked in this building, including artistic heroes of mine: Richard Diebenkorn, Agnes Martin, and Elaine de Kooning to name a few, Sugg said in an email to the Journal. It means so much to me to be working alongside their footsteps.

Regent Marron Lee said talks are underway about possibly moving the Honors College to the first floor of the Anderson School of Management building, which she called ideal given its proximity to residence halls.

We needed solutions, and one was found that did not include the building that graduate art students use, Lee said in a written statement.

The task force will explore other potential uses for the Biology Annex, a building designed by renowned architect John Gaw Meem but that was facing demolition a few years ago.

Lee said it is an amazing and historic space that whomever ends up there will be lucky to have.

UNMs budget office had projected spending $6.1 million to renovate the Art Annex and Biology Annex under the initial plan, and UNM procured the funding as part of a larger regent- and New Mexico Board of Finance-approved bond sale.

Changing the plan to bypass the Art Annex and instead incorporate Anderson is not expected to have any financial implications, Lee said, though the regents would have to reauthorize the use of the bonds for that purpose.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

SILVER CITY  Rebecca Margolis and her husband Dale chose to retire in this tiny town near the Gila National Forest for the fresh air and quiet beauty.

Now theyre among residents who worry that a proposal to adjust the airspace used by Holloman Air Force Base for F-16 pilot training will mean supersonic jets flying overhead.

We moved here from San Diego, a highly militarized town, and we really thought living on the edge of the vast Gila Wilderness was protection from all that, Rebecca Margolis said.

The proposal for Special Use Airspace Optimization at Holloman AFB is part of the Air Forces larger effort to examine legacy airspace to ensure it meets modern day training needs, including the newest F-16 fighter jets.

They can see out further. They have weapons systems that reach out further than the airplanes we had in the past, said Alan Shafer, lead airspace analyst at Air Force headquarters.

The process has started with Holloman because of its importance to the Air Force, he said.

Holloman Air Force Base is a critical node in the production of fighter pilots, Shafer said.

The proposal to extend flights deeper into the Gila National Forest and closer to Silver City has led to a loud outcry in the quiet community.

Im a former veteran, and they can find other places. They dont need to come into this pristine area, said Ted Presler, a Silver City resident who runs a theater group.

The proposal to adjust the air space requires an environmental impact analysis that includes public comment from those living in the region. That scoping period ended Sept. 25.

Terrible job

Theyve done a really terrible job, in my opinion, of providing adequate information to the public to really understand what theyre really proposing, said Allyson Siwik, executive director of the Gila Conservation Coalition. What about all of the wildlife in the Gila? Weve got 3.1 million acres of forest and within that we have two wilderness areas.

Holloman Air Force Base held open house public meetings in Truth or Consequences, Las Cruces and Carlsbad, the site of a second proposal to expand airspace, but did not schedule one in Silver City.

State Sen. Howie Morales, D-Silver City, in a letter to Holloman Air Force Base, said he is concerned that Silver City  the most populated area in the Gila which would be most affected by the addition of thousands of F-16 flights  was not selected as a site for a public meeting on the proposed expansion of air space.

The economy of Silver City and the surrounding areas is heavily dependent on people visiting the Gila from all over the world, he wrote.

The goal here is to reach as many people as possible, said Robin Divine, an environmental scientist with the Air Force Civil Engineer Center.

Divine said open house meetings were scheduled in locations to allow the most people to participate.

We already have a good handle based on the comments we have received, Divine said. We take in that input. We look at those areas of concerns that the public is bringing forward.

Public session

Holloman has scheduled an informational meeting for the Grant County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 14 at the request of the New Mexico congressional delegation, Shafer said.

The public will not have an opportunity to speak, but residents can still use the website set up to accept comments electronically or send comments by mail during the environmental impact analysis period, which continues through next spring and will be followed by hearings.

Even though the official comment period is over, were still going to review comments that are submitted to us because we want to know whats important to the people out there across New Mexico, Shafer said.

Gila National Forest personnel are among those weighing in on the proposal during the official comment period. A letter signed by forest manager Adam Mendoca asks Holloman to consider the need to protect wilderness characteristics, including outstanding opportunities for solitude.

Its very important when you go out and have your wilderness experience that you dont have that encroachment from the noise, said Marta Call, Gila National Forest public affairs officer.

Holloman and Fort Bliss aircraft currently fly over the western edge of the forest. The letter requests that the Air Force maintain a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet over the entire Gila and limit training flights during the week from March to December, the peak season for outdoor recreation.

Silver City residents said they are concerned that expanding the air space will not only affect the environment, but also the local economy.

Weve been able over the last 20 years to diversify our economy and bring in retirees, expand our tourism and outdoor recreation industry, Siwik said, so this will have huge impacts on real estate, on the people who want to retire here, on outdoor recreation.
DARMSTADT, Germany, Nov. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company which operates its healthcare business in the U.S. and Canada as EMD Serono, today announced results of the two-year primary analysis of FORWARD, a five-year, multicenter Phase II study of sprifermin in patients with knee OA.

"We are highly encouraged by the results of the FORWARD trial, in which sprifermin showed an increase in cartilage thickness in patients with osteoarthritis," said Luciano Rossetti, Executive Vice President, Global Head of Research & Development at the biopharma business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. "We remain steadfast in our resolve to bring new therapies to areas of high unmet medical need such as this, and these phase II data are a testament to our commitment."

The study of 549 patients met its primary endpoint, demonstrating statistically- significant, dose-dependent increases in MRI total femorotibial joint cartilage thickness from baseline in the two sprifermin groups receiving the highest doses as compared with the placebo group after the two-year treatment period (+0.03 mm with 100g sprifermin every six months vs. -0.02 mm with placebo, p<0.001; +0.02 mm with 100g sprifermin every twelve months vs. -0.02 mm with placebo, p<0.001). Demonstration of an increase in cartilage thickness as opposed to a delay in decreasing cartilage thickness has not been previously reported. The correlation of these changes with clinical endpoints is being evaluated.

"Osteoarthritis of the knee can make it challenging for sufferers to perform everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, and there is a high unmet need for disease-modifying treatment options," said Dr. Marc C. Hochberg, primary investigator of the FORWARD study and Division Head, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine. "These data suggest sprifermin may not only prevent decline in cartilage thickness compared with placebo, but may also increase cartilage thickness in patients with knee osteoarthritis."

Secondary endpoints included changes in cartilage thickness as measured by MRI in the medial and lateral compartments, as well as changes in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score over two years. Statistically significant treatment effects of increased cartilage thickness were observed in the medial and lateral femorotibial compartments, including the central medial and central lateral regions, in the highest sprifermin dose group. Total WOMAC scores decreased (indicating less symptoms) by approximately 50 percent compared to baseline in all treatment groups, including placebo.

There was no detectable systemic exposure following the intra-articular injections of sprifermin. Treatment-emergent adverse events were balanced between treatment groups, with musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders being the most common.

The results will be presented in a late-breaking oral presentation, "Efficacy and Safety of Intra-Articular Sprifermin in Symptomatic Radiographic Knee Osteoarthritis: Results of the 2-Year Primary Analysis from a 5-Year Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Phase II Study" at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego, U.S., on Tuesday, November 7, at 4:30 p.m. PT.

The company is presenting a total of 11 abstracts at ACR/ARHP, highlighting the momentum of its various clinical programs in Immunology. Other data of note includes an oral presentation on a phase II post-hoc study analysis of atacicept for SLE patients with high disease activity. In the analysis of ADDRESS II, a 24-week, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase IIb study of 306 people, those who had high disease activity at baseline had three- to five- times the odds of attaining low disease activity at 24 weeks when treated with atacicept 150mg dose (n=51) as compared to when treated with placebo (n=52).

For more information about the data presented, please visit the ACR/ARHP website.

About Sprifermin

Sprifermin is in clinical development to investigate its potential as a treatment for osteoarthritis (OA) in the knee. It is a truncated recombinant human FGF-18 protein thought to induce chondrocyte proliferation and increased extra-cellular matrix (ECM) production, with the potential of promoting cartilage growth and repair. Sprifermin is currently in Phase II studies.

About Osteoarthritis

There are approximately 237 million people worldwide living with symptomatic and activity-limiting OA, the third most rapidly rising condition associated with disability globally. By the end stage of the disease, total knee replacement is often necessary. OA is likely to be the number one cause of total hip and knee replacement in the US. Currently there are no approved drugs for preventing or slowing disease progression.

About Atacicept

Atacicept is in clinical development to investigate its potential as a treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is a recombinant fusion protein which targets the cytokines APRIL and BlyS, two members of the tumor necrosis factor family that regulates B-cell maturation, function and 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. It is currently in Phase II studies.

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 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 2016, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of  15.0 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" name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the company operates as EMD Serono, MilliporeSigma and EMD Performance Materials.

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.

http://www.emdserono.com

ACR Abstract #

Atacicept: 889; Sprifermin: 1L

View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/merck-kgaa-darmstadt-germany-presents-late-breaking-clinical-data-from-phase-ii-trial-of-sprifermin-for-osteoarthritis-disease-modification-300549720.html

SOURCE Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
May 18, 2017

Despite previously dismissing the idea of stepping aside in Iran's presidential race, Tehran Mayor Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf withdrew May 15 in favor of fellow conservative candidate Ebrahim Raisi. This unexpected move has left political analysts wondering whether it will actually benefit Raisi or, conversely, the incumbent president, Hassan Rouhani, in the May 19 election.

Ghalibaf, a three-time presidential candidate, had run a controversial campaign. On May 8, his campaign adviser, Mahmud Razavi, had tweeted, Poll results show that Ghalibaf now has more votes than Rouhani and thus will not  under any circumstances  withdraw from this race. On the same day, Ghalibaf's political adviser, Hossein Ghorbanzadeh, also editor-in-chief of the daily Hamshahri, which is run by the Tehran municipality, tweeted, If Ghalibaf withdraws, Rouhani will be elected in the first round of voting. He will not, under any circumstances, withdraw from the race. This is a rumor propagated by Rouhani supporters with the hope of inciting fear.

That said, the opinion polls were not favorable for Ghalibaf, especially after the third and final presidential debate May 12. According to the US-based International Perspectives for Public Opinion (IPPO), his voter support had dropped from 26% on May 6 to 21% on May 14, and the downward trend was continuing. Moreover, most Principlist organizations had rallied behind Raisi, making the situation increasingly difficult for Ghalibaf.

Notably, Galibaf's statement on May 15, four days before the election, did not use the word withdraw. It read, What is important at this point in time is preserving the interests of the people, the country, and the revolution. Considering that this great ideal can only be achieved through a change in the status quo, fundamental and crucial decisions must be made. Therefore, in order to protect this great ideal, I ask my supporters across the country to devote all their potential to supporting our dear brother Hojjat al-Islam wal-Moslemeen [clerical rank below ayatollah] Seyed Ebrahim Raisi and the success of the Government of Work and Dignity [Raisis campaign slogan].

Ghalibaf has clearly asked his backers to support Raisi, but will they listen? The Iranian media has been busy analyzing the matter.

Mohammad Hashemi, brother of the late Ayatollah Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani and a former head of the state broadcaster, said in a May 15 interview, Ghalibaf did not have any votes to transfer to anyone. He had behaved very badly in the debates and had ruined himself. He withdrew because staying on would mean more scandals.

Gholamhossein Karbaschi, secretary-general of the Executives of Construction Party, one of the most prominent pro-reform factions, concurred with Hashemi's analysis. In an interview with the moderate media outlet Entekhab on May 15, Karbaschi said, Not all Ghalibaf supporters will vote for Raisi. More than likely, a portion of his votes will go to Rouhani. More importantly, under the best of circumstances [had he not withdrawn], Ghalibaf would have finished third, which is why he decided to quit the race.

The ideological predisposition of supporters is another reason why Ghalibaf votes may not transfer to Raisi. Traditional Principlists are supporting Raisi because certain organizations and political movements are supporting him. For these Principlists, the opinion of these organizations is the final word. Ghalibafs supporters, on the other hand, come from a different perspective. None of the Principlist organizations have supported him, and his backers are less interested in ideology, supporting him instead because of the technocratic style that Ghalibaf adopted in recent years.

Moreover, a look at Raisis inner circle shows that virtually all its members were ministers under former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (2005-13). Ghalibaf, on the other hand, despite being a Principlist, was always at odds with Ahmadinejad. Therefore, it is unlikely that his supporters will agree to cast their vote for a candidate surrounded by Ahmadinejad ministers.

Perhaps the most important issue to consider, however, is that Ghalibaf is not a charismatic figure. When Rafsanjani was disqualified from the 2013 presidential elections and therefore asked his supporters to vote for Rouhani, voters listened to his request without asking any questions. Ghalibaf, on the other hand, does not have a similar hold on his supporters; they will not cast their vote for Raisi simply because Ghalibaf has asked them to do so. In addition, a majority of Ghalibafs supporters are not from religious or middle- or lower-class backgrounds. Unlike the concerns of Raisis supporters, who are religious, Ghalibaf supporters are mostly concerned about technocratic issues.

On the other hand, Ghalibafs call for his supporters to vote for Raisi could be beneficial to Rouhani by helping the incumbent attract silent voters. A segment of Iranian society is still doubtful about voting. Since they do not follow the campaigns, many simply believe that Rouhani will be re-elected. The recent string of Iranian presidents has been re-elected to second terms, so some voters may decide to sit out the election on the assumption that Rouhani is unlikely to become the first one-term president in decades. Ghalibafs withdrawal and forging of an alliance with Raisi could, however, cause them to perceive that the danger to the incumbent is more imminent than they had previously thought and lead them to believe that their not voting could result in Raisi's replacing Rouhani.

The Principlist media outlets have supported Ghalibafs decision to withdraw. In a May 15 speech, Raisi thanked Ghalibaf for stepping aside, calling it a revolutionary act. That same day, former parliament Speaker Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel also thanked Ghalibaf, characterizing his withdrawal as a sacrifice, and asked his supporters to vote for Raisi. Moreover, the conservative theoretician Mohammad Reza Bahonar expressed the hope that the Tehran mayors votes would be transferred to Raisi.

Not all Principlists, however, agree on the matter. Also on May 15, prior to Ghalibafs official announcement, Parviz Amini, a Ghalibaf adviser, wrote on his Telegram channel, Mr. Ghalibaf, dont make the mistake of withdrawing. If you do, Rouhani will win this election.

Thus, doubt remains as to whether Ghalibafs votes will go to Raisi. According to an IPPO poll published May 16, 20% of voters who had planned to cast their ballots for Ghalibaf cited Rouhani as their second choice. Meanwhile 30% of Ghalibaf supporters will vote for Raisi, and 16% will not vote for anyone. IPPO revealed Rouhanis numbers to be on the rise, and as of May 15, four days before the first round of balloting, had him winning 56% of the vote.
November 3, 2017

A surprising disagreement seems to be emerging between the United States and Israel over the interpretation of the Fatah-Hamas reconciliation agreement. Israel reacted in an almost-Pavlovian way, halting most of its contacts with the Palestinian Authority government, except for urgent security and humanitarian issues. The United States, on the other hand, both on the level of the White House and the level of the State Department, continued its ongoing dialogue with Ramallah. US peace envoy Jason Greenblatt is leading these contacts together with US Ambassador in Tel Aviv David Friedman and the US consul general team in Jerusalem. The motto of the US administration seems to be give the reconciliation agreement a chance.

According to a senior US diplomat, the administration conveyed to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas that it will not intervene against the new Palestinian agreement and that it demands the disarming of Hamas, yet not overnight. The US diplomat does not rule out that once the dust has settled between the two rival Palestinian factions, Washington might outline guidelines for peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians (without Hamas being included).

US Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to visit the region in December to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Abbas and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The vice president is considered a foreign policy hawk, but with the virtual elimination of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson from regional peace efforts, this visit could turn into a significant one.

In the meantime, Greenblatt is carrying out the presidents instructions to keep the hope for peace negotiations alive. According to the American source, the US administration goal is to keep on one side a very pro-Israel line, and on the other to advance rapprochement with Egypt (and Saudi Arabia) as a counterbalance to Iran. President Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner is scheduled to visit Riyadh again in the coming days.

Trump must still decide if he will issue guiding principles for the opening of negotiations, despite Netanyahus opposition to such a move. The main motivation to go ahead  something Trump has said he would do during the election campaign  is the administrations desire for cooperation with Egypt in the ongoing struggle against radical Islam. Trump, according to the US diplomat, attaches great importance to his Riyadh declaration of May 21 at the Arab-Islamic-American summit. He may want to match it with a Washington declaration on Middle East peace.

The US diplomat explained that such guiding principles could include a series of elements.

For instance, peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians would be conducted without Hamas, with a two-state solution as part of the parameters. Hamas would have to dismantle its military wing, and Israel will be recognized as a Jewish state.

As for Israel, its settlement construction would be limited to the strict needs of actual growth. The final border must provide security for Israel and freedom for the Palestinians. In that respect, stringent security and anti-terror measures must be agreed upon, with an Israeli presence along the Jordanian river. Security cooperation would be developed between the United States, Israel, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, based on the Riyadh declaration.

Another important element would be that the solution to the Palestinian refugee problem will be allowing these refugees to settle in Palestinian territories or receive international compensation (not from Israel).

And last, the guidelines would include normalization of relations between Israel and the Arab states, based on the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.

These ideas are being explored at the US National Security Council, under the guidance of national security adviser Gen. H.R. McMaster.

The US diplomat told Al-Monitor that the purpose of these guidelines is to make it difficult for Netanyahu to say no to someone he perceives as the most pro-Israeli US president in recent memory.

A senior Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs official who spoke to Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity said that the possibility of guidelines for peace negotiations has indeed been discussed between Greenblatt and Jerusalem. According to the Israeli source, Netanyahu objects qualifying Hamas disarmament as a goal of negotiations, as in the US possible proposals; this must be a precondition to negotiations.

On the Palestinian side, a senior PLO official reacted to the US ideas with skepticism. Abbas is indeed encouraged by US-Egyptian cooperation on the reconciliation agreement and on eventual peace talks, but the content of this US position is unacceptable to him. Still, the PLO source emphasized that Ramallah was told by the administration it was free to express its positions on all permanent status talks.

Be that as it may, predicting that such proposals would soon be made public or lead to an opening session of negotiations, is predicting Trump, which is impossible.
November 5, 2017

For those who entertain the dark allure of Arab conspiracy theories, Nov. 4 was a red-letter day. In the space of a few hours, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was the convergence point of three significant developments. One was that Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation. The second was that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman cracked down on rivals in the ruling family. The third was that a long-range ballistic missile was aimed at the Saudi capital by Yemen's Houthis.

Nothing about Hariris most recent travel plans or political views hinted that a resignation was imminent; this opened the door for speculation that he either had survived an assassination attempt in Beirut or was under house arrest in Riyadh. He has a history of being under Saudi pressure. In 2009-2010, when serving as prime minister for the first time, Hariri complained to US officials about Saudi pressure on him to make peace with the Syrian regime. Once the Saudi-Syrian rapprochement began to fray, Hariri was ousted from power in January 2011, within minutes of taking a photo with US President Barack Obama in the Oval Office. Most recently, Hariri was pressured by Saudi officials not to engage the Syrian regime or succumb to Iranian influence.

There are three plausible explanations for his Nov. 4 resignation.

The first plausible explanation is Lebanons legislative elections scheduled for May. While the Cabinet had reluctantly agreed on a new electoral law, there are procedural disagreements regarding how to implement it. In recent weeks, Saudi Arabia has been unable to rally Lebanese leaders electorally against Hezbollah. Hariris ability to win by a decent margin is seen as slim due to his depleted financial resources and his perceived appeasement of Hezbollah. While the elections are up in the air for now, Hariri could be attempting to galvanize his base, just as his father, Rafiq Hariri, did while he was alive.

The second plausible explanation is Hariris standing in the crown prince's entourage. Since King Abdullah died in 2015, the Lebanese prime ministers investments in Saudi Arabia have gradually fizzled. Hariri, who for months resisted Saudi pressure to act against Hezbollah, may be sending, through his resignation, a clear message of allegiance to the crown prince. If Hariri survived the latest crackdown that targeted key Saudi businessmen, this could mean that Hariris political stock in Riyadh has risen and that he may have the chance to finally save his company, Saudi Oger.

The third plausible explanation is the Saudi-Iranian competition. It is worth noting that as the Islamic State (IS) emerged as a major force in 2014, Riyadh made a detente with Tehran in Beirut and retreated from Iraq. Now that the war against IS is winding down, Riyadh has seized an opportunity to reassert its influence in Iraq and revoke the political detente with Iran in Lebanon. The Saudi move may aim to challenge Hezbollahs status quo by forcing the hand of Iran in Lebanon in return for a compromise elsewhere, most notably in Syria. Pushing the envelope, though, as outlined by Hariris resignation, is an indication that Riyadh might not be ready yet for an open confrontation with Tehran.

The crucial question now is what will happen following Hariris resignation. The speculation that hell will break loose is overstated; this is not the first nor the last political crisis in Lebanon. There are some things to watch that might indicate what will come next. First is whether the security coordination between the Hariri-led Future Movement and Hezbollah will continue via the official agencies loyal to them. Second is whether Iranian-backed Hezbollah will push for a new prime minister to make the point that Lebanon can be governed without Riyadh. Third is whether the United States will join the Saudi push in Lebanon.

There are three main possible scenarios in the coming weeks and months.

Normalizing the void left by Hariris resignation is the first scenario, which would likely entail a paralyzed caretaker government and an extension of the parliaments term once again. The Lebanese crisis would subsequently be on hold with no further escalation, on the back burner of US priorities such as Yemen and the GCC crisis, as deterring Iran takes center stage.

The second scenario would be to challenge Riyadh and select a confrontational prime minister, which would enable Hariri to lead the opposition against the new Cabinet.

The third and most effective scenario would be to form a transitional technocratic government, led by a neutral Sunni figure approved by Hariri, with the sole purpose of organizing the legislative elections. This would allow Hariri to run freely as an anti-Hezbollah candidate without the restrictions of governing.

It is unclear exactly what position the United States will take in all this; a US official told Al-Monitor that the expectation in Washington is that an orderly political process will follow in Lebanon.

If there is any benefit from the resignation, it is that it should be a wake-up call for Hezbollahs miscalculations concerning Hariri by overtly embracing him, portraying him as weak and hinting there is a daylight between him and Riyadh. Prolonging the Iranian-backed groups controversial adventure in the Syrian war carries dangerous regional risks, and normalizing relations between Beirut and Damascus should not have been a pressing priority ahead of the legislative elections. There also should be recognition that the Saudi return to Lebanese politics, after a long absence, might be too little, too late, that having a Lebanon policy might not be enough to counter Iran if there is no Syria policy, and that the common interests that bind the Lebanese oligarchy are usually stronger than any external pressure.
November 3, 2017

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  Palestinian Minister of Civil Affairs Hussein al-Sheikh announced Oct. 17 on a talk show on the official Palestine TV channel that President Mahmoud Abbas approved women enlisting in the Palestinian Authority (PA) security services in the Gaza Strip, with the aim to restructure these services.

This step, the first of its kind since Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, is part of the PA government's plan to economically empower the Gaza Strip in the wake of the reconciliation agreement signed by Hamas and Fatah on Oct. 12 under the auspices of Egypt.

The reconciliation agreement is expected to end all of the repercussions of the decadelong internal split and give the PA control over the enclave.

During the talk show, Sheikh said, The key to empowerment is security. We want only one security. We want to build a unified Palestinian security ideology under the leadership of the PA.

Maj. Gen. Serhan Dweikat, a member of the Fatah Advisory Council, told Al-Monitor, The decision to allow Gazans to enlist in the [PA] security services will also include Gazan women, because of the Palestinian society need for female soldiers to deal with women-related civil issues.

He explained that the newly enrolled female staff would mainly work in the Policewomen Department with the Ministry of the Interior tasked with participating in raids of houses in search for illegal substances such as drugs and ensuring the security of womens detention centers and prisons.

The number of women to be enlisted is not yet determined. This depends on the need to ensure a good security level and will be decided by the government in the coming period, he said.

Dweikat explained that women wishing to enlist in the security services in Gaza must be 18-25 years old and will be subject to technical standards in terms of their height, weight, fitness and endurance.

He pointed out that enlistment is open to all citizens, regardless of their political partisan affiliation. The important issue here is that they should become subordinated to the security establishment affiliated with the PA and adhere to its policies, he added.

By the end of September, the population of Gaza stood at around 2.5 million people, 51% male and 49% female, with 290,000 people between the ages of 18 and 25, according to Oct. 2 statements to Sawt al-Aqsa radio station by Ahmed al-Helmi, the director general of the Ministry of Civil Affairs.

On Oct. 25, Majed al-Helo, the head of the PAs Retirement Authority, announced on Voice of Palestine radio the early retirement of 7,000 PA security personnel in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Helo said this step is part of the plan to reform the [Palestinian] security agencies and improve their performance.

Meanwhile, Dweikat noted that forced early retirement and allowing enlistment to security services are two simultaneous measures aimed to revitalize the security services in Gaza.

Mouin Rajab, an economics professor at Al-Azhar University in Gaza, told Al-Monitor, The enlistment of women to security services would reduce the levels of poverty and unemployment in the Gazan society, especially since each female soldier will support her family, amid a dire economic reality.

Statistics published March 7  on the eve of International Womens Day  by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics indicated that the unemployment rate among women participating in the labor force was 44.7%, compared to 22.2% for males. The unemployment rate among women with 13 school years and above is standing at 50.6% of women in this group.

Rajab pointed out that enlistment is an acceptable option for Gazan women, in light of their low chances of finding a job, noting that women need job opportunities to achieve many of their goals, such as ensuring stable living conditions, being able to support their family and increasing their chances of marriage. The prevalence of marriage for women engaged in the labor market has been increasing, he said.

In this context, Manal Hussain, 22, described the step as an opportunity to find a job that would guarantee her a monthly salary to help her to support her family. She told Al-Monitor, My family's poor financial situation and my sick father's inability to work almost got us begging in the streets. The decision to allow the enlistment of women is an opportunity not to be missed to overcome my financial troubles.

University student Ahlam Atti, 20, told Al-Monitor, Being enlisted in security services would confer a prestigious social standing. I dream of becoming an officer. I may drop out of university and get enlisted. The chances of finding a job after graduation are very low.

Hamas believes the decision to allow Gazans to enlist in the PA security services does not impede Palestinian reconciliation. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem told Al-Monitor, The PA government is efficiently taking over the administration of Gaza, and we will continue to provide facilities for this end. I do not think there is anything that will hinder this process so far.

Asked whether the enlistment in Gaza threatens the fate of the 15,000 military staff members appointed by Hamas after taking over the Gaza Strip in 2007, Qassem said this has yet to be settled. He added, It was agreed, within the scope of the reconciliation agreement reached between Hamas and Fatah in Cairo, to hold a meeting in Gaza between the leaders of the security services in the West Bank with their counterparts in the Gaza Strip to develop a vision to deal with the security services issue in the enclave.

Rouhi Mashtah, a member of Hamas political bureau who is based in Cairo, told the Palestinian local news agency Safa Oct. 12, The military staff issue is controversial, pointing out that the fate and future of the current staff in Gaza will be determined before Feb. 1, 2018  as agreed upon in the reconciliation agreement.

For women in Gaza, the opportunity to enlist in the PA security services is a glimmer of hope for a new and stable life. This seems to be their chance at attaining a more efficient role and valuable contribution to their family and society after years of marginalization, poverty and scarce employment opportunities.
November 5, 2017

Putin signs $30 billion energy deal in Tehran

We wrote here in July that absent relief from US sanctions, Russian President Vladimir Putin would forge his own path in the Middle East by carefully working with and through regional powers, especially Iran.

So perhaps it is no surprise that when Putin met with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Nov. 1, there seemed to be a meeting of the minds on regional developments, especially regarding Syria and Iraq, as well as agreement to deepening economic cooperation in many fields, including energy.

Putin continued his surge of regional energy diplomacy while in Tehran, following up on his reset in Iraq, as we reported last week. During Putins visit to Tehran, Russia and Iran agreed to strategic energy deals worth as much as $30 billion for development of Irans oil and gas fields, as well as research collaboration. With the agreement, Rosneft and Gazprom, the Russian energy giants, put themselves ahead of potential Western suitors in Iran. If the United States reimposes sanctions on Iran, Russian and Chinese energy companies are best positioned to run the field in meeting Irans substantial energy investment needs.

This is not to say that Iran and Russia are in lockstep on Syria, as we have reported here before. There are concerns in Moscow and Tehran that  as the active phase in the war against radical Islamists comes to an end and Syrias opposition forces are being engaged through a number of political platforms  this gap between Russian and Iranian approaches stemming from different interests may grow, as Maxim Suchkov reports.

For example, Russia would prefer to reduce its military commitment and move to a political solution, while Iranians dont see the war in Syria as being over or even coming to end. And despite the bravado from Iran, Khamenei wants Putin to stay alert regarding the United States. On the one hand, that reflects Tehrans concern over the possibility of a deal between Moscow and Washington that would be detrimental to Iranian interests in Syria and Iraq. On the other hand, it alludes to Irans own readiness for a worst-case scenario in which the United States can come up with policies obstructing  militarily or politically  Russian and Iranian gains.

The concerns are serious, and each party is having its own internal debate about how to not end up playing the fool for its efforts, Suchkov continues. Both recognize too well that there are many opponents inside Russia and Iran, and even more regionally and internationally, who seek every opportunity to drive a wedge between Russians and Iranians regarding Syria." He also wrote that "there seems to be a broader understanding in Iran and Russia that befriending each other on the basis of anti-Americanism doesnt make for a strategic partnership. Instead, deepening ties into other spheres would make a partnership more sustainable in the long term. In transforming this understanding into real initiatives, cooperation on energy, trade and macro-level investments will be key and will take a great deal of time, resources and political will from both sides.

Iran unlikely to retreat if Hezbollah attacked

Iran is benefiting from the defeat of the Islamic State, shifting from its mostly low-profile strategy as they [Iranians] were filling the vacuums in both Syria and Iraq to a more assertive regional posture to consolidate its gains, Ali Hashem reports from Tehran.

Tehran proved its keenness to cooperate with neighbors and put out the message that it has no intention to dominate their areas of influence, Hashem writes. But after the tide turned against the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Iraq, Iran's rhetoric changed.  The breakthrough on the Iraq-Syria border was followed by the entrance of the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) into Mosul, Iraq, with Iraqi security forces. The move gave Iran a strong confidence boost because, although the PMU forces belong to Iraq, they are supported by and loyal to Iran, and the PMU wasn't on the US list of forces allowed to enter the conflict-torn city. Yet the real confidence booster was the outcome of the Iranian-Turkish role in the crises that followed the Sept. 25 independence referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan. To Tehran, finding solutions to such a big dilemma without the involvement of countries outside the region was more proof that the region is capable of managing its issues independently. That's another reason many in Tehran anticipate a new US effort designed to dismantle Irans regional power.

Irans commitment to Hezbollah, therefore, takes on even greater weight. Anyone attempting to hit or neutralize Hezbollah and the PMU is trying to clip the Islamic Republics wings, and thus undermine its strategic depth, Hashem concludes. Iran is unlikely to retreat if it perceives a threat to the regional leverage it currently enjoys and has been building for the past three decades. Rather, it is probable that it would respond with confrontation  though its not yet clear how or when such a confrontation might unfold.

No comment on report of US back channel to Assad

Feel free to say we declined to comment, a CIA press officer responded last week when asked by Al-Monitor about reports that a US official had met in Damascus with security chief Ali Mamlouk, writes Laura Rozen.

CIA director Mike Pompeo was previously reported to have started a back channel with Mamlouk shortly after taking office last January with the alleged purpose of seeking the release of American journalist Austin Tice. Tice, a former Marine, was abducted while working as a freelance reporter in Syria in August 2012 and is believed to be held by forces loyal to Assad.  Syrian officials have repeatedly denied that Tice is being held in Syria, Rozen reports.

The conspicuous lack of denials suggests that the United States might be pursuing discreet, back-channel talks with Damascus with the purpose of gaining the release of American citizens. Such talks could also be useful to directly communicate US security concerns as advances against the so-called Islamic State (IS) put US-backed forces in close proximity to Russian- and Iranian-backed Syrian forces on the ground, and as the United States tries to ensure that Iran does not set up a presence on Syrian territory close to Israel, analysts said, adds Rozen.
November 5, 2017

The decision by Saudi King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud to sack Minister of National Guard Prince Mutaib bin Abdullah, the favorite son of the late King Abdullah, is intended to remove a potential powerful rival of his own favorite son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Mutaib's ouster is the most crucial part of a large-scale wave of arrests in the kingdom that suggests deep opposition to the young prince's ambitions.

The Saudi Arabian National Guard was the creation of King Abdullah in the 1950s and 1960s. It has been the power center for the Abdullah wing of the family and the Shammar tribe for over a half-century. The National Guard was originally designed to be a counter-coup force to defend the royal family from revolutionary plots in the regular army. It is deployed in the capital and holy cities as well as along the borders. It was a crucial player in the forced abdication of King Saud in 1964 that brought Faisal to the throne, and it bore the brunt of the fighting for the recovery of the holy mosque in Mecca from religious extremists in 1979.

The National Guard also participated in the defense of the kingdom from Iraq in 1990 and the liberation of Kuwait. In 2011, it was sent across the King Fahd causeway to Bahrain to secure the survival of the Sunni minority ruling family against protesters from the Shiite majority. The National Guard is still on the island.

The 100,000-man National Guard is separate from the Royal Saudi Land Forces, the kingdom's army, which has over 200,000 soldiers and roughly 1,000 tanks. Mohammed, also the minister of defense, is the civilian commander of the Royal Saudi Land Forces. Traditionally, it has been deployed on the kingdom's borders to defend the country from foreign enemies and to project power in the neighborhood. In 1991, it participated in the battle of Khafji, repelling the Iraqis, and then in the liberation of Kuwait.

Royal Saudi Land Forces troops were involved in border clashes with Houthi rebels in Yemen in 2009-10. The Saudis did not fare well in the clashes and had considerable casualties. Gradually, the Houthis consolidated their control of the border region and northern Yemen.

The two armies are very expensive. There is no authoritative breakdown of defense spending by service, but the majority of military personnel are in the Royal Saudi Land Forces and the National Guard. Both are very well-equipped. The National Guard is completing the purchase of 24 Apache helicopter gunships bought from the United States in 2010, for example, which will increase the force's firepower.

Saudi defense spending in 2015 was $87 billion, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute; this was the third highest in the world and larger than any of our NATO partners or Russia. Per capita spending is $6,900 a year, a phenomenal amount for a nation of only 20 million Saudi nationals.

Mutaib and the National Guard represent a potential alternative power center to the crown prince. By sacking Abdullah's son, the king and crown prince are further consolidating power in their own hands. Earlier, they ousted former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who was also minister of the interior, the third leg of the national security apparatus of the kingdom.

The determination to consolidate power in the hands of the crown prince suggests both ambition and anxiety. The young prince is a man in a hurry with a sweeping vision of transforming his country. Just last month he announced plans to build a new city in the kingdom's northwest, to be called NEOM, and financed by $500 billion in investment. His Saudi Vision 2030 is the most expansive program for change in the country's history.

But Mohammed bin Salman is also aware that his rise to power has alienated many in the royal family who have been sidelined. The forced ouster of Mohammed bin Nayef was done ham-handedly, with little respect or honor for the long years of loyal service he had provided in fighting terrorism. Since his removal, Nayef has yet to be seen in public or speak about his dismissal.

Knowledgeable observers of Saudi internal politics point to the many arrests of prominent clerics and intellectuals this summer as a sign of tensions inside the kingdom. There is no guarantee that if Mohammed bin Salman's father dies or abdicates that the succession will be smooth. The latest round of arrests only reinforces the sense that the succession debate is more difficult than the king and his son want. The crown prince is now in charge of an anti-corruption task force that looks more like a means to punish his opponents than anything else. Eleven princes have been detained, and the number of royals under suspicion is unprecedented.

The kingdom is at a crossroads: Its economy has flatlined with low oil prices; the war in Yemen is a quagmire; the blockade of Qatar is a failure; Iranian influence is rampant in Lebanon, Syria and Iraq; and the succession is a question mark. It is the most volatile period in Saudi history in over a half-century.
November 3, 2017

Turkish politicians and the media tend to quote staggering numbers when discussing strategic equations, as they are doing now regarding the BTK railway project connecting Baku in Azerbaijan, Tblisi in Georgia and Kars in Turkey. The 527-mile leg contributes to China's work in progress, the Silk Road route to connect Europe and Asia.

The BTK, which has been in the works since 1993, was finally inaugurated Oct. 30 in the new Port of Baku at Alat, actually 55 miles from Baku. The presidents or prime ministers of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Georgia attended the ceremony. No doubt, this is not a project to ignore. It may offer new economic opportunities to the countries using it.

But from the official bombast, one would think these trains, instead of rolling on rails, might be flying. Some of the claims include:

The BTK railway is the most important leg of the nearly 7,500-mile Silk Road project.

Thanks to the BTK, there will be a single-track railway from Beijing to London. Trains traveling from Beijing will reach Europe via Istanbul, bypassing Russia and the various sanctions usually associated with it.

This route for the Silk Road will cut land transit time to 15 days from two months.

The project will handle 1 million passengers and 6.5 million tons of cargo annually. By 2034, the capacity will increase to 3 million passengers and 17 million tons of cargo. China currently sends 240 million tons of cargo to Europe annually.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan repeated these figures in his speech at the ceremony to officially launch the project, saying it will provide not only economic benefits, but will contribute to peace, security and stability. We are hereby declaring the opening of an uninterrupted railroad track from London to China, he said.

Not quite.

What is the real situation of the "unbroken, uninterrupted" railroad from Asia to Europe? Can it really be an alternative to the Russian route?

There are still some difficulties on the BTK leg. Cargo departing from China faces the first interruption when it reaches the Caspian Sea via Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Here, trains are transferred to the Port of Baku at Alat via roll-on/roll-off ferries. Then by rail they pass through Georgia to reach Turkey. Trains halt at Istanbuls Pendik district before reaching Istanbul's city center.

There are also unsolved problems in the passage from Asia into Europe. Turkeys project to upgrade the Sirkeci-Halkali line on the European side has been dragging on for 13 years. There simply is no line operating yet on the 47-mile route. There are financing problems, and it appears nobody knows when it will be completed.

And then there are questions about whether the 8-mile-long Marmaray Tunnel under the Bosporus will be able to handle heavy cargo trains. In the meantime, nobody is mentioning the infrastructure problems between Kars and Ankara in Turkey. Lots of upgrades and repairs are required on this single-track route. Of course, such connection and infrastructure issues can be overcome over time, but today a train from Beijing cannot reach London without interruptions.

Moreover, the claim that the BTK will be an alternative to the Russian route is exaggerated. Today, trains from Beijing can already reach London in 17-18 days via Russia. On the unbroken Russian route, trains are guaranteed a transit speed of 621 miles per day.

Although Turkey touted the BTK as the most important leg of the Silk Road, China did not participate in the inauguration, and nobody asked why. China was clearly signaling it was distancing itself from the BTK project. Although China contributes to financing of various segments of the Silk Road project, which it calls the "Belt and Road, it stayed away from BTK financing.

Some think China's reticence stems from its discomfort with Turkeys position involving the Uighur issue in East Turkestan (in China's Xinjiang province). Some think China finds the BTK route not feasible and economically inefficient. Turkeys persistence on routing the BTK via Georgia's capital of Tblisi instead of Armenias Yerevan because of political tensions between the two countries also discouraged European financing sources. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank decided not to participate. Skirting Armenia made the route longer.

China is not without an alternative. The 7,456-mile London-Beijing connection became operational via Russia in April. This route follows Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Germany, Belgium and France and completed its first trip in 17 days. The line splits in France, with one leg heading to Britain and the other to Spain. In other words, under current conditions, China is reaching Europe without interruptions anyway. Academic Muhdan Saglam told Al-Monitor that China uses sea, air and rail for its shipments, with the railway via Russia being the only current rail connection. China prefers to make progress on its own Belt and Road project. It is already building a port in Pakistan for its own use.

Saglam noted there are still some questions about the BTK leg after Turkey. For example, wheat from Kazakhstan reaches our Mersin port. How will it be trans-shipped to Europe? By road, by sea or railway?

Regarding claims that the BTK is a challenge to Russia, she said, Yes, it may help countries such as Georgia and Azerbaijan that do not have warm relations with Russia. They may see this as a way to diminish their dependence on Moscow. Then there is that exaggerated claim that there is an alternative to Russia in the China-Europe trade. Russia is a key country in massive trade while also being an important market itself."

Saglam added, "Some claim that US-European sanctions against Russia bring restrictions on transport of Russian agricultural produce, thereby making the BTK the alternative route. But this is a premature analysis. For one thing, nobody knows how long these sanctions will remain in force. It is also important to know how much cheese China buys from France and how many apples from Poland. China may not be willing to bypass Russia, which is a strategic actor for Beijing. Finally, you should not overlook the national railroad capacities of the countries on the BTK route.

The BTK railway no doubt will contribute to Turkey's commerce with the southern Caucasus region and central Asia. However, China can be expected to use the BTK not to reach Europe's markets, but Turkey's.
Bell Canada has officially released its third quarter report for 2017, and has also taken the opportunity to announce a few details of ongoing 5G tests. The major carrier posted a fairly big improvement over the third quarter of last year, with revenue figures on the rise and churn dropping year on year. As for the 5G testing, the company announced that it has partnered up with Huawei for 5G, and tests are going well thus far. Following up on earlier tests with Nokia, the company is conducting tests with Huawei in the 3.5GHz and 28GHz bands, and things are reportedly going quite well so far.

The company managed to increase its net earnings to CAD $817 million or around $640 million USD, up 2.1% year on year. Free cash flow, meanwhile, grew by a substantial 24.4%. Service revenue and adjusted EBITDA are up by 5.9% and 5.8%, pushing the total margin for Bell Canadas wireless business up to 41.7%. This quarter saw a grand total of 198,005 new subscribers across Bells entire suite of services, including wireless. Of those, Bells wireless business managed 117,182 of those net adds. On the media side, this quarter saw revenues rise 1% year on year, with Bell citing acquisition of a few major French-language broadcast channels and the resulting spike in the Quebec market as a big contributor.

Bells third quarter this year beat last years in every way, and showed a good bit of improvement from last quarter as well. This means that the company will likely be able to sustain its normal levels of network resource usage and a stable manpower budget as it works toward rolling out comprehensive 5G solutions. Bells 4G LTE network is continuing to expand and increase in capacity and speed, and that will likely continue; LTE network buildout and 5G network buildout can take place hand in hand thanks to Nokias 4.9G technologies bridging the gap and allowing the same network equipment to be used for both sides. By working with Huawei at this stage, Bell is hedging its bets to ensure that it relies on the best possible network for a full-fledged 5G buildout. Most estimates put commercially viable 5G networks as being out in 2020, and Bells current approach will see the company on that train.
I have a colleague who writes for a prominent English language newspaper and used to be based in Madrid as a correspondent. He is familiar with the birth of Catalonias independence process as well as with what he refers to as Spains old instincts, and he has asked me if the pro-independence political parties will ever critically assess the outcome of their strategy. My answer is that self-criticism has mostly yet to come and that the magnitude of the Madrids brutality in its handling of the political situation will delay it, and might even postpone it eternally for some. The response from Spains judiciary and government, blinded by revenge, has always legitimised the strategic errors of the secessionist camp. Still, the mistakes are there and they should be aware of them when weighing their strength: the short-sighted tactical moves by some, the shoddy management of timing and the majorities obtained at the polls, plus the unfulfilled financial expectations and EU support for the independence cause. The Catalan Process anticipated a negotiation that has proven impossible. When group pressure gets in the way of self-criticism, it degrades politics and invites collective errors that are met with applause. Some of the main actors privately admit that independence was proclaimed when they got carried away by overflowing emotion. When you are short of political cohesion and you lead a bottom-up movement the surge pulls you out into a scenario that you no longer control.

Besides their own convictions, the separatist parties and people of all political persuasions can count on the Spanish governments intransigence, the arbitrariness of the justice system and a militant public prosecutor to bring about ironclad unity to the secessionist camp. Catalonias collective spirit has taken a blow following the police crackdown on October 1, the full takeover of the Generalitats powers by invoking Article 155 [of the Spanish Constitution] which has effectively turned the Catalan administration into a mere provincial branch run from Madrid, the imprisonment of two peaceful activists (Jordi Cuixart and Jordi Sanchez) and half the Catalan government, not to mention the arrest warrants issued against the president and the rest of his cabinet, who remain in Brussels. The humiliation inflicted on Catalonias public representatives is also an insult to all the citizens who have defended our institutions and home rule for four decades. They are an all-embracing majority that extends well beyond the boundaries of independence support and are not constrained by their place of birth or the language that they predominantly speak, much to the dismay of the likes of Josep Borrell [1].

Today Spain is less democratic and more authoritarian than a month ago, as far as the world is concerned

Besides politics, street action was and is the only instrument available to the pro-independence bloc and October 1 showed us that the danger of violence is not theoretical. Carles Puigdemonts decision to get the international community involved every step of the way and keep Europe focused on Catalonia which was disconcerting initially appears to stem from this realisation.

People in the know explain that Rajoys decision to limit Article 155 to a short time span and call an election immediately was undoubtedly inspired by Europe and several commentators have agreed that Catalonias unilateral declaration of independence was detrimental to the diplomatic sympathy fuelled by the peaceful nature of the movement, the financial reasons, the October 1 crackdown and the attitude of Spains diplomacy, which had no qualms denying any abuse of power when interviewed by no other than the BBC. If the current situation affects Catalonias image, it is even more detrimental to Spain as a brand name. The narrative of Spains political Transition, of a modern, democratic framework for peaceful coexistence and renewed economic growth, has been shattered before the eyes of Spains European partners and economic actors. Today Spain is less democratic and more authoritarian than a month ago, as far as the world is concerned.

Spanish government sources have privately admitted for months that a reform of the Constitution is unavoidable, but first they want to see a complete defeat of Catalonias pro-independence movement. Until quite recently, this was accompanied by some cliched comment about how Catalans would curb their indignation at the eleventh hour. This political view stems from an interpretation of the willingness to compromise as a weakness that must be exploited and it accounts for Spains failed democratic quality as a country ruled by emotion rather than political opportunity. The arrest of the Catalan government is yet another game-changer. Spains Attorney General has set the playing field for Rajoy, leaving him less room to manoeuvre at key times.

The fact that peaceful, democratically elected officials are kept in prison adds strain ahead of the snap election on December 21. The idea of a slate supported by the widest parliamentary consensus possible, on the basis of obtaining the release of the prisoners and regaining home rule, seems a good way out of the current situation. But the political parties have become exhausted and are at loggerheads with one another. While the PDECat has Puigdemont, it is also weakened by bitter internal rifts and needs to rebuild itself ideologically. ERC is approaching these elections with discipline and determination to win the presidency. Talks between the parties are complex and the clock is ticking. Among the ashes, the option of running separately but with some shared goals begins to emerge: this would allow them to keep their own ideological profile beyond the independence debate.

We could have never anticipated the events of last month. Nevertheless, the Spanish governments spokesman keeps pitching the notion that the snap elections will bring back normality. With our government in jail or in Belgium, we are nowhere near their normality, but the December polls should be seen as an opportunity.

___________

Translators note:

[1] Josep Borrell is a former PSOE leader and president of the European parliament who has recently been very vocal against independence.
20% of legal jobs could be lost to automation

Lawyers in the UK could see a reduction of jobs in the sector of around 20% - around 67,000 full-time roles  as automation gathers pace.



However, the outlook from the Law Society of England & Wales says that some of the losses will be offset by increased demand for legal services in the coming years.



"Were seeing the first evidence of how AI and automation will transform the sector. Our research suggests productivity growth will accelerate to almost twice its current rate by 2038, particularly in large firms, Law Society president Joe Egan said.



The society is expecting increased demand for UK lawyers and increased competitiveness from the weaker pound.



"Our net export forecasts are the most sensitive of todays data to Brexit negotiations. Today, our figures indicate a 13% increase in net exports of UK legal services this year, followed by a further 9% growth in 2018, added Egan.



Law Society members are expecting growth in revenue from Brexit to be a modest 0.3-1% from now until 2025 with large international firms expected to benefit the most.



Global firm HFW expands Asia Pacific coverage

HFW has expanded its Asia Pacific capabilities with a new association in Indonesia.



The global law firm previously known as Holman Fenwick Willan will be working with Rahayu & Partners in Jakarta, an establish law practice led by founder Sri Rahayu (Ayu) who joins HFW as a Partner.



"We are delighted to have someone with Ayu's great reputation and experience joining the HFW partnership and forming our associated office in Jakarta, commented HFW senior partner Richard Crump.



Ms. Rahayu will work closely with HFW partners Haydn Dare and Brian Gordon as the local firms existing practice expands into core HFW areas of aerospace, commodities and shipping.



NRF advises Thorn Group on consumer finance unit sale

Norton Rose Fulbright has advised ASX-listed Thorn Group Ltd. on the sale of its consumer finance division to Credit Corp Group.



The sale of the assets of Thorn Financial Services, which operates under the Cashfirst brand, is expected to complete this month.



Sydney-based Norton Rose Fulbright partner Ben Smits led the team which included associates Vianna Shing and Shanil Lal as well as banking and finance partner Nuncio DAngelo and senior associate Robert Murphy.



Dentons takes the plunge into maritime technology

Dentons has launched a new incubator focused on the ocean and water technology sector in a collaboration with The Maritime Alliance (TMA).



The BlueTech Incubator follows Dentons ongoing work with TMA and focuses on the use of technology and entrepreneurship to find and develop sustainable solutions for the world's most demanding ocean and water challenges.



The law firm will be honoured with a special award at this weeks Blue Tech Summit and Tech Expo.
The Second Century platform introduced by the DB11 is the building block for most future Aston Martin models, including the soon-to-be-revealed V8 Vantage and next years Vanquish. Regarding the latter, chief executive officer Andy Palmer confirmed to Autocar that the next-generation Vanquish is coming. Curiously, itll be a different animal from the current Vanquish.To the point, Palmer made it clear the all-new Vanquish has been developed to compete with the Ferrari 812 Superfast. While the present-generation model is more of a luxury-oriented grand tourer with sporty credentials, the all-new Vanquish looks beyond the Continental GT in terms of segment rivals. The focus on performance is a breath of fresh air for Aston Martin, which never matched Ferrari from a dynamic standpoint in recent memory.Palmer also confirmed the Vanquish Volante for release soon after the coupe will premiere. Speaking to the British publication, the head honcho described the 2019 Vanquish as bloody good, confirming that most of the product investment is finished. As things stand now, Aston Martin is steadily preparing for manufacturing the vehicle at the brands plant in Gaydon.Essentially a hardcore interpretation of the DB11, the 2019 Aston Martin Vanquish features superior aerodynamics, better suspension, and a more powerful 5.2-liter V12. The twin-turbo engine, codenamed AE31, has been proven to 820 brake horsepower according to powertrain engineer Brian Fitzsimons. It remains to be seen how potent the AE31 in the all-new Vanquish is, especially when confronted with rivals as the 812 Superfast.The most powerful front-engined Ferrari in production today relies on a 6.5-liter V12 (F140 GA) that develops a LaFerrari-matching 789 horsepower and 530 pound-feet (718 Nm) of torque. The biggest problem Aston Martin faces with the next-generation Vanquish isnt the tuning of the engine, but curb weight. At 1,525 kilograms (3362 pounds; dry), the 812 Superfast is a lot lighter than the V12-powered DB11. The DB11 V8 is pretty heavy in its own right, so good luck to Aston Martin with finding ways of dropping weight.
Fatou Bensouda, prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, has requested authorization for a formal investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Afghanistan, according to NPR. "The ultimate focus will be upon those most responsible for the most serious crimes allegedly committed in connection with the situation in Afghanistan," Bensouda wrote.

Why it matters: Bensouda reported last year that there is a "reasonable basis to believe" U.S. forces subjected "at least 61 detained persons to torture, cruel treatment, outrages upon personal dignity" in Afghanistan over a span of 11 years, NPR reports. Eric Pahon, a Pentagon spokesman, said "an ICC investigation with respect to U.S. personnel would be wholly unwarranted and unjustified."
In May 2016, former President George H.W. Bush told Mark Updegrove, author of a forthcoming book about the two presidents Bush, when asked about Donald Trump: "I don't like him ... I don't know much about him, but I know he's a blowhard. And I'm not too excited about him being a leader."

And former President George W. Bush said: "This guy doesn't know what it means to be president."

Updegrove, a historian and former director of the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, will be out Nov. 14 with "The Last Republicans: Inside the Extraordinary Relationship Between George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush." Early copies of the HarperCollins book are circulating:

The N.Y. Times' Peter Baker writes after talking to Updegrove: Both Bushes "worry that Mr. Trump has blown up a Republican Party that they spent two lifetimes building, a party that was once committed to removing boundaries to trade and immigration, promoting democracy and civil society and asserting a robust American leadership role in the world."

writes after talking to Updegrove: Both Bushes "worry that Mr. Trump has blown up a Republican Party that they spent two lifetimes building, a party that was once committed to removing boundaries to trade and immigration, promoting democracy and civil society and asserting a robust American leadership role in the world." During last year's campaign, former President George W. Bush inspired the title, with its double meaning, when he told Updegrove: "I'm worried that I will be the last Republican president."

former President George W. Bush inspired the title, with its double meaning, when he told Updegrove: "I'm worried that I will be the last Republican president." Updegrove told Peter: "At the time, I think he was concerned that Hillary Clinton would win ... But if you look at his values and those shared by his father and Ronald Reagan, they are very much in contrast to the values of the Republican Party today, in particular the platform that Donald Trump ran on."

"At the time, I think he was concerned that Hillary Clinton would win ... But if you look at his values and those shared by his father and Ronald Reagan, they are very much in contrast to the values of the Republican Party today, in particular the platform that Donald Trump ran on." Per CNN: "George H.W. Bush confirmed that he voted for Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. George W. Bush told Updegrove he left the top of the ballot blank. 'I voted "None of the Above" for president, and Republican down ballot in 2016.'"

Be smart: George W. Bush is probably right that he was "the last Republican president," as his family sees the party. The "Republican Party" is now multiple ideological parties, awkwardly  and probably not sustainably  scrunched under one inadequate label.
Houthi Shiite fighters stand guard during a rally to mark the third anniversary of the Houthis' takeover of the Yemeni capital. Photo: Hani Mohammed / AP

Saudi Arabia intercepted a long-range ballistic missile from Yemen on Saturday over north-east Riyadh, according to CNN. Yemen's Defense Ministry said the attack was successful and "shook the Saudi capital." A Saudi-led coalition has been fighting the Houthi rebels in Yemen since 2015; the conflict there has been called the greatest humanitarian crisis in the world.

Go deeper: The U.S. involvement in Yemen's humanitarian crisis.
Saudi Arabia's King Salman has fired a slew of princes from their government posts in what has been billed as an anti-corruption move, per state-linked network Al Arabiya. Though not directly linked, the anti-corruption campaign is taking place just as Saudi Aramco is preparing an IPO next year which will likely be the largest ever. The company will list its shares on its domestic exchange, as well as a foreign one.

Background: Additionally, high-profile billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal has reportedly been arrested as well, according to the Wall Street Journal. Al-Waleed's business ties and investments through his Kingdom Holding Company are far and wide. In addition to majority ownership in media conglomerate Rotana Group, Al-Waleed's investments in technology and media over the years have included News Corp., Twitter, Lyft, Fox News, Citigroup, and Apple.
New York City-based Hospital for Special Surgery named William M. Ricci, MD, chief of the combined HSS/NYP Orthopedic Trauma Service.

Here are five things to know:

1. Dr. Ricci served as chief and fellowship director of the orthopedic trauma service and vice chair of orthopedics at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. He succeeds David L. Helfet, MD, as chief of the HSS/NewYork Presbyterian Orthopedic Trauma Service.

2. Dr. Helfet developed the orthopedic trauma program 26 years ago and it grew substantially under his leadership. After officially stepping down from his leadership role, Dr. Helfet will continue his surgical practice and collaborate with Dr. Ricci moving forward.

3. The leadership transition will take place in September 2017.

4. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Ricci is the current president of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association. He previously served on the board of directors for the American Orthopaedic Association. His clinical practice focuses on arm, leg, pelvic and hip fractures.

5. Dr. Ricci completed his medical degree at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, N.C., and underwent his residency at HSS. He completed fellowship training at Tampa, Fla.-based Florida Orthopaedic Institute and Tampa General Hospital.
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SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREAHistory teacher Leloy Claudio recently tackled Filipinos obsessions with titles in his videocast Basagan ng Trip for Rappler, saying that the insistence on being called attorney or architect is arrogant.

Claudio, who has a Ph.D, said that he looks askance at the use of titles even in academe, for instance, calling a Ph.D holder doctor or any university teacher professor regardless of whether they actually hold that rank.

He prefers to address everyone as mister or miss. These two titles, he says, are good enough. Why? Because it equalizes things and puts everyone on the same level. But theyre still respectful to each other, he says. Mr. and Ms. are not disrespectful.

The penchant for insisting on trade and professional titles, he says, says something about the culture we live in, where social division and social inequality are manifested in speech.

Claudio says plain mister and miss are more democratic. We are all Filipinos. The trip hes breaking is kayabangan. Huwag nating i-parade sa buong mundo kung ano ang na-achieve natin.

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Some commenters on the post agreed with his view, while others opined that using titles was a sign of humility on the part of the speaker and their respect for the other person.

This is an interesting topic because we all know people whom we call by their professional titles. Some are low-key about their accomplishments while others are so proud that their attainments are carved into their desk lapidas or printed on calling cards.

Claudio says such insistence is a sign of arrogance. Brandishing, as Claudio calls it, ones stature elevates one at the expense of another. But is that all it is?

Being called doctor or architect also establishes identity. As Claudio observed, we call physicians doctor so we know who to call if someone has fainted. Titles in this case signify areas of expertise, which would be helpful information in certain contexts, conferring credibility and eliciting trust and confidence.

Others use titles because they are unabashedly proud of what they have achieved. In the provinces, it is popular for families to hang signs outside their homes showing how many degree holders they have. It is outright showing off, but it can be argued that the practice is also inspirational and aspirational. And parents do have bragging rights.

Titles also help establish markers for human connection and communication. Upon meeting someone for the first time, we wish to know the basics about them so that we can place them in our minds. This knowledge helps us negotiate social relations. Knowing someones title enables us to behave accordingly toward them. Telling others your title also helps them decide how to behave toward you.

This is not always a democratic thing, not always a good thing, but it is a cultural phenomenon in our country. Claudio decries this insistence upon rank. I agree with him, but until mindsets change, Filipinos find it easier to deal with others if they know where they stand socially in relation to the other, and using titles is considered part of polite social behavior.

Insistence on titles is also a sign of insecurity. Being called attorney reassures the person that they have reached a certain degree of success through their efforts. It helps mitigates feelings of anxiety and inadequacy and boosts self-confidence.

One principle of using titles is reciprocity, but it isnt always observed. Several attorneys I know delight in being addressed as such but do not bestow the same respect on Ph.Ds, claiming the title of doctor belongs in the academe only. The retort to that is they should be called attorney only in a courtroom.

Here in the US, social relations are as democratic as Claudio envisions for the Philippines. In general, bosses are called by their first name, not sir nor maam. There is no harping on positions. It doesnt matter greatly whether one is managing director or a regular employeethe important thing is that youre both working for the same company. (This does not apply to the academe, which is a world of its own.)

The social divide (not the same as economic inequality) here isnt as wide as it is in the Philippines. I dont miss calling managers maam-sir, which smacks to me of a slave tugging the forelock. I dont miss the bowing and scraping and calling the arrogant lawyers attorney.

The customs and practices associated with professional titles will be hard to eradicate, but Claudios breaking of this particular trip is timely and relevant.

Its time to address social inequalities and find ways to level the playing field, and foster practices that bring us together rather than keep us apart.

Facebook and Twitter: @jennyortuoste

Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus.
Skylar Lawrence aged 33 months old. "The way our day started, on a mini-holiday, we never thought it would end like this," Mrs Lawrence said. The meningococcal B vaccine (Bexsero) has been available in Australia since August 2014, but is not included in the National Immunisation Program (NIP). The Lawrences said they had not known the free meningococcal vaccine (for meningococcal C) did not protect against all forms of the disease. "We thought we were doing everything we could to protect our kids," Mrs Lawrence said.

"We should have at least been told ... One child's death is too many when we can protect them." The manufacturer's three submissions to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) have been rejected on the basis of "clinical uncertainty" based on the evidence at the time. The low incidence of meningococcal B in Australia coupled with the ambiguity over the vaccine's level of protection means the vaccine is only available on private script for $120 per dose. Though meningococcal is relatively rare, the disease was severe. Even with good access to medical care, patients with invasive meningococcal disease can rapidly deteriorate and die with little warning. About one in 10 survivors of meningococcal B develop major disabilities. At the request of Health Minister Greg Hunt, Australia's Chief Medical Officer has established a dedicated incident management team to look at cases of meningococcal.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Health noted a study in South Australia and funded by GSK was assessing the herd immunity effects of the vaccine, noting GSK "is encouraged to submit any new evidence that may arise from this study to support a future submission". "The government has committed to expediting any meningococcal B application," the spokeswoman said. In the meantime, a new study published on Monday found that though number of meningococcal B strains had dropped dramatically in recent years, children in their first eight months of life were at greatest risk of developing the disease. The highest incidence was among infants under 12 months old (11.1 per 100,000), children between one and four years old (2.82 per 100,000) and adolescents aged 15-19 years (2.4 per 100,000), according to the analysis of data from the Australian National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. An estimated 5 per cent of children under five with meningococcal B died, the researchers reported.

The findings prompted the researchers to recommend prioritising at-risk groups with the vaccine, particularly children at two months old. Senior author paediatric infectious diseases professor Peter McIntyre said he hoped the paper would help doctors and parents weigh up benefits and cost of the vaccine against the likelihood their children could develop meningococcal B. "Parents and doctors can understandably have a very emotional response to reports of children dying or suffering severe disabilities from meningococcal B," said Professor McIntyre, from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance for Vaccine Preventable Diseases at the Childrens Hospital, Westmead. "For parents, the issue is not about cost-effectiveness overall but who bad is this and should I be worried about it?" "Our paper tries to give a sense of how severe meningococcal B is, and how concerned doctors and parents should be."

Meningococcal B is still the dominant strain nationally, though in 2017 it accounted for about half of all cases, compared to over 80 per cent over the study period. Australia's rates of meningococcal B were significantly higher than in Canada and the US (0.3 and fewer than 0.1 cases per 100,000 respectively between 2002-2011), which both include the B vaccine in their national immunisation programs. A review of the impact of Britain's decision to add meningococcal vaccine to its immunisation program found the number of cases among vaccine-eligible infants dropped by 50 per cent during the program's first 10 months. The British program also suggests two doses of the vaccine between six and four months offered good protection, improving its cost-effectiveness profile compared to the current four-dose schedule. Signs of meningococcal disease are non-specific but can include sudden onset of fever, headache, neck stiffness, joint pain, a rash of red-purple spots or bruises, dislike of bright lights nausea and vomiting.
Just in time for party season (or at least your annual boogie at the work Christmas do), glitter, in all its OTT and entirely un-sensible glory, is having a moment.

Perhaps the best indicator that all things sparkly are shimmying into the spotlight is the sudden, almost inexplicable internet popularity of an app called KiraKira.

Space age glitter in Chanel's autumn/winter collection. Credit:AP

The app, developed by Japanese programmers nearly two years ago, found a whole new audience when the fashion crowd, including model Kendall Jenner and legendary make-up artist Pat McGrath, discovered it  and its ability to highlight and enhance sparkle via a choice of eight filters  during fashion month in September.

This week it was the App Store's fourth most downloaded paid app.
A luxury Deakin home has broken Canberra's auction record selling for a cool $5,750,000.

The four bedroom four bathroom property on Hotham Crescent is also believed to be the third most expensive home ever sold in the territory.

4 Hotham Crescent, Deakin Credit:Luton

The hotly contested auction on Saturday had three serious bidders vying for the home with more than 100 spectators.

In the end a Canberra family snapped up the home, which can also claim the record of the most expensive Deakin residential property ever sold.
The report also found nearly half of all people who committed suicidehad experienced domestic violence, either as victims or as perpetrators.

Nearly 20 per cent of women who took their own lives were known to police because they were exposed to domestic violence as children, a new report by the NSW Domestic Violence Review Team has revealed.

"This is a critical national emergency. More than one woman is murdered every week and these family violence deaths are on top of that. The federal government must make this a priority because what they are doing is just not enough."

The research used data from police to examine both reported and unreported histories of domestic violence in the lives of those who took their own lives from July to December 2013.

Previous research showed a clear connection between those who think about suicide and their experience of family violence but this is the first study in Australia to show the link. Researchers said there was no reason to believe this pattern was any different across Australia.

Domestic violence researcher Michael Flood, associate professor at Queensland University of Technology, said the reasons men assault their partners and the reasons they kill themselves overlapped.

"From those numbers, it's clear that if we fix family violence that will have [a] significant impact on suicide levels," he said.
A man has been charged over a fire that ripped through a Logan shopping centre, causing millions of dollars' worth of damage.

Police said 14 stores were significantly damaged after a fire broke out in a cafe at the Rochedale South shopping centre about midnight on September 18.

Police charged a man over the alleged arson attack at a Logan shopping centre. Credit:Glenn Hunt

A Calamvale man, 26, was charged with arson over the incident.

He was also charged with attempted fraud in relation to an alleged arson attack of a mazda hatchback at Beenleigh a month earlier.
You might wish to read James T. Quinlavin from 1999 (pdf), who also covers Syria and Iraq, here is one bit:

While observers have pointed to the apparent fragility of this balance for decades, the longevity of the balancing act is both a tribute to the Saudi rulers and evidence that their tools are more effective than generally recognized. Ibn Sauds personal conquest of Arabia, supported by a community of trust of about sixty men willing to fight against the odds, began with the recapture of the family seat in Riyadh. From there Ibn Saud went on to conquer the Nejd, the traditional heartland of Arabia, relying on both war and marriage to personalize his alliances and conquests. Marriage, even to bereaved relatives of defeated opponents, provided Ibn Saud an effective means of monitoring his enemies. The tribes of the Nejd made up the human core of Saudi Arabia, while Ibn Sauds numerous progeny comprised the dynastys human core. Today the al-Sauds rule from a base within a family group that is not monolithic. Bonds of personal loyalty rather than of an abstract notion of citizenship extend from the family to the tribal groups. Only nontribal Saudis define their relation to the Saudi rulers in the latter terms.

Here is another:

To varying degrees, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Syria have come to concentrate key capabilities of offense and defense in parallel military forces. The total military power of the state is reduced, however, when these forces are not made available when needed.

Ahmed Al Omran on Twitter, a former WSJ correspondent, is monitoring current developments. If you are wondering, Saudi stocks have rebounded.
On the surface, the advertisements appear to be a great opportunity to give a misfortunate dog a second chance at life, but in reality the four-legged friends don't exist and are being used as a con.

Police are warning Queenslanders to be wary of Christmas dog scammers. Credit:Queensland Police Service

Police have issued a warning in the lead-up to Christmas that scammers are using humans' best friend to steal hundreds of dollars from Queenslanders, but there are tell-tale signs of a dodgy doggy.

"Criminals use free websites, trading or selling sites, local newspapers and social media to advertise expensive puppies including bulldogs and toy breeds at very low prices," police said.

"The ad may include a picture of a very cute puppy and claim that it is registered and has been lovingly raised.
Firefighters have managed to contain a bushfire at Beerwah after warning Sunshine Coast residents to "prepare to leave" their homes earlier on Sunday.

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services warned on Sunday afternoon that "firefighters may not be able to protect every property" from the bushfire at Beerwah.

"Fire crews are working to contain the fire but firefighters may not be able to protect every property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door.
Eleanor Webster surely had no idea hiding her bank passbooks under the floor of her familys inner-Brisbane home in the 1950s would spark a months-long investigation to find the heirs to her possible fortune.

It was during a renovation of Caylie Jeffery's newly bought Milton home in 1996 that she came across Mrs Webster's bank passbooks, kicking off her intrigue.

Coins and bank passbooks were found under the lino of a Brisbane home. Credit:Facebook/Caylie Jeffery

As she pulled away the layers of lino in her kitchen, she uncovered three Commonwealth Bank passbooks, with totals of about 2000 pounds inside, along with four 5 notes and a few coins.

Mrs Jeffery put them away for safe keeping and forgot about it completely until three months ago when she came across the passbooks again and decided to share a photo of them to a Facebook group dedicated to Brisbanes history.
A family of four had a narrow escape on Sunday morning after a suspicious fire ripped through their home in west Melbourne, destroying the house and threatening neighbouring properties.

Firefighters rushed to Leonard Street in Sunshine at 5.25am after receiving a number of calls about the fire, including what they said was one a "very panicked" caller with a number of distressed people in the background.

Firefighters took just five minutes to get to the blaze in Sunshine. Credit:Courtesy @9NewsMelbs

The family all escaped their single-storey weatherboard house and were assessed by paramedics. They were uninjured and firefighters managed to protect neighbouring homes from what they described as intense heat and fire.
Almost 1000 academics, civil society groups, lawyers and charities have condemned the Turnbull government's rejection of a constitutionally-enshrined Indigenous "Voice to Parliament", expressing concern about the "devastatingly negative effects" of governments continually imposing their will on Indigenous people.

Public health expert and former Australian of the Year Fiona Stanley, among the highest-profile signatories on the open letter, pointed to the lack of structural representation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in policy making as a "major reason" for ongoing disadvantage.

Dr Fiona Stanley is among the highest-profile signatories on the open letter. Credit:AFR

"National and international studies on colonised Indigenous peoples show clearly that when they are able to implement the solutions developed by them, the outcomes are far better," Professor Stanley said, urging the government to reconsider its rejection of a representative body that would provide advice to Parliament on legislation.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull defended the government's response to the Referendum Council's central recommendation, saying the idea of an Indigenous-only elected body was "contrary to principles of equality and of citizenship".
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has denied she went against the Integrity Commissioner's advice in announcing a veto on the potential for an almost $1 billion concessional loan for the Adani mine.

On Friday, Ms Palaszczuk announced she would veto the federal loan, after alleging an LNP "smear" campaign against her partner, Shaun Drabsch, who she became aware was involved in the application for loan for Adani's rail link through the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility.

Annastacia Palaszczuk confirmed she made the decision to veto the loan, not the CBRC. Credit:Darren England/AAP

The Queensland Cabinet Budget Review Committee - which includes the Premier, Treasurer and two senior ministers - would be able to veto any NAIF application at stage four, the investment decision and execution stage.

Integrity Commissioner Nikola Stepanov recommended the Premier declare a conflict of interest to the CBRC and exclude herself from any part of CBRC meetings that involve deliberations and decision-making about any NAIF projects at stage four, the veto stage.
Jane Merrick said the incident took place after a lunch when she was a 29-year-old junior political reporter.

Sir Michael Fallon's shock cabinet resignation was cast in new light as it emerged a journalist contacted Downing Street hours before his abrupt departure claiming the former defence secretary lunged at her and tried to kiss her on the lips in 2003.

London: Fresh sleaze allegations have hit the British Government as Westminster's swirl of sexual harassment claims continue to spiral.

Britain's First Secretary of State Damian Green. Credit:Andrew Matthews

"Was I even guilty that maybe I had led him on in some way by drinking with him? After years of having a drink with so many other MPs who have not acted inappropriately towards me, I now know I was not."

The claims came as a wave of sexual harassment allegations sweeping Westminster showed little sign of easing.

The Mail on Sunday reported that Tory whip Chris Pincher was accused of making an unwanted pass at former Olympic rower and Conservative activist Alex Story.

Pincher told the newspaper: "If Mr Story has ever felt offended by anything I said then I can only apologise to him."
London: Saudi Arabia's future king has tightened his grip on power, using an anti-corruption purge to arrest royals, ministers and investors  including billionaire Alwaleed bin Talal, who is one of the kingdom's most prominent businessmen.

The announcement of the arrests was made over Al-Arabiya, the Saudi-owned satellite network whose broadcasts are officially approved.

The reports in Al-Arabiya and from other sources that Alwaleed was among those arrested were sure to send shock waves both through the kingdom and the world's major financial centres.

Alwaleed, who controls the investment firm Kingdom Holding and is one of the world's richest men, has major stakes in News Corp, Time Warner, Citigroup, Twitter, Apple, Motorola and many other well-known companies. He also controls satellite television networks watched across the Arab world.
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November means December is around the corner, and December means its time to buy presents. Just not these.

For the kids

Anxious Barbie: This is a Barbie that prefers to stay in her Dream House. Really. Go away. Ken has taken to driving his Corvette to the bar, grousing to anyone who will listen, usually Skipper, who could tell you stories about her own disastrous marriage(s). And she will, when you buy her a Mojito and pull her string.

G.I. Tract Joe: The first action figure to come with a retractable intestine. Hours of fun!

EZ-Break Oven: Minutes of fun!

Cabbage Patch Cabbages: Adorable heads of real cabbage with tiny arms and legs. Store in a cool, dark place and theyll last long enough that you start wondering what that weird smell is. And then when you reach in  aggghhhh! Its a cabbage with limbs!

For him

Eau de Regret: Cologne with the scent of potato pancakes, which whisks you right back to your mother-in-laws kitchen when you were first married and she told you to buy your apartment  a crazy idea because it was $42,000 for the three-bedroom on West 87th.

Eau de Further Regret: This cologne, with top notes of sage, saddle soap, and dysentery, is sure to remind you of that trip you took with your buddies to the dude ranch in Montana. The one that served all those beans.

Eau Enough Already: Is that a hint of musk? Or the entire musk shoved into a manly bottle, his little paws pressed against the glass? Whatever. It sure is musky.

Alligator Wallet: A popular item. But first you have to pickpocket the alligator.

For her

Pumpkin Spice Hairspray: The look and feel of an expensive, limited-time latte  but in your hair.

50 Shades of Hay: The naughty novel of two intensely attracted horses.

50 Shades of Neigh: The horses wife finds out.

Spa in a (Small) Box: Give your pinky a day of bliss. Or your little toe. But not both.

Whitmans Sampler: Walt Whitman, that is. First stanzas of 24 assorted poems.

Channel No. 4: Yes, yes, it knows its not quite what you asked for. Have you ever even tried  wait, wait. Hold on. Deep breath. Its not cheap, its a value scent. Some people like it even better!

I  NEW YORK T-shirt: Its 10 pm, Dec. 24. Do you know where your wifes cousins present is? Try Ninth Avenue, near Port Authority.

The Tiffany Ring: Group of guys who planned a heist at Tiffanys in the 70s. Not really relevant on a gift list.

For the home

The Keurig Day 2 Coffee Re-Heater: Simply pour yesterdays coffee into an empty plastic K-cup and carefully position it in re-heater. Place receptacle under spigot. Press On. Repeat six or seven times for a cup, 12 to 13 times for a mug.

(Note: By this time the first few podfuls of Keurig Day 2 may by cool. Simply pour them back into the K-cup and carefully position in re-heater. Cancel other plans for the rest of the day.)

Plush Sperm-Shaped Throw Pillows: Whats that all over the sofa?

A whole lot of sperm-shaped comfiness!

The Smart Spoon: Tired of to trying to get soup to your mouth only to have it splash and spill? The Smart Spoon scoops up soup and vacu-seals it in a tiny plastic pouch. Simply puncture the pouch once it is inside your mouth and voila  piping hot soup (and a little bit of plastic).

Best of all, no more mess! (Except for spitting out the pouch.)

The Smart Fork: Tired of trying to spear your food, only to have it fall off half-way to your teeth? The Smart Fork wraps your food in fine 8-gauge wire. Simply chew through the wire once it is inside your mouth and voila  delicious food (and little bits of wire).

For your pet

100-Percent Carrot Chew Toy: A bone-shaped carrot that will make any Fido healthier, if he chews it. Which hopefully he will. Although, none of the test dogs did. But they were probably fussier than yours.

Close Encounters Flea, Tick, and Alien Collar: Protect your pets from all the dangers out there. One-hundred percent effective against aliens. About 60 percent as good when it comes to fleas. Some ticks like the smell, ironically. But almost everyone  man, bug, and extraterrestrial  hates the siren-like alarm you cant turn off.

Lenore Skenazys column appears every other Sunday on Brook lynPa per.com

Lenore Skenazy is author of Has the World Gone Skenazy?
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri announced in a televised broadcast his resignation evoking fears of assassination, against the backdrop of a defeat of the Sunni camp in Syria and the rise of the Iran-backed Shia militia, Hezbollah.

Hariri, who became a leader of Lebanese Sunnis after the assassination of his father in 2005, said in a statement broadcast from Saudi Arabia on Al-Arabiya, that he sensed plots targeting his life.

Meanwhile, he attacked the Shia movement Hezbollah, which wields considerable power in Lebanon buoyed by its recent inroads in Syria.

The resignation signals setbacks for the Sunni camp in Lebanon where Hezbollah has amassed power bolstered with its recent victory in Syria.

Hezbollahs military might yields it political leverage in a country that has fought a bloody sectarian civil war (1975-1990).

Viewed as an arm of Saudi Arabia, Hariri lost a battle in the streets of Beirut against Hezbollah in 2011. The Shia militia, less than a year ago, elevated its ally Michel Aoun to Lebanons presidency as it became a major regional player.

The main Sunni bloc, meanwhile, led by Prime Minister Saad Hariri, is experiencing financial and political crises amid cooling relations with backer Saudi Arabia.

Besides disappointing Sunnis in dealing with Hezbollah, Hariris party has also failed to satisfy peoples social and economic needs.

Hezbollah has been accused of carrying out a string of bombings and plots against Jewish and Israeli targets and is designated a terrorist organization by Western states, Israel, Gulf Arab countries and the Arab League.
Twenty years may have passed since Hong Kongs return to China, but some things have remained the same in the Special Administrative Region.

One of the most vexing problems is the citys perennial housing shortage, which Chief Executive Carrie Lam touched on in her first annual Policy Address, delivered in October. More than five decades after Hong Kongs public housing system was first launched, demand still overwhelms supplyas of June, the city had more than 270,000 outstanding public rental-housing applications, according to its Housing Authority. Lam has introduced a plan to set up a land-supply task force to look at the issue.

But elsewhere are many signs of change. An ongoing effort by Chinas central government to integrate the Pearl River Delta region has gathered pace. In July, with Chinese President Xi Jinping as a witness, Lam and the leaders of Guangdong Province and the Macau Special Administrative Region signed an agreement to develop the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area.

Meanwhile, a rail link connecting Hong Kong to the Chinese mainlands high-speed train system is nearing completion.

Lam, previously the citys secretary for development, was voted into her position by 777 electors in March and sworn in on the 20th anniversary of Hong Kongs return to China.

In a wide-ranging interview with Caixin, Lam said Hong Kong must rethink its laws if it wants a share of the rising new economy, and that the cosmopolitan metropolis needs to meet locals housing needs while keeping global investors interest. She also addressed expectations for her as Hong Kongs first woman chief executive.

Caixin: In your policy address, you called for Hong Kong to review its existing laws to lower barriers for the new economy. What is the main idea behind this?

Lam: Many new-economy models are incompatible with existing legislation. If our laws and regulations dont change, the new economy will have no way to exist legally in Hong Kong. Thats why Ive requested that the government form a committee to look at how some laws affect the new economy, especially laws that affect the development of the sharing economy.

Another area that needs to change is the governments behavior. Many businesses and residents want to apply for things but our existing rules cant keep up with current demand, especially in the area of technology. The Special Administrative Regions government has set up many funds to support the development of some industries, but many have complained that the application process is too cumbersome, or that applications are frequently unsuccessful.

How do you interpret President Xi Jinpings comment, during his 19th Party Congress speech, that the One Country Two Systems model will not change?

This year is the 20th anniversary of Hong Kongs handover, and I have personally worked in government for 37 years. Close to half that time was before the handover, the other half was after. I can definitely say, the implementation of One Country, Two Systems is very successful. Hong Kong has been able to benefit from the countrys deepening reform and opening up, and the central governments strong support for Hong Kong. Hong Kong has also been able to maintain a relatively unique system.

Whether its in our financial system, our legal system or Hong Kongs international relations and foreign affairs, we are able to operate with a high degree of autonomy. Although, in these past 20 years, we have experienced two financial crises, weve managed to get through them with the countrys support. Of course, weve also put in our own effort, and Hong Kongs economic development on the whole has been quite good.

Hong Kongs dominant real-estate industry has been criticized for limiting the development of other industries. How do you think Hong Kong should resolve the conflict between traditional industries and the new economy?

Hong Kongs property prices have undeniably directly affected some economic activities. Thats why, in the past few years, weve introduced some new land-supply policies.

To give an example: Theres a very big plot of land in Hong Kong, where Kai Tak Airport used to be. It was previously a logistics center, so there was an industrial area nearby. But Hong Kong no longer has much of a manufacturing sector, so when I was head of the Development Bureau, we came up with the Energizing Kowloon East plan, to develop this large area and build a second core business district for Hong Kong, like the existing one in Central.

Another issue is supporting youths doing creative, entrepreneurial, innovative work. Because the rent is too high, they cant find workspaces. So, well soon announce a workspace-sharing plan for young people. Together with real estate developers, were looking for some spaces that we will lease to young entrepreneurs at cheap rates.

Actually weve also cooperated with Shenzhen, where there are at least two youth workspace-sharing programsthe Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hubs in Qianhai and Nanshan.

How do you see Hong Kong growing into an innovation and technology hub, and what challenges do you think neighboring Shenzhens earlier success presents for Hong Kong?

Developing an international innovation and technology center is definitely not something Hong Kong will achieve on its own. Rather, itll be achieved by Hong Kong and Shenzhen working together, or with other cities in the surrounding region. Thats because, after you achieve research results, you still need to develop products. Hong Kongs modern manufacturing capacity is very small, but many places in Guangdong have modern manufacturing capabilities.

Even with a well-established public housing system, and parallel rental and home sale markets, Hong Kong still struggles to meet social housing needs. What needs to be improved?

We were actually one of the first places in the region to develop a public-housing system, in the 1950s. But why, decades later, is housing still the top concern for people in Hong Kong? Right now, housing policy is among my top priorities, and if you ask the people of Hong Kong, its also the number one problem they want the government to solve.

I have a few thoughts on this issue. Firstly  although we dont have much of it, we still have some land. Hong Kong has an area of around 1,100 square kilometers. Around 26% of that land has been developed, with over 70% still undeveloped. A lot of this 70% is legally protected parkland. Even though I, too, dont particularly wish to develop this type of land, ultimately, we can still free up some more space. The difficulty right now is that theres no agreement within society over how to develop this 70%.

Additionally, were a cosmopolitan metropolis, an open economy where capital enters and leaves very freely. If investors and businesses wish to buy property in Hong Kong, its very difficult to entirely restrict them. But our residents definitely have housing needs, because in order to have a sense of belonging, a sense of home, you need housing.

So, we face a lot of challenges in public housing, thanks to these different factors. Approximately 280,000 households are still waiting for their public housing applications to be processed. And in the meantime, private housing prices are rising too fast, and have already exceeded what ordinary families can afford So, if youre asking how to solve thisone of the solutions is to increase supply, and reach a social consensus as soon as possible, to open up large tracts of land, and build more homes.

Hong Kong has maintained a fiscal surplus for the past 13 years, but some have criticized the Hong Kong government as being miserly. Whats your view on Hong Kongs fiscal policy in recent years?

The last time the Hong Kong government was in the red was during the 2003-2004 fiscal year. But the Asian Financial Crisis had just faded, the Hong Kong unemployment rate was higher than 8%, and we faced the SARS crisis, so a lot of factors appeared within a short period of time. But since then weve had a fiscal surplus every year, which is now higher than 1 trillion Hong Kong dollars.

What does 1 trillion dollars mean? This is equivalent to two years of government expenses, including services and infrastructure spending. I think Hong Kong is now very able to use its government reserves, accumulated over many years, to do some things that would benefit the citys development.

The first thing is investment, whether its infrastructure or human resource training. Another use would be to solve Hong Kong residents difficulties. We still have a poverty problem, some people whore willing to work hard still face limitations, so the government should take on a supportive role.

What is the government doing about inequality, which has become a major social and political issue in Hong Kong?

During the five years of the previous administration, we raised our regular expenditure on social welfare by 71%, from over HK$40 billion to over HK$70 billion today. This is unprecedented in Hong Kong  many previous governments had difficulty investing so many resources in such a short time into social welfare.

Hong Kong currently has relatively good policies for retirees, next year were even introducing a new, stronger pension program. Elderly residents in need can get approximately HK$3,500 (per month) from the government. Thats a very decent standard.

For those who are able to work, but face heavier family burdens, have more children, and have lower incomes, the government has also in the past year introduced a low-income working family allowance. In April, the allowance will be increased. After next years change, a four-person family, including two children, can receive a HK$3,200 allowance each month.

In addition to material disparities, there seems to be negative sentiment and tension between different segments of Hong Kong society. How do you think these differences can be bridged?

Actually, the atmosphere in Hong Kong in the past few months has been relatively peaceful. But some problems are deeper, like young peoples dissatisfaction about the government. Even though a larger proportion of young people today are able to attend university, after graduation they face the issues like finding a job they consider suitable, achieving better wages, whether they can afford to buy a home, have children. Young people feel that the Hong Kong government has not completely solved these problems. So, I think that in order to address young peoples dissatisfaction with the government, we will on one hand provide them with some ways to express their views and participate in the governance process. But we must also offer practical solutions to the problems they face.

Youre Hong Kongs first woman chief executivedo you think you face particular challenges or pressures because of your historic status?

There arent any unique challenges, because whether the chief executive is a man or a woman. Work demands are pretty much the same. Additionally, before I became chief executive, Id already spent 30 years working in government, so becoming chief executive wasnt a major issue. Im still constantly learning, because something new happens every day, and Hong Kong is also a relatively complicated place to govern.

But, as a woman chief executive, there is maybe more pressure on me in terms of the female population, some expectations that, because Im a woman, I must do more for other women, like increasing maternity leave, offering more childcare services to help women participate in the workforce. There are expectations in all these areas, so Ill do my best to fulfill them.

Contact reporter Teng Jing Xuan (jingxuanteng@caixin.com)
Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad is offering a short term course on research for a week-long program this month. The course begins on November 24 and ends on November 28.

Name of the course

Publishing Research in High-Quality International Journals

Course objective

1. Designing a Foundation for Systematic Literature Review and Theory Development.

2. Designing detailed Anatomy of Research

3. Understanding what journals and editors seek from a paper

Key topics covered

Defining Problem

Conducting Systematic Literature Review

Theory Development

Theoretical Contribution

Methodological Issues

Instrument Development

Writing and Communicating

Research Papers

Factors influencing acceptance of research paper

Reviewing of scholarly articles

IIT Delhi Offers Short Term Course on Business Models in Technology

Who is eligible to attend this program?

Faculty Members

Research Scholars

Post Graduate students

Industry professionals

Those actively pursuing research in the field of relevant areas of Social Science like History, Economics, Commerce, Psychology, Philosophy, Sociology, Management and other allied areas of research

Where

MNNIT Allahabad

Application fees

The following non residential fee per participant is payable by Cash/Demand Draft or through

NEFT transfer in favour of SMS-STTPTS payable at Vijaya Bank, MNNIT Allahabad.

- Industry Professional: 6000/-

- Faculty: 4500/-

- Research scholars: 3000/-

How to apply for the short term course on publishing research?

In order to apply for the short term course on publishing research, follow the steps given here:

Log on to the MNNIT official website

Click on the link that reads short term course on Publishing Research in High Quality International Journals

The instructions along with the application form will be displayed on a new screen

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Take a print out of the application form

Fill it and send it along with the fees to MNNIT Allahabad through DD

Address

School of Management studies

Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad-211004

Phone

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IIT Delhi Short Term Course on Digital Marketing: Apply Before Nov 19!
Deemed universities cannot run engineering degrees through distance learning, the Supreme Court suspended such degrees granted by four 'deemed to be universities' between 2001 and 2005.

The bench of Justices A K Goel and U U Lalit also ordered a CBI inquiry into the conduct of officials who granted ex-post facto approvals to these institutes in 2006-07, against the policy of the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The bench also "restrained all deemed universities from carrying out courses in distance education from the 2018-19 academic session onwards, unless and until it is permissible to conduct such courses in distance education mode and specific permissions are granted by the concerned statutory/ regulatory authorities in respect of each of those courses, and unless the off-campus centres/ study centres are individually inspected and found adequate by the concerned statutory authorities."

Stating that the UGC showed "lack of effective oversight and regulatory mechanism for the 'deemed to be universities'," the bench said it had "completely failed to remedy the situation. The serious question has therefore arisen as to the manning of the UGC itself for its effective working."

The court asked the UGC to take appropriate steps within one month to restrain 'deemed to be universities' from using the word university, and ordered the Centre to constitute a "three-member committee comprising eminent persons who have held high positions in the field of education, investigation, administration or law at national level within one month" to "suggest a roadmap for strengthening and setting up of oversight and regulatory mechanism in the relevant field of higher education and allied issues within six months." The court said the "committee may also suggest oversight mechanism to regulate the 'deemed to be universities'."

The court suspended the degrees granted by JRN Rajasthan Vidyapeeth, Institute of Advanced Studies in Education (Rajasthan), Allahabad Agricultural Institute and Vinayak Mission Research Foundation (Tamil Nadu), from 2001 to 2005, saying they "admitted students, conducted courses and granted degrees in the absence of statutory approvals."

Those who obtained degrees from these institutes will have to take a joint exam conducted by AICTE and UGC, said the bench. They will get two chances to clear the exam. "It goes without saying that any promotion or advancement in a career on the basis of such degree shall also stand withdrawn. However, any monetary benefits or advantages in that behalf shall not be recovered from them," it said.

The bench found that "none of these 'deemed to be universities' had taken prior permission from any of the authorities, namely the UGC, AICTE, and Distance Education Council (DEC), nor had they even intimated at any juncture the fact that they were conducting such courses in technology/ engineering through distance education mode." The bench said the case reflected the "extent of commercialization of education by some of the deemed universities."

It said they did not have a "regular engineering college or faculty in technology/ engineering at their own campus when they commenced courses in technology/ engineering by distance education mode through study centers all over the country".

Stating that "practicals form the backbone" of technical education, the bench said this was not possible in distance learning. The court pointed out that the AICTE has also "always maintained that courses leading to degrees in engineering cannot be undertaken through distance education mode."
The Antichrist is Satan's 'imitation of Jesus,' says evangelical pastor

Pastor Greg Laurie of Harvest Church in Riverside, Calif., addressed the question Christians often ask, "Who is the antichrist?" The answer he offered, however, was not what we often get to hear.

Whenever something is popular, successful and effective, there will be imitations, Laurie, the lead pastor at Harvest Church, told the audience as he began the Sunday morning's message, part of a series called, "Revelation: The Next Dimension."

Satan is "the ultimate imitator," he said. "He has this cheap imitation of all things that are true." For instance, the pastor said, we have real Christians, and Satan has people who pretend to be believers but they are not. Similarly, we have real miracles, and "Satan has fake imitations of miracles."

Explaining about the antichrist, Laurie said, "God has His Son; His name is Jesus. And one day, Satan will have his son, not exactly in the way God's Son has come, because Jesus is God incarnate. But in a way, Satan will have his version ... his imitation of Jesus... We have Jesus Christ, and Satan will have antichrist."

The pastor described the antichrist as "history's vilest embodiment of sin and rebellion." This coming world leader, however, will not be what we expect  he won't be dressed in black from top to bottom or bear a visible mark of 666, he said. On the contrary, the antichrist will be suave, intelligent, engaging, magnetic and charismatic.

"He [the antichrist] will do what no other man has been able to do. There will be global peace. He will solve the Middle East peace puzzle. He will rid the world of terrorism... He will be hailed as the greatest peace-maker... But behind that will be a satanic superman... the most evil man who has ever walked on the earth."

Laurie quoted historian Arnold Toynbee as saying a few years ago: "By forcing on mankind more and more lethal weapons and at the same time making the world more and more interdependent economically, technology has brought mankind to such a degree of disaster that we are ripe for the deifying of any new Caesar who might succeed in giving the world unity and peace." Toynbee's statement, the pastor said, "fits the biblical scenario."

The coming of the antichrist is getting closer every day, Laurie said, reading from Revelation 13:1-9. Hitler, Napoleon, Alexander the Great, all were "forerunners of who is to come, who will harness the economic and technological power of this world and bring about a one-world economy, a one-world government and a one-world religion."

Laurie said the antichrist will be a "fake Jesus," and many will believe in him. The antichrist is coming to deify Satan, the pastor said, quoting from Revelation 13: 4, "Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, 'Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?'" This is what Satan always wanted, to be deified, to be worshiped, Laurie said. And this is why Lucifer was thrown out of heaven.

The antichrist is also coming to take the place of Jesus, Laurie said, as he quoted Revelation 13:5, 6, "The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority for forty-two months. He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven."

The antichrist is coming to kill Christians, Laurie went on to say, and quoted verse 7, which says, "He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them. And he was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation."

We can already see anti-Christian mentality becoming more common in the world, including in the United States that was founded on Judeo-Christian values, the pastor remarked.

Laurie said the antichrist is coming also to dominate the globe. He will come as a man of peace; he will bring about temporary peace. "He will be so successful that many will think he is the messiah." He will deceive many.

The antichrist is not alone, Pastor Laurie added. He has with him the false prophet, referred to as the "second beast" in Revelation 13:13, 14: "And it performed great signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to the earth in full view of the people. 14 Because of the signs it was given power to perform on behalf of the first beast, it deceived the inhabitants of the earth. It ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived."

This makes an unholy trinity, Laurie said, explaining that Satan is in God's place, the antichrist in Jesus' place, and the false prophet in place of the Holy Spirit.

While we resist only the things that appear to be evil on the surface, the devil can come as an angel of light, the pastor reminded the audience. He will come with religious deceptions. A sign of the end times is when people turn away from their Christian faith, and there are attempts to take people away from the Bible as the authoritative source of truth and the uniqueness of Christ, he added.

But who will the antichrist be? While this was the title of the message, "I have no idea who the antichrist will be, and nor does anyone else," Laurie told the congregation, advising them not to waste their time in speculating.

"The antichrist cannot even emerge until we are caught up to meet the Lord in the air," the pastor said. "We won't be around to find out who he is. Our job is not to be looking for antichrist; our job is to be looking for Jesus Christ."

A more important question, Laurie suggested, is to ask oneself, "Am I an antichrist?"  not "the" antichrist.

Quoting from 1 John 2:22, "Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son," Laurie said there's a choice between believing in Jesus or in Satan. He reminded the audience that Jesus said, "You are either for Me or against Me."

Those who are with Jesus, Laurie added, have their names written in "the book on life," quoting Revelation 13:8, "All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain." Laurie concluded by saying, "I can't think of anything more important than that."

This article was originally published in The Christian Post.
Saudi Arabia said it has intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile late on Saturday north east of the capital Riyadh, Saudi official news agency said.

A TV channel linked to Houthi rebels in Yemen announced that they fired the missile targeting King Fahd airport.

Saudi forces have in the past managed to intercept Houthi missiles but none could reach as far as the capitals outskirts.

The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas, said Turki al-Maliki, a spokesman for the Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen.

Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries.

The Houthi-run Saba News agency in Yemen said the missile had been a Burkan H2.

The rebel group is believed to have access to a stockpile of Scud ballistic missiles and home-grown variants. Saudi forces have previously brought them down with Patriot surface-to-air missiles bought from the US.

The Houthis fired a missile towards Riyadh in May, a day before US President Donald Trump was due to arrive in the city for a visit, but it was shot down 200km (120 miles) from the capital.

The military alliance led by Saudi Arabia has launched thousands of air strikes against Yemens armed Houthi movement, which hails from Saadah and now controls much of the country.
There's a fierce war going on to help consumers sleep, with one new combatant trying to stake a claim in the $15 billion mattress industry.

In less than a year, online mattress retailer Nectar has sold more than 50,000 beds and generated over $35 million in revenue, the company recently told CNBC.

Nectar, which bills its product as "the most comfortable mattress," enters a crowded marketplace dominated by names like Tempur Sealy, Serta Simmons and Casper, just to name a few. In fact, Nectar's soaring growth has drawn comparisons with the latter, which made $100 million in its first two years in the business.

Nectar, however, isn't necessarily fazed by the competition. Co-founder Craig Schmeizer explained that the ability of companies to sell directly to consumers online had "energized" the sector  pitting at least 80 companies against one another in the effort to give people a good night's sleep.

Enter the Nectar mattress, a foam bed with four layers, that costs anywhere from $500 to $900, depending on the size. For consumers, the benefit is a 365-night (yes, that's an entire year) "try out" phase with no-questions-asked returns, free shipping and a forever warranty.
If the Republican tax plan passes basically intact, investment firm Invesco recently predicted it'll satisfy Wall Street and drive stocks higher.

Moreover, there's one particular element in the proposal which could have the biggest positive impact: A permanent 20 percent corporate tax rate, a deep cut from the current 35 percent level.

Invesco's global strategist Kristina Hooper believes the odds are high the new figure will stick.

"I give this a more than 50 percent chance of surviving. To me, this is the centerpiece of the legislation," Hooper said recently on CNBC's "Futures Now."

It's been more than 30 years since the tax code has undergone major changes. According to Hooper, stocks could rally another five percent over the next several months if the bill is passed with a corporate tax rate 15 percent lower than the current level.

"If we could just get those corporate tax cuts, I think that would be very powerful," she added.

It appears the Street is behind much of the plan. The Dow hit its 58th all-time intraday high just hours after the GOP tax plan was unveiled. Hooper said small cap stocks , retail and financials as areas which could see the biggest benefits from the plan.
Harriet Baskas | CNBC

Just over a week ago, United Airlines set a new distance record among U.S. airlines flying to or from the U.S., by launching nonstop service between Los Angeles International and Singapore. Aircraft flying west often face headwinds, which makes the 8,700-mile trip to Singapore's Changi Airport clock in at a whopping 17 hours and 55 minutes; the eastbound return journey can take just over 15 hours. Either way, the new route significantly shortens the jaunt from the City of Angels to the Lion City. "Before this, a passenger had to go San Francisco to get our nonstop to Singapore, or fly one of the other airlines that requires making a connection somewhere else in Asia," Patrick Quayle, vice president of international network for United Airlines, told CNBC. "This flight shaves hours off that journey." Currently, United is the only U.S. carrier offering direct flights between LAX and Singapore. After briefly dipping to an introductory price of $177, round-trip economy fares cost around $589 with taxes for some early December flights. CNBC took a trip on United's recent maiden voyage from LAX to Singapore, which arrived at its destination in 16 hours, thanks to relatively little air resistance. Here are a few interesting facts for travelers taking the long flight.

From LA or San Francisco: The choice is yours

Harriet Baskas | CNBC

Every day at 8:55 p.m., United's flight is scheduled to taxi down the LAX runway, arriving in Singapore at 6:50 a.m. two days later, local Singapore time. The return flight leaves Changi Airport daily at 11 a.m., touching down in L.A. at 10:15 a.m. local time. United's nonstop flight from San Francisco to Singapore clocks in at 8,466 miles, and is currently the second-longest scheduled route operated by a U.S. carrier.

The Dreamliner is logging LOTS of miles around the world

United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Source: United Airlines

In addition to being the longest U.S. flight to anywhere in the world, United's LA-to-Singapore trip now holds the record for both the longest (8,700 miles) and second-longest flights (8,466 miles between San Francisco and Singapore) on Boeing's 787-9 Dreamliner. That record is destined to fall in March, when Australia-based Qantas begins flying its own Dreamliner between Perth and London  a distance of 9,009 miles. While these will be the longest flights on the 787-9, they won't be the world's longest flight. That record is currently held by Qatar Airways, which flies between Doha and Auckland, New Zealand, a distance of 9,032 miles.

The ties that bind LA to Singapore

Source: Singapore Tourism Board

Shortening the flight time between Los Angeles and Singapore is not only appealing for leisure travelers heading to Asia: It tightens the economic links between the cities. "Over 71 Singaporean companies have operations in the six counties of Southern California. They create over 3,300 jobs for the local region and together contribute over 200 million in annual wages," Stephen Cheung, president of the World Trade Center, Los Angeles, told CNBC. "So this new direct flight increases the opportunity for Singaporeans to invest in Los Angeles."

Getting settled for the long haul, in style

Business class fliers on United's LAX to Singapore flights benefit from Polaris amenities, including Saks Fifth Avenue bedding. Harriet Baskas | CNBC

If you're going to be on a plane for 18 hours  or any long stretch of time  comfortable seating, upgraded amenities and the aircraft itself can make a difference in how you feel on arrival. United's nonstop Dreamliner service has 252 seats: 48 in business class, 88 premium economy seats and 116 economy seats. The business-class section does have lie-flat seats, and benefits from the airline's Polaris service, which includes Saks Fifth Avenue-branded bedding and fleece-lined slippers. The composite carbon fiber material used to make the aircraft improves cabin pressure and humidity in comparison to other planes made from aluminum. That helps passengers feel as if they are flying at a lower altitude than on a standard flight  and may cut down on jet lag and other long-haul woes travelers usually experience.

Get a piece of the 747 before it becomes history

Source: United Airlines

United is about to retire its entire fleet of 747s, known as the "Queen of the Skies." Through January, the carrier is giving passengers flying in Polaris premium cabins a collectible 747-themed amenity kit. In addition to amenity basics that include various toiletries, the kit contains commemorative items like a pair of 747-themed socks, a padded eye-mask and a pack of five 747-themed trading cards.

Comfort food for a long trip

Asian sweets are a featured menu on United's new flight between Los Angeles and Singapore. Harriet Baskas | CNBC
Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud shakes hands with U.S. President Donald Trump during a reception ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 20, 2017.

President Donald Trump, who arrived in Japan on Sunday, said he spoke with the king of Saudi Arabia about listing national oil company Saudi Aramco's shares in New York and that "they will consider using U.S. exchanges."

The remarks were made aboard Air Force One en route to Japan, where Trump kicks off a 12-day Asian trip during which North Korea is expected to top the agenda in meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and other leaders.

The president had earlier expressed his desire for Aramco to list on the New York Stock Exchange in a Twitter post.

CNBC contributed to this report.
watch now

It can be hard to keep up with the headlines flying out of . Several members of the royal family and important Saudi businessmen were suddenly and unexpectedly arrested in a broad roundup over the weekend. And the president of the United States is dashing off late-night tweets, trying to get the Kingdom to bestow a tremendous, highly anticipated stock offering to Wall Street. Here's the background:

Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal

Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal is one of the most internationally famous members of the Saudi royal family  but that doesn't necessarily make him popular at home. In fact, reports indicate he was arrested over the weekend along with other top Saudis in a supposed anti-corruption crackdown.

Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. Mary Catherine Wellons | CNBC

Bin Talal is a billionaire investor who runs Kingdom Holdings and owns large stakes in companies like Twitter and News Corp . He comments regularly on Western television, speaking to CNBC just in October about the future of bitcoin and electric vehicles. The billionaire is U.S.-educated and a philanthropist: In 2015, Bin Talal announced he would donate his entire fortune to help build a "better world of tolerance, acceptance, equality and opportunity for all."

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman

Although Saudi officialdom is characterizing the weekend's arrests as part of a fight against corruption, many see the surprise detentions as a power play by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. The prince, 32, has made a meteoric rise from relative obscurity to his father King Salman's direct heir and top advisor. He is overseeing the anti-corruption push, which was announced just a few hours before the first arrests were made.

Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman (2nd L) on April 19, 2017 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Getty Images

Bin Salman leads the Kingdom's "Vision 2030" and the related "National Transformation Plan"  a program aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy beyond oil production. He is believed to have played a key role in Riyadh's decision to isolate Qatar. "This is the latest act of concentration of power in Saudi," said Hasnain Malik, global head of equity research at investment bank Exotix Capital, adding that "as unprecedented and controversial as it may be, this centralisation might also be a necessary condition for pushing the austerity and transformation agenda" Bin Salman is overseeing. In June, Saudi Arabia removed then-crown prince Muhammad Bin Nayef from his role and replaced him with Bin Salman. That move immediately made the target on Bin Salman's back even bigger, and could have precipitated an intra-family power struggle.

watch now

Prior roles for Bin Salman include both defense minister and deputy crown prince, and he was earlier this year credited with a "huge success" after President Donald Trump made a decision to visit Saudi Arabia.

How do they connect to Trump?

Trump has ties to both the Crown Prince Bin Salman and the billionaire investor Bin Talal. In addition to having likely orchestrated Trump's trip to Saudi Arabia, Bin Salman has reportedly developed a relationship with White House advisor Jared Kushner  the husband of the president's daughter and another 30-something man who has ridden family connections to the center of the world stage. In fact, Kushner made a secretive trip to Saudi Arabia last week  just days before Bin Salman's sweeping set of arrests.

President Donald Trump meets with Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, in the Oval Office at the White House, March 14, 2017 in Washington, DC. Getty Images

As for Bin Talal, he and the president go back at least to the 1990s. Between 1991 and 1995, Bin Talal came to the rescue of Trump, whose real estate empire was in financial trouble. Bin Talal purchased a yacht from the New York real estate mogul and was part of a group that helped take the city's floundering Plaza Hotel off Trump's hands. But things have not been amicable between the two billionaires of late. In 2015, Bin Talal bashed Trump for his rhetoric during the presidential campaign, and even called for him to drop out. "You are a disgrace not only to the GOP but to all America," he said in a Twitter post. "Withdraw from the U.S presidential race as you will never win." @Alwaleed_Talal tweet: .@realDonaldTrump You are a disgrace not only to the GOP but to all America. Withdraw from the U.S presidential race as you will never win. Trump responded: "Dopey Prince @Alwaleed_Talal wants to control our U.S. politicians with daddy's money. Can't do it when I get elected. #Trump2016" Donald Trump tweet: Dopey Prince @Alwaleed_Talal wants to control our U.S. politicians with daddy's money. Can't do it when I get elected. #Trump2016

How does this connect to Saudi Aramco?
A major purge of Saudi political and business leaders has been launched by Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, aka MBS, in a bid to consolidate his power grab.

The newly established, anti-corruption committee, headed by Bin Salman himself, has dismissed a number of senior ministers and detained nearly a dozen princes.

The supreme committee established to investigate public corruption is part of the latest measure in Saudi Arabia to support its drive for improved economic performance and oversight of public finances. The body will be able to issue arrest warrants, ban people from travel, freeze accounts and track funds.

In a statement relayed by the official Saudi news agency, SPA, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud alluded to the exploitation by some of the weak souls who have put their own interests above the public interest, in order to, illicitly, accrue money for the creation of the anti-graft committee.

Among those affected by the purge, the National Guard Minister and senior member of the Royal family Mutaib bin Abdullah who was arrested along with his brother Turki.

Famous multi-billionaire prince Al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz and a number of former ministers and businessmen were also arrested.

Also among the arrested were Waleed al-Ibrahim, founder of the MBC broadcasting group, and billionaire businessman Saleh Kamel.

Commander of the Saudi navy Abdullah bin Sultan, and minister of economy and planning, Adel bin Mohammed Faqih, also sacked on Saturday, were among those held for questioning.

The arrests came just hours after the appointment of new ministers. Economy minister Adel Fakieh was replaced by Mohammed al-Tuwaijri while Khaled bin Ayyaf replaced Mutaib, son of the late King Abdullah, as National Guard Minister.

The arrests and dismissals came just two months after King Salman replaced his nephew Mohammed bin Nayef with his son Mohammed as the countrys crown prince.

The dismissal of Mitaab bin Abdullah as National Guard Minister came shortly after a missile attack by Yemens Houthi rebels on Riyadhs King Khaled International Airport.

The purge will enable the Crown Prince to strengthen his control on all key security apparatuses in the country, starting with defense in 2015 moving to the internal security forces after the ousting of Mohammed bin Nayef, the then crown prince. Now he has taken control of the third most important security apparatus: the guards, in a country where security institutions have long been headed by separate powerful branches of the ruling family.

Meanwhile, the arrest of billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal sent his Investment firm Kingdom Holding plunging in the stock market by 9.9%.

The Saudi equities index.TASI was down 1.0 percent after 25 minutes of trade as declining stocks overwhelmed advancers by 155 to 15.
Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross failed to clearly disclose to Congress during confirmation hearings that he retained an interest in a shipping company that has close business dealings with an immediate family member of Vladimir Putin's and known associates of the Russian leader, according to new reports Sunday.

NBC News reported that the billionaire Ross retains an interest in Navigator Holdings , a shipping company whose most important business relationships include a Russian petrochemical giant, SIBUR, whose owners include people tied to Putin.

Some of the details of Ross's continuing financial holdings are contained in the so-called "Paradise Papers," millions of documents held by a Bermuda-based law firm, Appleby, which were leaked to the the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung.

The documents were also shared by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which gave NBC News access to some of the documents.

The New York Times, in its own story on the documents Sunday, said that in addition to Ross, "the files contain references to other members of the Trump administration, including Gary D. Cohn, the chief economic adviser who was associated with 22 Bermuda entities while an executive at Goldman Sachs, and Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson, who was a director of a Bermuda-based joint venture with the government of Yemen when he ran Exxon Mobil's operations there."

However, The Times noted that "there is no evidence of illegality in any of their dealings."

BBC News, in its story on the Paradise Papers, reported that the "huge new leak of financial documents has revealed how the powerful and ultra-wealthy," including the private estate of Queen Elizabeth II, "secretly invest vast amounts of cash in offshore tax havens."

NBC noted that during his confirmation hearings, Ross disclosed a set of four Cayman Island companies in which he intended to retain an interest. However, he did not declare he would retain two other entities with cryptic names.

Those two entities are linked through ownership chains to the four Cayman Island companies, and, in turn, held 17.5 million shares in Navigator, equal to almost one-third of that firm's outstanding shares.

SIBUR is Navigator's second-largest client.

And one of SIBUR's owners is Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire who is considered part of Putin's inner circle, NBC stated. Since 2014, Timchenko has been barred by the Treasury Department from entering the United States, according to NBC News.

A second SIBUR owner is another Putin associate, Leonid Mikhelson, whose other company, Novatek, was placed on Treasury sanctions list in 2014, NBC noted.

A third shareholder in SIBUR, and its deputy chairman, is Kirill Shamalov, husband of Vladimir Putin's daughter, Katerina Tikhonova.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat., told NBC News that he and other members of Congress who participated in Ross's confirmation hearings were under the impression that Ross had divested all of his interests in Navigator.

Blumenthal also said he and other senators were unaware of Navigator's close ties to Russia.

"I am astonished and appalled because I feel misled," said Blumenthal. "Our committee was misled, the American people were misled by the concealment of those companies."

The senator said he will ask the Commerce Department's inspector general to investigation the situation.

Ross did not returns calls to NBC News.

But in a statement issued through a Commerce Department spokesman to CNBC, Ross said that he recuses himself as Commerce secretary from any matter regarding transoceanic shipping. Ross said he works closely with ethics officials in the department "to ensure the highest ethical standards."

The spokesman also said that Ross has never met any of the Russian oligarchs mentioned in NBC's story.

And the spokesman said that "no funds managed by his [Ross'] company ever owned a majority of Navigator shares."

NBC's full story can be found on its website.
Then-presidential candidate Donald Trump jokes with retired Gen. Michael Flynn as they speak at a rally at Grand Junction Regional Airport on October 18, 2016 in Grand Junction Colorado.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigators have enough evidence now to bring criminal charges against President Donald Trump's former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, and Flynn's son, NBC News reported Sunday, citing sources.

The news comes less than a week after on .

Flynn would be the first former or current member of Trump's administration to be charged in connection with the investigation. The elder Flynn was fired in February after a disclosure that he had lied to Vice President Mike Pence about Flynn's contacts with Sergey Kislyak, Russia's ambassador to the U.S.

NBC News reported that Mueller's team plans to speak to multiple witness in coming days to get more details about Flynn's lobbying work, with an eye toward determining if he laundered money, or lied to federal authorities about his contacts overseas.

Investigators are also looking at if the tried to to orchestrate the extradition or forcible removal of elderly Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen from the United States to Turkey in exchange for millions of dollars, the report said.

Gulen is blamed by Turkish President Recep Erdogan for masterminding a coup attempt against Erdogan.

Flynn was paid more than $500,000 last year for work that benefited Turkey, according to the Justice Department.

Two sources who spoke with NBC suggested Flynn might be able to help his son, Michael G. Flynn, and himself, by cooperating with Mueller's probe.

Michael G. Flynn worked with his father, and briefly worked on Trump's presidential transition. Several sources told NBC News that the younger Flynn could be indicted at the same time, or separately from his father.

On Sunday, the younger Flynn reacted to the NBC report, mocking his critics "SJWs," or "social justice warriors" who would ultimately be disappointed.

Tweet

Mueller's spokesman declined to comment to NBC News, as did lawyers for both Flynns.
If you're looking for a job, the current market is the best it has been in years.

Last week, the government reported that the unemployment rate fell to 4.1 percent in October, with more than six million open jobs available right now.

According to the Labor Department, that's near the all-time high in July of this year when there were 6.2 million job openings. At the low point of the Great Recession in mid 2009, there were just 2.2 million jobs in July 2009.

In an economy that appears to be gathering momentum, exactly why are some workers being left on the sidelines?

"It's a diverse group. They're from all walks of life," Brookings Institution Fellow Martha Ross told CNBC's "On the Money" in a recent interview. Recently, Ross published a study on out-of-work Americans, along with her colleague, Natalie Holmes.

The study, focused on adults age 25 to 64, uncovered three key findings about this particular demographic. Among other things, Ross and Holmes found most of the unemployed have a combination of low education, limited work experience and English proficiency  enough to be a barrier to employment.

"More than half of them have at most a high school diploma," Ross told CNBC, "and this is at a time when jobs are increasingly requiring a college education."

The median age of the out-of- work population is 45, the report noted. Factors such as geographical location and age, made the results vary across the country.

The chronically unemployed "are disproportionately disadvantaged, and only about a quarter of them have worked in the past year," Ross said.

Although employers complain they can't find workers, Ross noted they could be limiting their pool of candidates by requiring an undergraduate college degree of all applicants.

For many jobs, she said, "a four year degree is not necessary. What is important is you have some kind of education beyond high school so that could be an apprenticeship, it could be a certification."

Ross added that employers have to try new ways to find and connect workers to jobs. "Given companies are having such hard time finding workers, they need to broaden their recruitment pools and think differently about who can be a good worker," she said.

Doing so requires "better collaboration between the demand side [employers] and the supply side," Ross stated, which represent workers. If employers can "be more specific and granular about skills needed, then teaching organizations could target training to meet employer needs," she added.

On the Money airs on CNBC Saturdays at 5:30 am ET, or check listings for air times in local markets.
More than 25 cruise ship calls are scheduled for St. Thomas in November, according to a prepared statement.

The Ports of the Virgin Islands have confirmed that between November 3 and 30, 2017, over 25 cruise ship calls are expected.

Ships planning to dock in the Charlotte Amalie Harbor include Seabourn Odyssey, Norwegian Gem, Princess Cruises' Royal Princess, Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas, and Celebrity Cruises' Silhouette.

"Welcoming cruise visitors back to the U.S. Virgin Islands is a key element of our plan to boost economic activity, generate employment and stimulate recovery efforts," stated Beverly Nicholson-Doty, Commissioner of Tourism, underscoring that as the recovery and construction economy kicks into higher gear, including important work to enhance the islands' hotel product over the next year, it was important to get the cruise component of the economy moving forward.

Together with the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other agencies and organizations, the Territory has been working since the passage of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September to ready itself for the phased return of tourism to the destination.

The arrival of the Seabourn Odyssey in St. Thomas on Friday, November 3 marked the first non-relief vessel to berth in the Territory since September 17, when Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas arrived at the Ann E. Abramson Pier in Frederiksted, St. Croix.

The ship brought passengers to the island just days before Hurricane Maria struck.

She also reported that the Territory is putting plans in place for traffic flow management on days of heavy cruise ship arrivals.
The China Cruise Shipping Conference and International Expo opened on Sunday in Sanya, China.

It's the 12th annual event organized by the China Cruise and Yacht Industry Association, with participation from all cruise lines doing business in Asia, as well as key stakeholders including ports, suppliers, shipyards and more.

Sunday's opening of the trade show exhibits leads into Monday morning, with an industry leader forum which opens the two-day conference portion of the event.

Among the featured speakers will be Arnold Donald, president and CEO of Carnival Corporation, as well as Wenming Wu, chairman of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation, which has a key focus on cruise ship building, port investment and much more.

Also, there are brand level presidents from major cruise lines scheduled to speak as well as many key influencers from China-state owned enterprises and ports.

Topics scheduled for Monday's cruise leader forum include working on a positive cruise experience for Chinese cruise passengers, as well as the current supply and demand scenario, and preventing excess price competition.

Sanya is one of China's key cruise homeports, located in Hainan Province in the south. Star Cruises and Royal Caribbean International have been key players sailing from Sanya over the years.

The event is being hosted by The People's Government of Hainan Province as well as the China Communications and Transportation Association. Key supports include the Ministry of Transport as well as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
Tech giants such as Google, Facebook and Twitter should help the U.S. government retaliate against Russia for meddling in the 2016 presidential elections, according to Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

Attorneys for Google, Facebook and Twitter testified before Congress last week about how their platforms were used by Russia to spread misinformation and propaganda during the 2016 elections.

The fact that the tech giants sent their attorneys and not their CEOs to speak at the hearings didnt sit well with McConnell, the Senate Majority Leader. Of course, he was egged on during an interview with Hugh Hewitt that aired Saturday on MSNBC.

Are you disappointed that Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Dorsey and others did not come to answer the questions about how big Big Tech has become? Hewitt asked McConnell. How powerful? How manipulated they were? That Twitter was offering Russian television 15 percent of their ad space, and they would not come to answer the senators questions?

Sen. McConnell responded:

They ought to be more interested in cooperating when you have a clear law enforcement issue, more interested in cooperating with law enforcement than they have been.

What we ought to do with regard to the Russians is retaliate, seriously retaliate. These tech firms could be helpful in having us, giving us a way to do that.

We learned some additional details about how Russian actors used social media thanks to three Congressional hearings last week. For example, Facebook admitted that 146 million people  126 million on Facebook and 20 million on Instagram  saw Russian electoral disinformation. The House Intelligence Committee released examples of Facebook ads paid for by Russian actors. The varied ads touched on issues around veterans (pdf), illegal immigration (pdf), gun control (pdf), Black Lives Matter (pdf), Blue Lives Matter (pdf), and religion, such as liking an ad would help Jesus triumph over Hillary who was Satan (pdf).

Google found 18 YouTube channels focused on the election that were paid for by the Russia-based Internet Research Agency. The channels produced 1,108 videos, representing 43 hours of content, that appeared to be political.

At the hearings, there was a lot of discussion about how tech companies can guard against other countries trying to use social media to influence a U.S. election. There was talk about how much regulations on political advertising might help.

National security vs. the First Ammendment

Yet during the interview with Hewitt, Sen. McConnell said he was a little skeptical about current proposals to force tech companies to disclose the identities of those who purchase online political ads; those proposals strike McConnell as most likely to penalize American citizens trying to use the internet and to advertise.

McConnell also said he wasnt certain the U.S. needed a 9/11-like special commission to look at the national security implications of the broader issue of encryption.

It certainly would help if the CEOs were willing to testify, but I think its a big, big subject with a lot of national security implications, and a lot of First Amendment concerns as well, he said.

He called it a tough area, trying to figure out how to balance national security versus the First Amendment.

The First Amendment shouldnt apply to foreigners, he added. Thats an American protection. And so we need to be figuring out how to deal with these foreign actors in some way thats consistent with the national security that does not violate the First Amendment rights of Americans.

In Gizmodos opinion, McConnell's suggestion is for tech companies to weaponize the internet against Russia.

Whether it is in regard to policing political ads or dealing with backdoors in encryption, if Silicon Valley tech giants start helping by weaponizing the internet  what could possibly go wrong?
Municipal Credit Union is a $2.7B, 425,000-member credit union with a $350- million auto loan portfolio. The credit union primarily serves city, state and federal government employees living or working in and around New York City, as well as healthcare and education employees in the NYC metro area.

A few years ago, its roughly 100 repossessions per month required the attention of four full-time employees. This group relied mostly on paper files, with very few digitized documents. Despite their best efforts, the process was cumbersome, inefficient and prone to human error.

It required a lot of man hours, because we had to be perfectionists about the way things were handled, said John Parrinello, the credit unions vice president of collections and loss prevention. That was for the sake of our members and the sake of the auditors. We knew we needed a paperless solution.

Automating the Repossession Process

When Parrinello was approached by State National Companies, his current collateral protection insurance (CPI) provider, to pilot its new CARS (Claims Advocacy & Recovery Services) program, it sounded too good to be true. CARS promised a totally outsourced, totally digital solution for the management of the entire repossession process.

Greater Efficiency from Day One

The efficiency we gained through our use of the CARS program is amazing, said Parrinello. I went from four employees handling repossessions  including things like attending auto auctions  to just one. And that persons job is simply managing our end of the CARS program.

Parrinello was quick to point out that he didnt eliminate any staff. Instead, he was able to move the other three employees into new roles as collectors, where they can further benefit the credit union by helping reduce delinquencies.

Weve virtually eliminated paper because absolutely everything is online, added Parrinello. We never have to worry about a document being misfiled because its all right there at our fingertips. If an auditor asks for a document, we just click a button.

Greater Efficiency Means Lower Costs

According to Parrinello, the increased efficiencies of the CARS program have resulted in substantial savings compared to the old, manual method. Beyond the staff reduction, picking up cars is much faster, and selling repossessed vehicles is much faster, said Parrinello. I dont have to waste time sending employees to auctions, and we find that the sale amount is higher. All that adds up a significant reduction in repossession costs.

Municipal Credit Union also makes extensive use of the CARS online auction website, which is available to the public 24/7. Anyone can go online in the middle of the night and make a bid if they want, said Parrinello. If the bid meets the credit unions minimum amount, the terms of the deal can be finalized with the new buyer the next business day. Parrinello added that the auction site is especially useful for disposing of high-end vehicles, because dealers from a broader geographical range often bid on highly sought-after vehicles.

The Best, Then the Rest

Parrinello said that since deploying the CARS program, hes been approached by many vendors with competing solutions, and hes looked at them all as a matter of due diligence. However, he has yet to find a solution that comes close to the CARS program in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. The CARS program is simply better than all the others, by a long measure, he concluded.

The CARS program is available to all State National CPI customers. With more than 40 years experience in all aspects of CPI  claims, repossessions, skips and all related insurance issues  State National is positioned to remain the leader in this field. The CARS program can be seamlessly integrated with any lenders existing processes. For an expanded version of this case study, please email info@statenational.com.


@alextdaugherty

Florida has a U.S. senator who once flew aboard the Space Shuttle.

A congressional candidate from Miami can go one better: Bettina Rodriguez Aguilera says shes been aboard a spaceship too. But this one was crewed by aliens. As in extraterrestrials.

Three blond, big-bodied beings  two females, one male  visited her when she was 7 years old and have communicated telepathically with her several times in her life, she says. (Sen. Bill Nelson served as payload officer aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1986. All seven people aboard were from Earth. As far as is known.)

Rodriguez Aguilera, 59, a Republican who is running to replace retiring Miami Republican Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, recounted her experience with the ETs during a 2009 television interview.

She described going up inside the spaceship  though whether it went into space or just hovered around town was left unclear

I went in. There were some round seats that were there, and some quartz rocks that controlled the ship  not like airplanes, Rodriguez Aguilera said.

In two separate videos posted to YouTube years ago, one by local Spanish-language station America TeVe and another by a political critic with the user name DoralGirl26, Rodriguez Aguilera spoke on television in detail about her extraterrestrial experiences. She said the alien beings reminded her of the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer, with arms outstretched.

Among the things she said she found out from the aliens:

 There are 30,000 skulls  different from humans  in a cave in the Mediterranean island of Malta.

 The worlds energy center is in Africa.

 The Coral Castle, a limestone tourist attraction South Miami-Dade, is actually an ancient Egyptian pyramid.

 God is a universal energy.

She also said that the aliens had mentioned Isis, though she didnt clarify if they meant the terrorist organization or the ancient Egyptian goddess.

The Miami Herald asked Rodriguez Aguilera about her experiences Friday. She responded with a statement that waxed astronomical but failed to mention close encounters of any kind.

For years people, including Presidents like Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter and astronauts have publicly claimed to have seen unidentified flying objects and scientists like Stephen Hawking and institutions like the Vatican have stated that there are billions of galaxies in the universe and we are probably not alone, she said. I personally am a Christian and have a strong belief in God, I join the majority of Americans who believe that there must be intelligent life in the billions of planets and galaxies in the universe.

Read more here.
Safeguard Scientifics, Inc. no longer investing. It is a private equity and venture capital firm specializing in expansion financings, growth capital, management buyouts, recapitalizations, industry consolidations, corporate spinouts, growth stage, and early stage financings. It initially invests in a Series A-C round and opportunistically in a seed round. The firm prefers to make investments in companies engaged in the technology, financial services, and healthcare sector. Within the technology sector, it invests in software as a service, adtech / digital media, Internet of Everything, enhanced security, predictive analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, enterprise software, technology enabled services, internet/new media, financial technology, cloud, mobile, social, big data, in memory, and selected business services with capital requirements of up to $25 million. Within healthcare sector, the firm invests in molecular and point-of-care diagnostics, medical devices, regenerative medicine, medical technology, digital health, healthcare technology, specialty pharmaceuticals, and selected healthcare services. It invests throughout the United States with a focus on Mid-Atlantic region, and Southeastern Canada. The firm primarily invests between $5 million and $25 million in growth equity financing and between $5 million and $10 million in early-stage financing. It typically invests in the capital structures including owner financed and bootstrapped companies, corporate division or business unit, and venture capital-backed seeking a growth partner. The firm prefers to be the largest shareholder in its portfolio companies, with ownership in the range of 20 percent to 50 percent. However, it may occasionally take a majority or smaller stake in its portfolio companies. It prefers to invest in companies having proprietary technology and intellectual property. The firm prefers to take a Board seat in its portfolio companies. The company was founded in 1953 as Lancaster Corporation and changed its name to Safeguard Scientifics, Inc. in 1981. Safeguard Scientifics, Inc. is based in Radnor, Pennsylvania with additional office in Weston, Massachusetts.
I traveled last month to Europe, visiting old friends in Denmark and France and touring Barcelona, Spain, for the first time. While warm reunions and fond reminiscences filled my days, other aspects of my trip reflected the many, often unsettling, changes taking place in todays world.

I began on the small island in Denmark where I spent a year as a high school exchange student. Bornholm is idyllic in many ways. Just 25 by 35 miles, it lies in the Baltic Sea south of Sweden and north of Poland. Farming and fishing were mainstay occupations for centuries, but summer tourism now contributes significantly to the islands income.

Bornholm has long served as NATOs air traffic control center for the northern European/Baltic region. But other than that largely invisible role, nothing much ever happens on Bornholm  at least nothing of particular significance to nonresidents.

Or so it seemed until this trip.

Id begun my travels on Sept. 11, flying from Missoula to New York City, where flags hung at half-mast in honor of those who died in 2001. The next day, I flew to Copenhagen, where I boarded a small plane for the hop over to Bornholm.

The pilot told us Bornholms airport was closed but that wed been given permission to land. After a 30-minute flight, we landed and were allowed to leave the plane; the airport had reopened.

It turns out a bomb scare had forced the airports closure. A tightly wrapped package had been found in the parking lot, and a bomb squad had flown by helicopter from far western Denmark to destroy it.

What was in the errant package? Not a bomb, but some fine Royal Copenhagen Porcelain that someone must have brought home as a gift. Itll take a lot of glue to put those pieces back together, the local police chief joked.

No one ever did step forward to admit to being the culprit in this ultimately harmless escapade. But the seriousness with which it was taken reflects our uncertain world today.

Two days later, I drove along the islands north coast to visit friends. With small, undulating fields, farmsteads, and windmills on my right and the deep blue Baltic Sea on my left, I was reminded why Bornholm is such a delightful place.

Suddenly, though, as I topped a hill, I saw a sight that shocked me  a German warship anchored offshore, with a smaller escort ship sitting alongside. I stopped to take a picture of this discordant sight and then drove on.

Within a mile, I saw another such duo. And then another and another. I counted about fourteen ships of various types off the rocky coast.

The reason? Russia was then engaged in a major military exercise along its western flank, judged by NATO to be preparation for a war with countries in close proximity. NATO had beefed up its own forces in the region as a show of strength. The ships surrounding the strategically located island were just one element of NATOs preparedness.

Traveling on to Paris, I found truth in the saying, The more things change, the more they stay the same. A newly elected president  Emmanuel Macron, who, like our own, ran as a nontraditional candidate  had announced some far-reaching labor law reforms, prompting a predicable response from unions: strikes and protests.

Daily demonstrations reminded me of my early days at the OECD, when labor strikes shut down Paris public transportation system and much of the countrys international air and rail connections. Three weeks of gridlock and fraying public tempers ended only when the then-prime minister gave up on his efforts to pursue labor reforms.

Perhaps President Macron will have better luck with his efforts.

Last stop was Barcelona in the days immediately preceding Catalonias controversial vote on independence from Spain.

Police presence was heavy in the regions capital city. Ultimately, about 40 percent of Catalonias voters cast ballots  mostly yeas  in a referendum ruled illegal by Spains government and constitutional court.

Catalonia and greater Spain are now on an uncertain and rocky path to the future. As the United Kingdoms post-Brexit chaos and confusion show, its much easier to rouse voters emotions with unrealistic promises than it is to deliver.

The social and political divisions evident in Europe, our own country, and elsewhere show no sign of easing. They call for cool heads and steady hands to avoid having them spin out of control.

I wish I had more confidence in the hands on the tiller, both here and abroad.
The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen France SAS, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Suzhou Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel Ireland Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Brooks Instrument Shanghai Co. Ltd, Buell Industries Inc., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS Australia Pty Limited, CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures Australasia S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Coeur Shanghai Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Denison Mayes Group Limited, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., E2M Production B.V.., E2M Technologies B.V.., E2M Technologies Inc.., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO Holding AG, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, Exhibit 21, FEG Investments L.L.C., Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., Filtertek SAS, GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech Taicang Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Belgium B.V., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart International Singapore Pte. Ltd., Hobart Japan K.K., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components Chongqing Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components Langfang Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium B.V., ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS UK Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW China Investment Company Limited, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Construction Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Services Manila Inc., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Contamination Control Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Deutschland GmbH, ITW Diagraph GmbH, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW EU Holdings Ltd., ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.L., ITW European Finance Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Thailand Ltd., ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France Luxembourg S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW Materials Technology Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Ningbo Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology China Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion Shenzhen Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Illinois Tool Works Chile Limitada, Illinois Tool Works ITW Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, Instron Shanghai Ltd., Instron Thailand Limited, International Leasing Company LLC, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., Itw Spraytec, KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems Canada Inc., Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MTS 2 LLC., MTS 3 LLC., MTS China Holdings LLC, MTS Europe Holdings LLC, MTS Holdings France S.a.r.l., MTS Japan Ltd.., MTS Korea Inc.., MTS Systems China Co. Ltd., MTS Systems Corporation, MTS Systems Danmark ApS., MTS Systems Europe B.V., MTS Systems Finance C.V.., MTS Systems Germany GmbH, MTS Systems Holding B.V.., MTS Systems Hong Kong Incorporated, MTS Systems Limited, MTS Systems Norden Aktiebolag, MTS Systems S.r.l, MTS Systems., MTS Systems.., MTS Sytems Do Brazil, MTS Testing Solutions India Private Limited., MTS Testing Systems Canada Ltd., Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited Enping, Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners Shanghai Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., R&D Engineering A/S., R&D Prague s.r.o., R&D Steel ApS., R&D Test Systems A/S., R&D Tools and Structures A/S., RDGDK Engineering Private Limited, Ramset Fasteners Hong Kong Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco Japan Inc., Simco Nederland B.V., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes B.V., Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Hong Kong Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Shanghai Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stokvis Tapes Taiwan Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Tianjin Co. Ltd., Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Subsidiaries, Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek China Limited, Teknek Japan Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Kunshan Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta Global Limited, Vesta Guangzhou Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil South Africa Pty Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, and Zip-Pak International B.V..

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Earlier this fall, Cassie Rideg scooped grain into an empty Hills Bros. coffee can and poured it into a makeshift pen for her 10 hungry piglets.

A few shared cans of grain a day is plenty for these piglets, smaller than a sack of potatoes. But a healthy adult hog eats about 8 pounds of food a day. Thats roughly 16 McDonalds Big Macs. As the piglets grow, Rideg will need 80 pounds of food a day to feed her pigs.

To meet this demand, Rideg and other pig farmers in Missoula County have turned to restaurants, breweries and fruit tree owners for help. By collecting leftover food scraps, pig farmers are able to keep more coins in their piggy banks and raise better-tasting hogs.

For the past few months, Rideg, who owns Nine Mile Farm in Huson together with her husband, Mark, has partnered with Scottys Table and Caffe Dolce in Missoula to pick up leftover fruit, vegetable and bread scraps.

Separating meat, which can carry bacteria and viruses that can sicken pigs, from other food scraps is added work for kitchen staff, but restaurant owners say its worth it.

Scott Gill, owner of Scottys Table, said the Ridegs save him money by picking up the leftovers.

We generate a lot of vegetable scraps, Gill said. We make sure customer plate scraps never reach the composite can. Then we know meat is never mixed in with the vegetables."

Dessa Dale, owner of Hawthorne Farms in Missoula, has taken a similar approach to finding feed for her eight pigs. By working with a dozen fruit tree owners in Missoula, Dale has gleaned the benefits of fallen fruit.

People fill 5-gallon buckets and garbage cans for me to pick up every week, Dale said. Its mostly apples, pears or peaches. And its seasonal.

But every dollar not spent on pig feed is a dollar saved for Dale.

Missoula farmer John Stuhl, owner of Farmer Johns Sustainable Farming, has received barrels of apples and potatoes from the Montana Food Bank to help feed his 30 pigs. Last month, Stuhl found an even bigger free local feed source.

The craft brewery Draught Works recently partnered with Stuhl, allowing him to pick up leftover grain from the beermaking process. Draught Works has worked with local farmers since it opened in 2011 to get rid of grain, according to Kyle Sillars, the head brewer.

Without local farmers picking up this grain, its a logistical nightmare, Sillars said.

The grain, which holds a lot of nutritional after the brewing process, is ideal for farmers.

Recently, Stuhl pulled up to the back of Draught Works in his white GMC pick-up with a 30-foot flat-bed trailer. He slid more than a dozen 350-pound barrels of fermented, sour-smelling grain from the brewery loading dock onto his trailer and headed back to the farm.

With a small farm tractor, Stuhl emptied the barrels of grain into feeding troughs for his pigs. Then, he rinsed the barrels and returned them to the brewery. For Stuhl, these added steps are worth it.

After just one month, my feed bill has dropped 40 percent, Stuhl said. He invested the hundreds of dollars saved each month into his farm.

By partnering with restaurants and others to pick up food scraps, local pig farmers are going back to a way that farmers fed pigs before the popularity of feed stores and processed pig food.

Its cheaper, and a pig fed with scraps tastes better, they say.

At least we know where our food comes from, Cassie Rideg said. The smoked and cured bacon of one of our pigs is like nothing Ive ever tasted from the grocery store.
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.
BP, plc, once known as British Petroleum, is one of the worlds 7 oil & gas supermajors with operations spanning the globe. In terms of revenue, it ranks 4th on the list and the company is vertically integrated as well with operations in all segments of the oil and gas sector. Operations are currently underway in 80 countries around the world, the company can produce 3.7 million barrels of oil equivalents per day, and it lays claim to nearly 20 billion barrels in proven reserves. On the retail end of the business, the company operates more than 18,700 fuel stations and its largest segment is in the US.

The company was founded in 1908 with the purpose of exploring for and producing oil in the middle east. The company expanded into Alaska in 1959 and then accelerated its expansion when it merged with Amoco in 1998. Another merger with Burhman Castrol in 2000 created the company that is traded today.

BP, plc rebranded itself in 2000 giving new meaning to its name. The once British Petroleum is now Beyond Petroleum and focused on a major shift in its business. The company is working hard to move away from non-renewable carbon-based energy and into biofuels, solar, and wind. The company hopes to be net-zero in regard to carbon emissions and production by 2050 or earlier and is well on the way to doing so. Among the many avenues of advance are the build-out of solar and wind farms as well as the expansion of a major EV charging network. The network totaled more than 9,000 stations around the middle of 2022 and expansion was ramping in order to meet the goal of 100,000 EV stations before 2050.

BP p.l.c. currently operates through 4 segments including Gas & Low Carbon Energy, Oil Production & Operations, Customers & Products, and Rosneft segments. The company produces and trades in natural gas and oil liquids, offers biofuels, and operates wind and solar power generating facilities. The company also provides de-carbonization solutions and services, such as hydrogen and carbon capture and storage, as part of its green agenda.

In addition, it produces and refines oil and gas for its downstream operations as well as invests in upstream, downstream, and alternative energy companies including advanced mobility. Advanced mobility is the future of transportation and includes technologies like EV, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cells. To that end, the company is building 7 hydrogen production and storage hubs in key locations around the world. The company aims to produce blue and green hydrogen for the global transportation industry with production beginning in 2027. Blue hydrogen is hydrogen captured from the companys natural gas deposits using a process that captures the waste carbon.
Tomi J. Thompson of St. Regis was promoted to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Three (CW3). The ceremony was held at the Birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner, the historic Fort McHenry National Monument and Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland.

Thompsons best friend CW3 Samara Scheckman administered the Oath of Office. Thompsons daughter, Kaydence and her mother, Nancy Smith of St. Regis, had the honor of pinning on her new rank of CW3. CW3s are commissioned officers and advanced level technical experts. Warrant Officers make up less than 3 percent of the total Army strength. They have a great responsibility in their fields and are seen as vital to their organizations. Thompson is currently stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland.

CW3 Thompson is a 1994 graduate of St. Regis High School and the daughter of Nancy and Jay Smith of St. Regis and the late, Thomas N. Thompson. She joined the U.S. Army in March of 1995 and has received numerous awards and honors throughout her 22 year Army career.
Missoula County Attorney Kirsten Pabst has officially announced that she will seek a second term in the 2018 election, saying she wants to continue to work on the gains her office has made and keep pushing for more effective ways to both prosecute crimes and save taxpayers money.

In her first term, Pabst cites as accomplishments the expansion of the offices special victims unit, graduation from oversight over its handling of sexual assault cases and development of more services for victims and help for the prosecutors who take on the most severe cases.

Voters elected Pabst in 2014 over Missoula attorney Josh Van De Wetering following the retirement of former County Attorney Fred Van Valkenburg. The end of his administration fell under the cloud of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice over the handling of cases involving rape and sexual assault.

I went into what I saw as a mess with the Department of Justice eyes wide open, thinking I could actually improve our process and better serve the community, Pabst said.

On top of continuing to fine tune the advances her office has made over the past three years, Pabst said she still has more projects she hopes to put in place if re-elected. Included is a proposal her office is developing for a prosecution-led pretrial diversion program, a way to formalize a method of deferred prosecution of cases.

She sees the diversion program as screening for those defendants who are nonviolent and pose a low risk to re-offend and finding ways to reach agreements with them before their cases go before a judge.

Prosecutors' offices in bigger cities that have tried similar programs have seen major cost savings, Pabst said.

What the data tells us is that if you can divert those people out early you reduce the recidivism in both them and (higher risk offenders), she said. And the money that would be spent on those defendants could be used to go toward other, more serious cases.

The idea falls under the umbrella of a common refrain from Pabst, which is that its not enough to be tough on crime, we must be smart on crime.

We need to look at the limited criminal justice dollars and focus them away from offenders who dont need high-level intervention to those that present the highest public safety risk, Pabst said.

***

In August 2016, Montana Attorney General Tim Fox, whose office was asked to oversee the Missoula County Attorneys Offices handling of sexual assault as part of a deal with the U.S. Department of Justice, announced Pabst and her team had met their obligations to improve how they approach such cases.

Under Pabst, the prosecution of violent crimes grew from a single attorney to a special victims unit that now includes four prosecutors and a supervisor, as well as three victim coordinators and an in-house investigator. Prosecutor Suzy Boylan compiled a guide for handling sex assault cases that is now distributed across the country.

The Missoula County Attorneys Office, Fox said last August, has grown into a model not just for the rest of the state, but for the entire country.

As much as sexual assault cases defined the 2014 election and Pabsts first term in office, the dramatic spike in drug cases likely will dominate the prosecution of crimes in Missoula over the next few years.

Annual reports that Pabsts office started releasing after she was elected show the number of methamphetamine charges has risen more than 130 percent since 2013.

Abuse of the drug has led to a cascading effect on other crime, with the county attorney saying her office has seen a rise in the number and severity of domestic violence and child abuse cases that mirrors the spike in meth charges. Pabst said its an area that more and more resources will have to be dedicated to combat.

Our greatest challenge involved the influx and abuse of methamphetamine, Pabst said.

The county attorney said she also is proud of the accolades her offices Secondary Trauma Group program has received since being launched earlier in the year. The project, which brings in a social worker to talk with prosecutors and other staff who focus on some of the most disturbing and stressful cases in Missoula, was modeled after a similar program at the First Step Resource Center.

Her office was the first in the country to have a formal program helping prosecutors deal with the trauma that comes from spending a career working with the victims of violent crime, Pabst said.

All three Missoula County commissioners voiced support of Pabsts handling of her office, in particular the success of the Secondary Trauma Group and her work reducing costs of civil litigation by having county prosecutors take more cases that previously were farmed out to private attorneys.

We all know that Missoula County is a great place to live, work and raise a family, and Kirsten has built a great team in the attorneys office that will help keep it that way, Dave Strohmaier said.

Commissioner Jean Curtiss said Pabst, working with the commissioners, has been able to bring down costs for taxpayers by moving more litigation in-house rather than hiring outside attorneys. The added benefit has been improved communication across county departments.

Commissioner Cola Rowley said the county attorney has demonstrated she is able to make plans and implement them.

Kirstens use of data, evidence-based practices, and innovation have been instrumental in reducing costs, substantiating resource requests, and building public confidence in Missoula Countys legal processes, she said.
The following companies are subsidiares of Molina Healthcare: Aetna & Humana - Medicare Advantage, Affinity Health Plan, AmericanWork Inc., Better Health Network, Camelot Care Centers Inc, Children's Behavioral Health Inc., Choices Group Inc., College Community Services, Dockside Services Inc, Family Preservation Services Inc., Family Preservation Services of Florida Inc., Family Preservation Services of North Carolina Inc., Family Preservation Services of Washington D.C. Inc., Family Preservation Services of West Virginia Inc., Florida NetPASS LLC, Hclb Inc., Magellan Complete Care, Maple Star Nevada Inc., Maple Star Oregon Inc., Mercy CarePlus, Molina Clinical Services LLC, Molina Healthcare Data Center Inc., Molina Healthcare of Arizona Inc., Molina Healthcare of California, Molina Healthcare of Florida Inc., Molina Healthcare of Georgia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Illinois Inc., Molina Healthcare of Iowa Inc., Molina Healthcare of Louisiana Inc., Molina Healthcare of Maryland Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan Inc., Molina Healthcare of Mississippi Inc., Molina Healthcare of Nevada Inc., Molina Healthcare of New Mexico Inc., Molina Healthcare of New York Inc., Molina Healthcare of North Carolina Inc., Molina Healthcare of Ohio Inc., Molina Healthcare of Oklahoma Inc., Molina Healthcare of Pennsylvania Inc., Molina Healthcare of Puerto Rico Inc., Molina Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, Molina Healthcare of Texas Inc., Molina Healthcare of Texas Insurance Company, Molina Healthcare of Utah Inc., Molina Healthcare of Virginia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Washington Inc., Molina Healthcare of Wisconsin Inc., Molina Holdings Corporation, Molina Hospital Management LLC, Molina Information Systems LLC dba Molina Medicaid Solutions, Molina Medical Management Inc., Molina Pathways LLC, Molina Pathways of Texas Inc., Molina Youth Academy, NextLevel Health Illinois, Pathways Community Corrections Inc., Pathways Community Services LLC, Pathways Community Support of Texas Inc., Pathways Health and Community Support LLC, Pathways Human Services LLC., Pathways of Arizona Inc., Pathways of Delaware Inc., Pathways of Idaho LLC, Pathways of Maine Inc., Pathways of Massachusetts LLC, Pathways of Oklahoma Inc., Pathways of Washington Inc., Providence Community Services, Providence Human Services, Raystown Developmental Services Inc., The Game of Work LLC, The RedCo Group Inc., Total Care Medicaid plan, Transitional Family Services Inc., Unisys -Health Information Management, and YourCare Health Plan.

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The University of Montana panel tasked with recommending to the schools administration what programs show potential for growth and others that can be cut continued its work Saturday, adding another dozen to the list of those that could be reduced or even eliminated.

The task force, which has three more meetings over the next week to continue ranking the recommendations it will give to the administration, voted on 62 programs during a three-hour meeting at Missoula College.

Part of UMs Academic Program and Administrative Services Prioritization project, the panel will deliver its full slate of recommendations this week, part of a process brought on by enrollment declines that has the university looking to decrease its spending.

The panel can place programs into four potential categories: priority for development and growth, consider for development and or modification, priority for substantial modification, or insufficient evidence.

The 12 programs added Saturday to the substantial modification category  which suggests consolidation or discontinuance  were the minors in film studies and Latin American studies, the two-year programs in food service management and paralegal studies, certificates in computer aided design, computer support, cyber-security, global health, health information systems, and sales and marketing, as well as the East Asian studies undergraduate degree.

Task force member Steve Schwarze, a professor in communication studies, cautioned that just because a program is in the lowest category doesnt mean it will be eliminated entirely.

Before the task force's final recommendations are sent to President Sheila Stearns, the heads of each of the programs will have an opportunity to respond. Stearns will review the recommendations and present her decisions to the campus for feedback before putting together plans for implementation.

Ten programs were put into the highest category Saturday, recommending them for expansion and additional investment. Those were: the graduate programs in fish and wildlife biology, forestry, law, resource conservation, and speech language pathology, as well as the undergraduate programs in communication studies, forestry, and resource conservation in addition to the two-year degree in accounting technology and the climate change studies minor.

Like it did Wednesday when the process began, the panel placed the majority of programs into the middle category of suggesting either development or modification, a limbo that doesn't call directly for growth or cuts.

During public comment at Saturdays meeting representatives from several of the programs that were voted on voiced frustration with the overall process, and said the task force isnt taking into account how little their programs draw on the general fund.

Jody Pavilack, who teaches a course in the Latin American studies minor, said all of the programs classes are pulled from other departments with professors who teach other things as well.

Eliminating or radically adjusting this program is going to lose students, she said.

Leora Bar-El from the Linguistics program said since the beginning, faculty have been told the prioritization process wouldnt pit departments against each other, but that she felt thats exactly what has happened.

She also said professors havent been given any guidance on how to talk to students about the potential cuts, especially with students getting ready to register for classes.

Irene Appelbaum, another Linguistics professor, said she felt the reports the panel was relying on were flawed, saying different reviewers took the same data and reached different conclusions.

With members saying they worried about not being able to get through the more than 200 programs and administration projects that still have to be categorized, the panel voted to hold meetings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evening, each from 6-9 p.m. in Missoula College Room 340.

Meeting agendas listing what programs specifically will be discussed at each of those meetings have not yet been posted.
Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. provides home and security products for residential home repair, remodeling, new construction, and security applications. It operates in three segments: Plumbing, Outdoors & Security, and Cabinets. The Plumbing segment manufactures, assembles, and sells faucets, accessories, kitchen sinks, and waste disposals under the Moen, ROHL, Riobel, Victoria+Albert, Perrin & Rowe, and Shaws brands in the United States, China, Canada, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America directly through its own sales force, as well as through independent manufacturers' representatives to wholesalers, home centers, mass merchandisers, and industrial distributors. The Outdoors & Security segment offers fiberglass and steel entry door systems under the Therma-Tru brand; storm, screen, and security doors under the Larson brand; composite decking and railing under the Fiberon brand; and urethane millwork under the Fypon brand. This segment also manufactures, sources, and distributes locks, safety and security devices, and electronic security products under the Master Lock and American Lock brands; and fire resistant safes, security containers, and commercial cabinets under the SentrySafe brand. It serves home centers, hardware and other retailers, millwork building products and wholesale distributors, specialty dealers, and remodeling and renovation markets, as well as locksmiths, industrial and institutional users, and original equipment manufacturers in the United States, Canada, Europe, Central America, Japan, and Australia. The Cabinets segment manufactures custom, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry, as well as vanities for the kitchen, bath, and other parts of the home directly to kitchen and bath dealers, home centers, wholesalers, and builders in North America under the AOK, Diamond Brands, Homecrest, Kitchen Craft, Omega, and EVE brands. The company was incorporated in 1988 and is headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois.
NCI Building Systems, Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets metal products for the nonresidential construction industry in North America. It operates in four segments: Engineered Building Systems, Metal Components, Insulated Metal Panels, and Metal Coil Coating. The Engineered Building Systems segment offers engineered structural members and panels; and self-storage building systems under the Metallic, Mid-West Steel, A & S, All American, Mesco, Star, Ceco, Robertson, Garco, Heritage, and SteelBuilding.com brands to builders, general contractors, developers, and end users directly, as well as through private label companies. The Metal Components segment provides metal roof and wall systems, metal partitions, metal trims, doors, and other related accessories for use in new construction, and repair and retrofit applications; roll-up doors; and interior and exterior walk doors under the MBCI, American Building Components, Eco-ficient, Metal Depots, and Doors and Buildings Components brands to manufacturers, contractors, subcontractors, distributors, lumberyards, cooperative buying groups, and other customers. The Insulated Metal Panels segment offers insulated metal panels for architectural, commercial, industrial, and cold storage end-market applications under the Metl-Span and CENTRIA brands. The Metal Coil Coating segment engages in cleaning, treating, and painting flat-rolled metals in coil form, as well as in slitting and/or embossing the metal, before the metal is fabricated for use by industrial users. It also cleans, treats, and coats heavy and light gauge metal coils for use in construction products, heating and air conditioning systems, water heaters, lighting fixtures, ceiling grids, office furniture, appliances, and other products; and provides toll coating and painted metal package services under the Metal Coaters and Metal Prep brands. NCI Building Systems, Inc. was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
NextEra Energy, Inc. is the largest electric utility holding company in the US. It operates a network of power generation and distribution facilities that include fossil-fuel-generated and green energy. As of mid-2022, the company was capable of generating 58 GW of electricity with nearly 60% of the load produced by green sources including wind and solar. In their view, going green isnt an option, its the solution. NextEra Energy has been recognized multiple times as a leader in clean energy and ESG practices and was ranked the #1 electric and gas utility on the Forbes list of Most Admired Companies.

The company is the result of several mergers that begin with FPL Group. FPL Group is now a subsidiary of NextEra Energy and the third-largest provider of electricity in the US servicing nearly half of Florida. FPL and its affiliates are the single largest provider of renewable energy generated from wind and sun. The group changed its name in 2010 following a decision to shift focus onto renewable energy sources.

Today, NextEra Energy, Inc through its subsidiary FPL serves about 12 million people in eastern and southwestern Florida. The company employs nearly 14,900 people who service 5.8 million accounts. The company is in business to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity to retail and wholesale clients. Electricity is generated through wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas, and coal-fired facilities.

The company is also engaged in the construction and operation of new facilities, specifically renewable power generation, storage, and delivery facilities, and can offer custom solutions tailored to any need. Offerings include tailored services to assist businesses with their transition to clean energy.

NextEra Energy also owns and operates 7 nuclear power stations in Florida, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin generating power for the wholesale market.

Unlike other companies that are targeting net-zero emissions, NextEra Energy has a plan to reach real zero and is investing heavily to reach that goal by 2045. The company had invested nearly $50 billion in green energy infrastructure and initiatives by mid-2022. The plan is to first work on reducing its own emissions and then take its knowledge and expertise to the world.
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S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know Invest in Smart Home Tech with Superior Patents (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report Invest in Smart Home Tech with Superior Patents (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine Invest in Smart Home Tech with Superior Patents (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit

S&P 500 3,991.73 DOW 33,592.92 QQQ 289.39 Retiring Soon? 8 Facts About Retirement You Need to Know Invest in Smart Home Tech with Superior Patents (Ad) Three Penny Stocks Making Big Moves In November Agilent Remains In Buy Range Ahead Of Next Week's Q4 Report Invest in Smart Home Tech with Superior Patents (Ad) Dont Chase Walmart Higher, Wait For Extra Low Prices Russian airstrikes reported in cities across Ukraine Invest in Smart Home Tech with Superior Patents (Ad) Stocks gain ground after wholesale inflation eases in US The Latest | UN Climate Summit
TAMPA, Fla.There are plenty of interests, most of them with dubious intentions, that would like to abandon the way the U.S. Census Bureau traditionally conducts its decennial "hands-on" counting of the population of the United States.

The Trump administration and its political backers understand that to control the outcome of the census is to control the U.S. House of Representatives and the Electoral College.

The state-by-state apportionment of 435 House seats and the allotment of 435 of the 538 presidential electors between the states are based on the latest census.

There are those on the political right who insist the Census Bureau should concentrate its efforts on merely counting heads, without any regard for collecting statistics on race, age, ethnic group, gender, and income level.

There have also been calls for the census to include sexual orientation statistics. By not determining the actual population of minority groups, census result could and would be used for the gerrymandering of congressional districts, particularly in urban areas, to ensure African-Americans and Hispanics are underrepresented in the House of Representatives.

It is important that every American subject to the census understand that our country's founders believed that a 10-year counting of the population was so important that they mandated it in the U.S. Constitution.

America's founding document states in Article I, Section 2 that "Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States ... according to their respective Numbers ... The actual Enumeration shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent Term of ten Years."

Those conservative quarters, from which is heard a constant refrain of strictly interpreting the Constitution, are more than happy to financially cut corners for the constitutionally-mandated census.

Some on the political right suggest that Americans could be counted more efficiently and at a lower cost over the Internet. That would be a dream-come-true for the right.

The homeless, poor rural residents, and many senior citizens and disabled people would go uncounted.

Slash-and-burn Republican policymakers would use an undercounting of the most vulnerable Americans to take a budget ax to Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, Head Start, public education, veterans' and public health clinics, unemployment assistance, family-owned farm support, and other social safety net programs.

Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, a billionaire banker who wore $500 custom-made bedroom slippers to Donald Trump's first address to Congress last February, may see his department's Census Bureau as unnecessary and financially burdensome to his department's overall budget.

However, Ross would be violating his constitutional oath if he did not provide the Census Bureau with all the tools it requires to conduct the most accurate and politics-free census as possible.

The census should also ensure maximum privacy for the providers of information, especially since the Trump administration is jam-packed with those who might decide to sell personal census data to their friends in the information brokerage industry.

Secretary Ross testified before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that he was seeking a two-percent increase in the Census Bureau's budget for Fiscal Year 2018.

Ross should be congratulated for increasing the budget of the bureau. However, Ross's prioritization for the "strategic reuse" of census data by other government departments and the private sector is a worrisome sign.

Ross said nothing about the privacy controls for such potentially personally identifiable data. Census data, like voter registration data held by the states, should not be used by private actors to micro-target Americans with various schemes.

That is not the purpose for census data and any suggestion to the contrary is not in keeping with the wishes of America's founders.
Butte residents Mike and Mallory Potts are going local with a new taproom they opened mid-October in Uptown Butte.

The couple said their vision for Slainte! Butte America Pub is to establish it as a craft mecca that celebrates Montana businesses.

Its a big part of our business model, Mike said.

We really like our state, Mallory added, laughing, noting that Mike was wearing a Montana T-shirt during his interview with The Montana Standard.

Slainte!  a traditional Irish greeting, which roughly translates as good health  held a soft opening Oct. 10 and features 36 craft beers on tap, a majority hailing from the Big Sky State.

The bar also boasts signature cocktails and wine, along with an ample supply of Montana-made spirits  including those from Buttes Headframe Spirits, but also from distilleries based in Whitefish, Ennis, Missoula, Winston, Bozeman, Coram, Manhattan and other Montana towns. Even the floors and tables are made from wood grown and milled near Helena in this bar thats making the most of the states locavore movement.

Last week the couple spoke about their dreams for Slainte! as customers began trickling in just after the bar opened for the afternoon.

Slainte! resides on Park Street at 43 E. Park St.  the former location of Trimbos Pizza. The pizzeria closed May 2016, leaving some Butte residents worried that the location would remain a vacant Uptown building.

But the Pottses have breathed new life into the property, giving its interior a makeover, the couple said.

The interior now boasts an open space concept, replete with a large seating area for customers. The couple has installed new wood floors with a distressed look, along with rustic wood tables adorned with simple votive candles.

I hammered every single board in, said Mike of the new floors, noting that he and Mallory did much of the renovations themselves, including creating the tables, which they made with the help of carpenter Bob Haithcox.

Encapsulating it all, meanwhile, is a large sign bearing the bars name, hung on a newly exposed brick and granite wall.

Mike and Mallory said another part of their business model entails creating a social, communal space in the spirit of the traditional Irish pub (replete with Irish whiskey) while also creating an environment where families are welcome. The couple has two small children and said that kids enjoy being social just as much as adults.

Theyre a part of our lives, said Mallory. Were team Potts.

True to their vision, the couple has planned a light menu that will feature social food that can be shared by a single party. At the time of their interview they hadnt finalized a menu, but said they plan to serve a large, Bavarian-style pretzel, a hummus and pita chip plate, chips and salsa and other light fare. The couple has scheduled a grand opening for Nov. 11, at which time they hope to roll out a small menu. For now, theyre keeping things simple because they want to get things right.

To create their signature cocktails the couple enlisted the help of the taprooms head bartender, Tone Connors.

The eight drinks offered by the taproom include a 1920s-inspired Boulevardier cocktail, along with a Sazerac, a drink made from whiskey and absinthe and other ingredients that was popular in the 1800s. Mallory, meanwhile, said her favorite drink is the French 75, which contains gin, lemon juice and champagne, a concoction of bubbly deliciousness, according to the taprooms menu.

Mallory, 31, and Mike, 33, are both Montana natives.

Mike grew up in Clancy, Helena, and throughout Montana, while Mallory is a native of Lolo, where her parents own and operate the Lolo Creek Steakhouse.

The husband-and-wife duo moved to Butte in 2012 while Mike was attending graduate school at Montana Tech. He landed a job as an engineer at Pioneer Technical Services in 2013, and the couple later bought an Uptown home and started a family.

The couple said they decided to open Slainte! to further grow roots in the Mining City.

Were committed to Butte, said Mike.
Its a call thats been sounded for months: Homelessness is a community-wide problem in Butte that needs a community-wide solution.

Organizations and charities in the Southwest Montana Continuum of Care Coalition have acknowledged the need for a short-term shelter, but much more than that this year, they have touted new approaches to ending homelessness altogether.

The Butte Rescue Mission has a Christian-based philosophy on how to best get the homeless on their feet and on their own again.

Its backers have been sounding their own call since their homeless shelter was shut down in April because of fire safety concerns: Butte needs a shelter, and if folks dont believe us now, they will come winter.

Frankly, those who have backed one approach or the other have not joined hands.

Well, winter has arrived, Butte does not have a homeless shelter, and a new cry is being sounded: Establish one now or people are going to die.

Its not hyperbole. Even when the mission's shelter was operating, homeless people have frozen to death.

Butte-Silver Bow sheriff Ed Lester says some who died were intoxicated and some might have thought they were warm enough or safe enough, but people have died of hypothermia in Butte.

Now, given the weather, Butte has a crisis on its hands.

We need a temporary emergency shelter, and the sooner the better, he said.

SHELTER ON THE WAY

It might come as soon as this week.

We are at a crossroads here, folks, Margie Seccomb, executive director of the nonprofit social services agency Action Inc., told more than 20 other members of the Continuum of Care group on Friday.

At the coalitions urging, Action Inc. plans to open the vacant Homeward Bound building it owns on Quartz and Main streets Uptown as a homeless shelter this week. It would only be operational through May, they say.

Its either do that, Seccomb said, or there will be people dying on the street.

Many who live, work, and run businesses Uptown have deep concerns about a homeless shelter in the area  the same worries they expressed earlier this year when the mission wanted to buy the building. A deal didnt materialize.

And there are still tensions between some coalition members and the mission, whose subsequent attempts to find other locations also have fallen through.

When Seccomb offered an olive branch on Friday to Paul Buckley, president of the mission board, there wasnt immediate peace.

He noted that the Homeward Bound building was the first location the mission sought.

If we had all gotten together then, we wouldnt be sitting here today on a snowy day wondering what we are going to do about the homeless, he said.

Several coalition members bristled, and Bernie McCarthy, a deacon with the Butte Catholic Community North, shot back.

However we got here, we are here, he told Buckley. If we go back to April, we are not going to get anywhere.

As it stands, Action Inc. and the coalition plan to open the three-story Homeward Bound building as a shelter on Wednesday. They still need an occupancy permit from the county, and Fire Chief Jeff Miller says they need an annual inspection of the fire suppression system, but firefighters have been through the building and say it is safe.

Action Inc. used to house homeless people and run transitional programs in the building, so it's already insured and zoned for use as a shelter

There was cleaning to do this weekend, the building must be stocked with bedding and linens and other necessities, and people need to be hired so it can be staffed 24 hours per day.

The organizers have some money but not enough to get them through all winter, so they are seeking aid from the state and donations, too. But the plan is being pursued vigorously, and there was no talk Friday of roadblocks.

LINGERING CONCERNS

The need and cold weather have not erased the worries about a homeless shelter among those who live and work Uptown.

Butte-Silver Bow commissioner Bill Andersen, whose district includes part of Uptown, has heard from some already and knows hell hear more.

There will be an awful lot of business owners in the Uptown corridor who will be fuming, and I do think it will reduce the amount of people who come up to shop, he said. I think its already tough right now.

Ellen Crain, director of the Butte Archives located directly across from the Homeward Bound building, said earlier this year  when there was talk of the building becoming a shelter  that she wants to see people cared for. She still does.

But the four-block area already hosts the jail, pre-release center, and other places that provide housing and services for those living on the edge of society, many of them with serious drug and alcohol problems, she said.

Many people who visit the Archives are from outside of Butte and many are elderly, Crain said.

Having people in various states of a mess and on the edge turns people away and makes people worried for their safety, she said.

Jim OBrien, who is 70 and volunteers at the Archives, said historic Uptown is Buttes biggest asset and it is already overloaded with social services.

My long-term concern is the way the quality of Uptown is changing, and nobody is really stopping and thinking about that, he said.

Nonetheless, Crain said she told Seccomb she would support the shelter efforts from now through May. But she wants better, long-term answers to be sought.

I think between the churches and social services and the coalition and the agencies that a creative solution can be found, she said.

WORKING TOGETHER?

By no means are the Continuum of Care coalition and rescue mission abandoning their philosophies on helping the homeless.

The coalitions efforts are aimed at immediately identifying the homeless, finding them housing arrangements, and matching them with services they need quickly to overcome their challenges and barriers.

Long-term stays in shelters work against that, its members say, and the newer methods have reduced the number of homeless in cities that have employed the collaborative and coordinated approach.

Members say their efforts since the mission shut down in April have resulted in 78 permanent households for people, including families and children, so they will continue  even with the temporary shelter operating.

The mission believes its Christian-based approach gives people a foundation to change their lives but says no matter what, a permanent shelter is needed because there will always be people who find themselves homeless.

The mission says it now has a tentative buy-sell agreement for property at Arizona and East Platinum streets where portable housing units it has could be placed and serve as a shelter. It is seeking a zoning variance to make that happen, but even if it gets one, winter might delay its opening until the spring.

But for now, there is at least some talk of supporting one another.

Rocky Lyons, executive director of the mission, supports the temporary shelter in the Homeward Bound building. It would meet an immediate need and take some pressure off of the mission until it can get its shelter up and running, she said.

We run our programs differently, but there are enough people in this city and the seven counties we serve who need help that we dont need to walk all over each other, she said.

Seccomb said the mission could retain its faith-based emphasis while also employing the newer evidence-based methods to help people find permanent housing fast and turn their lives around.

Everyone has had to make adjustments and adapt, she said. The coalition would simply like to see the mission consider adjustments to help the whole system be more effective.

We can try to get consensus on the system, she said. Wouldnt it be awesome if we both worked together?

OUTSIDE ENCOURAGEMENT

There are certainly those, including Commissioner Andersen, cheering them on.

The temporary shelter is needed, he said, given the weather and circumstances. But it will take cooperation to find longer-term solutions.

I think there has been a lot of consternation between the two groups, Andersen said. They butted heads, and they have different philosophies about how it should work. But they both have the same goal and mission, and I think they really need to work together.

There are others seeking answers, too.

Many interested in finding both short- and long-term solutions have pointed in recent weeks to a bequest the Salvation Army made in Buttes interest that has been a matter of contention for years.

When Burton Kinyon, a mechanic who worked for Butte-Silver Bow, died in 2010, he left an astonishing $1.86 million to three charities, including $622,000 to the Salvation Army  with the proviso that it was for use in the Butte, Montana area.

While the Salvation Army has been using interest from the bequest to fund its Butte operations, the principal has not been used. And some see that as a potentially significant piece in any long-term solution.

The Salvation Army has indicated that it would like to reconstitute an advisory board in Butte. The previous board was disbanded after members said the agency paid no attention to its suggestions for the use of the bequest.

Meanwhile, Lester says his department worked well with the mission when its shelter was operating and officers are prepared to help the temporary shelter in any way they can.

Area residents and businesses have some well-founded concerns, he said, but shelter is needed.

I know its controversial, and I understand that, but we are in an emergency situation where people are in real danger, he said. This is the only viable option right now. We have to take care of our fellow human beings.
There are no elections in Butte-Silver Bow, Anaconda-Deer Lodge, or Madison counties on Tuesday, Nov. 7, but other counties are sending voters to the polls.

Beaverhead County

Michael Klakken is seeking re-election as mayor of Dillon and is being challenged by City Council President Tom Straugh. There also are four council seats on the ballot, but none is contested.

John Garry is running in Ward 1, Russ Schwandt in Ward 2, Bill Shafer in Ward 3, and Mandy Maass in Ward 4. Paul Pilgrim is running for City Court judge. Crystal Thompson stepped down as city judge on Aug. 31, but her name still appears on the ballot because it was too late to remove.

Voters will decide a mill levy that would provide the Dillon Police Department with about $231,000 in additional annual revenue, in part to hire two new officers, pay for retirement benefits, and buy new safety equipment.

In Lima, Kent Craven and David Olsen are running for mayor, and there is a contested race for a council seat. Voters are asked to choose two candidates among four: David Brown, Dorothy Mikula, Judy Kay Weekes, and Travis Wilson.

Granite County

Bob Teruel is challenging longtime Drummond mayor Gail J. Leeper on Nov. 7 in Drummonds nonpartisan municipal election. If Leeper wins, this will be her seventh term. She has been mayor of Drummond for 24 years. The position is a four-year term.

Jefferson County

Three candidates face off in the Boulder mayors race. Incumbent Gary Craft is being challenged by Russell S. Giulio and Lori Smith for the four-year term.

Drew E. Dawson is challenging incumbent Gary E. Richardson for Boulders Ward 1 city council seat. Sherry Lepley is unopposed for Ward 2 council seat.

Jefferson County voters are also deciding on a proposition to organize the Jefferson Valley Rural Ambulance District. If voters OK the district, they also will decide who will be the district director. Five candidates  Dana Brunet, Amy DuBois, Rico Patacini, Susan Pullman, and Tara L. Tebay  are seeking the four-year position.

Powell County

Mayor candidates for the city of Deer Lodge are incumbent Zane Cozby and challenger Allen Walters.

Four people are running unopposed for alderman seats in Deer Lodges city council. Terry Jennings, Rob Kersch, and Kyler Noel are incumbent candidates in Wards 3, 2, and 4, respectively. Mary Hathaway is running for an alderman seat in Ward 1.
Just get it done.

This summer, at CTECs booth at the Uptown Butte Farmers Market, thats what we heard again and again from both out-of-town visitors and local folks who stopped in to ask about issues regarding Buttes Superfund cleanup process: Why dont they just get it done? Whats taking so long? Why is there so little to show for all the time thats gone by and all the money thats been spent?

For those of us who staffed the booth this past summer  various folks from CTEC, Restore Our Creek Coalition, Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Environmental Protection Agency, Butte-Silver Bows Residential Metals Abatement Program, Montana Techs Ecological Restoration Program, and others  the question was not surprising. Members of these local organizations, as well as the agencies responsible for the different aspects of the cleanup, know that much work has been done to remove contaminated materials from human contact, by hauling them away to the established repository; by treating them in place; and by capping them with soil. But all of us were at pains to explain this to those who came by the booth, because for all the progress, the perception remains that there will be no end to this state of affairs.

And thats not surprising, considering that an entire generation has grown up in the community identifying themselves as part of a Superfund site, not as residents of the Mining City -- as Butte still likes to call itself.

For this generation, Buttes very identity is often cast as a victim of various outside forces, and not as the robust, gritty, independent community historically associated with its mining heritage. So for many of those whove grown up in Butte under the ambivalent cloud of being the source of the nations largest complex of Superfund sites, the call to get it done might seem frivolous: for many people, this is the way Butte is and will always be.

As individuals whove closely followed the growth of Buttes Superfund industry since the late 1980s, we waver between the two perspectives: of impatience and anger about the slow rate  and inadequacy -- of cleanup (the just get it done impulse) on the one hand, and resignation that Superfund will forever be part of Buttes future. Just as the Berkeley and Continental pits will always be there as a physical reminder of the glory days of mining, the Berkeley Pit Lake will always be there, and its toxic waters must continue forever to be pumped and treated before being released into the environment.

And all those capped tailings, including the wonderful walking trails built over the old BAP rail bed, will by Superfund statute require perpetual care and maintenance. These features of the Superfund-designated cleanup decisions mean our citys character as a Superfund site will always be with us.

So what can we say to folks who ask why cant they just get it done?

Thats the heart of the questions and concerns that will be raised at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14, at the Covellite Theater, 215 W. Broadway St. The Restore Our Creek Coalition and The Montana Standard are hosting a Rally for the Creek event to showcase the perspectives of just a few of Buttes vital social and economic sectors: housing, healthcare, education, and community and economic development. After more than 30 years of cleanup activities undertaken in and around Butte, this rally focuses on just one complex aspect of the whole complex issue: the need to clean all the tailings out of the Silver Bow Creek Headwaters corridor in the heart of Butte.

At this summers farmers market, from the CTEC booth, we listened and heard the frustrations of our Butte neighbors, and the disbelief of Buttes summer visitors about the pace and quality of cleanup activities. We invited Butte folks to get involved, to make their voices heard, and many indicated a wish to know more and to find some way to help ensure that Butte gets a proper cleanup. It wasnt just that these folks wanted something  anything  done right now. They DO want action. But they want cleanup action that shows commitment to Buttes future, and that doesnt merely hold us hostage to our past by leaving wastes in place that threaten our future.

More than anything, the interactions we had at the CTEC booth showed that people care.

We encourage all of our neighbors to come to the Covellite Theater on November 14 to ensure that this message is heard loud and clear by decision-makers in our local courthouse, in Helena, in Denver EPA headquarters, and in Washington.

-- Bill Macgregor is vice president of CTEC (Citizens Technical Environmental Committee), which is a member organization of the Restore Our Creek Coalition

-- Joe Griffin is a volunteer technical adviser to CTEC and former Superfund project manager for Montana DEQ.
On a recent snowy Friday afternoon, when many people in Butte are counting the minutes until the weekend, Action Inc., had an entirely different problem on its hands.

Its lobby and meeting room were filled with 40 desperate people who had nowhere to sleep  at least indoors. And, as workers noted, it was only October and the months-long Montana winter had just barely begun.

That is why the Southwest Montana Continuum of Care Coalition is supporting the opening of a temporary, winter-only shelter at the old Homeward Bound Building, 304 N. Main St., in Butte. Action Inc. is preparing the building and it is hoped the shelter will be open on Wednesday, Nov. 8.

As members of the coalition, we know that what Action Inc. has experienced and is experiencing is not an anomaly. Cities and towns all over the nation have wrestled with the issues of homelessness -- but a few cities and towns are starting to see real, permanent results with the use of evidenced-based strategies, a change from a previous movements which focused on fixing a homeless person before they gain housing.

The new federal push, called a Housing First model, involves very short-term inclusive emergency shelters, a coordinated entry system and a philosophy that says that housing first  and working on issues after  really works. And it has proven over and over that it saves taxpayers money previously spent on expensive hospital stays, emergency room visits and jails.

That is where our coalitions work is centered. The coalition is comprised of many groups and people from Butte. All told, more than 30 people from all walks of life are driving this work because we want to ensure homelessness is rare, brief and nonrecurring. As a community, we have managed to permanently house more than 78 people, including families with young children, since the Butte Rescue Mission shut down in April. That is a huge accomplishment.

We also think its very important for people to know that the problem of homelessness isnt the responsibility of any one group, agency or organization. Action Inc. is not solely responsible for the problem, we all are. Homelessness is a community problem and it requires a coordinated, comprehensive community response.

We know that the people of Butte are concerned about going through a brutal winter without a short-term shelter. It is the one piece of our carefully built service delivery system that is glaringly absent. And because winter is upon us, we need to do something to ensure that no one dies because they are living outside when it is 30 below zero.

But that is going to take money. We are lucky that Action Inc. has a building available that is already insured and zoned for this purpose. But the building is expensive to heat and must be staffed 24 hours a day to keep everyone, from homeless people to nearby businesses and residences, safe and secure.

The cost of this one-time project is around $150,000. While we do have some resources to help pay for this, as a coalition, we cannot fund the entire project.

Butte can help with monetary donations or supplies to help this community effort. Suggested supplies include the following:

Hygiene

 Regular sized hygiene items (soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant, razors)

 Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss

 Feminine products (tampons, pads)

 Nail clippers, manicure items.

Household Items

 Larger sized storage bins

 Toilet paper, tissue, and paper towels

 Laundry detergent

Linens

 New or gently used linens (twin sheets, bed pillows, blankets)

 Zippered mattress covers (special bed-bug resistant)

 New or gently used bath towels and washcloths

Monetary donations can be sent to Action Inc., 25 W. Silver Street, Butte, MT, 59701 or made online at http://butteassistanceprograms.org/donate/ All donations will be used for this emergency shelter service. Donations can be dropped off at the Emma Park Center, 25 W. Silver Street or sent to Homeward Bound, 304 N. Main Street, beginning next week. If you have questions, call Action Inc., at 406-533-6855.

-- The Southwest Montana Continuum of Care Coalition membership:

4-Cs; Action, Inc.; Butte Community Council; Butte Emergency Food Bank; Butte Ministerial Association; Butte Rescue Mission; Butte School District; Butte-Silver Bow Chemical Dependency Center; Butte-Silver Bow Community Development Office; Butte-Silver Bow Health Department; Butte Job Service  Veterans Services; Dept. of Veterans Affairs  Homeless Veterans Program; Heart of Butte; Help for the Homeless - We Deliver; Montana Independent Living Program; Public Housing Authority of Butte; St. James Healthcare; Southwest Montana Community Health Center; Volunteers of America; Western Montana Mental Health Services
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By Jake Johnson

Just days before world leaders are set to gather in Bonn, Germany for the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP23), tens of thousands of activists from across the globe kicked off a series of planned actions on Saturday by taking to the streets to demand an end to coal, denounce U.S. President Donald Trumps climate denial, and highlight the necessity of moving toward 100 percent renewable energy as quickly as possible.

This is a pivotal moment for global efforts to combat climate change, 350.org, which helped organize the events set to take place through next week, noted in a statement. Countries will either succumb to the forces of denial, like the Trump administration, or move ahead to a clean energy future that works for all.

The stated aim of the COP23 talksthis year presided over by Fijiis to advance the aims and ambitions of the Paris Agreement and achieve progress on its implementation guidelines.

25.000 people fighting for climate justice!  Biggest climate change demonstration in Germany ever! RT to celebrate! #Klimademo #COP23 pic.twitter.com/6sTalq3SMN  campact (@campact) November 4, 2017

But Trumps decision to withdraw the U.S. from the agreement casts a dark shadow over the negotiations. As the New York Times reported Thursday, the Trump administration will attempt to use COP23 as a platform to promote coal, natural gas, and nuclear energy and argue that fossil fuels should continue to play a central role in the energy mixdespite the fact that the U.S. governments own climate assessment, unveiled Friday, links fossil fuels to the warming of the climate.

So while Trump and his allies are twisting themselves into pretzels to justify blocking national and international climate action, environmentalists are working to place pressure on world leaders to forge ahead with ambitious goals that place people and the planet over the interests of oil giants.

The wildfires, hurricanes and floods of these last few months show us that we dont have time to play games of climate denial or greenwashing of dirty energy, Cindy Wiesner, executive director of Grassroots Global Justice Alliance, said in a statement. COP23 is an opportunity for world leaders to catch up to the solutions already coming from communities on the ground.

With the small island nation Fiji presiding over the talks, particular attention is being drawn to the Pacific Island nations that are severely threatened by the extreme weather that results from climate change. Throughout COP23, Pacific Climate Warriors will demand that world leaders kick the big polluters out of the climate talks, end the era of fossil fuels, and move to 100% renewable energy.

Putting a stop to coal and other forms of dirty energy is crucial in addressing the global climate emergency, concluded Karin Nansen, chair of Friends of the Earth International. We urge developed country governments to stop exploiting dirty energy now and to stop financing dirty energy projects at home and in developing countries.

Reposted with permission from our media associate Common Dreams.

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ATLANTA - The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) announced the 2017 recipients of its Master of the ACR designation, Awards of Distinction, and Distinguished Fellow Award honors during the opening lecture of the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego. These recognitions are given annually to members who exhibit outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology.

Master of the ACR Designation

Recognition as a Master is one of the highest honors that the College bestows on its distinguished members. The designation of Master is conferred on ACR members, age 65 or older, who have made outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology through scholarly achievement and/or service to their patients, students, and the rheumatology profession. These honorees have devoted their long careers to furthering rheumatology research and improving clinical standards in the treatment of rheumatic diseases.

The 2017 recipients of the Masters of the ACR designation are:

Ed Acevedo-Vasquez, MD, Gregorio Escobedo, 676, Clinica San Felipe, Lima, Peru

Karyl Barron, MD, National Institute of Health, Division of Intramural Research, Bethesda, MD

Keith Elkon, MD, University of Washington, Rheumatology, Seattle, WA

David Felson, MD, MPH, Boston University School of Medicine, Clinical Research Training Unit, Boston, MA

Joseph Flood, MD, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus Arthritis Center, Columbus, OH

Norman Gaylis, MD, Private Practice - Arthritis Rheumatic Disease Specialties, Aventura, FL

Harry Gewanter, MD, Private Practice & Commonwealth University of Medicine, Richmond, VA

Rodney Grahame, MD, FRCP, FACP, University College of London, London, United Kingdom

Michael Holers, MD, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO

Karen Kolba, MD, Private Practice - Pacific Arthritis Center, Pismo Beach, CA

Stephen Lindsey, MD, Ochsner Clinic Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge, LA

Richard Looney, MD, University of Rochester, Department of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Division, Rochester, NY

Johanne Martel-Pelletier, PhD, University of Montreal Hospital Research Center, Osteoarthritis Research Unit, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

John Mountz, MD, PhD, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Medicine/Rheumatology Division, Birmingham, AL

Eileen Moynihan, MD, Noridian Healthcare Solutions, Hadden Heights, NJ

Jim O'Dell MD, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Omaha, NE

Prekash Pispati , MD, MSc, FICP, FACR, Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, India

Jane Salmon, MD, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY

Richard Sontheimer, MD, University of Utah Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, Cottonwood, UT

E. William St. Clair, MD, Duke University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Durham, NC

William Stohl, MD, PhD, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Division of Rheumatology, Los Angeles, CA

Robert Terkeltaub, MD, VA Medical Center, Department of Rheumatology, San Diego, CA

George Tsokos, MD, Harvard Medical School Beth Israel, Department of Medicine/Rheumatology, Boston, MA

Katherine Upchurch, MD, University of Massachusetts Medical Center , Worcester, MA

Anthony Woolf, MBBS, FRCP, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Rheumatology Department, Truro Cornwall, United Kingdom

Ed Yelin, PhD, University of California, Arthritis Research Group, San Francisco, CA

ACR Awards of Distinction

The ACR also recognizes leading researchers, clinicians, mentors, and other professionals exhibiting superior commitment to the advancement of the field of rheumatology with the Awards of Distinction honors. Winners of this year's awards are as follows:

Presidential Gold Medal:

Michael Weinblatt, MD, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA

The highest award that the ACR can bestow, the Presidential Gold Medal is awarded in recognition of outstanding achievements in rheumatology over an entire career. Established by the past presidents of the ACR, candidates will have made important contributions in multiple areas such as clinical medicine, research, education or administration. Funding support for this award of distinction is provided by the Rheumatology Research Foundation.

Distinguished Basic Investigator Award:

Robert Winchester, MD, Columbia University, Department of Medicine, New York, NY

The Distinguished Basic Investigator Award is awarded to a basic scientist making outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology.

Distinguished Clinician Scholar Award:

W. Winn Chatham, MD, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL

The Distinguished Clinician Scholar Award is awarded to a rheumatologist who has made outstanding contributions in clinical medicine, clinical scholarship or education.

Henry Kunkel Young Investigator Award:

Nunzio Bottini, MD, PhD, University of California San Diego, Department of Medicine/Rheumatology, La Jolla, CA

The Henry Kunkel Young Investigator Award is awarded to a young physician scientist, age 45 or younger, who has made outstanding and promising independent contributions to basic or clinical research in the field of rheumatology.

Distinguished Clinical Investigator Award:

Murray Urowitz, MD, FRCPC, The Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Distinguished Clinical Investigator Award is awarded to a clinical scientist making outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology. This award was known as the Clinical Research Award prior to 2006.

Paulding Phelps Award:

W. Patrick Knibbe, MD, St. Luke's Children's Rheumatology, Meridian, ID

The Paulding Phelps Award is awarded to a clinical rheumatologist for outstanding service to patients, community and the practice of medicine.

Distinguished Service Award:

Salahuddin Kazi, MD, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX

The Distinguished Service Award is awarded to an ACR member for outstanding and sustained service to the ACR.

Distinguished Fellowship Program Director Award:

Simon Helfgott, MD, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Boston, MA

The Distinguished Fellowship Program Director Award is awarded to a current or former rheumatology program director that has made outstanding contributions in the mentoring and training of future rheumatologists.

Excellence in Investigative Mentoring Award:

Elizabeth Karlson, MD, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA

The Excellence in Investigative Mentoring Award recognizes the importance of the mentor/mentee relationship. A dedicated mentor can significantly influence the successful development and career of a mentee. This award honors an active ACR or ARHP member for their contributions to the rheumatology profession through outstanding and ongoing mentoring. Funding support for this award of distinction is provided by the Rheumatology Research Foundation.

Distinguished Fellow Award

The Distinguished Fellow Award recognizes clinical and research fellows who are in a rheumatology fellowship training program and who have performed meritoriously.

The 2017 recipients of the Distinguished Fellow Award are:

Bryant England, MD, University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska-Western IA VA Health Care System, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Omaha, NE

Eric Gapud, MD, PhD, John Hopkins University, Division of Rheumatology, Baltimore, MD

Sabrina Gmuca, MD, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Division of Rheumatology and The Center for Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain, Philadelphia, PA

Lindsay Kelmenson, MD, University of Colorado, Division of Rheumatology, Aurora, CO

Julia Manasson, MD, New York University, New York, NY

Renuka Nayak, MD, PhD, University of California San Francisco, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, San Francisco, CA

Cory Perugino, Massachusetts General Hospital, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Boston, MA

Lin Shen, MD, PhD, University of California San Francisco, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, San Francisco, CA

Mehret Birru Talabi, MD, PhD, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

Patompomg Ungprasert, MD, MS, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN

For more information on each of these awards, and to view past recipients, please visit http://www.rheumatology.org/Get-Involved/Awards.

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About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org.
SAN DIEGO - Obese patients with axial spondyloarthropathy have worse disease outcomes, including higher disease activity, worse physical function and lower quality of life, according to new research findings presented this week at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Axial spondyloarthropathy (axSpa) is an inflammatory disease with low back pain as its main symptom. Spondyloarthritis (SpA) can also affect the arm and leg joints, and organs like the skin, eyes or intestines. Inflammation often affects the entheses, or the sites where ligaments and tendons attach to bones. People in their teens and 20s, especially young men, are most commonly affected.

Although obesity is a global health concern, there is little evidence about the effects of obesity on patients with axSpa. Researchers in Ireland conducted a study to determine the prevalence of obesity in a large cohort of patients with axSpa and to examine how obesity may be associated with certain disease outcomes.

"Obesity is one of the biggest public health challenges facing us in the 21st century. Traditionally, we have a perception of patients with axSpa being of normal or even thin body build. However, recent studies have indicated that this is not the case, and that obesity is prevalent in axSpa patients," said Gillian Fitzgerald, MD, Rheumatology Specialist Registrar at St. James's Hospital in Dublin, Ireland, and a lead author of the study. "The negative consequences of obesity in the general population are well documented, with affected patients suffering greater morbidity and mortality. Research to date in axSpa indicates that disease outcomes may be worse in obese patients. However, existing literature looking at obesity in axSpa is relatively sparse. We sought to clarify this issue."

To conduct the study, the researchers used a cohort from the Ankylosing Spondylitis Registry of Ireland (ASRI). Standardized clinical assessments are performed on each patient included in ASRI. Structured interviews provided patient-reported data, and the patient's weight was recorded in kilograms (kg) and their height in centimeters (cm). Their body-mass index (BMI) was categorized according to the World Health Organization criteria: normal weight as less than 25kg/m2, overweight as 25-29.9 kg/m2, and obese as 30 kg/m2.

As of June 2017, 683 axSpa patients have been enrolled in this study, 77 percent of whom are male. The mean age of the patients in the study is 45.9 years, and the mean disease duration for these patients is 19 years. BMI measured among the patient cohort shows that 1.1 percent are underweight, 31.6 percent are of normal weight, 38.9 percent are overweight and 28.4 percent are obese, or a total of 67.3 percent being overweight or obese.

Patients with axSpa who are overweight or obese are also significantly older, have had the disease for a longer time, and have more comorbidities, especially hypertension and hyperlipidemia, than those who are of normal weight, according to the study results. Obese axSpa patients also have significantly higher disease activity scores and worse physical function, spinal mobility and quality of life than patients who are either normal weight or overweight. Prevalence of smoking is lower among obese axSpa patients than normal weight patients.

The researchers determined that higher BMI and obesity are associated with higher BASDAI, ASQoL, BASMI and HAQ scores, which are widely used measures of disease activity, physical function and quality of life. Obesity is an independent predictor of higher disease activity and worse function among these patients, the study results show.

"As clinicians, we are always looking for ways to reduce the burden of disease that patients carry and to improve outcomes. In this study, we demonstrated that over two-thirds of our axSpa patients are either overweight or obese, and that these patients have more severe disease. Further research is needed to clarify this relationship between obesity and disease severity; in particular, the effect of losing weight on disease outcomes needs to be clarified. However, when devising treatment plans for axSpa patients, this study provides rheumatologists with a strong rationale to include strategies to actively control weight," Dr. Fitzgerald said.

About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org

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SAN DIEGO - Opioids and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a widely used group of antidepressants, are both associated with higher risk of osteoporotic fractures for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, according to new research findings presented this week at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease that causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and limitation in the motion and function of multiple joints. Though joints are the principal body parts affected by RA, inflammation can develop in other organs as well. An estimated 1.3 million Americans have RA, and the disease typically affects women twice as often as men.

Chronic inflammation and pain predispose RA patients to several comorbidities including cardiovascular, mental, and gastrointestinal disorders that lead to the frequent use of multiple medications. Some of these medications have been reported to influence fracture risk in the general population, but these associations had not been studied in RA patients. Researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha and the National Data Bank for Rheumatic Diseases in Wichita, Kansas, conducted a study to look at associations of various medications commonly used by RA patients with osteoporotic (OP) fracture risk.

"Even at younger ages, RA is associated with a twofold increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures due to chronic inflammation and glucocorticoid use. More importantly, osteoporotic fractures significantly contribute to the disability, health-related costs and mortality with substantially higher complication in RA patients than the general population," said Gulsen Ozen, MD, Research Fellow at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha and a lead author of the study. "Given the burden of osteoporotic fractures and the suboptimal osteoporosis care, it's highly important to identify factors associated with fracture risk, particularly modifiable ones, in RA patients."

In an observational cohort of RA patients located across the United States, the researchers studied associations between osteoporotic fracture risk and the following medications: disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), statins, antidepressants (including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and others), proton pump inhibitors (PPI), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticonvulsants and antipsychotics. DMARDs were categorized into four groups: methotrexate monotherapy (comparator group), TNF-inhibitors, non-TNF biologics and others, along with a separate glucocorticoid variable. All the other therapies were evaluated separately as either current use versus nonuse and also as short-term (30 days or less) or long-term (1-3 months and 3 months or more) use. The researchers also made adjustments in their analysis for socio-demographics, comorbidities, body-mass index, fracture risk according to FRAX scores and RA severity measures.

Patients from the National Data Bank for Rheumatic Diseases who were selected for the study were 40 years of age or older, and had not had a prior OP fracture from 2001-2016. They were assessed for osteoporotic fractures. The study evaluated 11,049 RA patients. During a median follow-up time of 5.7 years, the researchers found 863 osteoporotic fractures. Patients who developed fractures were significantly older and had higher disease activity, longer disease duration, higher rates of glucocorticoid use, higher fracture risk and more comorbidity at the baseline than those patients who did not experience fractures. Data in this ongoing study has been updated since the abstract was accepted.

The researchers also found significant increases in osteoporotic fracture risk when patients used SSRIs or opioids of any strength. Patients had an increase in their fracture risk starting after just one to 30 days of using opioids. Fracture risk associated with SSRI use started to rise after three months of taking these antidepressants, and the risk was more prominent with long-term use, the study showed. The increased fracture risk linked to use of opioids or SSRIs may be due to an increased risk of falls associated with these medications, the researchers concluded.

"Knowing the risks associated with the use of these medications can guide rheumatologists and other physicians in choosing the most appropriate management strategies in patients, particularly the ones who have a high fracture or fall risk," said Dr. Ozen. "Some medications have important health impacts, and it's impossible to avoid using them. In these situations, it is important that physicians are aware of the fracture risk to apply appropriate screening and preventive measures for osteoporotic fractures. Additionally, careful and regular reviewing of patient medications is an essential part of the RA patient care, as the use of medications that are not indicated anymore brings harm rather than a benefit."

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About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org.
SAN DIEGO - Obesity is independently associated with worse patient-reported outcomes in women with systemic lupus erythematosus, including disease activity, depressive symptoms, pain and fatigue, according to new research findings presented this week at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Lupus is a chronic (long-term) inflammatory autoimmune disease in which an unknown trigger causes the body's immune system to attack its own healthy tissues. The most common type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a complex, multiple symptom disease that can cause inflammation, pain and damage to various parts of the body. While anyone can develop lupus, it occurs 9-10 times more often in women than in men and is 2-3 times more common among women of color.

Obesity is a common comorbidity for people with SLE. While prior research shows that obesity can worsen systemic inflammation in the general population and contributes to worse disease-related outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis, its impact in lupus patients is not well established. A group of researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, conducted a study to determine whether excess adiposity, or too much body fat, in women with lupus is independently associated with worse patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

"We know from prior research that patients with lupus experience worse health-related quality of life and greater symptom burden compared to the general population, but we do not yet have a complete explanation for these worse experiences," said Sarah Patterson, MD, a fellow in rheumatology at the University of California, San Francisco. "For example, neither disease-specific factors such as disease activity nor sociodemographic factors such as poverty fully explain the observed severity of these symptoms. And because we are interested in understanding how lifestyle factors such as exercise and weight management impact outcomes in lupus, we sought to determine if excess fat associates with worse PROs in this disease."

Participants in the sample for the study were drawn from the Arthritis Body Composition and Disability (ABCD) Study. They had to be at least 18 years old, female and have a diagnosis of SLE verified by medical record review. The researchers calculated body-mass index (BMI) as weight (kg) divided by height (m2). In addition, they calculated fat mass index (FMI), a measure of total fat mass adjusted for height, from whole dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessments. They used two established definitions of obesity: FMI greater than or equal to 13 kg/m2 and BMI greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2.

The dependent variables in the study included four validated PROs: disease activity measured according to the Systemic Lupus Activity Questionnaire (SLAQ), depressive symptoms according to the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), pain using the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) Pain Subscale, and fatigue using the SF-36 Vitality Subscale. The researchers evaluated obesity's association with these outcomes while controlling for potential confounders: age, race, education, income, smoking, disease duration, disease damage, and use of glucocorticoid medications such as prednisone.

The patients in the study's sample of 148 patients were 65 percent white, 14 percent Asian and 13 percent African-American. Their mean age was 48. Of the lupus patients in the sample, 17 percent had a poverty-level income and 86 percent had education beyond high school. The mean disease duration in the sample was 16 years, and 45 percent of the patients had taken glucocorticoids.

When the researchers measured obesity among the lupus patients in the study, they found that 32 percent met the FMI definition of obesity and 30 percent met the BMI definition. Using a multivariate regression model, obesity as defined by FMI was associated with worse scores for each patient reported outcome: greater disease activity, higher levels of depressive symptoms, more pain and more fatigue. The researchers found the same relationship between obesity and these four outcomes after repeating the analyses using the BMI cut-off point for obesity.

The study's results show that obesity is independently associated with worse outcomes in women with SLE, including increased disease activity, depressive symptoms, pain and fatigue.

"Our findings have important clinical implications because the PROs we measured, particularly pain and fatigue, are known to have profound effects on quality of life and remain a major area of unmet need for people with lupus," said Dr. Patterson. "The relationship we observed between excess fat and worse outcomes underscores the need for lifestyle interventions targeting lupus patients who are overweight. More research is needed in this area, but it is possible that such interventions will reduce both cardiovascular risk and the severity of debilitating symptoms common in this disease. In the meantime, I hope this work sparks greater interest and motivation among rheumatologists to address weight management with their lupus patients."

This research was supported by funding from the NIH's National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.

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About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org.
SAN DIEGO - While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the sacroiliac joints positive for inflammation are not always specific in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), their prevalence in healthy individuals demonstrates the importance of additional diagnostic measures for axSpA, according to new research findings presented this week at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Axial spondyloarthropathy)(axSpA) is an inflammatory disease with low back pain as its main symptom. Spondyloarthritis (SpA) can also affect the arm and leg joints, and organs like the skin, eyes or intestines. Inflammation often affects the sites where ligaments and tendons attach to bones. People in their teens and 20s, especially young men, are most commonly affected.

Researchers in the Netherlands and other institutions around the European Union (EU) conducted a study to compare MRI scans of the sacroiliac joints of healthy individuals in comparison to those with both axSpA and back pain.

"Sacroiliac MRI has become an important aid in diagnosing SpA, since sacroiliac joint inflammation and damage are hallmarks of this disease. Unfortunately, physicians all too often pay too much attention to a positive MRI, and consider it a decisive feature in the diagnosis. We have learned that sacroiliac MRI can also be positive in unaffected, or healthy, individuals. This study was started in order to provide an estimate of positive sacroiliac MRI in the healthy population, so that we can better appreciate a positive MRI in the context of a patient presenting with symptoms of SpA," said Robert Landewe, MD, PhD, Professor of Rheumatology at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and a lead author of this study.

For the study, three trained, blinded readers randomly scored MRI scans of the sacroiliac joints in 172 people: 47 healthy individuals; 47 gender- and age-matched axSpA patients from the SPondyloArthritis Caught Early (SPACE) cohort with confirmed, positive MRI; 47 age- and gender-matched chronic back pain patients irrespective of MRI results; seven women with postpartum back pain lasting several months; and 24 frequent runners. Readers scored the MRI scans according to the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis (ASAS)/Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) and the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) definitions. The SPARCC scores were the mean results from all three readers.

The three readers agreed in 75.6-79.9 percent of the cases on the presence or absence of bone marrow edema (BME), and their SPARCC scores also correlated well. Of the healthy individuals, 11 out of 47 had a positive MRI, compared to 43 out of 47 of the axSpA patients and three out of 47 chronic back pain patients. In addition, three out of 24 frequent runners and four out of seven women with postpartum back pain had positive sacroiliac MRI results.

Mean SPARCC scores were 1.7 for the healthy individuals, 20.9 for the positive axSpA patients, 0.8 for the chronic back pain patients, 0.8 for the frequent runners and 4.5 for the women with postpartum back pain. When a SPARCC score of two or higher was used as a cut-off for positivity, 12 out of 47 healthy individuals, 46 out of 47 positive axSpA patients, five out of 47 chronic back pain patients, four out of 24 runners, and four out of seven women with post-partum back pain were declared positive. When a SPARCC score of five or greater was used, only four of 27 healthy individuals, 41 out of 47 positive axSpA patients, one out of 47 chronic back pain patients, no runners and two out of seven women with postpartum back pain were positive.

Deep BME lesions were not found in the healthy individuals, chronic back pain patients or frequent runners, but were found in 38 out of 47 positive axSpA patients and one out of the seven women with post-partum back pain, so these lesions seem to be exclusive of sacroiliitis in axSpA patients, the researchers concluded. A substantial number of healthy people have positive sacroiliac MRI results, according to these findings.

"This study provides an estimate of how frequently positive sacroiliac MRIs can be found in individuals without SpA, or specificity," said Dr. Landewe. "Rheumatologists now better realize that they cannot make a diagnosis of SpA solely based on a positive MRI."

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About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org
SAN DIEGO - A large percentage of patients with end-stage knee, hip and spine osteoarthritis use opioids to manage their chronic pain, especially those who are younger or have symptoms of depression, according to new research findings presented this week at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Osteoarthritis, or OA, is the most common joint disease affecting middle-aged and older people. It is characterized by progressive damage to the joint cartilage--the cushioning material at the end of long bones--and causes changes in the structures around the joint. OA commonly affects the knees, hips, spine, hands and other joints.

Use of prescription opioids for pain management is under scrutiny because of the potential risk of dependence, misuse and increased adverse events. A group of researchers in Canada conducted a study of 1,204 pre-surgical patients with knee, hip and spine OA to examine the rates of prescription opioid use, as well as any association between opioid use and various socio-demographic and health status characteristics.

"Growing evidence demonstrates little if any clinically significant benefit of opioids for OA pain, particularly when compared to other medications. There are growing concerns about the potential for misuse, dependency and increased adverse events, including opioid-related death. Limited published research in this area suggests that pre-operative opioid use may be associated with poorer clinical and patient-reported outcomes," said Y. Raja Rampersaud, MD, FRCS(C), a professor at the University of Toronto in the Divisions of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, and a lead author of the study. "Many pain management options for these patients are limited, ineffective, and/or risky. There really has been little progress in this area."

The study participants included 577 patients with knee OA, 459 patients with hip OA and 168 patients with spine OA. All were scheduled for surgery at a tertiary care hospital in Toronto. The study participants were of a mean age of 65.6 years and 55.5 percent were women.

Participants were given pre-surgery questionnaires to collect data on their opioid usage. They were asked if they used opioids for pain never, sometimes or daily. They were also asked if they used other medications for arthritis or joint pain, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants or neuroleptics, and over-the-counter medications.

In addition to opioid use, variables in the questionnaire included age, sex and education level, body-mass index score, comorbidities, depressive symptoms according to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and pain level measured on a 0-10 numeric scale for average pain experienced in the last week. The researchers used a multivariable logistic regression method to examine the associations between the patients' current reported opioid use with an outcome of sometimes/daily versus never and other variables.

The study's results showed that 15 percent of patients overall reported that they sometimes used opioids and an additional 15 percent reported daily use of these medications. Reported opioid use was highest among the spine OA patients at 40 percent and similar among knee and hip OA patients at 28 percent and 30 percent, respectively.

Women under the age of 65 reported the greatest overall opioid use, especially those with spine OA. The researchers also found that greater likelihood to use opioids was significantly associated with spine OA, younger age, obesity, the presence of fibromyalgia along with OA, greater depressive symptoms, greater pain and the current use of other prescription pain medications. The researchers concluded higher use of opioids among younger patients and those with greater depressive symptoms is especially concerning due to the possibility of opioid-related adverse effects.

"In both the U.S. and Canada, joint replacement and spine surgery for OA are the most common inpatient elective surgeries. Given the associated negative effects of opioids, we need to better understand the impact and means of mitigating adverse events associated with their use in end-stage OA, that is, the surgical population," said Dr. Rampersaud. "We found that those with the highest use also reported the highest levels of pain, suggesting that perhaps the opioids were not having their intended pain-reducing effect on all patients. Given the relative lack of efficacy, the simplest answer is to not start them on opioids to begin with, and if necessary, to do so for short durations at the lowest possible dose. Our findings demonstrated that pre-surgical opioid use is an independent predictor of a greater degree of pain at three months post-surgery. Once we have determined the impact on other outcomes such as perioperative adverse events, health care utilization and patient-reported outcomes, we aim to assess the efficacy of different pre-surgical pathways, including multimodality pain management strategies, that eliminate or reduce, in both dose and duration, opioid use in this population."

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About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org.
SAN DIEGO - Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy at low energy levels showed promise as a new treatment for digital ulcers in patients with systemic sclerosis, or scleroderma, according to new research findings presented this week at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting in San Diego.

Systemic sclerosis, also called scleroderma, is a serious and rare autoimmune disease that affects the skin and other organs. Severe complications may include kidney disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), lung inflammation or gastrointestinal problems.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients often have Raynaud's phenomenon as a complication, which can cause digital skin ulcers. Treatments like immunosuppressants, vasodilators or anticoagulants are often ineffective for digital ulcers and are associated with high costs and significant side effects. Low-energy, extracorporeal shock-wave therapy (ESWT) is effective at stimulating growth factors and the formation of new blood vessels, and healing these skin wounds, so a group of researchers in Japan conducted a study to test the effectiveness of this therapy.

"Digital ulcers are a severe complication of SSc caused by microvascular impairment and persistent vasospasm associated with Raynaud's phenomenon. Several studies have shown that approximately 50 percent of SSc patients experience digital ulcers. Ten percent require continuous therapy, and one percent exhibit severe symptoms such as gangrene," said Tomonori Ishii, MD, a researcher at Tohoku University Hospital in Sendai, Japan and a lead author of this study. "In some cases, digital ulcers cause severe scarring and lead to amputation. Although most of the small ulcers are localized to the fingertips, some large ulcers spread throughout the finger and lead to necrosis or progressive digital shortening. Even a small fingertip ulcer causes severe pain and restricts activities of daily living."

The study included 60 SSc patients with refractory digital ulcers who had no response to intravenous prostaglandin E1 therapy for at least four weeks. Thirty patients were treated with ESWT, while the other 30 patients were treated with currently available therapies. Patients in the ESWT group were allowed to continue their pre-study treatments as well. Patients were evaluated after eight weeks of therapy.

Results of the study showed a significant decrease in the number of ulcers in the ESWT group compared with the conventional treatment group (a mean of 4.47 versus 0.83, respectively) after eight weeks. In addition, 70 percent of the patients in the ESWT group experienced a decrease in the total number of their digital ulcers after eight weeks, compared to 26.7 percent of the patients in the conventional treatment group.

During the follow-up period, an average of 1.57 new ulcers formed in patients from the conventional treatment group, compared with 0.23 new ulcers for those treated with ESWT. The patients in the ESWT group reported no serious adverse events in association with the therapy during the eight-week study.

The researchers concluded treatment with ESWT is minimally invasive, well tolerated, does not require anesthesia and can result in clinically meaningful improvement for SSc patients with refractory digital ulcers.

"Low-energy ESWT may be a new approach to managing digital ulcers associated with SSc. ESWT has a strong and rapid effect for ulcer healing. It also has potential and unexpected benefits. First, ESWT may be effective in treating the pathology. It aims to stimulate neovascularization and is not intended to dilate damaged vessels," said Dr. Ishii. "It is a non-pharmacological treatment that may avoid the adverse effects that are inevitable with medication. It can be used in patients with severe disease, including renal, cardiac, and respiratory failure, as well as gastrointestinal tract disturbances. Moreover, its safety may enable treatment repetition with efficacy. In addition to treating ulcers, ESWT may help eliminate pain, which is the most severe and persistent complaint of these patients."

About the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting

The ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting is the premier meeting in rheumatology. With more than 450 sessions and thousands of abstracts, if offers a superior combination of basic science, clinical science, tech-med courses, career enhancement education and interactive discussions on improving patient care. For more information about the meeting, visit https://www.rheumatology.org/Annual-Meeting, or join the conversation on Twitter by following the official #ACR17 hashtag.

About the American College of Rheumatology

The American College of Rheumatology is an international medical society representing over 9,400 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals with a mission to empower rheumatology professionals to excel in their specialty. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatologists are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases. For more information, visit http://www.rheumatology.org
HUNTSVILLE, TX (11/2/17) -- Two faculty members from the Department of Security Studies were awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to study civilian response during Hurricane Harvey.

The study, "RAPID: Disaster Preparedness and Response within Communities Affected by Hurricanes," will examine civilian volunteers who participated during the hurricane in the greater Houston region and how homeland security officials can incorporate these responses into communicating and responding to future disasters. The study, funded by NSF's Science, Technology, and Society Program within the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences Directorate, will incorporate the personal experience of the faculty members, Natalie D. Baker and Magdalena Denham, who served as volunteers during the disaster, as well as interviews with residents, volunteers, and homeland security officials involved in the response.

"'Get a kit, make a plan, be informed:' This is the standard mantra grounding practice and research related to individual preparedness as an intended direct translation to disaster response," said Baker, an assistant professor. "Continuing to rely on this traditional conceptualization is problematic. Money and human lives/effort is wasted and study of the concept does not help us to anticipate or understand what happens to people--to communities--after hazard events."

During disasters, research has shown the public is generally predisposed to self-organization, and this reaction emerges naturally. This phenomenon has traditionally occurred over the last 100 years and was demonstrated in recent disasters, beginning with the terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001. However, general homeland security discourses and practices in academia, the media and public perceptions, treat the public as apathetic or even threatening, such as is expressed in the idea that looting is common during disasters.

The purpose of this research is to examine actual experiences in a disaster through a study of those who lived it, including the public who were affected and the institutions that managed the events. "We want to re-think how we conceptualize concepts like preparedness and response, because we believe associated practices marginalize people and put the burden of response on those who are most vulnerable," said Baker. "The point is to uncover why and how this happens."

The study will examine the concept of "swarming," which is a phenomenon that describes the emergent, collective action by civilians to assist others during disasters, such as the "Cajun Navy" or civilian boat rescues seen during Hurricane Harvey. This experience will be captured through personal involvement by the faculty in response and recovery efforts as well as in-depth interviews, observations, and field work with residents and volunteers in the impacted areas. The researchers also will conduct interviews and observations with homeland security officials, including police, fire, medical professionals, public health officials, and members of the military. Finally, the study will conduct focus groups of civilians and officials to help identify specific practices that inhibited response and recovery.

Baker, who began working at Sam Houston State University one day before the hurricane, volunteered in Spring on a flotilla of small boats trying to rescue residents stranded by high water. Her cousin also was caught in floodwaters in Dickinson and later discovered that his husband of 15 years had perished in their Houston home after water was released from the Addicks Reservoir.

"My past research concerns concepts related to issues pertaining to disaster response and preparedness; thus, I thought I knew what to expect," said Baker. "However, experiencing disaster first-hand is very different from theory."

Having experienced assisting with public management of several disasters, including Hurricanes Ike and Rita in the Houston area, Denham volunteered in her community of River Plantation after the area flooded following Hurricane Harvey. She witnessed firsthand multiple problems in the formal response system, including the lack of volunteer reception centers, the ineffective use of spontaneous volunteers, and communication challenges experienced by established response partners and non-governmental organizations.

Denham also realized the powerful vitality of emergence. "I became part of this ephemeral 'swarm' of activity and in the days that followed witnessed unspeakable unity of effort without checklists, schedules, plans, task assignment or credentials," said Denham.

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Sunday, November 5, 2017

Many make the mistake of defining an empire by its legal structure or the formal way it projects its power overseas. That is too narrow a definition. Who is considered a citizen and what lands are possessed by the empire often are the basis of traditional empire definition. A better modern definition of empire would look at the flows into and out of a country to better define the scope of empire. Those who recognize America as an empire often begin with the 700 or 800 foreign military bases the United States has worldwide. Those who would call America an empire would often refer to this as Imperial Overstretch and consider this a main cause of the decline of empires generally speaking. I myself find the large standing military and overseas political entanglements a better definition of an empire society. Because the military budget itself defines and measures so much of the rate of economic decline and the rise of various forms of social decay and political control, that is the single best measure of empire as I see it. Control of large areas of land outside of the original nation state is just not the way Americans like to do business or see themselves; they like to think they are a democracy, not an empire. But post World War II America not only adopted a large standing army, it also projected its democratic image in a variety of world institutions like the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. However, the mixture of America's elites (often Ivy League) among the areas of dominance in business, politics, law, media, and the intelligence agencies has created a ruling class. This ruling class has over time become ingrown and stifles social mobility among the various income groups. There are still success stories among the land grant college graduates and the military, but America is now more of a class based society than Europe; just the opposite of the situation around World War II, the hegemonic war that lead to US world dominance and empire.

How Did We Get This Way?

The start of the modern American empire was in 1944, when the Democratic Party Convention failed to keep the liberal Wallace as Vice President. He earned 63% of the vote, but the rules required a two thirds vote. Early the next morning, moderate Truman was voted in. Truman was determined to oppose the Soviets and use the atomic bomb, taking the Churchill side of the debate and setting up the rise of the Cold War confrontation. Then in 1947 the national security act was passed creating the CIA and the Nazi spy network in Russia was absorbed into the CIA. All this was opposed by the Secretary of War and the Joint Chiefs of Staff who wanted a traditional small army between wars rather than the large standing army of the Cold War. So Truman raised the military to 5% of the economy rather than the traditional 1% between wars that went back to the 19th Century. After Korea, Eisenhower then doubled that rate to 10% of the economy keeping the Eisenhower economy under a 2.5% annual growth rate. Oddly, in both 1953 and 1961 Eisenhower warned us about the military industrial complex even as he was their agent. Under Kennedy through Carter, except for the Vietnam War, the military was brought back down to the Truman pre-Korea levels of 5% of the economy. Then Reagan reversed course raising the military to 6.5% of the economy, supported by a tax cut deficit twice the rise in military spending to keep the economy from collapsing. Kennedy brought military spending down to 7.7% of the economy by 1965 that together with the Kennedy targeted tax cut investment tax credit created the sixties boom. The four years after 1965 had a 5.6% growth rate, the next four years 4.0% and the next four years 3.6% as the Vietnam War dragged down the economy under Johnson and Nixon through 1973. The next sixteen years of four presidential terms averaged about 2.5% growth in each term as the post-Vietnam oil crisis recession, the Carter 1978 tax, and Reagan military buildup weighed down the economy into mediocracy. The Bush senior term suffered from the 1990 tax increase and the post-Cold War and post-Gulf War recessions that elected Clinton in 1992. Then the drop from 6.5% military to 3.0% from 1965 to 1999 returned the economy to sixties like high growth rates under Clinton. Bush junior then ruined the surplus and the economy with a Reagan like military buildup to 5.0% of the economy with a too small tax cut. A suddenly surging military buildup, in fiscal 2008, doubled the increase of the military compared to years before and since, lead to the financial collapse of 2008-2009. Deregulation of derivatives in 1999 lead to a ten-fold increase in derivatives that set the table for the financial collapse, but a quarter by quarter economy analysis shows the four quarters of the fiscal year 2008 were the worst economic quarter results in that period of several years either side of 2008. So the Iraq War surge, that actually began in July 2008, lead directly to the economic collapse, combined with the bank deregulation and lack of SEC oversight to make matters worse. The economic recovery under Obama was slow as he tripled troops in Afghanistan, keeping Bush levels of military spending, but picked up in his second term as the military budget finally went down. This link gives you a better detailed historical account of the American presidencies and supporting data: https://www.academia.edu/4044532/HISTORY_Presidents_Military_Economy_1910-2009_3p._2013

What Are Some Effects of Empire Levels of Military Spending?

As Toynbee (1972) noticed, 23 of 25 civilizations studied collapsed due to high levels of military spending. Control of the military budget is two way street, corrupting the political system while giving power to those who dole out the money. The social decay of empire is a result of the economic lost energy represented by the dead end purpose of military spending. Not meeting people's needs as they multiply under a stagnant empire political economy structure leads to poor health, lack of social mobility, and high anxiety and crime. Just as Rome's Nero fiddled while Rome burned, Bush fiddled while New Orleans was drowned by hurricane Katrina. Just as Rome once had a crazy emperor for four years named Caligula for his small boots. America now has a crazy president noted for his small hands. Empires tend to emphasize power and control in their social structure, while healthier societies emphasize achievement. Here are a wide variety of qualitative aspects of an empire society:

https://www.academia.edu/11421799/MILITARISM_CONTROL_Empire_Social_Decay_WWW_97_6p

Please cite this work as follows:

Reuschlein, Robert. (2017, November 5), "Why Is the USA an Empire?" Madison, WI: Real Economy Institute. Retrieved from: https://www.expertclick.com/NewsRelease/Why-Is-the-USA-an-Empire?,2017130884.aspx

Dr. Peace, Professor Robert Reuschlein, Real Economy Institute

Nominated Vetted 2016, and one of 76 Given Odds, tied for 31st for the Nobel Peace Prize 2017



Contact: bobreuschlein@gmail.com, Info: www.realeconomy.com
COLUMBUS  Live out in the country and want to burn your leaves this fall? Better not.

Ohio law prohibits outdoor debris burning from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. through the end of November.

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, burning is limited in the fall due to the abundance of dry fuel on the ground in the form of grasses, crops and crop debris, weeds and fallen leaves. Winds can make a seemingly safe fire burn more intensely and escape control.

If a fire does escape control, immediately contact the local fire department  an escaped wildfire, even one burning in grass or weeds, is dangerous.

Violators of Ohios burning regulations are subject to citations and fines.

Residents should also check the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency regulations and consult with local fire officials about burning conditions.

If you burn. The ODNR Division of Forestry offers these tips for burning debris outdoors:

Consider using a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator.

Know current and future weather conditions, have tools on hand and never leave a debris burn unattended.

Be informed about state and local burning regulations. Consult the local fire department for additional information and safety considerations.
URBANA, Ill.  Farmers have been battling herbicide-resistant weeds for generations. A common practice for most of that time has been to rotate between different herbicides every season.

But despite farmers best efforts, herbicide resistance has grown through the years, with some weed populations showing resistance to not one but four or five different herbicides.

Doesnt work

A new study from the University of Illinois explains why herbicide rotation doesnt work.

If you were to ask farmers what is the one thing you can do to delay resistance evolution, theyll say rotate herbicides. This study shows thats not true, said Pat Tranel, crop scientist at the University of Illinois.

Survival of resistance

Herbicide resistance results from random genetic mutations that keep weeds from being harmed by a particular herbicide. When farmers continually spray the same herbicide year after year, those with the mutation, referred to as a resistance allele, survive and reproduce.

Over time, the proportion of plants with the resistance allele grows.

Conventional thinking said that any defense trait  in this case, herbicide resistance  should come at a cost to the plant. It might be well protected against the herbicide, but it might not grow as tall, or flower as early.

When the trait reduces a plants reproductive output, thats known as a fitness cost. A fitness cost to herbicide resistance should be apparent in years when alternative herbicides are used.

If plants have glyphosate resistance, but theyre sprayed with 2,4-D, for example, the majority of those plants will die because theyre not resistant to 2,4-D. But no herbicide kills 100 percent of the weeds, resistant or not, Tranel said.

You have to think about the small percentage that live.

Once you have resistance, youre stuck with it.

If theres a high fitness cost to the glyphosate resistance allele, most of the surviving plants will be small or will flower late and they wont produce many seeds, he added.

But if the fitness cost is low, those plants will produce just as many seeds as plants that dont have the allele. Herbicide rotation relies on the assumption that the fitness cost is high.

About their study

To test that assumption, Tranel and his research team designed a simple, though time-consuming, experiment. They took female waterhemp plants with no resistance alleles and allowed them to be pollinated by males with resistances to five different herbicides.

Because female waterhemp plants can produce as many as a million seeds, it was easy to get the 45,000 they needed to start the experimental population. They scattered seeds on the soil floor of a greenhouse and just let them grow.

When females started producing seeds, they were collected to start the next generation. Between generations, the researchers removed all the plants and made sure no seeds remained in the soil.

The cycle was repeated for six generations over three years.

How could the study test the efficacy of herbicide rotation if no herbicides were sprayed? It comes back to fitness cost.

Remember, the assumption is that without the herbicide, the resistance allele offers the plant no benefit, and could carry a cost. The researchers were allowing those fitness costs a chance to play out during the study.

Tiny decrease

If the resistance alleles had a high fitness cost, we should have seen them decrease in frequency or disappear over the six generations, Tranel said.

Instead, the alleles for almost all five resistance types were essentially unchanged. The allele that confers resistance to ALS-inhibiting herbicides was statistically lower after six generations, but the decrease was tiny in terms of real numbers.

The frequency decreased by less than 10 percent a year, Tranel said. At the rate it was decreasing, even if a farmer used an alternative herbicide for nine years, the frequency of resistance to ALS inhibitors would only be cut in half.

Gene doesnt go away

Waterhemp has two known strategies to ward off glyphosate-based herbicides, such as Roundup, and the researchers tested the frequency of both.

Plants with one type of glyphosate-resistance mechanism make multiple copies of the target site for glyphosate, a gene called EPSPS. And thats what we found went away; the proportion of plants with multiple copies of EPSPS decreased about 15 percent with each generation, Tranel said.

But, he emphasized, even though it decreased quite a bit, it didnt disappear by any stretch.

If you applied glyphosate, that resistance mechanism would come back even if you waited six years between applications.

Gene mutation

The other glyphosate-resistance mechanism involves the same gene. This time, its a specific mutation in the EPSPS gene that guards the plant against the effects of glyphosate. The researchers found that the mutation in EPSPS actually increased about 10 percent in each generation.

Tranel thinks it may have been easier for one mechanism to replace the other because they both involve the same gene.

This study tells us that fitness cost isnt going to help you much in terms of herbicide resistance, so even long rotations arent going to work, Tranel said.

I tell farmers, Once you have resistance, youre stuck with it. It gives us that much more incentive to do the right things to avoid resistance in the first place.

He recommends using multiple herbicides, using a pre-emergent herbicide and coming back with a post-emergent. And if you have escapees, get out of your tractor and pull them before they set seed.

Because if they set resistant seed, this study tells you that you will have that resistance trait for life.
'Food is rotting in the fields and still we see no action', according to the deputy president of the NFU.

Minette Batters has demanded urgent action on seasonal labour decline, as she spoke at the NFU Norfolk AGM at Easton and Otley College.

The NFUs labour providers survey reveals that there was a 29% shortfall in seasonal workers for horticulture businesses in September, raising the average shortfall for the year to 11%.

The survey also shows that the number of returning workers to farms, a critical source of the workforce, fell to 16%, its lowest level all year. The returnee rate had been as high as 65% in January.

The NFU has thus underlined the need for the re-introduction of a Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme to combat the labour shortfall, something Prime Minister Theresa May has pondered over.

We knew five years ago that we would be facing a shortfall, but then we had Brexit and that massively exacerbates everything, said Mrs Batters at the AGM.

Are we seeing fruit and vegetables rotting in the fields? Yes we are. Fruit and veg is rotting in the fields and still we see no action. We absolutely need a commitment to SAWS by 2018. We are making a compelling case, but we need the government to act.

A previous seasonal agricultural workers scheme was scrapped by Theresa May when she was home secretary, after Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU.

The CLA, a rural organisation which represents around farmers, said that reducing access to migrant labour for farming, horticulture and tourism jobs will have "devastating consequences" for the rural economy.
A joint letter from the UK farming unions on the re-authorisation of glyphosate has been sent ahead of the expected meeting on 9 November on the decision of the popular herbicide's future.

The meeting by the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SCoPAFF) at the European Commission follows an initial round of votes by Member States that commenced on October 25, which failed to come to a conclusion.

The Commission said in a statement that it had now submitted to EU countries its proposal for a five-year approval.

UK farming unions have now penned a joint letter advocating for glyphosate's re-licence.

It was sent to the President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, the Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner, Phil Hogan, and the Health and Safety Commissioner, Vytenis Andriukaitis.

An excerpt from the letter says: "Across the UK, farmers are following the ongoing debate on the re-approval of glyphosate with mounting concern.

"The UK farming unions firmly believe that the EUs science-based decision making process should be upheld and glyphosate reauthorised for the maximum period possible.

"Both the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) have concluded that glyphosate cannot be considered carcinogenic and therefore there should be no safety concerns related to its reauthorisation for the maximum period of 15 years.

"The UK Farming Unions ask you to stand by your own science and regulatory procedure, and reauthorise glyphosate for the maximum period possible and not allow the issue to be politicised any longer. Not delivering would jeopardise confidence in the whole EU food safety system and in particular in EFSAs role."

'Damages credibility'

The NFU said it was also "disappointed" that no agreement had been reached over the reauthorisation.

Guy Smith, NFU Vice President, said: The overwhelming weight of science and evidence shows that glyphosate is perfectly safe when used correctly.

This has been the conclusion reached by regulatory bodies around the world, including the EUs two leading regulatory bodies  the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

The continued politicisation of this decision damages the credibility of the EUs regulatory bodies and undermines the regulatory process. It also has huge implications for farming in the UK and across Europe.

Glyphosate reduces the need to use other herbicides, it helps to protect soil and cut greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the need for ploughing, and it enables farmers in this country to grow crops that help produce safe, affordable, high quality British food.

There is no reason why glyphosate should not be reauthorised for 15 years, never mind the ten years the Commission had proposed. We would urge members states to look at the science and base their decision on the evidence  which shows there is no reason not to reauthorise glyphosate.

Major agricultural countries across the world are reportedly becoming worried at the prospect of an EU ban on the popular herbicide glyphosate.

If glyphosate ends up being banned in the EU, countries around the world that produce food with it may find their exports restricted.
General Electric (GE 1.53%) investors breathed a sigh of relief when new CEO John Flannery opted not to cut the company's dividend -- at least for now. He did say, however, that the decision might change after a pending insurance review.

Certainly, there are other reasons to like GE besides its current 4.7% dividend yield. But if that yield is what you're after, here are three stocks to consider that are sporting even better yields than General Electric, and that aren't publicly mulling a dividend cut: Royal Dutch Shell (RDS.A) (RDS.B), Ford (F 1.71%), and Magellan Midstream Partners (MMP -2.05%).

Royal Dutch Shell (Current Yield: 5.9%)

Not only is the Dutch oil behemoth's yield higher than GE's, but it's also one of the best yields in the entire oil and gas sector. Better yet, Shell has been taking steps to ensure that it's going to be able to continue to offer its dividend for years to come by making changes to its business model.

Shell bought BG Group in 2016 in a $52 billion deal, which gave the company a major offshore footprint in Brazil and also increased its exposure to liquefied natural gas. The company sees LNG as a fast-growing market and jumped at the chance for more exposure. It has also made changes to its operations to focus on generating better returns.

Better yet, the dividend appears to be sustainable. When reporting on the company's Q2 performance, CEO Ben van Beurden announced that Shell had been able to generate $38 billion in cash flow over the prior 12 months, with an average oil price of less than $50 a barrel. That was more than enough cash to cover the company's cash dividends for each quarter during that time. The company was even able to reduce net debt by nearly $9 billion.

That puts Shell's dividend in a much better position than GE's.

Ford (Current Yield: 5%)

Like GE, Ford's stock has been slumping lately, down about 13% over the past three years. This year, though, hasn't been as bad for the company's shares, which are down only about 0.3%, compared with General Electric's 35.6% drop.

Yet the company posted record profit in 2015 on a pre-tax basis. In 2016, profit was nearly as high. So while GE's stock slide seems at least somewhat justified, Ford's seems absolutely mystifying. It's likely that investors are nervous about new disruptive technologies -- think self-driving or all-electric vehicles -- or are concerned that the notoriously cyclical auto market is starting on a downward trend.

Still, even if a downtrend occurs, Ford should have no trouble sustaining its dividend, which at this point is more than we can say about GE.

Magellan Midstream Partners (Current Yield: 5.1%)

Gas pipeline operator Magellan Midstream Partners has been able to grow its dividend -- and grow it, and grow it, and grow it. In fact, the company has grown its dividend by 86.6% over the past five years. Much of that growth occurred during the current energy price downturn, all while being in what's generally considered a sleepy part of the oil and gas industry.

The "midstream" sector of the energy industry focuses on transportation and storage. Magellan owns and operates a network of pipelines and uses a "tollbooth" model, charging oil and gas companies to ship their products through its pipelines. In fact, Magellan owns the longest refined-products pipeline system in the United States. That means its business is pretty stable, and largely immune from energy price fluctuations. But how does it manage to pay such a big dividend?

Magellan is classified as a master limited partnership, which basically means it's a limited partnership traded on an exchange. Investors are technically partners in the company and are sometimes referred to as "unitholders," as opposed to stockholders. MLPs don't pay corporate taxes, which gives them more money to spin off to their partners in the form of big dividends. The drawback is that each partner -- you, the investor -- is then responsible for paying your share of the partnership's income tax. That can get tricky come tax time, even if your units are being held in a tax-advantaged account.

But it also means Magellan is unlikely to cut its dividend anytime soon, if at all. And again, that's something you can't say about GE.

Investor takeaway

Although Shell, Ford, and Magellan have better dividend yields than GE, it's important to remember that yield isn't the only thing to look at when choosing a dividend stock. Stability of the dividend, potential for dividend growth, and overall company health are things to take into consideration. These three companies happen to deliver on those counts.

This also isn't to say that GE is a bad investment. While it's performed poorly in 2017, the company still has several things going for it beyond its current high dividend yield. That said, if dividends are what you're after, General Electric's may not be at this level for long.
Les blattes ou cafards (Blatta orientalis) sont des insectes qui appartiennent a la famille des Blattoptera. Ils se caracterisent par leur forme allongee, leurs ailes []
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Nov. 4, 2017  U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting six strikes consisting of 15 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.

Officials reported details of yesterday's strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.

Strikes in Syria

In Syria, coalition military forces conducted four strikes consisting of eight engagements against ISIS targets:

-- Near Abu Kamal, a strike engaged an ISIS tactical unit destroyed an ISIS tactical vehicle.

-- Near Dayr Az Zawr, three strikes engaged three ISIS tactical units and destroyed an ISIS transport vehicle, an indirect fire weapon, a crew-served machine gun, and two defensive fighting positions.

Strikes in Iraq

In Iraq, coalition military forces conducted two strikes consisting of seven engagements against ISIS targets:

-- Near Al Qaim, two strikes engaged three ISIS tactical units and destroyed an ISIS tactical vehicle.

Nov. 2 Strikes

Officials also provided details today on Nov. 2 strikes for which the information was not previously available:

-- Near Abu Kamal on Nov. 2, a strike engaged an ISIS tactical unit and destroyed three roadside bombs, one road block, and damaged nine ISIS supply routes.

Part of Operation Inherent Resolve

These strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to destroy ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The destruction of ISIS targets in Iraq and Syria also further limits the group's ability to project terror and conduct external operations throughout the region and the rest of the world, task force officials said.

The list above contains all strikes conducted by fighter, attack, bomber, rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft; rocket-propelled artillery; and some ground-based tactical artillery when fired on planned targets, officials noted.

Ground-based artillery fired in counterfire or in fire support to maneuver roles is not classified as a strike, they added. A strike, as defined by the coalition, refers to one or more kinetic engagements that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single or cumulative effect.

For example, task force officials explained, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone ISIS vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against a group of ISIS-held buildings and weapon systems in a compound, having the cumulative effect of making that facility harder or impossible to use. Strike assessments are based on initial reports and may be refined, officials said.

The task force does not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target.

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Iran: Hariri's resignation aims to create tension in Lebanon, region

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Nov 4, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said on Saturday that the surprise resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is aimed at creating tension in Lebanon and the entire region.

Qasemi's comments came in a statement issued few hours after Hariri announced his resignation from power in Saudi Arabia with anti-Iran claims in his resignation statement.

'We believe the resistant people of Lebanon will pass behind this stage,' he added.

Qasemi rejected Hariri's claims against Iran as a repetition of false and unfounded anti-Iran accusations by the Zionist regime, the Saudis and the Americans.

'The sudden resignation of Mr. Hariri and its announcement in another country is not only a source of pity and wonder, but also indicates he is playing in a ground where the ill-wishers of the region have designed,' the spokesman said, adding, 'The winner of this ground is not the Arab and Muslim countries, but the Zionist regime that have defined its existence in tension among the Muslim countries across the region.'

'As we near the end of Daesh and the domination of terrorist groups in some regional countries, efforts are needed to calm the atmosphere so as to repair the losses by terrorists backed by the US and its regional allies and reconstruct the countries damaged during the years of war and devastation.'

Iran has always been seeking to maintain peace and stability in the regional countries and has defined its interests in security, stability and economic prosperity of all neighboring and regional countries, Qasemi said, adding that confronting insecurity, instability and extremist and terrorist groups tops Iran's regional foreign policy priorities.

Referring to exemplary relations between Iran and Lebanon, the official said that in his recent remarks, the Lebanese president rejected all accusations about Iran's interference in Lebanon.

9341**2050

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Saudi-led coalition says Yemen market legitimate target after deadly strike

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 06:45PM

The Saudi-led coalition claims its recent bloody airstrike on a market in Yemen's northern province of Sa'ada that killed at least 26 people was carried out on a "legitimate" military target.

After reviewing the Wednesday attack on a hotel and an adjoining market in Sahar district, the coalition issued a statement on Saturday, claiming the target was the gathering point for some Houthi fighters.

Saudi-led airstrikes continue to claim more civilian lives across Yemen.

Three Yemenis were killed and one was injured during two Saudi airstrikes on al-Mukha district in the southwestern province of Ta'izz on Saturday.

In another airstrike on a residential area in al-Dhahir district in the northwestern province of Sa'ada, one woman was killed and another was wounded.

The Saudi warplanes also launched several airstrikes on Hayfan district in Ta'izz province and on Qabbaytah district in the southwestern province of Lahij.

Yemeni ballistic attack on airport near Riyadh

In a separate development on Saturday, Yemeni sources said the country's army had hit King Khalid International Airport near Riyadh with a ballistic missile.

Reports said Saudi firefighters rushed to the scene to extinguish the fire at the airport.

Saudi sources said the army had intercepted the Yemeni ballistic missile.

Meanwhile, the Yemeni army and popular forces targeted military positions inside Saudi Arabia.

According to Yemen's al-Masirah television network, Yemeni snipers killed two Saudi soldiers in separate Saudi bases in the southwestern regions of Jizan and Najran.

The Yemeni forces also launched mortar attacks against three other Saudi bases in Jizan.

Meanwhile, Yemeni forces killed and injured several Saudi-led mercenaries in Ma'rib and Ta'izz provinces.

Saudi Arabia and a coalition of its allies have been incessantly pounding Yemen since March 2015, in an attempt to crush the popular Houthi Ansarullah movement and reinstate former president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, a staunch ally of the Riyadh regime.

Local Yemeni sources have put the death toll from Saudi airstrikes at over 14,000 people.

Last month, the United Nations blacklisted the coalition for infanticide during its war on Yemen.

The annual blacklist, released by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on October 5, said the actions of the Riyadh-led alliance in Yemen "objectively led to that party being listed for the killing and maiming of children."

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Hariri resignation, US-Saudi-Zionist plot to heighten Mideast tensions: Iran

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 03:36PM

Iran has vehemently rejected remarks by Saad Hariri, who has stepped down as Lebanon's Prime Minister, saying his resignation and rehashing of the "unfounded and baseless" allegations regularly leveled by the Zionists, Saudis and the US are another scenario to create new tensions in Lebanon and elsewhere in the Middle East.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi made the remarks on Saturday, a few hours after the announcement of Hariri's resignation in Saudi Arabia, in which he made allegations against Iran and Lebanon's Resistance Movement Hezbollah.

"The sudden resignation of Mr. Hariri and its announcement in another country are not only regrettable and astonishing, but also indicative of him playing in a court that the ill-wishers in the region have laid out," he said.

"The winners in this field are not Arab and Muslim countries but the Zionist regime (Israel) which has defined its existence in tensions 'in' and 'among' the Muslim countries in the region," the Iranian spokesperson added.

At a time when Daesh Takfiris and other terrorist groups are approaching their demise in regional states, it is necessary to promote calm in order to make up for the losses inflicted by terrorists backed by the US and its regional allies and reconstruct war-ravaged countries, he pointed out.

He said Iran believes that the resilient Lebanese people would thwart plots aimed at creating new tensions in their country and would "easily see this phase through as well."

"The Islamic Republic of Iran always seeks the safeguarding of peace and stability in regional states and has defined its interests in the security, stability and economic prosperity of all regional and neighboring countries," Qassemi added.

This is the reason why Tehran in its regional policies attaches special significance to the fight against insecurity, instability and extremist and terrorist groups with the purpose of promoting peace in all countries, he emphasized.

The Iranian spokesperson pointed to excellent ties between Tehran and Beirut and said the Islamic Republic has always respected Lebanon's independence, stability and peace and announced its readiness to cooperate with the Lebanese government in all issues of common interest.

In a speech broadcast from Saudi Arabia on Saturday, Hariri announced his resignation, citing many reasons, including the security situation in Lebanon, for his sudden decision. Hariri announced his resignation following visits to Saudi Arabia.

He said that he sensed a plot being hatched against his life. Hariri also accused Iran and Hezbollah of meddling in the affairs of the Arab countries.

This comes as Lebanese President Michel Aoun on October 31 stressed Iran's significant role in the Middle East, saying the Islamic Republic is a regional power and part of the solution to the region's woes.

"Iran is present and has its influence in the Middle East and it must be taken into account," he said.

The president also stressed that Iran has "no ambitions in Lebanon."

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Lebanese PM Hariri resigns after trips to Saudi Arabia

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 11:10AM

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri has announced his resignation in a speech broadcast from Saudi Arabia.

Hariri announced his resignation in a televised statement on Saturday, citing many reasons, including the security situation in Lebanon, for his sudden decision.

He also said that he sensed a plot being hatched against his life.

Hariri accused Iran and the Lebanese Resistance Movement Hezbollah of meddling in Arab countries' affairs; an allegation the two have repeatedly denied.

Hariri announced his resignation following visits to Saudi Arabia.

The resignation also comes less than a month after he announced plans to join a coalition government with Lebanese Resistance Movement Hezbollah.

He became prime minister in 2016 after serving another term between November 2009 and June 2011.

Saad Hariri is the son of former Lebanese prime minister Rafiq Hariri, who was assassinated in 2005. Hariri has also been the leader of the Future Movement party since 2005.

Reactions over Hariri resignation

Lebanese President Michel Aoun's office said in a statement that he had been informed of the resignation by phone "from outside Lebanon" and that Aoun awaited Hariri's return to hear the "circumstances of the resignation."

Walid Jumblatt, the leader of Lebanon's Progressive Socialist Party (PSP), said Hariri's resignation could adversely affect the country already under huge strain.

"I am concerned about the economy, of course, and I am concerned about politics," he said, adding, "Lebanon has enough problems. It is too weak for such a resignation, because it will have a tremendous negative impact."

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri decided to cut short his visit to Egypt and to return to Lebanon following Hariri's resignation.

In a tweet, Minister of Justice Salim Jreissati said Hariri's resignation was "suspicious in its timing, place, mean and content."

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Tensions escalating in South Sudan's capital

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 10:51AM

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has ordered troops to surround the house of the country's former military chief of staff, Paul Malong, amid rising political tensions the country's capital city.

Media reports said tensions were high in Juba after President Kiir sent troops to Malong's home to disarm his bodyguards and remove all weapons.

Malong's wife, Lucy Ayak Malek, said Malong's bodyguards had refused to hand over their arms and the situation had escalated, with hundreds of soldiers deployed.

Kiir has ordered the troops to exert "reasonable force" if they met any resistance.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Malong, who had been one of Kiir's closest allies but was fired in May after being accused of commanding military operations in Juba that left hundreds of people dead last year.

Army spokesman Col. Santo Domic Chol said whatever events were taking place now in the capital were "political."

Meanwhile, the United Nations (UN) issued an emergency notification advising UN staff to remain vigilant.

South Sudan has been gripped by conflict since his main deputy and current opposition leader Riek Machar defected in December 2013 over allegations of plotting a coup.

Tens of thousands have been killed and millions displaced in the conflict. Machar was forced into exile in South Africa but forces loyal to him still operate in Pagak and other regions of the world's youngest country.

The war spread across South Sudan with the collapse of a peace agreement in 2015, leaving many in poverty and despair.

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US ups Somalia military campaign, targets 'Daesh'

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 10:26AM

The US has carried out its first air strikes against purported Daesh positions in Somalia as Washington moves to step up its military campaign in the militancy-riddled state and the entire African continent.

The US military said on Friday that "several terrorists" were killed in two air strikes in Somalia's northern state of Puntland

The Pentagon's Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the first strike was carried out at midnight local time (2100 GMT, Thursday) and another one at 11 a.m. local time (0800 GMT, Friday).

"US forces will continue to use all authorized and appropriate measures to protect Americans and to disable terrorist threats," the statement said, adding that the drone attacks had been coordinated with the Somali government.

Daesh, which first showed face in Somalia in 2015, is engaged in rivalry with al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab militants involved in a separate terror campaign in the country.

The latest US drone raids came after the White House granted the US military broader authority to carry out military strikes against what are said to be militant positions in Somalia.

The Pentagon's Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) has been carrying out air strikes and ground raids in Somalia for a decade. It has been conducting clandestine operations against al-Qaeda in East Africa, and its local ally al- Shabab as part of its so-called 'war on terror,' which began in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, according to investigative sources.

JSOC forces are regularly deployed on the ground for surveillance, reconnaissance, and assault and capture operations.

The US air attacks began in 2007 with helicopters and AC-130 gunships. In June 2011, American forces began using drones to carry out strikes in Somalia against purported militant positions, in a mission which has so far failed to uproot militancy in the country.

US drones are quite notorious across the world for inflicting casualties on civilians in areas they operate against suspected enemies. Such attacks in Somalia increased after Trump allowed expanded military operations against al-Shabab, including more aggressive airstrikes in Somalia. That has sparked an increase in counterattacks by al-Shabab on civilians and security forces.

US troops in Africa

There are currently over 6,000 US troops stationed in Africa.

The US has previously confirmed fatalities among its military on the continent, when four US service members were killed in Niger in early October, attacked by a Daesh-affiliated militant group.

In mid-October, nearly 360 people were killed and over 200 injured in twin bombings in the Somali capital, Mogadishu.

The attack reportedly came in retaliation for a joint raid by the government and US forces on a terrorist stronghold.

The attack was the deadliest extremists' terrorist attack in Somali history.

In late October, the chair of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Joseph Dunford, claimed that Daesh group "has aspirations to establish a larger presence" in Africa after being pushed out of Syria and Iraq.

He said Pentagon planned to advise US President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on the increased "allocation of forces" in Africa, citing Daesh threats.

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Kyrgyz Prosecutors Open Criminal Case Against Presidential Runner-Up

RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service November 04, 2017

Kyrgyz authorities say they have opened a criminal case against the runner-up in last month's presidential election, accusing him of hate speech and publicly calling for the overthrow of the government.

The Kyrgyz Prosecutor-General's Office announced the case against Omurbek Babanov in a statement on November 4, just weeks after he finished second to former Prime Minister Sooronbai Jeenbekov, the preferred candidate of outgoing President Almazbek Atambaev, in the election.

Babanov was at the center of a recent spat between Kyrgyzstan and neighboring Kazakhstan.

The two Central Asian nations -- both former Soviet republics -- clashed over Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev's meeting with Babanov ahead of the election.

Atambaev, who was limited by the constitution to a single presidential term, accused Astana of "meddling in Kyrgyzstan's domestic affairs" and throwing its support behind Babanov. Atambaev later said that he "probably" went too far with his criticism of Nazarbaev.

Kyrgyz prosecutors said Babanov and other unidentified individuals are accused of "stoking ethnic, racial, and religious hatred" and "publicly calling for the violent change of the constitutional order."

They said Babanov attempted to curry support from ethnic Uzbeks on the campaign trail by discussing alleged discrimination and inequality they face at the hands of Kyrgyz authorities, "after which he called for them to actively fight against this situation."

Following a September 28 speech he delivered in the southern city of Osh, close to the border with Uzbekistan, footage of the appearance began circulating online in which he is heard saying: "It's better to die standing than crawl on your knees."

His supporters say the quote was taken out of context, and that the phrase was meant to encourage people not to be pressured into voting for a certain candidate.

After losing the official tally to Jeenbekov in the October 15 election, Babanov said he and his supporters faced pressure and bias throughout the campaign.

He said, however, that he would not challenge the results of the election, which Jeenbekov won with more than 54 percent of the vote, according to official results.

Babanov won around 34 percent of the vote.

International observers praised the election as competitive and transparent, but said that "numerous and significant problems were noted" during the count and that "misuse of public resources, pressure on voters, and vote buying remain a concern."

Jeenbekov is scheduled to be inaugurated on November 24.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyz- prosecutors-open-criminal-case- against-babanov/28835060.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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India Offers Real-Time Intelligence Data Sharing with 10 Countries

Sputnik News

17:40 04.11.2017

The Indian Navy has proposed the initiative in the backdrop of an increased presence of Chinese naval fleet including submarines in the Indian Ocean Region.

New Delhi (Sputnik)  The Indian Navy has made an offer to share real-time commercial data and intelligence inputs with 10 countries of the Indian Ocean littorals during the first ever regional maritime conclave held in Goa. The offer has been made to Bangladesh, Indonesia, Maldives, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

"All the participants have appreciated the proposal and taken it positively. But, it will take some time in implementation as they have to review it first. This should not be considered as an alliance against any particular country but to tackle the non-traditional threat," a senior naval officer told Sputnik.

During the conclave, several countries raised the concern over the unreported movement of commercial vessels and illegal fishing activities. Former naval chief of Sri Lanka Admiral Jayanth Colombage termed the prevailing situation as "maritime blindness" and the "worst maritime threat in the region."

The Indian Navy has proposed the initiative in the backdrop of the increased presence of Chinese naval fleet including submarines in the Indian Ocean Region. India's Defense Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, on the first day of the conclave, had vociferously raised the concern. "This sort of militarization increases the complexities for the countries of this region," Defense Minister Sitharaman said.

Presently, India has 'exchange for white shipping' agreement with countries like Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Vietnam, Singapore, Israel, and France. However, no multilateral agreement on the subject has been signed till date.

 Sputnik

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Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri Announces Sudden Resignation - Reports

Sputnik News

14:20 04.11.2017(updated 19:57 04.11.2017)

The prime minister of Lebanon said that he fears there's a "plot to target his life," according to local media.

In a televised address on Saturday, Prime Minister Hariri announced an unexpected resignation saying the atmosphere in the country resembles that before the assassination of his father, former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri, who was killed in 2005.

The politician pointed out he "sensed what is being plotted covertly to target my life," according to Reuters.

Hariri also lashed out at Iran and its ally Hezbollah, a Shi'ite militia operating in Lebanon for interfering in the affairs of Arab countries. He added that Tehran's arms in the region will be cut off.

Reuters also reported that the resignation follows Hariri's recent visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other high-profile officials.

The Saudi-born businessman has increased his profile within politics as the leader of the Future Movement, a predominantly Sunni movement, and the March 14 Alliance. The latter group facilitated the withdrawal of the Syrian forces from Lebanon in 2005.

He served a full term as a prime minister in 2009-2011, which was marked by tensions with Hezbollah. In 2016 he was appointed prime minister for the second tenure by president Michel Aoun, an ally of Hezbollah.

Hezbollah, established in the 1980s, is a paramilitary and political organization originating in Lebanon's Shiite population. The group initially aimed to end Israel's occupation of Southern Lebanon. The Lebanese government includes Hezbollah members. Hezbollah is considered a terrorist organization by a number of countries including the United States, Israel, and the United Kingdom.

 Sputnik

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Reports: US Anti-insurgent Airstrikes Kill Afghan Civilians in Kunduz

By Ayaz Gul November 04, 2017

Anti-Taliban U.S. airstrikes in northern Afghanistan have killed dozens of insurgents and also caused civilian casualties, said residents and local media Saturday.

Afghan special forces, backed by foreign airpower, have engaged in a major counter-insurgency offensive in the volatile Chardara district in Kunduz province.

The Taliban sent reinforcements from neighboring Baghlan province, prompting Afghan forces to request NATO airstrikes late Friday, in support of local forces, said commando forces spokesman Ahmad Salem.

He denied claims of civilian casualties, saying villagers had vacated the area before the anti-Taliban operation began and the airstrikes killed more than 30 anti-government fighters.

Residents and local politicians said a group of civilians was forced by the Taliban to go to the bombing site early on Saturday to collect bodies and injured people when missiles fired by unmanned U.S. drones struck and killed them.

A Taliban spokesman said its fighters repulsed the Afghan offensive and intense fighting was raging in the area. He claimed the overnight bombing was carried out by American planes and killed "tens of civilians."

It was not possible to verify from independent sources battlefield claims made by either side. The U.S. military has also not yet commented on the allegations of civilian casualties.

The Taliban controls or influences areas around the provincial capital of Kunduz and attempts by U.S.-backed Afghan forces to evict insurgents have reportedly not produced results.

The insurgents briefly seized Kunduz two years ago. During the U.S.-backed counteroffensive, which enabled Afghan forces to retake the provincial capital, an American air raid mistakenly hit and damaged the only hospital run by Doctors Without Borders in the area.

Afghan civilians continue to fall victim to the intensified war in Afghanistan. The United Nations has warned civilian casualties have spiked to record levels this year and documented a 52 percent increase in civilian casualties by airpower in the first nine months of 2017.

Reports of the latest civilian casualties came a day after the chief prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced she planned to pursue a formal investigation into war crimes committed in Afghanistan since May 2003 when the war-torn country became a member of the court.

In a statement issued Friday, Fatou Bensouda explained that "there is a reasonable basis to believe that war crimes and crimes against humanity have been committed in connection with the armed conflict in Afghanistan." She also raised the possibility of probing abuses committed by U.S. forces and Central Intelligence Agency officials.

The U.S. is not a member of the ICC.

Human Rights Watch welcomed the ICC's announcement as a long-overdue step.

The possibility that the ICC investigation may include abuses by U.S. soldiers and Central Intelligence Agency officials drives home the point that with this court, nationals from more powerful countries do not necessarily stand outside the law, according to HRW.

"Whatever the court decides about the role of U.S. forces, the people in Afghanistan who have suffered enormously for decades deserve the world's attention. More importantly, they deserve justice," it said.

The U.S. military, meanwhile, says an American soldier has died as a result of wounds sustained during operations Saturday afternoon in the eastern Afghan province of Logar.

"On behalf of U.S. Forces -- Afghanistan, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of our fallen brother," said General John Nicholson, commander, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan.

"Despite this tragic event, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the Afghan people and to support them in our mutual fight against terrorism," Nicholson added.

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Saudi Official Says He Has Confirmed Plot to Kill Hariri

By VOA News November 04, 2017

Saudi Arabia's Gulf affairs minister said Saturday that he had "confirmed information" about a plot to kill Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri from the leader's personal security detail.

Thamer al-Sabhan told Future, an Arabic television station owned by Hariri, that the Lebanese leader was in Riyadh. Al-Sabhan added that he knew of "security threats to the prime minister, and the kingdom is keen on his safety."

Hariri announced his resignation Saturday, after delivering a blistering attack on Iran and its proxy militia, Hezbollah. The resignation followed consultations with Saudi Arabian leaders in Riyadh, and a meeting with Iran's top foreign policy adviser, Ali Akbar Velayati.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun indicated that Hariri's office had called him from outside Lebanon to relay the news of his resignation. Commentators on Saudi-owned al-Arabiya TV stressed that Hariri's resignation speech was made from Riyadh and that it had "regional implications."

In his speech, Hariri accused Iran and Hezbollah of creating discord in the country, as well as across the region.

He said that outside parties  alluding to Iran  that wished ill on Lebanon had sown sectarian strife among the Lebanese, gaining control of the levers of power and setting up a state within a state. He also accused Iran of meddling in the internal affairs of other Arab states, including Syria, Iraq, Bahrain and Yemen.

Hariri went on to claim the political climate inside Lebanon resembled the one that prevailed in the months before his father, the late Prime Minister Rafiq al-Hariri, was assassinated in February 2005, and that he sensed a "covert plot" against his own life. Arab and Lebanese media have long accused Hezbollah of killing the elder Hariri.

'Determined to be free'

He added that the Lebanese people were "determined to be free and independent," and he insisted the country must have "only one state, one army, and one set of arms."

Hariri met Friday with Velayati, a former Iranian former foreign minister.

Hilal Khashan, who teaches political science at the American University of Beirut, told VOA he thought Hariri might have wanted to tell Iran he was not "seeking to escalate the conflict," despite his impending resignation.

Khashan said he did not think a new government would be formed anytime soon and that Hariri's government would continue to govern in a caretaker capacity for a long time.

"We are used to having a caretaker cabinet perform its functions for a year or so," said Khashan. "So, it will be a long time before another cabinet is formed [and] it will be a long time before another Sunni leader will accept to form a cabinet. ... Otherwise, he would be labeled a traitor."

Despite the sudden political storm, Khashan said he didn't think that it was "in the interest of either Iran or Hezbollah to escalate tensions" following Hariri's resignation.

He said outside parties like Israel, however, were taking a more muscular attitude toward Hezbollah. He said recent Israeli "raids against Hezbollah [targets] in Syria ... mark an escalation in their attacks."

He also pointed out that Israeli warplanes had been "making intensive overflights in the south of Lebanon during the past few days."

VOA's Edward Yeranian contributed to this report.

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Ex-Catalonian Leader to Comply With European Arrest Warrant

By VOA News November 04, 2017

The former leader of Spain's Catalonia region said Saturday that he would cooperate with Belgian officials following Spanish authorities' issuance of a European warrant for his arrest.

Carles Puigdemont said in a tweet: "We are prepared to fully cooperate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain."

A Spanish judge issued the warrant for Puigdemont a day after she jailed nine members of the region's separatist government pending possible charges over last week's declaration of independence. One person was later granted bail.

Puigdemont, who was thought to be in Belgium, didn't specify his current location, though he and several aides fled to Brussels last week after Spanish authorities removed them from office.

The National Court judge filed the request with the Belgian prosecutor to detain Puigdemont and his four aides, and issued separate European search and arrest warrants to alert Interpol in case they fled Belgium.

Belgian federal prosecutors said they had received the arrest warrant and could question Puigdemont in coming days.

Puigdemont's Belgian attorney did not answer calls requesting comment, but had said that his client would fight extradition to Spain without seeking political asylum.

Puigdemont and the four others were being sought on charges that included rebellion, sedition and embezzlement as a result of a Spanish investigation into their roles in pushing for secession for Catalonia.

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Yemeni army announces killing of 600 elements of coup militias

Saudi Press Agency

Saturday 1439/2/15 - 2017/11/04

Aden, Safar 15, 1439, November 04, 2017, SPA -- The Yemeni National Army announced last night that more than 600 Houthi militia elements were killed and wounded during last week in the northern governorates of the country and east of Sana'a.

The official website of the army, "September Net" in a report said that these elements fell in the qualitative military operations of the National Army forces, backed by the Arab Alliance strikes.

The report pointed out that among the dead, at least 22 field leaders, most of them fell in the provinces of Jouf and Hajjah north of the country and east of Sana'a.

-- SPA

15:45 LOCAL TIME 12:45 GMT

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Russia denies any cooperation with US on North Korea

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 03:47PM

Russian authorities have denied reports that Moscow and Washington have started cooperating on an escalating standoff over North Korea.

In a Saturday statement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected there was any cooperation between Russia, a main North Korea ally, and the US, a main adversary, on the situation on the Korean Peninsula, where the North has intensified its weapons and nuclear programs in an apparent response to increasing pressure by the US and allies.

"There is no cooperation so far. Only periodic exchanges of views," Peskov told the RIA news agency.

The official, however, said that Russian President Vladimir Putin could discuss the issue in a potential meeting with his US counterpart Donald Trump if the two meet next week at an Asian economic summit in Vietnam. Peskov said there was a "great probability" for such a development.

North Korea and the US has been locked in a bitter standoff since Pyongyang began unveiling more of its missile potentials in July by test-firing two intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) which experts say could target the entire mainland United States. The North then carried out its most powerful nuclear test in August, prompting the US to pile more economic pressure on the country through new international sanctions.

North Korea blames the US for the intensified weapons program, saying Washington is provoking a nuclear war in the Korean Peninsula by staging joint military drills with South Korea and isolating the North economically through imposing more sanctions.

Russia and China, the two countries that enjoy better ties with Pyongyang, have warned against any escalation in the conflict while calling for more dialogue to resolve the issue.

Russian fighter jets have carried out sorties above waters near the peninsula, clearly sending a signal to the US that Moscow would not remain silent in case any military conflict erupts in the region.

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'Brutal' US-led sanctions constitute 'genocide, rights violations:' N Korea

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 08:02AM

North Korea has slammed the "brutal" US-backed sanctions imposed by the UN on the country over its military program, saying such pressure tactics amount to "human rights violations" and "genocide."

"Today, the US-led racket of brutal sanctions and pressure against the DPRK constitutes contemporary human rights violation and genocide," the North Korean mission to the UN in Geneva said in a statement on Friday, using the abbreviation for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the country's official name.

The sanctions regime "threatens and impedes the enjoyment by the people of DPRK of their human rights in all sectors," the statement noted.

The call for a halt to the North Korean sanctions was made after the UN Security Council slapped a new raft of bans to hinder Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic missiles program following its sixth and most powerful nuclear test early in September.

The new sanctions included export bans as well as asset freezes and travel bans on various North Korean officials.

In late October, the UN's special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in North Korea, Tomas Ojea Quintana, warned that the new anti-Pyongyang restrictive measures may be hurting key economic sectors and hampering the human rights of North Korean citizens.

The North Korean mission further called for an end to the sanctions, which mean that "some unprincipled countries have blocked the delivery of medical equipment and medicines."

Such humanitarian supplies, he added, are destined for children and mothers in the country.

"All types of anti-human rights and inhumane sanctions against the DPRK should be terminated immediately and thoroughly," it added.

Besides the UN sanctions, Washington has also slapped its own sanctions on seven North Korean individuals and three entities last month over what it called serious human rights abuses, including forced labor.

The Friday statement comes as US President Donald Trump is scheduled to set off on a three-day trip to Asia on November 5, visiting China, South Korea and Japan to drum up support for pressuring North Korea over its missile and nuclear programs.

Tensions between the US and North Korea reached their peak a few months after inauguration of Trump, who threatened the Asian state with "fire and fury the world has never seen" back in August.

North Korea has been the target of harsh international bans since 2006 over its nuclear tests as well as multiple rocket and missile launches.

Pyongyang has firmly defended its military program as a deterrent against hostile policies of the US and its regional allies, including South Korea and Japan.

The US has substantial military presence in the region and has several times threatened North Korea with military action.

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Iran administration to continue support for Armed Forces: Rouhani

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 03:38PM

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has pledged full support for the country's Armed Forces in defending the Islamic Republic's independence and territorial integrity.

"The [Iranian] government and nation have confidence in the Army as faithful and self-sacrificing armed forces and the government will continue its support for the Armed Forces," Rouhani said in a meeting with high-ranking Army commanders on Saturday.

He added that the Armed Forces should also stand by the administration in any sector deemed necessary and help the executive branch of the government run the country's affairs.

The Iranian chief executive described public trust and affiliation with no particular political party as the "biggest assets" of the country's Army.

Rouhani commended the Armed Forces' performance after the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979, particularly during the eight-year Iraqi war on Iran in the 1980s.

US President Donald Trump delivered an anti-Iran speech on October 13, in which he said he would not continue to certify Iran's compliance with the terms of the multilateral nuclear deal, reached under his predecessor Barack Obama, and warned that he might ultimately terminate the agreement.

Trump also announced sanctions on Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), which he accused of destabilizing the Middle East and threatening American interests in the region.

Senior Iranian officials slammed Washington's move against the IRGC, with Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif saying Iranian people from all walks of life strongly supported the defenders of the country and the region against terrorism.

The IRGC is a branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, a standing army of a United Nations member state. It has been effectively providing military advisory support for the elected governments of Iraq and Syria in their battles against various groups of extremist militants.

Some of those militant groups are widely reported to be receiving logistical, financial, and other forms of support from the US government, particularly in Syria, where Washington has attempted but failed to have the Syrian government toppled.

Back in July, President Rouhani said the three branches of the government support the country's Armed Forces and no one can harm them.

Iran is currently in such a position that no one can harm it, Rouhani said, adding that the three branches of the government and other pillars of the Islamic establishment are united and support the country's Armed Forces.

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Over two dozen Daesh hideouts destroyed, 40 villages retaken in west Anbar ops: Official

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 02:11PM

A high-ranking Iraqi military commander says more than two dozen Daesh hideouts have been destroyed and tens of villages liberated ever since army soldiers, backed by allied fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units, launched a multi-pronged operation to retake the last remaining militant bastions in the country's western province of Anbar.

The commander of the west Anbar liberation operation, Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Yarallah, said on Saturday that Iraqi soldiers together with pro-government fighters, commonly known by the Arabic name Hashd al-Sha'abi, had recently managed to regain control over the outskirts of al-Rutbah town as well as al-Sa'adah, al-Karabilah and Husaybah districts, Arabic-language al-Forat television network reported.

Yarallah added that the operations were carried out by the Anbar Operations Command Center, Anbar provincial police force, intelligence agencies operating in the province as well as army and Hashd al-Sha'abi forces.

He further noted that 15 Daesh terrorist positions together with 10 sites, from which the extremists used to launch missile attacks, had been destroyed in the wake of the anti-terror offensives.

The senior Iraqi military official underlined that government forces and their allies had so far liberated 40 villages besides two air bases north and south of al-Rutbah, bringing the total expanse of liberated areas in western Anbar to 20,000 square kilometers.

Meanwhile, the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and an Iraqi official said clashes had erupted between Hashd al-Sha'abi fighters and Daesh terrorists on the Syrian-Iraqi border.

The Britain-based monitoring group said the skirmishes took place inside Syria near the border city of al-Bukamal.

Jaafar al-Husseini, spokesman for Iraq's Kataeb Hezbollah Brigade, told The Associated Press that his forces engaged in clashes with Daesh extremists from the western Iraqi town of al-Qa'im, located nearly 400 kilometers northwest of the capital Baghdad.

Al-Husseini added that his fellow fighters had built berms along the border to prevent Daesh terrorists from sneaking back.

Late last month, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi formally ordered the launch of operations to purge the towns from Rawah and Qa'im from Daesh terrorists.

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Russia Hits Back After Canada Sets New Magnitsky-Related Sanctions

Mike Eckel November 04, 2017

Moscow has vowed to hit back at Canada after Ottawa announced financial sanctions and other restrictions on 30 Russians in connection with a whistleblowing Russian lawyer whose 2009 death and the crimes he uncovered have been a persistent thorn in the Kremlin's side.

The Canadian list, released on November 3 by the Foreign Ministry, largely mirrors a similar list compiled by the United States after it passed the Magnitsky Act in 2012, which punished individuals alleged to be connected to Sergei Magnitsky's death and a massive tax fraud scheme he helped uncover.

Canada earlier this year passed its own version of the law which, as with the U.S. law, prompted vocal criticism from Russia.

Investigative Committee chairman Aleksandr Bastrykin is one of the most prominent names on the Canadian list, but it also includes several Interior Ministry and Tax Agency officials. A group of Venezuelan officials, including President Nicolas Maduro, were also named.

Russian officials had warned repeatedly they would retaliate if Canada went ahead with the sanctions.

In a statement on the Foreign Ministry's website after the list was released, spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said a "decision has been made" to ban "a whole cast of Canadian figures" from entering Russia as part of Moscow's response.

"It's a long list with dozens of names," Zakharova said. "We are talking about those Canadian citizens with Russophobic attitudes who have deliberately engaged in the destruction of bilateral relations."

The statement did not include any names of Canadians to be targeted by Moscow.

The Russian Embassy in Ottawa released a statement as well, calling the sanctions "absolutely pointless and reprehensible."

"Isolating itself from one of the key world powers to please the Russophobic lobby, while praising an international fraudster sponsoring his personal vendetta, brings Canadian foreign policy back to the narrow black-and-white worldview inconsistent with modern geopolitics," the embassy's statement said.

"If the Canadian side prefers to play the sanctions game, Russia would be obliged to respond."

"As of this time, dozens of Canadians are additionally barred from entering Russia. It's not our choice, but in the event of new sanctions, response will be imminent and reciprocal in terms of quantity and quality," it added without explanation.

Magnitsky was employed by British-American financier William Browder when he was arrested and charged with the $230 million tax fraud scheme that he helped uncover.

He died in Moscow jail in 2009, and the fallout from his death, as well as the original fraud, have rippled through U.S., and now Canadian, foreign policy, helping to send Moscow relations with Washington plummeting.

In the wake of the 2012 U.S. law, Moscow banned American parents from adopting Russian children. Congress later passed an expanded version of the Magnitsky law, amid a secretive lobbying campaign in Washington, aimed at undermining the facts of the Magnitsky case.

Some of the funds from the stolen $230 million allegedly were laundered by a Russian businessman to buy Manhattan real estate.

The Russian lawyer who represented him was involved in the lobbying campaign and met with President Donald Trump's son in June 2016.

Russia has also gone after Browder, accusing him of financial crimes and asking the United States for help in prosecuting him, pleas that Washington has ignored.

Like the United States and other Western nations, Canada imposed sanctions on Russia after its annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/canada-russia-magnitsky- sanctions-united-states-browder/28834596.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russian Tu-22M3 long-range bombers strike Daesh targets in eastern Syria

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 03:19PM

Russian Tupolev Tu-22M3 long-range bombers have launched fresh airstrikes against the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, a day after government forces, supported by allied fighters from popular defense groups, fully liberated Dayr al-Zawr city from the clutches of the extremists.

Russia's Defense Ministry announced in a statement on Saturday that the aircraft took off from an air base in Russia, flew over Iran and Iraq, and conducted airstrikes against the Daesh targets near the border city of al-Bukamal.

The statement added that command centers and weapons depots were among the targets hit by the bombers.

On Friday, Russia's Kolpino submarine launched six Kalibr cruise missiles from the Mediterranean Sea against the Daesh outposts in Bukamal.

Six Tupolev Tu-22M3 bombers launched a massive aerial assault against designated terrorist targets near Bukamal on November 1, destroying fortified areas, arms and ammunition depots.

The development came only a day after the Russian Black Sea Fleet's submarine, Veliky Novgorod, carried out a major strike with three Kalibr cruise missiles on important Daesh positions near Bukamal.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that Daesh terrorists' command posts, a fortified area where militants and armored vehicles were present, as well as a large arsenal of weapons and munitions were destroyed as a result.

The Veliky Novgorod and Kolpino submarines carried out two strikes outside the eastern Syrian city of Mayadin, located about 44 kilometers southeast of Dayr al-Zawr, on October 5, using 10 Kalibr cruise missiles.

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov said at the time that Daesh "suffered significant damage, both in manpower and hardware," in the Mayadin strike.

Since September 2015, Russia has been conducting aerial attacks against terrorist positions in Syria at a request from the Damascus government.

Backed by Russian air power, Syrian ground forces have managed to make numerous gains against terrorists on various fronts.



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Israel threatens to launch incursion into Syria

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 09:42AM

The Israeli military has threatened to launch an incursion into Syria "to protect" the people of a village populated by the Arab country's Druze minority, who are themselves supportive of the Syrian government.

"In recent hours, we witness the intensifying of the fighting at the area of the Druze village of Hader in the Syrian part of the Golan Heights," Ronen Manelis, an Israeli military spokesperson, said in a statement on Friday, which was carried by The Jerusalem Post.

The military "is prepared and ready to assist the residents of the village and prevent damage to or the capture of the village Hader out of commitment to the Druze population," he further claimed.

Since a war in 1967, Israel has occupied two-thirds of Syria's Golan Heights.

The Hader Village, however, is situated in the part of the territory that is under Damascus' control, and its population is aligned with the Syrian government, casting doubts about Israel's real motives in possibly launching an incursion into Syrian territory.

The official Syrian Arab News Agency earlier reported that at least six people had been killed and 21 others wounded in a car bomb attack targeting the village by the Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Takfiri terrorist group, which was formerly known as al-Nusra Front.

Israel has been widely reported to be providing medical treatment to al-Nusra in Golan.

Tel Aviv has also several times targeted territory inside Syria, often claiming that it strikes convoys heading for the fighters of the Lebanese resistance movement of Hezbollah.

The Hezbollah fighters have been helping the Syrian military fight Fateh al-Sham and Daesh.

Takfiri groups such as Daesh and al-Nusra have never attacked Israel despite operating close to Syria's borders with Israel over the past three years.

In April, Israel's former minister of military affairs, Moshe Ya'alon, admitted to a tacit alliance with Daesh, saying the Takfiri group had "immediately apologized" to Tel Aviv after firing "once" into Israel.

In September 2016, Israeli lawmaker Akram Hasson criticized Israel for supporting Takfiri terrorists in Syria, saying that the Fateh al-Sham terrorist group was operating in Syria with "unprecedented logistical and medical" support from Tel Aviv.

He said Israel's escalation of attacks on the Syrian army positions in the Golan Heights had been aimed at paving the way for the terrorist group to gain more ground.

He said that Fateh al-Sham was bombing the Syrian Druze village of Khadr, with the support of the Israeli minister of military affairs, Avigdor Lieberman. Citing eyewitnesses, Hasson said the Takfiris were using advanced technological equipment, adding that Israel's strategic support had been broadened over the past few months.

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Plan for office in China still being assessed: Taipei mayor

ROC Central News Agency

2017/11/04 20:21:38

Taipei, Nov. 4 (CNA) Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je () said Saturday that a plan for the city to set up a liaison office in China to serve Taipei residents there is still being assessed.

"If the plan works out, the most likely location would be in Shenzhen where a lot of our Taipei expatriates are living," Ko said during a healthy walking event in the city.

The mayor said that while the city is weighing the idea of a liaison office, the final decision on such a project would primarily be up to the central government, which is responsible for cross-Taiwan Strait affairs.

The other objective of a Taipei office in China would be to promote business ties between the two cities, he said.

New Taipei Mayor Eric Chu () expressed on Friday his desire to open a New Taipei liaison office in China, and Ko told councilors during a hearing the same day that Taipei is also working on a plan to open an office in China, with Shenzhen the most likely location.

The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) issued a statement Saturday that echoed the main points of its response to Chu's appeal the day before.

It said that any decision on a liaison office is not up to the local government but rather falls under the jurisdiction of the MAC, which is responsible in Taiwan for cross-Taiwan Strait affairs.

Citing the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, the MAC said it is a complex issue as it involves an extension of government authority in mainland China.

The MAC said it will further discuss the issue with the two city governments and stressed that it is willing to help and provide information to its citizens living in China.

(By Matt Yu, Miao Zong-han and Ko Lin)

Enditem/ls

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Turkish court sentences opposition HDP lawmaker to 10 years in jail

Iran Press TV

Sat Nov 4, 2017 05:50PM

A court in Turkey has sentenced a lawmaker from the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) to ten years in prison on charges of membership in the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militant group and spreading propaganda as the Ankara government presses ahead with a clampdown on members of the opposition party.

The Diyarbakir 5th High Criminal Court found the defendant, Selma Irmak, guilty of "leading an armed terrorist organization" and "carrying out propaganda activities for terrorist purposes," Turkish-language NTV television news channel reported on Saturday.

The court said that Irmak was sentenced to 7 years and 6 months in prison over PKK membership, and 2 years and 6 months for promoting its policies.

Her defense lawyer, Erkan Urkut, denied the charges and demanded his client's immediate release. He stressed that Irmak was innocent.

The prosecutor had initially sought a 52.5-year jail sentence for the pro-Kurdish legislator.

On December 26, 2016, Turkish security forces arrested Aysel Tugluk, a senior official of the HDP, in the capital Ankara, as part of an investigation launched by the Diyarbakir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against the PKK and the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK), an alliance of pro-Kurdish groups.

In November last year, 13 HDP legislators were arrested over alleged links to the PKK.

Party leaders Selahattin Demirtas and Figen Yuksekdag remain in custody along with eight others, pending trial on terrorism-related charges.

On January 18 this year, Turkish prosecutors announced they were seeking a 142-year prison sentence for Demirtas.

A shaky ceasefire between the PKK, which has been calling for an autonomous Kurdish region since 1984, and the Turkish government collapsed in July 2015. Attacks on Turkish security forces have soared ever since.

Turkish ground and air forces have been carrying out operations against the PKK positions in the country's troubled southeastern border region as well as Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region and northern Syria.

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U.K. Parliamentary Panel Asks Twitter For Data On Accounts Linked To Russia

RFE/RL November 04, 2017

A parliamentary committee in Britain has asked Twitter for details of accounts linked to Russia, days after counterparts in the United States made similar requests of social media companies.

The House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport Committee (DCMS) on November 3 said the request was made in view of information provided to U.S. congressional committees investigating alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Committee Chairman Damian Collins wrote to Twitter Chief Executive Jack Dorsey asking for information on any posting about U.K. politics by Russian accounts.

"During the hearings, it became clear that your organisation has discovered 2,752 accounts related to the St. Petersburg-based Internet Research Agency," he wrote.

"It has subsequently emerged that some of these accounts were also posting content that relates to the politics of the United Kingdom."

Collins gave Twitter a deadline for the end of November to provide the information.

In October, Collins wrote to Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg requesting details "relating to any adverts and pages paid for, or set up by, Russia-linked accounts" relating to the Brexit vote last year or the general election in June 2017.

On November 1, Britain's Electoral Commission said it was investigating whether Russia may have meddled in the Brexit vote by helping to finance an anti-European Union campaigner.

In the United States on November 1, U.S lawmakers released a batch of Facebook ads linked to Russia's efforts to disrupt the 2016 presidential election and heighten tensions on sensitive social issues.

The release of the ads by the House Intelligence Committee came as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and other social media platforms have faced increasing pressure for not doing enough to block Russian interference on their sites and prevent meddling in the election.

Facebook, Google, and Twitter have said they found thousands of ads bought by Russia-linked accounts, including some paid for in rubles, and that they were potentially seen by some 126 million people.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller, the FBI, and at least two congressional committees are investigating Russia's actions during the campaign.

The Kremlin denies that it interfered in the U.S. election.

With reporting by AFP and The Evening Standard

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/britain-twitter -russia-election-meddling-united-states- facebook-google/28834597.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Week 44 saw no less than seven new handsets make their debuts, with Razer's smartphone debut gathering the most attention, while HTC brought forward its U11+ flagship and U11 Life mid-ranger.

Oppo showed its R11s flagship, while HMD and Xiaomi unveiled a trio of entry-level devices - the Nokia 2, Redmi Y1 and Redmi Y1 Lite.

OnePlus delivered a few more teasers for its upcoming 5T flagship and confirmed that it will come with a 3.5mm audio jack.

In software-related news Xiaomi started the rollout of the global MIUI 9, while Sasmung started the beta test of the Oreo update for its Galaxy S8, which gave us an early look at the upcoming firmware.

The iPhone X hit store shelves and we already saw it tortured and torn to bits.

Check out the complete list of the most popular stories from the past week to make sure you haven't missed anything important.



HTC enters the bezel-less race with the U11+ The HTC U11+ comes with the latest Snapdragon 835 and a tall 18:9 screen.





Just in: Apple iPhone X hands-on The notch, FaceID, gestures - this one will take some getting used to, but awesome it is, indeed.





New Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus render suggests FullView screen The phone is expected to arrive with dual cameras and a fingerprint scanner on the back.





OnePlus 5T will have a headphone jack OnePlus has officially confirmed the 5T will retain the headphone jack.





Xiaomi announces the Redmi Y1 and the Redmi Y1 Lite Meet the global versions of the Redmi Note 5A Prime and Redmi Note 5A.





MIUI 9 global rollout begins Xiaomi says the new interface is as fast as stock Android.





New Nokia Steel Limited Edition models now available While the Full Black variant costs $129.5, the Rose Gold one will set you back $149.95.





Some Samsung Galaxy Note8 users are experiencing freezing issues with their units The most common use-case affected users are reporting is that the freeze occurs while accessing the contacts app.





Caviar introduces iPhone X Tesla with solar panel on the back The unique phone has 24K golden rim around the camera and the edges on the back.





Check out the first Galaxy S8 Oreo beta screenshots One of the beta test participants shared info about the upgrade.





Neffos with 18:9 screen and Snapdragon 835 leaks The TP-Link phone is expected to come with Snapdragon 835, dual cameras and a fingerprint scanner.





Here's an official iPhone X video guided tour Apple has published the roughly four-minute production today as its most expensive smartphone ever becomes available across the world.


Moss column: The 'no grow' movement is winning

Weve taken a deep dive this week into our countys history of nimbyism  the efforts to block developments that residents perceive as harmful.

Our sense is that Not In My Back Yard has become a sort of ad hoc political party, ready to activate at a moments notice in any corner of the county, easily stirred into action, hard to resist because its asking for something that costs nothing  just say no. Nimbyism feeds on mistrust of government, which spans the political spectrum and is at an all-time high.

Our look back at the last 50 years of nimby fights was both inspiring and unsettling. In this special in-depth issue, we amply cover the modern-day grassroots movement that started it all  a feisty citizens army that slew a massive TVA dam project.

Reading James Brittains account of the saga in Gun Fights, Dam Fights and Water Rights, I became intrigued with how consistent the pattern had become.

A handful of homeowners directly affected by a disruptive land use springs into action. They are passionate, persistent and tireless  and unwilling to take no for an answer. They rally others to their cause, convincing people from a much wider area that the threat is real. If the government approves rental units a mile down the road, are you really safe?

The movement peels off earlier supporters, often getting political bodies to walk back an endorsement or reverse it outright. Thats what happened when the Henderson County Board of Commissioners, determined for months to remain neutral on the Duke Energy transmission line, adopted a resolution jointly drafted with the Hendersonville City Council. Thats what opponents hope will happen next week when the Flat Rock Village Council once again hosts a roomful of activists hoping to scuttle the Highland Lake Road widening.

* * * * *

For once, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, recognizing that the state line does not stop at I-77, is ready to spend tax dollars where they come from, here in Hendersonville and Henderson County.

Were throwing it all away.

Mills River is throwing away the chance to turn N.C. 191 into a handsome eastern gateway with a grassy median and bike lanes and sidewalks. Elected leaders there insist on cross-traffic left turns on an undivided highway.

Residents want the Laurel Park Town Board to reverse its wise decision  courageous even, in this climate to endorse the U.S. 64 widening project with a grassy median, bike lanes, sidewalks and roundabouts  improvements that would look good and move traffic efficiently. Opponents are working overtime to block the Kanuga Road widening and a bridge on Boyd Drive.

An appreciation for our impressive nimby past can only lead to a reasonable prediction that residents will rise up to oppose the Balfour Parkway, the most significant new highway improvement in Hendersonville in a generation.

Our county government has said no to 300 units of rental housing  twice  in the past 10 months. The Hendersonville City Council shot down a request for 126 senior apartments. Flummoxed by the power and persistence of the nimby assemblies month after month, county commissioners are even considering a moratorium on growth. Talk about a failure of planning.

* * * * *

Its fine, even laudable, that our county has produced nimby alliances that unite rich and poor, liberal and conservative, city mouse and country mouse to defeat demonstrably harmful projects like the Stony Mountain incinerator, Duke Powers transmission line, the TVA dam, even the Blue Ridge Bike Bash. But we would distinguish those broad-based ecumenical movements from narrowly based uprisings that block roads, bridges and parking lots and prevent housing units the market is suggesting we could fill.

Its easy to sell a parade of horribles: the snarl of a chainsaw, clear-cutting of a forest, condemnation of private property, dampening curves to make racetracks, frightening roundabouts. The apocalypse is upon us and the developer gets rich.

But as an eighth-generation native friend of mine observed in a conversation about all this, the folks in Hawthorn Hills and Hunters Crossing and Crooked Creek would not rest in their lovely homes tonight if adjoining property owners had objected years ago to turning farms into subdivisions or clearing a woodsy ridge for homesites.

Make no mistake: The nimbys have the right to peaceably assemble, to speak and to petition the government. After they have spoken, its up to our elected leaders to, well, lead. If a road improvement or bridge is needed for safety and traffic flow, if a property owner wants to build cottages for retirees, if children squeal on a playground  then maybe its time for the grownups in the room to make the tough call today with tomorrow in mind.

Contact Lightning editor Bill Moss at billmoss@hendersonvillelightning.com.
Police Accountability Boards starting work in most Maryland counties

Mandated by state law after the killing of George Floyd, Police Accountability Boards have begun work in the majority of Maryland counties.
Another deadly mass shooting occurred in the United States earlier today (November 5th), where a gunman left at least 15 people seriously injured as a result of the gunfire, as per TMZ. Multiple people also been confirmed dead by local law enforcement.

The FBI bureau in San Antonio responded to the incident, which took place at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. According to additional information reported by CNN, authorities have since stated that the perpetrator was killed in a subsequent with police in a neighboring Texas county. While the death of the shooter is known, there has yet to be word on whether or not he took his own life or shot by an officer in pursuit.

Local police have already brought at least a little bit of calm to the scene of this horrific crime, the First Baptist Church. A witness, identified only as a cashier at a gas station across the street from the church, told CNN that she heard around 20 gunshots being fired one after the other while a service was in progress at the church in question. The shooting supposedly took place at 11:30 a.m. local time. No other eyewitness accounts of the terrible incident were available at the time of this writing, but if more information becomes available, well update you.

The Connally Memorial Medical Center in nearby Floresville, Texas, says that they are accepting and assessing victims from the Sutherland Springs church shooting, as per hospital representative Megan Posey. The total number of victims who were either injured on killed as a result of the gunfire is still being assessed. Sutherland Springs, which is about 30 miles east of San Antonio, is a small community that had a measured population of just over 350 people in 2000.

This is just the latest in a string of deadly shooting incidents that have taken place in the United States as of late. After the tragic events of the worst mass shooting in American history earlier this year in Las Vegas, there have been reports of several people losing their lives after different gunmen opened fire on unsuspecting bystanders in a Walmart located in Colorado, as well as a Boosie concert that went down just yesterday (November 4th) in California.

Our thoughts are with the victims in Sutherland Springs, as well as their families.

Texas Shooting
A white teenager has been arrested in Richland Parish, Louisiana, in connection with the destruction of a predominately black church in the neighborhood. The building burned down early last week, and eyewitnesses have identified the young man as a possible suspect, based on accounts of the event.

According to USA Today affiliate The News Star, members of the St Paul Missionary Baptist Church found their church reduced to ashes and the 15-year-old in question is now being accused of stealing a truck and using gasoline to torch the place of worship.I couldnt believe it, Mary Alexander, a long-time member of the congregation, said. Because we was just here last night for a church meeting and you never expect things like this would happen this close by. The fire was reported to police and firefighters early last Tuesday (October 31st) and, by the time law enforcement arrived on the scene, the church was completely enveloped in flames. Theres been no details on how much monetary damage was done by the fire, nor is there any estimation of what it would cost to rebuild the community staple at this time.

Witnesses have already recounted to police that they saw the young white man driving a white Entergy truck near the church and, according to their stories, smoke began to rise from the building short after he sped off. Police worked with the Entergy corporation to track down the vehicle, which the suspect was still driving in Caldwell Parish a little while later.

The St Paul Missionary Baptist Church had just celebrated its 137th anniversary, according to The Independent. The teen who was arrested will be charged with theft of the gasoline truck and arson. Hell be tried in Richland Parish. We dont know why, Alexander said of the sad turn of events. Only God knows whats going through that persons mind. So we just ask for prayers for that person as well as our church family.

Chruch Burning
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At a high-level bilateral meeting that took place at ICAOs Montreal Headquarters on 1 November 2017, the Prime Minister of Ukraine, His Excellency Mr. Volodymyr Groysman, the President of the ICAO Council, Dr. Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, and the Secretary General of ICAO, Dr. Fang Liu, expressed their commitment to continued cooperation towards the enhancement of the safety and security of international air navigation in ICAOs European and North Atlantic Region (EURNAT.)

The discussions were attended by Mr. Andriy Shevchenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada, Mr. Stepan Kubiv, Ukraines First Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mr. Oleksandr Saienko, Minister of the Ukraines Cabinet of Ministers. Mr. Iurii I. Kordianin, Vice President of the State Enterprise Antonov, also accompanied Ukraines delegation.

The Prime Minister thanked ICAO for all its assistance towards the development of aviation in Ukraine, and emphasized Ukraines wish to further contribute to ICAOs work in the Region. The President of the ICAO Council and the Secretary General expressed their appreciation of Ukraines support of ICAOs initiatives to the Prime Minister, both at the regional and global levels. The recent signature of an MoU between ICAO and the National Aviation University in Kiev was highlighted by all as an excellent illustration in this regard. On a similar topic, at the meeting, Ukraine confirmed it will participate in the forthcoming Next General of Aviation Professionals Global Summit, which will be taking place on 27 and 28 November 2017 at ICAO.
WATCH: Alert Station Master Saves Woman From Being Run Over by Train in MP
The Assembly backed teps to encourage broader use of electric cars

A green tax on farming and an end to state subsides on peat extraction are among measures to tackle climate changes recommended by the Citizens' Assembly.

Prioritising investment in public transport services over new road developments and an expansion of bus and cycle lane networks have also been proposed by members of the Assembly.

A majority of citizens backed paying more tax on carbon intensive activities and urged the adoption of steps to encourage broader use of electric cars.

The proposals were among 13 recommendations on climate change made by the Assembly on Sunday.

An end to state subsidies for peat extraction would likely usher the end of peat fired electricity production in Ireland. The Assembly recommended that subsidies should be phased out over five years rather than axed immediately.

Members said the money should instead be spent on peat bog restoration and support for impacted workers.

Citizens also recommended a tax on green house gas emissions produced by the agriculture industry. They also proposed incentives for farmers who adopt environmentally friendly practices.

The Assembly's function is to consider key issues facing the Irish state.

It compromises 99 citizens randomly selected to be representative of society under the chair of retired Supreme Court judge Ms Justice Mary Laffoy.

The body spent the weekend hearing evidence on climate change from a range of experts. It was the second weekend the Assembly had examined the issue.

The recommendations will form the basis of a report that will be submitted to the Houses of the Oireachtas for further debate by politicians.

Environmentalists have welcomed the outcome of the Assembly's deliberations.

Oisin Coghlan, director at Friends of the Earth, said: "These common-sense, practical recommendations for climate action will not get us from laggard to leader.

"But they will allow us to catch up with our European neighbours. If implemented by Government they will end nearly a decade of dithering and delay".
Tanaiste and Minister for Business, Innovation and Enterprise Frances Fitzgerald heading to Brussels for crunch talks

The Government has formally notified the European Commission of plans to grant up to 10m each to Irish companies severely impacted by Brexit, placing Ireland on another potential collision course with EU competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager.

Ireland, which is facing a referral by Vestager to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for failing to recover up to 13bn from tech giant Apple following last year's illegal state aid ruling, is seeking approval under the EU's strict state aid rules for the special Brexit scheme.

The proposed "rescue and restructure scheme" would see any one firm receive up to 10m in the form of grants or equity supports.

The application for the scheme was first notified last August to the Directorate General for Competition and has now moved to the phase of formal notification.

Tanaiste and Minister for Business, Innovation and Enterprise Frances Fitzgerald will travel to Brussels this week to meet Vestager to discuss the scheme and to inform the commissioner of "the unique exposure" of Irish businesses to the current and future impacts of Brexit.

In a wide-ranging interview in which she robustly defends Ireland's taxation model, Fitzgerald said the rescue and restructure scheme is needed to shore up support for businesses facing their "biggest challenge in decades".

Fitzgerald also said that, in future trade talks between the UK and the EU, Ireland's unique exposure to the UK could prove a more difficult hurdle to overcome than tax, the Border or the Common Travel Area.

Improvements to capital gains tax relief for entrepreneurs and key foreign talent will also be introduced in Budget 2019, according to Fitzgerald, following criticism that jobs and growth will be negatively impacted without further support.

Interview page 6
Farmers could face taxes for greenhouse gas emissions produced from farming, if the views of the Citizens Assembly are considered by the Government.

This weekend 100pc of the Assembly recommend that the State should take a leadership role in addressing climate change and 89pc recommended that there should be a tax on greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, while there should be rewards for the farmer for land management that sequesters carbon.

They also voted (97pc) that the State should end all subsidies for peat extraction and instead spend that money on peat bog restoration, phased out over five years, while 99pc called for a State review of supports for land use diversification, with attention to supports for planting forests and encouraging organic farming.

The Assembly voted on 13 recommendations to be taken forward to the Oireachtas in the new year with 80 per cent recommending theyd be willing to pay higher taxes on carbon intensive activities.

Any such measures implemented by Government is likely to spark fears the agricultural sector could be financially penalised as Ireland attempts become a climate change leader.

In a move showing strong support for a greener Ireland, 93pc voted for bus and cycle lanes, along with park and ride facilities, being greatly increased within five years. These voters stated that much greater priority should be given to environmentally-friendly transport over private cars by the State.

Some 96pc want to see an expanded network of charging points to support the transition to electric vehicles.

The same number voted for the introduction of incentives, including help-to-buy schemes, reductions in motor tax, and lower or free motorway tolls, particularly in rural communities, to transfer to electric vehicles.

This would be followed by the implementation of disentivisation schemes against carbon intensive vehicles, such as petrol and diesel. Suggestions included annual increases to petrol and diesel tax and on motor tax.

Some 92pc supported the expansion of public transport spending as a priority over new road infrastructure spending at a ratio of no less than two-to-one to facilitate the uptake of public transport, with attention to rural areas.

While 98pc recommended a new or existing independent body should be resourced appropriately, operate in an open and transparent manner, and be given a broad range of new functions and powers in legislation to urgently address climate change.

And 100pc recommended the State should take a leadership role in addressing climate change through mitigation measures, including, retrofitting public buildings, having low carbon public vehicles, renewable generation on public buildings and through adaptation measures including, for example, increasing the resilience of public land and infrastructure.

96 per cent recommended a comprehensive assessment of the vulnerability of all critical infrastructure, including energy, transport, built environment, water and communications, with a view to building resilience to ongoing climate change and extreme weather events. And spending on infrastructure should be prioritised to take account of this, the Assembly felt.

Some 93pc voted for a mandatory measurement and reporting of food waste to reduce food waste.

Ms Mary Laffoy said the ambitious recommendations were likely to have the support of the public and in turn allow us to meet our existing international and European obligations.

She added that it was clear the Assembly believe there is a path for the State to make Ireland a leader in climate change however it would require significant changes in current policy and activities.

The recommendations will be brought forward to the Oireachtas in the new year. The Citizens Assembly will meet again on January 13 and 14 to make recommendations on the fourth topic the Assembly is tasked with considering, the way referendums are held.

Independent TD for Roscommon/Galway Michael Fitzmaurice said the proposals were "totally out of touch".

IFA President Joe Healy has said that suggestions put forward by retired Trinity Professor Alan Matthews to consider increased carbon taxes on farming are impractical and would be unlikely to make any real environmental difference.
The establishment of a major food industry hub in the Boyne Valley region is set to create 2,500 jobs by 2025, the Sunday Independent has learned.

The Boyne Valley Food Innovation District (BVFID) - which has a multi-disciplinary advisory board with key industry figures such as Bord Bia chairman Michael Carey and former Largo foods director Ray Coyle - is at an "advanced stage of talks" with the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF).

The 8bn sovereign fund is set to become a key financial backer of small and medium food companies that the Co Meath food initiative expects to attract and grow.

Local authority business organisation Meath Enterprise is preparing to build a 27,000 sq ft advanced technology building to support short-term needs, while planners have rezoned 70 acres in Navan to add to an existing 50-acre land bank earmarked for the project.

BVFID head Gary O'Meara said that the organisation - a joint venture between local authorities, state agencies, universities and the private sector - expects to shortly announce its first two major international deals. Local firms Epicom and Superlife are finalising deals to open export channels to China and Scandinavia respectively. BVFID plans to expand these channels to other companies.

"This region can become the Silicon Valley of food," said O'Meara. "The potential is huge - 10m has been invested to date, with 50m to 100m investment likely."

Talks are at an advanced stage with the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund with a view to it becoming a BVFID investment partner, he said.

"This could see ISIF invest in high-potential companies that can scale to meet exporting opportunities that we are establishing in China, Scandinavia and other countries," he said. BVFID aims to open new global export channels to secure contracts for Irish food producers, said O'Meara.

"We'll match opportunities and contracts to existing Irish SMEs with the necessary capability and ambition to scale into global markets. If we can't find companies to match opportunities then we will build a new startup food company to respond to the market need," said O'Meara.

Bord Bia's Michael Carey - founder of Drogheda-based East Coast Bakehouse - said he was hopeful BVFID could provide investment opportunities for his company.

Michael Carey said that being involved in the Boyne Valley initiative was not just about being nice guys.

We are looking for opportunities. We can help provide funding and help structure their fundraising exercise. I know some of the other entrepreneurs who are involved on the steering group have a similar attitude.

Carey said the involvement of ISIF as a funding partner was absolutely crucial and would encourage private investors to get involved. He had already identified opportunities around the initiative and would be surprised if in the next six to nine months we havent done something, he said.

Carey said he hoped to be able to assist in identifying the startups with the greatest potential for the project.

We have really good contracts with customers, a network of agents around the world, we spot trends and understand things that are happening in the sector that could well be of benefit to others starting out. A colleague of mine in the industry likens it to putting air in the tyres of startup food companies, said Carey.

Largo Foods and Tayto Park founder Ray Coyle said BVFID is a complete no brainer.

The rich hinterland around the River Boyne has massive potential to play to its strengths, he said. Ireland must play to its strengths in order to compete on the world stage and producing quality food products from our fertile and clean environment is the way to go. There will always be a demand for quality food abroad and I always felt that there is huge potential for this sector to greatly increase exports.

Coyle said the Boyne Valley region already has a large base of successful and proven entrepreneurs in the food sector.

The ingredients are already in place within this initiative to sprout new startups, grow existing SMEs and create thousands of sustainable jobs. Im looking forward to playing my part to sustain this sector for future generations of business people, said Coyle.

Another advisory board member, Owen Brennan of Devenish Nutrition, said his company could bring a combination of experience and some resources to BVFID.

Our operation started with three people and grew to 600 so there are lots of things that we can point people towards that will speed up some of the things they need to do scale to meet the opportunities. One of the most important resources is expertise and we have a highly skilled technical and commercial team that can help people here.

Brennan said his company was absolutely open to investing in companies as part of the initiative.
'It was trading around its IPO price of 10 during the week' (stock photo)

Life sciences investment company Malin has been meeting investors at home and abroad with a view to a future fundraising, it is understood.

Davy, which acts as the company's broker and corporate finance adviser, has been organising meetings on its behalf. Malin - which raised 330m through a flotation on the Irish Stock Exchange in 2017 - did not respond to a request for comment from the Sunday Independent.

The business raised around 27m earlier this year, saying it would use the money for general corporate purposes and for investments in its portfolio.

It has recently undergone an overhaul at management level, with Kelly Martin stepping down and being replaced by erstwhile chief investment officer Adrian Howd.

The company said the changes were "designed to accelerate the development and advancement of its assets and to deliver a more targeted deployment of Malin resources to its assets".

Martin, it said, would work with specific companies it has invested in.

Major investors in Malin include the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund and Woodford Investment Management - run by well known UK fund manager Neil Woodford. It was trading around its IPO price of 10 during the week.
It seems that 16 years and many corporate controversies later, one central question in tackling white collar crime has yet to be answered. What should the role of the Garda Siochana be when it comes to investigating cases of corporate crime?

New plans published by the Government to tackle white collar crime will see the shortcomings of the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE) finally addressed. There will be a new agency that will no longer be part of a government department and therefore not subject to the vagaries of budgets, hiring restrictions and pay limits.

The new agency will be run by three commissioners and according to the new government plan will be more independent and flexible in tackling company law breaches.

It isn't clear how it will be financed and whether current ODCE management and staff will have to apply for their jobs with the new agency. I guess the answer is probably not.

Yet, what part will the Gardai play? The proposals suggest there will be consultation on "how the role of the Garda Siochana can be optimised within the new agency".

The ODCE was originally set up in the wake of the Ansbacher and NIB scandals to tackle company law breaches. Its biggest successes were in getting directors to file accounts on time, which have gone up from 13pc of companies to 90pc.

Its real successes were in smaller scale breaches. When it came to the big stuff like insider trading or cases in the wake of the collapse of Anglo Irish Bank, it was less successful. At one stage in 2015 it had just 37 staff, which included just one accountant and two solicitors.

It is incredible to think that 16 years after the establishment of the ODCE, the Government is initiating a "pilot" exercise in setting up a multi-agency task force which will be Garda-led, on tackling payment fraud.

Surely, at this stage the best way of pooling the collective resources of investigation and law enforcement should have been found. Did the ODCE get caught in a turf war or clash of cultures between the Gardai and the former civil servants - something that has yet to be fully resolved? Elsewhere, the Government plans talk about implementing legal changes that would bring us in line with European directives. Impressive Central Bank powers, granted in 2013, have come too late for the tracker mortgage scandal as we have seen.

But new legislation will broaden powers of enforcement bodies around sanctioning and removing executives. Bravo! But will it ever actually happen? Based on the pace of previous probes, they will have retired before they are actually removed.

A new register showing beneficial ownership of corporate entities and trusts will be established. This too will bring Ireland in line with international trends in this direction.

Unfortunately, most opaque corporate entities and trusts are held in places like Cyprus, Isle of Man, Jersey or more exotic locations further afield.

I cannot imagine the new register will shed much relevant new light on beneficial ownership. A more controversial change is likely to be the pledge to make it an offence to engage in "trading of influence". This is defined in the EU as the "intentionally, promising, giving or offering, directly or indirectly, of any undue advantage to anyone who asserts or confirms that he or she is able to exert an improper influence over the decision-making of any person".

This is basically where I charge somebody money or some other benefit in return for providing the influence I have over an elected or public official. But it is defined as intentional and improper. It is extremely hard to prove. The Council of Europe has its own definition of trading in influence but many countries will not make it a crime because it could criminalise legitimate lobbying.

Our Government has said it will create new offences dealing with trading in influence but the published plan is short on detail. I am not surprised.

Use of confidential information will also be an offence but no detail is provided. I would like to see how the Bill is drafted to deal with that, given that so much of Irish corporate, public and social life is built around "influence", which of course is sometimes rewarded.

Would a former politician or adviser, now being paid as a lobbyist, fall victim to a broad definition of trading in influence? Of course politicians can say the lobbyist has no influence at all over them, but then why are clients paying lobbyists at all, especially those with past working relationships with public officials or representatives?

Or more to the point, every paid lobbyist would need to be a complete stranger to the public officials they are seeking to influence, to avoid falling under tough trading in influence laws.

Those drafting the legislation on this one will have their work cut out.

There is no textbook solution for tracker scandal damage

Francesca McDonagh certainly has her work cut out as the new chief executive at Bank of Ireland. No doubt she plans to use her extensive experience in the UK to bear in Ireland especially when it comes to the massive changes in how customers use banks.

Digital and online banking is the new challenge, as well as tackling costs and figuring out what to do with expensive loss-making branches in smaller towns.

But her first big task is dealing with the tracker mortgage scandal and the collateral damage it is bringing on the banking sector as a whole. So it was not surprising to read that she has called in AT Kearney, the US banking consultants, to have a look at the culture of the bank.

AT Kearney are very well-regarded and McDonagh will be familiar with the outfit from her HSBC banking days. However, some of their literature on the future of banking doesn't have a lot to say about Ireland.

One detailed report the firm did called 'The Digital Banking Journey' details banking trends in relation to online development around the world.

It doesn't mention Ireland at all. Yet, some of its points seem to sum up the Irish banking landscape well: "The industry has been in a comfortable position for decades with low customer turnover, almost no regional competition, good personal relationships and trust as selling points, and not much intervention from regulators."

That sounds very familiar. It goes on: "Staying ahead of the curve was easy, and there was no pressure to change."

AT Kearney maintains that most of the change so far has been about offering more digital products and enhancing the customer side of digital banking. But it argues that few banks have changed their internal organisations or governance principles.

"Most customers still belong to branches and in the back office the preparation for being the central customer interaction co-ordinator has been timid."

AT Kearney reckons that "one of the biggest challenges will be culture and people. Transforming from the traditional bankers' club into a customer-focused, innovative and fast player is seen as a major issue."

All good stuff, but they don't mention anything about what to do when you have been part of an industry-wide rip-off of struggling mortgage customers at a time of deep economic crisis.

UK exchequer is addicted to 'crack cocaine' betting revenues

The British government has bottled it on reducing the maximum bet on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs), referred to even by some bookies as the "crack cocaine of gambling".

After months of investigation, consultation and consideration, it said this week the cap would be reduced from 100 to between 50 and 2. It will now begin a fresh round of consultation before deciding on the level of the new lower cap.

This leaves a lot to play for with betting companies who will feel they can still convince the Government to opt for a cap of 30 or 20 instead of 2. Paddy Power would be among the least affected and has said it favours reducing the cap substantially anyway.

However, the British exchequer is clearly as addicted to the tax revenues from FOBTs as their clients are to using them. I would venture to bet it will be fixed at 30 or 20 after the consultation, but not lower than that. This week's fudge was just buying time for a cop-out on the issue.
A war of words between Ryanair and Ukraine continues to rage after a deal to launch new air routes to one of Europe's biggest countries collapsed.

But the man who is charged with leading fresh negotiations on behalf of Ukraine's government has insisted that a deal is "still on the table" and he expects Ryanair to be operating in the country next year.

"Ryanair are still negotiating and I fully expect that in 2018 Ryanair will be in Ukraine," said Daniel Bilak, the Canadian-born director of Ukraine Invest, the country's investment promotion agency.

"At the end of the day, Ukraine is a nation of 46 million people and the size of France. I don't think Ryanair has many markets left in Europe like that. So I suspect that we will reach some form of arrangement."

Bilak, chief investment adviser to Ukraine's prime minister, is a guest speaker at the economics and comedy festival Kilkenomics, to be held in Kilkenny next weekend. Before the air routes deal collapsed, Ryanair had promised to add four routes to Kiev and seven to Lviv and had even begun selling tickets on routes.

Ukraine is seen as the last big jewel for low-cost carriers in Europe after the EU granted visa-free travel to its citizens.

The deal collapsed when Kiev's Boryspil airport - the country's main air hub, with annual passenger traffic of 13 million - rejected it as economically unviable. It was a very public setback to Ukraine's efforts to attract foreign investment as the country pivots towards the EU three years on from its pro-democracy revolution. Accounts differ over why the talks failed.

Ryanair accused Kiev's main Boryspil Airport of "failure to honour a growth agreement".

But Bilak has dismissed Ryanair's portrayal of events.

"I don't hold the view that Ryanair had ever left the negotiation; they just started negotiating a little differently, they went to the press.

"Unfortunately, you can never be criticised for impugning Ukraine's reputation," he said.

"Obviously, Ryanair felt that they could do that and that they had an easy buy-in because of the difficult brand that we have."

Boryspil Airport claims a memorandum of understanding was signed with Ryanair without its approval and accuses the airline of making unreasonable commercial demands.

"Ryanair are very tough negotiators, they are very aggressive. Would we like to have Ryanair in Ukraine? Absolutely. Would we like to have Ryanair or any other carrier in at any cost? Absolutely not," said Bilak.

A Ryanair spokesman said: "We don't comment on commercial negotiations."

Ukraine is struggling to evolve from monopoly through to fully open skies, like a number of former Soviet territories.

But Bilak insisted that Ukraine is "open for business". Ukraine is attracting FDI because it has a highly-qualified workforce, a major agtech industry and a thriving IT sector, he added.
'Depending on which issue of bond you hold, the annual interest may be liable for DIRT but the bonus payable at the end will be tax-free.'

Q: I own a number of 10-year National Solidarity Bonds. One was bought in 2010, another in 2011 - and another in 2016. I had always thought that the interest earned on the bonds was tax-free but a friend has advised otherwise. Do I need to pay tax on any interest earned on these bonds? Richard, Fairview, Dublin 3

Some of the National Solidarity Savings Bonds are partially taxable. You should be issued with a statement of the bonds you hold and this will include reference to the tax position. Details can be found on the website (statesavings.ie).

Depending on which issue of bond you hold, the annual interest may be liable for DIRT but the bonus payable at the end will be tax-free.

Is prize money taxable?

Q I'm a PAYE worker and I work in advertising. Last year, I won 2,000 in prize money in a competition run by an advertising body (which is not my employer). I won the money because an ad I produced won best prize in a particular category. Do I need to pay tax on this 2,000? Also, do I need to declare this prize money in an annual tax return?

Fiachra,

Dublin 7

It is not clear how your prize arose - in that was it part of your job, or was the advertisement that you submitted part of your normal work?

Assuming you entered a public competition and are not connected in any way to the company paying the award, then it should not be taxable as income on the grounds that you were doing this in your personal capacity and not as part of a business activity which provided some form of benefit for you or your employer within the advertising industry. Unfortunately like a lot of things in tax, it is not clear.

If it were taxable, you are under the income limit of 5,000 for having to make a self-assessment tax declaration. However this does not mean the income (assuming it is income) is not taxable. If the Revenue request you to make a tax return, you would have to include it on your tax return and pay tax on it.

Though Revenue's website says PAYE earners do not have to make a tax return unless requested to do so (provided you are not taxable under self assessment), should you earn a small amount of income outside the PAYE system, to avoid filing a return, you must typically come to an arrangement with Revenue to have the income tax on the extra earnings paid through the PAYE system.

In such cases, Revenue would typically agree to reduce your tax credits and tax rate band by an amount equal to your other income - and no tax return would be required (unless specifically requested by Revenue).

Tax relief on PRSA savings

Q I've been self-employed since 2016 so this will be my first year filing my tax return. I opened a PRSA in 2016 and I paid contributions into that PRSA in 2016 - as well as in 2017. When filing my 2016 tax return this year, can I claim tax relief for PRSA contributions made in 2016 and 2017? Sorcha,

Emyvale, Co Monaghan

There is a facility for back-dating claims in respect of pension contributions. When completing your 2016 tax return, you should be claiming for all pension premiums paid during 2016. Then depending on your income level and allowability of tax relief on pension premiums, you could also include pension contributions paid during 2017 (up to October 31, 2017) on your 2016 tax return.

The maximum amount you can claim pension tax relief for in any tax year is age-related and subject to an earnings limit. Furthermore, there is a 115,000 cap on the maximum annual earnings that pensions tax relief can be claimed on. So for example, if you are under 30, you can get tax relief on 15pc of earnings (subject to a maximum allowance of 17,250); and if you are under 40 years of age, you can get tax relief on 20pc of earnings (subject to a maximum allowance of 23,000). The amount of tax relief that can be claimed rises with age, with the maximum relief set at 40pc of earnings (subject to a maximum allowance of 46,000) and available to individuals aged 60 and over.

By way of example, I will assume you are under 30 and had a taxable self-employed profit of 40,000 in 2016. In this case, the most pension contributions you can claim for tax is 6,000, which will save you 2,400 in tax.

Making pension contributions now to be claimed against the 2016 tax year also helps reduce your 2017 preliminary tax payment requirements. Using my example, you can also reduce your 2017 preliminary tax payment by 2,400. However to maintain this 2017 tax relief, you must make at least the same amount of pension payments again for the 2017 tax year.

Tax relief for pension contributions is only available on earned income (that is, salary or self-employed income). Pension tax relief cannot be claimed in respect of what Revenue call unearned income (such as rental income). For married couples dealt with under joint assessment, the relief is looked at separately for each spouse so it is not transferable between spouses.

Must I fill out CGT section?

Q I sold an asset in 2016 but no profit was made. Do I fill out the Capital Gains Tax section on Form 11 or ignore?

Ena,

Co Roscommon

You have to calculate the loss you have suffered and record this on your tax return. You state the sale proceeds on your tax Form 11 tax return and the type of asset sold. You also have to record the amount of your loss. This is broadly speaking the sale proceeds less the original cost of the asset.

If you file a Form 12 tax return each year, then you should declare the sale in the Capital Gains Tax section of the Form 12. If you are not required to file a Form 11 or Form 12, then you should report the sale to Revenue on a Form CG1.

It is important to make a tax return and claim the loss to ensure that if you sell an asset in a later year at a gain, you will have declared the loss on the asset sold in 2016 and this loss can then be used against the gain on the later sale.

There is a statutory four-year time limit for making tax claims and if you did not declare your loss and sold an asset at a gain after five years, you would not be entitled to claim the 2016 loss against the gain. For married couples taxed under joint assessment, one spouse's loss can be used against gains of the other spouse - that is, capital losses are transferable between spouses.

Is tax owed on sale profits?

Q My husband and I have just moved house - after selling our first home in September. Do we need to declare the sale of our first home in a tax return this year? Must we pay tax on any profits earned?

Cathy,

Clontarf, Dublin 3

Assuming you have always used the property as your principal private residence and the sale does not reflect development potential, then the profits are tax-free.

You should make a return of the sale using Form CG1 , Form 12 or Form 11 and claim the private residence relief from tax. It is usually in the year following a sale that any profits made from that sale are declared in a tax return. So the actual details of your September 2017 sale itself do not usually get reported until 2018 in a 2017 tax return - which is to be filed by October 2018 (or mid-November if filing online)
Reckitt Benckiser was formed in 1999 through the merger of Reckitt & Colman and the Netherlands-based Benckiser.

The management team quickly established the company as one of the fastest growing in the sector while also focusing attention on completing several transformational acquisitions across the consumer health, hygiene, and home product categories.

Reckitt Benckiser now owns some of the best-known consumer brands, including Nurofen, Strepsils, Gaviscon, Durex, Scholl, Vanish, Dettol and Cillit Bang. Beyond proving adept at creating memorable advertising campaigns, these brands are also very big sellers and make up part of what management describe as 'ten power brands' which provide a significant portion of the overall company's profitability.

Earlier in 2017, Reckitt Benckiser completed the acquisition of Mead Johnson Nutrition Company. The transaction doubled the company's consumer health business and provided management with the world's leading infant nutrition company.

The deal also increased Reckitt Benckiser's exposure to China, which is now the company's second-largest market, despite not even making the top 25 just five years ago. As a result, management has increased exposure to developing markets that will have strong growth prospects in future years.

However, 2017 has also brought several challenges for the management team as the overall consumer goods sector is experiencing slowing growth due to own-brand products taking more shelf space. Reckitt Benckiser was also hit hard by computer hackers earlier in the year.

These negative developments have placed the share price under pressure, and it is currently trading at the lowest point it has been this year, declining by about 5pc since January. There have also been several senior executive changes in recent months, as some parts of the business had started to underperform. Despite the near-term challenges, there are several reasons for optimism. Several of the issues facing the company are one-time events which will be worked through and its most senior executives have decided to take a more hands-on role in the day-to-day operations in some of the underperforming divisions.

It is also worth noting that Reckitt Benckiser has a very strong culture of entrepreneurship and this has contributed to the company's ability to consistently generate stronger revenue growth than its closest competitors.

There is also a very attractive consumer health-care business which has been put up for sale by US-based Pfizer with an expected price tag of up to U$18bn, which would fit very well with the overall Reckitt Benckiser business structure. While the bidding process is likely to be competitive, Pfizer has amassed a very strong consumer products platform with brands which include Centrum, Anadin and Paracetamol.

Should Reckitt Benckiser be successful in acquiring the business, it would cement the company's position as a world leader in consumer-facing health and well-being products, as well as providing a platform for further growth.

With the prospects of a such an acquisition, coupled with management turning around the more challenged parts of Reckitt Benckiser, investors can invest in a company with a proven track record and buy shares that are now trading at a discount to its sector - which is a very unusual occurrence.

David Holohan is chief investment officer at Merrion Capital

Any investment commentary in this column is from the author directly and should not be seen as a recommendation from the Sunday Independent
In recent years, I have been asked to speak at conferences in Ireland and in the Middle East for the pharmacy sector. When preparing, I listen to the brief and then conduct research. This week I was shocked to learn that the equivalent of four jumbo-jets full of people die unnecessarily every week in the US, due to human error.

There are a number of reasons for this - misdiagnosis by doctors, dosage instructions incorrectly delivered or administered, patient errors, and so on.

As a community, pharmacies impress me with their sense of ethics and responsibility. While it's not yet mandatory, they do try to document errors that they discover so that the industry can learn and take preventative action for the future. There is a sea-change across the world and the industry is moving towards a collaborative no-blame culture.

The process of documenting is ad hoc right now. Pharmacies tend to use their own systems, such as paper-based forms and excel sheets.

Leonora O'Brien MPSI has over 20 years' experience in both commercial and regulatory roles. As the 'responsible person', she was keen to develop a consolidated approach to recording errors. This presented a business opportunity and she founded Pharmapod, cloud-based software for the recording of all errors. With ease and efficiency, pharmacies can track every single issue as it arises. The information is registered anonymously in a master database and identifies trends, and supports continuous improvement in the sector. In effect, Pharmapod has a very noble ambition and will save lives.

Recent challenges

Pharmapod experienced all of the usual startup challenges such as securing funding, building teams, etc. It also had to convince pharmacies to invest in a new licensed service that had never been a financial consideration before.

Along came the dynamo that is Anne Keogh. An ACCA qualified accountant with experience in startups, she took on the additional role of operations and sales. Very quickly, the company made inroads in Ireland and the UK.

With any innovative digital product or service, scaling-up becomes an early topic of conversation. They currently sell their service to individual pharmacies online. But getting volume by breaking into large chains will always require face-to-face contact. The challenge for Anne and the team was to find new geographic markets with sufficient potential to warrant investment in terms of time, effort and money.

Changes made

My experience with startups is that they tend to go through a lot of change in the early years. That's OK provided executives are proactive, stay focused and not just react to every whim. Each day brings new opportunities and challenges. Coping with them requires discipline.

Pharmapod developed a unique product that is in constant development but the core remains the same, with changes aimed at scaling up.

Canada was always in Anne's top five and she conducted many hours of research. "The more research I did, the luckier I got," she said. It cost nothing, except hours of Googling.

That research focused initially on the legislative environment. She discovered that Canada was further on the journey of mandatory recording. Further research exposed a potential market size of 10,000 pharmacies, with top chains accounting for 40pc of that.

Enterprise Ireland was organising a trade mission to Canada, which coincided with a convention for the Canadian Pharmacy Association and Pharmapod was invited to go. Enterprise Ireland executive, Cameron Lilly (SVP of Technology and Financial Services) gave tremendous support, setting up meetings with the Canadian regulators. In the first meeting, those regulators understood what Pharmapod was all about and the ball started rolling from there.

Summary

Breaking into new markets is an ambition for many Irish companies. There is so much Brexit fatigue around that it's good to see a company getting on with exploring different markets. Here is a summary of the steps that were so effective for Pharmapod.

1 Research your market and become the expert. Study the legislative environment and the commercial make-up. Find out who is who. This served Pharmapod really well when in negotiations with regulators and customers. By showing the depth of their knowledge, Anne and the team proved that Pharmapod was serious about supporting this new market.

2 Anticipate obstacles and manage risks. As it turned out, some of the big players in Canada would not sign confidentiality agreements with Pharmapod. Having invested so much in their intellectual property, Anne and team were determined not to roll over and allow the attraction of a big deal to dominate. Be prepared to say 'no'. (All parties have since signed the agreement).

3 Seek the support of key influencers. They might be locals in the market or indeed state bodies such as Enterprise Ireland. Now we don't all have such life-saving products that appeal to hearts and minds, but tremendous support is always available from Enterprise Ireland.

4 Invest and, where possible, go directly to the market. Meet key customers face-to-face. Few can tell your story with as much passion and conviction as you can yourself.

Just this week, Anne returned from Canada with a significant signing by one of the largest pharmacy regulators in the country. This will see Pharmapod being rolled out in 40pc of Canadian pharmacies over the next 12 months.

Alan O'Neill is a change consultant and non-executive director. For 25-plus years he has been supporting global and iconic brands through change. Alan-oneill.com. Business advice questions for Alan can be sent to sundaybusiness@independent.ie

In association with RGON, specialists in Employee Engagement Surveys www.rgon.ie
Australia's buoyant economy offers an important post-Brexit solution for companies seeking to diversify globally, and a gateway for entry into the wider Asia-Pacific region.

Developing these opportunities was the key driver behind the recent trade and investment programme organised in the context of President Michael D Higgins's state visit to Australia. Tanaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Frances Fitzgerald also joined the programme which was aimed at strengthening economic and export opportunities between Australia and Ireland.

Over the course of eight days, two cities, 14 events and 170 meetings with Australian buyers, new business opportunities were sought for 55 Irish companies, 27 of which had yet to export to Australia, and 16 of which were heavily Brexit-exposed.

Increasingly, Irish businesses are looking to Australia as a key export market. Last year, more than 300 Enterprise Ireland-backed companies exported goods worth 256m to Australia, 14pc more than the previous year.

Australia is also a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region which delivered double-digit growth for Enterprise Ireland firms in 2016. An impressive 16pc year-on- year gain made it the second-fastest growing region for these companies in 2016.

The recent trade mission was the largest programme Enterprise Ireland has ever undertaken in the region. The companies that participated are reflective of a dynamic Ireland that is known the world over for its innovation. During the mission, 14 Enterprise Ireland clients signed significant deals and reached major milestones with Australian partners.

Irish company Brightflag signed a multi-year contract with Telstra, the biggest telco in Australia, affirming that Australian companies are forward-thinking and embrace new technologies which bring value to their business. Cubic Telecom signed a 20m deal with Telstra and Portwest acquired a second Australian workwear company for close to 10m.

Combilift secured a AUS $1m contract with an Australian construction company, while Akari Software signed 5m worth of deals with Australian universities and the Irish startup WeBringg became the new logistics arm for Menulog, the largest food-ordering platform in Australia.

Meanwhile, four Enterprise Ireland-backed companies - Prodigy Learning, WeBringg, GECKO Governance and Poppulo - announced plans to open offices in Australia.

These successes demonstrate that innovation is central to Irish companies' success internationally. Alex Kelly, president and co-founder of Irish company Brightflag, affirmed its importance in Australia. "From our experience, Australian companies are forward-thinking and embrace new technologies which bring value to their business," he said.

For the past two years Ireland has been Europe's fastest-growing economy, a growth that has been innovation-driven.

A long-term economic strategy has helped build a reputation as an 'innovation island'. With global markets undergoing historic change, innovation can help contain the impacts of market volatility and provide long-term benefits. As Enterprise Ireland helps Irish businesses prepare for Brexit, innovation is at the heart of our strategy.

Like Australia, Ireland must be globally competitive in export markets to sustain economic growth. While Australia is beginning a journey with the launch of its Innovation Agenda, Ireland's innovation strategy is deeply embedded and will continue to thrive as we encourage homegrown companies to diversify and expand to bright horizons.

Deepening commercial partnerships between Australia and Ireland will contribute to the future success of all our enterprises.

Mary Kinnane is Enterprise Ireland director for Australia & New Zealand
The US government's Assistant Secretary for Cyberspace has said that America's relations with Ireland and other international partners are vital in protecting intelligence from cyber attackers globally.

Speaking at the Dublin Information Sec 2017 cyber-security event, which was hosted by Independent News and Media, Jeanette Manfra, from the US Department of Homeland Security, spoke of the need for a relationship with Ireland in sharing information with the US to help protect companies and governments. She warned that defence was the key step in controlling the internet.

Ms Manfra said the internet "was not built to be safe and secure" and that if Ireland, along with the rest of the world, wanted to protect its intelligence, then it had to work as part of a "cyberspace ecosystem".

Tanaiste and Enterprise Minister Frances Fitzgerald told delegates there was a "huge opportunity" for Ireland to be at the leading edge of the emerging cyber-security industry. Other speakers included Bradley C Birkenfeld and Joseph Carson.
No looking back: Kate Hudson tried a few classic tricks to force Matthew McConaughey to dump her in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

My creepy ex-boyfriend won't stop sending me emails.

The most recent one made me want to go home and take a Silkwood-style shower.

These emails are sporadic enough not to be classed as harassment but frequent enough to give me the heebie-jeebies.

We dated for a four months a few years ago. So you can probably understand my fatigue.

I don't understand this type of person - the reccurring 'ex-pest' who calls or texts you to "check in" and make sure everything's okay.

Just act normal, for goodness sake, and Facebook/Instagram stalk people.

That is what social media is for - a safe place where you can keep tabs on the people you used to have sex with, without looking like a complete weirdo.

You'll know about their ongoing frustration with Dublin Bus real-time displays and Deliveroo drivers, and about their #LadsLadsLads holiday to Puerto Banus, and console yourself the break up was actually a very good thing.

The only downside is falling into a social media wormhole which can last hours - before you know, it is 3am and you're looking through pictures of your ex's younger brother's debs date circa 2010. Which is a place you definitely don't want to be.

But even that is preferable to pestering someone IRL.

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This email business is making me reassess the whole act of breaking up.

Everyone is quick to praise the softly, softly approach but perhaps there is a plus side to a really horrible mangled mess of a split.

I'm not advocating emotionally scarring someone. Or smashing their heart/ windscreen of their car.

More making yourself so utterly unappealing in the final stages of your relationship they will never reach out or contact you ever again.

So here are some suggestions to ensure someone will be delighted to leave you and never look back.

* Start referring to yourself in the third person when you have sex.

* Correct people's grammar. Talk at length about your love of the Oxford comma.

* Tell them you don't get "the fuss" about dogs.

* Give celibacy a whirl.

* Take an ethical stand point and refuse to wash for a month. Or longer.

* Do a TEFL course.

* Talk in a baby voice when introduced to their friends/ colleagues/ parents.

* Become a Satanist.

* Become a travelling poet.

* Go full-blown Jim Corr and link everything back to the Illuminati.

* As a "cute surprise" bedazzle every item of clothing they own.

* Start conversations with "Well, my psychic told me..."

* Play music on your iPhone while on public transport.

* Insist on splitting all bills down to the very last cent. Always use a calculator and feel free to invoice people.

Are supermarkets going completely off their trolleys?

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Another fall out of Brexit? Or an example of consumerism eating itself?

This week, UK supermarket giant Waitrose announced that the end of the Big Shop is nigh.

Reporting on the findings, the Daily Mail lamented that, as a consequence, "Jumbo shopping trolleys now also face extinction".

(Posing the question; what are students going to steal from car parks and chuck in canals now?)

The survey stated that times have a-changed, and rather than spending hours on a Saturday morning wandering about fluorescent-lit aisles, consumers are more likely to duck into Dunnes on the way home for "a few bits". We are, I'm told, treating supermarkets "like giant walk-in fridges" as we try to cut down on food waste.

So it's all for a good cause. But the fading out of the Big Shop does make me sad, and not just because I like saying 'The Big Shop' in an abrasive Northern Irish accent.

It's because there are many 'Big Shap' traditions I enjoy.

Namely fleecing free stuff - samples provided by helpful staff and grapes you can swipe for yourself.

The Big Shop is also a leisurely affair and gives me ample time to think affectionately about Dale Winton (inset) - a man I would definitely like to see more of on my TV screen - and the genius that was Supermarket Sweep. And I can study all the discount versions of popular products like own-brand vodkas, or Aldi's Harvest Morn Crunchy Honey Nut Cornflakes which are entirely different to Kellogg's Crunchy Nut Cornflakes.

Plus, it's a great place to meet people; my mum once ran into Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh in Superquinn's detergent aisle while Blathnaid was in labour. (She wanted to have the house fully stocked before going to hospital).

And then there is the fun of secretly judging what other people have in their trolleys.

I hope that none of that disappears when we replace the Big Shop with the Slightly Smaller But More Frequent Shop (name needs work).

Still it's not all bad news, the report also shows that much-loved festive special - The Big Christmas Shop -shows no sign of slowing down.

We've still got that to look forward to.

TOPS

Cherry Buns

Back on sale in the revamped Bewley's. Yay!

Yellow tartan

Think Cher Horowitz.

FLOPS

Oh Crumbs!

Prue's bake off blunder caused the finale to fall slightly flat.

Erdem x H&M scramble

Lovely clobber but far too much stress.

SAY WHAT?

Ive an Ulster work ethic

Gloria Hunniford on the secret to her long-lasting career
The third time might be the charm for Saoirse Ronan.

The 23-year-old actress from Carlow has one of the most enviable careers in film and is widely considered to be a once in a generation talent. Her former co-star Ryan Gosling summed it up best when he recently described her as "Meryl reborn". So it's little surprise that her latest turn in Ladybird, a charming tale centred on teenager Christine "Ladybird" McPherson, played by Ronan, growing up in Sacramento, California.

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As has come to be expected with this rising star's roles, she has been widely praised for her performance and is emerging as an early frontrunner, at least for a nomination, for a Best Actress Oscar (she earned her first Academy Award nomination for 2007's Atonement and later for 2015's Brooklyn).

Vulture makes a convincing argument in favour of Ronan, saying: "For Ronan to enter this derby with two Oscar nominations already tucked away will only help Lady Birds cause: A film others might dismiss as lightweight has heft because Ronan is in it. Those nominations were earned for very different roles, too, and I suspect Oscar voters will be more inclined to see Lady Bird as a similar act of transformation by Ronan, more than they might if a familiar American actress had been cast in the part."

Industry bible Variety also heralded her performance, adding that it "further cements Ronan as one of the great actresses of her generation".

The Atlantic points out the stellar acting across the board, mostly with her onscreen mother, played by Laurie Metcalf, who is also getting early buzz for a Best Supporting Actress nomination, while Greta Gerwig is also hotly tipped for a Best Director nod.

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"Lady Bird is undeniably Ronans show, and the twice-Oscar-nominated Irish actress tackles Christines torrents of dialogue and endless zeal with poise. Lady Bird wouldnt work if the teenager at its centre werent utterly lovable, and Ronan really is, making Christines flaws as endearing as her warmth and vulnerability."

The New York Times described it as "big screen perfection", saying: "The script is exceptionally well-written, full of wordplay and lively argument. Every line sounds like something a person might actually say, which means that the movie is also exceptionally well acted."

Similarly, Deadline reviews: "If there is any justice there will be lots of awards recognition for Ronan, who follows her beautiful Oscar-nominated performance in Brooklyn with another every bit its equal."
Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them Worldwide Fan Event  London

The producer of Paddington 2 is still battling to break the bear out of prison by severing ties with the company co-founded by Harvey Weinstein.

David Heyman has said the hunt for an alternative distributor to The Weinstein Company was continuing just days away from the films UK release.

The animated sequel became an unlikely flashpoint of tensions in the Hollywood sex scandal when Mr Heyman signalled his desire to disavow the Weinstein name last month.

Harvey Weinstein has been accused of rape, sexual assault and harassment by scores of actresses across the film industry.

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The influential film studio Weinstein helped establish was due to distribute Paddington 2 in North America.

Speaking at the films premiere at the British Film Institute in London, Mr Heyman told the Press Association: The Weinsteins have had nothing to do with the film, so it hasnt interfered with the making of it at all.

Of course, I dont really want to talk about the Weinsteins at this moment, I want to focus on the film, that being said we are looking for alternative distributors right now, all options are being explored.

We are trying to break Paddington out of prison and find him a better home.

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Harvey Weinstein was sacked from his own studio, run with his brother, when allegations against him began to snowball last month.

The film producer is the subject of criminal investigations in Los Angeles, New York and London, but Weinstein has unequivocally denied allegations of non-consensual sex.

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Heyman, who also produced the Harry Potter films, said he hoped the saga would herald a sea change in the behaviour of Hollywoods most powerful.

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He said: The good news about this story, if there is good news, is that it is out of the closet.

Clearly, its been going on, this mistreatment of women, mistreatment of men too, inappropriate behaviour, bullying, abuse, has been going on not just in the film industries, in many industries.

Whenever power exists, there is abuse and the hope is that the conversation that has now begun will lead to change.

Paddington 2 opens in cinemas on November 10.
A persons name is the starting point in genealogical research. A genealogist traces a person through history by using their name to conduct research.

Legal documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, military records and death certificates, all of which are based on a persons legal name, contain critical details about the persons life.

Other sources of information, such as telephone directories, census records and newspaper stories also start with the persons name. Such information is used to confirm the facts of a persons life and to corroborate family stories and anecdotes passed down through the generations. Genealogical research does not go very far without a name.

Discovering and verifying a persons name is not always simple. Genealogists are often faced with the challenge of untangling multiple spellings of the same name. There also can be several generations of people with the same name. This is seen not just from one generation to the next but within the same generation, with cousins who have the same first and last names and even similar birth dates. To make things even more complicated, it was not uncommon for cousins to marry.

Today, a baby born in a hospital does not leave until the mother fills out the application for a birth certificate. Since 1987, the birth certificate form has included a request for a Social Security number, which is required when the new parents file their income taxes.

We were not always so efficient.

In 1936, when my in-laws, Clara Giesick and John Dunn, went to get their marriage license, Clara was very surprised to find that her fiances name was not John, but Donald. Close questioning revealed the unusual story behind John/Donalds two names.

The first Dunn baby, Fred, was followed by Mildred in 1900. After Mildred came seven boys, every other year, one after the other. The streak ended with a little girl, June, in 1916.

The story goes that a very proper aunt came to visit the family on their remote Colorado farm. This aunt was shocked to learn that seven of her nephews did not have proper names but instead were known only by colorful nicknames: Ted, Ginger, Billy, Jim, John, Hap and Mutt.

Mrs. Dunn was surely a very busy woman. All of her children were born at home and, since there was no requirement to provide proof of age for school admission, drivers licenses or Social Security, making the trip to the county registrars office to get an official birth certificate was not high on her to-do list.

The visiting aunt devised a plan to rectify this lapse in civilized behavior. The family gathered around and made a list of their favorite boys names, complete with middle names. Big sister Mildred had a crush on a boy down the road named Donald Denton, so she added that name to the list.

Seven of these names were written on scraps of paper and baked in a cake. The cake was divided into seven equal pieces and each boy was given a piece. The name in each boys piece of cake became his official, legal name. Ta-da! Floyd Temple Dunn, George Benjamin Dunn, William W. Dunn, Stanley Stuart Dunn, Donald Denton Dunn, Kenneth Truman Dunn and Richard Wainwright Dunn were born.

Although Donald Denton Dunn had a very proper name on all of his legal documents, including his marriage license, he was called John by everyone who knew him. My mother-in-law perpetuated the story by naming her son (my husband) Donald Rodger Dunn. I was afraid to ask why she chose Rodger.
Ireland would need to introduce a carbon tax as high as 70 on coal, turf and other products, to improve emissions targets - which the State is currently set to miss, the Citizen's Assembly has heard.

Ireland currently has a carbon tax comparable to 20 per tonne of carbon emitted by turf, coal and other fuel.

That tax would have to be increased as high as 70 per tonne to be in line with 2020 emission targets, the chairman of the Climate Change Advisory Council, Professor John Fitzgerald has said, told the Citizens Assembly today in Dublin.

Prof Fitzgerald said as matters are, the State will fail in meeting its 2020 emissions targets by more than the Government predicts.

While there was no silver bullet in solving climate, the State was currently facing many distractions, from Brexit to the tracker mortgage scandal, Prof Fitzgerald said.

Politicians are human and can only work 24 hours a day. Getting necessary attention is difficult, he added.

Ireland will not achieve 2020 targets, and with higher growth in the economy there was now a risk of even higher emissions and this was making achieving the States 2013 emissions target more difficult.

The National Mitigation Plan published by the Government in July was welcome, Prof Fitzgerald noted - but the Government could do better and needed to work harder to address the climate change issue.

The Assembly is preparing to vote on 13 recommendations to be made to the Oireachtas on Irelands climate change policies. The results are expected later this afternoon.

Ireland was a very long way from its 2030 and 2050 targets and the longer policy changes took to be implemented, the more expensive this would be for the State, the Assembly heard.

Higher carbon taxes would offer an important measure to kickstart improvements, Prof Fitzgerald stated.

The proposals include the immediate ending of subsidies for peat extraction, vital to fuel fire-powered stations in the Midlands.

The citizens will also vote on whether farmers should be taxed for greenhouse gas emissions they generate. But the group are also examining if farmers should also be rewarded for land management that captures and stores carbon.

The Assembly is also considering if the public are willing to pay higher carbon taxes. And a discussion has been held on whether annual taxes should be introduced to discourage the use of carbon intensive vehicles.

Vehicles that would be affected would include petrol and diesel and motor tax for these vehicles. The Assembly is also considering if incentives could be introduced to encourage a switch to low carbon vehicles, including electric cars.

Other suggestions for more climate friendly governance, included the possibility of community ownership of renewable energy projects and a new agency to spearhead climate change as a priority in policy making.

However Friends of the Earth said that despite the 13 recommendations on climate change policy, this would not go far enough to bring about change.

Director of Friends of the Earth, Oisin Coughlan, said the proposals wouldnt get Ireland from a position of laggard to leader but they would assist the State in becoming average.

He said the Assemblys recommendations were mostly about catch up with the rest of the EU and that if enacted the proposals would at least help end nearly a decade of Government inaction.
Ireland's homeless crisis continues to deepen, with almost 8,400 people now without a home, a charity has warned.

Focus Ireland highlighted that of the 8,374 homeless in the country, more than 3,000 are children.

Launching a Christmas fundraising appeal, the charity revealed that it had supported 600 more people so far in 2017 than it did in 2016 - 12,318 between January and September, compared with 11,744 in the same period last year.

The charity's life president and well-known social activist Sister Stanislaus Kennedy (Sr. Stan) said: "It breaks my heart to know that some of these children have been born into homelessness.

"Some of them will spend their first Christmas stuck with their family forced to live in one little room together.

"This is awful and it makes me think back to what Christmas is about - how nobody would take in the baby Jesus and his family.

"I am sure this will strike a chord with everyone no matter what their beliefs are as these children today have also been turned away and left as homeless. They are our children too and we have a duty as a society to provide a safe home for them."

One previously homeless family which was housed with the support of Focus Ireland took part in Sunday's appeal launch event in Dublin.

Sean Wade, Sarah Moran and their children - Zoe, four, Summer, three, and one-year-old Sean - were homeless for more than two years when they lost their home in the private rented market.

"It was awful when we were homeless and stuck living in hotels with nowhere to even cook," said Mr Wade.

"A lot of the places are really unsuitable for children as they have public bars and nowhere safe for children to even play. The Government should be doing a lot more on this terrible crisis."

The Government announced an extra 18 million euro for homeless services in last month's budget and said 3,800 new social homes would be built in 2018.

Mr Wade added: "I don't know where we'd be without Focus Ireland as the support they gave us was amazing and helped to keep us going when we were homeless.

"We don't know ourselves now we have a home. We don't feel institutionalised anymore and are free of the stigma that is placed on people when homeless.

"We are free now and I would encourage anyone in difficulties to contact Focus Ireland."

Sr Stan added: "We work hard to support families and individuals every day and not just at Christmas but we depend on donations now more than ever to raise funds so our services can cope with the constantly rising demand."

For more information go to www.focusireland.ie or call 1850204205.
Major divisions are emerging in the Independent Alliance over a proposal to travel to North Korea and broker peace talks with the country's dictator Kim Jong-un.

Independent Alliance Junior Minister John Halligan plans to travel to the totalitarian state to dissuade the country's unpredictable leader of engaging in nuclear war with US President Donald Trump.

Transport Minister Shane Ross and Disability Minister Finian McGrath are also planning to accompany their colleague on the peace mission.

However, Independent Alliance TD Sean Canney yesterday said he wanted to publicly distance himself from the other members of the political grouping who were hoping to travel to North Korea.

Mr Canney insisted the visit to a country condemned internationally for human rights abuses was not an Independent Alliance initiative and he wanted to state clearly the project did not have his backing.

"I don't agree with what the three lads want to do. Independently they can do what they want, but I want to distance myself from it. It is not an Independent Alliance project," Mr Canney said.

"My priorities are to keep on implementing the Programme for Government. I have bigger issues in my constituency such as Athenry and Apple which is a major concern at the moment," he added. Kevin 'Boxer' Moran is also opposed to the visit.

Last night, Mr Halligan said he would speak with Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney and decide whether he would accept an invite to travel to the North Korean embassy in London to discuss the proposed visit. The junior minister also robustly defended his plan to engage in talks with the despot.

"I have never denied the fact I have contact with North Korea and I have friends that have travelled to North Korea," he told the Sunday Independent.

"I have a right as TD and a minister to have my own view on world affairs and international affairs without being ridiculed for them. I have made it quite clear I don't agree with the North Korean leader's ideology," he said.

Mr Halligan also noted RTE previously travelled to North Korea with Irish culture organisation Comhaltas in the 1990s. He also highlighted that Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

"If it were three members in the French or Spanish parliament travelling to North Korea for peace talks we wouldn't rubbish them," he said.

Independent Alliance members have said they have been criticised by constituents over the planned journey to the Korean peninsula and have been warned it is damaging the political grouping's reputation.

However, senior Independent Alliance sources yesterday said the group was "perfectly relaxed" about their views on issues among members.

The source also said the Alliance would not do anything which would breach Government policy.

The Department of Foreign Affairs released a statement last week saying it opposed any parliamentary visit to North Korea.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs outlined its opposition to a parliamentary visit by the three government members.

"Minister Coveney has spoken with Minister of State Halligan and they have agreed that Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials will provide the Minister of State with a full briefing on North Korea next week," it stated.

"The Government position remains that we do not support any parliamentary delegation visiting North Korea at this time, given the sensitivities involved."

Minister Coveney rang all three ministers expressing his concern with their proposed visit to North Korea.

He has also arranged a briefing for Mr Halligan and Mr Ross on the country which has been locked in dangerous missile stand-off with the US over recent months.
A convicted killer has been arrested north of the border hours after he was released on bail following a drunk and disorderly arrest in Dublin.

Henry (41), from Belfast, who failed to return to Magilligan Prison in the North earlier this week, was arrested drunk in Dublin yesterday morning after being thrown out of a city centre hostel and getting mugged.

Barely able to keep his eyes open, he was brought before to Dublin District Court yesterday and let go after being fined 75 for a public order offence that does not carry a jail sentence.

Henry was jailed for life after admitting using a Samurai-style sword in the murder of father-of-two John Cooke (33), an acquaintance, in Lisburn in 2004.

He did not return to prison on Monday after he was granted a day-release pass to visit his family. So the PSNI appealed for information into the whereabouts of the 5ft 10in murderer, thinking he was in either Craigavon or Belfast.

However, he crossed the border on Tuesday and was picked up yesterday by gardai at Merrion Road, Dublin 4, in city's south side at 8.50am.

Henry was brought before Judge Conal Gibbons at a late sitting of Dublin District Court.

However shortly before 11.30pm on Friday night he was arrested by PSNI in Armagh and is now in custody.

In a tweet the PSNI said:

"Prisoner at large, Stephen Henry is in police custody following his arrest at approximately 11.25pm on Friday, 3 November in the Waringstown area of Co Armagh.

"The PSNI would like to thank the public for their assistance".

During the court hearing earlier on Friday Garda David Carty told the court that Henry, of no fixed abode, had been brought to Irishtown garda station and made "no reply when charged".

He objected to bail, however, the judge pointed out that the charge did not carry a penal sanction, just a fine and the High Court would not be pleased if he refused.

There was no charge before the court for being unlawfully at large and he also said that being homeless was not a reason for refusal of bail.

Defence solicitor Tracy Horan said she agreed with the judge. She also said she thought it would be at least a week until an European Arrest Warrant would be issued.

Garda Carty said he observed Henry had no shoes on and was "completely unaware where he was" and so was arrested for his own safety. He added contact would be made with Interpol.
An artists impression of the data centre planned for Athenry in Co Galway

The head of the IDA, Martin Shanahan (inset), has said that tech giant Apple has not definitively ruled out building its 850m data centre in a Co Galway plan.

The head of the IDA has said that tech giant Apple has not definitively ruled out building its 850m data centre in a Co Galway plan, despite refusing to commit to the project.

"As we know Apple made a decision in 2015 to invest in Athenry... the planning process for that data centre has taken longer than anybody would have expected," Martin Shanahan CEO of the IDA told RTE Radio One.

"The current situation is that Apple continues to consider Athenry in the context of their business plan but they have not committed to commencing the data centre immediately."

"It would be a significant investment for Athenry, for the West of Ireland and the fact that it's been delayed through the planning process over the last two years, I think it is disappointing and the fact that it is not proceeding now immediately is dissapointing.

"We have to now see how Apple considers it into the future.

The IDA would continue to work with Apple on the issue and on other matters elated to the tech company's work in Ireland.

"I think it was pretty obvious over the last number of months that there were concerns in relation to Athenry given the time it was taking to get through the planning process that was much longer than anyone would have expected, certainly longer than the company would have expected.

"There was always a possibility as this dragged on that it may impact on Apple's plans. Having said that I don't think this is the final word on it. Apple have said that they will continue to consider Athenry in the context of their future plans."

After a meeting in California, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed that Apple boss Tim Cook refused to give "a definite commitment" to build the Athenry data centre during their meeting.

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As revealed by Independent.ie, a serious question mark now hangs over the 850m investment planned for the Galway town.

Mr Varadkar told Apple executives that local people had protested in favour of the project going ahead despite the planning objections that had been lodged.

And he promised Mr Cook that the Irish Government "will do anything within our power to facilitate" the development.

However, Mr Cook would only commit to considering Athenry as a location for investment in the future.

"We didn't get a start date or a definite commitment or anything like that. But certainly from our point of view we really impressed on them very strongly how much the Government is behind this project and we will do anything that is within our power to facilitate it," Mr Varadkar said.

The centre, first mooted in 2015, has faced a protracted planning process.

Last week the High Court appeared to clear the way for the development to begin.

Under new proposals planning applications for data centres will go straight to An Bord Pleanala as a 'strategic infrastructure' project.

However, concerns have been raised that Apple's decision not to immediately move forward in Co Galway could damage our prospects of investment from other companies post-Brexit.
There are fears criminal gangs may once again be targeting homes along the country's motorway corridors after a man living on his own was targeted by burglars for the second time in six weeks yesterday.

A man in his 50s was attacked and locked in a shed during an aggravated burglary at his farmhouse in Co Offaly during the early hours of yesterday morning.

Four men forced their way into his home at Glasderry Beg, Brosna, near the Offaly-Tipperary border, at around 2am. He was assaulted by the men as they took him from his home and forced him into the shed.

He lives alone but managed to escape from the shed and make his way to a neighbour's house where the alarm was raised.

He was taken to hospital, where he was being treated for injuries which were described as non-life threatening.

During the attack the man suffered severe bruising and required stitches for cuts. The suspects fled the scene with a small sum of cash.

No arrests have been made but gardai are investigating the incident. The scene was sealed off yesterday for an examination as gardai carried out local enquiries.

Local Fine Gael councillor John Clendennen said the area had been targeted by burglars in the past.

He called for more resources to be allocated to prevent crime in rural areas, including the installation of technology capable or reading the licence plates on cars entering the motorway network.

"There are situations where criminal gangs are using motorways to ransack rural Ireland and then get safely back to their havens afterwards," he said.

"We need collaboration between An Garda Siochana and local community groups and we need to see the resurrection of community gardai and their presence in towns and villages where they know everyone and they know what is going on."

Gardai have appealed for anyone with information to contact Birr Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
AS they wait for the tide, fishermen of varying ages and garb sit about an open-sided pavilion on the quayside, playing cards at refectory-style tables.

Some take occasional sips from beer bottles. Men, cards and beer are all waiting for the time to pass. Out of the shade of the shed, the heat of the day may be in the mid-20s, pleasing for most tourists strolling in a fishing village which retains much that is old, especially (as guide books say) a unique quaintness.

The fishermen seem to be from another era and oblivious to gawkers. Two- and three-man crews work small craft with well-worn gear, easing into estuary tide, taking sea swells with care, casting with net and lines for what the ocean may give up.

When landed, each fish seems precious and is handled with care. So different from where I grew up in Ireland, when a catch was shovelled to the quay to be boxed for the market. Small boys, and others, helped themselves with lengths of twine and nails.

If luck holds for these fishermen, a bellied net-bag of sardinhas might be a reward, a good pay-day until another lucky strike. But Portuguese and Spanish small fishermen face the suspension of all sardine fishing because of depleted stocks, at the behest of the International Council for Exploration of the Sea - the world's oldest inter-governmental scientific body.

Lisbon initially opposed this move, but is now to meet Spanish and EU officials to discuss catch limits and areas from which large trawlers will be banned.

A fishermen's group says a ban would lead to the death of the industry, with smaller boat crews wiped out. Bigger vessels, they say, could move to other grounds.

The International Council for Exploration of the Sea say rebuilding of stocks above a safe biomass limit could take 15 years; stocks had fallen from 100,000 tonnes in 2006 to 22,000 last year. A zero catch all next year would be a start to recovery.

Scientific sources cite familiar culprits for depleted stocks: waste water treatment plants and human hormonal discharges in sewage. The pharma industry is "constantly releasing" new products and it is vital to know their effect on the environment.

Meanwhile, nearer home, the men of Cornwall, who some time ago got geared up to take on the Continental market, have been exporting their famous pilchards to Portugal, Spain and France. Ninety per cent of Channel catch now goes there and also to emerging markets in Japan and China. Interfish of Plymouth vessels catch nearly 7,000 tonnes a year and, in a sales drive by Sainsbury's in the UK, the tiddlers are being branded as Cornish sardines full of Omega 3 oils.

British and Irish tourists may not know that a delicious platter of grilled sardinhas was first hauled up in the English Channel. I imagine there are Irish boats bobbing about in this trade also. Irish shellfish may be seen on seafood counters in Portugal.

Joe Kennedy reports occasionally from Spain and Portugal
Sir - Brendan O'Connor complains about marketing experts having too much influence over our Government (The country is being run by "experts" full of guff, Sunday Independent, October 29). This is no doubt the case, but it is hardly a new problem.

Plausible sounding people have been making a comfortable living presenting themselves as experts for millennia. Their subtlety and adaptability is as irresistible as it is timeless.

The problem is a central theme in Gorgias, the dialogue which was written by Plato nearly 2,500 years ago.

Whether we call them sophists, bluffers or spin doctors, people who don't know what they are talking about, but know how to talk, have inveigled their way into positions of power in pretty much every society and civilisation known to history.

As the country which gave the word 'plamas' to Hiberno-English, we were never going to be an exception.

Colin Walsh,

Templeogue,

Dublin 6W

We must sort our own house out first

Sir - Just a quick reminder to Dan O'Brien ('Joining the Commonwealth would help address the Brexit conundrum', Sunday Independent, October 29): his opinion is not new - Gay Mitchell had it circa 2011.

The matter of re-joining the Commonwealth is a matter of principle and morality, not simply appeasement of unionists and simplistic economics.

Perhaps for once we have the chance to flourish and sell our wares and skills further afield, hold politicians responsible for actually serving the public and stop this careerist approach to public office, and stop this banana republic "me fein-itis" mentality of fat, greedy children being allowed access to the sweet shop and to finally cease sucking on the teats of our English speaking neighbours.

We must sort our house out first. Remember, it was their choice, albeit by a slender margin, and the demographic showed the majority of young voters were open-minded and "adult" enough to vote to remain. Many friends of mine in the UK were genuinely shattered by the result. The disenfranchised myopics won, the mature voters lost - this time.

For once they will dance to our tune - they will need us as a conduit to the rest of Europe. Irish people have the opportunity to flourish without British dependency.

John Collins,

Shankill

Rubber wheels and traffic volumes

Sir - Colm McCarthy ('Let's stop spending too much money on vanity projects we don't need', Sunday Independent, October 29) certainly seems to be opposed to Metro North. He suggests that the money could be better spent on "rubber wheel" transport infrastructure, including the Cork-Limerick M20 motorway, but he fails to mention that most of Ireland's motorway network is built with huge over-capacity.

The Institute of Transport Engineers lists the capacity of a four-lane motorway (two lanes in each direction) at 72,000 vehicles per day. Transport Infrastructure Ireland, however, shows that most of Ireland's motorway network has a volume of fewer than 17,000 vehicles per day, while some sections have volumes as low as 5,000 vehicles per day. At these volumes, two-lane or two-plus-one-lane highways with capacity of 16-25,000 vehicles per day would be more appropriate and can be built at half the price of a motorway.

The proposed M20 falls into this category with traffic volumes of less than 17,000 vehicles per day, with the exception of the short sections outside Limerick and Cork. While there is no doubt the M20 route needs an upgrade, a motorway along the whole length would provide enormous over-capacity and would not meet Colm's measure for economic justification.

Pre-metro systems, underground tramways, like Metro North, have been hugely successful in Brussels, Charleroi, Frankfurt, Valencia, Vienna, Antwerp and Buenos Aires. Such is their success that many have been upgraded to full metro as passenger volumes increase. Colm does not explain why Dublin, a high-growth city with limited city road space, is so different. Indeed, referring to Metro North, Colm suggests there is a fascination with "steel wheels, as against rubber wheels" but one might suggest that Colm's proposed prioritisation of "rubber wheel" solutions, including over-capacity motorways, provides less cost/benefit and his position is wholly contradictory.

CJ Barber,

Blessington,

Co Wicklow

Constructive discussion needed

Sir - I must respond to Eilis O'Hanlon's article on abortion (Sunday Independent, October 22). Her suggestion that Amnesty International's position on abortion is tainted by "ingrained biases and prejudices" is completely unfounded. Amnesty draws its mandate from international human rights law.

We choose our campaigns based on the gravity of the human rights violations at the heart of any particular issue. Women and girls have a human right to access abortion services. This right is firmly grounded in decades of jurisprudence on women's sexual and reproductive rights from the international human rights system Ireland helped create.

We are not "heavily one-sided" in the position we take. We are simply on the side of women's human rights.

Supporting women's human rights is not controversial or divisive. Last week, we published a RED C poll which found that 60pc of people in Ireland support women's access to abortion on request.

While some media commentators try to position this as a battle between two ''extreme'' positions, it is not. What we see is a shared concern across all of Irish society at the suffering Ireland's archaic abortion laws cause. Those who actively oppose reform are a tiny minority, but are often given disproportionate space because of how loudly they shout.

International public health evidence and medical best practice is that access to abortion is a necessary part of any sexual and reproductive health service. So it should be no surprise to Ms O'Hanlon that when the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Eighth Amendment calls international expert witnesses like the World Health Organisation, or national experts like Professor Peter Boylan, this is what they will hear.

The committee has indeed heard compelling evidence from medical, legal and human rights experts overwhelmingly in favour of reform.

Professor Boylan is a former master of the National Maternity Hospital and current chair of the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. One would think his expert testimony would be treated with seriousness and respect.

However, Ms O'Hanlon selectively cites the HSE inquiry into Savita Halappanavar's tragic death in an effort to criticise his testimony. His expert view was that Savita "died as a consequence of the Eighth Amendment".

The HSE inquiry found that one of the reasons for her death was the lack of management options available to her doctors - ie, a termination when medically indicated - and that the Eighth Amendment was a contributory factor. Prof Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, chair of that HSE inquiry, appeared alongside Prof Boylan at the committee and confirmed the Eighth Amendment's role in her preventable death.

Amnesty's 2015 research report, She is not a Criminal, made this same finding, and concluded: "If Ireland allowed abortion on health grounds in compliance with its human rights obligations, Savita Halappanavar could be alive today."

People in Ireland support women's human right to have access to safe and legal abortion services. It's time for a constructive media discussion which reflects that fact, and is based on evidence, truth and women's health and rights.

Colm O'Gorman,

Executive Director,

Amnesty International Ireland

Medical realities of saving mothers

Sir - Mary Stewart (Letters, Sunday Independent, October 29), referring to the tragic death of Savita Halappanavar, says that we have read of no evidence from the many gynaecologists who value the Eighth Amendment. She states that Dr Peter Boylan's claim that Savita's death was due to the amendment was not queried in the media.

As a retired obstetrician/gynaecologist who worked in Ireland for 22 years as a consultant, I feel that I am qualified to take up her challenge.

Have I ever felt, in a life-threatening situation when it was necessary to act to save the mother's life by ending the life of the baby, that the amendment was inhibiting me from acting? The answer is no.

Thus once I scanned a patient in early pregnancy and detected a bleeding pregnancy in a fallopian tube. There was still a heartbeat, but was I supposed to wait until it stopped beating? Obviously not and an immediate operation was done by me to remove the eight-week-old baby.

I, and most obstetricians in my time, will have been faced with the enormous head of a markedly hydrocephalic baby. The brain will have been fatally damaged and a caesarian section pointless and dangerous. As the cervix of the uterus opens up in labour, it is easy to perforate the head and let off many litres of fluid, though this will be fatal for the baby.

To do nothing would mean a uterine rupture. I have done this procedure several times and never thought of the amendment. After all, the designers of the amendment were not thinking of asking doctors to preserve the baby's life when this would be impossible.

One must remember in similar cases that if the mother is liable to die, then so will the baby she is carrying who therefore cannot be saved.

The case of poor Savita should not be used in the push for abortion in Ireland.

I do not know why her request for the pregnancy to be ended was not acted upon, but it might not have been that easy and perhaps with the baby alive there must have seemed to be a minimal risk of any infection; indeed this would normally have been the case with the early resumption of progress in emptying the uterus naturally.

Had the pregnancy been terminated early, the infection would still have been present, needing to be detected and dealt with.

Alistair McFarlane,

Cambellstown,

Letterkenny

Remembering black-sack days

Sir - Ciara O'Connor's article regarding Halloween costumes (Sunday Independent, October 29) reminded me of when my daughter was in Guides and they were having a Halloween party. She wore a black sack covered in cabbage leaves and went as a cabbage patch doll - they were all the go at the time - and she won a prize!

Patricia Keeley,

Templeogue,

Dublin 6

Time to stop putting clocks back

Sir - Once again, October has come and gone and the clocks have been put back one hour till the spring comes around again. Why is this so? Nobody wants an extra hour of daylight in the morning except those who tell us the clocks have to be put back in winter.

The winter evenings are black enough without an extra hour's daylight being taken off us in the evenings. Whatever the reasons for bringing in winter time originally, they do not count in the 21st Century.

So I hope, for once, the politicians in this country will grasp the nettle and when the clocks go forward in the spring, they will stay like that forever.

Declan O'Connell,

Newbridge,

Co Kildare
Some medicines that are routinely available here may not be legal abroad (Stock photo)

Tourist Laura Plummer has been held in an Egyptian prison for four weeks and could even face the death penalty after she tried to bring painkillers to the country.

She was detained after she tried to bring painkillers into the country. Her ordeal is a reminder to travellers that many medicines routinely prescribed and available over the counter here may not be legal abroad.

What were the circumstances of Laura Plummers arrest?

The 33-year-old from Hull had flown to the Egyptian resort of Hurghada to visit her husband, who suffers from back pain. Before she left, a friend who had been prescribed with several hundred Tramadol tablets gave them to Ms Plummer so that she could take them to her husband.

Ms Plummer was arrested when the medicine was found in her suitcase by customs officials at Hurghada airport.

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Whatsapp Laura Plummer has been locked up in an Egyptian jail for almost a month

Her family say that she signed a 38-page statement in Arabic, believing she would be freed, but instead she was incarcerated and has remained so since 8 October.

What was the problem?

Tramadol is widely prescribed in Britain. But Egypt, in common with many other countries, has strict rules on any drugs containing opioid analgesics, such as Tramadol and codeine.

The Foreign Office says: Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines that are available in the UK are considered controlled substances in Egypt and cant be brought into the country without prior permission from Egypts Ministry of Health.

If you arrive in Egypt without this permission and the required documentation, the medication will not be allowed into the country and you may be prosecuted.

What could Ms Plummer have done differently to help her husband get the medication he needs?

The problems faced by Ms Plummers husband might have been addressed by talking to the Egyptian authorities about how he could be provided with suitable medication by the health service in Egypt. If she had contacted the Egyptian embassy in London in advance of her trip and told them what she was planning to do, she would almost certainly have been told not to contemplate such a course of action.

Even if the painkillers been prescribed for Ms Plummer, she would have needed a medical certificate from her GP explaining why she had them, and why she was bringing them in a large quantity.

There are several questions that the NHS will be keen to ask about how controlled medication in such quantities was obtained by one person (normally prescriptions are restricted to 30 days supply), and then taken out of the UK by someone else.

As it is, unfortunately she arrived with a significant quantity of medicines which are regarded as illegal drugs in Egypt.

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Is Egypt particularly strict?

No. There are dozens of other countries where these sorts of medicines are banned substances, and where a similar view would be taken of someone trying to import what would be seen as significant quantities of illicit drugs.

Opioid analgesics such as Tramadol and codeine are on the World Health Organisations Model List of Essential Medicines, which means the UN health body regards them as valuable treatment which should be widely available. But customs officials in many countries are extremely hot on any substance derived from opium poppies.

Where should people take extra care?

Almost all nations ban the importation of drugs that are regarded by the authorities as being dangerous and having no medical value, such as heroin, marijuana and many synthetic recreational pharmaceuticals.

Middle Eastern countries take a particularly strong interest in what they regard as drug smuggling, and will even check transit passengers and their baggage if they believe it may contain banned substances.

The UAE authorities have imprisoned people for testing positive for medicines such as codeine and the sleeping pill temazepan in their urine, and for arriving with poppy seeds from a bread roll they had eaten earlier on the journey. The list of controlled substances in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and elsewhere in the UAE includes many over-the-counter medicines.

Similarly, Thailand has strict laws on import of medications. Travellers planning to take opioid analgesics typically included in strong painkillers, such as codeine and dozens of other substances designated Category 2, into Thailand must obtain a permit issued by the Food and Drug Administration before travelling. They are limited to 30 days of prescribed usage.

In Japan, what the Foreign Office calls a strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law bans the importation of medicines for allergies and sinus problems, even including Vicks inhalers.

Doesnt that makes it sound as though any medicines could land you in trouble abroad?

The most common medicines, such as aspirin, treatments for diabetes, high blood pressure and contraceptive pills, are unlikely to cause any problem in normal amounts. But if you are importing medicines in larger quantities than you would need for a short visit, you can expect some close questioning.

And for any medicine with ingredients derived from opium poppies, you should be extremely cautious. Talk to the embassy of the country youre planning to visit, though be warned that  as I have found while researching the subject  this is not always an easy task.

At the very least, get a letter from your GP explaining why he or she has prescribed the medicines you are carrying. And it goes without saying that you should not take in anything that is not intended for your personal use.
When the Me too movement revived last month it was amidst a whirlwind of wildfires scorching areas of Northern California. I saw my friends on Facebook posting away, joining others who have been sexually harassed or assaulted with either a simple #MeToo or by describing their own experience.

I was busy. I didnt participate.

If you dont know what the Me too is all about then you probably arent on the Internet. It started on the heels of the Harvey Weinstein scandal  the Hollywood producer who has been accused by numerous actresses of sexual harassment and assault. It encouraged women (and eventually men) to speak up about harassment and has forced many to see how widespread the problem is.

My mom, who watches the news avidly but isnt on social media, said that the whole thing has made her feel better about her own experiences. She told me the other day that she had always thought that she was doing something wrong and thats why men thought it was OK to speak to her the way they did and to abuse their power.

I didnt realize until recently how little respect I had for my own personal space. For as long as I can remember, men have made comments about my appearance, my outfits, my body. And, when I was young, at times I did see it as a compliment, especially if it was coming from somebody in my age group. Then, as I got older, it became an annoyance. Then it made me angry.

At the last newspaper I worked at, we had to go see a public official in order to get information about arrests. The old man who worked there would always make me wait until he was done with his task so that, when I went through records, he could talk to me. At first I didnt mind. He was an old, married man who was just bored at work, I thought.

It started small. When I wore a dress, he would say Hot date tonight? in his old man flirty way. He would add, Dont get into trouble without me.

It was weird, but this is the way things have always been, so I let it go time and again.

His comments got worse and then, one day when I was wearing shorts and a summery shirt, he hugged me. It was just he and I in his office. I froze. Like Bambi, like a deer in headlights or a rabbit who knows its about to be eaten, I just stood there until it was over.

Why would this person who had never even shaken my hand before suddenly think it was OK to hug me?

I turned around and walked away  cringing, knowing that he was looking at my backside the whole way. When I got back to the office, I let my anger out. Has he ever hugged you? I asked the men of the office. Their reaction was mixed  they were protective of me, but they didnt really understand why such a simple gesture  a hug  would be such a violation.

That same day, the man tried to add me on Facebook. I deleted his request.

After that I had to think more about what I was wearing on days I had to go to his office. I would try to go during hours when he wasnt working. My stomach churned each time I went.

Since then things like this have continued to happen. Because I am a woman, people seem to think that they can hug me without permission, can kiss my cheek, and even touch my hair.

Because I was so used to it, I even allowed it. It wasnt until my boyfriend witnessed an old man at a bookstore in San Francisco ogling me that I started to realize that this isnt something I should just put up with. That it shouldnt be normal.

I told my boyfriend that we had to leave the store. It wasnt until we were outside that I told him that the man had called me over to him and whispered You have a beautiful shape to me in a very creepy way.

Not knowing how to respond, I actually told this man Thank you before backing away.

I felt violated and disgusted  like I couldnt wear a skirt while out with my boyfriend on a hot day in the city. I should be able to wear whatever I want, shouldnt I?

My boyfriend was visibly upset. He didnt understand my reaction. He wanted to confront the man. He wanted to make sure that man never did anything like that to another woman.

Although I thought my boyfriends reasoning was noble, I got frustrated with him. This old man is probably going to die soon  he is too old and stuck in his ways to change, why bother?

But my boyfriend was right. And so are the many people sharing their stories. This needs to be out in the open. This needs to be talked about, and people need to know that it isnt OK to treat people this way.

My question now, though, is what do I do when this happens? My shock, and sometimes fear, keeps me from freaking out, from yelling at these men.

Just last week it happened again  a man I hardly know, who is much taller and larger than I am, hugged me, pressing his stubbled face against my cheek as I held my breath. It was an employee who works at my favorite thrift store  one of my happy places.

That night I felt dirty and, instead of the anger I used to feel, I felt sad. In the big scheme of things the incident wasnt that bad, I guess, but still, I sat down on my bed and started to cry. Is there nowhere a woman can feel safe?

Maria Sestito is the Napa Valley Register public safety reporter. Jersey Girl runs every other Sunday. Follow her on Twitter at @RiaSestito or email her at msestito@napanews.com.
Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of princes and former officials, including a well-known billionaire with extensive holdings in Western companies, as part of a sweeping anti-corruption probe that further cements control in the hands of its young crown prince.

A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's Kingdom Holding Co told The Associated Press that the prince was among those detained overnight Saturday.

The employee said he received calls from several security bodies notifying him of the arrest.

The surprise arrests, which also reportedly include two of the late King Abdullah's sons, were being hailed by pro-government media outlets as the greatest sign yet that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is serious about reforming the country, which has long been plagued by allegations of corruption at the highest levels of government.

The moves come barely two weeks after Saudi Arabia hosted a major investment conference.

Analysts suggested the corruption probe, which targeted key members of the royal family, was a show of force by the crown prince, aimed at undermining any potential rivals.

A Saudi government official with close ties to security said 11 princes and 38 former government ministers, deputies and businessmen were being held in five-star hotels across the capital, Riyadh.

The scale of the arrests is unprecedented in Saudi Arabia, where senior royals and their business associates have long been viewed as untouchable and seemingly operate above the law.

Saudi nationals have long complained of rampant corruption in government and of public funds being squandered or misused by people in power.

It is not clear what Prince Alwaleed or others are being investigated for.

The prince is one of the Middle East's richest people.

His many investments include Twitter, Apple, Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, Citigroup, and the Four Seasons, Fairmont and Movenpick hotel chains.

He is also an investor in ride-sharing services Lyft and Careem, both competitors to Uber in the US and the Middle East, respectively.

The prince, often pictured on his 281ft superyacht in the Mediterranean, is among the most outspoken Saudi royals and a longtime advocate for women's rights. He is also majority owner of the popular Rotana Group of Arabic channels.

The Finance Ministry said in a statement the anti-corruption probe "opens a new era of transparency and accountability", enhances confidence in the rule of law and improves the kingdom's investment climate.

The kingdom's top council of clerics issued a statement saying it was an Islamic duty to fight corruption - essentially giving religious backing to the high-level arrests being reported.

A top royal court official, Badr al-Asaker, on Sunday appeared to confirm the arrests on Twitter, describing a "historic and black night against the corrupt".

News of the arrests broke within hours of King Salman announcing the formation of a new anti-corruption committee headed by his son, the 32-year-old crown prince.

The king also ousted Prince Miteb bin Abdullah from his post as head of the National Guard overnight.

The prince is reportedly among those detained in the sweep, as is his brother, Prince Turki bin Abdullah, who was once governor of Riyadh. Both are sons of the late King Abdullah, who ruled before his half brother King Salman.

Saudi Twitter accounts released several other names of those arrested, such as Alwalid al-Ibrahim, a powerful Saudi businessman with ties to the royal family who runs the Arabic satellite group MBC; Amr al-Dabbagh, the former head of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority; Ibrahim Assaf, the former finance minister; and Bakr Binladin, head of the Saudi Binladin Group, a major business conglomerate.

Reports suggested those detained were being held in the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, which only days earlier hosted the major investment conference.

The government said the anti-corruption committee has the right to issue arrest warrants, impose travel restrictions and freeze bank accounts. It can also trace funds, prevent the transfer of funds or the liquidation of assets, and take other precautionary measures until cases are referred to the judiciary.

AP
A nine-year-old cancer patient has asked for cards for Christmas after his parents were told he had just weeks to live.

Jacob Thompson and his family will celebrate Christmas early this year after receiving the news that his neuroblastoma was incurable.

After receiving a slew of cards for Halloween Jacob said he wanted more for Christmas, which his family will celebrate this month, CNN reported.

His father, Roger Guay, told the broadcaster: "He opened up and saw them and it was like getting a gift. He read it to us and had a big smile his face and his nose scrunched.

"He was excited to see what people had to say and it just brightened his day."

Jacob's mother, Michelle Thompson Simard, said the first cards had "streamed in" since the request.

Some have featured penguins, Jacob's favourite animal. One card even came from Antarctica, alongside others from Australia and Denmark, according to Jacob's step-mother Tara Artinyan.

To send a card to Jacob, use this address: Jacob Thompson c/o Maine Medical Centre, 22 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102, USA.
Brussels prosecutors will hold a news conference at 1pm today on sacked Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont, the subject of a European arrest warrant issued by Spain.

Warrants for rebellion, sedition, misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to Catalonia's independence campaign concern Puigdemont and four of his associates who fled to Belgium after Madrid's central government imposed direct rule in the autonomous region.

"We will give a press conference at 2 p.m. (local time). I can't confirm the arrests of the five people," spokesman Gilles Dejemeppe said.

According to Belgian procedures, prosecutors must bring suspects to a judge, who has 24 hours to decide whether or not to approve the arrest warrant. Appeals can stretch the process to as long as 45 days.
Catalan ex-president Carles Puigdemont and four other former regional ministers have turned themselves in to police in Brussels, federal prosecutors in Belgium said.

A spokesman for the Brussels' prosecutor's office, Gilles Dejemeppe, said the five presented themselves to federal police and have been in custody since 9am local time.

He said that they have not been arrested and that Mr Puigdemont and the four ex-ministers would be heard by an investigative judge on Sunday afternoon.

The judge will have to decide what the next steps are within 24 hours. They could vary from arrest and imprisonment to conditional release.

A European arrest warrant has been issued for Mr Puigdemont and the other four as Spain seeks their return for an investigation related to Catalonia's independence bid.

They had fled to Belgium this week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to impede the region's illegal declaration of independence.

The separatist politicians are wanted in Spain on suspicion of rebellion for pushing through a declaration of independence for Catalonia in violation of Spain's constitution.

Mr Dejemeppe said the judge's options range from "refusal to execute the European arrest, arresting the people involved, releasing them on conditions or under bail".

He said if they were arrested then they would be sent to jail as the extradition process continued.

Mr Dejemeppe said that the entire process from arrest to extradition could take more than 60 days.

That delay could give Mr Puigdemont time to participate, albeit from afar and in largely a symbolic capacity, in the snap regional election called by Spain's government for Catalonia on December 21.

A senior official of Mr Puigdemont's party, the centre-right Democratic Party of Catalonia, said on Sunday that the party wanted Mr Puigdemont to continue as its candidate.

Spanish government spokesman Inigo Mendez de Vigo has said that any politician can stand in the election unless he or she has been convicted of a crime.

Mr Puigdemont and the four ex-ministers fled to Belgium in the past week after being removed from power by Spanish authorities as part of an extraordinary crackdown to quash the region's illegal secession claim.

A Spanish National Court judge issued warrants for them on suspicion of five crimes, including rebellion, sedition and embezzlement, on Friday, a day after the same judge sent another eight former Catalan cabinet members to jail without bail while her investigation continues.

A ninth spent a night in jail and was freed after posting bail.

Mr Puigdemont wrote in Dutch on his Twitter account on Saturday that he was "prepared to fully co-operate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain".

Mr Puigdemont's lawyer in Brussels had previously said that his client planned to fight extradition to Spain without requesting political asylum.

Political forces in Catalonia are hurriedly jockeying for position to start a campaign that promises to be as bitter as it is decisive to Spain's worst institutional crisis in nearly four decades.

While pro-union parties try to rally support to win back control of the regional parliament in Barcelona, pro-secession parties are debating whether or not to form one grand coalition for the ballot.

Parties have until Tuesday to register as coalitions or they must run separately.

Catalan ex-regional president Artur Mas, the first leader to harness the political momentum for secession, told Catalan public television on Sunday that he backed a fusion of parties for the December vote.

But, he said, the main goals must be to recover the self-rule of the region and the release of the jailed separatists.

"Under these exceptional circumstances that our country is going through, don't we have to substitute the normal and logical competition for the co-operation we all need?" Mr Mas said.

"If we add the issue of independence, we won't get as many people to support us."

The separatist majority of Catalonia's parliament defied Spanish authorities and voted in favour of a declaration of independence on October 27.

The next day, Spain's central government used extraordinary constitutional powers to fire Catalonia's government, take charge of its administrations, dissolve its regional parliament and call a regional election.

Spain's constitution says the nation is "indivisible" and that all matters of national sovereignty pertain to the country's parliament.

In all, Spanish prosecutors are investigating 20 regional politicians for rebellion and other crimes that could be punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Another two leaders of pro-secession grassroots groups are also in jail while an investigation continues into suspicion of sedition.

Hundreds of pro-secession Catalans gathered in town squares across the region on Sunday to put up posters in support of independence and to demand the release of the jailed separatists.

"People came today because we want to send a message to Europe that even if our president is still in Brussels and all our government now is in Madrid, jailed, that the independence movement still didn't finish and people are still striving to get independence in a peaceful and democratic way," said 24-year-old protester Adria Ballester in Barcelona.

The grassroots group Catalan National Assembly has also called for a strike on Wednesday and a public protest on Saturday.
Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont has called for a united political front in the December 21 election to continue the drive for independence from Spain and to protest the imprisonment of former members of the regional government.

Puigdemont, who went to Belgium after his government was fired following the unilateral declaration of independence, said last Friday he was considering standing in the election from Brussels.

However a leader of one of Catalonia's largest pro-independence parties says party members will only participate in upcoming regional elections if Spanish authorities release jailed Catalan separatists.

Republican Left secretary- general Marta Rovira said yesterday that for the party to field candidates in the December election "it would be necessary that all the political prisoners are released from prison".

Republican Left president Oriol Junqueras, the former vice-president in the Catalonia government, is among the removed officials who have been in a Madrid prison since last Thursday.

In Spain's gravest political crisis since the return of democracy in the late 1970s, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy called the snap election after taking control of Catalonia a week ago.

Political parties that wish to run on a common platform have until Tuesday to register any potential coalition and until November 18 to put forward their candidates.

"It is time for all democrats to join together. For Catalonia, for the freedom of political prisoners and for the republic," Puigdemont said in a tweet that included the hashtag llistaunitaria.cat, a site calling for parties to unite against the Spanish government at the ballot box.

Signatures on the website rose to more than 27,000 from just 2,000 within a couple of hours of Puigdemont's tweet yesterday morning.

In a poll published last Tuesday, the pro-independence coalition Junts pel Si (Together for Yes) was seen winning in December with 35.2pc if the vote was held immediately. That would return a parliamentary majority to independence supporters if the group stuck with its current pact with far-left party CUP.

The wealthy north-eastern region continues to be evenly split between those who support leaving Spain and those who wish to remain part of the country, according to a range of polls taken since the declaration of independence.

If pro-independence parties run on different tickets, it may be difficult for them to win a parliamentary majority, though the imprisonment of former government members may help unite an electorate already wary of Madrid's tactics, seen by many as heavy- handed.

Pro-Spain candidates including Rajoy's People's Party (PP), the Socialists and market-friendly Ciudadanos were out canvassing yesterday with modest rallies in the region calling for the so-called silent majority to vote en masse in December.

Last Thursday, nine members of Puigdemont's sacked cabinet were ordered by Spain's High Court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial. One member of the dismissed cabinet, Santi Vila, was released on Friday after paying bail of 50,000. The other eight could remain in custody for up to four years.

Last Friday, Spain issued an arrest warrant for Carles Puigdemont and four associates to answer charges of rebellion, sedition, misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to their secessionist campaign.

Catalan civic groups Asamblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Cultural - whose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition charges - have called for a general strike on Wednesday and a mass demonstration next Saturday to protest the detentions. Puigdemont has said he would not return to Spain until he has been given unspecified "guarantees" by the Spanish government. Following the warrant, any extradition process could take up to 45 days according to the Belgium Federal Public Prosecutor's Office.

Belgian justice minister Koen Geens said his government will have no influence over the future of ex-Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont or four other Catalan officials because the European arrest warrant issued by Spain "is a completely legal procedure".

He said, unlike a normal international extradition, "the executive power does not play any role in the EAW procedure. Everything goes through direct contact between the justice authorities".

 Reuters
Lebanon's prime minister Saad al-Hariri resigned yesterday, saying he believed there was an assassination plot against him and accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world.

Al-Hariri announced his resignation from Saudi Arabia and the move appeared to have been done in co-ordination with Riyadh, which sees Iran as an arch-rival to be countered across the Middle East. His resignation thrusts Lebanon back into the frontline of Saudi-Iranian regional rivalry and seems likely to exacerbate sectarian tensions between Lebanese Sunni and Shia Muslims.

It also shatters a coalition government formed last year after years of political deadlock, and which was seen as representing a victory for Shia Hezbollah and Iran.

Hariri, who is closely allied with Saudi Arabia, alleged in a televised broadcast that Hezbollah was "directing weapons" at Yemenis, Syrians and Lebanese and said the Arab world would "cut off the hands that wickedly extend to it".

Hariri's coalition, which took office last year, grouped nearly all of Lebanon's main parties, including Hezbollah. It took office in a political deal that made Michel Aoun, a Hezbollah ally, president.

The post of prime minister in Lebanon is reserved for a Sunni Muslim in Lebanon's sectarian power sharing system. The constitution requires Aoun to nominate the candidate with the greatest support among MPs.

"We are living in a climate similar to the atmosphere that prevailed before the assassination of martyr Rafik al-Hariri. I have sensed what is being plotted covertly to target my life," Hariri said.

Rafik al-Hariri was killed in a 2005 Beirut bomb attack that pushed his son Saad into politics and set off years of turmoil.

In a statement read from an undisclosed location in Saudi Arabia, Hariri said Hezbollah and Iran had brought Lebanon into the "eye of a storm" of international sanctions. He said Iran was sowing strife, destruction and ruin wherever it went and accused it of a "deep hatred for the Arab nation".

Aoun's office said Hariri had called him from "outside Lebanon" to inform him of his resignation.

Hariri flew to Saudi Arabia last Friday after a meeting in Beirut with Ali Akbar Velayati, the top adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Afterwards, Velayati described Hariri's coalition as "a victory" and "great success".

Iranian officials denounced yesterday's move, noting that it had been made from outside Lebanon, while Saudi officials appeared to crow over it.

"Hariri's resignation was done with planning by Donald Trump, the president of America, and Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, to destabilise the situation in Lebanon and the region," said Hussein Sheikh al-Islam, adviser to Iran's supreme leader, in remarks to a state broadcaster.

Saudi Arabia's influential Gulf Affairs minister Thamer al-Sabhan, who met Hariri in Riyadh last week, echoed the language of the Lebanese politician saying in a tweet: "The hands of treachery and aggression must be cut off."

Saudi Arabia and Iran are locked in a regional power tussle, backing opposing forces in wars and political struggles in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Bahrain and Iraq.

A UN-backed tribunal charged five Hezbollah members over Rafik al-Hariri's killing. Their trial in absentia at the Hague began in January 2014 and Hezbollah and the Syrian government, have both denied any involvement in the killing.

In his statement, Hariri said Iran was "losing in its interference in the affairs of the Arab world", adding that Lebanon would "rise as it had done in the past".

Hezbollah's close ties to Iran and its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his war with rebels trying to overthrow him have been a major source of tension in neighbouring Lebanon for years.

The Lebanese government has adopted an official position of "disassociation" from the conflict, but this has come under strain in recent months with Hezbollah and its allies pushing for a normalisation of ties with Assad.

Since taking office, Hariri had worked to garner international aid for Lebanon to cope with the strain of hosting 1.5m refugees from Syria, seeking billions of dollars to boost its sluggish economy.

Finance minister Ali Hassan Khalil said there was no danger to Lebanon's economy or its currency.

"Over previous decades, Hezbollah was able to impose a reality in Lebanon with the power of its weapons, which it claims is the [anti-Israel] resistance's weapons, which are aimed at the chests of our Syrian and Yemeni brothers, not to mention the Lebanese," Hariri said.

He said the Lebanese people were suffering from Hezbollah's interventions, both internally and at the level of their relationships with other Arab countries.

Reuters
Emergency personnel at the scene of the mass-shooting in Sutherland Springs

A man opened fire inside a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing more than 20 people, including children, and wounding at least 20 others.

Authorities said the man walked into the First Baptist Church, a white, wood-framed building, during the morning service and began shooting at the 50-strong congregation.

Authorities have not confirmed the number of fatalities, but a Wilson County commissioner, Albert Gamez, said he was told by emergency officials that more than 20 people were slain and more than 20 others were wounded. Other reports put the number of dead at 27.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt told the Wilson County News that the gunman was then "taken down" after fleeing the scene of the massacre in Sutherland Springs.

Emergency services converged on the church in the small town south east of San Antonio and helicopters were taking victims to hospitals.

A woman who was working close to the church said that the mass-shooting "doesn't make sense."

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Carrie Matula told MSNBC: "It's a small Baptist church. Its an older building. I dont know that they would have security cameras or anything high tech like that. And I know they didnt have security in the parking lot.

"I never thought it would happen here. "

"This is something that happens in a big city. I would never have thought this would have taken place here. It's just too tight a community. It doesnt make sense."

A woman who lives about 10 minutes away from Sutherland Springs in Floresville and was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said that everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

US President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan, where he is at the start of a 12-day Asia trip, that he is monitoring the situation in Texas.

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He said: "May God be with the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI and law enforcement are on the scene.

"I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has condemned the shooting as an "evil act."

He said in a statement: "While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

"I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherlands Springs community during this time of mourning and loss."

One hospital in Floresville, Texas, about 10 miles from the shooting, said they were treating "multiple" victims with gunshot wounds.

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Connally Memorial Medical Centre spokeswoman Megan Posey declined to say how many patients were being treated at the hospital, but said the number was less than a dozen.
The sister of the New York terror attack suspect has pleaded for him not to get the death penalty, claiming he was "brainwashed" and deserved a fair trial.

Umida Saipova spoke with Radio Free Europe (RFE) about her brother, Sayfullo Saipov (29), who is charged with carrying out the deadly truck attack. Authorities say Saipov drove a rented truck through a bike path in lower Manhattan last week, killing eight people and injuring 12 in an Isil-inspired plot.

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Ms Saipova told RFE that her family had not noticed any signs of radicalisation in her older brother. She claimed they had a "normal" conversation with him the day before the attack, in which he said he was eating his mother's favourite pastry, and was on his way to pick up a client at the airport. Saipov worked as an Uber driver after legally moving to the US in 2010.

"We don't know who has brainwashed him," Ms Saipova told RFE, from her home in Uzbekistan. "We don't know his circumstances. We don't know. Perhaps he's become part of some organised group."

She added that her 50-year-old mother had visited Saipov in the US earlier that year and seen no sign of radicalisation. "My mother said she would have brought him back to Uzbekistan had she noticed anything," she said.

The family did become worried, however, when they saw him sporting a full beard after his marriage in 2013. Ms Saipova described the family as "terrified" to see her brother adopting the facial hair style of some religious extremists. She said he told the family the beard was an attempt to appear older and to scare off potential muggers.

"I don't know, honestly, how long it will take for his head to get rid of that poison," she said of her brother now, "but I'm sure he will come to his senses, God willing."

Isil took responsibility last Thursday for the attack, calling Saipov a "soldier of the caliphate". According to a criminal complaint, Saipov told authorities that Isil videos had inspired his attack. The complaint also alleges he had about 90 videos and 3,800 images on his cell phone featuring Isil propaganda, including video of a beheading. Documents show he wanted to hang the group's flag in his hospital room after the attack.

Saipov has been charged with providing material support to a terrorist group and violence and destruction of motor vehicles. He made a court appearance last Wednesday, but did not enter a plea.

US president Donald Trump called the suspect a "degenerate animal" and added that he "should get death penalty" in a move condemned by several legal experts. Trump also claimed that the US military had hit Isil "much harder" in the days following the attack.

Speaking to RFE, Ms Saipova begged US authorities to give her brother "a bit more time". "We don't think he should be given the death penalty immediately," she said. "We are hoping for a fair trial. We are ready to go there, if it's possible, to talk to him. Please pass my message to Trump, if possible."

 Independent
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Sonbhadra, UP, Nov 5 (IBNS): Just two weeks after a Swiss couple was brutally assaulted in Uttar Pradesh, a German tourist was on Saturday attacked in Sonbhadra district, located in the eastern part of the city, media reports said.

The accused has been arrested by the police.

The victim has been identified as Holger Eric, who arrived in Sonbhadra to visit the Agori Fort.

Eric was attacked at the Robertsganj railway station.

According to the accused, Aman Yadav, it was Eric who hit him first when he greeted him.

However, the German refused to speak to media and said his privacy should not be disturbed.

Only two weeks ago, a Swiss couple was attacked by a group of young men who wanted to take selfies with the woman forcibly.

The victims, identified as Quentin Jeremy Clerc and Marie Droz, were chased by few men and later were attacked with stones.

The battering left the male victim with a fractured skull and hearing impairment and his girlfriend with a broken arm.
Its never been easy to be a woman in the Marine Corps, which is the most physically demanding branch of the military and the one with the smallest percentage of female service members: 7.6 percent. Disturbing revelations in March made it even tougher: Male members of the 30,000-strong Marines United Facebook group had been soliciting and posting explicit photos of current and former female Marines without their permission, often accompanied by violent and obscene comments.

The Corps continues to grapple with the fallout. Thus far, it has disciplined 44 Marines, strengthened its policies for addressing social media misconduct and established a task force to look at how it recruits, trains, assigns and mentors service members in an effort to eliminate gender bias. As it was taking these steps, we reached out to current and retired female Marines to find women interested in posing for photographs that would let them define how they were portrayed, as individuals and as service members. We also spoke with them about their experiences in and out of the Corps, and about what they hope the photographs convey. (The interviews have been edited and condensed.)

There were areas of commonality: All but one said they were inspired to join the Marines in part because they had relatives who were in the Corps or another service; some said theyd had this desire since they were tiny children. All spoke about becoming a Marine in terms of the challengeof proving they had what it takes, and often, in the process, proving others wrong. It just always seemed like if you could do the Marine Corps you could do anything, said Capt. Lauren Finch Serrano.

To varying degrees, being a woman in the Marine Corps has tested all of them. Stephanie Schroeder said she was discharged after reporting a rape and spent years fighting for the Veterans Affairs disability benefits she now receives. Others have stories of enduring insults, being propositioned, being stared at, feeling like they couldnt be themselves, having to prove themselves over and over. As a young woman in that time, you were easy prey, recalled retired gunnery sergeant Carrie Ann Lynch, who enlisted in 1990. It would have been easier to be a Marine if I was just invisible, said Justine Elena, a captain in the reserve who left the service a few years ago. Five have combined their careers with parenthood. Four are marriedall to current or former Marines, which comes with its own set of complications.

Even women with negative experiences said the Marine Corps gave them a lot: It made them tougher and more disciplined; it provided meaningful, rewarding work. Several cited supportive commanding officers. Many mentioned military benefits that have allowed them to further their educations. There were mixed feelings within the group about changes such as more-demanding physical fitness standards for female Marines and opening all combat roles to women, but also excitement about advances such as the first female graduate of the infantry officer school and the first recruiting ad featuring a woman.

All of the women were outraged by the Marines United scandal, though some werent surprised. Elena started a Female Marines United campaign to raise money for Headstrong, which provides mental health support to military members. But many in the group also noted that most Marines dont engage in that behavior. Im proud of my service, said Schroeder. I respect my service. I have honor. I respect the Corps values. And a lot of Marines do. Just some dont. And the some that dont f- everything else up. I dont know any other way to say that.

As we prepare to mark Veterans Day on Nov. 11, here are the stories of eight dedicated Marines.

Bambi Bullard

Age: 64

Military status: Medically retired as staff noncommissioned officer

Years served: 15

Location and occupation: Murrells Inlet, South Carolina; semiretired business owner and former business professor

A lot of people didnt even know women existed in the Marines. After I got out of boot camp some woman in an airport asked me if I was in the Girl Scouts.

I volunteered to be an instructor at Parris Island. That was a little bit rough, but I made it through. In two tours, I probably had one or two recruits that I raised my voice to. I didnt need to: I was 6 feet 2 inches tall. I found it more effective to walk up behind them while they were standing at attention and just whisper.

If I had not had that military background, I would have never been as successful in business as I was. The paintball industry was more open and less misogynisticabsolutely lessthan what I experienced early in the Marine Corps. I went from a locker box of plastic pistols when I first bought into it to a nationally recognized operation. They just created the Paintball Hall of Fame. I was in the first class, and the first female, so that was pretty cool.

I hope the photos convey that Marines can be hardcore in one respect, but we know how to have fun and were humans and we enjoy activities just like everybody else does.

Carrie Ann Lynch

Age: 45

Military status: Retired as gunnery sergeant

Years served: 21

Location and occupation: Fredericksburg, Virginia; college student

I always wanted to be a Marine. My father was a Marine before I was born. I didnt have the white-picket-fence childhood, so I knew I wanted to get out on my own, and the Marine Corps is how I did that. I got to boot camp with my Aqua Net hair spray and my big bangs and my painted toenails and my blue eyeliner, and I was in for a shock. A lot of people didnt think I could do it, and that is what pushed me toward doing it.

The Marine Corps was the best thing that ever happened to me. It wasnt always rainbows and unicorns, but it made me the person that I am today. Im very thankful for the friends that I made and the experiences that I had.

When I think of myself, I think of a strong mother of a strong, independent child. I hope the photo of us shows that strength. I was a single mother as active duty, and Im doing it now. Im a full-time college student and single mother of a middle-schooler. It can be done.

Tracey Fetherson

Age: 29

Military status: Active-duty captain

Years served: 6

Duty station: Quantico

The Marine Corps presented the best challenge for developing a leadership style, and both of my parents retired from the Marines [as sergeants major]. So I always knew I would join the Marine Corps. I knew that no matter what, I was able to succeed, because I have seen examples in my life.

The numbers are significantly slim when youre talking about African-American women officers; the last number I heard was about 108 from 2nd lieutenant to colonel. I feel even more that there will be nothing to stop me because there are so few of us in this position. I want to show other black women, Not only can you join the Marine Corps, you can be successful in the Marine Corps.

As a young professional, I havent reached that point in my career when I have completely separated my personal and professional life. Being a Marine is very much 24/7; there is a sense of leadership that follows me even when I take the uniform off. So we tried to re-create the same face in uniform and in civilian attire.

I hope people see someone who is a powerful, beautiful leader when they look at me in my uniform. And I hope they see someone who is still powerful, strong yet approachable, still has a zest for life, still willing to live for the good moments when Im in the dress. The word we kept utilizing throughout the photo shoot was strong.

Stephanie Schroeder

Age: 36

Military status: Disabled veteran

Years served: 2 1/2

Location and occupation: Greensboro, North Carolina; advocate for victims of military sexual assault

Even after everything Ive been through, I still love the Marine Corps. Who I am today is the direct result of the Marine Corps. It taught me a lot of bearing, it taught me a lot of discipline, it taught me the things that I needed, actually.

The rape was different; things changed then. If I wouldve been smart, I wouldnt have said anything, and I wouldve just kept right on going and I probably would still be active today. It was overwhelming. The photo of the drenching is exactly how I felt: When it rains it pours. How much more can I take?

The other photo, thats more me like who I am todaythe courage it takes to put that face on and put that business suit on and have that debate one leader at a time. It takes courage to talk about rape with people who dont really think much wrong is going on. Im not fighting on the ground, but its a battlefield nonetheless.

My best girlfriend, she looked at me and she said: How can you go back and be around them? And I said because change. Change is worth more to me. I know that I am broken. I wont ever be the same again. But I can make the best of what I have. So thats what I do.

Jackie Huber

Age: 52

Military status: Retired as chief warrant officer 2

Years served: 20

Location and occupation: Fredericksburg, Virginia; photography studio owner

In my eyes and from what I had heard, the most difficult thing a woman could do is to join the Marine Corps. I dont know what made me want to try to do the hardest thing I could think of. It was emotionally taxing, and it was physically taxing, and more emotionally than I think I had bargained for. I built a wall to protect myself and to push people away who might otherwise try to take advantage of me or to see that I was not as strong as maybe I projected.

When I got out, I had to do a lot of research and a lot of reading and a lot of educating myself on how to build a business. And a lot of things it required I didnt want to do: I didnt want to talk to people, I didnt want to be around people, I didnt want to be social, I didnt want to network. The process has been trying to tear that wall down and be more approachable and outgoing and be myself. Its okay to be myself now. Its kind of like an emergence, a rebirth after having been just held down and kind of not encouraged to be yourself.

Juliet H. Calvin

Age: 43

Military status: Active-duty major

Years served: 25

Duty station: Camp Pendleton, California

Most women in the Marine Corps dont have large families. Its even more rare for female officers to have large families. But I dont really feel like I have a lot of boundaries. My husband and I have a great partnership. We also have a very organized house, so everything has a specific time and a specific rhythm. When we have different active-duty stations, I generally take the family responsibilities with me. But I dont think that people have looked at me differently. Ive had really good leadership that has been supportive, but I also put a lot into my professional life.

I would hope my uniform photo conveys discipline or honor, and I hope my civilian-attire photo can be a juxtaposition of being a woman as well. There are a lot of women out there that dont talk about their life as a mom or a woman because they want to conform. So I think its a positive example to put out there. I think good leadership takes on a lot of different characteristics.

If I look at it from today as opposed to 25 years ago, Im very happy with where the Marine Corps is at and where its going. There are a lot of really positive changes. Some people ask me if Im going to retire anytime soon, and I tell them, no, Im still having fun. Still having fun and in great shape and still competitive.

Justine Elena

Age: 32

Military status: Captain, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve

Years served: Active duty, 4; reserve, 5

Location and occupation: New York City; audience supervisor for The Daily Show With Trevor Noah

My parents were born and brought up in the Philippines, and my dad joined the U.S. Air Force. My uncles joined all the different services of the U.S. military. I ended up being the only American in my family and the only woman to join a military service and the only U.S. Marine and the only officer. When people met me, even if I was in uniform, they would ask, Oh, are you really in the Marine Corps? I dont know if it was because Im a minority, Im a woman or I have a very feminine look.

I have so many interests. One of those was, Do I have what it takes to be a Marine? But Im more than just a Marine. Im a comedian, Im a musician, Im an artist. With the civilian photo being so much about expressing the different sides of me, the uniform photo was kind of like no side: This is what you are, and there isnt a whole lot of room for the rest of your personality. But I am going to express myself in different ways because thats what life is about. Someone out there may be wondering if they have what it takes. If I dont hold to my authenticity, it can be a deterrent to someone else.

Lauren Finch Serrano

Age: 31

Military status: Active-duty captain

Years served: 8

Duty station: San Diego

When you walk into a Marine Corps recruiters office theyre like, All right, this is the most bada. Its going to be the hardest, youre going to get dirty, youre going to cry, youre going to scream, but if youre willing to challenge yourself, you can do this, you can do anything. Im a sucker for that kind of recruiting.

As an intel officer, my gender was actually an advantage, because they needed women to do certain missions and fulfill certain roles that men were incapable of doing. But when it comes to family, I think the traditional gender roles still are very prevalent in the military. Theres still that expectation that Im taking care of most of the kid stuff and my husband is not.

In the civilian photo, I wore my pearls and some jewelry that I think is very professional, and thats who I want to be outside of uniform. But having my kids in one or both of the photos is important to me because it shows that I do have balance in my life. I can be a bada Marine during the day and be here directing things going on in my shop in my uniform, and then I go home and Ive got a 2-year-old and a 5-month-old pulling my hair out and my husband is acting sillyand we can kick back and be silly and goofy and fun and happy.
New Delhi, Nov 5 (IBNS): Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj has condoled the killing of a Indian-origin Kenyan national Bunty Shah in Nairobi city of Kenya recently.

She also assured helping the family of the deceased.

Shah was killed in police firing last month.

Replying to a tweet posted by Netra Parikh, Swaraj said: "The deceased Bunty Shah was a Kenyan national of Indian origin. Kenyan security forces were conducting anti terror operations on the building across Shah's residence. Bunty thought this as an intrusion by armed burglars and fired in the air."

She said: "The security forces returned the fire resulting in Bunty's death. Kenyan Police have regretted the incident. "

Swaraj said: "Indian High Commission will provide all help and assistance to the family. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family."
New Delhi, Nov 5 (IBNS): World Food India 2017 achieved a resounding success with delegates from over 60 countries and Global CEOs congregating in New Delhi for the three day Conference cum exhibition.

President of India Ram Nath Kovind graced the event at its Valedictory session and congratulated the Union Minister of Food processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal, ably supported by MoS Sadhavi Niranjan Jyoti for putting together the mega event.

Addressing the gathering, President Kovind said, World Food India 2017 has helped showcase the vast and near limitless opportunities in the food industry and in food processing in India.

The President termed WFI the Kumbh Mela of Indian food.

He noted that the diversity of Indian cuisine literally renders one human lifetime not enough to experience the range and richness of Indian food!

The President however pointed out that Food is not just culture, it is also commerce.

He said, Indias food consumption is currently valued at US $370 billion. It is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2025, in less than a decade. There are opportunities across the entire food value chain in India  including post-harvest facilities, logistics, cold chains, and manufacturing. It is a sector with a large business appetite and the food industry can be a huge employer.

The President cautioned that the regrettable wastage has to be curtailed.

A focused emphasis on modern food processing can change things. It gives the food sector the potential to become the intersection of so many of our flagship programmes  Make in India, Start-up India, Skill India, Digital India, and the resolve to double farm incomes, Kovind added.

The President noted that the food story in India has world-wide implications.

On a global scale, the market for Indian food products is massive. It extends from 1.8 billion people in South Asia to a 30 million strong diaspora population, and to millions more in all parts of the world, he elaborated.

On the occasion, the President gave away Start-up Awards and Hackathon Awards to college students who helped suggest ways of detecting food adulteration.

Kovind said, There is an increasing stress on food safety, accurate labelling, intellectual property issues and innovation in the food processing sector  as well as on using technology as an enabler.

Recapitulating the action packed three day Mega Food event, the host Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that inspired by the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, her Ministry sees World Food India 2017 as a beginning and not end of an event.

She said at the World Food India 2017 not only has a Guinness book record been established for cooking 918kg of ubiquitous comfort, wellness food  the nutritious Khichadi; business worth $11.25b with 50 MoUs has been transacted during the three days.

Smt Badal said MoFPIs resolve is only strengthened to help India be established as the World Food Factory. Smt Badal said that during WFI, States including Punjab and Haryana also have negotiated MOUs worth $2.5b.

Ministry of Food Processing Industries will forge ahead to work expeditiously on implementing these MOUs. A special cell has been setup in Invest India to follow up on these negotiations and the Knowledge Partners would help achieve the goals, she informed.



Badal said her Ministry is guided by the principles of - ensure steps to reduce wastage, produce more and process more. Farm to Fork is their mantra and Food Processing Industries have to be the bridge between Farmers and Consumers.

The Minister informed that while States of Maharashtra and Telangana have announced their Food Processing Policy, the MoFPI would soon finalize the National Food Processing Policy.
Patna, Nov 5 (IBNS/TheBiharPost): At least nine people, including several children, were drowned in river Ganga when a family picnic turned into A tragedy in Bihar on Sunday.

Majority of the victims were children. The tragic incident took place near Mastana ghat of river Ganga in Fatuha block of Patna district.

Police said the victims had gone on the river bank for a picnic after the Hindu month of Kartik came to an end on Saturday.

Reports said after cooking food, the family members went into the water to take bath and drowned one by one in a bid to save each other.

Police said they have recovered nine bodies so far while efforts were on to search for other missing persons.

In another incident, three people died when an overcrowded boat sank in Bagmati river in Samastipur today.

The victims were returning homes after taking fodder for animals when the boat sank in the river. More than a dozen people are said to be missing after the incident.



thebiharpost.com
Srinagar, Nov 5 (IBNS): Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President and Member of Parliament from Srinagar Farooq Abdullah on Sunday asked the Government of India to devise a sound Kashmir policy and termed the appointment of a new interlocutor to J&K as nothing new.

While addressing a public gathering in Tangdar Kupwara, Abdullah said, I have very little expectations from this new interlocutor. Like it has been done before, he will come and meet people. In 2010, the then UPA government appointed a group of interlocutors who visited the state and had detailed discussions with every section here. The process took more than two months and after they were done with meeting people, a report was compiled. What happened to that report?, Abdullah asked.

Did the government discuss that report in any forum including the Parliament? No, instead it has been thrown into the dust bin somewhere in north Block. It was followed by a delegation comprising of parliamentarians who visited Kashmir. What happened to that delegation and their recommendations? Nothing happened. So I expect nothing to happen now as well, he added.

Abdullah also pointed out that when the mandate of Sharma is not clear why should anyone deliberate with him.

Ever since the Modi led government assumed power, their Kashmir policy has been swinging like a pendulum. The appointment of the new interlocutor is itself mired in controversies. Home Minister Rajnath Singh describes him as an interlocutor whereas the very next day another minister in the PMO designates him as a mere Spokesperson. So essentially when the mandate given to Mr Dineshwar Sharma is not clearly specified, then what is the fun in having deliberations with him?, Abdullah maintained.

Describing autonomy as core of the partys political agenda and a way forward towards resolution of the political issue of the state, Abdullah said, Our stand on resolving the issue of J&K politically is loud and clear which is the restoration of pre -1953 situation.

Asserting that New Delhi was bound to make provisions to grant autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, he said, This was a guarantee that time and again has been clarified with number of deputations and representatives of the Government of India. Therefore for upholding the political dignity and rights of the people of J&K, restoration of Autonomy is a must.

Attacking the PDP led government in the state for its submissiveness to BJP, Abdullah said, Its a shame that an elected CM has to take dictations from lower rung BJP party functionaries who come from outside and dictate everything from governance to decision making. They in effect are the defacto CMs of this state.



(Reporting by Saleem Iqbal Qadri, Image: Wikimedia Commons)
New Delhi, Nov 5 (IBNS): President Ram Nath Kovind, addressed the Chhattisgarh Rajyotsava on Sunday in Naya Raipur.

Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated people of Chhattisgarh on the 17th anniversary of the formation of the State.

The President said that Chhattisgarh has immense potential for development. The forests, rivers and minerals are priceless natural resources for the State.

But the biggest assets are the honest and friendly people of Chhattisgarh.

The President said that Chhattisgarh has done many things in the field of public welfare and development that have been praised throughout the country, and from which other states have learnt a lot. Chhattisgarh is the first state in the country to enact 'Food and Nutrition Security Act'.

The President said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh commendable work has been done for STs, SCs, the underprivileged, farmers, women, youth and other sections of society.

He congratulated the Chhattisgarh administration and the people for this.

He stated that the development of Chhattisgarh can be an example of development for the rest of the country.

Earlier in the day, the President paid tributes at the Shahidi Smarak Sthal in Raipur. Tomorrow, he will visit the Guru Ghasidas Jaitkham and attend the bhoomi pujan for a Saamudayik Bhavan at Girodhpuri in Chhattisgarh.


He will also be visiting several other Asian nations which include South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines.

This is the longest tour of Asia by any US president in 25 years, reports said.

Trump is visiting the Asian nations at a time when there is heightened tension with North Korea over its nuclear programme and missile tests.

"Following South Korea, President Trump will venture to China where he and President Xi Jinping will discuss ways to continue to apply pressure on North Korea. During the State Visit, President Trump will also stress the unsustainability of Chinas unfair trade practices that have produced a massive trade deficit, and the President will reaffirm his determination to defend Americas economic interests," read a White House blog.

"President Trump will conclude his trip in the Philippines, where he will hold bilateral meetings with President Rodrigo Duterte, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull of Australia, and attend the U.S.-ASEAN Summit and East Asia Summit," the blog said.

Speaking further on the trip, the White House blog said: "President Trump plans to use this trip to build on the work that his Administration has already accomplished. The Administrations efforts to deny terrorists safe havens, cut off their funding, and discredit their ideology have contributed to great accomplishments, including the liberation of Raqqa and Mosul, the opening of a new counter-finance center in Riyadh, and a historic speech by Saudi Crown Price Mohammed bin Salman calling for a return to moderate Islam. President Trump will take full advantage of this trip to build on this positive momentum and reaffirm the importance of a free and open system where all independent nations are strong, sovereign, and free from the threats of terrorism, coercion, and nuclear war. "


Washington, Nov 5 (IBNS): US President Donald Trump has wished Sikh Americans and Sikhs around the world on the occasion of birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

"Today, President Donald J. Trump sends warm wishes to Sikh Americans and Sikhs around the world as they celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, the founder and first guru of Sikhism," read a statement issued by the White House.

"The Sikh community today exemplifies the fundamental values that all Americans share: peace, tolerance, compassion, and service. President Trump also recognizes the many contributions Sikh Americans have made to our great Nation for more than 100 years, including through military and public service," it said.

The birth anniversary of the Sikh leader was observed on Saturday.
Austin, Nov 6 (IBNS) A lone gunman killed at least 20 people at a church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday, said media reports.

The US media quoted Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt saying that 20 or more people were killed in the shooting.

The gunman was dead, said reports.

The shooting occurred in the First Baptist Church, which is a small county church.

The exact number of injured was not yet known.

US President Donald Trump tweeted: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan."

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

Texas governor Greg Abbott tweeted: "Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon."

(Image: Screengrab)
Nepotism is one of the most used and abused words of the year. Almost everyone has come out and spoken about it. Joining the latest bandwagon of opinions is actor Akshaye Khanna (son of veteran actor late Vinod Khanna), who is currently receiving a lot of appreciation for his role in the film Ittefaq.

However, contrary to people who have time and again given extreme opinions on nepotism, Akshaye Khanna has a different and sensible take on it. Talking to Bollywoodlife, he said,

Agencies

Let me give you one argument that will end the debate. Whether you are in favor of nepotism or against it, the basic fact is that anybody who has made it, in any field, its because the people have decided that this person will be successful. It is something that is not decided by the film industry, but the audience. Today, a David Dhawans son, the audience has said we want to watch. The film industry has not said it. The 200 to 250 families of film industry cannot make a star. They can make a film, but not a star."

He went on to give a logical explanation on the same. He added,

Agencies

"I can launch an actor. Today a Boney Kapoors son, the audience has decided that we want to watch him. Arjun Kapoors face is accepted. There are many actors who come, people decide that we will not watch this person and his face is rejected. So the whole debate of nepotism falls flat on its face. I can nepotise somebody by making a film, but I cannot say. Today Abhay Chopra (director of Ittefaq) is Ravi Chopras son and BR Chopras grandson. He is coming from a legacy that is very rare. There is not a studio in Hindi cinema which is bigger than BR, or a banner as we call it these days. Today if I can do a film, Sid can do the film, Sonakshi can do the film, and Karan and Shah Rukh can produce it, whether Abhay gets to make another film or not is decided by the audience. So nepotism falls on its face."

While there have been several opinions on the same, this one is surely worth pondering up on. Agree?
Time and again, Indian women have stepped over the threshold of their homes and into the male-dominated world that threatens to curb their freedom. Time and again, they have thwarted these attempts and with sheer hard work and resilience, achieved greatness. They have been the firsts in their fields and in doing so, have inspired hundreds of girls waiting to make a name for themselves.

In no particular order, heres a list of some amazing Indian women:

1. Mumtaz, Asias first woman diesel engine driver

Mumtaz M. Kazi has been piloting trains since the age of 20. She applied for a Railways job in 1989, and went on to become Asias first woman diesel engine driver. She has several awards to her credit and was awarded the prestigious 'Nari Shakti Puraskar' by President Pranab Mukherjee earlier this year.

ians

2. Radhika Menon, Indias first woman Merchant Navy captain

Six years ago, Radhika Menon became the first woman captain of the Indian Merchant Navy. Last year, she became the first woman in the world to receive the Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea from the International Maritime Organisation after she saved seven fishermen who got lost at sea.

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3. Roshni Sharma, Indias first woman to ride solo from Kanyakumari to Kashmir

Sharma did what no woman had ever done before  ride solo from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. She broke the stereotype that women didnt ride bikes, and embraced the challenges that came along with it. She became a traveler in her own right, and achieved a feat that many women would feel inspired to follow.

Roshni Sharma via iDiva

4. Arunima Sinha, Indias first female amputee to climb Mt Everest

Sinha was a national level volleyball player who lost her left leg in a tragic accident. However, she didnt let her shortcoming stop her from scaling the heights of Mt. Everest. She became Indias first female amputee to climb the mountain and was awarded Padma Shri in 2015.

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5. Shila Dawre, Indias first female auto-rickshaw driver

In 1988, Dawre came to Pune to become the countrys first female auto-rickshaw driver  a profession that is, till date, considered male-dominated. She started driving autos when regular drivers went on leave and soon saved enough money to buy her own. Her name is also listed in the Limca Book of Records.

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6. Tessy Thomas, first woman scientist to head a missile project in India

Known as the Missile Woman of India, Thomas became the Project Director for the 5,000-km range Agni-IV missile in 2009, which was tested successfully in 2012. Thomas is the first woman scientist to head a missile project in the country at the DRDO.

bccl

7. Fathima Beevi, Indias first female Supreme Court judge

In 1989, Fathima Beevi - a judge from the Kerala High Court - made history after she was appointed as the first female Supreme Court judge since it was established in 1950. Beevi also became the first Supreme Court woman judge in all of Asia. Her feat didnt end there. She was also the first Muslim woman judge to be appointed to such a high pedestal in the Indian judiciary.

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8. Sarla Thakral, Indias first woman pilot

Thakral became the first female to get an aviation licence and fly an aircraft at the age of 21. She even flew the Gypsy Moth in a saree. She was awarded an A licence after successfully completing 1,000 flying hours. She would have earned B licence to fly a commercial aircraft; however, World War 2 broke out and she was unable to realise her dream.

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9. Kiran Bedi, Indias first woman police officer

After joining the Indian Police Services in 1972, Bedi became Indias first female police officer. She remained in service for 35 years before taking voluntary retirement in 2007. She also became the first Indian woman to hold the post of the United Nations Civil Police adviser.

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10. Kalpana Chawla, first Indian-origin woman astronaut to go to outer space

An American astronaut, the late Kalpana Chawla made the country proud by becoming the first Indian-origin woman to go to outer space. In 1997, she flew on Space Shuttle Columbia as a mission specialist and primary robotic arm operator.

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11. Pratibha Patil, first woman to serve as the President of India

A lawyer and politician, Patil became the first woman to serve as President of India. As the 12th President of our country, she held the post from 2007 to 2012. She was a member of the Indian National Congress, and became the first woman politician to hold the office of the Governor of Rajasthan from 2004 to 2007.

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Hats off to these amazing ladies who showed how, with perseverance and hard work, its not difficult to move the mountain that is our male-dominated society.
An early morning wreck on Solano Avenue between Verna Drive and Redwood Road caused outages for nearly all residents in west Napa in addition to the road being closed, according to Napa Police.

Police were notified of the wreck about 2 a.m. Saturday, but when they arrived at the scene, no one was there. Police said that a white pickup truck had crashed into a utility pole, knocking the pole into the street. The driver of the vehicle had left the scene.

The crash is being considered a hit-and-run, police said.

PG&E crews were at the scene most of the day repairing equipment. The initial outage affected 1,138 customers, said PG&E spokesperson Karly Hernandez. By late afternoon, power had been restored to all but 670 customers, she said. Power was fully restored by 7 p.m.
Consolidation of power by a powerful prince could lead to the rebellion as Saudi Arabia has arrested dozens of senior figures including princes, ministers and a top business tycoon, in what authorities hailed Sunday as a "decisive" anti-corruption sweep as the kingdom's crown prince consolidates power.

Prominent billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal was among the 11 princes arrested late Saturday, reports said, immediately after a new anti-corruption commission headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was established by royal decree.

Prince Salman, AFP

Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves through the kingdom.

The dramatic purge comes at a time of unprecedented social and economic transformation in ultra-conservative Saudi Arabia, as Prince Mohammed steps up his reform drive for a post-oil era.

Prince Talal, AFP

Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television reported that the princes, four current ministers and dozens of ex-ministers were arrested as the commission launched a probe into old cases such as floods that devastated the Red Sea city of Jeddah in 2009.

The state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA) said the commission's goal was to "preserve public money, punish corrupt people and those who exploit their positions". Shares in Kingdom Holding, 95 percent of which is owned by Prince Al-Waleed, dived 9.9 percent as the Saudi stock exchange opened Sunday after reports of his arrest.

"With this (crackdown), the kingdom heralds a new era and policy of transparency, clarity and accountability," Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan was quoted as saying by SPA.

"The decisive decisions will preserve the investment environment and boost trust in the rule of law." The kingdom's top council of clerics also lauded the anti-corruption efforts as "important", essentially giving religious backing to the crackdown.

AFP

An aviation source told AFP that security forces had grounded private jets at airports, possibly to prevent high-profile figures from leaving the country. "The breadth and scale of the arrests appear to be unprecedented in modern Saudi history," said Kristian Ulrichsen, a fellow at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University.

"The reported detention of Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, if true, would send shock waves through the domestic and international business community," Ulrichsen told AFP.

The purge comes less than two weeks after Prince Mohammed welcomed thousands of global business leaders to Riyadh for an investment summit, showcasing his reform drive that has shaken up the kingdom.

AFP

It follows a wave of arrests of influential clerics and activists in September as the 32-year-old prince, often known as MBS, cements his grip on power. Analysts said many of those detained were resistant to Prince Mohammed's aggressive foreign policy that includes the boycott of Gulf neighbour Qatar as well as some of his bold policy reforms, including privatising state assets and cutting subsidies.

The latest purge saw Prince Miteb bin Abdullah sacked as the head of the National Guard, an elite internal security force. His removal consolidates the crown prince's control of the kingdom's security institutions. To analysts, Prince Mohammed's meteoric rise has seemed almost Shakespearean in its aggression and calculation. In June, he edged out a 58-year-old cousin, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, to become heir to the throne.
In another incident where modesty of the girls was tarnished, two class 10 girl students in a government school in Damoh were stripped on suspicion of stealing. The incident took place on Damoh barely 250 km from capital Bhopal and came to light on Friday evening.

AFP

One of the girls of Rani Gurgwati HS School accused that their teacher Jyoti Gupta searched their bags and threatened to bring a tantrik to find Rs 70 which belonged to a classmate.

I told the teacher we had not taken the money and if she wanted to bring a tantric she was welcome to do so, the victim was quoted by HT. Even then the teacher made me and my friend strip in front of the class, she said adding the money was not found on them.

After school, girls told their ordeal to their parents who took up the matter with the schools higher authorities. PP Singh, the district education officer took note of the issue and issued a show cause notice to Jyoti Gupta.

Appropriate action would be taken if the charges are found to be true. No one has the right to force anyone to strip, he said talking to Hindustan Times.

However, Jyoti Gupta, the accused teacher also spoke to HT.

AFP

The girl whose money had been stolen came and told me about the theft and I asked the girl to search the bags of the two girls, but she went to the class and told them to strip, which I had never authorized. I have been working for 17 years. Why will I do such a thing? she asked.
Whether its the ban on the red beacon to stop the VIP culture or any other step initiated by the government, VIP doesnt seem to be withering away anytime sooner. An example of it was seen on Saturday when thirteen flights from the New Delhi airport were diverted and as many as 85 delayed, thanks to the VIP movement.

The Delhi Airports website showed over 85 delayed domestic arrivals at the Indira Gandhi International Airport at 8 pm, NDTV reported. Many airlines tweeted that delay took place due to the VIP movement.

Jet Airways tweeted that VVIP movement at the airport resulted in the unusually large number of delays and diversions. Later the number fell, but even at 9 pm, there were 15 delayed flights and 8 were diverted. Fliers too voiced their anger via Twitter.

Absurd flight delay - over 3 hours for @PMOIndia movement in delhi airport. Never heard of such inefficient management @AshokGajapathi1  Kalikesh Singh Deo (@DeoKalikesh) November 4, 2017

Other flight carriers SpiceJet and Jet Airways took to Twitter to address complaints.

#9Wupdate: Due to air traffic congestion consequent to VVIP movement at #Delhi airport, some of our flights are affected. (1/2)  Jet Airways (@jetairways) November 4, 2017

News agency ANI also confirmed that delay was caused by VVIP movement, citing ATC sources.

#WATCH: Current situation at Delhi Airport's Terminal 1, long delays due to VIP movement pic.twitter.com/3g0fDs62Lf




Italian Police have siezed over 24 million Tramadol tablets, worth over 50 million euros, destined to be sold by the ISIS terror group in Libya to raise funds for attacks.

The tablets were discovered by the Financial Police, en route from India to Libya, at the port of Gioia Tauro in southern Italy.

reuters

The painkiller has been described as the "fighter drug" as it is known to be popular among terrorists for its ability to dull pain and suppress fatigue.

The haul is estimated to be worth 50 million euros ($58 million), and was found following a police crackdown sparked by the discovery of a similar shipment in Genoa in May.

Investigators believe the ISIS planned to sell the tablets to their foot soldiers for the equivalent of two euros a tablet.

reuters

"According to the information shared with foreign investigative sources, the traffic of Tramadol is directly handled by IS to finance terrorist activities planned and carried out across the world," the court of Reggio Calabria said.

Part of the money raised from the sales would also go "to subsidize terrorist groups and extremists operating in Libya, Syria and Iraq," it said in a statement.
Senior Linux kernel developer Greg Kroah-Hartman has claimed he asked the Linux Foundation to withdraw funding from the Software Freedom Conservancy back in 2016, because he was unhappy with the way in which the SFC went about enforcing compliance with the GPL, the licence under which the Linux kernel is published.

Kroah-Hartman's claim was made as part of a long discussion about a spat between the SFC and the Software Freedom Law Centre, a body that provides pro-bono legal services to developers of free, libre, and open source software, in which the SFLC has asked a court to cancel the trademark of the SFC due to what it claims is "priority and likelihood of confusion" to its own trademark.

The bizarre aspect of the legal fight between the two bodies, both of which are involved in activities around the GPL, is that the SFLC launched the SFC in 2006 to carry out GPL enforcement.

There have been unconfirmed suggestions that the spat has resulted because of differences between the head of SFLC, Eben Moglen, and the head of SFC, Bradley Kuhn.

Kroah-Hartman's unhappiness with the SFC's method of GPL enforcement appears to spring from the fact that companies who are part of the Linux Foundation  his employer  have been on occasion the target of enforcement. One of the most recent cases of an attempt to enforce the GPL was against VMware which is a member of the Linux Foundation; the SFC funded the kernel developer Christoph Hellwig who launched the case which hein August last year.

VMware is headed by a former prominent open source personality, Dirk Hohndel, who was, prior to that, the head of Intel's open source efforts.

Anger over more forceful efforts at enforcing the GPL have been brewing for some time. Last year, when then SFC head Karen Sandler suggested that the Toronto Linuxcon conference include a session on GPL enforcement, a call which was backed by former kernel developer Matthew Garrett, the suggestion came in for severe criticism from Linus Torvalds.

A large number of contributors to the Linux kernel recently agreed on a method for enforcement, whereby those who were suspected of infringing the GPL would be given extra time to come into compliance. When this agreement was published online, the SFC issued a statement backing it.

There have been accusations made by some that the Linux Foundation, the non-profit that funds the development of the kernel and employs some top developers, including Torvalds, could be behind the SFC-SFLC spat, but that has been strongly denied by the editor of Linux Weekly News, Jonathan Corbet, who does some work for the Foundation.

In the same discussion referred to above, one poster alleged that the Foundation could be playing a role in the spat because of the enforcement agreement that kernel developers had agreed upon.

But Corbet denied this, saying he had been a part of drafting the enforcement agreement right from the start. "...remember that this statement was originally put together by the LF TAB (technology advisory board), with help from the LF lawyers, and was put out with the LF's full support. Why would the LF somehow get the SFLC to do this weird thing if the SFC comes out in favour of it too?" he asked.

Another prominent open source figure, Bruce Perens, says that while the Foundation has had no role in this spat, the VMware case is linked.

According to Perens, in 2015 when the VMware suit was filed in Germany and funded by SFC, the Foundation retaliated by pulling funding for the SFC. The SFC responded with a fund drive and new supporters.

Perens says in early 2016, Sandler suggested she might run for the Linux Foundation community board representative position. "The LF board meets in a panic and does away with the current community representative and the position." he said.

According to Perens, later the same year, Moglen had begun to lobby against GPL enforcement at Foundation events and elsewhere.

"(The) Free Software Foundation fires Moglen, who has been their general counsel for, oh, I think about 40 years. (FSF head) Richard (Stallman) and friends are reported to be heartbroken."

And then, Perens claims, the SFC-SFLC spat was initiated this year.

iTWire has contacted Perens for further details.
The global body governing domain registrations, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, has appointed a new leadership team headed by newly elected chair, Cherine Chalaby.

Chalaby, the US-based chairman of Rasmala Investments, was first selected for the ICANN board in December 2010, elected as the vice-chair in 2015, and now succeeds Dr Stephen Crocker, who served as ICANN chair since 2011. Dr Crocker has now retired from the board.

Chris Disspain, former chief executive of the .au Domain Administration, has been elected vice-chair of ICANN after being selected by the country code Names Supporting Organisation.

The board also welcomed new members Leon Sanchez (LAC), Matthew Shears (EMEA), Avri Doria (NA), Sarah Deutsch (NA), and Manal Ismail (Egypt) as the Governmental Advisory Committee Liaison to the Board, replacing the outgoing Stephen Crocker, Rinalia Abdul Rahim, Asha Hemrajani, Markus Kummer and Thomas Schneider.

Im deeply honoured to be elected as the board chair, said Chalaby. The board had enough confidence in ICANNs maturity to elect me even though I do not come from the long and distinguished line of Masters of the Internet Universe. I look forward to the future with great hope and enthusiasm, particularly to the partnership we will continue to build with the ICANN community.

All new appointments were announced at the the 60th Public Meeting, held at Abu Dhabi in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries for the first time.

ICANN says data protection and privacy rules, particularly the European Union General Data Protection Regulation, were a hot topic during the meeting, with discussions across the community focused on gaining an understanding of the main concerns for various stakeholder groups and calls to action for ICANN and the Board.
Hot on the heels of ACCC investigations into the NBN and the market, NBN Co has announced new initiatives for improving customer service for small businesses and the accelerated launch of NBN Co's wholesale enterprise product.

Details on NBN Co's wholesale enterprise product is here.

As for small businesses, NBN Co says it has a number of initiatives "set to improve the connection and issues resolution process for business on the nbn broadband access network".

Noting how the rollout is "now more than halfway complete" and how "around 20,000 new businesses currently connecting to the nbn access network each month, we're told the company "has developed a team dedicated to supporting the needs of Australian businesses."

Why this team wasn't established from the very start isn't explained, which makes you wonder if the coffee from all those coffee machines at NBN Co has been accidentally delivered in decaffeinated format.

Indeed, it is a "newly formed team" that is "working alongside phone and internet providers to deliver an improved customer experience and develop additional wholesale product and service offerings purpose-built for businesses".

Again, why this has only been established in 2017, long after NBN Co's founding, is unfathomable, but it is the reality we live in. At least, at long last, such a team has been established.

Perhaps one should be established for the consumer end-user side of the business too, because if there is one already there, we certainly don't hear much about them or from them.

So, what do NBN Co's extremely belated business initiatives include?

Improved connection and resolution process  business connection process set to be improved with rescheduled appointments and complex orders prioritised and case managed by NBN Co and the phone and Internet provider.

Industry engagement  a new partner programme targeted at the ICT industry, which will offer training and accreditation for technology providers and local consultants to educate business customers about what they need to do to connect to the new network as well as information on applications which can support their business over fast broadband.

Tailored pricing  increased flexibility on NBN Cos wholesale business products (NBN Cos Traffic Class 2 product) with a new capped pricing model designed to increase competition in the market.

Business education campaign  a new integrated communications program launched this week, which aims to educate Australian businesses on how to connect as well as the impact of the NBN Co network on important business services such as EFTPOS, ATM and fax machines.

Regional business boost  introduction of wholesale fixed wireless and satellite enterprise products on the nbn access network to be launched in 2018 with the aim of helping regional businesses increase efficiencies and access new markets.

NBN Cos chief customer officer, Business, John Simon, said: Weve been scaling our dedicated business team and working closely with service providers to optimise our processes and systems in order to lift the customer experience for Australian businesses connecting to the new network.

Businesses often require a different level of service, which is why weve been developing custom-built wholesale product and service offerings and a targeted communications program in order to make the transition to the new network as smooth as possible.

As the rollout continues to scale, we want to enable businesses of all sizes to embrace fast broadband and tap in to a whole range of applications such as high definition video conferencing and cloud-based tools, which were once only in the domain of larger organisations.

Connecting a business to the new network may take some time and preparation. With the rollout set to be complete over the next three years, we recommend businesses get in touch with their phone and internet provider as soon as possible to make a plan to move their services over to the new network.

The rollout of the NBN network is one of the most complex and ambitious initiatives to be undertaken in any telecommunications market across the world  we understand there is no silver bullet in improving the experience of people who connect to the network but were confident these new initiatives will boost the experience of businesses who sign-up.

Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) chief executive Peter Strong said: In recent months, COSBOA has raised a number of concerns from our members with NBN Co regarding difficulties encountered by small business in securing reliable and affordable, high speed broadband services.

We congratulate NBN Co on these customer service and product enhancements and believe that they will go a long way to addressing the problems being experienced by small businesses in Australia.

COSBOA will continue to work co-operatively with NBN Co to enable small businesses in Australia to leverage the full benefits of the national investment in the NBN access network.

More information about NBN Cos wholesale business products and services as well as how to connect to the network is at the NBN Co website.
Open-source software is used in some way by organisations worldwide - and not only commercial enterprise but healthcare, charities, roads, utilities, science and more. Incentivising
The OpenStack Foundation today announced its plan to overcome what it says is the hardest problem in open source today: integrating and operating open source technologies to solve real-world problems.

The OpenStack Foundation made its announcement, kicking off the OpenStack Summit currently running in Sydney at the Darling Harbour International Convention Centre.

OpenStack is an open source integration engine that provides APIs to orchestrate bare metal, virtual machine and container resources on a single network. It is the power behind a global network of public and private clouds, backed by the largest ecosystem of technology providers enabling cost savings, control and portability. OpenStacks community of more than 82,000 individuals across 187 countries delivers two Apache 2-licensed software releases each year.

The OpenStack Foundation opened the OpenStack Summit asking, "Can open source software innovate?", with the answer being a resounding yes. Yet, says Jonathan Bryce, executive director of the OpenStack Foundation, users ultimately do not care about containers or virtualisation or software-defined network or all these good things. "They need services that move money, to help make phone calls, and prevent identity theft," he said.

"Were trying to make better decisions to help businesses run better and thats not about just technology, but putting technology into the real world to solve real problems," Bryce said.

Document cross-project use cases; Collaborate across communities, including upstream contributions to other open source projects; Fostering new projects at the OpenStack Foundation; and Co-ordinating end-to-end testing across projects.

To address this, Bryce delivered the OpenStack Foundation announcement that it was investing significant financial and technical resources to address the integration of OpenStack and other relevant open source technologies. It will achieve this in four stages:

As open source leaders, well fail our user base if we deliver innovation without integration, meaning the operational tools and knowledge to put it all into production, said Bryce. By working together across projects, we can invest in closing this gap and ensuring that infrastructure is not only open but also consumable by anyone in the world.

Key to the plan is the OpenStack Foundations close collaboration with other open source projects and foundations, through joint events, testing and upstream contributions. Collaboration across foundations and communities is essential for open source to reach its full potential, said Jim Zemlin, executive director of the Linux Foundation. We need to support each other and make sure open technologies work well together in order to build user and ecosystem value around these shared assets.

The OpenStack Foundation also announced initiatives to support its integration strategy including OpenLab, the Public Cloud Passport Program and the Financial Services Team.

The Passport Program provides free trials from participating OpenStack-powered public clouds including Catalyst, City Network, Elastx, Home at Cloud, Memset, OVH, Scale Up Tech, Telefonica, UKCloud and Vexxhost.

The Financial Services Team is operated by China UnionPay to aid financial industries in migrating to its OpenStack-based cloud in compliance with stringent regulatory workloads. The China UnionPay cloud supports many UnionPay business services and applications, managing over 50 million transactions per day.
AJ+ | (Video News Clip) |  

Late at night, Dudu Mia and his family wash up on the shores of Bangladesh. Their village in neighboring Myanmar was attacked by the military in an ongoing campaign to purge the Rohingya Muslim minority from the country; the refugees bring with them countless horror stories of rape, bombings and shootings. As the newly arrived refugees process the loss of family, they must also navigate a new reality of living in the camps.
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Global Advocacy Netizen Report | (GlobalVoices.org)

Yemeni blogger Afrah Nasser was awarded this years International Free Press Award for her work covering the conflict in Yemen despite the many obstacles faced by journalists in the country. But Nasser, who also holds Swedish citizenship, was nearly unable to attend the awards ceremony in New York in person, because of the US travel ban on Yemeni nationals.

After three applications and many letters in support of her application, Nasser finally obtained her visa from the US Embassy in Stockholm, where she resides.

On Twitter, she remarked:

I never really had faith in the power of media & public opinion as I have today. Makes me think of people who dont enjoy my high media profile. This is why, we need to get the tragedy in Yemen as well-known as hell so we can all help pushing an end for it!

While Nasser has done much of reporting from her home in Sweden, Yemeni journalists working on the ground face much graver obstacles.

Among them is political commentator and writer Hisham Al-Omeisy, who was detained by Houthi rebels without explanation in August 2017. This week, it was reported that Al-Omeisy was arrested on charges related to his correspondence with US-based organizations.

Al-Omeisy has been actively tweeting about the humanitarian crisis and violations committed by both warring parties in the ongoing conflict in Yemen. He also has analyzed and spoken about the conflict to international media including the BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera, and NPR.

For more than two years, a coalition of Houthi rebels and forces loyal to former authoritarian president Ali Abdullah Saleh (who was removed from power following street protests in 2011) have been fighting to seize power from the internationally-recognized government of President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi. Hadis government is also supported by a Saudi-led airstrike campaign.

Journalists and media covering the conflict face risks from all warring parties, making it difficult for Yemenis and the outside world to get information on whats already been described as a forgotten war. Placing restrictions on key voices like those of Nasser and Al-Omeisy only exacerbates the situation.

Global Voices Advocacys Netizen Report offers an international snapshot of challenges, victories, and emerging trends in Internet rights around the world.

Via GlobalVoices.org



Related video added by Juan Cole:

Wochit News: Saudi-Led Coalition Claims Market Strike Hit A Legitimate Target In Yemen
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Middle East Monitor |  

Lebanons prime minister Saad al-Hariri resigned on Saturday, citing an assassination plot against him and accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world.

His resignation thrusts Lebanon back into the frontline of Saudi-Iranian regional rivalry and seems likely to exacerbate sectarian tensions between Lebanese Sunni and Shia Muslims.

It also shatters a coalition government formed last year after years of political deadlock, and which was seen as representing a victory for Shia Hezbollah and Iran.

Hariri, who is closely allied with Saudi Arabia, alleged in a televised broadcast that Hezbollah was directing weapons at Yemenis, Syrians and Lebanese and said the Arab world would cut off the hands that wickedly extend to it.

Hariris coalition, which took office last year, grouped nearly all of Lebanons main political parties, including the Future Movement and Hezbollah.

We are living in a climate similar to the atmosphere that prevailed before the assassination of (his father the late prime minister) martyr Rafik al-Hariri. I have sensed what is being plotted covertly to target my life, Hariri said.

Rafik al-Hariri was killed in a 2005 Beirut waterfront bomb attack that also killed 21 other people, shaking the country and pushing his son Saad into politics.

In a statement read from an undisclosed location, Hariri said Hezbollah and Iran had brought Lebanon into the eye of a storm of international sanctions.

President Michel Aouns office said Hariri had called him from outside Lebanon to inform him of his resignation.

Hariri flew to Saudi Arabia on Friday after a meeting in Beirut with Ali Akbar Velayati, the top adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Afterwards, Velayati described Hariris coalition as a victory and great success.

A UN-backed tribunal charged five Hezbollah members over Rafik al-Hariris killing. Their trial in absentia at the Hague began in January 2014 and Hezbollah and the Syrian government, have both denied any involvement in the killing.

In his statement, Hariri said Iran was losing in its interference in the affairs of the Arab world, adding that Lebanon would rise as it had done in the past.

Hariri became premier late last year after a political deal that also brought Aoun, a Hezbollah ally, to office as president.

Hezbollahs close ties to Iran and its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his war with rebels trying to overthrow him have been a major source of strife in neighbouring tiny Lebanon for years.

Hariri said:

Over previous decades, Hezbollah was able to impose a reality in Lebanon with the power of its weapons, which it claims is the (anti-Israel) resistances weapons, which are aimed at the chests of our Syrian and Yemeni brothers, not to mention the Lebanese.

He said the Lebanese people were suffering from Hezbollahs interventions, both internally and at the level of their relationships with other Arab countries.

Hariri has visited Saudi Arabia, a political foe of Iran and Hezbollah, twice in the past week, meeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior officials.

This work by Middle East Monitor is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

Via Middle East Monitor

-

Related video added by Juan Cole:

Lebanese PM Hariri resigns, stresses Irans hands will be cut off
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By Maxwell Kennel | (The Conversation) |  

Its a common question that arises when discussing religion, politics and world crises, particularly apparent terrorist attacks of the type that played out in New York City on Tuesday.

Islam in particular is branded as a violent faith, but others argue Christianity deserves the same assessment.

But behind the question is a whole host of problems, and so it isnt surprising some scholars suggest that classifying any religion as violent is problematic and unreliable.

As a scholar of religion, I also question whether calling oneself religious really says anything meaningful about ones identity. Given the diversity of religious groups, the term religion is not only extremely general, but it has a long history.

Learning about the origins of the word can help us understand better the myriad social groups that come together around shared histories, texts, traditions and experiences.

According to the scholarly work of theologian Daniel Boyarin and historian Carlin Barton, in ancient Rome the term religion was not at all separate from everyday experiences such as eating, sleeping, defecating, having sexual intercourse, making revolts and wars, cursing, blessing, exalting, degrading, judging, punishing, buying, selling, raiding, revolting, building bridges, collecting rents and taxes.

Religion alone does not explain violence

Today, the term religion gets separated from political, social, economic and cultural life. And so if were pondering whether religion is inherently violent, then were probably interested in why an individual or group acts violently. So is religion really something we can compartmentalize and blame for the violent actions of individuals or groups?

Not at all, argues William Cavanaugh in his 2009 book The Myth of Religious Violence. While society often makes clear distinctions between religion and secularity, Cavanaugh argues religion is a poor category to use when trying to understand why individuals or groups act violently.

By Cavanaughs reasoning, a more contemporary example would be the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas. Stephen Paddock, who shot from the 32nd floor of a hotel to kill 58 people, had no apparent religious affiliation. Neither did many other perpetrators of mass shootings, among the most violent and horrifying crimes committed in the United States, including the murderer who gunned down 20 young schoolchildren in Newtown, Conn., in 2012.

So instead of asking was religion the reason that a group or individual acted violently? Cavanaugh suggests its impossible to separate religion from culture, politics and economics  making the question incoherent.

For those inclined to believe religious groups are more violent than their secular counterparts, Cavanaugh challenges that notion by pointing out secular institutions often commit violence, but avoid moral scrutiny because they present themselves as reasonable and not driven by religious fervour.

Many motivating factors

Cavanaughs argument is not that religious groups arent violent. Instead, he argues religion is not what determines whether a group is violent. He holds that there are so many motivating factors that result in violent behaviour that its impossible to determine whether religion plays a primary role.

Violence is something demonstrably found in groups and individuals regardless of whether theyre religious or secular.

But the rejection of violence also cuts across religious and secular lines. Sometimes groups that reject violence are deeply religious, and other times groups that oppose violence do not present themselves as religiously motivated.

Many groups that have opposed violence seem to be both secular and religious at the same time. Consider the pacifism of Mohandas K. Gandhi and of Martin Luther King, Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement. Perhaps non-violence also exceeds the divisions between the religious and the secular.

Instead of talking about religious violence, its time to start talking about violence in general and determining what spurs people to violent acts. Otherwise we risk ignoring the deeper and more meaningful reasons why people commit horrifying acts of violence against others.

Maxwell Kennel, Doctoral Student in Religious Studies, McMaster University

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
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By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) |  

King Salman of Saudi Arabia created a high-powered anti-corruption commission on Saturday, appointing his son, the crown prince Mohammad Bin Salman, to head it. The committee is a sort of star chamber, with wide powers to freeze bank accounts, ground private jets, and order suspects jailed.

Almost immediately after the announcement, ten princes, four sitting cabinet members, and several former cabinet secretaries were abruptly charged with corruption and taken into custody. The princes are being held at the Riyadh Ritz Carlton, since there is no jail for princes.

One of those arrested is al-Waleed Bin Talal, the billionaire owner of Kingdom Holdings, who is a major shareholder in Twitter, CitiBank, Four Seasons, and Lyft, among other things (and until recently a shareholder in Rupert Murdochs Newscorp.)

While no doubt there is corruption in Saudi Arabia, this move is more likely a power grab by the crown prince.

Indeed, it looks very much like Vladimir Putins destruction of those Russian oligarchs who got in his way. In essence, the crown prince is cutting the Saudi oligarchs down to size.

Mohammad Bin Salman has many advantages over Putin. The crown prince already controls media inside the kingdom, as well as the appointment of governorships (though some of those arrested had media outlets, such as al-Waleeds Rotana). Putin had to strive hard to obtain leverage over those institutions.

When the smoke clears, look for Mohammad Bin Salman and his circle to have consolidated power dramatically.



Related video:

Aljazeera English: Cabinet reshuffle, crackdown on corruption in latest Saudi purge
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 02, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Novo Resources Corp. (Novo or the Company) (TSX-V:NVO) (OTCQX:NSRPF) is pleased to provide an update on exploration activities at the Purdys Reward tenement, a farm-in and joint venture Novo has with ASX-listed Artemis Resources Limited and part of Novos greater Karratha gold project, Western Australia.

As core drilling has progressed to areas further down dip (please refer to the Companys news release dated October 17, 2017 for further information), Novo has commenced a program of systematic trenching in areas of outcropping and sub cropping gold-bearing conglomerates. Novo has opened seven trenches with an eighth underway (please see Figure 1 below) and many more planned. Trenches are being dug with a 40-tonne excavator and range in depth from one to three meters. All trenches have encountered targeted conglomerate units with the exception of trench 5 which encountered older basement rocks.

Upon opening, the geology of each trench is mapped and marked in preparation for sampling (please see Figure 2 below). Select walls and floors are swept with a metal detector, and strikes are marked with paint and geo-referenced with a differential GPS system. Sampling is generally conducted in areas that have not been swept with a metal detector so as to avoid sampling bias. Samples are collected in sealable steel drums. Novo has hired full-time, independent scrutineers to oversee all sampling activities and seal sample drums.

As observed in recent core holes, conglomerate horizons are interbedded with thin sandstone layers (please see Figure 3 below). Beds dip at shallow angles, generally less than five degrees, southeast. The lowermost conglomerate unit rests unconformably atop older basement rocks including gabbro, metabasalt and metasedimentary rocks. Up to eight discrete conglomerate beds are evident with some displaying characteristics of a fluvial (river) origin and others displaying traits suggesting reworking in a shallow marine environment. Novo considers the depositional environment to be near-shore with sea level rising and falling over time, an environment suited for reworking of gravels and concentrating gold.

Gold mineralization at Purdys is generally coarse and nuggety. A bulk sample collected in July 2017 was subjected for metallurgical test work and was found to contain appreciable fine grained gold (please refer to the Companys news release dated August 8, 2017 for further details). To further investigate the presence of fine-grained gold, Novo personnel collected, sieved and panned several grab samples from recently opened trenches. As an example, three grab samples from the lower two conglomerate units exposed in trench 2 yielded significant fine-grained gold (please see Figures 4, 5 and 6 below). While it is important to note that these samples do not provide quantitative gold analyses, they serve to confirm a component of fine-grained gold is present in the system and results to date have not provided Novo with clarity. A deportment study is currently underway that should help provide such understanding.

We are pleased to see this level of fine gold and are excited to commence our trenching program in earnest at Purdys Reward, commented Dr. Quinton Hennigh, President, Chairman and Director of Novo Resources Corp. Information gathered from these trenches is already proving invaluable. The geology is telling us we are in a favorable geologic environment. We have further indications of a significant fine-grained gold component in this system, something that could prove to be very important as we evaluate this project. Bulk samples extracted from trenches will prove critical to helping establish gold grades. In short, this is our first close-up view of this deposit, and we are quite excited by what we see.

Karratha Gold Project

Gold mineralization at Karratha is hosted by a sequence of conglomerate beds, fossil gravel horizons, ranging from a few meters to approximately 20 meters thick comprising the base of a much thicker package of sedimentary and volcanic rocks called the Fortescue Group. Rocks of the Fortescue Group were deposited between 2.78 and 2.63 years ago upon 3.0-3.7 billion year old igneous and metamorphic rocks that make up the Pilbara craton, an ancient piece of Earths crust.

Over the past year, local metal detectorists have excavated gold nuggets originating from weathered conglomerate along an eight-kilometer, southwest-trending corridor between the Purdys Reward prospect (please refer to the Companys news releases dated May 26 and August 15, 2017) and Comet Well (please refer to the Companys news releases dated April 11, June 26 and August 3, 2017). These gold-bearing conglomerates dip gently southeastward under cover at angles of between 2 and 20 degrees. The Company secured 100% control over approximately 7,000 sq km in areas along strike and down dip from Purdys Reward and Comet Well through aggressive staking earlier this year. Novo believes that these gold-bearing conglomerates may underlie significant areas within the greater Fortescue basin.

In its news release dated July 12, 2017, Novo discussed discovery of gold nuggets in a bulk sample collected from a trench at the Purdys Reward prospect. Metallurgical test work conducted on this sample was discussed in the Companys news release issued August 8, 2017. The weighted average grade of two splits of this bulk sample was 67.08 gpt Au. Approximately 82% of the gold in this sample was determined to be coarse, mainly nuggets displaying several interesting characteristics. These are commonly flattened with rounded edges giving them an appearance similar to watermelon seeds. Most are coarse, +2 mm and are not attached to quartz or other minerals. Gold is of high purity, +96%, much higher than the gold content of nuggets derived from basement-hosted lode gold deposits from the Pilbara region that commonly display purities of 70-90%. Nuggets display crenulated surfaces thought derived from burial and compaction within a sandy matrix.

In addition to coarse gold, this metallurgical test confirmed a significant fine-grained gold component is present in these conglomerates. Such fine gold, if it is indeed disseminated throughout the conglomerates, could prove important to help evaluate grade and continuity of this deposit.

Dr. Quinton Hennigh, the Companys, President and Chairman and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has approved the technical contents of this news release.

About Novo Resources Corp.

Novos focus is to explore and develop gold projects in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and Novo has built up a significant land package covering approximately 12,000 sq km. Novo also controls a 100% interest in approximately 2 sq km covering much of the Tuscarora Au-Ag vein district, Nevada.
Ectopia cordis is an extremely rare condition in which the heart develops outside of the chest in a growing fetus. If the rib cage of a developing fetus does not form properly, the heart can develop outside of the body without the protection of skin, muscle, and bone. If a fetus survives until birth, immediate treatment to cover the heart or place it within the body can be life-saving but risky. While there are cases of successful surgery, this remains a very serious condition with a low chance of survival.

What is ectopia cordis? Share on Pinterest Ectopia cordis is usually identified and diagnosed during routine ultrasound scans. Ectopia means an abnormal position of an organ and cordis is a Latin word for heart. So, ectopia cordis occurs when the heart is not in the right place in the body. Ectopia cordis occurs in only 5.5 to 7.9 births in every million. As a fetus grows, the heart develops outside of the chest cavity. It may be partial, with part of the heart still inside the chest, or complete, with the heart entirely outside of the chest. Often, the heart has other defects. There are four main positions in which the heart can develop in an infant with ectopia cordis: in 60 percent of cases, it is immediately outside of the chest

in 1530 percent of cases, it develops in line with the belly

in 718 percent of cases, it is between the chest and the belly

in less than 3 percent of cases, it develops in line with the neck

What causes ectopia cordis? More research is needed into the possible causes of ectopia cordis. It is congenital, meaning that the condition develops in the womb and is present from birth. The breastbone or sternum is a long, flat bone that connects to the ribs and forms the front part of the rib cage, protecting the heart and lungs. If the breastbone fails to develop properly in a fetus, the heart can develop outside of the chest because it is not contained by the rib cage. The condition may also appear as part of a rare phenomenon known as the pentalogy of Cantrell, in which other parts of the body, such as the belly and diaphragm, have also not developed in the correct place.

Diagnosis Share on Pinterest Medical professionals will provide impartial advice on all avilable treatment options and the risks involved. The heart of a fetus starts to develop very early in pregnancy, with the bones beginning to form shortly afterward. The heart should begin to beat steadily during the first few weeks of fetal development, and the rib cage will form to enclose the heart during the first trimester or the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Routine ultrasound scans carried out during the early stages of pregnancy usually detect ectopia cordis. In the unlikely event that ultrasound does not detect ectopia cordis, the condition will be evident at birth. Possibilities for treatment are better if any problems with the fetus development are discovered during pregnancy because doctors can plan for emergency care immediately after the birth.

Is treatment possible? The survival rate for ectopia cordis is around 10 percent, with most instances of the condition resulting in a stillbirth. Most infants that survive birth will unfortunately die within hours or days. Being able to detect the condition early in pregnancy can be an advantage. If the heart is otherwise healthy, the chance of successful treatment is higher. Outside of the body, the heart has no protection from disease or damage, so treatment will need to begin immediately after birth. The infant will usually be placed on a ventilator, which moves air in and out of the lungs to provide oxygen, as they are unlikely to be able to breathe on their own. If there is room for the heart inside the chest cavity, surgeons will carry out emergency surgery to replace the heart inside the body. Often, the fetus has developed without enough room inside the chest, so the heart may need to be covered by a skin graft or an external heart shield. As ectopia cordis often develops alongside other medical conditions, surgeons may also need to carry out additional corrective procedures at this stage. It is likely that a newborn with ectopia cordis will need to spend considerable time in the hospital. Doctors will monitor their health and development, and the chances are that further care and surgery will be required. Complications As their heart is not as strong as other peoples, those infants who survive ectopia cordis may not be able to take part in strenuous physical activity. They may also experience problems or delays in mental development. Survivors may be unable to breathe unaided and could face further medical problems, particularly as the condition is often associated with heart defects. Follow-up procedures, such as surgery to close the chest cavity, can be dangerous or fatal.

Survival cases Share on Pinterest Emergency surgery is usually carried out immediately after birth. In 2017, a study looked at 17 cases of ectopia cordis at two medical centers between 1995 and 2014. It found that six children aged between 1 and 11 were surviving, though two of them were dependent on ventilators for breathing. A 2013 blog post from the Texas Childrens Hospital celebrates a baby born with ectopia cordis who survived surgery and celebrated her first birthday. At the time, an external shield protected her heart. The external shield will be replaced by one inside her chest when possible. A 2015 study looking at the situation of an 11-year-old boy who had successful surgery to cover his heart as an infant, found that he had a generally good quality of life, was able to engage in sports, and could attend a school for children with special needs. With medical advances, doctors hope that this survival rate will improve.
The Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish at Sepe Tinpom in the Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi, Monsignor Douglas Peter's has cautioned the Youth against Social Vices.

Speaking at the 43rd annual General Council meeting of Kumasi Archdiocesan Catholic Youth Council at Christian Village, he bemoaned the increasing rate of social vices amongst the Youth in Ghana.

He cited the zeal to make quick money at all cost as notable vice that have eaten deep into the fiber of the Ghanian Youth.

He called on the Youth to desist from arrogance and wait upon the Lord for a better destined season.

Rev. Fr. James Obour , Kumasi Province Youth Chaplain, expressed worry on low commitment of the youth in our daily lives, National economy and church development.

He charged on the Youth to work on their vision and mission for for better living. "We need sence of commitment to restore our hope" he added.

Assistant Secretary of the Catholic Association of Media Practitioners - Ghana, Ashanti regional Chapter; Mr. Paul Asabre Pinamang on behalf of the association entreated the youth who want to be in the media industry to remain focus .

He said the most important function of journalism is to convey information and conveying information is an important part of the Democratic decision - making system, as it brings transparency into society and for its part makes sure that the made decisions go long with the people's sense of justice.

The opening ceremony was graced by the Archdiocesan Catholic Youth chaplain, Rev. Fr. Kirk Okyere Siabour, Chairman Mr. Michael Owusu Ababio, General secretary Mr. Kenneth Bediako and entire Deaneries and Parish executives.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has promised to ensure that free Senior High School (SHS) programme is sustained despite teething challenges.

Everything new, when it starts has problems. But if you dont start you cant progress so we have taken the first step. The issues about infrastructure school classrooms, logistics, we are going to deal with those. But we can only deal with them because we have started, he said.

President Akufo-Addos flagship education policy gained global acclaim when it launched in September this year amidst criticism at home.

The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) party says the initiative will be an unnecessary drain on the economy, urging the President to focus on the quality of education by improving existing infrastructure.

Currently, infrastructural and logistical challenges remain a major problem just three months into the education policy that will make secondary school education entirely free.

Addressing some traditional leaders at the Flagstaff House on Saturday, Nana Akufo-Addo said the policy is a needed investment in the nation's future workforce.

We have to speak the truth to each other as Ghanaians. In todays world, junior high school education is not enough.

"We have to make sure that everybody gets at least to secondary school and that is why I am determined that the policy of free senior high school will continue and continue so that all our children will always have the opportunity to go to school, he said.

Meanwhile, the new policy remains a key concern for some civil society groups who say the congestion that will ensue due to the influx of first-year students could impede teaching and learning.

At least $100 million of Ghanas oil and gas revenues will be used to fund the programme.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com
Every individual has a fundamental desire to learn and to also ensure that health is an assets in the community, education should not be left out. Kpandai District, which was curved out of East Gonja in the year 2008 will start adadmissions come next academic year to help equip the people with skills, knowledge and attitude which will also help to promote the development and proper use of health service.

The proposed college had adequate infrastructure in place awaiting the takeoff, according to the District Chief Executive for Kpandai, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Tatablata

A visit to Nkanchina leprosarium which is making way for the proposed NTC revealed completed lecture halls, students accommodation with kitchen and dining rooms, accommodation for teaching staff and administration, and there was already a blue print way for adequate water supply to the college because founders of the make-way-leprosarium for the college has pipe connected to river Oti , some 500 meters away for water supply to the college, per the Hon. DEC those were to be rehabilitated soonest before the takeoff.

He said for now, their concentration is on training more midwives and community health nurses to help in the fight against maternal mortality within the District. He said

We have a huge number of s.h.s students who doesn't get the chance of entering into the tertiary institutions due to financial problems, all because most of the tertiary schools are very far from our locality 

According to the DCE, The move has been described by opposition political parties as a deceptive move, because the contract was the initiative of the erstwhile John Mahama administration which was termed as "political propaganda" they wanted to use that particular project to win elections which didn't favour them, so we have reintroduced the project because it's one the best for the District.

But in his speech early with NTV. He revealed "if i was the District Chief Executive by then i will have awarded a fresh Contract because the Quantum of Money used in renovating the (Dumped Leprosy Hospital built by the then Germans) is very huge". Even if am to grade them per the work done so far, it will be 40/100, It's so pathetic. He added, with my Government we are almost done with the renovation of the Midwifery Nurses Training College and the facility will start admissions come next academic year.

He added, the move would offer the District, an opportunity to sponsor and bond nurses to work in the District after completion, so as to improve health delivery in the area.

But some of the few leprosy persons who were relocated cried that water and a new clinic was not their priority, but pocket money and food. To this, Hon. Tatablata assured them of governments vision and commitment to the people and would therefore modernize and commercialize agriculture to improve food security, employment opportunities and to reduce poverty. Hon Tatablata also talk about the "one District one Factory Policy", when implemented will create the environment conducive for each local government areas to own factories relative to their well-endowed resources and capacity to provide jobs and wealth for the country.

Hon DCE concluded, even though these leprosy persons have been declared healed and they could join their families, some of them claimed fear of stigma had confined them into the facilities over several decades. Some claimed they could no longer locate their families.
05.11.2017 LISTEN

Evangelist Dr Lawrence Tetteh, of the World Miracle Outreach, London, has called on Christians to give thanks to God in all circumstances of life.

He said God allowed mankind to experience difficult moments in life for a purpose and, therefore, asked believers of the Gospel to show gratitude to the Almighty even in unpleasant situations.

The renowned International Evangelist gave the advice when he preached the sermon at the burial and memorial service of the late Nana Jekrahuda Jehu-Appiah at the Forecourt of the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra on Saturday.

He described the late Nana Kodjo Jekrahuda Jehu-Appiah as a brother and a friend who greatly imparted on his life in so many ways.

It was the late Jehu-Appiah who coined these titles 'well-renowned evangelist, and 'international evangelist' when he wrote stories from my preaching in a crusade in Accra, he said.

Evangelist Tetteh said it was also the deceased who introduced him to the then Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama after an international crusade and, therefore, expressed a deep sense of loss for his sudden demise.

Nonetheless, he said, in all circumstances, believers should be thankful to the Almighty because he alone knew the reason certain things happen to us, saying; 'This one too is for good whether good, bad or ugly'.

Evangelist Tetteh narrated an interesting story of two childhood friends who grew up in the same neighbourhood, but one of them became a king while the other one was an ordinary person in the community.

One day, he said, the two friends went for a hunting expedition and the King mistakenly shot his own thumb, but instead of the friend sympathising with him, he rather responded sarcastically: 'This one too is for good', which incurred the wrath of the King.

So upon returning home, the King threw his close pal in jail as punishment, but the friend was unrepentant and repeated the same words;'This one too is for good'.

Evangelist Tetteh said after five years in prison, the King went for another hunting expedition alone, however, he was captured by vampires and was tied to a tree ready to be eaten alive.

However, the vampires realised that the King had lost the thumb and, therefore, released him because they found him strange.

The King, upon returning home, saw the importance of his friend's advice and freed him from jail.

Evangelist Tetteh, therefore, entreated believers to draw lessons from the narrative because God knew the reason for subjecting mankind to certain tribulations in life, and cited James 1vrs 2; 'Count it all joy, my brethren, when ye fall into manifold temptations'.

The emotional farewell ceremony attracted both young and old from all walks of life who shared fond memories of the deceased and described him as an affable, loving and approachable person with great sense of humour.

There were tributes from the wife, children, the Ghana News Agency, the Editorial Department, the Communication Workers Union, among other well-wishers.

Nana Kodjo Jekrahuda Jehu-Appiah's demise occurred on September 11, 2017 at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital after a short illness.

He was 55 years and survived with a wife and two children, Nana Kodjo Jehu-Appiah Junior and Nana Efuah Jehu-Appiah.

The mortal remains of the deceased would be interned at the family cemetery at Mozano in the Central Region.

The burial service attracted both young and old from all walks of life who shared fond memories of the deceased and described him as an affable and approachable person.

GNA

By Godwill Arthur-Mensah, GNA
Most Rev. John Yaw Afoakwah

05.11.2017 LISTEN

The Roman Catholic Bishop of Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, Most Rev. John Yaw Afoakwah, has commended the Bekwai MCE, Hon Kyei Baffour for the budgetary allocation of Gh100,000.00 to Denyaseman Catholic Senior High school, in the Bekwai Municipality for the completion of dining hall and its accessories.

The pronouncement was officially made by the MCE Hon Kyei Baffour during the 5th Pastoral Visit of Most Rev. John Yaw Afoakwah held at the ceremonial ground of Denyaseman Catholic Senior High school.

The Most Rev. John Afoakwah added that, he is highly impressed about the current population of the school which is as a result of the Free Senior High school policy of H.E Nana Addo Dankwah Akuffo Addo.

He pleaded with President Akufo-Addo to maintain the policy but also think about the infrastructure, teaching aids and the Teachers Welfare to enhance the betterment of the policy.

He added that, students within SHS across the country should take the merit of the Free Senior High school policy, he also advised them to take God as their first priority and desist from all sorts of immoral acts.

The Bekwai Municipal MCE, Hon. Kyei Baffour also thanked the Bishop and the entire school administration especially the Tutors for the tremendous work done that has uplifted the image of Denyaseman Catholic Senior High school high.

Hon Kyei Baffour promised that, the money will be released in no time. Classrooms and dormitories were also assured within shortest possible time.

The Assistant Headmaster of Denyaseman Catholic Senior High school thanked and pleaded with the MCE, Hon Kyei Baffour for speedy implementation of the budget and asked for more.

Source: Daniel Kaku
The Eastern Regional Minister, Eric Kwakye Darfour, has called for more security presence in the Region following the recent clashes between residents and nomadic herdsmen off Fulani extraction.

According to him, the current number of officers deployed to maintain law and order in the region is inadequate.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, Mr. Kwakye Darfour said there was the need for reinforced security presence to avert a possible recurrence of violent clashes between nomadic herdsmen and residents .

Operation Cow leg which was instituted; Cow leg 1,2,3,4 what did it bring to us? We are saying that now, the 85 people [Police officers] on the ground, we believe that looking at the vastness of the area, it is not enough, so government should come in and help us raise the level of the operation, he said.

8 persons including 5 Fulani herdsmen were killed in an attack, and counter attacks in separate incidents at Dwebease and Hweehwee in the Eastern Region.

The incident renewed discussions about the relationship between local residents and nomadic herdsmen in various parts of the country, including Yendi, where 3 people were killed last week in a Fulani-locals clash.

A Medical doctor at the Kwahu Government Hospital, Dr. Akoto Ampaw, recently lamented the number of gunshot cases and subsequent deaths the hospital has been attending to in recent times, following the recent clashes.

The situation is very worrying because as medical practitioners we are called to attend to people who have been shot and sometimes people have been attacked with other implements. I can confirm that most of the bodies have been deposited at the hospital. Quite a number of them, I can recall just in the immediate past week, I have had the opportunity to attend to three gunshot injuries in the area, he said in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show.

Reports indicate that, some students in the Kwahu East Municipality had abandoned classes due to the unstable security situation as some residents have fled to other communities.

But the Regional Minister, Mr. Kwakye Darfour, believes that proposals for the reintroduction of 'operation cow leg' to address the situation, will succeed only when more security officers are deployed to the trouble spots in the region to increase patrols and guarantee the safety of lives and property.

There is some kind of urgency now, that is why we want to heighten it a bit, get more men, so we can do more patrols, otherwise we cannot predict when somebody would want to fight. The 85 men are not enough, he said.



By: Jonas Nyabor/citifmonline.com/Ghana
In some important ways, the recent fire disaster was different than previous ones that have afflicted Napa County.

For one, it was physically more widespread. It affected every end of the county in some way and nowhere was completely safe until the firefighters contained the blazes.

It was also more widespread in terms of who it affected in the longer term. A great many more people lost homes than have done so in previous recent floods and earthquakes  almost 600 houses in Napa County alone.

But it also seemed to strike at people whose personal lives were far removed from the flames. To an extent even greater than the 2014 earthquake, it appears that the fires of 2017 created a local economic downtown, though it is hard to quantify yet.

Consider: For two weeks, the valley was wreathed in smoke most of the time, hardly conducive for tourism or even for locals trying to run errands or eat out. Major employers such as the NVUSD were closed, meaning businesses that rely on lunch traffic or who supply those facilities were largely without work.

Anyone who went out looking for lunch or even an open store in downtown Napa during those weeks knows what I mean.

The City of Calistoga was evacuated completely for nearly a week and was largely a ghost town the rest of the time. Even St. Helena, which was never under serious threat, was pretty much closed for business.

Many winery workers were unable to get to their jobs, even if their employers were not under threat.

Fortunately, some businesses had enough insurance or savings to pay their employees during the times they were closed.

Many, however, did not.

The problem is so real that the Napa Valley Community Foundation is directing a significant chunk of its relief aid not directly to people who lost their homes, but rather to workers deprived of a living during and immediately after the fire emergency.

The message was clear also during an interesting roundtable with vintners and grape growers this week, organized by the St. Helena Star.

They said customers and would-be tourists across the world saw dramatic photos and videos of whole neighborhoods burned to the ground. They are staying away because of a perception that the whole county, including its wine industry, was heavily damaged.

That is not the case. Mercifully few wineries suffered direct damage. The wine in the tanks and the grapes in the field seem to have suffered little damage. And except in a handful of spots, the vineyards themselves were not seriously scorched (one great secret of the grape industry is that vineyards dont tend to burn, since they are well watered and free of dry underbrush).

Dont come back to help the wine business, famed grape grower Andy Beckstoffer said, addressing the wider tourist market. Come back to help the people.

Help not just the people who lost their homes, he said, but also all those people who make our county work, for tourists and locals alike. Business owners and employees in all industries lost precious revenue during the emergency, which hit during the normally lucrative late harvest season, and they need business to pick up again as quickly as possible.

So do what you can to stimulate the economy. Let your friends and family know that Napa County, although bruised, is not destroyed. Let them know its OK to come back.

And for those of you who live here, remember to shop locally wherever you can.

Its wonderful to donate to relief funds, but spending your money at home is another great way to help your neighbors and friends get back on their feet more quickly.

You can reach Sean Scully at 256-2246 or sscully@napanews.com.
As part of its corporate social responsibility to ensure child pedestrian safety, OmniBank is set to embark on road safety campaign to reduce inner city accidents.

The move is to ensure commercial drivers obey motor and traffic regulations to prevent carnage on our roads.

The Chief Executive Officer of OmniBank, Philip Oti-Mensah revealed this when the bank donated crossing stands to the Road Safety Commission in Accra.

The motive for the gesture, he noted is due to the alarming rate of road traffic crashes involving children.

Every year we donate to Road Safety Commission to make sure that children are safe on our roads he noted.

Mr. Oti-Mensah said though accidents involving children has reduced; they must be educated on how to use the crossing stands placed in front of their schools.

He also disclosed plans to partner with the Road Safety Commission to train taxi and trotro drivers in the inner cities so that the accidents could be avoided.

Generally we want to reduce the number of accident on our roads but particular we are interested in inner city accidents which is avoidable he added.

Receiving the donation, Executive Director of the Commission, May Obiri-Yeboah bemoaned how school children in their bid to cross the road are knocked down because some drivers drive over the 50 kilometre per hour, which is the correct speed limit at pedestrian crossing.

She noted that, children usually fall victims to such accidents, which surprisingly sometimes happen at zebra crossings because they cannot judge distances.

The Road Safety Commission CEO cautioned drivers against speeding, unnecessary overtaking, and overloading of vehicles as we approach the festive session to reduce road accidents.

Madam Obiri-Yeboah thanked OmniBank for their gesture and urged other corporate bodies to emulate their example.

Story by Ghana/Myjoyonline.com
Minister for Business Development, Awal Ibrahim, says government is teaming up with academia to contribute their quota to the growth of businesses in the country.

According to him, government is dedicated to developing businesses and making the business environment competitive, by making sure there is adequate information on various businesses.

Speaking at the opening of the 2017 executive doctoral research conference on the theme applying evidence-based research to effective management in Accra, Mr. Ibrahim said government believes academia is a strong back bone to businesses.

Government cannot take decisions on whims, but any decision must be based on evidence, therefore we think academia collaborating with industry and businesses would give them the fact and figures.

He said SMEs face lots of problems, and some of these problems are lack of credible information that would help them grow, adding that the business development ministry is working towards assisting them.

Founding President and Executive Dean of Nobel International Business School (NIBS), Prof. Kwaku Atuahene Gima, stated that lack of evidence is one major factor hampering gains being made by the contemporary managers.

He said the starting point for evidence based management is that management decision should be based on a combination of critical thinking, and the best available evidence. And by evidence, we mean information, facts or data supporting a claim assumption or hypothesis. Evidence may come from scientific research, but internal business information and even professional experience can count as evidence.



By: Philip Nii Lartey/citifmonline.com/Ghana
Acting Executive Director of the NSS, Ussif Mustapha

05.11.2017 LISTEN

A group calling itself, the Concerned Voters Movement (CVM), has commended the management of National Service Scheme (NSS) for facilitating the implementation of the resolution adopted by the National Service Personnel Association, NASPA on May 25, 2017.

Background

The National Service Scheme (NSS) on Wednesday November 1, 2017 launched an insurance package for all national service personnel.

The launch, which was held at the premises of the schemes headquarters, had NSS Board Members and National Service Personnel Association executives and other stakeholders in attendance.

This compulsory insurance package spearheaded by various insurance companies, is expected to pay claims to service personnel who get involved in accidents in their line of duty.

The claims vary from GHc 15,000 in cases of death or incapacitation, and gh3,000 for cases of temporary disability.

As part of the insurance package, National Service personnel are entitled to a GHc 500 loan which is payable within six months.

Service Personnel will also be charged GHc 15 on a monthly basis as insurance deductions for the package.

According to the acting Director for the National Service Scheme, Mustapha Ussif, the insurance package that we just launched from today on wards, all national service personnel are supposed to be rolled up into this process. So we are expecting all national service personnel because this is a very laudable initiative [since] we have received series of requests from national service persons across the country with respect to injuries and sometimes even death.

After the launch of insurance package, some sections of Ghanaians have expressed their concerns on the package, others have described it as a 'daylight robbery' and illegal.

But a statement issued on Sunday November 5, 2017 and signed by the group's Founder and President, Mr. Razak Kojo Opoku, has commended the leadership of the Scheme for excellent work done for the quick implementation of the insurance package for the Personnel.

He explained that, "Let us be honest, even if the National Service Personnel decide to save the 15ghc themselves for 20 years (240 months), it will never give them the financial opportunities to enjoy these benefits, Free Access to the Social Media Platforms, a soft loan among others".

According to him, Ghana is lucky to have intelligent and incorruptible Executive Director, Deputy Executive Director (Operations) and Deputy Executive Director (Finance and Administration) at the NSS who are doing everything possible to bring the needed transformation and innovations at the NSS.

Below is the full statement

Excellent Leadership & Innovations Under the Current NSS Management---CVM

CVM would like to commend the Management of National Service Scheme for facilitating the implementation of the Resolution adopted by the National Service Personnel Association, NASPA on 25th May 2017.

Since the passage into law the NSS, this is the first time National Service Personnel are going to enjoy the benefits of:

1. A soft loan

2. Insurance cover between 3,000ghc to 15, 000ghc strictly managed by credible insurance companies such as Vanguard Life, Star Life, GN Life, Quality Life and Enterprise Life.

3. Monthly airtime package & instant doubled airtime.

4. Free Access to the Social Media Platforms.

All these innovative packages are within the deduct fees of 15ghc.

Let us be honest, even if the National Service Personnel decides to save the 15ghc themselves for 20years (240 months), it will never give them the financial opportunities to enjoy these benefits listed above.

The Executive Director, Deputy Executive Director (Operations) and Deputy Executive Director(Finance & Administration) deserves our praise for demonstrating excellent leadership and innovations as far as this arrangement with the NASPA members is concerned.

It is only gullible and Political mischievous group of people who will equate the innovations at the NSS to corruption.

In the era of the NDC, over GHC 9million was wasted on corruption on monthly basis unlike the current Management of NSS where these monies are saved to better the conditions of NASPA members.

Official NASPA members are too sensible to fall for the lies of the NDC rented Service Personnel.

Ghana is lucky to have intelligent and incorruptible Executive Director, Deputy Executive Director(Operations) and Deputy Executive Director (Finance and Administration) at the NSS who are doing everything possible to bring the needed transformation and innovations at the NSS.

....Signed....

Razak Kojo Opoku

(Founder & President)

Source: Daniel Kaku
The bodies of 26 women who drowned attempting the perilous crossing from Libya to Europe were brought to Italy on Sunday, where investigators launched a murder inquiry.

A seemingly endless line of black plastic body bags were lowered by crane from a Spanish ship onto the portside in Salerno, southern Italy, where they were placed in coffins and loaded onto waiting hearses.

Twenty-three of the women died on Friday after the inflatable dinghy they were travelling on sank, and their bodies were recovered by the Spanish ship Cantabria, which was operating as part of the EU anti-trafficking force Sophia.

A Sophia spokesman told AFP another three bodies had been discovered during other life-saving operations in the Mediterranean this week, and transferred to the Cantabria as it headed towards Italy with its grim cargo.

There was no immediate explanation as to why all the dead were women, though the crossing is riskier for them.

For every five men who drown in the rubber boats trying to cross the Mediterranean, six women also die, according to migrant expert Sine Plambech, adjunct professor at Columbia University.

They can have poorer swimming skills compared to men and their attempts to save their children often lead to their drowning, as does the heavier clothing they wear, he said

'A tragedy'

"It's a tragedy. The prosecutor's office will begin looking into it immediately," Salerno's prefect Salvatore Malfi said.

"We will need to see whether there are suspects to concentrate on or whether the murder inquiry will proceed against persons unknown," he said.

Investigators would be looking for signs of violence against the women, who are believed to have been Nigerian.

"They were on a dinghy that was also carrying men," Malfi told Italian media in response to fears the doomed vessel may have been a sex-trade boat carrying victims destined for prostitution.

"The sex trafficking routes are different. Loading women onto a boat is too risky, the traffickers would not do it as they could lose all their 'goods' -- as they describe them -- in one fell swoop," he said.

The Cantabria was also carrying 375 migrants rescued from the waves, including 116 women -- nine of whom were heavily pregnant.

According to Italy's interior ministry, more than 111,700 people have reached the country by sea in the first 10 months of 2017, 30 percent down on the previous year.

Despite the drop, traffickers are still sending migrant boats out into the Mediterranean: the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said Friday that more than 2,560 migrants had been saved over four days.

In all, 2,839 people have died while attempting the crossing so far this year, it said.
05.11.2017 LISTEN

Former President John Dramani Mahama has described the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government's newly launched Digital Addressing System as pitiful.

According to him, the addressing system is fraudulent, and that someone must be punished for misusing state funds to procure the system.

How can you launch a Google GPS system that is freely available on our mobile phone and say it is a national addressing system. It is such a pity. Why will you embarrass the president so much? You go and take a whole president to bring him to come and launch a system that is 419, John Mahama said.

The former president made the statement in an address to thousands of party supporters in the Central Regional capital, Cape Coast, after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held its third Unity Walk after the December polls.

The former president said he had restrained himself from commenting on governance issues after losing the presidential seat to the NPP's Nana Akufo-Addo, because he believed that every new government needed time to settle in office, but it looks like NPP is whittling away its honeymoon period with the mistakes that it is doing.

He called on the president to show that he is serious about corruption by holding someone accountable for the launch of the $2.5 million digital addressing system which he [Mahama] believes is fraudulent.

When we talk about accountability, this is where the president should show that he is serious about corruption. Somebody must account for 15 million giving away free of charge. When I was in office, there was a bus branding incident, GH3.6m, a minister of state resigned because of GH3.6m, John Mahama said.

He, however accused the President of not being able to take firm action in anything.

What is wrong with the digital addressing system?

The Digital Addressing System, christened, Ghana Post GPS, which was launched on October 18, 2017, was part of the NPPs ideas to formalizing the countrys economy by digitally mapping and proving a digital address to all locations and properties in the country.

The project was undertaken by Vokakom at a cost of $2.5million .

Following its launch, many IT experts have cast doubt over the system, spelling out various flaws that make it a faulty tool to undertake the purpose for which it was built.

Among the flaws some have mentioned, is the over-reliance of the app on internet connectivity especially when internet penetration in the country is still low.



By: Jonas Nyabor/citifmonline.com/Ghana
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu has challenged the Akufo-Addo administration to punish alleged corruption by former President Mahama and National Democratic Congress (NDC) functionaries.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says the opposition NDC is fed up with the litany of allegations leveled against its members without proof by the NPP government.

Speaking on Joy FM/MultiTVs news analysis show Newsfile on Saturday, he said Article 88 of the 1992 Constitution is clear about who has the authority to investigate and prosecute crime and corruption urging the Attorney General to act swiftly.

What is all this about, that we [NDC functionaries] are corrupt, we have stolen Ghanas money, we have taken cocoa funds after losing the election and we have spent over $400 million? he queried.

His comments come at the heels of a news conference by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Chief Executive who alleged corrupt acts by the previous government.

Joseph Boahen Aidoo has accused the John Mahama administration of syphoning millions of dollars from the Board's accounts.

He said former COCOBOD CEO, Dr Stephen Opuni, used export duty payments from COCOBOD as a conduit to syphon funds for activities not related to cocoa.

Mr Aidoo made the revelation at a news conference Wednesday, in a sharp response to cocoa-related issues raised by the Minority in Parliament at Bodi in the Western Region.

This amount was taken from COCOBOD in the name of exercise duty (in the word of the then Deputy Minister of Finance  a Board member of COCOBOD Casiel Ato Forson). The payment under export duty was to make it appear legitimate, he added.

But the former Deputy Education Minister MP accused the NPP government of lacking the moral courage and evidence to prosecute the NDC functionaries.

Why are we walking as free men? Why cant you take action if people have bought motorbikes for 17,000 which has turned out to be blatant falsehood? Please deal with it he, he said.

Mr Ablakwa said the NPP has been on accusing the NDC of corruption for years and since it now has power, it should go ahead and punish wrongdoers and not go about holding press conferences.

The NDC MPs have accused the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) of shortchanging farmers by refusing to increase the cocoa producer price.

The Minority argued the foundation laid by the past NDC government was good enough for an increase in the producer price from the current 475 per bag to a higher one.

Bodi MP, Sampson Ahi, said before exiting power in January 2017, the NDC left more than $400 million in revenue from cocoa.

Story by Ghana| Myjoyonline.com |Abubakar Ibrahim
Troops remained deployed around the home of South Sudan's powerful former army chief Paul Malong on Sunday in a dispute over the fate of his 30 bodyguards, an army spokesman told AFP.

The standoff began on Friday evening when more than 100 soldiers surrounded his residence in central Juba, South Sudan's capital, in a move which prompted people to flee to their homes for fear the standoff would erupt into clashes.

Malong is a hardline ethnic nationalist whose dismissal in May by President Salva Kiir had sparked fears of a major clash between supporters and troops loyal to the president, though that never materialised.

But by Sunday morning, after a tense but uneventful 36 hours, people could be seen venturing out for early-morning prayers even though troops remained in the streets around his home in the central Hai Amarat neighbourhood, an AFP correspondent said.

Army spokesman Brigadier General Lul Ruai said the soldiers were in place because of a "small misunderstanding" with Malong, who had failed to comply with an order given to him on Friday that he release most of his government-appointed bodyguards to return to their former duties.

"That notification did not go down well with him, he didn't comply with the order, and as a result we establish a limited presence of security personnel around his residence to ensure that elements do not take advantage of the misunderstanding," he told AFP.

"So we are there for a limited period and once an amicable solution is reached, this limited security force deployed around him will be removed," Ruai said, indicating that government officials were negotiating with him to ensure the situation was "resolved peacefully".

Since Malong was no longer chief of staff, he no longer required such a large contingent of bodyguards, Ruai said, indicating that he had been allowed to retain just three of them.

Disarming Malong

South Sudan has been gripped by a brutal civil that has lasted nearly four years

The request was made just four days after Kiir signed an order, a copy of which was obtained by AFP, authorising the arrest and disarming of Malong's bodyguards and the removal of any other arms in his possession.

It also said any resistance "must be met with reasonable force".

Malong, who belongs to Kiir's majority Dinka tribe, is widely regarded as the mastermind behind fighting that erupted in Juba in July 2016 that left hundreds of people dead.

The clashes also crushed hopes of a power-sharing government between Kiir and Riek Machar, his former deputy turned rebel chief, who is a member of the Nuer tribe.

South Sudan has been gripped by a brutal civil war that has lasted nearly four years, involving the country's two largest ethnic groups, the Dinka and the Nuer, who have a history of bloody rivalry.

The general, who is under house arrest, was one of three senior South Sudan officials who was hit by US sanctions in September on charges of fomenting and profiting from the civil war.

Canada also followed suit on Friday, with Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland saying the sanctions related to individuals "linked to human rights violations and corruption".

South Sudan gained independence after the Christian-majority south split from the Muslim north in 2011 after a 22-year civil war that killed hundreds of thousands of people.

But the world's youngest nation quickly fell into civil war in December 2013 after Kiir accused Machar of plotting a coup, with the conflict leaving tens of thousands dead and forcing a third of its 12 million people out of their homes.
05.11.2017 LISTEN

Former President John Dramani Mahama has condemned President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his failure to relieve Ghanas High Commissioner to South Africa, George Ayisi Boateng, of his post, following the widely condemned partisan comments made by the diplomat.

Ayisi Boateng received widespread criticism for stating that his first priority is to members of the NPP, and that if he had his own way, members of the party's Tertiary Students' Confederacy Network (TESCON), will be prioritized for various job opportunities.

He added that, he views NPP members as more Ghanaian than others , comments which have attracted public scorn.

Despite the pressure on him to retract his comments or resign from his position, Ayisi Boateng initially reiterated his sentiments, stating in a radio interview that, when you have a large family but you first make your wife and children, eat first before others, what is wrong with that?

He, however, eventually gave in to the public pressure, issuing a statement in which he retracted his comments and apologized to Ghanaians after a meeting at the Flagstaff House.

But President Mahama, speaking at a Unity Walk organised by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Central Regional capital Cape Coast, said that the President has failed to show leadership fornot dismissing Ayisi Boateng immediately for his comments.

According to him, the comments made by the countrys chief representative in South Africa were unworthy of a person in his position.

The President seems unable to take firm action in anything. When I talk about the President not putting his foot down, we have a constitution and the constitution is the supreme law of the land. If you are a party officer, you can say whatever you want, there is no problem, he said.

You can say all jobs should go to NDC people before it goes to NPP people, if you are Allotey Jacobs. The government doesnt pay you, taxpayers dont pay you and you havent sworn an oath to anybody. But [not] when you are appointed as a High Commissioner and you swear an oath to the constitution of Ghana which says there shall be no discrimination and you shall do justice to all manner of persons.

The former President criticized his successor for not showing his commitment to the promises he made to Ghanaians, to ensure opportunities for everyone devoid of political bias.

When they [NPP] were looking for your votes, President Akufo-Addo said they shall open the opportunities of this country to all Ghanaians, irrespective of their party or ethnic affiliations. He came to power and now that the pigs are enjoying, they say some Ghanaians are more Ghanaian than others. For something like this, you dont call the person to the Flagstaff House, draft an apology letter for him and ask him to sign. You sack him at once.

George Ayisi Boateng, Ghanas High Commissioner to South Africa

Apology of an apology

Ayisi Boateng stated in his apology that he regrets the effect of my speech delivered to the young party members which has generated public outcry. I, therefore, wish to retract my comments and render an unqualified apology to the presidency and all Ghanaians.

John Mahama berated the diplomat for his apology, suggesting that it wasnt sincere and had not even been written by him.

If you read the apology letter, its an apology of an apology letter. He said he apologised for the effect of his words, not his words, just the effect. That is the new government under which we are.



By: Edwin Kwakofi/citifmonline.com/Ghana
Players in the marketing industry want government to increase its budgetary allocation for the agric sector in 2018.

The players argue that proper allocation of funds to boost the agric sector will ultimately result in a massive improvement in the economy.

Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta will later this month (November) present the 2018 budget statement to parliament for approval.

But ahead of the presentation, the Executive Director at the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG) Kwabena Akuamoah Agyekum said government must give priority to agric in the next years budget.

So rather than look at it from just production and rather than looking at it from just marketing, look at it from the value chain and make sure it is a total effort. So I am looking at the budget that will look at agriculture as a foremost and once we get agriculture going and buying what we grow and produce here, I guess half of our problems as a nation will be solved, he told Citi Business News.

Mr. Agyekum spoke to Citi Business News on the sidelines of the launch of Krif Ghana Limited's Customer Experience Month in Accra.

The month of November has been dedicated to celebrate the importance of the KRIF customer.

The month-long celebration will see KRIF Ghana Ltd reward its esteemed and loyal customers in a special way to show their appreciation.

Speaking at the launch, Executive Chairman at KRIF Ghana Limited, Rev. Kennedy Ocloo said the customer is the key point in our activities here at KRIF Ghana Limited. The key objective of the customer experience month among others is to enhance customer satisfaction and increase rewards to our customers he stated.

He added that this involves everybody who is a customer at KRIFF Ghana Limited and we also expect to delight our customers with our new products this month.

The company will also host a customer awards night to celebrate and reward all loyal customers to climax the month-long celebration.

The month-long celebration is under the theme rewarding customer loyalty.

KRIF (GH) Limited, is one of the leading dealers in superior Office/School Stationery, Office Equipment, and Office Consumables; Electronic Cash Registers (ECR's) and Money-handling Machines in Ghana.



By: Jessica Ayorkor Aryee/citibusinessnews.com/Ghana
Nearly 60 years ago, then-Senate Majority Leader Lyndon B. Johnson seized his colleagues with a stark Cold War warning: Whoever wins the space race, he predicted, would gain "control, total control, over the Earth for purposes of tyranny or for the service of freedom."

The United States won that race not only by reaching the moon but by inspiring the next generation of scientists, technologists, and optimists.

Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin echoed Johnson's forecast in light of the next great technological race: artificial intelligence, or AI. "Whoever becomes the leader in this sphere will become the ruler of the world," Putin said.

Johnson, leaning into the consequences of the Soviet threat, can be accused of hyperbole. Putin can be accused of the same and, perhaps, worse. But there is truth in their common understanding of technology's power, one that transcends generations and geopolitics. Right now, we fear, the United States is at risk of losing this critical race.

One of us commanded 150,000 troops from 50 nations; the other invents AI technologies that are used in - among other applications - energy, finance, and systems for our national defense. We have seen firsthand how AI will transform warfare, from autonomous flight control systems that can revolutionize air combat to algorithms that can give commanders an unprecedented and precise view of the battlefield. Soon, AI also will become the most potent enabler of competitive advantage throughout most areas of our society and economy, both in work and leisure - with consequences far beyond the usual debate about automation supplanting manufacturing jobs.

While the United States is the birthplace of AI and has historically been the home of the most important innovations and research institutions in this space, our global competitors are on our heels. China recently announced a multibillion-dollar AI development plan to lead the world in the technology by 2030. Russia is developing the next-generation MiG-41 fighter with AI that could control the aircraft at hypersonic speeds as fast as Mach 6. If we don't approach this contest with the same fierce focus we found during the Cold War, we risk losing a lot more than pride.

We don't need an advanced machine to calculate where our competition is outpacing us. We can see our weaknesses with the naked eye: The exclusion of AI from our high-level national agenda, a reduction in science and technology funding, and immigration curbs all harm our competitiveness. The question is whether we'll correct course before it's too late. We have lots of thinking to do about the problems we face and what action to take.

First, the same openness that encourages American researchers to lead the world in innovation also pushes their discoveries quickly into public view before they are even granted protection. Coupled with accessible online lectures from top universities, competitors copy our research easily. While we value America's culture of academic openness, U.S. companies need a faster patent process and government support that can give them some teeth in intellectual property disputes with foreign infringers.

Second, our regulatory regime makes it more difficult to build things in the United States and sell them to other countries, creating a market for foreign competitors who would otherwise not stand a chance. For years, the United States curbed exports of encryption technology and basic processors. This only led international competitors to fulfill demand, creating a market for themselves. When U.S. allies like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey needed access to unmanned aerial systems to prosecute the war on terror, these requests were delayed or denied. We have since lost almost all of these markets to Chinese exports and indigenous development. As the clamor for curbs on AI grows, we need to keep our competitiveness in mind when we put rules in place.

Third, China is publishing a larger number of papers than the United States about deep learning and beating us in fielding supercomputers. We need more public investment in AI research, not cutbacks in agencies that have been longtime backers of this field, as the current administration's budget proposes. We also need more science and technology funding to compete with the billions of dollars China is investing in its 2030 vision.

Fourth, China is attracting better AI talent and buying American tech companies. The solutions are simple: Give more green cards, not fewer, to experts in this field; give more federal grants, not fewer, to support AI research labs at public universities; and invest more, not less, in educational programs like the Rhodes Scholarship to attract future Ph.D.s. Our government should also support deserving small businesses specializing in AI the way it did for clean energy companies, offer tax breaks to those that produce this technology the way it did for electric cars, and give AI start-ups a limited tax holiday the way other countries have done for software companies.

We should never lose sight of the fact that AI represents a breakthrough in humanity's ability to invent. We must resist AI alarmists like Elon Musk who irresponsibly label this technology an effort to "summon the demon" and blame it for a coming world war. The race to dominate the AI space doesn't have to be a story about fear of technology. If anything, what we should fear is ceding our leadership in critical areas of defense and industry if we fail to pursue science and technology research with a sense of national purpose.

We are certain that Russia and China will do what they must for their national security. Every dollar in AI investment that the United States cuts and every way in which it gets harder for American companies to attract capital comforts our competitors.

A few years after then-Sen. Johnson predicted what the space race would mean for global leadership, he sat directly behind President John F. Kennedy in the U.S. Capitol while Kennedy pledged America would go to the moon. The audience wasn't just the members of Congress in the chamber whom Kennedy asked to authorize funding. It was also the millions of young Americans who would cite that speech as their inspiration to study computers, math, engineering, and the cosmos.

When Putin made his prediction in September, he did so to a broadcast audience of a million Russian schoolchildren. How many of them are now dreaming of studying computer science, building the next great machines, and advancing their own national security and national interest?

Artificial intelligence is the next giant leap for mankind. The country that took the first steps on the moon must now take the right steps toward tomorrow.
By By Don Quijones of Spain, UK, & Mexico and an editor at Wolf Street. Originally published at Wolf Street

Acute uncertainty is like sand in the gears of the local economy.

Its amazing how fast the wheels of the Spanish justice system go round when the establishment wants them to, and how slowly they revolve when it doesnt, which is usually when members of the same establishment  senior politicians and civil servants, bankers, business owners, or even royalty  are in the dock, which is happening with disturbing regularity these days.

On Thursday we saw Spanish justice at its fastest. In the dock was the recently sacked vice president of Catalonias separatist government, Oriol Junqueras, and seven other elected representatives of the breakaway region who stand accused of a litany of charges, including rebellion, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years imprisonment.

The counsel for the defence had less than 24 hours to prepare the case. After just a few hours of hearing preliminary evidence, the National Court Judge sent half of Catalonias suspended government to jail without bail. On Friday,the same judge issued an international arrest warrant for Carles Puigdemont, the disputed Catalan president who fled to Brussels on Monday, as well as four other former ministers who did not show up to court on Thursday.

Catalonias separatist politicians are paying a very high price for overplaying their hand. As we warned months ago, many in the Catalan government had hoped that threatening to declare independence unilaterally, or even following through on the threats (which it kind of did on Friday), might be enough to push the Spanish government into having to compromise. It was a massive bluff, and its hugely backfired.

But while jailing Catalonias elected government may be justifiable by Spanish law and will probably go some way to placating the more revanchist elements of the Spanish public, it will also further inflame tensions and polarize divisions within Spains north eastern region while doing yet more damage to the tattered image of Spanish democracy in the rest of the world. It also risks exacerbating economic uncertainty and instability in Catalonia, Spains richest region.

Just when things appeared to be returning to some semblance of normality as local people and the regions political parties turned their attention to the regional elections scheduled for December 21, Rajoy, his government, and the judges they help appoint just lit a fuse under the region.

In Catalonia today its virtually impossible to tell what will happen tomorrow, let alone this time next month or next year. Such acute uncertainty is like sand in the gears of the local economy. Rather than slowing, the exodus of Catalan-based companies to other parts of Spain has actually accelerated in the wake of Madrids activation of article 155 of Spains constitution. On Tuesday alone an additional 99 companies bid farewell to Catalonia, albeit merely on paper for now.

Spains central bank yesterday warned that the current crisis could, in the worst case scenario, end up shaving 2.5 percentage points off Spains GDP in the next two years. That could be very optimistic if a genuine, lasting solution is not found to this crisis soon  and preferably one that does not involve the government in Madrid criminalizing a political movement supported by roughly half the regions population.

The greatest tragedy of all, as British-Spanish journalist John Carlin wrote yesterday in the Barcelona daily La Vanguarda, is just how spectacularly unnecessary the current conflict is and how easily it could have all been avoided:

First, with a change of the sacred text of the Spanish Constitution and the approval of an agreed referendum, just as any other modern and democratic State (Canada, United Kingdom) would have done in similar circumstances. But it could have been avoided with even less, with merely conciliatory gestures and respectful words, with the granting of extra powers to the autonomous Catalan region, with a minimum of statesmanship, with the desire to think first of the general good.

Instead, what we have is a constant escalation of tensions from a government majority ruled by a party (Popular Party) that is implicated in over 60 major political scandals  more than just about any other governing party in Europe. And yet, even as the party continually falls on the wrong side of the law, the EU holds it up as a defender of the rule of law.

Spains Premier Mariano Rajoy recently become the first sitting prime minister to appear as a witness in a Spanish court when he gave evidence in a massive corruption case involving the alleged illegal financing of his Popular Party.

One of the dozens of companies embroiled in the Popular Partys kickback scandals is Indra, a semi state-owned tech giant that organizes the vote counting for virtually all of Spains political elections, including Catalonia. The company is alleged to have paid Rajoys party 600,000 of public funds diverted through a complex network of shell companies. The scandal barely graced the front pages of Spains newspapers.

Now Indra gets to organize the vote counting for Catalonias do-or-die elections in December.

For years, this sort of corruption has consistently ranked as the second biggest cause for concern after unemployment in Spain. Now, its the prospect of Catalan independence thats at the forefront of peoples minds. Its the perfect smokescreen for the endless corruption trials of PP politicians, the stagnating wages, the ballooning public debt, the collapsing banks and the shrinking pension pot that the government has systematically plundered to plug some of its own massive fiscal shortfalls.

In short, Spains economy is perhaps not as robust as recent growth figures may suggest. Unemployment, already at 17.1%, surged by 58,000 in October as the number of highly seasonal tourist-dependent jobs began shrinking. Market-entry salaries are 14% lower than they were in 2008.

Worse still, the economys recent show of strength was based on three main pillars: consistently low global energy prices, the large-scale diversion of tourists from geopolitical hot spots like Turkey and Egypt, and dirt cheap public debt resulting from Mario Draghis massive binge-buying of euro zone sovereign bonds. And all of these pillars are beginning to show signs of strain. As tensions continue to rise in Catalonia, the economic uncertainty digs in for the long haul.

Emotions are running high on both sides of the divide. Read Catalonia and Spain Enter Dangerous Uncharted Territory
On Halloween, a 29-year-old New Jersey man plowed a rented truck into crowds of people on a bike path in Lower Manhattan, killing eight people. The attack was reportedly inspired by Islamic State, although no connections have yet been established between the attacker and any known terrorist organization. He entered the United States from Uzbekistan on a diversity visa in 2010, and appears to have been radicalized since then.

Sixteen years after Sept. 11, some dismiss concerns about radical Islamic terrorism as right-wing fear mongering or a Bush-era hangover. It is fashionable in certain quarters to deride the odds of any American being killed by Islamist terrorists, and to argue that purely homegrown terrorists -- such as white supremacists -- are a numerically larger problem. They claim we should all be more worried about mass shootings, like the recent atrocity in Las Vegas. But theirs is a too-narrow view of both the data and the nature of the threat.

"Radical Islam" is a set of political, not religious, beliefs. It compels its believers to make war not only against Israel, the West and India, but especially against Muslims who reject their political vision. That vision includes killing people who convert from Islam, brutally murdering homosexuals, the forcible subjugation of women and reclamation of any land that has ever been in Muslim hands. The political goal is to create and expand the kind of stark theocracy run by Islamic State or the Taliban.

These political doctrines are so dangerous precisely because they are preached to their believers as the religious commands of Islam, and can be hard for outsiders to untangle from more conventional Islamic teachings. Confusing the two is a goal of the radicals: It inflates their perceived numbers, intimidates anti-radical Muslims and invites backlash. The radicals are most likely a very small percentage of the world's estimated 1.6 billion Muslims, but you can hide a lot of fish in such a large sea.

In some ways, atrocities by radical Islamists are like conventional hate crimes: They target groups of strangers, spreading fear of similar attacks far beyond their immediate targets. But comparing the raw number of casualties within the United States -- and then excluding Sept. 11, as comparisons often do -- significantly understates the threat in four important ways.

First, unlike mass shootings by unstable individuals, terror attacks happen for a reason that goes beyond the perpetrator. Because they come from ideas that are widely shared, they are more likely to be repeated than random attacks. And unlike extremist versions of Christianity or extremes of the American political left or right, radical Islamists can look to internationally prominent spokesmen who openly advocate violence.

Second, terrorism by nature is episodic; what looks like a small threat for a year or two can come roaring back. Data on radical Islamic terrorism in the United States in the 1990s would have gravely underestimated the threat that loomed in 2001. We know that radical Islamic terrorists continue to aim for mass-casualty attacks. Many have been thwarted by the very anti-terror policies that critics see as an overreaction. Accounting for the threat has to include the Sept. 11 attacks, because we deal with enemies who would love to repeat them.

Third, the radical Islamic movement is global, so any estimate of the threat should not treat terrorism in the United States as if it were walled off from the rest of the world. Tuesday's attack, in which an Uzbek immigrant drew on radical ideas from Syria and Iraq, using a truck-attack tactic commonly used in Europe and the Middle East, reminds us of how quickly problems that seem far away can appear on our shores.

Fourth, radical Islam continues to draw on vastly larger resources -- organizational and financial support, state sponsorship and the violent know-how gained in conflicts across the globe -- than any other extremist movement in the world. Even major white nationalist groups pale in comparison (the closest they have to a major state patron is Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Putin's preferred modus operandi is to boost groups involved in elections).

The government has resisted collecting data that classifies terrorist attacks by source, but the State Department's annual reports on known terrorist organizations have long been dominated by radical Islamic groups. Its 2016 report yet again found that a majority of all terrorist attacks and deaths took place in seven countries (Iraq, Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Syria and Nigeria), all targets of radical Islamic terror. Over the last decade, the State Department's global toll of terrorism annually has ranged from 25,000 to 35,000 dead, an equal number injured, and perhaps half as many kidnapped or taken hostage.

Here in the United States, a 2017 study by the libertarian Cato Institute found that radical Islamist terrorists accounted for 92 percent of the deaths and 94 percent of the injuries due to terrorist attacks on U.S. soil over the last 25 years, the bulk of those in the Sept. 11 attacks.

Radical Islam is not the only source of terrorist attacks, hate crimes or mass shootings. But it is still by far the most dangerous.
By Jerri-Lynn Scofield, who has worked as a securities lawyer and a derivatives trader. She now spends much of her time in Asia and is currently working on a book about textile artisans.

The Wall Street Journal featured a piece last week, The Trump Deregulatory Juggernaut Is Rolling, reporting some numbers that support a trend weve identified: the Trump administrations success in advancing a deregulatory agenda, via agency actions, despite its failure to pass major legislation.

From the WSJ:

While the Republican machine that emerged from the 2016 election may be sputtering on other fronts, it is proving to be a juggernaut on deregulation. And as a priority for the business community, deregulation ranks right up there with tax cuts and tax reform.

Deregulation has occurred in areas including financial and environmental regulation, in the form of rolling back regulations, and setting more lax enforcement policies, as I discussed at greater length in discussed further in Financial Regulatory Rollback Proceeds). The administration is also taking further necessary steps to ensure its deregulatory approach survives by methodically and efficiently filling federal judgeships with compliant jurists (which I have discussed in Trump Nominates Seventh Round of Federal Judges.

Some Supporting Nmbers

The Journal relies on numbers produced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.From the WSJ:

The business group has been keeping a tally of deregulatory actions this year, and its scorecard lists 29 executive actionsexecutive orders by Mr. Trump or directives from his White Houseto reduce regulatory requirements. In response, executive-branch agencies have issued 100 additional directives that either knock down regulations or begin a process to eliminate or shrink them.

Now, I should point out that some of these executive actions have about the same actual legal effect as issuing a press release. But some have also sparked further regulatory action at the agency level.

Where the WSJ account goes a bit astray is in crowing about 50 pieces of deregulatory legislation either introduced or currently moving through Congress. If you click through to the Chamber summary, youll see most of these bills have moved no further than the House.

Far more important to the deregulatory agenda is the wide use of the Congressional Review Act (CRA), which allows Congress to use expedited procedures to overturn regulations within 60 session days of their enactment. If the President then signs the resulting CRA resolution of disapproval which Trump did for the fifteenth time last week the regulation is overturned, and the agency cannot revisit the subject unless and until Congress passes new authorizing legislation.

Last weeks action overturned the Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus (CFPB) ban on mandatory arbitration clauses in consumer financial contracts (for further details, see this post, RIP, CFPB Mandatory Arbitration Ban, which also includes links to my extensive CRA coverage).

New Pruitt Policy to Foil Regulation by Litigation

EPA administrator Scott Pruitt has been a longstanding bugbear of environmentalists. In his previous role as attorney general for the state of Oklahoma a major producer of oil and natural gas he either filed or joined lawsuits that sought to stymie the modest pro-regulatory environmental and climate change agenda the EPA previously espoused.

Now, hes in charge of the agency, and he defines its regulatory approach. The latest: In October, Pruitt issued a Directive Promoting Transparency and Public Participation in Consent Decrees and Settlement Agreements, October 16, 2017.

Deficiencies in the US system of regulation are somewhat compensated for by allowing for regulation by litigation. Or at least such was the case until business lobbyists succeeded in pressing through so-called legal reforms over the last couple of decade that make it much more difficult for plaintiffs to sue and especially, file class actions and to prevail in lawsuits.

This deliberate strategy of restricting the ability to file lawsuits to achieve remedies hasnt been limited to Republicans, and in fact, Ill leave it to readers to work out which junior Senator was one of a 18 Democrats to vote for the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 (the final tally for which was 72 in favor, 26 against, with two not voting).

Regulation via litigation has managed to survive barely these legal reforms, and the related and necessary packing of the courts with business-friendly jurists (especially at the level of the United States Supreme Court).

As to the EPA, this will be the case no longer. According to an October 16 EPA press release:

In fulfilling his promise to end the practice of regulation through litigation that has harmed the American public, EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt issued an Agency-wide directive today designed to end sue and settle practices within the Agency, providing an unprecedented level of public participation and transparency in EPA consent decrees and settlement agreements. The days of regulation through litigation are over, said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. We will no longer go behind closed doors and use consent decrees and settlement agreements to resolve lawsuits filed against the Agency by special interest groups where doing so would circumvent the regulatory process set forth by Congress. Additionally, gone are the days of routinely paying tens of thousands of dollars in attorneys fees to these groups with which we swiftly settle. Over the years, outside the regulatory process, special interest groups have used lawsuits that seek to force federal agencies  especially EPA  to issue regulations that advance their interests and priorities, on their specified timeframe. EPA gets sued by an outside party that is asking the court to compel the Agency to take certain steps, either through change in a statutory duty or enforcing timelines set by the law, and then EPA will acquiesce through a consent decree or settlement agreement, affecting the Agencys obligations under the statute. More specifically, EPA either commits to taking an action that is not a mandatory requirement under its governing statutes or agrees to a specific, unreasonable timeline to act. Oftentimes, these agreements are reached with little to no public input or transparency. That is regulation through litigation, and it is inconsistent with the authority that Congress has granted and the responsibility to operate in an open and fair manner.

What does this mean? Allow me to turn to another WSJ piece, New EPA Settlements Policy Has Lawyers Bracing for Long Disputes, for some further facts and context. The WSJ notes that Pruitts policy mirrors U.S. Chamber of Commerce recommendations:

The new posture follows an order by EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt that environmental groups say will complicate settlements when plaintiff lawyers sue the agency for habitually failing to issue regulations on schedule. The directive, released this month, requires the agency to seek the participation of affected industries and states in settlement negotiations. Environmental groups say the policy will drag out what should be easily negotiated deals. Experts attributed the EPAs regulatory tardiness to a lack of resources from Congress, intense lobbying by industry groups and activists and a belabored process meant to fortify regulations against increasingly frequent legal challenges. Creating a rule in 1980 was much easier, said Justin Pidot, a former Justice Department lawyer who handled EPA cases. The order also instructs the EPA to avoid agreements that pay the legal fees of environmental groups, potentially forcing them to litigate to recoup their costs or forgo them entirely.

Let me provide a bit more context. These sue and settle practices that Pruitt laments which allows outside environmental groups to force the EPA to update its standards seem consistent with what Congress had in mind during the high-water mark of federal environmental regulation (my emphasis):

In the 1970s and 1980s, when Congress enacted modern environmental laws, lawmakers knew they would need constant tinkering to keep pace with new health science and technology. So they ordered the EPA to revise its standards periodically and gave citizens the power to sue the agency when it failed to meet its deadlineswhich is most of the time, environmental lawyers said. It became fairly common for the agency to wait until they were sued to start working on the rules, said Patrice Simms, a former EPA lawyer who is now vice president of litigation for Earthjustice, an environmental law group. Theyve always settled, because its the only rational thing to do. These are cases where the agency is plainly in violation of the law.

So, Congress deliberately created procedures that would force the EPA to update its regulatory regime and that would rely on outsiders to keep the agency honest. This has become more important as Republicans have pursued a policy of deliberately underfunding most non-defense federal activities (see for example, my very recent discussion of how this policy applies to other agencies, such as the SEC, SEC Soon to Have Five Sitting Commissioners; Budget Constraints Will Stymie Enforcement).

Note that the Pruitt policy also aims at attorneys. Failing to pay attorneys means the suits wont be brought. So, no payment, no lawsuit and the public will be wholly dependent on Pruitts EPA, buttressed by state regulators, to set priorities, enact regulations, and protect the environment.

The Bottom Line

And one final point: the consequences of Pruitts policy shift might not just be limited to breathing dirtier air, drinking filthier water, or experiencing other environmental depredations. Over to the WSJ again:

Mr. Pruitts directive could serve as a pilot project for the rest of the federal government. The House of Representatives on Wednesday passed legislation introduced by Rep. Doug Collins (R., Ga.) that would etch much of Mr. Pruitts order into law and would apply to all federal agencies. [Jerri-Lynn here: A link to this legislation can be found here.]

Thats just what we need: agencies controlled by Trump minions, and further restrictions put in place to make it even more difficult for pro-regulatory outsiders to bring pressure to bear on the federal government.
(Natural News) So far, we know that movie mogul Harvey Weinstein is a liberal democrat and a pervert who enjoys begging women to get intimate with him. Now, we may be able to add pharmaceutical drug addict to that list as well.

Page Six was recently provided a photograph from an anonymous source of Harvey Weinstein sitting aboard a commercial flight at New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport last December with a case full of prescription drugs and pill bottles resting on his lap.

According to the source, when another passenger on the plane asked Weinstein about his collection of drugs, Weinstein replied, Oh, Ive got a cold. That excuse is hard to believe, though, considering the fact that most people who have a scratchy throat or a runny nose dont bring an entire case full of pills with them on a commercial flight.

Another source that has been familiar with Weinstein for several years told Page Six, He always had that briefcase of drugs. He carries his whole medicine cabinet with him  even stuff he isnt taking at the time.

In a statement to Page Six, representatives for Harvey Weinstein defended the millionaire movie mogul, explaining: The prescription bottles seen in the photo are medications prescribed by Mr. Weinsteins physicians for treatment of diabetes and other ongoing health conditions.

Harvey Weinstein has been in the news lately after it was revealed that the Hollywood producer has a long, dark history of harassing and sexually assaulting women. Numerous actresses, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie and several others, have come forward accusing Weinstein of touching them inappropriately, asking them for massages, and other sexual acts. The revelations have started to shine some light on what is probably a much more widespread issue in Hollywood, and hopefully actresses will continue to speak up about it in the months to come. (Related: Ben Affleck, Jimmy Kimmel and Harvey Weinstein have all been exposed as liberal Hollywood elites who abuse women.)

Many people are left wondering how Harvey Weinstein even sleeps at night after his true colors were finally revealed to the entire world. Perhaps the case of drugs that he carries around with him everywhere he goes helps out on that front, or maybe he has simply figured out a way to push it out of his mind completely. In fact, if a recent report from The Daily Caller is correct, then the latter may not be that far from the truth.

Earlier this week, The Daily Caller published a story on a report that alleges that Harvey Weinstein is now insisting that hes been chosen to change the world, and that all of the accusations being made against him are happening for the greater good. Allegedly, one source who has come forward explained that Weinstein is becoming philosophical with the situation he has found himself in, assuring his friends that [he] was born to take the fall for his behavior in order to change the world. He is resigned to his punishment  as a martyr for social change.

In other words, because of him, all of these actresses are coming forward and speaking out about sexual harassment in Hollywood, thereby changing the movie industry for the better. Does Weinstein want us all to give him a round of applause and a pat on the back? How delusional and self-inflated does one have to be to think that way?

Between the rampant liberalism and the grotesque sexual harassment that is apparently more of a widespread problem than we first thought, it is safe to say that Hollywood has officially become a cesspool. Its unfortunate, but this downward spiral will most likely continue with no end in sight.

Sources include:

PageSix.com

NYTimes.com

DailyCaller.com
Credit: Elena Drummond Immunologist Thomas Wynn left a 20-year career at the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, earlier this year to lead research on inflammation at Pfizer in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Why did you leave the NIH for industry?

I've collaborated with big pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies since the mid-1990s. I worked with Amgen to investigate the therapeutic potential of different antibodies in models of inflammation and fibrosis, and with Genentech we examined inflammatory pathways in asthma. I've negotiated agreements with Pfizer and other pharmaceutical companies to move basic science on fibrosis into preclinical trials conducted collaboratively with the NIH. I was doing so much with industry that I decided to explore what it would be like to do this work full-time.

Did the current US administration affect your decision?

It's not a major reason for my move at all. It's unfortunate that the administration is not, at least outwardly, as supportive of science as previous administrations were. But I put my faith in Congress and the US Senate, which have always shown support for science and for the NIH.

How would you describe morale at the NIH?

Surprisingly upbeat despite what's going on in the news and the threat of NIH budget cuts. The fact that NIH director Francis Collins is still at the top has helped.

How did your colleagues react to your move?

A lot of people were shocked.

What will be your biggest challenge as you move into industry?

At the NIH, labs are a one-person show. People develop collaborations, but they are fragmented. At Pfizer, groups interact seamlessly. I get to work with geneticists, chemists, molecular biologists and bioengineers. The culture is different here  it is focused on translating the best ideas into new medicines.

How did the move affect your NIH research group?

It was a slow process accepting the job here because of worrying about my research family at the NIH. Nothing stopped immediately. Most of my lab is still there. Three members have accepted positions at Pfizer. Everybody has until 2018 to finish up projects, publish and make their own career moves.

How did you come to work at the NIH?

After getting my PhD at the University of WisconsinMadison, researching how macrophages kill tumour cells, I wanted to work more on disease pathogenesis. My PhD mentor was married to a parasitologist. They suggested I merge my interests in molecular immunology and parasitology. I wrote to several people doing parasite immunology at the NIH and was invited to work as a postdoc in the laboratory of parasitic diseases at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in Bethesda.

Describe your NIH career.

I was a postdoc at the NIH from 1991 to 1995, and then a staff researcher until 1997. Opportunities for full-time employment at the NIH were few and far between, so I began interviewing for jobs outside. But a retirement opened up a slot for a tenure-track investigator. I had other offers on the table when the NIH began recruiting, but I ended up with the position in 1997.

Do you think you'll get more accomplished in industry?

That hits the nail on the head  it's what I find most exciting.

You did a lot of mentoring at NIH. What made for successful mentees?

I mentored more than 20 postdocs, as well as graduates and undergraduates, during my time at NIH, where I was also scientific director of an NIHOxfordCambridge Scholars programme. The junior scientists who tend to stumble are the ones who don't reach out for help or forge collaborations with people. It's important to take advantage of expertise.
Berkeley police on Thursday asked for the public's help to identify suspects who allegedly were involved in fights at a "No to Marxism" rally at Civic Center Park on Aug. 27.

Police said several attendees were punched, kicked, and struck with improvised weapons during the rally, which was organized by conservative activist Amber Cummings, who's known as "Based Tranny."

Police arrested 13 people on Aug. 27 at the "No to Marxism" rally at Civic Center Park and at a separate demonstration called the "Rally Against Hate" that took place a few blocks away at Oxford and Addison streets on the West Crescent lawn at the University of California at Berkeley.

Large crowds were present at both rallies.

Berkeley police said the people in pictures they released are believed to be the persons responsible for several of the attacks at the Civic Center Park rally. They described the people as "felonious assault suspects."

Berkeley Police Department

Berkeley police said in a statement, "We remain committed to pursuing all investigative leads in an effort to secure justice for our victims. We are grateful to those members of the community who provided us with the video footage which was used to capture these images but we still need your help."

Police said tips and leads from the public have helped them identify and pursue warrants on other suspects.

"Through engaged community partnerships we will continue to facilitate the free expression of the First Amendment in an environment safe for all, police said.

The department, they added, "remains focused on protecting the peaceful expression of free speech, to include identifying and locating criminal behavior directed at those exercising their rights."

Officers are "committed to taking enforcement action when practical and appropriate before, during and after events," police said.

People with information about the suspects' identities or crimes are asked to call 510-981-4794.


A 44-year-old East Bay woman arrested on suspicion of assaulting a minor with a deadly weapon at California's Great America Halloween Haunt last week was arraigned Friday.

Judge John Garibaldi ruled that East Bay resident Leticia Saxton will be held on $50,000 bail on charges that she assaulted a 16-year-old girl - who got in a physical confrontation with her daughter - with a stun gun at the Santa Clara theme park Saturday.

Pre-trial services said prior to the hearing Saxton shouldn't be released without bail due to the nature of the charges against her, but a matrix used to assess inmates and incoming suspects in the Santa Clara County Jail rated Saxton as suitable for release.

A defense attorney from the public defender's office for Saxton tried to argue against the pre-trial services ruling, saying that Saxton didn't have a history of not attending court dates and had an older criminal history, which included misdemeanor offenses. In addition, the defense attorney said Saxton is the caretaker of her grandmother, who wasn't present in court due to her condition, however, two other unidentified family members were.

Garibaldi, however, explained the case was unique in its facts and denied a release without bail.

"If the facts are proven, a defendant is aiding and abetting her daughter in an assault on a teenager," Garibaldi said.

The judge also mentioned the assault occurred on a night of multiple issues in the theme park, including numerous assaults that left patrons running for the exits scared.

As Saxton's defense attorney tried to make a case for her release, the judge said "I'm just mentioning the facts," as Garibaldi proceeded to explain how the police report states that Saxton allegedly, along with others, kicked and punched the victim.

In addition to the assault, Garibaldi said there have been ongoing social media threats being produced by the suspect and other "clients" in the case, but Garibaldi didn't clarify what exactly was said.

Two relatives of Saxton declined to comment after her arraignment.

It is not clear how Saxton got the stun gun into the theme park.

Repeated attempts for comment sent to park spokesman Roger Ross went unreturned and Santa Clara police Lt. Dan Moreno hasn't confirmed how the weapon was brought into the park.

Saxton's next court appearance is set for Dec. 7.

Moreno said earlier this week that more arrests are expected to be made from crimes that occurred that weekend.
Nurses and community members are rallying Sunday in Berkeley to protest Sutter Health's proposed closure of Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, a Sutter Health affiliate.

The event, dubbed a "stroller brigade," will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Alta Bates Medical Center on Ashby Avenue. Pizza will be served, and there will be arts and crafts, stroller decorating and other children's activities, organizers said.

Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin, Ethel Long-Scott, Executive Director of the Women's Economic Agenda Project and Rochelle Pardue-Okimoto, an El Cerrito City Councilmember and RN, are among the speakers, according to the California Nurses Association, which organized the event.

"The medical center is the city's only acute care medical facility. Shutting it down would not be good for patients," said Martha Wallner of National Nurses United.
A Stanford University engineering professor who studies clean energy has sued the National Academy of Sciences and a mathematician for defamation in publishing a critique of an article the professor wrote.

In 2015, the academy's scholarly journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, published a research report in which Mark Jacobson and three co-authors asserted the United States could meet its energy needs with wind, solar and water power alone by 2050.

Two years later, in 2017, the journal published a critique in which lead author Christopher Clack and 20 co-authors challenged Jacobson's conclusions, alleging his article was based on implausible assumptions and had a modeling error.

Jacobson sued the Washington, D.C.-based academy and Clack in the District of Columbia Superior Court on Sept. 29, asking for a retraction of Clack's article and $10 million in damages.

"The publication of the Clack articles has exposed Dr. Jacobson to ridicule and has injured him in his reputation in both his personal life, work life and public life," the lawsuit says.

The professor says in the lawsuit that he submitted 35 proposed corrections of the Clack article to the journal before it was published, but that only very minor changes were made.

The lawsuit lodges claims of defamation against both the academy and Clack, plus an additional claim against the academy for alleged breach of contract concerning its publishing procedures.

Jacobson's lawyer, Paul Thaler, said in a statement this week that the professor's goal is "to have the scientific record corrected."

"His lawsuit does not seek to litigate science, but rather to respect and protect the process and rules that govern it and protect all of its stakeholders," the attorney said.

National Academy of Sciences spokesman William Kearney said, "We don't comment on pending litigation."

The nonprofit institution was established by an act of Congress in 1863.
What to Know The 26 people killed were aged between 5 and 72 years old.

At least 20 people who were wounded are recovering in hospitals around San Antonio, Texas.

The suspected gunman, 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelly, died of a gunshot wound.

A man dressed in all black and wearing a "ballistic vest" fired a Ruger semi-automatic rifle at a church in a small South Texas community on Sunday, killing 26 people and wounding about 20 others in what the governor called the deadliest mass shooting in the state's history. Victims were churchgoers as young as five and as old as 72.

The gunman was officially identified as Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, of neighboring Comal County, on Monday, confirming what law enforcement sources had reported the day before. Kelley died in the shooting. Law enforcement officials were working to search his home, with agents from the FBI and the ATF among those on the scene Sunday, officials told NBC News.

Twenty-three people were found dead inside the church, two were found outside and one victim died at the hospital, DPS Regional Director Freeman Martin said.

There were 12 to 14 children's bodies found inside the church, Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt told NBC News Monday.

Kelley's wife, who may have been estranged or divorced from him, had attended the church in the past, along with her parents, Tackitt said. They are not locals of Sutherland Springs.

The gunman is believed to have fired hundreds of rounds, according to Tackitt.



The wounded were taken to area hospitals. Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds. She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen. Eight people were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, the hospital said.

"There are so many families who've lost family members, fathers, mothers, sons and daughters, Gov. Greg Abbott said. "The tragedy of course is worsened by the fact that it occurred in a church, a place of worship, where these people were innocently gunned down. We mourn their loss, but we support their family members."

Sutherland Springs, a community of about 400 people, is about 20 miles southeast of San Antonio.

Martin said the suspect crossed the street from a Valero gas station, fired at the church and entered the church, firing from a Ruger AR rifle. He dropped his rifle and fled when confronted by an armed resident.



The suspect was found dead inside his getaway vehicle after the armed resident and another citizen pursued him, Martin continued. It is unclear if the suspect died from a self-inflected gunshot wound or he was shot by the resident.

The driver of the vehicle that chased the suspect said he was acting on instinct to try to prevent the suspect from escaping.

Johnnie Langendorff said in an interview with KSAT that he was driving past the church Sunday as the shooting happened and saw the gunman exchanging fire with a member of the community, who then got into Langendorff's truck. They took off at high speed in pursuit of the gunman on a nearby highway as police were going in the opposite direction toward the church.

Langendorff said the gunman lost control of his vehicle and crashed. He said his passenger walked up to the suspect's vehicle with his gun drawn and the suspect did not move. The person stood guard over the gunman until police arrived 5 to 7 minutes later.

"I was strictly just acting on what's the right thing to do," Langendorff said.

Federal officials say Kelley's motive is unclear but there was no obvious sign of a connection to terrorism. Investigators were looking at social media posts Kelley made in the days before Sunday's attack, including one that appeared to show an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon. District Attorney Audrey Louis said at a briefing Sunday afternoon that there is no continuing threat.

Frank Pomeroy, pastor of the First Baptist Church, and his wife Sherri were both out of town at the time of the shooting, Sherri Pomeroy told NBC News, but she said their 14-year-old daughter and "many friends" are among the dead. Neither of them have made it back to the town, she told NBC News.

Carrie Matula, who was at a gas station about 50 yards away from the church, told MSNBC that she heard what sounded like "semi-automatic" gunfire erupt at about 11:30 a.m.

"It was rapid fire," Matula said. "It was just boom, boom, boom."

Sandy Ward, a grandmother of some of victims, told MSNBC that her grandson has been in surgery for hours and that he was shot four times. "We just found out that his sister is not going to make it," she said.

President Donald Trump addressed the shooting while on a trip in Japan. Trump said that in dark times "such as these, Americans do what they do best: we pull together, we join hands, we lock arms and through the tears and through the sadness we stand strong, oh so strong."

"My administration will provide its full support to the great state of Texas and all local authorities investigating this horrible crime," Trump continued.

The president added that the gunman was "deranged," saying that the shooting is a "mental health problem."



Trump also ordered that the American flag be flown at half-staff at the White House and other government buildings until sunset on Thursday.

Kelley previously served in the Air Force until he was discharged for bad conduct in 2014, Air Force Spokeswoman Ann Stefanek told NBC News. He was court-martialed in 2012 for two counts of assault on his spouse and assault on their child, Stefanek said.

It is not immediately clear whether it was legal for Kelley to own weapons on a bad conduct discharge. A sporting goods retailer said Sunday night that Kelley purchased a firearm from one of its San Antonio locations in 2016 but did not specify what type of gun.

The mass shooting comes just 35 days after a gunman killed 58 people at a country music festival in Las Vegas, the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history. It's also the 8th anniversary of the Fort Hood shooting, where a U.S. Army major killed 13 people and injured more 30 others in a mass shooting.

A woman who lives about 10 minutes away from Sutherland Springs in Floresville was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups. She said everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.

CORRECTION (Nov. 6, 2017, 12:51 p.m. ET): An earlier version of this story misspelled Sheriff Joe Tackitt's name.
The chief U.S. envoy at UNESCO says anti-Israel bias and opaque bureaucracy are hobbling the U.N. cultural agency and is urging deep reforms.

Chris Hegadorn made the appeal Saturday at the agency's Paris headquarters in one of the last major American speeches to UNESCO before the U.S. withdraws next year.

Hegadorn said the decision to leave "wasn't taken lightly" but was necessary because of budget reasons, UNESCO's inclusion of Palestine as a member and countries using the agency to advance their political agendas.

He urged UNESCO to speed up spending decisions and do more to prevent violent extremism through education, notably on social media.

He said the U.S. will remain "a determined advocate for the ideals on which UNESCO was founded" and support heritage protection and educational efforts.
Under intense pressure, Illinois lawmakers planned to meet by conference Saturday call in a rare weekend session to select a new legislative inspector general.

Former Assistant United States Attorney Julie Porter, who was the recommended candidate for the position, was ultimately named as the state's new legislative inspector general, a position that has been vacant since 2013.

Porter served as the Asst. U.S. Attorney in Chicago, and her credentials were touted by several leaders after the announcement was made.

"Julie Porter has a proven record of fighting public corruption as the Assistant United States Attorney," State Sen. Cristina Castro said in a statement. "She has extensive experience seeking justice for the poeple of Illinois."

Porter's appointment comes on the heels of a shocking revelation that at least 27 misconduct complaints have been filed in the state, but none had been investigated as an inspector general was not in place.

The lack of a legislative inspector general for such a long period of time could prove disastrous, as it may have allowed lawmakers to not only escape a penalty, but an investigation as well.

State Sen. Karen McConnaughay (R-St. Charles) pointed out Wednesday that the legislative ethics commission has a one-year statute of limitations on conducting investigations into complaints.

"An investigation may not be initiated more than one year after the most recent act of the alleged violation," Illinois law reads - meaning some of those claims may never be examined at all.

Next week, lawmakers are slated to return to Springfield for a second veto session. The Illinois State Senate will also conduct a sex harassment training session for its members on Thursday - with some advocates in favor of extending that training to lobbyists and staffers as well.

The effort to take on misconduct in Springfield comes in the wake of a bombshell New York Times report in October that revealed allegations of predatory behavior from disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein.

Countless women took to social media to join the #MeToo movement in the weeks following the expose, declaring that they had also been victims of harassment or assault.

Joining that chorus was a group of women working in Illinois politics who penned an open letter on a culture of misogyny that signers said is pervasive in Springfield and beyond.

That letter and its momentum - happening in statehouses across the country - has led to proposals to improve harassment policies and training, as well as calls for action from both sides of the aisle.

A public allegation of harassment was made against state Sen. Ira Silverstein (D-Chicago) on Wednesday, with his accuser saying that a complaint was filed to the empty inspector general's office nearly a year ago.

Silverstein ultimately was forced to resign his leadership position in the Democratic party as a result of the allegations.
Even the most routine tasks such as peeling an apple take on an otherworldly feeling. For the past week the knife had seemed likely to end up as a lump of molten metal. All we had would probably by now have been reduced to a heap of ash, the fate of thousands of others just a few miles away.

It started on the Sunday night Oct. 8 with gales as strong as any I can remember. A small wildfire had started at about 10.45 p.m. on Bennett Lane a mile to our west off Tubbs Lane, and the Atlas Peak fire east of Napa began around the same time.

We awoke to a violent wind blowing our outdoor furniture about with collapsed fences and fallen branches - but nothing compared to the catastrophic devastation in Santa Rosa 15 miles to the west.

All night the Tubbs Fire raged away from Calistoga over the sparsely inhabited mountains to the west, driven by gales gusting up to 79 mph, and destroying everything in its path.

The final toll from fire in the wine country was more than 8,000 buildings burnt to the ground, most of them people's homes containing the memories of many lifetimes, also some winery buildings, notably Signorello and White Rock, both in Napa Valley, the latter owned by friends. Besides winery buildings, the Vandendriesche family lost two houses, their barn and stable. Claire Vandendriesche's home included the Steinway grand piano she had played on since she was six. Heartbreaking to find a lump of molten metal in its place.

Meanwhile Tubbs Lane, near which it had all started, looked that week so normal and free of charred ground or other signs that I thought the name Tubbs must have been taken from a part of Santa Rosa rather than the road just near our house which we use every day.

That first day, the Tubbs Fire to our west in Santa Rosa was completely uncontained. It seemed that although much noise was being made about the firefight, not much actual frontline fighting was being done, all the efforts being devoted to rescuing those in its path and potentially trapped - obviously top priority.

Meanwhile the Tubbs Fire had been followed by several others, about four of them in our immediate neighborhood - the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, all made easier by the hot, dry weather and undergrowth like tinder.

On Tuesday we learnt that the Tubbs Fire was moving eastward, expanding into the mountains overlooking Calistoga near where it had started, then that the fire was just over our northwestern horizon on the slopes of Mount St Helena itself and just above the top of the Toll Road, scene of my favorite daily walk and home to a number of friends. It was three miles from our home and several hundred feet above us, moving in our direction. Knowing how amazingly quickly it had raced overnight from Calistoga to Santa Rosa, we were alarmed.

When it came time to evacuate, we packed a few essentials, not much to show for 30 years here - we were too dazed to do much more than go through the motions. The implications of these decisions so lightly taken only hit us later. For instance I only took three shirts and the same amount of underwear - and no books out of the hundreds on our shelves - where to start? Family photographs were obvious, also our wills and the property deeds. Laptops and mobile phones of course.

As on the previous days the air quality in the valley was oppressive - like a really bad day in Beijing, and masks were the order of the day. All roads out of Calistoga except to the south were closed.

We drove through it all in a trance and were relieved to finally make it to Tiburon - our haven 70 miles away, feeling we were sleepwalking. For the next couple of days, the news became grimmer and grimmer and I thought Friday the 13th might well mark doomsday.

In the event it was the turning point.

And gradually the containment numbers crept up - to 10 percent then 25, then 40. A rain shower, the first in many months, and cooler temperatures helped. But of course entire communities are only just beginning to grapple with the fires' aftermath.

Gini and I felt blessed to have so narrowly avoided disaster, and by good fortune had picked our cabernet sauvignon grape crop just one week before on Oct. 2. The line separating the loss of everything and escaping completely unscathed had been so fine - and random. That made the losses suffered by friends and so many strangers all the more poignant.

Michael Savage
Connecticut leaders are reacting to news of the deadly church shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas that left 26 people dead Sunday morning and the governor has ordered that flags be lowered.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D) called the shooting "another unspeakable tragedy" and demanded action from Congress.

Enough is enough. Now is the time for commonsense gun violence prevention steps. Congressional complicity must end.  Richard Blumenthal (@SenBlumenthal) November 5, 2017

Sen. Chris Murphy (D) echoed those sentiments in a lengthy statement that attacked the gun lobby and compared the incident to other mass shootings including Las Vegas, Orlando and Newtown.

"None of this is inevitable. I know this because no other country endures this pace of mass carnage like America. It is uniquely and tragically American. As long as our nation chooses to flood the county with dangerous weapons and consciously let those weapons fall into the hands of dangerous people, these killings will not abate," Murphy wrote.

"My heart breaks for Sutherland Springs. Just like it still does for Las Vegas. And Orlando. And Charleston. And Aurora. And Blacksburg. And Newtown. Just like it does every night for Chicago. And New Orleans. And Baltimore. And Bridgeport. The terrifying fact is that no one is safe so long as Congress chooses to do absolutely nothing in the face of this epidemic. The time is now for Congress to shed its cowardly cover and do something," he added.

Gov. Dannel Malloy also released a statement expressing his desire for congressional action.

"This morning a church community in Texas gathered to pray in peace and now we pray for the deceased, the injured, and their friends and families. Sutherland Springs now joins a club which no one wishes to join, a club made up of cities and towns ravaged by senseless gun violencecommunities such as Littleton, Virginia Tech, Charleston, Orlando, Las Vegas, Newtown, and so many others. For the sake of all communities across the country, this madness of mass shootings needs to end once and for all. Congress needs to finally take up and pass commonsense gun control measures so that tragedies like this one never happen again. Connecticut will make any resources and expertise that we can provide available to those affected by this latest act of mass violence."

On Monday, he ordered that flags be lowered to half-staff until sunset Thursday in accordance with a proclamation from President Donald Trump.

Scott Wilson, president of the Connecticut Citizens Defense League, criticized the senators for politicizing the events.

"First off, our sympathy goes out to the victims of this tragedy, and the entire community. We are thankful that a law-abiding armed citizen was able to stop the shooter before this mass murder became any worse. The fact that somebody was armed and able to stop this person flies in the face of what our two anti-gun senators often repeat while they are politicizing such events," Wilson wrote.
There is a measure of hope for people with crumbling foundations as they learn about the help headed their way.

Just a little bit of relief that we havent seen in a long time, Essy Piazza of Coventry, said.

Piazza was among those who attended an informational meeting at Ellington High School on Saturday.

Others say this is just the beginning to solve a significant problem.

After the NBC Connecticut Troubleshooters spent years focusing on the crumbling concrete issue, the state recently passed a budget with tens of millions in grants for those affected.

"The problem is devastating. For most people this is the biggest investment theyve ever made," Mayor Carolyn Mirek, South Windsor, said.

Also packed in the budget were tax assistance for homeowners and training for contractors working on basements.

On Saturday, people got up to speed about a $5 million pot to assist homeowners testing their concrete.

"Visual inspections are, will be reimbursed at $400," Pauline Yoder, interim municipal services director at the Capital Region Council of Governments, said.

Some called this assistance package a good start, but not enough.

Amanda Watkins was worried about who will be eligible for aid and that standards to diagnose the problem are not clear.

"I dont want to give up hope right now and I certainly dont want to back off of the responsibility on where it needs to be right now," Watkins said.

People also found out an advocacy group  the Connecticut Coalition Against Crumbling Basements  is teaming up with Trinity College to find a cheaper way to test concrete.

Also on the wish list: pushing the General Assembly during the next session to allow people to have more than a year to sue after an insurance company denies a foundation claim.

For more details on the funding, click here.
Sunday night, Portland police were still searching for the driver of a car that hit and killed a Middletown man on motor scooter late Saturday. The crash shut down the Arrigoni Bridge for six hours.

Police identified the victim as 22-year-old father of two, Daquan Moore, of Middletown. Moores nephew told NBC Connecticut in an exclusive interview that he was the last person to speak with his uncle, less than an hour before the tragedy.

Hes only a year older than I am and I kinda felt like I lost part of me in a way, said Taiheim Gatling.

Gatling said Moore always managed to find the light in the darkest of situations. Now, his family is looking for comfort as they try to come to terms with a life cut short.

Daquan was the type of person who was extremely light-hearted and kind. He always had a great story to tell. Even at such a young age he had a wise soul, Gatling recalled.

Gatling said Moore was headed over to his cousins house in Portland Saturday night. He never made it.

Police say at 10:52 p.m. they were called to the Portland side of the Arrigoni Bridge. There they found Moore laying in the roadway. His motor scooter came to rest at least 100 yards further down the bridge.

Investigators said a car hit Moores motor scooter from behind and fled the scene. They determined that the car that hit Moore was traveling at a high rate of speed. They also said that witnesses on the scene told them that the car was racing another vehicle, a grey car.

We know what lane that the motor scooter was driving in. We know that he was in his established lane. We know that he was hit from behind, said Portland police officer Paul Liseo.

Liseo said Moore landed more than 200 feet away from the point of impact. He said Moore was not wearing a helmet. He was rushed to Middlesex Hospital in life-threatening condition, and shortly succumbed to his injuries.

Liseo was part of an accident reconstruction team that included both Portland and Middletown police. The team spent six hours on the Arrigoni Bridge, combing for clues through a large debris field. The bridge was shut down during that time and did not open back up until 5:45 a.m.

We do have some parts at the scene that were able to get some numbers off of so hopefully we can match a make and model or year up to the vehicle, said Liseo.

Police described the suspects vehicle as a late-model, light-colored Audi with front-end damage. Investigators said between the eye-witness accounts and DOT cameras, its only a matter of time before they identify the suspect.

If the person would like to talk to us, come and turn themselves in, let us know what happened it would definitely be in his favor or her favor to do that, said Liseo.

We want this person to turn themselves in so that we can have justice and we can kind of have closure, added Gatling.
A man opened fire on a church in South Texas on Sunday, killing more than 20 people and wounding others.

Here's a look at some of the nation's deadliest mass shootings since 2012:

 Oct. 1, 2017: A gunman identified by authorities as Stephen Paddock opened fire on an outdoor music festival on the Las Vegas Strip from the 32nd floor of a hotel-casino, killing 58 people and wounding more than 500. SWAT teams with explosives then stormed his room and found he had killed himself.

 June 12, 2016: Gunman Omar Mateen opened fire at an Orlando, Florida, nightclub, killing 49 people. Mateen was later killed in a shootout with police.

 Feb. 25, 2016: Cedric Ford, 38, killed three people and wounded 14 others at a lawnmower factory where he worked in the central Kansas community of Hesston. The local police chief killed him during a shootout with 200 to 300 workers still in the building, authorities said.

 Feb. 20, 2016: Jason Dalton, 45, is accused of randomly shooting and killing six people and severely wounding two others during a series of attacks over several hours in the Kalamazoo, Michigan, area. Authorities say he paused between shootings to make money as an Uber driver. He faces murder and attempted-murder charges.

 Dec. 2, 2015: Syed Rizwan Farook, 28, and Tashfeen Malik, 27, opened fire at a social services center in San Bernardino, California, killing 14 people and wounding more than 20. They fled the scene but died hours later in a shootout with police.

 Oct. 1, 2015: A shooting at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, left 10 people dead and seven wounded. Shooter Christopher Harper-Mercer, 26, exchanged gunfire with police, then killed himself.

 June 17, 2015: Dylann Roof, 21, shot and killed nine African-American church members during a Bible study group inside the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Police contend the attack was racially motivated. Roof has been sentenced to death in the shootings.

 May 23, 2014: A community college student, Elliot Rodger, 22, killed six people and wounded 13 in shooting and stabbing attacks in the area near the University of California, Santa Barbara, campus. Authorities said he apparently shot himself to death after a gunbattle with deputies.

 Sept. 16, 2013: Aaron Alexis, a mentally disturbed civilian contractor, shot 12 people to death at the Washington Navy Yard before he was killed in a police shootout.

 July 26, 2013: Pedro Vargas, 42, went on a shooting rampage at his Hialeah, Florida, apartment building, gunning down six people before officers fatally shot him.

 Dec. 14, 2012: In Newtown, Connecticut, an armed 20-year-old man entered Sandy Hook Elementary School and used a semi-automatic rifle to kill 26 people, including 20 first-graders and six adult school staff members. He then killed himself.

 Sept. 27, 2012: In Minnesota's deadliest workplace rampage, Andrew Engeldinger, who had just been fired, pulled a gun and fatally shot six people, including the company's founder. He also wounded two others at Accent Signage Systems in Minneapolis before taking his own life.

 Aug. 5, 2012: In Oak Creek, Wisconsin, 40-year-old gunman Wade Michael Page killed six worshippers at a Sikh Temple before killing himself.

July 20, 2012: James Holmes, 27, fatally shot 12 people and injured 70 in an Aurora, Colorado, movie theater. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

 April 2, 2012: Seven people were killed and three were wounded when a 43-year-old former student opened fire at Oikos University in Oakland, California. One Goh was charged with seven counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, but psychiatric evaluations concluded he suffered from long-term paranoid schizophrenia and was unfit to stand trial.
A leader of a Mexican fuel-theft gang was shot to death at a hospital where he was undergoing plastic surgery to change his appearance, authorities said Thursday.

Puebla state prosecutors said Jesus Martin, a woman and two other men were killed at the hospital Monday, apparently by members of his own gang.

The killing comes amid an upsurge in bloodshed involving pipeline thieves in the state, where at least 16 people have been slain this week in apparent disputes between gangs. The most recent killings claimed four victims on a rural road Tuesday in Palmar de Bravo, a township known as a center for fuel thieves.

Fuel thieves drill an average of 28 illegal pipeline taps every day in Mexico. State authorities have said the gang fighting has occurred in part because a police crackdown that has made it harder to steal fuel.

The main suspect in Martin's killing has also been implicated in the slayings of five people in the town of Tlaltenango, in a vacant lot that apparently served as a base for fuel thieves, officials said.

Prosecutors also said that Martin had tried to have his fingerprints removed and that doctors at the hospital in the state capital were being investigated for possible complicity.

In 1997, drug lord Amado Carrillo Fuentes died while having plastic surgery to change his appearance. His associates suspected the doctors intentionally caused his death.
A 3-year-old pit bull, named Mary Jane, was attacked by bears when she was presumably trying to protect the woman who was taking her on a nightly walk at a Seminole Reservation.

The incident occurred at about 9 p.m. on Friday at the Big Cypress Indian Reservation of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Mary Jane's owner of was visiting his daughter, who took the American pit bull terrier for a walk.

"Mary Jane was being taken for an evening walk, when she took off running to presumably protect the daughter and was attacked by approximately three bears," Lauderdale Veterinary Specialists, which is treating Mary Jane for deep puncture wounds covering most of her body, said in a statement.

Mary Jane was first taken to Lakeside Animal Hospital in Plantation and then referred to LVS for treatment.

Veterinarians are administering fluids, providing pain medication and antibiotics.

"Additionally, doctors are concerned about air in the chest cavity of Mary Jane, which was presumably caused by her wounds and trauma," LVS added.

Dr. Ashley Villatoro, a veterinarian at LVS, said that Mary Jane's prognosis is considered to be good.

"We are still cautious about the air in her chest and the potential for the development of infection, Villatoro said in a statement. Most importantly, this should be a lesson to all who live in South Florida that we have a presence of wildlife that can easily harm or injure a pet. Whether were talking bears, panthers, bobcats, alligators, venomous snakes, wild boars or bufo toads, we certainly have our share of deadly wildlife to continually be on the lookout for.
Actor Lou Diamond Phillips has been charged with DWI in Texas just hours before a scheduled appearance in Corpus Christi.

Police in nearby Portland arrested Phillips early Friday. Jail records show bond wasn't immediately set for Phillips, who starred in "La Bamba."

Police Chief Mark Cory says an officer was conducting an unrelated traffic stop when the 55-year-old Phillips drove up and asked for directions. Cory says the officer suspected Phillips had been drinking. His blood alcohol level was .20  more than twice the legal limit for driving.

Cory says Phillips, who listed a California address, was cooperative.

Jail records didn't indicate an attorney for Phillips, a 1980 graduate of Corpus Christi's Flour Bluff High School. Phillips was scheduled to appear Friday afternoon at a Corpus Christi historical event.
From his hospital bed, Sayfullo Saipov proudly told investigators how he had rented a truck and used it to run down cyclists and pedestrians on a New York City bike path, all in the name of the Islamic State.

He assured them he acted alone. U.S. counter-terrorism agents want to make sure.

Since the attack that killed eight people, the New York Police Department and the FBI have been working behind the scenes to study his past, question his family and friends, examine his cellphone and online activity and hunt for any clues that might identify others plotting similar attacks.

That search has already revealed instances where Saipov had contact with other people who had drawn law enforcement scrutiny.

"What we are looking for is how has he touched the subjects of other investigations, what is his connectivity to those people," said John Miller, the NYPD's top counterterrorism official.

Saipov, 29, came to the U.S. legally in 2010 from Uzbekistan, where officials say he had no history of trouble with the law. He first lived in Ohio, where he was a commercial truck driver, then Florida. He most recently lived in New Jersey with his wife and children, and worked as an Uber driver.

Since Saipov's arrest, investigators have tried to determine if he had interactions with any other terror suspects, including four Uzbeks charged in separate case in Brooklyn with conspiring to support the Islamic State group. Prosecutors have accused them of seeking to travel to Pakistan to fight for the group.

The FBI has also learned that Saipov was at a wedding two years ago that was also attended by another immigrant from Uzbekistan who was  and remains  under investigation.

Agents have also interviewed many people who knew Saipov, including a friend who was questioned for hours over several days. So far, that man, a fellow immigrant from Uzbekistan, is only considered to be a witness, according to two law enforcement officials.

Investigators have interviewed Saipov's wife, who was cooperative but provided no clues, and visited a mosque in New Jersey, where the defendant was living, said one of the officials. Both officials weren't authorized to detail the probe and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The FBI in Ohio also has questioned members of an Uzbek community about Saipov. And it's certain investigators would seek to speak to 23 other people who President Donald Trump said listed Saipov as a contact on immigration forms.

Counterterrorism experts say the investigators are scouring Saipov's contacts and communications and see whether anyone encouraged his plans for violence, talked about joining in or contributed financially, even unknowingly.

Authorities can compare the information to intelligence databases with names and other information U.S. agencies have gathered, said Jeffrey Ringel, a former FBI agent and Joint Terrorism Task force member who now works for the Soufan Group, a private security firm.

A case like Saipov's "can lead to all sorts of spinoff investigations," Ringel said. It could turn out Saipov acted alone, "but until that's determined, everything's got to be looked at," he added.

Saipov was charged with federal terrorism offenses that could qualify him for the death penalty. According to a criminal complaint, the Uzbek immigrant made statements about his allegiance to the Islamic State group, which later took credit for the attack.

The complaint also described how a search of two cellphones has already produced a trove of evidence against the defendant. One contained 90 videos and other Islamic State propaganda, including one of a beheading and another of a tank running over a prisoner. The other phone showed a search for truck rental outlets.

Saipov told investigators he was inspired to carry out the attack after watching a video of Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi questioning "what Muslims in the United States and elsewhere were doing to respond to the killing of Muslims in Iraq," the court papers said.
I can sympathize with the people who lost their homes in the recent fires. I too lost my home in the floods of the mid '50s and early '60s. This was in Pepperwood, California on the Eel River and everything was gone.

Been there done that. My father used to say it's a great life if you don't weaken so stay strong everybody. My motto is, forget the stocks, forget the money, I've got my Honey and a dog that pees on the carpet.

Just be happy, be happy every time I think about this I laugh and laugh, it makes me happy. It's kind of dumb but so what?

I will leave you now with a poem I read years ago and it goes like this: The thing goes the farthest toward making life worthwhile that costs the least and does the most is just a pleasant smile.

Wallace Meyers
Tri-state officials are responding to the deadly mass shooting at a church in Texas on Sunday morning.

At least 26 people, including the gunman, were killed in the shooting, a local sheriff said. About 20 more were injured.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said he joins all New Yorkers in mourning this senseless tragedy.

These mass shootings have become appallingly and unforgivably common in our society, but we must not become numb to tragedy, Cuomo said in the statement. We cannot accept mass shootings as part of who we are -- this can and must stop.

The governor went on to say: In the memories of those we lost today in Texas, and last month in Las Vegas, and last year in Orlando, and all across this nation, we must come together and say: enough is enough.

Mayor de Blasio took to Twitter to express his condolences to the victims and their families.

New York City prays for the town of #SutherlandSprings and mourns the tragic loss of life in so sacred a place, he tweeted.

Gov. Dannel Malloy, whose state suffered one of the deadliest shootings in U.S. history at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012, also responded in a statement, saying Connecticut will provide any resources necessary to those affected by the tragedy.

Sutherland Springs now joins a club which no one wishes to join, a club made up of cities and towns ravaged by senseless gun violence  communities such as Littleton, Virginia Tech, Charleston, Orlando, Las Vegas, Newtown, and so many others, Malloy said.

For the sake of all communities across the country, this madness of mass shootings needs to end once and for all, he continued. Congress needs to finally take up and pass commonsense gun control measures so that tragedies like this one never happen again.

Gun control became a hot topic for the candidates for New Jersey governor on Sunday, with just two days to go until the election.

Horrific news out of Texas, Republican candidate Kim Guadagno wrote on Twitter. My thoughts and prayers are w/ the people of Sutherland Springs and the law enforcement officers who responded.

Phil Murphy, the Democrat running for New Jersey governor, took on the topic at a campaign event.

Who said it was time for those 58 people to lose their lives? he said of the Las Vegas shooting victims. Or those folks at church today. Now is exactly the time to talk about gun safety.



Meanwhile, authorities in the tri-state were ramping up security at some locations as a precaution. Nassau County police said theyve intensified patrols in areas of concern. We are monitoring this attack along with federal, state, and local authorities, the agency said.
Terrorism, taxes and Russia tribulations provided fertile ground for President Donald Trump and others to sow confusion over the past week.

Over days of head-snapping developments, the special counsel's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election produced indictments and a guilty plea reaching into Trump's campaign team, then eight people died in New York City in what authorities called a terrorist attack by a man acting in the name of the Islamic State group.

Trump opened an Asia trip after House Republicans came out with a tax overhaul that, if successful, could mark Trump's first major legislative achievement after a series of health care flops.

A look back at the rhetoric:

House Republicans revealed a tax cut plan that drastically reduces the corporate tax rate and lowers taxes for most Americans but limits a deduction for homeowners. The party plans to get the bill to President Trump by Christmas.

TRUMP: "It's a tax bill for middle class; it's a tax bill for jobs, it's going to bring a lot of companies in; and it's a tax bill for business, which is going to create the jobs."  meeting with business leaders Tuesday.

HOUSE SPEAKER PAUL RYAN: "The focus is on middle-class tax relief. The focus is on directing that tax relief to the people in the middle and the people who are trying to get there. And that is why we put our emphasis on that tax relief for those people who are in the middle."  news conference by House Republicans on Thursday.

THE FACTS: Let there be no doubt the middle class is a politically glorified group. Ryan can't talk about the "middle" enough; GOP leaders mentioned middle-income earners 14 times at the news conference. But the tax plan is tilted to companies and the wealthy. Some in the middle class are bound to pay higher taxes, some lower.

How that crapshoot plays out depends on more than income.

The plan promises tax savings next year of $1,182 for a typical household of four with a gross income of $59,000, leaving the family's tax bill at $400.

But the proposal's conflicting provisions and phase-outs of certain benefits suggest that taxes could rise for some middle-class earners over time. Middle-income people in states with high state income taxes or who have many children, high medical bills or heavy student debt are particularly at risk of a bigger tax hit. Others may benefit modestly from the lower tax rates and revamped credits and deductions.

The big numbers tell part of the tale. Of the $1.5 trillion the plan is designed to cost over 10 years, $850 billion goes to companies, according to the government's Joint Committee on Taxation. Almost all of the savings for families and individuals come from the repeal of the Alternative Minimum Tax and the Estate Tax  changes that benefit the wealthy.

President Donald Trump and Congress are reacting to Tuesday's deadly truck attack in New York City. "We must not allow ISIS to return, or enter, our country after defeating them in the Middle East and elsewhere. Enough!" Trump tweeted.

TRUMP tweets Wednesday: "The terrorist came into our country through what is called the 'Diversity Visa Lottery Program,' a Chuck Schumer beauty. I want merit based." "'Senator Chuck Schumer helping to import Europes problems' said Col. Tony Shaffer. We will stop this craziness! @foxandfriends"

THE FACTS: The lottery program is no more the creation ("beauty") of the New York Democrat than it is of Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, GOP Sen. Orrin Hatch and many other Republicans who helped bring it into law in 1990. It had bipartisan support, breezed through the Senate on an 89-8 vote and was signed by GOP President George H.W. Bush.

The suspect from Uzbekistan who is accused of the deadly New York attack entered the U.S. legally in 2010 under the lottery and Trump wants to eliminate it. Schumer supported getting rid of it three years ago as part of an immigration overhaul that failed in Congress.

Trump also misplaced Uzbekistan in Europe when he referred to importing Europe's problems. It's in Asia. The State Department, though, lists Uzbekistan and other former Soviet republics under Europe in its lottery. The program lets 50,000 people in a year from countries with low emigration rates to the U.S.

Trump spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders later said Trump was not really holding Schumer culpable in the attack.

President Donald Trump talked about his intent to dismantle former President Barack Obamas health care law "step by step," starting with an executive order he signed Oct. 12 to offer lower premiums and an upcoming one halting payment to insurers working under "Obamacare" policies.

TRUMP RE-ELECTION AD: Says health insurance premiums are skyrocketing "while Democrats in Washington, D.C., block a better plan to repeal and replace Obamacare once and for all  obstructing our president just to score political points with the radical left."

THE FACTS: It's a diversion to describe Democrats as being responsible for the GOP's failure to repeal and replace Barack Obama's health care law. Trump's party, which controls the House and the Senate, had a chance to pass a new health law without a single Democratic vote in the summer.

Recent health care plans backed by the White House stalled chiefly because Republican senators such as Susan Collins of Maine and John McCain of Arizona opposed specific fixes.

It's true premiums are rising, but that's not entirely due to the health law. The consulting firm Avalere Health says premiums for the most popular Affordable Care Act plans are going up an average of 34 percent and the Trump administration's actions are contributing to the price increases by adding instability to underlying problems of the health law's marketplaces.

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said former Trump campaign aide George Papadopoulos did the wrong thing when he lied to the FBI and thats on him."

TRUMP tweet Tuesday: "Few people knew the young, low level volunteer named George, who has already proven to be a liar."

THE FACTS: George Papadopoulos, a Trump campaign adviser who pleaded guilty to lying about his Russian interactions, was not as obscure as Trump makes him out to be. Trump named Papadopoulos to his foreign policy advisory council in March 2016, where he joined a short list of experts helping the candidate with international affairs.

"Excellent guy," Trump told The Washington Post at the time. Trump also tweeted a photo of his March 31 advisory council meeting, with Papadopoulos among several advisers at the president's table. Jeff Sessions, then a senator and now attorney general, was helping Trump's campaign and attended at least two meetings of the advisory council with Papadopoulos also there.

In April 2016, Papadopoulos met a professor with connections to the Russian government for breakfast in London and was told Moscow had "dirt" helpful to Trump, namely Hillary Clinton emails. Investigators said Papadopoulos emailed a Trump campaign policy adviser the next day, saying, "Have some interesting messages coming in from Moscow about a trip when the time is right."

Investigators said his position with the campaign, though not senior, was significant to those who wanted to pass on helpful information. The allegations unsealed Monday state that "the professor only took interest in defendant PAPADOPOULOS because of his status with the Campaign."

The adviser met later with more apparent Russian intermediaries.

Altogether, this episode provided evidence in the first criminal case connecting Trump's team to Russian interests.

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Monday sought to distance the White House from the indictments of top presidential campaign officials Paul Manafort and Rick Gates and the guilty plea of campaign aide George Papadopoulos.

TRUMP tweet Monday: "Sorry, but this is years ago, before Paul Manafort was part of the Trump campaign."

THE FACTS: Not true, according to the indictment against Manafort, who was Trump's campaign chairman for months last year, and against Manafort associate Rick Gates.

They are charged with criminal activities that go back to 2006 but extend to February of this year. The charges do not refer to Manafort's activities with the campaign but rather accuse him of laundering money and conspiratorial acts before, during and after he was campaign chairman.

Manafort and Gates face 12 counts, which do deal largely with activities from 2006 to 2015, before Manafort joined the campaign in March 2016.

But both are charged with conspiring together and with others to knowingly and intentionally defraud and commit crimes against the U.S. from 2006 to this year.

And both are charged with conspiring together to make false statements and conceal crimes against the U.S., and to causing others to do so, from November 2016 to February 2017.

The indictment emerged from the broad investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election and possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. It does not go to the heart of that matter.
A man is accused of murdering his brother inside an Elkins Park home.



Jamison Bachman, 60, of Philadelphia, is charged with first- and third-degree murder, as well as identity theft charges, in the death of his brother Harry Bachman, 64.

On Saturday around 12:15 p.m., Cheltenham Police were called to a home on the 400 block of North Sterling Road in Elkins Park to check the well-being of the resident, identified as Harry Bachman. Investigators say Harry Bachman was supposed to meet a family member Friday night but never showed up.

When police arrived at the home, they were met by a family member who had a key to the house. As police searched inside they found Harry Bachman's body in the basement. Investigators say there were signs of a violent struggle and the victim appeared to have suffered blunt force trauma to the head and body. Police also say the person who murdered him stole his red Ford Escape from the driveway.

Cheltenham Township detectives as well as the Montgomery County Detective Bureau investigated the murder and determined that the victim's brother, Jamison Bachman, was the suspect. Investigators say they found Harry Bachman's vehicle in the parking lot of the Fairfield Inn Hotel in Upper Moreland Township. The Montgomery County SWAT-Eastern Region then served an arrest warrant at the hotel and found Jamison Bachman inside, police said.

Jamison Bachman was arrested without incident and charged with murder.

NBC10 / Montgomery County District Attorney's Office

Police have not yet revealed a motive in the murder.

Jamison Bachman remained behind bars without bail Monday after being arraigned Sunday night. Online court records don't list an attorney who could comment on his behalf.


A U.S. military service member was killed in Afghanistan Saturday, the commander of U.S. operations in the country said in a statement.

The service member, who was not identified, died of wounds sustained in the Logar province of the country, officials said.

"On behalf of U.S. Forces  Afghanistan, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of our fallen brother, said General John Nicholson, commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan. "Despite this tragic event, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the Afghan people and to support them in our mutual fight against terrorism.

Further information was not immediately available.
Facebook, Twitter and Google acknowledged to U.S. lawmakers on Tuesday that Russian-linked accounts began exploiting their services in 2015 to sway last year's presidential election. Lawyers for the companies were grilled about why they didn't notice how their platforms were misused earlier, and about what they have done  and will do  to prevent such abuse from happening again.

Here are five things the companies need to tell Congress:

WHY SO LATE?

The election was nearly a year ago. Why did it take so long for Facebook, Google and Twitter to see how their platforms were used by foreign actors to influence the election?

Congress would really like to know. As Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., put it: "People are buying ads on your platform with rubles. They are political ads. You put billions of data points together all the time, that's what I hear that these platforms do. They are the most sophisticated things invented by man, ever. Google has all knowledge that man has ever developed. You can't put together rubles with a political ad and go like, 'Hmmm, those data points spell out something pretty bad.'"

In hindsight, Facebook general counsel Colin Stretch acknowledged, the company should have had a "broader lens." He also noted that the company published research in April disclosing that governments and other malicious non-state actors were using its social network to influence elections  though the company didn't directly name Russia at the time.

WAS IT JUST RUSSIA?

It's already illegal for Russians and other foreigners to pay for U.S. political ads. But some lawmakers suggested there was no way for tech companies to know if entities from other countries  like China, North Korea, or, in one memorable exchange, Turkmenistan  had also misused their platforms. After all, they didn't know about Russia's efforts for a long time, either.

With 5 million advertisers every month, Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy asked of Facebook, "How can you be aware?" Especially, he said, when companies and others can hide behind shell companies to mask their true identities.

Stretch stopped short of saying with certainty that other countries didn't purchase misleading or false ads on Facebook.

PUBLISHERS OR PLATFORMS?

Kennedy also asked Richard Salgado, Google's director of law enforcement and information security, whether the company is a "newspaper" or a neutral tech platform. Salgado replied that Google is a tech company, to which Kennedy quipped, "that's what I thought you'd say."

The other two companies also consider themselves technology platforms that merely allow newspapers and other media companies to share information. But at a time when millions of Americans count Facebook, Twitter and Google their primary news sources, the companies will likely have to try harder to convince lawmakers and the public that they are not in the media business.

The distinction is important when it comes to regulation. Tech platforms are generally not responsible for the content on their sites. Media companies are.

IS THERE MORE?

Facebook has already disclosed that content generated by a Russian internet agency potentially reached as many as 126 million users. Twitter told the same subcommittee that it has uncovered and shut down 2,752 accounts linked to Russia's Internet Research Agency, which is known for promoting pro-Russian government positions.

And Google said it found evidence of "limited" misuse of its services by the Russian group, as well as some YouTube channels that were likely backed by Russian agents.

But was this all? The companies are not done with their investigations into Russian interference  and Congress may just be getting warmed up.

CAN THEY FIX THE PROBLEMS WITHOUT REGULATION?

Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar pressed representatives of Facebook, Google and Twitter to declare whether they will support the "Honest Ads" bill she has introduced with Sen. Mark Warner, which would bring political ad rules from TV, radio and print to the internet. Each of the tech giants offered only qualified support rather than a straight "yes."

Klobuchar noted that none of the companies included "issue ads" in their updated advertising policies  even though that's what the majority of the Russia-linked ads were. Rather than outright supporting a political candidate, these ads deal with hot-button issues like race and immigration and are designed to sow discord among the public.

"Obviously it would be easier if everyone had the same rules," she said.
Police are investigating the death of a Florida State University fraternity pledge at a chapter party.

Tallahassee Police Department identified the victim as 20-year-old Andrew Coffey. Coffey was a civil engineering major from Pompano Beach.

The Tallahassee police say no one has been arrested in Friday's death of the Pi Kappa Phi pledge at an off-campus house party.

The Tallahassee Democrat reports that officers were collecting alcoholic beverage bottles that were scattered on the home's porch as evidence.

FSU Vice President of Student Affairs Amy Hecht said the university has no further information to provide and that the matter is currently the subject of an active police investigation.

The fraternity has been suspended by its national organization pending the conclusion of the investigation.


Jamie's Pub in Scituate, Massachusetts went up in flames around 4 a.m. Sunday. Its roof came down shortly after, and Fire Chief John Murphy says the building is a total loss.

Officials got the call around 4:20 a.m., and by the time they had arrived, the fire had fully engulfed the restaurant.

It started from the back over the kitchen.

Murphy says it took firefighters an hour and 15 minutes to get it under control.

The restaurant, has been here since 1967 and has been run by the same family for the past 50 years.

The cause of the fire is not known at this time and is under investigation.

"Fire marshals on scene are going to do an investigation and take some pictures and determine how it started and where it started. Also the owner's insurance company has to do an investigation," Murphy said. "We want this building down in 48 hours."



Scituate residents say this restaurant is a staple.

Others say it's like family.

Loyal customers stood outside Sunday.

"It's really emotional," said employee Kathleen Nelson.

She raced to work to find an unrecognizable restaurant.

"I've only been here since June but if you've ever been here, it's the most loyal customers you've ever seen. I mean I work anywhere from five to six days a week and we have the same people that come in five nights a week," Nelson said.

It's a devastating loss for many, but Nelson says the owner asked some of the staff if they'd be ready to come back to work in six months, so plans to rebuild seem to be in the future.
One person was killed in a hunting accident off of Pine Road in Brentwood, New Hampshire Saturday evening.

The 51-year-old victim was a resident of Sandown, New Hampshire. His identity is being withheld by authorities pending notification of his family.

Brentwood police were alerted to an accidental shooting at a bird sanctuary just before 4 p.m. Officers assisted with CPR on the victim. Less than an hour later the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to police.

The incident was ruled an accidental homicide.
The nation's chief law enforcement officer is finding himself in a familiar spot: belittled by the president, pressured to investigate political opponents and sucked back into the center of the storm around the investigation into the Trump administration's campaign ties to Russia.

In President Donald Trump's Cabinet, Attorney General Jeff Sessions appears to be perpetually in the hot seat, yet he has made clear he's not going anywhere. In an administration where top aides serve at the president's displeasure, the former Alabama senator has shown he is more than willing to absorb the blows.

Trump paused Friday to hit Sessions with yet another indignity just before he left the White House for a 12-day Asia trip increasingly colored by his domestic political troubles. Asked if he would fire the attorney general if he doesn't investigate his Democratic political rivals, Trump said, "I don't know." He continued to vent his frustration with the top prosecutor.

"I'm not really involved with the Justice Department," he said. "I'd like to let it run itself. But honestly, they should be looking at Democrats. ... They should be looking at a lot of things, and a lot of people are disappointed with the Justice Department, including me."

Two White House officials quickly cautioned against reading too much into Trump's comments, reiterating that he has no plans to fire Sessions. And although the White House maintains that Trump's tweets are "official record," it says Trump has not ordered Sessions or the FBI to do anything related to Democrats.

Trump issued a flurry of tweets over a 3-1/2-hour span Friday urging the Justice Department to investigate Hillary Clinton and the Democratic National Committee over a joint fundraising agreement they signed in August 2015.

Trump's accusations follow publication by Politico of an excerpt from former acting DNC Chair Donna Brazile's upcoming book. Brazile alleges she found "proof" that the 2016 Democratic primary was rigged in Clinton's favor.

"Everybody is asking why the Justice Department (and FBI) isn't looking into all of the dishonesty going on with Crooked Hillary & the Dems..." Trump tweeted.

The aides said the tweets were a media savvy way to deflect attention from the investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller into Russian meddling in the 2016 election. This week, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his business associate Rick Gates, who also had a role in the campaign, were indicted on 12 counts, and former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos pleaded guilty to lying about his dealings with Russians who were offering "dirt" on Clinton.

Sessions has become a scapegoat for Trump's anger, allowing the president to avoid some of the political consequences of directly attacking the special counsel.

But the president's lashing was another blow to the attorney general, and came amid calls for him to return to Congress to explain why he said earlier this year he was unaware of information exchanges between Trump's campaign and intermediaries for the Russian government.

Papadopoulos admitted he told Sessions at a March 2016 meeting he had made contacts with Russians who said they could set up a meeting between Trump and President Vladimir Putin. Sessions quickly dismissed the idea and said he'd prefer no one ever speak about it, according to one person who was there, who spoke on condition of anonymity to share the private conversation.

Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee are now asking Sessions to follow up.

"This is another example in an alarming pattern in which you, the nation's top law enforcement officer, apparently failed to tell the truth, under oath, about the Trump team's contacts with agents of Russia  a hostile foreign power that interfered in the 2016 election," Sen. Al Franken wrote in a letter to Sessions.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal also asked Sessions to return to the panel to clarify his comments.

A person close to Sessions said Papadopoulos' comments during the March meeting did not leave a lasting impression on the then-senator, who quickly dismissed them and moved on. The person, who was not authorized to discuss the matter and did so on condition of anonymity, said Sessions does not recall any further interactions with Papadopoulos.

Sessions has been a loyal foot soldier to the president, even after repeated attacks from Trump this summer over his decision to recuse himself from the Russia probe, which Trump has come to view as the original sin in the swirling special counsel investigation.

But Sessions clung to the job he had long desired, in part to enact his hawkish immigration and crime-fighting strategies. And he has since been steadily carrying out Trump's agenda, stumping for Trump policies and praising the president directly in speeches. The two have been lock-step on everything from drugs and gangs to terrorism and immigration. Sessions has been mostly silent as Trump has inserted himself into legal matters, including calling for the execution of the Islamic State devotee charged with mowing down eight people on a New York bike path this week.

There's nothing expressly preventing the president from opining on law enforcement investigations, and Trump is not the first president to have done so. But pressuring the attorney general to investigate a foe would be a violation of longstanding protocol and insensitive to the bright-line boundary between the White House and the FBI.

Sessions also has said he would recuse himself from any Clinton-related investigations.

Still, the president's casual call for an investigation into the Democrats drew outrage from some in Congress, at a time of increasing concern about White House interference with Justice Department doings.

Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein said it was "characteristic of authoritarian regimes, not democracies, and it needs to stop." And Republican Sen. Bob Corker, a Trump critic, said Trump's wading into criminal cases and pushing for investigations of adversaries not only "undermine our justice system but erode the American people's confidence in our institutions."

Associated Press writers Mary Clare Jalonick and Steve Peoples contributed to this report.
BrainStation Unveils New Downtown Vancouver Flagship Campus

VANCOUVER: BrainStation, a global leader in digital technology education, has unveiled its brand new 20,000 sq ft flagship campus at the corner of Granville and Pender.





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BrainStation first launched in Vancouver three years ago. The leadership team made the decision to expand into the dramatically larger facility last year and have spent the past twelve months selecting and building out the new campus. Over 250 people attended the opening event from Vancouver's top technology organizations."BrainStation's mission is to empower the world with the skills needed to thrive in a connected and fast paced digital economy. BrainStation's in-person learning engagements have trained over 50,000 individuals and corporations in cutting edge digital topics such as User Experience (UX) Design, Data Science, Product Management, Full-stack Development and Digital Marketing," said Jason Field, Founder & CEO. "This new campus will give us even more opportunities to equip Vancouver's working professionals with the cutting-edge skills needed to continue elevating the city as a technology hub."Kyle Treleaven, General Manager of BrainStation Vancouver addressed the audience with his 2018 vision for the Vancouver campus. "I look forward to supporting Vancouver by empowering individuals and organizations to achieve digital success through our Full-time programs, Part-time courses, workshops and events. It has been amazing to be a part of this community for 3 years and evolving into our new campus creates a space to support the fastest growing industry in Vancouver. It is predicted 54,000 BC tech jobs will be created by 2020, we will be doing our part to help support that growth."
Here is a selection of stories curated by AP editors to keep you informed as you start your weekend.
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IndiGo dismisses PV Sindhu's claims of ill-treatment

New Delhi , Nov 04 : IndiGo Airlines has dismissed Shutller PV Sindhu's alleged claims of misbehaviour with her while she was on board on one of their aircrafts.





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Earlier in the day, Sindhu took to Twitter to report about alleged ill-treatment she received from the airlines while she was flying to Mumbai from Hyderabad.She tweeted, "Sorry to say ..I had a very bad experience when I was flying by 6E 608 flight to Bombay on 4th November the ground staff by name Mr ajeetesh.""Ground staff (skipper) Mr Ajeetesh behaved very badly and rudely with me. When the air hostess Ms Ashima tried to advise him to behave properly with the passenger (me) but to my surprise he behaved rudely with her," she added.Rejecting Sindhu's claims, Indigo replied that the ground operations remained calm with her throughout and were carrying out duty in the best interest of a safe and reliable operation.Explaining the incident, Indigo said, "Sindhu was carrying oversized baggage, which was not fitting into the overhead bin and was informed that it will be moved to cargo hold of the aircraft."The airlines said that this was the policy it follows for all as carrying oversized baggage creates inconveniences to other customers and can also be a safety hazard."During the entire conversation, the member of the IndiGo ground operations remained calm," the airlines replied, adding, "After several requests to her manager, they finally consented to the removal of the bag from the cabin. We then placed the over-sized baggage in the cargo hold and was handed over to Ms Sindhu on arrival."Indigo added that though it is extremely proud of Sindhu's sporting achievements, but safety operations are paramount to them.
New Fashion Watch Collection, Mon Amie, Empowers Wearers To Give Back And Connect With Others

DALLAS: Fossil Group announced today the launch of its newest collection of fashion watches, Mon Amie. A first for the company, the sleek new line was developed in collaboration with WE Charity, part of WE-a unique family of organizations that brings people together and gives them the tools to change the world.





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Fossil Group developed Mon Amie, French for "my friend", to create a brand that connects people and creates opportunities for them to give back. Every purchase of a Mon Amie watch supports WE Charity's sustainable international development model, WE Villages, by donating to one of five WE Villages pillars designed to help break the cycle of poverty: Education, Water, Health, Food and Opportunity, so customers can select the cause that matters most to them. Each watch comes with a shareable pin to give to a loved one to encourage them to be part of the Mon Amie family and join in the spirit of giving.Each watch in Mon Amie's debut collection helps families in Kenya in a unique way:aHealth watch: Purchase gives prenatal care for one womanaEducation watch: Purchase gives school supplies for a classroomaFood watch: Purchase gives school lunches for two months for one childaOpportunity watch: Purchase gives financial literacy training for 10 womenaWater watch: Purchase gives clean water for a family for two weeks"We wanted to celebrate the bonds between people while helping them have a real impact on the cause they care the most about," said Mon Amie Creative Director, Manali Mohanty. "We care deeply about the causes Mon Amie supports and aimed to create that tangible connection through our product. We paid meticulous attention to detail to ensure that the product is stylish, on-trend and creates a meaningful experience for the customer."Powered by WE's Track Your Impact model, every Mon Amie package comes with an 8-digit code allowing customers to track exactly where and how their purchase has made an impact in a WE Villages partner community.Hailey Devine of Somewhere Devine will serve as the first brand ambassador for the Mon Amie family and will journey to Kenya this fall to visit one of the communities that will be impacted by Mon Amie's partnership with WE Charity. She'll share her experience across her blog and social channels to encourage her followers to get involved and spread Mon Amie's mission to their friends and loved ones.The brand's premier collection is now available at Monamiewatches.com, and all of the watches retail for $95. Follow along on Instagram: @monamiewatches and #bemonamie.
Bunker 27, Veteran Owned Military Apparel Brand, Launches New U.S. Air Force Apparel Collection

SPRING, Texas: Bunker 27, newly licensed by the U.S. Air Force whose mission honors those who keep us free, past, present and future and commemorates military aviation, today announced the launch of its new U.S. Air Force Apparel Collection.





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This designation is particularly gratifying for the brand's founder, U.S. Air Force veteran Darren Moore, who launched Bunker 27 in 2016. With a nod to that heritage, the brand's logo bears a signature wing and star graphic design reminiscent of the United States Air Force's Legacy insignia. By participating in the U.S. Air Force trademark licensing program, a portion of the sale proceeds go to support and enhance the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Programs for Airmen worldwide.Bunker 27 offers a 15% discount to military service members and veterans to show further appreciation for their service."We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring a fresh new vision to U.S. Air Force branded apparel. Look for some of the most exciting USAF branded gear to date. Bunker 27 will celebrate the amazing legacy of the United States Air Force by bringing a sense of authenticity to everything we design." Darren Moore, Founder & CEO.Bunker 27 is celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the United States Air Force by offering a limited edition USAF 70th T-shirt featuring the silhouette of the U.S. Air Force's newest 5th generation fighter jet, the F-35.About Bunker 27 Based in Spring, TX. Bunker 27 is a veteran owned military apparel brand, that creates finely crafted World War II and modern day aviation themed apparel and is officially licensed by the U.S. Air Force. The company's mission honors those who keep us free, past, present and future and commemorates military aviation.
Chhattisgarh CM celebrates Guru Parv

Chhattisgarh , November 4 : Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Saturday attended the Guru Parv programme organised at Khalsa school here.





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The Chief Minister also visited "Neki ki Diwar" at Bhagat Singh Chowk.Earlier in the day, President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted the nation on the occasion.In a message, the President said, "Guru Nanak Dev gave us an enlightened message of peace, harmony and unity of all human beings."Prime Minister Modi tweeted, "On Guru Nanak Jayanti we bow to the venerable Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and recall his noble thoughts."Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab and Guru Parv, is observed by the Sikh community across the nation on this day to mark the 548th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the 10 Sikh Gurus.
BAI chief to take up IndiGo staff misbehaviour with Ministry

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) , November 4 : Badminton Association of India (BAI) president Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said that he will take the matter of alleged misbehaviour with ace shuttler P V Sindhu by an Indigo staff to the ministry.





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Biswa said, "BAI will take this matter to the concerned ministry so that there is no misbehavior with players. It is also important to ensure that along with the players there is no misbehavior with passengers."Earlier in the day, Sindhu took to Twitter to report about alleged ill-treatment she received from the airlines while she was flying to Mumbai from Hyderabad.She tweeted, "Sorry to say ..I had a very bad experience when I was flying by 6E 608 flight to Bombay on November 4 the ground staff by name Mr Ajeetesh.""Ground staff (skipper) Mr Ajeetesh behaved very badly and rudely with me. When the air hostess Ms Ashima tried to advise him to behave properly with the passenger (me) but to my surprise he behaved rudely with her," she added.IndiGo, however, has rebuffed Sindhu's claims, saying, the ground operations remained calm with her throughout and were carrying out their duty in the best interest of a safe and reliable operation.Sindhu, however, did not give any details about the incident but IndiGo in a statement said that the player was carrying an oversized bag and was asked to move it to the cargo hold of the aircraft.IndiGo further said that after several requests to the shuttlers' manager, they finally consented to the removal of the bag from the cabin.However, Sindhu's father, PV Ramana, who was also traveling with her, denied IndiGo's statement saying she was carrying her kit bag with her and not any another baggage."It was the kit bag and not any baggage which we had been carrying since last 10 years in every aircraft," Sindhu's father said."The staff misbehaved with Sindhu while handling her kit bag. Sindhu had requested the staff member to tackle it carefully as there were racquets inside. But the person behaved rudely with her and also the airhostess who interfered," he added.
Fearing dengue, classes held outside classrooms in Patna school

Patna (Bihar) , November 4 : Due to dengue scare, classes were held outside the classrooms in Dayanand Government School in Patna's Mithapur district after at least 30 students were allegedly diagnosed with the water-borne disease.





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"Besides me, four other staff and over 30 students were taken ill due to dengue," a school staff Ganesh Prasad told ANI.Meanwhile, a student said, "People dump wastes of the nearby vegetable market outside our school premises, which keeps stinking. School toilets are also dirty. We are scared. It's a risk to our health. Our exams are coming up."On the claims made by the school students, Principal Secretary of the Health Department RK Mahajan said, "Only tests can tell if they are dengue cases. Treatment will be provided if diagnosed with dengue. We have all arrangements in place.""The state government and Patna Nagar Nigam are aware of the incident and necessary actions will be taken," he said.Rising cases of spread of dengue and other water-borne diseases have been reported from Tamil Nadu, Telangana, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh.
Google doodle celebrates statistician Hirotugu Akaike's birthday

New Delhi , November 5 : Google on Sunday celebrated the 90th birthday of Japanese statistician Hirotugu Akaike with a doodle on the homepage.





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The doodle showed a sketch of Akaike with a graph showing statistical curves and approximations of mathematical functions in the background.Akaike was born on November 5, 1927 in Japan's Fujinomiya city.He was a Japanese statistician working in information theory and in early 1970s, he formulated a criterion for model selection - the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), which is now widely used.The AIC established a new paradigm that bridged the world of data and the world of modeling, thus contributing greatly to the information and statistical sciences.In 2006, Akaike was awarded the Kyoto Prize for his major contribution to statistical science and modeling in the development of the AIC.At the age of 81, Akaike died of pneumonia in Tokyo on August 4, 2009.
Ensured minimum loss of life at borders as Defence Minister: Manohar Parrikar

Panaji (Goa) , November 5 : Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Sunday asserted that during his stint as the defence minister he had always tried to ensure minimum lives were lost at the border.





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Addressing a gathering during a prize distribution ceremony of the JK Cement Swachh ability run here, Parrikar said that he always instructed soldiers in the Indian Armed Forces to kill the enemy, instead of getting killed."We cannot forget their contribution in protecting our borders. As a defence minister, I was also trying to ensure that minimum life is lost. I told soldiers-martyrdom is great and sacrifice for nation is must but it doesn't mean you get killed when you go fighting, kill your enemy," he said.Parrikar became the Minister of Defence replacing Arun Jaitley in November 2014 and held the post till March 2017, after which he resigned to serve as the Chief Minister of Goa.
ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative medicines to address unmet medical needs in central nervous system (CNS) disorders, today announced the presentation of data from the Phase II -019 Study of pimavanserin in Alzheimer's disease psychosis at the 10th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) meeting in Boston. The -019 Study data are being presented at the symposium titled, "The Importance of Serotonin in Alzheimer's Disease Psychosis and the Role of Pimavanserin."

Pimavanserin met the primary endpoint in the Phase II -019 Study, showing a statistically significant reduction in psychosis versus placebo, as previously reported. Data presented at CTAD showed multiple sensitivity and responder analyses supportive of the primary result and demonstrated substantively greater benefit in those patients with more severe psychosis. Building on these data, ACADIA recently initiated the Phase III HARMONY study of pimavanserin in dementia-related psychosis. Dementia-related psychosis includes psychosis in Alzheimer's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson's disease dementia, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. There is no drug approved by the FDA for dementia-related psychosis. In October 2017, the FDA granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation for pimavanserin for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis.

"In the Phase II -019 Study, pimavanserin significantly reduced psychosis in patients with Alzheimer's disease without negatively impacting cognition," said Clive Ballard, MBChB, MRCPsych, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean, University of Exeter Medical School. "Pimavanserin also had a favorable tolerability profile compared to known adverse effects of current antipsychotics. With no approved treatment for dementia-related psychosis, there is a significant unmet need. The results of the study indicate that pimavanserin could be an important new treatment option for this elderly and underserved patient population."

Key Findings from the Phase II -019 Study Presented at CTAD Symposium

The Phase II -019 Study data are being presented by Clive Ballard in the presentation titled, "Clinical Trial of Pimavanserin in Alzheimer's Disease Psychosis." The Phase II -019 Study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pimavanserin in 181 patients with Alzheimer's disease psychosis. Top-line results of the study were previously reported in December 2016.

Pimavanserin met the primary endpoint in the study, showing a statistically significant reduction in psychosis versus placebo as measured by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Nursing Home (NPI-NH) Psychosis score at week 6 of dosing (delta = 1.84, p=0.0451, effect size [Cohen's d] = 0.32). The proportion of responders at week 6 that had an NPI-NH Psychosis score improvement of  30% was 55.2% for pimavanserin-treated patients versus 37.4% for placebo (p=0.0159).

Importantly, in the -019 Study, no detrimental effect was observed on cognition for pimavanserin-treated patients compared to placebo. Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with a statistically significant acceleration of cognitive deterioration in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

The pimavanserin and placebo groups did not separate statistically on the secondary endpoints of the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study - Clinical Global Impression of Change (ADCS-CGIC) or the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory Short Form (CMAI-SF), nor on the exploratory endpoints of the mean change in NPI-NH Psychosis score at week 12 or the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study - Activities of Daily Living (ADCS-ADL).

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Data presented at CTAD from a pre-specified subgroup analysis demonstrated a substantively larger and significant reduction in psychosis in pimavanserin-treated patients with more severe psychosis, further underscoring the effect seen on the primary result. Approximately one-third of patients in the study had more severe psychotic symptoms (NPI-NH Psychosis score 12). In this subgroup, pimavanserin demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in psychosis versus placebo on the NPI-NH Psychosis score at week 6 (delta = 4.43, p=0.0114, effect size [Cohen's d] = 0.73). Additionally, the proportion of responders at week 6 that had an NPI-NH Psychosis score improvement of  30% was 88.9% for pimavanserin-treated patients versus 43.3% for placebo (p=0.0004).

Larger effects were also observed on the NPI-NH Psychosis score in pimavanserin-treated patients with prior antipsychotic use.

As previously reported, pimavanserin was well tolerated in this frail and elderly population and the safety profile was consistent with what has been observed in previous studies.

Other Presentations at CTAD Symposium: "The Importance of Serotonin in Alzheimer's Disease Psychosis and the Role of Pimavanserin"

The -019 Study data are being presented as part of a three-part symposium. The symposium also includes a presentation by Stephen M. Stahl, MD, PhD, Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, titled, "The Role of 5-HT 2A Receptors in the Pharmacology of Alzheimer's Disease Psychosis." Serotonin 2A receptors are highly expressed in brain regions critical for processing sensory information and performing executive functions. Circuitry performing these functions may be deregulated when neurodegeneration has occurred. Selective 5-HT 2A inverse agonists/antagonists can be used to restore balance to these deregulated circuits. Pimavanserin is a non-dopaminergic selective serotonin inverse agonist (SSIA) preferentially targeting 5-HT 2A receptors.

Furthermore, a presentation by Pierre N. Tariot, MD, Banner Alzheimer's Institute and University of Arizona College of Medicine, titled, "Review of Pimavanserin Clinical Results in the Context of Historical Alzheimer's Disease Psychosis Trials," reviews the results of the pimavanserin Phase II -019 Study compared to Alzheimer's disease psychosis studies with other antipsychotics. Off-label use of atypical antipsychotics is associated with modest and often equivocal efficacy and significant acceleration in cognitive decline in patients with dementia, as well as other adverse effects.

The symposiums moderator is Jeffrey Cummings, MD, ScD, Director of Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, who reviews epidemiology, clinical phenomenology and psycho-social consequences of dementia-related psychosis and the current treatment options and opportunities.

Source: http://www.acadia-pharm.com/
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) today called on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to move forward urgently with the development of a radiation oncology alternative payment model (RO-APM) following a new report to Congress from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMS Innovation Center). The CMS Innovation Center report outlines important payment model design considerations for implementing an Advanced APM in radiation oncology. ASTRO believes the report recognizes the key model design elements and provides a viable path forward to ensure the field of radiation oncology can be at the forefront of efforts to improve treatment quality and lower costs for cancer patients and the health care system.

The CMS Innovation Center report, "Episodic Alternative Payment Model for Radiation Therapy Services," was requested by Congress as part of the ASTRO-supported Patient Access and Medicare Protection Act (PAMPA) of 2015. In addition to the report on an APM for radiation oncology, this bipartisan legislation, which was passed unanimously by Congress, brought much-needed stability to community-based radiation oncology clinic reimbursement by freezing payments for key radiation therapy services at 2016 levels through December 2018. Agreeing to an Advanced APM before the January 1, 2019 expiration of the PAMPA freeze will enable CMS, Congress and the radiation oncology community to avoid the looming payment cliff.

"The field of radiation oncology is a proven and needed component of comprehensive cancer treatment and is well-positioned to lead efforts to enhance the value of cancer care. We are pleased that the CMS Innovation Center's report provides us with a thoughtful and actionable roadmap, and we look forward to working expeditiously with CMS on model implementation prior to the PAMPA expiration," said Brian Kavanagh, MD, MPH, FASTRO, Chair of ASTRO's Board of Directors. "We believe the CMS model report aligns very well with our proposed RO-APM, which would incentivize the appropriate use of cancer treatments that result in the highest quality of care and best patient outcomes. We appreciate the CMMI's advice and guidance throughout the development of the model, and are confident that we can work together to move away from the limitations and instability of traditional fee-for-service Medicare payments."

The CMS Innovation Center report to Congress describes the provision of radiation therapy services, why Medicare beneficiaries may need radiation therapy services and how Medicare pays for these services. The report also describes several APM design considerations, including the type of alternative payment model; how the model is expected to result in clinical practice transformation; the rationale for such a model; the potential scale; its alignment with other initiatives; how the model may measure improved clinical quality and patient experience; and how readily providers may participate. The report also notes that the model could also address many of the challenges with the current payment systems, potentially generating more year-to-year stability in radiation therapy payments.

Each year, 1.6 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer, and about two-thirds-;more than one million patients-;will be treated with radiation therapy to cure or palliate their disease. To better serve this complex patient population and have a meaningful and viable opportunity to participate in payment reform as envisioned under the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA), ASTRO worked with the radiation oncology community, including representatives from freestanding centers and hospital-based practices to develop an APM that meets the requirements for an Advanced APM under MACRA.

The RO-APM incentivizes physicians to assume accountability for controlling the total cost of spending related to the condition. The RO-APM applies to major disease sites treated with radiation therapy, creating an episode-based payment that begins with clinical treatment planning and concludes 90 days after the last radiation treatment. Throughout the process, healthcare participants must adhere to nationally accepted clinical treatment guidelines and other quality improvement requirements. A description of the model is available on ASTRO's website.

ASTRO remains grateful to radiation oncology's Congressional champions for their leadership on PAMPA and ongoing commitment to protecting access to radiation therapy for cancer patients.

Source: https://www.astro.org/
For the second time this year, all three Rush hospitals -; Rush University Medical Center, Rush Oak Park Hospital and Rush-Copley Medical Center -; have received an 'A' grade, the highest possible, from the Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit patient safety watchdog organization. Leapfrog announced the latest round of its twice-yearly safety grades Oct. 31, awarding A grades to 832 hospitals out of the 2,632 in the United States that it evaluated for their commitment to reducing errors, infections, and accidents that can harm patients.

Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and Rush-Copley Medical Center in west suburban Aurora now have received A grades in each of the 12 times the Leapfrog Group has rated hospitals since launching the organization's Hospital Safety Score in June 2012 -; putting them among an exclusive group of 59 (2.2 percent) hospitals receiving grades that have earned the top score every time. Rush Oak Park Hospital, in the near west suburb Oak Park, received its third consecutive A and its fifth overall.

"It's both obvious and enormously important that hospitals shouldn't do things that negatively impact patients' health. At Rush, we focus intently on safety, and we've developed programs to strengthen our safeguards against medical errors and hospital-acquired infections," said Dr. Larry Goodman, CEO of the Rush system, which includes the three hospitals. Goodman also is CEO of Rush University Medical Center.

"That all three Rush hospitals now have received A's from the Leapfrog Group three times in a row shows that our commitment to patient safety is deeply embedded in our culture throughout the Rush system."

Rush University Medical Center programs that promote patient safety have set aggressive targets for improvement. Rush's Good Catch program each month honors staff who have identified a system or process issue that has the potential of harming a patient, giving them an award and gift certificate.

"We have been laser focused on reducing avoidable patient harm," says Dr. Richa Gupta, vice president, performance improvement and operational effectiveness and chief quality officer at Rush University Medical Center. "With our daily management system, we are identifying opportunities for improvement and engaging our staff closest to patient care to reduce harm every day."

Combining personal touch with rigorous safety practices

Leapfrog used 27 measures of publicly available hospital data to assign scores of A, B, C, D or F. The score represents each hospital's overall performance in keeping patients safe from preventable medical errors, accidents, injuries, and infections while they are in the hospital.

"Rush Oak Park Hospital is honored to again receive an 'A' grade for patient safety from Leapfrog Group. It speaks to the consistent quality of our care and the commitment of our staff," said Bruce Elegant, president, and CEO of Rush Oak Park Hospital. "The recognition further solidifies our reputation of being a top community hospital with the technology and medical expertise of a major university medical center."

"We are pleased to be recognized once again by Leapfrog for our strong culture of safety," said Barry C. Finn, president, and CEO of Rush Copley Medical Center and executive vice president of the Rush system. "We continually strive to provide the highest standards of safety and compassion to our patients. These ratings are a result of the extraordinary care and commitment of the physicians and staff of the Rush system."

A-level care saves lives

An analysis conducted for Leapfrog found that an estimated 206,021 avoidable deaths occur in hospitals in the United States each year, and that an estimated 33,439 lives could be saved annually if all hospitals performed as well as A-rated hospitals such as Rush University Medical Center. The study also found that the risk of avoidable death was 9 percent higher in B hospitals than A hospitals, and rose to 35 percent higher in C hospitals and 50 percent higher in D and F hospitals. Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality provided the analysis in the spring of 2016, using that period's round of safety grade data.

The Leapfrog Group compiles the Hospital Safety Score under the guidance of the nation's leading experts on patient safety in order to provide the public with information that people can use to protect themselves and their families. A full analysis of the data and methodology used is available on the Hospital Safety Score website.

To see Rush's scores as they compare nationally and locally, and to find safety tips for patients and their loved ones, visit the Hospital Safety Score website.

A grades are the latest in steady stream of honors for Rush

The Leapfrog safety scores are the latest in a consistent stream of honors for Rush University Medical Center and the other Rush system hospitals that are unique among U.S. academic health systems, including the following recognitions:
As Daylight Saving Time ends and people prepare to turn their clocks back one hour Sunday, University of Colorado Boulder sleep researcher Ken Wright is available to discuss the impacts of the time change on sleep and health.

"Many adults in the U.S. don't get the recommended amount of sleep, which is a minimum of seven hours. So if on this 'Fall Back Weekend' people get that extra hour of sleep and get themselves into that seven-hour range, it seems to be associated with a reduced risk," of certain adverse health events, Wright says. On the flip side, the spring time change, when we lose an hour of sleep, can be hazardous to health. He notes that:

About 5 percent fewer heart attacks occur on the Monday morning following the "fall back" time change than on an average Monday.

The spring time change is associated with a 5 percent increase in heart attacks on Monday morning, an 8 percent increased risk of strokes, and a 17 percent risk of dying at the wheel on the highway.
British woman jailed in Egypt for carrying painkillers

New Delhi : A British woman has been detained by the Egyptian authorities for allegedly carrying painkillers.

Identified as Laura Plummer, who stays at Hull, the woman was arrested from the airport after she was found carrying 290 tramadol tablets and some naproxen for her husband.

As per reports, she had signed a 38-page document (written in Arabic), believing that she will be allowed to leave the Airport. Instead, she was lodged in a jail with 25 other women.

She has been in jail for over a month now.

Tramadol is legal in Britain although users must have a prescription due to its high potency, but it is illegal in Egypt and it is known to be used as a heroin substitute.

Plummer visits her husband in Egypt at least four times a year.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-04 23:59:44|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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HARBIN, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Every day at 9 a.m., fisherman Zhang Peng starts a new day's work along the mighty Heilongjiang River: he turns on his mobile phone, logs on to his live streaming account and broadcasts his daily fishing.

"This is the Wusuli River, in China's easternmost city, and these are salmon," Zhang explains during a live streaming session.

He holds a fishing net with both hands, a salmon in the net, while his wife holds a mobile phone to broadcast his catch.

"We just caught seven salmon," he says.

Zhang, 32, has recently become an online celebrity due to the live streaming. In his hometown of Fuyuan, in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, he often hears locals scream his name in the fish market.

"I used to be an obscure person in this small town," Zhang says. "It's hard to believe that I have become an Internet star."

Live streaming is big business in China. It generates huge profits for the host websites and catapults many "presenters" to overnight fame -- not without lining their pockets, too. According to China Internet Network Information Center, by the end of June 2016 there were 325 million live-stream users in China -- about half the entire online Chinese community.

Zhang has a huge 869,000 followers on the Internet, almost seven times the number of residents in his hometown of Fuyuan, China's easternmost city. The city sits on the border area, separated from Russia by the Heilongjiang River and its tributary, the Wusuli River. The border rivers have an abundance of freshwater fish like salmon and sturgeons. Locals call the city "Golden Fish Bay."

Before trying live streaming, Zhang's life had always been about fishing.

"My great-grandfather, my grandfather and my father were all fishermen on the Wusuli River," he says. "I started fishing when I was a child, and officially became a fisherman when I turned 17."

Zhang says that in the past, his life was "just like the average fisherman." The job could only guarantee a "basic life." Seven years into their marriage, the couple had only managed to save 40,000 yuan (6,044 U.S. dollars).

But since the live streaming, Zhang's life has taken a different turn. His followers increased from 20 initially to more than 800,000. This increased his earnings, as followers who watch the broadcast often give tips on the streaming app.

For each live streaming session, Zhang says he can make more than 1,000 yuan. He once received more than 5,000 yuan from his followers.

"I think people just love how simple and fun our life is via the camera," he says.

In addition to his simplicity, Zhang says that the online community loves how he can catch a variety of fish species and the way he introduces the fish. This fishing season, he caught a giant catfish weighing more than 35 kilograms. Zhang held it in his arms and showed it to netizens.

"The fish was as long as my height," Zhang says. "It was quite heavy, and my body almost bent!"

Sometimes Zhang also shows his followers how the locals enjoy a night of barbecue and beer after a day's fishing.

Zhang says that the rising number of fish in the river has contributed to the popularity of his live streaming.

"These years, the number of fish in the rivers is on the rise thanks to the government's annual fishing ban, as well as artificial breeding," he says.

"If it were not for the big number of fish, we would not have become so popular on the Internet," says Zhang's wife, Ji Duoduo.

"I just want to share the best things along the Wusuli River with my followers, and I hope they will find joy in watching my broadcast," Zhang says.
A technological breakthrough in naval propulsion will enable Chinas second home-grown aircraft carrier to use the worlds most advanced jet launch system without having to resort to nuclear power, overcoming a huge hurdle in the vessels development.

The development of the integrated propulsion system (IPS) would allow the vessel to be more efficient, allowing more power for an electromagnetic catapult, rather than a less technologically advanced steam-driven catapult launch system, the sources said.

Chinas first two carriers, the Liaoning and its sister ship, the Type 001A, are conventionally powered vessels equipped with Soviet-designed ski-jump launch systems.

But an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) on the Type 002, Chinas second home-grown aircraft carrier, would mean less wear and tear on the planes and allow more aircraft to be launched in a shorter time than the ski and steam-catapult systems.

Chinas top naval engineer Rear Admiral Ma Weiming developed a medium-voltage, direct-current transmission network to replace an earlier system based on alternating current.

The development of the Type 002, which had long been delayed, would get under way soon.

Wang Ping, an expert in military technology at the Institute of Electrical Engineering under the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, said the innovative design meant that high-energy consuming launch systems and weapons could now be used on a vessel driven by conventional power.

It was a complete overhaul of the energy supply and distribution system. The same technology could be used to launch not just aircraft, but also missiles and satellites, and maybe even power high-speed trains.

The US electromagnetic launcher has been a source of technical problems and delays for the Gerald ford supercarrier.

A new electromagnetic launch system for aircraft carriers that has faltered when attempting to launch heavier planes is now sound thanks to a software fix, Navy officials announced this week. However, it wont reach the Navys new carrier for more than a year (2019).

The Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, or EMALS, is one of several brand-new technologies installed aboard the first-of-class supercarrier Gerald R. Ford, which was commissioned July 22.

The system has drawn the ire of President Donald Trump, who said in a memorable May 11 interview with Time Magazine that he wanted the Navy to return to goddamned steam for its carrier catapults, as the new digital technology was unreliable and inexpensive.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 00:14:48|Editor: Mengjie

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People select books at the 36th International Istanbul Book Fair in Istanbul, Turkey, on Nov. 4, 2017. As the 36th International Istanbul Book Fair kicked off in Istanbul Saturday, Chinese books and books on China in English and Turkish drew the crowds. (Xinhua/He Canling)

ISTANBUL, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- As the 36th International Istanbul Book Fair kicked off in Istanbul Saturday, Chinese books and books on China in English and Turkish drew the crowds.

With China taking part in the book fair for the fifth time since it started in the 1980s, the Chinese stall displayed about 400 books in nine categories.

Chinese books ranged from science and literature, the Chinese language and culture, children's books, and books containing Chinese President Xi Jinping's speeches and interviews, including "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China," which has been translated into various languages.

The Istanbul book fair has become one of the largest in the region.

Xing Yuelong, head of the Chinese delegation, said participation in book fairs has become a major avenue for introducing Chinese culture abroad under the Belt and Road Initiative.

The Istanbul book fair will end on November 12.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 00:14:49|Editor: huaxia

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PHNOM PENH -- Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, accompanied by Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen, attended the closing ceremony of the annual Water Festival here on Saturday. (Cambodia-Water Festival)

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HONG KONG -- The government of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) announced on Saturday that the National Anthem Law will be enacted in the HKSAR through local legislation. (HKSAR-National Anthem Law)

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SEOUL -- Rallies both welcoming and opposing U.S. President Donald Trump's two-day travel to South Korea next week were held here on Saturday. (S.Korea-Trump-Rally)

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KUALA LUMPUR -- As an open economy, Malaysia is set to gain from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), that covers the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its major partners including China, Malaysian government officials and analysts said. (Malaysia-RCEP-China)

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HANOI -- Vietnam and China have pledged here to seize the opportunities brought about by China's Belt and Road Initiative to achieve common development and common prosperity.

The pledge came when General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi separately. (Vietnam-China-Meeting)

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NEW DELHI -- At least three persons have been killed and more than 10 others injured in a stampede in eastern Indian state of Bihar Saturday, police said.

"The stampede broke out this morning at Simaria Ghat (bathing spot) on the banks of the river Ganges in the state's Begusarai district, where hundreds of devotees had gathered to take a holy dip on the occasion of Hindu festival of Kartik Purnima," a police official said. (India-Stampede-Casualties) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 00:19:50|Editor: Mengjie

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BEIJING, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The State Council, China's cabinet, has started overhaul of measures to protect the rights and interests of migrant workers.

The items under review include employment, entrepreneurship, labor rights, urban public services and permanent urban residence status, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.

Six teams have been dispatched to Anhui, Chongqing, Fujian, Gansu,Guangdong and Liaoning.

The inspection is divided into two phases -- self-inspection and field supervision. Local governments must rectify problems found during the inspection.

To expand urbanization, the cabinet announced last year that 100 million migrants will be settled in cities by 2020.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 00:39:54|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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TIRANA, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Over one ton of narcotic plants, namely cannabis sativa, were seized Saturday noon by the Police of Tirana in Albania's capital city, Albanian state police informed in a press release.

"The amount of cannabis was seized by police officers during two separate operations held in the last hours," Ardi Veliu, director of Tirana Police, told reporters in a press conference.

Veliu informed that six persons were arrested while three others were being searched by the state police.

They are all accused of producing and trading narcotics.

Apart from the drugs totalling 1,290 kg, the police also seized a machine gun that belonged to one of the arrested.

Albanian government has put the fight against cannabis cultivation and trading as one of its top priorities during this mandate while Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama stated few months ago that the cultivation of drugs in Albanian territory would be eradicated within this year.
Episode 1: Preparing for the Red Planet

In the first episode of Life on Mars, we join the Hi-SEAS Mission 5 crew during the training before their eight-month isolation begins. They meet mission support and learn about their new home, a structure they call the habitat. During their mission, they will have to wear spacesuits any time they leave the habitat. Their only communication with the outside world will be by email with a 20-minute delay, about the length of time it would take for a transmission from Mars to reach Earth.




TURKEY IRAN SYRIA KURDISH CONTROL Oct. 30 Mosul Areas retaken by the Iraqi government since the Kurdish referendum Kirkuk IRAQ 50 miles Baghdad TURKEY IRAN SYRIA KURDISH CONTROL Oct. 30 Mosul Areas retaken by the Iraqi government since the Kurdish referendum Kirkuk IRAQ 50 miles Baghdad TURKEY IRAN SYRIA KURDISH CONTROL Oct. 30 Mosul Areas retaken by the Iraqi government since the Kurdish referendum Kirkuk IRAQ Baghdad 50 miles The New York Times | Source: IHS Markit Conflict Monitor

That loss of territory has handed the Iraqi Kurdish leadership a humiliating setback in their generations-long push for statehood.

Kurds in Iraq are mostly concentrated in a semiautonomous region whose legal status has been in limbo despite an Iraqi constitutional directive in 2005 to negotiate the borders.

The boundaries of the Kurdish autonomous region have been long contested, but they are often defined by a cease-fire line unilaterally established by the Iraqi government after it suppressed a Kurdish uprising in 1991.

TURKEY IRAN SYRIA Erbil Approximate border in 2003, similar to the 1991 cease-fire line KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Kurdish claims IRAQ Baghdad 50 miles TURKEY IRAN SYRIA Erbil Approximate border in 2003, similar to the 1991 cease-fire line KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Kurdish claims IRAQ Baghdad 50 miles TURKEY IRAN KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Mosul Kurdish claims Approximate border in 2003, similar to the 1991 cease-fire line IRAQ Baghdad 50 miles The New York Times | Source: Iraqs disputed territories , United States Institute of Peace

Kurds took control of disputed territories that are rich in resources.

In 2014, as Iraq faced a fight against the Islamic State, the Kurds capitalized on chaos in the region and took control of contested areas that the Kurdish leadership had long claimed as its peoples ancestral lands.

TURKEY IRAN SYRIA Erbil Approximate border of area under Kurdish control in 2003 KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Kurdish control on September 25 (Day of the referendum) IRAQ Baghdad 50 miles TURKEY IRAN SYRIA Erbil Approximate border of area under Kurdish control in 2003 KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Kurdish control on September 25 (Day of the referendum) IRAQ Baghdad 50 miles TURKEY IRAN KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Mosul Approximate border of area under Kurdish control in 2003 Kurdish control on September 25 (Day of the referendum) IRAQ 50 miles The New York Times | Source: United States Institute of Peace

The additional territories included oil-rich areas, beyond the boundaries of the area controlled by Kurds when the United States invaded Iraq in 2003. And they included Kirkuk, a historically multiethnic city that is home to about a million people.

But days after Septembers referendum, government forces swiftly reclaimed control of Kirkuk, along with its oil fields and nearby towns claimed by the Kurds.

Kurdish control on the day of the referendum TURKEY IRAN KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT SYRIA Oil field IRAQ Gas field Baghdad 50 miles TURKEY IRAN KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT SYRIA Oil field IRAQ Gas field Baghdad 50 miles TURKEY IRAN KURDISH REGIONAL GOVERNMENT Oil field IRAQ Gas field Baghdad 50 miles The New York Times | Source: Oryx Petroleum

Vast oil reserves and about half of Iraqs farmland are in territories claimed by Iraqi Kurds, including the disputed areas.

Farmland Other vegetation Bare soil SYRIA IRAN Kurdish control Sept. 25 Baghdad IRAQ 100 miles SAUDI ARABIA SYRIA IRAN Kurdish control Sept. 25 Baghdad IRAQ 100 miles SAUDI ARABIA Kurdish control Sept. 25 SYRIA IRAN Baghdad IRAQ SAUDI ARABIA 100 miles The New York Times | Source: Lina Eklund, a geography researcher at Lund University who has analyzed croplands in Iraq and Syria. Note: Land use is from 2000 to 2013; no data was available for southeastern Iraq.

Kurds signed oil contracts, fueling resentment from the central government.

Iraqs instability in recent years has allowed the Kurdish administration to cut deals directly with industry. In 2011, the Kurdish Regional Government signed a contract with Exxon Mobil for oil exploration in Kurdish-controlled areas, in a deal that angered the Iraqi government as a violation of Iraqi sovereignty.

Kurdish control on Oct. 30 TURKEY IRAN Exxon Mobil sites Bashiqa Erbil SYRIA IRAQI GOVERNMENT CONTROL KURDISH CONTROL Kirkuk IRAQ Approximate boundary of area under Kurdish control in 2003 50 miles Baghdad TURKEY IRAN Exxon Mobil sites Bashiqa Erbil SYRIA IRAQI GOVERNMENT CONTROL KURDISH CONTROL Kirkuk IRAQ Approximate boundary of area under Kurdish control in 2003 50 miles Baghdad Exxon Mobil sites Bashiqa Erbil IRAQI GOVERNMENT CONTROL KURDISH CONTROL Kirkuk IRAQ Approximate boundary of area under Kurdish control in 2003 Baghdad 50 miles The New York Times | Source: IHS Markit Conflict Monitor (current status of Exxon Mobil sites); Oryx Petroleum (location of sites)

Two of the exploration areas were beyond the cease-fire line. Exxon Mobil was then under the leadership of Rex W. Tillerson, who is now secretary of state. One of those fields, in Bashiqa, is on the fringes of the territory recently retaken by the Iraqi government, according to an analysis by IHS Markit.

Neighboring countries opposed the push for Iraqi Kurdish Independence.

About 30 million Kurds are spread over an area nearly the size of France that spans the Middle East and the Caucasus. International boundaries drawn after World War I left most Kurds split between Syria, Iraq, Turkey and Iran. All four countries, along with the United States, have condemned the Iraqi Kurdish referendum.

The New York Times | Source: Michael Izady, Columbia Universitys Gulf/2000 Project

As Kurds gained power in Iraq, Syrian Kurds became a critical force in the fight against the Islamic State and made substantial territorial gains in Syria.

TURKEY Kurdish control in Syria Jan. 2015 IRAN Kurdish control in Iraq Sept. 2017 Mosul Kurdish expansion Sept. 2017 Kirkuk SYRIA IRAQ 100 miles Baghdad Kurdish control in Syria Jan. 2015 TURKEY IRAN SYRIA Kurdish control in Iraq Sept. 2017 Kurdish expansion Sept. 2017 IRAQ 100 miles Kurdish control in Syria Jan. 2015 TURKEY IRAN SYRIA Kurdish control in Iraq Sept. 2017 Kurdish expansion Sept. 2017 IRAQ 100 miles The New York Times | Source: IHS Markit Conflict Monitor

For Turkey, an important United States ally in the region, the Kurdish growth in Syria and the independence movement in Iraq are considered a threat that could embolden Turkeys own Kurdish population.

For decades, Turkey has been waging a war against militants from the Kurdistan Workers Party, or P.K.K. After a two-year truce, violence has picked up again, killing more than 3,200 people since 2015.

69 Istanbul 64 TURKEY Ankara Number of deaths in the conflict between Turkey and the P.K.K. By province, from July 2015 to Oct. 31, 2017. 154 482 715 594 329 140 SYRIA IRAQ Number of deaths in the conflict between Turkey and the P.K.K. In southeast Turkey and Iraq, by province, from July 2015 to Oct. 31, 2017 TURKEY 154 482 715 594 329 140 SYRIA IRAQ 69 Istanbul 64 TURKEY Ankara Number of deaths in the conflict between Turkey and the P.K.K. By province, from July 2015 to Oct. 31, 2017. 154 482 715 594 329 140 SYRIA IRAQ The New York Times | Source: International Crisis Group

Since the referendum, Turkey and Iran have offered support to Baghdad, increasing pressure on Kurdish leaders in Iraq.
What will be the pay hike:

The government is clear that the pay hike would be raised from Rs 18,000 to Rs 21,000. Employees want the hike to be at Rs 26,000. However the economy has been hit badly post GST and demonetisation. Hence there is no proposal as of now to hike the basic minimum pay to Rs 26,000.

Arun Jaitley is last resort:

Soon, the CG employees would meet with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Only he can give some clarity on the matter, the employees feel. Jaitley was the one who in fact assured the employees that the matter regarding the hike would be looked into following which the NAC was formed.

Will pay hike come in January:

There is no date that has been fixed for the NAC meet as yet. However if the government wants to go ahead with the pay hike by January, then the NAC will have to meet. Only once the NAC clears the proposal and suggests to the government can the pay hike be implemented.

Will it be a happy new year for CG employees:

While 2017 was a bad year for the CG employees thanks to the poor recommendations made by the 7th Pay Commission, 2018 could be a better year. The government wants to give the pay hike by January, reports indicate.

OneIndia News
Should Kashmir be given to Pakistan: Row erupts after this question appears in MP civil service exam

Across the border, a training camp as Pak readies 30 terrorists for Kashmir

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Focus on North Kashmir and send in more foreign militants was an ISI directive. The Intelligence Agencies in India have sighted a camp at Murdike in which 30 terrorists are being trained and are also all set to be launched in Jammu and Kashmir.

With the Indian Army specifically targeting the foreign terrorists, the ISI feels that more should be launched into the Valley. The ISI wants lesser reliance for now on the locals as their locations are being busted with much ease.

A core team of the terrorists comprising around 30 of them are training and planning to launch an assault in Jammu and Kashmir before the winter sets in. What is worrying is that none of them are training with the Ak-47 or 56 rifle. Pakistan has helped them source the US Army's M4 Carbine and this indicates a total shift in strategy.

Recently a Pakistani terrorist Saleem Tiger was seen sporting M4 Carbine. He had managed to infiltrate into Kashmir a few months back and Intelligence Bureau officials suspect that he is hiding somewhere at Pulwama.

The IB reports suggest that a 22-day training programme was undertaken across the Line of Control in September during which special training on how to carry out attacks during the winter was imparted to a batch 30 terrorists.

The Pakistan army apart from the high-altitude gear used in Siachen has also handed out the terrorists the M4 Carbine, the IB report also states.

During a recent meeting between the Pakistan Army officials and terrorists, it was decided that infiltrations should continue even when the snowfall is high, and so, high-altitude gear was provided to them.

The Pakistan Army wants to ensure that the process continues and the Indian forces do not get time to settle down.

IB officials say that there was a meeting that was held two weeks ago at Muridke in Punjab, Pakistan, in which officials of the Pak army and terrorists of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba were present.

In normal circumstances, during the winter, security forces get a bit of a breather as infiltrations are down. However this time around security forces will have to prepare for a long winter as terrorists will look to beat the snow and infiltrate, the report also states.

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 7:38 [IST]
Inspired by Akshardham, Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple not to use steel, iron during construction

Akshardham attack: How Intelligence ensured that Ajmeris luck ran out

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The arrest of Abdul Rashid Ajmeri, a key accused in the Akshardham Temple attack is a major breakthrough for security agencies. The arrest was made 15 years since the attack at the temple in Gujarat.

The agencies had suffered a major set back when the Supreme Court had acquitted six accused in the case including those who were awarded a death sentence.

Ajmeri was always on the radar of the agencies. He managed to change his locations several times and post the attack he had fled to Saudi Arabia. A recent input that was picked up by the Intelligence agencies suggested that Ajmeri may try and visit Gujarat.

A call intercept was picked up where he was heard telling his brother that he would visit him soon. However he did not specify the date and time of his visit. There was heavy surveillance following this intercept. An officer informed that they had picked up another intercept when Ajmeri had decided to come down to India from Riyadh. Upon his arrival he was arrested from the Ahmedabad airport.

Ajmeri is accused of conspiring the attack that took place on September 24 2002. Terrorists stormed the temple and killed 30 devotees.

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 7:30 [IST]
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 01:25:00|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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RABAT, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Investigations into a shooting that took place in a cafe in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh have revealed links to international drug trafficking.

On Thursday, two hooded armed men opened fire in a coffee shop, leaving one person dead and two others wounded before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle.

Shortly after the shooting, investigators dismissed that the crime was a terrorist act, saying that it appeared to be a settlement of accounts.

Given the fact that the 26-year-old victim is the son of the president of the general prosecutor of an Appeal Court in Beni Mellal, revenge is likely to be the cause behind the attack.

However, things have changed when police issued their first statement, saying that six suspects had been arrested in Casablanca.

The main suspect who commissioned the murder, who is still at large, is wanted for money laundering and drug trafficking.

According to local media Le360.ma news site, the victim was not the target.

Reliable sources were quoted as saying that a Moroccan living in the Netherlands commissioned the murder of the owner of the cafe because of a dispute between the two.

News site Hespress.com said the six suspects were also involved in international drug trafficking.

On Saturday, police announced the arrest of two other Dutch nationals, aged 24 and 29, who are originally from the Dominican Republic and Surinam. The two suspects were believed to be the attackers.

The operation, in coordination with international security agencies, revealed that among the arrested were crime bosses of international drug trafficking, kidnapping, armed robbery, and attempted homicide.

The suspects entered Morocco about a week ago, and they were staying in two separate hotels, one of which is located near the cafe where the crime took place, the police pointed out.

The police also noted that an international security coordination was underway to locate and arrest the main instigator of the crime, who has turned out to be the subject of international arrest warrants issued by Morocco and another European country for his involvement in international drug trafficking and homicide.

Citing sources close to the investigations, Hespress.com news site said that he was wanted in Morocco over international drug trafficking and wanted by Spain for homicide.
Jaitley statue at Kotla: Angry Bedi asks DDCA to remove his name from stands, quits membership

Reforms in India being done by conviction, not compulsion: PM Narendra Modi

BJP leaders pay tribute to former minister Arun Jaitley on his third death anniversary

Congress used terrorists to defeat one man says Jaitley in Gujarat

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

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Gujarat Election: Arun Jaitley accuses congress of using terrorists to defeat PM Modi |Oneindia News

The Congress used groups like the Lashkar-e-Tayiba to defeat one man, Union Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley said.

Jaitley who is also in-charge of the Gujarat campaign said that, "it would be clear that it fought three state elections against one person (Narendra Modi) using the CBI and government machinery, Lashkar-e-Tayiba and terror groups.

This time it is stranger that it is ridiculing development and laughing at it... Nowhere in the world has a party been seen ridiculing development, laughing at it."

Jaitley further said that the Congress is trying to divide the society in Gujarat on caste lines and this was not in the interest of the country. "Against this," Jaitley said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his successors in the state are pursuing an agenda with sharp focus on all-inclusive development... We will see one more big victory in Gujarat."

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 7:13 [IST]
Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani hits back at Rahul, calls him 'Gappidas'

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Sunday hit back at Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi by calling him 'Gappidas' for making claims about rampant unemployment across the state.

Rupani emphasised that he is ready to debate with Gandhi about the figures of unemployment in the state. Rupani added that Gandhi's claim of 30 Lakh unemployed people was baseless.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to deliver on his promises. "The Prime Minister had said that he would provide jobs to two crore youth every year. We asked the concerned minister in the Parliament that how many jobs did you provide to youths this year. The reply was: the BJP led Centre could only provide one lakh jobs to the youth in one year," said Gandhi.

The Congress and its vice-president have made economy one of their biggest election issues. Gandhi has repeatedly attacked PM Modi and his finance minister Arun Jaitley over demonetisation and the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax, which Rahul termed 'Gabbar Singh Tax'.

PM Modi trying to 'demon-etise' Tamil pride (a reference to state BJP leaders opposing scenes related to GST in the Vijay-starrer Mersal) and asked him to give Donald Trump another hug after the US president tweeted positively about the current Pakistani leadership, Gandhi had said.

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 21:00 [IST]
FM Nirmala Sitharaman hints at possibility of Centre considering restoration of state status to J&K

In J&K, 14,000 dropouts find their way back to schools

One Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist gunned down in Jammu and Kashmir

PMs dream of development in J&K is becoming a reality: Puri

J&K: Infiltration bid foiled in Uri sector; 2 terrorists killed

India

oi-Madhuri

At least two terrorists were killed in an infiltration bid foiled in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday.According to initial report, the operation is underway.

"An infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector and two terrorists have been killed," an Army spokesman said.

On Friday, the army killed a terrorist who was trying to sneak into India in Kashmir' Kupwara district. A weapon was recovered from the deceased militant, said a defence spokesperson.

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 9:45 [IST]
Karen Aisha Hamidon: The radical lady who lured Indian Muslims into ISIS

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A team of the National Investigation Agency will travel to Philippines to question a key recruiter of the Islamic State, Karen Aisha Hamidon. She was arrested recently for her alleged role in radicalising scores of youth and luring them into the ISIS.

The NIA will send a proposal to the Union Home Ministry seeking permission to travel to Philippines and question Hamiidon.

A major recruiter handling India operations and also an expert in setting honey traps, Hamidon was arrested in Philippines by the National Bureau of Investigation.

Active on the social media she is the widow of Philippines based terrorist leader Mohammad Maquid.

NIA sources say that she actively used Telegram, Facebook and WhatsApp to recruit into the ISIS. She targeted not only Indian Muslims, but also others in other parts of the world.

The NIA during its investigations into the various ISIS modules in India found that Hamidan was an active recruiter. Following the probe the NIA sent out a letter rogatory or a judicial request to their counterparts in Philippines. In the request, the NIA mentioned her address as Diego Shilang village in Taguig City, Metro Manila. Details of her phone numbers, her identity as Aisha al-Muslimah and her email id @KarenAishaHamidon were also sent out by the NIA.

The NIA is also on the look out for several operatives and she could help track them, the NIA officer also informed.

Her name cropped up when the NIA questioned two operatives from India. One was an Indian Oil Corporation manager, Sirajuddin who was arrested from Jaipur and the other was a 22 year old computer engineer from Tamil Nadu, Mohammad Naseer who was recently deported from Sudan.

The NIA states in a chargesheet that Hamidan had influenced many through social media channels and chat groups. It also said that she had also targeted Muslims in US, UK, UAE, Argentina, Bangladesh and Australia. She would target youth through groups which she called as Islam Q&A and Ummah Affairs.

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 7:43 [IST]
Modi in Himachal Pradesh: 'Congress and corruption can never separate from each other'

India

oi-Madhuri

With the polling date just around the corner for Himachal Pradesh, the BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been holding multiple rallies across the state. The rally was attended by several Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Anurag Thakur, who is the son of former Himachal chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal.

Addressing an election rally in Himachal Pradesh's Una, Modi said,''Have never seen such enthusiasm for BJP that I am witnessing this time in HP. Its a one-sided contest.''

"This is the first time that we need to say that the election has been fought and won by the people of Himachal Pradesh. People here are ready to teach Congress a lesson," Modi said in Una.

Modi also took potshots at former PM Rajiv Gandhi's statement that one rupee ends up as 15 paise when it reaches villages. Modi said Rajiv was such a doctor who diagnosed the problem of corruption but did not do anything about it. He added that he has made sure that the whole of 100 paise now goes to the pockets of the poor.

Modi also slammed Rajiv Gandhi and his successors for not acting on the benami property law for at least 30 years.

Modi, who is going to address three rallies in Himachal Pradesh will address a gathering in Una before heading to Palampur. He will end the day with a meeting in Kullu. Himachal Pradesh goes to polls on on November 9 and the counting will begin on December 18.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi kickstarted the party's campaign in Himachal Pradesh with a rally in in Kangra district's Rehan.

Addressing a rally in Kullu, the prime minister said that "he has a sense of responsibility towards Himachal Pradesh and would help the state by developing it."

Congress and corruption can never separate from each otherPeople in Himachal Pradesh will not only vote to elect BJP but also to punish the corrupt Congress government, Modi said.

"There is an opportunity to give three-fouth majority government to Himachal Pradesh. Such a strong mandate will help state to develop further," Modi he added.

"I am not responsible for the praise that India is receiving. It is all because of the 125 crore Indians that India is shining in the world," the prime minister said.

OneIndia News
'Kejriwal ji, if my claims true, you'll resign and retire': Sukesh writes a new letter

Prepare the ground to uproot BJP government in MP: Kejriwal

India

pti-PTI

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday called upon his party workers in Madhya Pradesh to prepare the ground for "uprooting" the "corrupt" BJP government in the state.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh in November- December next year.

Kejriwal accused Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of indulging in massive corruption and misrule.

The Delhi chief minister was addressing a convention the 'Shankhnaad Rally' at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan.

AAP workers, who had gathered from across the state, responded with a huge applause after Kejriwal asked them about contesting the 2018 state Assembly polls.

"The BJP has been ruling Madhya Pradesh for the last 14- 15 years. The time span is sufficient for making a new Madhya Pradesh. But, can you point out a single achievement of Shivraj Singh Chouhan during this period," the AAP supremo asked the gathering amid slogan shouting.

He claimed that all the sections of the society, including teachers, farmers, students, women, traders, scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), were facing problems in the state.

"Shivraj sucked Madhya Pradesh like a mango. What is happening in Madhya Pradesh was happening in Delhi as well. But, the situation there has changed now.

"The power tariff in Madhya Pradesh is the costliest in the country, despite it being a power-surplus state. On the other hand, the Delhi government purchases electricity from Madhya Pradesh and supplies it to the citizens at one-third of the rates in MP," Kejriwal said.

He added that while the electricity bill for 200 units would come to Rs 1,370 in Madhya Pradesh, it would be for Rs 462 in Delhi.

Taking a swipe at Chouhan over the Vyapam scam, Kejriwal said Madhya Pradesh had earned notoriety for the entire episode and added that 40 young people were killed following this massive corruption.

"The young students, aspiring for a good life, were killed in the Vyapam scam, though officials and leaders were responsible," he alleged.

Kejriwal claimed that corruption had reduced in Delhi after the AAP government took charge.

"A report of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), an agency of the BJP-led central government, has said that corruption has reduced by 81 per cent in two-and-a-half years in the Delhi government, while graft has increased by 67 per cent in three years in the central government," he said.

Claiming that the success rate of the students of government schools in the national capital had gone up compared to the private schools, Kejriwal said, "If you want cheap electricity, good government schools, health facilities and a corruption-free Madhya Pradesh, you will have to fight."

Referring to his government's achievements in developing the school infrastructure and in the health sector, the AAP leader sought to know that if Delhi could be developed in the last two-and-a-half years, why was Madhya Pradesh not developed in 14 years.

He said the BJP and Congress were hobnobbing with each other in Delhi, where the people had found an alternative in the AAP.

PTI
Madrasa survey in UP complete, next up is meeting with government: Minister

Forcible conversion: 19 year old Nidhi pushed to death by Mohammad Sufiyan in UP

UP: German beaten up at Sonbhadra railway station for ignoring a mans greetings

India

oi-Madhuri

German national beaten up at Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra railway station on Sunday because he inadvertently ignored a man's greeting.

It is learnt that after getting off a train, the German was looking for directions at the stations to go to Agori fort for his research when Aman Yadav greeted him. The tourist didn't respond and Kumar was offended.

Yadav then pushed him to the ground and slapped him a number of times, police said.

According to the accused,''I am innocent, the German national punched me when i said 'welcome to India' to him. He even spit on me.''

Police have arrested the accused and investigation is underway. This was the second attack on foreign tourists in UP in a fortnight after a Swiss couple - Quentin Jeremy Clerc and girlfriend Marie Droz - was thrashed at Fatehpur Sikri on October 26.

OneIndia News
Ready to quit cinema if it becomes hurdle to political career: Kamal Haasan

Will definitely start a political party, Kamal Haasan

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Actor Kamal Haasan on Sunday said that he will launch a political party soon.

"I will surely start a party and enter politics," said Kamal during a function to mark the 39th anniversary of his welfare association at Kelambakkam near Chennai.

The actor said he would take the first step towards the launch of his party by dedicating a mobile app to his fans on occasion of his birthday on November 7. The mobile app will be used to keep account of funds the actor receives from fans.

The actor also hit back at detractors , saying that jail or murder is the fate meant for those who speak out against the present establishment.

"If we question them, they call us anti-nationals and want us jailed. Now since there is no space in jails they want to shoot us and kill us," he said.

"Terrorism is different from extremism. I don't preach my ideology to others. I am a rationalist," he added.

Referring to the statement made by Haasan on Thursday in a column in weekly magazine Vikatan, Mahasabha vice president Ashok Sharma said these people accused the followers of Hinduism of Hindu terror only to "push their own biased communal agenda".

"There is no other way to handle people like Kamal Haasan but to either hang them or shoot them dead," he said.

Members of the Mahasabha have also announced to boycott all films of the 62-year-old actor and all actors from his family, including his daughter Shruti Haasan, who acts in Hindi as well as Tamil films.

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Story first published: Sunday, November 5, 2017, 18:40 [IST]
Missile from Yemen intercepted over Saudi capital

International

pti-PTI

Riyadh, Nov 5: Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile over Riyadh after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, with debris landing inside the capital's international airport, officials said.

The missile attack claimed by Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels was the first aimed at the heart of the Saudi capital, underscoring the growing threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen. Residents in Riyadh reported a loud explosion near the King Khalid International Airport just north of the city after the missile was shot down yesterday, but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life.

"This evening a ballistic missile was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom," the Saudi Press Agency quoted coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki as saying yesterday. "The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas.

Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries," he added. Huthi rebels, who fired the missile from Yemeni territory more than 1,200 kilometres from Riyadh, said they were targeting the airport, according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television channel. Civil aviation authorities said the airport was functioning normally and that flights were operating as scheduled, though residents said security vehicles had closed off some roads. Saudi forces have shot down Huthi missiles before with Patriot surface-to-air missiles purchased from the United States, but few have come so close to a major population centre.

In July, a ballistic missile fired from Yemen was shot down close to Mecca, a month before the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Islam's holiest site. The attacks highlight how the war in Yemen is increasingly spilling across the border since a Saudi-led coalition began its military intervention in 2015. Saudi Arabia led the intervention to prop up the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi after the Huthi rebels forced him into exile.

But two years later, the kingdom appears to be in a quagmire. Hoping for a quick victory against what it saw as Iranian expansionism in its back yard, Riyadh has so far been unable to remove the Huthis from Yemeni capital Sanaa. Aside from occasional missiles, Saudi territory has also been hit repeatedly by the rebels' cross-border incursions, raising fears the conflict could drag out yet further.

In the frontier provinces of Jizan and Najran, thousands of mortar rounds and crude rockets have hit schools, mosques and homes. Thousands of residents have been evacuated from border towns across the southwest to create a buffer zone.

Saudi Arabia does not officially disclose military fatalities, but state media has frequently featured funeral notices for "martyred" soldiers. United Nations-backed talks have failed to broker a political settlement to end the fighting in Yemen, which has left more than 8,600 people dead since the coalition intervened.

A cholera outbreak has claimed more than 2,100 lives in Yemen since April as hospitals struggle to secure supplies amid a coalition air and sea blockade. The UN has warned that Yemen now stands on the brink of famine.

PTI
Russia not reliable for energy or security, US warns India

India abstains on UNGA resolution calling for Russia to pay reparations to Ukraine

Russian police detain 380 at anti-Putin protest

International

pti-PTI

Russian police detained at least 380 activists across the country on Sunday for holding unauthorised protests against President Vladimir Putin, a monitoring group said.

The demonstrations took place after radical opposition politician Vyacheslav Maltsev appealed on his website for supporters to hold protests across the country, calling for a "people's revolution" to end "Putin's tyranny".

"We know of 380 detained. 13 were detained in Saint Petersburg and 346 in Moscow, who were taken to 19 police stations," said OVD-Info, a rights group that monitors detentions at political protests.

It added that officers from the powerful Investigative Committee, which probes serious crime, was questioning detainees at some police stations.

Moscow police said previously they had detained 263 people "for breaches of public order".

Many of those detained were carrying knives, knuckledusters and pistols that can fire rubber bullets, TASS state news agency reported.

An AFP photographer said police, some in helmets and bullet-proof vests, picked up the protesters one by one in central Moscow close to the Kremlin. Police then detained activists on another central square, TASS reported.

A reporter for popular Echo of Moscow radio station, Andrei Yezhov, wrote on Twitter that he was detained, but he was later released without charge.

The detentions come after police in Moscow on Saturday also detained dozens of people at an authorised nationalist anti-Kremlin march on a public holiday known as the Day of National Unity.

In recent months, opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who wants to stand against Putin in polls next year, has also called on his supporters to hold unauthorised protests, resulting in large numbers of arrests.

PTI
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 01:30:01|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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RIYADH, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Saudi-led coalition against Houthi militias denied on Saturday allegations of targeting a market in Sa'dah in Yemen, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The spokesperson of the coalition Col. Tuki Al Maliki said in a statement that a probe into the allegations that included full revision of all operations proved that the airstrike attacked a military target of a gathering of armed Houthi militias, including missile experts.

He stressed the commitment of the coalition in following the international humanitarian law, especially articles concerning civilians protections.

The coalition has been involved in the war in support of the elected Yemeni government against Houthi rebels for more than two years, with no signs of reaching an end.

The Saudi Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud was quoted by Al Arabiya local news as saying that the war would continue to prevent the Houthis from becoming another Hezbollah on Saudi borders.
Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"In this book, Rob Kall is fueling a discussion that is long overdue, one that can perhaps shake us out of our current herd mentality, back to true community and intertwined purpose. His bottom-up discourse may serve to turn us all upside down just long enough to view our current politic from a different perspective."



Dr. Mari K. Swingle, author of i-Minds: How Cell Phones, Computers, Gaming, and Social Media are Changing Our Brains, Our Behavior, and the Evolution of Our Species
From Smirking Chimp

This week's ISIS-inspired truck attack in lower Manhattan by Uzbek immigrant Sayfullo Saipov has prompted discussions on a number of fronts. There is blowback, the foreign-policy-chickens-come-home-to-roost indicated by an increasing number of radical Islamists emerging from the former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, a Central Asian nation whose brutal dictatorship is financed and armed by our U.S. taxdollars.

There is the ongoing verbal diarrhea of our mentally diseased president, whose tweets that Saipov deserves the "DEATH PENALTY" (caps his) were overshadowed by his even more outlandish suggestion that the suspect be reclassified as an "enemy combatant" (a Bush-era phrase undefined by American law) and sent to the U.S. torture-concentration camp at Guanta'namo. Always the opportunist, Trump also said the "diversity visa" program ought to be abolished because Saipov came to the U.S. under what is more commonly known as the visa lottery.

Seems to me that the biggest issue raised by the New York attack is the one we're not talking about: the need to protect bicyclists from cars and trucks on public roadways.

Saipov drove his rented Home Depot truck down the West Side Highway onto what becomes West Street, the six-lane road that follows the Hudson River in Manhattan. At Houston Street, just south of Greenwich Village, he made a quick right and a quick left onto the joint pedestrian-bike path that runs alongside the highway. There he mowed down cyclists and pedestrians, killing eight people.

Those eight people aren't dead solely due to Saipov. They were also killed by the City of New York and its lousy urban planning.

Though in recent years there has been considerable progress in terms of setting aside asphalt for bike paths, walkways and urban parklets, New York and many American other cities, city officials seem largely oblivious to the risks of placing soft human bodies in close proximity to speeding cars, SUVs and trucks.

New York, where I live, is one of numerous cities to report success with bike-rental programs. Ours is called Citibike; you rent a bike from a kiosk and return it to a docking station near your destination. In between you make your way down and across city streets, where cars and trucks rule.

I almost understand the city's reluctance to dedicate a bike lane to, or to dedicate entire streets, along smaller crosstown thoroughfares. They're too narrow; you'd have to eliminate a lot of street parking, which would create more congestion. But the way New York has handled bike lanes along big boulevards is nothing short of inexplicable.

Nothing separates the bike lane from motor vehicle traffic but a line of white paint or, in some cases, short plastic sticks. Forget terrorism -- hype aside, terrorism kills so few people that the only rational way for individuals to respond to it is to ignore it and live your life. It's the ordinary accidents that worry me: two cars collide, one or both lose control and enter the bike path. It happens all the time in New York and elsewhere.

The West Street path where Saipov murdered his victims benefits from a short jersey barrier along the automobile section. But it's easily accessible to even a large truck driven by a person of ill will, as we saw a few days ago -- not to mention the random drunk who thinks it's a service road. And it contains yet another ridiculous design flaw: putting pedestrians and bicyclists in the same space. Cyclists weave between walkers, terrifying them. Walkers are oblivious to cyclists, creating more accidents. Both deserve two safe, discrete spaces to enjoy the outdoors.

What's maddening about this is that this is the kind of tragedy that is predictable and easy to avoid with minimal expense. Bike paths running adjacent to traffic should be separated by solid concrete or metal barriers between intersections. At intersections, a series of metal bars wide enough to allow bikes to pass through but too narrow for cars, and solid enough to stop one traveling fast, should be installed.

The same precautions should be taken along densely-populated urban streets in order to protect pedestrians. In May 2017 a man high on PCP drove on a sidewalk in Times Square, killing a woman and leaving more than a dozen others injured. But it would have been worse had his vehicle not been blocked by a bollard. Sturdy metal barriers should be installed along busy streets to protect pedestrians from out-of-control cars; at intersections they should go with those poles I mentioned above.

You can't protect everyone. You can't anticipate every nefarious plot. But disasters that are predictable, easy to avoid or mitigate, and relatively inexpensive are a no-brainer.


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Mel E. Lindsey no longer believes the American people are represented by their government. The 90-year-old resident of Long Beach, California--who served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and who spent more than 50 years in education--is concerned for the future of the nation he fought for and for the children he taught. Wanting to do something about it, Mel petitioned the government on behalf of all Americans and demanded a Voter's Bill of Rights amendment to the Constitution to provide everyone with the right to cast effective votes for their representatives.

The First Amendment to the Constitution gives citizens the right to petition their government. It is the first time in American history that anyone has filed a constitutional petition for redress of grievances on behalf of every citizen of the United States. In a supporting declaration outlining his grievances, Mel said, "Our government should be primarily concerned with educating our children, nurturing the People, and helping them with matters such as housing and health care. Instead, our government is continually interfering in the affairs of other nations and fighting unnecessary internal political battles that deprive us of the leadership we need to properly care for our citizens, young and old."

Mel is not alone in his concerns. A recent Washington Post-University of Maryland poll revealed that almost three-quarters of Americans believe political problems "have reached a dangerous low point." Eight in ten said that Congress is dysfunctional, and less than 15 percent had a positive view of the ethics and honesty of their elected representatives.

Before Mel dies, he wants to see the United States transformed into a more nurturing and caring society, which will be less likely to start costly undeclared wars. He believes that change will only occur if the People achieve the right to vote, effectively--which is not presently included in the Constitution. His petition demands that the Congress consider and enact the U.S. Voters' Rights Amendment.

On November 1st, Mel Lindsey mailed 578 copies of his petition, supporting declaration, and a copy of Transforming America: A Voter's Bill of Rights to the President, the Vice President, every member of the House of Representatives and the Senate, the justices of the Supreme Court, the members of the presidential cabinet, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of California, his state assemblyperson and senator, and the Mayor and members of the Long Beach City Council.

Mel Lindsey is being assisted by college students involved in the Youth for the Voters' Rights Amendment organization (Y4VRA), who helped him prepare the massive mailing, which cost $4,600. The post office receipt for mailing the priority mail packages was more than 50-foot long! The California nonprofit USVRA.US--publisher of Transforming America--supplied the books.

Alejandra Molina, a student representative of the Y4VRA on the Long Beach City College campus, says, "The Youth for the Voters' Rights Amendment is important to me because it gives me the opportunity to become actively involved in political change. As I struggle to understand our political system, the Y4VRA provides me with first-hand information about who's who and what's what. Otherwise, I would be seeking change without an effective way to connect with others and to make a difference. I believe that more and more young people will join in our movement, but even if we do not immediately succeed, our effort will be a torch to light the way, as we try and try again until we achieve a government that fairly represents the People instead of corporations."

Working with Liam Newman, an eighteen-year-old website designer in Wales, England, the Y4VRA has updated its website, Y4VRA.org to make it easy for visitors to sign their own supporting petitions and to have them forwarded to their congressional representatives.

Mel Lindsey filed his petition "in memory of my wife, Joan, and it is dedicated to our daughters, to all of the great children we cared for and educated over the years, and to the People of this great nation." He prays that "I will live long enough to see the Voters' Bill of Rights ratified."

The USVRA.US, is convinced that the Voter's Bill of Rights can only result from a mass political movement, and if it is led by the young people of America. "The future is in the hands of the millennials; they are the ones who will have to drink the water, breath the air, and live under whatever kind of government they elect."

The packages have been delivered to Mel's representatives. Will he be ignored? Certainly, unless he is joined by millions of Americans who want to do something more than voting for unreliable and unresponsive "representatives." We can follow Mel's lead and join together in petitioning our government for a redress of our grievances. If enough of us take action, our voices will be heard, and we will make a difference.

A video of the mailing can be viewed at https://youtu.be/Xc8286Q4t78

Click http://www.y4vra.org to file your petition with your elected representatives in Congress.
While most of the U.S. is trying to get guns out of the hands of children, hunting groups and state legislatures are trying to put them in.

While the nation tries to mentor children academically, hunting groups and state legislatures are trying to mentor them in hunting.

This week, the Wisconsin state Assembly passed a bill removing minimum age restrictions for child hunting as long as the child is accompanied by an adult who follows certain rules.



States Are Lowering Hunting Ages For Children

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Lowering child hunting ages in the U.S. is a trend that is at least a decade old. Eleven years ago, the National Assembly of Sportsmen's Caucuses (NASC) proposed new laws under a "Families Afield" program to fight the declining number of hunters. There were two million less hunters in 2004 than 1982 and the number continues to decline.

Specifically, the 2006 bills repealed regulations that prohibit children from hunting until they're 12 and have passed a hunter safety course. Rules like that are "barriers" to hunting bemoaned NASC, presumably speaking for state Departments of Natural Resources that rely on hunters to keep them financially afloat.

When Wisconsin considered the age lowering bill in 2006 bill, Wisconsin resident Joe Slattery said eight-year-olds "still believe in Santa Claus," and are just learning cursive writing. His own son was killed by a child hunter

By 2006, similar youth hunting laws had sailed through 13 other state legislatures.

Besides lowering the hunting age, 2006 Families Afield legislation legalized "apprentice" hunting licenses--the apprentice can hunt under the direct supervision of a licensed adult hunter before completing hunter safety training. This put "training back into the hands of Uncle Joe," charged hunter safety instructor Dave Dalton in the Detroit Free Press.

"We're not doing this for money," said State Rep. Scott Gunderson (R-Waterford) who authored the 2006 eight-year-old Wisconsin hunter bill and owned a gun shop. "This is about getting kids involved in hunting at a younger age [so they] participate for the rest of their lives."

But former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell disagreed about the purpose of an age lowering hunting law for children. "We need this law because for every 100 hunters who retire, only 62 take up the sport," he said. "If this trend continues, our ability to manage wildlife will be severely affected and Pennsylvania's economy will suffer."

Hunting is not just about killing said Bobby Purcell, a member of North Carolina's wildlife commission and executive director of the Wolfpack Club. "One of the things I really enjoy about taking my son out is he gets to appreciate what God gave us and how beautiful our nature is." (That's why people hike and camp.)

But Shawn Meyer, a northern Indiana sportsman and full time youth pastor disagreed and said it is about hunting. Young kids may be "unable to appreciate a hunt that ends without something being harvested," he wrote on his web site huntwithakid.

"Five-year-olds and under will get more out of an outing if it's plinking squirrels, catching bluegills, gigging frogs, or blowing a box of shells on doves than if it's sitting motionless for hours on end," he advises.

And there is more outdoor fun for five-year-olds besides shooting squirrels and doves or gigging frogs said John Johnson of Braham county, Minnesota in the Isanti County News. With a couple of dozen traps and some fresh meat kids can "find enjoyment" trapping possums.

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From Consortium News

Noted civil rights activist Dennis J. Banks, who co-founded the American Indian Movement and championed indigenous rights in the face of continuing oppression of Native Americans, died on Oct. 29 in his native Minnesota. He was 80 years old.

Banks was born dirt poor on the Leech Lake Indian Reservation of the Ojibwa Tribe in northern Minnesota. He grew up impoverished in a home with no electricity, running water or indoor plumbing, not uncommon for American Indians. Like many native children, at the age of five, Banks was forced to go to a boarding school run by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), which was meant to "civilize" the children. Banks later compared the schools to "concentration camps" for the cruel and inhumane way they treated the native children.

Banks moved to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area in 1966, after he was discharged from the U.S. military. There he was sent to prison for stealing groceries and other necessities to feed his family, he said.

While in prison, Banks founded the American Indian Movement, or AIM, with other jailed Native Americans. AIM, as it came to be known, became one of the most important and influential activist groups at the height of the civil rights movement.

AIM garnered national attention during the 1973 armed standoff between Native American activists and federal authorities at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

The 72-day militant protest against tribal leaders accused them and the entire U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs of widespread corruption. Wounded Knee had been the site of an 1890 massacre of more than 300 Oglala Lakota men, women and children by U.S. Cavalry troops.

The Feds charged Banks and another AIM leader, Russell Means, with conspiracy and other offenses related to the siege. The charges were ultimately dismissed.

I spoke with Russell's brother and AIM co-founder Bill Means, following Banks' passing.

Dennis Bernstein: We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Dennis J. Banks. Maybe you could help us understand Dennis' place in the world of resistance and standing our ground.

Bill Means: I was thinking back to when I first met Dennis. It was as a soldier coming back from Vietnam. My brother and my mother were at a conference in San Francisco and invited me to come. I was amazed that people in the Indian community were getting together to organize behind various issues such as treaty rights, fighting the extractive industries, and exposing health conditions on the reservations.

We took a day trip to Alcatraz, which was being occupied at the time, and that is where I met Dennis Banks. Alcatraz was one of the sparks that lit the fire of Indian resistance and indigenous movements throughout the world. The Alcatraz event was started by Bay Area institutions, including students at San Francisco State and Lehman Brightman's organization, United Native Americans. The Bay Area is well known for very creative movements aimed at self-determination.

At the time, I couldn't wait to get out of this uniform and become a part of this movement. From the time of my discharge six months later, the only thing on my mind was how I could get with the AIM people, finish my college education, and help organize what was going on with various actions in the Dakotas and Minnesota.

Dennis Bernstein: Talk about Wounded Knee and how you brought history up to date in the 1970's.

Bill Means: AIM had been leading the fight against racism in South Dakota, including the death of a young man named Raymond Yellow Thunder in the city of Gordon, Nebraska. There has always been a very tense relationship between Indians and these border towns that surround reservations. The mistreatment of Indians was not unlike what was happening in the South with African Americans.

As the Civil Rights Movement grew, so did the Indian Rights Movement. We were fighting for our civil rights from the perspective of treaty rights. Unlike any other minority in the country, we had a political and legal relationship with the United States government which was on the level of nation-to-nation rather than state rights. The states had always trampled on our rights. That is how they formed, by taking Indian land.

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From Washington Post

The Republican leadership has outsourced its economic agenda to a handful of billionaires and corporate donors. From attempting to kick millions off of health insurance to rolling back rules protecting worker health and safety, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) have relentlessly pursued their donors' interests at the expense of working families. The Republican tax plan unveiled Thursday is the latest example.

American families are already on the ropes. Booming corporate profits have not translated to higher wages for workers. The result is a middle-class squeeze: Most workers barely make more than what they did 30 years ago, while the costs of necessities such as housing, transportation, health care and education have risen sharply. If Congress tackled the middle-class squeeze head-on, it could provide more financial security for America's families and produce faster economic growth.

But the Republican Party's rich donors want tax giveaways, and the party is happy to oblige. According to estimates based on the original outline of the Republican tax plan, it showers $2.5 trillion on big corporations. Fewer than 10 years after sparking a devastating financial crisis and receiving billions of dollars in taxpayer bailouts, big banks would reap billions from the Republican plan. Wells Fargo is projected to receive a bigger tax handout than any other U.S. company.

Wealthy foreign investors also win big. By slashing the corporate tax rate, the Republican plan could put as much as $700 billion in the pockets of the foreign investors who now hold nearly 35 percent of the stock in U.S. companies. Is that what President Trump means by America first?


Quack, Quack, Quack

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Whenever the US State Department puts out politically motivated regime change propaganda about North Korea, the mainstream media turns it into fearmongering and sensational quacks to incite hatred and war hysteria.

The US does not care how much chaos, death and destruction that it would cause by regime change. As Madeleine Albright said about regime change in Iraq when she was Secretary of State in the 1990's: 500,000 dead children are "worth it" if it accomplishes US foreign policy goals. The admitted North Korea foreign policy goal of the US is regime change and the mainstream quacks are co-conspirators.

According to the precedent set during the Nuremburg Trials after WW2, the mainstream media could be charged with war crimes for inciting the public to support illegal wars of aggression. The mainstream media could not possible be unaware of its shameful irresponsibility for publicizing hatred, fear, hysteria and war fever against North Korea.

On command the quacks have a 750 word article or a 2 minute broadcast that it can retch up without even tickling the back of its throat with a duck feather. Below is the top ten orgy. All of it is highly exaggerated, half-truths and outright lies.

1. Kim Jong-un is paranoid, unpredictable and irrational.

2. North Korea is an isolated country that refuses to talk to the U.S.

3. Kim Jong-un is threatening the world with his nuclear program.

4. Kim Jong-un is building a long-range missile so that he can attack the US mainland with a nuclear bomb.

5. North Korea is a poor country, its people are starving, and from a satellite the country can be seen to go dark at night because of no electricity.

6. North Korea is an aggressive country that attacked another country in a surprise and unprovoked attack that started the Korean War.

7. Russia instigated North Korea to attack South Korea in an effort to spread worldwide communism.

8. The North Korean people are brainwashed into believing that Kim Jong-un is a god that can walk on water.

9. The US put a ban on travel to North Korea because it is too dangerous for American tourists.

And the all-time loser on the wall of shame is:

10. North Korea proves that communism does not work, because South Korea became a highly developed country under democracy and free-market capitalism; while North Korea remained backward and poor.

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From Robert Reich Blog

In a radio interview on Thursday, Trump said "the saddest thing is, because I am the President of the United States, I am not supposed to be involved with the Justice Department. I'm not supposed to be involved with the FBI. I'm not supposed to be doing the kind of things I would love to be doing."

Trump then asked, referring to the Department and the FBI, "why aren't they going after Hillary Clinton with her emails and with her dossier?"

In a series of tweets Friday morning, Trump directly called on the Justice Department and the FBI to "do what is right and proper" by launching criminal probes of Hillary Clinton.

Trump's obvious aim was to deflect attention from special counsel Robert Mueller's probe of his campaign, and of the indictments issued against his campaign aides.

But by calling on the Justice Department to investigate Hillary Clinton, and lamenting he cannot do "the kind of things I would love to be doing," Trump crossed a particularly dangerous line.

In a democracy bound by the rule of law, presidents do not prosecute their political opponents. Nor, until now, have they tried to stir up public anger toward their former opponents.

Our democratic system of government depends on presidents putting that system above their own partisan aims.

As Harvard political scientist Archon Fung has noted, once an election is over, candidates' graciousness to one another is an important demonstration of their commitment to the democratic system over the specific outcomes they fought to achieve.

This helps reestablish civility and social cohesion. It reminds the public that our allegiance is not toward a particular person or party but to our system of government.

Think of Al Gore's concession speech to George W. Bush in 2000, after five weeks of a bitterly contested election and just one day after the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of Bush. "I say to President-elect Bush that what remains of partisan rancor must now be put aside, and may God bless his stewardship of this country."

Gore publicly bowed to the institutions of our democracy. "Now the U.S. Supreme Court has spoken. Let there be no doubt, while I strongly disagree with the court's decision, I accept it ... And tonight, for the sake of our unity as a people and the strength of our democracy, I offer my concession."

Bush's response to Gore was no less gracious: "Vice president Gore and I put our hearts and hopes into our campaigns; we both gave it our all. We shared similar emotions. I understand how difficult this moment must be for vice president Gore and his family. He has a distinguished record of service to our country as a congressman, a senator and as vice president."

Many voters continued to doubt the legitimacy of Bush's victory, but there was no social unrest, no civil war. Americans didn't retreat into warring tribes.

Think of what might have occurred if Gore had bitterly accused Bush of winning fraudulently, and blamed the five Republican appointees on the Supreme Court for siding with Bush for partisan reasons.

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I'm really amazed at how so many politicians and government officials from both major political parties have been so upset about Russian propaganda coming from social media. During recent Senate committee hearings, it was mentioned that some of this propaganda was paid for in Russian rubles. What occurs to me is that most official US government propaganda isn't paid for in dollars or rubles" it's free.

For instance, one only must look at the phrases that come from the celebrated journalist/anchor on CNN, the celebrated Wolf Blitzer. It really is amazing how many times I have heard him consistently describe the president of Syria as a dictator. I have also heard him remark on how the people fighting against the Assad as regime as "freedom fighters". I have also seen Scott Pelley of CBS describe Assad as a dictator fighting his own people and how he has brutally put down a popular Democratic uprising against his brutal regime.

We now know that most of these freedom fighters were supplied weapons by the United States, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, among others, through Jordan and Turkey. We now know that the CIA and the State Department supplied weapons for the so-called "freedom fighters. They"were funneled from Libya. We also know that these weapons were stockpiled before the demonstrations that started in Syria at the beginning of the Arab spring.

If you would like to see how this was done, I have included a video below.

tu.be/zGEc-CMsrQs

I have also heard the President of the United States decry what he calls "fake news". I get a chill when I think of how Donald Trump, along with the mainstream media and members of Congress all seem to be on the same page when it comes to stopping information that reaches the American public. It boggles the mind when you hear these people talk about how the American people are being fed "propaganda" especially coming from Russia.

I'm glad that everyone is finally waking up to the fact that we hear things there just not true coming from social media.My wish is that people would start talking about how we hear things that are also not true coming from all media and in reality, also coming from our own government. I have heard misinformation on CNN, MSNBC and Fox and other media outlets, and US government officials for a long time.. I have heard misinformation on CNN, MSNBC and Fox and other media outlets, and US government officials for a long time.

This is one of the main reasons that I started writing politically. During the run-up to the Iraq war the people of the United States were saturated with misinformation, and we have been saturated ever since. The demonization of Russia is a prime example. The actions that the Russian government took in Ukraine and the Crimea and how United States described the events leading up to the coup in Ukraine, are prime examples of misinformation. I put a podcast that I did myself below.

tu.be/ZCziDcTl6Ds

In this this article are just mentioned two areas in which the government and the media has lied to us continuously. I could have included many more instances where the media and the government have misinformed the American people but if I put them all into one document it wouldn't be an article" it would be a book. I don't believe half the things I see on social media and I don't believe half of what I hear from the mainstream media, and I don't believe most of the things that come from the government spokespeople and politicians.

What scares me more than anything else, is the idea that you can somehow control what comes out on social media. I would rather see is a free and open social media that allows the people who use it, to separate the truth from lies. Once social media is censored it won't be too long until the government decides to censor mainstream media and alternative media.

In a free and open society, any type of censorship is wrong. We chastised other countries for censoring their media, yet politicians in United States talk openly of putting limits on our media. The American people should see through this and understand that any type of censorship is wrong. If people don't like what they're hearing they can always change the channel or just ignore a post on Facebook that they don't agree with or obviously comes from someone with a political agenda. The government can ask its people to scrutinize what they hear and decide for themselves what is, or is not, the truth, but they should not decide what we see and hear.

(Article changed on November 5, 2017 at 23:41)

(Article changed on November 5, 2017 at 23:50)
Delegates to the National Convention of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) passed two significant resolutions, which may allow local unions to recommend that their members vote for independent political candidates, including those from the Green Party. The meeting of more than 1,000 union members took place during the last week in October in St. Louis, MO.

In the past, labor unions have, with few exceptions, endorsed electoral candidates from the two corporate parties. These politicians kowtow to the interests of corporations and the wealthy. Because of the expense of electoral campaigns, such candidates rely on funding from corporate PACs and upper-income donors. This has resulted in electoral contests in which candidates vie for approval of the wealthy without speaking to the needs of working people or the planet.

I described this problem last year in my article entitled "Evil of the Two Lessers." Now, perhaps as a result of corrupt primary elections in 2016, the AFL-CIO appears to be standing up on its hind legs.

Significantly, AFL-CIO Resolution #2, was entitled, "An Independent Political Voice." While never explicitly mentioning the Democratic Party, this resolution very clearly states, "The time has passed when we can passively settle for the lesser of two evils."

This resolution assures continued support for politicians who have proven to be "friends and allies of labor." Unions will continue to work for politicians who have voted for issues important to working people. These issues are enumerated as "good jobs, health care, safe working conditions, secure and dignified retirements, protecting and enhancing collective bargaining and the rights of workers to organize, protecting the right to vote, access to affordable education and housing, good public education and public services, an end to trade deals that cost millions of jobs, and investments in infrastructure and the environment leading to the creation of millions of jobs."

The delegates therefore resolved that the AFL-CIO "studies the viability of independent and third-party politics; and explores other reasonable means of advancing the interests of labor in electoral politics." Of course, the future will determine whether the national AFL-CIO and its local unions will take the next step and act vigorously to fulfill the wishes of its membership.

The door is now open for third parties like the Green Party to seek endorsements and support from organized labor.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 02:25:12|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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MOSCOW, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Russian long-range military bombers conducted air strikes on terrorist facilities in eastern Syria on Saturday, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The targets, including weapon and ammunition depots of terrorists as well as command posts of Islamic States (IS) terrorist group, were located near the city of Abu Kamal in Syria's eastern province of Deir ez-Zor close to the Syria-Iraq border, the ministry said in a statement.

Monitoring data confirmed the destruction of all targets, and all the aircrafts returned to their base in Russia after completing the combat mission, the statement said.

The Russian military has recently intensified its efforts to combat IS terrorists in Syria. According to the Defense Ministry, Russian long-range bombers carried out 18 air strikes, and Russian submarines fired cruise missiles against IS targets in Syria since Wednesday.
Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"Rob Kall's Bottom Up is a revaluation of values, not the empty mouthing of the word 'democracy' that is so common, but the application of belief in popular wisdom to every aspect of life. Actually believing that the views of more people is better, means a new way of thinking about the world that is democratic, feminist, localist, populist, and radically richer than the elitist perspectives that are more common even in the parts of the world that shout the word 'democracy' the most. Here we come to understand both the power of small groups and the upsides to internet crowd sourcing, the potential of nonviolent movements and ways in which the past has not been what we supposed. Don't just read this book; get lots of people to read and talk about it."



David Swanson, host, Talk Nation Radio, author of War No More: The Case for Abolition.
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Democratic Party mover and shaker Donna Brazile grabbed the headlines with her charge that Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton virtually bought the Democratic National Committee and stacked the deck against Democratic presidential rival Bernie Sanders. This is pretty much an update on the old charge that Sanders himself made during the campaign. His campaign filed a lawsuit against the DNC. Now Clinton did give a lot of money to the DNC. And she did have the coziest of cozy relationships with then DNC head Debbie Wasserman Schultz. That made it almost certain that if there was going to be any tilt by the DNC it was going to be toward Clinton. But there are problems with trying to make an airtight case that an alleged Clinton controlled DNC was the downfall of Sanders.

One is that the DNC didn't call the shots in the state primaries. The states do that. Clinton already had a monster lead over Sanders in the key primary states. She got the lead because of her long history with, and deep ties to, Democratic party leaders and grassroots groups, especially African-American and Hispanic religious and community leaders, and elected officials in the primary states. She also waged a drawn out presidential primary campaign against Obama in 2008 in those states. Sanders, by contrast, was a late entry on the political scene in those states. He had virtually no name identification with Black and Hispanic voters, and no political organization in minority communities.

The Clinton "rigging" charge is even shakier when it's considered that the DNC did have more direct control over the Caucuses in states that had them. If Clinton rigged things against Sanders, then she should have won the Caucuses handily. She didn't. In fact. She lost more of them to Sanders than she won. All the alleged Clinton campaign wealth didn't do much to discourage the high and enthusiastic voter turnout among youth, progressives, and women, in both the primary and Caucus states.

Sanders didn't help his case against the DNC by repeatedly making it clear that he did not want a nickel of corporate campaign money and that he was not going to suck up to the Democratic party establishment to get their backing. He reminded all at every turn that he was an "independent" and a "progressive" and if there was anything left to be called democrat in that, it was democrat with a small "d."

Sanders in lambasting the DNC for its alleged tilt to Clinton was trying to have his political cake and eat it to. That is call out and shame the DNC for being pro Clinton and thereby solidifying his credentials with progressives as the man who called out the party for run allegedly being by a bunch of staid, corporate, deal making beltway politicians.

So, what is the real point then in dragging and distorting along the way the tit for tat between Sanders, Clinton and the DNC way after the fact. It certainly makes good copy, and gets the media and some of the public's tongues wagging again about "crooked Hillary." It undoubtedly brings a big smile to Trump's face. It gives the GOP yet another stone to hurl at the Democrats for being allegedly corrupt and boss controlled.

The only real value in any of this is to send yet another message to the DNC that it must fix things with Sanders, his base, grassroots donors, and local Democratic Party committees, and boosters. This is a must for the DNC if it is to clear the air of the factionalism, division and bickering that plagued Democrats in 2016 and created the huge pathway for Trump to the White House. There's not a lot of time left. The 2018 mid-term elections are the most important in decades. They will go a long toward telling whether the Democrats can regain their footing and start winning some seats in places other than California and New York. Equally important, it will tell whether the party will be poised to mount a robust, well-oiled, united campaign to unseat Trump.

The DNC was by any standard a wreck and a ruin during the 2016 presidential campaign. It got pounded for misstep after misstep that included poor and disconnected leadership, leaked emails, gross favoritism, petty infighting, blatant manipulation of the primaries and gross cluelessness about the Trump.

The gaping disparity between the GOP and Democrats in voter turnout in the primaries was not in the tens of thousands but millions. The GOP energized its base like it hadn't done in years, as well as fired up lots of young persons who in years past would likely not have been caught dead voting for a GOP presidential candidate. At the same time, the Democratic turnout was to be charitable, tepid, and this in the face of the spirited, impassioned face-off between Clinton and Sanders whose populist, hit-Wall-Street-hard message touched a huge nerve among legions of young and not-so-young voters.

This should be the takeaway from 2016 for the DNC and Democrats. Trying to make a shaky case against Clinton may sell some books but it won't do anything to win elections for the Democrats.

Earl Ofari Hutchinson is an author and political analyst. His latest book is, The impeachment of President Trump? (Amazon Kindle) will be released in August. He is a weekly co-host of the Al Sharpton Show on Radio One. He is the host of the weekly Hutchinson Report on KPFK 90.7 FM Los Angeles and the Pacifica Network.
From LA Times

When Donald Trump campaigned for president, he told the American people that he would stand up for the working class and take on the political and economic establishment. One year since his election, he has repeatedly reneged on his promises by supporting the interests of the wealthy and powerful at the expense of working families.

During his campaign, candidate Trump said that he was going to "drain the swamp." Now that he is president, Trump has brought more billionaires into his administration than any president.

While campaigning, Trump told the American people he was going to provide health "insurance for everybody." As president, he supported a disastrous bill that would have thrown millions off of health insurance, substantially raised premiums for older workers and defunded Planned Parenthood.

As a candidate, Trump said he understood the pain of working families. His budget would slash funding for affordable housing, college financial aid and Head Start.

And while Trump wants to make devastating cuts to programs that working families desperately need, he is working overtime to provide a massive tax break to billionaires like himself.

During the campaign, Trump promised to invest $1 trillion in our nation's infrastructure to create millions of jobs. Instead, Trump's budget would cut funding to repair our roads, bridges, railways and water facilities.

As a candidate, Trump promised he would not cut Medicare or Medicaid. Now he supports a budget that calls for $473 billion in cuts to Medicare and more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid.

Now that he is president, Trump has brought more billionaires into his administration than any president.

On the campaign trail, Trump said he would stop the pharmaceutical industry from "getting away with murder." Trump's pick to head the Food and Drug Administration received millions of dollars from pharmaceutical corporations and is strongly opposed to lowering drug prices.

During the election, Trump promised to "stop Wall Street from getting away with murder." As president, Trump signed an executive order to deregulate the same financial institutions whose illegal behavior caused millions of Americans to lose their homes, jobs and life savings.

In other words, Trump as a candidate promised the American people one thing, as president he is doing the exact opposite.

But simply stopping Trump's agenda is not enough. We can join every other major country and guarantee healthcare to all as a right. We can demand that the wealthiest people in this country and the largest corporations start paying their fair share of taxes. We can create millions of decent paying jobs by rebuilding our nation's infrastructure. We can reform our broken criminal justice system and pass comprehensive immigration reform. We can raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour and make public colleges and universities tuition-free.
From WSWS

The Hillary Clinton campaign used its financial resources to take control of the Democratic National Committee more than six months before the first primary vote, using the party machinery to insure Clinton won the presidential nomination, according to a new book by a top Democratic insider.

Donna Brazile, longtime vice chairman of the party, campaign manager for Al Gore in 2000, and interim chairman of the DNC from July 2016 to February 2017, makes the explosive revelation in her newly published account, Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-ins and Breakdowns that Put Donald Trump in the White House.

A chapter of the book was excerpted Thursday on the Politico website, under the headline, "Inside Hillary Clinton's Secret Takeover of the DNC." Brazile writes that soon after she became interim chairman after the Democratic convention in July 2016, she began investigating charges of collaboration between the previous DNC chair, Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and the Clinton campaign.

She discovered in the DNC files a signed agreement between the Clinton campaign and the DNC, dated August 2015, in which the Clinton campaign was given effective control of DNC decision-making in return for bailing out the DNC financially.

The DNC was near bankruptcy, and Clinton campaign manager Robbie Mook agreed to pay off its $10 million debt and provide a monthly stipend, which ultimately totaled another $10 million. Brazile continues: "in exchange for raising money and investing in the DNC, Hillary would control the party's finances, strategy, and all the money raised. Her campaign had the right of refusal of who would be the party communications director, and it would make final decisions on all the other staff. The DNC also was required to consult with the campaign about all other staffing, budgeting, data, analytics, and mailings."

Brazile admits the grossly anti-democratic character of this arrangement, given that the Democratic presidential nomination was a contest between at least five candidates at that point, two of them, Clinton and Sanders, with substantial support. In all previous such contested races, the rules of the DNC had required it to remain neutral.

"The funding arrangement with HFA and the victory fund agreement was not illegal," she claims, "but it sure looked unethical. If the fight had been fair, one campaign would not have control of the party before the voters had decided which one they wanted to lead. This was not a criminal act, but as I saw it, it compromised the party's integrity."

Brazile is defensive about the legality of the arrangement for good reason: it involved a brazen effort to evade restrictions imposed by federal campaign finance laws, which limit to $2,700 the amount that an individual can give to a presidential campaign.

Under the deal brokered with the DNC, wealthy donors could pump $353,400 into the party's coffers, $10,000 to each of 32 state parties that participated in the scam, and $33,400 to the DNC itself, in each case, the maximum allowed under federal law. All these funds would be deposited in the accounts of the various state parties and the DNC. Most states would send their money back to the DNC, and the DNC would funnel the whole sum to the Clinton campaign. In the end, the state parties retained less than one percent of the $82 million raised in this effort.

Similar money trails have been a staple of both Democratic and Republican fund-raising efforts for the last several presidential election cycles, but the 2016 campaign was the first in which such flimflam was conducted before the party had selected a presidential nominee, and months before a single vote had been cast in a caucus or primary.

There are several important aspects of the Brazile account. It confirms that the DNC emails released by WikiLeaks -- which the US intelligence agencies and the media claim, without providing evidence, were obtained through Russian hackers -- provided an accurate picture of the collaboration between top DNC officials and the Clinton campaign. The leaked emails were damaging to Clinton because they were true, not because they were false, or "fake news."

Some 12 million people, with a preponderance of youth and students, voted for Bernie Sanders in the Democratic primaries and caucuses, attracted by his claim to be a socialist and his denunciation of the grip of "millionaires and billionaires" on the US economy and political system.

But he was seeking the presidential nomination of one of the two parties controlled by the billionaires and unshakably committee to their interests, as demonstrated by the blatant purchase of the DNC for $20 million by Hillary Clinton, the favored candidate of the financial aristocracy in 2016.

The US ruling elite was shocked and surprised by the mass support for a candidate claiming to be socialist -- none more so than Sanders himself. His major service to Wall Street was to divert this popular following back into safe channels, by wrapping up his campaign and throwing his support to Hillary Clinton at the convention.

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From No More Fake News



Orwell may not have had the date correct, but much of what he wrote about in his book, 1984, can be seen today.

(Image by YouTube, Channel: Peace Museum) Details DMCA



In the year 2052, no one can read. Well, those who can, can't handle more than 50 or 60 words at a time. And they certainly don't know what fiction is. Or if they do, they don't like it. It bothers them. WHAT ALREADY EXISTS is so much more compelling. Fiction seems ridiculous. Who cares what might be? Who cares about something someone made up?

Courtroom; the year 2052; the defendant was locked up hundreds of miles away; he did not appear at his trial.

JUDGE: What is the charge against John Doe?

PROSECUTOR: Espousing freedom. Claiming he is a free man.

JUDGE: He knows freedom is an illusion. Our schools teach that above all else.

PROSECUTOR: We have no record of him attending schools.

JUDGE: How is that possible?

PROSECUTOR: Unknown at this time. John Doe is a builder.

JUDGE: What does he build?

PROSECUTOR: Shrines to freedom.

JUDGE: Hmm. Sounds to me like a verdict of life without parole or death is in order.

PROSECUTOR: The psychiatrists want to go to work on him. They say he'd make a fine test subject. Because of his extreme views and actions. If they can turn him into a model citizen, they'd advance the research significantly.

JUDGE: However, there is the contagion factor. John Doe is infected with a freedom plague. No telling what he might transmit.

PROSECUTOR: Agreed, Your Honor.

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Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 02:55:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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MADRID, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Bank of Spain, the central bank, has warned that the economic growth of the country could be affected if the constitutional crisis in the Catalan region gets worse.

Spain could lose up to 27 billion euros (31.35 billion U.S. dollars), according to the data of the bank's last Financial Stability report.

The frustrated unilateral independence declaration of Catalonia has already damaged tourism and deterred investment. About 2,000 companies representing more than 30 percent of Catalan employment had changed their legal headquarters from the region to other places in Spain.

The Catalan tax authority estimated Friday that the gross domestic product (GDP) would suffer a drop of between 0.7 percent and 2.7 percent in 2018, which would result in a lower growth for the rest of Spain.

Bank of Spain governor, Luis Maria Linde, had already warned in late September that political tensions could affect growth and financial stability.

So far, the Bank of Spain had calculated that the GDP would rise by 3.1 percent this year and by 2.5 percent in 2018 and by 2.2 percent in 2019. The central bank indicated that in a more adverse context, Spain's economy would grow by 1.5 percent next year.

The Bank of Spain has also warned that the Catalan economy has suffered an impact in relation to the contracting of loans or cars' purchases.
Writing at The American Conservative, Mike Lofgren tears into the guts of Billionaire at the Barricades: The Populist Revolution from Reagan to Trump, the latest book by Republican political commentator Laura Ingraham.

Lofgren's two key points -- that Donald Trump is no populist, and that conservatism is not populism -- are well-made. "A cynic," he writes, "would conclude that the term populism, when applied to Republican politics in 2017, means this: keep the rich up, the poor down, foreigners out, and everybody else distracted by scapegoats. Meanwhile, line your pockets at the public trough ... and fill your top posts with enough billionaires to make George W. Bush's cabinet look like a Soviet Workers' Council." The piece is a rewarding read.

Despite his best efforts, however, Lofgren misfires on the most basic question involved. What is populism? He surrenders -- it's "hard to define" -- citing various figures left and right to whom the label has been applied but whose ideologies are wildly incompatible one with another.

In fact, populism is quite easy to define. It is the separation of people into two warring classes. Let's call them "the righteous masses" and "the power elites." The populist, of course, sides with the righteous masses. It's as simple as that. But the devil is in the details of defining those two classes.

"Right-wing populism" defines the classes mendaciously. It attempts to split the righteous masses against themselves by defining (as per Lofgren above) civic, ethnic, sexual and gender minorities out of the group and the politically connected wealthy in. It's the righteous white working class and Donald Trump versus immigrants, blacks, Latinos, and the LGBTQ community.

Since it's difficult to make a case that traditionally oppressed out groups are the "power elite," they're instead portrayed as mere pawns, robots in harness to the real villains. The media. Academia. And, although the message is usually offered in dog whistle code (e.g. "the bankers" or "Wall Street") for Jews.

It's a jalopy held together with intellectual baling wire and running on fear and bigotry, but Trump's presidency is far from the first time it's carried a right-wing "populist" where he wants to go.

What would a real populism look like? French writers Charles Comte and Charles Dunoyer answered that question in the 19th century. The two classes that matter are the productive class (the "righteous masses" who earn their livings through voluntary labor and exchange) and the political class (the "power elites" who steal their livings through control of, or favors from, the organization of plunder, aka the state).

Race, national origin, language, sexual orientation, gender identity -- none of these personal characteristics are relevant to a true populist orientation. The only truly meaningful class distinction is the state and its hangers-on versus the rest of us. Even Karl Marx (who stole class theory from Comte and Dunoyer then mutilated into a form that murdered millions) understood that the state is "the executive committee of the ruling class."

Real populism is two things: It is left-wing, and it is libertarian. Trump is neither.
From Hightower Lowdown

Noting that the US military was developing armed, autonomous robots to serve as battleground soldiers in our wars, a 2015 New York Times article asked an important question: "Can they learn to make moral choices?"

But wait, what about us humans -- when it comes to war, can we learn to make moral choices? Remember that President George W. Bush chose to torture al Qaeda suspects (including innocent civilians) by waterboarding them. Where was the morality in that? It was, of course, immoral.

But, at the request of the White House, an ambitious, eager-to-please lawyer in the Justice Department wrote a memo that whitewashed waterboarding, summarily decreeing that such torture was not, technically, torture.

The author of that memo sanctioning Bush's immoral warfare was John Yoo. His name is relevant to the current question about robot morality, because Yoo is now at the American Enterprise Institute -- a nest of far-right, neo-con war hawks -- where he's become a leading booster of turning robots into our killing machines.

In a September Wall Street Journal article, Yoo exults that, unlike humans, robots won't get fatigued in battle or become "emotionally involved" in the business of killing humans. Not merely cold-blooded warriors, these efficient machines are no-blooded -- plus, they're much cheaper than a flesh-and-blood army.

But, you might ask, what if they go rogue, turning into an army of rampaging "Terminators" and using their artificial intelligence against us civilians? Tut-tut, says Yoo, admonishing us to "have more confidence in our ability to develop autonomous weapons within the traditional legal and political safeguards."

Huh? Come on, John -- you're the guy who carelessly, flagrantly, and immorally violated those very safeguards in your torture memo! We're to trust you? No thanks.
Cancer Immunotherapy Market Growth, Size, Share, Status and Forecast 2021

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The latest industry research report on Cancer Immunotherapy by MRC provides a thorough analysis of the global Cancer Immunotherapy market. The report scrutinizes the market by different segments including regions, applications, competitive landscape, etc. over the predicted time frame. This report provides 360 Degree perspective of the Cancer Immunotherapy industry with an all-inclusive discussion of definitions, classifications, and market players in the industry chain structure. It features qualitative and quantitative analysis of the industry taking into consideration the significant development factors, competition in the market, and important reasons impacting the market growth.Cancer Immunotherapy Report by Material, Application, and Geography  Global Forecast to 2021 is a professional and in-depth research report on the world's major regional market conditions, focusing on the main regions (North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific) and the main countries (United States, Germany, united Kingdom, Japan, South Korea and China).The report firstly introduced the Cancer Immunotherapy basics: definitions, classifications, applications and market overview; product specifications; manufacturing processes; cost structures, raw materials and so on. Then it analyzed the world's main region market conditions, including the product price, profit, capacity, production, supply, demand and market growth rate and forecast etc. In the end, the report introduced new project SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, and investment return analysis.The report includes six parts, dealing with:1.) basic information;2.) the Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Market;3.) the North American Cancer Immunotherapy Market;4.) the European Cancer Immunotherapy Market;5.) market entry and investment feasibility;6.) the report conclusion.Get sample copy of this report @Table of ContentsPart I Cancer Immunotherapy Industry OverviewChapter One Cancer Immunotherapy Industry Overview1.1 Cancer Immunotherapy Definition1.2 Cancer Immunotherapy Classification Analysis1.2.1 Cancer Immunotherapy Main Classification Analysis1.2.2 Cancer Immunotherapy Main Classification Share Analysis1.3 Cancer Immunotherapy Application Analysis1.3.1 Cancer Immunotherapy Main Application Analysis1.3.2 Cancer Immunotherapy Main Application Share Analysis1.4 Cancer Immunotherapy Industry Chain Structure Analysis1.5 Cancer Immunotherapy Industry Development Overview1.5.1 Cancer Immunotherapy Product History Development Overview1.5.1 Cancer Immunotherapy Product Market Development Overview1.6 Cancer Immunotherapy Global Market Comparison Analysis1.6.1 Cancer Immunotherapy Global Import Market Analysis1.6.2 Cancer Immunotherapy Global Export Market Analysis1.6.3 Cancer Immunotherapy Global Main Region Market Analysis1.6.4 Cancer Immunotherapy Global Market Comparison Analysis1.6.5 Cancer Immunotherapy Global Market Development Trend AnalysisChapter Two Cancer Immunotherapy Up and Down Stream Industry Analysis2.1 Upstream Raw Materials Analysis2.1.1 Upstream Raw Materials Price Analysis2.1.2 Upstream Raw Materials Market Analysis2.1.3 Upstream Raw Materials Market Trend2.2 Down Stream Market Analysis2.1.1 Down Stream Market Analysis2.2.2 Down Stream Demand Analysis2.2.3 Down Stream Market Trend AnalysisPart II Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Industry (The Report Company Including the Below Listed But Not All)Chapter Three Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Market Analysis3.1 Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Product Development History3.2 Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Competitive Landscape Analysis3.3 Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Market Development TrendChapter Four 2012-2017 Asia Cancer Immunotherapy Productions Supply Sales Demand Market Status and Forecast4.1 2012-2017 Cancer Immunotherapy Capacity Production Overview4.2 2012-2017 Cancer Immunotherapy Production Market Share Analysis4.3 2012-2017 Cancer Immunotherapy Demand Overview4.4 2012-2017 Cancer Immunotherapy Supply Demand and Shortage4.5 2012-2017 Cancer Immunotherapy Import Export Consumption4.6 2012-2017 Cancer Immunotherapy Cost Price Production Value Gross MarginThe research report focuses on the analysis of its major geographies, and different segments. This all-inclusive study discusses the current market development and trends, important factors driving market growth like drivers, restraints, market projections, and market structure for each region and its sub-segments. It also provides glimpses on the recent technological advancements in the market along with detailed profiles of key industry players. The report also includes an analysis of the micro and macro aspects noteworthy for the present active and the new entities apart from the study of the value chain.Check Discount on Report atKey Topics Covered in the Report:Comprehensive overview of parent market with market definition, classificationRecognition of factors influencing the market scenarios and analysis of market drivers, barriers, and their impact on the market growthCurrent and future market trends, market scope and detailed market segmentation on the basis of application, region, and competitive scenarioValue Chain Analysis, Strategic insights, and market estimationsFacts, stats, historical data, market size forecast regarding volume and valueAnalysis of competitive landscape and assessments on a regional scale with company profiles of leading market players, finance metrics, product offerings and key business strategies and growth prospects for the projected periodInsights on prospective opportunities and challenges, success and riskReport Details @The report brings to your attention analysis of the Cancer Immunotherapy market in major geographies including North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. This research report provides a complete insight of the market trends and guides in making informed business decisions. It gives a clear understanding of the competitive environment, key market players, their portfolio, and strategies. It also features a technological growth map over a time and helps understand its impact on the market.Market ScopeThe research report takes different facets into consideration to scrutinize the global Cancer Immunotherapy industry. It brings to your attention market overview, market trends and future outlook, market growth and dynamics, market challenges and opportunities, competitive landscape, and potential investment segment.About Market Reports Center:Market Reports Center is an e-commerce platform obliging the needs of knowledge workers, experts, professionals who are subject to market research information for their work, or to make strategic business decisions. We are dedicated to create a comprehensive offering of market research which is accurate, credible and affordable.Market Reports Center currently has more than 5,00,000 plus titles and 50+ Publishers on our platform and growing consistently. We cover more than 35 industry verticals being: Automotive, Electronics, Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, Chemicals, Construction, Agriculture, Food, Beverages, Banking & Finance, Media and Government, Public Sector Studies.Connect for more details:Sam CollinsMarket Reports CenterHouse 421 Hudson Street New York, NY 10014, USA1-646-883-3044 (US)
Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) Market to Witness a Pronounce Growth During 2016-2026

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Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) is a standard message-based hardware management interface which consists a hardware chip which implements the core of IPMI. IPMI defines a specific way for embedded management subsystems to communicate with CPUs, embedded management sub-subsystems and Remote management applications (with the help of serial lines, LANs, etc.). IPMI management consists of various subsystems are embedded such as BMCs (baseboard management controllers), EMCs (enclosure management controllers through the application of the IPMB standard) and PMCs (peripheral management controllers through ICMB). Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) or Management Controller (MC) is the hardware chip which is used to upfront the IPMI and helps in controlling the server. Primary features of IPMI includes monitors system (temperatures, fans, voltages, power supplies, system physical security, bus errors, etc.), Recovery Control (Recover or Restart the server), Logging and Inventory which are provided independently from CPU, BIOS and Operating System. IPMI out-of-band operation allows the system to operate, even when hosts in-band communication is not functioning. IPMI enable systems to be interoperable, extensible, and scalable. IPMI is finding high usage in various sectors and new geographical areas which are driving the market. Because of its vast usage and secure climate IPMI market will witness an escalating demand globally.A sample of this report is available upon request @IPMI: Market DynamicsIPMI facilitates processor independent monitoring which is driving the market. IPMI is a standard that shapes a consistent hardware and software framework. Also, IPMI implementations reduce development time by handling standard failures. Because of the significant features, IPMI has found applications in various vertical such as banking, healthcare, retail, financial services, aviation, insurance, IT, Manufacturing, Telecom, education, research, public sector and many more. Industries such as retail, aviation, IT and telecom requires specialized IPMI systems because a single breakdown in hardware can kill the sales for that period. Industries such as retail, aviation, IT and telecom need dedicated IPMI systems because a single failure in hardware can kill the sales for that period. Many industry vertical deals with a large workforce, diverse customer profiles and assets in different locations. In the current scenario, the economic and financial sector development has supported the automation and expansion of IT structure, which changed the operating environment of these industries forever and played a significant role in shaping and strengthening economies of developing countries such as India and China.However, IPMI comes along with many restraints. IPMI might give total control in the hands of a remote attacker who can get complete control over a vulnerable operating system. IPMI firmware also contains many security flaws such as buffer overflow vulnerabilities, shell injection, and privilege escalation vulnerabilities. Some of the IPMI have poorly written shell scripts, bad architecture, and terrible security design. The high price is also a major restraint for the market as it restricts companies looking for IPMI for their network of computers because of the budget.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @IPMI market has an opportunity towards the advancements in the retail sector since it requires a large number of systems running continuously 24/7. Also, IPMI can foresee a substantial market growth in China and Japan because of advancement in the telecommunication sector in these regions.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.Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Automotive Garage Equipment Market to Account for X% Market Share Throughout Period 2017-2027

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The global automotive garage equipment market is projected to grow at a moderate 4.1% CAGR throughout the period of assessment, 2017-2027. The global market is estimated at a value of US$ 6.7 Bn in 2017 and is expected to reach a noteworthy estimation a little less than US$ 10 Bn by the end of the assessment year.The automotive garage equipment market is currently witnessing significant growth and is expected to grow across key regional markets in the coming years. Future Market Insights has captured the pulse of the global automotive garage equipment market in its new publication titled Automotive Garage Equipment Market: Global Industry Analysis (2012-2016) and Opportunity Assessment (2017-2027), which focusses on the global and regional market forecasts and also studies the influence of trends, developments, drivers and restraints on the growth of the global automotive garage equipment market. The research report also studies various opportunities for the players involved in the market across key regions. An in-depth market segmentation assists to estimate the volume and value projections of the global automotive garage equipment market over the period of 10 years from 2017 to 2027.Browse Full Report @Global Automotive Garage Equipment Market: Key Segmental AcumenThe global automotive garage equipment market is segmented by vehicle type, by equipment, by garage type and by region. By vehicle type, the light vehicle segment is expected to show higher market valuation by the end of 2027 dominating the market in the coming years. The two wheelers segment is projected to grow at faster pace to reflect a value CAGR of 4.3% throughout the forecast period and is the second largest segment in terms of value share; By garage type, the independent garage segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR to reach US$ 4.7 Bn by the end of 2027. This segment is likely to lead the global market by garage type. The automotive OEM dealerships segment is projected to grow at the highest rate during the period of forecast; By region, Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) region is highly lucrative and expected to lead the global market in the coming years. Middle East and Africa (MEA) region also shows higher pace in the automotive garage equipment market.Request Sample Report @Global Automotive Garage Equipment Market: Competitive AnalysisThe global automotive garage equipment market research study includes analysis on key players such as Arex Test Systems B.V., Boston Garage Equipment Ltd., Robert Bosch GmbH, Continental AG, Aro Equipments Pvt. Ltd., LKQ Coatings Ltd., Istobal S.A., Con Air Equipments Private Limited, Vehicle Service Group, Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc., Symach SRL, Standard Tools and Equipment Co., VisiCon Automatisierungstechnik GmbH, MAHA Mechanical Engineering Haldenwang GmbH & Co. KG, Snap-on Incorporated, Samvit Garage Equipment, Sarveshwari Technologies Limited (SARV), Oil Lube Systems Pvt Ltd., Guangzhou Jingjia Auto Equipment Co., Ltd., and Nussbaum Automotive Solutions Lp.Buy Full Automotive Garage Equipment Market 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:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Water Meter Market - Urgent Need to Conserve Water Urges Consumers to Measure its Usage

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Water utilities have shown keen interest in adopting water meters as these devices have evolved over the years to help consumers and service providers to understand the amount of water consumption. The accuracy of this equipment has simplified billing methods and allowed utilities to analyze water consumption and its wastage. Over the years, several types of water meters have gained a market share in the global market owing to their importance in conserving water, energy, and reducing the expenditure on water bills. Citing these reasons, the research report states that the global water meter market will be worth US$5.2 bn by the end of 2024 as compared to US$3.5 bn in 2015. The market promises to expand at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2016 and 2024.The obvious fact about depleting water resources have raised concerns about measures to reduce water consumption and wastage across the globe. Governments are thus taking initiatives for the same through raising awareness and installing water meters to analyze the required amount of water for various purposes, its wastage if any, and methods of preserve it. Several consumers across the globe are also opting for water meters as they help in optimizing the bill, thereby saving energy and resources. The seamless integration of advanced technologies has led to the introduction of smart water meters, which has increased the uptake of these products over the past few years.Get an exclusive sample of this report @Households Boost Residential Segment as they Continue to be Key Users of Water MetersOn the basis of application, the global water meter market is segmented into residential, commercial, and industrial segments. Of these, the residential segment held the dominant share in the global market in 2015. The report suggests that the residential segment will continue to lead as households will continue to be key users of water meters during the forecast period. The commercial and industrial segments are also estimated to bring in significant revenues as both the segments are expected to install water meters for measuring high volume water flows.Browse Press Release of this Research Report @Asia Pacific Remains on Top with Ongoing Infrastructural ChangesIn terms of geography, the global water meter market is segmented into North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Of these, Asia Pacific is expected to lead the global market throughout 2016 and 2024. The improving infrastructure in the region and a strong presence of several water meter manufacturers are expected to keep Asia Pacific regional market at the forefront.The research report points out that the important players operating in the global water meter market are Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG, Azbil Kimmon Co., Ltd., Badger Meter, Inc., Elster Group GmbH, Neptune Technology Group Inc., G. Gioanola S.R.L., Aichi Tokei Denki Co., Ltd, Apator SA, Arad Group, Fedrel Meter, B Meter, Itron Inc., Master Meter, Inc., Maddalena Spa, Kamstrup A/S, Sensus (Xylem Inc.), ZENNER International GmbH & Co. KG, Mueller Systems, LLC., Plata Meter Co., Ltd, NINGBO WATER METER CO.,LTD. and Jiaxing Eastron Electronic Instruments Co., Ltd. The competitive landscape in the global water meter market is quite fragmented due to presence of several players. The lack of product differentiation has further intensified the competition. To gain an edge, players are expected to focus on the integration of advanced technologies in their upcoming products, states the exhaustive report.About TMRTransparency 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.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Autonomous Car Market - Technological Advancements and Rising Awareness about Benefits of Autonomous Cars to Boost Markets Growth

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The global market for autonomous cars is likely to emerge as a massive entity in the forthcoming years. The significantly rising number of accidents across the world is predicted to drive the growth of this market substantially over the next few years. Moreover, the growing awareness among consumers regarding the benefits autonomous cars offer to its users, such as the enhanced mobility is projected to fuel the demand for autonomous cars in the years to come. The regulatory concerns, however, may hinder the growth of this market to some extent in the near future.Analysts estimate the worldwide autonomous car market to account for 0.60 mn units in 2025. Expanding at a CAGR of 47.50% between 2025 and 2035, the shipment volume is likely to increase to 29.31 mn units by the end of 2035.Get an exclusive sample of this report @Level 3 Autonomous Cars to Dominate Global MarketOn the basis of the level of automation, the global autonomous car market can be segmented into level 1, level 2, level 3, level 4 and level 5. With technology reaching its tipping point, it is expected that level 1 and level 2 autonomous cars will hold a comparatively smaller share in the overall market in 2025. The features offered in such cars are expected to become obsolete by then, making way for new and better options. Early adopters will begin to move on to the next level of automation with advanced options.Level 3 autonomous cars are likely to witness the most prominent demand across the world over the forecast period. The rapid proliferation and uptake of advanced autonomous driving technologies, specifically in the technologically advanced regions, is anticipated to boost the growth of this segment in the future.Browse Press Release of this Research Report @North America to Emerge as Leading Regional Market for Autonomous CarsNorth America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa are projected to surface as the main regional markets for autonomous cars over the forthcoming years. Among these, North America is expected to experience a relatively faster adoption of autonomous cars and hence, is anticipated to witness a higher growth rate than other regional markets in the future.On a similar note, Asia Pacific is also expected to witness a healthy rise in the demand for these cars in the near future on a backdrop of growing awareness pertaining to advancements in technology and the significant increase in the disposable income of consumers. Within Asia Pacific, the level 3 automated cars are projected to contribute a massive share of total demand volume, thanks to the imminent development in the information and communication infrastructure in China, Singapore, and Japan.Apart from this, the high population in this region is also projected to drive the growth of the Asia Pacific market for autonomous cars. Economies with sharp increasing geriatric population, such as Japan and China, are predicted to be the early adopters of the autonomous cars in Asia Pacific.Audi AG, Ford Motor Co., Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, General Motors Co., Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Tesla Motors, The Volvo Group, Toyota Motor Corporation, Uber Technologies Inc. and Waymo LLC are expected to foray early in the global market for autonomous cars.About TMRTransparency 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.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Integrated Systems Market to Incur Rapid Extension During 2015 - 2021

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Integrated Systems are known as the class of data center systems which are used to deliver a combination of server, network and shared-storage devices in a pre-integrated stack. These systems are used to combine networking, storage and compute as well as data center applications. With the help of integrated systems, different storage, server and networking vendors are now started offering a list of services which can resonate well with their data center operations, thereby boosting their infrastructure efficiency for high virtualized environments. It provides customers with more loosely coupled environment which is safe from all the complex interdependencies in order to bring more agility and automation in business processes. Thus, enterprises can effectively carry out all their process innovations without constantly modifying and maintaining diverse application programs. The adoption of integrated systems are aligned both with the maturity of service component provider and the operational dynamics of the customer environment.A sample of this report is available upon request @The rising demand to integrate deployment techniques and modern application development are boosting the integrated systems market. Furthermore, emergence of more advanced forms of data management over the traditional models is another key driver for the global integrated systems market. Thus, opportunity lies in monetizing data center infrastructure functionalities owing to the rapid advances taking place in the social, mobile and real-time communication devices. Moreover, speed to market is another important characteristic of integrated systems. It deals with building an entire data center consisting of load balancers, virtual machines, firewalls and networking within an hour or two which was not possible with the traditional methods. In addition, other factors like business and global expansion, financial efficiency and core competency are further fueling the growth of integration systems market. However, the offerings provided by integrated systems are really complex regarding management of business ecosystem as well as technology integration.The global integrated systems market is segmented on the basis of its type, business enterprise size, end-use industries and geographies. Based on its types, the integrated systems market is segmented into integrated workload systems, integrated infrastructure systems, and integrated reference architectures. Based on business enterprise size, integrated systems market is classified into small, medium and large business organizations. Further, based on end-use industries, the global integrated systems market is segmented into IT and telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, defense and energy, and others. The market is gaining huge penetration in small and medium sized enterprises due to low-cost and efficient services provided by integrated systems for B2B integration. Moreover, the growing intra-region integration is fueling the demand of integrated services in Asia Pacific region, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and Singapore. Geographically, the market is most dominant in the North America region due to high demand of IT infrastructure services by small, medium and large industries in this region.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Some of the major players in the global integrated systems market include ActiveState Software Inc., IBM Corporation, Oracle Corporation, Hewlett-Packard Company, Red Hat Inc., SAP SE, EMC Corporation, Hubspan, Inc., and Cordys B.V., Fujitsu Limited and Cisco Systems, Inc., among others.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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Market to Significant Growth Foreseen by 2024

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Ultra wide band (UWB) is the radio technology that is used for conducting large quantity of digital data over a wide-ranging scale of frequency bands with very low power for a short distance. While in acting in the same frequency band, ultra wideband do not get distracted by carrier wave transmission as well as conventional narrowband. It carries a property to transmit the enormous amount of data up to 230 feet at the very low power which range less than 0.5 MW. Ultra wide band (UWB) is usually compared with other short distance wireless technology such as Bluetooth as well as with long distance wireless technology that is Wi-Fi.Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Market: Market Dynamics and RestraintsMajorly, due to the growth in healthcare and retail sector is directly driving the market of Ultra-wideband (UWB) market globally. The key factor that lifts the market growth of Ultra-wideband (UWB) worldwide is its capacity to track assets with accuracy. It is one the fastest-growing technology which withholds enormous market growth prospect. Indoor location tracking is encountered as a dominating application among other applications.A sample of this report is available upon request @Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology offers its benefits to the varied range of domain ranging from healthcare to defense. Another prime form is ultra wideband (UWB) technology based real-time location system (RTLS) or wireless sensor network solution. It is emerged as an excellent replacement of wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) or radio frequency identification (RFID), as it has better potential to locate or track the precise location of any objects, which is difficult to track using above mentioned technologies due to difficulty concrete wall.Although demand and necessity of ultra-wideband (UWB) in the healthcare, retail, and household activities can be seen significantly, factors such as low range, restricted throughput and high pricing of ultra-wideband (UWB) technology are performing as the main hindrance for the Ultra-Wideband (UWB) market growth to a certain extent.Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Market: Market SegmentationThe global Ultra-Wideband (UWB) market is segmented based on its application types, and end user types.Based on the application type, ultra-wideband (UWB) market is segmented into:CommercialHigh speed LAN / WAN ( >20 Mbps)Avoidance radarAltimeter (aviation)Tags for intelligent transport systemsIntrusion detectionGeolocationMilitaryRadarCovert communicationsIntrusion detectionPrecision geo-locationData linksBased on the end user type, ultra-wideband (UWB) market is segmented into:HealthcareAutomotive and transportationManufacturingResidentialRetailOthersUltra-Wideband (UWB) Market: Regional OutlookRegarding geography, the global ultra-wideband (UWB) market has been categorized into seven key regions including North and Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, and the Middle East & Africa. The ultra-wideband (UWB) market is globally expected to register healthy CAGR during the forecast period. Due to the presence of large number of ultra-wideband (UWB) market players in the U.S and Canada and massive practice of ultra wideband based RTLS/WSN technologies, precisely in the retail and healthcare sector escalates the demand of ultra-wideband (UWB) in North America by making it a leading region in ultra-wideband (UWB) market worldwide. The second main region is Western Europe in which countries such as Germany, France, Italy, and U.K practices ultra wideband based RTLS/WSN technologies. Countries like China, India, and South Korea are becoming emerging market in ultra-wideband (UWB) making Asia Pacific Excluding Japan developing region for ultra-wideband (UWB) market space; this is because of the high industrial growth of manufacturing and retail domain. The Middle East and Africa are anticipated to grow at a healthy growth rate.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Market: Key playersSome of the prominent players of global Ultra-Wideband (UWB) market includes Zebra Technologies Corporation, DecaWave Ltd., Nanotron Technologies GmbH, 5D Robotics, Inc., Johanson Technology, Inc., Pulse ~LINK, Inc., Fractus Antennas S.L., TAIYO YUDEN CO., LTD., BeSpoon SAS, Alereon, Inc., and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. among others.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.Contact USTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Website:Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com
Global Solvent-based Inks Market is projected to be worth US$7.92 bn over 2016-2024

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This research study analyzes the market for solvent-based inks in terms of revenue (US$ Mn) and volume (kilo tons). The solvent-based inks market has been segmented on the basis of product, printing type, end use applications, and geography. The report features a detailed regional segmentation with market growth forecasts for the 2016?2024 period. For the research, 2015 has been considered as the base year and 2016 the estimated year, while all forecasts have been given for the period from 2016 to 2024. Market data for all the segments has been provided at the regional and country-specific levels from 2016 to 2024.The report provides a broad competitive analysis of companies engaged in the development of solvent-based inks technologies for the solvent-based inks business. The report also includes key market dynamics such as the drivers, restraints, and opportunities affecting the global solvent-based inks market. These market dynamics are analyzed in detail and are illustrated in the report with the help of supporting graphs and tables. The report also provides a comprehensive analysis of the market with the help of the Porters Five Forces Analysis model, which helps in understanding the five major forces that affect the structure and profitability of the global solvent-based inks market. The forces analyzed are the bargaining power of buyers, the bargaining power of suppliers, the threat of new entrants, the threat of substitutes, and the degree of competition.Click to get sample PDF with TOC:The high-level analysis in the report provides detailed insights into the solvent-based inks business globally. There are currently several drivers for the market. The most prominent drivers include rapid growth in the packaging industry along with growth in the digital printing industry. Market attractiveness analysis was carried out for the solvent-based inks market on the basis of product type, printing type, application, region, and country. Market attractiveness was estimated on the basis of common parameters that directly impact the market.On the basis of printing type, the market has been segmented into lithographic, gravure, flexographic, screen-printing, letterpress, and digital. On the basis of product type, the market has been segmented into vinyl inks, vinyl-acrylic inks, epoxy inks, polyurethanic inks, and cellulose inks. By application, the solvent-based inks market has been segmented by various end-use applications, including packaging, advertising, tags & labels, books & catalog, office stationery, magazines, newspaper, and other applications.Get Complete TOC with Tables and Figures list at:In terms of geography, the market has been segmented into five regions: North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. China is expected to remain the dominant market for solvent-based inks, with demand reaching 275.7 kilo tons by 2024. A zero tax agreement between ASEAN and China has created a stable position for ASEAN, which is expected to expand at a CAGR of 3.2% between 2016 and 2024.India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Favorable government regulations and emergence of medium and small enterprises in India have contributed significantly to the solvent-based inks market.Key players in the solvent-based inks market are Tokyo Printing Ink Mfg. Co. Ltd., Dainichiseika Color & Chemicals Mfg. Co., Ltd., Sun Chemical Corporation, Flint Group, Toyo Ink SC Holdings Co., Ltd., Lawter Inc. , Yansefu Inks and Coatings Pvt. Ltd., Siegwerk Druckfarben AG & Co. KGaA, Sakata INX Corporation, Huber Group, Zeller+Gmelin GmbH & Co. KG, ALTANA AG, Wikoff Color Corporation, SICPA Holding SA, Fujifilm Sericol India Private Limited, Royal Dutch Printing Ink Factories Van Son and T&K Toka Co., Ltd. The report provides an overview of these companies, followed by their financial details, business strategies, and recent developments.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:
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 03:55:35|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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LONDON, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- A Scottish government minister resigned Saturday over allegations about his private life which he said was "inappropriate", British media reported.

Scottish childcare minister Mark McDonald, member of the Scottish parliament, said he was stepping down from his role and apologized "unreservedly to anyone I have upset or who might have found my behavior inappropriate", Sky News reported.

It is understood he is one of two Scottish National Party members currently being investigated by the Party over possible misconduct.

In a statement he said: "It has been brought to my attention that some of my previous actions have been considered to be inappropriate -- where I have believed myself to have been merely humorous or attempting to be friendly, my behavior might have made others uncomfortable or led them to question my intentions."

"In light of my position in government, I believe it would not be appropriate for me to continue to serve in my role in the Scottish government at this time and I have tendered my resignation as a minister," he said in the statement.

A Scottish government spokesperson confirmed the news, saying McDonald tendered his resignation to the first minister on Saturday.

"The education secretary is responsible for all aspects of the education portfolio including those led by the minister for childcare and early years. The first minister will appoint a new minister in due course," the spokesperson said.

The resignation comes amid a series of allegations of sexual harassment against British politicians.

British former Defense Secretary, Michael Fallon, was forced to resign earlier in the week. Two Labor lawmakers, Kelvin Hopkins and Clive Lewis, are under investigation. Conservative MP Charlie Elphicke has also been suspended from the party over "serious allegations".
Packaged IC Component Inspector Market to Record an Exponential CAGR by 2025

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Integrated circuits are placed into protective packages in order to allow efficient assembly and handling onto PCBs (printed circuit boards) and to protect the electronic devices from damage. Different sort of packaging techniques are present. Packaged IC component inspector systems primarily increase the throughput and boost the package changeover than traditional methods. The market has been segmented into by IC packaged inspection type surface mounting, through-hole mounting, pin grid array, ball grid array, flip chip inspection, plastic encapsulated IC inspection, flat package, molded underfill inspection among others. Moreover, the market has been also segmented by end use industry which includes consumer electronics, industrial equipment, aerospace and military, automotive, telecommunication, healthcare among others. The market for packaged IC component inspector by region has been segmented into, Europe, Asia Pacific, North America, MEA (Middle East and Africa) and South America.A sample of this report is available upon request @Integrated circuit packages are made of different sort of materials for instance plastic of a molded package, silicon circuit contained within the package and ceramic package. Each package material carries different mechanical characteristics, for example elastic modulus and thermal expansion, primarily which cater to development of mechanical stresses when the whole package is subjected to thermal excursions. Circuits are exponentially smaller in size and defects have become smaller and much more difficult to identify or detect. Detecting defects is a crucial process in order to prevent mechanical, electrical and thermal failures. To ensure no defects reach the end users, packaged semiconductor producers are looking for advanced analytic capabilities along with finer-resolution imaging to fine-tune their processes and designs. In addition, increasing customer demand for higher throughput to enable 100% semiconductor inspection at production speeds is also fueling the market for packaged IC component inspector. Some of the defects which are inspected by the packaged IC component inspector include number of the cracks in the IC die, delamination of one package interface from another and cracks in the body of the package. Some of the major inspection system application includes flip chip inspection, stacked die imaging, multi-chip and hybrid module inspection and ball grid arrays among others. Increasing technological advancement in the field of semiconductor component manufacturing is one of the prime reasons behind the growth of packaged IC inspection globally. Major semiconductor component manufacturer are focusing on innovating improved semiconductor inspection technology to meet the complex packaging challenges. Improved performance, fault less semiconductor components, higher throughput are some of the prime characterization of packaged IC component inspector, which in turn is fueling the application in different end use industries. Cyclical nature of semiconductor industry may be considered as one of the restraining factor which may inhibit the growth of the packaged IC component inspector market. However, application of packaged IC component inspector for nanoelectronics industry is one of the prime opportunities for the market.In 2016, North America held the largest market share in terms of revenue for the packaged IC component inspector market, followed by Asia Pacific and Europe. The U.S. is leading the packaged IC component inspector market in North America. In Asia Pacific, China, Japan, and India, South Korea among others are some of the major market contributing in the positive development of the market for packaged IC component inspector. Germany, Italy, U.K., France among others are contributing positive share in the packaged IC component inspector market. In Middle East and Africa, there has been considerable advancement and development in the field of electronics and other industries for example, automotive and telecommunication sector is stimulating the demand for packaged IC component inspector market. In South America, Brazil and Argentina are anticipated to contribute positive growth over the forecast period from 2017 to 2025.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @KLA Tencor Corporation (The U.S.), Sonix, Inc. (The U.S.) and Nidec Corporation (Japan) among others are some of the key players operating in the packaged IC component inspector market globally.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact USTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Website:Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com
Fiber Optics Gyroscope Market to Perceive Substantial Growth During 2016 - 2024

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Fiber optics or optical fiber is a thin, transparent flexible fiber of a glass or any solid material associated with the transmission of information. As fiber optics adhere property to carry comparatively much more information than conventional copper wire therefore long communicating lines are now fiber optic. Whereas gyroscope is a spinning disc or wheel in which spinning axis is free to any orientation, they are mostly used in inertial navigation systems. The market of fiber optics gyroscope is going to be ruled by Asia Pacific excluding Japan in the near future due to the rise in industrial areas in developing countries.Fiber Optics Gyroscope Market: Market Dynamics and RestraintsDue to the developing requirement in defense expenditure at the global level are expected to fuel the market of fiber optics, this is directly driving the market of fiber optics gyroscope market globally. The key factor that lifts the market growth worldwide includes development in automation of industries and homes as well as surging demand for remotely operated automobiles as it is used in navigation propel the market of fiber optics gyroscope. Among all the applications, specifically, need for inertial navigation is the leading factor that drives the market, inertial navigation is a standard commercial type of navigation and control system which practices a combination of the sensor to provide consistent, accurate navigation and monitoring to a range of manned and unmanned applications. Usage of fiber optics gyroscope in these system lifts its market in the near future. As per the sensing axis type segmentation, triple axis fiber optic gyroscope holds significant share of fiber optic gyroscope; this is due to the growing level of integration in triple axis fiber optic gyroscope.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Although demand and necessity of fiber optics gyroscope in the market can be seen significantly, laborious, expensive and time taking manufacturing process is a major restraining factor that generates restriction in practicing fiber optics gyroscope, and this hinders its market growth to a certain extent.Fiber Optics Gyroscope Market: Market SegmentationThe Global Fiber Optics Gyroscope market is segmented on sensing axis types, device types.Based on the sensing axis type, fiber optics gyroscope market is segmented into:Single AxisDouble AxisTriple AxisBased on the device type, fiber optics gyroscope market is segmented into:GyrocompassInertial Measurement UnitInertial Navigation SystemAttitude Heading Reference SystemFiber Optics Gyroscope Market: Regional OutlookRegarding geography, the global Fiber Optics Gyroscope market has been categorized into seven key regions including North and Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, and the Middle East & Africa. The Fiber Optics Gyroscope market is globally expected to register healthy CAGR during the forecast period. Despite the soft economy, consumers of North America are buying automotive and healthy growth in elderly population encountered among the countries of North America that include the US and Canada, this trend makes North America leading region in Fiber Optics Gyroscope market. Countries such as China, India are the principal countries in Asia-Pacific excluding Japan sector development and population wise, wide-ranging customer base because of the dense population as well as rising urbanization in emerging economies in China and India makes Asia Pacific Excluding Japan growing region in Fiber Optics Gyroscope market. Japan, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa are predicted to acquire the Fiber Optics Gyroscope market in the near future.A sample of this report is available upon request @Fiber Optics Gyroscope Market: Key playersSome of the key players of global Fiber Optics Gyroscope market include EMCORE Corporation, Al Cielo Inertial Solutions Ltd., Nedaero Components, and Colibrys Ltd. Other players are Northrop Grumman LITEF GmbH, iXBlue SAS, Fizoptika Corp., KVH Industries, Inc., Optolink LLC, Honeywell International, Inc.About USTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact USTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Website:Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com
Canned Soups Market Driven by Rising Demand for Convenience Foods

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Global Canned Soups Market: SnapshotThe global canned soups market is prognosticated to create new prospects in the near future as manufacturers hope to better settle themselves even outside of the older consumers group with the help of new innovations. There is already an influx of the development of a greater count of health-conscious soups and more diverse range of flavor offerings. Millennials are studied to get attracted to organic products that feature lower sodium content and no artificial ingredients. One of the leading companies dealing with soups, Campbell offers a broad scope of condensed and ready-to-serve options, which gives a positive picture of the market.Download exclusive Sample of this report:The global canned soups market is envisaged to expand at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period 20172022 to achieve a valuation of US$6.5 bn by the final forecast year. In 2017, the market was valued at a US$4.9 bn.Ready-to-serve Wet Soup Scores Higher than Other Products in View of RevenueThe researchers foresee the world canned soups market to be classified according to two categories, i.e. product and ingredient. By product, the market could be segregated into ready-to-serve wet soup, condensed wet soup, and others. Out of these segments, ready-to-serve wet soup is prophesied to secure a larger revenue of US$3.6 bn by 2022 end. It could flaunt an absolute revenue growth of US$0.1 bn annually, which could be greater than other segments in the categorization.In terms of type of ingredient, the world canned soups market is foretold to see a classification into tomato, beans, chicken, beef, broths, artichokes, mixed vegetables, and other ingredients.Obtain Report Details @Each of these segments by product and ingredient segmentations are entirely analyzed in the publication, taking into consideration their revenue, market share, and year over year (Y-o-Y) growth comparisons by region.APEJ Gathers Substantial Share but Japan and MEA Fall Back in Revenue GrowthAs per the research of the publication, the international canned soups market could be classed into Europe, North America, Asia Pacific except Japan (APEJ), Latin America, the Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Japan. Readers are informed that APEJ is expected to be one of the most lucrative regions with a higher revenue growth projected to continue to show face in the next few years. By the concluding forecast year, APEJ could garner a revenue of US$1.9 bn.North America could be another opportunity for players to capitalize on in the coming years. This region is anticipated to collect a handsome revenue by 2022 at a 6.2% CAGR. Europe could bag a decent revenue share in 2017 but also lose 117 basis points (BPS) by 2022. Japan and the MEA, however, are predicted to be on the slower side of growth.Some of the crucial players in the worldwide canned soups market could be Campbell Soup Co., Knorr Foods Co. Ltd., The Kraft Heinz Co., Compass Group USA, Inc., and Juanitas Foods. More players are comprehensively studied in the publication while estimating vital statistics such as company share. Buyers of the publication are expected to receive complete knowledge about the competition landscape of the market.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:
North America's Railway Traction Motors Market to reach US$13.21 bn over 2016-2024

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The market for traction motors is growing at varied pace across different geographical regions. In North America, the market is currently expanding at a steady pace, majorly driven by demand from the U.S. and Canada. The market for traction motors in the region is expected to undergo significant transformation owing to increasing research and development for enhancement of railway systems in the region. Moreover, emphasis on improving performance, reducing operating expenditures, maintaining regulatory standards, and customer demand for comfort are impacting the market for railway traction motors in North America. The North America market for railway traction motors is highly consolidated, due to the presence of numerous domestic and international manufacturers. Competition in the market among manufacturers is intense and thus, the entrance of new players is not swift.Traction motors are the most important component that primarily drives propulsion in road and rail vehicles. These electrical motors are categorized into three types: direct current (D.C.) traction motors, alternating current (A.C.) traction motors, and synchronous alternating current traction motors. Although the diesel locomotives are gradually shifting towards diesel  electric locomotives, the former still accounts for a significant share in North America. Owing to the continuous developments, the demand for traction motors, especially, A.C. traction motors is on a surge in the region.Click to get sample PDF with TOC:Urbanization coupled with technological developments is major drivers of the traction motors market in North America. Although railways in the region are majorly accounted for by freight rails, there has been a steady growth in passenger railways as well. In a bid to keep up with other geographical markets, especially Europe, North American infrastructure is expected to gradually shift more towards electrification of the railways, particularly for passenger rails. This shift is expected to boost the market for traction motors over the forecast period.In railways, traction motors are used in various locomotives such as diesel, diesel-electric, electric and electrical multiple units (EMUs) among others. Conventionally, the key source of energy used in locomotives across North America is diesel. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates to reduce pollution are compelling the rail industry to focus on alternate sources of energy such as electricity, liquefied petroleum gas, and hydrogen among others. The market for traction motors is expected to continue growing at a substantial pace over the period of forecast, following the ongoing changes in railway transportation technologies, growing investments in development of high speed railway corridors, emphasis on passenger rails, and intensifying competition among manufacturers.Get Complete TOC with Tables and Figures list at:The report includes, analysis of macro and micro economic factors driving and restraining the growth of the North America railway traction motors market. Moreover, the market attractiveness analysis provided in the report, highlights the major areas for future investments in the North America railway traction motors industry. Value chain analysis of the railway traction motors market in North America is also provided in the report to present a comprehensive idea of the different entities operating in the industry. The report is intended to help traction motor suppliers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in understanding the current and upcoming opportunities in the North America railway traction motors market and formulating their business strategies accordingly. In addition, the report is expected to benefit the governments, railroad organizations and other buyer communities.This study includes the profiles of the major players in the North America railway traction motors market and the different strategies adopted by them to enhance growth and sustain in the competition. Moreover, strength, weakness, opportunity and threats (SWOT) analysis for each company has been included under the research scope. The key participants in the North America railway traction motors market include ABB Ltd. Alstom S.A., Siemens AG, Bombardier Inc., Hynundai Rotem Company, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Skoda Transportation a.s., Hitachi Ltd., Sulzer Ltd. and VEM Sachsenwerk GmbH among others.North America Railway Traction Motors Market, 2016  2024: By Type- Direct Current (D.C.) Traction Motors- Alternating Current (A.C.) Traction Motors- Synchronous Alternating Current (A.C.) Traction MotorsResearchMoz 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:
LATAM Pharmaceutical Products and CMO Market is projected to be worth US$286.2 bn over 2016-2024

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This report on the pharmaceutical products and CMO market analyzes the current and future market scenario in Latin America. Most pharmaceutical companies are gradually outsourcing manufacturing activities to contract manufacturers in order to achieve efficiencies in cost, quality, capacity, and time to market or to obtain specific expertise in particular business category, which is not available in-house. Moreover, increasing cost pressures, cost benefits, and inclination of pharmaceutical companies to focus on core competencies such as R&D and marketing has created a need for pharmaceutical contract manufacturing outsourcing.The Latin America pharmaceutical products and CMO market report comprises an elaborate executive summary, which includes a market snapshot that provides information about various segments of the market. It also provides information and data analysis of the market with respect to the segments based on product type and countries. A detailed qualitative analysis of drivers and restraints of the market and opportunities has been provided in the market overview section. In addition, the section comprises Porters Five Forces Analysis for the CMO market in order to understand the competitive landscape in the market. This section of the report also provides market attractiveness analysis by country, thus presenting a thorough analysis of the overall competitive scenario in the pharmaceutical products and CMO market in Latin America.Click to get sample PDF with TOC:Based on product type, the market has been segmented into API and ingredients, finished dosage form (FDF), and pharmaceutical packaging. The market segments have been extensively analyzed based on available approved drugs, prevalence of the diseases, available patent of drugs, regulatory access, and geographical coverage in LATAM. The market size and forecast for each of these segments have been provided for the period from 2014 to 2024, along with their respective CAGRs for the forecast period from 2016 to 2024, considering 2015 as the base year.Geographically, the pharmaceutical products and CMO market in Latin America has been categorized into five major countries: Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, and Rest of Latin America. The market size and forecast for each of these countries have been provided for the period from 2014 to 2024, along with their respective CAGRs for the forecast period from 2016 to 2024, considering 2015 as the base year. The research study also covers the competitive scenario in these regions.Get Complete TOC with Tables and Figures list at:The report also profiles major players in the pharmaceutical and CMO market in the region based on various attributes such as company overview, financial overview, product portfolio, business strategies, and recent developments. Major players profiled in this report include Bayer AG, Novartis AG, Merck & Co., Inc., GSK plc, F. Hofmann La Roche, BASF SE, Boehringer Ingelheim Group, Pisa Farmaceutica, Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and Inc., Landsteiner Scientific.The pharmaceutical products and CMO Market in Latin America has been segmented as given below:LATAM Pharmaceutical Products and CMO Market, by Product Type- API and Ingredients- Finished Dosage Form (FDF)- Pharmaceutical PackagingLATAM Pharmaceutical Products and CMO Market, by Country- Brazil- API and Ingredients- Finished Dosage Form (FDF)- Pharmaceutical Packaging- Mexico- API and Ingredients- Finished Dosage Form (FDF)- Pharmaceutical Packaging- Venezuela- API and Ingredients- Finished Dosage Form (FDF)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:
Fragrances Market Globally Expected to Drive Growth through 2012 - 2018

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Fragrances, once regarded as frivolous and non-essential commodities, have seamlessly transformed themselves into essential day-to-day products that form a significant part of personal grooming. Fragrances are today a vital and mainstream element of the cosmetics industry and have gained much attention from consumers across the globe.Fragrances are a way of expressing personal style and individuality, thereby making it a consumer-driven industry. The fragrances market is also dictated by fickle and ever-changing fashion trends. This means that manufacturers in the industry are on a constant lookout for exciting, unique, and new fragrances to attract different consumer segments worldwide.The research report is an attempt to understand the fragrances market and provide clients with an unmatched and invaluable evaluation of the overall industry. Delving deeper into the fragrances market and its various nuances, this comprehensive publication discusses the factors governing the global and regional industrial landscape. The report, with the help of accurate and insightful statistics, throws light on the size, volume, and share of the global fragrances market and also provides strategic recommendations to help improve businesses.Request Report Brochure @Overview of the global fragrances marketAs mentioned earlier, fragrances have achieved much importance among personal care and grooming products. As might be expected, the womens fragrances segment dominates the overall market and as a result, a majority of the innovations and product differentiations are targeted at this segment. However, even though fragrances for the fairer sex have long since captured the market, perfumes and fragrances for men have, of late, grabbed the attention of industry players. This has had a transformational impact on the global market and has set the pace for rapid expansion in the coming years.Another factor that governs the fragrances market is the trend of celebrity-inspired perfumes. These include fragrances endorsed by leading personalities in various walks of life as well as signature scents used by celebrities as a self-promotion campaign. Fragrances such as these garner much hype among certain sections of the consumer base. This trend has been observed across regions such as North America, Europe, and some countries in the Asia-Pacific region. However, market analysts state that this fad was met with negative response in the United Arab Emirates owing to vast diversity in population. People living in the UAE may or may not associate with celebrities from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Spain, and Italy, which leaves the fragrances market relatively unchanged when it comes to celebrity-inspired scents.Visit For TOC@Premium brands account for a major share of the fragrances market in UAE owing to exceptional per capita incomes. In other parts of the world, this segment has gained demand in recent years thanks to rising disposable incomes and improving economies. Chanel, Gucci, Calvin Klein, Christian Dior, Prada, Yves Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton are some of the premium companies that have established themselves in the fragrances market.About Us  Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others.Contact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Personal Hygiene Market Size, Analysis, and Forecast Report 2016 - 2024

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The global personal hygiene market is gaining significant traction in the wake of rising concerns over health, grooming, and beauty. The well-being of the population is imperative for the development of a country. Therefore, governments and large organizations worldwide are taking initiatives that promote awareness regarding the importance of maintaining personal hygiene. These initiatives are working in favor of the growth of the market. Some of the commonly available personal hygiene products are deodorants and antiperspirants, bath and shower products, and soaps.This research report provides a detailed analysis of the various parameters of the global personal hygiene market. It presents a comprehensive overview of the factors, including drivers, restraints, and opportunities impacting the growth of the market. It offers insights into the statistics pertaining to the market at both regional and global levels. It takes into account the historic and current scenario to estimate future trends of the market. It extensively covers Porters five force analysis and market attractiveness analysis that are useful in deriving the competitive landscape of the market. It also profiles key players in the global personal hygiene market along with their business strategies, revenue generation, market shares, latest development, and contact information.Request Report Brochure @Global Personal Hygiene Market: Drivers and OpportunitiesThe rising consumer disposable income coupled with the increasing willingness to spend on personal care is one of the vital factors driving the global personal hygiene market. The enhancing health and quality of daily lives of consumers are triggering the sales of personal hygiene products. Moreover, the increasing competitiveness of companies for product innovation is fueling the market. Furthermore, the growing trend of premiumisation in emerging economies is likely to augur well for the growth of the market. Consumers are increasingly inclining towards buying the best available products, which is boosting the overall revenue generation of the market.Global Personal Hygiene Market: Geographical SegmentationOn the basis of geography, the global personal hygiene market can be fragmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World. North America and Europe are expected to account for a large combined share in the market throughout the forecast period. The domicile of a large number of key players is providing a significant boost to the growth of these regions. Moreover, the high acceptance of modern and advanced persona hygiene products coupled with the high consumer spending power is augmenting the growth of these regions.Visit For TOC@Emerging economies such as Brazil, India, and China are anticipated to be major contributors to the growth of Asia Pacific and Rest of the World. The rapidly growing population and rising disposable income are providing a fillip to these regions. Furthermore, the improving literacy rates along with rising awareness about the importance of maintaining personal hygiene are stimulating the growth of the regions.Global Personal Hygiene Market: Competitive LandscapeThe global personal hygiene market is a highly concentrated arena. The strong foothold of large and international players is limiting the entry of new players in the market. Prominent players aim to differentiate their offerings from their peers by continuous product innovation and research and development. This, in turn, is intensifying the competition in the market. Some of the prominent players in the market are Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, Carrefour, Reckitt Benckiser Group, Auchan, Safeway, Publix, Godrej Industries Ltd., Costco, Helen of Troy Ltd., Proctor & Gamble Company, Kroger, and Colgate-Palmolive Company.About Us  Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others.Contact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Global Biodegradable Plastics Market for Packaging, Textile, Agriculture, Injection Molding, and Other Applications 2015 - 2023

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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Biodegradable Plastics Market for Packaging, Textile, Agriculture, Injection Molding, and Other Applications - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2023 " to it's Large Report database.Plastics that decompose in the nature by the action of microorganisms are generally referred as biodegradable plastics. These plastics are divided into different categories such as bio-based and petro-based biodegradable plastics. The most common process employed in the manufacturing of biodegradable plastics includes fermentation of sugar or canola oil to produce polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which in turn is converted into biodegradable plastics.The report provides in-depth analysis and forecast of the biodegradable plastics market on the global as well as regional level. It includes forecast for the period from 2015 to 2023 in terms of volume (kilo tons) and revenue (US$ Mn). Quantitative data has been derived through extensive secondary research of the global biodegradable plastics market. Secondary sources typically include company websites, relevant magazines, government documents, and press releases. The top-down approach has been adopted to derive the regional numbers from global revenue and volume figures. Furthermore, the bottom-up approach has been employed to derive data for various product segments based on demand for biodegradable plastics in each geographic segment. A combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches helps validate the quantitative data. The data was further validated with the help of primary research with industry experts to ensure accuracy of derived numbers.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:Detailed analysis of various factors driving the global biodegradable plastic market has been included for astute decision making. Impact of these drivers has been included with data to substantiate research findings. Furthermore, factors restraining market growth have been included for better understanding of the market. Impact of these restraints has been analyzed over the course of the forecast period. The report also comprises various opportunities available for market growth over the next eight years. Opportunities entail untapped or recently explored factors that are anticipated to drive the biodegradable plastics market during the forecast period.The report includes value chain analysis to help understand the industry thoroughly. Value chain analysis comprises detailed evaluation of the roles of various entities involved in the biodegradable plastics industry, from raw material suppliers to end-users. Various processes employed in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics have been included in the value chain analysis. Porters Five Forces model has been employed to determine the degree of competition in the market during the forecast period. Company market share analysis has been included for better understanding of the competitive landscape.Browse more details @Table of ContentChapter 1 Preface1.1 Report Description1.2 Research Scope1.3 Assumptions1.4 Market Segmentation1.5 Research MethodologyChapter 2 Executive Summary2.1 Global Biodegradable Plastics Market, 2014 - 2023, (Kilo Tons) (US$ Mn)2.2 Biodegradable Plastics: Market SnapshotChapter 3 Biodegradable Plastics Market  Industry Analysis3.1 Introduction3.2 Value Chain Analysis3.3 Market Drivers3.3.1 Rising Demand for Environment Friendly Plastics coupled with legislative support to drive the Global Biodegradable Plastics Market3.3.2 Growing Packaging Industry Expected to Drive Global Biodegradable Plastics Market3.4 Restraints3.4.1 Higher Product Cost and Ideal Environmental Condition For Biodegradation Process May Hamper Productivity of Biodegradable Plastics Market3.5 Opportunity3.5.1 High fluctuating prices of petrochemical products have led to an opportunity for bio-based biodegradable plastics3.6 Porters Five Forces Analysis3.6.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers3.6.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers3.6.3 Threat of New Entrants3.6.4 Threat of Substitutes3.6.5 Degree of CompetitionAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's 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. ResearchMoz's 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.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
RFID in Pharmaceuticals Market to Incur Rapid Extension During 2017 - 2025

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Global RFID in Pharmaceuticals Market: SnapshotThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has played a vital role in escalating the widespread adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) in the pharmaceutical sector to strengthen anti-counterfeiting and track-and-trace efforts. Besides these benefits, RFID technology is acknowledged for its ability to increase supply chain efficiency, reduce errors by proper storage of information, boost patient safety and monitoring, enhance staff, patient, and asset workflow, easy adoption and flexible usage, and cut down labor requirements.With the pharmaceutical sector being a highly critical area, there is a pressing need to have highly efficient systems. Therefore, certain limitations of the technology restrict the RFID in pharmaceuticals market from realizing its utmost potential. These limitations include tampering concerns, technical issues, and compatibility and standardization issues. Another major factor holding back the market is the high cost of implementation. Industrial experts believe that these issues are interrelated. The high cost is limiting widespread adoption and at the same time, the implementation rate of RFID across the pharmaceutical sector is not considerable enough to make the technology cheap. However, the aforementioned limitations are being addressed by technological advancements, which are likely to render the global RFID in pharmaceuticals market highly opportunistic.Request Sample Copy of the Report@The majority of players in the global RFID in pharmaceuticals market are focusing towards technological advancements and product innovation to improve their visibility in the market. Large players are pouring hefty funds into research and development activities to offer products and services that are advanced and in line with the requirements of the pharmaceutical sectors. Most of the leading players in the market are players with strong brand name, high technical expertise, and strong capital muscle.Global RFID in Pharmaceuticals Market: OverviewRadio frequency identification, popularly known by the acronym RFID, has a host of applications in different areas. Healthcare and pharmaceuticals is one of them. RFID tracking systems have come in handy in lowering human efforts and errors in maintenance and control of healthcare inventory. Some of its popular applications are in tracking medical equipment in hospitals, identifying patients, monitoring blood transfer, and tracking of medication from pharmacy to patient. In the pharmaceutical sector, it helps in monitoring imports and exports of pharmaceutical raw materials, internal and external tracking of pharmaceuticals, and documenting the transfer of products from manufacturers to patients.Request TOC of the Report @Comprising of a small chip, which is capable of carrying up to 2000 bytes and an antenna, the RFID devices do a job similar to that of a bar code or a magnetic strip on the back of a credit card or ATM card  provide a unique identifier for an object. Like a bar code or magnetic strip, an RFID device must also be scanned to gather the identifying information.Global RFID in Pharmaceuticals Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe pharmaceuticals sector is faced with many challenges on the logistics front. These include product recalls due to overstocking which often results in expiry of drugs. Counterfeit drugs is another issue hobbling as it puts the patients safety at risk. Further, prescription packaged drugs are difficult to read and patients not taking the proper prescribed dose medication is another problem. To tackle all such challenges RFID can be leveraged successfully.RFID technology enables better tracking and accountability resulting in improved reliability in drug approval process. It also allows tracking of drug intake via the testing protocol. Also, enhanced inventory tracking with RFID can aid in bringing down buffer stocks thereby slashing cost. All these benefits have majorly contributed to the demand for RFID in the pharmaceuticals sector.Get Discount @This market is also filliped by the rising demand for more efficient anti-counterfeit solutions for drugs that would ensure product security, quality, and efficient usability. The US FDA has recommended a set of rules and regulations to be applied in RFID for the pharmaceutical industry. Countering the swift uptake of RFID in pharmaceuticals market, however, is the steep cost of installation and deployment of RFID tracking systems. Dearth of awareness about the long term financial advantages of RFID technology is another factor crimping growth in the market.Global RFID in Pharmaceuticals Market: Regional OutlookNorth America and Europe are dominant markets for RFID in the pharmaceuticals sector because of favorable government initiatives, growing thrust on cost reduction through operational efficiency, and major drug counterfeit events. Asia Pacific is slated to exhibit solid growth in the years ahead due to cheaper original equipment manufacturing (OEM) services provided by China and rapid uptake of RFID systems in healthcare in the region.Companies Mentioned in ReportTo present an accurate and detailed assessment of the competition prevailing in the market for RFID in the pharmaceutical sector, the report profiles companies such as IBM Corporation, Alien Technology, Hewlett-Pakard, Siemens, Motorola, Inc., Texas Instruments, Toshiba Tech, and Zebra Technologies Corporation.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. 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Tube Filling Machines Market,Industry Analysis,Trends and Forecast 2017 - 2024

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Rapid growth of automatic packaging industry has been contributing to the increased demand growth of tube filling machines market. Tube filling machines are sturdy equipment that enable the swift and automatic filling of product materials in tubes. Tube filling machines are widely used across various industries like food and beverage, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, personal care and other consumer goods. The increased demand in the tube filling machines market stimulated the manufacturers to incorporate various patterns of tube filling machines so as to suit all types of tubes. The tube filling machines market is expected to grow significantly in during the forecast period.Click Here For Free Sample Report @Tube Filling Machines Market: Market DynamicsTube filling machines market is largely driven by the fleeting growth of packaging industry especially in the chemical, pharmaceutical and personal and beauty care products. The growth in automobile industry has been initiating the increase in demand of chemicals like glues, adhesives and others which in turn results into increased demand of tube filling machines. The growing needs of medical products like ointments and gels require tube packaging which leads to the increased sales of tube filling machines in the market. Along with the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, the increased consumers usage of personal and beauty care products like tube creams, lotions and others, significantly contribute to the escalating growth of tube filling machines market. The tube filling machines market is expected to witness a continuous growth driven by the increased demand by these industries. Besides personal and beauty care, pharmaceutical and chemical industries, food industry has a moderate contribution towards the growth of tube filling machines market. It is anticipated that in the upcoming years, the tube filling machine market will experience a moderate growth driven by food industry.Tube Filling Machines Market: SegmentationThe tube filling machines market can be segmented on the basis of type of tube fillers, application and types of tubes.By TypeBased on the type, the tube filling machine can be segmented into Automatic tube filling machine, double head linear tube filling machine, single head linear tube filling machine and forehead linear tube filling machine.By ApplicationTube filling machines market can be segmented on the basis of application which includes chemicals, pharmaceuticals, personal and beauty care, food and other consumer products. Chemicals can be sub segmented into adhesives, glues and others. Pharmaceuticals include medical products like ointments, gels, medical creams and others. Food products include dairy products, ketchups, chocolates and others. Personal and beauty care industry can be sub segmented into creams, lotions, face cleansers, toothpastes and others.Tube Filling Machines Market: Regional OutlookTube filling machines market can be segmented on the basis of regions. The regions include North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East and Africa. Asia Pacific witnesses major growth in the tube filling machines due to the increased development in the industries that contribute to the growth of tube filling machines market. North America, Europe, Latin America are expected to have a continuous growth in the tube filling machines market and Middle East and Africa is expected to grow moderately.Read Full Report With TOC @Tube Filling Machines Market: Market PlayersThe prominent players identified in the tube filling machines market are Blenzor, Interpack Machines Pvt Ltd., Sohm International, Parle Global, Amson Engineering, Hangzhou PESC Co., Ltd and others.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.The study is a source of reliable data on: Market segments and sub-segments Market trends and dynamics Supply and demand Market size Current trends/opportunities/challenges Competitive landscape Technological breakthroughs Value chain and stakeholder analysisThe regional analysis covers: North America (U.S. and Canada) Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, and others) Western Europe (Germany, U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Nordic countries, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg) Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia) Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand) Middle East and Africa (GCC, Southern Africa, North Africa)The report has been compiled through extensive primary research (through interviews, surveys, and observations of seasoned analysts) and secondary research (which entails reputable paid sources, trade journals, and industry body databases). The report also features a complete qualitative and quantitative assessment by analyzing data gathered from industry analysts and market participants across key points in the industrys value chain.A separate analysis of prevailing trends in the parent market, macro- and micro-economic indicators, and regulations and mandates is included under the purview of the study. By doing so, the report projects the attractiveness of each major segment over the forecast period.Highlights of the report: A complete backdrop analysis, which includes an assessment of the parent market Important changes in market dynamics Market segmentation up to the second or third level Historical, current, and projected size of the market from the standpoint of both value and volume Reporting and evaluation of recent industry developments Market shares and strategies of key players Emerging niche segments and regional markets An objective assessment of the trajectory of the market Recommendations to companies for strengthening their foothold in the marketMake An Enquire @Market Research Reports Search Engine(MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of market intelligence reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.State Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY - 12207United StatesTelephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comWebsite :Read More Industry News At:
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 04:15:40|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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LJUBLJANA, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The export of Slovenian wines are on a steady increase with the figure standing at almost 14 million liters last year, the Slovenian Press Agency (STA) reported on Saturday, as the country's annual wine festival started.

Most of Slovenian wines were exported to its traditional destinations like Italy, the U.S., Austria, Croatia and the Netherlands.

However, export of Slovenian wines to China in particular have been on a surge lately, the STA report said, counting the sales more than doubling since 2009 from 91,000 euros (105,677 U.S. dollars) in 2009 to more than one million euros in the first seven months of this year alone.

Imports of wine to Slovenia have also been on an increase, with the country importing last year a total of 13 million liters, of which 85 percent came from Italy, France, Macedonia, Germany and Spain.

However, this year's harvest in Slovenia was one of the worst in recent years as Slovenian vineyards produced around 91,000 tonnes of grape, which is 4.5 percent less than in 2016 and 15 percent below the average for the last ten years.

Weather conditions were particularly harsh for red grape sorts, with yield per hectare of vineyard being as much as one fifth below the ten-year average.
Tomato Ketchup Market Growth and Forecast 2016 - 2024

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Tomato ketchup is a widely popular condiment made from tomatoes, vinegar, sweeteners, and salt. The simple yet versatile formulation of tomato ketchup has made it popular in various cuisines, with the growing demand for fast food enabling smooth expansion of the tomato ketchup market. Tomato ketchup is commonly served with fast food items such as sandwiches, burgers, fries, and grilled or fried meat. It is also commonly used as a base for other sauces, since its flavor is popular and agreeable.The report examines the historical development trajectory of the global tomato ketchup market. The historical data is combined with detailed information about the present condition of the market in order to derive useful insights into the probable growth trajectory of the global tomato ketchup market in the coming years. The various factors affecting the trajectory of the tomato ketchup market are examined in detail in the report, with detailed analysis given for each notable driver and restraint acting on the market.Global Tomato Ketchup Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe global tomato ketchup market is primarily driven by the growing demand for fast food across the world. While North America is the prime market for fast food, the growing adoption of the Western culture across the world is leading to significant demand for fast food in Asia Pacific and Latin America, where the market stands to grow rapidly owing to the increasing disposable income of urban consumers. The convenience of fast food means the burgeoning middle class is likely to remain a key consumer demographic for the fast food industry in the coming years, leading to strong growth prospects for the global tomato ketchup market.Request Report Brochure @Ketchup is a staple with traditional fast food items, but the agreeable flavor of tomato ketchup has also boosted its use with local fast food items in emerging regions. As a result, leading producers of tomato ketchup have been able to successfully create regional variants of their products based on the cultural preferences and compatibility with the local cuisines. This is a key driver for the global tomato ketchup market, especially given the rising demand for ketchup in Southeast Asia and the Far East, where local street food remains widely popular.While tomato ketchup is primarily used in commercially sold fast food, a significant part of the total demand for tomato ketchup comes from families. As tomato ketchup is a versatile condiment and works with a wide range of flavors, the demand for tomato ketchup from the residential sector is growing rapidly.On the other hand, the rising use of other condiments such as mustard and barbecue sauce is a key restraint on the tomato ketchup market. The success of the tomato ketchup market has also encouraged the commercial production of local condiments and sauces, which have emerged as alternatives to tomato ketchup in many regions. Many tomato ketchup manufacturers have thus diversified their product catalog to compensate for the possible reduction in the demand for tomato ketchup.Visit For TOC@Global Tomato Ketchup Market: Geographical SegmentationDue to the widespread prevalence of fast food joints and quick service restaurants in North America and Europe, these two are the leading contributors to the global tomato ketchup market and are likely to retain a dominant share in the coming years. However, the Asia Pacific and Middle East markets for tomato ketchup have exhibited promise in the last few decade, and with many countries in this region steadily climbing the rungs of economic progress, the fast food industry is also growing smoothly in these regions. This is likely to present promising growth prospects for manufacturers of tomato ketchup in the coming years.The report also profiles the leading companies in the global tomato ketchup market in order to provide an overview of the markets competitive landscape. Key players profiled in the report include Nestle India Ltd., H. J. Heinz Company, Campbell Soup Company, Tate & Lyle plc, ConAgra Foods Inc., Lee Kum Kee, General Mills Inc., and Premier Foods Plc.About Us  Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others.Contact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Virus Filtration Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024

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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Virus Filtration Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024 " to it's Large Report database.Virus filtration is an important procedure in the pharmaceutical industry. It ensures the purity and steady consumption of valuable products, besides optimizing the economic process and preventing loss. Virus filtration feed streams generally exhibit high purity and heavy product concentrations. Retrovirus and parvovirus filtration membranes are two ultrafiltration membranes tested (and their performances compared) using realistic model feed streams consisting of minute virus of mice (recommended from FDA). This approach provides an industry-relevant benchmark for the engineering competence of virus filters. Asymmetric membranes operate in direct flow and in a constant pressure mode in accordance with the industrial practice of virus filtration. However, new developments in research and development using flux method allow to image at the performance of virus filtration and similar ultrafiltration membranes, which also provides insights into designing virus filtration membranes.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:Hike in R&D expenditure, development of the biopharmaceutical industry, and increasing government funding for the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries are driving the global virus filtration market. According to the parenteral drug association, parvovirus filters in the downstream process have become an industry standard and a common regulatory expectation in the recent years. The filters consistently demonstrate highly effective retrovirus retention without impacting the quality of the product across a wide range of parameters and are an effective method to reduce virus risks in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The filtration technique needs to be approved by the U.S. food and drug administration (FDA). Regulatory agencies in Germany and France require the manufacturing processes to be evaluated and the units to be cleared of the multiple models of relevant viruses before being marketed as authorization. These stringent government validation practices are expected to be a hindrance for the global virus filtration market.Browse more details @The market has been segmented by product type, application, end-users, and geography. In terms of product type, it is classified into the following categories: virus filters, kits and reagents, filtration systems, and others. It majorly has biological applications, besides being employed in medical devices, water purification, stem cell products, vaccine & therapeutics, and others. Based on end-user, its divisions include pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies (which use virus filtration techniques in order to prevent unavoidable contamination in products), medical device companies, and contract research organizations. Filtration systems and devices are becoming popular because they deliver a high level of retention assurance and productivity across a broad range of feed stream characteristics. Rising industrialization coupled with the rapid evolution of the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and water purification sectors, along with demand for medical devices & implants are likely to propel the virus filtration market by 2024.Geographically, the market is distributed over North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. North America is the dominant region due to the increasing modern industrialization, sophisticated infrastructure, patient awareness, and high per capita health care expenditure here. Moreover, the emerging trend of single-use techniques provides a boost to the pharmaceutical & biotechnology market, in turn motivating the virus filtration market. This is followed by Europe where there exist favorable government policies regarding health care infrastructure and awareness programs about the various diseases which can spread among the population through the air, water, or even products generated from industries. In 2013, the ICH (international conference on harmonization of technical requirements for registration of pharmaceuticals for human use), a project that brings together the regulatory authorities of Europe, Japan, and the U.S., discussed the scientific and technical aspects of drug registration in order to streamline the testing requirement for research and development of new medicines and eliminate unnecessary delays in their global development. The market in Asia Pacific is projected to expand swiftly due to rising population, changing lifestyles, rising number of awareness programs for patients, and the ever-increasing per capita expenditure. In addition, economic growth supports pharmaceutical and biotechnology units in developing countries such as India, China, and Singapore. All these factors collectively support the virus filtration market in Asia Pacific.Key players operating in the market include Merck KGaA, GE Healthcare, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Lonza Group Ltd., Pall Corporation, Charles River Laboratories International, Inc., Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, Sartorius AG, Asahi Kasei Medical Co., Ltd., and WuXi PharmaTech (Cayman) Inc.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 ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's 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. ResearchMoz's 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.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
Thermochromic Ink Printing Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024

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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Thermochromic Ink Printing Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024 " to it's Large Report database.Thermochromic ink printing is a type of printing, which is sensitive to change in temperature. The print changes color with rise and decline in temperature, which helps for indicating whether the beverage is hot or cold. The inks used for thermochromic ink printing contains thermochromic pigments that are subjected to color change when there is a temperature difference. In the recent past, the manufacturers are seeking for innovative packaging solutions as a marketing strategy, the thermochromic ink printing technology is one such innovation which is being widely used by manufacturers to endorse their products.Global Thermochromic Ink Printing Market: Drivers & RestraintsThe growth of global thermochromic ink printing market is driven by the demand for innovative printing technology in the packaging industry. Thermochromic ink printing is commonly used by food & beverages and alcoholic beverages manufacturers in order to identify the temperature state of the beverage by looking at the cans and bottles. Furthermore, the use of thermochromic ink printing is being used as a measure by the beverage manufacturers to gain customer attractions.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:Thus, the growth in packaging industry and innovative printing needs in packaging industry is anticipated to primarily drive the global market for thermochromic ink printing. Thermochromic ink printing is not limited to the packaging industry, thermochromic ink printing technology has found its potential in wallpaper printing, textiles, and specialty market, which is further augmenting the demand for thermochromic ink printing technology. On the plus side, the demand for Thermochromic ink printing in FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) is expected to rise over the forecast period, which in turn will propel the demand for thermochromic ink printing market globally. Trends noted in the global thermochromic ink printing market is the technological innovations for delivering state-of-the-art packaging solutions. For instance, Print Pack a leading packaging company has developed thermochromic ink with color to color change combinations, which allows the product manufacturers to alter the graphics of their labels according to their promotional needs. However, the thermochromic ink printing is a costly affair as compared to the traditional ink printing and the liquid crystal thermochromic inks which are highly sensitive to small changes in temperature due to which it is not recommended for packaging. These factors might hamper the growth of global thermochromic ink printing market globally.Browse more details @Global Thermochromic Ink Printing Market: SegmentationThe global thermochromic ink printing market is segmented on the basis of thermochromic ink types, applications and regionOn the basis of thermochromic ink types, the global thermochromic ink printing market is segmented into:Liquid CrystalsLeucodyesReversibleIrreversibleOn the basis of applications, the global thermochromic ink printing market is segmented into:AerospaceAutomotiveTranspiration & StorageTextilesManufacturingNovelty ItemsMedical & LaboratoryOthersThermochromic Ink Printing Market: Regional OutlookBased on the geographies, global thermochromic ink printing market is segmented into five key regions- North America, Latin America, Europe, APAC, and Middle East & Africa. Among the aforementioned regions, North America accounts for significant share for thermochromic ink printing market, owing to the flourishing growth of smart packaging industry in the region as compared to other regions. Furthermore, the North America region accounts for healthy share in terms of consumption of alcoholic beverages, thermochromic ink printing being commonly used for printing in beer cans, the alcoholic beverage consumption in the region is anticipated to further add value to the thermochromic ink printing market in the region. Europe market for thermochromic ink printing is followed by the North America market for thermochromic ink printing market which is trailed by the Asia-Pacific market for the thermochromic ink printing. Over the forecast period, Asia-Pacific market for is anticipated to grow significantly owing to the growth of packaging industry in the region. Overall, the global market for thermochromic ink printing is expected to grow significantly by the end of forecast period.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's 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. ResearchMoz's 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.
Biscuits Market Size, Analysis, and Forecast Report 2016 - 2024

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Global Biscuits Market: OverviewThe market for biscuits is very promising and is expected to witness a continuous growth. Product innovation is continuously changing the dynamics of the market worldwide. New flavors, shapes, taste, and attractive packaging are causing consumers of all age groups to buy biscuits. Players in the global biscuits market are making effective strategies on how to sell biscuits, and in contemplating the kind of packing that will prove to be effective, along with the price strategy. As consumers are increasingly concerned about ingredients and health benefits, manufacturers are maintaining transparency in labeling. The emphasis on low sugar and low calorie content is driving manufacturers in the biscuits market to develop nutritious biscuits with low sugar content.The report on the global biscuits market is an analysis of the changing competitive dynamics. The study offers an unbiased perspective on the growth of industry, by taking into factor different driving and restraining factors. It also takes into consideration the current trends and future opportunities, which are likely to have an impact on the global biscuits market. The report segments the global biscuits market on the basis of key criteria and studies it in an in-depth manner. The competitive landscape has also been discussed in detail. The market share held by the top players and the degree of competition has been analyzed. The buyer and supplier bargaining power and the entry barriers faced by new entrants have also been analyzed.Request Report Brochure @Global Biscuits Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe global biscuits market is driven by rising urbanization, increasing disposable income, demand for convenience foods, and busy lifestyles. The proliferation of supermarkets and hypermarkets has led to an increased visibility of the wide range of biscuits available in the market. In addition to this, promotional strategies employed by marketing team such as television ads are also aiding the growth of the market. Companies are increasingly experimenting with new flavors, new ingredients, and trying out new combinations, to fuel the interest of consumers.Digestive biscuits have become a rage at present and this trend is expected to last for the coming years as consumers are becoming health conscious. The inclination towards high fiber food products will drive manufacturers to include fibrous and other nutritious ingredients in their products. As consumers are showing interest in premium products, manufacturers are introducing organic products, eliminating artificial flavors and preservatives, high fructose corn syrups (HFCS) and other such unhealthy ingredients. Manufacturers are also introducing variety and convenience in terms of servings and sizes. On the other hand, increased competition, high cost of raw materials, and increasing taxes are expected to be factors restraining the global biscuits market.Visit For TOC@Global Biscuits Market: Region-wise OutlookThe report segments the global oil and gas automation market on the basis of geography, into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World. Of these, Europe and North America are leading in the biscuits market. In addition to this, it is estimated that Asia Pacific will emerge as the fastest growing market in the coming years.Key Players Mentioned in the ReportThe report profiles key players operating in the global biscuits market. The business and financial overview of each of the companies and their recent developments have been discussed in the report. Key players studied in the report are: Parle Products Pvt. Ltd. Nestle UK Ltd. Kellogg Company, Britannia Industries Ltd., Burton's Foods Ltd., Lotus Bakeries NV, ITC, Cadbury, United Biscuits, Walkers Shortbread Ltd etc.About Us  Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a next-generation provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others.Contact Us:Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Vancomycin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection (VRSA) Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024

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"The Report Vancomycin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection (VRSA) Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"Global Vancomycin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection (VRSA) Market: Brief DescriptionStaphylococcus aureus is an anaerobic gram positive bacteria, commonly found in the respiratory tract of human and on the skin. This strain of bacteria is always not pathogenic but remains a major cause for respiratory diseases, skin infections and food poisoning. S.aureus strains often promote infections by producing harmful protein toxins. It is anticipated that approximately 20% of the population carries S.aureus in the anterior part of nasal passages and in the skin flora. Among all the strains of staphylococcus, S.aureus is one of the most common species that cause Staph infection and cause range of illness such as impetigo, boils, pimples, skin infections, abscesses and other life threatening diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis, osteomyelitis and others. S.aureus infection remains one of the most common causes of postsurgical wound infection and nosocomial infections. Penicillin is the most common choice witnessed for the treatment of S.aureus infection but development of resistance from penicillin is commonly seen hence, a combination therapy along with gentamicin is prescribed for the treatment of infections. In addition, currently some of the strains have developed resistance to B-Lactam antibiotics which are termed as Methicillin resistant S.aureus (MRSA). This type of infection is growing at a rapid rate and is most often found in hospitals, clinics and in community regions.View Report @Likewise, vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus refers to the strains of S.aureus that have become resistant antibiotic glycopeptides (vancomycin). Presently three classes of vancomycin-resistant S.aureus (VRSA) have emerged namely high level VRSA, vancomycin-intermediate S.aureus (VISA) and heterogenus VISA (hVISA). VISA infection was firstly identified in Japanese hospitals however, later this strain of bacteria is also found in the Asian region. Linezolid, Ceftobiprole, daptomycin, tigercycline and others are the major drugs prescribed for the treatment of VISA infection. VRSA infection usually reported in people having weakened immune system or to those who are taking vancomycin for a longer duration. The infection is also seen in those people who have undergone surgical procedures.Get Sample Copy Of This Report @Global Vancomycin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection (VRSA) Market: Trends and ProspectsThe market for vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus Aureus is increasing due to rising incidences of the infection. Additionally, growth in government and non government awareness program are also other major factors that are expected to drive the growth of this market. For instance, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is constantly working with the healthcare facilities, state local health agencies and clinical microbiology agencies. VRSA infections can be treated with various commercially available antibiotics however, most efficient way of controlling the spread of VRSA is maintaining basic hygienic conditions such as proper wound care, washing hands before while contacting directly with the patients and use of disposable gloves.Global Vancomycin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection (VRSA) Market: Regional OverviewGeographically, North America and Europe dominates the vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus Aureus market due to rising incidences of VRSA incidences and demand for new innovative drugs. However, during the forecast period these regions are expected to show slow growth due to market maturity, shortened drug lifecycle and generic infiltration. Asia-pacific region is anticipated to emerge as the fastest growing region in the near future due to growing number of pharmaceutical manufacturers in the Asian countries and also due to the presence of some of the worlds leading generics manufacturers in this region.Global Vancomycin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection (VRSA) Market: Key PlayersAstraZeneca Plc, GlaxoSmithKline, Forest Laboratories, Cubist Pharmaceuticals and others are some of the major players operating in this market.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.Send An Enquiry Request @The study is a source of reliable data on:Market segments and sub-segmentsMarket trends and dynamicsSupply and demandMarket sizeCurrent trends/opportunities/challengesCompetitive landscapeTechnological breakthroughsValue chain and stakeholder analysisThe regional analysis covers:North America (U.S. and Canada)Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, and others)Western Europe (Germany, U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Nordic countries, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)Eastern Europe (Poland and Russia)Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Australia, and New Zealand)Middle East and Africa (GCC, Southern Africa, and North Africa)The report has been compiled through extensive primary research (through interviews, surveys, and observations of seasoned analysts) and secondary research (which entails reputable paid sources, trade journals, and industry body databases). The report also features a complete qualitative and quantitative assessment by analyzing data gathered from industry analysts and market participants across key points in the industrys value chain.A separate analysis of prevailing trends in the parent market, macro- and micro-economic indicators, and regulations and mandates is included under the purview of the study. By doing so, the report projects the attractiveness of each major segment over the forecast period.Highlights of the report:A complete backdrop analysis, which includes an assessment of the parent marketImportant changes in market dynamicsMarket segmentation up to the second or third levelHistorical, current, and projected size of the market from the standpoint of both value and volumeReporting and evaluation of recent industry developmentsMarket shares and strategies of key playersEmerging niche segments and regional marketsAn objective assessment of the trajectory of the marketRecommendations to companies for strengthening their foothold in the marketAbout usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.Mr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:Email: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Learn details of the Global Dasatinib Sales Market Report 2017

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Qyresearchreports include new market research report Global Dasatinib Sales Market Report 2017 to its huge collection of research reports.This report on the global Dasatinib market has been compiled by research analysts of the industry, with a primary aim to offer relevant information on the current market conditions for the global Dasatinib. Its objective is to talk about the growth prospects of the market and reach out to a wider range of audience such as government agencies, manufacturers of Dasatinib, and multiple consultancy services. The research report offers comprehensive analysis of the vital driving factors that will have a huge impact on the global Dasatinib market. It also studies the impeding or restraining aspects, upcoming and latest trends in the global Dasatinib market which the prominent players in the global Dasatinib market should make a note of to enhance their market presence. The potential of other factors of the Dasatinib market can be assessed by studying its multiple segments such as products, end users, types, application, services, and others, whichever are applicable. The report also studies the future conditions of the global Dasatinib market in all the important regions across the world, such as Latin America, Middle East and Africa (MEA), North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report of the global Dasatinib market gives out the projection of the market size in terms of its revenue (USD billion). Top-down as well as Bottom-up approaches are applied in the study report to give an estimate and confirm the size of the global Dasatinib market and of its other different sub-segments. The research report also extensively discusses the opportunities that may arise in the global market for Dasatinib by type and application in the manufacturing countries, and provides a prediction for the period of 2017-2022.Some of the prominent companies in the global Dasatinib market have been mentioned to attract the market shareholders. These companies are profiled respectively so as to give out their product portfolio, recent strategic decisions, and overall market share. The chapter also tries to grasp the possibility of the entry of upcoming players in the global Dasatinib market. The leading companies of the global market have been spotted with the help of secondary research methodologies and their dominance in respective areas have been evaluated with the help of detailed primary as well as secondary research.Table of ContentsGlobal Dasatinib Sales Market Report 20171 Dasatinib Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Dasatinib1.2 Classification of Dasatinib by Product Category1.2.1 Global Dasatinib Market Size (Sales) Comparison by Type (2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Dasatinib Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 20 mg Tablets1.2.4 50 mg Tablets1.2.5 70 mg Tablets1.2.6 80 mg Tablets1.2.7 100 mg Tablets1.2.8 140 mg Tablets1.3 Global Dasatinib Market by Application/End Users1.3.1 Global Dasatinib Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)Browse Complete Report with TOC @2 Global Dasatinib Competition by Players/Suppliers, Type and Application2.1 Global Dasatinib Market Competition by Players/Suppliers2.1.1 Global Dasatinib Sales and Market Share of Key Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Dasatinib Revenue and Share by Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Dasatinib (Volume and Value) by Type2.2.1 Global Dasatinib Sales and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)2.2.2 Global Dasatinib Revenue and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)2.3 Global Dasatinib (Volume and Value) by Region3 United States Dasatinib (Volume, Value and Sales Price)3.1 United States Dasatinib Sales and Value (2012-2017)3.1.1 United States Dasatinib Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2017)3.1.2 United States Dasatinib Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2017)3.1.3 United States Dasatinib Sales Price Trend (2012-2017)3.2 United States Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Players3.3 United States Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Type3.4 United States Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Application4 China Dasatinib (Volume, Value and Sales Price)4.1 China Dasatinib Sales and Value (2012-2017)4.1.1 China Dasatinib Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2017)4.1.2 China Dasatinib Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2017)4.1.3 China Dasatinib Sales Price Trend (2012-2017)4.2 China Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Players4.3 China Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Type4.4 China Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Application5 Europe Dasatinib (Volume, Value and Sales Price)5.1 Europe Dasatinib Sales and Value (2012-2017)5.1.1 Europe Dasatinib Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2017)5.1.2 Europe Dasatinib Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2017)5.1.3 Europe Dasatinib Sales Price Trend (2012-2017)5.2 Europe Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Players5.3 Europe Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by Type5.4 Europe Dasatinib Sales Volume and Market Share by ApplicationGet discount copy @List of Tables and FiguresFigure Product Picture of DasatinibFigure Global Dasatinib Sales Volume Comparison (K Units) by Type (2012-2022)Figure Global Dasatinib Sales Volume Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 2016Figure 20 mg Tablets Product PictureFigure 50 mg Tablets Product PictureFigure 70 mg Tablets Product PictureFigure 80 mg Tablets Product PictureFigure 100 mg Tablets Product PictureFigure 140 mg Tablets Product PictureFigure Global Dasatinib Sales Comparison (K Units) by Application (2012-2022)Figure Global Sales Market Share of Dasatinib by Application in 2016Figure Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) ExamplesFigure Philadelphia Chromosome-positive?Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia(Ph+ ALL) ExamplesQYReseachReports.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. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Tug Boat Market to Record an Exponential CAGR by 2025

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A tug boat is a type of boat that maneuvers large container ships, tankers and cruiser ships by pushing or towing them in and around dockyards and harbors. These boats are also used to maneuver disabled ships and other non-self-propelled vessels, such as oil platforms. Tug boats are also used to steer large ships to create sideway movements in narrow seas and harbors. Due to their strong engine capacity, tug boats are also used as icebreakers and salvage boats  they are capable of breaking through one meter thick ice. There are various types of tug boats manufactured to cater to various requirements, such as type of assisting speed, type of ships assisted and environmental condition. In order to be more productive as well as competitive in the market, all ports must be equipped with better equipment. Being an irreplaceable part of the port infrastructure, the demand for tug boats is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period.Request For Report Sample:Tug Boat Market: DynamicsOngoing developments in the shipping industry across the globe will act as a key driver for the tug boat market. Rising demand as well as usage of large and bulky ships for transportation will also fuel the demand for tug boats. The growing oil and gas industry demands increasing number of oil tankers and shipping containers, which, in turn, will push the tug boat market into a forward direction. As a matter of fact, there are many traditions that use tug boats. For instance, the tug boat ballet in Germany utilizes tugboats as a prop. These traditions are also expected to add to the growth of the market.Higher engine power rating tug boats consume a huge amount of fuel. Fuel management for tugboats is becoming an increasing challenge for the manufacturers as fuel is becoming the most important as well as most expensive item with each passing day.Use of tug boats for naval purposes is an ongoing trend in the market. Modern tug boats are used for rescue purposes, evacuation, firefighting and other safety and defense purposes. Growing use of hybrid tug boats consisting of batteries and multiple generators with capacity below 800 horsepower seems to be a logical step towards emission compliance.Tug Boat Market: SegmentThe global Tug Boat Market can be segmented on the basis of engine power, fuel type and boat type.By engine power type, the global Tug Boat market can be segmented into:Less than 1000 HorsepowerBetween 1000 and 2000 HorsepowerBetween 2000 and 5000 HorsepowerGreater than 5000 HorsepowerBy boat type, the global Tug Boat market can be segmented into:Deep sea tugboatHarbor tugboatRiver tugboatOthersBy fuel type, the global Tug Boat market can be segmented into:DieselOthersTug Boat Market: Regional OutlookOwing to its significant features and growing demand, the market for tug boats is expected to grow at a good pace all across the globe during the forecast period. Growing attraction towards tug boat races held annually in North America is expected to fuel the demand for tug boats in the North America region. The growing oil and gas industry Middle East and Africa countries will create substantial demand for tug boats in the region. The expanding shipping and transportation industry in Asia Pacific will lead to a rise in demand for tug boats. Growing use of bulkier and heavy ships as well as cruise ships for transportation purposes in Eastern and Western Europe is causing significant rise in demand for tug boats in the region. Japan is a major port managing trade and commerce activities and is expected to create significant opportunities in the tug boat market during the forecast period. Latin America is also expected to show significant growth in the tug boat market over the forecast period.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC):Tug Boat Market: Key ParticipantsExamples of some of the market participants identified across the value chain of the global Tug Boat market include:Damen Shipyards GroupSanmar TugboatRanger Tugs.ODC MarineGladding-HearnFremont Tugboat Company IncMERRENorfolk Tug Company.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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Aquaculture Market Dynamics, Forecast, Analysis and Supply Demand 2013-2019

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The global market for aquaculture is highly fragmented and comprises a large pool of medium and large size players, states Transparency Market Research (TMR) in a research report. The competition in the market is anticipated to intensify over the coming years owing to the strategies being applied by the existing players such as enhancing the production capacity of the existing plants and also set up new plants. Many vendors are focusing on developing novel and advanced manufacturing plants. The players are also entering into agreements with other players or acquiring smaller players for increasing their production capacity and thus which will eventually allow them to meet the growing demand for seafood across the globe. Some of the creme companies operating in the market are Tassal Group Ltd, Thai Union Frozen Products Public Company Ltd., Stehr Group Pty Ltd., Selonda Aqauculture S.A., Stolt Sea Farm, Nireus Aquaculture S.A., Promarisco, Huon Aquaculture Group Pty Ltd., Marine Harvest ASA, Eastern Fish Co., Cermaq ASA, Cooke Aquaculture Inc., Blue Ridge Aquaculture, and Asmak.Download exclusive Sample of this report:According to a TMR analyst, The global aquaculture market is expected to rise at a CAGR of 5.10% from 2013 to 2019. In 2013, the market was worth US$135.1 bn and is likely to touch US$195.1 bn by the end of 2019. Based on the key products, the market was led by the segment of carps owing to the high compatibility they display in tough environment conditions in comparison to other fishes. Region-wise, Asia Pacific excluding China is likely to surface as a lucrative region owing to the growing consumption of sea food in the region. China, on the other hand, is likely to emerge undefeated as it likely to hold over 60% of the total share in the global market for aquaculture by 2018.Health Benefits to Play Key Role in Market ExpansionAquaculture is the quickest developing system of food production globally because of the absence of normally accessible assortments of fisheries gathered in indigenous habitats. The expanding familiarity with the medical advantages and nutritious esteem related with fish has quickened its utilization. Oceanic items, particularly cultivated shrimps and salmons, are very nutritious wellsprings of sustenance, comprising of essential proteins, vitamins A, B, D, and Niacin, nd minerals like iodine, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. These nourishments additionally have a huge wellspring of Omega-3 unsaturated fats, for instance, eicosapentaenoic corrosive (EPA). And docosahexaenoic corrosive (DHA). The high nearness of minerals and imperative supplements in fish assume a urgent part in the change of mental health and proliferation. Such nutritive favorable circumstances of aquaculture items have the reliance of individuals on these nourishment sources, bringing about the general development of the market amid the gauge time frame.Obtain Report Details @Freshwater Aquaculture to Present Future Lucrative OpportunitiesAquaculture can be led in crisp, saline, or marine water, in light of the expected deliver. Of these, freshwater aquaculture is the main income generator for the worldwide aquaculture market and is probably going to remain the prevailing portion in the coming years. While angle caught from normal waters have constituted most of the worldwide fish market, this has prompted extreme consumption of the fish populace in many parts of the world. This has prompted freshwater aquaculture, which is generally completed in misleadingly arranged tanks and lakes, going up against a vital part in the worldwide aquaculture market.In any case, the demand for marine species stays high over the world. Since most fish can solely make due in either marine or new water, this has prompted a developing appropriation of aquaculture in marine water. Marine aquaculture is in this way liable to be a main supporter of the worldwide aquaculture market in the coming years.This review of the market is based on a recent report by Transparency Market Research, titled, Aquaculture Market (Environment - Marine Water, Freshwater, Brackish Water; Product - Carps, Mollusks, Crustaceans, Salmon, Trout, Milkfish, Mackerel, Sea Bass, Trout, Sea Bream) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2013 - 2019.Global aquaculture market is segmented as:Aquaculture Market: Culture Environment Segment AnalysisFreshwaterMarine waterBrackish waterAquaculture Market: Product Segment AnalysisCarpsMollusksCrustaceansSalmonMilkfishTroutMackerelSea BreamSea BassOthers (Catfish and turbot)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:
Global Cigarette Market In-Depth Analysis, Size, Trends, Assesses the key Opportunities and Forecasts 2017-2021

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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Global Cigarette Market: Size, Trends and Forecasts (2017-2021) " to it's Large Report database.Scope of the ReportThe report titled Global Cigarette Market: Size, Trends and Forecasts (2017-2021), provides an in-depth analysis of the global cigarettes market by value, by volume, by products, by region, etc. The report provides a regional analysis of the cigarette market, including the following regions: the US, EU, EEMA, APAC, Latin America and Canada.The report also assesses the key opportunities in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the industry. Growth of the overall global cigarette market has also been forecasted for the period 2017-2021, taking into consideration the previous growth patterns, the growth drivers and the current and future trends.The competition in the global cigarette market is dominated by the four big players, British American Tobacco, Japan Tobacco International and Imperial Brands Plc., and Philip Morris International Inc., which are profiled with their financial information and respective business strategies.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:Country CoverageThe USEUEEMAAsia-PacificLatin America and CanadaCompany CoverageBritish American TobaccoImperial Brands PlcJapan Tobacco InternationalPhilips Morris International Inc.Executive SummaryBrowse more details @Table of Content1. Executive Summary2. Introduction2.1 Tobacco: An Overview2.1.1 Types of Tobacco Products2.2 Cigarettes: An Overview2.2.1 Inception of Cigarettes2.2.2 Economics Behind Cigarette Industry2.2.3 Reasons For Cigarettes Consumption2.2.4 Engineering Behind a Cigarette2.2.5 Financial Hazards of Cigarette Smoking2.2.6 Health Hazards of Cigarette Smoking2.2.7 Classification of Cigarettes2.2.8 Chemical Composition of Cigarettes3. Global Market Analysis3.1 Global Tobacco Market: An Analysis3.1.1 Global Tobacco Market by Segments3.2 Global Cigarette Market: An Analysis3.2.1 Global Cigarette Market by Value3.2.2 Global Cigarette Market by Volume3.2.3 Global Cigarette Market Volume by RegionAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's 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. ResearchMoz's 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.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
Global Warehouse Automation Market with Focus on Automated Storage & Retrieval System (ASRS) Market 2017-2021

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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Global Warehouse Automation Market with Focus on Automated Storage & Retrieval System (ASRS) Market (2017-2021) " to it's Large Report database.Scope of the ReportThe report entitled Global Warehouse Automation Market with Focus on Automated Storage & Retrieval System (ASRS) Market (2017-2021), provides analysis of the global warehouse automation market, with detailed analysis of market size and growth, and segmentation of the industry. The report also includes the detailed analysis of ASRS market by value, by end markets and by segments.Under competitive landscape, different products offered by some of the key players in the warehouse automation market have been described. Further, supply chain management software suppliers have been compared on the basis of certain parameters.Moreover, the report also assesses the key opportunities in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the industry. Growth of the overall global warehouse automation market has also been forecasted for the years 2017-2021, taking into consideration the previous growth patterns, the growth drivers and the current and future trends.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:KION Group, Honeywell International Inc., KUKA and Bastian Solutions are some of the key players operating in the global warehouse automation market, whose company profiling has been done in the report. In this segment of the report, business overview, financial overview and business strategies of the companies are provided.Company CoverageKION Group AGHoneywell International Inc.KUKABastian SolutionsExecutive SummaryWarehouse is a commercial building wherein different types of goods are being stored such as raw materials, packing materials, spare parts and components, finished goods linked to agriculture, manufacturing and production. Under warehouse automation, all the works relating to storage, retrieving and moving inventory is carried out with the help of automated systems. Thereby, cutting short labor requirement and expenses.Browse more details @Table of Content1. Executive Summary2. Introduction2.1 Warehouse: An Overview2.2 Warehouse Automation: An Overview2.3 Levels of Warehouse Automation2.4 Warehouse Automation: Order Fulfillment Process2.5 Global Warehouse Automation Market Segments2.6 Automated Storage and Retrieval System: An Overview2.7 Automated Storage and Retrieval System Market Segments3. Global Market Analysis3.1 Global Automation Market: An Analysis3.1.1 Global Automation market by Segments3.2 Global Warehouse Automation Market: An Analysis3.2.1 Global Warehouse Automation Market by Value3.2.2 Global Warehouse Automation Market by Top 20 Players3.2.3 Global Warehouse Automation Market by Level3.2.4 North America Warehouse Automation Market by Penetration3.2.5 Global Warehouse Automation Market by Segments3.3 Global ASRS Market Analysis3.3.1 Global ASRS Market by Value3.3.2 Global ASRS Market by Segments3.3.3 Global Unit Load ASRS Market by Value3.3.4 Global Mini Load ASRS Market by Value3.3.5 Global Vertical Lift Module ASRS Market by ValueAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's 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. ResearchMoz's 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.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 05:55:59|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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DAMASCUS, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Dozens of people were killed Saturday when a car bomb ripped through a group of refugees on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River in eastern Syria, a monitor group reported.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said several explosions rocked the area between the Conoco gas field and the Jafra energy plants in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour.

It added that many people have fled toward the desert region following the explosions carried out by the Islamic State (IS) group.

The areas on the eastern bank of Euphrates River are largely controlled by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, who are advancing in that area against IS.

It wasn't the first time IS militants targeted that area. Last month, 18 people were killed when IS carried out similar bombing there, said the observatory.

The SDF has launched an offensive to defeat IS in the northern and northeastern countryside of Deir al-Zour province, which explains the IS suicide attacks.

The IS group is also losing ground to the Syrian army, which captured recently the entire capital city of Deir al-Zour.

Liberating the city is the second major blow to the IS militants, after losing their de facto capital of Raqqa last month to the SDF.
Global Remittance Market: Industry Analysis & Outlook 2015-2020 : Increasing International Migration, Growing Urbanization

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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Global Remittance Market: Industry Analysis & Outlook (2015-2020) " to it's Large Report database.The remittance industry contributes to the economic growth of the countries participating in the practice as well as to the livelihood of the individuals involved. The remittance system is comprised of the Remittance Service Providers (RSP), Remittance Corridors, the Remittance Network and the Money transfer system. Remittance Services are divided primarily on the basis of ways a network of access points is created and linked. There are broadly four categories: unilateral services, franchised services, negotiated services and open services.The key factors driving the growth of remittance market are increasing international migration, growing urbanization, accelerating economic growth and rising employment opportunities. A noteworthy trend of this industry is cost by sending and receiving method, unstable remittance cost, increased access to financial services, changing technology landscape for payments, more convenience and lesser costs, advancement in technology, and maturing of immigrant communities. However, the expansion of the market is hindered by de-risking is threatening the industry and access points establishment.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:The report Global Remittance Market provides an in-depth analysis of the global remittance market, along with a study of top remittance receiving and contributing countries. The report also includes detailed description of regional markets. The major trends, growth drivers as well as issues being faced by the industry are being presented in this report. The industry comprises few large players such as MoneyGram International Inc., Western Union Company and Euronet Worldwide Inc. All these companies have been profiled in the present report highlighting their key financials and business strategies for growth.Table of Content1. Remittance Market - An Overview1.1 An Introduction1.2 Types of Remittance Services1.3 Remittance Marketplace1.4 Remittance Market Value ChainBrowse more details @2. Global Remittance Market Analysis2.1 Global Remittance Inflow2.2 Global Average Remittance Cost by Region2.3 Global Average Cost by Remittance Service Provider3. Regional Market Analysis3.1 Remittance Market by Income Characteristics3.1.1 Low and Middle Income Countries3.2 Remittances Market by Region3.2.1 East Asia and Pacific Region3.2.2 Europe and Central Asia Region3.2.3 Latin America and Caribbean Region3.2.4 Middle East and North Africa Region3.2.5 South Asia Region3.2.6 Sub Saharan Africa Region3.3 Remittances Market by Largest Receiving Countries3.3.1 India3.3.2 China3.3.3 Philippines3.3.4 Mexico3.4 Remittances Market by Largest Contributing Countries3.4.1 The US3.4.2 Saudi Arabia3.4.3 Switzerland4. Market Dynamics4.1 Growth Drivers4.1.1 Increasing International Migration4.1.2 Growing Urbanization4.1.3 Accelerating Economic Growth4.1.4 Rising Employment OpportunitiesAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's 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. ResearchMoz's 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.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
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Horror comedy isnt a novelty act, but Tyler MacIntyres Tragedy Girls sure treats it like one. Maybe blame Ryan Murphy: Back in 2014, he tried to take credit for inventing the term while doing press for Scream Queens, blithely mashing words together as though Abbott and Costello had never met Frankenstein. Now, horror-comedy is less about harmony between jokes and jugular spray than about winking at your audience, nudging them until theyre bruised on their sides, and going out of your way to let everyone know that youre hip to horrors antecedents. (Lets blame Scream for that, too, but Scream at least was watchable.)

Tragedy Girls is a movie in that eagerly referential vein, name-dropping greats like Dario Argento both for the sake of street cred and dad-level humor: Kayla (Alexandra Shipp) butchers his name as casually as she butchers her classmates, not once but twice in a row, when confronted by Jordan (Jack Quaid), the clean-cut nice guy crushing on her BFF, Sadie (Brianna Hildebrand). Dario DiGiorno. Dario Arpeggio. Mario Wario. Jordan just wants to give Sadie an alibi to keep his sheriff father (Timothy V. Murphy) off her case after the latest bloody murder at their high school. Kayla, in an exchange that perfectly exemplifies Tragedy Girls surface level interest in the movies it purports to be about, doesnt care. Byesies!

Jordan, of course, is unaware that Kayla and Sadie are the people responsible for the murdering; he just wants to protect Sadie from unfair (but actually totally fair) suspicion. She and Kayla run a joint Instagram feed, @TragedyGirls, where they speculate on local-area killings committed by the town maniac, Lowell (Kevin Durand), your prototypical hulking masked maniac. Truthfully, its all a front for their own obsession with serial killing, which they hope to make into a side gig as a means of attaining popularity. To achieve their ends, they kidnap Lowell in a frankly idiotic attempt at convincing him to mentor them. Hilarious gore ensues, assuming your idea of hilarity consists of watching narcissistic teens hack up considerably more likable, or at least inoffensive, characters.

The film works best when Kayla and Sadie mess up. They dont really know what theyre doing, hence Lowell, and their ignorance in the ways of savage but stealthy murderin leads to botched kills. People die, for sure, but Final Destination-style. One girl somehow ends up upside down, suspended by her ankle from a chain that swings her face-first into a live table saw. Ouch, and also ick. The better the girls get at intentionally offing people, though, the more noxious that Tragedy Girls becomes. Their victims never quite hit the threshold necessary to make us wish for their deaths, for one thing, and for another, Kayla and Sadie represent the me-focused moment were living in. Like Matt Spicers Ingrid Goes West, Tragedy Girls is about the addictive, self-oriented evils of social media, but filtered through a slasher lens. Look at what the quest for Internet fame turns these people into, the film tells us. Look at how gosh darn egomaniacal they are! Also, murder-happy.

Not that MacIntyre doesnt have a point, but heres a counterpoint: Who cares? Nobody needs a movie like Tragedy Girls to remind them of the self-absorbing component of Instagram, or to make themselves feel like theyre better than social network junkies. The films cute, zingy, candy-coated tone is seductive enough, and both Hildebrand and Shipp are compelling in their roles. You will, in short, be entertained. But if Tragedy Girls subject matter is odious, its tacit, but perhaps accidental, endorsement of the very thing it means to send up is jaw-dropping. The core of the movie is Sadies friendship with Kayla, which pre-dates the events of MacIntyres narrative by years. Theyve been pals since childhood. Now, as emerging adults, that bond is put to the test by their joint fixation on being showered with online and in-person attention.

But asking the audience to respect the tug of war MacIntyre plays with their platonic love for each other is a big ask. Theyre monsters. Its not like horror movies have never asked us to feel sympathy for monsters, either, but Kayla and Sadie are self-made monsters, the worst kind, the kind that youre hard-pressed to feel anything but revulsion for. Theres a version of this movie that validates our disgust. It just isnt the version MacIntyre made.

Theres a moment in the second act when Kayla and Sadie are given a tongue-lashing by their teacher, Mrs. Kent (Nicky Whelan) over their general apathy. She calls them sociopaths. She calls them shallow. She accuses them of feeding off of misery like parasites. For a second, Tragedy Girls looks like its going somewhere meaningful, but it ends up staying on the same course it started. Maybe Mrs. Kent should have spoken right to the camera. Its 2017: We dont need movies to reward sociopathic parasites or homegrown mass murderers. We certainly dont need them to try to pass them off as relatably human.

Director: Tyler MacIntyre

Writer: Tyler MacIntyre, Chris Lee Hill

Starring: Alexandra Shipp, Brianna Hildebrand, Jack Quaid, Kevin Durand, Timothy V. Murphy, Nicky Whelan, Craig Robinson, Josh Hutcherson

Release Date: October 20, 2017 (NY, LA); November 3, 2017 (Boston)

Boston-based pop culture critic Andy Crump has been writing about film and television online since 2009, and has been contributing to Paste since 2013. He also writes words for The Playlist, WBURs The ARTery, Slant, The Hollywood Reporter, Polygon, Thrillist, and Birth. Movies. Death., and is a member of the Online Film Critics Society and the Boston Online Film Critics Association. You can follow him on Twitter and find his collected writing at his personal blog. He is composed of roughly 65% craft beer.
Only two gold bracelets remain to be awarded at the 2017 World Series of Poker at the King's Casino in Rozvadov after Albert Hoekendijk emerged victorious in Event #8: 1,111 Little One for One Drop No-Limit Hold'em, defeating Thomas Hofmann after a hard-fought heads-up duel of almost three hours. Hofmann would have been only the second player from Switzerland to lift the coveted bracelet for a winner shot, but instead if was Hoekendijk who walked away with the first-place payout of 170,764.

Before the final day of the 1,111 Little One for One Drop and Day 2 of Event #10: 111,111 High Roller for One Drop got underway, the 1 Million buyin BIG ONE FOR ONE DROP was confirmed to return in 2018 in Las Vegas, starting July 15, and King's Casino owner Leon Tsoukernik was the first player to put down his deposit to become the 1st official entrant for the event.

Hoekendijk became the fifth WSOP bracelet winner in Dutch poker history, after Rob Hollink, Marc Naalden, Marcel Vonk and Vincent van der Fluit. "All old geezers, including me," Hoekendijk said with a thunderous laugh.

About the length of the heads-up, which clocked in at nearly three hours, Hoekendijk said. "Now I feel happy. He started the heads-up with a chip lead and I was tired. But more and more, I got the feeling that I wanted to win it. We had a nice heads-up and I'm very happy with the result."

"I had no hands, for two hours! interfered Hofmann, who was listening as Hoekendijk was being interviewed. Both shared a laugh about it. "It was very nice. I was glad I was heads-up with him."

Key hand at the final table was Hand #77 in which Hoekendijk called start-of-the-day chipleader Abdelhakim Zoufri with just a pair of aces on an ace-queen-queen-king-ten board. Hoekendijk moved up to second place after the hand, while Zoufri was never able to recover and eventually bowed out in fourth place.

Asked about the call, Hoekendijk said: "I had the ace in the big blind and I just called his raise. I figured he didn't suspect me to have an ace. And.. well, to be honest, it just felt right. Maybe it's not the best call in the world, but it felt right at the time."

When asked about the money and the bracelet, Hoekendijk's smile widened. "The money is nice, because I can just play now. I love to play tournaments, especially the Main Events. And when I wake up tomorrow, and I see that bracelet, I know they'll never take it from me. A great feeling!"

Hoekendijk ended the interview with specifically thanking King's Casino in Rozvadov. "I want to especially thank the organization here. It's very good." Hoekendijk said. "It's a very well organized tournament and I really like it here."

The Dutchman and runner-up Hofmann exchanged plenty of banter at the tables and it was yet another close call for the Swiss, who already finished 17th in THE COLOSSUS a few days ago. Hofmann, who works in telecommunication back home in Zurich, has visited the King's Casino for the fourth time and previously won a non-ring Side Event of the WSOP International Circuit in Europe's biggest poker arena. "If I cash for at least 20,000, I told myself to play in the Main Event," Hofmann added and will join the action for Day 1b on Sunday November 5th 2017.

Event #8: 1,111 Little One for One Drop Final Result

Place Winner Country Prize (EUR) 1 Albert Hoekendijk Netherlands 170,764 2 Thomas Hofmann Switzerland 105,532 3 Johannes Toebbe Germany 74,055 4 Abdelhakim Zoufri Netherlands 52,703 5 Oleh Haisiuk Ukraine 38,046 6 Jonas Lauck Germany 27,865 7 Serghei Lisiy Russia 20,710 8 Artan Dedusha United Kingdom 15,623 9 Przemyslaw Klejnowski Poland 11,966

Throughout the two starting days, the event drew a total of 868 entries and prize pool of 866,654, which was split among the top 131 spots. The money bubble burst early on Day 2 and among those to cash but fail to make it to the final day were Allen Kessler (118th, for 1,660), Roland Israelashvili (112th, for 1,660), Besim Hot (99th, for 1,738), Mike Leah (98th, for 1,738), Paul Michaelis (85th, for 1,855), Marcel Luske (81st, for 2,016), Barny Boatman (77th, for 2,016), William Kassouf (75th, for 2,016), Maria Lampropulos (68th, for 2,231), Sebastian Langrock (64th, for 2,231), Michael Eiler (42nd, for 3,362), David Urban (23rd, for 4,812) and Willem de Jong (15th, for 7,351).

Action of the Final Day

Only 11 hopefuls returned in the hopes of joining the WSOP champion's club and it was Stanislav Koleno who missed out on the unofficial final table. After just having doubled up his short stack, the Slovakian three-bet shoved with ace-ten into the pocket kings of Albert Hoekendijk and had to settle for 9,306.

Vlado Banicevic also fell to the Dutchman when his jack-ten suited was no good against Hoekendijk's ace-king and that vaulted the Dutchman into a top three stack. Hoekendijk was also involved in the third casualty of the day and knocked out Przemyslaw Klejnowski in 9th place in a three-way pot with king-queen versus pocket fives and the ace-king of Oleh Haisiuk.

Artan Dedusha started the final day among the chip leaders but lost most of his stack against a straight. Right after the Brit moved all in with queen-jack and Johannes Toebbe isolated successfully with ace-king, then dodged the two live cards and straight draw of Dedusha. After the very next hand there were only six players left as Serghei Lisiy stood no chance with ace-eight versus ace-king.

The other two short stacks would bow out in quick succession as Jonas Lauck with seven-six suited against the pocket deuces of Thomas Hofmann and Oleh Haisiuk with ace-five against the pocket sevens of Johannes Toebbe failed to improve. Four-handed play lasted for quite some time and start-of-the-day chip leader Abdelhakim Zoufri was left short after the aforementioned failed bluff attempt against Hoekendijk. He eventually got it in with ace-three versus pocket tens and Hofmann turned a full house to leave Zoufri drawing dead.

Only three hands later it was all over for Johannes Toebbe. The German came back from a break as far shortest stack and three-bet shoved with ace-three. Hoekendijk called with king-jack suited and spiked a king on the flop right away. Only 99 hands were played on the final table by then, and the battle for the title lasted more than 130 hands thereafter. Ultimately Hofmann was grinded down to ten big blinds, doubled twice before shoving with queen-three into the ace-ten of Hoekendijk. An ace on the flop gave the Dutchman the lock on the hand and Hofmann was officially eliminated after a blank on the turn.

The PokerNews live reporting team will continue to provide all the action from Rozvadov until a WSOP Europe Main Event champion is crowned on Friday November 10th 2017.
Its time to discard Star Trek: The Original Series as the benchmark for the Star Trek canon. Star Trek: Discoverys visual elegance jettisoned any hope for returning to a simpler time where sets were cobbled together out of plywood and plastic, and the story and the characters took center stage. Instead, Discovery finds itself mired in re-imagining characters, settings, technology, and even costuming to the detriment of its own narrative, and its larger connection to the Star Trek universe.

The original Star Trek delivered a lavish version of the future with intricate details across its myriad of ships, consoles, costumes, and aliens; even the Klingons were as complex as their armor. The Klingons of Star Trek: Discovery, however, are symptomatic of the series mistaking convoluted for complex. Even their costuming seems designed more for aesthetics than practical use; art nouveau set pieces akin to museum displays.

This series version of their backstory is equally overwrought: worship of the dead practiced by potential messiah TKuvma (Chris Obi); his untimely death likely indicates the messiah story will continue to play out in future episodes. The narrative hints that this is the moment in which the great houses of Klingon, long estranged and embroiled in civil war, start to coalesce into the enemy known to the Star Trek universe.

Commentator Russell Adam Webb may argue that the Klingons required reinvention because they werent scary enough, but his analysis misses the point: the most threatening Star Trek enemies have always been built on the strength of their intellect, not their size. The early Star Trek episode The Corbomite Maneuver featured a classic military tactics encounter: both sides faking threats before negotiating a friendship. The ships mass may have been threatening, but it was the threat that proved a protective gambit and was managed by an alien half Captain Kirks (William Shatner) size. Klingons are just as threatening in the right situations; this was effectively done in both Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, despite their significantly smaller budgets.

Further, the logic of Star Trek: Discoverys version of the Federation proves only slightly less convoluted than the Klingon Empire. Even the title sequence suggests the showrunners are more enamored with the technology and the visual symbolism of Star Trek than its characters. As in earlier series in the franchise, a well-drafted Star Ship moves purposefully through symbols of the show; unlike the sequences of both the original series and Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Discoverys opening sequence reflects the overthought and inward-focused experience of the first two episodes. The earlier openings managed to offer unbounded awe; Discoverys title sequence merely suggests an overly curated reverence.

Indeed, from a continuity standpoint, Star Trek: Discovery makes too many homages to its forebears without any intention of staying within the narrative and visual confines of those shows. Star Trek: Enterprise adorned its crew in functional jumpsuits that resembled current navel uniforms. Star Trek: Discovery, positioned in the canon ten years before the original series, favors decked-out, constraining uniforms; more practical than Klingon armor, but still far from functional. Worse, the suggested appearance of tribbles in later episodes undermines the established continuity dating back to the original series.

For all its homages, this lack of continuity with the franchise seems endemic. The first episode features an undetectable holographic communications device; while this device has existed in the series universe from its inception, it doesnt actually appear in Star Trek until the fifth season of Deep Space Nine. Nor is Star Trek: Discovery particularly reverent to its own internal continuity: this same device creates a major plot hole in the first episode when Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) seeks advice from her mentor, and Spocks father, Sarek (James Frain). When she shares her knowledge about Klingon encounters with Captain Phillipa Georgiou (Michelle Yeoh) she fails to reveal the source of the information, despite Georgious familiarity with the Sarek/Burnham relationship. Falling into the trope of the idiot plot (that is, a twist that only works if all involved behave like idiots), the reliance on Burnham reticence in revealing her source seems to be the main reason why the mutiny at the center of Discoverys first episodes occurred.





Most importantly, despite the coolness of items such as the holographic communications device, Star Trek was never about its gadgets. The gadgets simply added technological exposition and credible visual evidence of a world unlike our own. Further, the best episodes transported audiences into a future with new rules, including better behavioral expectations that seem prerequisites to human exploration of the vastness of space. Indeed, Star Trek excels at episodic morality plays, frequently inspired by biblical or Shakespearian sources. Episode such as City on the Edge of Forever, The Balance of Terror, The Trouble with Tribbles, and Space Seed would play just as well on stage, complete with trap doors and curtains and abstract sets; theyre good, suspenseful stories built on a tractable plot with human characters either in clear jeopardy or delighting in frivolity. Its well-drawn stories and characters that create entertaining science fiction, not bigger sets, fancier uniforms, and more elaborate aliens.

In other words, its not the technology but the story that matters; sadly, Discoverys story thus far isnt a Star Trek story. Its difficult to find Gene Roddenberrys vision of the future in these first two episodes. The egalitarian United Federation of Planets ship continues to be run by multiple species and humans with cyborg-like implants, but its aspirational future, in which humankind made peace with itself and created social constructs at least attempted to partner with our higher angels, fades against the glint of steel, the war posturing, and the numerous lens flares inherited from the Abrams vision of Star Trek aesthetics. The anti-inclusionary sentiment expressed by Discoverys Klingons also descends from the Abrams universe of Star Trek Beyond, in which the Federations diversity was described as a weakness.

Perhaps Star Treks ideas may be too advanced for those seeking again to mire humanity in city-states, racial divides, and misogyny. Putting our own broken systems into space may well make for an artful form of reflection, but it doesnt align with Star Treks higher expectations for the human race.

Despite these significant limitations, if Discovery had been the first Star Trek series, it would certainly be heralded as breakthrough television. The special effects, the dazzling details of space-faring species so different from our own, the multi-racial, multi-species command of starships (albeit an Earth-centric, human-centric command structure at the upper levels), the elaborate costumes, and the thoughtful dialogue might be called spectacular.

Yet, while the series large budget offers dazzling production values, it forgets it doesnt exist in its own universe. Star Trek: Discovery flies far afield the original, and while the technological innovations now afford television producers near parity with their big screen siblings, they should be employed only in service of story, not simply because they can be employed. Further, it cant just be a good story; it has to be a good Star Trek story. The essential question for Star Trek: Discovery shouldnt have been how it looks, but what it means.

Its possible the showrunners asked themselves this question; perhaps I just disagree with their answers. Star Trek: Discovery isnt the Star Trek we need right now; that is, a Star Trek focused on inspiration and discovery. Discovery focuses instead on war, offering a mirror of contemporary culture instead of a telescope to a better future.

In that respect, the true inheritor of Star Trek isnt Discovery; its Foxs The Orville. Seth McFarlands joke-laden, Trek-inspired series may often fall flat on its humor, but not on its heart. McFarland understood what Roddenberry was trying to do, and found it inspiring enough to produce his own take on that shared vision. The Orville may too earnestly borrow from its inspiration at times, but unlike Star Trek: Discovery, its heart is in the right place.

The latest movies, as well as Star Trek: Discovery, all suffer from a simple reality: Star Trek has become a huge windfall for its various owners, allowing them to fund ever more elaborate adventures. The original series and those that followed didnt have the time or money to overthink themselves; they had to create a viable visual fiction every week on a budget equivalent to a few seconds of a contemporary commercial. If hed had the money and technology available to Star Trek: Discovery, Roddenberry might have made the same mistakes. I, for one, am glad he didnt.
Future Market Insights has announced the addition of the Key Opinion Leader Management Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2015-2025" report to their offering.

Air Pressure Sensor Market

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Increase in demand for reliable sensors, low cost along with high performance feature is anticipated to fuel the growth of global air pressure sensor market.Air pressure sensor is a measuring converter of the pressure of a gas or liquid into pneumatic, electric, and other kinds of output signal. It is also used for measuring pressure drops and rarefaction. The demand for air pressure sensors market is rapidly increasing as they are widely used across various applications such as petrochemicals, building, shipbuilding, aircraft, and medical sector, among many others. In building, medical and automotive sector, MEMS-based pressure sensors (technology) are widely used. Additionally, on account of industry shift from analog to digital, air pressure sensors have become smarter in terms of sensing and efficiency performance. Advancements in ICT technology as well as Nanotechnology applications are emerging as new trends for the global air pressure sensor market.Air Pressure Sensor Market: Drivers & RestraintsImproved sensitivity in pressure sensors has strongly contributed to the demand of the global air pressure sensor market. Fast growth in Asia-Pacific region, increasing governmental regulation and vehicle production are the key factors driving the growth in the global air pressure sensor market. Advancement in technology is opening new doors to the growth of pressure sensors for medical and automotive applications. In coming years, it is anticipated that penetration of MEMS technology is going to lead the overall global air pressure sensor market. However, higher cost of the investment for production, could act as a major restraint in the global air pressure sensor market.Request For Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-600 Air Pressure Sensor Market: SegmentationOn the basis of technology, the global air pressure sensor market is segmented as:ElectromagneticCapacitivePiezoresistiveOpticalOthers (Resonant solid-state)On the basis of applications the global air pressure sensor market is segmented as:Automotive Pressure SensorsMedical SectorIndustrial SectorConsumer ElectronicsOthers (Refineries, Chemical plant, Pulp & paper, etc)Air Pressure Sensor Market: Region-wise OutlookThe global air pressure sensor market is expected to register a favourable growth for the forecast period, 2015?2025. On the basis of region, Asia Pacific, Japan and Latin America are expected to be the growth engines of air pressure sensor market in the near future. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to dominate the global air pressure sensor market. The key countries mentioned in the Asia-Pacific region are India, South Korea, and China as an outcome of growth in application sectors. Also, the region is expected to generate higher revenue as compared to North America (is practically maturing). Japan also contributes to the global air pressure sensor market remarkably. In Latin America, Brazil is expected to be the largest opportunity in terms of revenue of the air pressure sensor market. The remaining regions are expected to grow at a steady rate over the forecast period.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-600 Air Pressure Sensor Market: Key PlayersSome of the key market participants in global air pressure sensor market are ABB Ltd., Analog Devices, Inc., Analog Devices, Inc., Analog Devices, Inc., Emerson Electric, General Electric, Freescale Semiconductor, Honeywell International, Robert Bosch GmbH and others.
Allergy Treatment Market - (Allergy type: Food Allergy, Inhaled Allergy, and Drug Allergy; Treatment - Anti-allergy Drugs (Antihistamines, Corticosteroids, and Leukotriene Inhibitors) and Immunotherapy (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT), Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)); Distribution Channel - Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies & Drug Stores, and Online Pharmacies) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2025

Allergy Treatment Market

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As per the projections of the TMR report, the global allergy treatment market will be worth US$41.17 bn by the end of 2025, incrementing the demand at a healthy CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, adding significantly to its evaluated valuation of US$25.50 bn in 2016. The report notes the presence of quite a few local and regional players, while naming some of other prominent players such as Allergan, HAL Allergy Group, Meda Pharmaceuticals Inc., Allergy Therapeutics, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Allergon AB, and Teva Pharmaceutical. In the near future, the report expects increased focus on high safety and efficacy drugs for the treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis by these leading companies in order to gain advantage over their competitors.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/allergy-treatment-market.html Presence of high unmet medical needs in various emerging economies, existence of novel molecules in pipeline, increasing prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma, growing consumption of tobacco, which is the primary cause of lung cancer, and upsurge of allergies as a result of environmental pollution are some of the key factors driving the demand in the global allergy treatment market. Owing to the prevalence of tobacco-caused allergic diseases, various governments across the globe have incremented their efforts to impart awareness and are offering opportunities for the vendors of this market to serve to the masses.On the other hand, increased preference of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM), poor patient adherence and high dropout rates, lack of healthcare infrastructure in various potential countries, and high cost of allergic immunotherapy are some of the factors hindering the allergy treatment market from attaining its true potential. Nevertheless, the companies operating in the global allergy treatment market are expected to gain from a few emerging trends such as sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), advent of SPIRE, identification of new allergen targets, and strategic alliances between prominent and promising players for novel drug development.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=11357 Out of five regions analyzed by this report for their potential for allergy treatment market, viz. North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and The Middle East and Africa, North America accounted for the maximum demand in 2016, in terms of value. A number of pharmaceutical companies in this region are focused on the development of new and advanced allergy treatment, such as SLIT. Prevalence of various types of allergies in this region, robust healthcare infrastructure in developed countries such as the U.S. and Canada, government support for R&D activities, and flourishing life science market are some of the key factors driving the allergy treatment market in the region of North America. As per the estimation of the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, nearly 27.2 million people in the country of the U.S. suffered from allergic rhinitis in 2015, whereas about 26 million people had asthma. This substantial demand is the expected to maintain North America are most lucrative region for the stockholders of the global allergy treatment market.ALK-Abello A/S, GlaxoSmithKline plc., and Stallergenes Greer are three prominent companies currently accounting for the maximum share in the global allergy treatment market, dominating via their impressive product portfolio and widespread geographical outreach. Some of the other prominent players operating in the global allergy treatment market are Meda Pharmaceuticals Inc., Allergy Therapeutics, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Allergon AB, Allergan, HAL Allergy Group, and Teva Pharmaceutical.Buy Full Allergy Treatment Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=11357<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Treatment Market report categorize the global market by Treatment Type (Augmentation Therapy, Bronchodilators, Corticosteroids, and Oxygen Therapy), End User (Hospitals, Specialty Clinics and Pharmacies) & Geography

Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Treatment Market

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As per the projections of the TMR report, the demand in the global alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency treatment market will augment at formidable CAGR of 10.3% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, estimated to reach a valuation of US$2,908.1 mn by the end of 2025, remarkably up from its evaluated worth of US$1,224.5 mn in 2016. In the near future, a number of new biotechnology companies are expected to have a foray in the alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency treatment market, developing novel treatment processes, personalized medicines for genetically inherited disorders, and invest on the research and development of stem cell based therapeutics.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/alpha-1-antitrypsin-deficiency-treatment-market.html Prevalence of respiratory disease worldwide, recent advancements in the diagnosis of apha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, increased government support in several emerging economies for the improvement of healthcare facilities, high unmet demands in both developed and developing regions, and novel product opportunities are some of the key factors driving the demand in the global apha-1 antitrypsin deficiency treatment market.As per estimation of the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS), more than 200 million people are affected by COPD, which is emerging as the fourth leading cause of death across the world by 2030. On the other hand, asthma is detected in about 235 million people globally. With technological improvements, production and purification processes of alpha-1 antitrypsin are now much safer and free from virus, protein, and other contaminants. This has increased clinician preference for usage of plasma products. This in turn is expected to boost demand for plasma-derived products such as alpha-1 antitrypsin and IVIG.According to the Alpha-1 Foundation, up to 3% of all people who are diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may have undetected alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. As a result, AlphaKit QuickScreen has been developed by Grifols, a diagnostic kit that aids in quick identification of the mutated Z gene.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=13214 Out of the five regions that this report breaks the market for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency treatment into, viz. North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, The Middle East and Africa, and Latin America, North America served the maximum demand in 2016, although the share of the demand is likely to slightly decrease towards the end of the forecast period. High prevalence of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency among the population of developed countries of the U.S. and Canada, escalting diagnosis rates, high plasma yield, and high per capita health care expenditure are some of the key factors resulting the strong demand from North America. On the other hand, Europe, which is second most lucrative region for the vendors operating in the global alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency market, is projected for the best CAGR among all the regions, showcasing the increasing awareness regarding alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and high prevalence.Some of the key companies currently competing in the global alpha-1 antitrypsin treatment market are Pfizer Inc., Baxter, AstraZeneca, Grifols S.A., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Kamada Ltd., GlaxoSmithKline Plc., CSL Behring LLC, Shire plc, LFB Biomedicaments S.A., Abeona Therapeutics, Biogen, Applied Genetic Technologies Corp, Baxalta, Arrowhead Research Corporation, ProBioGen, Chiesi Pharmaceuticals, Curaxys, and ProMetic Life Sciences. The landscape of the competition in the global AATD market is largely fragmented, marked by frequent mergers and acquisitions by the leading vendors to maintain their position.Buy Full Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Treatment Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=13214<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
Alzheimers Drugs Market report categorize the global market by Drug class (Cholinergic, Memantine, and Combined Drug) Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy and Online Sales) & Geography

Alzheimers Drugs Market

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According to Transparency Market Research (TMR), the global Alzheimers drugs market is expected to exhibit a consistent 7.5% CAGR in the 2017-2025 forecast period. The markets revenue was valued at more than US$3.6 bn in 2017 and is expected to rise to US$6.4 bn by 2025. The prime driver for the global Alzheimers drugs market is the rising prevalence of the disease in developed Western countries. Several neurodegenerative diseases have risen in prevalence in countries such as the U.S. in recent years, leading to steady government support for drug development. This has resulted in a highly conducive atmosphere for the Alzheimers drugs market in North America, leading to steady growth of the market in countries such as the U.S.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/alzheimers-drugs-market.html The rising awareness about neurodegenerative diseases in developing regions such as Asia Pacific is likely to be a key contributor to the global Alzheimers drugs market in the coming years. In several countries in Southeast Asia, awareness about Alzheimers disease remains limited, which has resulted in unstable healthcare systems and unsupportive research infrastructure. The high prices of advanced Alzheimers drugs have also held back the Alzheimers drugs market in underdeveloped countries in Asia Pacific. The growing support for mental care infrastructure from governments in several developing Asia Pacific countries is thus likely to drive the Alzheimers drugs market in the region in the coming years.By drug class, the global Alzheimers drugs market is segmented into cholinergic, memantine, combined drugs, and others. Of these, memantine is likely to remain the leading contributor to the global Alzheimers drugs market in the coming years, due primarily to the paucity of effective drug classes in several developing regions. Combined drug treatment is also likely to remain a key contributor to the global Alzheimers drugs market in the coming years due to the growing recognition of its efficacy and rising availability in developed countries.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=1245 Allergan plc and Novartis AG dominated the global Alzheimers drugs market in 2016, their global market presence attributable to acquisitions of leading emerging brands. Other key players in the global Alzheimers drugs market include Eisai Co Ltd, H Lundbeck A/S, Daiichi Sankyo Company Limited, Ono Pharmaceutical Co Ltd, Merz Holding GmbH & Co KG, and Johnson & Johnson.The wide scope for the Alzheimers drugs market in emerging regions, due to lack of awareness about the disease in several underdeveloped countries, has made these regions crucial for global Alzheimers drugs market players. However, players located in developed regions such as North America and Europe are likely to lead the global Alzheimers drugs market in the coming years due to the widespread availability of Alzheimers treatment channels in countries such as the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Germany.Buy Full Alzheimers Drugs Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=1245<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
Future Market Insights has announced the addition of the Key Opinion Leader Management Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2015-2025" report to their offering.

Animal Parasiticide Market

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Increasing number of animal welfare programs and government initiatives are driving the market for the global animal parasiticide market. The animal parasiticide, also called, Veterinary parasiticide, are products that kill parasiticide infesting upon pets, livestock, and other animals. All these parasiticide has their own general features that determines their suitability for the control of parasites on animals. People being increasingly being aware about the zoonotic diseases and adoption of pet animals largely by the developed and developing nations have made a way for the global animal parasiticide market.The government has also contributed towards the animal welfare activities that has resulted in the hefty demand for parasiticides which has improved the health of livestock tremendously across the globe and also elevated the global animal parasiticide marketThe market is growing due to the increasing demand for animal health products and the animal owners look out for low cost generics.Request For Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-595 Animal Parasiticide Market: Drivers & RestraintsThe increasing importance of animal health care accompanied by governmental protocols is driving the global animal parasiticide market. The Increased number of animal livestock in the emerging markets, developments in the parasiticide products, upcoming new offerings by the leading players, execution of welfare acts in the developed and developing regions, worldwide increment in the number of adoptions of animals like dogs and cats are some of the growth drivers for the global animal parasiticide market.Along with the increasing awareness, the increasing rate of GDP in the regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America and thereby increasing per capita spending on the animal health care products are also responsible for growth of the market.Apart from significant growth factors there exits some restraints to the market including high cost R&D activities, strict regulations for approval for animal parasiticides and restricting the use of parasiticide in some animals (specifically the food producers) in some regions. The increasing number of species of parasites in are also contributing to the restrains that are preventing the market from growing.Animal Parasiticide Market: SegmentationBy product the global animal parasiticide market is segmented as Endoparasiticides (Additives, Injectable, Drenches, Tablets/Pills, Others), Ectoparasiticides (Collars, and Endectocides. The global animal parasiticide market is also segmented by the animal type which are as Companion Animal (Cat, Dogs, Horses, and Others) and Food Producing Animals (Cattle, Poultry, Sheep and Others).Animal Parasiticide Market: Region-wise OutlookThe global animal parasiticide market is expected to register a favourable growth for the forecast period, 2015?2025. European market is the expected to hold the major share into the market. The increment in the number of pet animals and increased awareness among the people regarding the animal health. North America is expected to follow Europe however the developed markets like US and Canada are reaching saturation which tends to grow the market at a comparatively lower rate. The Asia-Pacific is projected to endure its control in terms of growth in global animal parasiticide market. The market is predominately affected by the increasing trend towards pet adoption. In terms of growth Latin American regions also represent a higher growth opportunity. APAC and Latin America is in the higher growth expectations due to the increasing GDP rate and per capita expenditure on the animal health.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-595 Animal Parasiticide Market: Key PlayersThe key market competitors in global animal parasiticide market are Zoetis, Inc, Bayer AG, Novartis AG, Eli Lilly and Company, Merck & Co., Inc., Ceva Sante Animlae, Boehringer Ingelheim, Virbac SA, and Vetoquinol.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 07:01:08|Editor: Jiaxin

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's Supreme Electoral Court (TSE) is looking to create a task force to investigate and combat fake news, as 2018 presidential elections loom, local media reported on Saturday.

According to the daily Folha de Sao Paulo, the electoral body is concerned about the possible impact that fake news generators could have on the elections.

Last week, Defense Minister Raul Jungmann said the army's communications and digital warfare command (CCOMGEX) could help weed out fake news spread through social networks.

The TSE said it was considering setting up "working groups to study security measures to be adopted to guarantee the electorate's freedom to vote."

To that end, the TSE said it would reach an "agreement with the Defense Ministry's technology department," which oversees the CCOMGEX.
Blood Transfusion Diagnostics Market report categorizes the global market by Product Type (Kits & Reagents and Instruments), Application (Blood Grouping and Disease Screening), Distribution Channel (Hospitals, Diagnostic Laboratories, and Blood Banks) & Geography

Blood Transfusion Diagnostics Market

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As per the estimations of the TMR report, the demand in the global blood transfusion diagnostics market will increment at a healthy CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, reaching a valuation of US$6.0 bn by the end of 2025, significantly up from its evaluated worth of US$3.3 bn in 2016. As far as recent market developments is concerned, Abbott Laboratories and St. Jude Medical, Inc., announced definitive agreement for Abbott to acquire St. Jude Medical, creasing a premier medical device leader with top positions and high growth worldwide. BAG Health Care GmbH launched a new BAGene kid and a new BAGene format to improve the results of its existing product BAGene SSP kit.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/blood-transfusion-market.html Increasing number of blood transfusion procedures is the key factor augmenting the demand in the global blood transfusion diagnostics market. According to the American National Red Cross, approximately 21 million blood components are transferred in the U.S. each year. Over 90,000 people are affected by sickle cell disease in the U.S. and blood transfusion is a frequent process in sickle cell patients. In addition to that, the World Health Organization estimates that around 16 countries across the world have inadequate facilities for screening donated blood for one or more infections. This shortage is attributed to the irregular supply of test kits. Rapid technological advancement and automation in blood processing equipment, which can reduce the contamination risk associated with the collection and handling procedures, shortage of blood transfusion infrastructure in developing countries, increasing government awareness programs and incentives for blood transfusion and donation, and the development of the WHO recommended national blood policy.On the other hand, low blood donation rate and stringent regulation related to safe blood transfusion are a few hindrances faced by the global blood transfusion diagnostics market. The report observes that although blood donation is a remarkably safe medical procedure, lack of knowledge and beliefs obstructs potential blood donors from obliging. In addition to that, high investment and steep operational costs restrain emerging economies such as Brazil, India, China, and Indonesia from adopting new blood processing technologies. That being said, persistent awareness programs by various health organizations and government agencies is expected to somewhat overcome this restraint over the course of the forecast period.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=23963 North America held majority share of 43.1% of the global blood transfusion diagnostics market in 2016, followed by Europe at roundabout quarter of the overall demand. North America is expected to continue its dominance in the market during the forecast period, gaining traction from factors such as rapid rise in the number of cardiac surgical patients and introduction of innovative semi and full automated blood transfusion platforms. Cardiac surgical patients are the major consumers of blood banks. An estimated 20% of all the blood transfusion in North America is associated with cardiac surgical procedures. On the other hand, emerging countries in Asia Pacific, such as China, India, and South Korea, are expected to witness strong growth from 2017 to 2025. This is attributed to high investments made by the major players in the region and growing awareness about transfer of disease during blood transfusion in these countries.Some of the prominent companies participating in the global blood transfusion diagnostics market are Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc., Immucor Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. Abbott Laboratories, BAG Health Care GmbH, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Quotient, Ltd., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., DiaSorin S.p.A., Hologic, Inc., and Grifols, S.A.Buy Full Blood Transfusion Diagnostics Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=23963<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatments Market report categorizes the global market by Product Type (Primary, Secondary), Diagnosis Type (CT Scan, MRI, PET-CT Scan, Molecular Testing, and EEG), Treatment Type (Surgery, Radiation Therapy, Targeted Therapy, Chemotherapy, and Immunotherapy) Geography

Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatments Market

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The TMR report projects the demand in the global brain tumor diagnosis to increment at a healthy CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, estimating it to be worth US$840.7 mn by 2025, mounting substantially from its evaluated valuation of US$406.0 mn in 2016. As far as the strategies of market leaders is concerned, the report expects investments in research and development of new products, geographical expansion, mergers and acquisitions, aggressive pricing, and collaborations to be at a forefront. The launch of new Vantage Galan 3T MR scan by Toshiba Corporation in November 2016 is a one such example of innovative product introduction. This product, which finds application in neurological cancer diagnosis, offers advanced imaging technique via improved high-quality imaging.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/brain-tumor-treatment-market.html Increasing prevalence of brain cancer, innovations in drug delivery to brain cancer cells, and expanding market for the treatment of brain cancer associated symptoms are some of the key factors augmenting the demand in the global brain tumor diagnosis and treatments market. In addition to these factors, the healthcare sector is witnessing increasing public-private partnerships (PPPs), which is advancing the diagnostic imaging and radiology services. The advent of technologies such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Sodium Magnetic Resonance Imaging (23Na MRI), and Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) are now frequently employed to detect the response of brain tumors in multicenter clinical trial settings.The TMR report notes that these technologies can potentially extend MRI beyond anatomical imaging by enabling information on physiology and cellular metabolism. These advancements altogether will increase the efficiency of diagnosis, and thereby aid to the market expansion during the forecast period. Furthermore, ongoing research in molecular diagnostics to identify gene mutations associated with malignancy and understand the cell biology at cellular level of malignancy will also favor the growth of the market for brain tumor diagnosis and treatments.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=25247 In 2016, North America accounted for the most prominent share of the demand for brain tumor diagnosis and treatments. The U.S. dominated the brain tumor diagnosis and treatments market in North America, serving about 89.3% share in of North America market in 2016. This dominance is essentially due to the factors such as large number of people diagnosed with brain tumor, extensive research and development activities, technological advancements, and increasing healthcare awareness about the treatment and management of brain tumor are driving market growth. On the other hand, Europe is projected for the best CAGR among all regions during the forecast period, gaining substantial demand from the countries of Germany and The U.K. Rising prevalence of brain tumors disease, escalating percentage of geriatrics among the European population, and governments initiative regarding growing awareness of advanced technologies are some of the key factors driving the brain tumor diagnosis and treatments market in Europe.Pfizer, Inc., Toshiba Medical Systems, GE Healthcare, AstraZeneca, Merck & Co., Inc., Siemens Healthineers, Carestream Health, Hitachi Medical Corporation, Philips Healthcare, and Shimadzu Corporation are some of the key companies currently operating in the global brain tumor diagnosis and treatments market.Buy Full Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatments Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=25247<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
Future Market Insights has announced the addition of the Key Opinion Leader Management Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2015-2025" report to their offering.

Chlorine Market

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Chlorine is known as a very important industrial chemical and is used in half of the world's commercial chemical industries. Chlorine is a greenish yellow gas and is characterized by reactive nature and high expansion potential. This element turns into solid at -103C (-153F) and into liquid at -34C (-29F). Chlorine market is expected to see a surge in demand due to increasing applications such as bleaching of wood pulp during paper productions.As reported by the World Chlorine Council (WCC), around 60 million metric tons of chlorine is produced every year across the world.Chlorine Market: Drivers & RestraintsThe demand for global chlorine market is projected to show significant growth during the forecast period 2015-2020 owing to its usage in several industries such as paper and pulp industry, chemical industry, plastic industry, water treatment industry, pharmaceutical industry and many other.Furthermore, 98% of water treatment plants and 85% of pharmaceutical industries in the world use chlorine in production processes. Hence, increase of water treatment and pharmaceutical industries all over the world and their demand for chlorine, anticipated to boost the global chlorine market during the forecast period.Request For Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-591 Nevertheless, the risk of handling and transporting chlorine due its highly combustive nature is an obstacle for global chlorine market. In Addition, rising environmental concerns such as depletion of the upper atmosphere ozone layer from several prominent end uses for chlorine have affected demand for the product.Chlorine Market: SegmentationThe Global Chlorine Market is broadly classified into seven segments on the basis of end use industriesWater Treatment industryPharmaceutical industryChemical IndustryPaper and pulp IndustryPlastic IndustryPesticides industryOthersThe Global Chlorine Market is broadly classified into eight segments on the basis of applicationsEthylene Dichloride (EDC)/Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)Organic chemicalsInorganic chemicalsChlorinated intermediariesC1/C2 AromaticsIsocyanatesPropylene OxideOthersThe Global Chlorine Market is broadly classified into four segments on the basis of production methodsMercury Cell ProcessMembrane Cell ProcessDiaphragm ProcessOthersChlorine Market: Regional OutlookBy geography global chlorine market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, South America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific region is expected to be the fastest growing market due to increasing plastic and chemical industries in emergingeconomies such as China and India, in this region. After Asia Pacific, Western Europe region is anticipated to show significant growth during the forecast period 2015-2020 owing to the pharmaceutical and chemical industry growth in this region and their growing consumption of chlorine. Booming water treatment and plastic industries in North America region are projected to drive the global chlorine market during forecast period.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-591 Chlorine Market: Key PlayersThe key market players operating in Global Chlorine Market are Occidental Petroleum Corporation (U.S.), The Dow Chemical Company (U.S.), Tata Chemicals Limited (India), BASF SE (Germany), Hanwha Chemical Corporation (Korea), Ineos Group Ltd. (U.K.), Tosoh Corporation (Japan), PPG Industries (U.S.), Formosa Plastics Corporation (Taiwan), Olin Corporation (U.S.) and others.
Coagulation Testing Market report categorizes the global market by Product (Instruments, Consumables), Test Type (PT, APTT, TT, and ACT), End User (Hospitals and Clinics & Diagnostic Laboratories) & Geography

Coagulation Testing Market

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According to Transparency Market Research (TMR), the global coagulation testing market was valued at US$1,730.0 Mn in 2016 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.0% from 2017 to 2025, to reach an estimated value of US$3,715.8 Mn in 2025 Quick and accurate testing is important while assuring the coagulation status during emergency medical decisions. In the last few decades, there has been an increase in POC testing to understand coagulation status. The provision of quicker and reliable results and greater user convenience are a few of the advantages of POC testing, which are anticipated to drive the growth of the market during the forecast period. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, which often require coagulation testing at frequent intervals, is also a key driver for the global coagulation testing market. The rising prevalence of deep vein thrombosis in developed countries is thus likely to remain a major driver for the coagulation testing market.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/coagulation-testing-market.html The rising awareness among people toward the diagnosis and testing of their coagulation status and widespread adoption of stringent and compulsory screening of blood in blood banks are the leading drivers projected to propel the growth of the global coagulation testing market, particularly in developed countries, in the coming years.Lack of awareness, high pricing of coagulation testing instruments, and a lack of expertise to carry out testing in developing countries are key threats to the global coagulation testing market, however, increase in the demand for coagulation testing may help ensure fast growth of the global coagulation testing market in the coming years. Furthermore, difficulties in diagnosis of clotting disorders, since most are asymptomatic, are one the major restraining factors for the coagulation testing market.Geographically, North America and Europe are the major regions where revenue is derived from coagulation testing. The U.S., the U.K., and Germany show high adoption rates of coagulation testing instruments such as analyzers, POC testing PT monitors, etc. due to rise in awareness amongst people about the importance of detecting and monitoring their coagulation status, high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, and the availability of a favorable reimbursement scenario. The coagulation testing market is likely to be valued at more than US$1 bn in both North America and Europe by 2025, with the two being valued at US$678.2 mn and US$569.2 mn in 2016, respectively.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=14168 The coagulation testing market in Asia Pacific is said to be at a primary stage. It is anticipated that Asia Pacific will gain significant market share over the forecast period. Some of the key driving forces for coagulation testing market in emerging countries in the region are rising awareness, increasing population, entry of new players focusing on emerging markets, and increase in healthcare funding. The Asia Pacific market for coagulation testing is expected to exhibit a robust 10.8% CAGR over the 2017-2025 forecast period, rising from a 2016 valuation of US$358.1 mn to US$891.8 mn by 2025.Some of the key players in the global coagulation testing market are Alere Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Abbott Laboratories, Siemens Healthineers, SYSMEX CORPORATION, Universal Biosensors, Inc., HemoSonics, LLC, and Helena Laboratories, Inc. Testing with high specificity and accuracy is likely to remain a major factor in the global coagulation testing market.Buy Full Coagulation Testing Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=14168<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
HER2 Antibodies Market report categorizes the global market by Type of Treatment Drugs (Trastuzumab, Lapatinib, Ado-trastuzumab emtansine, Pertuzumab, and Everolimus), End-user & Geography

HER2 Antibodies Market

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As per the projections of the TMR report, the demand in the global HER2 antibodies market will multiply at an impressive CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, achieving an estimated global valuation of US$21,669.1 mn by the end of 2025, substantially up from its evaluated worth of US$10,087.8 mn in 2016. In the near future, new drug development is expected to be based on adjuvant setting, which increases treatment duration in comparison to the neoadjuvant setting. Along the same lines, the launch of Perjeta is anticipated to change the dynamics of the competitive landscape of the global HER2 antibodies market. In addition to that, several major players are expected to expand their geographical reach to meet vast unmet demands as well as increment their market shares.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/her2-antibodies-market.html According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 200 types of cancers, causing 14.1 million new cases each year. Noticing the prevalence of this chronic diseases, a number of pharmaceutical companies have dived in and are investing for research and development of therapeutic drugs. Breast cancer is second most prevalent type of cancer, driven by a number of factors such as obesity, lack of physical exercise, genetic factors, old age, alcohol consumption, early-age menstruation, and pregnancy at late age. A July 2015 article by MediLexicon International Ltd. estimates that breast cancer constitutes 16% of all cancers among females, accounting for 18.2% cancer-related deaths across the world. Another study, by the American Cancer Society, suggests that in 2017, 252,710 women were diagnosed with breast cancer alone in the U.S., with one in five women that were diagnosed were found to be suffering from HER2 positive breast cancer.High incidence rate of breast cancer, escalated number of research and development activities, regulatory support from several cancer associations across the globe, strong pipeline of promising drugs, recent advancements in immunotherapy, and changed lifestyle with incremented intake of alcohol and smoking are some of the key factors augmenting the demand in the global HER2 antibodies market.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=7301 Geographically, the HER2 antibodies market has been bifurcated into the regions of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. In 2016, North America accounted for the most prominent share of 42.7% of the global HER2 antibodies market, followed by Europe with less than a quarter of the global demand. This strong demand from the two regions is attributed to well-established health care infrastructure coupled with awareness of population regarding the treatment of HER2 breast cancer. The market in North America and Europe is expected to dwindle during the forecast period due to maximum top selling brands in these regions will be encountering by their exclusivity and patent expiry.Revenue-wise, U.S. is the most profitable country-wide market for HER2 antibodies in North America while Rest of Europe and Germany market leading the Europe region. Asia Pacific may provide an attractive market for the HER2 antibodies because of increasing per capita income and increasing healthcare facilities and awareness regarding HER2 breast cancer. Besides Asia Pacific, Latin America region too is focusing on increasing the diagnostic rate of cancer and types of cancer, which will be driving the market during forecast period. Governments and non-profit organizations in the region are striving to spread awareness and control the increasing incidence rate of breast cancer. The incidence of cancer in Middle East & Africa is currently lower than that in countries such as the U.S. and the U.K. However, it is expected to rise rapidly compared to other regions in the next decade.Novartis AG, Genentech Inc., Abnova Corporation, Pfizer, Inc., InvivoGen, Biocon Limited, Bio-Techne, and Celltrion, Inc. are some of the key companies currently operating in the global HER2 antibodies market.Buy Full HER2 Antibodies Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=7301<ype=S
Insulin Delivery Devices Market report categorizes the global market by Product Type (Insulin Syringe, Insulin Pens, and Insulin Pumps), Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, Online Sales, and Diabetes Clinics and Centers) & Geography

Insulin Delivery Devices Market

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The TMR report detects that vendors operating in the global insulin delivery devices market are coping up with the intense competition via pricing and the development of devices that differentiates them from their competitors. In the near future, strategic alliances, particularly with mushrooming number of diabetic clinics, aggressive marketing, and providing home services to the patients are expected to help the companies to gain market shares. For example, Medtronic and Sanofi collaborated in June 2014 to develop drug-device combinations for diabetic patients. In this partnership, Medtronic brought its expertise in glucose monitoring and pump therapy while Sanofi are known for their wide-ranging insulin products.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/insulin-delivery-devices-market.html Product-wise, this report segments the global insulin delivery devices market into insulin syringes, insulin pumps, insulin pens, insulin patches, and needle free injection jet. In 2016, the insulin pens segment accounted for 42% of the overall demand, which is a reflection of its preference across vastly populated region of Asia Pacific as well as in the developed region of Europe. The report observes that nearly 90% of the diabetic population prefer using insulin pens in those two regions, unlike leading North American country of the U.S. wherein merely 25% of patients utilize insulin pens. However, the report notes growing usage of insulin pens in the U.S. too, as they offer less pain as compared to traditional syringes.Apart from growing prevalence of diabetes, the demand in the global insulin delivery devices market is expected to gain added traction from a number of other factors such as technological advancements in these devices, favorable reimbursement policies in the developed countries, government support, and awareness programs such as conferences and meetings. On the other hand, the lack of proper reimbursement policies in a number of emerging economies, needle anxiety among the consumers, and the development of oral insulin as an alternative is hindering the market from attaining its true potential.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=29459 Out of the five regions studied by this report: North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and The Middle East and Africa, the insulin delivery devices market currently has the maximum potential in North America, which served 37.5% demand in 2016. Most of the demand from North America comes from the country of The U.S., which has diabetes spread across the masses along with a robust healthcare infrastructure. Mushrooming private diabetic care facilities, well-defined reimbursement policies, and growing awareness are some of the other factors augmenting the demand in the North America insulin delivery devices market. While Europe is currently the second most profitable region for the vendors operating in the global insulin delivery devices market, vastly populated Asia Pacific is expected to turn into a highly lucrative region towards the end of the forecast period, gaining solid demand from the emerging economies such as India and China.Some of the key companies operating in the global insulin delivery devices market are: Sanofi S.A., Novo Nordisk A/S, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., B. Braun Melsungen AG, Eli Lilly and Company, Medtronic plc, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Cellnovo Group SA., Owen Mumford Ltd., Biocon Ltd., Animas Corporation (Johnson & Johnson), and Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. Currently, the competitive landscape of insulin delivery devices market is quite fragmented with the presence of a number of local vendors.Buy Full Insulin Delivery Devices Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=29459<ype=S
Insulin Pumps Market report categorizes the global market by Product (Tethered Insulin Pumps and Disposable or Patch Insulin Pumps), Insulin Pump Supplies & Accessories (Insulin Reservoirs or Cartridges and Infusion Set Insertion Devices), End User & Geography

Insulin Pumps Market

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A recent intelligence study by Transparency Market Research (TMR) has detected that the global insulin pumps market is consolidated among top three companies, who accounted for more than 50% of the shares in 2016, whereas the rest of the market is fragmented, distributed among a large number of domestic and regional players. This report projects the demand in the global insulin pumps market to increment at a robust CAGR of 9.8% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, reaching a valuation of US$9,550.7 mn in 2025, notably up from its evaluated worth of US$4,180.4 mn in 2016.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/insulin-pumps-market.html The demand in the global insulin pumps market is gaining traction from a number of factors, such as increasing prevalence of diabetes, increased focus on adult population, increasing disposable income, and growing public awareness due to the penetration of social media. On the other hand, high cost, availability of alternatives, and inadequate reimbursement policies in several emerging economies are some of the key factors challenging the insulin pumps market from attaining its true potential. Nevertheless, the vendors operating in the global insulin pumps market are expected to gain new revenue avenues from advances in insulin pumps and growing adoption against conventional methods.Based on product, the global insulin pumps market has been segmented into insulin pumps including tethered pumps and disposable or patch insulin pumps and insulin pump supplies and accessories, which is further sub-segmented into insulin reservoirs or cartridges and infusion set insertion devices. In 2016, insulin pumps segment, with its sub-segments, collectively accounted for 70.1%, which was a reflection of several factors, such as high awareness about tethered insulin pumps among type-1 diabetes patients, growing adoption of technologically advanced products such as patch pumps, and increase in the prevalence of diabetes among the geriatric population. The report also detects that the global insulin pumps market is witnessing a preference of insulin pumps as a result of better efficiency offered by them in terms of dosage. Among distribution channel categories of hospital pharmacy, retail pharmacy, online sales, and diabetes clinics or centers, hospital pharmacy serves the maximum demand.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=29453 Out of the five regions, North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa, studied by this report for the potential of insulin pumps market, North America is most profitable, accounting for 64.1% of the demand in 2016. The developed country of the U.S. coupled with increasing demand for advanced technology such as insulin pumps integrated with continuous monitoring system have led to the growth of insulin pumps market in the U.S., single-handedly propelling the North America market to sustain an edge over rest of the regions. Growing percentage of geriatrics, high structured healthcare sector, and availability of a well-defined reimbursement policies from public and private health insurance firms are some of the other factors helping the North America insulin pumps market.As far as the competitive landscape is concerned, the rivalry will intensify in the near future with the influx of several new vendors. In addition to that, the existing players are expected to add to their market shares via implementation of new models as well as mergers and acquisitions. Some of the key companies currently operating in the global insulin pumps market are Cellnovo Group SA, Medtronic, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Valeritas, Inc., Animas Corporation (Johnson & Johnson), SOOIL Developments Co., Ltd, Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc., Ypsomed AG, Insulet Corporation, and Jiangsu Delfu Co., Ltd.Buy Full Insulin Pumps Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=29453<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 06:46:00

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Molecular weight markers are used to calculate sample molecular weights in the medical research arena. In addition, these markers play a vital role in the monitoring of the progress of an electrophoretic run in separation and analysis of macromolecules. Molecular weight markers include RNA, DNA, and protein markers.The global molecular weight market is categorized on the basis of applications, products, end users, and staining procedures. Based on the type of applications, the report comprises protein and nucleic acid applications. The protein application segment is further subsegmented into gel extraction and Western blotting applications. Protein application is the fastest-growing segment in the molecular weight marker market. Nucleic acid applications include polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Northern blot, sequencing, molecular cloning, and Southern blot. The nucleic acid segment holds the largest market share in the global molecular weight marker market.Request for TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/4385 On the basis of product, the report covers protein and RNA and DNA markers. These products are categorized on the basis of their marker sizes. The protein and RNA markers sizes included in the report are below 10 kilo Dalton (kDa), 10 kDa to 100 kDa, 100 kDa to 200 kDa, and above 200 kDa markers. The DNA markers sizes included in the report are below 50 base pair (bp), 50 bp to 100 bp, 100 bp to 1 kilo base pair (kb), 1 kb to 5 kb, and above 5 kb.On the basis of end user, the global molecular weight marker market report is segmented into biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic research institutes, and contract research organizations. The staining segment is further subsegmented into unstained, prestained, and specialty markers.In terms of geography, North America dominates the global molecular weight marker market. This is due to increased awareness about therapeutic applications of molecular biomarkers in disease management in the region. In addition, improved life science infrastructure has also propelled the growth of the molecular weight marker market in the region. The U.S. represents the largest market for molecular weight markers in North America, followed by Canada. In Europe, Germany, France, and the U.K. hold major shares of the molecular weight marker market. The molecular weight marker market in Asia too, is expected to show high growth rates in the next five years. This is due to the proliferation of biotechnology companies setting up manufacturing facilities in the region. Moreover, the growing life science infrastructure is also driving the growth of the market in the region. India, China, and Japan are expected to be the fastest-growing markets for molecular weight markers in Asia.The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases that require molecular biomarkers for their treatment is a key driver of the global molecular weight marker market. In addition, increasing government supports in the form of funding in the life science arena is also supporting the growth of the global molecular weight marker market. Increasing investment in R&D in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors and innovative applications of molecular weight markers have fueled the growth of this market. However, lack of skilled healthcare professionals obstructs the growth of the global molecular weight marker market.Increasing numbers of mergers and acquisitions between biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies is a key trend of the global molecular weight marker market.Make an Enquiry @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4385 The major companies operating in this market are Bio-Rad Laboratories, Agilent Technologies, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Takara Bio, Inc., Qiagen N.V., Promega Corporation, New England Biolabs, Inc., Affymetrix, Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., and Sigma-Aldrich Corporation.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 06:24:33

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Single-use, also known as disposable, refers to products that are intended for one-time use. These products are made from a plastic (polyamide {PA}, polyethylene {PE}, polycarbonate {PC}, polyethersulfone {PESU}, polypropylene {PP}, polyvinyl chloride {PVC}, polytetrafluorethylene {PTFE}, cellulose acetate {CA}, and ethylene vinyl acetate {EVA}) and are disposed after use. Single-use products have revolutionized the field of bioproduction. These products are becoming popular in the biopharmaceutical arena as they reduce the risk of contamination during development and production. Various disposable products such as laboratory instruments, including petri plates, flasks, filling and tubing systems, cell culture apparatus, filters, pumps, bioreactors, are used in bioproduction.Request for TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/4220 Single-use technologies are mainly used in bio-therapeutic development and manufacturing processes. These technologies facilitate the development of small amounts of drug products for use in preclinical and clinical testing procedures.The global single-use technologies market is categorized based on technology and application. Based on technology, the report covers membrane adsorber, bioreactors, disposable mixing systems, tangential flow filtration, tubing and connectors, depth filtration, buffer containers, waste containers and media bags, and filter cartridges. The application segment is further sub-segmented into monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, gene therapy, recombinant proteins, and blood derivativesIn terms of geography, North America dominates the global single-use technologies market. This is due to improved biopharmaceutical industry in the region. Moreover, increased awareness about therapeutic applications of biotherapeutics has also fueled the market in North America. The U.S. represents the largest market for single-use technologies in North America, followed by Canada. In Europe, Germany, France, and the U.K. hold major shares of the single-use technologies market. The single-use technologies market in Asia too, is expected to experience high growth rate over the next five years. This is due to improving Life Sciences arena in the region. Furthermore, increased foreign investment in this field is also supporting the growth of the single-use technologies market in the region. India, China, and Japan are expected to be the fastest growing markets for single-use technologies in Asia.Rising awareness about therapeutic applications of biotherapeutics is a key driver for the global single-use technologies market. Also, increasing demand of biologics and advancements in medical technology are fuelling the growth of this market. Low manufacturing and maintenance costs of single-use products and instruments attract end-users to adopt this technology in bioproduction. Increasing research on cell biology and stem cell is propelling the demand for single-use products.Moreover, drug pricing control is forcing large and emerging biotech companies to change their overall approach in development and production of bioproducts. This is leading to rise in demand for improved process optimization and more efficient operations such as single-use technologies and bioengineering. This is creating growth opportunities for single use-use technologies market.Make an Enquiry @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4220 However, stringent regulations imposed by various governments hamper the growth of global single-use technologies market. Increasing number of mergers and acquisitions of biotech and pharmaceutical companies and rapid product launches are key trends in the global single-use technologies market.The major companies operating in this market are Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc, Applikon Biotechnology B.V., GE Healthcare, Pall Corporation, NewAge Industries, Inc., Saint-Gobain S.A., BioPure Technology Limited, Sartorius AG, RENOLIT, Novasep, W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., EMD Millipore, and Dow Corning Corporation.
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Pseudomonas is a group of gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria, commonly found in soil, plants, groundwater, and animals. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common bacterium belonging to the Pseudomonas family. This bacterium is found on the surface of plants and animals. Infections caused by pseudomonas bacteria are termed as pseudomonas infections. Healthy people are usually not at risk of contracting such type of infections. However, people with a weakened immune system, especially due to another illness or condition, have a higher risk of developing pseudomonas infections.The major pseudomonas infections include urinary tract infections, respiratory system infections, soft tissue infections, gastrointestinal infections, and bone and joint infections. In addition, pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is one of the major health problems in patients hospitalized for the treatment of cancer, burns, and cystic fibrosis. In the absence of proper hygienic practices in healthcare centers and hospitals, this bacterium can easily spread through the infected hands of healthcare workers or through hospital equipment that are not properly sterilized.Request for TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/4266 The major diagnostic tests used to diagnose pseudomonas infections include blood cultures, complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis, blood gas analysis, sputum culture, wound and burn cultures, gram staining, and cerebrospinal fluid culture.The global pseudomonas diagnostic testing market is categorized on the basis of various types of infections, diagnostic procedures, and end users. Based on the type of infections, the report covers urinary tract infections, dermatitis, respiratory system infections, soft tissue infections, gastrointestinal infections, bone and joint infections, endocarditis, eye infections, ear infections, and bacteremia. Based on the type of technology, the report covers monoclonal antibodies, molecular diagnostics, differential light scattering, immunoassays, flow cytometry, chromatography, gel microdroplets, diagnostic imaging, and others. Based on end users, the report covers commercial or private labs, physician offices, hospitals, public health labs, and academic research institutes.In terms of geography, North America dominates the global pseudomonas diagnostic testing market. This is due to increased government funding on healthcare infrastructure in the region. In addition, technological advancements in pseudomonas diagnostic procedures have also propelled the market in North America. The U.S. represents the largest market for pseudomonas diagnostic testing in North America, followed by Canada. In Europe, Germany, France, and the U.K. hold the major shares of the pseudomonas diagnostic testing market. The pseudomonas diagnostic testing market in Asia is also expected to witness high growth rates in the next five years. This is due to the various initiatives undertaken by governments to increase awareness about pseudomonas infections. In addition, increased investments by many foreign diagnostic instrument companies have also propelled the growth of the pseudomonas diagnostic testing market in the region. India, China, and Japan are expected to be the fastest-growing markets for pseudomonas diagnostic testing in Asia.Advanced application of bacterial diagnostic instruments is a key driver for the global pseudomonas diagnostic testing market. Also, increased government support in the form of funding and rapid technological advancements have fueled the growth of this market.Make an Enquiry @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4266 Increasing number of mergers and acquisitions involving diagnostic consumables manufacturing companies, and rapid product launches are the key trends of the global pseudomonas diagnostic testing market.The major companies operating in this market are Abbott Laboratories, Enzo Biochem Inc. Beckman Coulter Inc., Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd., Becton, Dickinson and Company, Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc., Affymetrix, Inc., bioMerieux, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., EIKEN CHEMICAL CO., LTD, Siemens AG, Scienion AG, Roche, Cepheid, Inc., GenBio, Olympus Corporation, Novartis AG, and Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 07:31:12|Editor: Mengjie

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PARIS, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese embassy in Paris on Saturday urged Chinese tourists to raise vigilance and take precautions following the mugging and attack on Chinese nationals.

France has been faced with grim public security recently, and Paris region has reported a series of muggings and attacks against Chinese tourists and Chinese French, the embassy said in a statement posted on its website.

A group of 40 Chinese tourists was attacked and robbed on Thursday by four men near a hotel in Val-de Marne, Paris suburbs, local media reported.

The robbers sprayed the tourists with tear gas while they returned from their tour in the French capital. The assailants stole nine bags believed to be stuffed with luxury goods, according to local media reports.

The group of Chinese tourists has returned to China on Friday.

The Chinese embassy confirmed the robbery in the statement, saying it had contacted French police and urged police to solve the case and bring the perpetrators to justice as soon as possible.

"I heard screams, and when I looked out the window, I saw two people assaulting a Chinese guide, and I saw others using tear gas against the tourists. For an hour, it was an absolute panic ... Many of them (tourists) asked me to hide their luggage," a worker at the hotel where the tourists were staying told local daily Le Parisien.

Police opened an investigation into the robbery while search for the robbers was underway, the report added.
Legionella Testing Market report categorizes the global market by Test Type (Culture Methods, Urinary Antigen Test, Serology, Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test), Application (Clinical Testing Methods, Environmental Testing Methods) and End Use & Geography

Legionella Testing Market

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According to Transparency Market Research, the global legionella testing market was valued at US$180 million in 2016 and is estimated to reach US$398.7 million by 2025 at a CAGR of 9.4% from 2017 to 2025. Legionella bacteria are widespread in natural water bodies such as ponds and rivers. Inhalation of aerosol water particles containing legionella bacteria is a common way of contracting the pathogen. The rising awareness regarding the risk of contracting legionella-borne diseases from water bodies is a vital driver for the global legionella testing market.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/legionella-testing-market.html Technological advancements are boosting innovative microfluidic platforms which help provide satisfaction, safety, and stability to patients. Growing availability of up-to-date treatment facilities and rise in the number of skilled doctors, consultants, and healthcare services are helping drive the legionella testing market.The incidence rate of several infectious diseases is increasing globally, particularly in developing regions. Indications such as waterborne, airborne, respiratory, and sexually transmitted diseases are increasing at an alarming rate in countries across the globe. Highly populous regions such as APAC, MEA, and Latin America have a high incidence of infectious diseases, which is leading to a steady increase in the demand for diagnostic kits. Thus, the global legionella testing market is expected to witness substantial growth over the forecast period.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=3980 Currently, the incidence rate of infectious diseases is minimal in developed countries due to the availability of better healthcare and lifestyle standards. However, transmission of diseases across regions through migration is increasing, which in turn is expected to fuel demand for diagnostic tests and kits in these regions. Additionally, increasing healthcare spending is expected to result in increasing demand for better and faster legionella testing and diagnostic methods, and in turn create high growth opportunities for players in the global legionella testing market over the forecast period. However, rise in the cost of treatment, lack of reimbursement policies for legionella testing in developing regions, and side effects associated with legionella treatment are restraining the growth of the market.Key players operating in the global legionella testing market include IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Becton, Dickinson and Company, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., BioMerieux Inc., and Qiagen N.V., among others. The legionella testing market is likely to retain a high degree of fragmentation in the coming years due to the lucrative prospects on offer in medical research facilities across a number of countries.Buy Full Legionella Testing Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=3980<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
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Level Switches Market

PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 12:43:03

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Level switch is a device with electric contact output, which is used to sense the liquid level and also solid type such as water or oil or any powder in bulk. Level switch or sensor, detects the level of the liquid and sends a signal to the monitoring station if the specified level or marked point reaches below or above the specified point. This is useful for effective operations of the system to respond and operate immediately to when it detects.Level switches are to a great extent required in industrial applications, such as in power plants, heavy equipment, oil tankers and bulk powder measurement, among others. Various models such as capacitive, conductivity, diaphragm and displacer, float, tilt, paddle and optical are available. They are placed in a tank or a container and switches are vertically mounted level switch, side mounted level switch, stem mounted level switch connected to electrical contact output. For instance, in power plants, level switches are used in various equipment, in steam boilers right amount of water is required to generate the steam at the right time and to achieve this level switches are fixed inside the closed tank. Two types of alarms are set in steam boilers, if the water reaches below a specified level it will trigger the alarm and send a signal. If the water reaches above the level, the level switch triggers a signal and stops the operation thus, by achieving effective way operation in power plant using automation. In electrical power transformers, oil tanker is fixed on the top of the transformer for cooling the transformer insulation to detect the oil level and temperature; two sensors are fixed inside the tank level sensor and temperature sensor, in any abnormal condition if the oil level reaches below the set level, the level sensor triggers the alarm and sends a signal to the relay. If the level switch is not active or in case of any failure in the relay, it may lead to complete system failure and affect the transformer insulation. Capacitive level switches are used in liquid- and solid-type non-metallic system and traditionally used in industries, such as chemical, plastic, wood and ceramic.Displacer level switches are fixed on a coil spring and these cannot be activated by any external forces, such as pressure or turbulence excellent in viscous dirty liquids. Optical switches are cost-effective and compact in size, they are mounted on moving equipment. These type of level switches are highly used in the power plant systems for effective operations.Request For Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-4816 Global Level Switches Market: SegmentationThe global level switches market segmented as followsBy switch type, the global level switches market is segmented into:CapacitiveConductivityDiaphragmDisplacerFloatOpticalPaddleTiltTuning forkRodBy application, the global level switches market is segmented into:Closed vesselsReservoirsTemperature requirementsMiningHoopersGrain silosLiquid holding tankBy end-use, the global level switches market is segmented into:Plastic industryChemical industryPower plantPharmaceuticalWood industryCeramic industryGlobal Level Switches Market: DriversThe growing demand from end-use industries, where level switches or sensors are highly used in various applications is going to boost the growth of the global level switches market. Level switches, which detect the specified level and send signal to the monitoring station, help the system to operate effectively without any liability. In closed and heavy tanks, such as steam boilers and oil tankers where manual operation is difficult, these level switches or sensors are fixed, making it one of the key driving factors for the global level switches market. Industries such as wood and chemical, where the chemicals used are dangerous, hazardous to inhale, level switches are used.Global Level Switches Market: TrendsThe increasing demand for automation in end-use sectors, such as power plants, chemical plants and manufacturing industries, are going to upsurge the growth of the level switch where switches are highly used for various operations. Wide variety of level switches are available, each one is used in specific application and specific function. Capacitive switches are used in non-metallic materials, which are used in ceramic, plastic and glass industries. Optical level switches or level sensors are used in air-conditioning systems, hydraulic reservoir, etc. Tilt switches are used in trippers, hoppers, etc. they have a probe which is designed to sense bulk material. Paddle switch is a rotating sensor used in powder, material level check. Tuning fork switches are used in chemical processing, they control the level of powder, grains etc. Floating level switches are used to detect the level of the liquid tank.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-4816 Global Level Switches Market: Regional OutlookThe regional coverage of level switches market includes North America, Latin America, Europe, APAC and MEA. Level switches market witnesses a high demand and production in Europe and North America. APAC holds major market share in the global level switches market due to intensifying demand for automation, increasing manufacturing industries and also increasing energy sectors where level switches are highly used. North America & Europe hold the second highest share in the global level switches market. Adoption of automation and implementing automation-related infrastructure in all industries are going to boost the global level switches market. The evolution of the automation and energy sector in North America, where sensors are highly used in measuring the liquid, solid, dirty liquid, are the growth factors for the market in North America. Followed by Latin America & MEA.Global Level Switches Market: ParticipantsExamples of some of the market participants identified across the value chain include Water Level, Murphy, Pricol Ltd, Electronet Equipments Pvt Ltd, AMETEK , BinMaster, Endress+Hauser AG, GEMS, GHM Group, elobau sensors technology, EGE,IMB Industrielle Messtechnik, Soway.
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Aerospace Foams Market

PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 11:03:49

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Foams are an important class of materials that find a variety of applications across a diverse set of industries. The low density, cellular structured materials namely foams are used either for cushioning, as insulating materials, for vibration damping or for packaging applications. The aerospace industry necessitates materials that fulfil the intended function, are lighter in weight at the same time exhibit exceptional strength and resilience. The foams that cater to the demands of aerospace industry are collectively termed as aerospace foams. The most commonly used foams for aerospace applications include polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, metal foams, and ceramic foams.Aerospace Foams Market: Drivers & RestraintsEconomic growth, especially in the developing regions of the world, coupled with rapid urbanisation is a major factor that is expected to propel the global aircrafts market. This in turn is expected to drive the growth of global aerospace foams market. Moreover, the increasing investments on the part of governments in aircrafts for defence sector is another factor that is expected to drive the growth of global aerospace foams market during the forecast period. The emergence of low cost airlines have led to an increase in passenger traffic, this has resulted in a steady growth of global aircrafts market. This is expected to in turn fuel the growth in demand for aerospace foams during the forecast period.Request For Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-618 Aerospace Foams Market: SegmentationDepending on the type of foamused for the intended application, the global aerospace foams market can be segmented in to the following key segments:Polyurethane foamPolyethylene foamCeramic foamMetal foamOthersAmong the material type based segments of global aerospace foams market, polyurethane foams segment accounts for the largest share in overall global aerospace foams market value.On the basis of the area of application, global aerospace foams market can be segmented into following major segments:Commercial AircraftsDefense AircraftsDefense aircrafts segments of global aerospace foams market accounts for a sizeable share in the overall market value of global aerospace foams market.Aerospace Foams Market: Region-wise OutlookOn the basis of geographic regions of the globe, global aerospace foams market is segmented into seven major segments. These key market segments are North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. The Asia Pacific segment of global aerospace foams market is expected to register fastest growth amongst all region based segments. North America is expected to dominate the global aerospace foams market as regards the share in overall global aerospace foams market.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-618 Aerospace Foams Market: Key PlayersSome of the identified major companies that cater to the demands of global aerospace foams market are as follows:Evonik IndustriesBASF SEZotefoams PlcRogers CorporationGeneral Plastics Manufacturing Company
PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 06:24:23

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Forensic identification technologies are used to identify specific objects from the various types of traced evidences at the place of accident and disaster. Human identification techniques are mainly used in forensics for the identification of criminals. Fingerprints are used as a source of identification of human beings.Human identification process is based on the recognizing of ridges present on the fingers of the suspect. Every human being has a unique formations and sequences of ridges on their figures. This philosophy is used in forensics along with the analysis of hair, skin, blood, DNA and semen. In addition, samples are also collected from teeth.Request for TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/4210 DNA analysis is one of the most powerful techniques used in forensic investigations. Forensic scientists use short DNA fragments (known as short tandem repeats [STRs]), collected from human cells and measured by fluorescent labels and automated instruments. STRs are found in the human genome. Scientists around the world use between 13 and 24 STR locations, known as loci, to create DNA profiles for individuals involved in a crime.The global human identification market is categorized based on various types of technologies, applications and product. Based on technology, the report covers polymerase chain reaction (PCR), automated liquid handling, microarray, capillary electrophoresis, next generation sequencing, nucleic acid purification and extraction and rapid DNA analysis system. The application segment is further sub segmented into forensics, paternity identification, disaster victim identification, population genetics, migration or home trafficking and anthropology. Based on product, the report covers consumables, assay kits and reagents, DNA extraction kits, DNA amplification Kits, DNA quantification kits, electrophoresis, rapid DNA analysis, software and other consumables.In terms of geography, North America dominates the global human identification market. This is due to increased government funding on forensic science in the region. In addition, expansions of the U.S. DNA database have also fueled the market in North America. The U.S. represents the largest market for human identification in North America, followed by Canada. In Europe, Germany, France and the U.K. hold major shares of the human identification market. The human identification market in Asia too, is expected to show high growth rates in the next five years. This is due to various initiatives taken by government to increase awareness about the forensic technologies in DNA analysis. In addition, increased investments by many foreign countries have also propelled the growth of the human identification market in the region. India, China, and Japan are expected to be the fastest growing markets for human identification in Asia.Advanced applications of forensic technologies is a key driver for the global human identification market. Also, increased government supports in the form of funding and rapid technological advancement have fueled the growth of this market.Make an Enquiry @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4210 However, price erosion in genomics instruments and services obstructs the market growth. Moreover, integration of technology also restricts the growth of DNA analysis instruments market. Increasing number of mergers and acquisitions of nucleic acid isolation and extraction consumables manufacturing companies and rapid product launches are key trends of the global human identification market.The major companies operating in this market are Agilent Technologies, GE Healthcare, Bode Technology, Illumina, Orchid Cellmark, Inc., LGC Forensics, Promega Corporation, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. and QIAGEN N.V.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 06:24:29

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Silent cancer refers to those types of cancer which are undiagnosed in early stages. This is due to asymptomatic nature of the disease which makes it difficult to identify the disease till it progresses to advanced stages. Major silent types of cancer include brain, cervix, esophagus, mouth and larynx, ovarian, pancreatic, kidney, and liver cancer. Some silent types of cancer such as ovarian cancer, esophageal cancer, and pancreatic cancer show symptoms in their early stages.Request for TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/4215 Ovarian cancer occurs in epithelium or lining cells of the ovary. Major signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer include pain or cramps in the belly, nausea, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and bloating. Pancreatic cancer is one of the fastest growing types of cancer worldwide. Esophagus cancer is more common among the older population, compared to adults. This cancer is mainly treated by chemotherapy, surgery, and radiosurgery. Moreover, physicians also use combination therapy for the treatment of silent cancer. For instance, the combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy is very effective in the treatment of silent cancer.The global silent cancer therapeutic market is categorized based on type, and mode of treatment. Based on type, the report covers tumors, brain, mouth and larynx, esophagus, liver, renal, pancreatic, cervix, and ovarian cancer. Based on mode of treatment, the report covers chemotherapy, targeted therapy, pharmaceutical drugs, surgery, and radiotherapy.North America has the largest market for silent cancer therapeutic, followed by Europe. This is due to technological advancements in cancer treatment devices, increasing prevalence of cancer, rise in aging population and improved healthcare infrastructure in the region. The silent cancer therapeutic market in Asia is expected to experience high growth rate over the next few years. This is due to evolving R&D activities in the field of cancer, increasing government support for research, rise in number of cancer patients, growing awareness about various types of silent cancer, increasing elderly population and developing healthcare infrastructure in the region. Moreover, growing demographics and economies in developing countries such as India and China are expected to drive the silent cancer therapeutics market in Asia.Technological advancements such as non-invasive radiation therapy and increasing prevalence of cancer are key drivers for the global silent cancer therapeutics market. Also, increasing government support in the form of funding and research in oncology has fueled the market growth. Furthermore, growing aging population and rising obesity are driving the growth of the silent cancer therapeutics market.Make an Enquiry @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4215 However, high costs involved in research activities and the expiry of patents of some blockbuster drugs (drugs that have an annual sale of USD 1.0 million and above) are hindering the growth of the market. Despite the high costs involved in R&D, pharmaceutical companies are showing interest in this field, which, in turn, has increased investment in the development of novel therapeutics for silent cancer.Increasing number of mergers and acquisitions and rapid product launches are some of the latest trends in the global silent cancer therapeutic market. Some of the major companies operating in the market are Abbott Laboratories, Amgen Inc., Bayer AG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, GE Healthcare, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., GlaxoSmithKline plc, CTI BioPharma Corp. and AstraZeneca plc.
Future Market Insights has announced the addition of the Key Opinion Leader Management Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2015-2025" report to their offering.

Electrical Enclosure Market

PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 10:57:22

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# 555 Words

616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite: www.futuremarketinsights.comAbhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531

An electrical enclosure is used to protect users from electric shock and electrical or electronic components from the environment. The manufacturers of the electrical enclosure not only concentrate on the safety aspect of it, but also on the attractiveness, to make the enclosure pleasing to the eye. The electrical enclosure can be used to mount switches, displays and knobs.Metals, plastics, stainless steel, carbon steel and aluminum are the materials used to manufacture the electrical enclosure. Customized electrical enclosure can be used for mass-produced equipment and on the other hand, standardized enclosure is used for low production equipment.Electrical enclosure is also used to protect electrical equipment such as transmitters, power distribution systems, power generators, etc.Request For Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-561 Electrical Enclosure Market: Drivers and ChallengesIn future, industrial automation is expected to increase, which is forecast to fuel the demand for electrical enclosure. Globally, the governments of many countries like U.S.A. and U.K. have implemented stringent regulations regarding safety and this is driving the growth for the electrical enclosure market. The growing investment in renewable energy projects by various countries, increasing demand from food & beverage industry is fueling the growth for the global electrical enclosure market. The penetration of smart home equipment is expected to propel the demand for electrical enclosure.Decrease in the demand for metallic enclosure is acting as an inhibitor to the global electrical enclosure market.Electrical Enclosure Market: OverviewThe global electrical enclosure market by value is expected to expand at a CAGR of around 5-7% during the forecast period (2015-2025), due to growth in electrical and electronics hardware industry, stringent government rules pertaining to the safety and increasing consumer awareness about the safety.Electrical Enclosure Market: SegmentationThe global electrical enclosure market can be segmented by product size, by end-use industry, by material and by regionsBased on product size, the global electrical enclosure market is segmented as:SmallCompactFree SizeBased on end-use industry, the global electrical enclosure market is segmented as:Food & BeveragesCommercialEnergy & PowerOthersBased on material type, the global electrical enclosure market is segmented as:MetallicNon-MetallicElectrical Enclosure Market: Region-wise OutlookThe global electrical enclosure market is expected to register a single-digit CAGR for the forecast period. Depending on geographic regions, global electrical enclosure market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, South America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. In terms of market revenue, Asia Pacific electrical enclosure market is projected to register a significant CAGR during the forecast period. Growing automotive production, stringent government emission norms, changing consumer preferences, are some of the factors which are fueling the growth of electrical enclosure in Asia Pacific. Currently, Western Europe and North America are having stringent rules and these markets are consolidated, on the other hand, Asia Pacific and Latin America are unorganized markets. In future, Asia Pacific market is expected to rise as a good quality product production destination. The region is expected to produce environmentally friendly electrical enclosures.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-561 Electrical Enclosure Market: Key PlayersSome of the key market participants in global electrical enclosure market are Eaton Corporation, Adalet Inc, Emerson Network Power, Schneider Electric, General Electric, Siemens AG, ABB, etc.
Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Market report categorizes the global market by Application (Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases and Secondary Immunodeficiency Diseases), End User & Geography

Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Market

PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 13:11:11

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According to Transparency Market Research (TMR), the global subcutaneous immunoglobulin market is expected to exhibit a robust 14% CAGR between 2016 and 2024. The market was valued at US$2.7 bn in 2015 and is expected to rise to a valuation of US$8.8 bn by 2024. The subcutaneous immunoglobulin market has witnessed impressive growth over the years since the launch of the medicine, and presently there has been a noticeable rise in the adoption of subcutaneous immunoglobulin in developing regions of the world. Therapeutically advanced products that have been recently introduced to the market or are currently in development address unmet needs in two key ways: Attempting to reduce the number of systemic adverse events and formulating concentrated solutions that reduce the infusion time. These new technologies will drive market growth, encouraging further innovation from the next round of startup players.Browse Full Report Details@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/subcutaneous-immunoglobulin-market.html New products are being developed in the subcutaneous immunoglobulin market that aim to improve and facilitate subcutaneous administration of immunoglobulins. For instance, hyaluronidase-facilitated administration increases the bioavailability of SCIG and allows administration of large volumes at a single site. Hyquia, developed by Shire Plc., is one such formulation, supplied in a dual vial unit containing one vial of immunoglobulin infusion 10% and one vial of recombinant human hyaluronidase. The companies are producing more concentrated formulations that will reduce the volume required for administration. For instance, Cuvitru, developed by Shire Plc., is a subcutaneous immunoglobulin 20% solution, with the ability to infuse up to 60 mL (12 grams) per site per hour resulting in shorter infusion durations and fewer infusion sites compared to other conventional subcutaneous treatments. As these developments convert into clinical practice, more patients and physicians may choose the subcutaneous route for administration of immunoglobulin in future.The growing government support to measures combating the spread of deadly diseases such as AIDS is likely to help the subcutaneous immunoglobulin markets progress in the coming years. While primary immunodeficiency diseases are the primary target for subcutaneous immunoglobulin market players, AIDS treatment could contribute significantly to the market in the coming years. The rising demand for home care in various medical channels is also likely to help the subcutaneous immunoglobulin market, as it will allow for widespread adoption of the infrastructure needed to enable in-home administration of subcutaneous immunoglobulin on a large scale.Request Sample Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=20594 Geographically, subcutaneous immunoglobulin market has been segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. North America dominated the subcutaneous immunoglobulin market in terms of revenue in 2015 and is projected to retain its dominant position during the forecast period from 2016 to 2024. Usage of immunoglobulins is high in North America primarily due to steady approval for new indications and research undertakings, and increasing geriatric population. According to the Immune Deficiency Foundation, currently around 55,000 people in the U.S. with antibody deficiency receive PIDD treatment in the form of intravenous immunoglobulin. Expected launch of immunoglobulins that are presently in clinical trials in the U.S. during the forecast period is likely to boost market growth.The North America market for subcutaneous immunoglobulin was valued at US$1,059 mn in 2014 and is likely to rise to US$3,525 mn by the end of 2024.Key companies profiled in the report include Grifols S.A., CSL Behring LLC, Shire Plc., Biotest AG, Kedrion S.p.A., Octapharma AG, Baxalta Incorporated, and Talecris Biotherapeutics, Inc.Buy Full Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Market Report@ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=20594<ype=S About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-11-05 06:46:13

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Medical document management systems eliminate paper-based processes in health care organizations. These systems manage patient information and allow clinicians and administrators make well-informed decisions in treatment and hospitalization procedures. In addition, medical document management systems help health care organizations to automate admission forms, insurance cards, insurance claims, invoices, and laboratory results.The global medical document management systems market is categorized based on various types of delivery modes, products, applications, and end users. Based on the type of delivery mode, the report covers on-premise, cloud-based, and web-based delivery mode. Based on product, the report covers medical document management solutions and services. The solution segment is further sub-segmented into standalone solutions and integrated solutions. Standalone solutions include electronic document management software and document scanning software. The integrated solution segment accounts for the largest market share in the medical document management systems market.Request for TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/4416 The service segment is further sub-segmented into medical record planning and management services and support services. The major support services in the market include training and education services, implementation and integration services, and maintenance and optimization services. Based on application, the report covers patient billing document management, patient medical record management, and admission and registration document management. The end user segment is further sub-segmented into hospitals and clinics, government organizations and Third Party Administrators (TPAs), nursing homes, and other health care organizations.In terms of geography, North America dominates the global medical document management systems market. This is due to the improved health care infrastructure and increased government funding in the region. In addition, technological advancements in document management systems and increasing adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in medical practices have also propelled the growth of the market in North America. The U.S. represents the largest market for medical document management system in North America, followed by Canada.In Europe, Germany, France, and the U.K. hold major shares in the medical document management systems market. The medical document management systems market in Asia is also expected to exhibit high growth during the next five years. This is due to various initiatives undertaken by governments to implement health care IT technologies in the region. In addition, increasing pressure of government on health care organizations to improve the quality of care and minimize health care costs, have also propelled the growth of the medical document management systems market in the region. India, China, and Japan are expected to be the fastest growing markets for medical document management systems in Asia.Various initiatives undertaken by government organizations to implement health care IT technologies in health care organizations and rise in number of hospitalization cases are some of the major driving factors for the growth of the global medical document management systems market.Lack of health care IT professionals and increasing data privacy and security concerns in document management systems are the major restraints of the global medical document management systems market. Increasing number of mergers and acquisitions between various health care IT companies is a key trend observed in the global medical document management systems market.Make an Enquiry @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4416 The major companies operating in this market are 3M Company, McKesson Corporation, Siemens AG, Hyland Software, Inc., Epic Systems Corporation, Kofax Limited, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Cerner Corporation, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc. and GE Healthcare.
The tax records of over 800,000 companies, including some government contractors, are currently being audited, the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, said on Sunday.

Mrs. Adeosun who disclosed this in an article said the affected companies included those identified as having never paid taxes before.

This is an unprecedented initiative that entails cooperation between federal and state governments, the minister said.

Besides, Mrs. Adeosun said, her ministry has also commenced a data-base project to create accurate profiles of individuals and companies liable to pay taxes in the country.

The project, she explained, combines data from the various government ministries, departments and agencies, including bank records, property and company ownership, as well as customs records.

She said the finance ministry has also retained the services of the worlds premier private investigation agencies to help trace overseas assets held by Nigerians and Nigerian companies.

She did not, however, disclose the names of the investigation agencies.

The minister, who sought to dispel the perception of Nigeria as an oil economy, said such descriptions fitted those countries characterised by low population densities and abundant oil resources.

She identified some of such countries as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar.

Saudi Arabia, with production capacity of 10 million barrels of oil per day, Mrs. Adeosun said, has a population of only 30 million people, while Kuwait, with a capacity of 2.7 million barrels of oil per day, has four million people.

Qatar, on the other hand, with 1.5 million barrels of oil per day, she said, has 2.5 million people.

Compared to Nigeria, with just two million barrels of oil per day and over 180 million people, Mrs. Adeosun said statistics do not stack in the countrys favour as an oil economy.

The simple mathematics tells us that 90 Nigerians share a barrel of oil, compared to three Saudis, 1.44 Kuwaitis and 1.69 Qataris.

With oil at just 10 per cent of GDP, Nigeria simply does not fit into the mould of the traditional oil economies, Mrs. Adeosun argued.

These economies (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar) pursued an economic model that was built around a large government dependent almost entirely on oil revenue for funding its programmes and activities, she added.

She said oil economies could afford to have low, or in some cases, no domestic revenue mobilisation, in the form of taxes.

Although Mrs. Adeosun said Nigeria had, for over three decades, pursued the oil economy model, she said things are changing, with the election of President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015.

She pointed out that the clamour for change, in the areas of good governance, security and economy, had coincided with the collapse of global oil prices, resulting in huge deficit in government revenues.

Describing the economic model as flawed, Mrs. Adeosun said global circumstances informed governments decision to overhaul the entire economic model after realising that Nigeria was not actually an oil economy.

The change, she explained, involved the pursuit of the target of transiting the countys economy, like her peer group, from the oil economies to oil plus economies, such as Mexico and Egypt.

This new group, the minister noted, have diversified their economies, with tax-to-GDP ratios of 20 per cent and 16 per cent, respectively, against Nigerias six per cent.

The change philosophy, she said, had to be applied urgently to revenue mobilisation, with current data pointing at this as potentially the master key to unlocking Nigerias huge growth potential by funding its ailing infrastructure, including roads, power and rail.

She said a review of tax rates paid by the huge multinational and local operators, as well as the data on illicit financial flows, revealed a pattern of systematic tax evasion at all levels.

Recent finance ministry statistics showed only 14 million active tax payers in the country, out of an economically active population of 70 million.

Of this figure, Mrs. Adeosun said, over 95 per cent were salary earners in the formal sector, while only 241 persons were known to have paid personal income taxes, PIT, of N20 million (about $65,573.77) in 2016.

Noting governments apathy towards revenue mobilisation as one of the effects of the wrong perception of Nigeria as an oil economy, the minister said government was determined to correct the identity crisis.

Part of the determination, she pointed out, was the recent launch of tax amnesty policy, called Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme, VAIDS, a nine-month window for corporate and individual tax payers.

The new tax policy, she said, affords tax payers opportunity to regularise their tax status in exchange for a guarantee of no interest, penalties, tax investigation or further audit.

The minister said the VAIDS would be succeeded by the Automatic Exchange of Information, to provide Nigerian tax authorities information on offshore assets by Nigerians.

Changing the Nigerian economic psyche is not an easy task. But the present administration understands that the short term lure of political expediency must give way to the long-term best interests of Africas largest economy, Mrs. Adeosun stated.
A letter written by former Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina, to Senate President, Bukola Saraki, urging the Senate to give him an opportunity of fair hearing has surfaced.

The letter dated June 19, 2015, one week after the inauguration of the present Senate, indicated that the fugitive ex-pension boss returned to the country shortly after President Muhammadu Buharis inauguration on May 29, 2015.

PREMIUM TIMES on October 20 broke the news of Mr. Mainas secret recall and promotion in the Ministry of Interior.

Following the public criticism that followed the clandestine reinstatement, President Muhammadu Buhari on October 23 ordered immediate disengagement of Mr. Abdulrasheed Maina from service.

A day after, October 24, the Senate, drafted the chairmen and vice- chairman of committees on Interior, Judiciary, Anti-corruption and Public Service Establishment to determine the circumstances surrounding Mainas return to the country and how he was reinstated to the service and got promoted to the post of Director after dismissal.

Mr. Maina has since gone back into hiding and is still wanted by the anti-graft agency, EFCC, who accuse him of mismanaging about N2 billion pension funds.

HOW SENATE GOT INVOLVED IN MAINAS CASE

Mr. Maina entered the black book of the Nigerian Senate in 2012 when he ignored several summons by the Joint Senate Committee on Establishment, Pubic Service and Local Governments- headed by Aloysius Etuk.

The consistent refusal of Mr. Maina to honour several invitations by the committee to appear and explain his role in the alleged N195 billion pension fraud forced the Senate to mandate the then Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, to compel it to appear.

However, despite a call on the IGP, several threats, and a warrant of arrest on Mr. Maina, he refused to show up. Instead, he sued the Senate and the then Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, and thereafter went into hiding after being declared wanted by the police.

Mr. Mainas misdemeanour incurred the wrath of the 7th Senate which prevailed upon then President Goodluck Jonathan to either choose between the red chamber or Maina.

The executive now has to choose between Maina and the Senate, that is the bottom line, then Senate President David Mark said. If they chose to go along with Maina, fine, we will react accordingly. And to extend the hand of friendship is the correct thing to do because we must work together. There is no running away from that one. It is a test case. If Maina remains, then the Senate will react appropriately and I dont think we are short of ideas nor are we short of what we want to do. We know the step to take.

Mr. Maina was eventually dismissed from civil service for absconding from duty in 2013.

MAINAS EXPLOSIVE LETTER TO SARAKI

Mr. Mainas letter titled Pension Reform Task Team: Appeal for Review of Investigation Probe by Senate Joint Committee on Establishment and Public Service and States and Local Government Administration 2011-2013, was addressed to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

Dated June 19, 2015, the letter sought a review of his case and fingered the Senate committee constituted to investigate him of favouring pension thieves.

Mr. Maina claimed in the letter which leaked to journalists in Kaduna on Friday, a copy of which was published by The Nation newspaper, that his team helped the country save about N1.6 trillion from pension thieves.

He noted that his teams effort led to the arrest of 46 people and firms involved in looting pension funds. He said the 46 of them are currently been investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

We, members of Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT), wish to use this medium to apologise for our little late response to reaching back to you, Mr. Maina said.

We had to put the issues together and source for appurtenant materials. We appreciate your understanding sir.

As a refresher, the PRTT was inaugurated on 10th June, 2010 by the immediate past administration of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR, with a clear mandate to restructure the Head of Service Pension Office, Police Pension Office, among others.

We did our utmost with precision and national interests as our guiding principles. The PRTT took off effectively by January 2011.

We used financial intelligence skills to achieve ground-breaking achievements in our assignment.

We recovered and saved cash and properties worth over N1.6 trillion.

Our efforts led to the arrest and prosecution of 46 persons/firms involved in looting of pension funds which we handed to the EFCC. The trials are still ongoing.

As it is, there is a leakage of N256 billion monthly from the current IPPIS, which needs to be blocked urgently.

We are also aware of some government hidden accounts which needs to be mopped up.

We can be used to engage any department of government in sanitising the financial workflow to avoid loose ends that remain susceptible to leakages.

Based on the revelations of massive/monumental fraud and outright stealing of pension funds, which was brought to public attention by the PRTT, the 7th National Assembly by resolution dated 2nd November, 2011 mandated its Committee on Establishment and Public Service, State and Local Government Administration, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the management and administration of pension funds in Nigeria.

There was general expectation that the various dimensions of irregularities associated with the management of pension funds in Nigeria would come to an end as a consequence of the investigations being conducted by the Senate Joint Committee.

Mr. Maina alleged that the committee saddled with the responsibility of investigating the matter ended up favouring those involved in embezzling pension funds.

He noted that the biometric system adopted by the team exposed 73,000 ghost pensioners in the office of the Head of Service alone.

The letter reads further: Some pensioners got backlog of about 30 years paid into their accounts. All payments were ordered under the signature of the Head of Service monthly.

However, the PRTT regrets to observe that rather than achieving the objectives of the spirit and its mandate, which in our view includes but not limited to identifying those responsible for the culture of fraud that characterised the system and bringing them to book, the Senate Joint Committee ended up creating more problems than solutions to the endemic corruption and fraud prevailing in the system.

In this context, the PRTT, wishes to state without any fear of contradiction that the Senate Joint Committees Report submitted, which was subsequently adopted by the 7th Senate but now quashed by the Federal High Court judgement of the 13th March 2013 in favour of the PRTTs Chairman, not only failed to address the issues at stake but succeeded in misleading the Senate and the generality of Nigerians about the true picture, nature and scope of problems militating against the efficient management and administration of Pension Funds in Nigeria. Copy of said judgement attached and marked ANNEXURE1.

Today, it (pension) is worse with the Police pension office where daily so much millions are taken out of pension funds in that office. We have evidence to substantiate this.

Mr. Maina in the letter sought an opportunity to present his own side of the pension fraud story.

As we write to you, Abdulrasheed A. Maina has been dismissed from Civil Service for being absent for three days while his life was under threat following gunshot attack on his person in front of Head of Civil Service Office where his office was located in February, 2013. Attached are copies of letters from Nigeria Police Force. ANNEXURE 3 (a) and (b).

The Task Team and its leadership were not only denied the opportunity for a fair hearing before being pronounced guilty of all manner of allegations, but even where the Task Team appeared before the Committee, salient facts related to the issues at stake were deliberately ignored.

He added that an appeal to the 7th Senate for fair hearing was ignored. As a result, the PRTT approached the Federal High Court Abuja in suit number: FH/ABJ/CS/65/2013. He said the court ruled in his favour on March 13, 2013 noting that till date, the Senate had yet to appeal the judgment of the court.

We are by this letter appealing to the Federal Government in the spirit of CHANGE which the country is witnessing, and the stand of government on corruption, that opportunity be given to us to present the truth about pension management in Nigeria.

SARAKI REACTS

The Special Adviser (Media) to the Senate President, Yusuf Olaniyonu, said on Saturday evening that he could not confirm receipt of the letter.

Mr. Olaniyonu had, however, told The Nation Newspapers that the present Senate leadership ignored the letter because the last Senate had taken a decision on the pension matter and there was no reasonable ground to review it.

On Saturday, however, he told PREMIUM TIMES he was not sure the letter exists.

I dont even know about the existence of that letter. Its not something I can say we have. I cannot confirm that the Senate President received such letter, he said in a telephone interview.

The Senate President does not know him. He has not seen the Senate President before. So, if you are talking about a letter, except we check and see that that letter actually came in.

He also questioned the date of the said letter suggesting that it may not exist since the 8th Senate was inaugurated June 2015, the month the letter was reportedly submitted.

The 8th Senate was actually inaugurated on June 9, 2015, a week before the letter was written.

We are talking about a letter of June 2015. That was when he came in as Senate President.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 08:06:17|Editor: Mengjie

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BEIJING, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Public Security and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have cracked four major drug cases in 2017, according to the Ministry.

In March, Chinese police and the DEA shared information on a ketamine smuggling case with four suspects arrested in China and 13 in the United States. Police seized nearly 280 kg of various drugs and about a million U.S. dollars.

The Chinese police have acted against transnational traffickers thanks to information from the DEA since May. Over 90 kg of cocaine bound for Australia was seized and nine suspects arrested.

In 2015, Chinese police and the DEA formed a task force against a gang of dealers and seized almost 4 kg of drugs with seven suspects arrested in October, 2017. Funds of more than 3.5 million yuan (530,000 U.S. dollars) were frozen.

In October, Chinese police destroyed one drug factory and a warehouse, seized over 200 kg drugs, arrested 14 suspects and offered information on buyers in the U.S. to the DEA.
The federal government has told the Federal High Court in Lagos that the record of spending of N388.304 billion London Paris Club Loan refunds by 35 is protected by professional privilege, and therefore confidential.

The federal government through the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, was responding to the suit number FCH/CS/523/17 filed by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, seeking an order of mandamus directing and/or compelling the government to publish details of spending of N388.304billion London Paris Club Loan refunds allegedly diverted and mismanaged by 35 states.

President Muhammadu Buhari recently lamented that despite the refund to states and other bailout funds, many states still owed several months of workers salaries and pensioners entitlements.

The federal governments response filed last Friday followed the ruling in June by Justice Muslim Hassan that SERAP could proceed with the legal challenge to unravel how exactly 35 states spent Paris Club loan refunds. Justice Hassan had while granting leave stressed that it was important for the authorities to come and tell us how they spent our money.

However, in its defence, the federal government argued that, The relationship between the Accountant General and the 35 states is professional and confidential. It is a fiduciary one akin to that between a bank and its customer and allied professionals. On that score, record of the spending of N388.304 billion London Paris Club Loan refunds by the 35 states is exempted from publication, assuming the Federal Government has the information sought by SERAP.

The government also argued that, The Accountant General does not have custody or possession of the information or record relating to the spending of N388.304 billion London Paris Club Loan refunds by 35 states which the government gave them. The Accountant General did not release the funds to the states. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the Accountant General argues that assuming we have the information sought, the government is not obliged to comply with the request.

The government argued that, States have exclusive control over their revenue and expenditure and the Accountant General of the Federation cannot demand obligatorily from any tier of government including the 35 states information how they have spent the Paris Club refunds.

According to the government, SERAP has the right to the information sought but not to request that the information be passed to the Attorney General of the Federation. In any case, the Accountant General has no record of the spending of N388.304billion London Paris Club Loan refunds by 35 states and therefore cannot be compelled to release the record, as the court does not act in vain. An order of mandamus should not be issued because it will be unnecessary and not effective and will not serve the purpose.

Responding, SERAP argued that, Due to non-payment of overdue pensions and salaries of workers by the states, citizens have continued to languish in untold hardship and poverty. Therefore, there is compelling public interest in knowing how exactly the Paris Club loan refunds were spent by the 35 states. There is also no professional relationship or privilege between the Accountant General and the 35 states as to warrant any duty of confidentiality on the part of the Accountant General.

According to SERAP, There must be transparency and accountability in the spending of the refunds, in line with the principle of Open Government Partnership (OGP) to which Nigeria is a signatory. In addition, section 15(5) of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) provides that the state shall abolish corrupt practices and abuse of power. Citizens must be able to access the performance of government, and this depends on access to record about spending of the refunds by the 35 states.

The civil society organisation also argued that, Assuming without conceding that the Accountant General does not have record of spending of N388.304 billion London Paris Club Loan refunds by the 35 states, nothing stops the Accountant General from working with other agencies/ministries to release information on the spending, especially being the Chief Accounting Officer of the Federation, and constitutionally charged with the overall responsibility of keeping and managing all the receipts and payments of the Federal Government.

The Accountant General cannot therefore say he is unaware of the spending of the refunds by the states. Otherwise, this would mean that the Accountant General is lacking in his duty as Chief Accounting Officer of the Federation.

SERAPs response read in part: The Accountant General has a duty under section 2(2) of the FOI Act to keep and maintain records, and to proactively disclose information without SERAP even requesting it. A basic principle behind the FOI Act is that the burden of proof falls on the body asked for information in this case the Accountant General, and not the person asking for it. The person making the request does not have to explain their actions.

The governments counter-affidavit constitutes objection and legal argument, and therefore same ought to be disregarded by the court as it offends section 115 of the Evidence Act. Besides, any control by the 35 states over the spending of Paris Club Loan refunds is not absolute, and in fact subject to scrutiny by Nigerians.

The Accountant General owes no duty of confidence to the 35 states but rather to the entire citizens of Nigeria. Disclosure will not constitute an actionable breach of confidence if there is a public interest in disclosure which outweighs the public interest in keeping the information confidential.

The FOI Act does not say that the information requested can only be issued to the person making the request nor does it say that SERAP cannot request information for the use of another person, especially when that person is the Attorney General of the Federation who is constitutionally obliged by law to act in the public interest, including in matters relating to the spending of the Paris Club Loan refunds by the 35 states.

The intention of the drafters of the FOI Act as shown in its preamble and its sections is to allow access to information, enhance and promote transparency, accountability, openness, justice and development. Therefore, all public officials including the Accountant General ought to strive to ensure the effective implementation of the FOI Act.

Earlier, the motion on notice was set for September 14 for the hearing of argument on why the government should not be directed and compelled to publish details of projects on which the Paris Club loan refunds were spent. But the government has now filed a counter-affidavit and brief of arguments, claiming among others that the matter was confidential.

The federal government released N388.304 billion of the N522.74 billion to 35 states as refunds of over-deductions on London-Paris Club loans. The amounts received by the states are as follows: Akwa Ibom N14.5 billion; Bayelsa N14.5 billion; Delta N14.5 billion; Kaduna N14.3 billion; Katsina N14,5 billion; Lagos N14.5 billion; Rivers N14.5 billion; Borno N13,654138,849.49; Imo 13 billion; Jigawa 13.2 billion; and Niger N13.4 billion.

Others are: Bauchi N12.7 billion and Benue N12.7 billion, Anambra N11.3 billion; Cross River N11.3 billion; Edo N11.3 billion; Kebbi N11 billion; Kogi N11.2 billion; Osun N11.7 billion; Sokoto N11.9 billion; Abia N10.6 billion; Ogun N10.6 billion; Plateau N10.4 billion; Yobe N10 billion; and Zamfara N10 billion. Other states are: Adamawa N4.8 billion; Ebonyi N3.3 billion; Ekiti N8.8 billion; Enugu N9.9 billion; Gombe N8.3 billion; Kwara N5.4 billion; Nasarawa N8.4 billion; Ondo N6.5 billion; Oyo N7.2 billion and Taraba N4.2 billion.
The Presidency on Saturday released what it called a full list of all the appointments made by President Muhammadu Buhari since he assumed office on May 29, 2015.

However, the 159-member list contains several errors and omissions, an ongoing review by PREMIUM TIMES has shown.

At least 29 names of heads of agencies or parastatals were missing on the list while data provided for another five were incorrect.

The presidency had been challenged by a publication by BusinessDay which indicated that 81 of Mr. Buharis appointments are either from the North-east, North-west or North Central.

In apparent response to that report as well as several similar ones, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, released the list of 159 appointees on Saturday.

The BusinessDay report that 81 of the presidents 100 political appointees are northerners is misleading, Mr. Adesina, said in the statement. To claim, suggest or attempt to insinuate that the Presidents appointments are tilted in favour of a section of the country is simply untrue and certainly uncharitable.

Mr. Adesina then provided a graphical illustration of different states and the number of top appointees from the respective states.

The graph shows that Ogun, a South-western state has the highest number of appointments with 21, followed by Imo, a South-eastern state; and Kano, a North-western state which both have 15 each. Edo, a South-south state, and the presidents home state of Katsina both have 14 appointees each.

Mr. Adesinas 159-name list indicated that the South-west has the highest number of appointments at 42, followed by North-west, 30, and North-east, 24. South-east, North-central and South-south have 22, 21 and 20 respectively.

However, a closer look at the list provided by Mr. Adesina show several omissions and errors.

Below are some of these omissions spotted by PREMIUM TIMES:

FRCN, NTA DGs missing

The Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Mansur Liman, who is from Mr. Buharis hometown of Daura is omitted from the list.

Also omitted is Yakubu Ibn Muhammed, from Bauchi State, who was appointed as the Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority.

Ismael Ahmed missing

The Senior Special Assistant, SSA to the President on Social Investment Programmes, Ismael Ahmed, who was appointed by the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, while Mr. President was out of the country, is also missing on the list. Mr. Ahmed is from Kano, North-west.

It is not clear if this omission was deliberate as the announcement was done by Mr. Osinbajo.

Other SAs, SSAs missing

Ibrahim Bapetel Hassan, SSA Policy Research and Monitoring from Adamawa State; Tolu Ogunlesi, Special Assistant on Digital and New Media; Lauretta Onochie, Personal Assistant on Social Media; and Shaban Sharada, Personal Assistant on Broadcast Media (Radio) are all missing on the presidencys full list.

Also missing are Nasir Saidu Adhama, Special Assistant on Youths & Students Affairs; Abdulrahman Bappa Yola, Special Assistant in the Office of the Vice President; and Bashir Ahmed, Personal Assistant on New Media, all from Kano.

Missing September 2016 appointees?

On September 26, 2016, President Buhari announced appointments of executives for 13 federal government agencies. However, only seven of them are reflected in the Presidency list.

Missing are; Joseph Ari, Director-General, Industrial Training Fund; Simbi Wabote, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Monitoring Board; Aboloma Anthony, Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria; Mamman Amadu, Director-General, Bureau of Public Procurement; Ahmed Bobboi, Executive Secretary, Petroleum Equalization Fund and Saadiya Faruq, Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.

Abubakar Bello, NEXIM, CEO missing

In a widely-reported appointment, President Muhammadu Buhari in April 2017, approved the appointment of Abubakar Abba Bello as the new Managing Director of Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM). His name was also missing from the list released on Saturday.

Heads of health agencies missing

On July 29, 2016, the Director Press of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Bolaji Adebiyi, in a statement said the President has approved the appointment of new heads of five agencies in the Federal Ministry of Health.

Interestingly, four of the five are missing in the latest presidency list.

Not mentioned in the Presidency list are Babatunde Salako, the Director-General of National Institute for Medical Research from Ogun State; and Chikwe Ihekweazu, the coordinator of National Centre for Disease Control appointed in August 2016.

Also omitted are: Echezona Ezeanolue the Executive Director of National Primary Healthcare Development Agency; Usman Yusuf, the DG of National Health Insurance Scheme, who was recently suspended; and the Director-General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, NACA, Sani Aliyu.

OTHERS

Also missing from the list are the Managing Director, Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, FERMA, Nurudeen Rafindadi from Katsina; Chairman, Board of the FCT Internal Revenue Service, Abdullahi Attah; and Bayo Somefun, Managing Director, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund.

Others are, Luci Ajayi, Executive Secretary, Lagos International Trade Fair Management Board; and Emmanuel Jimme, Managing Director, Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority.

Apart from the missing names, however, some of those listed were wrongly described.

Babandede not from North-central

The presidency list claimed that the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, is from the North-central. But checks by PREMIUM TIMES found this to be wrong. The Immigration boss hails from Jigawa, a North-western state.

Roli Bode George not NDLEA Chairman

The presidency list identified the wife of PDP chieftain, Bode George, Roli Bode-George as the CEO of Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA. The list also claimed the BusinessDay list wrongly identified her as Muhammad Abdullah.

However, a further check grossly put the presidency in the wrong. Mrs. Bode-George is not the CEO of the agency. In November 2015, she was appointed acting chairman of the agency, a position she occupied for 54 days before Muhammad Abdullah, a native of Adamawa State, was appointed as substantive chairman on January 19, 2016.

Maryam Uwais not from North-central

Maryam Uwais who was appointed as President Buharis Special Adviser for Social Protection Plan was listed to have hailed from North-central; but a further check signifies that the wife of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Muhammadu Uwais is from Kano State.

Conclusion

The list is not exhaustive as PREMIUM TIMES continues to verify the presidencys list against available data.

The omissions do not, however, follow any specific pattern in term of regions; and so do not necessarily fault the presidencys motive that Mr. Buharis appointments are not lopsided.

Presidency reacts

When contacted, Mr. Adesina said the presidency is aware of the incompleteness of the list.

We didnt say it was completely exhaustive, he told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday. There are some others not there. You will see that all the boards of universities, governing council, the SSA on Job Creation are not there. We didnt say it was exhaustive. Thats not everything. Its just to show the majority number.

Asked why the Presidency published an incomplete list as full list, Mr. Adesina said the publication was to prove BusinessDays publication wrong.

Its just to show that the paper that published 100 and said 81 was from the North is not right. It was a mischievous story.

He said the list will be updated from time to time. Well keep updating it, he noted.
Criticisms have continued to trail the announcement by the management of controversial ponzi scheme, MMM, that the organisation has officially commenced a RESTART of the system.

In a message posted on the home page of participants Saturday morning, the scheme said that it had struggled to stay afloat after going on a break in December 2016; but had been forced to do a system restart.

Until its announcement on Saturday, the controversial scheme had left numerous Nigerian participants lamenting with millions of Naira trapped in the scheme.

According to the message seen by PREMIUM TIMES, the scheme also blamed the media and government for its failure, saying the problems accumulated and it had to announce a restart.

Unfortunately, we were unable to overcome the consequences of the crisis triggered by the authorities and mass media incautious actions at the beginning of this year, the message reads.

Despite all our effortsthe problems have been accumulating and, as a result, we have to announce a restart.

So, there is a restart: All old Mavros (acquired before this announcement is posted) are frozen. We will gradually buy them back as the System develops.

All transactions with new Mavros (acquired after this announcement is posted) will be carried out on the usual terms with no restrictions. Some amendments have been made to the rules: Mavros will now start growing at the moment the request is confirmed (not at the moment it is created, as it was previously).

The scheme explained that, consequently, bonuses will start growing at the moment when the main contribution is confirmed, upon which bonuses have been rewarded on.

It said its new measure will significantly reduce the load on the System while also significantly improving its stability.

As a matter of fact, a restart is not the end of the world, its just a restart of the System and nothing more. Continue to provide help and youll get it all back (even if youve lost something now). It all starts from the beginning.

Its the most opportune time for participating. We would also like to remind you (just for forms sake) that everyone had been fully aware of all the risks and had read the WARNING which they had also confirmed by checking the relevant box in the process of registration.

But the announcement was met with criticism among many participants who lamented their loss in 2016 and warned others of falling victim.

On online chat platforms monitored by PREMIUM TIMES, many Nigerians vowed not to return to the scheme even as a few suggested that they may give it another try.

Truth is, Nigerians have short circuit memory. If MMM comes back tomorrow, some will still put their money inside, wrote a commenter with the username FxWarrior on Nairaland.

Another commentator, NLearn wrote, It is time we put an end to this MMM scam. The money they are scamming our people are not even in the country. 70% of the money is leaving the country.

On his part, a commentator with the username TopCruise, questioned the timing of the purported comeback.

Last year November when Christmas was close it crashed and many trade blames against each other. This November MMM still want to capitalize on the method they use on hoodwinking gullible people, he wrote.

It is not about panic. A Ponzi scheme can never last you are yet to learn your lessons. If you dont realise this, you will fall into the trap again, a Nairaland commentator with the username Activa replied to another commentator who described the scathing remarks made by many Nigerians as scare mongering.

The MMM as a ponzi scheme gained popularity in Nigeria in 2016 with the promise that it would pay participants 30 per cent return on investment every 30 days.

Despite various warnings by the Nigerian government and its financial regulators, many Nigerians adamantly went on to participate in the scheme.

In December 2016, the scheme went on Pause Mode, freezing the funds of participants and allegedly bolted with N18 billion but promised to resume payments by January 2017.

By January, MMM kept its promise by resuming but it said 2016 participants money was to be paid back in percentages of new money invested. This raised concerns among participants.

In July, the scheme went on a semi-pause mode when it could not pay withdrawal requests. While those who lost their money continued to wait and lament, the ponzi scheme, commenced payment of those who invested their money in August, promising to backdate the payment to cover those whose money were still pending from June and July. It however could not fulfil its promises until it announced a restart on Saturday.

Earlier in 2016, the Nigerian Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Securities and Exchange Commission warned Nigerians against investing in the scheme because its credibility was in doubt.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Borno on Sunday said it had uncovered a prostitution ring in various colleges and tertiary institutions in the state.

The Corps Commandant, Ibrahim Abdullahi, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Maiduguri.

Mr. Abdullahi said the culprits were girls aged between 25 and below.

He added that the girls have their facilitators and a chief pimp outside the schools who usually communicate on how to arrange the girls. They usually charge between N10,000 and above for a night.

The girls dont usually go out looking for men, as they are being patronised mostly by visitors who come into town for weekend or for a programme.

Our investigation also revealed that the teenage girls are also into various forms of nefarious activities like smoking of cannabis sativa and abuse of Codein cough syrup.

We, therefore, want to appeal to parents in particular to monitor the activities of their children in schools and know the type of company they keep at all times.

Bad friends in school are some of the genesis of this form of anti-social behaviour.

The commandant, who gave assurance that the culprits would be made to face the full weight of the law, also urged school authorities to ensure strict monitoring of students.

Mr. Abdullahi also said the agency arrested 10 ward heads in Maiduguri over alleged land grabbing and swindling of the public.

He said most of the ward heads had perpetrated more than five land fraud on unsuspected persons with the connivance of some ministry staff.

He explained that the culprits normally take advantage of people who dont always check up on their plots of land.

Whenever they notice that a land owner is not always around, they make fake papers and sell the plots to unsuspected individuals.

There are instances where one plot of land is being sold to five or six different persons. What they do is that they usually change their names during the fraudulent transactions.

We are doing whatever we can to get back the money of the people they defrauded and take the suspected ward heads to court to face the law.

Mr. Abdullahi said the Dispute Resolution Department of the NSCDC command in Borno recorded 38 cases of land grabbing perpetrated by ward heads in Maiduguri in two months.

The commandant, therefore, advised the public to be wary of persons disguising as land owners as some were just out to defraud people.

(NAN)
Suspected members of Boko Haram on Saturday attacked Ngoshe Village of Gwoza Local Government Area killing at least one person, local security officials said.

The insurgents also abducted about ten residents of the village.

A chieftain of the Vigilante Group of Nigerian in Borno State, Abbas Gava, informed PREMIUM TIMES that one of our personnel, Musa Abdullahi, was among those killed when some heavily armed Boko Haram insurgents attacked Ngoshe-Bayan-Dutse community.

Some unknown number of corpses were left in the bush as villagers fled to mountain tops around Gwoza Local Government Area.

By the report I received from one of our officials in Ngoshe, Hawa Bukar, who called me with a Cameroon registered phone number, at least ten persons were abducted and taken away by the Boko Haram, while some corpses were seen in the bush as the villagers were fleeing.

Gwoza town, the headquarters of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State is surrounded by rocky mountains.

Other communities of the council area like Mararraba, Angwan Fada Dale, Wizha, Bokko Timit, Bokko Nasanu, Bokko Hidde are either located on top of the mountains or behind them. Ngoshe is one of the communities located behind the mountains near the Cameroonian border. The people of Ngoshe largely depend on Cameroonian mobile lines for their local calls to Nigeria.

Boko Haram insurgents, believed to have secret enclaves around the rocky mountains, often launch attacks on Ngoshe and other villages in the area.

A former council member of Gwoza Local Government Area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, also confirmed the attack.

I wouldnt want to pre-empt whatever those in charge are doing concerning the attack, he said. But I can assure you that we have the correct hint that the attack actually took place, and we are still waiting for more information about the extent of damage done; especially the issue of casualties.

The army and the police are yet to comment on this latest attack.

A message sent to the spokesperson of the Operation Lafiya Dole, Onyema Nwachukwu, was not responded to as at the time of filing this report.
The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, TRCN, says it has registered and certified 33, 259 teachers in Akwa Ibom.

The State Coordinator of TRCN, Akwa Ibom, Aletor Omonzokpia, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Uyo on Sunday.

Omonzokpia said since the registration of professional teachers began in the state in 2004, 19,812 teachers have been registered in primary schools.

According to him, 8,300 teachers have been registered in secondary schools, 299 in tertiary institutions and 4848 in other sectors.

Those under other category are people who acquired teaching qualification and registered with the council but are not teaching, he said.

The state coordinator said that registration of teachers in the state had been encouraging due to governments interest in professionalising teaching.

He said, The Akwa Ibom State Government ties payment of teachers salaries to their acquiring of professional certificates.

If you have a teaching qualification and are registered with the council, there must be a difference in your salary.

He said that the TRCN would perform better with legislation by the National Assembly, empowering the council to enforce registration of the qualified ones and sanctioning of the quacks.

The legislation needs to go with enforcement so that the council officials can go into private schools and enforce compliance, he said.

Mr. Omonzokpia lamented that private schools had not been cooperating with the council as they employed all manners of people to teach the children.

The state coordinator described most of those employed by private schools to teach as talkers and not teachers.

He reminded those who had yet to register with the council to do so, stressing that the 2018 deadline for registration before practicing, still stood.

(NAN)
A former governor of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime, has called for the cancellation and rescheduling of the Saturday local government election in the state.

Mr. Chime also told the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) not to contemplate announcing results arising from the exercise.

The former governor made the call on Saturday night in Enugu while briefing journalists on the outcome of the exercise.

He said that the call was necessary to save ENSIEC from ridiculing itself by announcing fictitious results.

He said that from the events that played out across the state, it was obvious that the electoral umpire was not prepared for the election.

They should go back and do their homework. No election held today. They should reschedule the election and be more prepared for it and forget about electoral fraud, he said.

Mr. Chime said that it would have been in the best interest of the state government to allow for a free and fair election in order to test their popularity.

I believe it would have been in the interest of the government to actually allow a free and fair election. That is the only way they can actually know their strength and whether they are doing well or not.

If you do what it was today and you have fake results all over, they may be going in for a shocker in 2019 as the election will not be conducted by ENSIEC, he said.

He said that his experience at his polling unit was very unfortunate and sad, adding that it was a resurgence of those primitive days.

I went to vote in order to encourage people around there but sadly I think we have gone back to those primitive days. They were no result sheets and other sensitive materials.

We observed impersonators with all sorts of cards to vote. Some were turned down while others succeeded.

This is a situation where you have well known card carrying members of a party also functioning as electoral officials like supervisors and presiding officers. It was that bad, he said.

Mr. Chime said that what played out during the polls could be likened to where your opponent is your umpire in a contest.

I did not see anything close to an election or resembling free and fair election. In fact in some places there were no voting at all. We describe it as unfair.

So elections properly so called did not hold in the state, he said.

Mr. Chime said that the state government had before now held four local government elections, but we never experienced any such nonsense as we did today.

If this is what they plan to do in 2019 general election they should start looking for something else to do because it will not work, Chime said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that protests by opposition parties over non-availability of result sheets during the exercise resulted to violence in many areas.

The opposition parties had insisted that voting would not hold without the presiding officers showing them the result sheets.

Earlier, the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, commended ENSIEC for organising what it the described as the peaceful local government elections.

Speaking after monitoring the elections in the state, the National President of NANS, Chinonso Obasi, told journalists that he and his colleagues were pleased with the conduct of the elections. He applauded Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for providing an enabling environment, which he said gave the electorate the opportunity to exercise their franchise.

Mr. Obasi explained that despite complaints by the opposition over alleged late arrival of election materials, his teams observations from the polling units visited showed that the exercise was successful, peaceful and in accordance with the commissions guidelines.
The Students Union President of Obafemi Awolowo University, Oyekan Edward, has been removed from office by the legislative arm of the union.



The parliamentarians accused Mr. Edward of convening suspected cultists to the university campus on Monday to disturb the peace of the institution.



The motion for the sack of the president was deliberated by 51 members of the Students Representative Council at their sitting on Saturday at the Awolowo Cafe.



The parliamentarians also resolved to forward an official letter to the university management stating Mr. Edwards offence.

They also suspended the Secretary General and Public Relations Officer of the union, Boluwajaiye Adeoluwa and Okediji Simon respectively, for not attending the parliamentary sitting and for being caught viewing a television programme at the common room of the universitys Awolowo hall of residence not far from the venue of the parliamentary sitting when proceedings were ongoing.

The suspension of the two officers is for two weeks. The parliament also prohibited absent parliamentarians from attending two subsequent sittings.

The sitting had in attendance 51 parliamentarians, with 37 of them voting for the removal of the union president while the remaining parliamentarians abstained from voting.

In an interview with PREMIUM TIMES, a member of the OAU Students Union parliament, Odetoyinbo Fiyin, commended the resolutions, particularly the impeachment of the president.

I strongly believe that the impeachment of the president has been lingering for a long time. He has committed so many misconducts, he is also known for absconding congresses.

The parliament has done the needful. The resolution of the parliament which impeached the president is in fact a victory for all the members of OAU Students Union, he said.

The clerk of the parliament, Iyiola Oluwatosin, while speaking with our correspondent, said that the president had to be removed because he has committed a lot of offences.

The president was alleged to have invited cultists to come attack students in a parliamentary sitting that he did call, which held Wednesday November 1. The cultists who came to attack our students were conveyed to and fro the university campus with the union bus and he masterminded the attack.

This is an archetype that cultism is likely to return and history should not be allowed to repeat itself. The resolution of the parliament as regards the impeachment of the union president is valid and there is no going back.

Falayi Temitope, the Speaker of the parliament, also spoke on the removal.

He was impeached on the grounds of gross misconducts which included his involvement in an attack on students.

Mr. Oyekan Ibukun Edward, impeached OAU students union president, was impeached because he cannot be trusted on matters as regards students security.

He allowed students to be beaten blue black by cultists who were conveyed to and fro the university premises in a bus which was meant to be in the custody of the president. He did invite the cultists that came to attack students at the university students union building on November 1st, 2017, he stated.

However, the embattled president of the union, Mr. Edward, in a statement, said his removal was null and void.

My attention has been drawn to news flying around social media that the president has been impeached, the secretary general and public relations officer of the union have been suspended for two weeks.

May I use this medium to inform you all that it is not true and not in tandem with the sacrosanct Constitution of our union.

The Parliament has 150 honourables and only 37 honourables voted for the impeachment of the president against zero. This is evident of their sinister plan and motive, he said.

The clerk of the parliament, Mr. Oluwatosin, however explained that the removal of the union president is valid.



At this point in time, permit me to clearly clear the general public that the president has been constitutional impeached according to Article V, Section 67 Subsection 1-2



Article V, S.67(1), observed that any officer of the Union shall cease to hold office if a motion for his removal is supported by two thirds of the member of the SRC present and voting at a meeting provided quorum is formed.



Permit me to relate to you that parliamentarians present during voting were 51 and the quorum is (50), 2/3 of the member of SRC of 51 should be 34; and 37 voted which make it more than valid.



Hence, I implore the general public to deal with Mr. Edward Ibukun as a member of the union and not as president. It should be clearly noted again here that the parliament has been fair in dealing with the impeached president before now but bringing cultists to and out of OAU campus with the union bus is the acme of it.



With the decision of the parliament as stated by the constitution, the speaker is expected to assume the office of the president of the union due to ongoing suspension of the vice president by the university management.



PREMIUM TIMES reported the suspension of the vice president, Jacob Tosin, and director of socials, Adedayo Emmanuel, by the university management after both engaged in a bloody clash over money.



Meanwhile, some students of the institution have said that the removal of the president will divide the union and will not make it possible for it to demand the reinstatement of some students that were suspended by the university after protesting poor welfare condition on campus.



I agree with the impeachment of the president. But it so painful that this will be the discussion of every student till the end of the administration. We dont know the fate of the suspended students, Bamimore Awoyemi, a student of English department said.



Another student who identified herself as Foluwake said: Im not surprised though. But I hope the leadership will leave their selfish interest to fight for the generality of OAU students.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 08:31:24|Editor: Jiaxin

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ISLAMABAD, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani officials has said that stubbles burnt by Indian farmers after wheat harvest caused thick blanket of fog in east Punjab province of Pakistan.

Talking to Xinhua on Saturday night, officials with Environment Protection Department of Punjab province said that smog is causing various diseases among residents of Punjab and the provincial government is taking measures to control the situation.

The department's minister Zakia Shah Nawaz Khan said that the smog has been engulfing the province for two weeks, and is feared to continue for the coming week or so.

She added that the smoke of the stubbles from Indian farms moved at a velocity of 7 to 8 km per hour and travelled to Punjab, resulting in dense fog in the province.

Local experts said that the total Air Quality Index in provincial capital of Lahore is 357 whereas the maximum limit should be around 100, adding that if the situation is not controlled, the highest level is feared to exceed 500 in the coming days.

Syed Mubashir Hussain, an official of the environment department said that the provincial government has banned stubble burning across the province and violators are being arrested.

A total of 197 First Information Reports have been filed against violators and 65 people have been arrested due to stubble burning and solid waste burning. 175 pollution-causing units have been stopped. About 15,718 smoke emitting vehicles have been confiscated, and a total of 43 rupees lac (about 43,000 U.S. dollars) fine has been imposed, Hussain told Xinhua.

Apart from this, brick kilns using substandard fuel and running their units without emission control devices like wet scrubbers, electrostatic precipitators and fly ash arrestors have also been closed, the official said.

Smog has not only affected heath of people, but also caused road accidents. According to local media reports, at least 18 people have been killed and 45 others injured in separate fog-related accidents across the province.

Air traffic was also affected due to smog-caused low visibility. Six domestic flights from various airports have been suspended due to smog, spokesperson of Pakistan International Airlines said in a statement.

Met office said that smog will disappear after rains or heavy winds, but there is no possibility of any of them in the next 48 hours.
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.




These 680MW's of Texas Solar Farms are some of the most valuable and attractive Renewable Energy assets being offered in the industry today. Innovative Solar Systems, LLC gets its buyers much larger returns than normal on Solar Farms for a variety of reasons such as; 1) better sites with lower build costs, 2) 20-30% lower EPC costs on these MEGA projects, 3) higher PPA rates and better terms through a variety of contract negotiations tactics in TX, 4) better overall project design which again yields additional build cost savings, 5) project expansion capability for battery storage utilizing quick and easy bolt on options at any point after COD, 6) lower O&M contracts over the life of projects. The Texas grid offers investors the best, largest and most versatile Solar Farm options in the US for many reasons and every time ISS introduces a new TX carve out for sale the projects go fast.

Innovative Solar is also one of the few if not the only reputable US Developer of MEGA Size Utility Scale Solar Farms that can Offer Buyers a Revolving pipeline of over 12GW's of projects per year. ISS has relationships with some of the largest Private and Public Funds in the World as well as Fortune 500 companies galore. Buyers that do some research on US Solar Farm Development companies always choose ISS in the end as no other company in the space can match our talent or capabilities for providing turnkey solutions on large scale Solar Farm projects throughout the United States.

Contact Innovative Solar Systems, LLC for Prices and Terms on this 680MW Portfolio of Projects in Texas,

Contact - CFO (Mr. Craig Sherman) at +1 828 767 1015

Contact - CEO (John E Green) at +1 828 215 9064

Email  [email protected]

Email  [email protected]

*THIS CONTENT IS NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN OFFER FOR SALE OF AN INVESTMENT OR SECURITIES, NOR IS ANY LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE BEING OFFERED. *

SOURCE Innovative Solar Systems

Related Links

http://solarfarmsales.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Airbnb and Pillow today announced a new partnership that will support landlords and tenants who share their homes on Airbnb. Under the new partnership, Pillow Residential will become the preferred partner for landlords enrolled in Airbnb's Friendly Buildings Program. Pillow Residential's tools for multi-family housing owners and operators include online dashboards that give landlords information about home sharing and services for hosts who want extra help sharing their space. The first landlord to engage with this partnership and offer the program to their long-term residents will be San Francisco's largest apartment building and urban retail owner, Veritas Investments, which will launch with a pilot group of five buildings in San Francisco.

Here's how the partnership works:

Landlords and multi-family building operators can join the Airbnb Friendly Buildings Program, which allows landlords and tenants to share revenue generated by home sharing. Landlords can set a percentage of revenue to support upgrades and program oversight to improve the quality of life for all residents. Landlords in the Friendly Buildings Program can also join Pillow Residential to access Pillow's suite of comprehensive tools.

Pillow's tools for landlords include onboarding tenants and educating them about home sharing, creating and executing lease addendums that support home sharing, and working with building management to incorporate building rules into listing templates. Pillow Residential also gives landlords a single dashboard with information about hosting in their building, so they know what units are being rented out at any given time.

Tenants also benefit from Pillow's tools. Pillow Residential's tools help tenants create Airbnb listings that automatically include information about their building's shared amenities and mobile guides for guests with everything from building access codes to emergency contact information. When guests check out, tenants can use Pillow to hire cleaners who can assist them with cleaning their listings.

"Together, Pillow and Airbnb can give landlords and tenants access to the best tools and make home sharing better and easier for everyone," said Jaja Jackson, Director of Global Multi-family Housing Partnerships at Airbnb. "Veritas is a leader and innovator in the real estate community and they are one of the multi-family building owners who know Airbnb is a tremendous benefit for their properties and the residents who call their buildings home."

According to National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) studies, over half of those age 25-34 and over 60% of those under age 25 are interested or very interested in the ability to share their units, and apartment owners and tenants are increasingly embracing home sharing. To date, landlords have enrolled buildings with over 13,000 total units in the Airbnb Friendly Buildings program.

"Demand for home sharing among renters keeps growing, and we anticipate a day when Pillow will be on every renters' checklist as a must-have, alongside amenities like air conditioning or high-speed internet," said Sean Conway, CEO of Pillow. "This partnership with Airbnb is a logical next step in making this vision a reality. Veritas is a trailblazer and we're proud to be a part of offering the best solutions for their residents."

"We reached out to and surveyed residents, and there's a great deal of interest in this new aspect of the 'sharing economy','' said Yat-Pang Au, CEO of Veritas Investments. "This well-supported home sharing program of Airbnb and Pillow can help our residents with economic empowerment and could further differentiate our properties. Veritas strives to offer market-leading opportunities in some of the most character-rich, well-located apartments, which enhances our residents' experience. This partnership also marks one of the more significant pursuits from our newly formed Veritas Innovations business unit that advises, invests in, and incubates synergistic real estate technology partners."

About Airbnb

Founded in 2008, Airbnb's mission is to create a world where people can belong when they travel by being connected to local cultures and having unique travel experiences. Its community marketplace provides access to millions of unique accommodations from apartments and villas to castles and treehouses in more than 65,000 cities and 191 countries. With Experiences, Airbnb offers unprecedented access to local communities and interests, while Places lets people discover the hidden gems of a city as recommended by the people that live there. Airbnb is people-powered and the easiest way to earn a little extra income from extra space in a home or from sharing passions, interests and cities.

About Veritas Investments, Inc.

San Francisco-based Veritas Investments, Inc. is one of the largest owners and operators of multifamily, urban retail and mixed-use properties in San Francisco and the San Francisco Bay Area. Veritas has assets in excess of $2 billion and in 2016 completed an $815 million financing, the largest portfolio financing of its kind in the history of San Francisco. Vertically integrated, the firm and its affiliates provide property management, leasing, project management, redevelopment, accounting, asset management, financing, and investment management services. For more information, visit www.veritasinvestments.com

About Pillow

Pillow gives apartment complex owners the ability to easily enable short-term rentals in entire buildings and entire portfolios. Our platform provides automated online compliance, safety, payments, monitoring, property management tools and controls  all in one digital solution. Pillow, based out San Francisco, has raised $18 million from investors including Mayfield Fund, Homebrew, Sterling Capital, Sherpa Ventures and Peak Capital Partners. Pillow works with Virtu Investments, Peak Residential, Marian Group and other Multifamily partners. Pillow Residential has 4,000 units enrolled in San Francisco, Houston, Oakland, Denver, Louisville, Salt Lake City, Louisville, Albuquerque and eight additional cities. More information can be found at www.pillow.com

SOURCE Airbnb
DALLAS, Nov. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Board of Trial Advocates defends judges who cannot publicly respond to criticism due to ethical prohibitions. The organization provides information to enable the public to understand legal problems facing our justice system when judges cannot defend themselves.

F. Dulin Kelly, ABOTA National President, issued the following statement:

Judges and lawyers who work in the U.S. justice system swear oaths to abide by the Constitution and to enforce the laws of the land. This includes laws protecting the rights of those accused of heinous crimes. Those accused are entitled to due process of law, an attorney to defend their rights and an unbiased judge and jury.

Our justice system is the sum of our Constitution and statutes enacted by our democratic process, overseen by both elected judges and judges appointed by presidents and approved by the Senate. Every day, Americans sacrifice their personal and work lives to serve as jurors to decide cases in a tradition as old as our country. Our justice system is not perfect, but it is a model of fairness and due process.

The President of the United States has publicly stated that our justice system is a "joke" and a "laughingstock." His comments are wrong and unfair to those who work in the U.S. justice system. Fairness, justice and due process of law are not laughing matters; rather, these qualities are the bedrock of our democratic system.

About the American Board of Trial Advocates

Founded in 1958, ABOTA is a national association of experienced trial lawyers and judges. ABOTA and its members are dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the civil jury trial right provided by the Seventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. ABOTA membership consists of more than 7,600 lawyers  equally balanced between plaintiff and defense  and judges spread among 97 chapters in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

For more information:

Brian Tyson

(800) 932-2682

[email protected]

SOURCE American Board of Trial Advocates

Related Links

http://www.abota.org


LOS ANGELES, Nov. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- DxTerity, a patient-centric genomics company developing at-home genomic monitoring blood tests for immune mediated diseases, today announced that data on the BRAVO Study in which participants with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) used a combination of on-line Patient Reported Outcomes and the DxCollect Fingerstick Collection kit to monitor disease characteristics are being presented at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting being held Nov. 3-8, 2017 in San Diego, CA.

Details of the poster presentation are as follows:

Title: Social Media Based, Direct-to-Patient Study Designed for Development of "From Home" Testing for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients is Feasible and Engaged Individuals with Distinct Clinical Characteristics

Authors: K Warren, O Khalid, O Derbeneva, M Frits, J Healy, C Iannaccone, K Morampudi, N Shadick, M Weinblatt, H Wijesuriya, F Flores, R Terbrueggen

Session Title: Rheumatoid Arthritis  Clinical Aspects Poster I: Treatment Patterns and Response

Date: Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, 9:00  11:00 a.m. PT.

Location: ACR Poster Session A

Abstract # 441

The objective of the study was to investigate the feasibility of recruiting a patient cohort entirely through social media and to evaluate the quality of the genomic data collected. Cohort metrics were compared with clinical data of patients enrolled in a traditional, clinically managed study by the Brigham and Women's Hospital. The findings demonstrated that social media and molecular analysis of patient-collected fingerstick samples are viable to examine efficacy of direct-to-patient testing for RA affected individuals. The genomic RNA quality of the samples in the DxCollect fingerstick collection kit were similar to those obtained through traditional means at the Brigham and Women's Hospital despite the smaller volume, "from home" self-collection by participants. Cohorts showed differences in some clinical parameters including treatments and disease activity indicating that a direct-to-patient approach may add depth to the complex RA patient population that can be effectively monitored.

"Developing tools to lower the barriers to clinical study participation while increasing the types of patients we see in clinical studies can be an effective strategy in obtaining a diverse patient population for studies," said Bob Terbrueggen, chief executive officer and founder of DxTerity.

For more information about this presentation, please visit the ACR website at http://acrabstracts.org/. Visit DxTerity at the meeting at Booth #2316 for more info.

About Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory condition affecting an estimated 1.5 million Americans. It is often characterized by symptoms that include pain, stiffness and inflammation of the joints.

About DxTerity:

DxTerity is a patient-centric genomics company bringing the power of real-world genomics with From-Home RNA monitoring to improving the management of immune-mediated diseases. With patented and proprietary technologies that engage patients where they live, DxTerity is increasing clinical study efficiency while transforming the management of immune-mediated disease by helping to provide a more complete picture of an individual's health. DxTerity also provides services and technologies to partner organizations including running population-scale genomic studies. For more information, please visit www.dxterity.com.

DxCollect Fingerstick Collection Kit is for Research Use Only, not for use in diagnostic procedure.

SOURCE DxTerity

Related Links

http://www.dxterity.com


DALLAS, Nov. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Furthering its reach, Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today began operating new international service daily from Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Providenciales International Airport (PLS) in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the carrier's 11th country served. In addition, Southwest initiated new service between its South Florida gateway at FLL and both San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO), and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ), giving Customers nonstop access from Fort Lauderdale to 10 destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean.

"Three new routes bring Southwest's needed value for Floridians hoping to hit the beach in Provo's world-famous Grace Bay, hike up the crater at Poas volcano near Costa Rica's capital city, or have a carefree weekend in a resort in Punta Cana," said Steve Goldberg, Southwest's Senior Vice President of Operations & Hospitality who also serves as the carrier's Executive Sponsor of Florida. "With convenient connections for Orlando, Tampa, and dozens of cities across our domestic network, these international destinations are now reachable on Southwest where there are no change fees and bags fly free."

* There are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. First and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply..

In a partnership with Broward County, Southwest continues work to transform and expand Terminal 1 at FLL into a vastly improved facility with additional gates, security screening, concessions, and border processing capacity. Southwest launched additional international service from FLL in June 2017.

Southwest recently extended its bookable flight schedule through early August 2018 bringing new, international service on Saturdays next summer between Houston and Grand Cayman. In addition, service between Cancun and both Pittsburgh and Raleigh-Durham will operate nonstop on Saturdays beginning June 9, 2018, subject to governmental approvals. The summer 2018 flight schedule is Southwest's largest-ever for Cancun with nonstop service from 16 gateway airports in the U.S. peaking at 27 departures to Cancun on Saturdays.

Southwest also increased summer season 2018 service to Puerto Rico with daily flights between San Juan and Chicago Midway, which had operated only on weekends in Summer 2017, and augmented daily seasonal service between San Juan and Houston Hobby, with a second flight on Saturdays and Sundays beginning June 9, 2018.

"We're investing in the Caribbean with an optimistic outlook on travel and tourism as our Hearts remain with those still facing significant challenges," Goldberg added. Following the hurricanes of 2017, Southwest coordinated with government officials to operate two dozen unscheduled flights to Puerto Rico in support of relief efforts by transporting people and much-needed supplies. "While a courageous recovery continues, the best thing many can do now is simply take a vacation, make a business trip, and contribute to a greater awareness that the Caribbean is back in business."

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.

In its 47th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 55,000 Employees to a Customer base topping 115 million passengers annually, in recent years. Southwest became the nation's largest domestic air carrier in 2003 and maintains that ranking based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent reporting of domestic originating passengers boarded. During peak travel seasons, Southwest operates more than 4,000 weekday departures among a network of 100 destinations in the United States and ten additional countries. Southwest has announced its intention to sell tickets in 2018 for service to Hawaii, subject to requisite governmental approvals.

Southwest coined Transfarency to describe its purposed philosophy of treating Customers honestly and fairly, and low fares actually staying low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some carriers offer free checked bags on select routes or in qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply.

As launch customer of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 in North America, the Company operates the largest fleet in the world of Boeing aircraft, all of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi. Customers who connect to the WiFi network may use their personal devices to view on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV.

With a bold new look first unveiled in 2014, Southwest is progressing through a multi-year refresh of its fleet to showcase the carrier's Heart: a new logo, aircraft livery, interior design featuring new seats, Employee-designed uniforms, and an updated airport experience, all of which showcase a dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives.

From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic wherever the carrier serves. With 44 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2016 Southwest Airlines One Report can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com.

Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.

SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.

Related Links

http://www.southwest.com


WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A Lupus Foundation of America study has led to the development of a new model for assessing patient outcomes in clinical trials. The new model, based on findings from the Lupus Foundation of America's Collective Data Analysis Initiative (LFA CDAI), yields a more comprehensive profile of a lupus patient's response to therapy and takes into account the important fact that how well a patient responds to treatment varies over time. This model is a significant improvement over the existing standard of using a single "landmark" visit to assess outcomes. The model can also be used to design future studies and to accelerate the identification of effective new therapies that would ultimately benefit people with lupus.

The data supporting the development of this new model is part of the Lupus Foundation of America's Collective Data Analysis Initiative (LFA CDAI) study, "Estimating Duration of Response in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Trials," and was released at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego.

In a typical lupus trial, patient responses are analyzed only at their final visit (also known as a landmark visit), which doesn't account for overall effectiveness of the treatment throughout the entire study. Additionally, the new method can handle drop-outs and missed patient visits which can further complicate evaluation of a patient's response to treatment.

"As a statistician, I'm interested in exploring novel analytical methods that might help to increase the signal-to-noise ratio in SLE trials," said Dr. Mimi Kim, LFA CDAI Co-chair. "Given the variability in lupus symptoms over time, investigating the effect of treatment on response duration may be a more robust approach for identifying effective new therapies and it is critical to explore this data in order to move lupus research forward."

Since its inception in 2009, LFA CDAI has published important findings on the impact of background medications taken by people with lupus during clinical trials. The latest LFA CDAI analysis builds upon this work with the goal of creating smarter trial design and moving us closer to new treatments for patients now.

During the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting (November 3-8), the Lupus Foundation of America will conduct on-site Facebook Live interviews with lupus researchers and other health professionals about the findings from their research studies. More than 35 Lupus Foundation of America funded researchers will be presenting on findings from their lupus studies. To learn more about the Facebook Live interviews, visit http://bit.ly/ACR17hub.

About the Lupus Foundation of America's Research Program

Research is the key to solving the cruel mystery of lupus and ending its brutal impact. The Lupus Foundation of America focuses on smarter research that will lead to faster progress, and has supported more than 400 lupus research studies conducted at more than 100 medical institutions throughout the United States. Data generated by the Foundation's early research investments have provided important pathways toward identifying people at highest risk for lupus and stopping the disease before it starts. For more information on Foundation research priorities, visit lupus.org/research.

About the Lupus Foundation of America

The Lupus Foundation of America is the only national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world's cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus. Learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America at lupus.org.



CONTACT:

Mike Donnelly

[email protected]

202.349.1162

SOURCE Lupus Foundation of America

Related Links

http://www.lupus.org


WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A Lupus Foundation of America study of over 3,000 adults with lupus found that 46.5 percent report being misdiagnosed with something other than lupus at the start of their journey with this unpredictable and life-altering disease. Additionally, more than half (54.1 percent) were told that there was nothing wrong with them or that their symptoms were psychological.

The data was included in a cross-sectional study, "Lupus Diagnosis: Process and Patient Experience," released by the Lupus Foundation of America today at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego. The study demonstrates the urgent need to shorten the time to obtain an accurate diagnosis so people with lupus can begin critical treatment that will reduce damage to vital organs, such as the kidneys, heart, lungs and brain.

Previous studies have shown that it takes nearly six years from the time people with lupus first notice symptoms until they obtain a correct diagnosis. Damage caused by lupus increases the likelihood of developing long-term health complications, making early diagnosis crucial for people with lupus  an important strategic objective of the Lupus Foundation of America.

"This study is so valuable because it's the first in-depth look at the patient diagnostic experience," said R. Paola Daly, Director of Research at the Lupus Foundation of America. "The results of this study will help us understand and in-turn, prevent the specific factors that lead to unacceptable delays in receiving a lupus diagnosis."

Through this study, the Lupus Foundation of America sought to identify barriers that impede lupus diagnosis and ways to improve its accuracy. Nearly 40 percent of those with lupus waited more than one year from the onset of symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis. These findings underscore the importance of providing continuing medical education about lupus symptoms to both primary and specialty healthcare providers.

During the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting (November 3-8), the Lupus Foundation of America will conduct on-site Facebook Live interviews with lupus researchers and other health professionals about the findings from their research studies. More than 35 Lupus Foundation of America funded researchers will be presenting on findings from their lupus studies. To learn more about the Facebook Live interviews, visit http://bit.ly/ACR17hub.

About the Lupus Foundation of America's Research Program

Research is the key to solving the cruel mystery of lupus and ending its brutal impact. The Lupus Foundation of America focuses on smarter research that will lead to faster progress, and has supported more than 400 lupus research studies conducted at more than 100 medical institutions throughout the United States. Data generated by the Foundation's early research investments have provided important pathways toward identifying people at highest risk for lupus and stopping the disease before it starts. For more information on Lupus Foundation of America research priorities, visit lupus.org/research.

About the Lupus Foundation of America

The Lupus Foundation of America is the only national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world's cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus. Learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America at lupus.org.

CONTACT:

Mike Donnelly

[email protected]

202.349.1162

SOURCE Lupus Foundation of America

Related Links

http://www.lupus.org


Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 09:51:38|Editor: Jiaxin

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TRIPOLI, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Local sources have confirmed that four foreign workers were freed on Saturday, one day after they were kidnapped in southern Libya by unknown gunmen.

"The foreign engineers working in the power plant have left Libya on Saturday evening for fear of kidnapping again," said a local source, who declined to give his name.

It is reported that the efforts by local authorities had failed to free the hostages. However, security officials told local media earlier Saturday that they were besieging a site where the kidnappers stayed, and that the workers would be freed in a few hours.

No details about the identity of the kidnappers or the foreign workers were released.

Unknown gunmen on Friday kidnapped the foreign workers -- three Turks and one German, who worked in a power plant in the southern Libyan city of Obari, 1,100 km south of the capital Tripoli.

Insecurity and chaos followed the 2011 uprising that toppled then leader Muammar Gaddafi in Libya, where authorities struggle to control the deteriorating situation.
Full coverage of the Delphi murders: Look back at 5 years of stories
The U.S. military and Afghan authorities are investigating reports of civilian casualties caused by deadly air strikes in northern Afghanistan.

The U.S. military said it had launched a probe into what it described as a combined U.S.-Afghan operation in the northern province of Kunduz on November 3 and was assessing the facts surrounding the incident.

The Afghan Defense Ministry said it had tasked security commanders to probe reports of civilian casualties in the Chardara district in Kunduz, where the government said it had inflicted heavy losses on Taliban militants.

Defense Ministry spokesman Dawlat Waziri said the ministry had not yet confirmed the death of any civilians in the air strikes.

Khosh Mohammad Nasratyar, a provincial council member, said 14 civilians were killed in the air strikes.

Another council member, Saifullah Amiri, a provincial council member, put the number even higher, at 22 civilians dead.

U.S. air strikes have intensified since U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new strategy for Afghanistan in August, which relaxed U.S. rules of engagement.

Civilian casualties from air strikes conducted by U.S. and Afghan forces increased by 52 percent in the first nine months of 2017, compared to 2016.

Based on reporting by dpa, Reuters, and Tolo News
ST. PETERSBURG/MOSCOW -- The small museum in St. Petersburg located in the apartment where Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin lived in the months before the October 1917 Bolshevik coup was inexplicably closed one recent weekday afternoon.



A small, elderly woman was stubbornly ringing the bell, trying to get in. Asked about her opinion of the revolution that changed the history of her country, rocked the world, and shaped her entire life, she seemed lost for words.

"Oh, I don't know," the woman told RFE/RL. "I don't know what to say. Fifty-fifty, as they say. God only knows. If we'd had a monarchy, then maybe we would have lived differently. It's hard to say now. But it happened. That's it. It happened."

As the November 7 centennial arrives -- the revolution happened in late October under the calendar Russia used at the time, but in early November according to the calendar most of the world used -- Russians seem curiously uncertain about what to make of the 100-year-old events. And they are getting precious little help from the state, which strictly controls national media and which seems determined to let the historic date pass with as little fanfare as possible.

"Twenty-five years ago, it seemed this date would be marked as the centennial of, of course, a huge tragedy," historian Nikolai Svanidze said. "Now it is not being observed at all because the authorities have not reached a consensus on how to mark it.

"For the authorities today, any revolution is a bad thing. Any revolution is a threat. Now that word is never used without the [negative] adjective 'colored,'" he added, referring to the Kremlin's shorthand label for what it sees as Western-inspired uprisings in the former Soviet Union.



After decades of Soviet propaganda followed by the revelations of the glasnost period and the 1990s, and the inexorable rehabilitation of many aspects of the Soviet Union under President Vladimir Putin, today's Russians find themselves inundated by deeply conflicting views of 1917 that are difficult to reconcile.

In an October 19 speech to the Valdai discussion club, an annual Kremlin-backed forum for foreign and Russian policy analysts, Putin noted that the 1917 revolution, in which a small group of Bolshevik revolutionaries overthrew the Provisional Government that came to power after the monarchy was deposed in February 1917, produced "complex results" in which "the negative and -- it must be acknowledged -- positive consequences were extremely tightly intertwined."



It was an "obvious fact," he said, that 1917 "provided a powerful stimulus for the transformation of the entire world" and that "many of the achievements of the West in the 20th century were a response to the challenges presented by the Soviet Union." Among those achievements, Putin listed raising living standards, the formation of a powerful middle class, social and labor reforms, and improvements in education and human rights.

Historian Svanidze offers a starkly contrasting assessment of the revolution's global and national impact.



"On the one hand, without the October coup in Russia, it is possible that there may never have been Italian fascism or, most likely, German Nazism," he said. "Rather, they would have existed, but they would not have come to power, most likely, and so, one could argue, there most likely wouldn't have been a World War II or the Soviet portion of that conflict, the Great Patriotic War. In this regard, it is hard to overestimate the negative consequences of October 1917."



"I won't go into the other horrors in our own country, from the Holodomor (the 1932-33 famine in Ukraine) to extrajudicial executions and repressions," Svanidze added. "There were positives for the entire world along the lines of, 'Don't do what I did.' We were fated to play the tremendous historical role of the man who goes out first with a stick to see if the ice is thick enough to cross. He falls through, but he saves the others. God knows we didn't intend to save anyone, but that's the way it turned out."

Opinion polls in Russia regularly find society deeply split in its view of the 1917 revolution. A poll by the independent Levada Center in April found that 48 percent viewed the events either favorably or somewhat favorably, while 31 percent viewed them negatively or somewhat negatively.



For Levada Center sociologist Aleksei Levinson, another question in the poll might be more revealing. In an interview published on October 31, he noted that only 12 percent of Russians said they would have sided with the Bolsheviks if they had been alive at the time. Thirty-three percent of respondents said they "would have just tried to survive without participating in the events."

It was a tragic event for Russia and its citizens, but we can't rewrite history. We need to draw lessons from it."

"Public opinion's position on the revolution is up in the air," Levinson said. "In reality, it is a position of declining to make a judgment."

To be sure, many Russians feel the importance of coming to terms with 1917.

"It was a tragic event for Russia and its citizens, but we can't rewrite history," said Lyudmila Panova, 59, a pediatrician from St. Petersburg. "We need to draw lessons from it."

However, in conversations with Russians, one often hears an abdication of assessment.

"It's our history, for good or for bad," said Natasha, a 50-year-old factory worker from Kamchatka on vacation in St. Petersburg in October. "It's not going anywhere. We grew up with it."

"I think there were positive moments and negative ones," her husband, Igor, agreed.

In Moscow, 19-year-old Andrei, an activist with the Komsomol, the modern successor to the Leninist youth organization founded during the peak of revolutionary enthusiasm in 1922, also struggles to express his views.

"You can accept it as history, as a fact that happened," he said. "What's more, we're not the generation that lived in the Soviet Union. We don't know firsthand what it was like. Now we can just reflect about the country in which we live.

"We can talk about what is happening now because we are alive and we feel it with the fibers of our soul," he added. "But we can't talk of that time because we didn't feel it and we didn't live it. That's my opinion."

His fellow Komsomol member Dasha argued that "history is too subjective at the moment."

"History is rewritten and rewritten again in the crudest ways," she said. "Therefore, it is very difficult to dig to the truth and understand what is truth and what is an ideological bandage and what is just a barefaced lie."

Levada sociologist Denis Volkov says these attitudes are determined partly by a lack of understanding about what happened and a lack of interest in the topic. But a more important factor is the absence of a real public discussion of the revolution with serious alternative interpretations. The unwillingness to express a view is a way of not contradicting the government's generally positive view of the revolution, since negative interpretations are rarely aired in schools or on state media.

"If there were a real discussion with alternative points of view that people could join in on, even people who don't really understand the topic would at least have heard something," Volkov said. "If there were such a discussion with various views, you would see more varied answers and fewer people declining to respond.

"You can't say [the state media] are completely silent, but they definitely have put the topic off to the side," he added. "I think there is much more interest in this anniversary abroad than here in Russia."

Levada Center Director Lev Gudkov sees the reluctance to assess the 1917 events as a manifestation of a Russian social type that he calls "Soviet Man." In an essay published in 2016, Gudkov argues that lack of opportunity and constantly emerging threats to his own life and the lives of those close to him throughout the Soviet period produced a social type that "more than anything else was concerned with physical survival."

Although specialists expected this type to disappear after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Gudkov argues that this hasn't been the case.

"This type of person is a little less noticeable in relatively good times when incomes are rising and there is relative relaxation of public discussion, less falsification of elections, and a rest from military adventurism and patriotic militarism and from campaigns against various internal and external enemies," Gudkov wrote. "On the other hand, they come to the fore in times of economic, political, and social crises.

"As authoritarianism and the sterilization of political pluralism in Russia has increased, this type has come to the forefront," he concluded.

Levada research indicates that while just 35 to 40 percent of the Russian population has "concentrated features" of the Soviet type, a full 80 percent of the population demonstrates at least some of those features, which include "characteristic behaviors, life strategies, and identity elements."

"The emergence of this human type in the forefront can be seen as a symptom of society's stagnation or even of its increasing degradation," he wrote.

However, Grigory Yudin, a sociologist with the Higher School of Economics, sees an emerging countertrend among more educated Russians. His research among journalists, activists, educators, and the like finds more and more of them turning to what he calls "second memory" in an effort to come to grips with the Soviet legacy.

In opposition to the "first" or state-dominated memory featured in the state media and official textbooks, Yudin says that today's Russia is seeing a "boom" in interest in understanding Russian history through the prism of one's own local experience.

"Among these people, a strong demand has emerged to remember the history of their own families, to remember the history of their own cities and regions," he said. "They want to know what happened to their ancestors, their relatives, and to honor their memory. Remembering has become fashionable today and, on the other hand, not remembering or ignoring the memory of one's ancestors is looked down upon."

With reporting by RFE/RL Russian Service correspondents Mikhail Sokolov and Sergei Medvedev
Dozens of Belarusian opposition activists have marched to a site near Minsk to honor thousands of people who were executed there by the Soviet secret police.

The participants gathered at Minsks Park Chaluskincau metro station on November 5 before heading to the Kurapaty woods on the outskirts of the capital.

The march, which was organized by the opposition Belarusian Popular Front (BPF), was sanctioned by the authorities.

The marchers included BPF Chairman Ryhor Kastuseu and other leaders of the party; Vital Rymasheuski, head of the opposition Christian Democrats; and Zmitser Dashkevich, leader of the unregistered Malady Front (Youth Front) movement.

At least 30,000 people were killed and buried at the Kurapaty preserve by the Soviet authorities under dictator Josef Stalin in the 1930s and '40s.

In March, Belarusian authorities halted a construction project near the protected historical site following a 15-day protest.

The protesters said the construction of a business center adjacent to the preserve would desecrate the memory of Stalin's victims.

Authoritarian President Alyaksandr Lukashenkas government tolerates little dissent and protests are frequently broken up.

Lukashenka, who has been president since 1994, won a fifth term in a 2015 election that was judged by Western monitors to be neither free nor fair.
Dozens of Belarusian opposition activists marched to Kurapaty, a site near Minsk, on November 5 to honor at least 30,000 people who were killed and buried there by the Soviet secret police under dictator Josef Stalin in the 1930s and '40s. Organized by the opposition Belarusian Popular Front (BPF), the march was sanctioned by the authorities. (RFE/RL's Belarus Service)
At least six people were killed and a dozen wounded when two bombings hit the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk.

Both bombings targeted a building used by a Shi'ite militia in the center of Kirkuk on November 5.

The first attacker blew up an explosives-laden vehicle near the building, while a second detonated his explosive belt at the site.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

The attack is the first since Iraqi government forces backed by Shi'ite militias seized control of Kirkuk from Kurdish Peshmerga forces last week.

Oil-rich Kirkuk is an ethnically mixed city that had been under the control of Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region since 2014.

Iraqi forces took control of Kirkuk after a controversial referendum held by the Kurdistan region in September.

The vote was held in Iraq's Kurdish region and disputed areas between Baghdad and the autonomous region, including Kirkuk.

Based on reporting by dpa and AFP
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 09:51:39|Editor: Jiaxin

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TRIPOLI, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Libyan navy rescued 200 illegal immigrants off western Libyan shores on Saturday, said a navy official.

"A patrol of the Libyan navy rescued 200 illegal immigrants on a rubber boat that crashed into the Libyan territorial waters," Mahmoud Shabrak, documentation officer of the Libyan navy, told Xinhua.

The rescued migrants include women who are of African nationalities, Shabrak said.

Immigrants who have been rescued by the Libyan navy are detained in receptions centers with poor living conditions.

Libya is a preferred point of departure for illegal immigrants who want to cross the Mediterranean towards European shores, due to the insecurity and chaos in the country since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011. However, many of the immigrants drowned in the half-way.

The Libyan navy announced on Oct. 21 that a total of 8,997 illegal immigrants had been rescued off Libyan coast in the first half of 2017.
Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking Chinas resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. Im RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish.

Before we get started, a few announcements: The newsletter is now biweekly, rather than going out only on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. To subscribe, click here.

And I will also be launching Talking China In Eurasia, a new podcast. It will air live on Twitter Spaces and later be available on RFE/RLs website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever else you get your podcasts. We will be taking questions live starting at 2 p.m. CET/8 a.m. EST on November 16. Ill be joined by the Royal United Services Institutes Raffaello Pantucci to talk about Xi and Putin. Tune in here.

Xi Gets Pragmatic About Russia At The G20

It was light on optimism, but U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping injected a healthy dose of pragmatism back into the U.S.-China relationship with their meeting in Bali at a time when global anxiety is rising over Russias war against Ukraine.

Finding Perspective: The meeting on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit was far from a breakthrough, but it did repair some damage from the recent backslide in relations between both countries and send some signals that the world isnt necessarily destined for Cold War 2.0.

The more than three-hour talks saw some blunt exchanges over contentious issues like Taiwan and North Korea, but the two leaders also pledged more frequent communications and decided that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Beijing for follow-up talks in 2023.

Of particular note, Biden raised Russias invasion of Ukraine and threats by Russian President Vladimir Putin to use nuclear weapons. Both leaders reiterated their agreement that a nuclear war should never be fought, according to a White House readout.

While far from a sea change for Chinese policy, thats notable. The credibility of Beijings claims to be neutral on the Ukraine war continue to come under scrutiny, and China has shown discomfort of late with the Kremlins nuclear saber-rattling.

Xi made similar comments after a November 4 summit with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and during another G20 meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, according to the French readout.

Why It Matters: Xi is not abandoning Putin, but this marks the latest shift for Beijings balancing act over Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Four Chinese officials briefed on the February 4 meeting between Xi and Putin, where they declared a no-limits partnership, told the Financial Times that Putin didnt tell Xi the truth about the invasion and that Beijing was caught off guard by it.

What Xi knew about Putins war plans has been a topic of debate, and there is evidence to support both the idea that Xi was aware and that he was caught off guard.

Many analysts are of the opinion that Xi knew about Putin's decision to invade but expected a quick victory, which perhaps was what Putin believed at the time.

Others point to a steady stream of dismissals from Chinese officials and experts about the likelihood of an invasion in February and the fact that Beijing did not evacuate its citizens from Ukraine  like Western nations did  as evidence that China was not expecting a war.

China certainly has its own interests in keeping a distance from Moscows war and using that space to do some upkeep with the West. But perhaps the most important point here is that even if Putin did blindside Xi, China has stuck with Russia despite its battlefield failures, political isolation, and the atrocities its troops are accused of committing.

Again, this is pragmatism more than anything else. As Chinese experts often say, even if Russia is looking unattractive these days, why would Beijing abandon its main anti-Western partner as China continues to be in the crosshairs of rising American pressure?

Read More

 Want to hear more about Russia and Chinas complex relationship amid the Ukraine war? Then tune in to the debut of Talking China In Eurasia today at 2 p.m. CET/ 8 a.m. EST. You can listen live here and find the episode on RFE/RLs website and wherever you listen to your podcasts.

 Condemning Russias invasion of Ukraine and its global fallout is shaping up to be the key theme of the G20, with the Financial Times reporting that a joint communique from the summit takes aim at Moscow.

Expert Corner: The Future Of The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Readers asked: Did Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharifs recent trip to Beijing breathe new life into the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)? How do Islamabad and Beijing really feel about the project after all these years?

To find out more, I asked Filippo Boni, an expert on China-Pakistan relations at the Open University in Britain:

Shehbaz Sharif's visit to China was high on symbolism and relatively low on substance. While the two sides were keen to reaffirm and emphasize the strength of their strategic partnership, no significant new commitment was made. Apart from a few memorandums of understanding and attempts from the Pakistanis in the run-up to the trip to address some of CPECs issues  including payments to Chinese independent power producers  nothing major came from the visit. This is despite Sharif's attempts at revitalizing CPEC since April and the very close ties he enjoys with the Chinese leadership.

The outcome of this visit is not entirely surprising, especially if interpreted against the backdrop of Pakistan's current domestic predicaments. The security situation for Chinese nationals has deteriorated, the economy is struggling, and political instability is at one of its highest points in recent years. All these dynamics, coupled with the global scaling down of Belt and Road Initiative financing, have likely impacted Beijing's lack of commitment to new projects.

After almost 10 years and $25 billion worth of projects, there seems to be a general consensus on both sides that the first phase of CPEC  the one focused primarily on energy projects  was largely successful. The same cannot be said for the second phase, including the slow progress on the development of Special Economic Zones, and for the port of Gwadar, where little progress has been made for the ports full commercial functioning.

Do you have a question about Chinas growing footprint in Eurasia? Send it to me at StandishR@rferl.org or reply directly to this e-mail and Ill get it answered by leading experts and policymakers.

Three More Stories From Eurasia

1. 'Sweep It Under The Rug'

Recent allegations of China operating 54 overseas police stations have fueled controversy around the world and sparked investigations, but in Hungary and Serbia the new findings are being met with swift denials by authorities, despite growing evidence.

The Details: My colleagues Akos Keller-Alant from RFE/RLs Hungarian Service, Mila Durdevic from RFE/RLs Balkan Service, and I reported on the fallout from these revelations and the slew of probes launched in many European countries recently.

The stations are overseas operations of the public security bureaus from two Chinese provinces and are used to persuade citizens to return to China, including through pressure on family members at home. While most of those involved appear to be suspected of crimes such as telecommunications fraud or corruption, dissidents have also reported that the stations have been used to monitor and threaten them.

Fourteen governments have already launched investigations into the overseas police stations, and the Dutch and Irish governments have ordered China to shut down the facilities in their countries.

But in Hungary and Serbia  two countries where Beijing is said to operate such facilities and whose governments prize their warming political and economic ties with China  officials appear to be trying to sweep it under the rug, as one analyst characterized it, despite growing scrutiny from opposition lawmakers in each country.

2. Global Ripples Hit Central Asia

Political and economic shocks from Moscows war in Ukraine, coupled with added strains from tensions between Beijing and Washington, are taking their toll around the world, especially in Central Asia, where countries in the region are closely tied to both China and Russia.

What It Means: As RFE/RLs Uzbek Service reported, Vladimir Norov, the countrys foreign minister, warned about geopolitical tensions affecting stability in the region and beyond while addressing his counterparts at an Organization of Turkic States meeting in Samarkand.

The breakdown in global cooperation is felt particularly strong in Central Asia. While some economies have been able to benefit by becoming a new home for businesses and capital relocated from Russia, others are seeing investment dry up and their economies coming under strain.

World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Anna Bjerde recently warned that Uzbekistan needs to continue with its market reforms in order to withstand the global economic shocks that are to come.

RFE/RLs Kyrgyz Service also reported that the countrys government is trying to court more investment but that questions remain from investors about Kyrgyzstans stability and investment climate. According to official statistics from January to June of this year, China is the leading source of foreign investment, with $129 million during that span.

3. The Tech In Moscows Iranian Drones

A new investigation by Schemes, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, looked into electronic components underpinning Tehran's production of the Mohajer-6 drone, which Russia has used in its war in Ukraine, and found that theyre far from homegrown.

What You Need To Know: The Mohajer-6 drones contain components produced by companies from the United States and the European Union, both of which have sanctions restricting the export to Iran of technology that can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

The investigation also found drone components produced in China, including a real-time mini-camera made by a Hong Kong firm.

The drone also contains a microchip bearing the logo of a California technology company and a thermal-imaging camera that Ukrainian intelligence says may have been produced by a firm based in Oregon or China.

The international tech in the drone not only highlights the complex ecosystem that allows firms and buyers to circumvent sanctions slapped on both Iran and Russia, but also the close networks between Chinese and Western tech companies that still exist, despite a recent push to break some of those linkages.

Across The Supercontinent

On The Mainland: The watchdog group Freedom House recently launched a new project called the China Dissent Monitor, which tracks protests and other forms of dissent inside China. Read it here.

Censored: Chinese authorities behind a major trade expo in Shanghai pulled an opening ceremony address by European Council President Charles Michel that was set to criticize Russia's illegal war in Ukraine and call for reduced European dependency on China, Reuters reported.

Backtracking: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has softened his countrys stance toward China, moving away from his predecessor Liz Trusss decision to label it a threat.

One Thing To Watch

How long will Chinas stringent COVID policies stay in place?

New infections are rising as a winter wave hits and popular frustration continues to boil over inside the country as investor confidence stays dented over the measures. New footage also showed crowds of residents in the southern metropolis of Guangzhou escaping a compulsory lockdown and clashing with police.

Thats all from me for now. Dont forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you might have.

Until next time,

Reid Standish

If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your in-box on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
Dozens of protesters marched in Macedonia's capital, Skopje, on November 5 to decry guilty verdicts against 33 men issued three days earlier in the case of a deadly shoot-out with police that took place in 2015 in the town of Kumanovo. Seven of the men, ethnic Albanians mostly from Kosovo and Macedonia, were handed life sentences. Marching toward a court building in Skopje, the protesters sung Albanian songs and chanted slogans celebrating the UCK, the ethnic Albanian Kosovo Liberation Army guerrilla group that fought against Serbian forces during the 1998-99 Kosovar conflict. The protesters demanded an international inquiry into the case, which they say was a conspiracy orchestrated by former security chiefs. (RFE/RL's Balkan Service)
On this week's Majlis podcast, we look at the deadly October 31 attack in New York City, blamed by police on Sayfullo Saipov, an immigrant from Uzbekistan.

The attack, which left eight people dead, raised questions in the Western media about the increasing role that nationals from Central Asian nations -- Uzbekistan, in particular -- appear to be playing in terrorist attacks. More significantly, the tragedy also raised questions about what happens to people from Central Asia years after they have left their homelands and settled in new countries.

Muhammad Tahir, RFE/RL's media relations manager, moderated the discussion.

From England, David Lewis, a senior lecturer at the University of Exeter in the U.K. and a specialist in Central Asian studies, took part in the discussion. From New York City, Edward Lemon, a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia Universitys Harriman Institute, who has written extensively about the radicalization of Central Asian migrant laborers, joined the talk, as did Sirojiddin Tolibov, a broadcaster in RFE/RL's Uzbek Service. I had some things to say also.

Listen to the podcast above or subscribe to the Majlis on iTunes.
Paul Manafort, U.S. President Donald Trump's former campaign manager, has offered to post $12 million in real estate and life-insurance assets in an effort to end the house arrest order against him, court documents show.

In the November 4 filing, Manafort also offered to limit his travel to New York, Washington, D.C., and Florida before a trial on charges including conspiracy to launder money, conspiracy against the United States, and failing to register as foreign agents of Ukraine's former pro-Russia government.

U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson on November 2 turned down a request by Manafort to release him from home confinement. Rick Gates, an associate of Manaforts, has also been charged and ordered held under house arrest.

Both pleaded not guilty and deny any wrongdoing.

Bond was preliminarily set at $10 million for Manafort and $5 million for Gates after they surrendered to authorities on October 30. Another bond hearing is set for November 6.

Jackson has suggested a potential trial date of May 7, 2018.

Manafort and Gates are charged with conspiring to defraud the United States in more than a decade of dealings with political forces in Ukraine.

The charges are part of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe into alleged Russian efforts to interfere in the 2016 presidential election in Trump's favor and into potential collusion by theTrump campaign.

Manafort faces 12 to 15 years in prison if convicted, while Gates faces 10 to 12 years, although prosecutors said other charges could still be filed.

Based on reporting by Reuters and AP
Russias Emergency Services said a bomb threat at Moscow's famous Bolshoi Theater that forced the evacuation of thousands of people proved to be a false alarm.

Bomb threats on November 5 at the Metropol hotel and GUM department store on Red Square also proved to be hoaxes.

Three police teams with sniffer dogs searched the Bolshoi theater after more than 3,500 people had been evacuated due to the bomb scare.

Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated from schools, malls, theaters, universities, hotels, and government buildings in cities nationwide amid a wave of anonymous bomb threats that began on September 10.

Bombs have not been discovered in any of the cases.

Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Aleksandr Bortnikov said on October 5 that four Russian citizens suspected of organizing the wave of anonymous bomb threats had been identified.

Bortnikov said that the four suspects are living abroad and have accomplices inside Russia.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in September that the threats are "telephone terrorism" and that "all necessary measures are being taken" to find the perpetrators.

Based on reporting by Reuters and TASS
NATO envoys will hold an emergency meeting on November 16 at the request of Poland to discuss reports that two stray Russian missiles aimed at Ukraine landed in the NATO member, killing two people.

The meeting is to be held on the basis of the alliance's Article 4, Reuters reported, citing two unidentified European diplomats. According to Article 4 of the alliance's founding treaty, members can raise any issue of concern when any NATO member feels its "territorial integrity, political independence, or security" are at risk.



"We are verifying the rationale for the use of Article 4," said Jacek Siewiera, head of Poland's National Security Council. "We are in very intensive contacts with key allies."

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Reports on November 15 that two blasts in a village in eastern Poland near the border were caused by Russian missiles that crossed into Poland set off a flurry of calls between the leaders of countries in the alliance.



U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan spoke with Siewiera, White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said in a statement.



Siewiera later tweeted that Polish President Andrzej Duda spoke by phone to U.S. President Joe Biden, who reaffirmed the "ironclad" U.S. commitment to NATO after the call, the White House said. Biden also offered full U.S. support for assistance with Poland's investigation into the explosions.



The United States and Western allies said earlier they were investigating reports of the explosions but could not confirm them or any details. "We will determine what happened and what the appropriate next steps would be," Watson said in the National Security Council statement.



Poland put its military on heightened alert after an emergency meeting of the country's National Security Council. "There has been a decision to raise the state of readiness of some combat units and other uniformed services," Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller told reporters after the meeting in Warsaw.



Hungary, also a NATO member bordering Ukraine, convened its National Defense Council in response to the reports, a spokesman for Prime Minister Viktor Orban said.



Members of NATO are committed to collective defense enshrined in Article 5 of the alliance's founding treaty, but even if a cross-border strike is confirmed, the response would likely be influenced by whether it was accidental or intentional.



Russia denied its missiles hit Polish territory, saying the reports were "a deliberate provocation" to escalate the situation.



"There were no strikes on targets near the Ukrainian-Polish state border by Russian weapons. The wreckage published by the Polish mass media from the scene of the incident in the settlement of Przewodow has nothing to do with Russian weapons," the Russian Defense Ministry said.



Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said later he had no information on the explosion in Poland, according to Reuters.

WATCH: Russia launched a barrage of missiles at Ukraine on November 15, hitting energy infrastructure facilities in regions across the country and plunging Kyiv and other cities into darkness.

The missile strikes on NATO territory represented a significant escalation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said.



"Today Russian missiles hit Poland, the territory of an allied country. People died," Zelenskiy said in his nightly address to the nation, calling for unspecified action in response.

U.S. State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel said the reports coming out of Poland were "incredibly concerning," adding that Washington was working to determine what happened and appropriate next steps.

The State Department is talking to a range of partners about the reports and is working with the Polish government, Patel told reporters at a regular news briefing.

Firefighters quoted by Polish media said two people were killed in an explosion in Przewodow, a village in eastern Poland about 12 kilometers from the border with Ukraine.



Polish Radio ZET attributed the explosion to two stray missiles, without giving more details.

The situation arose as Russia launched a barrage of missiles at sites across Ukraine aimed at crippling the country's energy infrastructure.

Ukrainian officials said more than 90 missiles were fired in the attacks, some of the heaviest attacks since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in late February, hitting cities such as Kyiv and Lviv.

With the attacks hitting a NATO member, many countries in the region reacted swiftly, warning the incident could further raise already-high tensions between the West and Moscow.

Estonia's Foreign Ministry called the news from Poland "most concerning" and said that Tallinn would consult with Warsaw and other NATO allies.

Poland's neighbor Lithuania voiced similar sentiments, adding that "every inch of NATO territory must be defended."

"Today's massive missile attacks by the Russian Army on Ukraine clearly show that Russia wants to further terrorize its people and destroy the country," added Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala on Twitter.

"If Poland confirms that the missiles also hit its territory, this will be a further escalation by Russia," he added.

With reporting by AP and Reuters
The Russian helicopter that crashed on October 26 with eight people aboard off the Arctic Svalbard archipelago has been raised from the seabed, Norwegian officials say.

None of the bodies of the presumed fatalities was found within the wreckage, Norway's Accident Investigation Board (AIB) said on November 4.

So far, only one body has been found, recovered on October 31 about 130 meters from the scene of the wreckage.

The local governors website said more than 150 personnel -- Norwegian police, Red Cross volunteers, and Russian divers -- are searching some 200 kilometers of coastal areas since the crash.

"We continue to comb the coast with people from the police and the Red Cross," spokesman Gunnar Johansen said.

The Mi-8 helicopter carrying five crew members and three polar scientists crashed at sea about 3 kilometers from Barentsburg, a Russian mining community in the archipelago.

The AIB said the helicopter's cockpit voice recorder and GPS were found intact with the aircraft, which was raised from a depth of 209 meters.

The voice recorder has been sent to Moscow for analysis, said officials, who added that the flight data recorder has not yet been found.

Svalbard exists under a unique geopolitical arrangement.

Norway was awarded sovereignty over the archipelago, located around 1,000 kilometers from the North Pole, under the 1920 Treaty of Paris.

But nationals of all signatory states enjoy "equal liberty of access and entry" to Svalbard and its waters.

Under the provisions of the treaty, Russia operates a coal mine in Barentsburg, which is home to several hundred Russian and Ukrainian miners.

In 2008, another Mi-8 crashed near Barentsburg, killing three of its nine occupants.

With reporting by AP, dpa, TASS, Reuters, AFP, and Interfax


MOSCOW/ST. PETERSBURG -- Russian authorities have detained hundreds of people after nationalists gathered in central Moscow for an antigovernment rally coinciding with celebrations of Russia's National Unity Day.

The protesters are believed to be linked to self-exiled Kremlin critic Vyacheslav Maltsev, who called for a "people's revolution" to end President Vladimir Putin's rule.

OVD-Info, which monitors crackdowns on demonstrations, said 448 people were detained in St. Petersburg and at the unsanctioned demonstration on Moscow's Manezh Square by the Kremlin walls on November 5.

It said 339 were detained in Moscow, 21 in St. Petersburg, and the rest in rallies across Russia, including in Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Perm, and Rostov-on-Don.

OVD-Info said among those detained in Moscow were 49 minors.

The Interior Ministry had earlier said police detained 263 people in Moscow "for breaches of public order."

TASS news agency quoted an unidentified law enforcement official as saying many of those detained in Moscow were carrying knives, brass knuckles, and pistols that could fire rubber bullets.

Police picked up the protesters one by one close to the Kremlin, according to an AFP photographer.

Reuters reported that police detained a few dozen people on a Moscow street, although none of those detained had any posters or were chanting slogans.

A reporter for the radio station Ekho Moskvy, Andrei Yezhov, wrote on Twitter that he was detained and that most of those held were in their early 20s. He said he was was later released without charge.

On November 4, police detained dozens of nationalist demonstrators at an antigovernment rally in Moscow.

Maltsev had appealed on his website for supporters to hold protests across the country on the weekend.

Maltsev, who has described himself as a nationalist and anarchist, is the leader of the Artpodgotovka (Artillery Bombardment) movement.

Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) on November 3 said it had detained several members of a "conspiratorial cell" of Artpodgotovka in the Moscow area, claiming they were plotting to trigger riots by attacking government buildings and police.

The RBK news agency cited an unidentified Interior Ministry source as saying that a spate of additional raids targeting Maltsev's group were carried out in Moscow and the surrounding area on early on November 4.

Maltsev fled Russia in July after authorities launched an investigation into his statements. He was charged in absentia in May with making public calls for extremist activities, while his movement Artpodgotovka was banned by a court in October.

Putin established National Unity Day in 2005, replacing Soviet-era celebrations of the Bolshevik Revolution anniversary. It officially honors a Russian victory over Polish forces in 1612.

This year's celebrations came amid the centennial of the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution.

With reporting by TASS and AFP
The battle against homophobia can seem daunting in Russia, where rights groups accuse the government of fostering enmity toward LGBT people through legislation and a failure to crack down on violence against sexual minorities.

But opponents of an ultraconservative businessmans grocery chain are claiming a small victory after authorities requested that he remove a sign at one of his stores stating that faggots will not be served.

German Sterligov, an enigmatic multimillionaire and owner of the high-end chain Bread And Salt, said on his account on the Russian social network VKontakte this week that he is selling the chains six stores in Moscow due to pressure from authorities.

He posted images of letters he received late last month from local police and prosecutors about the homophobic signs, which he said had been changed from No Faggots Allowed to No Sodomites Allowed in a concession to authorities.

We would rather forgo profits in Moscow, Sterligov wrote in his announcement that he plans to sell his Moscow stores.

Sterligov, who portrays himself as a pious Russian Orthodox Christian and a defender of traditional values, has made homophobia a central ideological tenet of the chain, which sells natural food and other products made by "Russian peasants."

The crude signs on the chains storefronts have angered some residents in several Russian cities where its stores are located, though pressure to force their removal had previously been met with a shrug by authorities.

In August, police in the Urals city of Perm refused to launch an investigation into a Bread And Salt shop there, saying the words referred to in the sign -- pederast and pederasty -- are scientific terms and not expletives. (In fact, the word on the sign is a vulgar derivative, with a different spelling, of the word pederast.)

'Up Next'

Vera Vrubel, a St. Petersburg-based freelance editor who has spearheaded nationwide efforts against the signs, called the pressure from Moscow authorities on Sterligov the first victory over a homophobe.

Up next: all of the other cities that he is insulting with his invective, she wrote on Facebook this week.

Vrubel told RFE/RLs Russian Service that she and hundreds of other people all across Russia have bombarded authorities in several cities with complaints, and that she hopes other regions will take a cue from the police and prosecutors in the capital.

The October 30 letter from Moscow city police asked Sterligov to remove the sign from one of his stores, while city prosecutors said in an October 27 notice that they were conducting a probe to see whether that same store was in violation of laws to protect children from harmful information.

If Moscow prosecutors tackled [Sterligov], then just maybe others wont have a choice but to react, she said.

'Because We're Christians'

Rights activists and Western governments have repeatedly criticized what they call escalating discrimination against sexual minorities in Russia since President Vladimir Putins return to the Kremlin in 2012 after four years as prime minister.

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in June ruled that a 2013 law signed by Putin that bans the "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relationships" to minors violates the right to free expression, is discriminatory toward LGBT people, and endorses homophobia.

Russia, which has repeatedly rejected accusations that it discriminates against sexual minorities, said it would appeal the Strasbourg-based courts ruling.

Rights groups also say Russian authorities are emboldening violence against LGBT people by failing to sufficiently investigate hate crimes against them, including an alleged campaign of abuse and torture by authorities in the southern Chechnya region that has triggered international condemnation.

Vrubel expressed disappointment that Moscow authorities had not pursued a hate-speech investigation against Sterligov in connection with the signs.

But despite the very polite tone of authorities in their outreach to Sterligov, it is the first real result of their campaign, she added. The letter from police cited numerous complaints from citizens about the signs.

She suggested that Sterligovs announcement that he is selling his Moscow stores may have more to do with the financial state of the chain, which sells traditional Russian bread and other food items at premium prices.

Aleksandr Kalinin, head of the small-business Russian lobby group Opora, echoed that assessment.

I wont attempt to assess his business, but its definitely the case that the margins in his sector have fallen recently due to rising competition, the state-run TASS news agency cited Kalinin as saying. So I think there could be some economic problems.

Sterligov, for his part, said in his announcement that sales at his Moscow stores are brisk.

He added that his decision to sell the stores was not a defeat, saying a victory for the sodomites would be to force us to offer service to gay men.

Those dirty perverts can keep dreaming, but we wont do it, Sterligov wrote. Because were Christians.

Written by Carl Schreck based on reporting by Mark Krutov of RFE/RLs Russian Service
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 10:01:42|Editor: Jiaxin

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KABUL, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. soldier of the NATO-led coalition forces has been killed in Afghanistan, said the coalition forces in a statement on Sunday.

The service member died as a result of wounds sustained during operations in restive Logar province, 60 km south of Afghan capital of Kabul on Saturday afternoon.

"On behalf of U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of our fallen brother," General John Nicholson, commander of U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, said in the statement.

"Despite this tragic event, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the Afghan people and to support them in our mutual fight against terrorism," he added.

The statement said that more information will be released as appropriate.

Fourteen foreign soldiers have lost their lives in the militancy-hit Afghanistan so far this year.
The Ukrainian presidential office says President Petro Poroshenko and U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson have discussed the possibility of sending UN peacekeepers to eastern Ukraine.

A November 4 statement said Poroshenko and Tillerson held a telephone conversation during which they coordinated further steps for the deployment of an international UN mission in the separatist-held parts of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions, including the border between those areas and Russia, which Kyiv says is used to ship weapons and military personnel in from Russia.

Fighting between government forces and Russia-backed separatists has killed more than 10,000 people in Ukraines east since April 2014.

Several cease-fire deals announced as part of the Minsk accords, signed in September 2014 and February 2015 to put an end to the conflict, have failed to hold.

Russian President Vladimir Putin in September proposed deploying UN peacekeepers on the contact line separating the sides of the conflict. The plan swiftly drew criticism from both Kyiv and the West, in part because of concerns that deployment only along the front line would cement Russian control over separatist-held territory.

According to Poroshenkos office, Tillerson told Poroshenko that Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Wess Mitchell plans to visit Ukraine in November.
H.S. polls: Washington girls steady at No. 1 in 4A, Marian girls No. 2 in 3A
' Viva Latino' Week has claimed another victim after Tracyleanne Jefford became the fourth person to leave the competition after losing the public vote.

Jefford lost out in the second week of live shows, despite praise from the judges for her sassy cover of J-Los Aint Your Mama.

She is the heart of the show, she is what the show is all about and she will continue to be the heart of the show, said judge Nicole Scherzinger, Jeffords coach as part of the Over 25 category.

Jefford remained as jubilant as ever in defeat, saying to host Dermot OLeary after the announcement that she felt privileged to make the second week.

Kevin Davy White won the public vote on Sunday's 'Viva Latino' week show. / REX

She said: Ive had the best time of my life, but Im not gonna stop - Im gonna keep going until I reach the top.

Jefford followed in the footsteps of Leon Mallett, who got the boot on Saturdays show after failing to impress viewers at home with his unique take of Daft Punks Get Lucky. Despite delivering some lines in Spanish, Mallett lost out with the judges deriding his song choice and choreography.

X Factor 2017 Finalists Makeover - In pictures 1 /16 X Factor 2017 Finalists Makeover - In pictures Holly Tandy Thames/Syco/Rex Rak-Su - Rak-Su J, Ashley Rak-Su, Mustafa Rak-Su and Myles Rak-Su Thames/Syco/Rex Tracy Leanne Jefford Thames/Syco/Rex Grace Davies Thames/Syco/Rex Sam Black Thames/Syco/Rex The Cutkelvins - Jay Cutkelvin, Sheereen Cutkelvin and Kay Cutkelvin Thames/Syco/Rex Matt Linnen Thames/Syco/Rex Rai-Elle Williams Thames/Syco/Rex Sean Price and Conor Price Thames/Syco/Rex Kevin Davy White Thames/Syco/Rex Spencer Sutherland Thames/Syco/Rex Lloyd Macey Thames/Syco/Rex

Meanwhile, Kevin Davy White was crowned the weekend winner in the Prize Fight, winning a chance to record a single with a Grammy-nominated producer. White faced off against Rak-Su, who earned a spot in the Prize Fight for the second week running with their original song Dimelo. The boyband failed to beat out White in the public vote, who impressed the judges and fans at home with his unbelievably cool performance.

You defied gravity tonight, said Scherzinger. You do things on your own terms!

White set the stage on fire (appropriately, for Bonfire Night) with his cover of Smooth, Santanas Grammy Award-winning track, playing the electric guitar himself - even whipping out a quick cover of the X Factor theme by OLearys request.

Former X Factor judge Rita Ora also returned to the show this week, bringing the house down with a performance of Anywhere, the second single from her new album.
S olo travellers now have the opportunity to meet like-minded people at specially tailored supper clubs around London.

Travel company with a difference, Flash Pack, organises adventure holidays for solo travellers, and has now expanded its Mini Experiences to include supper clubs where those using the site can get a taste of the country theyre travelling to and meet some fellow adventurers before setting off.

Lee Thompson, co-founder of Flash Pack, said: Our new supper clubs let the taste buds lead the way in choosing your next adventure holiday hot spot.

Were the only group adventure company offering the chance to meet other travellers before you go away in a group together.

Flash Packers: a group of travellers on a Flash Pack organised holiday (The Flash Pack)

Thompson added: Theres no hard-sell to buy a holiday and no commitment to travel.

Simply put, they are a great way to meet people like you, away from the pressures of dating or singles sites and apps: not every person you get to know when youre single needs to be a potential date, they can be a potential travel buddy instead.

Flash Pack co-founder Lee Thompson taking a selfie on top of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio De Janeiro (Lee Thompson) / THE FLASH PACK

The Standard recently attended one such evening in New Cross, south east London, for a Filipino feast hosted by The Adobros, Mike and Mark Corbyn.

The event took place in the brothers living room, where we were greeted with a cocktail and treated to four courses made from secret family recipes, as well as copious amounts of wine.

All the guests were female, and according to the Flash Pack website women make up 60 per cent of users. Some were planning to attend an upcoming Flash Pack trip to the Philippines; all were keen to meet like-minded 30- and 40-somethings.

Watch the video above to find out more about Flash Packs supper clubs, and see The Adobros in action.

You can find out more about Flash Pack here.
P olice investigating two separate acid attacks including one which left a man fighting for his life have made a second arrest.

A 16 year-old boy was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of Grievous Bodily Harm and remained in custody at an east London Police station on Sunday morning.

Police also arrested another boy aged 14 on Friday also on suspicion of GBH. He has since been released under investigation.

The first attack occurred on Thursday at 6 pm. Muhammed Nawshad Kamal, a 32 year-old delivery driver, was approached by two men on a scooter as he delivered a pizza on Walpole Road in Walthamstow.

The men demanded that Mr Kamal hand over his keys and when he refused he was doused by a corrosive substance by the suspects.

The victim was wearing a helmet with the visor up and received severe injuries to his eyes and face. Police said he is expected to lose his sight in both eyes.

The suspects fled the scene on their moped. One was wearing a black helmet and the other a white helmet.

The victim was treated at the scene with water and has been taken to an east London hospital where he remained in a critical condition on Sunday.

Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Henderson, of Waltham Forest CID, said: "This attack has left a man fighting for his life and with terrible eye injuries. This was an innocent man going about his work as a delivery driver, who may never see again.

Police are also investigating another incident involving a corrosive substance which occurred shortly after the Walthamstow attack.

The second incident occurred at 6.30 pm on Yarmouth Crescent in Tottenham, where a second 32 year old man who was also a delivery driver was attacked.

Two men approached him and asked him to give up his moped, when he refused he was sprayed with a corrosive substance in the face.

He is also being treated in hospital but his injuries are not said to be life threatening.

Police are investigating whether the two incidences are linked in an ongoing active line of inquiry.

They are appealing to anyone with information about the attacks to come forward.

Chief Inspector Henderson said: This is not a time to hesitate, if you have any information about this crime I would appeal that you immediately call police. Your phone call could save some other innocent person; it is imperative that we arrest those responsible."

The investigation by detectives from Waltham Forest Criminal Investigation Department into both incidents continues.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
A class at a secondary school in south-west London had more than 181 pupils, new data has revealed.

A freedom of information request submitted by The Sunday Times found that children across the country were being taught in classes with more than 100 pupils.

The biggest class had 181 pupils and was in Sutton. Two other classes in Sefton, Merseyside and Suffolk had more than 100 pupils.

A Department for Education spokesman said it had spoken to the three schools and that the figures related to PE lesson and choir practice where it is not uncommon for classes to be taught together.

The spokesman said schools' pupil-to-teacher ratios remained well below the national average.

The figures were collected by counting the number of children in each class on a specific day in January.

Ten classes had 70 or more children, while 52 classes had 50-plus pupils. The biggest primary school classes had between 40 and 60 pupils.

Shadow education secretary Angela Rayner told the newspaper the data had proved that Tory cuts had led to larger class sizes.

Thirty pupils to one teacher is the legal limit for infant classes which are for the very youngest pupils under rules brought in by Labour.

A headteacher at a school in Salford Drew Povey admitted to the Sunday Times that he had once taught 150 children in a class and that he believed class sizes would "balloon" over the next few years because of funding cuts.

The Department for Education said: "We have spoken to the three schools with the largest class sizes. These figures relate to PE lessons and choir practice where it is not uncommon for classes to be taught together. The schools' pupil-to-teacher ratios remain well below the national average. We also expect this is the case for many of the other schools reporting larger classes in this data.

"We have invested 5.8bn in the school estate, creating 735,000 places since 2010, and despite rising pupil numbers, the average class size has not changed. In fact, less than 1 per cent of primary school pupils are taught in classes of 36 or more, less than in 2010."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 11:26:56|Editor: Jiaxin

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A volunteer interacts with a dog in one of the enclosures during the mass adoption event at Vancouver Airport, Canada, Nov. 4, 2017. More than 80 dogs, from 30 shelters of United States, will be adopted by local families in Canada.(Xinhua/Liang Sen)

by Evan Duggan

VANCOUVER, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- A small airplane came to a halt Saturday outside the hangar at the Vancouver International Airport, where about 100 people stood at the edge of the tarmac watching and waiting.

The roar of the plane engine stopped and the door opened. That's when a dog could be heard whimpering from its crate inside the plane. Then it barked. Then dozens more of rescued dogs joined in.

More than 80 small dogs arrived here as part of an annual event that brings shelter dogs from the United States into Canada to be adopted by loving families.

It's an emotional moment for everyone involved. Many of the volunteers wiped tears from their eyes as they witnessed the scene.

Dogs are brought by planes and trucks to Vancouver from "kill shelters" in the United States that have high kill rates due to the overwhelming number of dogs in need of shelter there.

"A kill shelter is a shelter that experiences more surrenders than they have spaces," said Susan Patterson, the founder of the Thank Dog I'm Out non-profit organization. "Some shelters will get 200 animals surrendered to them a day, and because they have nowhere to put them, they have to euthanize them."

Patterson said Vancouver and the Canadian province of British Columbia have become very efficient at managing the dog population through pet spaying and neutering, so there is more demand now to adopt small dogs here than there are dogs in need of homes.

It's a different story south of the border though, especially in California, where this summer's terrible wildfires caused a spike of sheltered dogs.

After her own search for a small dog took her to Washington State, Patterson realized that shelters in the United States were bursting at the seams with dogs.

She formed her organization and started bringing dogs to Vancouver five years ago. Since then, nearly 1,000 dogs have been adopted through her non-profit organization.

Patterson's efforts are boosted by more than 100 volunteers, many of whom have adopted their own pets through the program.

She said each family must apply and be vetted to ensure they can provide a safe and loving home for the dogs, many of which have suffered trauma in their lives.

There's really a need for smaller dogs because so many buildings and lifestyles in Vancouver have pet size restrictions, said Eve, one of the volunteers who adopted her own dog Stella through the program in 2015.

The plane emptied as volunteers brought small crates containing the dogs to small fenced areas, which were set up to welcome and hold the dogs overnight as they adjust to their new surroundings.

Each of the areas is under the care of volunteers who will feed the dogs, pet them and care for them. A vet makes the rounds, checking heart beats and other vitals of the little dogs.

Volunteer Jade Mitchell sat on her knees in one of the enclosures. A small, white terrier emerged from a crate. It approached Mitchell, wagged its tail and sniffed around its enclosure.

"We adopted or rescued a dog two years ago and we really really love the way the organization works and they checked us really good," Mitchell told Xinhua.

"It feels so good just to know that we are some of the first people to be able to love them, not knowing where they come from," she said. "It's really awesome."

More volunteers are set to arrive soon to spend the night with dogs in their enclosures, if necessary. Dozens of people will arrive to meet their new dogs and take them home to their new lives.
L ondoners entitled to the London Living Wage are set to learn how much it will be increased by on Monday.

Separate to the Government's National Living Wage, formerly known as the National Minimum Wage, employers volunteer to pay workers in the capital a higher fee.

With more than 1,000 accredited employers in the capital, the Living Wage is paid by companies across sectors large and small, including Aviva, Burberry, GSK and Linklaters.

What is the current rate?

At the moment, the capitals hourly rate is 9.75. This covers all boroughs in Greater London.

The rates are calculated annually by the Resolution Foundation and overseen by the Living Wage Commission, based on the best available evidence about living standards in London and the UK.

Sadiq Khan on living wage

When did it last go up?

Last year, the Mayor of London increased the London Living Wage by 3.7 per cent from 9.40. Since 2011, the rate has increased by 17.5 per cent.

This means that a full-time worker on the living wage earned 95 a week more than on the Government minimum.

The announcement on October 31 last year was made alongside news that another 309 employers signed up to pay their staff the capitals hourly rate.

There are 1,120 accredited London employers, and last year the British Library, IKEA, Majestic Wine, Lloyds TSB and Londons Borough Market signed up.

How much is it likely to go up by?

Announcing the pay boost last year, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said that the London rate was well on track to rise above 10 during his stint in office.

Fighting back: staff from the Ritzy Cinema in Brixton demonstrate during last Octobers BFI Film Festival at the South Bank / Getty Images

When was it introduced and why?

First launched in 2011, the London Living Wage was set up alongside the UK Living Wage by charity the Living Wage Foundation.

This rate is independently calculated to give employees in London over 18 enough to afford the essentials of living - and be able to save.

There are two rates to recognise the higher cost of living in London  the UK Living Wage is 8.45.

However, the wage is voluntary and businesses choose to pay their employees the higher rate by signing up to the scheme.

It is distinct from the Governments National Living Wage for over 25s, which is a rate of 7.50 (to increase to 9 by 2020).

When will the increase be announced?

A new rate is expected to be revealed on Monday, November 6.
M asked protesters are set to descend on central London in their hundreds for an annual Bonfire Night protest organised by activist group Anonymous.

Swathes of activists are expected to flood Trafalgar Square and Westminster on Sunday night for the so-called Million Mask March to protest against the government and capitalism.

Police have urged organisers to work with them to ensure a safe and peaceful protest after demonstrations in previous years were marred by trouble.

Last year, fireworks and flares were lit and thrown into crowds and launched at police officers.

Scores of riot police were deployed and 53 people were arrested as furious protesters shouted of f*** the police.

Million Mask March London 2016 1 /20 Million Mask March London 2016 Getty Images Getty Images Protesters confront the police on The Strand, PA Protesters confront the police on The Strand PA Police arrest a protester clutching a mask in Trafalgar Square Getty Images Protesters don V for Vendetta-inspired Guy Fawkes masks EPA Protestors follow police down Whitehall, London PA There is an increased police presence for the march Joel Goodman/LNP Masked protesters hold banners and flares as they stand on Nelson's Column Getty Images The march was organised by the group Anonymous to protest austerity, government policy and what they consider corperate AFP/Getty Images Campaigners set off flares as they began the march to Downing Street Getty Images The group met at Trafalgar Square Getty Images A masked protester holds a sign which reads 'We Are Legion' in Trafalgar Square Getty Images Many are wearing the Guy Fawkes mask associated with the Anonymous hacking collective Getty Images A protester holds a sign reading 'England under new management' AFP/Getty Images

Scores of protesters are expected to don V for Vendetta masks associated with the Anonymous internet activist group, which organises the demonstration each year as part of a global movement.

Potential troublemakers were warned they face immediate arrest for any breaches of new conditions imposed under the Public Order Act.

The march has been limited to a three-hour slot between 6pm and 9pm on Sunday and protesters will be allowed to congregate only in Trafalgar Square, on the stretch of Whitehall outside Downing Street and in Parliament Square.

Police chiefs cited acts of violence during previous events, as well as criminal damage to London's memorials and harassment and verbal abuse of police officers for the restrictions.

Police bottled at Million Mask March 2016

So far, nearly 2,000 people have said they are attending or interested in attending, on the event's Facebook page.

A post on the page reads: "We have seen the abuses and malpractice of this government, and governments before it.

"We have seen the encroaching destruction of many civil liberties we hold dear, we have seen the pushes to make the internet yet another part of the surveillance state.

"We have seen the government's disregard for migrants, for the poor, the elderly and the disabled, we have seen the capital, profit and greed of the few put before the wellbeing of the many and we say enough is enough."

It finishes: "The government and the 1 per cent have played their hand. Now it's time to play ours. Expect us."

There was public outcry following 2015's event when protesters deliberately targeted police horses patrolling the event, injuring six of them.

The Metropolitan Police said criminality at the protest had increased year on year, with 53 arrests in 2016 up from four in 2012.

Chief Superintendent Elaine Van-Orden said the Met aimed to allow peaceful protest, but "due to the previous history of this event, we have strong reasons to believe that peaceful protest is the last thing on the minds of some of those who will attend".

She said: "Our message, as it was last year, is simple: if you wish to protest peacefully, that is your right and we want to work with you. If you commit criminal acts or breach the conditions of the event, you are liable to be arrested."
T heresa May's second-in-command has denied a claim that police found pornographic material on a computer in his Westminster office during a raid in 2008.

First Secretary of State Damian Green said the allegations published in the Sunday Times were "completely untrue" and "political smears".

The Sunday Times reported that ex-Metropolitan Police assistant commissioner Bob Quick alleged the material was discovered by officers during an inquiry into government leaks in 2008.

Mr Green, who is effectively the Prime Minister's deputy, said: "This story is completely untrue and comes from a tainted and untrustworthy source."

He added: "The police have never suggested to me that improper material was found on my Parliamentary computer, nor did I have a 'private' computer as has been claimed.

"The allegations about the material and computer, now nine years old, are false, disreputable political smears from a discredited police officer acting in flagrant breach of his duty to keep the details of police investigations confidential, and amount to little more than an unscrupulous character assassination."

Sir Michael Fallon quit as Defence Secretary last week over his behaviour / Getty Images

On Sunday, further allegations were made against a number of MPs as Westminster's swirl of sexual harrassment claims continued to spiral.

Sir Michael Fallon's shock Cabinet resignation was cast in new light as it emerged a journalist contacted Downing Street hours before his abrupt departure claiming that he had lunged at her and tried to kiss her on the lips in 2003.

Jane Merrick alleged in The Observer that the incident took place after a lunch when she was a 29-year-old junior political reporter.

She said: "I felt humiliated, ashamed. Was I even guilty that maybe I had led him on in some way by drinking with him? After years of having a drink with so many other MPs who have not acted inappropriately towards me, I now know I was not."

Ms Merrick said she "shrank away in horror and ran off to my office in the Press Gallery" following the alleged incident.

The Mail on Sunday reported that Tory whip Chris Pincher had been accused of making an unwanted pass at former Olympic rower and Conservative activist Alex Story.

Mr Pincher told the newspaper: "If Mr Story has ever felt offended by anything I said then I can only apologise to him."

Last week, writer Kate Maltby claimed Secretary of State Mr Green "fleetingly" touched her knee during a meeting in a Waterloo pub in 2015 and a year later sent her a "suggestive" text message after she was pictured wearing a corset in a newspaper.

Mr Green has passed a string of text messages between him and Ms Maltby to a Cabinet Office inquiry which he believes proves they remained friends long after the alleged knee-touching incident, which he denies.

The inquiry will look into whether he has broken the ministerial code.

Sunday's fresh allegations came after Labour's Harriet Harman hit back at claims that a witch hunt against politicians was under way.

The former deputy party leader told the BBC: "There are a lot of men saying this has been totally blown out of all proportion, this a witch hunt. No, it's not a witch hunt, it's long overdue."

That view was at odds with Tory backbencher Sir Roger Gale, who, giving a hypothetical example of a woman claiming a man kissed her in a lift five years ago, told the BBC: "How does a Member of Parliament refute that? It's a witch hunt."

Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry said she was ashamed at some of the "disgusting" allegations of sexual abuse in the Labour Party.

Ms Thornberry, who said she had experienced inappropriate behaviour, told the BBC: "Some of the things that I have heard in the last week have been so disgusting and I am ashamed that this could happen in the Labour Party."

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Shadow chancellor John McDonnell called for party leaders to agree new independent procedures when they meet next week to discuss how to deal with sexual harassment claims.

He told the BBC: "We have had one of our members come forward and said that she was raped. That is just unacceptable.

"We have had sexual harassment across all the political parties by the looks of it. So, we have got to tackle it."
G ordon Brown has claimed the UK was "misled" over Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction and that the Iraq War was unjustified.

In his latest book, My Life, Our times, the former Prime Minister, disclosed that the UK was likely "misled over Saddam Husseins weapons of mass destruction in the run up to the war in 2003.

He said that top secret US intelligence reveals that there was serious doubts over the dictators destructive capabilities and that these doubts were not shared with Britain.

Mr Brown said: "We now know from classified American documents, that in the first days of September 2002, a report prepared by the US Joint Chiefs of Staff's director for intelligence landed on the desk of the US defence secretary, Donald Rumsfeld.

"Commissioned by Rumsfeld to identify gaps in the US intelligence picture, it is now clear how forcibly this report challenged the official view.

Mr Brown said the UK were not shown top secret US information / PA

One of the key reasons the UK and US formed a coalition and invaded Iraq was due to American President, George W Bush and Tony Blair, the British Prime Minister at the time, accusing the dictator of having weapons of mass destruction and having links to terrorists.

Mr Brown said that he and Tony Blair were shown British intelligence that suggested that Saddam Hussein had the capability, if not a programme, of weapons of mass destruction.

However, it has emerged that a top secret US report conceded that the presumption of mass destructive weapons in Iraq was based on analysis of imprecise evidence.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair (left) at a press conference with American President George W Bush. / PA

"If I am right that somewhere within the American system the truth about Iraq's lack of weapons was known, then we were not just misinformed but misled on the critical issue of WMDs, Mr Brown said.

He added: "I was told they knew where the weapons were housed. I remember thinking at the time that it was almost as if they could give me the street name and number where they were located.

"It is astonishing that none of us in the British government ever saw this American report."

A month after Rumsfelds confidential paper was written, former president Bush went on record and said that Iraq possessed and produced chemical weapons and was seeking nuclear weapons".

It is not known if himself or anyone in the US administration had seen the dossier.

An inquiry called the Chilcot Report which lasted for 7 years, found that the former Iraqi dictator posed no imminent threat at the time of the invasion and that the reasoning behind the war was based on flawed intelligence.

Mr Brown said that based on this information, he cannot justify the Iraq war.

"Given that Iraq had no usable chemical, biological or nuclear weapons that it could deploy and was not about to attack the coalition, then two tests of a just war were not met: war could not be justified as a last resort and invasion cannot now be seen as a proportionate response."

Mr Brown said that he wonders if he could have done more to prevent the country rushing into war in 2003.

"When I consider the rush to war in March, 2003 - especially in light of what we now know about the absence of weapons of mass destruction - I ask myself over and over whether I could have made more of a difference before that fateful decision was taken.

However, the former Prime Minister did add that at the time, some form of international action was appropriate as Saddam had continued to fail to comply with UN resolutions.
M ore than 20 people have been killed after a gunman opened fire at a church in Texas.

The attack unfolded at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Wilson County, during Sunday service, police said.

Earlier estimates put the death toll as high as 27, according to reports.

About 50 people usually attend the service, locals said.

While just one shooter was reported, the FBI said it was looking into other possibilities.

Mass shooting: FBI officials arrive at the scene in Texas / REUTERS

The gunman entered the church at around 11:30 local time (17:30 GMT), according to local reports. It had also been reported that he had been killed in the aftermath.

He died after a brief car chase into nearby Guadalupe County, a Sherriff's Office deputy from that county told CNN.

The spokesman added that it was not immediately clear if he was killed by police or killed himself.

Photos and video from the scene showed the area taped off police.

Witness told how they heard semi-automatic gunfire in the area.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr told CNN that at least 27 people have been killed in the shooting, but that the death toll is may climb.

"My heart is broken," Gamez said. "We never think where it can happen, and it does happen. It doesn't matter where you're at. In a small community, real quiet and everything, and look at this, what can happen."

Megan Posey, a spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center, which is in Floresville and about 10 miles from the church, said "multiple" victims were being treated for gunshot wounds.

Texas shooting: A police car and a medical vehicle are seen near the First Baptist Church / REUTERS

She declined to give a specific number but said it was less than a dozen, news agency Associated Press reported.

Some victims were taken by medical helicopter to the Brooke Army Medical Center, television station KSAT reported.

US President Donald Trump tweeted from Japan that he is monitoring the situation in Texas following a mass shooting at a church.

Trump tweeted: "May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas."

Texas Governor Greg Abbott released a statement following the incident.

'Terrible': The scene outside the church on Sunday / AP

He said: "While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

"I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss."

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a statement: "The thoughts and prayers of all Texans are with the people of Sutherland Springs as tragic reports come out of First Baptist Church."

One witness in the area told NBC News: "We heard semi-automatic gunfire we're only about 50 yards away from this church.

"This is a very small community, so everyone was very curious as to what was going on."
D onald Trump risked causing offence to Japanese troops by boasting of the unpleasant outcome brought to countries that underestimated the US military in the past.

Speaking on the opening day of his Asia tour in Japan on Sunday, the US President ramped up his tough rhetoric against North Korea.

He told hundreds of cheering US and Japanese troops that no nation should ever underestimate American resolve, upon his arrival at Yokota Air Base, west of Tokyo.

"Every once in a while, in the past, they underestimated us. It was not pleasant for them, was it?" the US leader added.

His remarks were made in a nation where America killed about 140,000 people with atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Trump rattled some allies with a vow to "totally destroy" North Korea if it threatens the US.

Trump: 'In the past, they underestimated us. It was not pleasant for them, was it?' / Whitehouse.gov

A top aide said last week Trump intends to tell Asian leaders the world is "running out of time" in dealing with the nuclear crisis on the Korean peninsula.

The rogue regimes recent actions, including several missiles that flew over Japan and Pyongyang's sixth and largest nuclear test, have raised the stakes in the most critical international challenge of Trump's presidency.

Recent drills over South Korea by two US strategic bombers have further heightened tensions.

"We will never yield, never waver and never falter in defence of our freedom," Trump said.

He told reporters earlier on Air Force One that a decision would be made soon on whether to add North Korea to a list of state sponsors of terrorism.

Trump said his administration planned to take a different approach after years of what he termed "total weakness.

"It's a big problem for our country and the world, and we want to get it solved, he said.

In an apparent attempt to distinguish between North Korea's leadership and ordinary people, he said he thought North Koreans were "great people."

"And I hope it all works out for everybody."
M eghan Markles sister has spoken of her regret over her rift with the actress.

Samantha Grant, Ms Markles half-sister said that she was misquoted in tabloids when it was claimed she called Ms Markle Princess Pushy.

Speaking during an interview for an ITV documentary entitled, "Prince Harry and Meghan: Truly, Madly, Deeply," which is due to be broadcast on Monday, Ms Grant claimed that she was a victim of mistruths and that she never said those words.

She said: The tabloids really milk that for all it's worth, so it created a divide between Meghan and I."

Ms Grant suffers from multiple sclerosis and uses a wheelchair. She was criticised when she tweeted that Prince Harrys mother would never have walked away from a sister in a wheelchair.

Meanwhile, speculation continues to grow that Prince Harry and Ms Markle are due to announce their engagement any day.

The couple recently appeared publicly together for the first time at the Invictus Games in Toronto.

Ms Grant said in the interview that she would accept an invitation to a Royal Wedding if the couple tied the knot.

"We're so normal," Ms Grant said of the Markle family, and added: "Their wedding I would love to go, but we have no idea what's going to happen."

Meghan Markle and her mum Doria Radlan / PA

Ms Grant also discussed their childhood in the documentary and said that her sister was always prim and proper.

She claimed that reports that Ms Markle grew up in an impoverished area were false.

She said: "The tabloids wanted to create this ghetto princess story  the African America rags-to-riches Cinderella. We were raised in a very beautiful upper middle-class home in the San Fernando Valley of southern California - nowhere near "gangland."

The two sisters are 16 years apart and Ms Markle also has a half-brother named Thomas.
U npaid factory workers allegedly left notes for customers to find when they were shopping at a Zara chain.

Shoppers in Istanbul said they had found pleas for help from unpaid workers on tags inside Zara clothes.

Messages were said to have read: I made this item you are going to buy but I didnt get paid for it.

According to the Associated Press, workers from an outsourced manufacturer for Zara and other retailers have been going into the stores and leaving the secret messages inside the clothes.

The notes are a bid to raise awareness of workers who were left underpaid after a Bravo Tekstil factory that made clothes for Inditex, Zaras parent company shut down overnight.

Workers were left owed three months worth of wages and a severance allowance when the factory closed.

A petition online created to raise awareness of their plight already has over 19,000 signatures.

In the petition, workers claim that by July 2016, their boss had refused to pay a huge proportion of their wages.

It also said: Creditors came to our factory and seized all machines and valuables. Meanwhile, our boss disappeared, taking our wages with him. We have yet to receive our wages or any form of severance payment.

The factory also produced clothes for Next and Mango, the workers are asking that the brands compensate them for their labour.

The petition said: We demand no more than our basic rights! We call on the international community to support our struggle, sign and share to support our campaign!

This is not the first time Zara has come under fire for its ethics. It has previously been accused of both slave and child labour and exploiting Syrian refugees.

However, last month Intidex, Zaras parent company said in a press release that it was dedicated to working with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to improve labour conditions at all levels of the garment sector value chain.

The company is currently working with the ILO on its score programme targeted at improving management systems and working conditions in factories in China and Turkey.

A spokesperson for Intidex said that the company "has met all of its contractual obligations to Bravo Textil [sic] and is currently working on a proposal with the local IndustriALL affiliate, Mango, and Next to establish a hardship fund for the workers affected by the fraudulent disappearance of the Bravo factorys owner.

This hardship fund would cover unpaid wages, notice indemnity, unused vacation, and severance payments of workers that were employed at the time of the sudden shutdown of their factory in July 2016. We are committed to finding a swift solution for all of those impacted.

The Evening Standard has contacted Next, Mango and Intidex for comment.
S trictly Come Dancing viewers were outraged after Aston Merrygold lost his place in the competition.

The former JLS star was given the boot from the BBC ballroom after receiving his lowest score ever for his Viennese Waltz to Whos Loving You by Jackson 5.

Craig Revel Horwood gave him a four for the performance which he slammed as lacking grace.

On facing the dance-off with Mollie King Merrygold apologised to his partner Janette Manrara, saying: I feel like Ive let Janette down a bit.

Out: Janette Manrara and Aston Merrygold dancing the Viennese Waltz / BBC / Guy Levy

Merrygold looked gutted as head judge Shirley Ballas voted to save King.

He said: I've loved every second of this. I've had friends that have done it before and they've said 'you'll have so much fun' and they weren't lying. I've made some amazing friends.

Manrara broke down in tears as she said: Honestly I don't think I'm ever going to get the opportunity to dance with someone like you again.

Someone who is so lovely, so talented and such a good friend.

Viewers reacted furiously to the decision, with one branding it "absolutely ridiculous" while others argued Ruth Langsford should have been given the boot.

Debbie McGee maintained her spot at the top of the leader board after receiving the perfect score for her Tango with Giovanni Pernice.

Revel Horwood bowed down at her feet while Bruno Tonioli branded it flawless.

On receiving 40 points McGee said: Im in a dream. It was so thrilling I cant tell you how I feel.

Strictly Come Dancing 2017 - In pictures 1 /18 Strictly Come Dancing 2017 - In pictures Mollie King and her dance partner AJ Pritchard Guy Levy/PA Chizzy Akudolu and her dance partner Pasha Kovalev Guy Levy/PA Aston Merrygold and his dance partner Janette Manrara Guy Levy/PA Gemma Atkinson and her dance partner Aljaz Skorjanec Guy Levy/PA Debbie McGee and her dance partner Giovanni Pernice Guy Levy/PA Joe McFadden and his dance partner Katya Jones Guy Levy/PA Alexandra Burke and her dance partner Gorka Marquez Guy Levy/PA Charlotte Hawkins and her dance partner Brendan Cole Guy Levy/PA Rev Richard Coles and his dance partner Dianne Buswell Guy Levy/PA Davood Ghadami and his dance partner Nadiya Bychkova Guy Levy/PA Susan Calman and her dance partner Kevin Clifton Guy Levy/PA Simon Rimmer and his dance partner Karen Clifton Guy Levy/PA Brian Conley and his dance partner Amy Dowden Guy Levy/PA Jonnie Peacock and his dance partner Oti Mabuse Guy Levy/PA

Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC One, Saturday at 6:50pm
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Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 12:42:04|Editor: Mengjie

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- U.S. State of Massachusetts became the first state to ban bump stocks after the deadly Las Vegas shootings, local media reported Saturday.

Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito signed Friday the bill prohibiting the device, which can enhance the shooting speed of semi-automatic firearm, after the state legislature approved the bill Thursday.

"I am proud of my colleagues in the legislature for continuing Massachusetts' reputation as having among the safest and most effective gun laws in the nation," State Representative David Linsky said.

Bump stocks have been used in the Las Vegas shooting in October which claimed the lives of 59 people. Research showed that legal semi-automatic weapons can nearly reach the shooting speed of automatic firearms, which are heavily regulated.

The National Rifle Association, the country's top pro-gun rights advocacy group, said in a statement after the mass shooting that it supported the banning of the device, which can be legally purchased.

But the Gun Owners Action League of Massachusetts, a local pro-gun group, opposed the legislation, saying the bill banned the ownership and selling of the device, leaving those who have previously purchased the device legally in a hard spot.
So much of central Africa has been a mess for so long (longer that written records) there are still some nations that manage to avoid the corruption, civil disorder and general chaos that is so common. Currently the most glaring exception is Rwanda, which is literally right in the middle of it all. International surveys find that Rwanda is one of the safest nations in Africa and the only two ranked safer are Algeria and Morocco on the Mediterranean coast. In Rwanda GDP is grow 5-7 percent a year. Only five percent of Rwanda's GDP and 17 percent of the government budget comes from aid and other donations. Many attribute all this success to president Paul Kagame, who is unquestionably the most popular leader in Rwanda. But that is misleading. Kagame is accused of intimidating his opponents with physical threats and jail terms. Despite this even his many critics admit he ihas taken the lead in modernizing Rwanda's economy and attacking corruption. Kagame plans to stick around and is not term limited. He pulled the "change the constitution" trick in 2015 when he held a referendum to change to constitution so he could run for a third term. Under the new post-referendum system he could remain in power until 2034.

Kagame became president in 2000, but he has basically been in charge of the country since his Rwandan Patriotic Front took power after the 1994 Hutu-Tutsi genocide. While leadership is important it is not the key factor. The key in Africa and throughout the world, is a population where enough people are willing to avoid corruption and violence and basically get on with your life. So simple yet so rare. Kagame may yet wreck the country by refusing to leave office when he can no longer win fair elections. That is common, especially in Africa. But the exceptions to the centuries old chaos and misery that led Central Africa to be dubbed the heart of darkness in the 18th century are signs that it does not always have to be that way.

Meanwhile west of Rwanda Congo is drifting towards another civil war because the current president, Joseph Kabila, has organized an effort (so far successful) to become president-for-life. This sort of thing is unpopular with most Congolese but it is a common situation in Congo and throughout Africa. There is no easy solution to this problem and Kabila is taking advantage of that to permanently avoid holding national elections while he and his equally corrupt associates loot the country. No wonder donor nations are losing enthusiasm for spending over a billion dollars a year trying to get Congo to calm down and handle its own affairs peaceably. That works better as a concept than an achievable reality in many parts of the world. The Kabila issue is at the center of an increase in unrest throughout Congo this year. So far in 2017 there are 1.5 million new internal refugees in Congo, compared to 922,000 for all of 2016.

Another side effect of Kabila concentrating on looting rather than administering Congo is that all sorts of troublesome groups can sneak in. In eastern Congo (North Kivu) there are at least 400 South Sudan rebels taking refuge from the civil war next door in South Sudan.

November 1, 2017: In northern CAR (Central African Republic) fighting between Moslem Seleka rebels and a Christian "anti-balaka" militias during the last week has left at least 16 dead. This has been going on for several years, often in and around the town of Batangafo. In the last five months about 80,000 civilians have fled the fighting in this area. The civil war in CAR has been going on since 2013 and so far in 2017 over a thousand people, most of them civilians, have died because of it. The CAR violence had subsided in 2016 but throughout 2017 it is getting worse. CAR has been suffering from political violence since 1993 and in the late 1990s UN peacekeepers got involved. That force has grown to about 10,000 personnel but has been unable to end the violence.

October 31, 2017: In Congo the opposition parties are willing to accept new elections in June 2018 only if president Kabila resigns by the end of 2017 and is replaced by a provisional government. Kabila is under heavy pressure from major aid donors (especially the U.S.) to obey the law or be abandoned and probably declared an international outlaw.

October 30, 2017: In eastern Congo (North Kivu) anti-Kabila protests were met by police violence that left at least five protesters dead. Over the next two days nearly fifty protesters were arrested.

October 27, 2017: Burundi completed the process of withdrawing from the ICC (International Criminal Court). It is the first state to do so since the ICC was established in 2002 (the Rome Statute agreement). Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza does not care for the ICC mainly because it criticizes him. Withdrawing from the ICC has become common in Africa, although most nations later change their minds. In 2014 Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni summed up the attitude pretty clearly when he declared that African nations need to withdraw from the ICC. Museveni claimed that the ICC is now used as a tool for oppressing Africans. The African Union had recently asked the ICC to refrain from prosecuting an African head of state or deputy head of state while the accused remained in power. Musevenis declaration was ironic as he sought help from the ICC in dealing with the Ugandan rebel Lords Resistance Army (LRA). The ICC (backed by ample evidence) charged LRA senior commander Kony with crimes against humanity. Thats why few nations want be permanently without the ICC.

October 22, 2017: In the south, Angola expelled 422 illegal migrants from Congo who had found work in oil-rich Cabinda Province. Refugees are one thing, taking jobs like these away from Angolans is another.

October 19, 2017: In southeast CAR (Central African Republic) several days of fighting between Christian and Moslem militias left at least 26 dead and many more wounded. This includes civilian bystanders. Two of the wounded were peacekeepers.

October 11, 2017: In east Congo (North Kivu province) Rwandan FDLR rebels attacked a village for supplies and killed six civilians and a policeman. Since 2001 the FDLR has operated largely as bandits in Congo, usually near the Rwandan border.

October 9, 2017: In east Congo (North Kivu province) two peacekeepers were killed and several wounded when their base was attacked by Ugandan ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) rebels. This follows an ADF raid two days ago that left at least 20 civilians dead. The ADF is a Moslem rebel group that is considered Islamic terrorists by Uganda and bandits in Congo. ADF has been active since the late 1990s and after a few years found it useful to operate on both sides of the border. Peak strength (over a decade ago) was nearly a thousand armed men but now is about a hundred. ADF is believed responsible for over 700 deaths in this area over the last three years.

October 6, 2017: In southeast Congo (South Kivu province) tribal militiamen attacked a peacekeeper position. Three of the attackers were killed and one captured. Two peacekeepers were wounded.
While Windows 10 has been most Steam users' OS of choice for quite some time, the last few months have seen Windows 7 slowly gaining ground on the leader. Despite this trend, October's Steam hardware and software survey data brought some very surprising news: the two operating systems suddenly swapped positions after Windows 7 users increased 22.45 percent while Windows 10 fell by just over 18 percent.

Worldwide, Windows 7 remains the most popular version of Microsoft's OS, but that's primarily due to its huge number of enterprise users. The opposite had been true of Steam gamers; so, why the sudden change? It turns out that it's mostly down to one game: PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds. Or more specifically, it's a result of the Battle Royale title's popularity in China and the number of people who use Windows 7 in the country.

The language stats in Steam's survey back up the theory. They show that the number of people using simplified Chinese increased 27 percent to 56.37 percent last month. During the same period, English dropped 13.4 percent to 21.24 percent.

Despite the privacy enhancements introduced by Microsoft since its release, some people still eye Windows 10 with suspicion when it comes to spying on users. In China, the OS is banned from government systems---Microsoft launched a customized version for authorities earlier this year---and many Chinese consumers prefer to remain on Windows 7.

Just your weekly reminder on how Asia is driving PUBG to the new heights, even as US players are dropping out pic.twitter.com/MNcc0meVBB --- Steam Spy (@Steam_Spy) October 30, 2017

Battlegrounds has sold around 13 million copies worldwide, so it's no surprise to see it exert such an influence on the Steam survey. And while it may be extremely popular in China, that didn't stop many players from the country review bombing the title last month; a result of the in-game ads that had been introduced.

Windows 10 could eventually retake the top position on the Steam survey, though, especially if China carries out its threat to ban Battlegrounds because of the excessive violence and a design that "goes against Chinese values and ethical norms."
On Tuesday, Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva met with envoys from the U.S. and China in the framework of the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference. | Read More
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 13:12:08|Editor: Jiaxin

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DA NANG, Vietnam, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The International Media Center for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Week started to officially receive reporters in this central Vietnamese city on Sunday.

The annual APEC gathering is slated for Nov.6-11 in Da Nang city, with leaders from the bloc's 21 economies expected to meet on Nov.10-11.

The three-storey building, refurbished from Da Nang Fair and Exhibition Center, has a floor area of more than 13,000 square meters.

The center has a reception hall and separate areas for holding press conferences, security checks, healthcare services, among others. It also consists of media booths for major news organizations from Vietnam and abroad.

The key press conference room is a working venue for reporters, where Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang will chair a press conference after the APEC Leaders' Week wraps up on Nov. 11.

Some 3,000 reporters from Vietnam and around the world have registered to cover various events during the week.

The international media center was launched on Oct. 28 by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh.

"This is a good opportunity for Da Nang in particular and our country to promote the image of a beautiful, dynamic, prosperous Vietnam and a friendly and hospitable Da Nang city deserving the title of 'the most worth-living city in the country,'" Minh said at the launching ceremony.

Apart from serving reporters, the center also showcases in various forms the socio-economic development of Vietnam.
MINI Countryman Named Best Compact Crossover In Scotland

 Scottish Car of the Year Awards name MINI Countryman ?Best Compact Crossover.

 Judges commend ?good design and ?spacious, high quality cabin.

EDINBURGH - November 5, 2017: The biggest and most versatile MINI to-date has been awarded ?Best Compact Crossover by the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers. The new MINI Countryman was announced as the as the winner in this fiercely contested segment at the 2017 Scottish Car of the Year awards this evening.

Speaking at the awards, Stephen Park, President of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers said: Compact crossovers are in vogue and this year buyers have been spoiled for choice. Our favorite, the new MINI Countryman, marries good design with a spacious, high quality cabin and the choice of two or four-wheel-drive. Theres also a huge options list for those who want to create a unique and personal car.

With its larger external dimensions, and increases in space throughout the cabin and luggage area, the new MINI Countryman offers occupants even greater comfort and a genuinely premium ambiance. Useful new features such as electric tailgate control with touch-free opening and unique options, including a fold down picnic bench at the rear, add to the ownership experience.

The Countrymans on- and off-road ability is readily apparent throughout its design and, for the first time, MINI is offering a plug-in hybrid model with the new MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid.

Were thrilled that the ASMW have chosen the new MINI Countryman in this extremely competitive segment, said Leon Van Schie, Head of Marketing, MINI UK. This very welcome award demonstrates that the latest addition to the MINI range is an enticing option which offers greater space, refinement and flexibility for our customers. Furthermore, the new MINI Countryman introduces unique features into this segment which are proving extremely popular with new and returning MINI customers alike.

To experience the new MINI Countrymans winning attributes first-hand, members of the public in Scotland and across the UK can now take the time to get out and explore with a 48 hour test drive. For further information on the award winning MINI Countryman, and the 48 hour test drive, please visit http://www.mini.co.uk/countryman.
UKs Oldest Fiat To Drive In London To Brighton Veteran Car Run

 1899 Fiat 3hp to take part in London to Brighton Veteran Car Run on 5th November, 2017

 118 year old Fiat can reach top speeds of up to 21mph

 Fiat 500 60th anniversary celebrated at Regent Street Motor Show

LONDON - November 5, 2017: The oldest Fiat in the UK, the 1899 Fiat 3hp, will take to the roads today as part of the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.

One of the earliest surviving Fiats in the world, the 3hp will take to the road as it takes part in the events 60-mile drive, from Hyde Park in London down to Madeira Drive in Brighton, as part of the notorious heritage trial on 5th November, 2017.

Owned by FCA UK Ltd, and on permanent display at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, this Fiat 3hp can seat two adults in comfort, plus two children facing the driver, in a vis-a-vis layout. With a horizontal two-cylinder engine producing 697cc and a three-speed (no reverse) gearbox, it can reach a top speed of 21mph while returning a very respectable 35mpg.

This year marks 121 years since the inaugural London to Brighton run which celebrated the passing of the Locomotives on the Highways Act. This saw the abolition of the need for a motorized vehicle to be led by a red flag carrying man and raising the speed limit from 4mph to 14mph.

Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (FIAT) was founded by a group of Turin investors in July 1899 and began assembling cars in a temporary factory. The new founded company absorbed two smaller businesses, including a bicycle manufacturer which had a prototype car, called the ?Welleyes. The first dozen or so cars manufactured by Fiat in 1899 were derived from this prototype. A new purpose built factory started producing cars from March 1900 and from this Fiat grew to be an industrial giant and one of the worlds largest motor manufacturers.

Saturday 4th November will also see the Regent Street Motor Show marking the 60th anniversary of the iconic Fiat 500 with a special display staged by the Fiat 500 Club. It will depict the evolution of the original supermini, showcasing rare model including the Giardiniera estate and the 500 Saloon.
2018 GMC TERRAIN Review By Thom Cannell

LEARN MORE: The Web's Original 4-Car-Compar-a-graph, Compare Vehicle Specs; Side by Side by Side by Side

Professional Grade Mid-sized CUV grows into greater style and luxury

2018 GMC Terrain Review

By Thom Cannell

Senior Editor

Michigan Bureau

The Auto Channel

We recently completed a harrowing must-arrive-on-time-at-airport drive from Frank Lloyd Wrights Falling Water across Pittsburgh. It was an ugly rush hour, filled with incompetent, unobservant, and just plain silly drivers, and it provided a near-perfect test for the all-new 2018 GMC Terrain. Weaving in and around traffic proved the chassis was a work of art (as had previous mountainous driving), steering response was very good, comfort and security made us feel, well, secure, and the powertrain moved us ahead at every opportunity. We got our directions from the 7-inch navigation-equipped touch screen telematics system thats standard on all new Terrain. Response to touch was swift and we thought the audio quality delivered from both an iPhone and satellite was far more than merely acceptable, it was good.

We arrived on time, somewhat frazzled, and the experience reemphasized several things wed learned about this all-new Terrain:

Its quiet, almost silent interior made conversations easily audible. Responding to back seat conversations, even while holding another in front, was effortless.

The 2018 GMC Terrains enormous sunroof illuminated the interior almost as well as an open convertible top.

Its seats were comfortable and supportive in a lengthy 2.5-hour commute.

The new Terrains 2.0-liter turbocharged engine coupled to a 9-speed transmission (a segment first according to GMC) supplied abundant power.

Vision, critical to weaving in and out of multiple freeway entrances and exits, was excellent.

It also confirmed that we, personally, are not thrilled with the now-exclusive e-shifter with buttons on the console. While it surely opened welcome space in the center, we often wanted more control over the powertrain. Lastly, we were not overjoyed by the angle of Terrains new and handsome gauges; they angled downwards to resist glare, which resulted in a more-difficult reading for us.

Our conclusion; GMCs 2018 Terrain is a true contender in the luxury market where it out-points many Asian and European competitors.

Wed flown to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to test this all-new new crossover, and we were infused with hope that it would live up to expectations created at its launch.

Terrain is a relatively new name plate at venerable GMC, debuting at the New York Auto Show in April 2009. At the reveal we were underwhelmed by that vehicle, particularly its patchwork, multi-surface exterior. It was a feeling that persisted until the unveiling of this all-new Terrain at the Detroit International Auto Show in 2017. What intrigued us most about the all-new 2018 Terrain was its cleaner, more layered exterior design. This Terrain reeked of sophistication from our vantage point many meters away. Then we got a look inside where it was obvious that designers had been allowed to source better, richer, truly premium materials. We were also excited that there was a diesel powertrain as well as two turbocharged gasoline engines, 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder motors.

After having a chance to live with this crossover, though a very brief encounter, it is indeed a convincingly premium product. Exterior surfaces are clean, genuinely muscular in a way the outgoing model was not. Gone are unexplained bulges, replaced by sleekly sculpted panels that ooze refinement. Grilles, either Denali or its cousins are equally rich, and the addition of sculpted headlights and LED tail lights offered designers a clean and cultured canvas.

We always ask ourselves if we would buy this vehicle. In short, yes. It fits into garages and parking spaces, possibly automatically if you choose the automatic parking option. More important, youll fit into it just as comfortably. Hands fall naturally where you need them to find switches, touch pads, controls and buttons, and Terrains advanced electronics function as advertised.

Today, a fully equipped telematic suite is a necessary consideration. Thankfully, you can use standard embedded features like satellite radio, Pandora, navigation, etc. and easily link either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for enhanced and far more familiar application use. Or you may use the built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot to catch up on Facebook or Tinder, if youre not driving; swipe left on that! OnStar is, of course standard, as are other effective technologies like Surround Vision, Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance indicator, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Side Zone alert with Lane Change Alert, and the extremely useful Rear Cross Traffic Alert. We have only scratched the circuit board on the totality of Terrains on-board tech.

With the all-new 2018 Terrain, the center console has become an even more useful place with super-deep arm rest storage including two USB connectors. It has side-by-side cup holders and a storage bin thats the size of two deli sandwiches or your designer clutch. At the front of the console is something new, an Electronic Precision Shift (which we failed to fall in love with, a very personal observation) that is far more intuitive to operate than a console shifter. For ease of use, Terrains new one button-push Electronic Precision Shift is hard to beat. Select FWD or REV and youre done. Towing a trailer? Dial up tow-mode on the standard Traction Select system and the transmission stays in the current gear longer. Our dissatisfaction is based in the goodness of the powertrain! It rolls along so smoothly, disconnecting the rear axel (AWD models, of course) when not needed to increase fuel efficiency, that it just keeps on rolling. We like a bit of engine braking when such control is needed for fast driving on twisting roads, a one-percent occurrence.

Interiors, particularly in Denali versions (which we did not test), offer more cultured interiors than SL, SLE, or SLT, moving from the Ritz and W-category into the boutique, which is to say from luxury to greater luxury. One difference between in-person and on-line information hit us squarely. Originally, looking only at photos, the stacked pod nature of controls for shifter, HVAC, and 7 (8 optional) touch screen looked, uhh, like stacked pods. In person the combination is far more organic and delivers natural progression of control structure.

Both of the vehicles we drove during our test, each in SL trim levelone with a a 1.6L Diesel option and 2.0-liter turbo with 252 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torqueshowed refinement in the powertrain. Weve touched on this, but coupling a 9-speed transmission to a turbocharged gasoline engine puts power when it is needed. Having a very low and exceptionally tall gear makes launches from stoplights swift and enhances fuel economy at every revolution of the engine. The diesel is, on paper, less powerful at 137 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft of torque. However, with its abundant torque that is useful at just above idle speed, the engine provides plenty of aggressive power at any stage and was particularly nice in the surrounding hills. Though a premium in price, if we were hyper-milers and wanted more than the EPA rating of 39 mpg (38 if AWD) wed go for it. Its coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

A third 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine (170 hp/203 lb.-ft) is the standard motor, one we have not tested. Well place a wager that while a substantial number will buy Denali, which has grown to become a sub-brand, the other 70-80-percent will buy this power train. It too comes with a 9-speed transmission which should make it feel more powerful.

We look forward to evaluating the Denali trim level with its Bose stereo and LED headlamps for a full week of pampering. Regardless model, all are quiet, powerful, luxurious CUVs that easily fit into any carport or garage, an all-new 2018 GMC Terrain with excellent ratings, a new crossover to be proud of.
Photo: Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/via Getty Images

Harvey Weinsteins arrest could be imminent, the NYPD now tells the AP. After actress Paz de la Huerta came forward to police accusing Weinstein of raping her twice in 2010, officials now say theyre building a case to bring the first criminal charges against the disgraced mogul. Based on interviews with de la Huerta and information that corroborates her story, chief of detectives Robert Boyce told the AP on Friday that they are proceeding with her case. He says de la Huerta demonstrated the ability to articulate each and every minute of the crime, where she was, where they met, where this happened and what he did. The NYPD will now either get a court order for an arrest warrant, or allow prosecutors to seek indictment from a grand jury. The Manhattan district attorneys office confirmed to the AP that a senior prosecutor is now investigating the allegations.

According to Boyce, if the facts were slightly different, Weinstein might already be in handcuffs: If this person was still in new York, and it was recent, wed go right away and make the arrest. No doubt. But were talking about a 7-year-old case. And we have to move forward gathering evidence first. Weinstein has been spotted in disguise in Arizona after completing treatment at a local rehab for sex addiction. Another detective previously told Vanity Fair that he believes we have enough to make an arrest.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 13:37:12|Editor: Jiaxin

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SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Indian army Sunday claimed it has foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), which divides Kashmir, by killing two militants.

The infiltration bid was foiled in Uri sector in frontier Baramulla district, about 103 km northwest of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir, Indian army spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia said.

The group of militants were attempting to infiltrate inside Indian-controlled Kashmir, he said.

"An infiltration bid was foiled today in Uri sector of Baramulla district. Two militants were killed," he said.

According to Kalia, the operation was still going on in the area.

LoC is a de facto border that divides Kashmir into India and Pakistan controlled parts.

A separatist movement and guerilla war challenging New Delhi's rule has been going on in Indian-controlled Kashmir since 1989. Gunfights between militants and Indian troops take place intermittently across the region.

Kashmir, the Himalayan region divided between India and Pakistan, is claimed by both in full. Since their independence from Britain, the two countries have fought three wars, two exclusively over Kashmir.
$10,000 Reward Offered in North Carolina Missing Woman Case

The reward for missing woman Abby Patterson,20, who disappeared nearly two months ago after leaving her familys North Carolina home, has been increased.

Pattersons family previously offered $5,000 for the reward, but now a local chicken-processing facility is adding $5,000 more to that. A total of $10,000 is being offered for any tips leading to Pattersons location, The Robesonian newspaper reported.

Patterson had just been released from a drug rehabilitation center at the time of her disappearance, the paper reported.

Pattersons sister, Sandy Bryan, told The Robesonian that Mountaire Farms donated the additional money.

This has gotten national attention, and theres a lot of bad information out there, Bryan told the newspaper. The ($5,000 originally released) is not being offered by law enforcement, but by family and friends. We want to be very clear on that.

Patterson told her mother that she would return in an hour when she left her home on Sept. 5, and she stepped into a brown Buick driven by a male acquaintance.

She has not been seen or heard from since, although her family says there have been plenty of false leads.

Patterson disappeared in the same area where three other women were found dead in the last six months, but authorities do not believe that Pattersons disappearance is related to those victims.

Anything is possible but we do not think theyre related, Lumberton Police Capt. Terry Parker told Fox News on Wednesday.

Bryan told The Robesonian the lack of communication is out of character for her sister.

We know shes not out there by choice, Bryan told the Robesonian. She talks to my mom every day, and we havent heard from her since [she was seen getting into the Buick].

The FBI is assisting local police in the investigation.



Patterson was living in Florida and just visiting her mother in Lumberton for two days when she disappeared. Police said that they have identified the man last seen with Patterson.

We think its someone she knew, but were not sure, said Capt. Parker, who did not name the man or say whether hes considered a person of interest in the case, Fox News reported.

Patterson is described as 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighing 140 pounds, with brown hair and eyes. Her skin is light colored and there is a birthmark on the back of her left thigh and a bird tattoo on her shoulder.

Anyone with information on Pattersons whereabouts can call the Lumberton Police Department at (910) 671-3845.

From NTD.tv
14-Year-Old Daughter of Texas Pastor Dead in Church Mass Shooting

The 14-year-old daughter of a Texas churchs pastor and more than two dozen people were shot and killed on Sunday during service.

First Baptist Church Pastor Frank Pomeroy confirmed to ABC News that his teen daughter, Annabelle, is among those dead in the mass shooting.

Families in tears wait to see if their family and friends are safe. Praying for the safety of all those involved. pic.twitter.com/yjzK7lZJ1S  Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

At least 27 people died in the attack and more than 24 were wounded, local media outlets have reported, citing unnamed officials.

Annabelle, Pastor Pomeroy said, was one very beautiful, special child, ABC reported. He wasnt at the church when the shooting happened, adding that he was in Oklahoma.

Other victims in the shooting are close friends of his, he said.

My husband and I were ironically out of town in two different states. We lost our 14-year-old daughter today and many friends, her mother, Sherri Pomeroy, told CBS News.

She added, Neither of us have made it back into town yet to personally see the devastation. I am at the Charlotte airport trying to get home as soon as I can.

The shooter was killed about 12 miles from the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, which is located 40 miles east of San Antonio, Guadalupe County Sheriffs Sergeant Robert Murphy told Reuters.

The suspects identity wasnt disclosed to the media. And any possible motive was not disclosed by officials. And the exact number of deaths and injuries have yet to be disclosed.

A law enforcement official told The Associated Press that at least 20 people were shot. A local official told CNN that 27 people are feared dead.

We still dont know much about what happened, other than this guy came in around 11:15 a.m. and started shooting everybody in the church, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton told CBS News.

Witnesses described the scene.

We heard several shots and we all started running inside the store, an unnamed woman told ABC.

It lasted about 15 seconds, she added. I yelled, Get down! Get inside! and we all went into hiding.

On Twitter, President Donald Trump said hes monitoring the situation.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan, he tweeted.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott responded, saying in a statement: While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act. I want to thank law enforcement for their response and ask that all Texans pray for the Sutherland Springs community during this time of mourning and loss.
Australia Turns Down NZ Offer to Take Asylum Seekers Barricaded Inside Camp

SYDNEYAustralia turned down on Sunday an offer to take 150 asylum seekers being held in an Australian-run detention center in Papua New Guinea, where U.N. officials have warned a humanitarian emergency is unfolding.

About 600 men have barricaded themselves inside the camp on remote Manus island in Papua New Guinea, defying efforts by Australia and PNG to shut it. Food, running water and medical services were cut off by Australia five days ago.

Australian authorities want the men moved to a transit center elsewhere on the island at the start of a process the asylum seekers fear will result in them being resettled in PNG or another developing nation. The men also fear violent reprisals from the local community.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Friday her country was willing to take 150 asylum seekers from among those held on Manus island and another camp on the tiny Pacific nation of Nauru.

Her Australian counterpart, Malcolm Turnbull, however said Canberra preferred to work through an existing refugee swap deal he negotiated with former U.S. President Barack Obama last year. Under that deal, up to 1,250 asylum seekers could be sent to the United States and Australia will in turn accept refugees from Central America.

We want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements, and then in the wake of that obviously we can consider other ones, Turnbull told Ardern during a media conference in Sydney.

Relocating the men on Manus island is designed as a temporary measure, allowing the United States time to complete vetting of asylum seekers.

Ardern acknowledged the two Tasman neighbors faced different immigration problems but said the offer remained open.

The camps on Manus island and Nauru have been key parts of Australias disputed Sovereign Borders immigration policy, under which it refuses to allow asylum seekers arriving by boat to reach its shores.

Australias offshore detention policies have been heavily criticized by the United Nations and human rights groups but are backed the center-right government and the Labor opposition.

U.N. rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a news conference in Geneva on Friday about the unfolding humanitarian emergency in the Manus island center, where asylum seekers have been reported digging wells to try to find water.

By Benjamin Cooper
California Church Shooting: 2 Dead, 1 Injured in Fresno

A shooting was reported outside St. Alphonsus Church in southwestern Fresno, California, on Sunday, local media reported.

A suspect, 64-year-old Manuel Garcia, was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after opening fire on his wife, 61-year-old Martha Garcia, and her 51-year-old boyfriend, ABC30 reported. His wife was killed, and the boyfriend was injured and taken to the hospital.

Witness tells me he heard about 5 gunshots, saw victim fall to ground. People nearby asked him to call 911. Hear from him at 6 on @ABC30 pic.twitter.com/4nFeflr3EX  Cory James (@CoryABC30) November 5, 2017

Martha Garcia and her boyfriend were attending church and Manuel Garcia waited for the service to end before he opened fire, officials told ABC30.

Police Chief Jerry Dyer said the boyfriend is listed in critical condition and likely wont survive.

Police on the scene says there's a negotiator talking to the suspect out here in SW Fresno. @abc30 pic.twitter.com/ayG5u0f9qY  Corin Hoggard (@corinhoggard) November 5, 2017

Witnesses said they heard about five shots. Then people called 911, the reports stated.

Father Dominic Rajappa confirmed to the Fresno Bee that a morning mass ended when gunfire rang out. He said he doesnt believe many people saw the shooting, but those that did, were really scared, according to the Fresno Bee.

In the incident, the shooter emerged from a vehicle and fired at the two, who were inside a blue Toyota, at the churchs parking lot on Kearney Boulevard, the Bee reported.

Dyer told ABC30 that after the shooting, a woman called the Fresno Police Department and told officials she got text messages from her dad. The messages said that the man said he had just shot her mother in a church parking lot and he went home to wait for police.

He texted his daughter what he'd done, went home and while police stayed outside, he killed himself too. Police found a .45 in his hand. https://t.co/UvSoUbt5qC  Corin Hoggard (@corinhoggard) November 5, 2017

The SWAT team then entered the home, they discovered Garcia dead of a gunshot wound, likely self-inflicted. The Garcias had been married for 43 years and lived together, but she was filing for a divorce. The couple has no history of domestic violence, officials said.

It does not appear to be related to a mass shooting inside a church in a rural Texas town near San Antonio that left more than 27 people dead and more injured on Sunday.
This photo taken on July 14, 2016 shows a woman walking past a poster of the South China Sea, with the slogan at the bottom China's territory, never to yield an inch of our ground on a street in Weifang, Shandong province. China plans to create two Chinese-controlled international maritime courts that would be used to justify its own maritime claims, including those in the South China Sea that have already been ruled unlawful by an international court in July 2016. China may build mobile nuclear power plants in the South China Sea, state media reported on July 15, days after an international tribunal dismissed Beijing's vast claims in the strategically vital waters. (STR/AFP/Getty Images)

China to Create Its Own International Courts for Maritime Claims

China is continuing with its plan announced earlier this year to create two Chinese-controlled international maritime courts that would be used to provide Chinas interpretation of maritime law. The continuation of the plan is the latest signal that China has not given up on pushing forward its maritime claims in the South China Sea, which have been decisively ruled as unlawful by the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague in a high profile case last year.

On Oct. 25, 2017 during the 2017 Shanghai International Shipping Law Forum held in Shanghai, Chinese legal scholars and officials affirmed prominently a previously reported plan of creating two international maritime arbitration courts to help project Chinas own vision and views on international maritime law.

The recent statements from Chinese officials and legal scholars echo an article from June 2017, near the anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration case, published on Chinas One Belt One Road Initiative official website. Originally published on Chinas state-run Legal Daily, the article claimed that Chinese legal scholars are working on the creation of an International Maritime Judicial Center together with an International Maritime Arbitration Center, with the goal of making China the center of international maritime arbitration and jurisprudence.

Chinas maritime claims in the South China Sea, based on the Nine-Dash Line that was drawn to reflect Chinas interpretation of historical rights, have long been disputed by most of the neighboring countries in the region.

As over the last decade China intensified building artificial islands and putting military bases on them around Scarborough Shoal and other key features in the South China Sea, the Philippines brought the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague in 2013 to challenge the Chinese behaviors and claims. China chose not to appear before the court and issued a white paper stating its position in December 2014.

In the resulting case, known as the South China Sea Arbitration, the court ruled in July 2016 decisively in Philippiness favor. In response, China vehemently attacked the court and refused to accept its ruling, despite the fact that as a signatory country to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), China was bound by international law to comply with its ruling.

Possibly as a response to the Court of Arbitrations ruling, China began planning the creation of alternative international courts that would be controlled by China. and also to attack the legitimacy of the established international legal bodies such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

CNN first reported in March 2017 that Chinas Supreme Peoples Court had endorsed the idea of creating an International Maritime Judicial Center to advance Chinas role as a maritime power, although very little detail was revealed at the time. The plan was later upgraded in June to include a new International Maritime Arbitration Center. While the differences between the two organs have not been fully explained, both are apparently designed to project Chinas voice in international maritime legal affairs and disputes.

During the Oct. 25 forum, Gu Chao, the secretary general of the China Maritime Arbitration Commission, was quoted as saying that [Chinas] International Maritime Judicial Center and International Maritime Arbitration Center can complement each other in their roles. They will help strengthen Chinas voice in the international arena.

Chinese officials and legal scholars also said that increasing Chinas voice in terms of international law is crucial for the success of Chinas One Belt One Road Initiative. Lin Guo-ping, the Executive Vice President of the Shanghai Law Society, said that the essence of One Belt One Road is not just about strategy of economic development, but also about strategy of the development of law to project Chinas image as a great power with rule of law.

Chinas attempt to reshape international maritime law based on its own interpretation, however, would likely be met with stiff resistance, particularly from those countries most harmed by its maritime expansion, such as the Philippines. The Nine-Dash Line, the essence of Chinas claims in the South China Sea, has been thoroughly rejected by Philippines and most other countries in the region, and also by the 2016 court ruling.

According to John Burgess, Executive Director of the international law program at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts Unviersity, Chinas move to create its own international maritime arbitration center seems at best entirely redundant and unnecessary.

At worst, and without knowing the details, it suggests an effort to create a captive system of arbitration that might divert cases from the procedures created by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), said John Burgess. [It will] generate a set of precedents faithful to the Chinese view of how the law of the sea should be interpreted, and thereby undermine the comprehensive, neutral and truly international system contemplated by UNCLOS.
Corey Feldman Names Another Hollywood Pedophile who Possibly Still Works with Children

Corey Feldman revealed the name of a second man he said is molesting children in Hollywood.

During the course of an intense series of interview sessions on NBC, first with Matt Lauer, and then with Megyn Kelly, Feldman identified Marty Weiss as a child sex predator. He also told Kelly its not the first time he has brought up child talent manager Marty Weiss. He reminded viewers that Marty Weiss was a name he was able to print in his 2013 book, Coreyography, because Weiss had already been convicted of sexually abusing a child.

The name of the second pedophile emerged after Jon Grissom was first identified on the Dr. Oz show. Dr. Ozs team dug up Grissoms name and confirmed the find with Feldman, who conceded that Grissom is the one for which he uses the pseudonym Ron Crimson in his book.

During the course of that interview, Oz went on the phone with the police, with Feldman seated across from him, to try to get to the bottom of the matter on whether legal punishment is still an option. He also brought in his own legal experts to investigate Grissom and where he might be located. It was a totally different approach than that taken by the Today show. hosts.

Feldman was grilled by Matt Lauer from the outset, who questioned why he needed the $10 million he is seeking as part of the work he is doing to put his experience of molestation on the cinema screen. During the course of these interviews, Feldman is challenged, and reasserts why his message is important and why the method he is using is necessary.

Why do you need $10 million dollars? Film students make movies for fractions of that, asked Lauer.

Well, thats a film student. Were talking about a theatrical release. Were talking about Im going to four-wall the theaters, Im going to self-distribute, self-market, make the film, and hire a team of attorneys who are going to protect me and the film when everybody comes after me once it has been released, said Feldman.

Feldman also expressed his frustration with the way he is being pressured to reveal the names of more pedophiles. He restated how he named names in the past during a Michael Jackson investigation, but nothing was done. During her turn to interview Feldman Megyn Kelly mentioned how she contacted Santa Barbara police to get their side, but did not hear back from them.

Let me push this forward. There are thousands of people in Hollywood who have this same information. Why is it all on me? Why is it if I dont release the names in the next two months, six months, or a year, Im the bad guy? Im the victim here. Im the one whos been abused. Im the one whos trying to come forward and do something about it, Feldman told Lauer.

Wouldnt you be more safe if you named the perpetrator right now and therefore immobilized him from coming after you? asked Kelly.

If that was the case, if the law protected me, I would do it in a second, said Feldman.

Feldman addressed how he needs the money for the legal battle that would follow. He also explained how the other party would probably try to diminish his name so as to discredit the allegations, maybe by bringing up drug abuse. Feldman again urged those that were with him during the time when pedophiles were grooming him and other young actors to step forward and support the actions he is now taking.

When pressed by Kelly about more specifics of child predators lingering in Hollywood is when Feldman brings up Weiss.

Marty Weiss is also brought up in a 2015 film about pedophiles in Hollywood, An Open Secret. The film was unable to find distribution at the time, but is now experiencing an explosion in popularity, The Telegraph reported. It names several Hollywood child sex predators. The movie is free to watch online.

At the end of the film, a blurb states that Weiss is free from prison after having served just six months behind bars on multiple sex abuse charges, but is continuing to work with children in Hollywood and is also working to reduce penalties for sex offenders.

From NTD.tv
The area around a site of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Nov. 5, 2017, in this picture obtained via social media. (Max Massey/ KSAT 12/via Reuters)

Devin Patrick Kelley IDd as Suspect in Texas Church Shooting: Reports

Several media outlets on Sunday evening are reporting that the suspect in the Texas church shooting was identified as Devin Patrick Kelley.

Kelley, 26, is a resident of New Braunfels, located near San Antonio, public records show, as reported by The Daily Beast.

CBS News and NBC News confirmed Kelley was the gunman.

He was reportedly found dead after the mass shooting, which left at least 20 people dead.

JUST IN: Suspect in Texas church shooting has been identified as Devin Patrick Kelley, sources tell CBS News https://t.co/iB6zuuPslE pic.twitter.com/gimMKQa17p  CBS News (@CBSNews) November 5, 2017

Details about Kelley, including a motive, have not been released.

According to MySanAntonio.com, his home was raided on Sunday afternoon by San Antonio Police.

ABC News reported that he displayed a rifle-style weapon on a now-deleted Facebook account.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt told CNN that at least 20 people were killed. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick told Fox News that at least 25 people were killed and 30 injured, Reuters.

Texas church shooter recently showed off an AR-15 style-looking gun on social media@PierreTABC @MLevineReports @JackDate  Aaron Katersky (@AaronKatersky) November 5, 2017

The 14-year-old daughter of pastor Frank Pomeroy was killed, the family told several television stations.

President Donald Trump said he was monitoring the situation while in Japan on a 12-day Asian trip.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene, he said on Twitter.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

According to the witnesses, about 20 shots rang out about 11:30 a.m. (1730 GMT) during the church services, according to media reports. It was unclear how many worshippers were inside at the time.

After the shooting, the suspect sped away in a car and was soon cornered by sheriffs deputies just outside of Wilson County in Guadalupe County, Wiley told Reuters. He did not know if the shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot or was killed by deputies.

This is a breaking news story. More details will be added when they arrive.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Footage Shows Gas Station Explode Into Flames in Arkansas

Surveillance footage shows why one shouldnt smoke a cigarette while pumping gas.

Witnesses at the gas station in Stuttgart, Arkansas, told KARK this week that they believe the fire started while someone was smoking.

The flames moved from the fire that was started in the car before it moved to the pump.

The driver and a passenger then bolt from the vehicle as it catches on fire. The car behind them can be seen backing away.

Nobody was hurt in the incident.

The station told KARK that the gas pump was not seriously damaged.

A local fire chief says that people should follow safety guidelines at gas stations.

Warning signs posted at most gas stations in the United States implore motorists not to smoke cigarettes, to stop the engine, keep cellular phones or other wireless devices turned off or in the car, and other safety guidelines.

According to KARK, the fire chief also urged people to turn off their vehicles while pumping gas.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 13:42:13|Editor: Jiaxin

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JALALABAD, Afghanistan, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least 15 Islamic States (IS) militants were killed after drone attacks against hardliner group in Afghan eastern Nangarhar province on Saturday, a local official said Sunday.

"An unmanned air vehicle of NATO-led troops targeted a group of IS militants in Achin district of Nangarhar province on Saturday evening as a result 15 fighters were killed and their hideout utterly destroyed," Ataullah Khogiani, the spokesman for provincial governor told Xinhua.

The NATO-led Resolute Support (RS) mission, which often conducts airstrikes against armed militants in the conflict-battered country, has yet to issue any statement about the incident.

Hundreds of IS militants have been killed by Afghan and NATO-led RS forces in eastern provinces, especially in the restive Achin district which has been regarded as IS stronghold in Afghanistan.
Mass Shooting at Texas Church, Casualties Reported

Several people were shot at a Church in Texas, according to local media reports.

The incident unfolded at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs on Sunday morning, witnesses told KENS-TV.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr. told NBC News that he heard the shooter is now deceased. Its not clear if he killed himself or was gunned down by police

Law enforcement sources told NBC that as many as 15 people may have been injured and multiple people were killed.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and FBI are on the scene.

The suspect was killed after a short chase into nearby Guadalupe County, according to Guadalupe County Sheriffs Office spokesman Robert Murphy, CNN reported.

Police said that the gunman who opened fire has been neutralized, adding there are multiple victims at the church, located in the 500 block of 4th Street in the town, which is located 40 miles east of San Antonio, KSAT reported.

Witnesses said the suspect walked into the church in full gear before opening fire, according to the Dallas News. He then took off in a car.

This is what appears to be the front of the church, EMS still responding pic.twitter.com/uxjHJlOTcL  Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

A 2-year-old was wounded in the shooting, the Dallas News reported.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) wrote a tweet after the incident. Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon, he said.

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

Constable Thomas Silvas from Precinct 1 in Wilson County said that officials are working to remove bodies. He didnt elaborate on the number of people who were killed or injured, as Fox News reported.

A witness told CNN that as many as 20 shots were heard.

The suspect has not been identified. A motive has not been established for the shooting.

This is a breaking news story. Other details are unclear.
The area around a site of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Nov. 5, 2017, in this picture obtained via social media. (Max Massey/ KSAT 12/via Reuters)

Officials Say More Than 20 Dead in Texas Church Shooting: Reports

UPDATE: Several media outlets on Sunday evening are reporting that the suspect in the Texas church shooting was identified as Devin Patrick Kelley.

UPDATE No. 2: The 14-year-old daughter of a Texas churchs pastor and more than two dozen people were shot and killed on Sunday during service.



A local Texas official said that more than 20 people were shot and killed after a gunman walked inside a church and opened fire Sunday, the New York Times reported.

Paul W. Pfeil, a Wilson County, Texas, commissioner, said he couldnt confirm the exact number of deaths or injuries. But he said there are more than 20 dead, the Times reported.

Another official, Albert Gamez Jr., who is a Wilson County commissioner, told CNN that the shooter was chased by police into another county and died, but its not clear if he killed himself or was shot by police.

Many of the victims are still in the church, he said.

You never expect something like this. My heart is broken, he told CNN.

Another officialDavid Keen, a constable in Wilson Countyconfirmed that there were kids involved, the Times reported.

Were sending more officers on the streets to help secure Connally Memorial while theyre bringing the casualties to the hospital, Keen said.

Sheriff Joe Tackitt told the Wilson County News that there have been multiple injuries and fatalities, including children. It was not clear how many people may have been killed or wounded, Reuters reported.

The Wilson County Texas Sheriffs Office told Reuters that officers were responding to an incident at the church, without providing further information about the shooting.

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and other law enforcement agencies were either on the scene or traveling there, according to reports.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wrote a tweet after the incident. Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon, he said.

Reuters contributed to this report.
FILE PHOTO: Iraqi Shiite fighters from the Popular Mobilization units take off an Islamic State flag from an electricity pole on March 3, 2016, during an operation in the desert of Samarra aimed at retaking areas from ISIS jihadists. (Ahmad al-Rubaye/AFP/Getty Images)

Philippines Arrests Indonesian Wife of Slain Islamist Terrorist Leader

MANILAPhilippine security forces on Sunday arrested the Indonesian wife of the slain pro-ISIS terrorist leader who planned and led the attack on Marawi City, authorities said.

President Rodrigo Duterte declared last month the liberation of Marawi City from the Maute group, a pro-ISIS terrorist group which held the lakeside town after the death of two top leaders, including the womans husband Omarkhayam.

The army announced the termination of combat operations a week later, ending a five-month battle that killed more than 1,100 people, including 165 soldiers. Close to 400,000 people were also displaced as fighting destroyed the city.

National Police Chief Ronald dela Rosa said bomb-making materials were seized from Minhati Madrais, who was with her six children when security forces raided her home in Iligan City.

Her children, who are all minors, will be turned over to the social welfare department, he said, adding that rebellion and illegal possession of explosive devices charges were now being prepared against her.

He said Madrais, alias Baby, was among more than 100 people ordered arrested by Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana after martial law was declared by Duterte on May 23. Madrais passport is also expired, another violation of Philippine laws, he added.

Sporadic gunfire were still heard in Marawi City on Sunday, almost two weeks after combat operations were formally terminated, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Force Ranao, told reporters.

We are still hunting down stragglers, he said, adding there could be as many as 39 terrorists hiding in the ruined city based on information from captured Indonesian terrorists.

We do not have information how many terrorists are still there. But, we will hunt them down.

The new army commander, Lieutenant-General Rey Leonardo Guerrero, said he would work closely with Indonesia and Malaysia to step up coordinated sea and air patrols along the borders where kidnappings and attacks on shipping are happening.

We intend to increase the frequency of our coordinated patrols with our ASEAN neighbors to stop piracy and terrorist attacks in these dangerous seas, he said.

By Manuel Mogato
President Trump Responds to Texas Shooting

U.S. President Donald Trump has responded to the mass shooting in a small town in southeast Texas.

Tweeting from Japan, where he is on a 12-day, five-country Asian trip, President Trump said he was monitoring the situation.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.

May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

At least 20 people are reported killed in a shooting that took place at a First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on the morning of Sunday, Nov. 5.

A gunman entered the church and began firing on worshipers there, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, local media reported, citing the county authorities.

FBI officials arrive at the site of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Nov. 5, 2017, in this picture obtained via social media. (MAX MASSEY/ KSAT 12/via REUTERS)

Paul W. Pfeil, a Wilson County, Texas, commissioner, said he couldnt confirm the exact number of deaths or injuries. But he said there are more than 20 dead, the New York Times reported.

Wilson County commissioner Albert Gamez Jr. told CNN that the shooter was chased by police into another county and died, but its not clear if he killed himself or was shot by police.

Sheriff Joe Tackitt told the Wilson County News that there have been multiple injuries and fatalities, including children.

Agents of the FBI, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and other law enforcement agencies were either on the scene or traveling there, according to reports.

The area around a site of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Nov. 5, 2017, in this picture obtained via social media. (Max Massey/ KSAT 12/via Reuters)

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement that While the details of this horrific act are still under investigation, Cecilia and I want to send our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by this evil act.

Reuters contributed to this report
The skyline of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital and largest city, on March 28, 2014. (Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images)

Saudi Arabia Says It Intercepts Missile Close to Capital

RIYADHSaudi Arabias air defense forces intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen over the capital Riyadh on Saturday, state news agencies reported.

The missile was brought down near King Khaled Airport on the northern outskirts of the city and did not cause any casualties, said state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV.

Rocket fragments fell near the airport grounds, but air traffic carried on normally, the civil aviation authority said on its official Twitter account.

Residents of northern Riyadh reported hearing a single deafening explosion that rattled windows around 20:20 local time, followed by rumbling and sounds of low-flying aircraft.

We heard an enormous loud boom and went outside, then heard a low rumbling noise like thunder and six to 12 smaller explosions, one resident told Reuters.

The missile was fired into Saudi territory from Yemen at 20:00 local time, the spokesman of a Saudi-led military coalition said in a statement carried by state news agency SPA.

Houthi-run Saba News in Yemen reported that the missile was a Burkan H2 and that the airport had been the target.

The Saudi-led coalition has launched thousands of air strikes against the Iran-allied Houthi movement that controls much of neighboring Yemen. On Wednesday, witnesses said one such strike killed 26 people at a hotel and adjoining market in northern Yemen, although the coalition said on Saturday it had hit a legitimate target.

The Houthi and allied forces loyal to former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh have fired dozens of missiles into Saudi territory over the course of a 2-1/2 year war, including a ballistic missile shot down near Mecca in July.

The conflict has led to one of the worlds worst humanitarian crises and killed at least 10,000 people.
UK Prisoner Attacked After Other Inmates Find out What Shes in For

A prisoner in the United Kingdom was reportedly attacked after inmates discovered the crime she had committed.

Carolann Gallon was convicted of sex trafficking, and was the only woman jailed as part of the Operation Shelter grooming gang investigation in the United Kingdom, according to Chronicle Live.

Gallon was convicted for providing vulnerable girlssome as young as 13to a network of predators. She was imprisoned for six years after pleading guilty to three charges of trafficking.

Officials had to move her to another prison after she became the target of other female prisoners. She was held at Low Newtons womens prison in Durham, and she was moved about 150 miles to HMP Styal, in Cheshire, after constant taunting from other prisoners, the publication reported.

At her new prison, she was reportedly assaulted on Saturday.

Jimmy Gallon, the father of the 23-year-old convict, told Chronicle Live: People have found out what shes in for and shes getting grief.

She got moved from one place to another because she was getting picked on, then she rang me saying she had been assaulted by someone in there, he said. Shes my daughter and I just feel like theres nothing I can do for her. I really miss her but my hands are tied. Its just heartbreaking for me.

In Operation Shelter, 18 people were convicted. A court heard how Gallon allegedly told one victim that her family would be chopped to pieces if she reported their crimes, according to The Metro.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 14:12:20|Editor: Yamei

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MADRID, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Sacked Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont tweeted on Saturday that he was willing to cooperate with Belgium's Justice system.

"We are ready to fully cooperate with Belgian court regarding the EU arrest warrant delivered by Spain," Puigdemont wrote in Dutch on Twitter.

The ousted Cantalan leader made the remarks after Spanish High Court judge Carmen Lamela on Friday evening issued a European arrest warrant for him and four former members of his cabinet who were responsible for pushing for secession for Catalonia from Spain.

Having already sent nine former members of Puigdemont's government to prison on charges of rebellion, sedition and misuse of funds, Lamela added "disobedience" and "prevarication" to those charges for Puigdemont and other four members who fled to Belgium and are curruently in hiding there, but their exact whereabouts are yet to know.p The warrant means Puigdemont and the other four former members of his government will have to be arrested and appear before a judge in Belgium. If they accept to return to Spain, they will do so within 10 days, but if they refuse judicial proceedings could last up to 60 days.

The Belgian prosecutor's office said it has received Spain's arrest warrant and the prosecutor will study it before it will be given to a judge, Spanish newspaper El Pais reported.

"I confirm that we have received it. We are waiting for translation and then we will study it," El Pais quoted spokesman of the Belgian prosecutor's office Eric Van der Sijpt as saying.

Santi Vila, the only former member of the deposed Catalan government who was offered the chance of bail by judge Lamela, was released on Friday on 50,000 euros (58,048 U.S. dollars) bail.

The other eight members including former Catalan deputy leader Oriol Junqueraswere were held in custody without having bail set.

Meanwhile, the High Court rejected the appeal of the leaders of pro-Catalan independence groups, Omnium Cultural and the Catalan National Assembly, against Judge Lamela's decision taken on Oct. 17 to remand them in custody without bail pending investigation on charges of sedition.

Sedition carried a maximum prison sentence of 25 years in Spain, while the Spanish media comment that the former members of the Catalan government could face jail terms of up to 50 years if found guilty on all counts.

Spain's rich Catalonia autonomous region held a referendum on self-determination on Oct. 1, and declared its independence by the former Catalan regional government on Oct. 27. But it was declared illegal by the Spanish Constitutional Court.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy sacked Catalan leader Puigdemont and his government and announced new elections in the region on Dec. 21.

The Spanish State Prosecutor presented accusations last Monday against Puigdemont and his government, citing the crime of "rebellion" for those who rise "violently and publicly" in order to "repeal, suspend or modify the constitution partly or in full" or "declare the independence of part of national territory."

The frustrated unilateral independence declaration of Catalonia has already damaged tourism and deterred investment.

About 2,000 companies representing more than 30 percent of Catalan employment had changed their legal headquarters from the region to other places in Spain.

The central bank of Spain has warned that the economic growth of the country could be affected if the constitutional crisis in the Catalan region gets worse.

Spain could lose up to 27 billion euros (31.35 billion U.S. dollars), according to the data of the bank's latest Financial Stability report.

Enric Millo, the Spanish government delegate in Catalonia, said on Thursday that he was "convinced" that new elections called for the Catalan region on Dec. 21 would put an end to the ongoing crisis.

Millo said he hopes the new Catalan regional government will "develop its ideas, whatever, their colors, within the current legal framework."

"We hope that the new (Catalan) government develops legitimate ideas and objectives, whatever they are, but that they do so within the law," he said.
During a two-hour layover at the Atlanta airport last month, Montana State University Billings Director of American Indian Outreach Reno Charette penned some thoughts that she read to a crowd of about 60 gathered Saturday for Not in Our Town Billings Summit on Justice.

I was inspired to be in a place where Martin Luther King Jr. spent so much time, she said during a panel session that concluded the conference.

In words that one audience member called poetic," Charette named some of the ways she combats hate  by compiling an army of collaborators and allowing love and intelligent reason and faith to grow in their own way.

Join a war party  or better yet, lead one, she advised the crowd, a mix of seniors and 20-somethings. But be patient  every bull rider is bucked off 100 times before enjoying his eight seconds of success, she noted. Combat hate with prayer, she suggested, because hate is no match for the vastness of the universe.

I combat hate by thriving, she said. My mission may be to wipe you out, but if you come to my home in need, my home is your refuge. I cannot be held back or stepped on. I am Native," she concluded to applause, "and we are still here.

The Rev. Sara Beck, pastor of Grace United Methodist Church, said shes heard casual racism expressed around town, and she once spoke to her father about the comments that sometimes come from nice church people, adding they were not from her parishioners. They are nice people, her father agreed. But who are they nice to?

Tajin Perez, program coordinator for Western Native Voice and a member of Billings Human Rights Commission, said he sees hate expressed in subtle ways in areas like public education. Resources havent leveled the playing field, and thats what is most insidious to me, he said. Hate speech is awful, but hate can be expressed in many ways.

Fitzgerald Clark, a Not in Our Town Billings board member, has had the N-word hurled at him. But he said hes more focused on institutional forms of oppression, including the barriers to voting.

Following a talk by Western Native Voices executive director, Marci McLean-Pollock, he also said hes astounded by how openly people disparage Native Americans in this community.

We all have a responsibility not to be silent, he said.

I am supposed to talk about white supremacy in a room full of white people, McLean-Pollock joked. Maybe its OK if I offend a few people.

It made sense to McLean-Pollock that Natives arent filling this room, because this isnt our town, she said. Its not just the 2016 election that turned us into hating, violent people, she said. One election cant do that. Theres got to be more to it.

She said she worries for her children and grandchildren when Native children are followed around by store employees with an eye toward preventing shoplifting.

The response for her is "about forgiveness and playing the hand youre dealt. You are probably not going to give up your land to a Native American tribe, she told the crowd, so we need to step forward in unity to get at the root cause of racism or discrimination of any sort.

What do we have to lose if we forgive," she said, "as long as we dont forget.

Travis McAdam, research director for the Montana Human Rights Network, opened the event by tracing how bigotry can usurp the language of faith.

From time to time you see articles about the death of the religious right, but thats not true, he said.

McAdam said he notes a common theme from people on the religious right testifying at legislative hearings, including how gay marriage will destroy Western civilization, America is a Christian nation and that abortion and contraception are murder.

Negative ads and rhetoric can turn people off, he said. I think its possible to take your view of what you want your community to look like out in the public sphere without attacking anyone.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:12:29|Editor: Zhou Xin

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by Xinhua writers Sun Ding, Zhu Dongyang, Hu Yousong

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United States and China have the world's most consequential economic relationship and it really pays for them to cooperate a great deal, an economist with the U.S.-based think tank RAND Corporation has said.

Howard J. Shatz, a RAND senior economist, made the remarks in an exclusive interview with Xinhua, ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's upcoming state visit to China, with trade expected to be one of the major topics in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

CONSEQUENTIAL ECONOMIC RELATIONSHIP

There's been "a lot of continuity" in terms of U.S. economic relations with China since Trump took office early this year, said Shatz, who held a Ph.D in public policy from Harvard University.

The Trump administration, he stressed, has been focusing on issues of market access for U.S. companies, greater abilities for U.S. companies to export and for investors to make investment, and a generally more level-playing field for market players, in seeking a deeper economic relationship with China.

The differences of Trump's economic policies with China from previous administrations are a greater focus on bilateral trade deficit, intellectual property rights and technology, and steel, Shatz observed. "Those are all now being worked through."

From his point of view, the world's top two economies might disagree about certain trade practices, but "that's to be negotiated and it's a very important point in negotiation."

As long as the United States and China, whose economic relationship remains the most consequential in the world, "do not get into a trade war or some pattern of mutual recrimination," both sides and the rest of the world will benefit, Shatz said.

"So it really pays for them to cooperate a great deal," he pointed out. "That doesn't mean they have to agree on everything. It means they have to figure out how to resolve their differences in a way that can keep their economy stable and growing."

BILATERAL TRADE DEFICIT MATTERS?

The international economic expert who has spent over a decade studying trade deficit -- a major concern of the Trump administration, suggested a looking at "the overall deficit rather than specific bilateral deficit."

As to the cause of the overall U.S. trade deficit, "that's fundamentally an issue of savings relative to investment," Shatz stressed. "The overall deficit is the bigger point of concern."

Traveling with Trump to Beijing is a 29-company business delegation, of which 10 are involved in liquefied natural gas (LNG) or other energy fields, raising prospects for potentials deals on LNG between the two economic heavyweights.

"LNG is an extremely good opportunity for U.S. exporters," Shatz said.

China will need more energy to power its growing economy as U.S. supplies of LNG has kept rising thanks to the technology of hydraulic fracturing, adding to the global LNG market, Shatz analyzed. "LNG will also lead to much lower pollution than coal."

He admitted that the shipping cost is one of the obstacles for U.S. natural gas to be exported to China but suggesting leaving it to private ocean carriers to work that out.

COOPERATION AT VARIOUS LEVELS RAMPS UP

One of the most comprehensive, influential U.S. strategic think tank, the RAND Corporation has maintained an active cooperative relationship with governments of different levels in China as its researchers have conducted a series of China-related research projects on economic and trade, environment, health, labor force, population, etc.

U.S. states and cities see China as a major economy growing rapidly and creating opportunities, said Shatz, co-leader of consulting service years ago for Sino-Singapore Guangzhou Knowledge City, a smart eco-technology based in southeast China's Guangdong Province.

"Right now I think there's more looking at China as a source of investment," as China has striven to spur outward foreign direct investment, the economist said.

Speaking of Trump's China visit, Shatz labeled it as "significant."

He recalled that Trump and Xi had built a warm relationship during their first meeting at Mar-a-Lago in the U.S. state of Florida in April.

Back then, the two leaders agreed to advance their countries' economic cooperation with a 100-day action plan under the framework of the U.S.-China comprehensive economic dialogue.

"There has been progress in those dimensions," said Shatz, adding that Trump will be "following up" on those warm relations and early results during his three-day trip to China.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:37:04|Editor: Yurou

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Members of the Civil Disturbance Management unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP-CDM) block mock activists as they demonstrate their security capabilities for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Manila, the Philippines, Nov. 5, 2017. Nearly 60,000 soldiers and policemen will be deployed around Manila and Clark in Pampanga to ensure the safety and security of the leaders and senior officials. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:22:31|Editor: Zhou Xin

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KABUL, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Nearly two dozen armed insurgents have been killed by unmanned planes in the eastern region of Afghanistan since Saturday, officials said Sunday.

The security forces in the latest strikes against the armed opposition groups targeted a Taliban hideout in the eastern Paktia province killing eight fighters and injuring seven others, spokesman for provincial government Abdullah Hasrat said.

"Acting upon intelligence report the security forces launched drone strikes against Taliban hideout in Kohsin area of Sayed Karam district early Sunday morning killing four rebels including their key commander Mullah Farooq alias Ebrahim and injuring seven others," Hasrat told Xinhua.

In a similar strike that carried out hours later, the unmanned plane attacked the same district, killing four more insurgents, the official said.

A day earlier on Saturday, the drone strikes had left dead 15 militants loyal to the ultra-hardliner Islamic State (IS) group in Achin district of the eastern Nangarhar province, provincial government spokesman Ataullah Khogiani said Sunday.

According to Khogiani, the NATO-led Resolute Support (RS) mission targeted a group of IS militants in Achin district of Nangarhar province on Saturday evening killing 15 fighters and destroying their hideout.

The airstrikes, which have increased since August, according to security officials, have yielded positive results in checking the activities of the armed oppositions groups in the insurgency-stricken country.

The Afghan defense ministry, according to its spokesman General Dawlat Waziri, would increase the number of unmanned planes operational centers in the country to target militants at any time elsewhere in the militancy-plagued country.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:27:32|Editor: Yurou

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DUBAI, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces, reiterated Sunday that his country stands "firmly and resolutely" with Saudi Arabia in confronting all challenges targeting its security and stability, Emirati state news agency WAM reported.

Sheikh Mohammed condemned "in the strongest terms" the firing of a ballistic missile towards the north of Riyadh by the Yemeni Houthi rebels and their allies, which the Saudi Air Defence Forces said was "successfully intercepted and destroyed without causing any injuries."

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said that the security of the kingdom is an integral part of UAE security, and that the hand of evil "will not undermine the resolve of our brothers in the kingdom."

He stressed that the Saudi monarch, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud of Saudi Arabia, "is able to foil all forms of aggression and conspiracy against the kingdom and the region as a whole."

He added that the attack proves once again the rightfulness of Operation Decisive Storm, under the leadership of the kingdom, stressing his "absolute confidence in victory and the total elimination of any attempt to undermine our security and stability."

Since March 2015, a Saudi-led military coalition has been fighting the Houthi rebels in the Arab peninsula state of Yemen.

The UAE is one of the nine Arab states to support Yemen's internationally recognized government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi in its fight against the Houthis.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:37:34|Editor: Yurou

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KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Malaysian government has mobilized its Armed Forces to engage in the rescue work in the northern state of Penang, where heavy downpour reportedly left two dead and forced the evacuation of over 2,000 people.

More than 100 members of the Malaysian Armed Forces have been ordered to help the flood victims in Penang, as well as more than 20 military vehicles and boats, Malaysian defense minister Hishammuddin Hussein said in a series of Twitter posts on Sunday morning.

Pictures showed that the military personnel were helping clearing roads blocked by fallen trees and carrying trapped people to safe areas.

The state news agency Bernama reported that the mobilization of the military was in response to a request for help from the chief minister of Penang Lim Guan Eng. Pictures and video clips posted on social media showed that some low-lying areas in downtown Penang have been flooded, with water levels reaching half meter level in some areas.

It is reported that two people have been reported dead due to the floods, one of them a 75-year-old man who was found drowned in his house. The Malaysian Meteorological Department warned in a Facebook statement that bad weather may continue.

Since the start of the monsoon season, several Malaysian states have been battered by heavy rain. The Penang authorities also attributed a land slide in late October, which caused at least 11 deaths, to heavy downpour.
Whos on first?

Inside the frosty fourth-floor Toronto studios of the newly revamped The National, hosts Ian Hanomansing and Adrienne Arsenault say they have absolutely no clue.

Actually, no ones even contemplated whos going to kick off the first show, says Hanomansing, sitting at the Lucite-and-steel desk that will debut when the CBCs flagship news show airs Monday at 10 p.m. with a historic four hosts.

They include Rosemary Barton, 41, in Ottawa; Andrew Chang, 33, in Vancouver; and Arsenault, 50, and Hanomansing, 55, in Toronto.

I have to be honest, I dont care, says Arsenault, looking over at her co-anchor.

We havent talked about it. But that tells you a lot. There is no question in my mind that other shows would have figured this out long in advance, says Hanomansing. But that has not been the issue.

I think it will be dictated by the story, says Arsenault, arriving at a decidedly Canadian solution. The story should be the boss of us. Its really not about us.

Less than a week away from the premiere, the tiniest of details have yet to be worked out  but its clear theres a lot at stake. Following the retirement of anchor Peter Mansbridge, its the first time in 29 years that The National will have new permanent hosts.

And no one, including the new hosts, knows for sure whether audiences will ever get used to the idea of four anchors, a new set and the absence of the guy with the reassuring baritone that was made for insomniacs.

Certainly the new studio looks visually stunning. There is that desk  Arsenault cautions me about putting my tape recorder in the middle since there is a hole in it, which is the cue for joking about CBC budget cuts  to the impressive and ever-changing video walls that surround the anchors.

There are also nods to the past. In one corner are former CBC anchor Knowlton Nashs oversized, Clark Kent-style eyeglasses. Above that is an antique TV donated by Mansbridge.

The shows logo has also been updated. It looks modern, but in a darker and more sombre typeface that gives a nod to print. It is all the news thats fit to broadcast.

We wanted to make the set a little more approachable, to break down the walls between the anchor and the viewer. But its really quite a simple design, says Michael Gruzuk, senior director of content experience for the CBC and one of the managers spearheading the redesign.

Earlier, the four anchors had been rehearsing. It is a National newscast lineup that no viewer will ever see, including stories on the indictment of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and the ongoing problems with the controversial vote for secession in Catalonia.

The camera switches between Barton in Ottawa, Chang in Vancouver and the Toronto studio as the video walls change to reflect supporting visuals. But mostly there is a lot of waiting around. Chang takes swigs of coffee. Arsenault drums her fingers on the table. Barton checks her email.

Arsenault says that after she got over the new car smell of the rejigged set, she felt more at home than when she filled in for Mansbridge on the old set.

Its very warm. Im surprised at how inviting it is, she says. I found the old National set to be very intimidating. It was like being in a temple, very serious. I think I was terrified 99 per cent of the time I did it.

Despite Arsenaults relentless self-deprecation, there is an Emmy Award in her closet  for her coverage of the Ebola epidemic in Liberia  that would look fine right beside Nashs spectacles.

If anyone has a right to be disappointed that he didnt get a solo gig, it is Hanomansing, the most senior of the anchors. (And, he jokes, the tallest of a short bunch of hosts). He has been a longtime substitute anchor on The National. A trained lawyer, he was also seen as the heir apparent to Mansbridge for many years, if only he would leave his beloved Vancouver.

When I first sat here, it just started to get real, he says. One of my pet peeves with Canadian TV is how derivative it can be. Here we have something that has never been done like this before. Thats pretty cool if it works  and we think it will. This is a potential model that theyre building.

Without question, this is the most technologically and logistically ambitious show produced by the public broadcaster. And also a gamble.

Its challenging. But we also have great flexibility, says Jonathan Whitten, executive director of depth and context, who oversees The National.

Whitten says, crucially, the show will not necessarily feature four anchors daily.

It depends on the story, he says. That also allows the other hosts to be out in the field.

Missing in action on this day is Steve Ladurantaye, the shows former managing editor, felled by a controversy involving inappropriate tweets over cultural appropriation. Ladurantaye has been reassigned.

So far, a new managing editor hasnt been hired and might not be any time soon.

Weve had executive producers before to do the show, but not a managing editor. Its, in a way, the absence of something weve never had, says Hanomansing.

Ladurantaye, a former Twitter executive, was supposed to add digital chops to a program that under Mansbridge was solid but not exactly dynamic. With an average nightly audience of 462,000 viewers over the current season, it has been handily beaten by competitors including Global National with Dawna Friesen at 733,000 and CTVs National News with Lisa LaFlamme at 975,000. But the new National is now much more au courant, with a permanent anchor desk in Vancouver, meaning the program could have live hits until 2 a.m., while making it a step closer to being truly national.

Certainly, it seems like something of a grand experiment. Besides the now-familiar mantras of more social media and giving viewers a multimedia experience, the CBC has not taken the cookie-cutter route. Instead, it has taken four diverse journalists, each with very different but, its hoped, complementary skills, and paved a different path. The emphasis has been on journalists first, not news readers.

Hanomansing and Arsenault said they thought there would be three, not four, anchors when they first heard of the revamp.

I think they did the math and they realized they needed to cover off the different nights and editions, Hanomansing said, adding that after he was told he got the job he signed a nondisclosure agreement and then had to hire a lawyer to get it amended so he could tell his wife.

Arsenault was at a cottage talking to CBC News editor-in-chief Jennifer McGuire when she was offered the position.

It was weird; the only place I could get any cellphone connectivity was in the middle of the lake. So Im out paddling in the middle of the lake hearing this.

Hanomansing says he asked management how many people were on the short list and was told there were 12.

I think it speaks to the people at the CBC that very few networks in North America could have that many internal serious candidates that late in the process.

But can all anchors truly be created equal?

Unlike their counterparts at Global or CTV, the CBC hosts have no official editorial responsibility. LaFlamme is not just a host but also the senior editor of CTV National News. Dawna Friesen, anchor of Global National, is also the executive editor. At the CBC that power is in the hands of off-air managers.

Mansbridge did hold one additional title. He was the CBCs chief correspondent, a title that seems to be retired for now. And nobody seems to know who will get first dibs on plum assignments. But the diva in the bunch has yet to appear.

Our jobs are just hosts. Officially we have no input into anything. But unofficially we do have a lot of input into the show, says Hanomansing. In terms of who gets what, I think its about playing to our skill set. I feel I can be a pretty good reporter, but Adrienne is a far better reporter. So if theres any doubt and were both interested, my view is that Adrienne should get it.

Undoubtedly, the competition is watching, determining whether this is the next big thing or just a big, taxpayer-funded train wreck.

I think the industry is looking to see if this works, says Arsenault. And the better we are at what we do means that it pushes them to be better, too. And that goes the same for us. Its important we get it right.

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MONTREALBen Anson says he was outraged to see a large-scale billboard advertising Weedmaps, an app that lists local marijuana providers, crop up in a spot near several schools in Montreal earlier this year.

Recently, he contacted the company hosting the ad, asking them to take it down because of the presence of children in the area.

He says they agreed, replacing that ad with a picture of a giraffe.

But the 47-year-old says he also filed a police complaint against the marketing firm handling Weedmaps advertising, believing the other ads that still remain around the city encourage people to engage in illegal activity.

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I never imagined that our mayor or the provincial or federal authorities wouldnt stop this thing, he said.

Here I am, just a citizen, having to file a criminal complaint for something that is patently illegal.

The advertising firm, Pattison Outdoor, did not respond to a request for comment.

Ads promoting Weedmaps, a California-based website and mobile application, have sprung up in cities across Canada in recent months.

The platform lists nearby medical marijuana dispensaries, delivery services, as well as resources about cannabis.

It does not sell any of the products directly.

Pam McColl, a B.C.-based anti-marijuana activist, says she and the various groups shes affiliated with have been taking aim at the marijuana advertising that has cropped up in several cities, including on door hangers in Toronto.

Profiting from crime is a criminal offence, and so our strategy right now is to go after the big players because we feel theyre doing the biggest harm, she said.

While consuming marijuana for medical purposes is legal under certain circumstances, storefront dispensaries remain illegal, as do operations selling recreational cannabis.

Several groups contacted by The Canadian Press were unable to give a direct answer on whether Weedmaps ads violate Canadian laws or advertising standards.

A spokesperson for Health Canada wrote that the agency is aware of this particular situation and is investigating, and added the department has strict regulations on promoting products that include narcotics.

Under these prohibitions, no person shall publish, cause to be published or furnish any advertisement to the general public respecting a narcotic, including cannabis, says a department statement.

A spokesperson for the Montreal police said the force could not confirm whether it had received Ansons complaint or any others against the advertiser.

He said determining the legality of the signs was not within the forces mandate.

A vice-president at Advertising Standards Canada, the advertising industrys self-regulating body, said she couldnt say whether a specific ad violated the organizations standards until she studied it.

But Janet Feasby said the organizations code includes the provision that advertising should not directly encourage, or exhibit obvious indifference to, unlawful behaviour.

She would not say whether the group had received any complaints about Weedmaps, citing confidentiality reasons.

A spokesperson for the city of Montreal said that while it governs where billboards can be displayed, regulating the content is up to federal agencies.

Be reminded that the city is concerned with promoting healthy lifestyle habits and its position regarding the promotion of recreational cannabis is clear: it must be banned, Jules Chamberland-Lajoie said in an email.

He added the city would wait for the province to unveil its plan to legalize cannabis later this fall before commenting further on the issue.

Weedmaps did not respond to a request for comment.

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GRAVENHURST, ONT.The gymnasium-turned theatre at Beaver Creek minimum institution is full of the trappings of a highly anticipated performance night.

Crew members check lights and actors fidget with their costumes. The director, 25-year-old Jill Kooymans, is easily identified as the one with the booming voice flying around the room to put out minor fires and give time warnings  one hour to showtime, half an hour, 10 minutes.

The lead actor, sweating in a suit and flat cap, listens to her calls while pacing and muttering lines under his breath. Hes been in prison for 16 years, waiting for a time when he feels like a member of a real community. Tonight hes counting down for the project that feels like a step toward that possibility.

A uniformed man enters the gymnasium just as 11 inmates gather around Kooymans and two volunteer actresses. Hes here for a different count, the tallying of inmates  a nightly occurrence but one which feels out of place juxtaposed onto a whimsical warm-up routine.

It was also a countdown for Kooymans herself, the time left until the project she worked toward for more than a year would finally come together.

My philosophy is always: who would you rather come back into your community: somebody whos been sitting behind bars doing nothing, building up resentment toward the system that put them there all those years, or someone whos had the opportunity to make themselves a better person? she said.

The organization Kooymans started last year, OnTRAC, is currently the only one running theatre programs for inmates of prisons in Ontario, and their production of Morris Panychs absurd comedy 7 Stories was their first full-length show.

Its all part of Kooymanss dream to make dramatic arts more widely available as a rehabilitative option for inmates in this province  something that seems natural to her, since its the art form that helped her throughout her struggles with depression.

Theatres always been the thing thats gotten me through, she said in an interview the day after the performance.

Although OnTRAC is unique in Ontario, arts programs have long been part of prisons rehabilitative programs, with wide support from advocates and prison staff. American studies have shown benefits for prospects of rehabilitation.

In Canada, musician Hugh Christopher Brown ran a program called Pros and Cons where he worked with inmates at Pittsburgh Institution (now part of Joyceville Institution) near Kingston to record a full album. The Brampton-based Bridge Prison Ministry runs visual arts programs in institutions and for recently released former inmates.

Still, Kooymans is adamant that programs like OnTRAC are part of the future for criminal justice in Ontario, and that the province is actually lagging behind jurisdictions in the U.S. and U.K. that have been running successful prison theatre programs for decades.

Beaver Creek is a federal prison, meaning the men there are serving sentences of at least two years. Whatever the conviction of the men participating in OnTRAC, Beaver Creek Warden Nancy Kinsman noted the men in the minimum-security institution (theres also a medium facility on site) are there because theyre preparing to re-enter society.

The main character in 7 Stories, a man who spends the length of the play on a building ledge contemplating suicide, was played by Marcello Palma.

Palma was found guilty of first-degree murder, for killing three prostitutes in downtown Toronto on Victoria Day weekend in 1996: Brenda Ludgate, 25, Shawn Keegan, 19, and Thomas (Deanna) Wilkinson, 31. He was arrested in Halifax the following month and sentenced to life in prison in 2001. Palma admitted at the time that he shot each of his victims in the head.

The late defence lawyer Edward Greenspan argued unsuccessfully that Palma was not criminally responsible for the killings for psychiatric reasons.

Palma declined to discuss with the Star the crimes he was convicted of in detail. The evening of the production, Palma spoke about theatre, and redemption.

This is different from other programs in prison, he said. Its humanizing.

Activities like this really help nurture that thing inside of you. I hope I can lead by example and the other men get involved.

Palma had never acted in a full-length play before. He laughed while explaining how nervous he was to perform in front of an audience.

These are communal activities and its great to be part of the community, he said. Theres a microcosm in here. Its community and people tend to forget that.

Kooymans came across the idea of drama programs for prison rehabilitation while studying applied theatre in the U.K.

The more I thought about it the more it made sense as an opportunity for expression and rehabilitation, she said.

Participants in one California-based prison theatre program were half as likely to reoffend compared to the state average, based on preliminary studies. A study by the American non-for-profit Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice showed inmates who participated in theatre programs were less likely to be disciplined, and better able to work with others the longer they participated.

So she used the 12-week placement period of her degree to connect with Beaver Creek, and put on weekly workshops and a childrens theatre pilot program, where she worked with inmates to invent a childrens play about bullying that they performed for their own kids  complete with animal costumes and face paint.

Bolstered by the success of that trial run in her home province, Kooymans sought a grant from the Ontario Arts Council to fund a full-length show with the men at Beaver Creek. Those who wanted a part would have to prepare a monologue and audition.

Kinsman, the warden, considers such programs fundamental to reintegrating inmates into the community.

For many of (the men here) theatre hasnt been a part of their lives. Expression hasnt been a part of their lives. And just being able to lose themselves in a form of art and experience  the translation of that is an incredible experience, Kinsman said.

These kinds of programs help inmates learn or relearn the skills they need to be successful citizens upon release, Kinsman said.

Palma can attest to that experience first-hand, but hes cautious about hoping for more programs like OnTRAC.

Its so easy to just say no to prison programming, he said, referring to the Harper governments tough on crime agenda.

Vocal advocates on the right have called for harsher penalties and program reduction in prisons, including the Conservatives under Stephen Harper  who in 2015 used the domain toughoncrime.ca to deliver the message weve cut perks for prisoners and were not sorry.

Fellow cast member Gilbert Ho said OnTRAC helped him deal with the stigma associated with being in prison. He was sentenced to life in prison for first-degree murder in the 1995 killing of 23-year-old Elena Tchoudakova.

Theatre, Ho said, requires structure discipline, and empathy. This is a good way to kind of bring us back to a childhood state and build us back up again and teach us this is how you interact with people, he said.

Ive got good support out there, and Im grateful for my family, the father of two said. Some people, they dont have the support out there. So when an institution recognizes that they need to do that, thats a huge step.

Palma became emotional talking about life after prison, and how the public sees him.

Theres just so much to that, he said, his eyes watering. I guess what I want to say is there is hope. People can change.

That belief is at the core of what motivates Kooymans.

At the end of the day I get to go home. They dont. Thats the punishment, Kooymans said. Theyre rehabilitating and were supposed to be preparing them to re-enter the community.

Still, working in prisons is hard for her sometimes. Shes stopped looking up the people she works with, as a rule. But sometimes the inmates confide in her what theyre in for, which can be an upending experience.

She learned from a mentor who worked on Canadas only other prison theatre programs  at William Head Institution on Vancouver Island  to see those moments as evidence of how far people can come.

Human beings are capable of amazing things and horrific things. Who am I to judge what they did in that moment? Kooymans said.

Eventually, she wants to pursue a PhD so that she can research and write with authority on the impact of such programs.

None of the men that Ive worked with have ever questioned the fact that they deserve to be in prison, Kooymans said. Some days it can be so fulfilling.

None more so than performance night, which she described as so much better than I could have imagined.

Shortly after 7 p.m., Kooymans stopped counting down and dignitaries , prison staff and community members took their seats. Then the back doors to the prison gymnasium opened and about 100 men, all inmates, poured in to watch.

When the lights dimmed Kooymans took to the podium to thank the prison staff and the cast and crew. After she spoke the prison population erupted in applause and a few men called out in support. When the show started the cheers turned into laughter.

And when Palma spoke the line: My mind could expand into infinite space, and still never change the shape of my head. I saw in the mirror a condemned man, serving a life sentence inside his body, his audience may have been more attentive and understanding than most actors can hope for.

Correction  November 7, 2017: This article was edited from a previous version that said OnTRAC is the first organization to run a theatre programs for inmates of prisons in Ontario.

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MONTREALThere was no shortage of reaction from social media users on Saturday to Environment Minister Catherine McKennas decision to call out a conservative site that had repeatedly referred to her as climate Barbie.

McKenna received hundreds of messages of support from citizens and fellow politicians after she pushed reporter Christopher Wilson during a news conference for a commitment that the Rebel will stop using the term in its articles and on social media.

Liberal MP Seamus ORegan and NDP MP Nathan Cullen were among several politicians who congratulated McKenna on Saturday for taking a stand against what Cullen called misogynistic language.

Good on @cathmckenna for staring down misogynistic Rebel media, Cullen wrote on his Twitter attack. Words matter & cheap, sexist attacks 2b challenged.

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Paul Dewar, the former NDP MP who lost his seat to McKenna in the last election, also tweeted support for his former rival and criticized those who use demeaning language.

The exchange occurred as Wilson asked McKenna a question about hydroelectricity at a news conference in Vancouver on Friday.

So youre the Rebel Media that happens to call me climate Barbie. I certainly hope that you will no longer use that hashtag, McKenna said.

In September, Environment Minister Catherine McKenna says she was disappointed by a tweet from Conservative MP Gerry Ritz referring to her as a climate Barbie. McKenna says she would rather discuss her work than have to respond to sexist comments. (The Canadian Press)

Wilson eventually replied that he would not personally use the name but did not have editorial control over others.

The exchange drew a flood of Twitter messages, many from people thanking McKenna for having the courage to standing up to sexist language.

Bravo @cathmckenna for calling out the misogyny. Keep doing it for you, your girls, and all of us. Sincere thanks. #braveandstrong, wrote one Twitter user.

But not all the response on social media supported McKenna.

Some, including The Rebel founder Ezra Levant, took to Twitter to defend the use of the nickname and continued to use it repeatedly.

Appointed to fill a gender quota; unable to control her emotions when criticized; spends taxes on vanity photo shoots. #ClimateBarbie fits, Levant wrote Saturday morning.

Some of the critics accused McKenna of using derogatory language herself by describing those who doubt climate change as deniers  a word commonly used to describe those who doubt the Holocaust.

Wilson, who had initially told McKenna he wouldnt personally use the Barbie nickname any more, appeared to have reconsidered when he took to Twitter after the exchange.

Our Alberta bureau chief coined the phrase Climate Barbie, a reference to McKennas shallowness. She did not disprove that tonight, he wrote in a Twitter post on Friday.

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An Algerian man is set to sue the federal government for the abuses he says he suffered at the hands of American security forces after he left Canada 15 years ago.

The unproven allegations by Djamel Ameziane, who was never charged or prosecuted, raise further questions about Canadas complicity in the abuse of detainees at Guantanamo Bay  a topic his lawyer said demands a full-scale public inquiry.

My current situation is really bad, I am struggling to survive, Ameziane, 50, said from near Algiers. I was repatriated from Guantanamo and left like almost homeless. I couldnt find a job because of the Guantanamo stigma and my age, so a settlement would be very helpful to me to get my life back together.

In a draft statement of claim obtained by The Canadian Press, Ameziane seeks damages of $50 million on the grounds that Canadas security services co-operated with their U.S. counterparts even though they knew the Americans were abusing him.

The Crowns conduct constituted acquiescence and tacit consent to the torture inflicted upon the plaintiff, the lawsuit alleges.

Canadian intelligence, the suit alleges, began sharing information with the Americans after failing to pick up on the 1999 Millennium plot in which Ahmed Ressam, another Algerian who had been living in Montreal, aimed to blow up the Los Angeles airport. After 9/11, Canadian agents interrogated Ameziane at the infamous American prison in Cuba, as they did Canadas Omar Khadr, according to the claim.

Amezianes Edmonton-based lawyer, Nate Whitling, said the governments recent out-of-court settlement  worth a reported $10.5 million  with Khadr over violation of his rights has prevented scrutiny of Canadas alleged complicity in abuses at Guantanamo Bay. A judicial inquiry is needed, Whitling said.

Only then can the Canadian public come to understand the extent to which Canada is responsible for the torture of innocent detainees in the aftermath of 9/11, Whitling said.

The lawyer, who said he planned to file the lawsuit in Court of Queens Bench in Edmonton on Monday, said Ameziane would be prepared to put the claim on hold in exchange for an inquiry. Whitling also said two other people planned similar suits that name the federal government, RCMP and Canadian Security and Intelligence Service.

Read more:

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Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale had no comment given the pending legal proceedings.

The U.S. detained Ameziane at Guantanamo Bay for more than 11 years until his release in December 2013.

For many years, I had the idea of suing the Canadian government but didnt know how and honestly didnt know it was possible until I read the news about the settlement of Omar Khadr, who was my fellow inmate in Guantanamo Bay, Ameziane said. The action I am taking may also make (Canadian officials) think twice before acting against the interests of Canada and Canadas human values.

According to his claim, Ameziane left Algeria in the 1990s to escape rising violence there. After working as a chef in Austria, he came to Canada in December 1995 and asked for refugee status. He lived in Montreal for five years, attending mosques where the Americans said members of al-Qaida prayed.

When Canada rejected his request for asylum, Ameziane opted to go to Afghanistan rather than Algeria, where he feared abuse. He left Afghanistan for Pakistan in October 2001 when fighting erupted, but was captured and turned over to American forces in exchange for a bounty, his claim states.

The Americans first took him to a detention facility in Kandahar, where he alleges guards brutalized him, then sent him to Guantanamo Bay based partly on information provided by Canadian intelligence, according to his claim.

Ameziane, who denies any terrorism links, says Canadian agents interviewed him in Guantanamo in February and May 2003 and turned over recordings of the interrogations to the Americans. They did so, he claims, despite widespread allegations that U.S. forces were abusing detainees and even though they knew he faced no charges and had no access to a lawyer or the courts.

Ameziane alleged American officials interrogated him hundreds of times and abused him when they decided he wasnt co-operating. The abuse, he alleges, included sleep-deprivation, intrusive genital searches, pepper-spraying, waterboarding, being left in freezing conditions, and having his head slammed against walls and the floor, dislocating his jaw.

Canadian officials came to interview me on two occasions (and) they not only shared information about me with my American torturers but even tried to get information out of me that had nothing to do with Canada in order to help my American torturers, Ameziane said. I refused to answer questions, after that I was subjected to a worse treatment by the Americans.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version had the incorrect first name of Ahmed Ressam

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Sikhs in the Greater Toronto Area  and around the globe  celebrated Gurpurab, the birthday of the Sikh religions founder, on Saturday.

An event at the Sikh Heritage Museum of Canada in Mississauga paid tribute to the Guru Nanak Dev Jis birthday, as well as an early Remembrance Day gathering to honour the service of Sikh soldiers in Canada and the former British Commonwealth.

Canadas own Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan, made an appearance at the Museums festivities, which included an exhibit of artifacts from both World Wars and traditional Gurpurab celebrations at the nearby Malton gurdwara.

Pardeep Singh Nagra, executive director of the Sikh Heritage Museum, said that Sikh soldiers  and Sikh culture more broadly  have a long, rich history in Canada.

Gurpurab is among the holiest days of the Sikh religious calendar. It is traditionally celebrated with feasting, donations of food to charity, parades, and music, along with religious observances in gurdwaras.

Minister of Canadian Heritage Melanie Joly on Saturday released a statement marking the occasion, saying: Canada is proud to be home to one of the largest Sikh communities outside India. As we celebrate Canada 150 and our rich diversity, the birthday of Guru Nanak is an excellent opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the enormous contribution that Sikh Canadians have made to our society.\

Correction  November 7, 2017: This article was edited from a previous version to update an incorrect photo caption.

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A hospital admissions clerk who is stabbed with a pair of scissors.

A nurse whose head and neck are punctured with a pen.

A young father who comes home day after day from his health-care job with a black eye.

According to a new survey of Ontario health-care workers, incidents like these arent isolated tragedies. In fact, 68 per cent of nurses and personal support workers across the province have experienced physical violence at least once on the job over the past year, a poll conducted for the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions shows. Some 42 per cent experienced at least one incident of sexual harassment or assault.

Violence is raging really out of control in these hospitals, said Michael Hurley, OCHUs president. The level of physical violence, sexual harassment, sexual assault, verbal assault, and racial name-calling is at a level which is toxic and simply shouldnt be ignored or tolerated.

While the vast majority of front-line workers reported experiencing physical violence at least once in the past year, a fifth of those surveyed also said they had experienced nine or more incidents in the same time frame. A quarter reported missing work at least once because of either physical or non-physical violence. Some 83 per cent of respondents said they had experienced verbal abuse on the job.

More than 770 frontline nurses and personal support workers in Ontario were asked about workplace violence. In the past year: 68% experienced at least one incident of violence 20% experienced 9 or more incidents of violence 42% experienced at least one incident of sexual harassment or assault 83% experienced at least one incident of non-physical violence 75% have witnessed at least one incident of violence against a co-worker 26% lost time at work due to violence on the job Source: Ontario Council of Hospital Unions

Linda Clayborne retired last year after being a psychiatric nurse for 42 years in a Hamilton hospital. She told the Star she has seen countless assaults on the job, and believes many of them could have been prevented through better staffing levels and dedicated security teams who are able to respond fully to violent incidents.

She says she remembers being punched for trying to stop a patient repeatedly kicking a co-worker, seeing a fellow nurse being thrown to the ground and beaten because she asked a patient to leave his food tray in the dining room, and seeing a corridor pooled with blood after a nurse was attacked.

Im 62 years old. Ive been in fights where weve had to hold the patient down many, many times. Its a daily occurrence, she said. Its verbal assault, its physical assault, its sexual assault.

But health-care providers surveyed by OCHU also expressed significant concerns around reporting such incidents, with 44 per cent saying they feared reprisal from their employer if they spoke up about violence on the job.

The study polled more than 770 front-line nurses and personal support workers in seven cities including Toronto, and an additional 1,200 workers in other health-care jobs such as admissions clerks, record keepers and cleaning staff. Of the latter group, 24 per cent reported experiencing at least one incident of violence in the past year and 58 per cent said theyd been subjected to non-physical violence.

Last year, the average lost-time injury rate in Ontario was 0.94 claims per hundred workers, while in the health-care sector that figure was 1.35, according to data from the provincial workers compensation board.

Occupational health expert Jim Brophy said those figures may not paint a full picture of workplace assaults because stigma and fear of reprisal leads to under-reporting.

You have this pressure cooker that people are facing on a daily basis the fear of assault  but you cant talk about it.

In September, contract negotiations between the health-care unions broke off when hospitals refused to agree that we share a common goal of a workplace free of violence, Hurley said. He said hospitals also refused to write a letter to government asking for investments in workplace safety to prevent violent assaults.

Youve got frankly a hierarchal environment where there is a reluctance to acknowledge or address the problem, Hurley told the Star.

In an emailed statement, the Ontario Hospital Association said it was disappointed negotiations broke down.

It is important to reiterate that the health and safety of employees has been, and will continue to be a priority for both the OHA and our member hospitals, the email said.

While we know that the work performed by health-care providers is often challenging and demanding, acts of violence are never accepted as something that staff members should expect to face within the workplace.

Hurley said the Ministry of Labour has increased workplace inspections of hospitals in response to concerns over violence, and said he wanted to see the Occupational Health and Safety Act amended to include explicit protections against reprisal for workers who report violence on the job. (Workers are already protected against reprisal for refusing unsafe work and exercising their rights under the act.)

Hurley also wants to see money dedicated to installing alarm systems and protective barriers in hospitals.

They have open hearts. Theyre gentle people. And out of the blue, theres a vicious assault, he said of health-care workers.

Theres physical scars here. But theres also emotional and psychological damage, he added. Theres a lot of anguish here.

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We have entered the age of the big leak.

A year-and-a-half after the largest ever leak of information to journalists  the Panama Papers  a new leak containing even more documents is being made public today.

Dubbed the Paradise Papers, the cache of 13.4 million records  almost two million more documents than the Panama Papers  includes files from two major offshore law firms and 19 corporate registries from traditional tax havens.

The leak was obtained by German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung and shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and a network of 382 journalists in 67 countries, including the Toronto Star and CBC/Radio-Canada.

The files expose a worldwide shadow economy worth trillions of dollars that owes its existence to the secrecy provided by tax havens.

Among the revelations:

Hidden details about how two generations of Trudeau fundraisers, Leo Kolber and Stephen Bronfman, are linked together in a Cayman Islands trust fund that kept $60 million (U.S.) beyond the reach of tax authorities in three countries. Through a lawyer, Kolber and Bronfman said they always acted properly and ethically, including fully complying with all applicable laws.

Financial ties between Russian President Vladimir Putins family and one of U.S. President Donald Trumps closest advisers, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. Ross has a stake in a shipping company that received more than $68 million (U.S.) from a Russian energy company co-owned by Putins son-in-law. Rosss spokesperson did not contest this relationship.

Queen Elizabeths indirect investment in a scandalized rent-to-own furniture and appliances company in Britain charging up to 99.9 per cent interest. A representative of the Queen said she was not aware of the investment.

Hollywood royalty Keira Knightleys investment in an Jersey-based real estate firm, pop superstar Madonnas shares in a medical supply company and Bonos investment in a Lithuanian shopping mall. Knightleys lawyer said she paid all taxes due. Madonna did not respond to requests for comment. A representative of Bono confirmed the singer was a passive, minority investor.

Corporate behemoths  including Apple, Nike, Uber and Tesla  that use complex offshore strategies to reduce their tax bills by billions of dollars. Apple said we follow the laws. Nike said it fully complies with tax regulations. Uber declined to comment. Telsa said: We are fully compliant with the law.

The 1.4 terabytes of detailed corporate records, including emails, memos, spreadsheets, correspondence and meeting minutes come from the hard drives of the some of the most prestigious firms in the secretive offshore world: Singapore-based Asiaciti Trust, Appleby, a law firm founded in Bermuda, and corporate services provider Estera, which operated as part of Appleby until last year.

2,700 The number of Canadians named in the papers 560 Canadian corporations named in the papers 14 Canadian trusts in the papers 2 Canadian foundations in the papers 96 Media partners involved in the Paradise Papers 67 Countries in the Paradise Papers 13.4M Total number of documents released 1.4TB The size of the leak

Canadians are disproportionately represented in Applebys client list  there are 3,300 individuals and companies in all  outnumbered only by those from the U.S., U.K. and China. Among the prominent Canadians that appear in the documents are former Canadian prime ministers Brian Mulroney, Jean Chretien and Paul Martin.

Mulroney sat on the board of Said Holdings, a Bermuda company controlled by Syrian-Saudi businessman Wafic Said. Said was a key intermediary in a British-Saudi oil-for-arms deal that led to a $400 million (U.S.) criminal fine for bribery in 2010 against British airplane manufacturer BAE. Mulroneys lawyer said he is proud to have served on the board, and considers Said a good friend. Said said he is proud of the role I played in the arms deal.

Chretien lobbied for an East African oil venture, which lists him as having received 100,000 options, the leaked records show. Chretien confirmed he consulted for Madagascar Oil in 2007 but says he never received options.

Martins former shipping empire, Canada Steamship Lines, is one of Applebys biggest clients, according to a document in the leak. A written response from the company says that it complies with all laws, rules and regulations of each jurisdiction in which they operate.

Applebys reputation is as sterling as its client-base which includes some of the worlds wealthiest corporations and largest personal fortunes along with 127 politicians worldwide. Appleby was awarded offshore law firm of the year in 2010 and corporate law firm of the year in 2015. But internal documents reveal that it hasnt always succeeded in keeping out questionable clients.

Some of the crap we accept is amazing totally amazing, state presentation notes prepared by Applebys director of compliance in 2011. We have a current case where we are sitting on about 400K that is definitely tainted and it is not easy to deal with.

MONEY LAUNDERING IS A DIRTY CRIME, screamed notes accompanying the same PowerPoint presentation. THERE IS USUALLY ALWAYS A VICTIM AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PILE AND A RICH PERSON AT THE TOP.

Much like the Panamanian law firm at the centre of the Panama Papers, Applebys files reveal how the corporate structures it sells facilitate offshore activities that keep billions of tax income beyond the reach of governments around the world.

The offshore industry makes the poor poorer and is deepening wealth inequality, said Brooke Harrington, a certified wealth manager and Copenhagen Business School professor who is the author of Capital without Borders: Wealth Managers and the One Percent.

There is this small group of people who are not equally subject to the laws as the rest of us, and thats on purpose, Harrington said. These people live the dream of enjoying the benefits of society without being subject to any of its constraints.

Appleby did not reply to a detailed list of questions sent by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists but released an online statement stating it had investigated the ICIJs questions and is satisfied that there is no evidence of any wrongdoing.

In the statement, Appleby said it does not tolerate illegal behaviour and provides advice to clients on legitimate and lawful ways to conduct their business.

It is true that we are not infallible, the statement said. Where we find that mistakes have happened, we act quickly to put things right.

Asiaciti did not respond to requests for comment.

For eight months, journalists on six continents have quietly pored through the documents, shared insights, conducted hundreds of interviews, approached those whose records were leaked in search of their comment and prepared hundreds of stories that will begin being published and broadcast today.

The Toronto Stars coverage will roll out over the next week in co-ordination with our partners at CBC/Radio-Canada with whom we worked closely, sharing findings, interviews and analysis.

In Toronto:

Marco Chown Oved: moved@thestar.ca

Robert Cribb: rcribb@thestar.ca

In Ottawa:

Alex Boutilier: aboutilier@thestar.ca

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Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:42:37|Editor: Yurou

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TALUQAN, Afghanistan, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Up to 10 villages have been cleared of Taliban militants, following Afghan forces operations in the northern province of Takhar, police spokesman in the province Abdul Khalil Aseer said Sunday.

The clearance operation was launched late on Saturday with the government forces driving militants out of 10 villages in the restive Eshkamish district, the official said, adding operation is continuing to evict militants from more areas in the district.

Taliban who are in control of parts of Takhar province are yet to make comment on the report.
NEW YORKAfter becoming commerce secretary, Wilbur Ross retained investments in a shipping firm he once controlled that has significant business ties to a Russian oligarch subject to American sanctions and President Vladimir Putins son-in-law, according to newly disclosed documents.

The shipper, Navigator Holdings, earns millions of dollars a year transporting gas for one of its top clients, a giant Russian energy company called Sibur, whose owners include the oligarch and Putins family member. Despite selling off numerous other holdings to join the Trump administration and spearhead its America first trade policy, Ross kept an investment in Navigator, which increased its business dealings with Sibur even as the West sought to punish Russias energy sector over Putins incursions into Ukraine.

Partnerships used by Ross, whose private equity firm has long been the biggest shareholder in Navigator, have a 31 per cent stake in the company. Though his personal share of that stake was reduced as he took office in February, he retained an investment in the partnerships valued between $2 million and $10 million (U.S.), and stood to earn a higher share of profits as general partner, according to his government ethics disclosure and securities filings.

Rosss stake in Navigator has been held by a chain of companies in the Cayman Islands, one of several tax havens where much of his wealth, estimated at more than $2 billion, has been tied to similar investment vehicles. Details of these arrangements surfaced in a cache of leaked files from Appleby, one of the worlds largest offshore law firms, which administered some 50 companies and partnerships in the Caymans and elsewhere connected to Ross.

The Appleby documents, obtained by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, were shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and other media organizations, including The New York Times. They show how the Bermuda-based Appleby worked to help the wealthy elite, from Russian oligarchs to Middle Eastern princes, as well as multinational corporations like Apple and Nike, avoid billions of dollars in taxes.

In addition to Ross, the files contain references to other members of the Trump administration, including Gary Cohn, the chief economic adviser who was associated with 22 Bermuda entities while an executive at Goldman Sachs, and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who was a director of a Bermuda-based joint venture with the government of Yemen when he ran Exxon Mobils operations there. There is no evidence of illegality in any of their dealings.

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Ross emerges as a particularly valued client for the offshore law firm, whose records provide more insight into his financial holdings beyond the public ethics disclosures he made upon joining the Trump administration. His ethics agreement filed in January listed the partnerships he intended to keep, but not the investments they held. Previously, Navigator had been mentioned in a separate, 57-page description of his holdings for the year that ended in December 2016, but with no hint of its ties to Sibur.

Siburs top ownership  including Gennady Timchenko, who is Putins friend and judo partner and is subject to American sanctions, and Kirill Shamalov, who is married to the Russian presidents youngest daughter  makes it a company with crony connections in Moscow, said Daniel Fried, a Russia expert who served in senior State Department posts in Republican and Democratic administrations.

Another of Navigators major customers is PDVSA, the Venezuelan state oil company, controlled by the authoritarian regime of Nicolas Maduro. The Trump administration imposed sanctions on PDVSA this summer.

In a written response to questions by the Times, James Rockas, a spokesman for Ross, said that Navigators relationship with Sibur began before Ross joined the board in March 2012, and that he had never met the Russian oligarchs who are Siburs major shareholders. Public records show that Rosss firm became a major investor in Navigator in November 2011, three months before the company chartered its first ships to Sibur.

Sibur was not under sanctions at the time the contract was signed and is still not subject to sanctions, Rockas said.

More broadly, he said that Ross recuses himself from any matters focused on transoceanic shipping vessels, but has been generally supportive of the administrations sanctions of Russian and Venezuelan entities.

Secretary Ross has never had to seek, nor received, any ethics exemption, Rockas said, and he works closely with Commerce Department ethics officials to ensure the highest ethical standards.

It is perhaps unsurprising that Navigator would have a relationship with a major Russian company during Rosss tenure. Much like President Trump, whose company sought approval for a hotel project in Moscow as recently as last year, Ross has long shown an appreciation for the untapped potential of Russian markets when seeking investment opportunities. His involvement there dates at least to the 1990s, when he was appointed by President Bill Clinton to the board of the U.S. Russia Investment Fund, established to promote American business interests in Russia.

Since then, in addition to Navigator, his firm also acquired a German rail car company, VTG, which pursued an expansion strategy in Russia before Ross sold his stake in 2016. And Ross led a private bailout of the Bank of Cyprus, long regarded as a favourite financial haven of wealthy Russians, after the worldwide economic crisis crippled the Cypriot banking system.

In the wake of reports of Russian interference in the United States presidential election, multiple investigations have explored potential business ties between Russia and members of the Trump administration. While several Trump campaign and business associates have come under scrutiny, until now no business connections have been reported between senior administration officials and members of Putins family or inner circle.

During Rosss confirmation process, he was asked repeatedly about his business ties to Russia, mostly related to his former role as vice chairman of the Bank of Cyprus, where he dealt with Russian investors but also forced some of them out of the bank. He was also asked about his investment in another shipping company, Diamond S, and whether its dealings with China could pose a conflict with his government duties. But he faced no questions about Navigator and its significant financial relationship with Sibur.

Rockas did not respond to questions about the current status of Rosss investment. If Ross stands to benefit, albeit indirectly, from a Russian firm controlled by members of Putins inner circle, it poses a potential conflict with his role as the lead cabinet member on trade policy, ethics experts said. Richard W. Painter, who served as chief ethics lawyer in the George W. Bush White House and has emerged as a frequent critic of the Trump administration, said that while Rosss continued investment in Navigator would not violate any laws, it created other ethical concerns.

Apart from those legal issues, Painter said, Id be very concerned that someone in the U.S. government was making money from dealing with the Russians.

As for Navigator, its leadership sees blue skies ahead with one of its key investors now at the helm of American trade policy.

On Nov. 30 of last year, hours after being nominated as commerce secretary, Ross celebrated at Gramercy Tavern, an upscale Manhattan restaurant, at an event hosted by Navigator. He and David J. Butters, Navigators chief executive, arrived early to a private room and had a chat.

Your interest is aligned to mine, Butters recalls Ross saying, according to Bloomberg Businessweek. The U.S. economy will grow, and Navigator will be a beneficiary.

Looking east

Rosss foray into transoceanic shipping took off in 2011, when his private equity firm, WL Ross & Co., assembled teams of investors to acquire major stakes in Diamond S Shipping and Navigator Holdings. Both firms specialized in chartering tankers to petroleum companies that need to move gas, oil and petrochemicals around the world. With Rosss involvement, they would expand their business interests in China and Russia.

The investments  eventually totalling more than $600 million in Diamond S and about $240 million in Navigator  were in keeping with Rosss strategy of scooping up shares in undervalued companies and turning them around. It is a business model that has earned Ross, a 79-year-old Ivy League-educated son of middle-class parents from New Jersey, the sobriquet of king of bankruptcy.

Over a lengthy investment career that included a stint running the bankruptcy advisory practice at the British banking firm Rothschild, he has breathed new life into textile, steel and auto-part businesses. While at Rothschild in the early 1990s, he led a group of bondholders in a restructuring of the floundering Trump casinos in Atlantic City, preserving a stake for Trump because, as he reportedly assured disgruntled investors, the Trump name was still very much an asset.

Rosss business practices have occasionally drawn criticism for moving American jobs overseas in an effort to improve profits. A Reuters analysis of Labor Department statistics found that his takeovers shifted 2,700 jobs in automotive, textiles and mortgage finance to, among other places, China, India, Mexico and Nicaragua.

In the statement to The Times, Rosss spokesman said, Private equity firms have a responsibility to their investors to optimize corporate structures, and Secretary Ross has decades of experience that he is now using to benefit American workers.

As worldwide shipping concerns, Diamond S and Navigator did not have much of a labour footprint in the United States when Ross and his investors took over. But the way both companies did business would pose potential conflicts with American interests in other ways.

Alongside Ross, another large investor in Diamond S was a company controlled by the Chinese government, according to securities filings. And Navigator signed a charter agreement with Sibur shortly after Rosss firm made its investment. Sibur said in a statement that any negotiations with Navigator over the years were carried out by its executives, not its major shareholders, and that no meetings were held with Ross.

Initially, Navigator chartered two vessels to Sibur, and later increased the fleet to four. The relationship proved to be so profitable that Navigators chief executive, Butters, told investors in a 2016 conference call how Navigator benefited as Sibur beat out American competitors in the growing European energy market.

Russia is pipelining as much natural gas as needed into Europe, and liquids are being shipped into all areas of the continent in increasing amounts, all in competition with longer-haul U.S. exports, Butters said.

Putin connections

As one of the largest gas companies in Russia, Sibur is not just any private business.

It was created by the Russian government and maintains a close dependency on Moscow, even after its sale in 2010 to Timchenko and Leonid Mikhelson. The two men are typical of Russian moguls who have benefited from state-owned assets and are expected to remain loyal to the Putin government, said Amos J. Hochstein, a top energy diplomat under the Obama administration.

When you start doing business with Russian energy companies like Gazprom and Sibur, youre not just getting into bed with the company, Hochstein said. Youre getting into bed with the Russian state.

The ties to the Russian president, however, proved to be a double-edged sword for Siburs owners. In 2014, after Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine, American and Western allies imposed economic sanctions on key Putin associates, including Timchenko. A few months later, the United States barred banks from providing new financing to another gas company, Novatek, belonging to Mikhelson.

Sibur itself was not targeted. But financial institutions, including Bank of America and the Royal Bank of Scotland, backed away from loans to the company, according to news reports at the time. Moscow stepped in to help in May 2014, when a government-backed financial consortium bought a shipping terminal from Sibur, and pledged to expand export capacity, while allowing Sibur to remain the terminals sole exporter of gas.

Then, in September 2014, as sanctions pressure was growing, Timchenko reduced his holdings in Sibur by selling a 17 per cent stake to a junior shareholder, Shamalov. A year earlier, Shamalov, whose father is a friend and former business partner of Putins, had married the Russian presidents daughter Katerina. His Sibur purchase, which pushed the 32-year-old Shamalovs investment to more than 20 per cent of the company, was financed by a $1.3 billion loan from the state-backed Gazprombank. Shamalov sold part of his stake in April, reducing it to 3.9 per cent.

Most of these financial machinations were carried out through offshore companies on Cyprus, where Mikhelson and Timchenko held their investments in Sibur and did business with several Cypriot banks. During the summer of 2014, Ross had become the Bank of Cypruss vice chairman, though there is no indication that he crossed paths with the two oligarchs during his tenure there.

His position at the bank required him to step down from the board of Navigator, however, even as he retained his investment in the company. His close associate at WL Ross & Co., Wendy Teramoto, took his place at Navigator and, later, left to join Ross as chief of staff at the Commerce Department.

Despite the reticence of Western financial institutions to do business with Sibur and its owners, Navigators relationship with Sibur continued to grow.

From 2014 to 2015, the portion of Navigators total revenue that came from Sibur jumped to 9.1 per cent from 5.3 per cent, making the company one of its top five clients, according to securities filings, before dipping to 7.9 per cent last year.

Ethics Disclosures

As WL Ross & Co. expanded over the years, it used Appleby, the offshore specialist, to set up an increasing number of entities in tax havens, many in the Cayman Islands. This British territory in the Caribbean levies no corporate or personal income tax on money earned outside its jurisdiction, and requires little disclosure of corporate ownership. By 2014, Ross and his investment company were among Applebys top 20 clients.

After he was nominated as commerce secretary, Ross filed an agreement with the federal Office of Government Ethics saying he would resign from WL Ross & Co. and divest from 80 companies and partnerships, but would keep a stake in nine others that held assets in real estate financing and mortgage lending and transoceanic shipping. The underlying assets were not specified.

His financial disclosure form offered more detail, including a list of assets that had been held by each of the partnerships that he retained. Navigator Holdings appeared in connection with four Appleby-managed Cayman partnerships. Rosss ethics filing valued his stake in those partnerships at between $2.05 million and $10.1 million, a fraction of the partnerships combined 31.5 per cent stake in Navigator, which, based on the firms recent stock price, was worth roughly $179 million. In all, WL Ross & Co. remains Navigators largest shareholder, according to the shipping companys most recent annual report.

Federal ethics law requires officials to recuse themselves from matters that would have a direct and predictable effect on their financial interests or cause a reasonable doubt about their impartiality. During his confirmation hearings, Ross sought to reassure senators that he would avoid any conflicts of interest between his continued business holdings and his cabinet post.

I intend to be quite scrupulous about recusal and any topic where there is the slightest scintilla of doubt, he said.

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SEOUL-Just days ahead of President Trumps visit, hundreds of South Koreans took to the streets of the capital on Saturday in protest.

But not everyone was against Trumps visit: Just a few blocks away from the main anti-Trump protest by the U.S. Embassy, a smaller pro-Trump demonstration was taking place. The two events reflected the conflicting concerns in South Korea at a time when many feel the risk of conflict with North Korea is running high.

I came here to protest because Im afraid of a war, said Hong Jae-pum, 37, who works for a cleaning company and was attending the anti-Trump protest. And if a war breaks out, we all die.

The anti-Trump protesters gathered at 4 p.m. local time to stage an event called No Trump, No War, dancing along to rappers and painting their faces while they listened to speakers. While the atmosphere was playful, sometimes the rhetoric wasnt: One widely distributed poster showed the U.S. president in a Nazi uniform and suggested he was preparing for an invasion of North Korea.

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We hate Trump, went one song sang by the protesters. We love peace. We love equality.

Attendees said that they wanted to show the world that South Koreans were not seeking a conflict. I want President Trump to know we do not want a war, said activist Yoo Seung-hyun, 32, adding that Trump needed to understand that a lot of the problems on the Korean Peninsula depend on him.

I hope that Americans citizens pay attention to whats happening here, said Kim Hyun-a, 49, a teacher attending the protest with her students. War brings tragedy.

A five-minute walk away, a very different message was being sent: At a pro-Trump rally that had begun at 2 p.m., the president was being feted as the saviour of South Korea. A far older crowd, many wearing military uniforms, could be seen waving American flags and signs that said Welcome Trump.

Attendees were effusive in their praise for Trump, who they argued could help save ousted South Korean President Park Geun-hye, currently under arrest after a number of scandals. I want Mr. Trump to destroy Kim Jong Un, An Man-young, 70, said of the North Korean leader. And also release the innocent former president Park.

Im not very worried about Trump putting South Korea in danger, said Beak Yong-cham, 60, who said he was a veteran of the Republic of Korea Marine Corps. The United States would talk to the South Korean defence minister before anything happens.

There was widespread support for military action among this relatively small crowd. I think peace will be protected, even if you have to go to war, said Kim Jue-yoon, 29, a mobile phone store owner.

I support the military option against Kim Jong Un, Beak said. He needs to be killed because he is crazy.

These protests were just two of a number of events planned over the next few days that reflect some of the wider divisions over Trump, who is due to arrive Tuesday in Seoul. Choi Kang, vice-president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, a Seoul think tank, said that there were two different views of the American president in South Korea, with a majority of people in South Korea generally welcoming his tough stance on North Korea.

On the other hand, many also worry about the possibility of war or the use of force by the Trump administration, Choi added.

Though Seoul police had expressed concern over the number of protests being planned, Yonhap News reported that there were no physical confrontations between opposing groups Saturday. Compared with the huge protests last winter that led to former president Parks impeachment, the events on Saturday were relatively small and there were considerably more people at a kimchi festival farther down the road than any protest related to Trump.

Polls show considerable opposition to Trump in South Korea  one recent Pew poll found that more than three-quarters of South Korean respondents consider Trump dangerous  but David Straub, a former State Department official and the author of a book on anti-Americanism in South Korea, said that so far the anti-Trump protests were far smaller than anti-U.S. protests that took place in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

I think what is really surprising right now is not that there some groups that are organizing these kinds of protest events, but how few there are, Straub said.

South Koreans may not regard Trump as a kind of usual American president about whom people can protest here and expect that it will do any good at all, Straub added. In fact, I think that most South Koreans are probably worried that protesting his visit or being too directly critical of Trump will result in him becoming very peeved and maybe saying damaging things.

Indeed, at both pro and anti-Trump rallies on Saturday, the target of much criticism was not even the American leader himself, but his South Korean counterpart, Moon Jae-in. But attendees said they hoped that Trump would see their protest and react.

I think he will say something on Twitter, said Kim, the teacher, at the anti-Trump event.

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RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIASaudi Arabias heir to the throne is overseeing an unprecedented wave of arrests of dozens of the countrys most powerful princes, military officers, influential businessmen and government ministers  some of them potential rivals or critics of the crown prince, whose purported anti-corruption sweep sent shockwaves across the kingdom Sunday as he further consolidated power.

Among those taken into custody overnight Saturday were billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, one of the worlds richest men with extensive holdings in Western companies, as well as two of the late King Abdullahs sons.

The arrest of senior princes upends a long-standing tradition among the ruling Al Saud family to keep their disagreements private in an effort to show strength and unity in the face of Saudi Arabias many tribes and factions. It also sends a message that the 32-year-old crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, has the full backing of his father, King Salman, to carry out sweeping anti-corruption reforms targeting senior royals and their business associates, who have long been seen as operating above the law.

Reports suggested those detained were being held at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, which only days earlier hosted a major investment conference that the crown prince attended with global business titans. A Saudi official told The Associated Press that other five-star hotels across the capital were also being used to hold some of those arrested.

The Ritz Carlton had no availability for bookings until Dec. 1, 2017  a possible sign that an investigation of this scale could take weeks. Marriott International said in a statement that it is evaluating the situation at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, but declined to comment further, citing privacy concerns.

A Saudi government official with close ties to security forces said 11 princes and 38 others were being questioned.

The surprise arrests were immediately hailed by pro-government media outlets as the clearest sign yet that Prince Mohammed is keeping his promise to reform the country as it moves to overhaul its economy away from dependence on oil and liberalize some aspects of the ultraconservative society.

The Saudi government says the arrests are part of a wider effort to increase transparency, accountability and good governance  key reforms needed to attract greater international investments and appease a Saudi public that has for decades complained of rampant government corruption and misuse of public funds by top officials. Volatility from surprise moves reshaping the kingdom, however, are likely to worry investors.

Among those reportedly taken into custody were two sons of the late King Abdullah: Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, who on Saturday evening was ousted from his post as head of the prestigious National Guard tasked with protecting the Al Saud family, and Prince Turki bin Abdullah, who was once governor of Riyadh.

Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne, though he has not been thought of recently as a challenger to Prince Mohammed.

Saudi Twitter accounts released several other names of those arrested, including Alwalid al-Ibrahim, a Saudi businessman with ties to the royal family who runs the Arabic satellite group MBC; Amr al-Dabbagh, the former head of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority; Ibrahim Assaf, a former finance minister, and Bakr Binladin, head of the Saudi Binladin Group, a major business conglomerate.

Analysts have suggested the arrest of once-untouchable members of the royal family is a clear sign that the crown prince is sidelining potential rivals for the throne.

The young prince has risen from near obscurity to become Saudi Arabias most talked about and powerful prince in less than three years since his father ascended to the throne. The princes swift rise to power has unnerved more experienced, elder members of the royal family, which has long ruled by consensus, though ultimate decision-making remains with the monarch.

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It is not clear what Prince Alwaleed or the others were being investigated for.

Without naming those arrested, the Attorney Generals office said the suspects are being granted the same rights and treatment as any other Saudi citizen. The statement did not disclose specific details about the investigation, but stressed that no assets have yet been frozen and that individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

A high-level employee at Prince Alwaleed bin Talals Kingdom Holding Co. told the AP that the royal was among those detained. The senior employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of repercussions, said security bodies informed him of the arrest.

Prince Alwaleeds many investments include Twitter, Apple, Citigroup and the Four Seasons hotel chain. He is also an investor in ride-sharing services Lyft and Careem. He was once a significant shareholder in Rupert Murdochs News Corporation, but sold much of those shares in 2015.

The prince, pictured sometimes on his 85-metre superyacht in the Mediterranean, is among the most outspoken Saudi royals and a longtime advocate of womens rights. He is also majority owner of the popular Rotana Group of Arabic channels.

After word of his arrest, his companys stock dropped 7.6 per cent in trading Sunday on the Saudi stock exchange.

An earlier crackdown this year on perceived critics of the crown prince included clerics and lesser-known princes.

In July, Prince Mohammeds most formidable challenger to the throne, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, was plucked from the line of succession and ousted from his post as interior minister, overseeing internal security. This laid the groundwork for the kings son to claim the mantle of crown prince.

Meanwhile, a helicopter carrying a high-ranking Saudi prince and other government officials crashed Sunday in the kingdom's south near the border with Yemen, reportedly killing all eight people aboard.

The Saudi Interior Ministry said early Monday that the crash happened in Saudi Arabia's Asir province as the official took part in a tour of local projects near Abha, some 840 kilometres southwest of Riyadh.

Security officials gave no cause for the crash, but said a search of the wreckage was underway. In Yemen, Houthi officials offered no immediate comment on the crash, while its Al-Masirah satellite news channel reported only that the crash had occurred.

The Saudi-owned satellite news channel Al-Arabiya, based in Dubai, reported that the crash killed Prince Mansour bin Murquin and seven others. Prince Mansour was the deputy governor of Asir province.

Prince Mansour was the son of Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz, a former intelligence service director and a one-time crown prince of the kingdom. Prince Muqrin was removed as crown prince in April 2015 by his half brother King Salman in favour of Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, a counterterrorism czar and interior minister.

But in June, King Salman also ousted Prince Mohammed in favour of installing his 32-year-old son, the now-Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as first in line to the throne.

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TOKYODuring his six-month tour in South Sudan, Maj. Takaaki Tanaka had a chance to see firsthand his countrys peacekeeping efforts.

Tanaka was among the 350 members of Japans Ground Self-Defence Forces deployed on the United Nations peacekeeping operation to bring stability and protect civilians caught in South Sudans civil war. The conflict between ethnic groups has killed at least 50,000 people since December 2013.

He cited the example of how UN forces were deterring the exploitation of civilians at checkpoints.

Not wanting to get in trouble with UN personnel, those manning the checkpoint would let drivers pass without demanding a bribe if they saw patrols nearby.

I witnessed those things and recognized our worth, Tanaka said, speaking through an interpreter.

Today, Tanaka is a research officer at the Japan Peacekeeping Training and Research Centre, helping pass along the lessons to personnel assigned to future peace missions.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has pushed a more activist agenda on defence and security issues. The so-called Abe doctrine has included strengthening Japans alliance with the United States, boosting the defence budget and ambitions to support peace operations.

Yet that latter goal is constrained by a pacifist constitution, strict restrictions on how Japan may deploy its forces and concerns that such operations are increasingly risky. Abe, re-elected last month, has vowed to use his new mandate to ease those constitutional restrictions.

Operations are complex and multi-dimensional now, said Col. Takahiro Aoyama, chief of the training and research office at the peacekeeping centre, located in one of many buildings that dot the sprawling Ministry of Defence campus in central Tokyo.

The boundaries between peacekeeping and peace building are increasingly fuzzy, he said through an interpreter.

That evolution of peace missions is testing the resolve of Japan  and Canada, too  to become more involved.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged during the 2015 election that a Liberal government would renew Canadas commitment to peacekeeping operations. But more than a year after pledging troops for an undefined peace mission, no firm decision has been announced, just an acknowledgement that todays missions are not the peacekeeping of the past.

Commitments to peace missions will come into focus next week when Canada hosts the United Nations Peacekeeping Defence Ministerial conference. Defence ministers from around the world will gather in Vancouver on Nov. 14-15 to discuss their countries commitments to meet demands for UN missions.

Many countries are thinking about their pledges . . . Canada and Japan are very closely co-operating on this file, said Kohei Nakamura, director of the international peace co-operation bureau in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Japan withdrew its troops from South Sudan in May, capping a mission that had begun five years earlier, focused on engineering and construction. Yet it ended under a cloud after it was revealed the government had tried to cover up daily logs from the field that detailed reports of local fighting that may have violated the conditions governing Japans peace missions.

Hiroshi Nakanishi, dean of the School of Government at Kyoto University, says the ensuing controversy has made it harder to make the case for future missions.

After that political scandal, the hurdle for sending Self-Defence Forces seems to get higher, Nakanishi said.

That hurdle was already high. Article 9 of Japans constitution renounces war and states that land, sea and air forces or other war potential will never be maintained. However, the constitution does not deny Japan the right of self-defence, though military capabilities are limited to the minimum necessary.

In 1992, the countrys parliament passed a law enabling military participation in peace operations. Yet such missions can only occur under strict conditions  a ceasefire must be in place, the parties to the conflict must have given consent for a UN peace mission and the peacekeepers have to remain impartial. If any of those conditions are broken, Japan will withdraw its troops.

As well, the use of weapons is restricted to the minimum necessary to protect lives of deployed personnel.

New legislation in 2015 gave Japanese forces greater leeway to use their weapons to assist allies in distress and protect civilians.

That was a very serious exercise to reflect upon our role, said Masaki Noke, director general of the International Peace Co-operation Headquarters in the government cabinet office.

The idea of a peacekeeping operation has been evolving, Noke said. Before, its main activities were typically the ceasefire and monitoring. But there are more complex and varied tasks, including protection of civilians.

Nokes office evaluates requests for Japanese forces to serve on peace missions. He said Japan is studying possible operations, but there are no immediate plans to deploy troops. But he said the country would continue with capacity building.

Helping to build the capabilities of peacekeeping forces of African and Asian nations is seen as a growing need, and one that Japan can help address within the restrictions that govern its peace missions.

Capacity building is very pertinent area, Noke said.

In the run-up to the Vancouver summit, Japan is helping lead backroom discussions around capacity building  helping local forces build skills in areas such as engineering and logistics, which he says are essential elements of any peace mission.

We call them enablers, Nakamura said. This kind of capability should not be taken for granted.

Troops need to be well-trained and well-equipped. This is why capacity-building infrastructure is so important.

Sending troops is not the only way to assist peacekeeping operations, Nakamura said. Its an important element but not the only element.

In the eyes of some, current restrictions make front line peace operations by Japan unworkable in a world where such missions are often dangerous and UN peacekeepers are empowered to use force as part of their mandate.

Unless we address issues of our constitutional restrictions and related to that, the use of weapons and how much to allow that, we wont really be able to go further, said Ryoichi Oriki, a retired general who previously headed the Self-Defence Forces.

So we are at a critical point after 25 years to decide how to make our contributions and how to live with our current restrictions and eventually, how we strike a balance, Oriki said through an interpreter.

I believe that Japan should be able to contribute more to help keep peace in the world, said Oriki, who now serves as an executive adviser at Fujitsu.

Canada faces no similar constitutional constraints on how its armed forces can be deployed on peace missions. But it, too, has struggled to find a suitable operation that it can tout on the world stage and sell at home.

In an announcement now seen as premature, the government declared in 2016 that Canada would commit 600 troops and up to 150 police officers to peacekeeping. This, even before the government had decided where and how the personnel would be deployed.

More than a year later, Canadians are still waiting. Trudeaus government is now working to have an announcement made before the peacekeeping summit.

The coming mission will see Canadian personnel deployed to several areas, likely in Africa. The Star has reported that Mali is among the possible locations. In government circles, work is underway deciding how to frame the mission to Canadians and make them aware of the dangers and potential casualties.

Japan and Canada are wrestling with a similar problem, Nakanishi said during an interview in his university office in Kyoto.

Its getting more difficult . . . for the political leaders to persuade why we are sending our soldiers to the place where there is not much of the vital national interest involved, Nakanishi said.

Thats especially true for Japan, with its legal limits on how its personnel can be deployed.

Its very difficult to find that kind of (peaceful) mission under the current global strategy, where (peacekeeping operations) are getting to be more and more involved in the actual political instability on the spot, Nakanishi said.

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SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, TEXASA gunman wearing all black and a ballistic vest opened fire with a rifle outside a small Baptist church in rural Texas and continued firing inside the building Sunday, killing at least 26 people and turning a tiny town east of San Antonio into the scene of the countrys most recent mass horror.

Gov. Greg Abbott confirmed the death toll, which has steadily increased throughout the day after the shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. A pregnant woman and children were among the dead, and the authorities said at least 20 people were also injured.

Among those killed, 23 people died inside the church, two outside the building and one person died after being transported to a hospital. The ages of the wounded and dead ranged from 5 to 72, the authorities said.

Two law enforcement sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the continuing investigation, identified the gunman as Devin P. Kelley, 26.

U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas, who said he was briefed by law enforcement authorities, said the gunman came from Comal County, which is northeast of San Antonio.

He went there, he walked in, started shooting people and then took off to Guadalupe County, which is northeast of Sutherland Springs, he said. The gunman was found dead in his car, the authorities said.

Albert Gamez Jr., a Wilson County commissioner, said the gunman was dead, but it was not clear whether he was killed by the police or he took his own life. Gamez told CNN that Sutherland Springs is a small community where everyone knows one another.

He added: You never expect something like this. My heart is broken.

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Hours after the shooting, the one-storey rectangular church remained sealed off, with yellow tape posted along the church grounds. Reporters poured into Sutherland Springs throughout the day as the tragedy transformed the once-obscure Texas farming community into the scene of the latest mass killing.

The unincorporated community has a population that numbers in the low hundreds  the 2000 census was 362, according to the Texas State Historical Association. The preliminary death toll would amount to about 7 per cent of the population.

The service at the church last Sunday, which was posted on YouTube, began with a rendition of a song called Happiness Is the Lord.

Then the pastor, Frank Pomeroy, told his parishioners  20 to 30 were visible in the video  to walk around the room and shake somebodys hand.

Tell them its good to see them in Gods house this morning, he said.

Scott Holcombe and Sarah Slavin said their parents, Bryan and Karla Holcombe, were among the dead. Sobbing on a curb outside Connally Memorial Medical Center in Floresville, about 25 kilometres from Sutherland Springs, Scott Holcombe said: Im dumbfounded. This is unimaginable.

He added: My father was a good man and he loved to preach. He had a good heart. They knew where they were going. Theres peace in that.

A parishioner, Sandy Ward, said in an interview Sunday that a daughter-in-law and three of her grandchildren were shot. Her grandson, who is 5, was shot four times and remained in surgery as of Sunday night. She said she was awaiting word on her other family members.

Ward said she did not attend services Sunday because of her troubled knees and a bad hip. I just started praying for everybody who was there when she learned of the shooting, she said.

Joseph Silva, 49, who lives about eight kilometres northeast of Sutherland Springs, said the police had instructed his family and neighbours to stay indoors.

In a phone interview Sunday afternoon, he described Sutherland Springs as a one-blinking-light town.

There is a gas station and a post office, he said. Thats about all there really is.

Silva said he had been approached by a woman who said she had two loved ones at the church who were shot.

There are a number of individuals just weeping and just wanted to know whats happened to their loved ones, he said. Everybody is pretty grief-stricken. Everyones worried.

The First Baptist Church of La Vernia, about 11 kilometres away, wrote on Facebook that it would open its doors from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Today an unthinkable tragedy occurred in our community, the church wrote. There will be Pastors and leaders present to pray with you or to talk, and the altar will be open for us to fall at the feet of Jesus.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who was in Japan on a trip to several Asian countries, offered his support. In a Twitter post he said: May God be w/ the people of Sutherland Springs, Texas. The FBI & law enforcement are on the scene. I am monitoring the situation from Japan.

Abbott said on Twitter: Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response.

Ken Paxton, the Attorney General of Texas, said in a statement: The thoughts and prayers of all Texans are with the people of Sutherland Springs as tragic reports come out of First Baptist Church. My office stands ready to assist local law enforcement as needed.

On Facebook, a user described the church: It is such a warm and welcoming church that is truly filled with the Holy Spirit and shows real Christian love and friendship.

The shooting Sunday was reminiscent of when a former high school teacher carrying four guns killed five people and injured 12 others in June 1980 in a crowded church in Daingerfield, Texas, about 200 kilometres east of Dallas.

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Imagine dedicating your working life to one company for more than 27 years, only to find out you are out of a job and wont be getting the full pension youve paid into all that time.

Thats the reality facing 62-year-old Gail Paul of Corner Brook, N.L., and more than 16,000 other Sears workers across Canada who are either close to retirement or already retired.

The aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and recession has been littered with the shaken futures of those who once worked for seemingly unshakeable Canadian and American icons like Sears: Nortel, Can-West, U.S. Steel, and the list goes on. We hear lots in the news about these giants, but pensioners are losing out when smaller companies shut down, too.

The lesson from every one of these examples is clear: workers and pensioners should not and must not be at the end of the line when companies go under.

All of these workers have every right to feel betrayed by their former employers. Especially when they see executives walk away with rich bonuses, their careers, savings and retirements intact. But it isnt just the companies who have betrayed these workers and so many thousands before them, its the federal government.

The federal government can and should be doing more for pensioners. For starters, it can support the legislation being proposed by the NDP that recommends changing bankruptcy laws so that pensioners are first in line, not last, when it comes to paying down creditors. The same has been proposed by the Bloc Quebecois.

Critics argue that putting pensioners first in line would leave lenders less inclined to help companies in crisis. But that argument isnt good enough given how many peoples futures have been shattered. It also ignores the reality that lenders have ample resources to inform the risks they take. Workers, on the other hand, have no option but to trust that their employers wont just walk away from their obligations to employees.

The federal government can and must ensure bankruptcy laws put pensioners at the front of the line. And it can go one very important step further: working with the provinces and territories to create Canada-wide mandatory pension insurance. Such a system would guarantee monthly pensions up to $2,500 whenever an employer with an underfunded pension plan, like Nortel or Sears, files for bankruptcy. It would be paid for by pension funds, a fair trade-off, given their tax-exempt status.

Pension insurance isnt just about protecting pensioners. It helps companies with no prospects of recovery or needing temporary help. Its not a new idea. The United States and the United Kingdom are among other countries with nationwide mandatory pension insurance. Today, in Canada, only Ontario has a mandatory fund. Created in 1980, it guarantees pensions to a maximum of $1,000 per month. Thats expected to increase to $1,500 per month.

Mandatory insurance is required for most of the important assets Canadians have. We are required to insure our vehicles, our homes, and even our jobs  employers must pay into Employment Insurance and Workers Compensation to operate. Mandatory insurance exists because some things are critical to protect. And as Canadas unions have long argued, pensions are among the most critical assets anyone will ever have.

The federal government must demonstrate it has the courage to stand up for pensioners like Gail Paul. She and thousands like her dedicated their working lives to trying to make the companies they worked for successful, and they deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, not told theyll have no choice but to work through retirement and turn to government services for support.

Hassan Yussuff is the president of the Canadian Labour Congress. Follow him on Twitter @Hassan_Yussuff

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On Monday, the Supreme Court of Canada will hear a case that will determine who gets to regulate a lawyers courtroom behaviour, which has important implications for our justice system.

At the centre of the storm is a Toronto litigator named Joe Groia, who has been convicted of being rude  that is, in engaging in uncivil courtroom conduct  by the Law Society, the body that regulates Ontario lawyers. As a result of his conviction, Joe has been sentenced to a one month suspension and a fine of $200,000, which he will only have to serve and pay if he loses at the Supreme Court.

The case plays out the final chapter of the decades-long saga of the greatest mining scandal in history, which involved Bre-X, a Calgary-based public company. Bre-X owned Indonesian lands thought to hold $6 billion in gold before the company imploded in 1997 when the claim turned out to be false.

In the wake of Bre-Xs stock collapse, civil lawsuits and criminal investigations were launched all around the world. Groia was hired to defend John Felderhof, one of Bre-Xs directors and senior officers who was charged with fraudulently trading in Bre-X stock.

One of the strangest aspects of the case is that Groia is the only person ever convicted of anything. Stranger still: Groia won a full acquittal for his client Felderhof.

What did Groia do that was so bad during the Felderhof trial? With the public howling for the head of his client, Groia fought hard and used every legal means available to protect his clients rights. During the trial, the judge cautioned Groia for some his courtroom tactics, including accusing government prosecutors of misconduct. The judge also corrected the prosecutors. Both sides complied with the judges direction.

Then the trial took a strange turn. The prosecutors halted the proceedings and accused the judge of being biased against the prosecution. The prosecutors were denied by other independent judges in all of their efforts to have the trial judge removed from the bench.

Then things got even weirder once the trial was over. Although there was no complaint by the public, the trial judge, the prosecutors, trial witnesses or any clients, the Law Society self-initiated an investigation and then pursued charges against Groia for his courtroom conduct.

The Law Society sanctioned Groia after he was found by a hearing panel of his fellow lawyers to have displayed a consistent pattern of rude, improper or disruptive conduct. His conviction was upheld by a Law Society appeal panel as well as the Divisional Court and the majority of the Ontario Court of Appeal, which characterized Joes conduct as unprofessional and extreme.

In his dissent, however, Ontario Court of Appeal Justice David Brown identified the main problem with the case against Groia: this lawyer should go free because he complied with the trial judges directions. In Justice Browns view, the decision to sanction Groia unduly interferes with judicial independence.

Our justice system is set up to protect judges from improper outside influences. These judges are kept separate from other branches of government as well as regulators like the Law Society.

The fact that the Law Society stepped in to sanction Groia will have a broad and insidious chilling effect on how Canadian lawyers defend client interests in the courtroom  and will be particularly damaging in criminal matters.

Most lawyers would agree that polite and civil courtroom behaviour should be the norm. But sometimes litigation devolves into brutal combat, especially when a clients liberty is at stake against the enormous resources of the state. Only a trial judge is close enough to the action to discipline lawyers for their behaviour.

By usurping a judges authority to regulate courtroom behaviour, the Law Society tarnished the reputation of the judiciary and harmed our system of justice.

Arthur Cockfield is a professor with Queens University Faculty of Law. He is the author of Introduction to Legal Ethics.

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McConnell successor supports Torys agenda, Nov. 3

The governance of Toronto is often poor, but city councils appointment of the late Pam McConnells replacement is an absolute low point. All downtown councillors voted for Michael Creek, who is qualified and represents all that Pam stood for. The suburban councillors pushed their agenda and Lucy Troisi, who will likely do their bidding in Ward 28. This is not what I voted for, and I cant wait for the next election.

Ulla Colgrass, Toronto

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Ive lived in many countries and am a citizen of three, yet I dont fully belong to any, least of all to Poland where I was born. My wife, also Polish-born, and I knew Poland only as children around the Second World War and its horrors. Yet we very much wanted our children and grandchildren to see our roots there.

We first travelled to Poland some 30 years ago with our two daughters and son when the country was still under Communist rule. We returned two decades later with our older grandchildren. A week ago we were there again, this time with our teenage grandchildren and their parents.

It wasnt a vacation but a pilgrimage. We visited neglected cemeteries, old ghettoes and death camps. In the Jewish cemetery in Lodz we found the grave of my wifes grandmother that had also a plaque that a surviving relative had placed in memory of her two daughters who perished in the Holocaust.

The most harrowing visit was to Auschwitz, the notorious and best known of the death factories where much over a million Jews and countless Poles were murdered by the Nazis. Those who speak for Poland today are anxious to point out that Auschwitz and all the other camps were German establishments on Polish soil, not Polish camps.

Poles are well aware of their countrys Jewish past. Many feel that the destruction has deprived Poland of a limb and left it with phantom pains. Though the latest state-sponsored anti-Semitic outburst occurred almost 50 years ago under Communism, when most remaining survivors emigrated, some Poles are said to still resent even the memory of Jews. Their devotion to their Church may have something to do with it, for whereas Christian-Jewish dialogue is on the agenda in many places where Catholics worship, anti-Semitism may still be tolerated in others.

But things are changing for the better. We sensed it during this visit. Nowadays many Poles speak with respect and appreciation of the Jews and their contribution to the history of Poland. The new Jewish Museum in Warsaw reflects and celebrates it. Visitors are powerfully reminded that for many centuries, starting in the Middle Ages, Poland was a haven for Jews. Theres thus much more for Jews to experience in todays Poland than visiting graves and crematoria.

Poland had some 3.5 million Jews before the Holocaust, ten per cent of the population. Around three million  half of the six million who perished  were killed by the Nazis and their collaborators. Most survivors, like ourselves, moved to other countries in search of new beginnings. Today, probably no more than 25,000 Jews live in Poland. Exact figures are impossible to obtain, because some Jews still hide their origins, perhaps fearing anti-Semitism, while others are rediscovering their roots. And some non-Jews seek to embrace Judaism out of commitment and solidarity.

The annual festival of Jewish culture in Krakow and similar events in other places celebrate Judaism, as does the museum in Warsaw. Departments of Jewish studies at universities chart the history of Polish Jews and their contribution to the country.

The Jews who today live in Poland seem to be at home there. One of their most articulate and best-known spokespersons is Prof. Stanislaw Krajewski. His book, Poland and the Jews, begins with an autobiographic chapter. He writes: I believe that Poland should be remembered primarily as the place of many centuries of the most important Jewish creativity, and not only as the site of the tragic end.

By showing them our roots and spending time not only in cemeteries and in Auschwitz, weve tried to convey this to our children and grandchildren.

Dow Marmur is rabbi emeritus at Torontos Holy Blossom Temple. His column appears every fourth week.

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NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- With profit margins on T-shirts and jeans under siege from the proliferation of H&M and Forever 21 stores in America, mall staple Gap (GPS) - Get Free Report has found a new way to meet profit objectives for this year.

More aggressively dismantle its mall retail empire to reduce costs.

On Monday, the struggling specialty apparel retailer announced it will close about 175 Gap brand stores in North America over the next few years. About 140 closures will occur this fiscal year, a majority likely coming in January following the end of the holiday season.

In the past two years, Gap North America has already shuttered roughly 106 stores. After its latest store closing campaign, which was not hinted at on the company's first-quarter earnings call on May 21, it will operate 800 Gap stores in the U.S. comprised of 500 Gap locations and 300 Gap outlet stores. That is a far cry from Gap's white t-shirt and khaki selling heyday in the early 2000s, when it operated over 1,400 stores in the U.S.

The store closures will cost Gap $300 million in sales and one-time outlays of $140 million to $160 million. Gap estimates annualized savings from these actions to be $25 million beginning in 2016.

"Returning Gap brand to growth has been the top priority since my appointment four months ago -- and Jeff Kirwin (Gap global president) and his team bring a sense of urgency to this work," said Art Peck, Gap's CEO, in a statement. "Customers are rapidly changing how they shop today, and these moves will help get Gap back to where we know it deserves to be in the eyes of consumers."

By closing stores in mass quantity this year, Gap is effectively on a path to become a niche retailer that focuses on the affluent, where discounts are not the only consideration on whether to buy a shirt. It's a similar move being employed by fellow mall dweller Macy's (M) - Get Free Report, which has noted recently it intends to invest most of its resources in its 150 best-performing locations. As for Gap, the announcement comes at an odd time for two reasons.

First, the important back to school selling season is about to kick off in July. News trickling down to associates that their Gap store will close at year's end may impact engagement with customers. At the very least, it may cause some operational disruption not planned for by Gap earlier in the year, such as messy store presentations and the need to discount more to drive sales.

Second, by exiting stores, Gap may be hurting its chances to service clients that are increasingly shopping online. "I think, as we said, we are really continuing to push omnichannel capabilities which have been for us more, what I would call, spot capabilities, so reserve in store, shipping from store, finding a store, and now we are testing mobile POS (point of sales)," emphasized Peck on Gap's fourth-quarter earnings call on Feb. 26.

Turning Gap stores into distribution points to meet online demand was also a focus by Peck's predecessor at CEO, Glenn Murphy. "Omni-channel initiatives are not all about driving online sales -- as a matter of fact, in some cases, reserve in store and order in store drive more productivity inside our physical assets," said Murphy in his final earnings call back in November last year.

Shares of Gap rose by by less than 1% in after-hours trading. Gap did not return a request for comment.

This article is commentary by an independent contributor. At the time of publication, the author held no positions in the stocks mentioned.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:42:37|Editor: Yurou

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SEOUL, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's presidential Blue House on Sunday asked people to warmly welcome U.S. President Donald Trump who will make a state visit to the country next week.

Presidential spokesman Park Soo-hyun told a press briefing that the government will treat President Trump as the state guest with respect and warmly welcome him in a bid to turn his visit into a decisive opportunity to make the South Korea-U.S. relations a "great alliance" beyond the current comprehensive alliance.

The briefing came ahead of Trump's two-day visit to South Korea next week. The U.S. president will hold a summit meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Tuesday, delivering a speech to the National Assembly the next day before leaving for China.

Rallies both welcoming and opposing Trump's travel to South Korea were held Saturday in central Seoul. Elderly conservative voters hailed his visit, but anti-Trump protesters claimed his bellicose rhetoric toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) escalated military tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

The anti-Trump protesters reportedly requested over 100 rallies to be held in Seoul during Trump's two-day stay.

The spokesman said the comprehensive South Korea-U.S. cooperation in political, economic and military areas is currently more important than ever, given the very grave security situations on the Korean Peninsula.

Park said the U.S. leader's first state-visit to South Korea in 25 years had a significant meaning under the current situations, noting that Trump's visit will eventually bring peace and prosperity to the peninsula.

He said welcoming a guest hospitably is a tradition that has been handed down from generation to generation in South Korea, adding that through the hospitability, South Korea and the United States will be able to confirm the firm alliance.

The spokesman asked people to warmly welcome President Trump wholeheartedly, vowing best efforts to achieve the results that can make people's lives and safety as well as peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula leap a step forward through President Trump's state visit.
Ford Motor Co. (F) - Get Free Report chief Jim Hackett made a bold call for turnaround at the 114-year-old company in his inaugural presentation to analysts two weeks ago. But Hackett's plans for change aren't going to help the automaker for some time, analysts said.

RBC Capital Markets slashed its rating for Ford shares to "sector perform" from "outperform" Monday, Oct. 16, noting that Hackett's proposals likely won't have an impact at the company until 2019 or 2020 at the earliest.

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Barclays echoed similar sentiments, noting that it could take several years for Hackett's initiatives to come to fruition in both company performance and investor perception.

Hackett, who took the helm at Ford in May, hosted an analyst day in New York earlier this month that outlined the automaker's future under his guidance. Among Hackett's proposals were a shift in focus to SUVs and trucks from cars, a renewed bid to build 100% of its U.S. cars with connectivity, and more investment in electrification and autonomous driving.

Hackett also announced a massive cost cutting plan with goals to slash incremental material costs by $10 billion and engineering costs by $4 billion.

Ford stock has pared losses realized earlier this year, trading close to flat from the beginning of 2017. Shares have been little changed since Hackett's Oct. 3 presentation, gaining about 0.25%. In premarket trading Tuesday, Oct. 17, shares were lower 0.17% to $12.10.

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Saudi Arabia reportedly said Saturday it intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen, according to media reports.

Also on Saturday, Margaret Brennan, CBS News White House and senior foreign affairs correspondent, tweeted that President Trump, aboard Air Force One, said he "spoke with Saudi King & that a 'shot was just taken by Iran' but US-made system 'knocked the missile out of the air.'"

The BBC, citing the official Saudi Press Agency, reported officials said the missile was destroyed over Riyadh and fragments landed near the airport. Saudi officials have reported shooting down Houthi missiles in the past, the BBC said, although not this close to a major city.

No additional details were immediately available regarding the statement from Trump, who is starting an extended tour of Asia in Japan.

In Iran on Saturday, demonstrators and official forces commemorated the 38th anniversary of the takeover of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran with a display of missiles. CNN reported that demonstrators gathered to mark the event that triggered the crisis in 1979 when Iranian students took over the U.S. embassy and held Americans hostage. CNN also said that in Saturday's demonstration, the Qadr missile, a powerful medium-range ballistic missile, was prominently displayed.

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Embattled hedge fund investor Bill Ackman doesn't believe the public has developed a more negative view of activists, despite a recent surge in C-Suite executives declaring their opposition to their activities.

"CEOS of public companies and many CEOs of public companies don't like activists, because we challenge the status quo," Ackman said in an interview with TheStreet. "It used to be that if you were the CEO of an S&P 500 company you would have a job until you chose your own retirement and a very complacent board of directors that you selected. That was the old fashioned way."

Ackman's comments come after Martin Sorrell, the chairman of WPP plc undefined , the world's biggest ad agency, said Tuesday, Oct. 31, that activist investors' focus on cost reductions and short-term gains are partially to blame for its second consecutive quarter of falls in like-for-like sales and revenue. According to WPP, activists, such as Nelson Peltz and Dan Loeb, are targeting the ad budgets of some of the ad giant's biggest clients, Procter & Gamble (PG) - Get Free Report and Nestle SA, respectively. In August, Panera Bread Co. CEO Ron Shaich reportedly suggested that a Wall Street culture focused on short-term profits helped along by activist investors, is stifling innovation. The publicly-traded bakery-cafe chain was sold to JAB Holding Co. in April in a deal valued at $7.5 billion.

And of course, Ackman is not getting a favorable reception from the CEO of Automatic Data Processing Inc. (ADP) - Get Free Report , the payroll company he is targeting in a big boardroom battle set to conclude Tuesday. In an interview on CNBC, ADP CEO Carlos Rodriguez called Ackman a "spoiled brat" who did not "do his homework."

However, Ackman pushed back on their concerns, arguing that activists have altered the balance of power between owners of businesses and managers of the business by taking large stakes and getting directors on corporate boards. "Big institutions that hold the stocks are very supportive of activists," Ackman argued. "We are the ones that create the options that they can chose to support or not support."

He added that even the largest passive index funds, such as Vanguard, State Street or BlackRock, may support an activist fund's director candidates if they believe that they would help a targeted company perform.

"If you were to interview the shareholders and institutions they will give you a very different answer than the CEOs," Ackman said. "If you interview CEOs like Carlos you get a very different perspective. We've gotten a very favorable reception from the vast majority of shareholders of ADP."

It may be true that Ackman has received a positive reception from most shareholders, but it also seems that many of ADP's investors may be supporting the company's CEO, Rodriguez, and his stay-the-course agenda. Rodriguez concluded an analyst conference call Thursday by praising shareholders for backing the company: "I would like to thank shareholders for the confidence they've put in our management and board. The encouragement we've gotten from them has strengthened our resolve to do the right thing for them and on their behalf."

Watch our full interview with Ackman below.

This feature first appeared on TheStreet's sister publication The Deal on Nov. 3.

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Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 15:52:39|Editor: Yurou

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Smoke rises from the bomb attack site in Aden, Yemen on Nov. 5, 2017. A suicide car bomb killed eight soldiers in Yemen's temporary capital of Aden city in front of the well-guarded headquarters of the security forces on Sunday, a police official told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Hasan)

ADEN, Yemen, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A suicide car bomb killed eight soldiers in Yemen's temporary capital of Aden city in front of the well-guarded headquarters of the security forces on Sunday, a police official told Xinhua.

Following the car bomb that targeted the main gate of the security headquarters, a group of well-armed masked men launched an armed attack against a nearby building of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the police official said on condition of anonymity.

A medical source at Jamhuria public hospital said that "eight soldiers were killed as a result of the explosion and many injured soldiers were moved to the hospital for treatment."

Eyewitnesses confirmed to Xinhua that the explosion was followed by an exchange of heavy gunfire between the security guards and unknown gunmen who tried to storm the CID headquarters from different directions.

Heavy smoke could be seen billowing from the building of CID, and armed clashes are still ongoing in the area, the eyewitnesses said.

The suicide attack, according to Yemeni sources, took place at 8:10 a.m. local time (0510 GMT) and security forces are fighting to kill the attackers and bring the situation under control.

The security forces cordoned off the area after the explosions and set up cement barricades to prevent access to the security buildings in Aden's neighborhood of Khormaksar.

Additional security reinforcements backed by armored vehicles were deployed in the neighborhood of Khormaksar, where government institutions and offices of United Nations are based.

The Yemeni government authorities based in Aden did not release details yet on the attack.

No one has claimed responsibility for the suicide attack so far, but Yemeni security officials accused gunmen linked to the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group of being behind such terrorist operations in Aden.

Militants of the Yemen-based al-Qaida branch and the IS group are more active in the country's southern part and Yemeni armed forces supported by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) started waging large offensives against some hideouts there.

The al-Qaida and IS-linked terrorists took advantage of the security vacuum and ongoing civil war to expand their influence and seize more territories in Yemen.

Security in Yemen has further deteriorated since March 2015, when war broke out between the Shiite Houthi group, supported by former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, and government forces backed by a Saudi-led Arab coalition.

UN statistics show more than 10,000 people, most of them civilians, have been killed since the coalition intervened in the Yemeni civil war that also displaced around 3 million.

The impoverished Arab country is also suffering the world's largest cholera epidemic since April, with about 5,000 cases reported every day.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 16:02:42|Editor: Yurou

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by Tao Jun, Le Yanna

DA NANG, Vietnam, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- At 1 a.m. local time on Saturday, in Sky36 bar in the second tallest building in Vietnam's central port city of Da Nang, dozens of youths were shaking their bodies to the rhythm of electronic dance music and enjoying drinks at exorbitant prices.

Starting on Monday, Da Nang will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Week, drawing eyes from around the globe.

"At weekend, we often come here to treat our ears with frenetic electronic dance music and have casual talks with foreigners, and treat our eyes with on-and-off laser lights, especially with sexy dancers," Nguyen Van Dung, fresh graduate from the University of Da Nang, told Xinhua, occasionally winking at scantily clad girls in white dress uniforms.

Right after graduation this autumn, Dung found a well-paid job, working as an information technology engineer, and the same held true with many of his friends.

"Seeing us buy a bottle of beer here at a a price of 180,000 Vietnamese dong (8 U.S. dollars) excluding tax and fee, 4-5 times higher than that in supermarkets, some may think that we spend money like water, but we spend the money we earn legitimately, not by begging or robbing others," the young man grinned broadly.

His remarks included two out of five "Nos" pursued by Da Nang authorities.

Da Nang has implemented the policy of "Five Nos" and "Three Haves." The "Five Nos" are no hungry households, no beggars, no illiterate people or no dropouts, no drug addicts in the community and no murder for robbery.

The "Three Haves" refer to people having houses, jobs and urban civilized lifestyle.

Da Nang authorities have adopted mechanisms and policies which help improve education and training quality, and facilitate job creation. Meanwhile, they have also paid due attention to social protection centers which care for disadvantaged groups such as orphans, lonely elder or mentally ill people and Agent Orange victims, local residents said.

"Social protection centers have been upgraded over time, and I think unlucky people there are feeling happier," Dang Thi Nhung, a student of Duy Tan University, said with her eyes twinkling with joy.

Over the past three years, Nhung and her schoolmates have brought cooked meat and rice porridge to the Da Nang Social Protection Center every Saturday.

"If seeing a beggar or a homeless person on the street, and reporting to relevant agencies, he or she may be given food and proper shelter in a certain social protection center, and we will be awarded cash. However, I haven't seen such people on the street in the last few years," Pham Sanh, a taxi driver of Vinasun company, told Xinhua.

"However, there are many poor people in hospitals, and some of them I have met frequently. Maybe they are either inpatients or homeless people," the young driver noted.

Da Nang had no poor households by the end of 2015, two years ahead of the target, according to the municipal People's Committee.

Regarding the "Five Nos," Sanh said the two targets of no drug addicts in the community and no murder for robbery have not been achieved completely.

"Drug addicts and deadly robberies still occur in our city, but their numbers are decreasing. More and more surveillance cameras are being installed along streets and in residential areas," the driver stated.

Another measure which wins the applause of local resident is leasing or selling nearly 9,000 flats to low-income earners at subsidized prices.

The monthly rental is 1 million Vietnamese dong (44 U.S. dollars) or lower, and poor families or households with wounded war veterans can enjoy 60-75 percent reduction in the rentals.

"Without the favorable flat rental policy, we couldn't have afforded a stable residence. As a Vietnamese proverb goes, 'settle down and thrive, our life is improving, our jobs are stable, and our kids' education is becoming better,'" Le Thi Van, one of 486 households, mostly poor ones in Nam Cau Cam Le tenement block in the rural district of Hoa Vang, told Xinhua on Saturday.

Nai Hien Dong ward in the urban district of Son Tra is called "tenement block street" by local residents.

Besides tenement blocks whose flats have been allocated or leased to specific families, the ward currently has two state-owned 12-story blocks whose apartments are being sold to public servants and low-income earners on a pilot basis.

"Over one year ago, we bought this apartment at a price of below 400 million Vietnamese dong (nearly 17,700 U.S. dollars), half of the market price. Its area is more than 50 square meters," Le Thi Nhu, resident of 12T1 tenement block, told Xinhua.

Before the purchase, Nhu and her husband, a teacher, and their little kids, had to live in a cramped rented house. "Our city is surely the best place to live in Vietnam," she stated.

On Oct. 28, addressing an inaugural ceremony of the International Media Center for the APEC Leaders' Week slated for Nov. 6-11, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh said: "This is a good opportunity for Da Nang in particular and our country to promote the image of a beautiful, dynamic, prosperous Vietnam and a friendly and hospitable Da Nang which deserves the title of the most livable city in the country."

Earlier, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said Da Nang should keep on proving itself as a peaceful tourism city, while vowing to make breakthrough in production and high technology so as to enhance its role as a growth driver of central Vietnam.

Da Nang is the third biggest city in Vietnam in terms of economy and urbanization, after Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. In the first half of 2017, Da Nang's economy grew 8.1 percent, while the country expanded 5.73 percent, according to the General Statistics Office.

New York Times listed Da Nang as one of the "top 52 places to go" in the world in 2015.

In 2014, InterContinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort, where leaders of APEC's 21 economies will stay during the upcoming summit, was named Asia's leading luxury resort.

In 2013, U.S. magazine Forbes selected My Khe beach in Da Nang as one of the six most attractive beaches on the planet.

Meanwhile, a cable line to Ba Na Hills in the city won Guinness World Records. The line takes visitors to the peak of 1,487-meter Ba Na Hills in just 17 minutes. It can carry 3,000 passengers per hour.

The 115-meter Sun Wheel in Asian Park, is one of the 10 tallest ferris wheels in the world.

Since April 2016, Da Nang has also kept visitors interested by adopting a new policy called "Four An." In Vietnamese, they are "an ninh trat tu" -- security and order, "an toan giao thong" -- traffic safety, "an toan ve sinh thuc pham" -- food safety and hygiene, and "an sinh xa hoi" -- social security.
The Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) is the first flagship project of the African Unions Agenda 2063 and a key initiative in the industrialization and economic development of the continent.

It has the potential to boost intra-African trade, stimulate investment and innovation, foster structural transformation, improve food security, enhance economic growth and export diversification, and rationalize the overlapping trade regimes of the main regional economic communities. Fundamentally, the CFTA aims to provide new impetus and dynamism to economic integration in Africa.

While Africa exports mainly commodities to the rest of the world, intra-African trade displays high concentrations of value-added products (and services). It is therefore of particular value to Africas development. In recent years, intra-African trade has contributed to 57 per cent of the growth in Africas exports of capital goods, 51 per cent of processed food and beverages, 46 per cent of consumer goods, 45 per cent of transport equipment and 44 per cent of processed industrial supplies. The CFTA provides a legal arrangement through which this promising trend can be extended to generate win-win gains for all participating African Union Member States.

After providing a status update of regional integration in Africa, this report considers how to ensure that the potential of the CFTA is fulfilled.

It has long been known that a major challenge in Africa is not a lack of good policies or strategies, but a lack of their effective implementation. Crucial to implementation is an understanding of the political economy underpinning economic integration in Africa. Conceptual issues in this area form the theoretical basis of the report. The insights from this perspective can help to frame the policy choices and institutional arrangements required for effective implementation. The report demonstrates that the CFTA potentially embodies a win-win approach to sharing its benefits, so that all countries in Africa benefit and the interests of vulnerable communities are carefully addressed. To this end, the CFTA will require flanking policies that governments can use to smooth the impact of the CFTA and a strong focus on achieving tangible outcomes from the Boosting Intra-African Trade Action Plan at national, regional and continental levels. Recommendations are made to assure mutual gains for all countries, irrespective of their current level of development.

These recommendations cannot be fulfilled without strategic investments and financing. The report considers methods of financing for bringing the CFTA about, including the role of domestic resource mobilization, non-traditional financial vehicles and regional Aid-for-Trade. Financing must, however, be buttressed with effective implementing institutions and an appropriate CFTA governance structure. The report emphasizes the need to ensure that CFTA institutional structures are based on practical approaches that work in Africa.

The context of this report is a changing world trade environment in which peoples scepticism of trade agreements has become common. Africans are also frustrated by the lack of progress in the Doha Development Agenda at the World Trade Organization. These shifts call for a renewed vision of the role of trade in Africas development trajectory. Bringing the CFTA about is part of that vision, in a way that benefits all African countries and leaves nobody behind, in line with the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals. It is also a vision for trade policy coherence in Africa in the changing global environment.

Status of Regional Integration in Africa

Overall integration While Africa has many policy initiatives that express commitments to continental integration, the framework that provides both legitimacy and inspiration is the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community (the Abuja Treaty), which entered into force in 1994.

According to the Economic Commission for Africa (2016),

The first stage has now been completed, with eight RECs formally recognized by the African Union. These are the Arab Maghreb Union (AMU), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), East African Community (EAC), Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Southern African Development Community (SADC), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD). The second stage has not been fully completed because progress by the RECs and by members within the RECs has been uneven. The third stage is under way in a number of RECs but not all. Only three of the eight recognized RECs have both a FTA and Customs Union (ECOWAS, EAC and COMESA), although with varying degrees of implementation. While a continental free trade area (CFTA) does not feature explicitly in the AU roadmap, in accordance with the sequential stages of regional economic integration, it is a stepping stone to the creation of a continental Customs Union.

The RECs are progressing at different speeds across the various components of the Abuja Treaty. The EAC has made the most progress across the board.

The following extract from ECA (2016) shows how the CFTA fits into the achievement of the African Economic Community:

The scope of the CFTA Agreement covers trade in goods, trade in services, investment, intellectual property rights and competition policy. This wide scope moves beyond the requirements of a traditional FTA, which requires only the elimination of tariffs and quotas on trade in goods. Therefore, similar to other trading bloc arrangements, it is difficult to neatly place the CFTA under one of the five stages of regional economic integration. The wide coverage of the CFTA is expected to ease the subsequent process of further regional economic integration in Africa.

The harmonization of norms and regulations related to services typically takes place with the establishment of a [single market]. It is however important that trade in services is negotiated alongside trade in goods, since services are inputs into the production of trade in goods and the sector contributes a substantial share to the output of most African economies. The CFTA Agreement will therefore include a sub-agreement on trade in services on the basis of progressive liberalization, consolidating and building on the RECs achievements.

Some common investment rules are typically covered under the free movement of capital required by a [single market], whereas an [economic union] would usually contain a fully-fledged common investment policy. Investment issues are rarely covered in free trade areas (FTAs). The CFTA Agreement however is expected to include a sub-agreement on investment that is broad in scope, covering both goods and services. The provision of common rules for state parties in introducing incentives would help to encourage investment into African countries to accelerate development, and would also help to avoid any race to the bottom. A continent-wide dispute settlement system for investment disputes to be settled among state parties will also be key.

Intellectual property and competition policy would typically only be required under an [economic union], the fifth and final stage of regional economic integration. Since few African countries have the institutional capacities and expertise to utilize trade remedy instruments such as anti-dumping, safeguards and countervailing measures, the scope of the CFTA however also covers these areas. Competition policy is a particularly important instrument for regulating unfair trade practices and providing clarity to businesses. Inclusion of a mechanism for regulating competition and facilitating dispute settlement early on will also help to build confidence in the CFTA.

The CFTA Agreement is also expected to include an appendix on the movement of natural persons involved in services and investment, an area of cooperation that is usually not covered until the establishment of a [single market]. This is needed to transform the opportunities provided through the liberalization of trade in goods, services and investment.

Finally, the CFTA project is being rolled out in parallel with the implementation of the Action Plan for Boosting Intra-African Trade (BIAT), which was adopted by the AU Heads of State in January 2012. This initiative goes significantly beyond the requirements of a traditional FTA and is aimed at addressing the constraints and challenges of intra-African trade which are organized under the clusters of trade policy, trade facilitation, productive capacity, trade-related infrastructure, trade finance, trade information and factor market integration. Effective implementation of the BIAT initiative will be crucial to minimizing the challenges and maximizing the gains of tariff liberalization, and ensuring that all African firms and countries are able to take advantage of the CFTA.

In April 2016, the African Development Bank (AfDB), African Union Commission (AUC) and ECA unveiled the Africa Regional Integration Index. The Index seeks to track African countries progress in implementing their regional integration commitments to one another in the framework of the RECs. It measures each countrys integration across five dimensions, which have a total of 16 indicators. The following tables capture, for each of the eight AU-recognized RECs, how its members integrate with the rest of the membership, in terms of the countrys overall score and each of its dimensions.

Data updates, not available in AfDB, AUC and ECA (2016), include the most recent data from the African Development Banks African Infrastructure Development Index (published in 2016). These data show the average scores for 2011-13 (rather than 2010-12). Work is under way on the second edition of the Index, which will include a sixth dimension on social integration and on gender and will, in addition to measuring within-REC integration, compare how all African countries integrate with the rest of the continent.

Trade integration

Currently there are four functioning free trade areas by AU recognized RECs: COMESA, ECOWAS, EAC and SADC. Further intra-African trade is liberalized through mechanisms beyond the AU-recognized RECs, including the Pan-Arab free trade area, the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU). The Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) will liberalize more intra-African trade. This is also the expectation for the CFTA.

Most intra-African trade occurs between African countries that are members of the same regional grouping. For instance, the average country in the EAC sources 86 per cent of its African imports from other EAC countries. For ECOWAS, the comparable figure is 64 per cent, for SADC 90 per cent, and for COMESA 78 per cent.

Though imports are covered by these REC free trade areas, several REC free trade areas exclude certain products. Free trade area utilization rates are also less than 100 per cent: For instance, the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme is cumbersome for traders, meaning that many still pay tariffs.

EAC countries already have considerable coverage through their EAC single market and the COMESA FTA. Including the TFTA, the EAC countries would on average cover 99 per cent of their intra-African trade. As ECOWAS coverage is much lower, the CFTA would add considerable value. It could also help to solidify free trade in ECOWAS given the reported constraints to traders regarding the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme.

The TFTA will be especially important for the COMESA countries that are not in the EAC and are not operating the SADC FTA, as well as for several countries that are not yet implementing other REC FTAs, including Angola, Djibouti, Eritrea and Ethiopia. It will also be valuable for Sudan, which has only a small amount of its intra-African trade captured by the Pan-Arab FTA. For the remaining African countries that are not party to an operating REC FTA, the CFTA is expected to contribute to a large amount of intra-African trade liberalization.

These characteristics of intra-African trade are relevant for the CFTA for two reasons: They show that the tariff revenue losses expected of the CFTA are low, because for many countries a large proportion of intra-African trade is already covered through REC FTAs; and the CFTA will help cover intra-African trade for those countries that do not have operating FTAs within their RECs.

They also suggest that the immediate effects of the CFTA  positive and negative  are unlikely to be dramatic in many countries. The CFTA amounts to a step, rather than a leap, forward for African integration, which will help advance all countries to an improved level of trade integration. (The incremental approach can reduce the structural adjustment costs associated with trade liberalization, and still lead to the trade gains, including improved conditions for forming RVCs, permitting better economies of scale, diversifying exports and facilitating the trade growth forecast by numerous trade models.)

Formal trade arrangements

Since the publication of ARIA VII: Innovation, Competitiveness and Regional Integration, Africas RECs have made further advances in liberalizing trade.

COMESA

Democratic Republic of the Congo joined the COMESA free trade area in 2016 through an Act of Parliament, taking the total number of countries to 16. The country will reduce tariffs on imports from other COMESA members over a three-year period, with a 40 per cent reduction on duties in 2016 followed by a 30 per cent reduction in 2017 and another 30 per cent in 2018.

EAC

South Sudan has completed its accession to the EAC, having received approval from the EAC Heads of State in March 2016 and having signed the accession treaty in April 2016.

ECOWAS

The ECOWAS customs union, which came into force in January 2015, applies a common external tariff on trade in goods. ECOWAS has also created mechanisms to ensure that their member states implement the common external tariff, including a customs valuation mechanism; regulations to ensure that inputs for the manufacture of zero-rated products do not face tariffs significantly above those placed on the final product; and safeguard, trade, defense and anti-dumping measures.

Ten out of 15 ECOWAS members were implementing the CET by 2016. In 2017, ECOWAS member countries authorized the ECOWAS Commission to coordinate members negotiating positions in the discussions for the CFTA.

Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA)

The following developments took place in the negotiations of the TFTA since ARIA VII was written:

Eighteen of 26 TFTA member states have signed the Agreement, with a 19th due to sign by 10 June 2017, and one (Egypt) has ratified it.

Rules of origin for product types covering more than 60 of the 96 Harmonized System chapters had already been agreed on by end-May 2017.

Annexes on trade remedies, dispute settlement and rules of origin have been finalized.

The start of the second phase of negotiations has been delayed from its original date.

TFTA member states are discussing whether to drop separate TFTA-level negotiations on trade in services and simply to focus on CFTA negotiations on services trade.

Continental Free Trade Area

The CFTA negotiations continued during 2016 and 2017, including the first meeting of technical working groups and discussions on modalities. As shown in ARIA V, and supported by a more recent study by UNCTAD, the CFTA is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Africa via deeper regional integration and higher incomes and GDP.

Progress update: CFTA negotiations and scope

Negotiations for establishing the CFTA were launched in June 2015 by the Heads of State and Government of the AU at the 26th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in Johannesburg, South Africa. Th AU Assembly decision launching the CFTA urged the participation of all regional economic communities (RECs) and member states and called on the AUC, ECA, AfDB, African Export-Import Bank and other development partners for support, with the aim to operationalize the CFTA by the end of 2017.

Following the launch, six meetings of the CFTA Negotiating Forum were held by July 2017, supported by eight meetings of the Continental Task Force, and two meetings each of the Technical Working Groups, the Committee of Senior Trade Officials, and the African Ministers of Trade. The remainder of 2017 will see these bodies convening frequently, with a further two meetings of the Negotiating Forum.

Free trade agreements can take many forms: Potential CFTA configurations were outlined in ARIA VI. The CFTA negotiations are in progress and so it would be premature to provide a detailed outline of current expectations as to form and content.

On the basis of the draft of the negotiating text, and the negotiations and technical work undertaken, the envisaged scope of the CFTA covers agreements on trade in goods, services, investment, and rules and procedures on dispute settlement. The constituent parts of these agreements and their appendices are expected to cover a range of provisions that aim to facilitate trade; reduce transaction costs; and provide exceptions, flexibilities and safeguards for vulnerable groups and countries in challenging circumstances. It is anticipated that agreements on intellectual property rights and competition policy will be tackled in phase 2 of the CFTA negotiations. Crucially, countries are aligning their interests in a comprehensive agreement that achieves substantially more than tariff reductions and that offers safeguards and flexibilities, which are important for ensuring that the gains from the CFTA are maximized and shared equitably.

Though there remain substantive topics to discuss, the negotiations have achieved considerable momentum and build on a long history of African integration. The CFTA has a notable commitment at the highest policy-making levels. The AU Summit in Kigali in 2017 reaffirmed the commitment of the AU Heads of State and Government to fast track the CFTA. Designing the CFTA at the technical working groups and negotiating forum meetings, and ensuring its effective implementation, are now the critical tasks at hand. As foreseen in the Abuja Treaty, the integration process is to culminate in the African Economic Community.

Intra-African trade in goods

Such benefits are needed, as intra-African exports fell steeply in absolute value from $85 billion in 2014 to $69 billion in 2015. Intra-African trade as a share of the continents GDP also declined, from around 3.4 per cent to around 2.9 per cent over the period.

As a share of Africas total imports, intra-African imports stood at 14 per cent in 2015. As a share of Africas total exports, intra-African exports stood at 18 per cent in 2015.

Intra-REC trade

Comparing the share of intra-regional trade in GDP among 25 selected regional trade agreements in force worldwide and reported to the World Trade Organization (WTO), relative to the total GDP of the bloc (since economic blocs with larger GDP may have greater economic diversity within them, creating greater potential gains from trade and therefore a higher share of intra-regional trade in GDP), Africas RECs that have regional trade agreements (that is, COMESA, EAC, ECCAS, ECOWAS and SADC), tend to underperform in terms of the share of intra-regional trade in GDP (except for SADC).

Among the eight AU-recognized RECs, SADC consistently has the highest share on this metric, even though it does not have the lowest intraregional economic community average-applied tariffs. Other factors, such as trade complementarity, may explain the pattern of trade within SADC.

Non-tariff barriers and trade facilitation

Africa remains far behind the world on its efficiency of document and border processing requirements for trading across borders, despite significant recent progress. For both document and border processing requirements, the best-performing countries and territories in the global dataset achieved a cost of less than one U.S. dollar and a processing time of one hour or less.

For the TFTA, great effort has been put into eliminating NTBs. A mechanism for reporting, monitoring and eliminating them was developed to address eight categories: government participation in trade and restrictive practices tolerated by governments; customs and administrative entry procedures; technical barriers to trade; sanitary and phyto-sanitary measures; specific limitations; charges on imports; other procedural problems; and transport, clearing and forwarding. As of June 2017, 527 complaints have been resolved and 57 remain active.

On 22 February 2017, the World Trade Organizations (WTOs) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) entered into force. It commits members to taking measures to reduce the cost of international trade by simplifying, modernizing or harmonizing the countrys rules and procedures for exporting or importing. While the Agreement obliges developed countries to implement all measures from the date at which it takes effect, developing and least-developed countries will have longer. Each developing or least-developed country will apply an individual list of measures from countries from the date at which the Agreement takes effect, to be decided by the country in question; these are called category A measures. A second individual, nationally determined list of measures (category B) will be implemented after a transition period (which can be different from measure to measure), to be decided by the country in question. A third individual, nationally determined list of measures (category C) will be implemented by the country after a transition period to be determined by the country (which again can be different from measure to measure) and only once it receives capacity building support to do so. Each developing or least-developed country must notify each measure included in the Agreement in one of these three categories.

As African countries start to implement the TFA, trade is expected to be facilitated and boosted, not only among African WTO members likely to become parties to the Agreement, but also between African countries party to the Agreement and non-party African countries. This is because traders from any country (whether party to the Agreement or not) should be able to benefit when trading with a country that is party to the Agreement from measures taken to simplify or modernize export/import rules and procedures.

As of 20 April 2017, of 44 African WTO members party to the TFA, 19 had ratified it. By the same date, 27 had submitted at least some notifications as to which measures will fall into which categories. However, only five (Chad, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique and Zambia) had already notified for all of the measures under the Agreement.

The African Corridor Management Alliance, which will promote information and experience sharing and joint projects among Africas corridor management agencies, was inaugurated in February 2017. This inaugural meeting included discussion of the Alliances work plan and related issues. ECA has provided funding and substantive support for start-up activities.

Trade in services

Data on services trade are notoriously weak, with woefully poor coverage on both what is being traded and with whom, and questionable reliability of the meagre data that are available. Moreover, drawing on balance-of-payments data, services trade data essentially ignores investment flows. Notwithstanding improvements in the collection of services trade data over the past 15 years, the macro- and micro- level services data needed for meaningful economic analysis simply do not exist  a challenge exacerbated in Africa.

One technique commonly used for filling (services) trade flow gaps is to make use of mirror data, i.e. look at what, for example, the United Kingdom reports as services imports from Ethiopia as a proxy for what services Ethiopia exports to the UK. While helpful to fill certain gaps, the technique is biased towards understanding North-South trade (as it relies on better reporting from countries in the North). But no public bilateral mirror data exist on intra-African services trade flows, so the oft-cited African share of trade with itself (14% of imports or 18% of exports) does not account for services trade in any way. Case study literature (e.g. AUC, 2015) and experience from African services firms strongly suggest that the majority of business for most African micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) is intra-African.

For barriers to services trade  found behind the border in the form of regulatory measures  the World Banks Services Trade Restrictiveness Index offers a unique snapshot of prevailing discriminatory restrictions in a subset of 27 African countries, sectors and modes. While there is significant diversity among countries, in aggregate the continent scores relatively well relative to high-income Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, with an average overall index score of 33 compared with 19 for the latter. By mode, Africa scores reasonably well, at 31-21 in mode 1, 31-18.6 in mode 3, and 60.7-58.4 in mode 4. This aggregation masks significant diversity at the country and sector levels, notably where African countries maintain fairly restrictive regimes, for example in professional, retail and transport services.

This seemingly good performance contrasts with broader narratives about the restrictiveness of African economies, as well as with anecdotal evidence that suggests that services barriers and regulations in African countries still heavily impede services trade opportunities for firms. Data issues notwithstanding, this highlights the fact that non-discriminatory barriers (which are not captured in the Services Trade Restrictiveness Index) are no doubt significant. As increased trade and integration take place between African services markets, this emphasizes the importance of looking at the role of discriminatory barriers and non-discriminatory regulations in intra-African services trade.

Informal trade

Much trade between African countries is not recorded in official statistics because it is informal. For example, an estimated 20 per cent of Benins GDP is based on informal trade with Nigeria alone. However, data on informal trade are, by its very definition, very limited.

The lack of information on informal trade in Africa makes it difficult to evaluate the impact of policies on informal traders and their livelihoods. And while some policies or economic challenges are known to harm informal traders (e.g. cumbersome customs procedures), it can be hard to estimate their economic impact and the importance of changing these policies without accurate data on the extent of informal trade. If these policies are worsening the livelihoods of informal traders, they may also worsen gender exclusion, since women are known to make up 70 per cent of informal cross-border traders. All of this underlines the need to collect and produce better information on informal cross-border trade in Africa, extending to understanding which products and services are being traded informally, and who (men or women) is trading in them.

Economic Partnership Agreements

After negotiating for 12 years, African countries have recently made progress towards signing Economic Partnership Agreements with the EU, though only a handful have started provisionally applying them. Such agreements with Cote dIvoire, Ghana and SACU have entered into provisional application since the publication of ARIA VII. Kenya and Rwanda have also signed them with the EU since then, but they have not yet entered into provisional application.

This report is a joint publication of the ECA, AUC and AfDB. The report was prepared under the overall guidance of Abdallah Hamdok, ECA Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist, with oversight by Stephen Karingi, Officer-in-Charge, Regional Integration and Trade Division. The core team preparing the Report consisted of David Luke, Coordinator of ECAs African Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) and Jamie MacLeod, ATPC Trade Policy Fellow.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 16:17:45|Editor: Zhou Xin

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NEW YORK, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The New York Police Department (NYPD) has been gathering evidence for an arrest warrant, after it received a "credible" rape allegation against U.S. film producer Harvey Weinstein.

American actress Paz de la Huerta, who starred in the HBO drama "Boardwalk Empire," told New York police that Weinstein raped her in her apartment twice in 2010. She gave a detailed account on her experience to Vanity Fair, which was published on Thursday.

At a press conference Friday, NYPD Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce called the allegation "credible and detailed," because the woman could "articulate each movement of the crime, where she was, where this happened."

Boyce noted that in the nine days since the actress gave her report to them, they have corroborated parts of her allegations and subpoenas have been issued.

Allegations of sexual misconduct against Weinstein were first exposed by New York Times on Oct. 5. Over the past month, more than 60 women have accused Weinstein of sexual harassment or assault.

So far at least 13 have filed sexual assault reports with police in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, New York and London. Police in the above four cities have opened investigations.

New York prosecutors will ultimately decide whether to charge Weinstein. Detectives are also working together with NYPD, according to Boyce.
Re: Please help with WA itinerary Peth to Broome and back

4. Re: Please help with WA itinerary Peth to Broome and back

<< it depends on how much a third driver would cost >>

What do you mean?

Western Australia is vast with very low population/towns and the distances and effects of long hours driving can be badly understimated. Safer for you to stop at several high value places for a few days than drive hundreds of kilometres every day or second day.

The biggest highlights of a coastal trip north in my experience (others will offer other ideas) would be:

1) Kalbarri 2 nights - Murchison River and estuary, Kalbarri National Park gorges and coast/

2) Shark Bay/Denham/Monkey Mia - 2 nights

3) Exmouth/Coral Bay 4 nights - Ningaloo Reef is spectacular and worth at least three nights stop to explore as well as Cape Range National Park.

4) Karijini 3 nights

5) Overnight at Port Hedland only.

6) Broome 4 nights

These are my suggestions only. Others will have different suggestions.

You still need to allow at least 4 nights for the return journey, stopping perhaps at different places like 80 Mile Beach, Karratha, Carnarvon, Geraldton but there are more attractions/towns on the main coastal route than inland, although the unique carpeted fields of flowers in September are also a very big attraction for some people at that time of year (our Spring!)

Well these are some ideas for you to think about.

Enjoy your planning!

Edited: 5 years ago
If you have a total of 6 days, do they include the overnights needed to be near the airport at the beginning and at the end, too? It is a very short time for CR, you will not be able to do 3 locations ( Arenal, Monteverde and MA), and since you are not all interested in being by the beach, do Arenal and Monteverde. See destinations descriptions here, scroll down to Arenal, and to a separate Monteverde blog - https://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/costa-rica-destinations-summary-guide/ . Read the articles and the comments after each one for more recent QnA. Lots of good trip planning info, from accommodations to things to do there and in the area.

You can certainly have enough to do there to occupy yourselves during the limited time you have in the country.

You might want to use taxi-boat-taxi option between Arenal and Monteverde. If not going by own rental car. It can be done for US$20-32 pp, depending on who arranges it for you, incl., possibly, your first hotel or https://www.desafiocostarica.com/transports/arenal-volcano-la-fortuna/monteverde/all-categories/option-1 , which also offers Adventure Connections between the 2 destinations.
My bias: I don't like "fusion" style and prefer food to be as authentic Vietnamese as possible. I would consider myself very picky when it comes to Vietnamese food. The followings meet my stringent criteria, some may argue this or that is better, etc., that's nit picking and you just have to trust my difficult taste. Kidding. Please google these names + "tripadvisor" and they will come up.

**HOI AN** : All 3 restaurants within walking distance of old town - all on the street "Phan Chau Trinh"

1. Banh Mi Phuong: order "banh mi" (about one of best I've ever had) and "cao lau" (noodle with meat, excellent).

2. Com Ga Ba Buoi: order "com ga" (rice with chicken, much more delicious and complex than the name, outstanding).

3. Pho Xua: order Cao Lau, or anything else of your interest. All great.

Your trip to Hoi An has not been completed until you've ordered at least the above 3 dish (tongue in cheek): Banh Mi, Cao Lau, and Com Ga.

***HUE***

Quan Hanh: Multiple dish, all outstanding. Try the set menu with samples of different distinctly central VN dish - absolutely mouth watering delicious. Banh Khoi is amazing.

Hue is also famous for "bun bo Hue," but in Hue it is served in the morning so we never had the chance to try.
Hi

I'm planning to travel from Kyoto to Kanazawa on the 29th of December

I dont live in Japan and am worried the trains on the Thunderbird Limited Express will be fully booked. we only arrive in Japan on the 24th of December (Osaka)

How can we prebook the train with a reserved seat before we arrive in Japan?

Thanks
Is your company in need of the most reliable and efficient best Best Jasmine Tea s in the market? Your good luck led you to the ideal situation, so congratulations! You are in the best possible place. By eliminating the need to read through dozens of Best Jasmine Tea reviews, we are saving you time and stress.

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Republicans have a plan to hurt blue states. It could backfire.

Many blue states are in big, big trouble. Perhaps Republicans should be wary of causing them more, if they really think it through.

The new Republican tax plan is, on the whole, a bunch of tax cuts weighted toward the rich. To partly offset the cost of those cuts, the bill also closes some deductions and loopholes.

Among the biggest and most controversial of those disappearing deductions: all state and local income taxes. If Republican leadership has its way, the only state and local taxes you could continue to deduct on your federal personal income-tax return would be property taxes, and only up to $10,000.

This is not exactly a surprise. Red-state Republicans have complained about the state and local tax (SALT) deduction for ages.

They usually argue that the SALT deduction requires lower-tax, lower-income (i.e., mostly Republican) states to subsidize higher-tax, higher-income (mostly Democratic) states. They also complain that it incentivizes the latter to spend more on government services than necessary.

This critique is partly true. On the margin, SALT deductibility does make it easier for states and municipalities to raise taxes, since the feds implicitly bear some of the cost.

But the red-states-subsidizing-blue-states argument isn't quite right. At least, not when you consider the federal budget system as a whole  that is, how much states pay into the treasury in total and how much they get back through federal spending and transfers.

On net, tax dollars actually flow from higher-tax states to lower-tax ones, according to research from the Rockefeller Institute of Government. New Yorkers are effectively subsidizing Montanans.

But forget for a moment this red-vs.-blue scorekeeping. There's a much more practical concern that should weigh on federal lawmakers.

It's this: Many high-tax blue states are in serious fiscal doo-doo. And if Congress successfully repeals the deductibility of state income taxes, these states' fiscal challenges could quickly become a series of major (and possibly contagious) fiscal crises.

States are under fiscal pressure for a few reasons. The Great Recession, though it began almost 10 years ago, left budgetary scars that have not yet healed.

The bigger problem is what lies ahead.

As Stanford Graduate School of Business professor Joshua D. Rauh has documented, many states and municipalities bear huge unfunded pension liabilities. They've tried to hide them using accounting gimmicks (by assuming preposterously high returns on pension fund investments, for example) but eventually these debts will catch up to them.

Already, several states have experienced painful credit downgrades. New Jersey bonds have been downgraded 11 times since January 2010. Illinois's debt is barely above "junk" status.

These problems may be largely of these states' own making. Especially in New Jersey, where Republican Gov. Chris Christie looked at the state's budget problems and curiously decided to cut taxes.

But that doesn't make solving these states' debt problems any easier  especially under the tax regime that federal lawmakers are crafting.

"The elimination of SALT could have the effect of increasing pressure from taxpayers for states to reduce taxes," Rauh emailed me before the bill came out. "If creditors deduce the long-term impact of this, that could drive up borrowing spreads for states where this deduction is very valuable."

He added that the tax plan would likely "add further resistance and reduce willingness-to-pay when state and local governments propose future tax increases."

Which means these state and municipal fiscal problems can only get worse.

States could try to shift more of their taxes away from income taxes and toward property taxes, which currently comprise just 1 percent of states' own general source revenues. (Municipalities are much more reliant on property taxes.) But states don't have the administrative capabilities in place to easily do that, says Tax Policy Center senior fellow Tracy Gordon.

What's likely to happen instead?

Well, as the marginal cost of state and local income taxes rises, higher-income residents may decide to leave for greener (i.e., lower-tax) pastures. Or states may cut taxes to try to keep them around. Both possibilities would worsen states' fiscal imbalances and expedite the crises that are rapidly approaching.

It's not clear whether any of these risks are on the GOP leadership's radar. But if Republicans are hoping for some blue-state fiscal chaos, they shouldn't be, and not just because there are dozens of Republican congressional districts in Democratic states.

Democratic states, after all, aren't the only ones with enormous unfunded pension liabilities. If one high-tax blue state goes belly-up, investors could easily get spooked, driving up borrowing costs elsewhere, too. Fiscal fires can burn across state lines. So keep that schadenfreude in check.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 17:32:58|Editor: Zhou Xin

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TEHRAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry said that the resignation of the Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is aimed to create tension in Lebanon and the region, Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.

"Mr. Hariri's sudden resignation and the announcement of his resignation in another country is regretful and at the same time surprising," Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi said in a statement.

"It shows Hariri is playing in a field prepared by those who wish ill for the region, and the winner of this game is both Arab countries and the Zionist regime (of Israel) whose survival is contingent upon tension in regional Muslim countries," Qasemi was quoted as saying.

At a time when the life of the so-called Islamic State (IS) and other terrorist groups in the region is coming to an end, efforts should be made to calm the situation and to fix the damage by terrorists trained and sponsored by the United States and its regional allies, he said.

On Saturday, Hariri announced his resignation claiming that it stemmed from a "rejection of Iran's political over-extension in the region."

"I declare my resignation from the premiership of the Lebanese government, with certainty that the will of the Lebanese is strong," Hariri said in an unexpected move in a televised statement he read from the Saudi capital Riyadh.

His "country would be able to overcome political influence exerted by internal and external forces," he said, adding that the "Islamic Republic (of Iran) has a desire to destroy the Arab world and has boasted of its control over the decisions of Arab capitals."

"Iran's hand would be cut off," Hariri said, adding that "Lebanon would not play a role in destabilizing the region."

He also implicated Lebanese Hezbollah Shiite group in what he views as Iran's race to regional domination.

The Iranian spokesman rejected Hariri's comments against Iran, saying that "the resigned Lebanese premier's repetition of unfounded accusations levelled against Iran by the Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United States bears witness to the fact that this resignation, too, is a new scenario to create new tension in Lebanon and in the region."

He maintained that "but we believe that strong Lebanese people will easily pass through this phase too."

Iran has always wanted to see peace and stability in the Middle East countries and has defined its interests based on the security, stability and economic growth of all neighbouring and regional countries, Qasemi stressed.

"Accordingly, top of Iran's regional policies is to fight insecurity and instability as well as extremist and terrorist groups to ensure tranquillity for all countries," he added.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has always respected Lebanon's independence, stability and tranquillity, and has expressed its readiness to cooperate with the Lebanese government in areas of mutual interest, the spokesman pointed out.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 17:38:00|Editor: Zhou Xin

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MOGADISHU, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said it is undertaking a series of troop movements, aimed at re-aligning contingent compositions in various forward operation bases across Somalia as part of exit strategy.

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Francisco Caetano Madeira, said the strategic troop movements will continue, without disrupting the provision of the existing security services.

Madeira said in a statement released on Saturday night that the re-alignment of the troop composition will ensure the safety of the people of Somalia, who remain at the core of AMISOM's operational consideration.

"The realignment of our troops in forward operating bases across the sectors including the movement of Ethiopian military contingents who are currently seen crossing the border from and into Somalia, represents calculated activities, in readiness for the transitioning of security responsibilities to the Somali National Security Forces," he said.

AMISOM has kicked off plans to exit the Horn of Africa nation by training the local security officers.

The Pan-African body's mission will reduce its troops by 1,000 by December, followed by further cuts next year, an exercise expected to end by 2020 as part of its exit strategy.

However, AMISOM's exit is also pegged on the ability of the Somali National Security Forces, particularly the SNA to ably take over the security of the country.

Madeira lauded the Somali security forces for their determination and focus in completing all training and ensuring they are prepared to assume security responsibilities over territories that are currently secured by AMISOM.

The UN Security Council Resolution 2372 (2017) calls for a gradual, conditions-based, withdrawal of AMISOM troops from Somalia, following an intensive training and upskilling of Somalia's National Security Forces.
Glenford Gardener is the 17th prison officer to be killed in the last fifteen years and his murder has resuscitated with it...
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 17:53:02|Editor: Zhou Xin

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MOGADISHU, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United States mission in Somalia has directed non-essential American officials to leave capital Mogadishu, due to the risk of terrorist attacks in the Horn of Africa nation.

The mission said in a statement released on Saturday night that the security situation in Somalia is unstable, noting that the threat to all Americans in Somalia remains critical.

"Due to specific threat information against U.S. personnel on the Mogadishu International Airport, the U.S. Mission to Somalia has directed all non-essential U.S. citizen employees to depart Mogadishu until further notice," it said in a statement released on Saturday night.

Militants had repeatedly attacked Mogadishu's international airport complex with improvised vehicle bombs, mortars, and direct weapons fire.

The mission's warning came after the U.S. military conduced two separate airstrikes against militants in northeastern Somalia, where it killed several terrorists.

The U.S. Africa Command (Africom), which is assessing the results of the strikes on Nov. 3, said the first military strikes against the Islamic State (ISIS) occurred at about midnight local Somalia time with the second separate strike occurring at approximately 11 a.m. local Somalia time.

Washington urged all Americans who decide to remain in Somalia to review their personal security plans, take appropriate steps to enhance their personal safety, "remain aware of your surroundings, monitor local media for updates, and maintain a high level of vigilance."
President Donald Trump on Sunday began his first official visit to Asia. His first stop is Japan, followed by South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. Heres what people in those countries have to say about their expectations for the visit.

JAPAN

Yoh Kawakami, employee at an information management solution company:

I do wonder whether things will be OK, like, what will the world turn into? I wonder about his (Trumps) response to North Korea and other things. There are things that scare me. He is becoming friendly with Prime Minister Abe, and I dont know if that is right or not.

I do want him (Trump) to be more cool-headed. If he continues only provoking, the situation may actually become explosive.

Yumu Katsuyama, employee at nonprofit for international clinical childcare:

Honestly when he first became president, I did question whether he was OK. But my American friends have said that after he became president, their lives and the economy has gotten better. Personally, I have started thinking that it may be a good thing that he became president.

SOUTH KOREA

Ock Hyun-woong, company worker:

President Trump is known to be a man of coercive control who makes controversial statements that get the attention of foreign media. While I dont oppose President Trumps visit to South Korea, I hope he can work well with South Korean-U.S. issues, like the economy.

CHINA

Ding Chenling, technology investor and well-known tech blogger with 700,000 followers on Chinas microblogging website Weibo:

Well, maybe our system is not that perfect yet, but its like a kid to the teacher. We dont want to be lectured by the teacher. We want to have our own way. We want to grow our own self by ourselves. So I think thats the reason the Chinese people like Trump. He casts aside the political correctness. He says Oh yeah, its good, America may do business, we want to do business, we want to make money together.

Zhao Yingran, business development manager for a virtual reality video company:

So I very much respect President Xi from the bottom of my heart and I think under his leadership, China will lead the world sooner or later especially with the focus on technologies and humanity. I think all of the policies executed by President Xi should set a good example for Donald Trump, which Donald Trump will need to learn to make United States great again.

VIETNAM

Bach Ngoc Lien, development expert:

Donald Trump is a controversial character. He often has negative comments about migrants, makes unfavorable policies about climate change, the areas where the U.S. used to be the leader and plays an important role internationally. Human rights, womens rights are values that the U.S. used to uphold, but I find that these values are fading under Trumps presidency.

During his campaign, President Donald Trump had a slogan Make America Great Again and for his Asian trip, I have a slogan for him: Make America Friendly Again because the U.S has always been a friendly country, being the dream of many people, up until now. I hope Donald Trump will not distance the U.S and isolate it from other countries. I hope he will make the U.S friendly again like it used to be.

PHILIPPINES

Jeanne Vivar, student:

I dont like the conservative policies of Trump and obviously it has affected the Filipinos working in America. Ironically, there are a lot of people who are in favor of Donald Trump.

In Asia, especially the problem in North Korea is escalating, so my message will be when Trump arrives here in Asia and the Philippines, I hope the tensions will ease instead of him making it worse.

Lorenzo Nakpil, architect:

My opinion on Trump is mixed. I dont agree with some people in the West they say he is racist and he wants to build a wall blocking Mexico and he gives immigrants a hard time. He is very conservative in that sense but in a way I respect that. Where I agree with Trump is where he agrees with (Philippine President Rodrigo) Duterte and he supports the Philippines war on drugs. He doesnt buy it that Dutertes way of stopping drugs is a human rights violation. Our president with the support of Trump, theyre actually doing a good job.
The indictment last week of former Donald Trump campaign aide George Papadopoulos, who admitted lying about contacts with Russia during the 2016 U.S. presidential election campaign, is turning the spotlight on London as an important hub of suspected Kremlin meddling in Western politics, say analysts and Western officials.

Papadopoulos, who White House spokespeople say was a low-level and unimportant foreign policy adviser in last years campaign, was initially introduced to shadowy Russian contacts by a London-based globe-trotting Maltese academic, according to the indictment of Papadopoulos unsealed last week by special counsel Robert Mueller.

But the British capital is now featuring more prominently than just the venue of meetings between Papadopoulos and Russian officials.

Probes launched on both sides of the Atlantic into suspected Russian subversion of last years White House race and the 2016 Brexit referendum are increasingly highlighting the British capital as a hotbed of Russian intelligence activity that links individuals and groups of interest to investigators in Washington as well as in Britain.

Political pressure is mounting on the ruling Conservative government of Theresa May to launch a broad formal inquiry into whether Moscow sought to influence the Brexit vote.

The demands came as it emerged that three senior past and present Foreign Office ministers, including the current Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson may have been targeted by individuals identified by the FBI last week as central to the Mueller probe.

Mueller is investigating Russia's meddling in the U.S. election and accusations of collusion between Trump campaign aides and the Kremlin. The Trump administration has denied there was any collusion. Papadopolous reached a deal last month with Mueller, agreeing to plead guilty to lying to FBI agents about his contacts with Russian intermediaries during the presidential race.

According to the indictment Papadopoulos was offered thousands of emails of dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in his meetings. Those offers came months before Wikileaks, whose head Julian Assange is based in London, published emails hacked from Democratic Party servers in what U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed as part of an active measures operation by Moscow.

Britains Observer newspaper reported Sunday that Papadopoulos and the Maltese professor, who was not named in the Mueller indictment but was subsequently identified as Joseph Mifsud, had several meetings or encounters with British ministers. As recently as two weeks ago Mifsud reportedly attended a dinner at which Boris Johnson was present and was the guest speaker. Foreign Office officials have told the British press that Johnson did not knowingly speak with Mifsud.

Before the dinner, the Maltese academic, who has boasted to colleagues he has met Russian leader Vladimir Putin, told friends he planned to raise the current Brexit negotiations with Johnson, according to en email obtained by Byline, an independent news-site.

The disclosure about the meetings has prompted opposition party calls for the British government to launch a full-fledged inquiry into Russian intelligence activity. It is adding to growing unease about whether Moscow tried to influence Britains 2016 vote to leave the European Union.

Tom Watson, deputy leader of Britains Labour party, has dubbed the meetings extraordinary and argues it is vital to know if the Kremlin had sought to influence British politics. The disclosure of Mifsuds attendance at a Conservative dinner featuring Johnson comes just days after the British Foreign Secretary dismissed worries about possible Russian interference in British politics, saying, I havent seen a sausage.

Earlier this year, Britains Electoral Commission announced it was investigating whether the Leave campaign run by Nigel Farage, a leading Brexiter and Trump supporter, received impermissible donations. The elections watchdog said, this followed an assessment which concluded that there were reasonable grounds to suspect that potential offenses under the law may have occurred.

Last week, the Electoral Commission launched a second narrower probe into the source of some of the donations and loans to Farages campaign amid allegations by Labour lawmaker and former minister Ben Bradshaw that the funds may have been dark money channeled to disguise its origin.

A leading Brexit campaign financier, Arron Banks, says Russia had no hand in funding Farages campaign. Theyre in a tizzy. They think it was funded by Russia, Banks told The Times newspaper. Of course it didnt. It came from my bank account.

The denial is not quieting a mounting chorus in Britains Parliament for a bigger investigation. Tom Brake, a Liberal Democrat lawmaker, is also urging a formal inquiry, citing concerns emerging about possible Russian interference in the EU referendum.

British election officials say they are talking also with social media companies to establish whether Russian agencies may have used Facebook and Twitter to try to influence the Brexit vote in much the same way investigators allege they attempted to do in the U.S. election last year.
Contingent of African Union peacekeeping troops Sierra Leone arrive in Somali's capital of Mogadishu, June 1, 2013. Sierra Leone pledged to contribute a battalion in a southern Somalia area which is known as Sector II of African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia (AMISOM). (Xinhua/Faisal Isse)

MOGADISHU, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said it is undertaking a series of troop movements, aimed at re-aligning contingent compositions in various forward operation bases across Somalia as part of exit strategy.

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Francisco Caetano Madeira, said the strategic troop movements will continue, without disrupting the provision of the existing security services.

Madeira said in a statement released on Saturday night that the re-alignment of the troop composition will ensure the safety of the people of Somalia, who remain at the core of AMISOM's operational consideration.

"The realignment of our troops in forward operating bases across the sectors including the movement of Ethiopian military contingents who are currently seen crossing the border from and into Somalia, represents calculated activities, in readiness for the transitioning of security responsibilities to the Somali National Security Forces," he said.

AMISOM has kicked off plans to exit the Horn of Africa nation by training the local security officers.

The Pan-African body's mission will reduce its troops by 1,000 by December, followed by further cuts next year, an exercise expected to end by 2020 as part of its exit strategy.

However, AMISOM's exit is also pegged on the ability of the Somali National Security Forces, particularly the SNA to ably take over the security of the country.

Madeira lauded the Somali security forces for their determination and focus in completing all training and ensuring they are prepared to assume security responsibilities over territories that are currently secured by AMISOM.
A car bomb has exploded in the Syrian city of Deir el-Zour, according to the Syrian state news agency.

Saturdays explosion killed dozens of people, according to both the news agency, SANA, and to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The exact death toll is not yet clear.

The attack targeted refugees from the violence who had gathered on the east side of the Euphrates River, according to both SANA and the human rights organization.

Deir el-Zour is the center of Syrias oil production and a regional hub for commerce.

The city is one of two in which Syrian troops declared victory over IS on Friday. The victory along the Iraqi-Syrian border followed raids by forces on either side of the border near the Euphrates Valley.

The jihadist groups self-proclaimed caliphate was in tatters after it lost its urban strongholds in Syria and Iraq, with the simultaneous assaults on Deir el-Zour in Syria and Al-Qaim in Iraq, leaving IS in control of little more than small plots of territory scattered along the border.
Catalonia's ousted leader Carles Puigdemont and four former ministers turned themselves in Sunday in Brussels, following Spain's issuance of a warrant for their arrests.

Puigdemont had said Saturday he intended to cooperate with officials in Brussels, where he fled last week, tweeting, "We are prepared to fully cooperate with Belgian justice following the European arrest warrant issued by Spain."

A Spanish judge issued the warrant for Puigdemont a day after she jailed nine members of the region's separatist government pending possible charges over last week's declaration of independence. One person was later granted bail.

The National Court judge filed the request with the Belgian prosecutor to detain Puigdemont and his four aides, and issued separate European search and arrest warrants to alert Interpol in case they fled Belgium.

Belgian federal prosecutors said they had received the arrest warrant and could question Puigdemont in coming days.

Puigdemont and the four others were being sought on charges that included rebellion, sedition and embezzlement as a result of a Spanish investigation into their roles in pushing for secession for Catalonia.
China has a chance to assert leadership of a global plan to combat global warming this week at the first U.N. climate talks since U.S. President Donald Trump decided to quit the 195-nation Paris Agreement, delegates say.

Government experts are to work on a "rule book" for the 2015 climate pact at the Nov. 6-17 annual meeting in Bonn, Germany.

The accord seeks to end the fossil fuel era this century with a shift to wind, solar and other clean energies.

Trump once dismissed climate change as a Chinese hoax to harm the U.S. economy and said in June that he would pull out of the agreement and instead promote U.S. coal and oil. A formal U.S. withdrawal will take until 2020.

No other nation has followed his lead. U.S. influence is likely to wane compared to other big greenhouse emitters led by China, the European Union and India even though Washington will still have a place at the table in Bonn.

"The rest of the world, including all major emerging economies, has made it clear that it is committed to the Paris Agreement," Maldives Environment Minister Thor Abraham, chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (OASIS), told Reuters.

China, on track to beat its goal of a peak in carbon emissions in 2030, seems best placed to step up leadership of an agreement largely designed by Washington under former president Barack Obama, many delegates say.

The meeting "will be a great free advertisement for China," one European environment minister said. And Beijing plans to launch a nationwide carbon market this year, albeit delayed from the first half.

"The results [in Bonn] will prove that this [Paris] process has certainly not stopped," China's top climate official, Xi Zhenhua, told a news conference last week. He expressed hopes that Washington will end up staying in the Paris pact.

Adding urgency, 2017 is set to be the second warmest on record, behind 2016, according to NASA. And 2017 has had weather extremes of hurricanes, floods and drought-fueled wildfires.

Fiji will preside at the Bonn talks, the first small island nation to do so in more than two decades of URN. climate negotiations. That may give OASIS, at risk from rising seas, unprecedented influence.

The Paris rule book, including details of how to measure and report emissions, is due to be in place by the end of 2018.

Alden Meyer, of the Union of Concerned Scientists, said governments will face a tougher test in coming years when they have to ratchet up national ambitions to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

The United Nations says average temperatures will rise about three degrees Celsius (5.4 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times by 2100 with existing policies, against a Paris goal of keeping them "well below" two degrees (3.6F), ideally 1.5 (2.7F).

And on Friday, U.S. scientists released a report saying it was "extremely likely" that human activities are the main source of warming, contradicting Trump's views.

"The U.S. has painted itself into a corner," isolated both from other nations and from mainstream science, Christiana Figures, who was the U.N. climate chief in Paris, told Reuters.
C ongolese troops clashed with supporters a renegade colonel in Congo's eastern city of Bukavu on Sunday before he surrendered and turned himself in to U.N. peacekeepers.

Democratic Republic of Congo army spokesman for South Kivu region, Dieudonne Kasereka, said by telephone that clashes had started after police came to disarm Colonel Abbas Kayonga, who was sacked from his post on Thursday.

However, Kayonga, a former rebel from a group that had been disarmed and integrated into the Congolese military, gave himself up at the local base for the U.N. mission to Congo.

"He has just surrendered with 17 people at the base of the mission," Kasereka said, adding that there had been some deaths and arrests but he did not yet have the figures.

Kasereka estimated the initial size of Kayonga's force at about 30. Some had been arrested, some may have been killed and others had fled, he said.

Security has been deteriorating across Congo since the end of last year, when President Joseph Kabila refused to step down despite his mandate expiring.

Surging militia violence in the east, which has for decades been a tinderbox of ethnic rivalries fuelled by the region's mineral wealth, and in the formerly peaceful central Kasai region, have raised fears the country could slip back to the multi-faceted civil wars of the turn of the century.

Those wars killed hundreds of thousands directly in violence while millions of others are thought to have died from of hunger and disease.

The national electoral commission was expected to announce a date for the election to replace Kabila later on Sunday. Last month, it said the election cannot take place until April 2019, raising fears of an escalation in militia violence and civil disturbances.

U.S. envoy Nikki Haley, after meeting with Kabila last month, said the vote must happen in 2018 or it will lose international support.
The Democratic Republic of Congo's long-awaited presidential elections have been scheduled for December of 2018, the Electoral Commission president announced Sunday.

The DRC was due to have elections in 2016, but the national elections commissioner has said elections this year are not possible due to the ongoing conflict in the Kasai region and the need for a national registry of eligible voters. Long-time president Joseph Kabila has refused to step down even though his second term expired last December.

Congo's electoral commission had said it will not be ready to conduct elections until April 2019 at the earliest. The opposition accuses Kabila of trying to buy time until he can change the constitution and eliminate term limits.

During a visit to the central African country last week, U.S. ambassador to the U.N. Niki Haley called for free and fair elections by 2018, saying that Kinshasa would not receive international help with the vote if there were any further delays.

Dozens died in protests against Kabila's refusal to step down at the end of his constitutional mandate last December.

Kabila's government has faced a wave of protests in recent months over the election issue. Growing unrest in the country has raised fears of a return to civil war, which ravaged the DRC for nearly a decade beginning in the late 1990s, leading to the deaths of millions of people.
Unusual acts of defiance against government demands led to protests last week in Eritreas capital, Asmara, according to experts who study the region.

The rare protests were the culmination of nearly two years of back-and-forth between the Ministry of Education and leaders of the Diaa Islamic School of Asmara, who defied government orders aimed at removing religion from their curricula. An elderly school board member, Hajji Muasa Mohamed Nur, voiced the schools resistance in a widely shared video posted on YouTube. We are not going to change anything, Nur said as the crowd applauded.



Nur was arrested, and the government threatened to take over the school, sending officials to collect the keys, several opposition groups said. Thats when a crowd descended on the school grounds and marched toward the Ministry of Education to protest the closing, according to state-owned media shabait.com.

Vacuum of information

Videos of frightened crowds dispersing as gunshots ring out have circulated on social media since last week. But the time and place of the videos have not been verified, and no injuries or deaths are depicted.

The government says reports of deaths and violence are part of a pattern of sensationalized stories that dominate news coverage of Eritrea.

Scoop-oriented media outlets keep churning out false casualty figures peddled by Eritreas detractors without minimum verification, Yemane Gebremeskel, the minister of information, posted on Twitter. He said a small demonstration by one school in Asmara dispersed without any casualties.

But press freedom in Eritrea ranks among the lowest in the world, and non-governmental organizations cant operate independently in the country.

Felix Horne, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch who focuses on the Horn of Africa, said those restrictions prevent verification and block credible information. In this case, that information could support the governments side of the story.

Instead, opposition groups have seized the moment to give their version of events, Horne said. Its a very self-defeating strategy in our view, if the government has nothing to hide.

Social media has added to the confusion, but its also enabled some information to leak out, including the clip of Nur. That the government can suppress, but not completely black out news, I think, emboldens people and encourages people to know that theyre not alone, said Saleh Younis, the editor of Awate.com, an Eritrean news website that is opposed to the government and its policies.

Details of last weeks protests and the government reaction also remain murky because people are scared of reprisals, Younis said. Even if you know information, youre hesitant to disclose it because we have a police state in Eritrea, he said.

Much of the governments response happens out of the spotlight. According to Younis, police have rounded up hundreds of people at night, and entire areas have been cordoned off.

Years of pressure

The Diaa Islamic School of Asmara was founded in 1968. The school has taught students from kindergarten to high school, and according to Younis has been well regarded. Nearly 3,000 students attend Diaa.

But for nearly two years, the government has had a litany of requests: Girls in high school should not wear headscarves, the school should remain open on Fridays, secondary classes should no longer be segregated by gender and no classes should focus on Islamic teachings, according to an alum.

School leaders were willing to compromise on some points, for example, staying open on Fridays. The government pressed to implement all of the changes, but school leaders refused. The whole core of the school is being undermined, Younis said.

Other schools have changed their practices and curricula in the government drive to secularize education, and some have closed, but Diaa appears unique in its resistance.

The key difference, said Semhar Habtezion, a member of the Eritrean Diaspora, was Nur. He was fearless, and he was, in effect, saying we cannot continue fearing this government. This is our school, and we will do whatever it takes to fight back.

When the government attempted to take over the school it crossed a red line that caused people to rise up and say "No," Younis said.

From the governments perspective, intervening in the schools affairs was necessary to protect its secular national curriculum. Writing on the Ministry of Informations website, Mella Ghebremedhin said, "Similar... actions have recently been taken with both Catholic and Orthodox schools."

Despite last weeks unrest, the Diaa school remains open. VOAs stringer in Asmara visited the day after the protests and confirmed to VOA Tigrigna that classes had resumed and students were outside playing sports. He also said by phone on Friday that ninth and 11th-grade students at the Catholic Cathedral school had been ordered to begin attending public schools near their neighborhoods.
Two suicide bombers struck in the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk on Sunday, killing at least five people and wounding more than 20 others, police and medical sources said.

The interior ministry said the attacks targeted a Shi'ite Muslim mosque on Atlas Street in central Kirkuk and gave an initial casualty toll of one killed and 16 wounded.

It is the first such attack since the central government in Baghdad seized the oil-rich city last month from Kurdish forces, who had been controlling Kirkuk for three years.

The central government in Baghdad launched an offensive on Oct. 16 to recapture the city and other territories in northern Iraq claimed by both Baghdad and the Kurds, in retaliation for a referendum on Kurdish independence.

Iraqi security forces advanced on the city, forcing the Kurdish Peshmerga to withdraw. The retreat also allowed Baghdad to take control of all oil fields operated by the state-owned North Oil Company in Kirkuk's northern province.

No group has claimed responsibility for Sunday's attacks but the suicide bombings are a trademark of Islamic State militants.

Police sources said the two attacks happened in quick succession and said the death toll might rise because some of the wounded were in critical condition.

"It's a crowded street and a place for street vendors. The terrorists wanted to kill large number of people," said a Kirkuk police major.

Iraqi security officials have said Islamic State is likely to wage an insurgency in Iraq after their self-proclaimed caliphate all but collapsed and they were dislodged from large territories in the west and north on the country.

Iraqi security forces have recaptured nearly all territories once controlled by Islamic State. Fighting is ongoing in the border areas with Syria where militants are entrenched in the small town of Rawa and nearby border areas.
At least five people were killed in Iraq's disputed Kirkuk city by twin suicide bombs Sunday.

More than a dozen others were wounded in the attacks, which happened about 15 minutes apart, on Atlas street  a key shopping area in the city of more than a million residents.

The attack was the first of its kind since Baghdad seized control of the city from Kurdish forces following a Kurdish independence vote held in defiance of Baghdad.

Last month, Iraq's military took control of more areas from Kurdish fighters, including the Mosul Dam, after carrying out an operation to reclaim the city and oil fields in the northern part of the country.

Kurds had taken control of the area in 2014 during the chaotic sweep by Islamic State militants through northern and western Iraq.
Military forces were deployed Sunday to help thousands of displaced people in Malaysias northern state of Penang, officials said, as floodwater rose from more than 24 hours of incessant rain.

At least 2,000 people had been evacuated and 80 percent of the state was hit by typhoonlike winds and heavy rain, chief minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement.

He said floodwater had risen to 3-4 meters (10-12 feet). Lim also warned in a Facebook post that more rain was expected and advised residents to stay at home.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the National Security Council was coordinating with police and the military to assist flood victims after a request for assistance from Penang.

Hundreds of trees were toppled and roads were submerged, leaving many areas practically paralyzed, Malaysian news agency Bernama reported. At least two people had been killed, it said.

We remain fearful that there may still be untoward incidents because of the strong winds, the like of which have never been experienced before, and flash floods might recur, Lim told reporters in Penang, according to Bernama.

Hundreds of people had been placed in temporary shelters after their homes were flooded or destroyed by the storm.
Hundreds of protesters were arrested in Moscow Sunday during a demonstration against Russian president Vladimir Putin coinciding with celebrations of Russia's National Unity Day holiday.

According to OVD-Info, which monitors crackdowns on demonstrations, 360 people had been arrested in demonstrations across the country by 5pm on Sunday. Moscow police had put the figure in the capital at 260.

Tass news agency said that many protesters in Moscow had knives and brass knuckles.

Protesters at the unsanctioned demonstration are believed to be linked to nationalist politician and Kremlin critic Vyacheslav Maltsev and his Artillery Preparation movement  a group declared extremist and banned in Russia.

Self-exiled Maltsev said on YouTube that Russia is up for a "revolution" this weekend.

Putin declared November 4 "National Unity Day" in 2005 to mark Russia's victory over Poland in 1612.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 18:13:09|Editor: Yurou

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TEHRAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran's army chief, Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, is to attend a trilateral meeting with his Russian and Turkish counterparts on security cooperation in the near future, Financial Tribune daily reported on Sunday.

"Soon, the chiefs of the general staff of Russia, Turkey and Iran will hold a trilateral summit," Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Ebrahim Rahimpour was quoted as saying.

"They will talk about the security of the region and fighting terrorism," Rahimpour said without specifying the venue for the meeting.

"The Astana meetings (on Syrian peace efforts) are going well. We have good consultations with Turkey on regional issues," he said.

Heading a high-ranking military delegation, Chief of the General Staff of Turkey Hulusi Akar paid an official visit to Iran last month to hold talks with senior Iranian officials.

The two sides discussed Iran-Turkey defense ties, regional developments, cooperation on border affairs and the fight against terrorism.

Earlier in August, Baqeri had visited Turkey and held meetings with top Turkish officials, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Akar.
Pakistans government has formed a regulatory body to monitor and block blasphemous content online in an effort to further extend the enforcement of the countrys controversial anti-blasphemy law into cyberspace.

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the government-run communications regulatory agency, has created a 25-member group tasked with cracking down on websites, social media accounts and online pages that they consider offensive to Islam.

The committee, being constituted by the Ministry of Interior, will include representatives from PTA, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and the ministry, Ismail Shah, PTAs chairman, told the standing committee on information technology of Pakistans upper house of parliament recently.

Earlier in May, PTA had sent text messages to millions of cellphone users in the country and warned them not to post or share any blasphemous content online.

Controversial issue

Blasphemy remains a controversial issue in the Muslim-majority country where anyone labeled as blasphemous faces dangerous consequences: The law states anyone found guilty of insulting Islam will receive a sentence of life in prison or the death penalty.

As government is committed to scrutinizing online contents, some rights activists charge that monitoring the internet will be a slippery slope.

The monitoring of social media for blasphemous content is a dangerous precedent in Pakistan. The law has often been misused in the past and now a crackdown on internet will further complicate the situation, Zohra Yusuf, a Pakistani human rights activist, told VOA.

Silencing dissent

Critics worry the state is using religion and national security as a pretext to discourage dissent on the internet, where people can express their opinions on topics such as politics, the military, social issues, womens rights, religious freedom and human rights.

In any democracy, such controls cannot be termed legal. Selective controls, targeted crackdown and culture of impunity only brings unrest in the society, especially for minorities and marginalized segments of the society, Shahzad Ahmad, Pakistan director of the digital rights advocacy group Bytes for All, told VOA.

Lawmakers of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) party, however, vowing transparency in the enforcement of the law, defends the governments action and considers it legal.

PTA follows a process and blocks a blasphemous link after complete scrutiny. Similarly, the regulatory body completely investigates before anyone is apprehended or taken into the court under blasphemy charges, parliament member Zahra Wadood Fatimi told VOA.

Threat to freedom

Despite assurances from the government, rights activists worry formation of the group could be considered a Trojan horse, which will lead to people losing the relative freedom of expression they enjoy in cyberspace.

It will be another tool for the state and people to settle down personal scores and vendettas. Do we even remember the secular bloggers abducted earlier this year and returned as blasphemers?Zohra Yusuf asked.

In January 2017, five secular social media activists went missing from different cities in Pakistan. The activists reappeared after a few weeks with a label of bloggers who committed blasphemy, local media reported.

The bloggers were critical of the countrys powerful military, the existing political system and human rights violations committed by different factions, according to reports, which said the bloggers, fearing for their lives, sought refuge abroad.

Harsh punishment

The states punishment is harsh for those found guilty of committing blasphemy. In some cases, when courts have not charged suspects, Pakistanis have taken the matter into their own hands.

A simple accusation that someone has committed blasphemy can lead to threats against the suspect. Other times, it could mean death.

In May, a Hindu man was rescued by police from a mob in Hub, Baluchistan. The man was accused of posting blasphemous content on social media.

In March, Mashaal Khan, 23, a journalism student of Abdul Wali Khan University in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was beaten to death by fellow students. He had been accused of posting blasphemous content online.

Earlier this year, Islamabads High Court issued directives to the Ministry of Interior to take prompt action when it saw content it deemed blasphemous on the internet, even if it meant blocking social media websites in the country.

A few days later, Pakistans then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif declared online blasphemous content on social media a nefarious conspiracy. He directed his government to take strict actions against those involved in such activities. He also ordered officials to discuss the matter with international social media companies.

With the formation of PTAs regulatory body on monitoring blasphemous contents online, there will likely be more restrictions in cyberspace and more scrutiny of those who talk out against religion online.
They played key roles in Russia's 1917 Bolshevik Revolution, which triggered a civil war that killed millions, devastated the country and redrew its borders. A century later, their descendants say these historic wounds have not healed.

As Russia approaches the centennial of the uprising, it has struggled to come to terms with the legacy of those who remade the nation. The Kremlin is avoiding any official commemoration of the anniversary, tip-toeing around the event that remains polarizing for many and could draw unwelcome parallels to the present.

Alexis Rodzianko, whose great-grandfather was speaker of the pre-revolutionary Russian parliament and pushed Czar Nicholas II to abdicate but later regretted it, sees the revolution as a calamity that threw Russia backward.

"Any evolutionary development would have been better than what happened," Rodzianko, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Russia, told The Associated Press. "The main lesson I certainly would hope is that Russia never tries that again."

He said the revolution and the civil war, combined with the devastation of World War II and the overall legacy of the Soviet system, eroded Russia's potential and left its economy a fraction of what it could have been.

A similar view is held by Vyacheslav Nikonov, a Kremlin-connected lawmaker whose grandfather, Vyacheslav Molotov, played an important role in staging the Bolshevik power grab on Nov. 7, 1917, and served as a member of the Communist leadership for four decades.

Nikonov describes the revolution as "one of the greatest tragedies of Russian history."

The anniversary is a tricky moment for President Vladimir Putin.

While he has been critical of revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin, Putin can't denounce the event that gave birth to the Soviet Union and is still revered by many of his supporters. But Putin, a KGB veteran, disdains any popular uprisings, and he certainly wouldn't praise the revolution, which destroyed the Russian empire.

"The last thing the Kremlin needs is another revolution. The last thing Russia needs is another revolution," Rodzianko said. "And celebrating the revolution saying: 'Hey, what a great thing!' is a little bit encouraging what they don't want, and so they are definitely confused."

He believes the befuddled attitude to the anniversary reflects a national trauma that still hurts.

"To me, it's a sign that people aren't quite over it. For Russia, it's a wound that is far from healed," he said.

The Kremlin has blamed the U.S. for helping to oust some unpopular rulers in former Soviet nations and for instigating Arab Spring democracy uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa. Putin has also accused Washington of encouraging big demonstrations against him in Moscow in 2011-2012.

Nikonov echoes Putin's claims of outside meddling.

"Our Western friends are spending a lot of money on all sort of organizations, which are working to undermine the Russian government," he said.

The government's low-key treatment of the centennial reflects deep divisions in Russia over the revolution, said Nikonov, who chairs a committee on education and science in the Kremlin-controlled lower house of parliament.

A nationwide poll last month by the research company VTsIOM showed opinions over the revolution split almost evenly, with 46 percent saying it served interests of the majority and the same number responding that only a few benefited; the rest were undecided. The poll of 1,800 people had a margin of error of no more than 2.5 percentage points.

During Soviet times, Nov. 7 was known as Revolution Day and featured grand military parades and demonstrations on Red Square. After the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia stopped celebrating it, although the Communists still marked it.

"There is no way you can celebrate the revolution so that the majority of the public would support that," Nikonov said. "There is no common interpretation of history of the revolution, and I don't think it's possible in any foreseeable future. So I think the best way for the government in that situation is just keep a low profile."

Vyacheslav Molotov remained a steadfast believer in the Communist cause until his 1986 death in Moscow at age 96. Nikonov, his grandson, believes the revolution denied Russia a victory in World War I.

"At the beginning of the year, Russia was one of the great powers with perfect chances of winning the war in a matter of months," he said. "Then the government was destroyed. By the end of the year, Russia wasn't a power, it was incapable of anything."

Nikonov insists the current political system can meet any challenges, adding: "I don't think that Russia faces any dangers to its stability now."

Putin has famously described the 1991 Soviet collapse as the "greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the 20th century," but he also has deplored the 1917 revolution. This ambivalence is rooted in his desire to tap the achievements of both the czarist and the Soviet empires as part of restoring Russia's international clout and prestige.

"He will not celebrate this event," said Andrei Kolesnikov, an analyst at the Moscow Carnegie Center. "It couldn't be used for the legitimization of Putin, because he's a counterrevolutionary. For him, Lenin disrupted a great empire."

Putin uses the symbols of various eras to burnish national glory. He has restored the Soviet-style national anthem and kept the imperial tricolor flag and double-headed eagle coat-of-arms.

He has ignored demands to remove Lenin's embalmed body from its Red Square mausoleum for burial. But he also has encouraged the steady growth of power and influence of the Russian Orthodox Church and conservative elements in society. Monuments and shrines to Nicholas II, who has been glorified as a saint, have sprouted across Russia, although they are still far outnumbered by statues and memorials to Lenin.

Rodzianko said his great-grandfather, Mikhail Rodzianko, quickly regretted pushing the czar to abdicate.

"He always tortured himself," he said. "'Could I have done anything else to prevent this?' was the phrase that I heard he apparently used."

Days after the monarchy fell in February 1917, the Duma speaker found himself sidelined as too conservative for the new provisional government. When that liberal entity was swept away by the Bolsheviks, he joined the White movement in the civil war against the Reds, then left Russia after its defeat. Mikhail Rodzianko died in Belgrade in 1924.

While Rodzianko's great-grandfather fought for the White cause, Nikonov's grandfather, Vyacheslav Molotov, was Lenin's right-hand man throughout Russia's revolution and civil war.

Molotov later became No. 2 to Josef Stalin, serving as his prime minister and then foreign minister in the 1930s-1940s. He fell from favor in Stalin's last years; in 1949, his wife was arrested and sent to the Gulag.

"My grandmother was arrested under the accusation of being the head of a Jewish conspiracy in the Soviet Union," Nikonov said. "They had to divorce, and that was the only chance for them to survive. Because one of the reasons she was arrested was to prepare the next trial against Molotov, and he knew that pretty well."

After Stalin died in 1953, Molotov won her quick release from prison.

Molotov's predecessor as Soviet foreign minister, Maxim Litvinov, also played a key role in the revolution and spearheaded the Bolsheviks' first contacts with Britain in 1918. Litvinov was foreign minister in the 1930s and ambassador to Washington during World War II before his death in Moscow in 1951.

His grandson, Pavel, became a dissident and was one of seven people who protested the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia in a Red Square demonstration that earned him five years in Siberia. He then left for the United States, where he has lived since then.

Pavel Litvinov said in an interview in New York that his grandfather "tried to create a better life for the Russian people and probably the whole world," and believed in Lenin but was disillusioned under Stalin.

Pavel's son, Dima, joined Greenpeace and spent more than two months in jail in 2013 for a protest at a Russian oil rig in the Arctic.

"I think it's a family tradition to challenge authorities and to fight for the right thing," Dima Litvinov said in Stockholm, where he lives. "There is a sort of a link, a similarity. We're fighting against injustice, and if that means we have to question and challenge authorities - well, that's what we do."

Dima Litvinov said his great-grandfather "would be horrified by the extreme nationalism and religious intolerance that is going up in Russia."

"I think he would want to challenge and oppose all of these things," he said.

Dima Litvinov said Russia now faces some of the same problems that led to the 1917 revolution.

"Russia, in a way, hasn't moved on," he said. "People feel detached from the ability to affect their fate and the government. The authorities like it that way."
Saudi Arabian state media say the country's military has intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen and aimed at the King Khalid International Airport northeast of Riyadh.

Iran-backed Houthi fighters in Yemen have claimed responsibility for the missile, which was intercepted by Saudi forces Saturday.

Saudi authorities said the missile caused no casualties or major damage. The Houthis said they were targeting the airport.

The White House said President Donald Trump talked to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud about the intercepted missile.

Trump, blaming Iran for the missile attack on Riyadh, told reporters on board Air Force One Sunday while flying to Japan, "A shot was taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia. And our system knocked it down," a reference to the Patriot missile batteries Saudi Arabia purchased from the U.S. "That's how good we are. Nobody makes what we make and now we're selling it all over the world."

Saudi Arabia is leading a mission in Yemen to eliminate the Houthi forces, but the violence has begun to spill over the border.

In July, the Saudis shot down a ballistic missile from Yemen near Mecca, a month before Muslims began their annual pilgrimage to the city.
Saudi Arabia and its allied forces launched a new wave of airstrikes on targets in neighboring Yemen, where Riyadh has been leading a military alliance against Iran-backed Shiite Houthi militant forces since March 2015.

Alhurra reported the airstrikes targeted the National Security building and the Ministry of Interior and other positions Sunday in the capital, Sanaa.

The renewed attacks came a day after the country's military said it intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen and aimed at the King Khalid International Airport northeast of Riyadh.

Iran-backed Houthi fighters in Yemen claimed responsibility for the missile. "We had warned that the capitals of the countries that attack Yemen would not be safe from our ballistic missiles, Mohamed Abdel Salam, a Houthis spokesperson, said in a statement, Arab media reported.

Saudi Arabia has been leading a military campaign in Yemen, which has been engulfed in civil war since 2014 after the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels swept into Sanaa and overthrew President Abd Rabu Mansour Hadi's government. Saudi Arabia has accused Iran of providing arms to the Shiite rebels and that Irans hostile policy is the major obstacle in solving the crisis in Yemen.

"A shot was taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia, President Donald Trump, who talked to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz about the intercepted missile, told reporters on board Air Force One while flying to Japan. And our system knocked it down," he added, a reference to the Patriot missile batteries Riyadh purchased from the United States.

Saturdays missile was not the first Houthi attack on Saudi territory. The Houthi forces have repeatedly struck targets inside Saudi Arabia. In July, the Saudis shot down a ballistic missile from Yemen near Mecca, a month before Muslims began their annual pilgrimage to the city.

Abdel-Malek al-Houthi, the Houthi leader, last month threatened that missiles available to his forces could target Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, which is a key member of the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.

Recent reports by the United Nations and right groups have blamed the warring parties for civilian deaths, including hundreds of children, and for destroying schools and hospitals.
The leader of the Pro-Islamic State group in Somalia has survived U.S. airstrikes which targeted caves in a remote mountainous area in Puntland, the regions president told VOA Somali.

Abdiweli Mohamed Ali said the leader of the group, Sheikh Abdulkadir Mumin, was the target of Fridays U.S. strike.

They [US] were targeting those troublemakers and their biggest leader Abdulkadir Mumin, they were looking for them, he said. Based on the information Im getting he is still alive and is not dead.

Ali said the U.S. did not share intelligence with his region but assessment is based on information from his regions intelligence agencies.

On Friday, the United States Africa Command confirmed carrying out two strikes against IS militants in Somalia. The first attack occurred at around midnight and the second attack took place the following morning at 11:00am.

The U.S. Africa Command says several militants were killed in the strikes in Buqo Valley, 160 kilometers east of the city of Bosaso. The strikes were the first against the group by the United States.

On Sunday a senior Somali intelligence official told VOA Somali that they believe up to 20 militants were killed in the two strikes. He said some of the caves the militants were sheltering in collapsed on them as a result of the bombing.

The official who asked not to be named, told VOA Somali that its likely the leader of the group Sheikh Abdulkadir Mumin survived the attack.

Either he was not in those caves or he was missed, it is likely that he is alive, he said.

Al-Shabab splinter group

The official said he believes two foreign figures including a Sudanese militant were also in the targeted area.

Intelligence sources say at least four missiles hit the caves in Buqo Valley in the first of two rounds of strikes. The second round of strikes occurred after the militants gathered in a place believed to be a burial site for those killed in the overnight strike.

Pro-IS militants emerged in Somalia in October 2015 after splitting from al-Shabab. The group has since recruited members in the eastern parts of Puntland, where Mumins clan resides.



The group has claimed responsibility for four attacks in Bosaso this year including the last incident which occurred just ten days ago where a would-be bomber pushing explosives hidden in a wheelbarrow detonated the device killing himself and injuring six others.



A month before, the group claimed an attack on a police commander at a coffee shop in Bosaso. The officer survived with injuries.



In February this year two gunmen attacked the International Village Hotel in Bosaso and exchanged fire with security forces. Four soldiers and the two attackers were killed.



In May a suicide bomber blew himself up at a police checkpoint near the Jubba Hotel in Bosaso, killing five people and injuring 17 others.



The group scored its biggest attack in late October 2016 when its fighters seized the ancient town of Qandala from Puntland forces and kept control of it for 40 days.
Pro-Catalonia independence parties will combine for the most votes in regional election in December though may fall just short of a majority needed to revive the secession campaign, two polls showed on Sunday.

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy called the Dec. 21 election after firing the previous government and imposing direct rule over the autonomous region following a unilateral declaration of independence by Catalan lawmakers on Oct. 27.

Catalonia's statehood push has tipped Spain into its worst political crisis since its return to democracy four decades ago as surging pro-secession sentiment in the region has in turn kindled nationalism across the country.

According to the GAD3 survey of 1,233 people conducted between Oct. 30 and Nov. 3 and published in La Vanguardia newspaper, pro-independence parties ERC, PDECat and CUP would take between 66 and 69 seats in the 135-seat parliament.

A second poll taken over the same period for the conservative newspaper La Razon echoed the GAD3 survey, showing pro-independence parties would capture the most votes though still fall just shy of a parliamentary majority with 65 seats.

Voter participation would rise to a record of 83 percent, the GAD3 poll showed.

Politicians on remand

Sacked regional leader Carles Puigdemont travelled to Belgium shortly after Madrid took control and now faces an arrest warrant for rebellion, sedition, misuse of public funds, disobedience and breach of trust relating to the secessionist campaign.

Brussels prosecutors planned a news conference at 1300 GMT on Puigdemont, a spokesman for the Belgian authority said on Sunday.

On Saturday, Puigdemont called for a united Catalan political front in the face of the elections and has said he might run as a candidate from Brussels.

On Thursday, nine members of his sacked cabinet were ordered by Spain's High Court to be held on remand pending an investigation and potential trial.

One member of the dismissed Cabinet, Santi Vila, was freed after paying bail of 50,000 euros ($58,035) on Friday. The other eight could remain in custody for up to four years.

According to the GAP3 survey, 59 percent believed legal action against Puigdemont was unjustified while 69.3 percent said that the jailing of the Catalan politicians would give the independence cause a boost at the ballot box.

Catalan civic groups Asamblea Nacional Catalana and Omnium Cultural  whose leaders were imprisoned last month on sedition charges  called for a general strike on Nov. 8 and a mass demonstration on Nov. 11 to protest the detentions.

A rally in Barcelona on Sunday, however, attracted just a few hundred people, a long way from the hundreds of thousands to join pro-independence marches in October, many waving the regional flag and carrying protest signs.

One protester, Antonia Aguilera, 63, said she was concerned the elections wouldn't be fair and would be manipulated by the Spanish government.

Her concerns echo a deep mistrust many Catalans have of politicians in Madrid that has deepened since the arrests and after the national police used truncheons and rubber bullets to thwart voting in the illegal independence referendum on Oct. 1.

"I'm disgusted by it all. We knew they would react but not as strongly as they did," she said, adding that she believed the pro-independence parties would win the December election.

"And then we'll be back where we started."
U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross shares significant business interests through a shipping venture in Russia with President Vladimir Putin's son-in-law and an oligarch subject to American sanctions, newly leaked documents showed Sunday.

Ross, a 79-year-old billionaire industrialist, has an investment in partnerships valued at between $2 million and $10 million in the shipper, Navigator Holdings, according to his government ethics disclosures.

The shipping company earns millions of dollars a year transporting natural gas for Sibur, a Russian energy company that is partly owned by Kirill Shamalov, the husband of Putin's daughter, Katerina Tikhonova, and Gennady Timchenko, the oligarch who is Putin's judo partner, according to the documents. Timchenko is subject to the U.S. sanctions because of Russia's 2014 annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and its subsequent support for pro-Russian separatists fighting the Kyiv government's forces in eastern Ukraine.

Ross sold off numerous holdings when he joined President Donald Trump's Cabinet earlier this year to avoid conflicts of interest while he promotes U.S. commerce throughout the world. But he kept his Navigator stake, which has been held in a chain of partnerships in the Cayman Islands, an offshore tax haven where Ross has placed much of his estimated $2 billion in wealth.

Paradise Papers

Ross did not disclose the Russian business link when he was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as commerce secretary, but it surfaced in a trove of more than 7 million internal documents leaked from Appleby, a Bermuda-based offshore law firm that advises the wealthy elite on global financial transactions as they look to avoid billions of dollars in taxes. Appleby, says it has investigated all the allegations, and found there is no evidence of any wrongdoing, either on the part of ourselves or our clients.

The cache of documents, called the Paradise Papers, was first leaked to a German newspaper, Sueddeutsche Zeitung, and then shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and other media, including The Guardian in Britain, The New York Times and NBC News in the U.S., all of which reported on the Ross investment on Sunday.

Ross, through a Commerce Department spokesman, said he removes himself as secretary from matters related to trans-oceanic shipping and consults with the agency's ethics officials "to ensure the highest ethical standards."

The disclosure of Ross' financial interests in Russia comes as a special prosecutor, Robert Mueller, and three congressional panels are investigating Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, an effort the U.S. intelligence community has concluded was led by Putin in an effort to undermine U.S. democracy and help Trump win the White House.

Several Trump campaign associates have come under scrutiny, but until the disclosures about Ross' holdings, there have been no reports of business links between top Trump officials and any member of Putin's family and his inner circle.



The disclosures will likely put pressure on world leaders, including Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May, who have both pledged to curb aggressive tax avoidance schemes.



Congress has the power to crack down on offshore tax avoidance. There are copious loopholes in our federal tax code that essentially incentivize companies to cook the books and make U.S. profits appear to be earned offshore. The House tax bill introduced late last week does nothing to close these loopholes," said Matthew Gardner, a senior fellow at the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.
President Donald Trumps announcement last week that he intends to reduce the size of two national monuments covering millions of acres of Utah wilderness has stoked local divisions over land use, with all sides anticipating a protracted battle over the move.

On one side, Native American groups and environmentalists expressed anger and are ready to sue the U.S. government. On the other, conservative-leaning residents welcomed the decision, seeing it as a reversal of government overreach and a boost for traditional industries like drilling, mining and grazing.

But the tensions reflect a broader national debate over how to manage Americas vast open spaces. Since taking office, Trump has promised to increase development on federal lands.

The polarization is so complete that no one is migrating to the center, said Steve Simpson, who owns a cafe and trading post in Bluff, where pro-monument signs are posted along the main street.

Antiquities Act

In late October, Trump informed Utah lawmakers of his intention to shrink the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante monuments after a review he had launched of 27 monuments created by past presidents that placed vast tracts off-limits to business.

It was an opening salvo in a fight over the powers of the Antiquities Act, a century-old law that allows presidents to create national monuments without Congress, but which Trump has said was abused by past administrations.

Weeks before leaving office, former President Barack Obama created the 1.35 million acre Bears Ears monument, a territory bigger than Delaware named for its iconic twin buttes, at the behest of Native American tribes, but over the objections of Republican politicians and business groups.

The 1.88 million acre Grand Escalante was created by former President Bill Clinton in 1996.

Trump is expected to formally announce the decisions to reduce the size of the monuments during a trip to Utah in December. Details of the proposed new boundaries have not yet been released.

Fools errand

In San Juan County, where Bears Ears looms as a central feature, Trumps decision to shrink the monument drew a mixed response.

Its a fools errand, said Simpson, the cafe owner in Bluff. They are taking actions that will result in years of litigation and will ultimately fail.

Simpson said he believed the monument could be a good thing for the county by drawing tourists and outdoorsmen. Since the monument has become a political issue, visits to the area have surged, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

Dashelle Holliday, a nurse who lives in Blanding, about 25 miles north of Bluff, disagreed. She welcomed Trumps decision, saying the monument was too big.

Im excited to see a monument that does contain the small pieces that we need to protect, and allows us to keep using (the land) like weve been using it, she said.

She, like other opponents of the monument, worries the monument will hinder local business, including her familys gravel company, which leases pits on Bears Ears, and replace them with a service economy for tourism.

People here have worked to keep this a small town with small town values, she said.

Still, she agreed, Trumps decision will not close the issue.

I think its the battle, not the war, she said.

Lawsuits promised

A number of groups have promised to sue the Trump administration as soon as it takes official action, including the Navajo Nation, one of the five tribes that had urged the creation of the monument in order to preserve Native American sacred and historic sites.

We have a complaint drafted, said Navajo Nation Attorney General Ethel Branch, who said the area was packed with tribal pottery, Puebloan architecture and old Navajo dwellings. She said the Navajo wrote two letters to the Trump administration since September seeking meetings but heard nothing back.

Elvira Begay, a Navajo from Cahone Mesa, said she was upset at Trumps decision. Bears Ears is sacred to the Navajo, she said. Theres history there we believe in.


A prominent Venezuelan lawmaker has sought refuge in the Embassy of Chile in Caracas, fearing arrest on Supreme Court charges of instigating violence.

The Chilean Foreign Ministry confirmed Saturday it had welcomed Freddy Guevara, the No. 2 official in Venezuelas opposition-dominated National Assembly.

Guevaras Popular Will party called the accusations nonexistent crimes invented by the dictatorship.''

Twelve Western Hemisphere governments, including Mexico, Brazil and Canada, issued a joint statement Saturday, saying the high court's targeting of Guevara was a "new blow to the rule of law and separation of powers in Venezuela.''



On Friday, the pro-government Supreme Court barred Guevara from leaving the country and requested that the powerful pro-government Constitutional Assembly strip his immunity from prosecution. That 545-member assembly of Maduro supporters has superseded much of the National Assembly's authority.

By law, the National Assembly is charged with determining whether a legislator's constitutional immunity should be lifted. But the court has instead referred the case to the Constitutional Assembly.

Guevara, the National Assembly's vice president, was at the forefront of opposition protests from April through July that mobilized hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans frustrated with their countrys political and economic crisis.
Government documents newly released Friday regarding John F. Kennedys assassination say allegations that Lee Harvey Oswald was connected to the CIA were totally unfounded.

A 1975 CIA memo says a thorough search of agency records in and outside the United States was conducted to determine whether Oswald had been used by the agency or connected with it in any conceivable way.

The memo said the search came up empty. The memo also said there was no indication that any other U.S. agency used Oswald as a source or for recruitment.

Third document release

The National Archives released another 676 government documents related to the assassination, the third public release so far this year. Under law, all the documents were to be disclosed to the public last week.

Most of the latest release includes 553 records from the CIA that previously were withheld in their entirety. There also are records from the Justice and Defense departments, the House Select Committee on Assassinations and the National Archives.

University of Virginia historian Larry Sabato complained that many of the documents in the latest release were heavily redacted. He tweeted about a 144-page record, titled Material Reviewed at CIA headquarters by House Select Committee on Assassinations staff members, that had writing on only a handful of pages.

President Donald Trump has ordered the release of all records related to the assassination, and they are expected to be made public on a rolling basis during the next three to four weeks. He also directed agencies to take another look at redactions and withhold information only in the rarest of circumstances.

Oswalds Mexico trip

One record showed how U.S. officials scrambled after the assassination to round up information about Oswalds trip to Mexico City weeks earlier. Officials wondered whether Oswald had been trying to get visas at the Soviet and Cuban embassies in Mexico City in order to make a quick escape after assassinating the president.

A CIA message sent Nov. 24, 1963, two days after Kennedy was killed, said an important question that remained unsolved was whether Oswald had been planning to travel right away or return to the U.S. and leave later.

The message said that although it appeared Oswald was then thinking only about a peaceful change of residence to the Soviet Union, it is also possible that he was getting documented to make a quick escape after assassinating the president.

Another record dated April 11, 1964, recounted a visit to the CIA by three staff members of the Warren Commission, which was set up to investigate the assassination.

The memo said the staff members indicated that Thomas Mann, former ambassador to Mexico and then-assistant secretary for inter-American affairs, still has the feeling in his guts that (Cuban leader Fidel) Castro hired Oswald to kill Kennedy. They said, however, that the commission has not been able to get any proof of that.

MLK document released

Also in the latest release was a 20-page FBI analysis of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. dated March 12, 1968, a month before he was assassinated April 4, 1968. One section alleges that King was attracted to former members of the Communist Party in America. It notes that two previous aides were party members and eight others, who helped shape Kings organization in its early stages, had communist affiliations.

The analysis said that in the early 1960s, the Communist Party was trying to get a black labor coalition to further its goals in the United States. It referenced a May 1961 issue of a communist newspaper that stated, Communists will do their utmost to strengthen and unite the Negro movement and ring it to the backing of the working people.

The FBI said King and his organization were made-to-order to achieve these objectives.

The FBIs surveillance of King is well-known, and the analysis includes several pages about his sexual life. One document said a black minister who attended a workshop to train ministers in February 1968 in Miami expressed his disgust with the behind-the-scene drinking, fornication and homosexuality that went on at the conference.

Throughout the ensuing years and until this date, King has continued to carry on his sexual aberrations secretly while holding himself out to public view as a moral leader of religious conviction, the FBI report said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 19:13:16|Editor: Yurou

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Photo taken on Nov. 5, 2017 shows the al-Sabeen square after airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition war-planes in Sanaa, Yemen. Saudi-led coalition warplanes waged a series of airstrikes on military targets in the Yemeni capital Sanaa overnight and early Sunday morning, just few hours after Yemen's Houthi rebels fired ballistic missile towards Saudi capital Riyadh and hit its main airport. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed)

SANAA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Saudi-led coalition warplanes waged a series of airstrikes on military targets in the Yemeni capital Sanaa overnight and early Sunday morning, just few hours after Yemen's Houthi rebels fired ballistic missile towards Saudi capital Riyadh and hit its main airport.

The warplanes hit several military targets inside Sanaa, including the platform of al-Sabeen square, the nearby presidential palace, the national security headquarters, the interior ministry and the air-defence bases in the capital's mountains of Attan and Noqom, according to residents and Houthi-run Saba news agency.

Saba reported over 15 airstrikes on the targets inside Sanaa and an approximate number of airstrikes on military targets on the outskirts of Sanaa and around it.

These targets have been hit by the coalition fighter jets for hundreds of times since the beginning of the war two and a half years ago.

Resident houses and properties nearby the targeted places in Sanaa were slightly damaged. There were no reported casualties from the airstrikes overnight and early Sunday morning.

The coalition warplanes kept flying over the Yemeni capital for long hours following the rebels' ballistic missile that hit north of King Khalid international airport north of Riyadh.

On Saturday night, the Shiite Houthi rebels backed by rocketry forces loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh fired the long-range ballistic missile towards Riyadh at around 20:20 p.m. local time (1700 GMT).

Residents of Riyadh reported hearing loud bang near King Khalid international airport.

The Saudi government said the missile fell and exploded north of the airport but caused no casualties, according to Saudi local Al Arabiya satellite TV, adding that the air traffic was not disturbed.

Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam said in his twitter account that the missile came in retaliation to Saudi air attack last Wednesday on a hotel and popular marketplace in the Yemeni northern province of Saada, killing 29 civilians and injuring other two dozens, although the coalition said the hotel and marketplace were military targets because there were gatherings of Houthi fighters there.

Houthi rebel's Saturday missile attack was the latest in a series of ballistic missile attacks by Houthis from Yemen towards Saudi cities since Saudi intervened in the Yemeni war more than two years ago.

The Houthi rebels last week fired another ballistic missile towards a Saudi military base in the Saudi border province of Najran and Saudi authorities said the missile hit a residential complex in Beir Salaries area.

Saudi led a military coalition of 10 countries and intervened in Yemen's civil war in March 2015 to back the internationally recognized government of exiled President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi against Iranian-allied Shiite Houthis who stormed the capital Sanaa and controlled much of the country's north.

The coalition has yet defeated the Yemeni rebels despite thousands of Saudi-led airstrikes against Houthis.

The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemenis, mostly civilians, and displaced more than 3 million others, according to UN agencies.

The war has led Yemen to the world's most humanitarian catastrophe with less than one million Yemenis hit by a deadly cholera outbreak and pushed the poor Arab country into the brink of mass famine.
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Former columnist

In the year since Donald Trump was elected president, the national news media has congratulated itself on a new golden age of accountability journalism.

And its true in many ways. The scoops have been relentless, the digging intense, the results important.

But in another crucial way, the reality-based press has failed.

Too often, it has succumbed to the chaos of covering Trump, who lies and blusters and distracts at every turn.

Of course, given the differences among news organizations, generalizing is a fraught exercise. Nonetheless, each news cycle is an exhausting, confusing blast of conflicting claims, fact-checking, reactions and outrage.

How big was the Inauguration Day crowd? What contact did Michael Flynn have with Russians? Why was James B. Comey fired? Is Puerto Rico being ignored after the hurricane? Did Trump insult a Gold Star widow when he telephoned her?

Trump drives the news, all day and every day, a human fire hose of hyperbolic tweets, insults, oversimplification and bragging.

Keeping track of it is hard enough. Making sense of it almost impossible.

Theres a lot of he said/she said, so I believe maybe half of what I hear, said Shannon Heald, one of the many outside-the-Beltway voters Ive talked to about the news media.

A registered nurse who lives in Chautauqua County in western New York, Heald told me she sometimes tunes out the whole confusing mess.

Ive heard other news consumers complain about the protective amnesia that sets in  Trump Brain, as some call it. They blame it on the relentless cascade of information.

Believing half of what the media tells you  and either tuning out or forgetting the rest  doesnt sound like a golden age of anything.

I dont think weve figured out how to deal with the Trump noise machine, said Daniel Dale, a Canadian who covers Washington for the Toronto Star, which gives him both an insiders and outsiders perspective.

Its hard to prioritize, Dale told me. The balance may be out of whack.

And then theres the huge influence of Fox News, which early last week was discussing hamburger emoji as the rest of the national media was reporting the indictments of Trump associates.

My colleague Monica Hesse  after writing about the sexual-harassment scandal sweeping the nation  fielded calls last month from several readers who said they had never heard of the famous Access Hollywood video on which Trump bragged about grabbing women by their genitals.

When theres no agreed-upon reality  no Walter Cronkite as the most trusted man in America  were all in trouble.

This feeling of mistrust and disagreement on facts is backed up by public opinion polls: One reported last month that 46 percent of Americans believe the news media simply makes things up about Trump.

The president has been sowing those seeds of mistrust for many months, and cultivates them daily with extra-strength fertilizer.

Reporters have so-called sources that, in my opinion, dont exist, Trump told Lou Dobbs of Fox Business recently. They just  they make it up. It is so dishonest. It is so fake.

Of course, thats not true. Reporters for legitimate news organizations do not make things up. Those few reporters who fabricate sources get fired and are driven out of the business.

News organizations have tried to push back with mottos and ad campaigns cropping up like mushrooms: CBS touts Real News. CNN trotted out Facts First. And the New York Times offered The Truth is More Important Than Ever.

Theyve struggled with whether to label Trumps falsehoods as lies, and then sometimes made long lists of them.

These efforts are valiant, but they are pen knives up against machine guns.

One of the casualties of our shiny-object, tweet-chasing journalism is the relative lack of focus on matters of policy.

Last month, for example, as the news media obsessed for days over Trumps phone call to the Gold Star widow Myeshia Johnson  Was Gen. John Kelly lying about Rep. Frederica S. Wilson? Is it inappropriate to question a four-star general?  Congress voted to take away a major consumer protection.

That didnt get ignored, exactly; it did get drowned out.

Theres a basic problem here. The old ways just dont work in the new environment.

"If nothing the president says can be trusted, reporting what the president says becomes absurd," wrote New York University professor Jay Rosen. This runs up against the journalistic code: to respect the voters' choice, to respect the office of the presidency and to respect what they do for a living.

And so, Rosen notes, journalists normalize. They report the lies, but they search for ways to tell the good news about Trump to balance that.

Which is why we have had round after round this past year of supposed pivots and this was the moment when Trump became presidential. There was no more embarrassing example than the presidents showy bombing of Syria in April, when the cable news pundits fell all over themselves to praise Trumps gravitas.

Just after the election last year, I wrote a column urging journalists to scrutinize  not normalize  this new president.

As it turns out, weve done plenty of both.

There's been great accountability journalism, but a very poor signal-to-noise ratio.

Citizens are left with a confusing, chaotic picture  one that many doubt is true, and many others have decided to block out.

That isnt good enough.

As we enter Year Two of Trumps presidency, its time to build on the successes and bear down, hard, on remedying the failures.

For more by Margaret Sullivan visit wapo.st/sullivan
United Airlines flight 808 from Beijing to Dulles International Airport returned to Beijing on Friday after a passenger started a dispute with a member of the flight crew, the airline said. The altercation caused a safety concern, United said.

Law enforcement met the airplane at the gate, the airline said.

After the passenger voluntarily got off, the other passengers, numbering more than 200, were given overnight accommodations and rebooked on a Saturday flight, according to the airline.
A newcomer will be elected Tuesday to the Arlington School Board.

The race pits Monique O'Grady, who defeated an incumbent in a spring Democratic Party caucus, against Alison Dough and Mike Webb.

Arlington boasts perennially strong schools, but each candidate identified areas, including managing a growing student population and improving education for special needs students, that they would look to enhance if elected. Members of the five-person School Board serve four-year terms.

O'Grady, a first-time candidate who describes herself as a parent activist, was previously involved in strategic planning for the nearly 27,000-student school district and is attuned to its needs, she said. Her involvement, she said, makes her well equipped to help the district grapple with issues such as a growing student population.

Im energized to serve Arlingtons children and our wonderful teachers, who do a great job, the 49-year-old said.

She also noted the importance of making sure that schools remain diverse and embrace multiculturalism. If elected, she said she plans to examine changes that would allow students who choose a pre-K program in one community to continue their education in that community, as opposed to returning to their neighborhood.

Dough, 42, said she was motivated to run after she encountered communication difficulties with school board members and the superintendent several years ago. Dough, who has a son with special needs, has made ensuring inclusion for students in special education a focal point of her campaign.

As the mother of two children in elementary school and another still in diapers, Dough said she can lend a perspective school board members with older children may lack.

I have a vested interest in the here and now, she said.

Mike Webb, who ran unsuccessfully for Virginias 8th District congressional seat last year, said that he would look to close achievement gaps in the school district and that introducing more charter schools is a way to accomplish that.

Webb, 51, is also sharply opposed to renaming Washington-Lee High School. Community members pressed the school board in August to change the name after clashes between white supremacists and counterprotesters turned violent in Charlottesville.

Name-change requests should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, Webb said, but he said it is unnecessary to rename Washington-Lee High.

They literally have no reason why they have to change that name, he said.

Webb drew attention during his run for Congress when he shared an image posted to his Facebook page that included Web browser tabs linking to pornography websites.

Webb said last week he intentionally posted those browser tabs to attract attention to a post he made on Facebook. People are going to react to porn tabs, he said.
Police have identified a man killed Friday when he was struck by an unmarked police cruiser on the Capital Beltway, after allegedly fleeing the scene of a robbery in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County police identified the man as Juan Carlos Gomez, 37.

Authorities said Gomez was on foot when he was struck by an unmarked county police cruiser that was taking part in the pursuit of several robbery suspects.

Police said the incident began with the robbery of a Cash Depot store in the 11200 block of Georgia Avenue in Wheaton, about 12:35 p.m. Friday.

The initial investigation indicated that at least two suspects , whose faces were concealed and who had guns, threatened a store employee and demanded money. After obtaining an undisclosed amount , they were seen by witnessesfleeing the scene in a white van.

About 15 minutes later, a van matching the description was spotted near Anne Street and University Boulevard East in the Takoma Park area.

Plainclothes officers in unmarked county police vehicles began to follow the van from Takoma Park to the Beltway. The van turned on to the Inner loop, driving toward College Park, authorities said.

As officers followed the van, it headed into Prince Georges County, and in the vicinity of Route 1, the van collided with at least one other vehicle.

At that point, police said, Gomez, who allegedly had been driving the van, got out of the vehicle and fled on foot.,

He was struck by an unmarked car driven by Montgomery police Sgt. William Thomas, a 24-year veteran of the department, police said.

Police at the scene tried unsuccessfully to save Gomez, authorities said.

After the van crashed, two people remained inside and were arrested, police said. Two others were arrested after a brief foot chase.

Police identified those arrested as: Miguel A. Ayala-Rivera, 23; Marcio Roney Avila-Castro, 21; Yeruin J. Romero-Rivera, 21; Juan R. Ramirez-Delgado, 34; and Edwin Geovanny Zelaya-Ramirez, 17, who was charged as an adult.

All were charged with armed robbery in connection with the incident at the Cash Depot store, police said.

No addresses for the five, or Gomez, could be confirmed.

In addition to charges related to theCash Depot robbery, police saidAyala-Rivera also was charged in connection with the Sept. 22 armed robbery of an Exxon station in the 12200 block of Veirs Mill Road in Montgomery.

Police said the Exxon robbery appeared to be one of severalsimilar holdups in which suspects armed with guns, often wearing masks, entered businesses, threatened employees and demanded cash.
The campaign of Ralph Northam, the Democratic nominee for Virginia governor, says it has evidence that automated social media accounts - or bots - were used to inflame online chatter about a controversial TV ad launched by a progressive group thats backing Northam.

That ad, which depicted a white Gillespie supporter in a pickup truck bedecked with a Confederate flag chasing children of different ethnicities, was sponsored by the Latino Victory Fund and ran for just two days last week on Spanish language stations.

[Ad features minority kids chased by truck with Gillespie sticker]

But it generated howls of outrage from the campaign of Republican rival Ed Gillespie and his surrogates and supporters. They denounced the spot as being disdainful of millions of Virginians, called on Northam to disavow it, and then condemned him when he declined. Gillespie appeared on Fox and Friends and called the ad an attack on all Virginians.

Discussion about the ad has lit up Twitter and other social media platforms.

The Latino advocacy group stood by the ad as a response to a series of ads from Gillespie that began airing in September and seemed to link illegal immigrants with the violent Latino street gang MS-13. Those ads also have drawn widespread condemnation for being racially insensitive and for seeking to whip up fear about immigrants.

[GIllespie rolls out ad that tries to link Northam to MS-13 gang violence]

The Latino Victory Fund pulled its ad after only two days because of the incident in New York City in which a man driving a rented truck ran down pedestrians in whats been called and act of terrorism, killing eight people.

But the online chatter has continued, and the Northam campaign released a study commissioned from a group called Discourse Intelligence that analyzed the top 15 Twitter accounts that have posted using the words Latino victory and either Gillespie or Northam, or the thread #VAGov. Of those 15, the analysis concluded that 13 were either fully or partially automated, meaning the comments they posted were generated by software.

David Abrams, a spokesman for the Gillespie campaign, said it had absolutely nothing to do with the fact that Virginians in both parties found this ad to be, in the words of The Washington Post editorial board, vile and despicable. The Northam campaign is so desperate they have resorted to fabricating conspiracy theories for their failing campaign. Since the ad ran, our online donations have tripled, and we have been inundated with requests to volunteer. The only question that remains is why hasnt Ralph Northam condemned this attack on his fellow Virginians, and what exactly was his campaigns role in the production of this spot.

The report was paid for by the Virginia Education Association as an in-kind service for the Northam campaign.

The issue of automated accounts has been linked to the problem of Russian or other outside agents interference with the U.S. election process, most notably during last falls presidential campaigns.

View Graphic The latest stories and details on the 2017 Virginia general election and race for governor.

Because its hard to say where thes anti-Northam bots originated, its difficult to determine whether it could be a sign of an attempt by outside interests to influence the race for governor. Its also hard to put those numbers into context - bots and cyborgs, or partially automated accounts that feature some human input, are all over Twitter, Facebook and other social media services.

The researcher who compiled the report said he saw similar activity around other aspects of the Virginia election and that he will continue monitoring. We are seeing the same exact techniques that attempted to skew the social media conversation and affect hashtags trending and search results that we saw in the [presidential] election, said researcher Timothy J. Chambers.

He said that as he has continued to scan for Northam over the past week, he has identified more than 700 suspicious new accounts following the candidate. Many of them, he said, are Turkish language accounts. Thats possibly because many botnet services used for this kind of activity are based in Eastern Europe, Chambers said.

Days before the bots report was released Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, warned Americans that while information warfare is not new, social media has the power to magnify propaganda and fake news on a scale never before imagined.

Although the report funded by Northam supporters did not pin the blame for bots on a specific country or culprit, last week Warner noted Russias influence on the 2016 presidential race.

Russian operatives are attempting to initiate and manipulate American social media to hijack the national conversation and to make Americans angry, to set us against ourselves and to undermine our democracy, he said during a hearing with tech firms. They did it in the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign. They are still doing it now.

Warner, who introduced the Honest Ads Act to protect elections from foreign interference, said disinformation campaigns work like this: Agents set up thousands of group accounts on lots of social media platforms, including Twitter. Accounts then spend months creating networks of real people to follow and like their content with the help of paid ads and automated bots.

We all need to take a more discerning approach to what we are reading and sharing and who were connecting with online, he said during the hearing. We need to realize the person at the other end of that Facebook or Twitter argument may not be a real person at all.

In response to the bots report from the Northam campaign on Saturday, a Warner spokesman said researchers estimate up to one in six Twitter accounts are either automated or fake; thats 48 million accounts.

What we saw during the 2016 presidential campaign was a consistent and coordinated effort by trolls and bots to flood the zone to manipulate the conversation on social media, spokesman Kevin Hall said in a statement. Twitters anonymity, reach and speed make it the perfect platform for spreading fake information and hyper partisan content.
Clocks from John Kellys collection are a reminder that punctuality has not been his strong suit. (John Kelly/The Washington Post)

Columnist

The other day, I was thumbing through a 1938 issue of the Journal of Social Psychology, as one does, when I came across an article titled "A Qualitative Study of Punctuality," by George J. Dudycha, a professor at Ripon College in Wisconsin.

I imagine Dr. Dudycha must be dead by now, which would make him the late George J. Dudycha.

Thats a punctuality joke.

Theres nothing funny about the first sentence in his article: That promptness is essential in industry, business, and the school is rather generally accepted; but this acceptance gives no assurance that the majority of people are punctual in these situations or that their behavior is consistent with their attitudes toward punctuality.

So, in a nutshell: Promptness is essential! And yet: Theres no assurance peoples behavior is consistent with their attitudes!

This hits close to home. I am often running late. Sometimes, running late is the only exercise I get.

Thats an unhealthy BMI joke.

When youre in grade school, teachers employ a special term to describe you when youre late: tardy.

I always hated that word, which to my ears sounds like a cross between "tawdry" and "dirty," with a whiff of the scatological: "Oooh, Johnny's tardy!"

I wasnt tardy as a kid. Like drinking rioja and watching the Masterpiece TV series, its a habit Ive grown into as an adult.

I used to think I was often late because I was so busy, my schedule so jam-packed that I cant move on to my next task until Im done with my previous task.

But then I examined my calendar and discovered that, no, theres actually not that much on there. Yes, theres the daily deadline of my day job, but, to be honest, when youve been doing this as long as I have, it becomes part of the diurnal furniture, no more fretted over than the regular performance of my ablutions. (Um, Kelly, I hear some of you saying, fret a bit more, please.)

My Lovely Wife says Im late because Im poor at envisaging temporal volume. She says Im like the child who fails his Piaget test because he thinks a tall, skinny beaker has more colored water in it than a short, wide beaker. To me, she says, 15 minutes is the same as an hour. Its all some immeasurable chunk of a mysterious thing called the future.

I dont think shes right. No, I suffer from a complex set of conditions. The first is FOBE: fear of being early. I hate the thought that I will arrive somewhere too early and have to stand around like a doofus, like the first party guest.

Oh, hello, the startled hostess says when she opens the door and finds me there. Um, Steves still in the shower. Can you help me fill these bowls with chips?

I adopt that mind-set in other situations. But it turns out that while you can be fashionably late to a party, you cant be fashionably late to a job interview or a doctors appointment. Youre just late.

Also, I've come to realize I get a thrill when I leave late but arrive on time. It's similar to the shot of adrenaline that a free-falling skydiver receives when the parachute opens successfully: I've never felt so alive! All you drab, gray, lifeless drones thought it would take me 50 minutes to get from Silver Spring to Alexandria and I did it in a half-hour!

But, frankly, that thrill is fading. Over the past couple of weeks, Ive found myself pounding the steering wheel in traffic, imagining the basilisk stare of the dental hygienist when I slink in . . . tardy.

Ive found myself doing that ungainly walk-run  my necktie too tight, my sweaty shirt stuck to my back  as I skedaddle from the Metro station to an event that the invitation to which sniffily points out Begins promptly at 10 a.m.

Being late just isnt as much fun as it used to be. I never thought Id say this, but the early-bird special is looking better and better.

Tardy like its 1999

What's your worst  or best  running-late story? Did you miss something important? Do you have a loved one famed for his or her tardiness. Send the details  with "Tardy" in the subject line  to john.kelly@washpost.com. By Friday, please, slackers.

Twitter: @johnkelly

For previous columns, visit washingtonpost.com/johnkelly.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 19:38:22|Editor: Yurou

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DHAKA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Bangladeshi government has signed two financing agreements totaling 457 million U.S. dollars with the World Bank (WB) to promote the country's development in infrastructure and labor-intensive industries.

Kazi Shofiqul Azam, secretary of Bangladesh's Economic Relations Department, and Qimiao Fan, World Bank country director for Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal, signed the deals on behalf of their respective sides in the capital Dhaka on Sunday.

The 357 million U.S. dollars Investment Promotion and Financing Facility Project II will help build local financial institutions' capacity to provide long-term financing to private companies to undertake infrastructure projects in diverse sectors, including power and energy, ICT, waste management, water treatment, energy saving equipment, container terminals, land ports, roads, and bridges, said the bank.

The other one, a 100 million U.S. dollars Export Competitiveness for Jobs Project, will help create 90,000 more jobs by focusing beyond the ready-made garment sector and diversifying exports in other labor-intensive sectors.

The project will help firms access international markets, overcome technology, infrastructure and skills shortfalls, and enable them to comply with international quality standards. These improvements will help Bangladesh increase the number of exporting firms in target sectors by around 30 percent.
California Gov. Jerry Brown, in Rome before the Bonn climate meeting, is one of the most prominent U.S. delegates. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

A year ago, the election of Donald Trump sent shock waves through a United Nations conference in Marrakesh, Morocco, where delegates from more than 190 countries had gathered to push forward with a landmark climate accord signed in Paris the previous year.

The deal suddenly seemed in jeopardy. If the United States backed out, as Trump promised, would other countries soon follow? A year later, Trump has moved to withdraw from the international agreement. But other nations have held firm to their pledges to slash their greenhouse gas emissions.

As delegates gather Monday in Bonn, Germany, for this years annual international climate talks, the United States finds itself largely on the sidelines. And the rest of the world seems to be reacting to the Trump administration with a collective shrug.

There was speculation that the U.S. withdrawal might create some kind of domino effect, but in reality, this never happened, said Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, a European Union spokeswoman for energy and climate action. There hasnt been a single party who announced they were leaving. Quite the contrary.

Even Nicaragua, which initially refused to join the Paris agreement because it didn't think the accord did enough to combat global climate change, recently announced its intention to sign on. That leaves only the United States and Syria at odds with the rest of the world.

In Bonn, a collection of U.S. governors, mayors, business leaders and philanthropic figures will try to step into the gap. They include former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg and Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee (D), Oregon Gov. Kate Brown (D) and California Gov. Jerry Brown (D).

With Washington off to the side, California is going to assert itself because it has the experience, and we have the commitment. And we want to join with others, Jerry Brown said in an interview. So, we will play an important role as cheerleader in chief and also as collaborator.

Still, he said that states, localities and companies can push the nation only so far toward meeting the goals of the Paris agreement and making a shift toward cleaner energy sources.

"We can fill maybe half the void," said Brown, who was recently named a special adviser for states and regions to the Bonn conference. "We can do a lot, and we can carry the ball while Trump goes off in another direction. But soon, we need the national government."

U.S. officials will not be entirely absent from the gathering in Bonn. The United States remains a party to the Paris accord simply because it takes four years to formally withdraw.

The U.S. is sending a State Department-led delegation with a career diplomat in charge, and that seems to send a signal that theyre not going to Bonn to throw bombs or anything, said Sue Biniaz, who was a lead climate lawyer at the agency until this year. So I would expect civil interaction, in terms of the diplomatic negotiating process.

The Environmental Protection Agency also plans to send political and career staffers, although Administrator Scott Pruitt plans to skip the conference.

Trump administration officials are expected to tout fossil fuels and nuclear energy as potential ways to reduce emissions and combat climate change during a session focused on how U.S. energy resources can aid poor countries in meeting growing electricity needs. The presentation, first reported by the New York Times and obtained by The Washington Post, is titled The Role of Cleaner and More Efficient Fossil Fuels and Nuclear Power in Climate Mitigation.

As the world seeks to reduce emissions while promoting economic prosperity, fossil fuels will continue to play a central role in the energy mix, states an outline of the presentation, which will include speakers from coal giant Peabody Energy and from NuScale Power, a nuclear engineering firm.

Such an approach could trigger sharp reactions from other nations at the international conference, where the main focus of the Paris agreement is compelling countries to move away from fossil fuels toward more renewable forms of energy.

But mostly, some observers say, the United States probably wont be a key player at the talks  a significant departure from its leading role under President Barack Obama.

Trump is utterly isolated, and U.S. positions and negotiators will be largely ignored as a result. This has become a life-and-death issue for most countries, said Paul Bledsoe, a former Clinton White House climate adviser and lecturer at American Universitys Center for Environmental Policy.

In Bonn, other nations have plenty of work to do to implement the Paris agreement. That includes discussing financing for developing countries to help with climate adaptation and emissions reductions, laying down guidelines for determining how much countries will need to increase the ambitiousness of emissions reductions in future years, and setting up mechanisms to monitor and verify whether nations are living up to their pledges.

The global meeting in Germany begins days after the release of a dire report from the U.S. government, which affirmed that human activity is the dominant driver of global warming  a conclusion at odds with White House policies and the president's rhetoric.

The report warns of potential sea level rise as high as eight feet by the year 2100, and details climate-related damage across the United States that is unfolding as a result of 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit of global warming since 1900.

At the same time, the United Nations' Environment Program recently published its annual "emissions gap" report, which documents just how far off course the world is from its professed goals under the Paris agreement of holding the warming of the planet to 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels.

It found that even if countries follow through on their current pledges under the Paris accord, it still would leave the world on course for 3.2 degrees Celsius (5.76 Fahrenheit) degrees of warming.

In other words, the world remains dramatically off course for hitting its own goals under the Paris agreement.

The meeting in Bonn wont fix that. But countries that a year ago feared Trumps election would hinder the Paris agreement are determined to move it forward.

Last fall in Morocco, said Harvard University environmental economics professor Robert Stavins, a lot of the delegations were sort of in shock. But that shock has given way to a sort of acceptance, at least in the near term.

What happened is that they have now absorbed the reality of this administration, he said, in lots of ways.

Read more

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Climate change fueling disasters, disease in potentially irreversible ways, report warns

Trump administration will propose repealing Obamas key effort to combat climate change
Amy Biden, of New York, hugs her dog Smokey after placing flowers she brought to a makeshift memorial that honors victims of an attack who were struck and killed by a rental truck driven by indicted suspect Sayfullo Saipov last Tuesday, at Chambers and West Streets in New York Saturday. Saipov is accused of using the rental truck to mow down pedestrians and cyclists along the busy bike path. (Craig Ruttle/Associated Press)

KENTUCKY

State House speaker says he wont resign

Kentuckys Republican House speaker said he has no plans to resign and is more resolved than ever to continue in his leadership position, despite a report that he settled a sexual harassment case outside of court with a member of his staff.

Jeff Hoover said in a statement he was disappointed Republican Gov. Matt Bevin called for him to resign Saturday. Bevin held a news conference earlier in the day at which he called for the resignation of any elected official who has settled sexual harassment allegations.

GOP leaders of the House said Saturday they will hire a law firm to investigate the issue.

The Courier-Journal published a report this past week relying on anonymous sources to say Hoover had settled a sexual harassment claim with a staffer.

 Associated Press

KANSAS

Woman is fth suspect charged in 3 deaths

A grand jury indicted a Kansas woman on first-degree murder and other charges for her alleged involvement in the killing of three people this year, Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said Saturday.

Kora Liles of Topeka also faces charges of aggravated kidnapping and assault, the Topeka Capital-Journal reported.

Her attorney did not reply immediately to requests for comment.

Authorities say Matthew Leavitt, 19, Nicole Fisher, 38, and Luke Davis, 20, were strangled or smothered with trash bags in March in a Topeka basement.

Police say the violence stemmed from an unproven rape allegation against Leavitt. Also charged in the case are Joseph A. Krahn, who pleaded guilty last month to three counts of first-degree murder and is due to be sentenced Nov. 17, and Brian J. Flowers, Joseph P. Lowry and Shane A. Mays, who are awaiting trial.

 Associated Press

Calif. party bus shooting leaves 1 dead, 3 wounded: Police are looking for gunmen who shot up a party bus in Santa Monica, killing a woman. Police say a group from one bus got into an argument with a group from another, unrelated bus near the Santa Monica Pier about 1 a.m. Saturday. Two or three men opened fire, hitting several people inside a bus, then ran off. Three people were taken to a hospital, where a woman in her 30s died. No arrests were made.

Ohio pair charged with taping boy to bed: Authorities said the parents of a 6-year-old boy found wandering alone were charged after police said his mother sometimes secured his arms and legs with duct tape to a bed in their Ohio home. A Cuyahoga County grand jury indicted Earcielee Chisholm, 34, and Demershion Taylor, 30, on child endangering, kidnapping and domestic violence charges.

 From news services
SAUDI ARABIA

Royals rounded up

in corruption probe

Saudi Arabias King Salman has removed a prominent prince who headed the National Guard, replaced the economy minister and announced the creation of a new anti-corruption committee.

The Saudi-owned al-Arabiya news channel also reported late Saturday that dozens of princes and former ministers were detained in a new anti-corruption probe headed by the kingdoms powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. No further details were immediately given.

The king ousted one of the countrys highest-level royals from power, relieving Prince Miteb bin Abdullah of his post as head of the National Guard. Prince Miteb was once considered a contender for the throne.

The monarch also replaced Minister of Economy and Planning Adel Fakeih with his deputy, Mohammad al-Tuwaijri.

 Associated Press

SOMALIA

U.S. diplomatic staff told to exit Mogadishu

The United States diplomatic mission in Somalia has directed all nonessential staff to leave the capital, Mogadishu, saying it had received a specific threat against its employees.

The move came a day after Washington carried out its first airstrikes against Islamic State militants in the country, in raids it said killed several terrorists.

Due to specific threat information against U.S. personnel on the Mogadishu International Airport, the U.S. Mission to Somalia has directed its nonessential U.S. citizen employees to depart Mogadishu until further notice, a statement said.

It did not give further details.

The Islamic State extremist group has been gathering recruits in the region, but it remains a small player compared with al-Shabab, a group linked to al-Qaeda that once controlled much of Somalia.

 Reuters

WEST AFRICA

Red Cross: $6 million in Ebola funds wasted

Fraud by Red Cross workers and others wasted at least $6 million meant to fight the deadly Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the organization said.

The revelations follow an internal investigation of how the organization handled more than $124 million during the 2014-2016 epidemic that killed more than 11,000 people in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea.

The disease erupted in Guinea and quickly spread to Sierra Leone and Liberia. The international aid response was initially slow. Money, once it arrived, was often disbursed quickly in the rush to purchase supplies and get aid workers into the field.

As much as $2.13 million disappeared as the result of likely collusion between Red Cross staff and employees at a Sierra Leonean bank, the investigation found. It is believed that the money was lost when the exchange rate was set improperly at the height of the epidemic.

 Associated Press

U.S. service member killed in Afghanistan: A U.S. service member was killed in eastern Afghanistan on Saturday, the military said, without giving details of his identity or the circumstances of his death. A statement from U.S. Forces Afghanistan command in Kabul said the service member had died of wounds sustained during operations in Logar, the eastern province where another service member was killed last week after a helicopter crash. The latest death comes as the number of U.S. troops assisting Afghan forces against the Taliban is being boosted as part of a new strategy to try to break the stalemate.

Puigdemont says he will cooperate with Belgians: The deposed Catalan president, Carles Puigdemont, who fled to Belgium to try to run a government in exile, says he will cooperate with Belgian authorities on an arrest order from Spain. Under European arrest-warrant procedures, individuals are detained and brought before judges within 24 hours. A court then has 15 days to decide whether to execute the arrest order, according to the Belgian Justice Ministry. Including time for possible appeals, a decision must be made within three months. If that decision were to go against him, Puigdemont would then have to be surrendered to Spain within 10 days.

 From news services
Columnist

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman says he's cracking down on corruption. But the sweeping arrests of cabinet ministers and senior princes Saturday night looked to many astonished Arab observers like a bold but risky consolidation of power.

MBS, as the headstrong 32-year-old ruler is known, struck at some of the kingdom's most prominent business and political names in a new bid to gain political control and drive change in the oil kingdom. By the count of the Saudi-owned al-Arabiya news channel, the arrests included 11 princes, four ministers and several dozen others.

"He's creating a new Saudi Arabia," said one Saudi business leader contacted Sunday. He noted that the anti-corruption campaign follows other aggressive but controversial moves, including a royal decree allowing women to drive and limits on the religious police.

This is very risky, the business leader said, because MBS is now challenging senior princes and religious conservatives simultaneously. The executive, who strongly supports MBSs liberalization efforts, worried that hes fighting too many wars at once.

The list of arrestees includes Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, the son of the previous king and the head of the Saudi national guard, traditionally a locus of tribal power. The national guard was part of the balance among the royal family. Hes taken that balance out, the Saudi executive noted. Hes the goliath who can fight it all.



Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Oct. 24. (Fayez Nureldine/AFP via Getty Images)

MBS appears to be deliberately dismantling the traditional governance system in Saudi Arabia, which involved a slow, sometimes sclerotic process of consensus within the royal family. The young prince has instead seized executive power and wielded it aggressively to push his agenda.

The forward-leaning face of this change process was on display a week ago, when MBS hosted a gathering of technology and business leaders from around the world. Saturday night's arrests showed the iron fist inside the futuristic velvet glove.

MBS described his campaign in a brief video clip circulating on Saudi social media. "I assure you anyone involved in corruption will not be spared, whether he's a prince or a minister, or anyone." The arrests were accompanied by a decree creating a "supreme committee" to investigate corruption. The committee has "the right to take any precautionary measures it sees fit," including seizing assets and banning travel.

MBS has chosen whats likely to be a popular target with younger Saudis. Corruption has enfeebled Saudi Arabia for generations, draining the royal treasury and impeding the modernization the crown prince says he wants. MBS is betting he can mobilize these younger Saudis, hungry for a new kingdom, against the older princes. Hes hoping the religious establishment, too, will support a purge of the elite.

Hes closing the circle of people who can feed at the trough, said a Saudi political analyst contacted Sunday. Instead of 10,000 stakeholders, there will now be just a few.

The roster of those arrested includes billionaire tycoons, such as Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, head of Kingdom Holding Co. and one of the most prominent Saudi global investors; Saleh Kamal and Waleed al-Ibrahim, co-founders of Middle East Broadcasting Corp., the regions first satellite channel; and Adel Fakieh, the minister of economy and planning, who until the putsch was one of MBSs key lieutenants in developing his reform program.

MBS has now shattered the leadership circle of the previous king, Abdullah, who died in 2015. In addition to Prince Miteb, MBS arrested Prince Turki bin Abdullah, another prominent son and former governor of Riyadh province. Also arrested was Khaled al-Tuwaijri, who as chief of Abdullah's royal court was a virtual prime minister. In June, MBS toppled the previous crown prince, Mohammed bin Nayef, clearing the way for him to eventually succeed his 81-year-old father, King Salman.

While accompanied by the rhetoric of reform, this weekends purge resembles the approach of authoritarian regimes such as China. President Xi Jinping has used a similar anti-corruption theme to replace a generation of party and military leaders and to alter the collective leadership style adopted by recent Chinese rulers.

MBS is emboldened by strong support from President Trump and his inner circle, who see him as a kindred disrupter of the status quo  at once a wealthy tycoon and a populist insurgent. It was probably no accident that last month, Jared Kushner, Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law, made a personal visit to Riyadh. The two princes are said to have stayed up until nearly 4 a.m. several nights, swapping stories and planning strategy.

MBS would probably be flattered to be described as a Saudi Trump. But Xi and his anti-corruption power play may be the real role model.

Twitter: @IgnatiusPost

Read more from David Ignatius's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
A majority of Americans say President Trump has not accomplished much during his first nine months in office and they have delivered a report card that is far harsher even than the tepid expectations they set for his tenure when he was sworn into office, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News survey.

Approaching the first anniversary of his victory over Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election, Trump has an approval rating demonstrably lower than any previous chief executive at this point in his presidency over seven decades of polling. Fewer than 4 in 10 Americans  37 percent  say they approve of the way he is handling his job.

Trumps approval rating has changed little over the past four months, which have included tumultuous events, from hurricanes to legislative setbacks to indictments in special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs investigation into the role Russia played in the 2016 campaign.

[Read full poll results | How the poll was conducted]

The presidents disapproval rating has reached 59 percent, with 50 percent saying they strongly disapprove of the job he is doing. While little changed since the summer, both represent the worst marks of his presidency.





He is the only president dating back to Harry S. Truman whose approval rating at this point in his presidency is net negative  by 22 points. The next worst recorded in that time was Bill Clinton, who had a net positive of 11 points by this time in his presidency.

Trump began his presidency with only modest expectations on the part of a public that was divided coming out of last years contentious election. Roughly 100 days into his presidency, 42 percent said he had accomplished a great deal or a good amount while in office. Today, that has declined to 35 percent.

Meanwhile, 65 percent say he has accomplished not much or little or nothing. This is up from 56 percent last spring. Forty-three percent of all Americans give him the lowest possible rating, saying he has accomplished little or nothing.

At the 100-day mark of Trumps presidency last spring, Americans were split almost evenly on the question of whether he was keeping most of his major campaign promises, with 44 percent saying he was and 41 percent disagreeing. Today the verdict is more severe, with a majority (55 percent) saying he is not keeping most of those promises.

The public sees Democrats acting mostly as an opposition party, rather than offering ideas of their own. Asked whether the Democratic Party is presenting alternatives to Trumps proposals or mainly criticizing the president, 61 percent said mainly criticizing, identical to the percentage who said this of Republican Party leaders one year after Obamas election. Only a plurality of Democrats (47 percent) say their leaders are offering alternatives to Trumps ideas.

Trumps actions and behavior have drawn sharp criticism from a few members of his own party, most recently from Sens. Bob Corker of Tennessee and Jeff Flake and John McCain of Arizona. Former president George W. Bush delivered a recent speech that, while never mentioning Trump by name, was seen as a rebuke of the way the president is conducting himself in office.

The Post-ABC News poll asked self-identified Republicans and independents who lean toward the GOP whether they believed their party leaders should speak out when they disagree with the president. Overall, 71 percent said they should, with just 27 percent saying those leaders should avoid criticizing him, including 65 percent of Trump voters who say Republicans should air their disagreements.

On four key issues, Trump has not matched the early expectations for his presidency, and today, majorities  in some case strong majorities  give him negative reviews. Those issues are the economy, dealing with race relations, improving the health-care system and dealing with the threat of terrorism. (Part of this survey was conducted before the terrorist attack on Tuesday that left eight people dead in New York.)

The president has pointed to what he sees as significant accomplishments in the area of the economy, with the stock market at record levels, unemployment at 4.1 percent  a 17-year low  and growth in the two most recent quarters at 3 percent.

But the public gives him little credit for the state of the economy. Last January, 61 percent offered a positive assessment when asked how they thought he would handle the economy. Today, 44 percent give him positive marks, while 53 percent say he has not done well.

In January, a majority (56 percent) said they believed he would do an excellent or good job dealing with threats of terrorism. Today, 43 percent give him positive reviews.

Trump receives even lower ratings on race and health care. Fewer than 3 in 10 say he has done a good job dealing with race relations, which is 12 points below the 40 percent who said in January they thought he would handle race issues effectively. Half of all Americans say they believe Trump is biased against black people and slightly more (55 percent) say he is biased against women.

The racial assessment follows a backlash to Trumps comments about the white supremacist rally in August in Charlottesville, where marchers chanted Nazi slogans and the ensuing violence left one woman dead and others injured. Two state police officers also died when their helicopter crashed after assisting in the unrest. Trump was slow to condemn the marchers and at one point said there were very fine people among the neo-Nazi demonstrators.

In January, 44 percent said they expected him to handle the issue of health care effectively, including 87 percent of Republicans. Optimism has faded sharply, with 26 percent of Americans and 59 percent of Republicans giving him positive marks today. The overall percentage offering a negative assessment has jumped from 51 percent in January to 70 percent today, including 47 percent who give him the lowest rating, poor.

Political independents have soured the most considering Trumps pre-inaugural expectations and current ratings. The percentage of independents saying Trump is doing a good job on the economy, race relations and health care is more than 20 points lower than the percentage that expected him to perform well in January. On terrorism, todays ratings are 17 points below early expectations among independents.

Congressional Republicans were stymied in their efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, despite years of promises to do so. The House, after first failing to pass a bill, eventually approved a measure and sent it to the Senate. Senate Republican leaders struggled to get a health bill to the floor for consideration. When they did, they fell short of the necessary majority needed to keep the process moving.

Throughout that process, Trump prodded the Republican leadership, principally Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), with demeaning tweets demanding action. Ever since the effort broke down, Trump has attempted to focus the ire of disappointed conservatives on those congressional Republicans, but the failed effort also appears to have taken a toll on him.

A solid majority (59 percent) also see Trump as trying to make the federal health law fail. Less than one-tenth of the public says they support those efforts to scuttle the law through executive actions, while overall, 50 percent of the public opposes what they see as Trump undermining the existing program.

As tensions mount over North Koreas pursuit of a nuclear weapon and delivery system capable of hitting the United States, the public has little trust in the president to handle the problem responsibly. A majority (51 percent) say they trust him not at all on this national security issue and 16 percent say they trust him just some. Meanwhile, 32 percent say they trust him a great deal or a good amount.

Other measures highlight the degree to which Trump is governing with the support of a minority of the population. Four in 10 say he is a strong leader. Thats 13 points below the level in April. On this question, he has gone from a net positive of eight points to a net negative of 19 points. Roughly twice as many Americans say that under Trump, U.S. leadership in the world has gotten weaker rather than stronger, 53 to 26 percent.

Trump campaigned on his dealmaking ability, but the public doubts his ability to forge political agreements. Almost 6 in 10 say he is not good at making political deals while under 4 in 10 say he is good at making deals.

One-third say he is honest and trustworthy, down only marginally since April. On the question of whether he has the temperament and personality needed to serve as president, 31 percent say yes, while 66 percent say no. That is the lowest since August 2016, when candidate Trump was embroiled in a controversy with a Gold Star family.

A minority of 37 percent say he understands the problems of people like you, unchanged since last spring, while 42 percent say he has brought needed change to Washington, marginally better than when last measured two months ago.

Of those Americans who say they voted in 2016, 46 percent say they supported Clinton, and 43 percent say they backed Trump. If an election were held today, with the same candidates, 40 percent of those 2016 voters say they would back Trump, and 40 percent say they would support Clinton.

Trump has succeeded in satisfying voters who elected him president but few others. Voters who supported Trump continue to be overwhelmingly supportive, with 91 percent approving of his performance, including 69 percent strongly. A still larger 95 percent of Clinton voters disapprove of him, with 88 percent who feel that way strongly. Among those who supported neither candidate  or did not vote  24 percent approve of Trump while 68 percent disapprove.

The Post-ABC poll was conducted Oct. 29 to Nov. 1 among a random national sample of 1,005 adults reached on cell and landline phones with a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.

Emily Guskin contributed to this report.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 19:48:24|Editor: Yurou

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Smoke rises from the bomb attack site in Aden, Yemen on Nov. 5, 2017. A suicide car bomb killed eight soldiers in Yemen's temporary capital of Aden city in front of the well-guarded headquarters of the security forces on Sunday, a police official told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Hasan)

ADEN, Yemen, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Islamic State (IS) group on Sunday claimed responsibility for a suicide bomb attack against the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the security headquarters in the Yemeni southern port city of Aden.

"One of the group's jihadist members carried out the operation and detonated his explosives-loaded vehicle at the main gate of the Criminal Investigation Department in Aden," the group said in a brief statement, but its authenticity could not be independently verified.

The extremist group claimed that the "suicide operation that struck the main gate of the CID killed 30 soldiers and followed by another armed attack that resulted in killing 20 others."

According to the statement revealed by IS group, "heavy armed confrontations are still taking place between our jihadists and the security soldiers in the area and a number of armored vehicles were destroyed."

But it didn't disclose further details or how many attackers launched the armed attack against the CID building in Aden.

The IS-affiliated news agency Amaq also issued a series of brief statements claiming that "scores of security personnel were taken as hostages during twin jihadist operations against security in Aden."

The attack occurred around 8:10 a.m. local time (0510 GMT) when a suicide car bomber struck the main gate of the security headquarters, and a group of well-armed masked men launched an armed attack against a nearby building of the CID, a police official said on condition of anonymity.

Eyewitnesses confirmed to Xinhua that the explosion was followed by an exchange of heavy gunfire between the security guards and unknown gunmen who tried to storm the CID headquarters from different directions.

Heavy smoke could be seen billowing from the building of CID, and armed clashes are still ongoing in the area, the eyewitnesses said.

Earlier in the day, a medical source at Jamhuria public hospital said that "eight soldiers were killed as a result of the explosion and many injured soldiers were moved to the hospital for treatment."

A security source in Aden told Xinhua by phone saying that "the suicide attack primarily aimed at assassinating Aden's security chief General Shalal who was heading to his workplace at the time of the explosion."

The source said that "General Shalal escaped the attack and later he personally commanded an anti-terror military unit to eliminate the terrorists who were hiding inside the building."

"A number of terrorists wearing explosive belts were killed inside the security building and the situation is under control now," he added.

Today's powerful blast partially destroyed a number of nearby residential buildings and shops in addition to injuring local residents in Aden's neighborhood of KhorMaksar.

Aden's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences which is located in the same neighborhood was shut down as hundreds of students were waiting to take their admission tests.

The southern port city of Aden is considered as Yemen's temporary capital and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government based itself there since 2015.

Militants of the Yemen-based al-Qaida branch and the Islamic State group (IS) are more active in the country's southern part and Yemeni armed forces supported by the UAE started waging large offensives against some hideouts there.

The al-Qaida and Islamic State-linked terrorists took advantage of the security vacuum and ongoing civil war to expand their influence and seize more territories in Yemen.

Security in Yemen has further deteriorated since March 2015, when war broke out between the Shiite Houthi group, supported by former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, and government forces backed by a Saudi-led Arab coalition.

UN statistics show more than 10,000 people, most of them civilians, have been killed since the coalition intervened in the Yemeni civil war that also displaced around three million.

The impoverished Arab country is also suffering the world's largest cholera epidemic since April, with about 5,000 cases reported every day.
House Republican tax writers on Sunday prepared to make further changes to the sweeping legislation they released last week, including tweaks that could allow upper-middle-class homeowners to deduct more mortgage interest and make more business owners eligible for a lower tax rate.

It is also still possible that a repeal of the Affordable Care Acts central insurance mandate could be added to the bill, with House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) signaling in a television interview Sunday that party leaders are still mulling over that decision.

GOP members of the House Ways and Means Committee met behind closed doors Sunday to debate changes ahead of a scheduled markup of the tax bill Monday. Lawmakers will debate and vote on changes to the measure during the session, which is expected to last several days.

Two people familiar with the changes  one a senior Trump administration official, the other a lobbyist briefed on the status of the legislation  said the panel is considering increasing the GOP bills proposed $500,000 limit on the mortgage interest deduction. That limit could increase to $750,000 or so, the lobbyist said  still short of the current $1 million limit  but enough to ease concerns from lawmakers in states with high costs of living who fear a lower limit could hit middle-class households.

Another potential change, they said, concerns the treatment of pass-through businesses  through which a firms earnings are passed to its owners to be taxed as individual income. Lawmakers are exploring how to expand eligibility for a new 25 percent rate on that income, in part to address the concerns of the National Federation of Independent Businesses, a lobbying group.

Repealing the Affordable Care Acts individual mandate could give the tax writers room to make these or other costly changes without exceeding a $1.5 trillion limit on the total cost of the bill over the coming decade. But two GOP officials said Sunday that repealing the mandate might not generate as much revenue as lawmakers hope. Although the Congressional Budget Office estimated last year that a repeal would have a $416 billion positive deficit impact, updates to the nonpartisan scorekeepers model have significantly reduced that figure, they said.

Ryan suggested that a repeal of the health-care laws individual mandate is still up for discussion, while a key New York Republican warned that he and other GOP lawmakers from highly taxed northeastern states remain opposed to the legislation.

Appearing on Fox News Sunday, Ryan said that repealing the individual mandate is one of the things thats being discussed.

Were listening to our members about what we can do to add to this bill to make it even better, he added.

[Some middle-class Americans would pay higher taxes under GOP bill]

Despite the research and President Trump's pleas, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-Tex.) said Friday that he is unlikely to add changes to health-care policy to the tax legislation, because doing so would doom its chances in the more closely divided Senate.

Meanwhile, Rep. Peter T. King (R-N.Y.) told ABCs This Week that the tax plan as written would have a particularly devastating effect on New York, which has some of the highest local and state taxes in the country.



Rep. Peter King R-N.Y.) remains a key holdout on the House GOPs tax overhaul plan. (Mark Wilson/Getty Images)

"As of now, I would have to" vote against the plan, King said. He warned that in his Long Island-

area swing district, "the main objection I'm getting is from Trump voters" who have voted for Democratic presidents in the past.

King was among 20 House Republicans who withheld support for a budget resolution last month that set the rules for the forthcoming tax debate. King and many of the others voted no because GOP leaders were planning to eliminate deductions for state and local taxes. In a bid to win their support, the bill introduced last week would allow taxpayers to deduct up to $10,000 in property taxes.

Rep. Tom MacArthur (R-N.J.), who also voted against the budget resolution, on Sunday called the $10,000 limit a huge win for middle-class taxpayers even in high-tax states like mine. Appearing on Fox News Channels Sunday Morning Futures, he added that he now plans to support the legislation.

[Winners and losers in the GOP tax plan]

Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, told ABC that the tax plan was "a work in progress" that would ultimately lead to long-term economic growth, despite adding $1.5 trillion to the deficit. But another conservative, Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.), told NBC's "Meet the Press" that he remains concerned about how much the GOP plan could add to the debt and was not a guaranteed supporter of the legislation.



"The preliminary numbers really look very good in terms of economic growth," Meadows said, adding that growth will "outweigh any short-term deficit increase."

The Senate Finance Committee is expected to unveil its version of a tax bill on Thursday once the Ways and Means proceedings end, according to multiple aides familiar with the plans. News reports last week suggested that the Senates tax plan would propose phasing in a new corporate tax rate of 20 percent over five years instead of immediately.

But in an interview on Sunday Morning Futures, Vice President Pence said the new corporate tax rate has to happen immediately. And were going to drive and drive hard.

Democrats, meanwhile, rejected the GOP plan. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (Calif.) described the proposal as a "Ponzi scheme" and "a "gift to corporate America."

[They spent years planning to live with Alzheimers. The GOP bill threatens those plans]

"They spread out a banquet for the wealthiest Americans and threw some crumbs to the middle class," Pelosi said on CNN's "State of the Union."

Caitlin Dewey contributed to this report.

Read more at PowerPost
An honor guard carries the coffin of U.S. Army Sergeant La David Johnson, who was among four Special Forces soldiers killed in Niger, at a graveside service in Hollywood, Florida, on Oct. 21. (Joe Skipper/Reuters)

The four U.S. soldiers killed last month in an ambush were helping track and fight Islamist militants along the Mali-Niger border in the hours before their death, according to the nation's defense minister and a wounded Nigerien soldier who survived the attack.

The accounts raise questions about the Pentagon's assertions that the American and Nigerien troops were on a low-risk reconnaissance mission and that chances of contact with militants were unlikely. They were, instead, operating in a dangerous and complex battle zone, where attacks happen frequently. U.S. troops are in Niger to train and advise, military officials have said, not to engage in combat missions.

Questions still unanswered: Was the team operating on faulty intelligence? Or was the mission changed at the last minute?

The details suggest revenge may have been a motive for the militants  who were part of a relatively new Islamic State affiliate, the Pentagon suspects  in their attack on 11 U.S. soldiers and 30 Nigerien troops.

In a 90-minute phone interview, the wounded Nigerien soldier described the surprise assault on Oct. 4 after they left the border village of Tongo Tongo. Five Nigerien soldiers also died.

The U.S. troops, who included elite Green Berets, wound up taking the lead in the intense firefight. Some Nigerien soldiers fled, even as the Americans ordered them to stay on and fight.

The Americans had more sophisticated weapons and so we let them confront the enemy while we took cover, said Sgt. Abdou Kane, 28, who was shot in the leg and who spoke from the town of Agadez in central Niger. The Americans were telling us not to flee but to go back and fight the enemy. But the enemy was following us and shooting at us.

The insurgents, he said, far outnumbered the U.S.-Nigerien team and had much greater firepower, including pickup trucks mounted with heavy machine guns.

The ambush, by masked and turban-wearing fighters, was so well-planned they had sent a large herd of cows toward the team, then attacked under cover of the dust raised by the cattle.

In the chaos, he added, several of the Americans were separated from the main group, as the team split up to avoid the militants. Air support to help the besieged team and evacuate the wounded took an hour or more to arrive.

A person at the military hospital in the capital, where Kane was treated for his injury, provided his number to The Washington Post.

The accounts suggest U.S. troops may have gone beyond the scope of their mission in Niger, and they raise a question as to whether they had the required authorization to capture or kill militants. The Pentagon has said it is investigating whether the soldiers' stated mission had changed.

At the very least, the accounts underscore the perils faced by U.S. Special Forces and other American troops even in their capacities as trainers and advisers.

Nigers defense minister, Kalla Moutari, blamed a failure in intelligence, which resulted in a miscalculation of the risk of engaging with militants in the area around Tongo Tongo. But he also said the team had managed to kill some militants in a counterterrorism operation before they arrived in the village.

It was a mission to collect information and to neutralize the enemy or the threat, Moutari said in an interview. The intelligence wasnt as complete as we thought, but at the same time some terrorists were neutralized on the way back from the mission.

It so happened that the enemy had time to take position and got the right opportunity to attack them.

The American soldiers, Kane said, did not fight in the operation before arriving in Tongo Tongo but rather were advising the Nigerien forces.

Several Defense Department officials contacted for comment Sunday either did not respond or declined to do so.

We are all waiting for the investigation to conclude, said Navy Capt. Jason Salata, a spokesman for U.S. Special Operations Command.

In the days since the ambush, conflicting accounts have emerged. Some reports have suggested the U.S.-Nigerien team had been reassigned to back up another team in a separate counterterrorism operation. When asked if his team had changed missions, Kane declined to discuss the militarys operational procedures.

The mission was to go to Mali to capture the terrorists and bring them back, Kane said.

Special Forces soldiers make up about a third of the roughly 800 American service members in Niger. Several hundred troops work on a drone base in the capital, as well as preparing for a second drone base in Agadez. The Special Forces mission is to advise and assist Nigerien soldiers in counterterrorism operations.

Several radical Islamist groups linked to both the Islamic State and al-Qaeda operate along the vast and ungoverned Mali-Niger border. Since February 2016, there have been at least 46 attacks, mostly targeting local security forces, according to the United Nations. Since the Oct. 4 ambush, there have been several more assaults by militants, including one in which 13 Nigerien gendarmes were killed on Oct. 21.

The Niger government has deemed the terrain around Tongo Tongo so insecure that it imposed a state of emergency in several districts.

On Oct. 3, Kanes team was along the border, crossing in and out of Mali. They were traveling in six pickup trucks  none with mounted machine guns, Kane said. The Americans were in armored ones, but the Nigeriens were not. The soldiers were carrying only light weapons.

There had been more than two dozen joint missions like this along the border in the past six months without incident, according to U.S. and Nigerien officials. Moutari said the team was properly armed because the capability to move fast was essential when chasing militants.

The Americans had night vision binoculars, and they helped the Nigeriens attack a small band of militants that night, Kane said, adding that he was trained by the Americans.

Some fighters, he said, were captured, but he declined to say what happened to them. Nor would he discuss which extremist group they had targeted. If there was no way to capture them, we had to kill them, Kane said.

After spending the night on the border, they headed back. On the way, they stopped in Tongo Tongo to pick up water. It was around 11 a.m. The villagers brought a pail to fetch water from a well.

As they waited, the village chief approached the Americans. He asked for their help in getting medicine to treat some sick children. The Nigerien soldiers, meanwhile, cooked breakfast, Kane recalled. About 40 minutes later, the chief gave them directions to their base, about two hours away.

They headed out of Tongo Tongo.

About 100 yards outside the village, in an isolated patch surrounded by bushes, they heard three gunshots, Kane said. The convoy stopped. The American vehicles went forward, he said. There were more gunshots, and they returned fire.

Thats when the militants sent the herd of cattle toward them, Kane said, generating large clouds of dust. The enemy could see us, but we couldnt see the enemy, he said. The fighters, numbering more than 50, were using heavy machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades and Kalashnikov rifles.

Some were dressed in black. Others were yelling Allahu akbar  God is great.

They had more sophisticated weapons than us, Kane said.

As the militants intensified their attacks, the soldiers retreated and scattered in different directions. Some were forced to abandon their trucks. We all decided to go our own way to disrupt the enemy, Kane said.

The Americans, along with a few Nigerien soldiers, he said, continued to engage the militants. Kane was hurt when a bullet went through his thigh. At some point  he doesnt know when  he saw an American soldier calling for support on his radio.

When French Mirage jets and rescue helicopters arrived, the militants fled. The helicopters didnt land until Nigerien ground reinforcements secured the area. Then, Kane, along with two wounded Americans and another wounded Nigerien soldier, were flown to the capital for medical care.

There were no remains of U.S. soldiers in the helicopter. A few hours later, the bodies of three  Staff Sgts. Bryan Black, Jeremiah Johnson and Dustin Wright  were retrieved. Two days later, Nigerien forces found the remains of Sgt. La David Johnson, a mile away from the ambush site.

We tried our best, but the enemy had everything they needed to beat us, Kane said.

Dan Lamothe in Washington contributed to this report.
The patrols started at dawn, and the villagers scattered, abandoning their pails of water to avoid humiliation and fines.

Every morning in this district in rural India, teams of government employees and volunteer motivators roam villages to publicly shame those who relieve themselves in the open. The good-morning squads are part of what one official called the largest behavioral-change program anywhere in the world.

This is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flagship Clean India initiative in mission mode. By October 2019, Modi has vowed, every Indian will have access to a toilet, and the country will be free of the scourge of open defecation. Since Modi came to power, more than 52 million toilets have been installed. But the trick, sanitation experts say, is getting people to use them.

To win favor with the ruling partys top brass, government officials have set to work, trying to outpace one another with toilet-building races and eye-catching information campaigns. Many are resorting to controversial public shaming tactics.

This is harassment, said one villager, Ranjit Gonjare. The person becomes the laughingstock of the village.



Santram Gonjare, 55, was caught by a good-morning squad one morning along a highway in Beed, Maharashtra. Squad members crushed the pail of water he was holding and gave him a rose as a sign of goodwill. (Vidhi Doshi/The Washington Post)

India's sanitation crisis is an urgent priority: 53 percent of Indian households had no toilet in 2011, the latest census figures show. Human feces litters public spaces, spreading diseases that contribute to hundreds of thousands of deaths every year. People wait all day to defecate in darkness, which has health and safety implications. Children, especially menstruating girls, skip school because of a lack of toilets. One report pegged the economic cost of India's sanitation problem at $106.5 billion in 2015, 5.2 percent of the country's gross domestic product.

Santram Gonjare felt the sting of humiliation one recent morning, when a squad flagged him down as he was walking along a highway.

They knew what the 55-year-old was about to do because he was holding a pail of water that he would use to wash himself after defecating. They knocked the pail out of his hand and crushed it under their feet. Then they offered him a flower, a sign of goodwill, and told him to use a toilet in the future.

Gonjare hung his head as he walked home. He went out to defecate, he said, because his nine-person household has only one toilet, and he couldnt bear to wait his turn. How can that feel okay? he said of his experience with the squad. I felt worthless. Its not the right way to treat old people.

Such encounters are routine in Beed, where people without toilets risk having their welfare benefits taken away and can be barred from running for public office. Elsewhere, officials use methods that verge on coercion  or worse. In one recent case, a man was publicly lynched after he tried to stop authorities from photographing women who were defecating in the open. A news channel urged viewers to send in images and names of those who defecate in the open so they could be shamed on national television.

This work has to be done, said Dhanraj Nila, chief executive of Beed district, who regularly goes out on morning patrols. He said the squads shaming methods were necessary to motivate people to use toilets. People keep saying Beed is a backward district.

Modi's Clean India mission has drawn international support. After a recent visit to India, Bill Gates extolled the mission's "impressive" speed. USAID pledged $2 million annually and introduced ranking systems to trigger "competition between cities." The World Bank offered a $1.5 billion loan to help speed the sanitation programs. UNICEF, the U.N. children's agency, is providing training and education tools, although a spokesman distanced the organization from the Indian government's "name and shame" programs.



A traveling van shows villagers informational movies about the virtues of sanitation. (Vidhi Doshi/The Washington Post)

Some argue that Modi is overly optimistic about the pace of change. No country anywhere in the world has come anywhere close to eliminating open defecation that fast, said economist Dean Spears, a sanitation expert, referring to the 2019 target. Theres no reason to think this is going to be an exception. Its very easy to say that its a behavioral-change program. But when 500 to 600 million people defecate in the open, you need an awful lot of people on the ground to change that.

India is vast and difficult to govern; in outlying regions such as Beed, where central control is weak and corruption levels high, shame and honor are the mechanisms through which communities police themselves. Many villagers in Beed praised the governments methods, showing off areas that once were open-air toilets and now are childrens playgrounds.

Many said the squads are doing a service. This is the only way. People have stopped [defecating] outdoors because of fear, said Meera Bandu Bhise, one of Gonjares neighbors.

Satish Umrikar, who oversees sanitation activities in the state of Maharashtra, where Beed is located, said the missions ambitious targets are crucial to its success. An estimated 91 percent of people in rural areas in Maharashtra now have access to toilets, double the percentage in 2014, with 1.9 million installed in the past fiscal year.

Despite rapid economic growth, India lags behind in sanitation, partly because people dont want to do the undignified work of cleaning latrine pits, labor traditionally reserved for lower castes. To change attitudes, squads use several techniques, including door-to-door visits and sanitation workshops.

The village of Lolad is considered free of open defecation. People described how, at first, older residents refused to use toilets. Little children used to chase people blowing whistles, one villager said. If we saw anyone with a pail of water, wed send our own children after them.

Beeds geography makes it a particularly difficult region in which to change habits. In the summers, particularly in years of drought, the land becomes parched, and lines to collect water from communal pumps stretch for hours. Villagers buy water from local authorities for drinking and bathing. To them, clean toilets are a luxury. Many villagers who have toilets at home said they go outdoors to save water.

The government should concentrate on providing necessary services, said Vandana Prasad, a public health activist. In many villages there is no regular water supply, no sewage system. This government has an attitude of clamping down. Its a bit more stick than carrot.

Squad members described their work as gandhigiri, referring to Gandhis nonviolent method of tackling problems. Maharashtra official Umrikar said the public shaming tactics are only one part of a wider government effort to change habits. This is required in initial phases, he said of the squads. Once there is understanding, we will phase it out.

Vishal Chaudhari contributed to this report.

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A charred ward of a Doctors Without Borders hospital in northern Kunduz province, shown above on Nov. 10, 2015, was damaged in a U.S. airstrike. New civilian casualties were reported this weekend from Kunduz following a joint offensive there. (Najim Rahim/AFP/Getty Images)

Lawmakers from the northern province of Kunduz said they have received conflicting reports of civilian deaths during a weekend ground and aerial offensive by Afghan and U.S. forces against Taliban insurgents. The Afghan government and the U.S. military in Afghanistan on Sunday said they were assessing the reports.

Some unconfirmed reports put the toll of the attack, in the Char Dara district, at nearly 60.

The Defense Ministrys chief spokesman, Dawlat Waziri, said in a news conference that the government has appointed a team to probe reports of civilians deaths.

In Logar province, south of Kabul, a U.S. service member died as a result of wounds he received during operations on Saturday afternoon, the U.S.-led coalition reported. The province has seen an increase in attacks in recent weeks by Taliban insurgents and fighters affiliated with the Islamic State.

The service member was not identified.

President Ashraf Ghanis office has not commented on the reports of civilian deaths in Kunduz. But former president Hamid Karzai, who was sharply critical of the coalition over civilian casualties when he was in power, said Sunday that children and women were among the victims.

Both the Afghan Defense Ministry and the coalition confirmed that they had launched a joint offensive against the Taliban in Kunduz.

But citing the ministrys top commander in the area, the defense ministry said only militants were targeted and that more than 50 of them had lost their lives.

Lt. Jason Tross, a U.S. military spokesman, said the U.S.-led coalition was aware of the allegations of potential civilian casualties and was assessing it.

We can confirm that an operation was conducted in Kunduz province on Saturday, he said. The coalition, he said, takes all allegations of civilian casualties and the responsibility of human life seriously, and is assessing the facts surrounding this incident.

Since significantly drawing down the number of troops in Afghanistan in late 2014, the U.S. military has increased its aerial attacks in the country, largely against Taliban militants who have gained grounds both in rural and urban areas.

The most deadly aerial attacks in Kunduz happened in 2015 and 2016 when the Taliban briefly took control of the center of the city of Kunduz.

More than 40 staff and patients of a Doctors Without Borders hospital died in a U.S. aerial attack in 2015 that drew stern international outcry. And last year, dozens of civilians were killed and wounded in U.S. aerial strikes on the outskirts of Kunduz city.

Read more:

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This file photo taken on October 26, 2017 shows North Korean soldiers looking south at the truce village of Panmunjom in the Demilitarized Zone on the border between North and South Korea. (Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Images)

The only way to locate and secure all of North Koreas nuclear weapons sites with complete certainty is through an invasion of ground forces, and in the event of conflict, Pyongyang could use biological and chemical weapons, the Pentagon told lawmakers in a new, blunt assessment of what war on the Korean Peninsula might look like.

The Pentagon, in a letter to lawmakers, said that a full discussion of U.S. capabilities to "counter North Korea's ability to respond with a nuclear weapon and to eliminate North Korea's nuclear weapons located in deeply buried, underground facilities" is best suited for a classified briefing.

The letter also said that Pentagon leaders assess that North Korea may consider the use of biological weapons and that the country has a long-standing chemical weapons program with the capability to produce nerve, blister, blood and choking agents.

The Pentagon repeated that a detailed discussion of how the United States would respond to the threat could not be discussed in public.

[The message behind the murder: How an assassination sheds light on North Koreas chemical weapons program]

The letter was written by Rear Adm. Michael J. Dumont, the vice director of the Pentagon's Joint Staff, in response to a request for information from two House members about "expected casualty assessments in a conflict with North Korea," including for civilians and U.S. and allied forces in South Korea, Japan and Guam.

"A decision to attack or invade another country will have ramifications for our troops and taxpayers, as well as the region, for decades," Ted Lieu (D-

Calif.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) wrote to the Pentagon. "We have not heard detailed analysis of expected U.S. or allied force casualties, expected civilian casualties, what plans exist for the aftermath of a strike  including continuity of the South Korean Government."

The Pentagon said that calculating best- or worst-case casualty scenarios was challenging and would depend on the nature, intensity and duration of a North Korean attack; how much warning civilians would have to get to the thousands of shelters in South Korea; and the ability of U.S. and South Korean forces to respond to North Korean artillery, rockets and ballistic missiles with their own retaliatory barrage and airstrikes.

The letter noted that Seoul, the South Korean capital, is a densely populated area with 25 million residents.

Any operation to pursue North Korean nuclear weapons would likely be spearheaded by U.S. Special Operations troops. Last year, President Barack Obama and then-Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter gave U.S. Special Operations Command a new, leading role coordinating the Pentagons effort to counter weapons of mass destruction. SOCOM did not receive any new legal authorities for the mission but gained influence in how the military responds to such threats.

Elite U.S. forces have long trained to respond in the case of a so-called loose nuke in the hands of terrorists. But senior officials said SOCOM is increasingly focused on North Korea.

[A North Korean ship was seized off Egypt with a huge cache of weapons destined for a surprising buyer]

Dumont said the military backs the current U.S. strategy on North Korea, which is led by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and focuses on ratcheting up economic and diplomatic pressure as the primary effort to get North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to stop developing nuclear weapons. Tillerson, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., have emphasized that during trips to Seoul this year.

In contrast, President Trump, who goes unmentioned in the Pentagon letter, has taunted Kim as "Rocket Man" and expressed frustration with diplomatic efforts, hinting that he is considering preemptive military force.

I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man, Trump tweeted on Oct. 1, adding, Save your energy Rex, well do what has to be done!

On Oct. 7, Trump added in additional tweets that North Korea had made fools of U.S. negotiators. Sorry, but only one thing will work! he said.

Mattis and other Pentagon leaders have often cited the grave threat faced by Seoul, but the military much less frequently draws attention to its plans for an underground hunt for nuclear weapons.

Air Force Col. Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesman, said that Dumont and other Pentagon officials had no additional comment about the letter.

A senior U.S. military official in South Korea, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing operations, said that while the 28,500 U.S. troops in South Korea maintain a high degree of readiness, he has to believe that North Korea does not want a war, given all of the nations aligned against it.

If you open the history books, this is not the first time that weve been in a heavy provocation cycle, the official said. On the side of South Korea and the United States, he said, there is no action taken without extreme consideration of not putting this in a position where a fight is going to happen.

Dumonts letter also notes that we have not seen any change in the offensive posture of North Koreas forces.

A statement by 16 lawmakers, released simultaneously with the Pentagon letter, urged Trump to stop making provocative statements that impede diplomatic efforts and risk the lives of U.S. troops.

The Pentagons assessment underscores what weve known all along: There are no good military options for North Korea, said the statement, organized by Lieu and Gallego and signed by 14 other members of Congress who are veterans, all but one of them Democrats.

In a telephone interview, Lieu said that the intent of asking the Pentagon for information was to spell out the cataclysmic consequences of war with North Korea and the aftermath.

Its important for people to understand what a war with a nuclear power would look like, said Lieu, citing estimates of 300,000 dead in the first few days alone. More than 100,000 Americans are potentially at risk.

Lieu, who spent part of his time in the Air Force on Guam preparing for military action against North Korea, called the letter a confirmation that a conflict would result in a bloody, protracted ground war. The Joint Chiefs, he believes, are trying to send a message to the American public, he said.

This is grim, Lieu said. We need to understand what war means. And it hasnt been articulated very well. I think theyre trying to articulate some of that.

Gallego said that he wanted information because of what he sees as a cavalier attitude in the White House about military action in North Korea. The idea that a ground invasion would be needed to secure nuclear weapons is eye-opening, he said, and raises the possibility of the U.S. military losing thousands of troops.

I think that youre dealing with career professionals at the Pentagon who realize that the drumbeats of war could actually end up leading us to war, he said. They want to make sure that there is full transparency and information out there about what can occur if our civilian leaders make wrong calculations.

The Pentagon letter also notes the possibility of opposition from China or Russia.

The Department of Defense maintains a set of up-to-date contingency plans to secure our vital national security interests, Dumont wrote. These plans account for a wide range of possibilities, including third-party intervention, and address how best to contain escalation. 

The letter says that both Russia or China may prefer to avoid conflict with the United States, or possibly cooperate with us.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 19:53:25|Editor: Yurou

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TEHRAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry said that the resignation of the Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri is aimed to create tension in Lebanon and the region, Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi said in a statement that Hariri's "sudden resignation and the announcement of his resignation in another country is regretful and at the same time surprising."

He said it shows Hariri is playing in a field "prepared by those who wish ill for the region," adding that the winner of this game is both Arab countries and Israel, whose survival is "contingent upon tension in regional Muslim countries," Qasemi was quoted as saying.

At a time when the life of the so-called Islamic State (IS) and other terrorist groups in the region is coming to an end, efforts should be made to calm the situation and to fix the damage by terrorists trained and sponsored by the United States and its regional allies, he said.

In the meantime, Secretary of Iran's Expediency Council Mohsen Rezaei on Sunday described the resignation of Hariri as "a new adventurist scenario in the region (by Hariri), on behalf of the United States, Saudi Arabia and Israel," semi-official Mehr news agency reported.

"Saad Hariri, who had taken office a few years ago through national unity dialogue with Lebanese President Michel Aoun and Hezbollah and had experienced a peaceful, stable, and economic term in Lebanon, made a surprise resignation under Saudi Arabia's pressure," Rezaei said.

The new developments indicate the start of a new adventure by Saudi Arabia, Israel and the United States, he said, adding that the problem with this "sinister triangle" is that their policies in the region have failed and even their regional friends are approaching the Islamic republic.

On Saturday, Hariri announced his resignation claiming that it stemmed from a "rejection of Iran's political over-extension in the region."

He made the announcement in an unexpected move in a televised statement he read from the Saudi capital Riyadh.

His "country would be able to overcome political influence exerted by internal and external forces," he said, adding that the "Islamic Republic (of Iran) has a desire to destroy the Arab world and has boasted of its control over the decisions of Arab capitals."

"Iran's hand would be cut off," Hariri said, adding that "Lebanon would not play a role in destabilizing the region."

He also implicated Lebanese Hezbollah Shiite group in what he views as Iran's race to regional domination.

The Iranian spokesman rejected Hariri's comments against Iran, saying that Hariri's accusations are unfounded, and the resignation "is a new scenario to create new tension in Lebanon and in the region."

Iran has always wanted to see peace and stability in the Middle East countries and has defined its interests based on the security, stability and economic growth of all neighboring and regional countries, Qasemi stressed.

"Accordingly, top of Iran's regional policies is to fight insecurity and instability as well as extremist and terrorist groups to ensure tranquility for all countries," he added.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has always respected Lebanon's independence, stability and tranquility, and has expressed its readiness to cooperate with the Lebanese government in areas of mutual interest, the spokesman said.
They seemed untouchable. The head of a huge construction conglomerate. A prince who led Saudi Arabia's elite national guard. A billionaire investor who was one of the richest people in the world.

But in one breathtaking stroke, the men were detained by the Saudi authorities in a purge that began Saturday night and swept up some of the most powerful and recognizable names in the country, including members of the Saudi royal family, cabinet ministers, titans of media and industry, and former officials. The detainees included Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, a wealthy investor who owns major stakes in such companies as Twitter and Citigroup, according to an associate of his family.

On Sunday, Saudi officials cast the arrests as the first shot in a battle against the countrys notorious and deeply rooted corruption, and as part of a broader effort by the countrys young and ambitious crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, to refresh the stagnating Saudi state.

For others, though, the detentions seemed more like the continuation of a process that had been accelerating over the past two years: the ruthless consolidation of power by the crown prince before his father, King Salman, dies or abdicates the throne. That process  which included eliminating critics and rivals, but also elite figures who presided over independent power centers  amounted to a radical restructuring of the Saudi order, analysts said.

"Mohammed bin Salman wants to destroy the game of checks and balances that had characterized Saudi Arabia over the past few decades," said Stephane Lacroix, a professor of political science at Sciences Po in Paris and the author of "Awakening Islam: The Politics of Religious Dissent in Contemporary Saudi Arabia." The goal was "autocratic monarchy," he said. "No fiefdoms that could counter his decisions."

The detentions come at a time of political, social and economic upheaval in Saudi Arabia, an absolute monarchy that has become one of the Trump administration's closest Middle East allies. At the center of the storm is the 32-year-old crown prince, often referred to by his initials, MBS, who is widely seen as the architect of the kingdom's increasingly assertive policy initiatives at home and abroad.

Saudi leaders have embarked on a widely publicized drive to modernize the ultraconservative kingdom, relaxing social restrictions and liberalizing its oil-dependent economy. Last week in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, a lavish conference that was intended to encourage international investment featured robots as well as planned, futuristic megaprojects.

Saudi Arabia has also adopted an increasingly muscular and confrontational posture in the Middle East that has focused on combating the influence of Iran, the kingdoms archrival. Over the past two years, the Saudis have led a military campaign in neighboring Yemen against a rebel group that Saudi officials regard as an Iranian proxy force.

The war has killed more than 10,000 Yemeni civilians and is effectively at a stalemate: On Saturday, the rebels, known as the Houthis, fired a ballistic missile that reached Riyadh  their deepest strike yet inside Saudi territory, and a sign that the conflict was not nearing an end.

Saudi Arabia has also led a group of Arab states in a boycott of Qatar, a neighboring Persian Gulf country, in a rift that has sharply divided the Trump administration's closest Arab allies. And on Saturday, Lebanon's prime minister announced his resignation while in Saudi Arabia, in what appeared to be an attempt by the Saudi leadership to confront Iranian influence in Lebanon.

Analysts said the detentions on Saturday were part of an intensifying drive to centralize power under the crown prince. The effort has included sidelining potential challengers from rival branches of the royal family, and a crackdown on dissidents, including clerics, over the past few months.

The officials detained Saturday included Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, head of the elite Saudi national guard and a favored son of King Abdullah, who died in 2015 and was the predecessor of the current king.

Miteb was important because he was the only prince who remained inside the government who could potentially oppose MBS, Lacroix said. With Mitebs removal from his post on Saturday, Prince Mohammed finished the job of excluding all the competing royal factions, he said.

The reasons for Alwaleed's arrest were not immediately clear. The prince, who is the founder of the business conglomerate Kingdom Holding and one of the world's most prominent investors, had been supportive, at least publicly, of the Saudi leadership, including its controversial intervention in Yemen's civil war.

His detention  along with a number of other business tycoons  suggested that the Saudi leadership was sending a message that something fundamental had changed, Lacroix said.

In the past, Saudi Arabia would allow the existence of powerful people or fiefdoms, as long as they remained loyal in the general sense, he said. Loyalty is no longer enough. Mohammed bin Salman doesnt want to allow the existence of those fiefdoms.

But Hesham Alghannam, a Saudi political analyst and a nonresident fellow at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, said that Saudi citizens were demanding fundamental change, including strong anti-corruption measures.

People need to see that there is accountability, he said. The immediate goal is to boost domestic and international confidence in the Saudi economy.

Beyond that, he said, we are witnessing a move from a patriarchal system to a modern system with a new social contract.

A royal decree, carried Saturday on the website of the Saudi state news agency, said the crown prince would lead a new committee that had been granted broad powers to root out public corruption, including the ability to issue arrest warrants, impose travel bans and freeze bank accounts.

But the scale of the challenge from corruption defies easy solutions, since it is essentially a structural feature of the economy in Saudi Arabia, according to Christian Henderson, a professor at Leiden University in the Netherlands who specializes in the economies of the Middle East.

He described a complex ecosystem in which royal family members often benefit from state contracts and then distribute wealth to their own patronage networks. Trying to tackle corruption and ensuring that this doesnt eat into your legitimacy, and the stability of the regime, is very difficult, he said, adding that the detentions appeared to be part of a political purge, rather than aimed at curbing graft.

If you are interested in encouraging investment, this seems a strange way of doing it, he added. Making these sudden moves. I dont think its going to do much to create confidence.

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Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 05/11/2017 (1837 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  Passchendaele. More than 500,000 people, including 15,000 Canadians, were killed or wounded during the prolonged fight, as weeks of rain and shell fire churned the battlefield into a sea of mud.

Yet amid the horror that enveloped a small part of Belgium in the summer and fall of 1917, were nine Canadians who would be awarded the Victoria Cross, the British Empires highest medal for bravery.

Now one of those Victoria Crosses, awarded to 24-year-old Cpl. Colin Barron for his actions exactly 100 years ago Monday, is set to go up for auction on Dec. 5.

The Victoria Cross and other medals awarded to Cpl. Colin Fraser Barron are shown in this undated handout photo. Passchendaele. More than 500,000 people, including 15,000 Canadians, were killed or wounded at during the prolonged fight, as weeks of rain and shell fire churned the battlefield into a sea of mud. Yet amid the horror that enveloped a small part of Belgium in the summer and fall of 1917, were nine Canadians who would be awarded the Victoria Cross, the British Empire's highest medal for bravery. Now one of those Victoria Crosses, awarded to 24-year-old Cpl. Colin Barron for his actions exactly 100 years ago Monday, is set to go up for auction on Dec. 5. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - Spink & Son

Whats fascinating about Barron is not just the calibre of the citation, but one might even call it a suicidal mission to do what he did, said David Erskine-Hill, a medal specialist at Spink, the London auction house selling the cross.

He strikes me as a soldiers soldier. Hes out there to help his comrades, get them past this appalling strong point. So ultimately while he takes life, the enemy, he saves life, his comrades.

The story goes that frustration drove Barron to action.

On Nov. 6, 1917, a cold drizzle was falling on the muddy, shell-torn and blood-soaked fields surrounding the Belgian village and ridge bearing the Passchendaele name.

The men of the Canadian Corps  clerks, farmers, miners, lumberjacks, shopkeepers and, in Barrons case, railway workers  had been fighting in the quagmire for two weeks after relieving other allied troops.

Barron was part of the third assault on the ridge. A native of Scotland, he had moved to Canada in 1910 before enlisting in Toronto in 1914 and crossing the Atlantic to fight the Germans.

The ridge was heavily defended by a German pillbox and five machine-guns. The Canadians had tried several times to get close enough to throw grenades, only to be thrown back with heavy casualties.

The attack appeared on the verge of collapse when Barron, whose daughter would later describe him to author Stephen Snelling as a bit of a devil in his youth, took matters into his own hands.

Barron, who was commanding one of the battalions Lewis gun sections, had grown frustrated by the repeated reverses. So he decided to show the way, Snelling wrote in his book VCs of the First World War: Passchendaele 1917.

Worming his way round the flank, lugging his weapon with him, he somehow managed to reach a position close by the strongpoint without being seen. Then, he opened fire at point-blank range with devastating results.

The citation for Barrons Victoria Cross would later credit his actions with having produced far-reaching results, and enabled the advance to be continued.

The Canadians would suffer horribly at Passchendaele and historians have since questioned whether it had any real impact on the war.

Historians see it as proof of reckless leadership, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said during a low-key ceremony in Ottawa on Friday marking the 100th anniversary of Passchendaele.

And still, he added, we remember this battle with pride, as we think of our brave soldiers, who fought an impossible fight with perseverance, valour and commitment to a greater cause.

After the war, Barron tried to join the RCMP, only to be told that he was too short. He became a member of the Ontario Provincial Police instead, before re-enlisting during the Second World War.

He died at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto in 1958.

Barrons Victoria Cross is being sold by the family of a collector who recently died, Erskine-Hill said; its unclear when or how the collector acquired it, but the medal is no longer with Barrons family.

A total of 96 Victoria Crosses have been awarded to Canadians since the award was established in 1856, but none since the Second World War.

The last to come up at auction was awarded to Maj. David Currie during the Second World War and was sold to a British collector in August for $550,000.

Bidding for Barrons is expected to start at around $250,000 and while the Canadian War Museum was among those who bid on Curries medal, it wont say if it will participate this time around.

Erskine-Hill acknowledged that some might question putting what is essentially a piece of Canadian history up for sale, but he said most collectors consider themselves custodians of such medals.

They are very keen on research, very keen on recalling the deeds of these men, he said, noting that many collectors will loan or even offer medals to museums.

If those medals just lay in a box, in a drawer, or in a bank vault, theyre forgotten, theyre not living, theyre not promoting the deeds of the soldiers who won them.

 Follow @leeberthiaume on Twitter.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. An earlier version moved Sunday contained a typo that had the year of the battle as 1916 instead of 1917.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 19:58:27|Editor: Yurou

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STOCKHOLM, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Several workers complained of chest pain and breathing difficulties after an apparent chlorine dioxide leak at the Iggesund Paperboard plant in Hudiksvall, eastern Sweden.

The chlorine dioxide emission occurred around midnight on Saturday when maintenance work was carried out in one of the paper mill's towers, Swedish Television reported on Sunday.

According to an Iggesund Paperboard press spokesperson, Staffan Sjoberg, one person was brought to hospital by ambulance while eight workers went by taxi. "All but one were able to leave the hospital by 3 a.m.," said Sjoberg.

Sjoberg said that the chlorine dioxide is used to bleach cardboard, but he did not want to speculate about the potential causes behind the leak. However, he said that there will be an inquiry into the matter and maintained that the company routinely trains in-house and external staff in accident prevention.

"It is very important," said Sjoberg. "At a work halt like this one we can have 800 external entrepreneurs on site."

According to Swedish Television, the incident is being investigated as a work-place accident and as an incident causing grievous bodily harm.
Alec Baldwin is stepping back from Twitter after comments he made about Rose McGowan in an interview with PBS News Hour were criticized online.

Baldwin added that the Twitter account for his foundation, from which the actor often personally tweets, will remain active  albeit with a focus on the foundations work.

1- it is w some degree of sadness that I will suspend posting on this a TWITTER account for a period of and in the current climate.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

2- It was never my intention, in my public statements, to blame the victim in the many sexual assault cases that have emerged recently  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

3- I simply posited that the settlement of such cases certainly delayed justice, though I am fully aware that those settlements were ...  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

4- entered into w the understanding that settlement is wise, intimidated into believing so.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

5- my heart goes out to all such victims. My goal is to do better in all things related to gender equality.

Au revoir.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

6- my Foundation acct, @ABFalecbaldwin , will continue to post re our work w the arts and environment.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

But in a sign that Baldwin wont depart completely from the social media platform, the star tweeted at actress Asia Argento from the Hilaria and Alec Baldwin Foundation account shortly after his announcement. If you paint every man w the same brush, youre gonna run out of paint or men, Baldwin wrote.

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If you paint every man w the same brush, youre gonna run out of paint or men.@AsiaArgento  ABFoundation (@ABFalecbaldwin) November 4, 2017

Argento previously criticized Baldwin, after the star discussed sexual misconduct allegations against Harvey Weinstein and addressed what kind of complicity those in Hollywood might have had in keeping the claims hidden for many years.

Hey @AlecBaldwin you're either a complete moron or providing cover for your pals and saving your own rep. Maybe all three. https://t.co/sMERs2Y11y  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 4, 2017

I didnt know anything, Baldwin said when questioned about what he knew of Weinstein. But I know that when you talked about Harvey Weinstein in the business, for example, for decades, you knew that he was highly intrusive in the process of making films. You know, his nickname was Harvey Scissorhands and he was very intrusive in the path of the directors who worked for him. Number two, you knew that he was a very intense guy and very bullying guy, and was shouting and screaming at people and exhorting them when he didnt get his way. And, last but not least, you heard the rumor that he raped Rose McGowan. You heard that over and over. We have heard that for decades, and nothing was done. (Weinstein has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex.)

Asked why nobody said anything, Baldwin added, Well, but what happened was that Rose McGowan took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him. And it was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case. In later comments, Baldwin said of McGowan, I had no idea, until now, that she had settled the case. And many people have asked the question  The New York Times, in fact, printed an article about this. This was online. And I found this very compelling. The New York Times wrote an article and said, do the settlement of these cases hurt the cause of exposing and bringing us to a place of real change? When women take money and are silenced by that money, even though they took the money and were silenced because they were told, beyond the money, it was the right thing for them to do, keep quiet, dont make too many waves, it is going to hurt your career, when they do it, nonetheless, does it set back the cause of change? Thats an issue, I think.

Baldwins comments were slammed online, with McGowan herself writing, Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more.

Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more. #ROSEARMY https://t.co/ixjnndLnEH  rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) November 4, 2017

The Emmy-winning actor, who plays Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live, was previously criticized for his response to sexual misconduct allegations against director James Toback, with whom Baldwin has made two films. Baldwin initially stayed quiet about the numerous claims, but did attack an article published by The Decider about his documentary with Toback, Seduced and Abandoned. I cheered when Gawker lost its case to Hulk. So, of course The Decider wants to tar me [with] the Toback brush. Kayla Cobb, ur a dreadful writer, he wrote.

I cheered when Gawker lost its case to Hulk. So, of course The Decider wants to tar me w the Toback brush.

Kayla Cobb, ur a dreadful writer.  ABFoundation (@ABFalecbaldwin) October 25, 2017

He later spoke to the Los Angeles Times about Toback, saying he had never spoken with the filmmaker about his sex life, but always heard Jimmy was peculiar.

Baldwin added, Ive got a lot people coming after me because I dont come out there and attack Jimmy or make a comment about him. I dont have any information firsthand about what Im hearing. These are everybody elses secondhand assertions about what he did. And, granted, you [he is referring to the reporter] are a lightning rod and hundreds of people have contacted you. Thats the reason Im calling because I cant assume that all these people are lying. And I feel terrible.
In an interview with PBS News Hour broadcast Friday, Saturday Night Live star Alec Baldwin claimed rumblings about Harvey Weinstein allegedly raping Rose McGowan has been discussed in Hollywood circles for years.

I didnt know anything, Baldwin said when questioned about what he knew of Weinstein. But I know that when you talked about Harvey Weinstein in the business, for example, for decades, you knew that he was highly intrusive in the process of making films. You know, his nickname was Harvey Scissorhands and he was very intrusive in the path of the directors who worked for him. Number two, you knew that he was a very intense guy and very bullying guy, and was shouting and screaming at people and exhorting them when he didnt get his way. And, last but not least, you heard the rumor that he raped Rose McGowan. You heard that over and over. We have heard that for decades, and nothing was done.

.@AlecBaldwin on a culture of complicity in Hollywood after allegations of sexual harassment and assault by fmr movie mogul #HarveyWeinstein pic.twitter.com/jHeWAhEuOg  PBS NewsHour (@NewsHour) November 3, 2017

Last month, McGowan alleged via Twitter that HW raped me. The former Hollywood mogul denied any allegations of non-consensual sex in a statement issued through his representative, Sallie Hofmeister.

Speaking to PBS News Hour, Baldwin noted the initial New York Times report revealed Weinstein had paid a settlement to McGowan after an alleged incident at the Sundance Film Festival in 1997.

It was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case, Baldwin said. I dont think you and I are working at a job, and we vet everybody we work for in terms of, not just sexual crimes, racism. Do I sit there and say to myself, I want to have a forensic psychiatrist come and examine the entire board of Warner Bros., and I will never take another paycheck from Warner Bros. until everybody on that board of directors that runs that company have been vetted that theyre not racist, sexist, homophobic, you name it, I need to have a report on that?

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The actor questioned where to draw the line. Where this thing with Harvey Weinstein and Rose McGowan came along was, I had no idea, until now, that she had settled the case, he said.

McGowan responded to Baldwins interview on Twitter by writing, Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more. #ROSEARMY. She added in a response to another user, It has been a truly lonely road.

Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more. #ROSEARMY https://t.co/ixjnndLnEH  rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) November 4, 2017

Thank you for the kindness, .@@sarahkunst it has been a truly lonely road. https://t.co/8UPKwVuvUD  rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) November 4, 2017

Asia Argento, an Italian actress and filmmaker who accused Weinstein of sexual assault, also took issue with Baldwins words. Hey @AlecBaldwin, she tweeted on Saturday, youre either a complete moron or providing cover for your pals and saving your own rep. Maybe all three.

Hey @AlecBaldwin you're either a complete moron or providing cover for your pals and saving your own rep. Maybe all three. https://t.co/sMERs2Y11y  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 4, 2017

In the wake of the backlash online, Baldwin announced he was leaving Twitter for the forseeable future. It is w some degree of sadness that I will suspend posting on this a TWITTER account for a period of and in the current climate, Baldwin wrote in a series of tweets on Saturday.

1- it is w some degree of sadness that I will suspend posting on this a TWITTER account for a period of and in the current climate.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

2- It was never my intention, in my public statements, to blame the victim in the many sexual assault cases that have emerged recently  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

3- I simply posited that the settlement of such cases certainly delayed justice, though I am fully aware that those settlements were ...  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

4- entered into w the understanding that settlement is wise, intimidated into believing so.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

5- my heart goes out to all such victims. My goal is to do better in all things related to gender equality.

Au revoir.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

6- my Foundation acct, @ABFalecbaldwin , will continue to post re our work w the arts and environment.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

The New York Police Department is currently gathering evidence against Weinstein after detectives interviewed actress Paz de la Huerta, who claims Weinstein raped her twice in 2010. (Weinstein has continued to deny allegations of non-consensual sex.) Los Angeles police are also probing for lewd conduct stemming from an incident in 2015, while a similar investigation is underway in Beverly Hills.
An American woman has been jailed in Zimbabwe over allegedly posting a mean tweet about Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, according to multiple reports.

The Washington Post reported that on Friday, 25-year-old New York University graduate Martha ODonovan  who had lived in Zimbabwe since 2016 and worked at a local satirical comedy station  has been charged with subversion and attempting to overthrow the Mugabe government.

According to court documents released by the group Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, CNN reported that Zimbabwe authorities traced a tweet which said we are being led by a selfish & sick man and suggested Mugabe wore a catheter to ODonovans IP address.

I deny the allegations being leveled against me as baseless and malicious, CNN reported ODonovan said, according to court papers. That is all I wish to say.

Both The Washington Post and the Associated Press reported that police said the tweet was sent from an account with the handle @matigary.

 Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter.

ODonovans charges carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, according to The Washington Post.

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The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights  the group representing ODonovan  said that ODonovans arrest was the first since the Zimbabwean president appointed a cybersecurity minister last month, according to the AP.

 PEOPLEs special edition True Crime Stories: 35 Real Cases That Inspired the Show Law & Order is on sale now.

The AP also reports that the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights say they have represented nearly 200 charged for allegedly insulting the Zimbabwe president in recent years.

According to CNN, ODonovan will remain in custody over the weekend while Zimbabwes highest court considers her bail application.
This European Airline Wants to Weigh Its Passengers

A European airline is asking its passengers to volunteer to be weighed before flights from a Finland airport, reports say.

Officials with Finnair, the countrys largest airline, said it has asked nearly 200 passengers to weigh in before flights out of Helsinki-Vantaa airport this week in an effort to determine safety and fuel requirements, CNBC reports.

We have a strong safety culture at Finnair, and are also a very data-driven organization, so we want to ensure we have the best possible data in use in aircraft performance and loading calculations, airline officials told CNBC.

The program is also an effort to update outdated information on passenger weights. Officials told the BBC that the weigh-in is voluntary and the airline is looking for 2,000 passengers total to step on a scale.

Lisa Lampanelli Reveals How She Maintains Her Health Post Weight Loss Surgery

We found yesterday and today we had people of all shapes and sizes, Finnair spokesperson Paivyt Tallqvist told the site. We had Finnish and Asian customers, we had a variety of male and female and of different sizes.

The information, including passengers identities, will be logged anonymously, YLS News reports.

Tallqvist also addressed concerns that the weigh-in program would prompt discrimination.

That has been a concern that some people have raised, she told the BBC. For us, this has nothing to do with ticket pricing or anything like that.
Jessica Chastain: Can Robin Wright Just Be the Lead of House of Cards Now?

Instead of suspending production on the sixth season of House of Cards, Jessica Chastain thinks Netflix should make Robin Wright the lead of the series in the wake of sexual misconduct accusations against star Kevin Spacey.

Can # RobinWright just be the lead of @ HouseofCards now? Were ready for it, Chastain tweeted on Thursday night.

On Tuesday, Media Rights Capital and Netflix decided to suspend production on the latest season of House of Cards until further notice to give us time to review the current situation and to address any concerns of our cast and crew, read the statement.

Also Read: 'House of Cards' Suspends Production on Season 6 Amid Kevin Spacey Scandal

The announcement follows Star Trek: Discovery actor Anthony Rapp telling BuzzFeed on Sunday that Spacey made a sexual advance toward him three decades ago, when Rapp was just 14. Spacey has apologized but said he does not remember the events in question.

Several other accusers have stepped forward since then: On Thursday, New York Magazine published a damning interview with a 48-year-old former actor who said he had started having sex with Spacey when he was 14  a sporadic relationship that continued until he was 15. And several House of Cards crew members have accused Spacey of misconduct, alleging that the actors inappropriate advances and contact created a toxic work environment.

Spaceys lawyer told New York Magazine that the star absolutely denies the allegations.

House of Cards had already begun production on Season 6, which was to debut in 2018. Season 5 was released in May and earned Spacey his fifth consecutive Emmy nomination for playing diabolical politician Frank Underwood.

Also Read: Kevin Spacey Dropped by CAA, Publicist Staci Wolfe

TheWrap reported on Monday that Netflix is weighing several options for a potential House of Cards spinoff.

Wright plays Claire Underwood, the wife of President Frank Underwood (Spacey) on the Netflix show, while also serving as a producer and occasional director. Last year, she made headlines when she demanded to be paid the same as her male co-star and threatened to go public if Netflix didnt cough up the dough.

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In May, she said she still isnt get paid the same.

Many praised Chastains tweet, asking for Netflix to make it happen. Even David Alan Grier weighed in, saying Good idea.

Related stories from TheWrap:

London Police Open Investigation Into Kevin Spacey Sexual Assault Accusation

New Claims Against Kevin Spacey on 'House of Cards'; Producers to 'Evaluate Path Forward'

Kevin Spacey to Seek 'Evaluation and Treatment' Following Sexual Misconduct Accusations
Tyrese Gibson is thanking his wife Samantha Lee Gibson for her support during his contentious battle with ex-wife Norma Mitchell Gibson over custody of their 10-year-old daughter, Shayla.

The 38-year-old actor posted a loving message to Samantha on Instagram Saturday, days after The Blast reported that the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services had closed their investigation in Tyreses alleged beating of Shalya and would not be seeking any criminal charges against the actor.

When your 1st charge get dropped your wifes mind will finally REST!!!!! the Fast and the Furious star wrote, captioning a photo of Samantha Lee lying in bed, sleeping. Thank you Jesus for sending me a fierce and strong wife who is educated and resilient that was able to stand with me so far though this unexpected storm We stress so that our wives and kids can rest.

When you wake up, Im sorry Baby. Im so sorry for posting this, he added.

Child services initially launched their investigation into Tyrese after Norma  who was married to Gibson from 2007 to 2009  accused Gibson of abusing their daughter on Aug. 19, alleging in court documents that the actor pushed our daughter to the ground, pinned her face down, put his knees on her back, grabbed her hands with one arm and beat her with the other. She also alleged in court documents that her ex hit Shayla between 12 and 16 times, leading the child to allegedly later tell her mother that she couldnt sit down due to pain.

In court documents obtained by PEOPLE in September, physical and legal custody of Shayla was temporarily granted to Norma while ordering Tyrese to stay 100 yards away from both of them as well as Normas home.

Tyreses rep confirmed reports to PEOPLE that childs services had closed their investigation and would not be seeking criminal charges. Normas lawyer did not respond to PEOPLEs request for comment.

Tyrese previously told PEOPLE in a statement that Normas allegations were hurtful lies.

Tyrese Gibson

In October, Norma filed a police report against Tyrese after he hired a plane to fly a banner directed at Shayla that read No matter what, daddy loves you Shayla over his daughters school  an act she claimed violated her temporary restraining order against him. Tyrese later admitted to flying the banner, sharing several photos of himself and Shayla to Instagram with the caption: I wanted the banner to be longer but its was too expensive.

In a statement to PEOPLE, Normas attorney, Aleen Laura Khanjian, said in response to the banner: This disturbing behavior is a complete violation of the restraining order. It is a reflection of Mr. Gibsons erratic state of mind.

Simply put, he doesnt respect boundaries, Khanjian continued. If he did, this restraining order would not have been necessary. At the end of the day, we simply want him to get the help he needs so that he can become a stable, solid and secure presence in his daughters life.

Soon again. Shayla, You will dance with your father again Tyrese wrote. Crack your jokes, do your best to inject yourself into this #DaddyDaughter custody situation. The real MEN and fathers out here know.. it only highlights your OWN insecurities

Wish ! had it in me to respond, he continued. Normally do ! just cant cause all of my energy and prayers and love and power belongs to SHAYLA. Cause #ShaylaRocks God bless you.. Have fun guys with your little ones ok? When you hear their little feet running through the house dont take it for granted.

Dont take my baby. This is all I got. Dont take my baby, okay? he said in the Facebook live clip, sobbing. Ive been away from my baby for two months. I just want my baby and no ones listening cause no ones in the courtroom.

Im at $13,000 a month, what more do you want from me? Gibson said loudly as he started crying again. I dont hate you Norma. I dont know why you hate me, but I dont hate you. But you just cant wake up on September 11th and accuse me of something I didnt do!

Norma claimed in her September declaration that Gibson was diagnosed with bipolar disorder as well as manic behavior by three psychotherapists  which she said he denied. She expressed she was deeply concerned about the actor taking their daughter to Dubai, where he has allegedly threatened to travel in the past  and claimed the he did not return their daughters passport to her when she requested. She also claimed the actor withheld contact between her and Shayla while their daughter stayed with him.
In March the governor was presented with the Montana Alzheimers and Dementia State Plan, which is a direct call to action to improve dementia care in communities throughout our state. As a geriatric doctor at Billings Clinic, I am a proud member of the Montana Alzheimers Disease and Related Dementias Workgroup, which is collaborating with a large coalition to address Alzheimers and dementia needs.

Our plan, though, is rendered useless if funding for the exact services and programs that serve people with Alzheimers disease and dementia is cut to the bone.

By the year 2025 about one in four Montanans will have surpassed the age of 65, jumping from about 100,000 people now to 240,000. In fact, our senior population as a share of the state population is already fourth highest in the nation.

49,000 caregivers

As our parents and grandparents age, families struggle with the stress of caring for loved ones who are experiencing the debilitating effects of degenerative brain diseases. Currently 20,000 people live with Alzheimers or a related dementia in Montana and another 49,000 family members and friends provide their care.

Alzheimers disease is one of the most important health care crises of our generation. It is prevalent, under-diagnosed, and carries significant caregiver burden. It is one of the costliest chronic diseases to society and the sixth-leading cause of death in Montana.

It is not hyperbole when I say that the cuts made to human services during the Legislature were devastating. The proposed cuts, if enacted upon, set us up for total failure to properly serve the people and communities of Montana. These cuts to services and programs to support our spouses, parents and grandparents are cruel.

If the governor and Legislature cannot work together to develop long-term solutions to balance the budget, there will be unnecessary suffering to many Montana families and seniors. We urge legislators and the governor to come together for a special session in order to prevent further harm.

Without their action and leadership, the cuts could include:

$20 million from Medicaid services, which provide care in homes or assisted living.

Eliminating hospice care for Medicaid recipients.

Eliminating health care coverage for certain Medicaid health care workers.

Closing 16 adult protective services offices.

Over $45 million in lost personal care services that help people stay in their homes  basic care, supporting services daily living.

Eliminating funding to reform adult guardianship system.

Eliminating prescription drug assistance for over 10,000 seniors.

Reduction of $1.4 million dollars for Medicaid incontinence supplies.

The state will ultimately pay a greater price for cuts to senior and in-home care services because Montanans will be forced into nursing homes for their long-term and end-of-life care. Nursing homes are far more expensive and many people with dementia may not do well living in large, institutional facilities. Better and less costly options include small, specialized assisted living facilities and memory care units and enhanced services at home where people experiencing dementia can stay connected to their families and familiar environments.

Personal care services that allow people to continue to live in their homes is crucial for peoples quality of life, family support, and individualized care.

On top of the financial cost of living in and receiving care in an institution, nursing homes take an emotional toll as well. Individuals do better when they are not separated from their communities, their families, and everyone they know.

No one should face Alzheimers disease or any other dementia alone. The Montana Alzheimers Disease and Related Dementias Workgroup urges the Legislature to work with Gov. Steve Bullock to hold a special session in which real, long-term solutions are on the table for a balanced approach.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 20:18:33|Editor: Zhou Xin

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KATHMANDU, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese businessmen participating in the China-South Asia Expo here in the Nepali capital Kathmandu are eager to expand their markets in Nepal, with many set to open outlets here to sell their products.

The four-day event, which kicked off last Thursday, is the first overseas tour of the expo, and more than 100 Chinese companies, mostly from southwest China's Yunnan Province, have been showcasing their goods and services here.

One of the Chinese companies willing to expand their markets is China Kunming Beilite Technology Co. Ltd, which has been manufacturing gates to be operated by using remote controls.

Xiu Feng Chen, general manager of the company, told Xinhua that they were examining possible demand for their electric chain gates in Nepal and based on the demand, they would decide whether to open an outlet in the country. The company has priced the electric chain gate at 300 U.S. dollars per meter.

According to the company, the chain gate can be opened or closed with a remote control from as far as 30 meters. Schools, offices and hospitals are among their expected customers.

There is the presence of seven companies from northeast China's Jilin Province at the expo. One of the companies is Jilin Princes Network Technology Co. Ltd., which has its online shopping portal.

According to Zhang Jing Biao, manager of the company, they are seeking the presence of Nepali products in their online portal so that Nepali products could be sold in China through the portal.

"We are offering a special space for Nepali products for those booking the space," she said.

Yunnan Commercial Representative Office in Kathmandu has said that the expo would open the door for more economic cooperation between China and South Asia under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.

Shawn He, representative of the office, told Xinhua last Thursday, "The Yunnan based companies have shown interest to increase economic and business engagement with South Asian and Southeast Asian countries."

China-South Asia Expo had been organized in Yunnan since 2003 and it is the first time that it is being organized outside China, according to organizers.

The event is being organized by China-South Asia Expo Secretariat and co-organized by Yunnan International Exposition Affairs Bureau and Nepal-China Executives Council.
Borzin Mottaghian, 34, of Utah allegedly posed as a doctor in order to assault women. He has been charged with 17 felony counts of sexual assault and abuse. (Photo: Utah County Sheriffs)

A Utah man posing as a doctor on Craigslist is in jail after being charged with rape. Borzin Mottaghian, 34, and a married man with three children, was charged with 17 felony counts. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

The charges stem from encounters with three women, one of them an undercover police officer, in October.

According to court documents, Mottaghian lured women to an office suite in Provo, Utah, via an ad on Craigslist offering $200 for participating in anatomy research for a new medical device.

The first woman met him on Oct. 18. In emails exchanged between the two, he assured her that he was a real doctor. When she arrived, he had her sign a nondisclosure form before disrobing. He claimed that he was developing a new kind of medical catheter. Mottaghian is not a medical doctor, but he does reportedly own restaurants in Provo, Utah, and claims to be a Marines veteran and hold a law degree.

During the examination, Mottaghian allegedly photographed the womans genitals and sexually assaulted her with his fingers and a metal rod.

In the second encounter, he told the woman that the exam was to help develop a new kind of tampon. According to documents, the woman was disturbed by the nature of the examination, put her clothes on, and excused herself to go use the restroom. She called police shortly after.

In their investigation of the matter, police responded to the Craigslist ad and set up an appointment with Mottaghian on Oct. 25. A female undercover officer arrived, and once again Mottaghian claimed to be a doctor conducting research. Moments later, before the officer was to disrobe, police arrived with a search warrant and arrested Mottaghian.

After posting bail, Mottaghian was rebooked the next day on suspicion of identical crimes at $250,000 cash bail after the second woman spoke with police.

Mottaghian has been charged with 12 counts of object rape and two counts of attempted object rape. He also stands accused of two counts of second-degree felony forcible sex abuse and one count of third-degree felony attempted forcible sex abuse.

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A court hearing is scheduled for Nov. 6.

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A new recreation of the first Grand Seiko watch, in yellow gold

Not so long ago a handful of canny operators did good business importing the odd Grand Seiko watch from Japan to the US or Europe, for cognoscenti clients who knew how phenomenal Seikos top-tier watchmaking could be, but had no other way of accessing it.

Today, things are different. Walk into Seikos new Brompton Road boutique and youll be surrounded predominantly by mechanical watches under the Grand Seiko banner. Marvel at the smoothness of the winding, the exquisite finish, and wonder at the gliding progression of the seconds hand on the Spring Drive models (these use a special technology pairing a mechanical movement with a quartz oscillator).

Seiko's newly-opened London boutique, on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge Credit: Philip Lyons

The designs are austere, but for finish and performance, Grand Seiko beats many Swiss companies offerings, with price tags three times as high.

Indeed, it was a determination to out-smart the Swiss at their own game, and a consequent fierce rivalry between two competing Seiko businesses, that pushed Japanese watchmaking to the highest levels in the mid-20th century. Its a story whose legacy is still borne out in the Grand Seiko watches of today.

At the end of the Second World War, Seikos factories were either devastated by bombing or just worn out. The post-war Japanese government saw watches as an ideal object for export, pouring money into the regeneration of the industry, and forming the Council for Quality Inspection of the Japan-Made Watch and Clock  a body that made manufacturers compete against each other in chronometry competitions, to drive up quality. Seiko entered its very first competition in 1948.

The initial results were dreadful. But having made progress by 1956 with its celebrated Marvel watch, Seiko applied the competition template internally. At this time it had two factories, Suwa and Daini, both in the town of Suwa where there was a history of precision engineering. They were told to treat each other as rivals and not to share parts, designs or suppliers; each was tasked to make Japans finest watch.

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A Grand Seiko Spring Drive movement

In 1959 Suwa produced a watch based on the Marvel but superior, which it named the Grand Seiko; it became the first Japanese watch to receive a certificate of excellence from Switzerlands Bureaux Officiels de Controle de la Marche des Montres. Daini, abandoning the Marvel design, launched its new watch in 1963, called the King Seiko.

Grand and King Seiko took different paths; Suwas Grand Seiko focused on refining the finishing and developing their existing movement, while Daini overhauled the technology.

With increasing success, they competed in Swiss competitions, designing their own shipping containers to protect the movements, and insisting they were shipped around the equator rather than over the pole to avoid magnetic influences. By 1967, the top three were Omega, then Daini Seikosha and Suwa Seikosha.

The new limited edition High Beat 36,000 in steel with green pattern dial

By the late 1960s the two factories had effectively merged under the Grand Seiko umbrella, but it was Dainis movement technology that won out. However, the advent of quartz watches spelled the end for both the competitions and high-end mechanical Seiko  in 1972, the last mechanical Grand Seiko was made.

That is until 1998, when the brand relaunched. A new factory was built, and technologies used in microchips made their debut for watchmaking. Fast forward 20 years and Grand Seiko is finally now being spun out as a separate entity. Ironically, two individual companies are still involved: Seiko Instruments in Suwa makes Spring Drive and quartz watches, while Seiko Epson in Morikomo makes mechanical watches. The work of both can be found on the Brompton Road.

grand-seiko.com
Its homecoming season, and alumni and students alike are gathering to celebrate their universities. This year, weve been detailing the rich legacy of homecoming at HBCUs  historically black colleges and universities initially founded on the premise of providing higher education for people of color before the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

At these institutions, students not only like to show up, but they also love to show out with elaborate, stylish outfits, dressed up in their very best to honor the legacy of their institution. Whether it is a comfy-chic look, as Melissa Butler from Florida A&M University describes to Yahoo Lifestyle, or straight-up extra, as Jarett Arrington from Morehouse College says, it is a special time when most people enjoy adding a little more flair to their weekend wardrobes.

This year, Yahoo Lifestyle caught up with 12 people from some of the most prestigious HBCUs to find out about their HBCU homecoming fashion choices, as well as hear how their personal style has evolved through the years. Check out the video above to see exactly what everyone had to say, and prepare to be totally inspired.

Happy homecoming!

Read more about HBCUs on Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.





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Kate Upton

When it rains, it certainly pours. Days after Justin Verlander and the Houston Astros won the World Series, the athlete and his fiancee, model Kate Upton, flew to Italy for their wedding held Saturday, November 4.

The couple wed inside a medieval church based in Tuscanys Rosewood Castiglion Del Bosco resort, according to TMZ.

Paparazzi photos show the couple joyously emerging from their church to greet an intimate group of family members and friends. The bride looked lovely in a long-sleeve gown comprised of white lace, paired with a matching lace veil. Verlander accompanied his wife in a black suit. Both held glasses of wine as they toasted to their new marriage. (When in Italy wine country, right?)

The couple have been an item since 2014. In 2016, the pitcher proposed to Upton with a custom-designed diamond by Anita Ko. The model revealed her engagement on the red carpet of the 2016 Met Gala.
Purple is definitely Melania Trump's color!

The first lady departed for a nearly two week-long trip to Asia in style, turning heads in a striking purple Emilio Pucci coat dress that she paired with stilettos of the same hue and dark sunglasses. The belted number hit below the knees and showed off her toned stems.

Emilio Pucci continues to be one of the first lady's favorite designers. Back in June, Melania donned a cheer yellow floral frock from the Italian fashion house to meet India's prime minister. The floor-length look, which she accessorized with a chunky belt, was one of her most memorable looks of the summer.

Melania has been loving her coat dresses lately, wearing a camel-hued Bottega Veneta look for a trick-or-treating event at the White House the day before Halloween. Clean, tailored looks are a mainstay of Melania's style, which have garnered comparisons to Jackie Kennedy's.

The first lady recently stepped out in a $1,150 pale pink Acne Studios coat for the Homeland Security Secretary nomination ceremony. Similarly, she donned a striking coat dress from New York-based designer Alice Roi during a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in March 2016.

Of course, she can rock a suit like no one else, having stepped out in looks by Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren in recent weeks.

The first couple is headed to Asia for the longest presidential trip in years. The president and first lady will visit Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines until November 14.

For more on Melania's style, watch the video above.
[MUSIC] [MUSIC] [MUSIC] [MUSIC] [BLANK_AUDIO]

Selena Gomez is keeping her head high following her break-up with The Weeknd, and working up a sweat while she's at it.

After reuniting with her former flame Justin Bieber, the "Bad Liar" songstress on Friday hit a pilates studio in Los Angeles. The outing called for a white tank top, black leggings, and black platform sneakers. As she headed to the class, she toted a bottle of Fiji water in her hand and listened to some music via her white earbuds.

Following the studio session, Gomez threw a black hooded sweatshirt over her workout outfit, kept her hair pulled back in a bun, and picked up a couple of healthy juices and a quick snack. She kept the audio going as she made her way, rocking her earbuds again as she strolled down a sidewalk.

Despite the news of her split with the "Starboy" crooner, Gomez has had a lot to smile about in the past week. She not only debuted her new song with Marshmello "Wolves," but she was also dubbed Billboard's 2017 Woman of the Year.

"Not only is Selena soaring on the charts, but she continuously inspires young women everywhere to be authentic, give back and to not be afraid to use their voice," the president of The Hollywood Reporter-Billboard Media Group, John Amato, said of their decision.

"He continued, "She is never afraid to speak her mind and has used her platform to advocate for the needs of others. We are thrilled to be able to honor her as our Woman of the Year."

Breakups are never an easy thing to go through. We're happy to see Gomez moving on with a smile.
Uma Thurman spoke out at the press event of her new Broadway play - Getty Images North America

As the number of people coming forward with allegations of harassment and sexual assault against men in Hollywood continues to grow, many actors have related their own experiences.

When asked, at the press event of her new Broadway play, what she thought about women in the industry speaking out against "inappropriate behavior" in the workplace, Uma Thurman said: "I think it's commendable."

"I have learned, I am not a child and I have learned that when Ive spoken in anger, I usually regret the way I express myself. So Ive been waiting to feel less angry. And when Im ready, Ill say what I have to say," she continued.

More than 90 women, including Italian actor Asia Argento, British actor Lysette Anthony, and American actors Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie, have accused producer Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault and harassment.

Thurman worked with Weinstein and his Miramax production company seven times on films such as the Quentin Tarantino action thrillers Kill Bill and Pulp Fiction.

Weinstein is currently under investigation by police in New York, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and the UK for sexual assault accusations. The former Hollywood producer has denied any claims of non-consensual sex.

In recent weeks, allegations against a number of other high-profile figures in Hollywood including Kevin Spacey and Dustin Hoffman have also come to light.

While the interview with Thurman took place several weeks ago, the clip has just gone viral after Argento shared it on social media.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 20:38:38|Editor: Yurou

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PUL-E-KHUMRI, Afghanistan, Nov. 5, (Xinhua) -- Afghan forces have repulsed Taliban multi-pronged attack against police checkpoints around Baghlan's provincial capital Pul-e-Khumri city late Saturday night, forcing militants to flee after leaving 10 bodies behind, provincial police chief Ikramuddin Sari said Sunday.

"Taliban launched a wide offensive late on Saturday night, on the security forces checkposts in Baghlan provincial capital Pul-e-Khumri, but were retreated after suffering huge casualties and leaving 10 bodies behind," Sari told reporters here.

He also added that 11 more insurgents sustained injuries in the fighting, saying security forces would continue to chase insurgents.

Two security personnel, he added, had been injured in the fighting.

However, Zabihullah Mujaheed who introduces himself as the Taliban spokesman, in contact with media outlets said that their fighters had killed 10 government soldiers and taken control of a government base in the area.
Call it a true labor of love.

While most brides purchase their gowns from a bridal retailer, some brave and talented women opt to make their own dresses for the big day instead. Below, meet and marvel at 11 women who DIYed their wedding dresses in some way  whether it meant airbrushing it by hand, sewing up a storm or crocheting the thing top to bottom.

"I crocheted my dress mainly during my daily bus commute to and from work over about five months. The commute was, on average, an hour per day, five days per week. I spent maybe 30 hours designing and sewing the custom satin lining that I wore under the crochet lace dress," bride Chi Krneta told HuffPost. "I didn't originally plan on having a crochet wedding dress, rather it began as a project to fill my commute time. As a young child I learned to crochet from my late grandmother so I thought it would be nice to incorporate this gift into my wedding dress. I also received much-needed help in adding finishing touches to the dress and liner from my husband's great aunt, who treated me like her granddaughter."

"From the moment I got engaged, I knew I wanted to make my own wedding dress. I'm obviously a big fan of all things DIY, and I've never been a woman who bought into the whole wedding-industrial complex," bride Laura Birek, who runs the blog Nocturnal Knits, told HuffPost. "The thought of buying an ill-fitting polyester dress for $1000+ didn't make me feel special. But just thinking about designing my own dress made me giddy with excitement, and I knew it would make me feel extra-special on my wedding day. And I was right! It took a ton of math (designing knitwear is a lot like writing code), a few false starts (I had to knit the bodice twice), and about 100 hours of knitting in front of the television!"

"The decision to make my own dress came from the fact that I didn't want to carry a long, heavy dress all night. I broke my spine a few years ago, so carrying light is better for me," bride Prudence Hoyte told HuffPost. "I decided to make a two-piece ensemble so that I could remove the weight after the first two hours. I have had a passion for sewing and designing for over 20 years. I have a diploma in fashion design and techniques, and I thought to myself, 'Why walk on the most important day of my life in someone else's design?' I knew I could do it and I went for it, putting in all that I've learned."

"This was my second marriage. My first husband died, and I knit heavy sweaters throughout his illness. I felt it was fitting for me to knit something light and beautiful for a joyous occasion. It brought a sort of healing for me," bride Emily Wharton told HuffPost. "My husband calls my dress my 'magnum opus.' It truly was the most difficult thing I have ever knit, and I was very careful to ensure that there were absolutely no mistakes in it, which meant I did a lot of ripping out and re-knitting."

"The entire process of making the dress began in mid-October 2014 and was finished moments before the ceremony in June 2015! All told, it took right around 1,000 hours to crochet, block, and assemble the lace, which used just over 7,000 yards of thread. The underdress was made of silver satin and was designed and assembled by Amy Jeskins, a London costumer and longtime friend of my husband," bride Tania Jennings wrote on her blog. She previously told HuffPost: I spent most of the night before the wedding working on the dress, taking a little nap of an hour or two around 4 a.m. to recharge. I think everyone else was very anxious, as my bridesmaids kept asking me how I could be so calm. But for me crocheting is so relaxing that I just had to smile and keep going, knowing that the dress would tell me when it was ready.

"For as long as I can remember, I have dreamt of designing my own wedding clothes," bride Kresha Bajaj, who designs for her own clothing brand Koecsh, wrote in a blog post on Miss Malini. In an interview with HuffPost in 2016, she described the wedding lehenga (or long skirt) that she embroidered with details of her own love story. Theres a pattern in the middle of the lehenga which looks like chevron, but is actually a repeat of our names written in zari thread. Each kali (or panel) has a frame which depicts milestone moments from our life. So as you go around the lehenga from left to right, you can see our entire story unfold.

When I [finally] put the dress on, I was, for one, amazed that it looked exactly like what I thought it would look like in my head, bride Abbey Ramirez-Bodley -- who spent eight months crocheting the gown with her aunt -- previously told HuffPost. We didnt have a pattern so it was hard  I couldnt take the image I had in my head and give it to my aunt and say, This is what I want. It was amazing. It was emotional. [Especially] when you put that much time and love into something.

"I have been a fashion designer in New York City for about seven years now, so I always knew I would design my own dress," bride Dominique Pearl told HuffPost. "I went to several different bridal salons to get some ideas of what I liked (Im more of a tomboy than a girly girl), trying probably close to 50 dresses. I found a lot of dresses I liked, but nothing that I truly loved, so I knew I would have to create it. It took me about 50 hours in total to complete the dress, including fittings."

"I had lots of ideas for a dress I could make from scratch but this gown was so fantastic and it fit right into my not buying anything new [for the wedding] rule since my best friend found it in a dumpster outside of the bridal shop where she worked. Of course I made it my own by altering it  changing the neckline from straight across to a deep sweetheart, changing the hem from straight to huge scallops," Melissa Castaneda, a dancer who also designs costumes, previously told HuffPost. "I added loads of rhinestones, lace and beaded applique, trim and piping. I spent a lot of time making this dress my own and I absolutely love how it turned out!



"I got this dress at a discount store way in advance. I wouldn't have ever guessed I would ended up picking out a dress like this, SO bridal. I had never desired a traditional style but when I put it on, I felt like a bride, and once I added the color [with my airbrush], I felt like myself," creative bride Taylor Ann Linko wrote on her art blog. "At first, I was 99 percent sure I could do this. Twenty minutes into coloring, I thought I ruined my dress. It took a few days for me to regain confidence and work on it again." She added, "In the end, the shock and awe of my dress helped me feel calm and confident. My colorful personality was shining through and everyone there loved it. I wasn't trying to make some big statement -- it's as simple as wanting to wear something I felt beautiful in."

"Yes, I made my own wedding dress. After making [my sister-in-law] Katie and Melissas wedding dresses, I got engaged to my wonderful, amazing, handsome husband Charles," bride and bridal designer Brooks Ann Camper wrote on her blog in 2012. "So what does the wedding dressmaker design for herself?I knew I wanted a knee-length wedding dress. I am (less than) 5 feet tall and have never really felt comfortable in long gowns. I always feel like I look like I am playing dressup in someone elses clothes. Plus, a short dress [was] appropriate for our daytime wedding, and to show off my legs and some cute shoes."

Related...

This Disney-Loving Bride Threw The Most Magical DIY Wedding

23 Dark Wedding Dresses For Brides Who Think White Is Trite

24 Wedding Dresses With Pockets For The Effortlessly Cool Bride

Also on HuffPost

Top and skirt by Glamour by Terani Couture

Top and skirt by Calla Blanche

Skirt by Society+ by Pretty Pear Bride

Top and skirt by Anita Dongre

Top and skirt by Sweet Caroline Styles



Top and skirt by Heidi Elnora via Loho Bride

Top and skirt by Elizabeth Dye





Top by Grace Loves Lace, Skirt by Hayley Paige

Top and skirt by Sweet Caroline Styles

Top and skirt by Chantel Lauren

Skirt by Society+ by Pretty Pear Bride

Top and skirt by Kate Miles

Top and skirt by Willowy By Watters via The Wedding Party

Top and skirt by Terani Couture

Top by Justin Alexander, Skirt by Malene Birger

Top and skirt by Mikinola boutique

Skirt by Society+ by Pretty Pear Bride

Custom top and skirt by Gala Mulitsa of Calgary, Alberta Canada

Top and skirt by Karen Willis Holmes

Top and skirt by Grace Loves Lace

Top and skirt by Anne Barge

Top and skirt by Hayley Paige

Top and skirt by Riki Dalal

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Danang (Vietnam) (AFP) - At least 27 people have died and nearly two dozen are missing after Typhoon Damrey barrelled into Vietnam, authorities said Sunday, damaging tens of thousands of homes and submerging highways days before the country welcomes world leaders to the APEC summit.

The storm, which made landfall on Saturday, is the worst in decades to strike the country's southern coastal region, an area normally spared the typhoons that usually hit further north.

More than 40,000 homes were damaged as heavy rains and 130 kph (80 mph) winds tore through the area, leaving 27 dead and 22 reported missing, according to the disaster management office.

Coastal Khanh Hoa province, home to the popular white sand Nha Trang beach, was hardest hit with 16 dead and 10 injured, the government said.

More than 30,000 people, including foreign tourists, were evacuated from the area ahead of the storm.

Photos showed residents wading through knee-deep floodwater, as toppled electricity poles and trees blocked roads.

Some 300 ships were wrecked, according to the government, while local authorities said Phu Yen province's Tuy Hoa city had never suffered such devastation before.

There were also reports of minor damage around 500 kilometres north in Danang, the coastal city which will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit next weekend.

A local resident told AFP strong winds and rain had torn down signs promoting the APEC gathering, which will bring together leaders including US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping.

It will be Trump's first visit as president to the Southeast Asian nation.

"Now city people are joining hands with authorities to clean up the mess to make the city look nicer for the APEC week," said Tran Huy, as dark clouds loomed above.

An hour's drive south in Hoi An, an atmospheric port city and popular stop on Vietnam's tourist circuit, a local resident said floodwater was up to 1.5 metres in some parts of town.

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"Water has started to rise in the Old Quarter," resident Dinh Thi Xuan Hoa told the state-run VNExpress, referring to a section of the city recognised as a World Heritage site for its architecture.

"Foreign tourists were transferred by boats to hotels in higher area," she added.

The spouses of some APEC leaders are scheduled to pay a visit to Hoi An next week, according to the culture ministry.

Vietnam has been pummelled by a dozen major storms since the start of 2017, with at least 240 people reported dead or missing in floods and landslides.

Some 80 were killed in the weeks after Typhoon Doksuri battered central provinces in September, destroying thousands of homes and triggering severe floods.

The World Bank said natural disasters have killed more than 13,000 people and caused more than $6.4 billion in property damage to Vietnam over the past two decades.
A 2,000-pound, 10-foot bronze statue of former Philadelphia Mayor Frank Rizzo will be removed from outside the Municipal Services Building following protests, Mayor Jim Kenneys administration says.

Earlier this year we initiated a call for ideas on the future of the Rizzo statue, Michael DiBerardinis, managing director for the city of Philadelphia, said in a statement. We carefully reviewed and considered everyones viewpoints and we have come to the decision that the Rizzo statue will be moved to a different location.

Protesters, who say Rizzo oppressed the black community when he worked as Philadelphia police commissioner in the 1960s, had called for the removal of the statue, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported. DiBerardinis didnt address the protests in his statement, but said the removal is part of preliminary stages of redoing the public space.

Our goal moving forward is to seamlessly relocate the statue to a new, more appropriate public location in the city, he said.

Talk of removing the statue began when City Councilwoman Helen Gym tweeted in August, calling for Rizzos statue to be removed amid protests in Charlottesville, Va., over Robert E. Lees statue, according to the Post-Gazette.

Frank Rizzo Jr., who previously sat on the City Council, told the Post-Gazette that he does not plan to object to the decision, but that people should remember the moment during the the 2019 election.

Ive been around politics all my life, Rizzo told the newspaper. I dont think theres a reason to raise an objection, other than [to note] the supporters of Frank Rizzo remember this on Election Day.

Rizzo served as mayor from 1972 to 1980. He died in 1991, and the statue was erected in 1999. It is unclear when the statue will be removed or where it will be relocated.
Five years ago, the consensus was that China, with its ballooning middle class, would need to undertake painful, liberalizing political reforms lest its state capitalist system eventually collapse. Today, it looks like Chinas political and economic system is better positioned for the future than those of its major Western rivals  as I argued in a longer essay for TIME this week. These five facts help explain why:

1. It has the worlds most powerful leader

As last weeks successful 19th Party Congress made clear, Chinese President Xi Jinping has no equals among the worlds most powerful people. Xi spent his first five years consolidating domestic power, launching a wide-ranging anti-corruption campaign that swept up more than 1.4 million party membersboosting his credibility with the Chinese people while sidelining his political rivals. Xis been so successful in the pursuit of domestic power that Xi Thought, his personal political philosophy, has now been enshrined in Chinas constitution, making him the most influential modern Chinese leader since Mao Zedong. All this at a time when liberal democracies around the world are struggling to keep the ship steady. From the perspective of the West, its bad luck that the U.S. has its weakest president at the same time that China has its strongest.

2. It reaps global benefits from a state-controlled economy

But China didnt need Xis coronation last week to herald its arrival. While the U.S. economy remains 40% larger than Chinas in terms of GDP, Chinas top-down control of its economy and state-owned enterprises means it can harness its economic power and channel it in ways Washington can only dream of.

China writes checks to befriend other countries, and it does so without the demands the U.S. typically requires of its loan-recipients (like adherence to human rights). Yes, the U.S. still has the almighty U.S. dollar, the worlds global reserve currency, which ensures it remains a player in the global economy for years to come. But China has a proactive plan to realize its global economic ambitionsthe jewel of which is the One Belt One Road infrastructure plan, a network of roads, ports, tracks, and pipelines that will tie together the economies of more than 60 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe.

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Chinas state capitalism doesnt just power the countrys economy, it gives Beijing the ability to strategically engage a fracturing world in a way that Washington, with its diffuse and independent economic centers, cant.

3. It keeps the population in line with state-created jobs

That same top-down control of its economy and willingness to throw money at problems serves Beijing well on the domestic front, as well. Beijing has seen how tech and labor shocks have upended the politics of other major powersit has no intention of following suit.

And make no mistake about it, the same labor and tech trends that have displaced millions of middle-class workers are now making their way to the developing world. But Chinas state-dominated economy allows China to ride out tough economic times with minimal risk of social instability by creating jobs that serve no market purpose. For years, Western analysts have bemoaned Chinas social-engineered stability as inefficient, and they were mostly right. It just turns out that there are bigger problems confronting governments than labor inefficiency.

4. and by leveraging advances in technology

But China ensures political unity beyond just shielding its citizens jobs from disruptive technologies; it uses those same disruptive technologies to better control its citizenry, and in ways Western governments cant. Beijing owns or dominates all the tech companies that will rule the future.

The result? In the West, companies use algorithms to expand profitability, making people better consumers; in China, companies use algorithms to make people better behaved citizens. And Beijing is doubling downChina is preparing to launch its social credit system, which marshals a persons financial data, social connections, consumption habits and legal compliance to assess a persons trustworthiness. That trustworthiness could then determine something as innocuous as who can reserve a hotel room without a deposit, to something as serious as deciding the quality of schooling a persons child will receive.

For Westerners, that has shades of Big Brother; for Chinese, its a system to establish trust among citizens and deter criminal activity. Either way, its an effective way of keeping disruptive social discontent at a minimumor at least in check.

5. Others are following in its footsteps

The Chinese system can be brutal, inefficient and repressive at times, among other (valid) criticisms. But as the world continues to fragment, the Chinese governing model will continue to gain appeal, for other governments if not for their citizens. International demand remains for a successful governing model for developing markets across Asia and Africa, and at a time when the U.S. and European variants are looking increasingly dysfunctional.

Does all of this mean that China will win in the long run? Hardly. The world is fragmenting, and the days of a single colossus striding the globe and imposing its will on others is finished. And long-term challenges for Beijing remaina Chinese credit bubble may be looming on the horizon, and China has the bad luck to be situated in one of the most geopolitically precarious neighborhoods.

But its time we abandon the presumption that Chinas state capitalist model is bound to fall apart soon; increasingly, the burden of proof on staying power is on liberal democracy.
(PORTLAND, Texas)  Actor Lou Diamond Phillips faces a driving while intoxicated charge in Texas for an incident that happened just hours before he appeared at a speaking engagement in Corpus Christi.

Police in Portland, Texas, arrested Phillips around 1:30 a.m. Friday. Jail records show the La Bamba star was freed after posting bail, which had been set at $2,500.

Police Chief Mark Cory says an officer was conducting an unrelated traffic stop when the 55-year-old Phillips drove up and asked for directions. The officer suspected Phillips had been drinking.

Cory says Phillips blood alcohol level was .20 percent  more than twice the legal limit for driving.

Cory says Phillips, who listed a California address, was cooperative.

Jail records listed no attorney for Phillips, a 1980 graduate of Corpus Christis Flour Bluff High School.
Alec Baldwin announced Saturday he was taking a break from his personal Twitter account after criticism over his comments about the Harvey Weinstein sex harassment scandal. But the war of words quickly switched over to his other Twitter account for his Hilaria and Alec Baldwin Foundation and the barbs were flying again.

The renewed feud involved Italian actress Asia Argento, who ended up being blocked by Baldwin on his foundation Twitter account, and Argentos boyfriend, celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, who was also blocked by Baldwin.

The craziness started after Baldwin explained Saturday afternoon: It is [with] some degree of sadness that I will suspend posting ... in the current climate. It was never my intent to blame the victim.

1- it is w some degree of sadness that I will suspend posting on this a TWITTER account for a period of and in the current climate.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

Baldwin came under fire after he said in an interview on the PBS News Hour Friday that he had heard rumors that Weinstein had allegedly raped actress Rose McGowan for decades. Asked why nothing was done, Baldwin responded: What happened was that Rose McGowan took a payment of $100,000 and settled her case with him, and it was for Rose McGowan to prosecute that case. While Baldwin said settlements were understandable, does it set back the cause of change? he asked. Thats an issue, I think.

Patricia Arquette snapped that women likely didnt have a hope in hell of succeeding in a court case against the producer, and Argento  who has also accused Weinstein of sexual assault  criticized Baldwin for mansplaining sexual harassment.

8 women went to lawyers who basically told them they didn't have a hope in hell in court against a multi millionaire.That's why they settled  Patricia Arquette (@PattyArquette) November 4, 2017

Alec Baldwin mansplaining 'the cause' for women everywhere. That's a good caption for that video. https://t.co/aG7zSMn3T4  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 4, 2017

Baldwin tweeted Saturday as he announced his Twitter break: I simply posited that the settlement of such cases certainly delayed justice. My heart goes out to all such victims. My goal is to do better in all things related to gender equality. Au revoir.

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2- It was never my intention, in my public statements, to blame the victim in the many sexual assault cases that have emerged recently  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

3- I simply posited that the settlement of such cases certainly delayed justice, though I am fully aware that those settlements were ...  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

4- entered into w the understanding that settlement is wise, intimidated into believing so.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

5- my heart goes out to all such victims. My goal is to do better in all things related to gender equality.

Au revoir.  AlecBaldwin (@AlecBaldwin) November 4, 2017

Argento couldnt have been happier that Baldwin was going to shut up. We wont miss you, bully boy, she tweeted in response. Baldwin answered that Argento would run out of paint or men if she painted every man with the same brush.

After Bourdain defended Argento, Baldwin tweeted Bourdain  and Argento (from his foundation Twitter account because he was taking a break from his personal account): You should stick to eating worms and keep your mouth shut. Baldwin ending up blocking both of them, quipping, So many self-seeking liars to block, so little time ...

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So @AlecBaldwin is taking a hiatus from Twitter to meditate about his words on @rosemcgowan & gender equality. We won't miss you bully boy. pic.twitter.com/btADYaWdVf  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 4, 2017

I can't reply because you blocked me. I don't need to paint you #AlecBaldwin, or any man. You did your own self-portrait & it's despicable. pic.twitter.com/MzJiBQNWN4  Asia Argento (@AsiaArgento) November 5, 2017

So many self-seeking liars to block, so little time....@Bourdain  ABFoundation (@ABFalecbaldwin) November 5, 2017

Baldwin said in his PBS interview that Weinstein had a reputation as a bully and a screamer with film directors. As for the rumor that he raped Rose McGowan, you heard that over and over ... and nothing was done, he said.

.@AlecBaldwin on a culture of complicity in Hollywood after allegations of sexual harassment and assault by fmr movie mogul #HarveyWeinstein pic.twitter.com/jHeWAhEuOg  PBS NewsHour (@NewsHour) November 3, 2017

McGowan responded Saturday: Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more.

Told you everyone knew. No one cared. Men ran the show. Women toed the line. No more. #ROSEARMY https://t.co/ixjnndLnEH  rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) November 4, 2017

Weinstein has been accused of sexual harassment or assault by scores of women after reports first surfaced in The New York Times and the New Yorker. Police are investigating accusations in London, and the New York City Police Department is gathering evidence for a possible arrest of Weinstein following a rape allegation by actress Paz de la Huerta, officials announced Friday.

Since the complaints against Weinstein, film director James Toback, actors Kevin Spacey, Dustin Hoffman, Jeremy Piven and others have also been accused of sexual harassment.

Baldwin admitted regretfully on Thursday at a lunch in his honor at the Paley Center for Media in Manhattan: I certainly have treated women in a very sexist way. Ive bullied women. Ive overlooked women. Ive underestimated women.

Baldwin also took heat last week after he tweeted to a female journalist to stick to divorces and plastic surgery. He was angry about being mentioned in her article about director James Toback, who has also been accused of harassment.

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Martha O'Donovan has been arrested in Zimbabwe for allegedly insulting President Robert Mugabe: Twitter/Magamba TV

An American woman has been arrested in Zimbabwe for allegedly insulting President Robert Mugabe on Twitter.

Martha ODonovan is charged with subversion and insulting the president for allegedly calling Mr Mugabe a sick man in a tweet, according to the Associated Press. The subversion charges carry up to 20 years in prison.

Ms ODonovan is accused of tweeting We are being led by a selfish man and sick man," and posting a photo suggesting Mr Mugabe is surviving on a catheter. The 25-year-old has called the allegations baseless and malicious" in a statement.

The New York University graduate works for social media outlet Magamba TV, which describes itself as Zimbabwe's leading producer of cutting edge, political satire and comedy shows. The company is now using its Twitter account to post updates on Ms ODonovans trial, along with the hashtag #FreeMartha.

According to Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights  the organisation representing Ms O'Donovan in her case  she was arrested in a Friday morning raid on her apartment and held at the Harare Central Police Station overnight.

In a court appearance on Saturday, Ms ODonovan's lawyer, Rose Hazi, attempted to have the charges dismissed. She argued that the subversion charge was illegal because the accused was not informed of it when she was arrested.

The court disagreed. Ms ODonovan will remain in custody over the weekend, and her lawyers say they will ask the High Court for Bail on Monday.

The arrest appears to be the first since Mr Mugabe appointed a cyber security minister last month. The position was created to focus on crimes on social media and other websites, after activists used social media to promote the largest anti-government protest in a decade last year.

Amnesty Internationals deputy regional director, Muleya Mwananyanda, called the arrest the start of a sinister new chapter in the Zimbabwean governments clampdown on freedom of speech, adding that the new battleground is social media.

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Dissatisfaction with the 93-year-old Mr Mugabe has grown in Zimbabwe in recent years, as the countrys economy has continued to crumble.

Last years #ThisFlag protest was started when Pastor Evan Mawarire spoke out about the countrys failing economy, corruption, and human rights abuses. The government charged Mr Mawarire with subversion  the same charge as Ms ODonovan  in February, but released him under pressure from the public. Mr Mawarire was arrested again, on the same charges, in September.

Mr Mugabe, already the oldest head of state in the world, has already announced his intention to run for another five-year term next year.
Deir Ezzor (Syria) (AFP) - Syrian and allied forces converged Saturday on holdout Islamic State group fighters in the Syrian border town of Albu Kamal, the jihadists' very last urban bastion following a string of losses.

On Friday, Russian-backed Syrian regime forces took full control of Deir Ezzor, which was the last city where IS still had a presence after being expelled from Hawija and Raqa last month.

On Saturday, a car bombing carried out by IS killed dozens of people displaced by fighting in the province, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The borders of a "caliphate" that three years ago spanned territory in Iraq and Syria roughly the size of Britain further shrank on IS's surviving fighters when Iraqi forces retook Al-Qaim, also on Friday.

The town lies along the Euphrates River in western Iraq and faces Albu Kamal, where many of IS's remaining fighters are thought to have regrouped.

The Syrian army and allied militia groups were still some 30 kilometres (nearly 20 miles) from Albu Kamal, but Iraqi paramilitaries crossed the border to take on IS, the Observatory said.

"Fighting pitted Hashed al-Shaabi units against the Islamic State in the Hiri area," said Rami Abdel Rahman, who heads the Britain-based monitor.

Hiri, just across the border from Al-Qaim, on the outskirts of Albu Kamal, is now the last town of note still fully controlled by Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's jihadist group.

Abdel Rahman said IS was able to pin back the Iraqi forces.

The Hashed al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation) are a paramilitary umbrella dominated by Shiite militia outfits loyal to Tehran.

The Syrian regime forces, backed by intensive Russian air strikes, are advancing on Albu Kamal from an oil pumping station in the desert west of the town.

- Fleeing civilians -

Kurdish-led US-backed fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces were making fresh gains further north in Syria's eastern province of Deir Ezzor, the Observatory said.

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The offensives were more simultaneous than coordinated in the border area, where the myriad armed forces involved in the anti-IS fight support conflicting agendas.

The Euphrates Valley border area was the heart of the "caliphate" IS proclaimed in 2014 and is now its last redoubt, where a US-led coalition supporting the military effort said around 1,500 jihadist fighters remained.

The parallel offensives have sent thousands of civilians running for their lives, some of them straight into the desert.

Sonia Khush, Syria director at the Save the Children charity, said an estimated 350,000 people have fled the recent fighting in Deir Ezzor province, half of them children.

"The situation in the city, and surrounding countryside, has been especially bleak with civilians trapped between the fighting and all too often caught in the crossfire," she said.

The Observatory said dozens of civilians were killed and dozens wounded Saturday in an IS car bombing that targeted displaced people on the eastern bank of the Euphrates.

Earlier the monitor said civilians were stranded on an island in a meander of the Euphrates directly facing Deir Ezzor and where some jihadist pockets remained.

Iraqi forces made light work of Al-Qaim, and while Albu Kamal is now the last urban bastion the jihadists have, it is unclear how much resistance they can or intend to put up.

The US-led coalition said anti-IS forces would hunt down jihadists to the last man.

"The coalition must and will deny IS safe haven in Iraq and Syria," spokesman Ryan Dillon told AFP.

- After IS -

As their dream of a jihadist state continues to disintegrate, surviving jihadists are expected to hide in the desert area straddling the border and go dark for some time.

The group has retained its capacity to carry out suicide bombings in cities such as Damascus and Baghdad, as well as to inspire high-profile attacks in the West such as this week's Manhattan truck attack.

Despite its defeats on the battlefield, analysts are warning that IS is not down and out in the absence of a political vision to ensure stability in Iraq and Syria.

"This absence of a long-term strategy leaves Daesh (IS) a lot of room for regrouping in the near future, while continuing to work its networks of supporters around the world," said Jean-Pierre Filiu, a professor at Sciences Po university in Paris.

From the depths of the desert or zones not fully under Iraqi control, "they will attempt to conduct localised attacks to destabilise local governance and maintain external and media operations -- plotting and inspiring attacks overseas and seeking to continue to project a veneer of legitimacy", Dillon said.

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Demonstrators protesting President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence marched through the streets of New York City on November 4 as part of a nation-wide anti-fascism protest against the administration.

In 19 cities across the country, we will unite with courage and conviction, overcoming fear and uncertainty, to put a stop to the grave danger that the Trump/Pence regime poses to the world. Only the people acting together in non-violent mass protest, raising the demand that this regime must step down from power, can end this nightmare [sic], the organizing groups website said. Credit: Twitter/Refuse Fascism via Storyful
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 20:48:40|Editor: Zhou Xin

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WUHAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- China has built more than 800,000 highway bridges, and over 10,000 km of high-speed railway bridges, state transport authorities said Sunday.

There were 805,300 highway bridges across China at the end of 2016, Zhou Wei, chief engineer from the Ministry of Transport, said at an international bridge expo being held in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province.

Of the world's top 10 cable-stayed, suspension, arch and beam bridges with the longest main spans, seven, six, six and five are in China respectively, according to Zhou.

China had completed 22,000 km of high-speed railway lines as of last year, and bridges accounted for over 50 percent of that length, said Yan Hexiang, director of the technology and law division of the National Railway Administration.

The total length of China's high-speed rail will reach 38,000 km by 2025, and 45,000 km by 2030, he said.

There are also 135 bridges crossing the main course of the Yangtze River, the world's third and Asia's longest river, 32 of which are under construction, said Liu Ziming, president of China Zhongtie Major Bridge Engineering Group.
Devin Kelley, 26, the alleged Sutherland Springs shooter - FACEBOOK

A US Air Force veteran who fatally shot at least 26 people in a rural Texas church during Sunday services took his own life after a shootout with residents, the local sheriff said on Monday.

The gunman, who had been thrown out of the military for assaulting his wife and child, wounded at least 20 others during the rampage in the white-steepled First Baptist Church in the small town of Sutherland Springs.

After the gunman, dressed in black tactical gear and firing an assault rifle, left the church, two armed local residents pursued him in vehicles.

The chase ended when the gunman crashed his car and then shot himself, Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt told CBS News in an interview on Monday morning.

"At this time we believe that he had a self-inflicted gunshot wound," Tackitt said.

The suspect was identified him as Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, multiple media reported, citing law enforcement officials.

Devin Kelley, 26, the alleged Sutherland Springs shooter Credit: FACEBOOK

Civilians 'chased after gunman'

Texas Governor Greg Abbott told CBS News the attack on the church in Sutherland Springs, a community of fewer than 400 people, located about 40 miles (65 km) east of San Antonio, did not appear to be a "random act."

It was the latest in a long string of U.S. mass shootings in recent years, coming weeks after a gunman killed 58 people in Las Vegas in the deadliest shooting by a sole gunman in U.S. history.

Emergency personnel load a wounded person on an helicopter following a fatal shooting at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Texas Credit: KSAT12

U.S. President Donald Trump, on a trip in Asia, told reporters in Tokyo the preliminary reports indicated the shooter was "deranged."

"This isn't a guns situation, I mean we could go into it, but it's a little bit soon to go into it," Trump said. "But fortunately somebody else had a gun that was shooting in the opposite direction, otherwise ... it would have been much worse. But this is a mental health problem at the highest level."

Sutherland Springs shooting, in pictures

Among the dead was the 14-year-old daughter of church Pastor Frank Pomeroy, the family told several television stations.

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One couple, Joe and Claryce Holcombe, told the Washington Post they lost eight extended family members, including their pregnant granddaughter-in-law and three of her children.

A candlelight vigil is held for the victims of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs Credit: AP

In rural areas like Sutherland Springs, gun ownership is a part of life and the state's Republican leaders for years have balked at gun control, arguing that more firearms among responsible owners make the state safer.

Jeff Forrest, a 36-year-old military veteran who lives a block away from the church, said what sounded like high-caliber, semi-automatic gunfire triggered memories of his four combat deployments with the Marine Corps.

"I was on the porch, I heard 10 rounds go off and then my ears just started ringing," Forrest said. "I hit the deck and I just lay there."

How the Texas church mass shooting unfolded

Online records show a man named Devin Patrick Kelley lived in New Braunfels, about 35 miles (56 km) north of Sutherland Springs.

Kelley served in its Logistics Readiness unit at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico from 2010 until his discharge in 2014, according to the U.S. Air Force.

Kelley was court-martialed in 2012 on charges of assaulting his wife and child, and given a bad-conduct discharge, confinement for 12 months and a reduction in rank, Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek said.

Kelley's Facebook page has been deleted, but cached photos show a profile picture where he appeared with two small children. He also posted a photo of what appeared to be an assault rifle, writing a post that read: "She's a bad bitch."

Pastor's teen daughter among victims

Among the victims was the teenage daughter of the pastor at the small Texas church.

Pastor Frank Pomeroy said he and his wife Sherri were out of town when the attack happened at the First Baptist Church but their 14-year-old daughter Annabelle was among more than 20 killed.

Annabelle was one very beautiful, special child, Mr Pomeroy told ABC News.

His wife said many friends had died.

How the Texas church mass shooting unfolded

Pregnant woman feared dead

A congregant who wasn't at a Texas church when a gunman opened fire says his pregnant cousin and her in-laws were among those killed.

Nick Uhlig said that his cousin Crystal Holcombe and her in-laws Karla and Bryan Holcombe died in Sunday's attack at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs. Crystal Holcombe was eight months pregnant.

Uhlig says Bryan Holcombe did prison ministry, adding that he would go to the prison with a ukulele and sing for the inmates.

Uhlig earlier said that he was not at church on Sunday because he was out late on Saturday.

Other victims, some of whom were evacuated by helicopter, included a six-year-old boy named Rylan who was in surgery after being shot four times, his uncle told CBS News. A two-year-old was also shot and wounded, The Dallas Morning News reported.

Trump: shooting result of a mental health problem

US President Donald Trump on Monday condemned what he described as a "horrific shooting".

He said the mass killing was the result of a "mental health problem at the highest level". He also described the gunman as a "very deranged individual".

"This act of evil occurred as the victims and their families were in their place of worship. Our hearts are broken," Mr Trump said on a visit to Japan.

"Americans do what we do best, we pull together," Mr Trump said at the start of a meeting with business leaders. "We stand strong, oh so strong."

He added federal authorities would help Texas in the aftermath of the shooting and that all of America was praying to God.

We grieve with all the families in Sutherland Springs harmed by this act of hatred, and well stand with the survivors as they recover...  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) November 6, 2017

May God also grant all of us the wisdom to ask what concrete steps we can take to reduce the violence and weaponry in our midst.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) November 6, 2017

Barack Obama, the former president, appealed for "concrete steps" to be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Theresa May, the Prime Minister, tweeted: "Tragic loss of life in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Thoughts and prayers with all those affected by this terrible shooting."

There was no escape

A sheriff says there was likely "no way" for parishioners to escape once shooting started at the Texas church.

Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt Jr. said Sunday night that the shooter fired several shots outside before entering the Sutherland Springs church and walking toward the front of the congregation. Tackitt says the gunman then turned around and opened fire on his way back out the front door.

Tackitt says "I don't think they could have escaped. You've got your pews on either side."

The sheriff did not name the shooter, but officials identified the gunman to The Associated Press as Devin Kelley.

Tackitt says investigators have not yet determined a motive for the attack.

Civilians praised for confronting gunman

A man who said he pursued the gunman in a Texas church shooting says he was acting on instinct to try to prevent the suspect from escaping.

Johnnie Langendorff told KSAT television that he was driving past the church as the shooting happened and he saw the gunman exchanging fire with a member of the community.

Johnnie Langendorff has been praised as a hero after they were able to stop Texas gunman Devin Kelley's rampage Credit:

He said the member of the community asked for help and got into Langendorff's truck. They took off at high speed in pursuit of the gunman on a nearby highway as police were going in the opposite direction toward the church.

Langendorff said the gunman eventually lost control of his vehicle and crashed. He said the other civilian walked up to the vehicle with his gun drawn and the suspect did not move. He stood guard over the gunman until police arrived 5 to 7 minutes later.

Stephen Willeford Credit:

Langendorff says: "I was strictly just acting on what's the right thing to do."

Social media users have heaped praise on Langendorff.

One wrote on his Facebook page: Well done, Johnnie! Youre a true patriot and a hero. Thank you for coming to the aid of those in need, at such a terrible time.

Law enforcement officials work the scene of a fatal shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas Credit: Nick Wagner/Austin American-Statesman via AP

Sunday services at the small white church are usually attended by about 50 people, local residents said.

Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr said his "heart is broken".

"You never think this can happen but it can, it doesn't matter where you're at. Look at what can happen. It's a tragic day, massive."

He added: "The gunman took off. They were in a pursuit. They told me he's deceased, I don't know if he shot himself or not.

'People all know each other'

"It's a small community, small church, real nice community. Man, you never expect something like this. We don't know what would inspire a guy to start shooting like that.

"I got a call and they told me there was a big scene going on with a lot of shooting. The details are sketchy, we're trying to find out what's gone on."

Emergency personnel respond to a fatal shooting at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Texas Credit: KSAT via AP

One witness, a cashier at a petrol station over the road from the church, said she heard dozens of shots being fired in rapid succession while the church service was going on.

Carrie Matula said: "We heard semi-automatic gunfire. We're only about 50 yards away from this church. This is a very small community so everyone was very curious as to what was going on."

Dana Fletcher, a nearby shopkeeper, said: "It's a little church in a very small community, I don't know why it would be targeted. It's a very tight knit community. People all know each other."

She added: "People weren't sure whether there was more than one gunman."

The shooting came just over a month after a gunman in Las Vegas, firing down from a hotel room, killed 58 people and wounded hundreds attending an outdoor concert.

Two years ago a white supremacist, Dylann Roof, entered a black church in Charleston, South Carolina, and shot nine people to death.

Local TV images as police look at the alleged gunman's car

A spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Centre in Floresville, near Sutherland Springs, said: "We have accepted a number of patients from the shooting".

Helicopters and emergency personnel converged on the scene along with agents form the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Ted Cruz, the Texas Senator, said: "Keeping all harmed in Sutherland Springs in our prayers and grateful for our brave first responders on the scene."

A woman who lives about 10 minutes away from Sutherland Springs in Floresville and was monitoring the chaos on a police scanner and in Facebook community groups, said that everyone knows everyone in the sparsely populated county.

"This is horrific for our tiny little tight-knit town," said Alena Berlanga. "Everybody's going to be affected and everybody knows someone who's affected," she said.
Although it isnt widely known, US citizens can hold multiple valid US passports.

According to the US State Department, citizens may seek a second passport, but that is usually limited to cases in which certain visas or stamps in a passport would prohibit entry to another country, or when a primary passport is held up by visa delays when immediate travel is required.

People who may require a secondary passport, according to the State Department, include international flight staff, international journalists and executives of multinational companies. The matter was raised after it was revealed that Paul Manafort, President Donald Trumps former campaign chairman, held three valid US passports, according to court documents released this week.

Manafort applied 10 times for different US passports in just over 10 years, according to the documents. At the time of his indictment, Manafort had three US passports, with different ID numbers.

Read more: These are the most valuable passports in the world

Although the State Department doesnt widely promote secondary passports, applying for one is relatively simple. Applicants only need a passport photo, a completed passport renewal form and a letter describing the specific reason why a second passport is needed. The fee involved is less than $135.

The first primary passport is valid for 10 years, while a secondary passport is only valid for up to four years.

You can get a secondary passport if certain stamps in your passport would prevent you from entering another country. For example, passport stamps from Israel may prompt countries like Iran and Syria, which dont have diplomatic relations with Israel, to deny a travelers entry.

In that case, providing proof of previous travel stamps to Israel and completing an application to the State Department may be enough to secure a second passport.

Read more: 17 countries where money can buy you a second passport or elite residency

If the visa process by an embassy or consulate is held up by significant delays, the State Department can issue a second passport if citizens need to travel immediately. In this case, the immediate flight itinerary and a detailed letter describing visa delays are required along with the completed application.

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Some people can buy their way into another country

If you dont qualify for a second passport and dont hold citizenship in another country, some countries may grant citizenship or passports to wealthy foreigners.

Countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Malta, the Netherlands, and Spain allow citizenship through investment. The cheapest passport available is from Dominica, a small Caribbean island, where immediate citizenship is available for an investment of $100,000.

The US also has a pathway to citizenship for wealthy investors. Foreigners who invest a minimum of $500,000, and promise to create at least 10 jobs, are eligible for the EB-5 program that often leads to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.

Read more: Why there is French on a British passport

The future of the EB-5 is uncertain though as it has only been extended until December 8, when the legal framework supporting it set to expire. A bipartisan bill has also been drafted calling for the program to end. The program came under scrutiny earlier this year after it was revealed that Nicole Meyer, the sister of senior White House aide Jared Kushner, who is the son-in-law of President Donald Trump, name-dropped Kushner while giving a presentation to Chinese investors.

This article originally appeared on BusinessInsider.com
KUALA LUMPUR - Military forces were deployed on Sunday to help thousands of displaced people in Malaysia's northern state of Penang, officials said, as floodwater rose from more than 24 hours of incessant rain. At least 2,000 people had been evacuated and 80 percent of the state was hit by typhoon-like winds and heavy rain, chief minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement. He said floodwater had risen to 3-4 metres (10-12 feet). Lim also warned in a Facebook post that more rain was expected and advised residents to stay at home. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the National Security Council was coordinating with police and the military to assist flood victims after a request for assistance from Penang. Hundreds of trees were toppled and roads were submerged, leaving many areas practically paralysed, Malaysian news agency Bernama reported. At least two people had been killed, it said. "We remain fearful that there may still be untoward incidents because of the strong winds, the like of which have never been experienced before, and flash floods might recur," Lim told reporters in Penang, according to Bernama. Hundreds of people had been placed in temporary shelters after their homes were flooded or destroyed by the storm. (Reporting by Praveen Menon; Editing by Paul Tait; praveen.menon@thomsonreuters.com ; +60323338047; Reuters Messaging: praveen.menon.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net )
Australia Sunday snubbed New Zealand's renewed offer to resettle 150 refugees held at remote Pacific camps, despite the closure of one detention centre in Papua New Guinea which has triggered a stand-off between detainees and the authorities.

Canberra has been forced on the defensive by the move from Wellington's new government, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull saying Australia would instead prioritise a similar deal with the US to resettle refugees in America, despite slow progress.

The issue re-emerged when the conservative Australian prime minister met his centre-left New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern for the first time Sunday in Sydney.

Pressure to resettle refugees increased after the Australian centre on PNG's Manus Island was shut Tuesday after the nation's Supreme Court ruled it unconstitutional.

About 600 detainees are refusing to leave citing safety fears if they move to transition centres where locals are reportedly hostile.

But conditions in the camp are deteriorating with limited food and water and electricity cut off, with the United Nations warning of a humanitarian emergency.

Under its tough immigration policy, Canberra sends asylum seekers who try to reach Australia by boat to two camps, in Manus and Nauru, and they are barred from resettling in Australia.

Australia has struggled to move the refugees to third countries such as Cambodia or PNG.

"The offer is very genuine and remains on the table," Ardern told reporters after meeting Turnbull.

But the Australian leader replied that while he appreciated the offer -- first made by Wellington in 2013 -- "we are not taking it up at this time".

"We have an arrangement with the United States... so we want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements and then in the wake of that, obviously we can consider other ones," he said at the joint press conference.

"So the priority now is the US arrangement."

Under the American deal -- struck with previous US president Barack Obama and bitterly criticised by his successor Donald Trump -- just 54 refugees have been accepted with 24 flown to the US.

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The agreement had envisaged resettling up to 1,250 refugees from Manus and Nauru to America, but the vetting process has been slow.

Turnbull said his government had successfully stopped the arrival of asylum seeker boats and cited fears the people-smuggling trade could be restarted.

"Many of those people smugglers were trying to get people to New Zealand," he added.

However, Australia has come under fire from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, with a spokesman in Geneva Friday calling on Canberra to move the men from Manus to Australia and criticising the offshore asylum processing policy as "unsustainable, inhumane and contrary to its human rights obligations".

"We urge the governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea to fully respect their human rights... and to enter into a dialogue with the men to ensure these rights are duly respected, protected and fulfilled," the spokesman added.

Despite widespread criticism, Canberra has defending its policy as stopping deaths at sea after a spate of drownings.
SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia turned down on Sunday an offer to take 150 asylum seekers being held in an Australian-run detention center in Papua New Guinea, where U.N. officials have warned a humanitarian emergency is unfolding. About 600 men have barricaded themselves inside the camp on remote Manus island in Papua New Guinea, defying efforts by Australia and PNG to shut it. Food, running water and medical services were cut off by Australia five days ago. Australian authorities want the men moved to a transit center elsewhere on the island at the start of a process the asylum seekers fear will result in them being resettled in PNG or another developing nation. The men also fear violent reprisals from the local community. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Friday her country was willing to take 150 asylum seekers from among those held on Manus island and another camp on the tiny Pacific nation of Nauru. Her Australian counterpart, Malcolm Turnbull, however said Canberra preferred to work through an existing refugee swap deal he negotiated with former U.S. President Barack Obama last year. Under that deal, up to 1,250 asylum seekers could be sent to the United States and Australia will in turn accept refugees from Central America. "We want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements, and then in the wake of that obviously we can consider other ones," Turnbull told Ardern during a media conference in Sydney. Relocating the men on Manus island is designed as a temporary measure, allowing the United States time to complete vetting of asylum seekers. Ardern acknowledged the two Tasman neighbors faced different immigration problems but said the offer remained open. The camps on Manus island and Nauru have been key parts of Australia's disputed "Sovereign Borders" immigration policy, under which it refuses to allow asylum seekers arriving by boat to reach its shores. Australia's offshore detention policies have been heavily criticized by the United Nations and human rights groups but are backed the center-right government and the Labor opposition. U.N. rights spokesman Rupert Colville told a news conference in Geneva on Friday about the "unfolding humanitarian emergency" in the Manus island center, where asylum seekers have been reported digging wells to try to find water. (Reporting by Benjamin Cooper; Editing by Paul Tait)
(DUBAI)  Bahrain ordered its citizens in Lebanon to leave immediately Sunday after the countrys prime minister resigned in a sudden televised address, citing Iranian meddling in Lebanese and regional affairs.

Bahrains Foreign Ministry said citizens were banned from traveling to Lebanon, as well.

Bahrain is a bellwether nation for the Saudi Arabia-dominated Gulf Cooperation Council and often the first to announce sanctions and travel bans, usually targeting countries seen as close to Iran.

GCC member states banned travel to Lebanon in 2016 after Lebanons Foreign Minister refused to condemn mob attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.

Prime Minister Saad Hariri upended Lebanese politics with his surprise resignation Saturday.

He delivered it in a televised address from Saudi Arabia, leading his supporters and detractors in Lebanon to speculate he received orders to step down from Saudi Arabia, widely seen as his patron. He is not believed to have returned to Lebanon.

Hariri became prime minister in late 2016 in a coalition government that included the Shiite militant group Hezbollah, one of Saudi Arabias chief detractors in the region. He could not have formed a government without the group, which operates its own militia freely in Lebanon. Hezbollah and its allies have been given veto power in Lebanese politics since Hezbollah forces seized the streets of Beirut in brief clashes in 2008. Their political bloc controls the largest shares of seats in Lebanons parliament.

Hezbollah was founded with Iranian support in 1982 to resist the Israeli invasion of Lebanon and has since emerged as a regional power in its own right.

It is fighting alongside Iranian advisers and militias in the civil war in neighboring Syria, providing crucial support to President Bashar Assads forces as a crackdown on anti-government demonstrations morphed into full-fledged war.

Dozens of rebel factions in Syria are or have been backed by Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Saudi Arabias gulf allies.

Lebanon, once one of the key flashpoints of the Saudi-Iran rivalry, officially declared itself neutral with respect to the Syrian war. But Hezbollah fighters poured into Syria, angering Saudi Arabia.

Assad and his Iranian-supported allies are now firmly in command of the war in Syria, in a humiliation to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf.
Nine years after Barack Obama's election as the 44th President of the United States, supporters of the former leader are sharing footage of the "electrifying" speech he gave marking the historic victory.

Hundreds of thousands gathered in Chicago's Grant Park on 4 November 2008 to hear the then-Senator give his iconic "Yes we can" address.

America's first black President was met with cheers and screams as he recognised the diversity of the electorate who turned out to vote.

"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer," he said.

"It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen, by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different, that their voices could be that difference.

"It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled. Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been just a collection of individuals or a collection of red states and blue states.

"We are, and always will be, the United States of America."

He later referenced Sam Cooke's song, "A Change is Come", an anthem of the civil rights movement.

"It's been a long time coming," he told the crowd, "but tonight  because of what we did on this date, in this election, at this defining moment  change has come to America."

He ended his speech: "This is our time, to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth, that, out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope.

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"And where we are met with cynicism and doubts and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes, we can."

9 years ago today, Barack Obama was elected the first African-American President of the United Statespic.twitter.com/OMyk3HcntF  Harjinder S Kukreja (@SinghLions) November 5, 2017

Does anyone else watch Obamas 2008 acceptance speech just because hope is better than today.  Michael (@SiesFire) November 5, 2017

I was only a couple hundred yards from the stage on which Barack Obama delivered his speech that night. A speech that electrified the world.  Robert #Resist Sandy (@frodofied) November 5, 2017

Footage of the speech has been shared hundreds of thousands of times on Twitter and Facebook, with many comparing it to addresses delivered by current president, Donald Trump.

One Twitter user, Michael, asked: "Does anyone else watch Obamas 2008 acceptance speech just because hope is better than today[?]"

Another user, who called himself Robert #Resist Sandy, said: "9 years ago today Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United States. It was watershed moment for the nation and world.

"But for my hometown of Chicago it was something more personal, deeper. The energy was unlike anything I've ever experienced in my life.

"Strangers just out of the blue drawn to each other, hugging, crying introducing themselves. Spontaneous applause yelling jumping up and down.

He continued: "I was only a couple hundred yards from the stage on which Barack Obama delivered his speech that night. A speech that electrified the world."

The anniversary of the speech came as Donald Trump embarked his first tour of Asia since becoming head of state.

Mr Trump is set to carry out high-stakes talks with the leaders of Japan, South Korea and China amid heightened tensions around the Korean Peninsula.

The President has traded increasingly bombastic threats with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He called Mr Kim a "little rocket man" and vowed to unleash "fire and fury" on North Korea if it continued to threaten the US or its allies.
President John F. Kennedy - AP

Allegations that John F Kennedys killer, Lee Harvey Oswald, was linked to the CIA were totally unfounded according US government files released on Friday.

A 1975 CIA memo, which was among the latest batch of papers to be released, shows that the agency scoured its own records to see if Oswald was connected with it in any conceivable way.

An exhaustive search found no links whatsoever with the CIA or any other US government agency.

The Warren Commission, which carried out the official investigation into the November 22 1963 assassination, concluded that Oswald, a former Marine Corps marksman, acted alone.

JFK Files | Why now?

Suggestions that Oswald was part of a plot orchestrated by the CIA and anti-communists trying to prevent US withdrawal from Vietnam, is one of many conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination of JFK.

One of the leading proponents of the CIA theory was Jim Garrison, the New Orleans district attorney, who launched his own investigation in the mid-1960s.

A thriving conspiracy industry has named a raft of other potential culprits from the mob, to the Soviet Union and even Lyndon Johnson, the vice president.

JFK assassination | The conspiracy theories

The latest files show the frantic efforts of officials to piece together Oswalds movements before the killing, which included a trip to Mexico City, and the plans he had made to make his escape, possibly to the Soviet Union.

In all 680 files were released yesterday including 553 from the CIA, which had resisted their publication on national security grounds.

The latest release is part of a rolling programme in compliance with a 1992 act of Congress which has demanded that all relevant documents be released by April 26 2018.
Frankfurt am Main (AFP) - German luxury carmaker BMW on Friday said it was recalling "approximately one million vehicles" in North America over two separate problems that posed fire risks, and did not rule out that more countries may be affected.

The first voluntary recall affects certain BMW 3 Series models from 2006 to 2011, the company said in a statement.

The issue is related to potentially faulty wiring of the climate control blower fan which "in extremely rare cases" could cause a fire, it said.

The second recall will address a problem with a heater valve in certain 2007-2011 BMW models equipped with a 6-cylinder engine.

"Irregularities in the manufacturing process could lead to corrosion and in extremely rare cases may lead to a thermal event," the company said.

Both recalls are for some 700,000 cars each but because there are "a lot of overlaps" the total number of affected cars is around one million, spokesman Michael Rebstock told AFP.

Most of the recalls affect the United States, while some 15,000 cars are being recalled in Canada.

"We don't exclude" that other markets beyond the US and Canada could be subject to the same recall actions, the spokesman said, adding that BMW was already in talks with authorities in Europe.

"It must be seen if other countries could be considered," he said.

The affected cars were produced in Spartanburg, South Carolina as well as in Germany, South Africa and several other countries, the spokesman said.

The mass recall is the latest setback to hit the German titan, after its Munich headquarters was raided by EU antitrust regulators late last month as part of a probe into alleged collusion between German carmakers.

News of the recalls barely affected BMW shares on Frankfurt's blue-chip DAX index however, with the manufacturer shedding 0.33 percent to close at 89.57 euros.

Recalls in the US can potentially lead to major damages claims.

Earlier this year, four automakers including BMW and Toyota agreed to pay $553 million (476 million euros) to settle a US lawsuit over defective Takata airbags that were blamed for at least 16 deaths.
The body parts of a suspected suicide bomber lay on a Kirkuk street on November 5 after two explosions were reported near a Shia militia position in the city. The militia was reportedly allied with the Iraqi government.

Iraqi forces took control of Kirkuk on October 16, after a referendum on independence for Iraqi Kurdistan from Iraq.

At 1:09 in this video, a sign which says Saraya al-Salam, the name of the Shia militia which follows Muqtada al-Sadr, is visible. A taxi has crashed into a barrier on the side of the road at 1:45.

The attack took place on Atlas Street in Kirkuk, near the Kirkuk Castle, killing and injuring Shia militia fighters, local media said. Credit: Facebook/Kirkuk Now via Storyful
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 21:03:43|Editor: Yurou

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CAIRO, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi on Sunday stressed the need to avoid all aspects of tensions and sectarian strife in Lebanon, Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Bassam Radhi said.

Sisi's comments came during his meeting with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who is participating in the four-day World Youth Forum in Sharm al-Sheikh resort city.

The Egyptian president reiterated his rejection of any interference in Lebanon's internal affairs, reiterating Egypt's support for Lebanon in maintaining its security and stability in face of current challenges.

He also underlined the importance of reaching agreement among the various Lebanese factions in order to reach a political agreement.

On Saturday, Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation claiming that it stemmed from a "rejection of Iran's political over-extension in the region."

He made the announcement in an unexpected move in a televised statement he read from the Saudi capital Riyadh.

His "country would be able to overcome political influence exerted by internal and external forces," he said, adding that the "Islamic Republic (of Iran) has a desire to destroy the Arab world and has boasted of its control over the decisions of Arab capitals."

"Iran's hand would be cut off," Hariri said, adding that "Lebanon would not play a role in destabilizing the region."

He also implicated Lebanese Hezbollah Shiite group in what he views as Iran's race to regional domination.
United Nations (United States) (AFP) - Britain and the United States on Friday sought to thwart a Russian bid to attach conditions to the extension of a UN-led panel tasked with identifying who is behind chemical attacks in Syria's six-year war.

Russia has circulated a draft Security Council resolution that calls for a six-month extension of the panel, known as the Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM). Its mandate expires on November 16.

The United States has put forward a rival text seeking two more years for the JIM following the release of its latest report blaming the Syrian government for a sarin gas attack.

Moscow's text proposed that the council shelve that report on the use of the nerve agent to allow for a new investigation of the April 4 attack on the opposition-held village of Khan Sheikhun.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley said the panel must be allowed to continue its work to identify of perpetrators of many other chemical attacks including another case of sarin use on March 30 on the village of Ltamenah.

"Unless the Security Council takes immediate action to renew the mandate for the JIM, there will be no independent, impartial tool to identify who is responsible for these terrible attacks," Haley said.

"Now more than ever, Security Council members must put aside political games and meet our responsibility to protect the world against chemical weapons use," she said.

- Shoot the messenger -

The Security Council will discuss the fate of the panel and its findings on Khan Sheikhun on Tuesday.

British Ambassador Matthew Rycroft accused Russia of "trying to shoot the messenger to cover up for the crimes of its abhorrent ally."

"The Russian draft resolution is a cynical ploy to discredit a professional, independent and impartial body."

Britain called on the council to renew the JIM's "existing mandate, which has already delivered rigorous and conclusive findings."

Russia has questioned the work of the panel because the experts did not go to Khan Sheikhun and worked from samples Moscow maintains may have been tampered with by Western intelligence.

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The Russian-drafted measure "requests the JIM to retain its findings... until such time when full-scale and high-quality investigation on the site of an incident becomes possible."

The US draft resolution expresses "grave concern" over the findings on the sarin attack and said the experts should "undertake their respective investigations in a manner that they deem appropriate to fulfill their mandate."

More than 80 people, including young children, died in the Khan Sheikhun attack that provoked global outrage and prompted the United States to fire cruise missiles at a Syrian air base.

Russia in late October vetoed a US-drafted resolution that would have extended the mandate of the JIM for a year, casting its ninth veto at the Security Council to block action against its Syrian ally.
By Environment Correspondent Alister Doyle BONN, Germany (Reuters) - China has a chance to assert leadership of a global plan to combat global warming this week at the first U.N. climate talks since U.S. President Donald Trump decided to quit the 195-nation Paris Agreement, delegates say. Government experts are to work on a "rule book" for the 2015 climate pact at the Nov. 6-17 annual meeting in Bonn, Germany. The accord seeks to end the fossil fuel era this century with a shift to wind, solar and other clean energies. Trump once dismissed climate change as a Chinese hoax to harm the U.S. economy and said in June that he would pull out of the agreement and instead promote U.S. coal and oil. A formal U.S. withdrawal will take until 2020. No other nation has followed his lead. U.S. influence is likely to wane compared to other big greenhouse emitters led by China, the European Union and India even though Washington will still have a place at the table in Bonn. "The rest of the world, including all major emerging economies, has made it clear that it is committed to the Paris Agreement," Maldives Environment Minister Thor Abraham, chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (OASIS), told Reuters. China, on track to beat its goal of a peak in carbon emissions in 2030, seems best placed to step up leadership of an agreement largely designed by Washington under former president Barack Obama, many delegates say. The meeting "will be a great free advertisement for China," one European environment minister said. And Beijing plans to launch a nationwide carbon market this year, albeit delayed from the first half. "The results (in Bonn) will prove that this (Paris) process has certainly not stopped," China's top climate official, Xi Zhenhua, told a news conference last week. He expressed hopes that Washington will end up staying in the Paris pact. Adding urgency, 2017 is set to be the second warmest on record, behind 2016, according to NASA. And 2017 has had weather extremes of hurricanes, floods and drought-fuelled wildfires. Fiji will preside at the Bonn talks, the first small island nation to do so in more than two decades of U.N. climate negotiations. That may give OASIS, at risk from rising seas, unprecedented influence. The Paris rule book, including details of how to measure and report emissions, is due to be in place by the end of 2018. Alden Meyer, of the Union of Concerned Scientists, said governments will face a tougher test in coming years when they have to ratchet up national ambitions to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. The United Nations says average temperatures will rise about three degrees Celsius (5.4 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times by 2100 with existing policies, against a Paris goal of keeping them "well below" two degrees (3.6F), ideally 1.5 (2.7F). And on Friday, U.S. scientists released a report saying it was "extremely likely" that human activities are the main source of warming, contradicting Trump's views. "The U.S. has painted itself into a corner," isolated both from other nations and from mainstream science, Christiana Figures, who was the U.N. climate chief in Paris, told Reuters. (Additional reporting by David Stanway in Beijing, Valerie Volcovici in Washington; editing by Mark Heinrich)
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China's largely rubber stamp parliament has expelled disgraced senior politician Sun Zhengcai, once considered a contender for top leadership, state media said on Saturday, paving the way for formal criminal charges to be laid against him. The expulsion removes Sun's immunity from prosecution as a member of parliament. The announcement, carried by the official Xinhua news agency, gave no other details. Sun was abruptly removed from his post as Chongqing party chief in July and replaced by Chen Miner, who is close to President Xi Jinping. Later that month, he was put under investigation and in September, the party announced he would be prosecuted for corruption. Sun was accused of leaking secrets, bribery and abusing his power. Chongqing is perhaps best known outside China for its association with Bo Xilai, its disgraced former party boss. He, too, was once a contender for top leadership. He was jailed for life in 2013 after a dramatic corruption scandal. It has not been possible to reach Sun or a representative for comment since he was put under investigation. It's unclear if he has been allowed to retain a lawyer. (Reporting By Alexandra Harney and Ben Blanchard.; Editing by Ros Russell)
By Emily Flitter WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The rapid pace of global climate change is almost certainly driven by human activity, like burning fossil fuels, according to a U.S. government report that contradicts assertions by President Donald Trump and members of his administration. "For the warming over the last century, there is no convincing alternative explanation supported by the extent of the observational evidence," said the report by a group of more than 50 U.S. government scientists released on Friday. The report, which is required by Congress every four years, was written by scientists from government bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It reinforces the conclusions drawn by an overwhelming majority of scientists around the world in recent years that emissions from burning fossil fuels are the primary driver of global warming, leading to sea level rise, flooding, droughts, and more frequent powerful storms. Trump has repeatedly called climate change a hoax, and in June announced that he would withdraw the United States from a global pact to combat it - calling the deal's demands for emissions cuts too costly for the U.S. economy. War-torn Syria is the only other country outside the pact. The U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Deal was part of a broader White House effort to roll back what it sees as unneeded environmental protections to boost domestic oil and gas drilling and coal mining. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has also expressed doubts about the causes of climate change, at one point saying he did not believe carbon dioxide from human activity was the primary driver, and calling for further debate on the issue. In an emailed statement, White House spokesman Raj Shah said: "The Administration supports rigorous scientific analysis and debate and encourages public comment on the draft documents being released today." Officials at the EPA declined to comment. According to the report, global temperatures have increased by about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) over the last 115 years, while global average sea levels have risen about 7 inches (17.78 cm) over the same period. Sea levels are expected to rise "at least several inches in the next 15 years" due to rising temperatures, it added. (Reporting by Emily Flitter; Editing by Richard Chang)
Hillary Clintons former campaign staffers published an open letter in the wake of bombshell accusations by former interim Democratic National Committee chairwoman Donna Brazile that Clinton controlled the group during much of the fight for the partys 2016 presidential nomination.

The letter was published Saturday in Medium as DNC chairman Tom Perez said in a statement  also on Medium  that the 2020 nominating process would be unquestionably fair and transparent. He said he is more committed than ever before to restoring voters faith in our democratic process because even the perception of ... an unfair advantage undermines our ability to win. That is unacceptable.

Braziles book, Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-ins and Breakdowns that Put Donald Trump in the White House, claims that the Clinton campaign was keeping the DNC afloat financially through a joint fundraising agreement. In return, Clinton expected to wield control of its operations, Brazile said, even before her nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate. (Read the excerpt in Politico.)

The open letter signed by more than 100 people involved in Clintons White House bid, including chairman John Podesta and vice chairwoman Huma Abedin, said the staffers do not recognize the campaign that Brazile portrays in the book.

They also say they are shocked that Brazile reportedly considered for a time pushing Vice President Joe Biden as the Democratic candidate amid her concerns about Clintons health after the former secretary of state fainted during a Sept. 11 memorial event.

It is particularly troubling and puzzling that she would seemingly buy into false Russian-fueled propaganda, spread by both the Russians and our opponent, about our candidates health, the letter said.

Asked to respond to that allegation on Sunday, Brazile told ABCs George Stephanopoulos she was concerned about the entire party, not just the presidential  but the senatorial, congressional, and all the other candidates.

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Brazile said she was under tremendous pressure to come up with an alternative to Clinton after the candidate fainted. I didnt want a plan B. Plan A was great for me, she said Sunday. I supported Hillary and I wanted her to win. But we were under pressure.

She did not elaborate on the source of the pressure.

Perez, who won the DNC job earlier this year, also took Brazile to task over the Clinton health issue.

I dont know what Donna Brazile fell for, he said on NBCs Meet the Press.

Braziles consideration of Biden as a candidate  with Sen. Corey Booker (D-N.J.) as his vice president  was reported by The Washington Post, which obtained an early copy of the book.

Brazile says in her book she believed Russians were involved in the hacked WikiLeaks emails, the Post reported. Brazile said she tried to persuade Republican officials to agree to a joint statement condemning Russian interference, but they ignored her entreaties.

The Post also reported that Brazile bristled over her treatment by members of the Clinton campaign.

Im not Patsey the slave, Brazile said she told them, referring to a character in the film, 12 Years a Slave. Yall keep whipping me and whipping me and you never give me any money or any way to do my damn job. I am not going to be your whipping girl!

Brazile took over the DNC position in July 2016. She replaced Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida, who was forced out after WikiLeaks released hacked emails that showed her displaying favoritism for Clinton during the primaries.

Brazile came in to take over the DNC at a very difficult time, the open letter from the Clinton staffers noted. We were grateful to her for doing so. She is a longtime friend and colleague of many of us and has been an important leader in our party.

Brazile has found herself in the uncomfortable position of being cited by President Donald Trump. He referred to Braziles revelations in a tweet calling for a federal investigation of Clinton and the Democrats. Brazile told Trump to stop trolling her and stop misquoting her.

Donna Brazile just stated the DNC RIGGED the system to illegally steal the Primary from Bernie Sanders. Bought and paid for by Crooked H....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

....This is real collusion and dishonesty. Major violation of Campaign Finance Laws and Money Laundering - where is our Justice Department?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 3, 2017

Todays lesson: Being quoted by Donald Trump means being MIS-quoted by Donald Trump. Stop trolling me. #NeverSaidHillaryRiggedElection  Donna Brazile (@donnabrazile) November 3, 2017

Mr President, pleasego back to attacking me. Its better than having my own words scrambled and spewed out by you.  Donna Brazile (@donnabrazile) November 3, 2017

The joint fundraising agreement hindered Braziles ability to control the DNCs funds, she said Sunday  but she did not consider the accord broke any laws.

She also refuted an assertion by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) that, in light of the fundraising agreement, the fight for the Democratic presidential nomination was rigged

I wanted to make sure there was no rigging of the process, Brazile said. Im on the [DNCs] rule and bylaws committee. I found no evidence, none whatsoever.

Asked by Stephanopoulos about Democrats who feel portrayed by Braziles revelations, the former DNC chair defended her right to tell her version of events.

For those who are telling the me to shut up  they told Hillary that a couple of months ago  you know what I tell them? Go to hell, Brazile said. Im going to tell my story.

This article has been updated with comments by Brazile and Perez on Sunday. Jessica Schulberg contributed reporting

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By Mai Nguyen and Matthew Tostevin

HUE, Vietnam (Reuters) - Floods inundated swathes of central and southern Vietnam on Sunday in the wake of a typhoon that left at least 27 dead just days before the region is due to host the APEC summit of Asia-Pacific leaders.

Typhoon Damrey, the 12th major storm to hit Vietnam this year, made landfall on Saturday with winds of up to 90 km/h (56 mph) that damaged more than 40,000 homes, knocked down electricity poles and uprooted trees.

The communist state's Steering Committee for Disaster Prevention said 27 people were now counted dead and 22 were missing. It said 626 houses had collapsed entirely in a trail of destruction that has forced the evacuation of more than 30,000 people.

Heavy rain and high winds lashed the coastal strip on Sunday. Some streets in the ancient capital of Hue were waist deep in water while in the old trading town of Hoi An, another popular tourist attraction, people boated in the streets.

This is the worst it has been for many years. The waters rose very fast, said Nguyen Thi Thuan, 64, sitting on one chair and with her feet on another as waters lapped around and into her clothes shop.

The national disaster agency forecast that rain would last until Tuesday and that flooding could worsen.

Battle tanks were mobilised to help with rescue efforts in Nha Trang, which bore the brunt of the typhoon.

Danang, where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit is taking place this week, is around 500 km (310 miles) to the north of Nha Trang. It also suffered.

A gateway proclaiming "Welcome to Danang" collapsed in the storm.

"I call all officials, soldiers and citizens of Danang city to come together and try their best to clean up after the rains and welcome delegates to APEC," Huynh Duc Tho, chairman of Danang Citys people committee said in a message to the city.

Danang will host U.S. President Donald Trump from Nov. 10, as well as China's Xi Jinping, Russia's Vladimir Putin and counterparts from other APEC members.

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The storm moved from the coastal area into a key coffee-growing region of the world's biggest producer of robusta coffee beans. The typhoon had damaged some coffee trees at the start of the harvest season, farm officials said. But farmers in Daklak, the heart of the region, said the damage was limited.

The government said on Saturday more than 40,000 hectares of crops had been damaged, including sugar cane, rice fields and rubber plantations.

Floods killed more than 80 people in northern Vietnam last month, while a typhoon wreaked havoc in central provinces in September. The country of more than 90 million people is prone to destructive storms and flooding due to its long coastline.

(Additional reporting by Thinh Nguyen; Writing by Matthew Tostevin; Editing by Paul Tait & Shri Navaratnam)
Deontay Wilder told them to get the ambulance ready for his opponent on Saturday night. And the heavyweight champion made good on his promise by obliterating Bermaine Stiverne in the first round at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

It was a savage assault by Wilder, who rectified the one minor blemish on his knockout streak as Stiverne was the only person to go the distance with Wilder when they met in 2015. But The Bronze Bomber fixed that and retained his WBC title with an absolutely vicious throttling of Stiverne.

There was a lot of frustration that Wilder needed to take out on his opponent as the champion watched marquee fights with two opponents fall through over the past year. Both Luis Ortiz and Alexander Povetkin failed drug tests prior to facing Wilder. With Ortizs failed test coming just a month ago, the WBC made Stiverne  who hadnt fought in two years  the mandatory.

It wasnt a fight many wanted to see considering that Wilder won a one-sided decision when they met in January of 2015. But this finish was violently definitive and Wilder explained his frustrations afterward.

So much frustration, it just seemed like my career, its been crazy  so many guys using PEDs, Wilder said. I know I am the best but I wanna prove I am the best. One champion, one face, one name, he goes by Deontay Wilder.

Deontay Wilder celebrates after knocking down Bermane Stiverne during the first round of Saturdays fight. (Getty)

It didnt take long for Wilder to impose his will. After a minute where neither fighter did much, Wilder thumped his chest, pressed forward and cut loose a right hand that sent Stiverne to the canvas. Although he would rise, Stiverne was met with a second right hand that put him on the seat of his pants. It was elementary at that point. But with the clock ticking, the 32-year-old left no doubts as a four-punch combination separated Stiverne from his senses and the referee called a halt to the fight at the 2:59 mark in the first round.

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With the win, Wilder improves to 39-0 with his 38th knockout. And it didnt take long for the WBC champion to bang the drum for a mega fight with undefeated WBA (Super), IBF and IBO heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

Ive been waiting on that fight for a long time now. I declare war upon you, Wilder said with remarks aimed at Joshua. Do you accept my challenge? Ive been waiting for a long time. I know Im the champion. I know Im the best. Are you up for the test?

While there may be other opponents out there, Wilder only has his sights set on one fighter. And he made it very clear what he wants next.

A king doesnt chase the peasants. A king takes kings, Wilder said. I want Joshua. If he doesnt give me the fight we have other plans. The world wants Joshua, the world wants Wilder, I want Joshua. Joshua, come and see me baby. No more dodging, no more excuses. Make the date, dont wait.
The undocumented girl, brought to Texas from Mexico as a baby, spent nine days in custody after border patrol officers followed her to a childrens hospital

The US-Mexico border fence. The case underlines the difficulties that undocumented people face accessing specialist medical care. Photograph: Guillermo Arias/AFP/Getty Images

The undocumented 10-year-old detained by the US border patrol on the way to a Texas hospital has been released from custody to rejoin her family.



Rosa Maria Hernandez left a shelter for unaccompanied minors in San Antonio on Friday, nine days after she was taken there. After she had passed through an interior checkpoint, officers had followed her to a childrens hospital in Corpus Christi, waited outside her room and arrested her once she had recovered from a gall bladder operation.



Soon after the Democratic US representative for San Antonio, Joaquin Castro, tweeted that the Department of Health and Human Services and the contractor that runs the shelter, BCFS, are refusing to let me meet with Rosa Maria, she was released pending a decision on whether the deportation process against her would continue.

While this is welcome news, Rosa Marias future remains uncertain, Castro said in a statement. The Trump administration has not made clear whether they will proceed with deportation proceedings against her  The United States should not be a place where children seeking life-sustaining medical care are at risk of apprehension.

Rosa Maria was brought to Texas from Mexico aged three months and lives in the border city of Laredo with her family. She has cerebral palsy and the cognitive development of a six-year-old and requires specialised care, according to lawyers with the American Civil Liberties Union, who filed a federal lawsuit on Tuesday asking for her immediate release on the basis that her detention was unlawful and causing physical and mental trauma.

That request was was viewed with scepticism on Thursday by district judge Fred Biery, who wrote that the public interest risks being impaired if the immigration laws are not enforced or enforced only selectively and asked why the girls mother, who is also undocumented, has not been detained as well.

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Biery wrote that despite the courts great empathy for the girl and her mother, it would be helpful if the government would advise the court as to why Felipa De La Cruz has not been apprehended and subject to the same deportation procedures as apparently are underway for RMH. Mother and daughter then could be successfully reunited in their home country.

The case has underlined the difficulties that undocumented people along the USs southern border face accessing specialist medical care, among other services. Border patrol checkpoints, placed dozens of miles from the frontier along highways that lead to interior parts of Texas, mean residents must choose to spend their lives in a narrow region or attempt long and risky journeys on foot in efforts to circumvent the inspection areas.



The limited medical facilities along the border mean that some residents forgo treatment rather than risk being arrested.

The medical vehicle transporting Rosa Maria was stopped at a checkpoint about 60 miles from Laredo in the early hours of 24 October. The border patrol has said that it is carrying out its duty to uphold immigration laws, but critics have pointed out that its policy on sensitive locations calls for enforcement actions to be avoided in some places, including hospitals.

Mohammad Abdollahi, an activist working for Rosa Marias release, said that her detention was meant to send a message that the government intends to make life as difficult as possible for undocumented people in the hope that many will chose to self-deport by returning to their countries of origin.

The concern I have is, is this the new normal? Im worried that were going to see more cases like Rosas, said Michael Tan, staff attorney with the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project. But if Congress passes the proposed Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (Dream) Act, he noted, Rosa Maria would have a path to legal status.


Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 21:03:45|Editor: Yurou

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KIRKUK, Iraq, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed and 15 others wounded Sunday in two suicide bomb attacks targeting a paramilitary Hashd Shaabi base in the ethnically-mixed city of Kirkuk, a local police source said.

The attacks occurred in the afternoon when a suicide bomber detonated his explosive belt at the entrance of the headquarters of a Hashd Shaabi group, known as Saraya al-Salam, at Atlas Street in central Kirkuk city, some 250 km north of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

A few minutes later, another suicide bomber blew up his explosive belt at the scene, as people and security forces were evacuating the casualty of the first blast, the source said.

The toll could rise as ambulances and civilian cars evacuated the killed and wounded people to several nearby hospitals and medical centers in the city, the source added.
US President Donald Trump waves to US soldiers upon arriving at US Yokota Air Base in Tokyo - AFP

US President Donald Trump arrived in Japan on Sunday defending his tough rhetoric on North Korea, saying discussions on Pyongyang will figure prominently in talks with other Asian leaders as tensions rise over its missile and nuclear tests.

Mr Trump also said he plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin during his trip, the longest Asian tour by any U.S. leader since George H.W. Bush in 1992.

"I think it's expected that we will meet," he said. "We want Putin's help on North Korea."

Mr Trump, at the start of a 12-day Asian trip, is looking to present a united front with Japan against North Korea through meetings with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe amid heightened tensions over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile tests.

Trump tour

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Asia, Mr Trump said a decision would be made soon on whether to add the reclusive state to a list of state sponsors of terrorism.

His administration also planned to take a different approach to dealing with the issue after years of what he termed "total weakness".

"We want to get it solved. It's a big problem for our country and the world, and we want to get it solved," he said.

"And there's been 25 years of total weakness and so we're taking a very much different approach," MrTrump said, without giving any details.

Trump in Japan

Mr Trump has rattled some allies with his vow to "totally destroy" North Korea if it threatens the United States and his dismissal of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a "rocket man" on a suicide mission.

North Korea's recent actions, including several missiles that overflew Japan and Pyongyang's sixth and largest nuclear test, have raised the stakes in the most critical international challenge of Mr Trump's presidency.

Recent drills over South Korea by two U.S. strategic bombers have further raised tensions.

Mr Trump will seek a united front with the leaders of Japan and South Korea against North Korea before visiting Beijing to make the case to Chinese President Xi Jinping that he should do more to rein in Pyongyang.
Saudi Arabia has intercepted several missiles fired from Yemen in recent months: Getty

Saudi Arabia says it has intercepted a ballistic missile fired over capital Riyadh by rebels from Yemen, an attack Donald Trump immediately blamed on Iran.

The missile was brought down near King Khaled International Airport on the northern outskirts of the city and did not cause any casualties, state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV reported.

Rocket fragments fell near the airport grounds, but flights were not disrupted, the Saudi Civil Aviation Authority said.

Yemen's Houthi rebels fired the missile across Saudi Arabia's southern border, according to several Houthi-owned media outlets, including Al-Masirah and SABA.

It is the first time a Houthi missile has come so close to a heavily populated area and appears to be the farthest such a missile has reached inside Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is around 620 miles (1,000km) north of the border with Yemen.

Saba News, which is run by the Houthi rebels, reported the missile was a Burkan H2 and the airport had been the target.

A Saudi military spokesman condemned the attack in a statement, saying the missile was fired "indiscriminately" toward a populated civilian area.

Saudi Arabia is part of a coalition carrying out bombings of the Iran-allied Houthi movement in Yemen, which has taken over the capital Sanaa and other parts of the country during its civil war.

Responding to the attack, Mr Trump immediately blamed Iran.

"A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia. And our system knocked it down," the US President said, referring to the Patriot missile batteries Saudi Arabia has purchased from the US.

"That's how good we are. Nobody makes what we make and now we're selling it all over the world."

Saudi military forces have intercepted missiles fired by Houthis several times since March 2015, when a Saudi-led coalition launched a war against the rebels and their allies after they captured northern Yemen and ousted the Saudi-backed president from power. The kingdom has also imposed an air and sea blockade on Yemen.

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The stalemated war has killed more than 10,000 civilians and displaced three million others, pushing the Arab world's poorest country to the brink of famine.

Saudi Arabia accuses its rival, Iran, of training and helping arm the rebels. Iran denies it has provided material support, though it acknowledges its political support of the Houthis.

News outlet Al-Masirah said the missile was made in Yemen and was the third to be fired toward Riyadh this year. It reported the rebels saying the missile was fired in response to "Saudi-American aggression and crimes against the people of Yemen."

Earlier this week, a suspected air strike by the Saudi-led coalition killed at least 29 people, including children, in northern Yemen.
Adorned with lei, President Donald Trump walks towards the motorcade with first lady Melania Trump in Honolulu: Jamm Aquino/The Star-Advertiser via AP

Donald Trump has publicly pleaded with Saudi Arabia to sell shares in its national oil company, Aramco, on the New York Stock Exchange.

"Would very much appreciate Saudi Arabia doing their IPO of Aramco with the New York Stock Exchange," the US President tweeted. "Important to the United States!"

The tweet comes as Saudi Arabia prepares to launch its state oil group, on the international stock market. Aramco is the largest energy company in the world, and experts say its equity sale could be the largest in stock market history.

Saudi leaders have considered selling five per cent of the company in an initial public offering (IPO) since early last year. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is expected to make the final decision as to which foreign stock market  if any  will be able to list shares.

America's bid for the listing is likely helped by Mr Trump's friendly relationship with Saudi Arabian leaders.

Mr Trump travelled to Saudi Arabia in his first official foreign visit as President in May  a symbolic move that was criticised by both Democrats and Republicans at the time. He also welcomed the Crown Prince to the White House in March, in what the administration called a "historic turning point in US-Saudi relations.

Mr Trump tweeted from Hawaii, shortly before leaving for Japan. The President departed the day before for a 12-day diplomatic tour through Asia  the longest of any sitting president since George HW Bush in 1992.

The tour will take Mr Trump through Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The President will focus on reducing the nuclear threat from North Korea, advancing international trade, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," according to national security adviser HR McMaster.

Mr Trump indicated that he would prioritise the threat from North Korea on the trip, telling Fox News: We have one problem. Thats called North Korea."

I must tell you North Koreas a thing that I think we will solve and if we dont solve it, its not going to be very pleasant for them," he told Fox's Laura Ingraham the day before the trip. "It's not going to be very pleasant for anybody,

The President appeared preoccupied with the stock market on Saturday, however. Minutes before the Saudi Arabia tweet, he wrote that the market was at its "highest ever," and added that unemployment was the lowest it had been in 17 years.
US President Donald Trump and Attorney General Jeff Sessions: Getty

Donald Trump has refused to rule out sacking his attorney general if he decides not to investigate Democratic politicians.

As he embarked on a 12-day tour of the Asia Pacific region, Mr Trump hit out at Jeff Sessions and said he was disappointed the former Alabama senator was not probing alleged dishonesty among his political rivals.

He told ABC that I dont know what he would do if Mr Sessions did not pursue Hillary Clinton, who he continues to call Crooked Hillary.

Im not really involved with the Justice Department, he said. Id like to let it run itself. But honestly, they should be looking at Democrats ... They should be looking at a lot of things, and a lot of people are disappointed with the Justice Department, including me.

In later tweets, the President referenced recent claims about a back-room deal between Hillary Clintons campaign and the Democratic National Committee (DNC), that gave the eventual presidential nominee some say in staff hiring and canvassing in return for $1.2m (918,000).

Most controversially, the deal, revealed in an excerpt of a new book by former acting DNC chair Donna Brazile, was done before Ms Clinton won the partys nomination as its candidate in the 2016 election.

Written into it was a clause that nothing in this agreement shall be construed to violate the DNCs obligation of impartiality and neutrality through the nominating process.

Mr Trump tweeted: The real story on Collusion is in Donna Bs new book. Crooked Hillary bought the DNC & then stole the Democratic Primary from Crazy Bernie!

People are angry. At some point the Justice Department, and the FBI, must do what is right and proper. The American public deserves it!

Everybody is asking why the Justice Department (and FBI) isnt looking into all of the dishonesty going on with Crooked Hillary & the Dems.

Two White House officials quickly cautioned against reading too much into Mr Trumps comments, reiterating that he has no plans to fire Mr Sessions.

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And although the White House maintains that Mr Trumps tweets are an official record, it says Trump has not ordered Sessions or the FBI to do anything related to Democrats.

Republican senator Bob Corker, who has been an outspoken critic of the President, said that like me, most Americans hope that our justice system is independent and free of political interference.

He added: President Trumps pressuring of the Justice Department and FBI to pursue cases against his adversaries and calling for punishment before trials take place are totally inappropriate and not only undermine our justice system but erode the American peoples confidence in our institutions.

White House aides said the tweets were a way to deflect attention from the investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller into Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

This week, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his business associate Rick Gates, who also had a role in the campaign, were indicted on 12 counts, and former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos pleaded guilty to lying about his dealings with Russians who were offering dirt on Ms Clinton.

Additional reporting by agencies
Kirkuk (Iraq) (AFP) - A twin suicide attack killed at least six people Sunday in the centre of Iraq's disputed Kirkuk city, a security official said.

The attackers struck near a former police station used by Saraya al-Salam, a Shiite paramilitary force led by powerful Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, the official said on condition of anonymity.

Twelve people were also wounded in the two explosions, about 15 minutes apart.

The first attacker blew up an explosives-rigged car, followed by the second, who used an explosive belt, the official added.

The attack struck Atlas Street, a key shopping area in the heart of the city of a million residents.

Sadr's force, formerly known as the Mahdi Army, is part of the Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary alliance that has battled both the Islamic State group and Kurdish forces.

Iraqi security forces backed by the Hashed in mid-October seized oil-rich Kirkuk province from Kurdish peshmerga forces in the wake of a Kurdish independence vote held in defiance of Baghdad.

Kurdish media have since accused the Hashed, an alliance composed mainly of Shiite militias, of carrying out a campaign of retribution against Kurdish civilians.
A Florida State University (FSU) student was found dead on Friday after attending an off-campus party, leading to the suspension of the fraternity he was pledging.

Andrew Coffey, 20, of Pompano Beach, Fla., was trying to join the FSUs Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, the Tallahassee Democrat reports.

After attending a party about a mile from the FSU campus Thursday night  the beginning of the schools parents weekend  Coffey was found unresponsive in the home where it was held on Friday morning, according to the report. He eventually died at the scene.

All Pi Kappa Phi activity at FSU has been suspended in the wake of Coffeys death, and fraternity brothers have been directed to cooperate with a police investigation, the Democrat reports. The FSU chapter has also ceased all social media and online activity.

We are overwhelmed with sadness any time we learn of the death of one of our students, and the FSU family provides extensive outreach to their family and friends as they mourn the loss of a young life, FSU Vice President Amy Hecht said in a statement.

Coffeys death comes at a time when fraternity safety is in the public eye. In February, a Penn State University student pledging the schools Beta Theta Pi chapter died from alcohol poisoning, in what was deemed by a grand jury a hazing ritual. A similar incident led to the September death of an 18-year-old Phi Delta Theta pledge at Louisiana State University.

No arrests have been made in connection with Coffeys death, according to the Democrat.
George Papadopoulos: George Papadopoulos/LinkedIn

A former aide to Donald Trump who pleaded guilty to perjury over his contacts with Russians in the run up to the presidential election, reportedly represented the campaign on a number of occasions.

The President has made efforts to distance himself from George Papadopoulos, the first person to face criminal charges over interactions between his campaign and Russians during the 2016 Presidential race.

Mr Trump said earlier this week that "few people knew" Mr Papadopoulos and described him as a "low-level volunteer".

But it has emerged that the former adviser represented Mr Trump's campaign on a number of occasions. He once spoke in Cleveland about US foreign policy on a panel after receiving an invitation from the American Jewish Committee (AJC), according to NBC News.

"Papadopolous was only one among the many contacts AJC established and maintained among advisers to both parties 2016 presidential candidates and in the two parties national committees," Ken Bandler, an AJC spokesman, said in a statement to the broadcaster.

"Among the panellists in our 2016 Republican National Convention program  in a session titled 'Defining America's Role in Global Affairs'  was George Papadopolous, then a Trump campaign foreign policy adviser."

Six weeks before Election Day in September, Mr Papadopoulos also represented the Trump campaign when he gave an interview as a Trump campaign official to the Russian Interfax News Agency.

In the interview, Mr Papadopoulos said Mr Trump "had been open about his willingness to usher in a new chapter in US-Russia ties". He also said the-Republican presidential candidate will "restore the trust" in the government.

During January presidential inauguration he also met with Israeli leaders as a foreign policy adviser for Mr Trump.

"We are looking forward to ushering in a new relationship with all of Israel, including the historic Judea and Samaria," he told the Jerusalem Post at the time.

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The extent of Mr Papadopoulos's involvement in the Mr Trump's presidential campaign has come under intense scrutiny since after he admitted lying to the FBI over his Russian connections.

George Papadopoulos in a photograph released on Donald Trump's Instagram account (AFP/Getty Images)

Mr Trump has previously referred to Mr Papadopoulos as an excellent guy. In March, he posted a picture on Instagram with the caption meeting with my national security team in which the now-disgraced aide can be seen sitting four seats to his right.

According to a document laying out the charges against Mr Papadopoulos, he repeatedly raised the prospect of a meeting between the campaign and Moscow officials.

He also suggested arranging a meeting between Mr Trump to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the document says.
Sutherland Springs (United States) (AFP) - A black-clad gunman armed with an assault rifle opened fire on a small town Texas church during Sunday morning services, killing 26 people and wounding 20 in the latest mass shooting to shock the United States.

Authorities did not identify the gunman, saying only that he was a "young white male, maybe in his early 20s," who was wearing a bulletproof vest and found dead in his vehicle after being confronted by a local resident.

Exactly five weeks after the worst shooting in modern US history, the latest tragedy prompted an outpouring of condolences, led by US President Donald Trump.

The victims, who ranged in age from five to 72, were gunned down at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, a rural community of about 400 people located 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of San Antonio.

The gunman fired outside at the church before entering the building and continuing to spray bullets, said Freeman Martin, regional director of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

"As he exited the church, a local resident grabbed his rifle and engaged that suspect. The suspect dropped his rifle, which was a Ruger AR assault-type rifle, and fled from the church. Our local citizen pursued the suspect at that time," Martin said.

Law enforcement later found the gunman dead in his car, which had crashed, on the Wilson-Guadalupe county line. It was not clear if he had committed suicide or was shot by the resident who had confronted him.

Multiple weapons were found in the car, which was processed by bomb technicians.

"We have multiple, multiple crime scenes. We have the church, outside the church. We have where the suspect's vehicle was located," said Martin.

"We have been following up on the suspect and where he's from. We have Texas Rangers at all the hospitals locating those and interviewing those who were injured."

US media outlets identified the shooter as a 26-year-old veteran who had faced a court-martial and was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force in 2014.

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US Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek told AFP that the man had served in the logistics readiness at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, from 2010 until his discharge.

- Victims -

"There's so many families who have lost family members. Fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters," Governor Greg Abbott said, warning the toll could rise.

"The tragedy, of course, is worsened by the fact that it occurred in a church, a place of worship, where these people were innocently gunned down. We mourn their loss, but we support their family members."

The wounded had been transported to various hospitals with "injuries that vary from minor to very severe," Martin said.

The dead included the 14-year-old daughter of pastor Frank Pomeroy, the church leader told ABC News.

Annabelle Renee Pomeroy "was one very beautiful, special child," her father said.

Frank Pomeroy had been in the neighboring state of Oklahoma at the time of the shooting, and was driving back to Texas after the tragedy.

Other victims, some of whom were evacuated by helicopter, included a six-year-old boy named Rylan who was in surgery after being shot four times, his uncle told CBS News. A two-year-old was also shot and wounded, The Dallas Morning News reported.

A spokeswoman for Connally Memorial Medical Center in nearby Floresville said the hospital received eight patients with gunshot wounds. Four were transferred to San Antonio.

- Trump vows 'full support' -

Police formed a perimeter around the area. Tearful relatives and neighbors stood outside, nervously awaiting news from inside the traditional, white-frame church.

Agents from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were headed to Sutherland Springs, the agencies said.

President Donald Trump, who is traveling in Asia, said "our hearts are broken."

"This act of evil occurred as the victims and their families were in their place of worship," he said in Tokyo.

"We pull together, we join hands, we lock arms and through the tears and through the sadness, we stand strong."

The president promised his administration's "full support" to the investigation.

As with so many other shootings before this one, Democrats pounced on the occasion to renew calls for gun control, a hot button issue in a country that holds the right to bear arms as almost sacred.

In denouncing the "act of hatred," Trump's predecessor Barack Obama said: "May God also grant all of us the wisdom to ask what concrete steps we can take to reduce the violence and weaponry in our midst."

The shooting comes just over a month after a gunman in Las Vegas fired down from a hotel room onto an outdoor concert, killing 58 people and wounding hundreds. It was the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history.

And a little more than two years ago, white supremacist Dylann Roof entered a historically black church in Charleston, South Carolina, and shot nine people to death.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 21:53:53|Editor: Yurou

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KAMPALA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Six Rwandese students studying in Uganda were killed and five others critically injured in a late Saturday road accident in the central district of Nakasongola, a traffic police spokesperson said here on Sunday.

Charles Ssebambulidde, the directorate of traffic and road safety spokesperson, told Xinhua by telephone that the fatal accident occurred after the driver of the commuter taxi the students were traveling in avoided a head on collision with another commuter taxi coming from the opposite direction, ramming into a broken parked truck at Kakooge along the Gulu-Kampala highway.

He said the commuter taxi was carrying 13 students who belong to the Banyarwanda Students Association at Kampala International University in the capital Kampala.

They were returning from attending a friend's wedding party in the western town of Masindi.

"Five students died on spot. The sixth student died at hospital. The five critically injured students were evacuated to Nsambya Hospital for emergency treatment and further management," said Ssebambulidde.

He said the bodies of the deceased students were taken to Luwero hospital for postmortem.

Ssebambulidde attributed the cause of the road accident to over speeding, careless and reckless driving.

Uganda registers at least 20,000 accidents with over 2,000 deaths each year, making it one of the countries with the highest road accident fatality rates in the world, according to police figures.
Trump visited Hawaii and they welcomed him with "Welcome To Kenya" placards. Lmao 



Trolling Level 100  pic.twitter.com/ObFI0Kn4Pe  Monica LeWhiskey (@Incognitah_) November 4, 2017

President Donald Trump may have put the Barack Obama birther conspiracy lie behind him, but Hawaii voters havent forgotten.

For years, Trump promoted the damaging fake story that the former president wasnt born in Hawaii  but in Africa. So when Trump landed in Honolulu Friday as he set off on his Asia tour, Trump was greeted with protest signs that read: Welcome to Kenya!

Trump said last year that he was putting the birth conspiracy theory to rest, forgetting to mention that he was a key promoter of it. President Obama was born in the United States, period, he admitted before the presidential election.

But for years Trump insisted Obamas birth certificate was a fraud and that he was likely born in Kenya. Trump even said on The Today Show in 2011 that he had sent investigators to Hawaii to research the issue, and they cannot believe what theyre finding. Theres no proof such investigators were ever dispatched.

An 'extremely credible source' has called my office and told me that @BarackObama's birth certificate is a fraud.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2012

Via @BreitbartFeed--why doesn't @BarackObama release his original book proposal which says he was born in Kenya?http://t.co/pDDHJcjH  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 19, 2012

The birthing lie wasnt the only thing that upset protesters. Demonstrators also hit hard at Trumps anti-immigrant policies. Protesters called their rally Hawaii 3, Trump 0, referring to the number of times courts in the state blocked Trumps attempts to institute a travel ban targeting Muslims.

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Hawaii is one of the bluest of blue states. The state gave 62.2 percent of its vote to Hillary Clinton in last years presidential election, with Trump getting only 30 percent.

Trump Protest at the State Capitol. There were like three pro-trump people lol #hawaiij20 #hawaii pic.twitter.com/NpmtOzX2jE  Kate Ozawa (@AlohaKatie) November 4, 2017

Related...

Mike Pence: The Birther Issue Is Over

There's A Reason Donald Trump Can't Shake His Birther Past

Donald Trump Is 'Very Proud' Of His Birtherism

Jeff Flake Knocks Republicans For Not Standing Up To Birthers

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Thieves recently stole the speaking computer of 14-year-old Layne Barlow, left. (Photo: GoFundMe)

When an as yet unidentified thief broke into a Kentucky teens family car, she lost more than just a computer  she lost the ability to speak.

Layne Barlow, 14, was born with a disability similar to cerebral palsy. She cant talk or care for herself. To communicate she uses a computer with advanced eye-scanning technology: the Tobii Dynavox speech generating computer, which reportedly costs $17,000.

The computer was stolen Wednesday night from the familys van parked at Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene in Franklin County.

There are unintended consequences  when you take something from someone, said Laynes grandfather Marvin. You might just see it as a computer, a laptop. But as you see now, you have taken away from her the ability to communicate with her peers and with us and her teachers.

The Franklin County Sheriffs Department held a press conference Friday to ask the public for help and to send a message directly to the thief or thieves involved.

If it doesnt walk in here, I will find you. I promise, said Sheriff Pat Melton, directed at the thief or thieves of the device. I keep my commitments, and we will get you. Youre better off to do it now and turn it in, no questions asked, because shortly its going to be too late when we come knocking on your door.

A GoFundMe page has been set up with a goal of raising $1,500 towards the deductible needed to replace the computer. Laynes family and the local authorities are also asking for anyone with information to get in touch with the Franklin County Sheriffs Department.

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Beirut (AFP) - Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah movement, said on Sunday the previous day's resignation of the country's premier Saad Hariri had been "imposed" by Saudi Arabia.

"It is clear that the resignation was a Saudi decision that was imposed on Prime Minister Hariri. It was not his intention, not his wish and not his decision" to quit, Nasrallah said in a televised address.

Hariri, a protege of Riyadh, on Saturday announced his surprise resignation in a broadcast from the Saudi capital.

He cited the "grip" of Hezbollah ally Iran on the country, and also said he feared for his life.

"We did not seek this resignation," said Nasrallah, whose powerful movement has participated in Hariri's government for almost a year.

The Hezbollah chief did not directly address the accusations levelled by what he called Hariri's "very hard" speech, saying only that these were "a matter for Saudi Arabia".

Hariri, a two-time premier whose father Rafik held the same position for years and was assassinated in 2005, accused both Iran and Hezbollah of seeking hegemony in the region.

Nasrallah questioned the timing of Hariri's announcement at a time when "things are proceeding normally... in the heart of government" in Lebanon.

The resignation sparked fears that Lebanon -- split into rivals camps led by Hariri and Hezbollah -- could once again descend into violence.

But Nasrallah on Sunday called for "calm, patience and waiting until the reasons become clear" for Hariri stepping aside.

The Hezbollah leader also questioned why Hariri gave his resignation speech from Saudi Arabia.

"Is he at home? Will they let him return? These are legitimate concerns," he said, referring to a purge of princes, ministers and businessmen in Saudi Arabia in an anti-corruption operation.

- Tussle for influence -

He said Hariri was expected in Lebanon on Thursday "if they let him return".

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Riyadh considers Hezbollah, a close ally of Saudi regional rival Iran, to be a "terrorist" organisation.

The Saudi-Iran tussle for influence has also played out in ongoing conflicts in Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

Hezbollah is the only organisation in Lebanon to have retained its weapons after the end of the 1975-1990 civil war.

Nasrallah on Sunday played down the risks of conflict between rival camps in Lebanon or with his movement's arch-foe Israel.

"Do not listen to alarmist speeches ... do not worry, there is nothing to worry about," he said.

"We will react responsibly and calmly... we are concerned about the security" of Lebanon, Nasrallah added.

On Israel, he said the Jewish state "will not embark on a war against Lebanon unless it is guaranteed a quick, decisive and inexpensive war".

Israel and Hezbollah in 2006 engaged in a brief but costly summer war, and for months Israeli leaders have been threatening a new conflict in Lebanon.

It remains unclear who will succeed Hariri as prime minister in Lebanon.

Under the power-sharing system that helped end Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war, the president must be a Christian, the premier a Sunni and the speaker of parliament a Shiite.
By Babak Dehghanpisheh BEIRUT (Reuters) - Iran put a ballistic missile on display as thousands marched on Saturday to mark the anniversary of the 1979 seizure of the U.S. embassy, with a senior official accusing President Donald Trump of a "crazy" return to confrontation with Tehran. Turnout for the annual Iranian street rallies commemorating the embassy takeover, a pivotal event of the Islamic Revolution, appeared higher than in recent years when Trump's predecessor Barack Obama pursued detente with Tehran. Last month, Trump broke ranks with European allies, Russia and China by refusing to re-certify Iran's compliance with its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, reached during Obama's tenure. Under that deal, most international sanctions on Iran were lifted in exchange for Tehran curbing nuclear activity seen to pose a risk of being put to developing atomic bombs. Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to the deal and U.N. inspectors have verified Tehran is complying with its terms, but Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has threatened to "shred" the pact if the United States pulls out. "All the governments confirm that the American president is a crazy individual who is taking others toward the direction of suicide, Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, told a rally in Tehran, state media reported. "Trump's policies against the people of Iran have brought them out into the streets today," Shamkhani said. He did not identify the governments he had in mind. The other parties to the nuclear deal - Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany - have voiced disquiet at Trump's opposition to it, fearing this could stir new Middle East instability. But the Europeans share U.S. concern over Iran's ballistic missile program and "destabilizing" regional behavior. NOT NEGOTIABLE Senior Iranian officials have repeatedly said that the Islamic Republic's missile program is solely defensive in nature and is not negotiable. In a sign of defiance, a Ghadr ballistic missile with a range of 2,000 km (1,240 miles) was put on display near the ex-U.S. embassy in Tehran, now a cultural center, during Saturday's street demonstration, Tasnim news agency said. "That America thinks Iran is going to put aside its military power is a childish dream," said Brigadier General Hossein Salami, deputy head of its elite Revolutionary Guards which oversees the missile development, according to Tasnim. Fars news agency posted pictures of demonstrators nearby burning an effigy of Trump and holding up signs saying "Death to America". Iran and the United States severed diplomatic relations soon after the 1979 revolution, during which hardline students seized the embassy and took 52 Americans hostage for 444 days. Shamkhani spoke a few days after Khamenei said the United States was the "number one enemy" of the Islamic Republic. U.S.-Iranian tensions have risen anew at a time when Tehran has been improving political and military ties with Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Tehran on Wednesday. Khamenei told him that Tehran and Moscow must step up cooperation to isolate the United States and help defuse conflict in the Middle East. Iran and Russia are both fighting on the side of Syrian President Bashar al Assad against rebels, some of them U.S.-backed, and Islamist militants trying to overthrow him. (Reporting by Babak Dehghanpisheh; editing by Mark Heinrich)
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Iran said on Saturday that the resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri would create tension in Lebanon and the region. Hariri accused Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world in his resignation statement earlier on Saturday. "The resigning Lebanese prime minister's repetition of the unrealistic and unfounded accusations of the Zionists, Saudis and Americans against Iran is an indication that this resignation is a new scenario for creating tension in Lebanon and the region," Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said in a statement published on the ministry website. "But we believe that the resistant people of Lebanon will pass this stage easily." Hariri's resignation comes only a day after he met Ali Akbar Velayati, an advisor to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in Beirut. "The sudden resignation of Mr. Hariri and his statement in another country is not only surprising and regrettable but is also an indication of his playing a game designed by those who want ill for the region, and the winner of this game is not Arabic or Muslim countries but the Zionists," Qassemi said. (Reporting by Babak Dehghanpisheh; editing by Andrew Roche)
Catania (Italy) (AFP) - Italy's resurgent right looked set to triumph over the country's populists in Sicily's regional vote Sunday, in a victory seen as a key indicator for the general election, exit polls showed.

The anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S) had been ready to take home its first region in a ballot closely watched not just in Italy but in a Europe uneasy with the rise of populism.

But candidate Giancarlo Cancelleri, 42, was apparently pipped to the post by Nello Musumeci, 62, as a divided left faltered.

Polls on the Italian island closed at 10 pm (2100 GMT) and vote counting will begin on Monday.

The right is forecast to have taken between 35 and 39 percent of the vote according to public television RAI -- a triumph that would boost the fortunes of four-time former premier Silvio Berlusconi.

M5S was believed to have won between 33 and 37 percent, while ex-premier Matteo Renzi's centre-left Democratic Party (PD) looks to have taken between 16 and 20 percent.

- 'Us or them' -

Analysts say the political dynamic on the Mediterranean island mirrors the situation nationally, and the vote was seen as a dress rehearsal for the eurozone's third-largest economy before elections due before May.

A new electoral system, voted in last month, favours alliances.

If the results are confirmed, it would prove the power of a coalition made up of Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia (Go Italy) and its rightist allies, the anti-immigrant Northern League and the Brothers of Italy.

While the bloc is considered unlikely to be able to win an absolute majority on the national stage, snapping up the most votes would put it in control of any coalition it formed with the left.

Berlusconi, declared politically dead after a series of scandals and open heart surgery last year, hopes a Sicily victory will launch him back in the centre-right driving seat.

One of his loudest challengers, comedian and M5S founder Beppe Grillo, had told Sicilians "the choice is simple: us or them, the future or the past, hope or failure, citizens or traditional parties".

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As one of the poorest regions in Italy, Sicily has proven open to the anti-establishment M5S, which wooed many with a promise of establishing a basic universal income.

- 'Dark cloud' -

But it appeared voters may have been more convinced by Berlusconi's portrayal of himself as a pro-European moderate who represented the only real defence against populism.

The League had seen Sicily as a testing ground for expanding its reach beyond Italy's northern regions.

A bitterly feuding left failed to get anywhere near the top, losing control of the island.

The only consolation for Renzi was that the MPD -- a new party formed this year after the PD's far-left flank broke away -- did less well than he feared, taking home between seven and 11 percent.

The result could still spell bad news not just for the left nationally but also for the former PM, who wants his old job back.

"Renzi is preparing for the probable Sicilian nosedive like a man whose enemies are at the door and the supplies are running out," political commentator Tommaso Ciriaco said.

The 42-year old has been accused of causing a debilitating rift in the left that may not be easily fixed.

Voter dissatisfaction in Sicily -- where the rate of youth unemployment is nearly 60 percent -- translated into a pitiful turnout.

While only 47 percent of eligible voters cast their ballots in the last regional election in 2012, a record low, figures at 7pm on Sunday suggested even fewer had done so this year.

"The polling stations open under a dark cloud, amid controversy over the risk of vote-rigging," La Repubblica daily said, referring to claims the decision to wait overnight before beginning the count increased the chances of fraud.

The interior ministry was tightening controls in the Mafia heartland in response, it said.
WASHINGTON  Jared Kushner, President Donald Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser, failed to disclose business ties to a Russian oligarch whose deep pockets helped Russian government institutions invest in Facebook and Twitter.

A Kremlin-backed bank and the financial arm of the state-owned oil and gas company Gazprom made large investments in the social media companies through Yuri Milner, a Russian technology magnate, according to leaked documents published Sunday by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.

As The Guardian reports:

The money flowed through investment vehicles controlled by Milner, who also invested in a startup in New York that Kushner co-owns with his brother. Kushner initially failed to disclose his own holding in the startup, Cadre, when he joined Trumps White House.

The state-owned financial institutions which Milner assisted are often used for pet political projects of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Alexander Vershbow, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, told The Guardian.

Read the full report here.

The trove of documents, called the Paradise Papers, which includes details about the finances of many prominent international leaders, also revealed that Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross failed to disclose business holdings with members of Putins inner circle.

Kushner failing to disclose contacts with Russians has become a familiar pattern.

Earlier this year, the White House senior adviser notably omitted numerous foreign contacts from the federal form that he filled out to gain a high-level security clearance, raising questions about Kushners conduct and drawing scrutiny from the multiple investigations into possible collusion between Trumps campaign and Russian officials.

(Photo: SAUL LOEB via Getty Images)

Kushners ties to Milner appear to contradict a statement he made in July, when he met privately with the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is conducting one of the investigations into Trumps campaign.

I have not relied on Russian funds to finance my business activities in the private sector, he said in a statement.

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Here are other interactions and connections with Russia that Kushner previously failed to disclose.

June 2016: Trump Tower meeting with Russian lawyer

Trumps eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., met with Russian lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya after being offered information that would incriminate his fathers opponent, Hillary Clinton, that he was told was part of Russia and its governments support for Mr. Trump.

Kushner and then-campaign chairman Paul Manafort also attended.

It was through Kushner revising his security clearance form that the New York Times, which broke the story this summer, discovered the existence of the meeting.

December 2016: Meeting with then-Russian ambassador

During Trumps presidential transition late last year, Kushner reportedly met with then-Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak to discuss establishing a backchannel with the Russian government.

December 2016: Meeting with the head of a Russian state-owned bank

That same month, Kushner, at Kislyaks request, met with Sergey Gorkov, the CEO of Russias state-owned Vnesheconombank, which was sanctioned by the United States.

Also on HuffPost

Donald Trump Jr., President Donald Trump's eldest son

Donald Trump Jr. arrives at Trump Tower in New York City, U.S. January 18, 2017. REUTERS/Stephanie Keith

Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and adviser

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 06: (AFP OUT) White House senior adviser Jared Kushner smiles during a meeting with House and Senate leadership in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on June 6, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Olivier Douliery - Pool/Getty Images)

Paul Manafort, Trump's then-campaign chairman

UNITED STATES - JULY 19: Paul Manafort, advisor to Donald Trump, is seen on the floor of the Quicken Loans Arena at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio, July 19, 2016. (Photo By Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call)

Natalia Veselnitskaya, Russian lawyer

A picture taken on November 8, 2016 shows Russian lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya posing during an interview in Moscow. The bombshell revelation that President Donald Trump's oldest son Don Jr. met with a Kremlin-tied Russian lawyer hawking damaging material on Hillary Clinton has taken suspicions of election collusion with Moscow to a new level. / AFP PHOTO / Kommersant Photo / Yury MARTYANOV / Russia OUT (Photo credit should read YURY MARTYANOV/AFP/Getty Images)

Rob Goldstone, music publicist

MIAMI BEACH, FL - DECEMBER 31: Rob Goldstone (center), with his client, Russian singer Emin Agalarov (left), and Sheila Agalarova (right), attends New Years Eve And Birthday Party For Irina Agalarova at Barton G on December 31, 2014 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Aaron Davidson/Getty Images for Irina Agalarov)

Anatoli Samochornov, Russian-American interpreter

Anatoli Samochornov (right) interprets at a New York Public Library event with journalists Masha Gessen and Svetlana Alexievich in 2016.

Ike Kaveladze, Russian businessman

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Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 21:58:54|Editor: Zhou Xin

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CHENGDU, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A nature reserve in southwest China's Sichuan on Sunday disclosed a video footage of four snow leopards together in the same picture, a rare scene first taken in the province.

According to Wolong National Nature Reserve, home to at least 26 snow leopards, the video was taken in June. In the video, three leopard cubs slowly walked into the camera lens following their mother.

In a separate video clip, the three cubs had fun playing on the grass while their mother was absent finding food. And in another clip, two of the cubs were playing with a piece of turf.

Experts said the three cubs were about three months old. Snow leopard is a solitary animal and leaves mother to live on their own after two years old.

Snow leopards are a Class A protected animal in China. They live in the Himalayas in central and south Asia at an altitude of 2,500 to 4,500 meters. They have been spotted in China's provinces of Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan and Yunnan, and autonomous regions of Tibet and Xinjiang.
By Angus McDowall , Tom Perry and Sarah Dadouch

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri resigned on Saturday, saying he believed there was an assassination plot against him and accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world.

His resignation, a big surprise to Beirut's political establishment, brought down the coalition government and plunged Lebanon into a new political crisis.

It thrust Lebanon into the front line of a regional competition between Sunni Saudi Arabia and Shi'ite Iran that has also buffeted Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Bahrain. A Saudi government minister said Hariri was in Riyadh to ensure his safety.

Hariri, who is closely allied with Saudi Arabia, alleged in a broadcast from an undisclosed location that Hezbollah was "directing weapons" at Yemenis, Syrians and Lebanese.

In comments directed at Iran, he said the Arab world would "cut off the hands that wickedly extend to it".

Hariri's coalition, which took office last year, grouped nearly all of Lebanon's main parties, including Hezbollah. It took office in a political deal that made Michel Aoun, a Hezbollah ally, president, and was seen as a victory for Iran.

The resignation risks exacerbating sectarian tensions between Sunni and Shi'ite Muslims and returning Lebanon to paralysis in government.

An official at the U.S. State Department said it was following the situation closely and noted that Hariri had been a "strong partner in building strong national state institutions and in the war on terror".

The official added "the United States expects an orderly political process in Lebanon and will remain supportive of the legitimate institutions of the Lebanese state".

It was not immediately clear who might succeed Hariri, Lebanon's most influential Sunni politician.

The prime minister must be a Sunni in Lebanon's sectarian system. Aoun must appoint the candidate with most support among MPs, who he is expected to consult in the coming days.

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"We are living in a climate similar to the atmosphere that prevailed before the assassination of martyr Rafik al-Hariri. I have sensed what is being plotted covertly to target my life," Hariri said.

Rafik al-Hariri was killed in a 2005 Beirut bomb attack that pushed his son Saad into politics and set off years of turmoil. A U.N.-backed tribunal has charged five Hezbollah members over the killing. Hezbollah denies involvement.

The Saudi-owned pan-Arab television channel al-Arabiya al-Hadath reported that an assassination plot against Hariri was foiled in Beirut days ago, citing an unnamed source.

Saudi Arabia's Gulf Affairs Minister Thamer al-Sabhan said in a television interview that Hariri's personal security detail had "confirmed information" of a plot to kill him.

Lebanon's internal security force said in a statement on the reports that it had no information about the matter.

Hariri said Hezbollah and Iran had brought Lebanon into the "eye of a storm" of international sanctions. Iran was sowing strife, destruction and ruin wherever it went and he accused it of a "deep hatred for the Arab nation".

Aoun's office said Hariri had called him from "outside Lebanon" to inform him of his resignation. He has postponed a visit to Kuwait and directed military and security agencies "to maintain stability", it said.

Hariri flew to Saudi Arabia on Friday after a meeting in Beirut with Ali Akbar Velayati, the top adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Afterwards, Velayati described Hariri's coalition as "a victory" and "great success".

TUSSLE FOR INFLUENCE

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, will address Hariri's resignation in a televised speech on Sunday, Hezbollah-affiliated media reported.

A member of Hezbollah's central committee, Sheikh Nabil Kawouk, accused Riyadh of being behind Hariri's resignation, saying in a speech reported by Lebanon's al-Jadeed television: "God protect Lebanon from the evil of Saudi Arabia's reckless adventures."

Walid Jumblatt, the leader of Lebanon's Druze minority, said Lebanon was too weak to bear the consequences of Hariri's resignation, saying he feared political and economic fallout.

"We cannot afford to fight the Iranians from Lebanon," he told Reuters, advocating an approach of compromise with Hezbollah in Lebanon while waiting for regional circumstances to allow Saudi-Iranian dialogue.

Iran's Foreign Ministry said Hariri's departure was a plot to "create tension in Lebanon and the region".

"Hariri's resignation was done with planning by Donald Trump, the president of America, and Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia," said Hussein Sheikh al-Islam, adviser to Iran's supreme leader.

Sabhan, the Saudi minister, echoed the language of the Lebanese politician saying in a tweet: "The hands of treachery and aggression must be cut off."

Israeli politicians also used Hariri's resignation to criticise Iranian influence in Lebanon. "His words are a wake-up call to the international community to take action against Iranian aggression," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

ECONOMIC RISKS

Hezbollah's close ties to Iran and its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his war with rebels have been a major source of tension in Lebanon for years.

Beirut has adopted a position of "disassociation" from the conflict, but this has come under strain with Hezbollah and its allies pushing for a normalisation of ties.

Since taking office, Hariri had worked to garner international aid for Lebanon to cope with the strain of hosting some 1.5 million Syrian refugees.

The government's collapse complicates preparations for next year's parliamentary elections, Lebanon's first since 2009.

Finance Minister Ali Hassan Khalil told Reuters there was no danger to Lebanon's economy or its currency.

Joseph Torbey, head of the Association of Banks in Lebanon, said there was no risk to monetary stability because the central bank had large reserves and there was confidence in Lebanese banks.

Lebanon has one of the world's highest ratios of debt-to-GDP and last month passed its first budget since 2005, one of the few achievements of the coalition government.

The United States is considering new sanctions on Hezbollah, as part of a tougher stance against Iran and its allies, that Lebanese politicians have fretted could hurt the economy.

(Reporting by Angus McDowall, Tom Perry, Sarah Dadouch, Lisa Barrington and Babak Dehghanpisheh in Beirut, Ahmed Tolba in Cairo and Reem Shamseddine in Khobar; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Stephen Powell)
By Laila Bassam, Tom Perry and Angus McDowall BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Shi'ite Hezbollah group on Sunday accused Saudi Arabia of forcing Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri to quit, and called for calm in an effort to contain the political crisis unleashed by his resignation. Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Iran-backed Hezbollah, said there should be no political escalation in response to Hariri's declaration on Saturday, which was made from Saudi Arabia and came as surprise even to his aides. Hariri, in a televised speech, said there was a plot to kill him, and accused Hezbollah and its Iranian backers of sowing strife in the Arab world. Nasrallah said "legitimate questions" were being asked over whether Hariri had been detained in Saudi Arabia, where news emerged on Sunday that royals, ministers and investors had been arrested in an anti-corruption purge. Aides to Hariri, whose family made their fortune in the Saudi construction industry, strongly denied he had been detained or had been forced to resign. Speaking in a televised address, Nasrallah said: "The resignation was a Saudi decision dictated to Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri and was forced on him." Nasrallah said Lebanon's political leaders expected Hariri to return to Lebanon on Thursday "if he is allowed" to travel. Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia, a political ally of Hariri, is locked in a bitter tussle for power across the Middle East with Shi'ite Iran and its allies, including Hezbollah. Lebanese President Michel Aoun will not accept Hariri's resignation until he returns to Lebanon to explain his reasons, palace sources said on Sunday, delaying for now the politically difficult consultations over his successor. Nasrallah said he would not comment on accusations leveled against Hezbollah by Hariri, describing his resignation announcement as a Saudi statement. Hariri's resignation toppled a coalition government that included Hezbollah, thrusting Lebanon back into the frontline of the Saudi-Iranian regional rivalry and risking an open-ended political crisis. The government was formed late last year in a political deal that ended years of deadlock, and last month it produced Lebanon's first budget since 2005. Nasrallah said he had thought things were going well and had not wanted Hariri to quit. "LEGITIMATE CONCERN" Hariri allies in Lebanon have denied suggestions he had been detained and a photograph was published on his Twitter account showing him with Saudi Arabia's newly appointed ambassador to Lebanon, Walid al-Yaaqoub. News of high-level arrests in Saudi Arabia fueled social media speculation in Lebanon that Hariri, a Saudi national, was a target. Nasrallah said "there was legitimate concern", asking if Hariri had anything to do "with this internal struggle between the princes". Saudi Oger, the construction firm owned by the Hariri family, has faced a multibillion-dollar debt restructuring. The company was hit by a decline in oil prices led to sharp state spending cuts in the kingdom. Saudi-owned newspaper Asharq al-Awsat cited unnamed sources close to Hariri as speculating that he would probably remain outside Lebanon because of the security threat against him. Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh sought to calm fears the political turmoil would hit Lebanon's already fragile economy, issuing a statement to reaffirm the stability of its currency, which is pegged against the U.S. dollar. In Lebanon's sectarian system the president must be a Maronite Catholic, the prime minister a Sunni and the speaker of parliament a Shi'ite. Hariri is Lebanon's most influential Sunni politician. His father, Rafik al-Hariri, was prime minister after Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war and was assassinated in a car bombing in 2005. A U.N.-backed tribunal has indicted five Hezbollah members for the killing but the group denies any involvement. Saudi media have published reports of a plot to assassinate Hariri in recent days, but all of Lebanon's main security branches have said they have no information about such a plot. A Saudi minister said on Saturday that Hariri's personal security detail had "confirmed information" about the plot. Thamer al-Sabhan said in an interview with a Lebanese TV station on Saturday that there were "threats against the prime minister and the kingdom is keen for his security". U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was concerned by Hariri's resignation and hoped all sides in the country would back its state institutions, his spokesman on Lebanon Stephane Dujarric said in an emailed statement. (Reporting by Laila Bassam, Tom Perry and Angus McDowall; Editing by Jason Neely and Edmund Blair)
After nine agonizing weeks, a group of workers have finally destroyed a 800-foot fatberg clogging a sewer in East London. According to the BBC, the final section of the 130-ton mass of wet wipes, napkins, fat and oil had to be cleared manually using shovels.

Our work is finished, and the beast finally defeated after a mammoth effort from the team, Waste network manager Alex Saunders said in a statement. It was some of the most gut-wrenching work many would have seen on national television, and one of the reasons why the man-made Whitechapel fatberg captured the worlds imagination.

The fatberg at its peak.

It took eight brave workers from Thames Water to finally rid the sewer of the fatberg. The removal took longer than expected because the fatberg had apparently destroyed some of the sewer, making conditions less than ideal for workers.

As usual, we only have ourselves to blame for the beast. Basically, people put things down the toilet that they shouldnt, and unsurprisingly, those wretched items clump together and form a fatberg. When youre dealing with a Victorian-era sewer, this is a recipe for disaster.

There might be a silver lining, though. In September, Thames Water announced its plans to turn the trash heap into 10,000 liters of biodiesel. At this point, turning the garbage monster into a clean alternative to fossil fuel would make for a very happy ending.

Some people say the fatberg is disgusting. Saunders once called it an evil, gut-wrenching, rancid blob. But I think the fatberg is more of a metaphor for the human experience. Maybe the real fatberg is the friends we made along the way.

Photos via Thames Water

Photos via Thames Water

Written by Rae Paoletta

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Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 22:24:03|Editor: Yurou

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KIRKUK, Iraq, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed and 15 others wounded Sunday in two suicide bomb attacks targeting a paramilitary Hashd Shaabi base in the ethnically-mixed city of Kirkuk, a local police source said.

The attacks occurred in the afternoon when a suicide bomber detonated his explosive belt at the entrance of the headquarters of a Hashd Shaabi group, known as Saraya al-Salam, at Atlas Street in central Kirkuk city, some 250 km north of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

A few minutes later, another suicide bomber blew up his explosive belt at the scene, as people and security forces were evacuating the casualty of the first blast, the source said.

The attackers apparently followed the old tactic of first creating an initial explosion to attract security forces and people, and then setting off another blast to inflict heavier casualties.

Saraya al-Salam, or Peace Companies, are a militia linked to the Iraqi Shiite community and are a revival of the previously known as "Mahdi Army" militia affiliated with the Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr after the U.S.-led invasion in 2003.

Sadr sent the Saraya al-Salam militiamen to the city of Kirkuk after the Iraqi forces took control of the oil-rich province of Kirkuk, which is part of the disputed areas claimed by both Baghdad and the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan.

No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attacks, but the IS militant group, in most cases, is responsible for such suicide bomb attacks, targeting security forces and areas where crowds of people gather, including markets, cafes and mosques across Iraq.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 22:39:07|Editor: Yamei

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Ousted Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont (C) addresses a press conference at the Press Club Europe in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 31, 2017. (Xinhua/Ye Pingfan)

BRUSSELS, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Ousted Catalan President Carles Puigdemont and four former members of his cabinet who were wanted by the Spanish government turned themselves in voluntarily to the federal judicial police of Brussels on Sunday morning.

They were taken into custody at 9:17 a.m. local time (0817 GMT), announced the public prosecutor's office of Brussels on Sunday.

The prosecutor's office will require an investigating judge who will hear the five people during Sunday afternoon, and he will have 24 hours to make a decision.

If any of the accused disagree with the judge's decision they can appeal. On Saturday, Puigdemont twittered in Dutch that he pledged full co-operation with the Belgian judicial authorities in the light of Madrid's issuing of a European arrest warrant.

Puigdemont and his four councilors will have the possibility to appeal in front of another court which also has 15 days to decide. A cassation complaint can also be considered if a second appeal is requested, which would put an additional delay of 15 days again.

Puigdemont and the four former members of his government are accused by the Spanish government, like the other eight former members of the cabinet, of rebellion, sedition and embezzlement of public funds following the unilateral declaration of independence of the region on Oct. 1.

The five persons arrived in Brussels on Oct. 30 and Puigdemong said at a press conference the following day that he was not seeking political asylum in Belgium.

On Friday evening, Spanish High Court judge Carmen Lamela issued a European arrest warrant for the sacked Catalan leader Puigdemont and the other four after they failed to appear in court in Madrid on Thursday.

If the EU arrest warrant is finally accepted by Belgium's Justice system, the five persons charged will have 10 days to go back to Spain and surrender to the local authorities.

So far, no judge has been appointed yet for that case, the judiciary procedure will thus be delayed until someone is nominated.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 22:39:08|Editor: Mengjie

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BEIJING, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- China's military should take Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era as their guide to fully implement President Xi's thinking on strengthening the military, and must follow the absolute leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Central Military Commission (CMC) said on Sunday.

According to a guideline released by the CMC, the army should be absolutely loyal, honest and reliable to Xi, who is also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the CMC.

The army should follow Xi's command, answer to his order, and never worry him, said the guideline.

The CMC also said the armed forces should deeply and comprehensively implement the system by which the chairman of the CMC has overall responsibility for the army.

The guideline said, the responsibility system points out the fundamental direction for the army's construction and benefits the development on strengthening the military, the long-term peace and stability of the CPC and the country, and the future destiny of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics.
File photo shows Tanzanian students listen to an introduction of Chinese universities during the ninth Exhibitions on Higher Education, Science and Technology in Dar Es Salaam, capital of Tanzania. (Xinhua/Zhang Ping)

WAKISO, Uganda, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese enterprises in Uganda have awarded full scholarships to three financially disadvantaged students to pursue their secondary education.

Zheng Biao, representative of the China Enterprises Chamber of Commerce in Uganda, said the four scholarships by Mirembe Villas-Guoji Group(U) Limited, a housing enterprise, are part of the Chinese enterprises' dedication to fulfilling social responsibility by funding financially disadvantaged but academically excelling students.

This sponsorship brings to a total of 155 Chinese enterprises scholarships at Luyanzi College in central Uganda in less than five years.

"I am happy our members (enterprises) play an active role in fulfilling their social responsibility in Uganda. We believe students are the future and development of this country," said Zheng.

"We are looking for more cooperation between the Chinese enterprises, Ugandan local community and institutions like Luyanzi," he said.

Shen Jie, Managing Director of Mirembe Villas, said the four-year sponsorship is part of the company's long term cooperation and scholarship program to help disadvantaged students who can not manage to raise school fees to attain quality education.

"We have very many Chinese that are passionate to help the local people, especially in education sector. We believe through education students can get a brighter future and develop this country," said Shen.

Zhao Xiufen, economic and commercial counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, said the scholarships will contribute to the economic and human resource development in the East African country.
Scott Pruitt: Getty

A man who once claimed that the air in America was "a little too clean for optimum health", has been appointed to an advisory board of America's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Robert Phalen once claimed that childrens lungs need to breathe irritants so their bodies can learn to fight them.

The former director of the Air Pollution Health Effects Laboratory at the University of California Irvine was appointed to the agencys critical Scientific Advisory Board by EPA Director Scott Pruitt.

Mr Pruitt has recently removed all the scientists who receive grant money from the agency.

Speaking to the the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2012, Mr Phalen told the audience: Modern air is a little too clean for optimum health.

Mr Phalen has also argued that the risks associated with modern particulate matter are very small and confounded by many factors.

In a 2004 study, he wrote that, neither toxicology studies nor human clinical investigations have identified the components and/or characteristics of [particulate matter] that might be causing the health-effect associations.

The appointment is part of Mr Pruitts plan to promote advisers who are financially independent from the agency.

He has barred scientists who receive grant money from the EPA from serving on its advisory boards, saying he will instead focus on fresh perspectives and geographical representation.

As a result, Mr Pruitt has placed 66 new experts on three different EPA scientific committees, according to the Washington Post. Several of these experts come from industries that the agency regulates. New advisers hail from companies such as Dow Chemical, Procter & Gamble, and the French petroleum company Total.

The committees also include current and former members of the American Chemistry Council  the primary trade and lobbying group for the chemical industry. Mr Pruitt is scheduled to give a speech the Councils annual board meeting next week.

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While Mr Pruitt says his new policy is meant to prevent conflicts of interest, others claim it will only promote them.

Pruitt is turning the idea of conflict of interest on its head, Andrew Rosenberg, director of the Centre for Science and Democracy at the Union for Concerned Scientists, said in a statement. He claims federal research grants should exclude a scientist from an EPA advisory board but industry funding shouldnt.

He added: The consequences of these decisions arent just bad for a few scientists. This could mean that theres no independent voice ensuring that EPA follows the science on everything from drinking water pollution to atmospheric chemical exposure.
Bail has been set at $1 million in the case of an Ohio man accused of butchering his future mother-in-law before serving as a pallbearer at her funeral days later.

Read: Man Arrested in 1994 Cold Case Murder of His Mother: Cops

Jeffrey Scullin, 20, appeared in court Friday, when he was charged with stabbing and shooting the beloved teacher, 49-year-old Melinda Pleskovic, where his bond was set at $1 million.

Her funeral was held on the day her daughter, Anna, was supposed to marry Scullin. The wedding was canceled, and on Tuesday, Scullin was arrested.

He was the one who called 911 after finding his mother-in-law to-be injured on the floor of her home on Oct. 24.

We found her in the kitchen. She's not moving. I took the kids and I walked outside, Scullin told the 911 operator. She has blood all around her. I didn't look.

Pleskovic's husband was with Scullin when they found her body in the kitchen.

Read: Couple Charged With Murder After 4-Month-Old Found Dead in Swing

I think someone killed my wife, her husband told the 911 operator. It looks like she has stab wounds on her back. There's a pool of blood.

He also said she was not breathing.

Scullin came under suspicion when cops found a bloody knife in his pickup truck.

Her friends gathered at her favorite pizzeria Thursday night for a memorial, where she was remembered as a good person and beloved individual.

Melinda was a popular middle school teacher in the town of Strongsville, located about 22 miles outside Cleveland. Scullin had been living in her home with her daughter.

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(KEOKUK, Iowa)  A man was found guilty Friday of first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of a gender-fluid Iowa teenager that drew the attention of the U.S. Justice Department.

A jury convicted Jorge Sanders-Galvez, 23, in the death of 16-year-old Kedarie Johnson of Burlington, the Des Moines Register reported.

Johnsons body was found March 2, 2016, in an alley behind a Burlington home, a plastic garbage bag wrapped around the teens head. Investigators say bleach had been poured on the bullet-riddled body in an apparent attempt to destroy DNA evidence.

The killing stunned the eastern Iowa city of 25,000 and raised fears that the popular Burlington High School student was the victim of a hate crime because the teen was gender-fluid, identifying both as male and female, according to relatives. The teen alternately used his birth name and the female persona Kandicee.

U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions brought national attention to the case when he sent a federal hate crimes prosecutor to assist state and local authorities. A decision on federal hate crimes charges is pending, but the prosecutor assigned by Sessions indicated in court documents that Johnsons gender identity played a role, with the cousins attacking the teen after discovering during a sexual encounter that Johnson was gender nonconforming.

At trial this week, prosecutors said Johnson was wearing a pink headband and hair extensions when Sanders-Galvez and his cousin saw the teen at a store, followed Johnson in their car, then took the teen to a Burlington home.

Sanders-Galvez, an aspiring rapper who went by the nickname Lumni, testified at his trial and maintained he didnt know Johnson and didnt kill the teen. Sanders-Galvez was from the St. Louis area but had been staying in Burlington for weeks before the killing.

His cousin, 25-year-old Jaron Purham, is expected to stand trial later. Purham is serving time in Missouri after he was convicted on charges related to his flight from officers tying to arrest him last year. Officers said they recovered a .357 revolver in Purhams vehicle after he drove into a police car outside St. Louis, and testing showed that it was the gun used to shoot Johnson.

Investigators testified they found Johnsons backpack at a Burlington home where Purham and Sanders-Galvez had been staying with Purhams pregnant girlfriend. Both men fled to the St. Louis area within 48 hours after Johnsons slaying, investigators said.
Sayfullo Saipov - REUTERS

Sayfullo Saipov the Uzbek immigrant accused of killing eight people in a truck rampage was brainwashed, his sister said.

Umida Saipova, 27, who sent her condolences to the families of the victims of the attack, pleaded with the US authorities to give her 29-year-old brother time and a fair trial.

Her remarks, in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, came at a time when Donald Trump has come under fire for urging the courts to impose the death penalty.

The US president was accused by legal experts of jeopardising Saipovs trial by his remarks on Twitter.

"My mother says she didn't notice any sign of [radicalization] when she visited him in the U.S. twice," Ms Saipova said.

"My mother said she would have brought him back to Uzbekistan had she noticed anything," she said.

How the Manhattan attack unfolded

"We don't know who has brainwashed him. We don't know his circumstances. We don't know. Perhaps he's become part of some organized group."

She added: "I don't know, honestly, how long it will take for his head to get rid of that poison, but I'm sure he will come to his senses, God willing.

Saipov became a legal permanent resident of the US in 2010. The family first became alarmed when his appearance changed after his marriage in 2013.

"When we first time saw him on Skype with a beard, we got scared, honestly. We were terrified," she said. "I cried and called him and asked him why."

The perpetrator of the attack was said by witnesses to have shouted "Allahu akbar," as he fled the scene of the attack.

Saqipov was shot by police in the stomach and arrested after reportedly trying to flee the rented truck which was used to mow down people in a cycle lane.

The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant has claimed Saipov as one of its soldiers and prosecutors in New York have said that he felt good about what he had done.

Ms Saipovas view that her brother was radicalised following his arrival in the US under the green card lottery is shared by Andrew Cuomo, New Yorks governor.

Story continues

Again, ISIL has gotten it down to a simple formula that they can put on the internet, he told the New York Daily News.

It doesnt take a rocket scientist to rent a car, rent a truck. But they are cowards and they are depraved.
Tania Georgelas escaped her jihadi lifestyle in 2013, leaving her American husband, who remains in ISIS. She is currently living in suburban Dallas. (Photo: YouTube/The Atlantic)

Tania Georgelas met and married John Georgelas in 2004. He is also known as Yahya al-Bahrumi, or Yahya the American, he is reportedly the top American in ISIS. Tania is British-Bangladeshi, grew up Muslim, and met John in her native U.K. John, who hails from Texas and is the son of a doctor in the U.S. military, converted to Islam shortly after Sept. 11, 2001  coincidentally the same crucial moment in history when Tania herself was radicalized.

The saga of Tania and John is a long and winding one, but they effectively became a couple and soon enough a family with three children, dedicated to holy war and terrorism. By 2013, they made efforts to solidify their plans to join ISIS and left for Syria in August of that year. But after John, Tania, pregnant with their fourth child, and the rest of their children, finally arrived in Syria, she had a change of heart and escaped.

Through the help of her husbands parents, Tania made it back to the United States, where she eventually divorced her husband, who remains in ISIS to this day.

The Atlantic magazine recently featured a profile of Tania, and the burning question throughout the not entirely revealing article remains: Has she really changed? She once lived her life to raise a family and train them be assassins, according to her own description.

The writer, Graeme Wood, observes notably:

And yet there are signsnot of violence, but of a permanent effect of her jihadist brainwashing. She once told me, offhandedly, that she thought the Shia were not really Muslim; ISIS is a radical Sunni group, and hatred of the Shia is central to its theology. She never said she wished to return to Syria, but she did lament that so many of the Islamic States followers are being bombed just because they just want to live under a caliphate. Lines like these come out after hours of perfectly normal conversation.

Despite the undertone and those remnants of years of a certain way of thinking, she currently exists within the trappings of a suburban existence. Shes dating a new man, who hails from the Midwest. They met on Match.com They go to church, and concerts, and wine bars. As the writer Wood puts it, From the way she dresses, youd think she spent the last decade reading Italian Vogue, not the Koran.

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And yet, she confesses to still having feelings for her jihadi ex-husband. I cant help but love him, she has said. I dont know how to make that feeling stop.

At this particular juncture in what remains of the Georgelas couple, he ditched his American, Christian, suburban and wealthy heritage for life as a jihadi in ISIS. She did the reverse and spends her time looking for an identity in the suburbs of Dallas. How will their stories unfold?

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It's been a wild week for schemes and strategies. A band of thieves made off with a load of new iPhones, the CIA released more of bin Laden's hard drive contents, and Netflix nixed House of Cards because Kevin Spacey turned out to be a sexual predator. Numbers, because how else will you know if your fence is underpaying for those looted wares?

$370,000: That's the street value of some 300 iPhone Xs a band of thieves managed to purloin from a UPS truck parked outside of the Apple Store in San Francisco on Thursday. Be wary of any unreasonably good deals (read: less than a grand) you see on eBay for them in the coming weeks.

11 minutes: The only tolerable span of time to occur in 2017 was when the president's personal attack vector, er, Twitter account was taken offline by an American hero.

Lafayette, US - December 27, 2016: Tesla Supercharger Station. The Supercharger offers recharging of Model S and Model X electric vehicles XI

$7,500: That's how much the electric vehicle tax credit is worth that the Republicans want to get rid of. Because who needs to reduce the global carbon footprint when a couple dozen rich families here in the US can reduce their tax bases?

CIA

321 GB: That's the size of the CIA's most recent file dump from Osama bin Laden's personal laptop. Turns out the dude was super into off-brand sexy ROMs, who knew?

1440p: That's the maximum monitor screen resolution the new Xbox One X will support. Don't worry, it'll still display in 4K when you hook it up to your living room TV.

4 seasons: That's how many seasons too long House of Cards ran before Kevin Spacey's sexual predatory past caught up with him and curb stomped the remainder of his career.

A 3D rendered image of cells. One of the cells has dark tubules protruding from it as compared to the other clear cells.

86 percent: That's how effective a new AI system developed at Showa University in Japan is in detecting colorectal cancer. Because the quicker you catch this form of cancer, the better the chance you have of beating it.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 22:54:11|Editor: yan

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VYTINA, Greece, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- In the heart of the Peloponnese, in mountainous Arcadia, the first Greek hiking trail meeting took place on Saturday with dozens of participants presenting examples of certified paths across Greece and sharing their experience in order these pathways to become key driver for growth.

As tourism industry represents a significant pillar to Greece's economy, local communities try to explore alternative models to lengthen the tourist season and even become a 365-day tourism destination by investing in activities like hiking.

Hiking trails are linked to the long history, the culture and the biodiversity of a place. Despite the fact that they were forgotten for a long time, the increasing number of hike travelers especially from Europe has brought them back to the surface.

A model example of cooperation between hundreds of volunteers, state agencies and private initiatives is the Menalon Trail which organized the meeting of the Greek trails in the village of Vytina in Arcadia, about 150 km southeast of Athens.

The Menalon Trail, a social cooperative enterprise, is the first certified trail in Greece by the European Ramblers Association (ERA) and was built with the support of the region of Peloponnese and the Municipality of Gortynia.

Seventy-five kilometers long, the Menalon Trail is a mountain hiking path that runs through Gortynia, in Arcadia, with a diverse landscape of rugged mountains, canyons, and verdant valleys.

The trail crosses a lovely natural and cultural landscape in a land with a 3000 year of history through archaeological sites and monuments from the Byzantine period and traditional villages with architectural identity.

It passes through picturesque villages, such as Stemnitsa, Elati, and Dimitsana, and includes eight sections varying in difficulty level and length.

According to Yiannis Lagos, the founder of the Menalon Trail, the path opens the entire region as a tourist destination promoting local products and crafts of industries such as silverware, wood carving, honey and agricultural products.

At the same time, it can make a fundamental contribution to extending the tourist season.

Many Greek islands have rediscovered, mapped and signposted old routes as well. In Andros island at the northern tip of the Cyclades archipelago, volunteers undertook the initiative to clean old trails and invest on sustainable tourism.

The Andros Route which is a 100 kilometers route offers an enchanting exploration from north to southeast of the island. According to Olga Karagianni, they have seen an increase in tourists during spring and autumn season and packages for longer period.

Fivos Tsaravopoulos, the founder of "Paths of Greece", an initiative for the development of a hiking trails network, explained that in the island of Kythera in 5 years' time an investment of 50,000 euros (58,100 U.S. dollars) has brought back approximately a total of 1.5 million euros (1.74 million dollars) as a revenue.

For boosting tourist destinations, like hiking trails, the majority of the participants suggested to adopt a bottom up policy instead of the opposite one and depend on State funding. Volunteers and locals contribute to the conservation and promotion of the hiking trails, while they find alternative ways of funding their activities.
Riyadh (AFP) - Since his emergence in June as crown prince of the world's oil superpower, Mohammed bin Salman, 32, has set his sights firmly on economic, social and religious reforms in the ultraconservative kingdom.

The young and dynamic prince, known by his initials MBS, has already overseen the most fundamental cultural and economic transformation in the modern history of the Gulf state, half of whose 31-million population is aged under 25.

At an investor summit in late October, MBS pledged a "moderate" Saudi Arabia, long seen as an exporter of a brand of puritanical Islam espoused by jihadists worldwide.

"We will not spend the next 30 years of our lives dealing with destructive ideas. We will destroy them today and at once," said the prince, who has sidelined powerful clergy who have long dominated public discourse in Saudi Arabia.

In September, a royal decree said women would be allowed to drive.

Some conservative clerics -- who for years staunchly opposed more social liberties for women -- have backpedalled and come out in favour of the decree allowing them to drive.

Under the crown prince, the kingdom is also expected to lift a public ban on cinemas and has encouraged mixed-gender celebrations -- something unseen before.

The government has also set up an Islamic centre tasked with certifying the sayings of the Prophet Mohammed in a stated bid to curb extremist texts.

The government appears to have clipped the wings of the once-feared religious police -- long accused of harassing the public with rigid Islamic mores -- who have all but disappeared from big cities.

In tandem with reforms, Prince Mohammed has been shoring up power and over the summer carried out a wave of arrests in a crackdown on dissenters, including influential clerics and some liberals who could block his path.

- Sweeping crackdown -

On the business front, the prince was named head of a new anti-corruption commission, established by royal decree, late Saturday.

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Immediately after, 11 princes, including prominent billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, and dozens of current and former ministers were arrested, in a sweeping crackdown seen as consolidating the crown prince's hold on power.

MBS is the architect of a wide-ranging plan dubbed Vision 2030 to bring social and economic change to Saudi Arabia's oil-dependent economy.

Among his most prominent positions is chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, which coordinates economic policy. Mohammed also chairs a body overseeing state oil giant Saudi Aramco.

He also holds the post of defence minister more than two years into a Saudi-led military intervention in neighbouring Yemen.

In a dramatic announcement on June 5, Mohammed bin Salman was named to replace his cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, as heir to the Saudi throne. He had been second-in-line since early 2015.

Born on August 31, 1985, MBS graduated in law from Riyadh's King Saud University, and the dark-bearded prince with a receding hairline is the father of two boys and two girls
Mexico City (AFP) - Mexico said Saturday it had captured a rare vaquita marina porpose -- a female of reproductive age -- as part of a last-ditch bid to save the critically endangered species.

The vaquita, the world's smallest porpoise, has been pushed to the brink of extinction by illegal gillnet fishing and there are just 30 left in the wild.

The Mexican government and conservation groups have launched an unprecedented plan to save the species by transporting as many as possible to a protected marine reserve.

"The @VaquitaCPR team has managed to capture another vaquita marina," Mexican Environment Minister Rafael Pacchiano tweeted, adding that the animal is in the care of veterinarians.

A six-month old calf -- the first vaquita ever captured -- was caught last month but had to be released as it was too young to be separated from its mother.

However the second porpoise "is an adult female and of reproductive age," Pacchiano said on Twitter. "It's a great achievement that fills us with hope."

The initiative, which began field operations in October, is attemptng to locate the remaining vaquitas using acoustic monitoring, visual searches and dolphins trained by the US navy.

Captured vaquitas will be transported to a marine sanctuary, where it is hoped they will breed before being released back into the wild.

The vaquita has been nearly wiped out by gillnets used to fish for another species, the also endangered totoaba fish, whose swim bladder is considered a delicacy in China and can fetch $20,000 per kilogram.

In June, Mexico announced a series of measures to protect the vaquita, including a permanent ban on gillnets in its habitat.

In all, the government has committed more than $100 million to protecting the vaquita while supporting the local fishing community.
At least 26 are dead and 20 others injured after a gunman opened fire at a small Baptist church in rural Texas on Sunday morning. The ages of the wounded and dead range from 18 months to 77 years.

Officials identified the suspect as 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelley. He is now deceased.

Kelley was previously a member of the United States Air Force, serving at a base in New Mexico. He was court-martialed for assault on his wife and child.

SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas  More than 100 people gathered outside the post office here on Sunday night, just blocks away from the First Baptist Church where a lone gunman killed 26 members of this tight-knit community on Sunday morning. It was the worst mass killing in the states history.

Who are we going to be tomorrow? Stephen Curry, a pastor from a nearby church, asked the crowd. Were going to be people of love.

Amen! the audience exclaimed.

Mourners held candles and raised their open palms in the air as religious leaders urged them to help their neighbors heal. Reminders of the tragedy were all around them. Behind the vigil, the lights of a police car continued to flash, and the road toward the church remained blocked off.

Terri and Brooke Kalinec attend a candlelight vigil after a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Nov. 5, 2017. (Photo: Reuters/Sergio Flores)

Officials responded to reports of a gunman at the church at around 11:20 a.m. A young white male wearing black clothing and tactical gear  whom police later identified as 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelley  had opened fire with a Ruger assault-type rifle outside the church and then entered the building, walking to the front of the congregation, as he continued to fire. He kept firing as he walked out of the churchs back door.

I dont think they could have escaped. Youve got your pews on either side, Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt Jr. said Sunday.

At that point, a resident began firing with his own weapon, causing the suspect to flee in his car, officials said. The suspect was later found with a fatal gunshot wound in his vehicle in nearby Guadalupe County. Tackitt Jr. told CBS News that authorities were pretty sure the wound was self-inflicted. Multiple weapons were found inside the vehicle.

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Kelley had family members who were congregants of the church, Tackitt said on Monday, but they were not present during the shooting.

We know that his ex-in-law, or in-laws, came to church here from time to time, Tackitt said. They were not here yesterday. However, Lula White, the grandmother of Kelleys wife, was among those killed in Sundays massacre, multiple friends confirmed to CNN on Monday.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) said Monday he believes Kelley deliberately targeted the church.

This was not a random active shooting, he told CBS News. I dont think this church was picked out at random. I think there was purpose and intent that Devin Kelley had in showing up at this location.

Police block a road in Sutherland Springs, Texas, after a gunman shot dozens of people at a nearby church on Sunday. Sutherland Springs is located about 35 miles east of San Antonio. (Photo: SUZANNE CORDEIRO via Getty Images)

During a press conference on Sunday afternoon, Abbott confirmed that 26 people had been killed in the shooting. A pregnant woman and several children  including the church pastors 14-year-old daughter  were among the dead. At least 20 other people were injured. The ages of the wounded and dead ranged from 18 months to 77 years. A witness told San Antonio TV station KENS 5 that the fatalities accounted for about half of the churchs congregation.

The massacre took place exactly eight years after an Army psychiatrist killed 13 people on a U.S. military base in Fort Hood, Texas  just a few hours by car from Sutherland Springs.

On Sunday night, shocked community members were still reeling from the massacre that took place just hours before. They described the unincorporated community, home to cattle ranches and oil fields, as the type of place where everyone knows each other. People move there to avoid crime, residents told HuffPost.

Its a nice, quiet town. Its respectful, said former resident Pamela Padilla. We dont normally have any crime or anything ... It was a small town, and quiet until today.

This has just been so devastating. It hasnt hit home quite yet, said resident Kelly Carter.

Its very small, quiet. Everyone knows each other, said David Betancourt, 18. His friend was wounded in the shooting. The last Betancourt heard, he was undergoing surgery.

Families in tears wait to see if their family and friends are safe. Praying for the safety of all those involved. pic.twitter.com/yjzK7lZJ1S  Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

Michael Ward had family members at the church that morning. When he heard that the killer had fled, he said he considered going after him. But when he saw the police en route, he went to the church with his wife Leslee to look for their relatives.

The family of Wards brother Chris was severely affected, Ward said. Chris wife Joann was in surgery, along with their son Rylan and daughter Brooke. Chris daughter Emily was among the deceased, Ward said.

Ward later told the Dallas Morning News that Joann and Brooke had also died.

Kelley was previously a United States Air Force member who served in logistics readiness at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, from 2010 until his bad conduct discharge in 2014. He was court-martialed in 2012 for assault on his spouse and assault on their child. Academy Sports + Outdoors, a sporting goods store, confirmed that Kelley had purchased two firearms from two San Antonio locations, one in 2016 and one in 2017. They said that both sales were approved by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

Current law should have prevented him from being able to get a gun; I can tell you that before he made this purchase, he tried to get a gun permit in the state of Texas and was denied that permit, Abbott said.

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The playground at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. (Photo: Rick Wilking / Reuters)

Sundays shooting comes just over a month after a gunman killed 58 people at a country music festival in Las Vegas before killing himself. It was the deadliest mass shooting in recent U.S. history.

During a press conference in Tokyo, President Donald Trump said he viewed the deadly shooting as a mental health problem at the highest level and not as a guns situation. He added that it was a little bit soon to get into a discussion about gun control.

The president, who is currently on a five-nation tour through Asia, had earlier tweeted his prayers to the people of Sutherland Springs and gave an official statement on the shooting. He called the attack an act of evil, and later ordered for U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff to honor those killed.

Mike Gonzalez, who lives nearby and works at Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, helped lead prayers at Sunday nights vigil.

Let us not be people of anger, he told the crowd. Let us not be people of fear. Let us build your kingdom as something constructive in the face of destruction.

I propose that we make a pact, right here, in this small town, that evil will not prevail!

Law enforcement officials gather near the First Baptist Church. (Photo: Erich Schlegel/Getty Images)

This story has been updated with new information about the victims and the suspect.

Lydia OConnor, Matt Ferner, Nick Visser and Samantha Tomaszewski contributed reporting.

Law enforcement officials investigate a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

Members of the Wilson County Sheriff's Office stand just inside a taped-off area near the First Baptist Church.

Law enforcement officials gather near the First Baptist Church following a shooting on Nov. 5, 2017, in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

Law enforcement officials gather near the First Baptist Church.

A sign at the First Baptist Church.

Law enforcement officials continue their investigation at the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas.

A gunman killed 26 people at the church and wounded many more when he opened fire during a Sunday service.

View of the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs.

A woman and her children take part in a vigil for victims of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs.

Michaun Johnson attends a candlelight vigil.

Danny Barker, his wife Tomie and grandson Gage attend a candlelight vigil after a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church.

Sofia Martinez, 9, attends a candlelight vigil after a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church.

Bailey Lejeaune and David Betancourt attend a candlelight vigil after a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church.

Local residents take part in a vigil for victims of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
A neighbor was arrested after Republican Sen. Rand Paul was attacked at his home in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on Friday afternoon, according to a police report.

Officials initially said that Paul suffered minor injuries to his face and a rib, but an aide told the Washington Post on Sunday evening that the senator suffered five broken ribs and bruises to his lungs.

Rene Albert Boucher, 59, has been charged with fourth-degree assault with a minor injury, a misdemeanor, according to arrest records. He was being held Saturday afternoon at the Warren County Regional Jail in lieu of a $5,000 bond. No details were released by police on what precipitated the attack.

The FBI is involved making sure it wasnt politically motivated, a police spokesman told WBKO-TV.

We are working with our state and local partners to determine if there was a violation of federal law, FBI spokesman David Habich told USA Today.

Its not known when Paul will be back on the job. This type of injury is caused by high-velocity severe force, Pauls chief of staff Doug Stafford told The Washington Post. It is not clear exactly how soon he will return to work, as the pain is considerable as is the difficulty in getting around, including flying.

Kelley and I appreciate the overwhelming support after Fridays unfortunate event. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.  Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) November 5, 2017

Fox News reported that Boucher allegedly attacked the senator and one-time presidential candidate as Paul, 54, was mowing his lawn.

A neighbor told WAVE3-TV that the two men had an ongoing feud. Boucher is a registered Democrat.

Rene Albert Boucher allegedly attacked Sen. Rand Paul as the lawmaker was mowing the lawn at his home in Kentucky. (Photo: Warren County Regional Jail)

According to the arrest warrant obtained by WKBO and the Bowling Green Daily News, Paul told police that his neighbor walked onto his property and tackled him from behind, forcing him to the ground. Police were called to the home shortly before 3:30 p.m. Friday.

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The senators injury did not require treatment at a hospital. The arrest warrant said that Boucher admitted to tackling Paul.

Senator Paul was blindsided and the victim of an assault, his spokeswoman Kelsey Cooper said in a statement. The assailant was arrested and it is now a matter for the police. Senator Paul is fine.

The Bowling Green Daily News reported that Boucher is a local anesthesiologist and pain specialist who developed a cloth vest product designed to relieve back pain.

State Police Master Trooper Jeremy Hodges told The Associated Press that he couldnt reveal any other details of the assault because of security issues.

The investigation is ongoing.

UPDATE: Story has been updated to describe the severity of Pauls injuries.

Related...

Rand Paul Says LGBT Discrimination Laws Are Unnecessary

Rand Paul Is Suspending His Presidential Campaign

An Open Letter To My Senator, Rand Paul

Rand Paul Voted Against Repealing Obamacare, Here's Why

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Two lawyers close to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were questioned Sunday over their roles in suspected corruption around the purchase of German submarines, media reports and police said.

Police said they had detained "two senior lawyers for questioning as part of the (submarine) affair," refusing however to confirm their identity at this stage.

Israeli media identified both as being close to Netanyahu, naming one as David Shimron, a relative of Netanyahu and his family lawyer who also represented German industrial giant ThyssenKrupp in Israel.

The second person had not been named.

Last month, Germany signed a deal to sell three Dolphin submarines from ThyssenKrupp to the Israeli navy.

Negotiations on the sale had been frozen for three months due to concern in Berlin over the corruption investigation in Israel.

The investigation involves officials from the Israeli security establishment as well as people working locally for ThyssenKrupp.

Shimron has already been detained for questioning over the affair.

Netanyahu himself has not been named as a suspect in the submarine case.

He is however being investigated in two other separate graft probes, and Israel's Channel 2 television said he is to be interrogated again upon his return from London, where he was wrapping up an official visit.

The two other probes involving Netanyahu centre on the premier allegedly receiving luxury gifts from wealthy supporters and suspicions he sought a secret deal for favourable coverage with the publisher of top-selling daily Yediot Aharonot.
Niamey (AFP) - Niger will allow US forces stationed in the country to arm the drones being used to track jihadists, having previously allowed their use only for surveillance, the government said Saturday.

The decision comes a month after jihadists ambushed a joint US-Niger patrol in a volatile area near the border with Mali, killing four American soldiers and four Nigerien troops.

But Defence Minister Kalla Moutari said the decision had been taken before the October 4 attack at Tongo Tongo.

"It was a negotiation that had been underway for a while. Arming the drones is an option we decided on before we learned of the tragedy at Tongo Tongo," Moutari told state radio.

"We are dealing with very well-armed groups," he said, and "armed drones are an appropriate and decisive response for fighting terrorism."

Niger had been reluctant to let either the US or French troops on its soil use the drones as weapons, in part because of fears for civilian casualties.

"There is a possibility of mistakes, but there's no such thing as a clean war," Moutari said.

Last month's attack was the deadliest US combat incident since President Donald Trump took office in January, and shocked many Americans unaware of the military presence in the country, which at some 800 soldiers is the largest US deployment in Africa.

On Wednesday, a joint anti-jihadist force linking forces from Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania began operating with support from the French military, aimed at restricting the freedom of movement jihadist groups have had in the region.

The G5 Sahel's activities will initially be confined to Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, where governments have weak control over remote areas.

The United States this past week pledged $60 million to support the counter-terrorism force.
By some accounts spreading online, the civil war begins on Saturday, when far-left radicals will gather in Americas streets. The only problem: Thats simply not true.

For weeks, rumors have circulated among conspiratorial conservatives on Facebook, Twitter, Reddit and some right-wing news sites that the loose coalition of anti-Trump demonstrators known as Antifa are plotting a revolution to begin on Nov. 4. A website called Silence is Consent, citing sources, reports that Antifa  is planning to purge every single Trump voter, Republican, and conservative American in this country raiding houses, seizing weapons, and causing absolute chaos.

To be blunt, thats not true. At all.

Many doomsday conspiracies have some kernel of truth  there really was a Y2k bug in computer systems 18 years ago, though it failed to bring down the global tech infrastructure as predicted  but this one is pretty far afield from its origins.

There will indeed be anti-Trump rallies in 20 cities around the U.S. on Saturday, from Atlanta to Honolulu, organized by a left-wing political action group called Refuse Fascism whose goal is unseating Trump. But its tactics  including but not limited to a passionate speak-out with music and participatory art  are a far cry from violent insurrection.

Nor is it likely that the streets will be teeming with angry mobs: only 990 people have said that theyre attending the demonstration in New York, according to the events Facebook group.

(Its also worth noting that Antifa, contrary to what many on the right believe, is not a single group. Rather its a broad term for a very loose confederation of left-wing activist types, acting both individually and under the aegis of smaller political groups. Theyre all tenuously strung together by nothing more than an opposition to Trump and a willingness to make it known publicly.)

That these protests have metastasized in the far-right mind into a literal coup detat is a case study in how the internet alchemizes anxiety and immediacy to produce disinformation. Mainstream outlets like Fox News have amplified it, devoting airtime to the impending Antifa apocalypse. (President Trump himself has vilified the Antifa protest movement before, referring to bad dudes on the other side after the white nationalist demonstration in Charlotteville, Va. in August.)

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Snopes, the urban legend fact-checker, has a thorough analysis of how this specific conspiracy germinated. It started with a person named Jordan Peltz, whose social media platforms carry photos and videos of himself dressed in paramilitary uniform. His work, he says, is #fugitiverecovery. In a video posted in late August titled ANTIFA Has To Go!, Peltz insinuated that the leftist movement was planning a civil war in November.

In late September, the rumors made it to InfoWars, the online paper of record for far-right conspiracy theorists, which conflated them with the non-violent protests planned by Refuse Fascism. From there, the prospect of an insurrection on Nov. 4 snowballed  helped in part by wry left-wing commentators having a laugh at undue paranoia.

The reality, as is always the case, will likely prove anticlimactic. In an interview with the Washington Post, Andy Zee, one of Refuse Fascisms organizers, laughed at the idea of a civil war. The idea, he told the Post, is akin to the massive nonviolent demonstrations in Seoul late last year that led to the impeachment of South Korean president Park Geun-hye.

The endgame? Impeachment, the 25th Amendment  they will determine the means and ways when it becomes clear there is a tremendous crisis of confidence, Zee told the Post.
US president reiterates his threats to Pyongyang as he visits five nations in 11 days on regional tour

Donald Trumps five-nation trip to Asia may take him away from his battles with opponents and prosecutors in Washington, but it will inject his volatile, combative personality into the heart of the most dangerous nuclear standoff in the world.



The president has broken precedent by clearly and repeatedly threatening to carry out a first strike against North Korea. On the eve of his Sunday departure, he did it again.

We have one problem. Thats called North Korea, Trump told Fox News. I must tell you North Koreas a thing that I think we will solve and if we dont solve it, its not going to be very pleasant for them. Its not going to be very pleasant for anybody.

As with previous threats of fire and fury, being locked and loaded and ready to totally destroy North Korea, Trump did not elaborate, but the comments were made in the context of significant escalation on both sides. North Korea carried out its sixth nuclear test in September, most probably of a thermonuclear bomb, marking a significant step up in its capabilities. It has tested intercontinental ballistic missiles over the summer.

The US has boosted military exercises with its partners and for the first time in a decade, it has three aircraft carriers and their battle groups in the region.

The buildup has led to fears across the region that both sides could stumble into war. Pyongyangs greatest fear is of a decapitation strike that would seek to kill Kim Jong-un and his top leadership before they have the chance to launch either nuclear weapons or a conventional bombardment on Seoul and US bases in the region.

There is a belief, widespread among analysts of North Korea, that Kim will choose to go down all guns blazing, unleashing destruction on the region if he thinks he is under imminent threat. He may even have set up a dead hand mechanism, by which an order for a nuclear launch is automatic in the event of his death.

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Certain elements of recent US-led exercises are likely to deepen North Korean fears. B-1B bombers have flown off the countrys coast, north of the demilitarized zone (DMZ) for the first time since the end of the cold war. And the USS Michigan, a guided missile submarine, docked at the South Korean base at Busan, equipped with special pods on its deck of a type used for Navy Seal mini-submarines.

The last time the Michigan came to Busan, six months earlier, the South Korean news agency Yonhap quoted military sources as saying that it was carrying Navy Seals on joint wargames with their South Korean counterparts, to practise operations to remove the Norths war command.

The US navy did not respond to a request for comment, but it has said in the past that it does not train for decapitation raids. The South Korean government, however, has announced that it hopes to have its own special forces decapitation unit in place by the end of the year.

Trumps 11-day trip is intended to be about much more than North Korea. With stops in Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines, it will be the longest visit to the region by a US president since George HW Bush traveled there in 1992. Bush caught flu on that tour, and threw up in the Japanese prime ministers lap.

On this occasion, the greater fear is that the region will have an allergic reaction to the president. There are more than 140 protests planned in Seoul, where the population is anxious that it will be the first to pay for Trumps outbursts.

In a briefing before the trip, the US national security adviser, HR McMaster, made it clear there would be no cooling down of the presidents rhetoric, saying Trump will use any language he wants to use.

I dont think the president really modulates his language. Have you noticed him do that? I mean, hes been very clear about it, McMaster said.

A presidential visit to the Korean DMZ has been removed from the itinerary because, a White House official said, there is not enough time and such visits have become a cliche. Barring any provocations from Pyongyang, the most critical moment is likely to come on Wednesday when Trump addresses the South Korean assembly at a time of tense relations with the new president, Moon Jae-in.

Moon has distanced himself from Trumps threats against Pyongyang, insisting no military action can be taken without his governments agreement. Seoul has also been alarmed by Trumps threats to walk away from the US-Korean trade agreement and to make South Korea pay for US missile defence systems deployed on its soil.

A big question is how Trump will handle the North Korean issue in that speech, said Mira Rapp-Hooper, an expert on North Korea at the Centre for New American Security. If he does or says anything overtly critical, it will put Moon in a very difficult place.

Alongside trade talks, North Korea will also hang over Trumps meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing. The president has repeatedly argued that China has the unique leverage capable of restraining Pyongyang and avoiding conflict.

Rapp-Hooper said it was unlikely the Beijing meeting would bring about a dramatic change in Chinese policy.

Unfortunately I think the bounds on the possible outcomes are between a disappointing nothing-burger and something quite a lot worse, she said. China still has the same fundamental national interests in the Korean peninsula. There may be some specific measures, but China will do nothing that it feels could possibly destabilise the regime.

In Japan, Trumps first stop, there is general support from Shinzo Abes government for his muscular policy toward North Korea, but apprehension about his unpredictability.



Michael Green, an Asia expert at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said Abe currently had low opinion ratings for his handling of the North Korea threat and that largely is because the publics uncertain where Donald Trump is taking North Korea policy and whether Abe-san is going along for the ride.

In fact, I think behind the scenes the Japanese government is asking a lot of questions about the circumstances under which the US might use force.

Special boxes of rice crackers on sale in the Japanese parliament before Trumps visit have a cartoon of the US president playing cards with Abe and other leaders on the box. The Japanese prime ministers wife is warning him: Dont draw the joker, dear.
Russian police detain an opposition activist during a protest rally in central Moscow on November 5, 2017. (AFP PHOTO)

MOSCOW, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A total of 263 people were detained at an unauthorized rally in downtown Moscow on Sunday for allegedly violating public order, police said.

All of the detained have been taken to local police departments for investigation, the Russian Interior Ministry's Moscow branch said in a brief statement.

The police confiscated guns, knives, masks and reinforcing bars from the detainees, the TASS news agency reported, citing a source at law enforcement authorities.

The rally took place during the three-day holiday of Russia's Unity Day. The protesters' purpose is not yet clear.
(JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii)  President Donald Trump paid a solemn visit to the memorial at Pearl Harbor, a sacred journey for a commander-in-chief about to depart on an Asia trip that will be shadowed by fears of another international conflict.

Trump saluted Friday after entering the USS Arizona memorial following a short boat ride with first lady Melania Trump. They approached a wreath of white flowers  a gift from the couple  and watched as two sailors who stood beside it at attention placed the wreath near a wall of names of the fallen.

The Trumps then tossed white flower petals into the waters above the battleships sunken hull, as the president then peered down where the rusted wreckage is visible at the waters surface.

Nearly 1,200 crew members died on the USS Arizona during the December 7, 1941 surprise attack by Japan that plunged the U.S. into World War II.

Trump, who had spoken earlier in the day about being eager to see the sacred site for the first time, appeared moved by the visit. As the wreath was quietly placed into position, Trump crossed his arms in front of him, closing his eyes as he bowed his head in remembrance.

As the sun began to fade over the Pacific, Trump then listened intently to a National Park Service tour guide, stopping briefly at a display that explained how some survivors of the attack, when they die years later, have chosen to be cremated and have their ashes placed in the sunken ship alongside the remains of their fallen colleagues.

Trump said not a word about North Korea or its nuclear ambitions on Friday, the eve of his first official visit to Asia. He will arrive in Japan on Sunday morning, the first of five countries he will visit over 11 days as he exhorts Asian allies to increase pressure on Pyongyang to abandon its deadly ambitions.

Hawaii acted as a sort of midway point on Trumps trip halfway around the world. He arrived at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Friday after a daylong flight from Washington.

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The president quickly donned a lei after he left Air Force One with his wife, who also wore a wreath of flowers. He signed autographs and gave high-fives to kids who were among a group of civilians and service members that gathered for the arrival.

Trump wasnt the only attraction to arrive on base. A few in the crowd shouted their admiration for White House chief of staff John Kelly.

We love you Gen. Kelly, one person shouted at the retired four-star Marine general who stood several feet behind the president.

Trump was briefed by leaders of the U.S. Pacific Command. The growing threat from North Korea  a crisis that will shadow the entire trip  was expected to be among the topics discussed. Trump was also meeting with the governors of Alaska, Hawaii and Pacific U.S. territories, all potential targets of any successful attempt by North Korea to strike the U.S. with a nuclear-tipped missile.

We are going to visit very shortly, Pearl Harbor, which Ive read about, spoken about, heard about, studied, but I havent seen. And that is going to be very exciting for me, Trump said at the start of a briefing with leaders of the U.S. Pacific Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the region.

The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor marks the final resting place of more than 1,000 sailors and Marines who were killed on the battleship during the surprise attack on what President Franklin Roosevelt deemed a date which we live in infamy. Accessible only by boat, the memorial straddles the ships sunken hull.

A total of more than 2,300 sailors, soldiers and Marines died as a result of the attack, as well as 68 civilians, according to the National Park Service.

The visit to the memorial comes soon after Trump was embroiled in a controversy over his attempt to console the grieving families of Americas war dead. The family of one of the four soldiers killed in a Niger ambush last month said the president disrespected them when he called to offer a condolences, a charge Trump vehemently denied.

And The Associated Press discovered that a number of families of soldiers killed since Trump took office had not received a call from the president, despite his claim that he had called nearly all of them.
On Oct. 30, Secretary of Defense James Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson testified in front of the Senate to shed light on the tragedy in Niger. But one question went conspicuously unanswered: Why were our troops there in the first place? Secretary Mattis claimed the U.S. military presence was in furtherance on U.S. national security interests. But at no point did either Donald Trump Administration official shed light on the mission or long-term strategy in the region.

That most Americans  and many members of Congress  first learned about our extensive operations in Niger after four of our brave soldiers were killed is indicative of just how far weve distanced ourselves from these ongoing wars.

But as someone who has sounded the alarm on our endless wars for many years, it grieves me that it took such a heinous tragedy for Congress to finally pay attention.

The constitution gives Congress  not the President  the authority to declare and authorize war. But for the past decade and a half, Congress has abdicated our constitutional responsibility to debate matters of war and peace.

In the days after the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001, Congress passed what amounted to a blank check for any president to wage war anywhere, in perpetuity. As the lone vote against this blank check, known as the 2001 Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF), I feared the implications of relinquishing congressional war-making duties to the executive branch.

Sadly, in the 16 years since that vote, these fears have been borne out. An unclassified report that I requested from the Congressional Research Service identified 37 military operations, in 14 different countries, that were justified under the 2001 AUMF. These actions range from drone strikes in Yemen and Libya to indefinite detention at Guantanamo Bay. Its even been used to justify warrantless wiretapping on our own soil.

The result of this is an emboldened, unconstrained executive branch that can  and does  deploy service members around the globe. With no checks and no balances, Congress is relegated to the sidelines while the White House conducts wars without oversight.

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Even Congressional Republicans have begun to recognize the dangerous consequences of an administration with unlimited war powers. Earlier this year, my amendment to sunset the 2001 AUMF passed the House Appropriations Committee in an overwhelming, bipartisan vote. This amendment would have given Congress eight months to draft and debate a new authorization to replace the current AUMF  ample time to ensure congressional input. Ive introduced versions of this amendment at least half a dozen times over the years, but this was the first time it passed.

This vote sent a clear message to Republican leadership: Give us a debate on war. Unfortunately, as we saw with my amendment, Speaker Paul Ryan will stop at nothing to prevent this debate and vote from moving forward. Before my amendment could even make it to the House Floor, Speaker Ryan and Republican leadership used shady and undemocratic procedural maneuvers to strip it from the bill before it reached the Rules Committee. In doing so, they denied the American people the best opportunity in recent memory to get this blank check off the books.

But Republican leadership wont be able to avoid this debate forever. After 16 years, there is finally a bipartisan consensus on Capitol Hill that we need to stop ducking and dodging this war vote. And Secretary Mattis assertion that a new and updated war authorization is not legally required is more evidence of just how overly broad the 2001 AUMF is.

If Republican leadership is unwilling to follow the Constitution and do its job, then they should find a new line of work. Now more than ever, we need to bring sunlight, strategy and oversight to our endless wars.
Actor Harry Dreyfuss, the son of Academy Award-winning actor Richard Dreyfuss, says that actor Kevin Spacey sexually assaulted him as a teen, adding his name to a growing list of accusers.

The younger Dreyfuss, in an article published by BuzzFeed on Saturday, accused Spacey of groping him at Spaceys London apartment when he was 18 and his father was in the same room.

The three men were reading scripts together for a play at Londons Old Vic Theatre in 2008 where Spacey was artistic director from 2004 to 2015. It was while reading scripts for the play called Complicit that Harry claims the American Beauty actor put his hand on his thigh and then on his genitals.

Richard Dreyfuss and his son Harry in 2000. Harry claims actor Kevin Spacey put his hand on his thigh and then on his genitals when he was 18 in 2008. (Photo: Getty Images via Getty Images)

My father didnt see, and I didnt tell him about the incident for many years. Instead, I spent the next nine years telling people the story at parties for laughs, Harry wrote.

Treating it like it was no big deal made it easier for him to accept, he said.

If I could laugh at it, then surely I was not a victim, he said he reasoned.

In college, he said the story became less funny as other people in theater heard him tell it and they responded by saying they knew someone else who was groped by Spacey.

Kevin Spacey was practicing lines with Richard Dreyfuss and his son, Harry, for a play at London's Old Vic Theatre, where Spacey was artistic director, when the incident allegedly occurred. (Photo: Jonathan Ernst / Reuters)

The victims in many of these stories were often young men. These admissions became so common that I started to plan on a break in the story just so people could nod and say, Oh yeah, Ive heard this before, Dreyfuss wrote. All of these responses made me realize there wasnt anything funny about my story. It wasnt a joke.

Kevin Spacey is a sexual predator. But I still never thought talking about it seriously was ever an option, he said.

Harrys father expressed pride in his son on Twitter on Saturday for speaking out.

I love my son @harrydreyfuss more than I could explain with all the words in the world, he said.

I love my son @harrydreyfuss more than I could explain with all the words in the world. And I am so incredibly proud of him right now. https://t.co/iLOxTxPe4n  Richard Dreyfuss (@RichardDreyfuss) November 5, 2017

Bryan Freedman, a lawyer representing Spacey, said the actor absolutely denies the allegations when reached by BuzzFeed. Freedman did not immediately respond to a request for comment by HuffPost on Sunday.

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On Friday, BuzzFeed reported on three other men also accused Spacey of sexual misconduct, one who claims he was 16 years old when it happened.

That accuser, Justin Dawes, said he and a friend had been invited to Spaceys to watch Chinatown in 1988. Instead of watching the Roman Polanski film, Dawes claims Spacey, then aged 29, gave him a cocktail and put on pornography.

He knew that I was in high school, Dawes told BuzzFeed. It was pretty clear. Its not like I was pretending to be an older, cooler person.

In another incident in early 2000, a journalist, who didnt want to be identified by BuzzFeed, said what started as an interview for a national magazine in London ended with the actor groping him at a club where he had been invited for drinks. He was in his early 20s at the time.

He just kept reaching between my legs and, you know, just grabbing my dick, the man recalled. I would move his hand away, and say something that I thought was pretending was funny or whatever at first. And then I was starting to get annoyed by it, and that was pretty clear.

The journalist said he got up to leave but Spacey followed him to the door and tried to block his exit, all the while yelling at him and accusing him of being a coward for not wanting to have sex with him.

That was his tactic. It was unbelievable, he said.

The journalist said he left and recounted the incident to his editor, who confirmed this account to BuzzFeed.

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A military technical adviser on the movie "Outbreak" has also claimed that he was invited back to Kevin Spacey's trailer to engage in a sex act. Spacey is seen during that movie's premiere in 1995. (Photo: Ron Galella, Ltd. via Getty Images)

Mark Ebenhoch, who was working as a military technical adviser on the 1995 Hollywood film Outbreak, said he was also sexually propositioned by an assistant for Spacey, who approached him on set.

During the movies filming, Ebenhoch, who identified himself as a closeted gay man at the time, said Spacey would hang out in his trailer with a group of young, male assistants who were referred to as his harem.

It was one of Spaceys assistants who Ebenhoch said approached him out of the complete blue with an invite to join them in the actors trailer.

They asked flat out to engage in a sexual act. It was enough to stun me. It blew me away, he recalled, adding that he turned down the offer and stayed clear of Spacey for the remainder of filming.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:09:15|Editor: yan

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JERUSALEM, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Aircrafts from nine nations began on Sunday a joint aviation drill in southern Israel, the largest military exercise of its kind ever in the country.

A military notice said the 11-day Blue Flag exercise is taking place in the Ovda Airport Base in the Negev Desert, north of the resort city of Eilat.

It includes more than 1,000 aircrews, technicians, and administration teams from Israel, India, the United States, Greece, Poland, France, Italy, Germany, and a ninth country whose name was not disclosed.

During the exercise, the teams would run various scenarios and simulate different situations to enable "unique cooperation of international training, learning of flight techniques, and strengthening diplomatic cooperation between the countries," according to a military spokesperson.

The biennial Blue Flag drill is part of the Israeli air force exercise plan, the spokesperson added. It is the third time the drill is taking place since it was initiated in 2013.

The drill would be the first time the Indian air force would participate in it, marking a significant strengthening of the ties between the two countries over the past year.

The Hebrew-language Channel 2 TV news reported that senior military officials said the drill has "a supreme strategic importance for the air force, the Israel Defense Forces, and the State of Israel."
Moe the bartender and San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz both know what it's like to have paper towels thrown at them.

At least, that's the message from The Simpsons, which released a video on Friday night announcing the show had raised $25,000 for the people of Puerto Rico.

Apparently, Cruz appreciated the message.

Thank you Moe for understanding how we feel. We have very little power but having @TheSimpsons in our corner fills our hearts with light.  Carmen Yulin Cruz (@CarmenYulinCruz) November 4, 2017

The show made an appeal for aid after the first episode of Season 29, which also got a response from Cruz. Looks like it's the start of a perfectly cromulent relationship.

Moe encouraged people to donate to several charities, including Unicef and One America Appeal, as much of Puerto Rico still doesn't have fresh water or power.
RIYADH (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's air defense forces intercepted a ballistic missile fired from warring Yemen over the capital Riyadh on Saturday, state news agencies reported. The missile was brought down near King Khaled Airport on the northern outskirts of the city and did not cause any casualties, said Saudi state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV. Rocket fragments fell near the airport grounds, but air traffic carried on normally, the Saudi civil aviation authority said on its official Twitter account. Saudi Arabia is part of a coalition carrying out bombings of the Iran-allied armed Houthi movement in Yemen which has taken over the capital Sanaa and other parts of the country during its civil war. Saudi Arabia, which supports the internationally-recognized Yemeni government based in Aden, has frequently intercepted missiles fired from its neighbor. Residents of northern Riyadh reported hearing a single deafening explosion that rattled windows around 20:20 local time, followed by rumbling and other sounds. "We heard an enormous loud boom and went outside, then heard a low rumbling noise like thunder and six to 12 smaller explosions," one resident told Reuters. The missile was fired into Saudi territory from Yemen at 20:00 local time, the spokesman of a Saudi-led military coalition said in a statement carried by state news agency SPA. Saba News, which is run by the Houthi rebels, reported that the missile was a Burkan H2 and that the airport had been the target. U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the missile interception during comments on U.S. military hardware on Sunday. "A shot was just taken by Iran, in my opinion, at Saudi Arabia...and our system knocked the missile out of the air. Nobody makes what we make, and now were seeing it all over the world," he told reporters on Air Force One en route to Tokyo. Saudi Arabia and its allies, which receive logistical and intelligence help from the United States, accuse the Houthis of being a proxy of Iran. The Saudi-led coalition has launched thousands of air strikes against the Houthis. On Wednesday, witnesses said one such strike killed 26 people at a hotel and adjoining market in northern Yemen, although the coalition said on Saturday it had hit a legitimate target. The Houthi and allied forces loyal to former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh have fired dozens of missiles into Saudi territory over the course of a 2-1/2 year war, including a ballistic missile shot down near Mecca in July. The conflict has led to one of the world's worst humanitarian crises and killed at least 10,000 people. (Reporting by Mostafa Hashem, Reem Shamseddine, Katie Paul and Steve Holland, Writing by Sylvia Westall; Editing by Hugh Lawson & Shri Navaratnam)
RIYADH (Reuters) - A Saudi-led coalition accused Yemen's Houthi militia of a "dangerous escalation" on Sunday after Saudi air defense forces intercepted a ballistic missile fired towards Riyadh. Saudi Arabia also announced financial rewards for information leading to the arrest of 40 leaders it said were responsible for "planning, implementing and supporting the Houthi terrorist group's various terrorist activities". The bounties topped out at $30 million for the armed group's leader, Abdel-Malek al-Houthi, the state news agency reported. The missile was brought down on Saturday evening near King Khaled International Airport on the northern outskirts of the capital and did not cause any casualties. "The Houthis' dangerous escalation came because of Iranian support," coalition spokesman Colonel Turki al-Maliki said in a televised news conference. Rocket launch vehicles used to fire the missile were made in Iran, he added. Saudi Arabia and its allies accuse arch-foe Iran of supplying missiles and other weapons to the Houthis, saying the arms were not present in Yemen before the conflict began in 2015. Iran denies the charges and blames the conflict on Riyadh. Yemens civil war pits the internationally recognized government, backed by Saudi Arabia and its allies, against the Houthis and forces loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh. The war has already killed more than 10,000 and displaced millions, with around 500,000 cholera cases reported in the country since the worst outbreak in decades started in April. The Saudi-led coalition's statement on Sunday echoed accusations by U.S. President Donald Trump, who described the missile as "a shot just taken by Iran" against Saudi Arabia. The head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps dismissed Trump's comments as slander. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Sunday the missile launch by Houthi rebels showed there was a danger of ballistic proliferation across the region. Saudi Arabia has signaled its intention to buy separate air defense systems from the United States and Russia. (Reporting by Mostafa Hashem; Writing by Katie Paul; Editing by David Evans and Edmund Blair)
CAIRO (Reuters) - A Saudi-led military coalition said on Saturday an air strike that hit a market in Yemen's northern Saadah province was a legitimate military target, the Saudi news agency reported. On Wednesday, medics and a Reuters witness said an air strike carried out by the coalition killed 26 people at a hotel and an adjoining market. The attack, which struck the Sahar district of the vast territory that borders Saudi Arabia, demolished the budget hotel and reduced market stalls outside to a heap of twisted sheet metal. The coalition statement reviewed the incident and quoted its spokesman as saying the target was the gathering point for some armed Houthi militants. The military alliance led by Saudi Arabia has launched thousands of air strikes against Yemen's armed Houthi movement, which hails from Saadah and now controls much of the country. (Reporting by Mostafa Hashem; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
Riyadh (AFP) - A Saudi prince was killed on Sunday when a helicopter with several officials on board crashed near the kingdom's southern border with war-torn Yemen, state television said.

The news channel Al-Ekhbariya announced the death of Prince Mansour bin Moqren, the deputy governor of Asir province and son of a former crown prince.

It did not reveal the cause of the crash or the fate of the other officials aboard the aircraft.

News of the crash comes as Saudi Arabia pursues a sweeping purge of the kingdom's upper ranks, with dozens of princes, ministers and a billionaire tycoon arrested as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman cements his hold on power.

Already viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major levers of government, from defence to the economy, Prince Mohammed is widely seen to be stamping out traces of internal dissent before a formal transfer of power from his 81-year-old father King Salman.

The helicopter crash also comes after Saudi Arabia on Saturday intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile near Riyadh's international airport after it was fired from Yemen in an escalation of the kingdom's war against Iran-backed Huthi rebels.

On Sunday, Saudi Arabia announced rewards of up to $30-million for information that would help arrest or track down some of the top Huthi rebel leaders and planners.

A Saudi-led coalition that began its military intervention in Yemen in 2015 has accused regional rival Iran of supplying ballistic missiles to the rebels.

The missile attack was the first aimed by the Shiite rebels at the heart of the Saudi capital, underscoring the growing threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen.

The war in Yemen has increasingly spilled across the border.

Saudi Arabia led the intervention to prop up the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi after the Huthis forced him into exile.

Hoping for a quick victory against what it saw as Iranian expansionism in its back yard, Riyadh has so far been unable to remove the Huthis from Yemeni capital Sanaa.
London (AFP) - A junior minister in Scotland's government resigned on Saturday after admitting "inappropriate behaviour", as a sleaze scandal in British politics showed no sign of abating.

Childcare minister Mark McDonald said in a statement that he apologised "unreservedly to anyone I have upset or who might have found my behaviour inappropriate".

"Some of my previous actions have been considered to be inappropriate -- where I have believed myself to have been merely humorous or attempting to be friendly, my behaviour might have made others uncomfortable or led them to question my intentions," he said.

A government spokesman confirmed McDonald had tendered his resignation to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon earlier Saturday.

He is expected to remain a lawmaker in the Scottish parliament, representing Sturgeon's Scottish National Party in Aberdeen.

Several claims of harassment and abuse have emerged against British politicians in the wake of the allegations by dozens of women against Hollywood tycoon Harvey Weinstein.

On Wednesday, Michael Fallon resigned as defence secretary, saying his behaviour in the past had "fallen below the high standards" expected of the role.

He had previously apologised for touching a journalist's knee 15 years ago.

Another journalist alleged late Saturday that Fallon "lunged" at her, trying to kiss her, after a lunch in 2003.

Jane Merrick, who was a junior political reporter at the time, wrote in The Observer she did not report him because she "feared making enemies".

But after other allegations emerged, she informed May's Downing Street office of what happened -- and less than three hours later, he resigned.

Two other ministers are under investigation for allegations of impropriety, while the opposition Labour party is also investigating the behaviour of a number of its lawmakers.

Labour's foreign affairs spokeswoman, Emily Thornberry, told the BBC: "Some of the things that I have heard in the last week have been so disgusting and I am ashamed that this could happen in the Labour party."
Riyadh (AFP) - Shares in Kingdom Holding, 95 percent of which is owned by billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, dived 9.9 percent as the Saudi stock exchange opened Sunday after reports of his arrest.

The Saudi Tadawul All-Shares Index (TASI) also dropped 1.6 percent only a minute after the start of trading on the Arab world's largest stock market following a sweeping crackdown on corruption that saw the arrest of leading royals and businessmen.

The Kingdom Holding share price did not slide further because, under the rules of the Saudi exchange, stocks are only allowed to fall a maximum of 10 percent in a single trading session.

Since the start of 2017, Kingdom Holding has lost around 15 percent of its market value.

The latest fall came despite the company announcing earlier on Sunday that its profit for the third quarter and the first nine months of the year increased.

Kingdom Holding is one of Saudi Arabia's most important investors with shares in the Euro Disney theme park, US tech giant Apple and Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation, among others.

It also has key stakes in banks at home and abroad, as well as a number of investment, media and agricultural companies.

Saudi Arabia reportedly arrested 11 princes, including Prince Al-Waleed, and dozens of current and former ministers, reports said late Saturday, in a sweeping crackdown as the kingdom's young crown prince consolidates power.

Head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves in the oil-rich Gulf country.

The crackdown was reported immediately after a new anti-corruption commission, headed by powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was established by royal decree late Saturday.
BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa (Reuters) - South Africa's state prosecutors told the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) on Friday the six-year sentence for murder handed to Paralympic gold medalist Oscar Pistorius was "shockingly lenient" and asked for the right to launch an appeal. Pistorius was imprisoned in July last year after being found guilty on appeal of murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine's Day 2013. The case has attracted worldwide interest. He was not in court for Friday's hearing. Women's rights groups in a country beset by high levels of violent crime against women say Pistorius has received preferential treatment compared to non-whites and those without his wealth or international celebrity status. The athlete was originally convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to five years in jail. That conviction was increased to murder by the SCA in December 2015 and his sentence increased to six years by trial Judge Thokozile Masipa. State prosecutors, led by advocate Andrea Johnson, said the sentence by Masipa was too lenient as the jail term was less than half the minimum 15-year sentence prescribed for murder in South Africa. Johnson said the High Court did not list the substantial and compelling factors for deviating from the 15-year sentence and that Pistorius had not shown remorse for the murder. "There is no true, gut-wrenching remorse," Johnson said. "It is shockingly lenient and has accordingly resulted in an injustice," she said, referring to the sentence. Lawyers for the gold medalist, known as the "Blade Runner" for his carbon-fiber prosthetics, say he did not deliberately kill model and law graduate Steenkamp. Barry Roux, lead defense lawyer for Pistorius, said the athlete was suffering from severe and worsening post-traumatic stress disorder over the case. Roux said Masipa had addressed the misperception that Pistorius deliberately killed Steenkamp. "Leave to appeal should really not be granted," he said. The court did not set a date for when it would rule on whether the appeal can be heard or not. (Reporting by Dinky Mkhize; Writing by James Macharia; Editing by Catherine Evans)
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WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Special Counsel Robert Mueller has collected sufficient evidence to charge Michael Flynn, U.S. President Donald Trump's former national security adviser, and his son, NBC News reported on Sunday, citing multiple sources familiar with the investigation.

NBC News said Mueller's team is looking at possible money laundering charges, lying to federal agents, and Flynn's role in a possible plan to remove an opponent of the Turkish president from the United States in exchange for millions of dollars.

Mueller is increasing pressure on Flynn following his indictment of Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort, NBC News said.

Flynn served 24 days as Trump's national security adviser but was fired after it was discovered he had misrepresented his contacts with a Russian diplomat to Vice President Michael Pence.

Barry Coburn, a lawyer for the younger Flynn, declined to comment. Robert Kelner, Flynn's lawyer, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

NBC said that Mueller's office also declined comment.

Reuters was not immediately able to confirm the report.

(Reporting by Howard Schneider; Additional reporting by Nathan Layne in New York; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:14:16|Editor: Yamei

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BEIJING, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- China will hold the fourth World Internet Conference (WIC) next month in the river town of Wuzhen, east China's Zhejiang Province, said a statement released on the WIC website Sunday.

The conference, scheduled to run from December 3 to 5, has invited leading figures from governments, international organizations, companies, technology communities and non-governmental organizations, to discuss Internet-related topics including digital economy, cutting-edge technology, cyberspace governance, said the statement.

This year's WIC will continue to present latest Internet technologies to the world, said the statement.

The conference will be jointly sponsored by the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Zhejiang provincial government.

It will push for the building of a community of shared future in the cyberspace, advocate respect of differences and forging of consensus, focus on development and innovation, so that a prosperous Internet will produce greater welfare for the human being, the statement said.
Serving and retired officers say soldiers also tried to convince French jets to engage in incident in which four Green Berets died

Comrades of Sgt La David Johnson cry at his burial service on 21 October in Hollywood, Florida. Johnson and three other US soldiers were killed in Niger on 4 October. Photograph: Gaston de Cardenas/AFP/Getty Images

The US special forces detachment ambushed in the Niger last month fought alone for hours after the local Nigerien forces they were accompanying fled in the first minutes of the engagement, retired and serving special forces officers with knowledge of events have said.

The trapped soldiers also made repeated efforts to convince French warplanes sent from neighbouring Mali to engage the enemy, attempting to talk in the pilots who refused to attack due to poor weather, rough terrain and an inability to differentiate friend from foe, the officers said.

Four US Green Berets and five Nigerien troops died in the incident, which has been the focus of an intense debate in Washington over the executive branchs extensive powers to use military force abroad without congressional approval and with little oversight.

The Niger incident has been described as an intelligence failure by the Republican senator John McCain, who blamed it on budget cuts.

The US troops were part of a train and equip programme, but the incident has prompted questions in Congress on where such missions blur into counter-terrorist combat.

Controversy flared after Trump was accused of mishandling a phone call to the widow of La David Johnson, one of the dead soldiers.

(October 4, 2017) Soldiers killed in Niger

Four US army special forces troops and five soldiers from Niger die in an ambush during a joint patrol in the south-west of the country.

(October 16, 2017) The row begins

Asked why he has not spoken about the incident, Trump discusses his calls to bereaved families, saying: If you look at President Obama and other presidents, most of them didnt make calls  a lot of them didnt make calls.

(October 17, 2017)

Trump drags White House chief of staff John Kelly into the developing row, saying: You could ask Gen Kelly, did he get a call from Obama?, a reference to the death of Kelly's son in Afghanistan.

Story continues

(October 17, 2017)

Trump phones the widow of Sgt La David Johnson and reportedly says Johnson knew what he was signing up for, according to Frederica Wilson, a Democratic congresswomen who heard the call.

(October 17, 2017)

Wilson criticizes Trump's reported remark as "so insensitive". In response, Trump claims Wilson's account is totally fabricated but Johnson's mother supports Wilson's version of events.

(October 18, 2017)

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders says Kelly is disgusted and frustrated by the politicization of his son's death  even though it was Trump who first mentioned him.

(October 19, 2017) Enter John Kelly

Kelly delivers a rebuke to critics of Trump in an emotional press conference but fails to acknowledge that the controversy began after Trump attacked Obama.

(October 20, 2017)

Sanders says it would be highly inappropriate to question Kelly, a four-star general, a comment that causes outcry in itself.

(October 21, 2017)

On the day of Sgt Johnsons funeral, Trump refuses to let the matter rest, referring to Wilson as "Wacky Congresswoman Wilson" in a tweet.

(October 23, 2017)

Myeshia Johnson, the widow of Sgt Johnson, says Trump's condolence call "made me cry even worse". Trump disputes her account immediately after the interview aires.



The Pentagon has launched a special investigation to be carried out by officers from US Africa Command, which is due to report within two months. A defence department spokesman said that there would be no further comment on the incident until then. But defence department leaks have fuelled anger within the US special forces community at what one retired senior officer called a massive blame game.

To them, it is obviously the [soldiers own] fault and error on a routine training and advisory mission in Niger, he wrote in an email to other members of the community, seen by the Guardian.

The email contains new details of the engagement, which took place on the immediate outskirts of the remote village of Tongo Tongo in south-western Niger, in the centre of the volatile Sahel region.

The Pentagon has said the unit that was attacked comprised 12 soldiers from the 3rd Special Forces Group which had recently arrived in Niger for a six-month tour, and about 30 Nigerien troops.

The ambush took place at 11:40pm on 4 October after the unit had spent two hours in Tongo Tongo, talking to local elders. The previous night, the Americans had destroyed a camp used by Djoundjoun Cheiffou, a lieutenant of Abu Waleed al-Sahraoui, an Islamic extremist based in neighbouring Mali who last year pledged allegiance to Islamic State.

Local media in Niger revealed this week that Cheffou was in detention there until 2016 when he was freed in return for the release of an Australian hostage, Jocelyn Elliott.

About 50 men attacked the US and Nigerien unit with small arms, rocket-propelled grenades and mortars.

The retired special forces officer said he had been told by servicemen with detailed knowledge of the incident that approximately half of the US/Nigerien force was allowed to pass through the ambush killzone before the ambush was sprung, trapping the rear half.

On hearing firing, the lead group of soldiers turned around to engage the militants.

Except for those already dead or wounded, all of the Nigerien soldiers bugged out and left the Americans to fight  all by themselves. Two groups, roughly six Americans per group, fighting for their lives alone against a superior ALQ force, the retired officer said.

A US drone was on the site of the engagement within minutes, but was unarmed. An hour passed before the trapped unit on the ground called for airstrikes against the militants who surrounded them. The delay has surprised and concerned experts and veterans.

Airstrikes were requested as the Americans fought on. Several French Mirage fighters responded, but refused to engage citing poor weather, rough terrain and an inability to differentiate friend from foe. American SF [Special Forces] requested danger close support and attempted to talk the CAS [close air support] in, but the French Mirages alleged continued to refuse to engage, the officer wrote in the mail, based on his own discussions with serving and retired special forces soldiers with knowledge of the incident.

A spokesman for the French defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment on the allegations.

According to a CNN account of the incident, the attackers set fire to the dry bush around the encircled special forces soldiers to cover the battleground with smoke. The account quoted a Nigerien soldier as saying that the surviving troops from the patrol were fighting off their attackers, standing back to back in a last stand, when reinforcements finally arrived.

After two hours, French special forces flown by helicopter from their base in Mali reached the site of the ambush, prompting the attackers to withdraw. The French soldiers searched the immediate vicinity and evacuated survivors, including several who were wounded.

Four US special forces soldiers were left behind. Three are thought to have been dead at the site. It is unclear when Johnson was killed, but the 25-year-old mechanic had become separated from the rest of the unit almost immediately after the ambush started, sources within the special forces community said.

The Pentagon has now said that a second team of US and Nigerien forces was close to the ambushed patrol. It was believed to have been on a mission to kill or capture al-Sahraoui. That operation was called off, and the troops eventually retrieved the bodies of three of the US soldiers several hours after the ambush had ended.

Johnsons remains were discovered by Nigerien troops near the site of the attack two days later.

The five Nigeriens killed in the ambush died in its first moments, sources within the special forces community said.

They described how one of the light, unarmoured trucks used by the patrol became stuck in sand after the attack started. Almost all the Nigerien troops it was carrying were killed or wounded. One source said the vehicle was hit by a mortar round.

Most of the ambushed US unit had no combat experience, and had not been warned to expect any encounter with hostile forces.

This assessment has surprised some and has been a focus of congressional attention. A United Nations assessment indicated that there have been at least 46 attacks by armed groups in the districts around Tongo Tongo since February 2016.

The headline on this story was amended at 11.30 GMT on 4 November 2107 to better reflect its content
Paris (AFP) - The Islamic State group may have just lost the last major city of its self-proclaimed "caliphate", but experts and officials warn this is far from being the jihadists' deathblow.

Analysts say the Syrian army's recapture of Deir Ezzor announced Friday will push IS underground after losing territory once as large as Italy spanning the Iraq-Syrian border.

The most widely predicted scenario is that the group will transform into a guerrilla force on the ground in Sunni areas remaining outside the full control of Baghdad and Damascus.

At the same time, its "cyber-caliphate" will continue to churn out jihadist propaganda of the kind that inspired Tuesday's deadly truck attack in New York.

"Daesh is cornered," French Defence Minister Florence Parly said Tuesday, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

"It has lost its two capitals. The final offensives are under way to annihilate this pseudo-caliphate and its so-called soldiers," she told the Senate.

But she warned: "Daesh's swansong will be accompanied by new clandestine terrorist acts, sometimes spectacular ones, and the group's online influence will absolutely endure."

She pointed to Africa's unstable Sahel region along the southern rim of the Sahara, as well as Yemen, Nigeria, the Levant and the Philippines as areas where "the cancer of blind hatred is still spreading".

In Iraq, IS may have been drastically weakened, but "the military victory is not being accompanied by a political vision for after Daesh in terms of re-integrating the Arab and Sunni populations into politics," warned Jean-Pierre Filiu, a professor at Sciences Po university in Paris.

- 'From insurgents to terrorists' -

In Syria, he said, "the prospects are even worse".

"This absence of a long-term strategy leaves Daesh a lot of room for regrouping in the near future, while continuing to work its networks of supporters around the world."

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Analysts expect IS to revert to tactics it used in its earlier incarnation as the Al-Qaeda in Iraq insurgency of 2004 to 2008.

In the coming months or years, they warn, it could potentially then re-emerge as a reinvigorated IS.

"There is unfortunately little doubt that IS, or something similar, will survive the worldwide campaign against it," Richard Barrett, a former British intelligence official, wrote in a report for the Soufan Group.

"There is little predictable about the trajectory of terrorism in a world in flux, except that it will continue to challenge international security for many years to come."

He said surviving members of what was once a 40,000-strong force of foreign fighters from more than 100 countries were among the main threats.

Some are now imprisoned in Syria and Iraq; others will be heading home.

"These recruits may also decide to seek new theatres of jihad once they have rested and recuperated," the report warned.

Colin P. Clarke, a terrorism expert at the RAND Corporation, said IS "is being forced to change its strategy and tactics, but it has been proactively preparing for the next phase of the conflict".

"In short, it is transitioning from an insurgent organisation to a terrorist group," he wrote in a blog post.

The world is watching it shift from being "an insurgent organisation with fixed headquarters to a clandestine terrorist network dispersed throughout the region and the globe", he said.
Austin Boutain was wearing the clothes of a Colorado man whose throat he allegedly slit when Utah police contacted him about a different murder case, according to court documents.

Police determined Boutain, whom Utah police were looking for in relation to the murder of an international student on Oct. 3o, had also killed Mitchell Bradford Ingle in the bathroom of his trailer in a Golden, Co., RV park on Oct. 27, the Denver Post reported.

Boutain and his wife Kathleen, who were living in a tent under a bridge nearby, were walking by Ingles trailer on their way home from a liquor store, according to the Post. The couple and Ingle ended up going inside the mans trailer, and an affidavit said that Boutain was angered after Ingle made several sexual comments toward Kathleen, the Post reported.

After Ingle went to sleep, the couple killed him, then stayed in the trailer overnight before stealing Ingles truck and driving to Utah, where Boutain is accused of killing ChenWei Guo, a student at the University of Utah, in an attempted carjacking, according to the report.
Irbid (Jordan) (AFP) - Aromas of orange blossom, almond and coconut waft from the northern Jordan shop of Mazen Obeido, a 42-year-old Syrian who never imagined he would prosper again far from home.

"In Damascus I had several shops and everything was fine, but a year after the outbreak of the war, I left everything behind," said the master pastry chef and father of three who said he no longer felt safe in his home country.

So he decided to start again from scratch and hired a property in Irbid north of Amman, half of which became his kitchen and the other half the shop.

Around 200,000 refugees from Syria now live in the town 89 kilometres (55 miles) north of the capital.

Jordan hosts about 650,000 people who have fled from neighbouring Syria because of the conflict that erupted there in 2011, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The authorities in Amman say the number is double that -- at 1.3 million.

According to the UNHCR, more than 80 percent of Syrian refugees in Jordan live below the poverty line.

"I worked night and day without stop," said Obeido, whose efforts have paid off and meant he could again expand.

- Barazek and baklava -

"I opened a second shop, then a third, a fourth and then a fifth," he said, proud to continue a trade that was passed down from father to son.

Sesame cakes, baklava, semolina cakes sprinkled with pistachios or traditional ice-cream -- he makes and sells in Jordan the same products that used to be displayed on large trays in his stores in Syria.

There, "Jordanians came in their dozens to my shops. At weekends, they bought up 90 percent of my pastries which were much cheaper than in Jordan," he recalled.

Syria was once a gourmet's paradise, with its barazek -- small biscuits sprinkled with pistachio and sesame seeds -- its mabrouma baklava rolls and its cheese sweets.

In his bakeries and shops where Obeido employs around 100 people, mostly Syrians, his delicacies are created with special implements from his homeland.

Story continues

"In order to make high-quality Damascus sweets, you need special tools from Syria," Obeido said.

"Bringing them to Jordan by air cost a lot, but the results are incredible."

He is delighted that many compatriots who have learned the trade thanks to his help have gone into business outside Jordan by opening pastry shops in Turkey, France, Germany and as far away as Canada and the United States.

- Learning to fish -

Recalling the proverb that it is better to teach someone how to fish rather than give him a fish, Obeido said he wants to help his fellow Syrians, hundreds of thousands of whom have fled the war.

"I want to teach them the trade so they can live in dignity -- I want them to learn how to fish for themselves," he said.

With the help of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Obeido has begun free training sessions for the most vulnerable refugees, such as widows and girls with no means of support.

"I love my work -- the smells here are a constant reminder of my country," said 22-year-old Haifa al-Ali from Aleppo, Syria's one-time commercial capital.

A nurse she underwent three months' training before joining one of Obeido's pastry kitchens.

Even though pastries prepared in Jordan are a reminder of home, "they taste different at home in Syria, with family and friends," said teacher and mother of three Arwa Nabulsi, summing up the frustration felt by her compatriots forced into exile.
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump may discuss a Syria settlement at an Asian economic summit in Vietnam next week, the RIA news agency reported on Saturday. Relations between Moscow and Washington have soured further since Putin and Trump first met at a G20 summit in Hamburg in July when they discussed allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. election, but agreed to focus on better ties.. Tensions have risen over the conflict in Syria, after Russia vetoed a United Nations plan to continue an ongoing investigation into chemical weapons.. A Syria settlement "is being discussed" for the agenda of a possible meeting between the two presidents, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by RIA, adding it was in their common interest to have enough time to discuss the issue. "Somehow or another it requires cooperation," Peskov said. Trump told Fox News this week that it was possible he would meet Putin during his Asia trip. "We may have a meeting with Putin," he said. "And, again  Putin is very important because they can help us with North Korea. They can help us with Syria. We have to talk about Ukraine." (writing by Denis Pinchuk; editing by Alexander Smith)
This post is a part of Mashable Humor. It is not real. We drew the bird, though, and think it's pretty good.

A Twitter customer support employee is responsible for temporarily deactivating the account of President Trump for 11 minutes on Thursday night, just before 7:00 p.m. EST. According to a statement from the company, it was said employee's last day, and they acted without the approval of anyone else at Twitter.

What follows is a comprehensive timeline of the "rogue" employee's infamous last day at Twitter HQ.

SEE ALSO: We at Twitter have heard your feedback and are thrilled to announce: the bird logo now has long legs

9:05 a.m.: Employee arrives at office on their last day. Employee sits at desk.

9:15 a.m.: Employee's manager approaches, asks employee if they received email. "I haven't checked my email," employee replies. "Oh, okay. Well, when you get a chance," manager answers. The employee will not look at the email.

9:20 a.m.: Employee tells coworker Devin that his coffee mug is on their desk, technically, and has been every day for several months.

9:25 a.m.: Employee leaves for "early lunch."

1:15 p.m.: Employee returns from lunch.

1:19 p.m.: Employee sends email recommending lunch spot's Moscow Mules to full New York office.

1:25 p.m.: Employee forwards Moscow Mule email to global staff list with message, "In case any of you are ever in town."

1:30 p.m.: Using Sharpie, employee writes, "This bread taste like DOGGGG SHIT" on a loaf of bread in the employee kitchen.

1:35 p.m.: Employee reminds coworker Devin about the coffee mug's location, asking him, "Did you know?"

1:40 p.m.: Employee leaves for "late lunch."

4:10 p.m.: Employee returns from late lunch.

4:45 p.m.: During team meeting, employee is asked to say a few words. Employee uses full time to again recommend the Moscow Mules. The employee has worked at Twitter for 4 years.

Story continues

5:00 p.m.: Employee enters back room and adjusts office thermostat to 68 degrees.

5:03 p.m.: Employee arrives at HR for exit interview.

5:10 p.m.: Employee responds to HR's question of, "How do you feel about your time here?" with simply, "Bad."

5:12 p.m.: Employee responds to HR's question of, "Is there anything you feel you have not been able to do in your time here?" with, "Delete the president's Twitter." Employee tells HR they think they will be deleting President Trump's account later in the day. The HR representative chuckles.

5:15 p.m.: Employee returns to desk.

5:30 p.m.: Employee watches the first 25 minutes of Netflix's What the Health at desk without headphones.

5:55 p.m.: Employee says, "Wow."

5:56 p.m.: Employee messages manager that the office chairs are very uncomfortable. Manager replies with, "Well, I don't furnish the office lol." Employee replies, "I do not like you and I have not liked you for some time now." Manager does not reply.

6:00 p.m.: Employee stands on desk and announces that they will be drinking Moscow Mules at the lunch spot nearby if anyone wants to go.

6:48 p.m.: Employee returns to office to retrieve coat.

6:49 p.m.: Employee throws Devin's mug in the garbage.

6:50 p.m.: Employee deactivates the president's Twitter account.

6:55 p.m.: Employee returns to lunch spot for Moscow Mules.
Washington (AFP) - An adviser to Donald Trump's presidential campaign has admitted meeting with Russian government officials in 2016, according to a report in the New York Times which cited his testimony before a congressional committee.

Carter Page, a former Navy officer and investment banker who advised Trump on foreign policy, had previously denied or side-stepped the question of whether he had met with Russian officials in previous interviews with the Times, it said.

The development comes days after Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and an associate were placed under house arrest on money-laundering charges linked to an investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller into allegations that the campaign colluded with Russia.

The US Congress is also conducting three separate investigations into the allegations, which have dogged Trump since his election and which he has strongly denied.

Shortly after a July 2016 trip, Page "sent an email to at least one Trump campaign aide describing insights he had after conversations with government officials, legislators and business executives during his time in Moscow," the Times reported, quoting a person familiar with the matter.

Page later confirmed the meetings to the Times, and told CNN that Russian Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich was among those he met.

But he downplayed the significance of the meetings, telling the Times he had "a very brief hello to a couple of people."

It is the latest example to emerge of a Trump aide meeting with Russian officials during the 2016 election after initially denying that such contacts occurred. Other officials include Trump's former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

Following the arrest of Manafort and his protege Rick Gates, Trump said in a tweet that there was "no collusion" between his campaign and Russia, and noted that the allegations of criminal activity by Manafort came "years ago," before he joined the campaign.

Manafort and Gates have pleaded not guilty to charges that they allegedly hid millions of dollars gleaned from work with Ukrainian politician Viktor Yanukovych and his pro-Moscow political party.
Washington (AFP) - President Donald Trump said he fired Paul Manafort as his campaign chairman to avoid "potential conflicts" with "certain nations," according to excerpts of an interview released Saturday.

Manafort and his associate Rick Gates were placed under house arrest this week on money-laundering charges linked to an investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller.

The charges relate to allegations that the then Republican presidential candidate's campaign colluded with Russia in the runup to the November 2016 election.

The US Congress is also conducting three separate investigations into the allegations, which have dogged Trump since his election and which he has strongly denied.

Asked who recommended Manafort manage the campaign, Trump said "it was a friend of mine who was a businessman -- a very successful businessman and a good person, and you know, Paul was not there very long."

"I think we found out something about (how) he may be involved with all -- with certain nations, and I don't even know exactly what it was in particular," he told Sharyl Attkison's syndicated television show "Full Measure"

"But there was a point at which we just felt Paul would be better off -- because we don't want to have many potential conflicts," he added in the show which airs in full on Sunday.

Trump said he has no current plans to fire Mueller.

"Well, I hope he's treating everything fairly, and if he is, I'm going to be very happy, because when you talk about innocent, I am truly not involved in any form of collusion with Russia," he said.

"Believe me, that's the last thing I can think of to be involved in."

The president said he was not aware of any plans to be questioned by the special counsel.

"As far as I'm concerned, I haven't been told that we're under investigation, I'm not under investigation."

Manafort and Gates have pleaded not guilty to charges that they allegedly hid millions of dollars gained from work with Ukrainian politician Viktor Yanukovych and his pro-Moscow political party.

A separate plea deal revealed that campaign foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos had lied about contacts with Russians.

Another advisor, former Navy officer and investment banker Carter Page, admitted he had met with Russian government officials in 2016.
By Jeff Mason WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Friday he did not remember much about a meeting last year with a former campaign aide who pleaded guilty this month as part of a federal probe into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election. Asked about a meeting in which aide George Papadopoulos suggested arranging a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump told reporters: "I don't remember much about that meeting. It was a very unimportant meeting." According to court documents filed by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, Papadopoulos said at the meeting of foreign policy advisers in March 2016 "that he had connections that could help arrange a meeting between then-candidate Trump and President Putin." A photograph posted on Trump's Instagram account shows Papadopoulos sitting at the same table with Trump as well as Jeff Sessions, now Trump's attorney general, and several others. Papadopoulos has pleaded guilty to lying to Federal Bureau of Investigation agents about contacts with people who claimed to have ties to top Russian officials, in the first criminal charges alleging links between the Trump campaign and Moscow. His plea was made public this week. Sessions is under pressure from Senate Democrats to testify again about the Trump campaign's Russia contacts. In testimony to the Senate Judiciary committee, Sessions has denied knowing anything about contacts between the campaign and Russians or Russian government intermediaries. The president spoke before leaving for a trip to Asia, where his domestic woes are expected to dog him. Trump denies any collusion with Russia and Moscow denies interfering in the 2016 election. Sessions is also under pressure from his boss, who has made clear he thinks the Department of Justice should look into his former presidential rival, Hillary Clinton, and her campaign's behavior with the Democratic National Committee during the presidential primary race. Trump told reporters on Friday that many people were unhappy with the Department of Justice, including him. Those comments followed remarks he made during The Larry OConnor Show on WMAL radio in which he lamented not having more say in the department's work. "The saddest thing is, because I am the president of the United States, I am not supposed to be involved with the Justice Department. Im not supposed to be involved with the FBI. Im not supposed to be doing the kind of things I would love to be doing. And I am very frustrated by that," he said. Trump on Friday repeated his urgings that the Justice Department and FBI investigate Clinton. "Everybody is asking why the Justice Department (and FBI) isn't looking into all of the dishonesty going on with Crooked Hillary & the Dems," he said on Twitter. His comments elicited criticism from several U.S. senators. "President Trump's pressuring of the Justice Department and FBI to pursue cases against his adversaries and calling for punishment before trials take place are totally inappropriate and not only undermine our justice system but erode the American peoples confidence in our institutions," Republican Senator Bob Corker, who has frequently sparred with Trump, said in a statement. Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein said: "We cant allow ourselves to become numb to the president of the United States calling on independent law enforcement organizations to investigate his political opponents. Thats characteristic of authoritarian regimes, not democracies, and it needs to stop." Trump has expressed frustration repeatedly over the Russia investigation, which has overshadowed his administration, at times referring to it as a "hoax" and a "witch hunt." Federal investigators this week charged Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort and another ex-aide, Rick Gates, with money laundering and other crimes. In a court filing on Friday, Mueller estimated he would need three weeks to present his case against Manafort and Gates if it went to trial. Both men pleaded not guilty. Manaforts attorney Kevin Downing said in a filing on Friday that he would challenge what he called evidence improperly obtained by search warrant, subpoena or otherwise. FBI agents seized documents and other material from Manaforts Virginia home in a July raid. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; additional reporting by Jonathan Stempel, Karen Freifeld, Warren Strobel and Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Alistair Bell and Lisa Shumaker)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:34:20|Editor: yan

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CAPE TOWN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) vowed on Sunday to interdict any attempt to force through a nuclear deal.

This came after the City Press newspaper reported on Sunday that Minister of Energy David Mahlobo forces his nuclear power plans into action as officials at his department are working at weekends to finalize the country's reviewed Integrated Energy Resource Plan in the next two weeks, four months ahead of schedule.

With each passing day, it becomes clear that Mahlobo was appointed to make sure that the necessary nuclear deal would be pushed through, DA Shadow Minister of Energy Gordon Mackay said.

President Jacob Zuma appointed Mahlobo as minister of energy last month in a move widely seen as an attempt to push the nuclear deal with Russia.

"We will not allow Mahlobo to appease his friends, the Russians, at the expense of millions of South Africans who are struggling to survive with no jobs in a flat economy," Mackay said.

The DA, Mackay said, will use every legal and parliamentary tool at its disposal to ensure that the generations to come will not be shackled to massive debt that will compromise South Africa's future.

There have been speculations that South Africa would soon reach a nuclear deal with Russia, under which the latter would help the former build nuclear reactors at a cost of 1 trillion rand (about 71.4 billion U.S. dollars).

The South African government has approved its Integrated Energy Resource Plan of 2010-30, which provides for coal, gas, renewables and 9,600 megawatt nuclear as part of the energy landscape by 2030.

But environmental groups, which question the safety of nuclear energy, have launced a series of campaigns against the plan.

In an apparent bid to alleviate concerns, Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba said in late October that South Africa can't afford a major nuclear program for lack of money and that it is unnecessary for the program as there's less pressure on the government to deliver more energy into the grid, with a slowdown in demand for power due to low economic growth.
Paul Manafort (right) has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him: Getty Images

Lawyers for a senior of member of Donald Trumps campaign team have said they plan to demand the suppression of evidence obtained as part of Robert Muellers probe into the US President and his teams alleged links with Russia.

The defence team for Paul Manafort, Mr Trumps former campaign chairman, have filed a court document saying they are likely to ask for some evidence against their client to be dismissed.

Mr Manafort was indicted by a grand jury last month and charged with 12 offences, including money laundering, conspiracy against the US, and making false statements.

His lawyers have now outlined plans to appeal against evidence they say was obtained improperly by Mr Muellers team.

The document reads: At this time, the defence anticipates that pre-trial motions will be filed concerning the legal basis for and sufficiency of the charges, the suppression of evidence improperly obtained by search warrant, subpoena or otherwise.

Mr Manaforts lawyers did not elaborate on why they believe the evidence was obtained inappropriately.

FBI agents searched Mr Manaforts Virginia home in July and seized what prosecutors described as numerous documents.

The lobbyist was arrested along with his business partner, Rick Gates. They are accused of failing to fully declare their work for foreign governments and then channelling the profits into luxury goods without paying tax.

The indictment says: "Manafort used his hidden overseas wealth to enjoy a lavish lifestyle in the United States, without paying taxes on that income.

It was announced on Friday that Mr Manafort and Mr Gates are likely to stand trial next May. Mr Manafort, who served as Mr Trump's campaign chair between June and August 2016, has been ordered by a judge to remain under house arrest and wear an electronic monitoring device as he awaits trial.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
Aden (AFP) - Suspected Al-Qaeda militants staged twin suicide bombings and took hostages Sunday in Aden, officials said, striking at the heart of the Yemeni government after suffering a string of setbacks.

Six security officers were killed in the attacks on the security headquarters and criminal investigations unit in the central district of Khor Maksar in Aden, where the internationally recognised government is based.

A high-ranking official with the state security forces said an explosives-rigged car driven by an Al-Qaeda operative blew up outside the security headquarters, killing the six officers along with the driver.

A second attacker was killed in a shootout between police and gunmen that followed.

Militants also stormed the building and set alight files and archives, the official said.

Moments later, gunmen stormed the Aden criminal investigations unit, next door to security headquarters, as a suicide bomber detonated an explosive belt in the building, a source in the unit said.

Another attacker was also killed at the scene.

The gunmen took hostage an unknown number of police detectives in the criminal investigations unit, the security source said.

Two policewomen were killed in execution-style slayings by the attackers, who were also believed to be linked to Al-Qaeda.

Sunday's attacks spell an abrupt end to a period of relative calm that has reigned in Aden, where the government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has been based since it was driven out of the capital Sanaa by a rival rebel camp in 2014.

Yemen's complex war, which pits the Saudi-backed Hadi government against former president Ali Abdullah Saleh and his Iran-backed Huthi rebel allies, has allowed Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula to flourish in the south of the country.

Yemeni forces allied with a Saudi-led coalition have closed in on AQAP strongholds in recent weeks, driving them out of pockets of the southern provinces of Abyan and Shabwa.

Special forces trained by the United Arab Emirates and backed by the United States launched a "major operation" in early August against the jihadists in Shabwa province.

Story continues

A senior military official said at the time that the insurgents had staged a "tactical retreat" from the province without engaging in any major clashes.

The military operations have also seen the Al-Qaeda insurgents pull back from parts of Abyan province.

The United States, which considers AQAP the most dangerous branch of Al-Qaeda, also regularly conducts drone strikes on southern Yemen.

More than 8,600 people have been killed in Yemen since Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the war in 2015 to support government forces, according to the World Health Organization.
KABUL (Reuters) - A U.S. service member was killed in eastern Afghanistan on Saturday, the military said, without giving details of his identity or the circumstances of his death, which occurred as American forces have stepped up operations against the Taliban. A statement from U.S. Forces Afghanistan Command in Kabul said the service member had died of wounds sustained during operations in Logar, the eastern province where another service member was killed last week after a helicopter crash. "Despite this tragic event, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the Afghan people and to support them in our mutual fight against terrorism," Gen. John Nicholson, the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan said in the statement. The latest death comes after President Donald Trump ordered a boost in the number of U.S. troops assisting Afghan forces against the Taliban as part of a new strategy to try to break the stalemate with the insurgents. Although most U.S. troops are not in combat, the new strategy will give them greater authority to engage the Taliban and will involve some acting as advisers at brigade and battalion level, bringing them much closer to the front line. Up to Aug 23, 10 U.S. service members had been killed in Afghanistan this year, according to figures published last week by the Congressional watchdog SIGAR, more than double the number killed in the same periods in 2015 and 2016. Separately, the U.S. military said it was investigating reports of civilian casualties caused during a combined operation in the northern city of Kunduz on Friday and was assessing the facts surrounding the incident. (Reporting by James Mackenzie; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
Washington (AFP) - A US Marine general who had been sentenced to confinement on the Guantanamo Bay naval base was freed Friday, two days after he had been found in contempt of military court.

Brigadier General John Baker, who heads up the defense teams at Guantanamo, had been ordered to spend 21 days confined to quarters at the US military base in Cuba.

He had refused to comply with a judge's demands during a hearing in the case against Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri, the accused mastermind of the attack on the USS Cole in 2000.

The unprecedented action drew quick scorn from critics, who said it illustrates the overall disfunction of the drawn-out military hearings against Nashiri and other high-profile inmates including the alleged plotters of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Harvey Rishikof, a civilian lawyer and the so-called "convening authority" in the Nashiri case, needed to approve Baker's sentence.

Just as lawyers in Washington were preparing to appeal to a federal judge for Baker's release, Rishikof agreed to defer the punishment while he considers the case.

At about 1:00 pm (1700 GMT), "Brigadier General Baker was served a letter notifying him that the imposition of the remainder of his sentence was delayed until the convening authority makes a final decision on the matter," said military hearings spokesman Major Ben Sakrisson.

The general's confinement stems from a dispute with the military judge in the Nashiri case, Air Force Colonel Vance Spath.

Baker had agreed to let Nashiri's civilian defense team quit the case over a series of ethical conflicts and a lack of confidence that their privileged conversations were in fact confidential.

But Spath ordered them to appear in person at the base or via video conference, the Miami Herald reported.

When Baker refused, Spath found him in contempt.

Michel Paradis, a civilian lawyer who works for Baker, told the Herald that Baker's release was a positive step, but that the deferred sentence was worrisome.

"At any time, the (authorities) can re-impose the sentence on him," Paradis told the Herald.
Our city is an eastern capital of the Pacific Rim, and home to many Asian-American communities, including the largest number of Koreans living outside of South Korea. Asian investment is reshaping our skyline, and tourists from China are the fastest growing group.

On the eve of President Trumps first trip to Asia, it is clear that our countrys relationship with that region is shifting rapidly. This White House does not appear interested in fulfilling Americas traditional role as the most influential economic, security and political leader in Asia, and China is intent on becoming exactly that.

To ensure that after years of war in the Middle East, America would continue to benefit by close ties to the most populous and economically dynamic region in the world, the Obama Administration pursued a rebalance to Asia strategy. The Administration created a post I held: Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It also broadened our complex relationship with China, including by reaching a groundbreaking climate deal and deepened our ties to allies in region, like Japan, South Korea, and Australia. America also participated for the first time in the East Asia Summit, an annual meeting that brings together leaders of the ten ASEAN countries plus China, Japan, South Korea, India, Russia and others. Not far from here, we hosted a summit of ASEAN leaders for the first time.

Understanding that to be a leader in Asia, and to get the best economic value for America, we needed an inclusive, positive economic vision, the Obama Administration negotiated the 11 country Trans Pacific Partnership. In the region, its conclusion was seen as evidence of Americas commitment and its ability to accomplish Herculean tasks.

Today, while the North Korea threat is a clear priority, the overall U.S. strategy for Asia is murky  in part because the Administration has not hired a permanent Assistant Secretary of State for the Asia-Pacific. Nor has it named a nominee for Ambassador to ASEAN. For his part, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has called for dramatic cuts to States budget and less emphasis on political freedoms and other American values in our diplomacy. Foreign service officers are leaving in droves.

Story continues

President Trump is not attending the East Asia Summit. Unfortunately, no matter how great his success at other stops on his Asia journey, this will be read by many as evidence of Americas diminished interest or capacity. The Administration also rejected the Trans Pacific Partnership in favor of bilateral trade agreements but partners are not lining up. Meanwhile, the every five year Party Congress that concluded last week left no doubt that China intends to assume a leadership role in Asia, and globally.

Beijing is far along in these efforts. Together with every country in Asia, China is negotiating the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), an agreement to link ASEANs trade partners to each other. Whatever the often messy reality on the ground, Beijings One Belt, One Road initiative is an enticing vision of mega infrastructure hubs that will link half the world, and Chinas new Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is offering billions in infrastructure financing.

No doubt we will hear announcements of multiple valuable deals on President Trumps trip, and hopefully some of them will come to pass. And Chinas rise benefits the United States in many ways. But in the Asia that remains, American companies could be at a disadvantage when bidding against their competitors; all else being equal, regional capitals or companies may choose to curry favor with Beijing, Tokyo or Delhi rather than D.C.

Opposition parties will have far less political space without U.S. embassies doing the hard daily work of talking autocratic governments down from their intolerant tendencies, especially when they sense Washington may not care. China will be able to ignore international maritime law with greater ease if our messages about the importance of rule of law are more readily dismissed in Asia.

Most important, it may be harder for Washington to rally countries around vital initiatives when we need to, like stopping the spread of bird flu before it reaches our shores. These shifts will not be immediate; most of Asia wants America to play a prominent role, and cooperation on security challenges like North Korea and terrorism will continue. But  as many American military leaders have affirmed  economic ties, diplomacy, and development are essential elements of influence. Without them, the stability and prosperity that America has helped to bring to both sides of the Pacific are in jeopardy.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:34:22|Editor: yan

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MILAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Climate change could drive up to 10 million people from their homes in the near future, according to a Group of Seven (G7) health summit kicking off Sunday in Italy.

The health ministers of host Italy and fellow G7 members Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the U.S., and the UK are meeting Sunday and Monday in the northern city of Milan to discuss the impact of climate change on the health of people and animals, Italian Health Minister Beatrice Lorenzin said in a statement.

Increasingly frequent extreme climate events such as heat waves, drought, torrential rainfall and floods will significantly affect human beings and the animals on which many of us depend, according to the Health Ministry.

The number of vulnerable people exposed to heat waves has grown by 125 million between 2000 and 2016, according to data cited by Italian news agency ANSA.

A related issue is malnutrition. Almost every country in the world now faces a nutrition-related challenge, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Nutrition Report 2017.

The report found that worldwide, 155 million children under 5 years old are stunted and 52 million children are wasted, meaning they don't weigh enough for their height.

That report -- issued on Saturday at a Global Nutrition Summit held in Milan as a satellite event to the G7 health summit -- calls for nutrition to be placed at the heart of efforts to fight disease and tackle climate change.

Another item on the agenda is the spread of diseases due to climate change, such as the appearance of the Chikungunya virus in Italy.

The first European outbreak of this virus, which is spread by mosquito bites and causes acute fever and joint pain, was in Italy's Emilia Romagna region in 2007, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

In September this year, the Italian Health Ministry suspended blood donations in and around Rome due to an outbreak of the Chikungunya virus, for which there is no known cure.
Two weeks have passed since the recent wave of ultra-Orthodox protests against the IDF draft, and it seems that what began as an aggressive struggle, including road-blocking on a daily basis, has come to a quiet end.

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The followers of Rabbi Shmuel Auerbach, leader of the Orthodox Lithuanian community in Jerusalem, promised an uncompromising battle on his behalf until the last deserter is released, but the heated protest appears to be over and has been replaced by local, spontaneous and relatively restrained gatherings with few participants. The connection between these small protests, the Jerusalem Faction and the draft issue isnt all that clear either.

Heavy clashes with security forces near Jerusalems Chords Bridge (Photo: AFP)

The easy and simple explanation for this sudden halt in mass protests is actually technical. Two weeks ago, yeshiva students returned from their holiday break and have since been scattered in Torah institutions across the country, spending most of the day studying, so they are no longer available to protest.

In the first few days after the return to the yeshivot, protest leaders made sure the road-blocking would continue in an effort to refute the police assessment that the protest would die out and to prove that the ideological struggle is stronger than any materialistic constraint. But as time went by, their mission became increasingly difficult, and the protests grew weaker and finally disappeared from the public space.

Under the surface, however, something more significant happened. While the protests speakers (including the HaPeles daily, the Lithuanian factions mouthpiece) are insisting its alive and kicking and are still declaring every morning that they are willing to sacrifice their lives to free the jailed yeshiva students, some of the leading activists who are supposed to bring the masses to the streets have actually gone underground. As a result, Rabbi Auerbach keeps producing aggressive statements, but there is no one to implement them in the field.

Another reason for the dwindling protest is the faction members desire to control its intensity and keep leading it rather than be dragged by others.

The reason for the renewal of protests every time is the arrest of yeshiva students who were ordered by Rabbi Auerbach not to report to the IDF recruitment centers even for a draft deferment. The armys policy is not to seek the deserters. Those who were arrested nevertheless were actually detained over traffic violations, so the police had no choice but to turn them over to the army.

As a result, the protests against the Haredi draft keep erupting again and again: Protestes were arrested, some turned out to be deserters and were jailed, the protests increased in size, more arrests were madeand so on and so forth, like an unstoppable snowball.

There are two reasonns for the paralysis among the protests organizers. The fear of getting into trouble with the law is a natural human feeling, even when it comes to members of the Jerusalem Faction.

Apart from the dozens of arrested protesters, the activists see the HaPeles newspaper heads, who are up to their necks in an investigation into alleged threats and extortion of commercial companies that are refusing to advertise in the paper.

The activists believe law enforcement authorities wish to come as close as possible to Rabbi Auerbach to terrorize his associates, so they are staying under the radar and being extra cautious every time they use the phone or the computer for protest purposes.

The other side of the coinand the other reason for going undergroundis a desire to put the police to the test after some officials announced they would consider questioning the admired rabbi. Some of Auerbachs associates have decided to vanish so the polices only option would be to act against the faction leader himself. If that happens, and a rabbi of such stature is summoned for questioning, they would set the country on fire.

The faction members current goal is to restart the campaign, so that they would be able to control it rather than get dragged into it by the military courts rulings. Their way to do so is to temporarily keep matters quiet until all the deserters, who are usually sentenced to short jail terms, are releasedand at the same time, negotiate sentence mitigations with the army.

Once all the arrested yeshiva students are free, Rabbi Auerbach himself will be able to adjust the intensity of the protests to his needs ahead of its decisive stages. The rabbis chief goal, which is closer and more concrete than ever, is to make his mark on the amended draft law, which is taking shape these days, after the High Court struck down its previous version during the Knessets summer break.
The families of Lt. Hadar Goldin and Sgt. Oron Shaul , whose bodies are being held by Hamas, raised objections Thursday to a request by the Palestinians to allow international forces to aid in the search for five terrorists believed to be trapped inside a border-crossing tunnel the IDF blew up earlier this week

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"We hope the Israeli government doesn't dare accede to Hamas's request as long as they're not returning Oron," the Shaul family said in a statement following reports the Red Cross was pressing Israel to allow it to aid in the search effort. "Oron was kidnapped into a tunnel the Hamas fighters dug, and is being held in Gaza by them for three years, while they refuse to allow the Red Cross to ascertain his situation."

The Goldin family called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to explicitly condition the approval of any humanitarian request in the return of Hadar and Oron to Israel.

Goldin and Shaul

"Any Israeli humanitarian gesture toward Hamas must be conditioned in the return of our sons home," the Goldin family said. "If the Israeli government accedes to Hamas, it would constitute a moral injustice and diplomatic weakness. It cannot be that the government continues acceding to Hamas's humanitarian caprices while IDF soldiers are being held by it."

Both Shaul and Goldin, who were killed in Gaza during the 2014 Operation Protective Edge, were declared by the IDF's chief rabbi as fallen soldiers whose place of burial is unknown.

Seven terrorists were killed and 11 others wounded in the tunnel explosion on Monday, among them senior Islamic Jihad and Hamas commanders. Among the dead were also Hamas commandos who went into the tunnel after its explosion in an effort to extract the wounded.

Gen. Yoav Mordechai (Photo: IDF)

Following the statements from the two families, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), Maj. Gen. Yoav Mordechai, spoke to Jacques De Maio, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross delegation to Israel, stressing to him that Israel "would not allow search efforts in the Gaza Strip security zone without progress on the issue of Israeli POWs and MIAs."

Meanwhile, the Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), published a video threatening Israel following the destruction of the terrorist tunnel.

PIJ's threatening message to Israel

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The video opens with documentation of the funerals of several of the organization's operatives killed in the tunnel explosion, and continues with pictures showing the organization's operatives placing missiles at the entrance to tunnels and observing IDF works in the area of the security fence.

At the end of the video, a caption written in Hebrew reads: "Time is running out."






Following a US-backed Israeli filibuster that lasted almost four hours, the Palestinian delegation and other Arab states failed Thursday in passing a resolution denouncing Israel during the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)'s 39th General Conference in Paris.

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Discussion at UNESCO's education committee was slated to commence at 3 pm, with the expectation being the measure would be approved within minutes by general consensus and without going to a vote, as has been the case in the organization since 2009.

UNESCO's General Conference saw a nearly four-hour filibuster (Photo: AP)

The resolution deal with denouncing Israel over the state of education in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and the Golan Heights. The Palestinian delegation clearly had a majority to pass the resolution, and the Israeli mission to UNESCO therefore forwent any attempt to drum up votes from countries to vote alongside it.

Instead, Israelwith American supportendeavored to make us of every conceivable article in UNESCO regulations to stall for time, for example by asking for a roll-call vote of all of the organization's 196 member countries.

When the session opened, the Kenyan chairman presiding said the resolution was to be approved with neither debate nor a vote. While Israel and the US were not permitted to vote, as they have failed to pay their membership dues to the organization for the past six years, regulations still stipulate they are entitled to seek a stay in passing the resolution until the next general conference, in two years' time. When Arab countries voiced their objections, Israel moved to a vote on each of the resolution's 11 articles.

The committee's chairman and other representatives were certain the vote would be conducted with a show of hands, in which case it would have concluded with a resounding Palestinian victory, but Israel persisted in its sabotaging efforts and asked for a roll-call vote, a request necessitating the support of one other country. The US lent its support to the Israeli request, and a vote commenced that lasted more than an hour with one country voting after another.

Israeli envoy to UNESCO Shama-Hacohen (L) arguing with his Palestinian counterpart

After the roll-call, Israel objected to the Palestinian request to not hold a discussion but instead move immediately to approving the resolution, once again operating an article in the regulations and seeking another roll-call vote on not debating the resolution.

The second roll-call vote lasted more than an hour once again and the representatives of the countries participating in the debate started showing signs of nervousness as they session was to conclude at 6 pm with many of them setting appointments and expecting to attend receptions afterwards.

At some point, the deputy Palestinian envoy to UNESCO lost his cool. Along with his Arab compatriots, he appealed to the Kenyan chairman and stressed him to block the Israeli-American filibuster. "The Israeli envoy is trying to take this plenum hostage. Don't let him get away with this," he exhorted.

All told, the various votes lasted until 7 pm with several surprises noted during the proceedings, such as China abstaining on the vote on the Israeli postponement request, marking the first time the Communist juggernaut did not automatically support the Palestinians.

UNESCO's Paris headquarters (Photo: AP)

Mexico also voted in Israel's favor for the first time, instead of abstaining, with a possible reason being Israeli humanitarian efforts following the devastating earthquake to hit the country.

The Palestinians are expected to attempt to pass two additional anti-Israeli resolutions in the coming days. The resolutions will invariably eventually pass, but Israel has been adamant to send its message of protest to the international community.

"We have made it clear that the days are over when anti-Israel resolutions can be passed in five minutes. This obsession against Israel will come with a price tag. The organization and world countries will need to devote dozens of hours, to add additional days for debate and to sit through long sessions. Maybe then they will start wondering whether it is worth their time invested in resolutions that are political, aimless, and have nothing to do with education, culture or science," said Carmel Shama-Hacohen , Israel's envoy to UNESCO.

"The filibuster communicates Israel's message of protest effectively and, under certain circumstances, may lead to resolutions not being adopted. One thing is certain: these resolutions will cease being perceived as natural and obvious as the sun shining in the morning," Shama-Hacohen added.
Is the enemy of my enemy my friend? Not when it comes to Fridays incident in the Syrian village of Hader and Israels relations with the Druze in the Golan Heights.

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Israel made a strategic decision over the weekend that its covenant of blood with the Druze community is more important than its strategic moral and humanitarian support for the groups of rebels who are working to drive the Syrian army away from the Golan Heights. As a result, Israel warned in public that it would target the anti-Assad rebels if they were to harm members of the Druze community in the Golan, in spite of the fact that the Druze support Bashar Assads regime and have encouraged him to take over the Israel border area.

Israel heaved a sigh of relief, therefore, when the Syrian army succeeded not only in driving the rebels away from the Hader area but also in regaining control of four of its posts that had been conquered by the rebels. Had the crisis ended differently, it could have led to a rift between the State of Israel and members of the Druze community, not only in the Golan but in Israel too.

Israeli Druze residents march towards Syria border in solidarity with Hader residents, Friday. Had the crisis ended differently, it could have led to a rift between Israel and the Druze community (Photo: AFP)

Israel had been preparing for the possibility of such a crisis for a while, in light of the intensive fighting between rebels and Syrian forces over the control of the Golan area. Nevertheless, the car bomb smuggled by the rebels into Hader over the weekendwhich marked the beginning of their attack on posts around the villagecaught Israel by surprise. Although it was expected that the rebels would invade Hader on their way to take over the Beit Jann area, Israel misread the map.

Israel has a clear interest in having no Syrian presence in the area, as that would allow free movement of Hezbollah forces from southern Lebanon to the northern Golan Heights. Hezbollah forces have already been active in the areas in the past, trying to gain a foothold in the Golan Heights and provoking Israel. Freed prisoner Samir Kuntar, who was assassinated in a Damascus suburb in late 2015, used to operate Druze terrorist cells in the area against Israel.

This isnt the first time the IDF comes to the rescue of the Druze on the other side of the fence. In June, 2015, the IDF prevented a pogrom in Hader when rebel forces, led by members of the al-Nusra Front, tried to infiltrate the village and avenge an attack carried out by a Druze lynch mob from the Golan Heights on two injured Syrians who were being transferred to Israel in a military ambulance for medical care. At the time, Israel threatened and curbed the rebels, but did not make a public announcement about it.

The Israeli government was likely to make a public commitment to defend the Druze in the Syrian Golan to stop the Israeli Druze from taking practical steps against the government. The first step, bursting through the border fence between Israel and Syria, was eventually curbed by the IDF.

From the very first day of the civil war in Syria, Israel has respected the Druze communitys scared principle, hafiz al-ikhwan (being your brother's keeper). The members of this small community, which includes about a million and a half people around the world, are committed to protecting each other, regardless of where they are and of their political loyalty.

Israel tried to protect the Druze even when the IDF was in Lebanon. When the civil war in Syria broke out, then-IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz gave leaders of the Druze community his word in a close meeting that Israel would protect the interests of the community members in Syria, and Israel did help the Druze in Jabal al-Druze and in the Golan Heights.

This was also one of two basic demands Israel presented to the Syrian rebels in the Golan Heights as a condition for humanitarian aid: You must not harm the Druze community. The second demand was that Islamic State fighters and other radical Islamist forces wont be allowed to act against Israel from the Golan border.

Fridays military incident may have ended, but it left behind a bitter taste. Not only is Israel publicly giving up its security interests in the Golan, but its Druze residents are accusing the state of cooperating with radical Islam. The Middle East, however, keeps producing uncertain situations on a daily basis with a potential for a regional military crisis, forcing the army to be constantly alert and the cabinet to be fully attentive to what is taking place around us.
Shaykh Muwaffak Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel , said Sunday the Druze expect the IDF to set a red line to the Nusra Front in the Syrian Druze village of Hader after a terror attack there claimed the lives of 18 people and wounded many others.

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"We didn't ask and are not asking Israel to go into Syria or take over the village," Tarif told Ynet in an interview. "The Nusra Front is under the watchful eye of the IDF, which could tell them: 'Be careful, don't go near this village, to us this is a red line.' We're counting on the IDF to do this."

Shaykh Muwaffak Tarif (Photo: Ido Becker)

Tarif talked about the attack on Hader, which led many Druze to riot near Majdal Shams on the Israel-Syria border, with ten of them breaking through a gate in the border fence and reaching several dozen meters into Syria. IDF forces gave pursuit and returned the Druze protesters to Israeli territory.

"The Nusra Front took over several hills near the village and started shooting indiscriminately. The Nusra Front is a terror organization. At the end of the day, it will aim its guns at us, the state (of Israel)," Tarif said. "We conveyed to the prime minister, the defense minister, the IDF chief and the GOC Northern Command that to us, this is a red line, and Israel must stand beside the Druze and protect this village, and not let the Nusra Front conquer it and slaughter its people."

GOC Northern Command Strick, right, with Druze spiritual leader Tarif, 2nd from right (Photo: IDF Spokesman's Office)





Tarif said he received assurances from the GOC Northern Command the IDF would do whatever it takes to prevent the Nursa Front, and any other terror group, from advancing on the village.
The bodies of the five missing Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) militants killed in the terror tunnel that the IDF blew up last Monday are being held by the IDF, it was cleared for publication Sunday evening.

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The IDF Spokesperson stated the bodies were located during supplementary operations to expose and thwart the terror tunnel and the operatives inside it.

In response to the IDF's announcement, PIJ alluded to future kidnappings to force exchange deals for the bodies of their deceased militants.

The five missing PIJ militants, now held by the IDF

"The bodies of the five martyrs will not remain for long in Israel's hands. We know how to recover the bodies of our people," PIJ said. "The campaign continues and will not end."

PIJ has already admitted to digging the tunnel in an effort to infiltrate Israeli territory to kidnap Israeli citizens , to be exchangeddead or alivefor Palestinian militants held in Israeli prisons for security offences.

On Friday, Palestinian television network Al-Quds, affiliated with Hamas, reported that efforts in the Gaza Strip to locate the bodies had been halted.

Al-Quds claimed in its report that Israel was trying to locate the bodies in a part of the tunnel situated on the Israeli side of the border.

Hamas militants during searches for the bodies of 5 PIJ militants (Photo: EPA)

On Thursday, Adalah, the Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel, petitioned the High Court to "allow Palestinian search and rescue teams and civil defense to enter the buffer zone on the Gaza border to extract people currently trapped underground, some 50 meters from the border fence and inside the Gaza Strip."

In its response , the state on Sunday asked the High Court to reject the petition out of hand, due to the fact "it is not relevant and the assistance requested is not relevant," because the missing terrorists have been declared dead.

The state further noted that "there is operational activity that has not yet been completed. At present, IDF forces are still carrying out different operations in the field relating to the tunnel."

PIJ militants in Gaza, following Monday's tunnel blast (Photo: AFP)

Currently, the bodies of Lt. Hadar Goldin and Sgt. Oron Shaul are being held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), Maj. Gen. Yoav Mordechai on Thursday stressed that Israel " would not allow search efforts in the Gaza Strip security zone without progress on the issue of Israeli POWs and MIAs."

In response to COGAT's announcement, Hamas and Islamic Jihad declared the five missing terrorists were dead, bringing the death toll to 12, with 11 others injured.

"The demolished tunnel is not the only tunnel we have that crosses into Israel," Hamas said, stressing it would not provide information on Israel's MIAs and POWs in return for the five missing terrorists' bodies.

Leah and Simcha Goldin, the parents of Hadar Goldin, held a press conference Sunday afternoon to announce they will be appealing to the High Court of Justice against the government, the Security Cabinet and the head of both, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Goldin family's press conference (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

In their appeal to the court, Goldin's parents demand to prevent the handing over of deceased Hamas terrorists back to the organization, to halt visitation of all Hamas prisoners in Israel and to reduce all entry visas for humanitarian purposes granted to Gaza residents.

"The Security Cabinet has decided to exert pressure on Hamas so it understands holding onto IDF soldiers is a burden, to send a message that Israel is changing the rules and a heavy toll will be collected for every additional day they hold on to those soldiers," Simcha Goldin said.

"However, to the highest absurdity, the government hasn't the slightest inclination to implement the Cabinet's decisions. Israel has completely halted visitations of Gaza residents to Israeli jails, but families in the West Bank are asking for the same thing on a daily basis. The government of Israel has capitulated to Hamas," he accused.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:39:23|Editor: yan

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CAIRO, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Egypt strongly condemned the firing of a ballistic missile by Yemen's Shiite Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

"The Egyptian government and people stand in solidarity with Saudi Arabia's government and people and support the measures taken by the kingdom to protect its security and stability against such a brutal aggression," said the statement.

The Houthi rebels fired a long-range missile on King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital Riyadh on Saturday night, according to Houthi-controlled Saba news agency.

Meanwhile, Saudi government said the missile fell and exploded north of the airport causing no casualties.

Yemen has been suffering a civil war for three years, since Houthi rebels supported by forces of former president Ali Abdullah Saleh ousted the UN-backed transitional government led by fleeing President Abd-Rabbo Mansour Hadi and occupied the capital Sanaa in September 2014.

Saudi-led Arab military coalition has been launching a war against the Houthi rebels since March 2015, saying it aims to restore Hadi's legitimacy.

From March 2015 to March 2017, the civil war, ground battles and airstrikes killed over 10,000 Yemenis, half of whom are civilians, injured about 40,000 and displaced over 2 million, according to humanitarian agencies.

The war-ravaged Arab country also suffers growing outbreak of cholera that killed more than 2,000 people since April, according to a report from the World Health Organization.

The war has also pushed the country into the brink of famine, with 13 million people lacking food security and an estimated half a million children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:44:25|Editor: yan

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KAMPALA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Movie lovers in Uganda's capital Kampala will this week enjoy two dozens of Chinese flicks for free.

Twenty-eight Chinese movies will be screened at Ham Towers in Kampala courtesy of Confucius Institute at Makerere University.

Titles to be screened throughout the week include Monkey King: Hero is back; Masters in Forbidden City; Chinese Zodia; Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons; and Chongqing Hotpot.

Speaking at the launch of the movie week, Chu Maoming, first counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Kampala, expressed the hope that the movies will help Ugandans to better understand Chinese traditions, culture, history and people's daily lives in present-day China.

The Confucius Institute last year launched the first Chinese movie week, which attracted thousands of viewers.

"I hope this year it will be more successful," said Chu, noting that the Chinese movie industry has developed and advanced very fast.

Hong Yonghong, Chinese director of the Confucius Institute, said four movies will be screened every day during the week.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:44:25|Editor: yan

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ROME, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Some 400 rescued migrants and refugees were brought to southern Italy on Sunday, including the bodies of 26 women, local media reported.

The migrants arrived on board of Spanish ship Cantabria to the port of Salerno, after being saved during several rescue operations, according to Ansa news agency.

The cause of death of the 26 victims was not clear yet, and autopsies on their bodies might be ordered by judicial authorities, after a first medical examination.

First reports suggested the women might have drowned during the dangerous crossing of the Mediterranean Sea from the African coasts towards Italy.

"The deceased women, possibly of Nigerian nationality, were on board of an inflatable craft, along with men," Ansa quoted Salerno prefect Salvatore Malfi as saying.

"The boat sank, and it is possible these women died because they were the most vulnerable subjects on board," the central government representative added.

The other 400 people rescued were in good health conditions, including nine pregnant women, local media also reported.

Italy has seen a drastic drop in arrivals since after a deal with Libya's authorities and militias was struck in spring to tackle smugglers, and try to stop the endless flow of people trying to reach Europe to escape war, violence, or poverty.

The northern African country has been a major hub for migrant trafficking since after former leader Muhammad Gaddafi was toppled in 2011.

A crucial point in the deal provided that Italy would train Libya's coast guard in order for them to stop and turn back ships leaving the Libyan coasts.

Italy has registered 111,716 arrivals up to Nov. 3, with a 29.97 percent decrease against 159,534 arrivals in the same period in 2016, latest data from the Interior Ministry showed.

In the crucial months of July and August, the number of migrants and asylum-seekers reaching Italy has dropped up to some 70 percent, the Interior Ministry said.
Misty Claerbout has joined the private client group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Co. as a registered client service associate. She will support Steve Knudson, CFP, first vice president/investments, and Pierre Holland, vice president/investments. Claerbout has a bachelors degree in business administration/marketing from Montana State University Billings, as well as Series 7 and 66 securities licenses. She served on the board of Billings Studio Theater and was a board member of the MSU Billings Alumni Association.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-05 23:54:27|Editor: yan

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DAMASCUS, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A suicide car bomb attack carried out by the Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria's eastern province of Deir al-Zour killed 75 people and wounded 140 others, a monitor group reported on Sunday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said children were among those killed in the blast that took place Saturday evening on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River in Deir al-Zour.

The UK-based watchdog group said the explosion rocked the Tujar, or Merchants, Street between the Conoco gas field and the Jafra energy plants in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour.

It added that many people have fled toward the desert region following the explosions carried out by the IS group.

Following the blast, the road was closed and the prices of all foodstuff have tripled in IS-held areas since the blast rocked on Saturday.

The areas on the eastern bank of Euphrates River are largely controlled by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who are advancing in that area against IS. The Observatory said two SDF fighters were killed in the blast.

It wasn't the first time IS militants targeted that area. Last month, 18 people were killed when IS carried out similar bombing there, said the observatory.

The SDF has launched an offensive to defeat IS in the northern and northeastern countryside of Deir al-Zour province, which explains the IS suicide attacks.

The IS group is also losing ground to the Syrian army, which captured recently the entire capital city of Deir al-Zour.

Liberating the city is the second major blow to the IS militants, after losing their de facto capital of Raqqa last month to the SDF.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 00:09:33|Editor: yan

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DAMASCUS, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of civilians started returning to the first neighborhood that was liberated from the Islamic State (IS) militants in the northern Syrian city of Raqqa, a monitor group reported on Sunday.

The return of civilians to the Mashlab neighborhood east of Raqqa comes following 20 days of tension between the civilians and the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The civilians wanted a quick return to their homes following the SDF capture of Raqqa from IS last month, but the Observatory said the return was granted after the neighborhood was cleared of explosive devices left by IS.

Before the return was granted, people in Mashlab neighborhood protested against the SDF, whose fighters responded with firing gunshots to disperse the protestors, which left many wounded, according to the UK-basked watchdog group.

With the help of the U.S.-led airstrikes and special forces, the SDF fully captured Raqqa from IS on Oct.17, following a four-month offensive to strip IS of its self-proclaimed capital in Syria.

But the heavy airstrikes and clashes left over 90 percent of the city in ruins, according to local reports.

The Syrian Foreign Ministry said earlier that the Syrian government still considers Raqqa as an occupied city by the U.S. and its allies of the SDF.

It added the city would be considered liberated only when the Syrian government forces enter the city.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 00:19:35|Editor: yan

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TRIPOLI, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A car bomb attacked the convoy of Libya's Deputy Minister of the Interior of the UN-backed Government, wounding four security personnel in Benghazi on Sunday.

"The security convoy of the Deputy Minister of Interior of the Government of National Accord, Faraj Aqim, consisting of four cars, was targeted by a car bomb that exploded when passing from the coastal road to the area of Sidi Khalifa in Benghazi," an army source told Xinhua.

"The car bomb was parked at the side of the road. It exploded the moment the convoy passed next to it, which wounded four bodyguards and damaged a number of cars parked nearby," the source added.

Aqim confirmed that he survived the blast without being harmed. "I am in good health and have not been harmed. Although four of my men have been injured," Aqim told local Libyan news TV channel.

The Tripoli-based Government of National Accord described the bombing as a "failed assassination attempt."

The media office of the Prime Minister said that the Prime Minister, Fayez Serraj, has contacted Aqim to check on him after the bombing. Serraj confirmed that Aqim was "fine and in good health."

Aqim was appointed by Serraj in August, which angered the eastern-based army, led by General Khalifa Haftar, who issued a decision banning any official of Serraj's Government from exercising any official activity in the areas under the control of the army.

Despite signing a UN-sponsored peace agreement by the country's political rivals and appointment of the Government of National Accord in 2015, Libya remains politically divided amid insecurity and chaos.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 00:29:37|Editor: Mengjie

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China launched two BeiDou-3 satellites into space via a single carrier rocket to support its global navigation and positioning network at 7:45 p.m. Sunday. (Xinhua/Yang Zhiyuan)

XICHANG, Sichuan Province, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- China launched two BeiDou-3 satellites into space via a single carrier rocket to support its global navigation and positioning network at 7:45 p.m. Sunday.

The satellites were aboard a Long March-3B carrier rocket which took off from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the southwestern province of Sichuan.

This is the first two BeiDou-3 satellites launched by China, as its self-developed BeiDou Navigation Satellite System officially began to expand into a global network.

Named after the Chinese term for the plough or the Big Dipper constellation, the BeiDou project was formally initiated in 1994. It began to serve China in 2000 and the Asia-Pacific region at the end of 2012.

China plans to building BeiDou into a global positioning and navigation system by around 2020, making it the third country in the world after the United States and Russia to operate its own navigation system.

Compared to earlier generation satellites, the BeiDou-3 is able to send signals that are better compatible with other satellite navigation systems and provide satellite-based augmentation, as well as search and rescue services in accordance with international standards.

"New technology has significantly improved the performance of the BeiDou-3, with the signal accuracy in space higher than half a meter while its positioning accuracy has reached 2.5 to five meters, said Yang Changfeng, chief designer of the BeiDou system.

China plans to launch 18 BeiDou-3 satellites around the end of 2018 to expand the BeiDou services to the countries along the Belt and Road routes.

By around 2020, when the system goes global, it will have more than 30 satellites.

"Launches featuring two or more satellites on a single carrier rocket will be conducted regularly," said Ye Chengmin, deputy chief designer of the Long March-3A carrier rocket.

All the BeiDou satellites currently in space were sent up from Xichang Satellite Launch Center, said Lin Yunan, head of the human resources department of the center.

The BeiDou-3 satellites and the carrier rocket were developed by China Academy of Space Technology and China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, respectively.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 01:09:42|Editor: yan

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by Julius Gale

JUBA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The South Sudanese army on Sunday downplayed fears that an ongoing standoff between the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) and bodyguards of former army chief Paul Malong Awan would escalate into violence in Juba.

SPLA Spokesman Lul Ruai Koang told Xinhua by phone that tension emanated after the former military strongman refused to have his bodyguards disarmed.

Juba was tense on Saturday as soldiers blocked major roads including the one leading to the airport and surrounded the home of the ex army chief.

"The government had asked him (Malong) to reduce the platoon under his command to three bodyguards, but he refused to cooperate and the SPLA has deployed around his home to avoid the misunderstanding escalating into violence," Koang said.

"The government has no intention to make the situation escalate," he added. "We are in negotiation with General Paul Malong and we hope that the misunderstanding will be addressed soon."

Before his sacking by President Salva Kiir in May, Malong was widely regarded as kiir's close ally who mobilized an ethnic militia to fight for the Kiir administration.

Human rights groups have on several occasions accused Malong and his militia of committing atrocities on civilians across the war-torn country.

The former army chief is among three South Sudanese officials sanctioned by the United States in September, and by Canada this month, for allegedly obstructing peace efforts and benefiting from the ongoing civil war.

The east African nation has been embroiled in almost four years of conflict that has taken a devastating toll on the people, and creating one of the fastest growing refugee crises in the world.

A peace deal signed in August 2015 between the rival leaders under United Nations pressure led to the establishment of a transitional unity government, but was shattered by renewed fighting in July 2016.

The UN estimates that about 4 million South Sudanese have been displaced internally and externally.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 01:09:43|Editor: Yamei

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LONDON, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Britain's First Secretary of State Damian Green has denied claims, made by an ex-police chief in the Sunday Times, that police found pornographic material on one of his parliamentary computers.

Former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Bob Quick claimed that in an investigation into government leaks in 2008 police found "extreme porn" on a computer in Mr Green's House of Commons office, according to Sunday Times. Mr Quick said he stood by his claim and would take part in an inquiry.

In a firm denial issued on Twitter, Mr Green said that the police have never suggested to him that improper material was found on his parliamentary computer, and the allegations about the material and computer are "false" and "disreputable political smears".

The allegation against Mr. Green is the latest in a growing sexual misconduct scandal in Westminster.

Sir Michael Fallon recently resigned as defence secretary over his alleged improper behavior. The Observer reported that he quitted shortly after a journalist told Downing Street that Fallon had lunged at her and attempted to kiss her on the lips in 2003 after they had lunch together.

Meanwhile, three Conservative MPs have been referred to a new disciplinary panel set up by the party amid Westminster's sexual harassment scandal, Sky News reported.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 01:14:44|Editor: yan

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TRIPOLI, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Libyan government on Sunday issued a decision to terminate the service of the senior military officer who threatened to target the Egyptian Presidential Palace and government offices in Cairo.

"The investigation found out that General Mohamed Gneidi, a military intelligence official from Misurata, violated military rules by appearing to media without prior permission, in addition to threatening Egyptian authorities to blow up the Presidential Palace, which is unjustified and acceptable," an official of the Military Prosecution Office told Xinhua.

"We referred the investigation documents of the actions of officer Gneidi through media and his refusal to appear before the military court, which led Prime Minister Serraj to issue a decision a few hours ago to terminate his services and dismiss him from the army," the officer added.

General Mohamed Gneidi criticized the Egyptian authorities via a local Libyan channel on Saturday over the airstrike carried out by unidentified warplane on the eastern city of Derna a few days ago, and accused Egyptian air force of carrying out the attack.

Gneidi threatened to respond to the "Egyptian aggression" on his country by targeting government and vital buildings, including the Egyptian presidential palace.

Gneidi also appeared on Sunday on another local Libyan TV channel and stressed that he does not represent the military command of the Government of National Accord, but the military command of the outgoing General National Congress.

The statements of Gneidi angered the Egyptian authorities, which warned of the danger of such positions.

Yahya Kedwani, deputy head of the National Defense and Security Committee of the Egyptian parliament, responded to the statements by saying that a threat by any terrorist organization on the national security of Egypt will be crushed, whether inside or outside Egypt.

The Libyan eastern-based army has denied responsibility for the recent airstrike in the city of Derna, which killed and injured dozens of civilians.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 01:34:47|Editor: Song Lifang

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Jennifer, one of the leading figures of the documentary film, poses for photos at the theatre of Rebibbia prison in Rome, Italy, on Nov. 3, 2017. "Save Face", a short documentary in which 12 female prisoners agreed to talk about their background and the violence they faced at the hands of men, was shown in Rebibbia prison, Italy's largest jail for women in Rome on Nov. 3. (Xinhua/Jin Yu)

by Alessandra Cardone

ROME, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- It is often said that self-awareness is key to female empowerment, and young Jennifer seemed indeed to agree on that.

The Nigerian woman -- serving a sentence in the female ward of Rebibbia prison, Italy's largest jail for women -- took center stage along with some of her fellow inmates on Friday.

Involved in an educational video project aimed at raising consciousness against gender violence, the group showed their efforts along a path of self-improvement during a special screening event.

"I have learnt that speaking out about violence against women is useful for yourself and for others," Jennifer told Xinhua. She had an extremely violent ex-partner to run and hide from.

"If something bad happens to you, better tell someone exactly what they did to you, who did it, and where... So, in case tomorrow you disappear, they will know everything," Jennifer explained.

Overall, some 60 female prisoners from the most varied nationalities took part in the project, which was supported by the Dept. for Equal Opportunities of the Italian Presidency of the Council of Ministries in cooperation with the 12th Rome Film Fest running from Oct. 26 to Nov. 5.

This was the second time the major movie festival reached out to the city's largest high security jail, offering a selection of movie screenings and artistic events involving inmates.

The initiative answered a major pledge made by festival's artistic director Antonio Monda of "bringing movies all across the city" and reaching the most different audiences.

In this case, there were months of writing workshops, awareness discussions, and theatre classes. The result was "Save Face", a short documentary in which 12 female prisoners agreed to talk about their background, and the violence they faced at the hands of men.

Each of them had a specific story to tell. "For me, the project was a path, and it gave me strength: for the first time, I talked about the nightmare I went through as a child," Luciana Katrina, a Brazilian girl, told Xinhua. Her story was that of a sexual abuse by the hands of an uncle. "It was hard, but after speaking out I felt an immediate relief... I felt unburdened," she said.

A mixed audience of inmates, major authorities of the prison, and representatives from the Equal Opportunities Dept. and the Film Fest watched the screening of "Save Face" on Friday.

Author and director Giulia Merenda explained that tackling the gender violence issue with female prisoners disclosed at least two specific, interesting traits. "Firstly, we have realized that women are in many cases manipulated by men into their crime," Merenda told Xinhua.

Husbands, partners, brothers, and sons would often push their women on the frontline, and in the same ways, regardless if they were from Latin America, Africa, or Europe, according to Merenda.

"This proves an extreme form of violence: how can a woman say no to a son asking for a 'small favor'? Yet, you may just end up serving 10 years in jail for that favor," she stressed.

Acknowledging this emotional strain, and the risk of manipulation, was one step in the jailed women's path of self-empowerment.

At the same time, the director explained women at the Rebibbia prison would often recognize a violent attitude in a man faster than other women, and would know better how it can spiral out of control.

As such, when they accepted to expose themselves in the documentary -- sometimes unveiling painful memories no one else had ever heard -- they did so not only for themselves.

They felt their stories might be useful to the women outside prison, those who are indeed free, and yet equally or even more vulnerable.

According to national revised statistics, some 120 women were killed by relatives or partners in so-called "femicides" last year, following 111 victims in 2015, and 117 in 2014. At least 11,400 cases of "persecutory acts" against women were also registered in 2016, the Interior Ministry stated in spring.

"I do hope our documentary will reach out to women outside here," Luciana Katrina said. "I think of those who do not feel to talk about the violence they endured, who do not want to report to police ... I have felt just the same until I entered this project," Luciana Katrina confirmed. This may help them open their eyes."
75 people were killed in a suicide car bomb attack in Syria's eastern province of Deir al-Zour. (AFP Photo)

DAMASCUS, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- A suicide car bomb attack carried out by the Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria's eastern province of Deir al-Zour killed 75 people and wounded 140 others, a monitor group reported on Sunday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said children were among those killed in the blast that took place Saturday evening on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River in Deir al-Zour.

The UK-based watchdog group said the explosion rocked the Tujar, or Merchants, Street between the Conoco gas field and the Jafra energy plants in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour.

It added that many people have fled toward the desert region following the explosions carried out by the IS group.

Following the blast, the road was closed and the prices of all foodstuff have tripled in IS-held areas since the blast rocked on Saturday.

The areas on the eastern bank of Euphrates River are largely controlled by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who are advancing in that area against IS. The Observatory said two SDF fighters were killed in the blast.

It wasn't the first time IS militants targeted that area. Last month, 18 people were killed when IS carried out similar bombing there, said the observatory.

The SDF has launched an offensive to defeat IS in the northern and northeastern countryside of Deir al-Zour province, which explains the IS suicide attacks.

The IS group is also losing ground to the Syrian army, which captured recently the entire capital city of Deir al-Zour.

Liberating the city is the second major blow to the IS militants, after losing their de facto capital of Raqqa last month to the SDF.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 02:19:58|Editor: yan

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DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The government of Tanzania on Sunday outlined a catalogue of achievements scored by President John Magufuli during the first two years of his administration.

Magufuli came to power on Nov. 5, 2015.

On top of the achievements was the restoration of discipline among public servants that has resulted in increased productivity in service delivery, said Hassan Abbas, director general of the Information Services Department.

"There has also been impressive achievement in the control of government expenditure and ensuring value for money in all state-funded projects," Abbas said in an address broadcast on national television, Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation.

He said the government also uncovered over 30,000 phantom workers and those with fake academic credentials, adding that all these were removed from government payroll, saving the country 190 million U.S. dollars.

The chief government spokesman said the Magufuli administration, in its anti-corruption drive, established a special anti-graft court and sacked scores of dishonest public officials.

He said the government also succeeded in the control and protection of natural resources, including minerals, citing the creation of three mineral laws and recent reforms in the extractive industry.

"Another achievement worth mentioning was the cost-cutting measures that saw reduced foreign trips for government officials and cutting down the budget for unnecessary meetings," said Abbas.

"We have also managed to move the government's seat from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma as it has been a dream for a long time. At the beginning no one expected it will be possible but the dream has become true," he said.

Abbas mentioned other successes as the reduction of dependence on foreign aid, provision of free education, implementation of water projects across the country, increased budget for higher education loans and the implementation of the standard gauge railway using internal financing.
I was very disappointed to see the amount of space devoted to the political ingenues in the Sunday paper. It was excellent reporting, but unworthy of the space. Why, when there are so many other real and qualified candidates and important issues do you potentially legitimize these crackpots? For example, you have not given that much space to the mayoral race, which is much more pertinent to your readers.

As a veteran and Air Force Academy graduate, I would also ask you to follow up on issues that don't smell right, such as the name changes of both parties, as well as the "medical retirement" of Daniel Dean. Medical retirement of a judge advocate is unlikely to be combat-related, but is very likely to have qualified him for disability and a string of benefits. He is medically retired, but thinks he is qualified to lead our state or more grandiose aspirations.

Similarly, why not probe Zinke's military career? I am tired of hearing him referred to as an ex-Navy SEAL when, in fact, you find that his career ended as a result of questionable judgement as defined by his superiors.

As a former full-time resident and community volunteer when I am there, I expect more from you. Let's get real here, I will be back in the spring and I was very pleased to see how vibrant Montana was all summer.

Dick Bush

Rio Verde, Ariz.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani (R) meets with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin after the third summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) in Tehran, Iran. (Xinhua Photo)

TEHRAN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran's lucrative oil and gas deals with Russian companies will help defuse U.S. President Donald Trump's "unilateralism" and his efforts to scrap Tehran's international nuclear deal, Financial Tribune daily reported Sunday.

Iran's growing economic ties with its strategic partner Russia will pose a setback to Trump's anti-Iran moves, Iran's Pertroleum Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said.

During Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to the capital Tehran on Wednesday, Russia's state oil producer Rosneft and the National Iranian Oil Company agreed on the outlines of a deal worth 30 billion U.S.-dollar energy projects, the report said.

Based on the agreements, Russian companies will continue to expand their studies on Iranian oil and gas fields.

Last month, Trump said he would not sign off on Iran's compliance with the nuclear deal, leaving a decision to the Congress to re-impose sanctions.

"These international interactions will put pressure on the unilateralism of the United States," Zanganeh said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 05:25:36|Editor: Song Lifang

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TRIPOLI, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- The UN-sponsored Libyan dialogue over the past few weeks has faced many obstacles as many concerned that the political agreement might fail due to military escalation in the east and the west of the country.

"The military escalation may affect the course of dialogue and the efforts led by the UN to amend the agreement, because it comes at a time when everyone is waiting for a quick end to the political polarization," Libyan lawmaker Faraj Abdulmalek told Xinhua.

"I believe that the recent escalation in the eastern city of Derna and the events taking place in the western city of Aziziya could end quickly, as the outstanding issues and differences will be solved," Abdulmalek added.

Unidentified warplane carried an airstrikes on Derna last week, killing and wounding 47 people, mostly civilians.

The eastern-based army denied responsibility for the airstrike, confirming an immediate investigation into the incident.

The city of Aziziya, 30 km south of the capital of Tripoli, on Tuesday witnessed movements of the military forces of UN-backed Government aimed at eliminating crime in the area, according to the military council of Zintan.

Abdulmalek praised the results of the Cairo meetings for the efforts to unify the Libyan army.

"We strongly welcome the results of the recent meetings in Cairo which aimed at bringing together the military leaders from various cities in Libya to quickly unify the national army. This would end tensions and stop any military movements by any group," he said.

According to Libyan army spokesperson, the Cairo meetings activated the role of the armed forces, "as the officers participating in these meetings came from different parts of Libya."

"Amending the political agreement is possible, however, it faces obstacles again and again, which threatens to continue the crisis," Imad Jalloul, a Libyan political analyst, told Xinhua.

"We all note that when politicians get closer to resolving their differences, local and international parties interfere and disrupt the efforts. This is often done through military escalation, in an attempt to show that a military solution is the only solution to end the conflict," Jalloul added.

Jalloul pointed out that military movements, although ineffective to resolve the conflict, due to the imbalance of power on the ground, "may be an option imposed on the Libyans to resolve the political crisis, which casts a shadow on everyone."

Over the past two months, Tunis has hosted two rounds of dialogues of Libyan unified drafting committee, representing the eastern-based House of Representatives and the Tripoli-based Higher Council of State.

The meetings discussed amendment of the current UN-sponsored political agreement.

According to the initial results of the negotiations, the committee agreed to form a new presidential council of three members instead of nine, and to separate the council from the government.

The only issues that remain are mechanism of selecting the members of the Council and the Prime Minister, as well as defining the functions of each body without interfering in its powers.

This led to the suspension of the dialogue by the Libyan House of Representatives. The House accused the Higher Council of State of attempting to take over its legislative power.

Negotiations are conducted in accordance with Article 12 of the political agreement, which states that a joint committee of the House of Representatives and the Higher Council of State, known as the Uniform Drafting Committee, must be formed to formulate those amendments, should parties want amendment of the agreement.

An armed group allied with the Government of National Accord in Tripoli, known as Tripoli Rebels Battalion, the largest military force of the Government, expressed willingness to participate in any military actions in western Libya.

"The Battalion is fully ready and willing to participate with the Western Military Region Command and the Zintan Military Council to clear Jafara and Aziziya areas of illegal criminal gangs," the battalion said in a statement.

A member of the Higher Council of State explained that "denial of the Government of National Accord's responsibility for the military operation is to avoid the accusation by the international community of mixing the cards and attempting to make a military solution in a strategic area such as Warshaffana."

"Warshaffana, which surrounds the capital of Tripoli, is a strategically important area that could facilitate entry into Tripoli. These are concerns related to the armed forces led by General Khalifa Haftar, because he has troops and camps in the area. Therefore, we see many parties struggling over controlling these vast lands," he added.

The member pointed out that these moves did not occur by accident, but were linked to the political process between the Libyan parties, which may develop to the extent of increasing division in the country.

"Everyone remembers the operation of Libya Dawn in July 2014 which created two rival parliaments and governments. Its objectives were close to the objectives of current military operation today," said the member.

The eastern-based army on Thursday warned against continued attack by the forces of the Government of the National Accord on sites of the army units in Warshaffana.

Warshaffana suffers unprecedented security chaos, including kidnapping, armed robbery and murder by criminal groups.
Saudi Arabia on Sunday offers rewards worth 400 million U.S. dollars to those who provide information on 40 Houthi leaders. (Reuters Photo)

RIYADH, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia announced on Sunday to offer rewards worth around 400 million U.S. dollars to those who provide information on 40 leaders of the Houthi militia in Yemen, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The rewards will be given to those who provide information that leads to an arrest or who know the whereabouts of the wanted.

The Interior Ministry, who posted the reward, highlighted that the announcement was a response to the increased terrorist activities by the Houthi group and its continuous acts to harm Saudi's security.

The statement accused Houthis, Iran and Hezbollah of exchanging expertise that led to the ballistic missiles attack on Saudi's territories.

On Saturday, Saudi's air forces announced they had intercepted a missile targeting Riyadh from Yemen, with no injuries reported.

Saudi led a military coalition of ten countries and intervened in Yemen's civil war in March 2015 to back the internationally recognized government of President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi against Iranian-allied Shiite Houthis who stormed the capital Sanaa and controlled much of the country's north.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 06:00:47|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Moroccan police arrested on Sunday a suspect for attempting to set fire in a restaurant frequently visited by tourists in the northern city of Larach.

According to a statement from the police, the suspect is aged 36 and worked as a street vendor.

Citing sources in the city, Hespress.com news site said the arrested was known for his "extremist orientations."

"The police arrested the suspect immediately after he broke the Al Khouzama's restaurant facade glass, which injured himself," the police statement said.

Investigations are ongoing under the supervision of the city's public prosecution to determine the motives of the criminal act, the statement said, adding that the suspect is now under medical evaluation "to verify his mental condition."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-06 06:25:53|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Moroccan Prime Minister Saad Eddine El Othmani and his Serbian counterpart Ana Brnabic vowed on Sunday to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

During the talks, the two sides said their countries are set to broaden the scope of bilateral cooperation to enhance development, the prime minister's office said in a statement.

El Othmani stressed the need to raise the level of economic cooperation to the level of political relations binding the two countries, the statement pointed out.

He called for stronger cooperation between economic operators in the two countries and organizing forums to boost trade between the two countries, the same source said.

For her part, Brnabic hailed the increased bilateral relations between the two countries, expressing her country's willingness to further boost ties with Morocco.
Gallagher awarded

Morgan Gallagher, from Ashley, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship for the 2017-18 academic year from the North Dakota Grain Dealers Educational Foundation.

She is majoring in biotechnology at North Dakota State University.

DSU poster wins

Dickinson State Universitys senior nursing class attended the North Dakota Center for Nursings third annual conference Oct. 12-13 in Bismarck, where their posters on evidence-based research topics were presented.

A poster by DSU students Teresa Buck, Emily Mnyama, Gabrielle Sickler, Virginia Sickler and Karissa Van Horn, and faculty member Analena Valdes was voted best at the conference. The poster was titled Will Using an Accurate Pain Assessment Toolkit Improve Nursing Assessments of Pain to Facilitate a Decrease in Opioid Prescriptions?

MSUM scholarship

Ariana Herman, Bismarck, has received a $750 Transfer Student Dragon Pride Scholarship from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Her parents are Sheila and Gordon Herman.

The Transfer Student Dragon Pride Scholarship is awarded to new undergraduate transfer students seeking their first undergraduate degree who have successfully completed a minimum of 24 credits with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher. Scholarship winners must be officially admitted to MSUM as full-time students.

K of C gets award

The University of Marys Knights of Columbus Council has received this years Outstanding College Council Award from the national Knights of Columbus College Councils Program.

The award recognizes accomplishments and service that include daily rosaries at the site that has become the colleges Marian Grotto and painting, repair, cleaning and general maintenance at a church on the Standing Rock Reservation.

Also, nearly 50 council members were among the 600 U-Mary students who led the March for Life in Washington, D.C.

The U-Mary council has nearly 100 members.

Earns FFA honor

Cole Ketterling, who was a member of the Wishek FFA Chapter, was among winners of the 2017 National Agricultural Proficiency Awards announced at the recent 90th National FFA Convention & Expo. Awards were given in 47 categories.

He is attending North Dakota State University, majoring in accounting and agricultural economics.

Ketterling won the award in the Diversified Crop Production-Entrepreneurship category. The award is sponsored by CHS.

Ketterling started his farming operation when he was in the seventh grade. At first, he rented 40 acres from his father. Today, he farms 300 acres, growing corn, sunflowers, spring wheat and soybeans.

His efforts have been supported by his parents, Dynette and Kermit, and his FFA adviser, Kristi Tonnessen.
Huber retires

Command Sgt. Maj. Dave Huber was honored during a retirement ceremony Oct. 21 in front of family, friends and fellow National Guard members at the Raymond J. Bohn Armory in Bismarck.

A native of Lemmon, S.D., where he still lives, Huber has served in the North Dakota Army National Guard for more than four decades.

His military career began in 1976, when he enlisted in the North Dakota Army National Guard as a combat engineer with Detachment 2, Company B, 164th Engineer Battalion in Hettinger, North Dakota. He served with the unit  organized under various elements, including the 164th Engineer Battalion, 816th Engineer Company and 141st Engineer Battalion  for more than 20 years.

In December 2003, Huber deployed to Iraq with the 141st Engineer Battalion as a platoon sergeant in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. After his return in February 2005, he was assigned as the first sergeant with the 815th Engineer Company in Edgeley. He later was assigned as the first sergeant for the 957th Engineer Company (Multi-Role Bridge) in Bismarck and the 817th Engineer Company (Sapper) in Jamestown. Huber again served in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as the 817th Engineer Company's (Sapper) first sergeant from August 2007 to June 2008.

After serving as the operations noncommissioned officer for Joint Force Headquarters in Bismarck, Huber was promoted to the rank of command sergeant major in November 2010 with the Bismarck-based Recruiting and Retention Battalion. His military career culminated as the senior marksmanship coordinator for North Dakota.

In his civilian profession, Huber works as the maintenance supervisor for the city of Lemmon, a position he's held for more than 30 years.

He lives in Lemmon with his wife, Toni. The couple has three children and three grandchildren.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that his country supports Moroccos development efforts in Africa, where the two countries work side-by side to meet challenges relating notably to addressing climate change effects.

The French president said in a message, read on his behalf at the opening of the 10th edition of the World Policy Conference (WPC), that Morocco and France remain committed to addressing climate challenges as evidenced in the UN Climate Summit COP21 and COP22. Much remains to be done notably in terms of gathering public and private funds, he said.

Macron also highlighted Moroccos openness towards the world, especially Africa, where it has undertaken steady efforts in line with French endeavor to promote Europe-Africa integration.

On the same occasion, Macron laid emphasis on the need for promoting governance on the continent with a view to absorbing shocks and bringing about change.

He shed light on a set of challenges facing the world today that require urgent responses, saying that France earmarks 0.55% of national income to promote innovation, intelligence and local partnerships.

In this respect, the French president noted that the Alliance for the Sahel, which France has launched with the European Union, the World Bank and the UNDP, is an example of this reinforced requirement.

The second challenge is education and health, said Macron, who urged the international community to be present in February 2018 in Dakar to rebuild the global partnership for education, which France will co-chair with Senegal.

The French president also called for redoubling efforts to promote the health sector, at a time when diseases that were thought to be forgotten, such as the plague, have emerged.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco also addressed a message to the conference wherein he dealt with the various challenges facing Africa, stressing the need for a Green Revolution in the continent based on a large-scale overhaul of technology and production methods suited to the African context and consistent with the requirements of climate change, and calling for achieving a transformation of African agriculture at all levels, from primary production to agro-industrial value chains.

King Mohammed VI also pointed out to the challenges facing the development of the African industrys competitiveness, mainly the development of innovative activities and the training of a skilled workforce.

The World Policy Conference, hosted in Marrakech, features sixteen plenary sessions, on The future of south east Europe, Investing in Africa, Trends in the Middle East, The global economy, America and the world one year after the election of Donald Trump, The European Union and the world, The development of Africa, in addition to four workshops on Finance and economy, Energy and climate, China and Russia in twenty years.
Less than 24 hours after the horrendous crime that cost the life of an innocent medicine student in a popular cafe in Marrakech, the Moroccan police managed to arrest the two Dutch assailants.

A statement of the Moroccan police said that investigations led to the arrest of two Dutch nationals, natives of Dominican Republic and Surinam respectively, who were hired to kill the owner of La Creme cafe.

The two hired killers are wanted by justice on charges of contract killing, hostage taking and drug trafficking

The criminals missed their target as the owner of the cafe left his place minutes before the shooting happened to the misfortune of the Medicine student and his companion who was injured along with two other customers.

As soon as he learnt about the news, the owner of the cafe fled to Casablanca where he was arrested along with 5 other suspects linked to the attack.

This is the first time that the Moroccan police deals with foreign contract killers, commissioned to kill on the Moroccan soil.

The murder was reportedly commissioned by a Moroccan living in the Netherlands, because of a dispute with the owner of the cafe, who also has connections with the Netherlands, Moroccan media said.

The murder was therefore a settlement of accounts against the backdrop of international criminal networks linked to the Netherlands.
UNESCO and Morocco signed an agreement to cooperate in the field of facilitating access to information, a right that is stipulated by the Moroccan 2011 constitution.

The three-year agreement was signed by UNESCO Director-General, Irina Bokova, and the Moroccan Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the Reform of the Administration and the Civil Service, Mohammed Benabdelkader.

The Government of Morocco is engaged in a process of reform aimed at achieving the objectives of sustainable development, with particular emphasis on good governance, said the Moroccan minister on this occasion.

He added that Morocco welcomes this agreement with UNESCO which will strengthen the Governments efforts in the field of the right of access to information, both in terms of the promotion of public and institutional information as well as building the capacity of staff.

For her part, Bokova expressed her great satisfaction at signing this important agreement, which once again reflects Moroccos confidence in UNESCOs expertise in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and in this case, the creation of knowledge societies.
Photo: Twitter Jabari Brisport in front of his campaign office in Brooklyn.

If the rich cant play nice, we take away their toys.

Its the last day in September and Jabari Brisport  an affable 29-year-old actor and part-time activist  is five weeks out from Election Day with his campaign to be the first eco-socialist ever elected to City Council. Hes not doing it to set a record, though. I dont want to win just because it would be really cool to get a socialist and Green on the City Council, he tells me over coffee in Fort Greene Park. I want to win because Im not seeing the results. Im hearing people talk the talk of being progressive, but its not enough to be progressive. Youve got to be revolutionary, youve got to be socialist, you have to want to change society, and that means going on the offense.

Bold words from a candidate  and, if you believe him, a generation. Brisport forms part of the leading edge of a millennial cohort who, coming of age in an era of high rents, low wages, persistent discrimination, and rampant economic inequality, are turning to the left for political solutions. According to a recent survey from the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, 44 percent of millennials would prefer to live in a socialist country, compared to 42 percent whod prefer to live in a capitalist country; a Harvard survey last year found that 51 percent of millennials do not support capitalism. Long scorned and viewed as defunct, particularly by older generations, the American left, broadly conceived, has witnessed a small but growing revival whose most visible manifestation was the strong performance of Bernie Sanderss primary campaign. The election of a far-right president has, if anything, accelerated the drive left among the young, broke, and educated. And the rising socialist  as opposed to merely progressive  tendency can be seen most clearly in the booming membership of the Democratic Socialists of America, a broad-based organization that has quadrupled over the past year to over 30,000 members nationwide. The DSA surge has been especially pronounced in Brooklyn, allowing Brisport to tap a large pool of young (and predominantly white) campaign volunteers.

Though its yet to make an impact at the state level and has been overshadowed by the Trump election and presidency, the lefts resurgence has already made itself felt in the nations cities. Birmingham, Alabama, and Jackson, Mississippi, have recently elected staunchly progressive mayors  Randall Woodfin and Chokwe Antar Lumumba, respectively. A stunning primary upset in Philadelphia has all but ensured that the citys next district attorney will be the Black Lives Matterendorsed Larry Krasner. Assiduous activism by the Texas Organizing Project (TOP) has mobilized working-class voters of color in Houston to the point where the city government is uniformly Democratic and primarily progressive. If Brisport wins in Brooklyn, hell join Kshama Sawant in Seattle, Khalid Kamau in Atlanta, and Carlos Rosa in Chicago among the ranks of City Council members elected on an unambiguously leftist platform. Though Sanders himself remains committed to working to reform the Democratic Party from within, the list of addresses and donors compiled by his campaign serves as the foundation for Our Revolution, an organization independent of the DNC that supports progressive candidates with labor and funding. And, contrary to the stereotype of the Bernie voter, most of these Sanders-friendly leftists (Krasner is the exception) and their voters are people of color, as is the head of Our Revolution, Ohio state senator Nina Turner. Media coverage of the new New Left has tended to view predominantly white cultural types  scabrous podcast hosts, brittle little magazines  as its vanguard. But ultimately, its influence will amount to little if its not felt first at the ballot box.

Inflaming that feeling is why Brisport is here. On the evening of November 9, marching through the cold, rainy streets protesting the president-elect, Brisport was struck by a powerful sense of inadequacy. As an actor, he had always gravitated toward roles and productions focused on social and historical affairs. He had matched his acting onstage with activism off of it: street performances, gathering signatures to fight gentrification-friendly re-zonings, among other things. But faced with the spectre of the new administration, he couldnt help but feel that it hadnt added up to much. The activism, the marching, the phone calls, the letter writing, the petitions, all of it, it stopped feeling like enough, he explains to me. It all just clicked after Trump got elected. I thought, let me try entering politics from the more traditional route.

Nearly a year later, Brisport finds himself in a difficult battle to replace Democratic incumbent Laurie Cumbo to represent Brooklyns 35th District on the City Council  a race in which he faces very long odds indeed. Cumbo has the inside track: While Brisport isnt the only Green running for city office in November, the Green organization is no match in scale or reach for the Democratic machine. As he notes without bitterness, his opponent is incomparably well-financed, both through party funds and through independent expenditures, many of them provided by local real-estate developers. Still, hes doing what he can to even the playing field. A broad base of Sanders-style small donations, magnified by the citys generous matching-funds program, ensures he wont lack for resources. Hes done what he can to make himself relatively well-known in the neighborhood; over the course of a 40-minute chat, were interrupted twice by passersby who greet him as a friend. Theyre both white, incidentally. The 35th  encompassing all or parts of Prospect Heights, Fort Greene, Clinton Hill, Crown Heights, and Bedford-Stuyvesant  has been and is being transformed by gentrification. Raised in Prospect Heights by parents of black Guyanese descent, Brisport has memories of a social space that has, in large part, vanished over the past decade, yet he also has cultural affinities with Brooklyns more recent and more privileged arrivals. He attended the prestigious Poly Prep Country Day School in Dyker Heights on scholarship; his collegiate studies in drama were conducted at NYU and Yale.

Brisports path to discovering socialism started in the wake of the 2007-08 financial crash: F the bankers: We should be in control of those banks, we need more government control, he remembers thinking. During the Obama years, he focused on what he calls issue-based stuff: gay marriage, income inequality, Black Lives Matter. Only in 2016, thanks to Sanders, with his advocacy of single-payer health care, direct opposition to financial interests in politics, and open declaration of democratic socialism, was his conversion complete. He came to a realization that summer: I had the thought that black people were brought here as capital, and that, in a sense, is what capitalism is to me: Its putting a price tag on things that shouldnt have a price tag. On people, on the land, on human rights.

When I question how he plans to navigate between the potentially divergent interests of the gentrifying classes and the communities theyre displacing, he expresses confidence that theres enough common ground to satisfy both. When I talk about affordable housing, yes, there are poor black Caribbean people making 20 or 30 thousand dollars a year that are like, yes, we need more housing thats affordable to us. Ive also dealt with constituents that are making like 80 thousand a year, or more when you consider double income, and they too say that were being squeezed. This is something that reaches across.

As with all local politics, a candidates relation with real-estate developers is a central factor. The pressing issue in the 35th concerns the Bedford Union Armory: City-owned, the Crown Heights property was slated to be sold to private developers to be transformed, mostly, into luxury condominiums; both Mayor de Blasio and Cumbo have supported the plan, though Cumbo, faced with criticism, now calls for a greater proportion of non-luxury housing. For his part, Brisport is clearly appalled by the callousness of constructing any expensive residences in a neighborhood he describes as a hotbed of evictions: 1,800 evictions in the past couple of years around nearby Ebbets Field while the owners make 4 million dollars a year; 30,000 eviction cases in the district at large compared to the 1,000 new units of affordable housing Cumbo claims credit for having created; landlords isolating, harassing, and litigating against poorer tenants with impunity. The whole scene is, in his own words, terrifying.

So what is to be done? For the Armory, a nonprofit developer and community land trust; for the district, building more housing units that its less-well-off inhabitants can afford. But he has a larger vision, too: a fair and just society in which our basic human needs are met: no ones worried about food, about water, about shelter, about health care. One where natural resources and the means of production are democratically owned and controlled. The energy industry, the metal industry, the finance sector, telecommunications, theyre all democratically controlled by the workers. The alternative, to hear him speak, is no alternative at all.

Populations crushed by debt and driven to extreme ends, a social crisis exacerbated by ecological meltdown: Its a vision so dire ones tempted to view it as improbable  as improbable, perhaps, as his own candidacy. Then again, its been a crazy year; ever since last Election Day, few outcomes have been certain until after the fact.
Photo: Max Massey/KSAT/Twitter The scene outside First Baptist Church shortly after the attack.

At least 26 people have been killed and 20 wounded following a mass shooting at a church in a small rural town outside San Antonio, Texas. At about 11:20 a.m. Sunday, a gunman attacked the congregation at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. The shooter, identified by law-enforcement sources as 26-year-old Devin P. Kelley, then fled in his car. He was later killed, or killed himself, in a neighboring county after being pursued by local residents who chased him following the attack. It is not clear how the shooter died, and his motive for the attack is not yet known.

It was, by far, the deadliest shooting at a place of worship in modern American history, as well as the deadliest mass shooting in modern Texas history. It struck in a town of less than 400 residents.

Below is everything we know so far.

Law-enforcement officers work in front of the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. Photo: Darren Abate/AP

The Attack

According to Texas law-enforcement officials, Kelley first stopped at a gas station across the highway from the church. Then he drove over to the church and began firing just after 11:20 a.m. Witnesses said he was dressed in black tactical gear and wearing a ballistic vest. He exited his car and proceeded to open fire on two sides of the church, then entered the church and continued shooting inside.

He was just spraying at the front of the church, witness Kevin Jordan, who was in his yard near the church, told the Washington Post. He was shooting outside at first, and then he walked to the door and started shooting inside.

Jordan said he ran inside and had his family huddle in the bathroom while they called 911. He said the shooter fired a shot that went through his front window, nearly hitting his two-year-old son. After the shooting stopped, Jordan headed to the church to see if he could help.

I walked inside and just walked out. I couldnt handle it, he said. It was bad. A lot of blood and bodies. The pews were knocked over. Im a medical assistant and medical assisting does not prepare you for this.

After exiting the building, Kelley was confronted by an armed local man. They exchanged gunfire, and Kelley dropped his Ruger AR-15 assault rifle and fled by car. The resident who intervened flagged down another local man who was driving by, and they pursued the shooter at high speed for about five to seven minutes before Kelley apparently lost control and drove off the road.

At that point, he was observed to be motionless, according to an interview the second man gave to KSAT News. Police later arrived and took over the scene. It is still not clear how Kelley died, but its likely he died either from a gunshot wound received after being confronted by the local resident or from one that was self-inflicted in the car.

Neither of the men who intervened were injured. Officials said they later found multiple weapons in the shooters car.

The FBI, ATF, and Texas Ranger Division are currently investigating the shooting.

Investigators work at the scene of a mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs. Photo: Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via AP

The Victims

Texas officials announced at a Sunday evening press conference that 26 people were killed in the shooting and another 20 wounded. The victims ranged in age from five to 72 years old. Twenty-three people were killed inside the church, two were killed outside, and one person later died of their injuries after being taken to the hospital. The survivors, many of whom remain hospitalized, sustained injuries of varying severity.

Local residents estimated that around 50 people would likely have been attending the 11:00 a.m. service that was underway at the time of the attack, and officials said that some were able to escape during the shooting.

This is 14-year-old Annabelle Pomeroy. Her father is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs. She was 1 of today's victims. pic.twitter.com/DwDHaUuRu0  Jessie  (@JMKTV) November 5, 2017

It seems that at least several children were among the casualties, including a 14-year-old girl  Annabelle Pomeroy, seen above  who was killed in the attack. She was the daughter of First Baptists pastor, Frank Pomeroy, who was out of town with his wife on Sunday.

Scott Holcombe, 30, told the New York Times that his father, Bryan Holcombe, who had been guest-preaching at the church, was killed, along with his mother, Karla Holcombe, and pregnant sister-in-law, Crystal Holcombe.

Im dumbfounded, Holcombe said. This is unimaginable. My father was a good man, and he loved to preach. He had a good heart.

Sandy Ward, who did not attend services on Sunday due to health problems, said her daughter-in-law and three of her grandchildren were shot. Her 7-year-old granddaughter died. Her 5-year-old grandson was shot four times and was still in surgery on Sunday night.

TX Church Shooting

4 kids from 1 family shot:

5yo boy shot 4xs, now in surgery

5yo girl

7yo girl shot & in surgery

8yo hid under a pew  David Begnaud (@DavidBegnaud) November 5, 2017

When the 2000 census was conducted, only 362 people lived in Sutherland Springs. The current death toll is about 7 percent of that population.

The Shooter

Devin Kelley. Photo: Texas Department of Public Safety

Twenty-six-year-old Devin Kelley was a resident of New Braunfels, a northeast suburb of San Antonio. Police raided his home with bomb-sniffing dogs on Sunday afternoon.

Kelley enlisted in the Air Force in 2010, and was court-martialed in 2012 for assault on his wife and her child. An Air Force spokesperson said he was sentenced to a year in military prison and a reduction in rank. He received a bad-conduct discharge in 2014, which should have prevented him from purchasing a firearm.

Records show Kelleys first wife filed for divorce in 2012. He married Danielle Lee Shields in 2014. Her mother listed a P.O. box in Sutherland Springs as a mailing address.

It seems Kelley also recently showed off an AR-15-style long rifle on his Facebook page, and the Daily Beast has obtained a screenshot of that post, which was apparently published on October 29 with the caption, Shes a bad bitch. He subsequently made the photo his profiles cover image, but its not yet clear if the weapon in the image is the primary one he used in his attack.

Photo: Facebook

The Political Aftermath

President Trump quickly tweeted about the tragedy from Japan on Sunday afternoon, and offered longer comments to his traveling press pool several hours later.

Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act. Our thanks to law enforcement for their response. More details from DPS soon. https://t.co/KMCRmOPkiM  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 5, 2017

Numerous other politicians have weighed in with their thoughts as well, and those responses have mostly fallen into two easily predictable categories: thoughts and prayers for the victims from those on the right; and alarm and calls for action over Americas ongoing gun crisis from those on the left.

May God also grant all of us the wisdom to ask what concrete steps we can take to reduce the violence and weaponry in our midst.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) November 6, 2017

#SutherlandSprings is now another red dot on map of US gun-related deaths (+11,000) in 2017. My condolences to victims and families. pic.twitter.com/jWH3c8h5xX  sarah amy harvard (@amyharvard_) November 5, 2017

Whoa, this statement from @ChrisMurphyCT on the Sutherland Springs, Texas shooting is extremely powerful. Wow. pic.twitter.com/4qyP3sH9co  Erick Fernandez (@ErickFernandez) November 5, 2017

Finally, here are some images of the aftermath showing the response from first responders and the Sutherland Springs community.

This is the scene of the shooting st the church pic.twitter.com/0sf1woffOl  KSAT Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

At least 6 helicopters called to transport victims pic.twitter.com/GTwwQfPx6L  KSAT Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

FBI just arrived on the scene. The scene is getting pushed back. pic.twitter.com/vyIyNPZHou  KSAT Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

SAPD bomb squad checking SUV in Guadalupe Co in connection with Sutherland Springs Church Shooting News4SA pic.twitter.com/c3s9aDg9xG  Leslie Bohl (@LeslieBohl) November 5, 2017

People are gathering at the Community Building learning what they can about their family and friends. Heartbreaking news and tears. pic.twitter.com/Rj55JKtTmG  KSAT Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 5, 2017

Family members and residents are gathered here at the Community Building; theyre moving media to another location in town pic.twitter.com/yACALmwaiH  Rachel D. Rice (@RachelDRice) November 5, 2017

Powerful moment as community lifts candles to the sky standing together as one @News4SA @KABBFOX29 pic.twitter.com/9vJRgX4B9K  Renee Santos (@RSantosTV) November 6, 2017

Today we come together to remember the fallen and we will not forget them for the rest of our life pic.twitter.com/rkl0IqSNSP  KSAT Max Massey (@MaxMasseyTV) November 6, 2017

This post will be updated as new information becomes available.
Putin. Photo: Sean Gallup/Getty Images

President Trump told reporters on Air Force One that hed meet Russian president Vladimir Putin during his trip to Asia.

I think its expected well meet with Putin, yeah. We want Putins help on North Korea, and well be meeting with a lot of different leaders, Trump said during a flight from Hawaii to Japan, where he kicked off his 13-day Asia swing on Saturday. The Putin face-to-face is expected to take place on Thursday at APEC, a summit for Pacific Rim leaders in Vietnam.

The topic of North Korea and its aggressive regime will be front and center during much of Trumps whirlwind trip, which spans Japan, China, South Korea, and Vietnam. But Russia is not typically seen as a key player on the issue, and its unclear what advice or help, if any, Trump hopes to solicit from Putin.

Russia borders North Korea, a senior White House official told CNN, by way of explanation. They are also very concerned I think with  the direction that North Korea is leading the region toward into this crisis and naturally Russia should have a role in that future.

The planned meeting comes as special counsel Robert Muellers probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election heats up. Three Trump aides were indicted last week, and NBC reported on Sunday that Michael Flynn, Trumps former national-security adviser, may be next.

By his administrations accounts, Trump did press Putin on election meddling during their first face-to-face meeting at the G20 summit in July. (The two also had a second encounter that wasnt disclosed until days later.) But in public, Trump has consistently dismissed the possibility that Russians tried to tilt the election. And throughout his campaign and presidency, Trump has adopted a curiously conciliatory, even obsequious, posture toward Putin, a contrast with his attitude toward many other world leaders. In August, Trump reluctantly signed a sanctions bill that would punish Russia for its role in the election, but his administration has lagged on enforcing it.
Nobody is trying to stop Russia (or anyone else) from interfering in the next election. Photo: ALEXEY DRUZHININ

The effort by Russian intelligence to meddle in the 2016 presidential election is just one of many projects within the Kremlins global hacking enterprise. The AP recently reported on the scope of this program based on a leaked digital hit list of targets in the U.S., Ukraine, Russia, Georgia, and Syria from a hacking group known as Fancy Bear.

The list, picked up by the cybersecurity firm Secureworks, covered the period from March 2015 to May 2016 and included more than 4,700 Gmail accounts globally, including at least 573 inboxes belonging to those in the top echelons of the [U.S.] diplomatic and security services. Among the targets were John Kerry, Colin Powell, thensupreme commander of NATO General Philip Breedlove, and more than 130 Democratic Party staffers and supporters  most notably, John Podesta. (There were some Republican targets, too.) Abroad, the list includes figures like Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko and Russian dissidents Mikhail Khodorkovsky, Alexei Navalny, and Maria Alyokhina of Pussy Riot, as well as their associates.

Fancy Bear has long been suspected of being affiliated with the Russian government, but the data shown to AP reporters suggests both that Fancy Bear is working for the Kremlin and that it is a sophisticated cybercrime outfit, not some fat guy in his moms basement. The data the group was collecting would require a sophisticated team of analysts to make sense of it, and their hit list is aligned too closely with Russian state interests for Moscow to credibly deny that they have anything to do with it  though, of course, they continue to do so.

Setting Donald Trump aside for a second, the story here is that the Russian government has developed a sophisticated digital propaganda and misinformation strategy based on using hacked data from public figures and institutions in countries of interest to influence public opinion and elections in those countries. Just about a year ago, they found out just how well this strategy could work, and nobody in the security sphere doubts they will use it again in 2018, 2020, and beyond. Unless we find a way to prevent or counteract this kind of foreign interference, it will quickly become a constant factor in our elections  and Russia wont be the only country doing it, either.

This isnt simply a matter of getting people like John Podesta to use two-factor authentication on their emails. These digital instigators can create real-world events, such as when two separate Russian-bought Facebook pages organized both a group of anti-Islam protesters in Texas last year and a group of counterprotesters to square off with them in Houston. The implications of a tool that lets foreign actors weaponize the American public like this are disconcerting.

Even more disconcerting is that because Trump was at best an unwitting beneficiary in last years election meddling, he cannot see past his own role in this story to understand these implications in the longer term. Congress is taking this threat seriously, at least, as is special prosecutor Robert Mueller, but the messaging from the White House has been consistently to downplay the problem by way of denying that any collusion took place. It is hard to see how our government can effectively respond to this new trend in cyberespionage when the president thinks its all fake news.

The masterstroke of Russias election disruption is that its very hard for any president, especially an ego-driven character like Trump, to acknowledge receiving that kind of help. If this gets reduced to a political fight over whether this administration is in bed with the Kremlin, and if the public becomes divided along partisan lines as to whether the interference happened at all, that will go a long way toward ensuring that Russias digital army of hackers and trolls continues to work unimpeded.

Perhaps instead of trying to catch the administration in another lie, the White House press corps should start asking what the executive branch is doing to prevent this type of interference from happening again in the future. Responding to such threats is part of the presidents job, and if he refuses to do so, he should pay a price for that negligence, at least in the court of public opinion. The scope of the threat here is much bigger than one election and one president, or even one country, and combating it needs to be a focal point of our foreign and national-security policies, regardless of which president or party Russias machinations are currently helping.
You forgot about Russia. Photo: Drew Angerer/Getty Images

President Trumps Commerce secretary, Wilbur Ross, has close business ties with members of Vladimir Putins inner circle that he never revealed during his Senate confirmation hearings, according to a massive document leak whose details were published on Sunday.

Ross retains significant investments in Navigator Holdings, a shipping company he once controlled. One of Navigators most lucrative activities is transporting gas for Sibur, an enormous Russian energy company whose second-biggest shareholder is Kirill Shamalov, Putins son-in-law. The companys ownership also includes Gennady Timchenko, a friend of Putin who has been sanctioned by the U.S.

Ross disclosed his connections to Navigator to the Senate, but not the companys dealings with Sibur.

By setting up a series of shell companies in the Cayman Islands, Ross, who has had a hand in hundreds of businesses, made it difficult to trace his connection to Russia.

I am astonished and appalled because I feel misled, Democratic senator Richard Blumenthal told NBC.

A spokesperson for Ross told the New York Times that Navigators relationship with Sibur predated his time at the company, and that he had never met the Russian oligarchs in question. As for possible conflicts of interest involving Russian policy, the spokesperson said that Ross recuses himself from any matters focused on transoceanic shipping vessels.

Worth multiple billions of dollars, he is by far the Trump administrations richest cabinet member.

The leaked documents, which are being referred to as the Paradise Papers, came from Appleby, a prominent law firm based in Bermuda that specializes in offshore bank accounts. They were originally procured by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, then given to the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which made them available in part to several outlets. Approximately 13.4 million documents were leaked, with tax details of more than 100 public figures exposed. (Included among them are fellow Trump administration officials Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Treasury Secretary Gary Cohn.)

They expose the arcane, but legal, tax-evasion methods of powerful figures (including the Queen of England) and corporations worldwide. Their disclosure recalls the Panama Papers, a leaked cache of documents that sparked political firestorms in many countries after their publication in 2015.

The news comes amid a heightening of special counsel Robert Muellers probe into Russias interference in the 2016 election. NBC News reports that Mueller may soon indict Michael Flynn, Trumps former national-security adviser.
Space policy

The bulk of Senators' questions did not focus on the nuts and bolts of Bridenstine's vision for NASA, including how he would carry out Vice President Mike Pence's recent declaration that Americans will return to the surface of the Moon. What little details there were came mostly from Bridenstine himself.

In his opening remarks, Bridenstine pledged to follow the guidance of the NASA Transition Authorization Act, and expressed support for the agency's Space Launch System, Orion, and commercial crew program. With regard to science, he mentioned the Mars 2020 rover, Europa Clipper, the James Webb Space Telescope, Parker Solar Probe and two Earth science missions, NISAR and IceSat-2. Also in his remarks, and later in the hearing, Bridenstine touched on the importance of NASA's community-driven decadal surveys, which set priorities for science programs in ten-year increments.

Before Bridenstine spoke, Senator Bill Nelson gave a lengthy speech outlining his concerns over the nomination; in particular, his previously stated position that a politician shouldn't lead NASA.

"The leader of NASA should not be political. The leader of NASA should not be bipartisan. The leader of NASA should be non-partisan," Nelson said.

Bridenstine responded to this charge later in the hearing by pointing to James Webb, who served as NASA administrator under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson from 1961 to 1968. Prior to his stint at NASA, Webb had a long political career, including a turn as Undersecretary of State for President Harry Truman.

"He certainly did great work on behalf of this country," Bridenstine said of Webb. "I think he did it honorably, without politicizing or making it partisan, and that would be my model."

Climate change

As expected, Democrats pressed Bridenstine on his past skepticism of climate change. Bridenstine's views on the subject appear to have evolved, in that he no longer rejects the notion humans are warming the planet.

"I'll tell you what I believe," Bridenstine replied, in a question to Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz. "I believe carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas. I believe that humans have contributed to carbon dioxide in the atmosphere."

When pressed by Schatz, Bridenstine stopped short of saying current climate-warming trends are caused primarily by human activities.

"That is a question that I do not have an answer to. But I do know that humans have absolutely contributed to global warming," said Bridenstine.

Walking this line could give Bridenstine a smoother path to confirmation, making him a less-polarizing choice than other Trump appointees, such as fellow Oklahoman Scott Pruitt. Pruitt currently leads the Environmental Protection Agency after having sued it multiple times as a state attorney general during the Obama administration.

Bridenstine also reiterated his larger interest in weather modeling, as a representative from a state periodically afflicted by devastating tornadoes. He pledged he would not punish NASA scientists for conducting climate research, nor did he intend to eliminate the agency's Earth science division.

Supporters and detractors

Outside of the Senate commerce committee, Bridenstine has garnered support from several key corners of the space community.

Alabama Senator Richard Shelby, who is fiercely protective of NASA's Space Launch System, endorsed Bridenstine. So has the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, while the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration said his nomination "advances the framework for U.S. leadership in space." Colorado Congressman Ed Perlmutter, a Democrat, also supports Bridenstine.

Washington Senator Patty Murray, however, has made it clear she will not vote for Bridenstine's nomination. In a letter to the committee, she said Bridenstine's LBGTQ views made him a bad choice to lead an agency as diverse as NASA.

New Jersey Senator Corey Booker addressed this point, offering praise for Bridenstine's "humility" during a prior meeting while expressing concerns about his stance on children raised by same-sex couples.

"So if you're NASA administrator, and someone asks you questions about sexual morality, you're going to stay consistent with your past statements on how you view same-sex couples raising children?" Booker said.

"I believe every person has value and worth, and I absolutely believe that, and I will be committed to making sure there is equal opportunity, and standards will be uniform," said Bridenstine. "I want to make sure every person at NASA has the opportunity to excel based on the merits of their work exclusively."

What's next

After the hearing, South Dakota Senator John Thune, who chairs the committee, told reporters he expects to hold a vote advancing Bridenstine's nomination to the full Senate as early as next Wednesday. He believes Bridenstine will ultimately be confirmed.

When the full Senate would vote is less clear. Even if confirmed relatively quickly, Bridenstine may be unable to make drastic changes to NASA's 2019 budget, which is scheduled for release in February 2018 and is nearing its final form this month. From a fiscal standpoint, his vision for the agency might not get legs until the 2020 fiscal year.

The average time for the Senate to approve a White House NASA administrator pick is 42 days. It's been 61 days thus far; the longest time taken by the Senate was 80 days, for Richard Truly under George H. W. Bush in 1989.
GLENS FALLS  The Great Tea Wall of Glens Falls is often discovered quite by accident.

Sometimes, tea-drinking tenderfoots stumble upon it while wandering the herb-scented hallways of The Shirt Factory on Lawrence Street. Or maybe after a painting class, the mysterious scent of exotic lands beckons them closer. Some from other cities wander over after visiting The Hyde Collection. And on occasion, a tea connoisseur deliberately seeks out the expanse of hand-picked leaves protected in tins one atop the other.

But for all who enter, the secrets of the wall press forth, tempting even those who love the convenience and taste of their cellophane-wrapped orange pekoe Red Rose tea bags, 100 for $4.39, from a local grocer.

Take one look at the wall  Sage Woman, Meeting of the Mints, Afternoon with Aunt Faye, Orchid Oolong and Dragon Phoenix Jasmine Pearls  and curiosity piques as its 500 varieties hold promises of the delicate, the bold, the pungent, the woody, the fruity or spicy. Or what about a cake of the earthy vintage Royal Pu Ehr tea, thats been aging since 1988?

Whats in that one? Do you have anything peppery? What do you suggest?

And so begins the exchange in front of the Great Tea Wall in a tucked-away first-floor corner of The Shirt Factory, just past Jacqueline Toubas art studio, at Sensibili Teas.

We have one of the largest selections in the Northeast, said Ben Kemp on Wednesday afternoon, surrounded by the hundreds of selections he can easily discuss. Kemp knows the history, regions and tales of tea. We love to introduce people to real tea.

Sensibili Teas, created by Donnalynn Milford 11 years ago, is all about feeling comfortable with tea. And staff members guide patrons toward narrowing down choices, especially for newcomers to tea. When a customer comes in, we develop a flavor profile, Kemp said. From 500 teas, we narrow it down to about four or five teas.

Do you like cinnamon?

Mint?

Fruity?

Nutty?

We focus on making everyone feel comfortable, he said, adding that some people who come into the shop have never tried loose leaf tea.

Most of the world drinks loose leaf tea ... loose leaf is still harvested by hand and they are picking the best leaves.

Tea tales, the history of tea

It was along the fabled and mystical Silk Road  spanning 7,000 kilometers from China through Tibet, Afghanistan, Persia and to the Mediterranean Sea  more than 2,000 years ago that ancient traders began peddling tea, often trading pressed bricks of tea for jewels and other riches.

A tea brick was currency on the ancient road, said Kemp, while showing a brick that sits in a case in their shop. It is compressed so hard it would be used like money. In China they still sell bricks and cakes of tea ... and they can be purchased in big cities.

Two years ago, traveling from central China to Kazakhstan, a caravan of 138 tea-laden camels and traders retraced the steps of ancestors in an effort to re-energize this historical trade route and sell their teas.

From this trade route, a culture of tea spread from China to India, Japan, Africa and other ports, making it popular among not only kings and princes, but also on rural farms.

With so many tastes and blends, its almost hard to believe that all tea (except for herbal) comes from one source, the Camellia sinensis, a flowering evergreen. It is in the cultivation, region, soil, temperatures, moisture and harvesting that the different flavors and aromas are born.

In China, where nearly 1.2 million tons of tea are produced, Camellia sinensis thrives in cool temperatures on high mountain slopes. Because it has a shorter growing season, it produces more tender leaves and a sweeter, less pungent tea.

Indias main tea regions are Darjeeling and Assam, with Darjeeling teas having complex flavors and Assam teas more bold and tannic, served with milk and sugar.

Quite often breakfast teas come from the Assam Region, but Irish Breakfast is actually a blend of Assam and Ceylon (Sri Lanka).

There is an incredible variety, said Kemp, adding that there are tea aficionados who speak the language of tea, much like wine tasters, swirling and swishing the brew across their palate to savor its essence.

Tea plants from China were stolen by the British and replanted in India. And wars have been fought over tea. Consider the Boston Tea Party.

According to the Boston History Museum, in 1773, the Sons of Liberty smashed open, with axes, 340 chests of British East India Company tea, weighing over 92,000 pounds, and dumped them into Boston Harbor in a tax protest. In todays money, the destroyed tea was worth more than $1,700,000 dollars, according to the museum.

And in many cultures, tea leaves not only offer a delicate drink, they are bearers of future fates, as fortune tellers use the tea leaves left in a tea drinkers cup as a window into what lies ahead. Even Harry Potter in the Prisoner of Azkaban faces the grim fate of a tea-leaf prediction of death.

Storing and steeping

Light, moisture and air are enemies of the tea leaf.

The best storage method is a tin can, said Kemp. It needs to be kept out of light.

Kemp explained that the teas packed for grocery sale are often in cellophane that is clear and breathes, causing the tea to lose potency and flavor.

People come in here and say they have to use two or three bags in one cup, he said, adding that the way it is stored and packed leads to flavor loss.

Also, mass-produced tea bags generally come from equipment-harvested tea, not hand-picked. We have the means in this country, but we choose a lower quality for convenience, Kemp said.

When tea leaves are harvested with farm equipment versus by hand, other things like stems, junk and sticks can get into the tea, he said, explaining that some mass-produced teas also have additives like sugar.

With loose tea, brewing is simple and can be done by making your own tea bags using a press pot, a tea ball or a gravity-fed Australian brewer that fits right on top of the cup.

All teas purchased at Sensibili Teas come with an ingredients list and brewing instructions because some delicate leaves, like white and green, should be made with water that is not boiling. Some teas should steep for only two to three minutes, while others should steep for five minutes, and herbal teas really have no limit.

Certain teas can stand up to multiple brewings, Kemp said. Oolong can re-steep in the same cup twice. Hunan Gold, you can get six cups from one teaspoon.

Generally, the rule is one teaspoon for eight ounces of water, but as Kemp said, it comes down to preference.

Once the steeping time has passed, make sure to remove the tea, because at that point it begins releasing bitter tannins.

According to Kemp, half of tea making is the smelling of the warm water over the leaves, like a ceremony.

Its a slower-appropriate type of drink, he said. We encourage people to take our list of teas home and explore it and come in to smell, try and order.
Over more than a month, The Post-Star editorial board has been meeting with candidates from across the region who are seeking its endorsement.

There were 39 meetings in all, taking up an estimated 20 hours of time.

We didnt get to talk about every issue, but our 30 minutes with each candidate provided insights into their qualifications, intelligence, leadership and character that few voters will have the opportunity to experience.

We dont expect any voter to use our endorsement as the sole reason for their choice. We hope it is just one of the tools they use before going into the voting booth.

In Saturdays newspaper, The Post-Star provided voters with an Election Guide that included capsules of information that provided biographical information and what candidates believe are the most important issues facing their communities. All in their own words.

Most importantly, voter turnout is notoriously low in local elections.

Do your homework and go to the polls.

Cambridge supervisor

Cassie Fedler vs. Beaver Watkins

As the current supervisor, Cassie Fedler has struggled to keep the budget under the tax cap, but considering the economic challenges in the town, Fedlers save-for-a-rainy-day approach is the best way forward to keep taxpayers from being even harder hit when the town needs expensive new equipment.

ENDORSEMENT: Cassie Fedler

Easton supervisor

Phil Nicholas vs. Dan Shaw

The infectious personality of Phil Nicholas and his insistence that he can bring more interest into town government and the community make him an attractive candidate. Shaw has done a competent job keeping Easton on sound financial footing while getting state money to renovate Burton Hall. But Nicholas sold us that he could take Easton to the next level.

ENDORSEMENT: Phil Nicholas

Glens Falls mayor

Candidates: Dan Hall, Rich Cirino, Tim Guy

In this three-man race to be the next mayor, it was clear that Dan Hall, Glens Falls councilman at large for the past nine years, has been groomed for the position and is the most qualified to continue the good work done by Mayor Jack Diamond. We were further impressed by Halls ongoing preparation so he can do the best job possible for city residents. Both Tim Guy and Rich Cirino are lacking in the experience needed to lead a city the size of Glens Falls.

ENDORSEMENT: Dan Hall

Glens Falls

councilman at large

Jane Reid vs. Robin Barkenhagen

Jane Reid and her opponent, Robin Barkenhagen, mostly agree on what the issues are in Glens Falls and on what should be done about them. Aging infrastructure needs to be replaced, derelict housing addressed, taxes kept in check. The difference between the candidates comes in their public sector experience and record of getting things done. Barkenhagen is a downtown merchant with no political experience. Reid is a lawyer who has served on the Glens Falls school board and Planning Board and has been the 3rd Ward councilwoman since 2013. Her long engagement in the civic and political life of the community makes her the best choice for councilor at large.

ENDORSEMENT: Jane Reid

Glens Falls Common Council, Ward 1

Jim Campinell vs. Phillip Underwood

Phillip Underwoods career as a contractor and now as a development manager for a landscape supply company should be useful on the Common Council, particularly in dealing with one of the biggest problems in the citys neighborhoods, derelict housing. Underwood is running against Jim Campinell, who is finishing his first term on the council. Campinell is running as part of a unity slate of three Republicans and three Democrats, looking to get re-elected on the basis of progress the city has made over the past few years. Wed prefer to see some fresh faces and fresh energy on the board and think Underwood can provide that.

ENDORSEMENT: Phillip Underwood

Glens Falls Common Council, Ward 3

Rachel Murray vs. Diana Palmer

Third-Ward voters are fortunate to have two excellent choices to represent them on the Common Council. Both are young professionals who should bring lots of energy to the job. Ultimately, the choice came down to Murray having more experience on the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. Both of these positions provide outstanding experience for working in municipal government and, while we believe both would do a good job, Murray is better prepared and would have less of a learning curve.

ENDORSEMENT: Rachel Murray

Glens Falls Common Council, Ward 4

Candidates: Steve Baratta, Scott Endieveri, Ben Lapham

Ben Lapham is skeptical of the conventional wisdom. He criticized Common Council meetings as perfunctory affairs and suggested citizens would be better off if decisions were being more thoroughly questioned in public. Scott Endieveri, the incumbent councilman, emphasized the progress downtown has made over the past four years, particularly in public infrastructure. Steve Baratta, the third candidate in the three-way race, offered some creative ideas, such as development of upper floors in downtown buildings as collaborative workspaces, but seems unprepared for a job as councilman. Lapham raised pertinent questions that wed like to see being asked by a member of the Common Council.

ENDORSEMENT: Ben Lapham

Glens Falls Ward 1 supervisor

Jack Diamond vs. Nancy Underwood

As the current mayor in the city, Jack Diamond brings close to two decades of experience to local government. It is hard to argue with those credentials. Still, our editorial board struggled with its decision. Part of that reason was that Nancy Underwood has outstanding credentials as well, and could be someone who will provide new ideas to the county Board of Supervisors. Ultimately, the board decided unanimously that as long as Diamond was engaged and motivated, he was probably the better choice to represent the 1st ward in Warren County.

ENDORSEMENT: Jack Diamond

Johnsburg supervisor

Andrea Hogan vs. Peter Olesheski

Johnsburg is fortunate to have two committed and well-qualified candidates seeking the job of supervisor. As director of Adirondack Community Outreach Center, Andrea Hogan coordinates a large group of volunteers to provide various services to local people in need. Peter Olesheski has been working for the county for years and is now in his second term on the Town Board. Olesheski has the knowledge to be an effective advocate for the town at the county and the experience to do a good job as supervisor.

ENDORSEMENT: Peter Olesheski

Lake George supervisor

Dennis Dickinson vs. Dan Hurley

Dennis Dickinson has the right skill set to handle the complexity of issues facing the town of Lake George, from invasive species and home septic systems to figuring out the right way to market the economic tourist engine of the region. Dickinson has also been a champion of consolidation in working with the village to get things done.

ENDORSEMENT: Dennis Dickinson

Glens Falls Ward 4 supervisor

Karen Judd vs. Bill Loeb

Karen Judd, a lawyer who serves as the deputy city attorney for Glens Falls, brings an impressive resume to her campaign to represent the citys 4th Ward on the Warren County Board of Supervisors. Before going to law school, she had a career in social services and served as the director of services in Schoharie County. Her administrative experience as the head of an important county department will be an invaluable asset on the county board. We respect the public service of her opponent, Bill Loeb, who has served both as a city councilman and as a county supervisor from the 4th Ward. But were impressed by Judds qualifications and think she can add to the small group of supervisors bringing a fresh approach to the county board.

ENDORSEMENT: Karen Judd

Moreau supervisor

Todd Kusnierz vs. Mike Linehan

Todd Kusnierz is a longtime Town Board member and a staffer for state Sen. Patty Richie. He has the knowledge and experience to be the supervisor Moreau needs to catch up with its neighbors to the south in Wilton and the north in Queensbury. Mike Linehan is sincere, has some creative ideas and is a hard worker, but has never served in public office. If Kusnierz steers away from the confrontations that have dominated the board in recent years, he should be able to accomplish good things in Moreau.

ENDORSEMENT: Todd Kusnierz

Queensbury Town Board, Ward 1

Hal Bain vs. Tony Metivier

Hal Bain announced a couple of weeks ago that he was not running and was not seeking the boards endorsement. Considering the Republican hi-jinks, in which Republican leaders plotted to have another candidate appointed if Bain won the election, it was all for the best. Metivier, a Republican who has been targeted by other Republicans in the town over a vote on the towns law firm, has the experience and, most importantly, moral scruples to continue to represent his ward.

ENDORSEMENT: Tony Metivier

Queensbury Town Board, Ward 2

Catherine Atherden vs. Brian Clements

Brian Clements, the incumbent, had little new to say to the editorial board, and worse, he defended an underhanded political maneuver Republican officials had tried in Ward 1. He also defended the town attorney, while his opponent, Catherine Atherden, sensibly called for replacing the town attorney because of his partisan political activity. Atherden has broad employment experience and is active in local environmental organizations. She is thoughtful and independent and will bring a fresh viewpoint to a board that needs it.

ENDORSEMENT: Catherine Atherden

Queensbury Town Board, Ward 4

Tim Brewer vs. Jennifer Switzer

Ward 4 has two great choices with the experienced Brewer and the accomplished Switzer. We opted for Switzer, who has lost twice before, because of her plan for a multi-year financial plan that could put the town on good footing for years to come and because of her years of experience in municipal finance.

ENDORSEMENT: Jennifer Switzer

Queensbury supervisor

Rachel Seeber vs. John Strough

John Strough is a hard-working, effective public servant. For two terms he has presided over a prosperous Queensbury and deserves a third term. Seeber has failed to distance herself from dirty politics being practiced by Republican Party leaders in town. Strough needs to start delegating work to Town Board members, and we believe he has learned from his mistakes in holding back a bad audit from other Town Board members. Ultimately, he has gotten a lot done and shows no sign of running out of energy.

ENDORSEMENT: John Strough

Salem supervisor

Sue Clary vs. Bruce Ferguson

We believe Sue Clarys vision for the future trumps Bruce Fergusons vast experience as a previous longtime supervisor. Clary has worked on boards in both the village and town and has positioned herself to help finish the recent consolidation. But more importantly, she wants to see improvements that will help Salem grow and become an attractive place to live for another generation. The board was sold that she could deliver on that promise.

ENDORSEMENT: Sue Clary

Thurman supervisor

Cynthia Hyde vs. Susan Shepler

Susan Shepler has experience from her job with a school district in handling financial accounts and dealing with budgets that her opponent, incumbent Supervisor Cynthia Hyde, lacks. Shepler also has the steady disposition and results-oriented approach to keep the Town Board on an even keel amid sometimes-contentious town politics. Paying for necessary infrastructure and services in small, remote towns like Thurman is difficult, and Shepler is best equipped for the challenge.

ENDORSEMENT: Susan Shepler

Whitehall supervisor

John Rozell vs. Pete Telisky

Pete Telisky has a wealth of experience serving the village as a trustee and mayor and six years as town supervisor when he rose to chairman of the Washington County Board of Supervisors. But the board was taken with the low-key approach of current Town Board member John Rozell, who promised to keep a strict philosophy of fiscal conservatism. Whitehall might not change much, but Rozell can keep the taxes low.
The US must attempt to resolve its hostilities with North Korea using every possible diplomatic avenue before considering military action, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union."

"We have to exhaust every other remedy," Pelosi said.

Pelosi's comments came after the Pentagon sent a letter to lawmakers late last month saying the only way to destroy all of North Korea's nuclear weapons "with complete certainty" would be to conduct a ground invasion of the country.

Pelosi said she was worried not only about the threat of North Korea conducting a strike, but also about Pyongyang selling nuclear technology to third parties.

"My concern about North Korea is not only what they're doing, but what they're advertising," Pelosi said. "They may want to sell some of this technology."

The California Democrat said President Donald Trump's current trip to Asia presents an important opportunity for the US to get the international community, including Russia, cooperating on diplomacy with North Korea.

Pelosi referenced Trump's recent remark that he is "the only one that matters" when asked in an interview about vacant positions in the State Department, adding that the President must go into his talks with as much information as possible.

Russia has a "mixed agenda" on North Korea, she warned, adding, "I hope the President goes into the meeting really informed."

The Pentagon's letter said it fully supported the diplomatic efforts, including economic sanctions, to pressure North Korea, and said the Joint Chiefs of Staff had not seen a change in North Korea's offensive posture.

In a separate interview on the same program, California Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein said the Pentagon letter "is the most bleak assessment," and that she had spoken about the situation with Defense Secretary James Mattis.

"The worst alternative is a war which could become nuclear," Feinstein said.

She stressed the importance of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's diplomatic efforts, saying a war with North Korea would be guaranteed to kill hundreds of thousands of people.

CNN's Kevin Bohn contributed to this report.
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IPL 2023: Going to be very interesting what new SRH management does, says Moody on Williamson not being retained
Odd, isnt it, how the face of a city can change? I strolled along the 100 block of West 3rd in sunny downtown Davenport and realized the truth of that. Not a business that I patronized in my palmy days is still there. Harold Bechtel, president of the old First Trust and Savings Bank, would be upset that his old bank building is now an upscale arcade bar. Before that it was the classy Schneffs Jewelry store, where genial Warren Schneff greeted every potential customer like they were ready to buy diamonds. Along the way, the bank building was supposed to become a chiropractic museum, but that flopped for reasons never fully explained.

West 3rd Street once had everything, like the Trio Restaurant, which we will embarrassingly delve into in a few paragraphs, and places like Paul Rigas shoe shine parlor where you could get your hat blocked  who does that anymore?  or your trousers repaired for a buck.

Most admired eatery in the block was Shannons, a crown of great food where you could be elbow-to-elbow with a doctor or lawyer. You sat in a leather seat that had a marble attached table to dine on a 39-cent meat pie or a 49-cent chicken a la king or a 50-cent French dip.

Now, the "meat" of this story: One day, Duke Woods and I, both reporters at the old Democrat & Leader, decided to do the Trio for lunch. Louie Savadge, our noospapers regional editor, overheard our plans and decided to also try the Trio. Louie stepped to the counter, softly faking the cashier: Those two dudes (us) in that corner booth are counterfeiters, passing bogus $20 bills. We overheard the ruse, so I purposely paid our check with a $20 bill to see if anything would happen. The cashier fidgeted, delayed giving me our change and reached for the phone. We innocently left as a squad car pulled up.

You two birds are passing phony $20 bills, said one of the officers. We protested that was a joke, that we were reporters and showed them our press cards. They called the station where Tony Wallace, the desk sergeant, laughed, Thats Willy and Duke. Theyre real reporters. Tell them you are sorry and give them a ride back to their newspaper office.

There, Louie Savadge was red-faced and sheepish to apologize. Bill Ceperly, the city editor, was laughing so hard I thought hed fall out of his chair.

Notes on the back of an envelope

A serious-sounding man called to ask where he could get some Sen-Sen. By coincidence, I had recently thrown away two old boxes of the pellets that would take your breath away. I suggested the caller try Lagomarcinos in Moline. Ill look up the number for you. He said, Really, never mind. I live in California.

ON THE SUBJECT of Lagos: Between the two Quad-City sweet shops, they have sold 16,800 caramel apples this season, surpassing last year. The apples are called Braiburns, from the state of Washington.

HIGH MAY they wave. Old Glory catches the breeze from the flotilla of towering-tall cranes at work on the new I-74 bridge between Moline and Bettendorf. Thats tradition-n-n-n.
When I heard about the Ken Burns-Lynn Novik PBS series on the Vietnam War, I had immediate trepidation as to how it would be handled. After watching the entire series, I see that I was right in my feelings.

With the exception of the last episode, which dealt with our fallen brothers and The Wall, the rest of the series was another slap in the face of all the men who served with honor when our country called.

I feel compelled to quote Jim Webb, Marine combat vet, author, former secretary of the Navy and senator from Virginia:

The sizeable portion of the Vietnam age group who declined to support the counter-culture agenda, and especially the men and women who opted to serve in the military during the Vietnam War, are quite different from their peers who for decades have claimed to speak for them. In fact, they are much like the World war II generation itself. For them Woodstock was a sideshow, college protesters were spoiled brats who would have benefited from having to work a few jobs in order to pay their tuition, and Vietnam represented not an intellectual exercise in draft avoidance or protest marches but a battlefield that was brutal as those their fathers faced in World War II.

Burns and Novik had the unmitigated gall to hold up Vietnam vets who came home and protested the war -- right they most certainly earned -- as being the spokesperson for all Vietnam vets. To further insult us, they held up a draft evader who fled to Canada. This was shown in the light as a righteous alternative to serving your country.

Where were the interviews with the chopper pilots that came in through shot and shell to pick-up our wounded, drop off ammo or provide close air support? Where were the rank and file infantrymen who through fire and steel beat the enemy at every turn in every battle of consequence? Where were the guys that provided our pay, our food, our transportation, our POL, our logistics and our supplies? They had impact on every soldier that carried an M-16. All served and the vast majority served with honor and were proud, yes proud of their service to our country.

But that is not what America saw. They saw victims -- victims of a corrupt America. And those victims should be pitied and forgiven for their service because, well, they were merely pawns in a war that America had no business being involved in.

The North Vietnamese carried out an invasion into the sovereign country of South Vietnamese. It was not a civil war; it was a war to stop the south being taken over by Communism. There was no mention how Communism, left unchecked, would then spread to Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines and then  on to Australia. That was the plan, but the price they paid in Vietnam was so costly that it derailed the entire process and we did that. Yes, we did it at terrible price, but we did it.

So to Burns and Novik, nice try in providing the perfect I told you so to all those that scorned us and took steps to ensure they would never serve. But the fact of this matter is that when America called, we answered and did so with honor.
Woman killed in collision on icy roads

ARNEGARD  An Idaho woman was killed and three other people were injured early Friday afternoon when a vehicle spun out of control and struck another on icy roads near Arnegard.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported Allen F. Parkinson, 52, Sugar City, Idaho, was eastbound on U.S. Highway 85 about 4 miles west of Arnegard when his 2004 GMC Envoy rotated counterclockwise and entered the westbound lanes. Duane P. Lindgren, 64, Fergus Falls, Minn., was traveling west in a 2016 Toyota Highlander when it struck the passenger side of the Lindgren vehicle.

The female passenger in Parkinsons vehicle, Robyn L. Johnson, 51, Roberts, Idaho, died at the scene. Parkinson, Lindgren and his passenger, Joy L. Lindgren, 61, Fergus Falls, all were taken to the McKenzie County Hospital in Watford City, N.D.

The Highway Patrol said all four people were wearing seat belts. The crash is under investigation, and no charges have been filed.

The McKenzie County Sheriffs Department, McKenzie County Ambulance and the Arnegard and Alexander Fire and Rescue responded to the scene.

Man robbed at Dennys parking lot

GRAND FORKS -- Grand Forks police are searching for a man in connection with an early Friday morning report of a robbery and assault near Dennys.

Officers responded at 2:25 a.m. to 3770 32nd Ave. S. for a fight in the restaurant's parking lot, but they could not find anyone involved in the incident, according to a news release.

They then were called two hours later to Altru Hospital to investigate an assault. Officers learned the victim was allegedly assaulted in the parking lot of Dennys. A watch was taken from the victim, who was treated for a broken wrist, police said.

Officers are looking for a black man who is 20 to 30 years old, is 6 feet tall and weighs about 180 pounds. He was described as wearing an orange and brown shirt.

Anyone with information about the incident should call the Grand Forks Police Department at (701) 787-8000.

-- Compiled from wire services and staff reports
Recently, I had a meeting with Davenport Schools Superintendent Art Tate, Dr. Bill Decker, chief administrator of Mississippi Bend AEA 9 and Kim Huffman, director of Special Education. We met to discuss options for improving the deaf education program in our area. This meeting was very positive and I want to share the information with you and explain how you can be involved.

Because of my experiences with my own children, who are both deaf, I have experienced working through the system, and seeing how the system can affect their academic, language and social development. Dr. Tate agreed with me, and he set up the appointment for us to meet with Dr. Bill Decker and Kim Huffman.

During that meeting, I shared data about language and reading levels for deaf and hard-of-hearing children in Iowa. This data shows that deaf/HOH kids are way behind their non-deaf peers. Dr. Tate, Dr. Decker, and Ms. Huffman all agreed with me that this data is unacceptable, and we need to do something to change and improve. We are currently discussing the option of having a regional academy or magnet program in Davenport, which would also accept students from Muscatine, Clinton and other surrounding areas. This would be a way to pool our resources, and provide a better option for our deaf/HOH children to learn, grow, and make friends with other kids who are like them.

The next step is to find out if this is something that parents want. If you are interested in joining with me to help change the system for deaf/hard of hearing students, please let me know. AEA has asked that I provide the name of the parents and the age or grade level of their child.

Dirk Hillard

Davenport
Q: We are struggling to make our house payment and are now past due. We also have credit card debt and medical bills. It feels like we are sinking. There are so many different companies advertising various kinds of help that Im not sure where to go. Any suggestions?

A: There are a number of companies that offer help, but many have restrictions on the types of debt they will help with. Unfortunately, I see individuals go to one company for mortgage help, another company for help with credit cards, and still another company for help with all their other debts. This is not a good solution.

For your finances to improve you need a cohesive plan that addresses all of your financial issues. When you go to a variety of companies to handle different parts of your debts you do not have a coordinated plan that works. It is likely you will end up paying too much in fees for services. In addition, you may find that the progress you make is one area is offset by setbacks in other areas.

Not all companies that assist with mortgage delinquencies and debts are reputable. It is important that you do your research. Find the companys Better Business Bureau rating. Check to see if there are complaints against the company. When it comes to your money, you are often better off working with a local established company with a good reputation.

You need solutions that address your housing situation and all your debts. Look for a non-profit accredited credit counseling agency that is also a HUD approved housing counseling agency. Most sessions will start with a no or low cost budget counseling. The counselor needs know what your income, expenses, and debts are in order to help you review all the options available to you. Everyones situation is different. People owe different debts, are at different stages of delinquencies, have different incomes, and have different needs and household expenses. It is important that the organization you work with has counselors trained in mortgage delinquency options.

A counselor will help create a budget that will work for you now and in the long term. They will develop an action plan that address any mortgage delinquencies and all your debt, not just part of it.

Before things get any worse I suggest that you make an appointment with a non-profit accredited credit counseling agency that is also a HUD approved housing counseling agency. It is important that you address all your debts and find the best options to improve your entire financial situation.
A U.S. Navy submarine crests the waves of the Pacific Ocean, its gray hull capped with white foam as it submerges back into the icy depths. Several thousand miles away, U.S. Air Force missileers sit in underground launch control centers filled with an assortment of screens, buttons, dials and switches. They wait for a call they hope never comes, the end-result of the U.S. Presidents decision to deploy nuclear weapons.

At any given moment, the nations strategic bomber fleet, made up of B-1s, B-2s and B-52s, stands ready to execute the deadliest half of their nuclear/conventional mission. When these aircrews are not taking the fight to ISIS, or reconnoitering drug smugglers, theyre honing their skills in the employment of some of the most dangerous weapons in human history.

All of these Airmen and Sailors have one thing in common: they work day in and day out to prevent World War III. Their force is one that is survivable, responsive and flexible  a dynamic that underpins a relative world peace.

Although all branches of service play a role in deterring large-scale conflict in one way or another, two services are frequently identified with the offensive aspect of this mission: the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy. For this reason, it should come as no surprise that these services are strengthening their ability to deter aggression by playing an active role in each others professional development.

Striker Trident

In Striker Trident, Air Force and Naval officers spend approximately two years at sister service duty stations engaged in exercise planning and other assignments, duties that help increase their understanding of the nuclear enterprise. After completing the program, Airmen and Sailors return to their respective services with new lessons learned, ideas and a sense of the larger strategic picture. It is a program that focuses on developing the next generation of senior leaders in the nuclear enterprise.

"In Striker Trident we bring officers from the Navy's portion of the nuclear enterprise to Global Strike to broaden their understanding about the enterprise as a whole, Jeff Fugate, chief of AFGSC Officer Talent Management, said. The same goes for our Air Force officers, who join units in the U.S. Navys nuclear submarine force. Both of these programs give the interns a broad look into the Nuclear Enterprise, an opportunity to receive mentorship from senior leaders and attend leadership development courses and other professional development opportunities.

Im benefiting and the Navy is benefitting, U.S. Navy Lt. Andrew Willes, Striker Trident intern, said. I received an opportunity to visit U.S. Strategic Command for two days in transit, and Ive also attended a course at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Its also important to see this side of the enterprise as it places things in a larger context. Seeing the bigger picture helps me understand more about what I was doing as a junior officer in the submarine force.

Willes currently works in AFGSCs Directorate of Operations and Communications division as an operational planner. Like many of his fellow interns, Willes will rotate through different directorates to gain a larger perspective of the mission. He also manages an exchange program that gives Airmen an opportunity to visit U.S. Navy submarine bases for a week at a time.

Capt. Brian Contival, Willes Air Force counterpart in the program, is currently serving with Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic, Naval Base Virginia.

I saw an opportunity to learn how a sister service executes the same strategic mission in an entirely different environment, and to see how the missile operations community looks from the outside, Contival said. I'm also going to gain a better understanding of the unique capabilities of the different legs of the nuclear triad, and how we work together to get the job done. I'd like to use the experience I gain from this program on the Joint Staff or at HAF, working on the broader strategic deterrence mission.

Striker Pathfinder

Much like Striker Trident, Striker Pathfinder provides Air Force officers with an opportunity to attend professional development courses and gain experience at the major command level. Unlike Trident, Pathfinder is Air Force only and seeks to develop interns within both the ICBM and bomber functional areas.

We used Striker Pathfinder as a template for Striker Trident, Fugate said. Before, Striker Trident interns were just doing the job, but the development piece wasnt really there. Like Pathfinders, our Trident interns will have the same opportunities for professional development.

Having a behind the scenes look at the various decisions made at all levels of the MAJCOM staff as well as the numerous learning opportunities that the Pathfinders are provided have been the most rewarding aspects of the program, Capt. Crystal Rapelje, Striker Pathfinder intern, said. Upon completing the Pathfinder Program, I plan on using the knowledge and experience gained to further my career within the Intelligence Community supporting an Intelligence Squadron or at an Air Operations Center.

Rapelje now works in AFGSCs Directorate of Strategic Plans, Programs and Requirements as an ICBM Programmer and will work in other directorates before completing the program.

The idea is that all of these graduates have an opportunity to enhance the Nuclear Enterprise as they move on to be future leaders, Fugate said. Were looking at this being the premier officer development piece in the command. Whether they are stationed with a naval unit within the enterprise or they come here, these officers will have a greater sense of the overall strategic mission.
It remains to be seen if a decision on the future of Barnett Arena and Rushmore Plaza Civic Center will be referred to a public vote.

What is clear is a choice will be made in the coming months by the Rapid City Council whether to renovate the existing arena or build a completely new one. Ahead of that vote, the Journal spoke with every council member to explore their thoughts on Mayor Steve Allenders presentations, the differences between now and the 2015 proposal, any reservations or concerns they may still have, what theyre hearing from their constituents and ultimately, which option they will support.

2015 vs. 2017

In 2015, 60 percent of the 12,903 voters who went to the ballot opposed a plan to build a new arena and two parking garages, estimated to cost between $340 million and $420 million, including principal and interest. The proposal now being considered does not contain any parking structures and is more modest in size and price, with an estimated cost of $182 million based on the city borrowing $101 million over 30 years and paying $6 million per year.

The sticker shock was in 2015, said Alderwoman Lisa Modrick, who voted against the expansion effort in 2015. I didnt think there was enough plan there. Today, what weve got is a lot of research, an entire task force that spent countless hours to bring this presentation before the mayor, the city council and the citizens with an unbiased determination. We didnt have that in 2015.

City Council President Jason Salamun supported the proposal in 2015 but agreed with Modrick that this time around, things are much clearer.

I really felt like we had mixed messages coming from our city leaders (in 2015), Salamun said.

Alderman Chad Lewis said Allender was handling the issue much better than former Mayor Sam Kookier.

We have someone leading from the front and that really makes a big difference, said Lewis, who voted in favor the 2015 proposal. I think the original plan (2015 proposal) was kind of a wish list and now were down to what do we really need.

In March 2015  the same month that Rapid City voters rejected the $180 million expansion plan in a citywide referendum  then Mayor Sam Kooiker signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to bring the entire Rushmore Plaza Civic Center into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The agreement stipulated that the city had 30 months to complete this work. In September, the deadline passed. Since then, the city has yet to hear from the DOJ but Allender believes the city has shown enough progress to warrant an extension.

The lack of clarity surrounding the DOJ agreement and ADA issues were part of the confusing message in 2015 to Alderwoman Darla Drew.

In retrospect, the whole Department of Justice lawsuit thing was kind of trumped up, she said. It was a mystery. Where was it? Who was it? It was cloaked in secrecy.

Drew voted for the expansion in 2015 but admitted that, as a new council member at that time, she didnt have enough information.

But the biggest difference this time wasnt a clearer message or her added experience.

Its now economics to me, she said.

And though Alderwoman Becky Drury said shes had a number of Rapid Citians ask her why the matter has resurfaced again when they thought it was decided in 2015, she pointed toward history as a reminder.

Truth be told, when we built the one 40 years ago they voted on it more than once too, she said.

Economic impact

At the start of this years budget process, Allender said the citys reliance on sales tax revenue is hurting the stability of this budget. The citys general fund  city departments/services funded by taxpayers dollars like public safety and infrastructure projects  relied on sales tax revenues for 43 percent of its monies and property taxes for 25 percent in 2017.

As part of the argument to build a new arena, the economic impact on surrounding businesses from events within the civic center has been touted as a way to increase sales tax collections, bringing more money to city coffers.

Alderman Ritchie Nordstrom said the economic impact argument of attracting more out-of-towners to bigger shows has him favoring the plan for a new arena.

Im very supportive of it primarily from the economic side of it, Nordstrom said, adding that he didnt think the civic center could continue to break even or turn a profit in the next five to 10 years if improvements werent made.

Drew agreed, saying the sales tax revenue generated from a new building would help pay for other city needs.

We need a new economic engine and driver here in (Rapid City), she said. We need to increase our sales tax and the way we need to do that, I think, is bring in people from out of town.

Lewis said renovating the old arena and fixing the ADA issues  estimated to cost about $25 million  would add nothing in economic impact.

I think we need to think in terms of 2037, he said. This is a vital linchpin for our community for economic impact.

Alderman Steve Laurenti believes a lot of people voted against the proposal in 2015 because they mistakenly thought it would raise their property taxes. Alderwoman Amanda Scott addressed that misconception.

This arena will not be constructed using property tax collections, or water or sewer fees, or funds already designated for streets, fire department or police department, she said in a written response.

Sales tax is collected from all people who shop in the city limits of Rapid City, not just our residents. The activities held at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center assist in generating sales tax revenue from many Rapid City businesses. In order to encourage a healthy economy, it makes sense to spend some of the sales tax collected in Rapid City to build a venue that will encourage more sales tax collection from all visitors going forward.

Looming questions

Though the majority of council members seem to support building a new arena, there are still looming questions, hesitations and a few detractors.

Nordstrom expressed hesitation about the limited entrances and exits that would be available if the arena is built northwest of the Barnett Arena, as is currently proposed by Allender.

One of the major concerns that Im hearing from the constituents is there are only two ways of getting out of that campus, he said, noting that most of the traffic empties onto North Eighth Street. He also said hed be looking for a business plan once a decision is made.

Salamun said hed like to see that, too.

Whats our marketing plan? he asked. Do we have a marketing or business plan in place or are we working on it or will we work on it? If we have this facility, whats the plan in place to really go after recruiting?

Drew said she was still searching for a parking plan, even if it simply includes increasing shuttle services.

Thats a frustration for people here in Rapid City, she said of the lack of parking. So thats a concern.

If there was a parking plan, she said that would be enough for her to support the new arena proposal.

Alderwoman Laura Armstrong believes there are other options available that arent being adequately considered. Completely closing the Barnett Arena, pursuing a public-private partnership with the potential for corporate sponsorship, and selling the entire civic center campus to a private party are three alternatives she proposed.

However, all things considered, I believe that either of Mayor Allenders two main proposals would provide the most beneficial, long-term solution to this issue, she concluded in a written response, saying she would vote based on the majority opinion of her constituents.

But Laurenti and Alderman John Roberts have more serious qualms.

Unless something drastically changes I dont know how I can support this plan, Roberts said. The biggest issue I have is were just taking the word of the mayor saying 'I talked to somebody that can do this for $100 to $130 million.'"

Roberts said that in his experience, government building project costs tend to come in higher than originally estimated. He also said that the unknowns about the increased operating and maintenance costs of the new arena  for example, the additional employees that would need to be hired  give him reservation.

These are pertinent questions, and right now all were being asked to do is release some money to build something thats just a concept in somebodys mind, he said. Unfortunately, I dont trust government enough to give them a blank check, and Im part of the government.

Roberts said he supported fixing the ADA issues and coming back to the idea of building a new arena in five to 10 years.

Im not comfortable with giving the government $100, $130 million dollars when we know that were $400, $500 million dollars behind on our infrastructure, he said.

Laurenti said the lack of details made it hard for him to support the new arena proposal, too.

I have so many questions because there are a lot of things that are (not) finalized and thats ultimately what we need to make our decision on, he said. I support the concept because I supported the previous one but we need to make sure were being forthright with the entire cost. I think before (in 2015) it was very forthright. The entire price was right there in the very beginning.

With looming questions like the cost to renovate or gut Barnett Arena if a new arena was built and Barnett Arena was not demolished  Allender said he does not support demolishing the Barnett  Laurenti said he would be encouraging other council members to search for the answers before making any decision.

When we have those kinds of statements being made that Well, theres some other things that we dont really know a final price tag because we havent discussed really everything, thats important to me, he said.

In the past, Allender has said the plan is to get a decision from the council and possible public before spending any money on consultants and designs.

Modrick and Lewis think thats a firm rationale.

I believe it will have many opportunities for design down the road, but I dont think the shinny penny is what were deciding here, Modrick said. Thats what will come.

Hammering out the details afterwards is actually a better plan at this point, Lewis said.

There was one thing all council members agreed on in the interviews: the need for the public to be informed with correct information before possibly going to the voting booth.

I encourage every citizen in Rapid City to do their homework, Mordick said. This is a very important investment and by researching youll know what the right thing is to do.

Drury advised people to look at the new plan without thought of 2015.

Dont vote on what you know from the prior vote, she said. Come in with a clean slate and go look at the mayors presentation and then make up your mind.

Laurenti, who said he talked with a lot of people who said they voted against the proposal in 2015 because they thought it was going to raise property taxes, had fears of a similar outcome this time.

Im concerned that the taxpayers get all the information, that they go to the voting booth, if it gets referred to a ballot, that they go in knowing these things, he said.

The only council member who sounded confident in predicting a public vote outcome was Roberts, who was also the new arena proposals loudest critic.

I think it will fail even larger than it did last time just because of the simple fact theres no plan in place, he said.

City spokesman Darrell Shoemaker said the issue is expected to be brought before the council in the next two to three months but that the mayor was hesitant to offer any deadline.
Winter seems to have arrived, and along with it a need for more blankets at the HOPE Center in Rapid City.

A news release from the organization says recent demand for blankets has been great, and its supply is "desperately low." The center is asking community members to donate new or used blankets or adult-sized sleeping bags.

Donations can be taken to the HOPE Center at 615 Kansas City St., Rapid City, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday.

Rebuilding the supply is especially critical as the HOPE Center gears up for its Cocoa and Comfort event, planned for 4 to 7 p.m. Nov 13. The event will give away hot chocolate and blankets to the homeless or those living in poverty.

The event is part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, Nov. 11-19, an effort meant to draw attention to the problems of hunger and homelessness. The HOPE Center is a drop-in day center that provides services to individuals living in poverty and without homes.

As part of the event, Samaritan's Feet will also provide up to 250 pairs of shoes to adults who are homeless or living in poverty. The event is open to the public, and 50 to 60 volunteers are needed to fill various roles like feet-washing and check-in.

To volunteer, contact Anna Quinn or Susie DeHart at 716-4673 or info@hopecenterrapidcity.org to let them know you will be attending, and complete the volunteer waiver form. To complete the waiver online, visit www.samaritansfeet.org/waiver. To complete a hard copy, print off the waiver attached to this story and take it with you to the event.

Nisland fairgrounds get spruced up

NISLAND | The Butte/Lawrence County Fairgrounds in Nisland got some big improvements recently, thanks to some equally big donations.

A news release from South Dakota Farm Bureau said the bleachers at the fairgrounds were updated, thanks to a $5,000 donation from the South Dakota Farm Bureau Centennial Community Initiative and a $5,000 donation from the Butte/Harding/Lawrence Farm Bureau. Local businesses also donated funds toward the project.

"The bleachers at the fairgrounds have been in disrepair for a number of years, and thanks to the South Dakota Farm Bureau we are able to make the changes that have needed to be made for a long time," Jodi Severson, with the Butte/Lawrence County Fair Board, said in the release. "Events at this facility draw crowds of all ages that come to watch and participate in events year around. This will be a tremendous positive impact to our community."

The new project was recognized on Oct. 25 at the fairgrounds, and will be recognized again at the SDFB Centennial Convention Nov. 17-18 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center.

Vehicle donated to meal service

Delivering meals just got a little bit easier for Western South Dakota Senior Services Inc., thanks to a donation from Subaru.

A news release from Meals on Wheels says Subaru donated a 2018 Subaru Outback to Western South Dakota Senior Services Inc. in partnership with Meals on Wheels.

"Due to distance and remote locations for participants on our Country Meals routes, the new Subaru will allow us to serve current participants more often, add additional routes, and provide more frequent health and wellness checks," the release says.

The Subaru and Meals on Wheels partnership is part of Subaru Loves to Help, part of the automakers larger Subaru Love Promise Community Commitment effort to make a positive impact on local communities across the country.
Regional Health's president of Spearfish Hospital and the Spearfish and Belle Fourche markets was killed in an all-terrain vehicle accident Saturday.

Larry Veitz, 59, died as a result of injuries suffered in the accident. No further information was available from the Lawrence County Sheriffs Department.

We are deeply saddened by the news of Larrys passing," said Brent Phillips, CEO of Regional Health, in a prepared statement. "He was a longtime leader, colleague and friend. His contributions to Regional Health and the greater Spearfish and Belle Fourche communities over the past 15 years will have a lasting impact.

Phillips commended Veitzs work for expanding the hospitals health care programs throughout the northern Black Hills, eastern Wyoming and eastern Montana. In 2014, Veitz oversaw a $6.2 million expansion of Spearfish Hospital.

He was so proud of what his team has accomplished, and he set a great vision for the future, Phillips said.

During his tenure, Veitz received numerous accolades and honors. In September, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Award for Health Care Professionals from the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations. He also received one of two 2017 health care executive awards from the American College of Healthcare Executives.

And in 2015, Beckers Hospital Review, a national publication, named Veitz as one of 50 Rural Hospital CEOs to Know.
It's a cliche in the legal world: A prosecutor could persuade a grand jury to indict a ham sandwich. That is because the standards for bringing charges are relatively low  "probable cause" that a crime has been committed, as opposed to the "beyond a reasonable doubt" hurdle that comes before a defendant is convicted in a trial.

In addition, usually only the district attorney or the state attorney (or whatever they call the prosecutor) can offer evidence to the citizen grand jurors. Defense lawyers are almost never allowed to refute the allegations or to provide any explanation.

The point is, prosecutors have a ton of power, and special counsels are super-duper prosecutors. Robert Mueller is one of those, and now he's made his first ham sandwiches. They are big ones: Paul Manafort, a former Donald Trump campaign manager, along with Manafort aide Rick Gates. Their 12-count indictment includes serious felony charges: money laundering, tax evasion, failure to register as a foreign agent and conspiracy against the United States while working on behalf of Ukrainians with close ties to Moscow. Former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos also pleaded guilty to one count of lying to the FBI about his Russian contacts. Yes, it's a crime to lie to FBI agents, which only enhances the government's power in criminal matters.

Ultimately, the guy who was not indicted today is a certain president of the United States. Mueller was appointed to determine whether there was criminal collusion with Vladimir Putin's agents by Donald Trump or his campaign underlings to swing the election Trump's way. Mueller's mandate, as is the case with all independent counsels, extends to any crimes that are uncovered during the investigation. Hence these formal accusations against Paul Manafort and Rick Gates.

As big a deal as the charges are and as serious as the allegations they face are, Manafort, Gates and Papadopoulos are not just ham sandwiches but potatoes, relatively small potatoes. Mueller must ultimately determine whether to charge Donald Trump. So he'll be putting the squeeze on those lower in this food chain to see whether any of the three will spill their guts about higher-ups to provide information about collusion that could bring down the president.

As for the president, he's doing what he always does when he's agitated: He turns to Twitter. Pointing out that these indictments weren't about collusion, he cleverly tweeted, "NO COLLUSION." That was after he pecked: "Sorry, but this is years ago, before Paul Manafort was part of the Trump campaign. But why aren't Crooked Hillary & the Dems the focus?????"

First of all, Hillary Clinton is off the point. As Trump reminds us every chance he gets, he beat her. Her misdeeds, if any, would not result in her impeachment. But that's getting way ahead of what has happened so far. Even if Mueller ultimately charges Trump with any crimes, as president of the United States, Donald Trump first would have to be removed from office before facing legal consequences. That could be iffy even in extreme circumstances given how the Republicans in Congress are so terrified of his, uh, ham-handed politics.
Hillary Clinton is so thoughtful. As busy as she is peddling a book that blames her election loss on everyone but herself  including members of her own party  the 2016 Democratic nominee still makes time to worry about others.

And lately, she has been worried about, of all things, her chief nemesis: the GOP.

"There are a lot of things that I worry about," she recently told ABC News. "This is actually on my list, of what I worry about. The Republican Party is imploding."

The former Goldwater girl insists she is not alone in reaching this conclusion.

"We've seen in the last week, we've seen Bob Corker, we've seen Jeff Flake ... there are a lot of other people in the Republican Party who feel exactly the same way."

Neither Sen. Flake nor Sen. Corker are seeking re-election, and so they can speak freely. Both have been critical of President Trump and his policies, and they've been hammered for their defiance on Fox News and conservative talk radio.

Clinton thinks the implosion stems from the fact that the GOP has purged the moderates and been taken over by extremists.

"It is becoming a far-right, captive party to ideological religious and commercial interests," she said.

No argument. Clinton is spot-on when she talks about what has become of the Republican Party in the Trump Era.

But imagine how much more effective her criticism would be if some of it were aimed at her own party, and  even better  at herself. When she talks about the Republican Party being "at the mercy of its financial backers and a cabal of leaders who ... maintain power for themselves and those who are like-minded," she could just as easily be talking about the Democratic Party. The two parties are twinsies.

Of course, Clinton won't admit that she and her husband, and all the shady dealings in Clinton World dating back to the 1970's, have hurt the Democratic Party. But it's true.

That's what made Clinton's comments about how the Republicans are imploding so surreal. Apparently, she is much better at self-deflection than she is at self-reflection. Does she honestly not see that her own party is also coming apart?

Take a peek behind the Democratic curtain, and you'll see it's a mess back there: The elites have left behind the working-class. The white ethnics who helped put the Democratic Party on the map in the 20th Century can't see any common cause with the Latino and Asian immigrants who will help define the 21st Century. Democrats haven't even started the homework assignment they were given a year ago when Trump vanquished Clinton; instead of coming up with an economic message to win back the disaffected white Democrats in Rust Belt states who put Trump in the Oval Office, Democratic leaders have bet the farm on Special Counsel Robert Mueller III and Russia, Russia, Russia.

Hillary has only made the mess worse. Not only did her campaign conspire with the Democratic National Committee to short-circuit Bernie Sanders, she had the gall to write a book in which she blamed Sanders for creating the impression that she was dishonest and untrustworthy. Not only did she alienate  or at least fail to inspire  Latinos, youth, and African-Americans, she then blamed them for not turning out to vote for her.

Then you have the scandals. Just as Democrats want the country to focus on Mueller's 12-count indictment of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, they have to contend with questions about why the Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee may have paid for a yet unsubstantiated dossier alleging immoral and improper behavior by Trump. And there are fresh accusations from within her own party that the Democratic primary was rigged by the Clinton campaign against Bernie Sanders.

About all this, the Democratic Party would like Clinton to say, well, nothing. But she won't be ignored, or keep quiet. It was vintage Hillary who told attendees at the annual Women's Media Awards that she doesn't "intend to be silenced."

Republicans have to be delighted to hear that, and Democrats must be filled with angst.

It makes you wonder: Whose side is Hillary really on? You know the answer: Hillary's.

Instead of constantly demonizing Trump, the Democratic Party needs to confront the real threat. Here's a hint: She is wearing a pantsuit.
Guwahati : The seventh Indo-Bangladesh Joint Training Exercise SAMPRITI - 2017 is scheduled to be conducted in India this year in the month of November 2017 under aegis of Red Horns Division of the elite Gajraj Corps.

Kohima based Dfence PRO Colonel Chiranjeet Konwer said that, exercise SAMPRITI is held alternately in India and Bangladesh every year with an aim to build and promote positive relations between the Armies of India and

Bangladesh. It also aims to enhance interoperability between the two nations and enrich from each others experience while carrying out Counter Insurgency, Counter Terrorist operations.

Exercise SAMPRITI - 2017 has two district components which includes Command Post Exercise (CPX) and Field Training Exercise (FTX). The CPX will be conducted at Joint Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya from November 6 to November 11, 2017over six days whereas FTX will be conducted at Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School, Vairengte, Mizoram from November 6 to November 18, 2017 over a period of 13 days. 20 officers each from both the Armies will participate in CPX as part of Brigade and Battalion Command

Posts. FTX would include participation of one Infantry company each from the Bangladesh Army and elite Red Horns Division of the Indian Army, Colonel Konwer said.

CPX will focus on practicing joint planning and conduct of Counter Terrorist operations in semi mountainous terrain with a special focus on drills and procedures followed while operating in dense jungles.

The FTX will emphasise on physical conditioning, training on special heliborne operations, neutralisation of Improvised Explosive Devices, Cordon and Search operations and company, platoon level tactical drills in Counter Terrorist operations scenario.

The Indo-Bangladesh Joint Training Exercise SAMPRITI - 2017 in its seventh edition will send a strong signal to the world that both India and Bangladesh understand the emerging threat of transnational terrorism and stand shoulder to shoulder united in countering this menace.

(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)
Guwahati: Another bizarre incident has came to light after, aretired army personnel from Assams Barpeta district was reportedly servedwith a notice from the Foreigners Tribunal and asked to prove that he is an Indian citizen.

Earlier, a Foreigners Tribunal of Assam had sent notice to an ex-army serviceman in Assam, who served Indian Army for 30 years and asked to prove that he is an Indian citizen.

According to the reports, the Foreigners Tribunal no 1 of lower Assams Barpeta district on November 3 had sent a notice to a retired army personnel named Mahiruddin Ahmed, who served Indian army for 18 years in connection with Foreigners Tribunal case no 129/2017.

The tribunal also served another notice to the wife of the retired army personnel in different case.

Mahiruddin Ahmed had served Indian army as a Havildar (Field Ordinance Depot at Batinda in Punjab is a resident of Khablarbhita village in Barpeta district.

According to the reports, born on January 1, 1964, Mahiruddin was passed the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) examination conducted by SEBA in 1980 and joined Indian army on September 16, 1986 and retired from service on August 31, 2004.

It is the second incident, while Foreigners Tribunal had served notice two ex-army personnel and asked them to prove as Indian citizen.

Earlier, the foreigners tribunal in Assams Kamrup district had served notice to Mohammad Azmal Haque, who was appointed as the Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) in the Indian Army by former President APJ Abdul Kalam and asked him to prove that he is an Indian citizen.

Later, Assam police had admitted that the whole issue was a case of mistaken identity.

(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)
RIYADH: One of Saudi Arabias most prominent businessmen and a former finance minister are among dozens detained in a probe by a new anti-corruption body, a senior Saudi official said on Sunday.

The official, who declined to be identified under briefing rules, said billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding, and former finance minister Ibrahim al-Assaf had been detained.

Neither man nor Kingdom Holding officials could be reached immediately for comment. Aside from being one of the largest shareholders in Citigroup, Kingdom owns stakes in Rupert Murdochs News Corp and microblogging site Twitter.

Saudi King Salman announced late on Saturday the creation of a new anti-corruption committee chaired by his son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television said the body had detained 11 princes, four current ministers and tens of former ministers. The crown prince is spearheading an ambitious economic reform programme that aims to draw more foreign and private sector investment into the kingdom, which is the worlds top oil exporter and the most powerful country in the Gulf Arab region.

King Salman also appointed two new ministers on Saturday to key security and economic posts, removing one of the royal familys most prominent members as head of the National Guard.

Prince Miteb bin Abdullah was replaced as minister of the National Guard by Khaled bin Ayyaf, while Economy Minister Adel Fakieh was removed in favour of his deputy Mohammed al-Tuwaijri, according to a royal decree carried by state-run media.

Prince Miteb, the preferred son of the late King Abdullah, was once thought to be a leading contender for the throne before the unexpected rise of Prince Mohammed two years ago.

The Cabinet reshuffle helped to consolidate Prince Mohammeds control of the kingdoms security institutions, which had long been headed by separate powerful branches of the ruling family.

Prince Mohammed, who has pledged to go after graft at the highest levels, will head the new anti-corruption body, which was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions, and freeze assets.

The homeland will not exist unless corruption is uprooted and the corrupt are held accountable, the royal decree said.
 Some more diverse reading about the opioid crisis | Main | In praise of an extraordinary new resource, "Reforming Criminal Justice" 

November 5, 2017

Seeking experiences and thoughts on Marsy's Law, especially from prosecutors, as Ohio prepares to vote

My local paper, the Columbus Dispatch, has this new article reporting on the on-going debate over "Marsy's Law," which is due to be considered by voter initiative here in Ohio this Tuesday. The piece is headlined "Victims rights concerns at root of Issue 1," and here are excerpts:

People on both sides of state Issue 1 say they are deeply concerned with victims rights, but some of those who are opposed question its workability and even its necessity. Also known as Marsys Law, Issue 1 would amend the Ohio Constitution to enshrine rights for victims of alleged crimes that supporters say arent guaranteed now. Its on the ballot Tuesday. The amendment would require that victims be notified of important hearings in criminal cases of such things as prison releases. It also would give alleged victims standing to intervene in criminal cases to try to protect what they see as their interests. And it would seek to protect their privacy. Marsys Law is named for Marsy Nicholas, who in 1983 was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in California. Unbeknownst to her parents, Nicholass killer was released on bail and her parents ran into him in a store. The effort to change state constitutions in Ohio and elsewhere is bankrolled by Marsys brother, California tech billionaire Henry Nicholas, who was born in a Cincinnati suburb and moved west as a young boy. His team insists that the constitutional amendment is meant merely to level the playing field for crime victims. Criminals get way more constitutional protections than crime victims do, said Gail Gitcho, national spokeswoman for the Marsys Law effort. But while victims rights are an easy sell politically, criminal cases dont set the rights of the accused against those of an alleged victim, said Ohio Public Defender Tim Young. The victim doesnt need rights to keep the government from improperly sending them to prison, he said. Gitcho agreed that victims interests are different in criminal cases, and she said nothing about whether Issue 1 would limit constitutional protections for criminal defendants. But, she said, its high time that victims interests are protected in the Ohio Constitution. Issue 1 has gathered the support of some high-level prosecutors, such as Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine and Franklin County Prosecutor Ron OBrien. But the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association, the Ohio State Bar Association and the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys have come out against the ballot initiative. One concern is that the state Constitution isnt the appropriate place for the protections. If problems arise with the workability of Issue 1, it would be exceedingly difficult to fix them by amending the Constitution, said Louis Tobin, executive director of the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association. Issue 1 supporters say, however, that its necessary to put victim rights in the Constitution to ensure theyre protected because a 1994 state statute intended to do so hasnt been enough. In the last several decades since, it has become clear that the rights of Ohio victims are not enforceable, there have been numerous efforts to strengthen those rights in the legislature, Issue 1 spokesman Aaron Marshall said in an email. All of those efforts have failed due to pushback from the same groups who are now claiming that they would support victims rights legislative improvements.... Asked for examples of victims rights violations in Ohio that would be helped by Issue 1, Marshall cited the case of a northeast Ohio rape in which the trial was postponed 20 times over more than five years. He also pointed to a Summit County womans long fight to keep private her psychological records and social media passwords after her boyfriend was killed and she was beaten, shot and stabbed. Despite the appeal of Issue 1, Public Defender Young predicts a raft of legal headaches if it passes. This isnt about victims rights, he said. Its about the Bill of Rights.

As this article highlights, the vote over Marsy's Law has split the state's prosecutors, with Ohio's Attorney General and some county prosecutors in support, but with the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association (OPAA) against. (The Ohio AG is already a declared candidate for Ohio governor in 2018, which may have played some role in his thinking on the issue.) This recent commentary from the executive director of the OPAA explains some of the group's concerns:

Marsys Law could negatively impact Ohio communities. The amendment grants the victims . . . lawful representative the right to assert a victims rights. Courts could determine that this grants the victim the right to an attorney. The victim would then have the right to a court-appointed attorney if indigent. Taxpayers could be paying for the prosecutor; for counsel for an indigent defendant; and for counsel for an indigent victim. This duplication of responsibilities and costs is bad enough in one case. Multiplied by thousands of cases each year, it could delay justice at best and deny it at worst. Ohios prosecutors applaud advocates for victims. They deserve praise for raising awareness of the cause and plight of victims of crime, and we stand ready to work with all to improve victims rights in a meaningful way. Enshrining Marsys Law in Ohios Constitution in response to a problem case in California, however, is not beneficial. Ohioans should be concerned about the consequences for our justice system.

I tend to be a strong supporter of victim's rights in the criminal justice system, while also being a strong supporter of defendant rights. Because I do not think there has to be or should be a zero-sum quality to defendant/victim rights, I am always inclined to support a proposal that seeks to expanded identified and enforceable rights in our justice system. For this reason, I am inclined to support Marsy's Laws, and that inclination is enhanced by my extraordinary respect for lawyers and advocates I know who work so hard on behalf of rights of crime victims in a range of settings.

That all said, because Ohio has a number of victims' rights already in place in our Constitution and statutes, I understand the concern that Marsy's Law could end up being a cure worse than the current disease. For that reason, as the title of this post suggests, I would be especially interested in hearing from prosecutors or others with direct experience with the impact and import of Marsy's Law or with particular concerns as to how the law might play out in Ohio. I believe this law has been on the books for nearly a decade in California and in a handful of others states, and the debate here in Ohio has seemingly not included any examples of the law causing any big trouble in other jurisdictions. A little research turned up this recent AP article from North Dakota reporting that law enforcement has described the impact of Marsy's Law there as "very, very minimal."

So, informed (or uninformed) readers, any sharp thoughts on how the citizens of Ohio should vote on Marsy's Law?

November 5, 2017 at 01:24 PM | Permalink

Comments

This is a Trojan Horse. What is inside it is the right for victims to get lawyers at tax payer expense to navigate the complex legal system, and to assert their rights. Such a right to a lawyer will now be ensconced in a worthless, state constitutional amendment.

These rights are already in the federal system. I received frequent notices on all legal procedures happening to guys who defrauded me, including all prison hearings. I could not get their address, however, upon release. You lawyer fucks actually protected the criminal. It was a waste of time.

The sole substantive right of the victim is the right to not be victimized, and the right to deter future victimization by killing all criminals.

Posted by: David Behar | Nov 5, 2017 1:33:04 PM

My immediate concern is cut to what it would do, cutting through vanilla commentary, which is helpfully done to some degree in this article:

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/politics/2017/10/09/election-2017-what-ohio-issue-1-aka-marsys-law/688598001/

Posted by: Joe | Nov 5, 2017 1:44:20 PM

A HARSH , but easy fix 

Summarily execute the suspect AND the

alleged victim(s) sans charge , trial , appeal , collateral attack , etc. 

Relax.

I said the fix was harsh

05 Nov T1417R EST

Posted by: Docile the Kind Soul | Nov 5, 2017 2:18:10 PM

Voter-approved Marsy's Law declared void by Montana Supreme Court, November 1, 2017

http://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/voter-approved-marsy-s-law-declared-void-by-montana-supreme/article_3308ce34-72a9-54f4-8589-13e8c08950ba.html



Posted by: Mary Davye Devoy | Nov 5, 2017 3:38:53 PM

Thanks for the link, Mary, though it appears the problem in Montana concerned the procedures for enactment, according to this article:

"Because voters were asked to cast a single vote on substantive and unrelated changes to the constitution, the Court held that CI-116 was unconstitutionally submitted to Montana voters and void in its entirety," a summary of the order reads.

Notably, Ohio has a single-subject rule for legislation, but I am unaware of any voter initiatives being struck down for the problems apparently found in Montana.

Posted by: Doug B | Nov 5, 2017 4:05:53 PM

In my experience here in CA, the judges do not give the protections and privileges enshrined in our Marsy's law much respect.

Posted by: David | Nov 5, 2017 9:55:53 PM

The Ohio bar assoc. came out against it here:

https://www.ohiobar.org/NewsAndPublications/News/OSBANews/Pages/OSBAs-Weekly-Legislative-Report-2017-Election-Edition.aspx

largely because it is redundant (ORC 2930) and they don't think it belongs in the state constitution.

Posted by: Dave C. | Nov 6, 2017 3:19:53 PM

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DUBUQUE, Iowa  Hirschbach Motor Lines was recently honored with a SmartWay Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an industry leader in freight supply chain environmental performance and energy efficiency.

This marks the second year the company has received the award, having also been honored in 2016. Hirschbach has deployed the latest in aerodynamic technologies, green-initiative policies, and software designed to route and fuel equipment with carbon reduction in mind. Through a concerted effort, the Hirschbach team has increased miles per gallon by 3.4 percent and reduced carbon dioxide output per mile by 3.2 percent.
SIOUX CITY  Sioux City-based M Plus Architects Inc., an architectural design firm, announced it was awarded 10 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) projects in affiliation with Health Facilities Group Architecture of Wichita, Kansas.

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M Plus is one of only two architectural design firms in Iowa verified as a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) with the federal government. The SDVOSB Concern Program provides agencies with the authority to set acquisitions aside for exclusive competition among service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns, as well as the authority to make sole source awards to service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns if certain conditions are met.
Professor Mark Trahant is leaving the University of North Dakota at the end of the academic year  but not before hosting a spring conference devoted to exploring the ways in which the stories of the Standing Rock protests spread across the internet.

Trahants plans for the event are coalescing after a brief, tense discussion of academic freedom that made national news last week after the Charles R. Johnson endowed professor of journalism posted a strongly worded announcement of his intent to walk away from the classroom this May at the end of his contract term. The professor, a longtime journalist and member of Idahos Shoshone-Bannock tribe, called himself disappointed and disgusted that the university is not an institutional leader in the this state, citing as examples claims that two earlier versions of his conference were killed at the behest of senior university administrators who feared political backlash from hosting the events.

Soon after that initial post hit the web, UND leaders acted quickly to make their own statements of support for academic freedom. That turnaround proved enough for Trahant, who returned to social media to post that he was satisfied with UNDs denial that concerns of political retaliation had ever affected campus content.

Emails obtained by the Herald show that leadership in the College of Arts and Sciences was initially supportive of Trahants efforts to organize events for the spring semesters of 2017 and 2018. As far as the emails go, Trahant says digital communication mostly outlined excitement about the projects, but nothing that says Lets not do this.

The buildup is there, but not the crescendo, he said, adding that he believed he was informed in a meeting that the 2017 event was a no-go.

The first event was intended to sprout from the framework of the Hagerty Lecture, a guest lecture series funded by an endowment provided by the Grand Forks Herald. Trahant said the planning of the lecture fell to him sometime after its 2016 iteration. His first choice of speaker for the February event was Roxana Saberi, a freelance journalist and former Miss North Dakota pageant winner who spent more than 100 days imprisoned in Iran after being accused of espionage there. That plan didnt work out though, as Saberis asking rate proved too high for the funds given by the Hagerty endowment. After Saberi fell through, Debbie Storrs, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, suggested putting the lecture on hold for 2017 and regrouping for the next years event. On Dec. 16, 2016, Trahant offered an alternative  bringing in journalist Jenni Monet to discuss what was then ongoing coverage of the protests at Standing Rock.

Monet, a member of New Mexicos Laguna Pueblo tribe, had embedded in Cannon Ball, to cover the protests from the scene. Her speaking fee was $1,000 plus expenses, and Trahant believed shed be a serious draw for student and media interest alike. As the event pivoted, Storrs asked for some time to make a decision after the winter holiday break.

Changing plans

By Jan. 15, Storrs seemed to have settled on bringing Monet to campus. The dean sent an email to UND Provost Tom DiLorenzo and spokesman Peter Johnson to get their input.

We are planning to invite Jenni Monet to be our Hagerty Lecturer in late February, wrote Storrs, briefly describing Monets credentials. Given the sensitivity around this topic, please let me know if (UND President Mark Kennedy) has any concerns. I think it is important to support academic freedom and this is the biggest news in North Dakota. A public lecture will draw significant numbers of community members and students.

Two days later, DiLorenzo returned the message, writing that he was returning by air to Grand Forks from Minneapolis and could discuss the issue at a later time. The contents of that discussion are not within the range of documents obtained by the Grand Forks Herald.

Storrs said in an interview that she remembered messaging DiLorenzo but honestly didnt recall having a meeting with him. However, she says any reservations about the 2017 Hagerty Lecture event were, and still are, rooted more in concerns about the events long-term viability than anything else.

Regardless of the scope of the conversation, by Jan. 23 Pasch had emailed an Arts and Sciences events coordinator to share his understanding that we will be taking a hiatus on the lecture given issues with budgeting and uncertainty regarding the events speaker.
PRIMGHAR, Iowa -- OBrien County Abstract LLC is a new addition to the north side of the courthouse square in Primghar.

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OBrien County Abstract has now moved into a newly remodeled building at 150 First St. NE thanks to the support of the OBrien County Economic Development Corp.

The corporation supported this new business through an OBrien County Intermediary Relending Program Revolving Fund Loan.

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SIOUX CITY  Dave Madsen, assistant professor and chair of the department of mass communication at Morningside College, was recently a discussant for a research poster session at the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication conference in Chicago.

Prior to the event, Madsens duties were to read and comment on the winning research papers. These papers were then presented in poster form at the conference. During the poster session, Madsen met with each author to discuss his comments.

Madsen has been a Morningside faculty member since 2009. He teaches classes in media management, intro to mass communication and public relations. He also oversees Morningside Colleges television channel, MCTV.
SIOUX CITY  Stifel Financial Corp. announced that Korey Kletschke has joined its Sioux City private client group office of its broker-dealer subsidiary, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company Inc., as a financial adviser.

Kletschke holds Series 6, 7, 63, and 66 securities licenses, along with life, health, and variable insurance licenses and the Chartered Financial Consultant certification. He earned a bachelor's of business administration in finance from the University of Iowa in Iowa City and is a graduate of North High School.

Prior to joining Stifel, Kletschke spent five years with Principal Financial Group Iowa offices in Cedar Falls and Des Moines. He is a member of the Sioux City Growth Organization and the Siouxland Estate Planning Council.

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SIOUX CITY  King, Reinsch, Prosser & Co. (KRP), a regional certified public accounting and consulting firm, promoted Rebecca George to partner and Jill Baker to manager.

Both women are certified public accountants and members of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Iowa Society of Certified Public Accountants.

George is a 2004 graduate of Briar Cliff University, where she earned a degree in accounting. She interned with KRP before joining the firm in 2004 as a staff accountant. She received her CPA certification in 2006 and was promoted to senior accountant in 2007, supervisor in 2011 and manager in 2014.

Baker is a 2004 graduate of the University of South Dakota with a master's of professional accountancy. She began her career with KRP in 2004 as a staff accountant. She was promoted to senior accountant in 2007 and supervisor in 2012.
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SIOUX CITY | Glittery garland, vintage lights, Christmas ornaments and shiny poinsettias are just some of the festive decorations you'll find on "ugly" sweaters and sweatshirts created by dozens of volunteers to raise money for safety equipment for Mercy Home Care patients.

Wendy Beavers, account executive for Mercy Home Care, decided to organize the fundraiser after volunteering to make ugly sweaters for an event last year.

"I thought then, 'This is really cool. This has got potential to make some money for something,'" recalled Beavers, who spread the word about her desire to start an ugly sweater fundraiser for Mercy Home Care via Facebook.

Soon the new and gently used sweaters and sweatshirts came pouring in from friends and businesses along with festive Christmas decorations. Beavers also scored supplies from the Sioux City Kmart, which closed its doors last year, and garage sales. Faith Fisher, a social worker with Mercy Home Care, raided her art box for sparkly pom poms, string and other crafting products.

"The accessories are just coming from everywhere and anywhere. That's the best way to get the craziness. If you tried to plan it, it wouldn't be near as unique," said Beavers, who said you'll find fur, as well as flamingos, in the ugly Christmas sweater collection. "The uglier the better. Sometimes it just has to kind of touch the heart a little bit."

Revathi Truong, volunteer coordinator at Mercy, rounded up high school volunteers, who met on Tuesday nights to create ugly sweaters. The Siouxland Crafters Club, the Siouxland Center for Active Generations, Floyd Place Assisted Living in Sergeant Bluff, Sioux City Fence, The Stuck Layman Rose Group and former patients also assisted in the decorating process.

"They like to build Christmas trees out of garland and then put ornaments all over the sweater, so very Christmas-festive," Truong said of her volunteers' sweater themes.

As of Oct. 26, Beavers had 112 completed ugly sweaters in her possession, 35 of which light up. She hopes to amass 200 sweaters, which will be sold alongside limited accessories in Mercy's lobby Nov. 13-15 and Dec. 4-5.

Beavers described the market for the eye-catching textiles as "huge," as ugly sweater parties are trending during the holiday season.

Promote peace on earth while wearing an orange cable sweater with fringes and retro flowers. Watch for Santa Claus while donning a black sweater emblazoned with a huge pair of bright yellow sunglasses and wiggly paste-on eyes. You're sure to be noticed at a holiday party in a tan fleece number finished off with red garland and old fashioned Christmas lights that actually illuminate with the click of a switch.

"I'm doubting we'll see two of the same, unless somebody asks for that," Beavers said of the ugly sweater collection. "I kind of think somebody's going to come in and say, 'I really love that one. Can you make me that? I'll come back and buy it on Dec. 4.'"

One of Beavers' favorite creations, "Oh, Deer," a hunting-themed sweater, is already sold. The beige, zip-up sweater features a deer's backside on the front, a package of hand warmers and a large, gaudy chartreuse poinsettia.

"I don't even know where the bear and the 'Go Red' dress came in at. I don't even remember sticking that on there," Beavers said, marveling at her work. "It's beautiful!"

When all is said and done, Beavers hopes to raise between $1,500 and $2,000 for Mercy Home Care patients. Lea Greathouse, executive director of the Mercy Foundation, will set up an account and manage the funds, which will purchase walkers, canes, shower benches, smoke alarms, hand railings and other safety equipment to help Mercy Home Care patients stay in their homes and thrive.

"You'd be surprised how many of our patients don't have the means to get those things that they need. Their insurance doesn't cover it, or their income is very low or they may not have families," Beavers said. "Their resources are just tapped and they don't have a way to get that stuff."

Now, they will, thanks to the popularity of tacky Christmas sweaters and the efforts of volunteers.
SIOUX CITY | Siouxland's Most Wanted had its 500th outlaw snagged last month.

Chad McCormick, who leads the U.S. Marshals Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force effort in Sioux City, said the weekly media push is so successful because of Siouxland.

"I think a lot of it has to do with where we live," said McCormick. "The Midwest folks, they aren't very tolerant of criminals. If the town is small enough, a lot of times people know the victims. Any crime is considered close to home because it is such a small town. I think the Midwest values play a huge part in it."

The Marshals' Siouxland's Most Wanted started in 2009. The federal law enforcement entity sends the Journal and local TV station KMEG photos and information about wanted fugitives that are featured in weekly posts asking for the public's help in obtaining clues to their whereabouts.

"We'll go through the warrants that have been recently issued and we will pick out a final warrant: Burglary, robbery, sexual assault, murder, sex offenders, parole violations with a violent charge, escapes. We will just pull those types of warrants out and start looking for them," McCormick said. "Thats the process. There is no rocket science behind it. We just look for violent fugitives."

The task force consists of officers from multiple area agencies. A lot of the fugitives they seek do not make it to the public eye.

"We always dont just throw somebody onto the Most Wanted, typically if we can quietly work somebody -- and for lack of a better word -- sneak up on them, thats what we prefer doing," said Joe Bukovich, who is a Woodbury County Sheriff Deputy assigned to the task force. "Usually, when somebody goes on (Siouxlands) Most Wanted we kind of start running out of leads and need the publics help for more information."

About 70 fugitives on the wanted list get caught each year, the two said. However, the entire U.S. Marshal's Northern District of Iowa (which consists of the upper part of the state divided by Highway 30) arrests about 400 criminals with warrants out for their arrest. McCormick estimates about half of those are caught in Siouxland.

The task force office, located in the Federal Building in Sioux City, is constantly working about 15 files and often solicits help from other U.S. Marshal Districts around the country if a tip tells them a fugitive is in their jurisdiction.

Once the notice of a fugitive's warrant is made public, tips often come to the rescue.

"It has really helped in a lot of cases when we were dead in the water and we didnt have anything," Bukovich said.

Tips have come in from as far as the southern tip of Mexico to New York, McCormick said.

Mitchell Meyer, of Correctionville, Iowa, was on the run for 10 years.

"And in the words of the investigating deputy sheriff, he was a prolific sexual offender," McCormick said.

The task force took to Siouxland's Most Wanted for what seemed like a cold case.

Shortly after it was published, "We got a call that (Meyer) is in this town at this address in Mexico. We had him arrested down there and we basically had him deported as an undesirable. Thats how we ended up catching him," McCormick said.

"Criminals are really 1 percent of the population. (By) using media, interviews, the more eyes we can get out there the better," McCormick added. "It's not just us. Every (law enforcement agency) relies on the public. This entire area has not let us down."

McCormick, a 16-year veteran in the Marshal's Service, said taking a violent criminal off the street is rewarding.

"We live here. We want our kids, our community to be as safe as we can leave it when we retire," McCormick said. "We work very hard to make sure this city is safer than it was yesterday."

If residents have any information on any wanted fugitive they can call the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force at 712-252-0211 or email siouxlands.mostwanted@usdoj.gov.
SOUTH SIOUX CITY | Jen Steele broke out in goosebumps as she recalled sitting in yearbook class at South Sioux City High School watching United Airlines Flight 175 crash into the South Tower of the World Trade Center on 9/11.

"I almost couldn't process it," said Steele, who was 16 at the time. "This feeling came over me of, 'I was meant to do more.'"

Steele, who felt compelled to serve her country by joining the military, immediately began meeting with recruiters. The Army National Guard seemed like a good fit for her, but she would need her parents' permission to enlist after she turned 17.

"My mom was not too keen to the idea. My dad was all for it. He thought it was a great opportunity," said Steele, who had many discussions with her parents, Juanita and Robert "Charlie" Steele, about her plans before swearing in on March 21, 2002 -- three months after she turned 17.

From the time of her enlistment until her high school graduation, Steele participated in the Recruit Sustainment Program, a program designed to familiarize her with the military. She also engaged in weekend drills.

In June 2003, Steele left South Sioux City for basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. It was the first time she had been away from home and on a plane. She vividly remembers calling her mom in tears and asking her to come get her.

"My mom said that was the worst phone call of her life," Steele, now 32, said. "It was so scary being away from home and not knowing what to expect at that point."

Steele's mother told her that she loved her very much and had faith that she could make it through basic training.

The physical, mental and emotional elements of boot camp, however, were tough. Steele spent three days in the field without showering. At the time, she said she had doubts about whether she would make it through. Her family's words of encouragement, expressed in letters and phone calls, kept Steele going.

When Steele, who described herself as a "mouthy teenager," reunited with her family at her graduation from basic training, she said she shook her father's hand and said, "Nice to see you, sir." She said it was the first time she had ever seen her father cry.

"He was very proud of me and that meant a lot to me," she said.

After completing basic training, Steele went to Fort Sam Houston in Texas where she learned the necessary skills to perform the duties of a patient administration specialist or 91G.

"The job varies from deployment versus being at home," explained Steele, who was attached to the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment of the Iowa Army National Guard based in Sioux City. "There were a couple of deployments that happened while I was in, so I would help get all the paperwork for our soldiers who were deploying. I still did the training and the marches. I loved the discipline that it taught me."

After six years, Steele decided to leave the military to focus on raising her children. Now that her three daughters, Jessica, 12, Jaylee, 11, and Hailey, 7, are older, Steele, who works as director of life enrichment at Regency Square, plans to reenlist next year.
SIOUX CITY | Area families are expected to finalize adoptions of their children at an Adoption Day celebration Nov. 18 at the Woodbury County Courthouse.

The event, celebrated as part of November's National Adoption Month, is scheduled for 10 a.m. It is one of nine similar events happening across Iowa this month and is planned in partnership by the Iowa Department of Human Services and Lutheran Services of Iowa.

Events like the one in Sioux City involve courts, judges, attorneys, adoption professionals, child welfare agencies and advocates in the finalization of adoptions of children from foster care. In 2016, approximately 4,600 children across the nation had their adoptions finalized at an Adoption Day event.

According to the DHS, as of Sept. 30 there were 261 children in 30 counties in western Iowa who were legally eligible for adoption because the parental rights of both parents had been terminated.
Looking at the world through the eyes of the Web
WASHINGTON -- Has there ever been a covert action that backfired as disastrously as Russia's attempt to meddle in the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign?

Granted, we know all the reasons Moscow is gloating: Donald Trump is president; America is divided and confused; Russia's propagandization of "fake news" is now repeated by people around the world as evidence that nothing is believable and all information is (as in Russia) manipulated and mendacious.

But against this cynical strategy there now stands a process embodied by special counsel Robert Mueller, which we will call, as a shorthand: "The Truth." Mueller has mobilized the investigative powers of the U.S. government to document how Russia and its friends sought to manipulate American politics. We are seeing the rule of law applied.

Put aside for the moment what the indictments and plea agreement announced Monday will ultimately mean for Trump's presidency. Already, Mueller has stripped the cover from Russia's machinations: Trump former foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos has confessed that he lied to FBI agents about his contacts with individuals connected to Moscow who promised "dirt" on Hillary Clinton; Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort has been charged with laundering $18 million in payoffs from Russia's Ukrainian friends.

Russian meddling is now advertised to the world. This topic will dominate American debate for the next year, at least. In Europe, meanwhile, a similar reaction to Russian influence operations is gaining force. President Vladimir Putin once imagined that Trump would be Russia's bridge back from isolation. Not anymore.

Next comes the overtly dangerous part: When covert operations are exposed, nations sometimes adopt more aggressive actions. On the continuum of warfare, Russia has been playing somewhere in the middle, between war and peace. Now, as the world focuses on Russian mischief, will the Kremlin move the dial up or down?

Putin made some comments last week that worry me. Before a meeting of his security council on Oct. 26, Putin announced that he was augmenting cyberwar policies to take into account "that the level of threat in the information space is on the rise." He proposed "additional measures" to combat adversaries and protect Russia. He argued that Russia was simply protecting its citizens from cybercriminals, but his language was emphatic: "It is necessary to be tough as regards those persons and groups that are using the Internet and the information space for criminal purposes."

To me, that sounded like Putin was doubling down on Russia's bid to shape the "information space," by whatever means necessary. That was reinforced by his call for "a system of international information security," in which Russia would seek to impose new rules for the internet through the United Nations and other pliable international organizations. That's a threat I noted a week ago, now confirmed explicitly by Putin.

The potential scope of Russia's cyberoperations was highlighted in a little-noticed report by the Defense Intelligence Agency, "Russia Military Power: Building a Military to Support Great Power Aspirations." Its conclusion: "Russia views the information sphere as a key domain for modern military conflict ... critically important to control its domestic populace and influence adversary states."

The DIA explains how "Russian propaganda strives to influence, confuse and demoralize its intended audience." The report describes Russian trolls, bots and cover organizations. Among the major themes of Russian propaganda, the DIA says, is this Steve Bannon-esque message: "The West's liberal world order is bankrupt and should be replaced by a Eurasian neo-conservative post-liberal world order, which defends tradition, conservative values, and true liberty." And remember, this expose of Moscow's hidden hand is coming from Trump's Pentagon!

Here's the strategic impact of Mueller's investigation. He is probing efforts by Russia and its foreign allies to manipulate our political system. He is unraveling a covert action. Trump's protests of "witch hunt" and "fake news," words similar to those used by Moscow-controlled media outlets.

Perhaps we begin to see a timeline: In March 2016, Papadopoulos met with a Russian-linked "professor"; in April, the professor said Moscow had "dirt" on Hillary Clinton from her emails; in June, Donald Trump Jr., Manafort and Jared Kushner met with a Russian who had promised "some official documents and information that would incriminate Hillary"; in July, Trump was touting WikiLeaks' release of documents about Clinton allegedly supplied by Russian cutouts.

Trump may or may not have colluded with Russia during the 2016 campaign; we'll leave that question for the lawyers. But if Trump seeks to derail Mueller's probe, he is implicitly colluding with Russia now. By many people's definition, that would be aiding a foreign power, which might be deemed a "high crime or misdemeanor." Let Mueller finish his job of exposing Russian manipulation.
"Meet you at Peace Cross."

In northwest D.C. in the 1950s, that was an often-heard comment among high schoolers headed for Ocean City.

The Peace Cross, in Bladensburg, Maryland, was a 40-feet concrete memorial to the 49 sons of Prince George's County lost in the Great War. Paid for by county families and the American Legion, it had stood since 1925.

Before the Beltway was built, Peace Cross, at the junction of U.S. Route 1 and Maryland Route 450, was a landmark to us all.

Last month, two federal judges from the 4th Circuit ruled that Peace Cross "excessively entangles the government and religion" and must come down. A suggested compromise was to saw the arms off, so the monument ceases to be an offensive cross.

One wonders: At what moment did Peace Cross begin to violate the Constitution?

Answer: Never. No alteration has been made to the cross in a century. The change has come in the minds of intolerant judges and alienated elites where the dirty creek of anti-Christian bigotry now flows into the polluted stream of anti-Americanism.

Both are manifest in the rampage to rip down memorials to the men who brought Western Civilization to the New World and made America the great and good country we were blessed to inherit.

Monday, on Laura Ingraham's Fox News show, White House Chief of Staff Gen. John Kelly called Robert E. Lee "an honorable man," who chose to defend the people among whom he had been raised.

"It was always loyalty to state first in those days," said Kelly, when asked his view on Alexandria's Episcopal Church taking down plaques to its greatest parishioners, Lee and George Washington.

An explosion of outrage greeted Kelly's defense of Lee.

Yet, what has changed in half a century? As Ingraham noted, FDR, an icon of liberalism, referred to Lee as "one of our greatest American Christians and one of our greatest American gentlemen."

Asked in 1960 how he could keep a portrait of a man who tried to "destroy our government" in his Oval Office, President Eisenhower wrote his critic back:

"General Robert E. Lee was one of the supremely gifted men produced by our Nation. He believed unswervingly in the Constitutional validity of his cause which until 1865 was still an arguable question in America; he was a poised and inspiring leader, true to the high trust reposed in him by millions of his fellow citizens; he was thoughtful yet demanding of his officers and men, forbearing with captured enemies but ingenious, unrelenting and personally courageous in battle, and never disheartened by a reverse or obstacle. Through all his many trials, he remained selfless almost to a fault and unfailing in his faith in God. Taken altogether, he was noble as a leader and as a man, and unsullied as I read the pages of our history ...

"To the degree that present-day American youth will strive to emulate his rare qualities, including his devotion to this land as revealed in his painstaking efforts to help heal the Nation's wounds once the bitter struggle was over, we, in our own time of danger in a divided world, will be strengthened and our love of freedom sustained.

"Such are the reasons that I proudly display the picture of this great American on my office wall."

Have some terrible new truths been unearthed about Lee we did not know in 1960?

No. The change has taken place in the poisoned minds of modernity.

Some will never concede there was principle or honor in the cause of a South that declared independence in 1860-61, emulating the 13 colonies that declared their independence in 1776.

In his tribute to Lee in 1960, Ike addressed what was at issue in 1860 that brought on the war.

"We need to understand that at the time of the War Between the States the issue of secession had remained unresolved for more than 70 years. Men of probity, character, public standing and unquestioned loyalty, both North and South, had disagreed over this issue as a matter of principle from the day our Constitution was adopted."

Ike refers not to a "Civil War," but to the "War Between the States." And correctly so. For the South did not seek to bring down the U.S. government, or overturn Lincoln's election, or seize power in the capital -- but to leave the Union, to secede, as Jefferson and John Adams voted to secede from Britain in 1776.

Asked on Fox News about what is happening today with the public insults to our national anthem and the desecration of our monuments, Justice Clarence Thomas raises questions being asked by many Americans:

"What binds us? What do we all have in common anymore? ... We always talk about E pluribus unum. What's our unum now? We have the pluribus. What's the unum?"

The spirit that produced the war in the 1860s, and lasting division in the 1960s, is abroad again. A great secession of the heart is under way.
Stanislav Petrov and Vasili Arkhipov are two Russian military officers who are not household names, but they both saved our world from a nuclear catastrophe.

Petrov died in September and Arkhipov died in 1998.

On Oct. 27, 1962, during the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis, Arkhipov was a Russian submarine commander off Cuba who decided that the explosive depth charges dropped by U.S. destroyers were not associated with the opening rounds of World War III. Since the submarine was too deep to receive radio messages from Moscow, the decision to launch a nuclear missile into the United States had to be made based upon his judgment and he decided not to. The world was spared a nuclear holocaust.

In September 1983, Petrov was working at an early warning facility near Moscow. On the red screen at that facility a red flash appeared, warning that a missile had been launched in North Dakota and it was on a path toward Russia. Since it appeared to be only a single missile, Petrov believed it to be a system malfunction. However, within minutes five more apparent missiles appeared on the screen. Petrov somehow sustained his perception that this was not a strike. He was, of course, correct. The detection satellite was compromised by sun rays reflecting off clouds at two launch sites in North Dakota. Again, we were spared a nuclear disaster.

I lived through these two near disasters during the height of the Cold War. Their stories revive the fears and anxiety of that time. We had drills in school on what to do in the event of a nuclear attack and the threat hung over us like a dark, ominous cloud in our daily lives. In fact, my brother landed a good paying summer job going around the Pittsburgh area posting those black-and-yellow fallout shelter signs on public and private buildings. But the fear of nuclear warfare was instilled within us, and the same could be said of the Russian people. We inhabited a world that had not forgotten the horrors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

I quite frankly never thought that talk of a possible nuclear war would ever become the subject of headlines and military options. We now live in a time that such talk has suddenly emerged from North Korea and our own White House. The nuclear option has again become a reality. Think about what that means: the prospect of nuclear war on the Korean peninsula is absolutely horrible. The estimates of loss of lives are beyond mind-numbing. While over a million people would die in North Korea and hundreds of thousands (including thousands of American soldiers) would die in South Korea, additional lives would be lost in Japan and, if even one North Korean missile reached Guam, countless more Americans would die. To add to the horror, the radiation exposure would cause even more loss of life in northeast China and the whole of Korea. For example, the distance from Tieling, China, a city of three million, to Pyongyang, North Korea, is the same as the distance from Sioux City to Des Moines.

President Trump rightly condemned and responded dramatically to Syrian dictator Assad using poison gas on his own people by stating that Assads action was killing babies. How many babies will die on the Korean peninsula if nuclear war unfolds?

We need to return to that period in history when we rightly understood and feared the use of nuclear arms by any country. As difficult as it may be, opening channels of communication with the leaders of North Korea is absolutely necessary. Those talks could be the beginning of future negotiations to defuse this pending nuclear apocalypse. Negotiating is not and should not be appeasement. Military action has to be considered the very last choice. China has much at stake in this current situation and I remain hopeful that Chinese leader Xi Jinping will continue to be a voice of moderation and perhaps draw the two sides into talking instead of threatening.

Recent events - both China freezing North Korean assets in China and a lowering of bombastic words from Kim Jong-un - are encouraging. We, as citizens, need to encourage diplomatic solutions and voice that conviction to our representatives, senators and president. If we do nothing, my greatest fear is that we stumble into a nuclear world war. So pick up a pen or send an e-mail to our leaders and, most important, pray that we sustain a livable world for our children and grandchildren.

Next week: Jim Wharton

A Sioux City resident, Jim Rixner is the retired executive director of the Siouxland Mental Health Center and a former member of the City Council. He and his wife, Bernadette, are the parents of three adult sons and the grandparents of seven.
Voting this Tuesday is more important than ever. We the citizens of this town cannot keep going down the wrong path to more destruction. The crime rate has increased considerably in the last four years, our property taxes continue to rise every year. We need clean, good-paying jobs in this town (in my opinion, the new pork plant is an example of factories that emit greenhouse gases, which is the number one cause of global warming, and tons of sewage every day); we need to reuse the vacant buildings downtown; we need free parking downtown to help the merchants. The building of the new hotel is an example of wasted money. Let's not forget about payments to outside firms for studies.
As President Trump continues undermining the institutions of our American democracy, our elected officials in Washington seem more focused on insuring their coffers are full for their re-election campaigns than on insuring a democratic republic will remain for them to guide.
Many progressives and, unfortunately, our culture want us to believe the solution to our problems is a matter of a horizontal move. Following the left's ideology will definitely help while going right just doesn't work. They deny what our wise founding fathers knew, that it is a spiritual issue and the answer is a vertical move.
The Revolution Party

Theory  November 5, 2017  Leo Panitch

A fresh and compelling new account of the Russian revolution to mark its centenary concludes by paying tribute to the Bolsheviks for acting as historys switchmen, a term derived from the small booths that dotted the railway tracks across the Russian empire, where local revolutionaries had long gathered for clandestine meetings. Against those so-called legal Marxists who in 1917 used the term as an epithet to scorn those who would try to divert the locomotive of history on its route from the feudal to the capitalist political station it was scheduled to arrive at before it could depart for its final socialist destination, China Mieville asks: What could be more inimical to any trace of teleology than those who take account of the sidings of history? What makes October 1917 not only ultimately tragic but still ultimately inspiring is that it showed it was possible to act decisively so as to engage the switches onto hidden tracks through wilder history (Mieville, 2017, pp. 1, 318-19).

There were, of course, no hidden tracks. If the metaphor were to continue to be deployed, it would require recognizing that the tracks which would form a branch line away from the siding of the October 1917 insurrection had yet to be forged and laid. The Bolsheviks who led the insurrection, above all Lenin and Trotsky, certainly werent intending to construct a parallel branch line. Rather they believed that those trains already far ahead of Russias on historys track were scheduled to imminently reach capitalisms final station (the highest, as Lenin had designated it in his 1916 pamphlet on imperialism). And they expected that those trains would hasten to leave that station, once inspired by the determination of the Russian switchmen, who would then reengage the switches to merge onto historys track to the socialist station. But, as was quickly signaled by the failure of the German communist revolution of 1919, the trains on the main track failed to leave the capitalist station. The result, as Mieville puts it, was that the months and years to follow will see the revolution embattled, assailed, isolated, ossified, broken. We know where this is going: purges, gulags, starvation, mass murder (Mieville, 2017, p. 306).

Actual Construction

The branch line that was actually constructed  tortuously winding from the Civil War through the marketized NEP of Lenins last years to Stalins centrally planned industrialization and forced agricultural collectivization  made two-track time a reality for most of the twentieth century. The revolutionaries who broke most sharply with the practice of socialism in one country, and suffered grievously from its particular methods, still believed that, as Trotsky put it in exile in 1932, capitalism has outlived itself as a world system (Trotsky, 2016, pp. 208). And even amidst the American-led capitalist dynamism of the post-1945 era, it was the Soviet track to industrialization that most impressed revolutionaries  and a good many reformists  in developing countries. Yet it turned out that it was the parallel branch line that was constructed from the siding of the October revolution which culminated in an historical dead-end. Before the century was out, eying the high-speed trains now running on the capitalist track, new switchmen appeared all too eager to engage the switches once more and merge with the track on which capitalism sped into the 21st century to who knows where.

It is time to dispense with the metaphor. And what should also be dispensed with is the proclivity to proclaim the imminent end of capitalism (Streeck, 2016). However useful historical materialism still proves in revealing how capitalism displaced previous modes of production  and thereby in revealing the possibility of a post-capitalist future  there are no hidden tracks through history. There are still only people making history under conditions not of their choosing. And however essential Marxist analyses of capitalisms old and new contradictions may be for understanding those conditions, neither constraints on the development of productive forces, nor economic crises, or even ecological ones, will themselves end capitalism. Only people capable of making history can do that, and if that new history is to be a socialist one, they will have to become capable of doing that too.

It should be noted in this respect that there is also a strong trace of teleology inherent in the all too common view that, in diverting Russia from its presumed natural path of development, October 1917 signifies an arbitrary act organized behind the back of Russian society by a group of Marxist ideologues who were bent on carrying out their so-called socialist experiment at any price. In fact, what still lends October historical legitimacy, as David Mandel reminds us in another new book commemorating the centenary, is how extensive was the support for it. October was indeed a popular revolution (Mandel, 2016, p. 155).

Insofar as the centenary of the Russian revolution occasions some new reflections on the possibility of a transition from capitalism to socialism a quarter century after the demise of Communism, this is much to be welcomed, with two provisos. First, the proper place to start is a quarter century before 1917, i.e., with the novel political phenomenon of the widespread emergence of organized mass socialist parties deeply embedded in the working classes. And second, the point of this returning must be to identify and learn from not only the possibilities they evinced but also their misconceptions and limitations, the better to see whether and how these might be, if not avoided, then at least transcended in new attempts that will no doubt be made under 21st century capitalist conditions to develop new political parties to act as the organizational and strategic fulcrum between working class formation, on the one hand, and capitalist state transformation, on the other.

Social Democracys Legacy

Subordinate classes had throughout history engaged in slave revolts, or in bread riots usually led by women, but such long standing institution building as was involved in the mass working class political parties spawned by the late 19th century were an entirely new historical phenomenon. They did not come out of nowhere. They often involved the confluence of various previous formations which had been unable to be as encompassing of the working classes or sustain such longevity. But it was for the most part the socialist parties which emerged between the 1870s and 1920s out of previous attempts at political organization and revolt as well as a myriad of trade union struggles that, as Eley affirms, consistently pushed the boundaries of citizenship outward and onward, demanding democratic rights where anciens regimes refused them, defending democratic gains against subsequent attack and pressing the case for ever-greater inclusiveness. Socialist and Communist parties  parties of the Left  sometimes managed to win elections and form governments, but more important, they organized civil society into the basis from which existing democratic gains could be defended and new ones could grow (Eley, 2002). As C.B. Macpherson once put it, even though the principle introduced into predemocratic liberal theory in the nineteenth century to make it liberal-democratic [was] a concept of man as at least potentially a doer, an exerter and developer and enjoyer of his human capacities, rather than merely a consumer of utilities, the practical advancement of such a conception largely depended on the emergence of these entirely new forms of political agency which were explicitly aiming for a maximization of democracy through a revolution in democratic consciousness of the working classes (Macpherson, 1973, pp. 51-2, 173-4, 182-4).

A good deal of the inspiration these parties took from Marx and Engels 1848 Communist Manifesto was the stress it had put on the formation of the proletariat into a class, and hence a political party (Marx, 1996, p. 13). And when Marx and Engels had even earlier contended that the alteration of men on a mass scale is necessary, an alteration which can only take place in a practical movement, a revolution, their notion of both movement and revolution was conceived not so much as a spontaneous cathartic moment of insurrection, but rather as involving a long process of class organization and institution building through which workers capacities could be developed, so they would become fitted to found society anew (Marx, 1947, p. 69; see also Carver and Blanks, 2014a; 2014b; Nimtz, 2000). They were likely thinking here of something like the German Workers Educational Society founded in London in 1840, which advertized on one of its posters: The main principle of the Society is that men can only come to liberty and self-consciousness by cultivating their intellectual faculties. Consequently, all the evening meetings are devoted to instruction. One evening English is taught, on another, geography, on a third history, on the fourth, drawing and physics, on a fifth, singing, on a sixth, dancing and on the seventh communist politics (Bender, 1988, p. 10).

The Communist Leaguers who as part of their historic mission to change the world had founded that educational society and later commissioned the Manifesto  let alone the quarante-huitards that soon crowded the streets of Paris (Gabriel, 2011, pp. 109, 132)  could hardly qualify as a party in the sense that this would come to be understood some four decades later by the time the Second International of mass socialist parties was founded on Bastille Day in 1889. When the Communist League broke up in 1850 amidst a factional dispute, Marx defined the issue behind the fatal split as the difference between his sides materialism and the other sides idealism in their approach to revolutionary time: The materialist standpoint of the Manifesto has given way to idealism. The revolution is seen not as the product of realities of the situation but as the result of an effort of will. Whereas we say to the workers: You have 15, 20, 50 years of civil war to go through in order to alter the situation and to train yourselves for the exercise of power, it is said we must take power at once, or else we may as well take to our beds (Marx, 1978, p. 626; see also Nimtz 2016, pp. 248-52). Marxs timeline for party building was remarkably prescient. The new Social Democratic parties which emerged over the following 15, 20, 50 years, with mass working class involvement over these decades, premised their activities on the understanding that, as Engels himself put in 1895, the time of surprise attacks, of revolutions carried through by small conscious minorities at the head of unconscious masses, is past. Where it is a question of a complete transformation of the social organization, the masses themselves must also be in it, must themselves already have grasped what is at stake, what it is they are going for, body and soul. The history of the last 50 years has taught us that. But in order that the masses may understand what is to be done, long persistent work is required (Engels, 1960, pp. 199-200).

The Marxist legacy these new parties drew on, and to no little extent manufactured, involved bringing the Manifesto back from relative obscurity as a key aid in their own role of forming the proletariat into a class. This was explicitly seen as involving a patient process of organization building and mass popular education. The most recent and comprehensive analysis of socialist party programmes before 1914  starting with the foundational 1891 German Erfurt programme but also covering those of the Belgian, Swedish, French and Russian Social Democratic parties as well as of the British Labour party  clearly demonstrates that inspirational socialist goals were always linked to the articulation of more immediate reforms. These ranged from those designed to improve living and work conditions, to those aimed at the extension of the suffrage, freedom of association and the rule of law, to those designed to secure full equality for women, separation of church and state, universal secular education and the democratization of arts and culture. They showed to broadly-defined working classes, as August Bebel once put it, that the parties were acting for them in practice, and not simply referring them to some future socialist state, the date of whose arrival nobody knows. Even so, they were also seen as crucial to equip the working class intellectually and culturally to master its own political destiny, which involved, above all, developing the self-governing capacities of the working classes.

To be sure, Marxs early admonition of the German party for its statist tendencies in his 1875 Critique of the Gotha Program of the German Social Democratic Party , in sharp contrast with the admiration he had expressed for the forms of democratic administration briefly evinced in the Paris Commune, stands as a notable marker that something was always amiss here. In any case, by the time Marx died, it was by no means clear that the German Social Democratic (SPD) would survive its legal proscription by the 1878 Anti-Socialist Law. Forcing the laws repeal by 1890 was an historic victory but it was also notable that Engels critique of the SPDs 1891 Erfurt programme warned that, fearing a renewal of the Anti-Socialist law, a certain opportunism was gaining ground in the party. This he saw as not only reflected in the programmes apparent acceptance that all of the partys demands could be achieved within the present legal order in Germany, but even more so in the programmes implication that present-day society is developing toward socialism (Engels, 1970, pp. 434-5).

What Engels was discerning here, avant la lettre Bernstein so to speak, was what later became known as revisionism. The issue was not so much whether a peaceful road to socialism was possible; it was rather what opportunism represented in terms of the growing autonomy of the leadership of the party from the mass membership amidst a host of internal party practices which inhibited rather than developed workers revolutionary ambitions and democratic capacities. So far had this gone in the first decade of the 20th century that Roberto Michels could conclude his famous study of the operation of iron law of oligarchy within the SPD by pinning his hopes instead on the public education system to raise the intellectual level of the masses so they may be enabled, within the limits of what is possible, to counteract the oligarchical tendencies of the working class movement. Still, even Michels did not wish to deny that every revolutionary working class movement, and every movement sincerely inspired by the democratic spirit, may have a certain value as contributing to the enfeeblement of oligarchic tendencies (Michels, 1962, pp. 368-9).

It was this democratic spirit which had infused Rosa Luxemburgs famous series of articles in 1898-99 on Social Reform or Revolution, written as a direct response to Eduard Bernsteins explicit justification and elaboration of the view that present-day society is developing toward socialism. Bernstein asserted that the social reforms produced by trade union and parliamentary action, sustained by the concentration and socialization of production and finance accompanying the full development of capitalism, would prove to have an inherent socialist character. Against this, Luxemburg argued that pursuing only this type of reform would ensure that the daily practical activity of Social Democracy loses all connection with socialism (Luxemburg, 2004e, p. 141). With razor sharp clarity, Luxemburg foresaw that a strategic perspective premised on the compatibility of capitalist and working class interests, with the party treating immediate practical results, the social reforms as the principal aim, could only lead to the adoption of a policy of compensation, a policy of horse-trading, and an attitude of sage diplomatic conciliation. And in this context a revolutionary perspective based on a clear-cut irreconcilable class standpoint would come to be seen by the party as an obstacle to be overcome.

What would be foregone thereby was the great socialist significance of the trade-union and parliamentary struggles  which was precisely that through them the awareness, the consciousness of the proletariat becomes socialist, and it is organized as a class. But if they are considered as instruments for the direct socialization of the capitalist economy, they lose not only their supposed effectiveness, but also cease to be a means of preparing the working class for the proletarian conquest of power. Luxemburg pithily summed up the revolutionary perspective as follows:

Socialism will be the consequence only of the ever growing contradictions of capitalist economy and the comprehension by the working class of the unavoidability of the suppression of these contradictions through a social transformation. When the first condition is denied and the second rejected, as is the case with revisionism, the labor movement is reduced to a simple cooperative and reformist movement, and moves in a straight line toward the total abandonment of the class standpoint (Luxemburg, 2004, p. 142).

This was initially articulated in the late 1890s as a defense of the partys revolutionary strategy on which up to now everybody agreed: but it would very accurately capture the predominant revisionist practice of Social Democracy, certainly from the turn of the century onward. This would culminate in 1914 in the historic split of Second International Social Democracy between those who supported each particular state and ruling class at the outset of the Great War, on the one side, and those who sustained a revolutionary perspective, on the other.

Yet there was much that was deeply problematic in the articulation of this revolutionary perspective against the revisionist one at the turn of twentieth century. And this reflected problems deeply embedded in the Marxist legacy as it was both inherited and manufactured by the mass socialist parties. The first of these had to do with what Luxemburg simply called The Breakdown. In rejecting what Bernstein claimed was capitalisms propensity to adaptation which would smooth its contradictions and facilitate its morphing into socialism, Luxemburg insisted that socialist theorys point of departure for a transition to socialism was not just a general and catastrophic crisis, but the fundamental idea that as a result of its own inner contradictions, capitalism moves to the point when it will simply become impossible (Luxemburg, 2004, p. 132). Engels had admitted that in his 1895 Preface to Marxs Class Struggles in France (originally published in the wake of the 1848 defeats) that he and Marx  and all who thought like us  were wrong in thinking at the time that conditions were ripe for the elimination of capitalist production, insofar as the second half of the 19th century had proved that capitalism still had great capacity for expansion (Engels, 1960, pp. 191-2). But by the end of the century most revolutionary Marxists, including Engels, generally shared Luxemburgs view that this very expansion had accelerated the coming of a general decline of capitalism. Against Bernsteins claim that the spread of financial credits accompanying the concentration of capital in cartels allowed for the mobility of capital so as to overcome otherwise fettered productive forces, Luxemburg insisted that this only reflected the greater anarchy of capitalism and aggravated the contradiction between the international character of the capitalist world economy and the national character of the capitalist state (Luxemburg, 2004e, pp. 134-9).

This perspective  so fundamental to revolutionary strategy in the years before World War One as well as after (indeed, right through the Great Depression of the 1930s)  neither foresaw the capitalist states capacity for adaptation so as to contain severe capitalist crises, nor capitalisms continuing dynamic expansion of productive forces (Panitch and Gindin, 2011, pp. 1-20). And it is precisely this which now allows us to see exactly how problematic was a strategy which presented socialism as a historical necessity, as Luxemburg put it, on the basis of the expectation of systemic capitalist collapse on a world scale at the beginning of the 20th century. To be fair, for revolutionaries who were, if anything, obsessed with the importance of working class agency, the notion of socialism as a historical necessity did not, ipso facto, imply an economistic conception of history. Rather, it stressed the importance, on the basis of the material conditions and the contradictions capitalism had created, of actively engaging in working class formation so as to develop the potential for its revolutionary agency. Indeed, Luxemburg explicitly rejected a mechanical conception of social development positing for the victory of the class struggle a time fixed outside and independent of class struggle. She argued instead that  since it was impossible to imagine that a transformation as formidable as the passage from capitalist to socialist society can be realized in one act  the proletariat would necessarily have to come to power too early once or several times before it can enduringly maintain itself in power (Luxemburg, 2004e, p. 159).

There was nevertheless a fundamentally problematic disjuncture between, on the one hand, a strategic orientation based on the imminent collapse of capitalism (usually combined, moreover, as it was by Luxemburg herself, with an expectation of the abandonment by bourgeois society of the democratic conquests won up to the present) and, on the other hand, a strategic recognition of the sheer length of time and the amount of political space that would be needed for preparing the working class for the proletarian conquest of power (Luxemburg, 2004, p. 153). This was further aggravated by the enthusiastic embrace of the no less problematic strategic conception of this conquest in terms of the dictatorship of the proletariat, a concept which only further obscured the long and persistent work involved in workers training themselves for the exercise of power (see Panitch, 1985, pp. 231-40). Luxemburgs allowed, citing Marx, for the possibility of the peaceful exercise of the dictatorship of the proletariat, even while insisting it was impossible to imagine that the henhouse of bourgeois parliamentarism could usher in the most formidable social transition in history, the passage of society from the capitalist to the socialist form (Luxemburg, 2004, p. 157). But her Social Reform or Revolution completely left aside what she would so famously identify as the problem of dictatorship twenty years later in her critical comments on Lenins The State and Revolution :

Lenin says: the bourgeois state is an instrument of oppression of the working class; the socialist state, of the bourgeoisie. To a certain extent, he says, it is only the capitalist state stood on its head. This simplified view misses the most essential thing: bourgeois class rule has no need of the political training and education of the entire mass of the people, at least not beyond certain narrow limits. But for the proletarian dictatorship that is the life element, the very air without which it is not able to exist (Luxemburg, 2004d, pp. 304-5).

The Russian Revolution

The Russian Social Democratic Labour Party (RSDLP) was always something of an outlier among the parties of the Second International. The social and political conditions in Western Europe by the 1890s, which led Engels to insist that insurrections were a thing of the past, simply did not obtain at the time in Russia. Although the RSDLP grounded itself in the rapid growth of an industrial proletariat in the cities of the Russian empire, it was the peasantry which remained by far the larger subordinate class. Russia at the beginning of the 20th century was still more like Germany had been in 1848 than what it had become half a century later. Moreover, Russias Czarist regime afforded almost none of the political space available to the SPD and its affiliated unions in Germany by the 1890s. This is precisely why Lenin told the RSDLPs first Congress that in Russia, the Social Democrats would need to work underground, create false identities, and rely on other forms of deception. As he explicitly put it: Without a strengthening and development of revolutionary disciplines, organization and underground activity, struggle against the government is impossible (Ali, 2017, p. 79).

As Lars Lih has shown, the organization of the RSDLP as a vanguard-led party was thus more a matter of its operation in the Czarist regime in Russia than of Lenins rejection of the German mass social democratic party model (Lih, 2005, pp. 517, 527, 547-8). To be sure, Lenin stood steadfastly with the revolutionary wing of German Social Democracy: What Is To Be Done (1902) opens with a decisive rejection of the Bernsteinian revisionist trend in Social Democracy for its attempt to change it from a party of social revolution into a democratic party of social reforms. Yet the stress this seminal tract placed on training in revolutionary activity had nothing to do with mastering techniques of violent insurrection, but rather with developing hegemonic capacities. Working class consciousness cannot be genuine political consciousness unless workers are trained to respond to all cases of political tyranny, oppression and abuse no matter what class is affected unless they learn to apply in practice the materialist analysis of all aspects of the life and activity of all classes, strata and groups in the population. This could only take root through the party developing the capacity to organize sufficiently wide, striking and rapid exposures of all the shameful outrages to bring before the working masses prompt exposures on all possible issues to deepen, expand and intensify political exposures and political agitation (Lenin, 1970, pp. 175-7).

The emphasis here was similar to Luxemburgs in terms of the partys key role in preparing the working class for the proletarian conquest of power. But Lenin gave much less weight than she did to trade-union and parliamentary struggles through which the consciousness of the proletariat becomes socialist, and it is organized as a class. This was only to be expected given how restricted all such activity was in Russia. And it was a highly significant measure of how limited trade union and parliamentary activity in Germany itself had become in terms of developing class capacities that Luxemburg came to see the 1905 mass strikes in Russia as spontaneously showing what the SPD itself needed to most be attuned to instead. The central argument of her famous 1906 pamphlet on this was that the mass strike in Russia does not represent an artificial product of premeditated tactics on the part of the Social Democrats, but a natural historical phenomenon. The development in absolutist Russia of large-scale industry with all its consequences [of] modern class divisions, sharp social contrasts, modern life in large cities and the modern proletariat had come at a time when the whole cycle of capitalist development had run its course in the more advanced capitalist countries. The result of this, she claimed, was that bourgeoisies  not only in Russia, but everywhere  were partly directly counterrevolutionary, partly and weakly liberal. And this in turn meant that Russia, far from being the outlier in what should be the Second Internationals strategic considerations, had become the leading edge:

The present revolution realizes in the particular affairs of absolutist Russia the general results of international capitalist development, and appears not so much as the last successor of the old bourgeois revolutions as the forerunner of the new series of proletarian revolutions of the West. The most backward country of all, just because it has been so unpardonably late with its bourgeois revolution, shows ways and methods of further class struggle to the proletariat of Germany and the most advanced capitalist countries (Luxemburg, 1971, pp. 70-3).

If this was similar in substance to the theory of uneven and combined development, it went beyond what even Trotsky, let alone Lenin, would yet claim, at least in terms of the strategic implications to be drawn from it. The stakes involved were signaled by Luxemburg in her address to the fifth Congress of the RSDLP in 1907, decrying the very negative attitude to the general strike [that] prevailed in the ranks of the German Social-Democratic Party; it was thought to be a purely anarchistic, which meant reactionary slogan, a harmful utopia. It may have been more wishful thinking than entirely accurate when she went on to tell them that the German proletariat itself saw in the general strike of the Russian proletariat a new form of struggle and hastened fundamentally to change its attitude to the general strike, acknowledging its possible application in Germany under certain conditions (Luxemburg, 2004a, p. 201). But what is certainly the case is that both the trade union and the party leadership were determined that their memberships should not come to see things this way; hence Luxemburgs subsequent polemics against Kautskys steadfast insistence that the mass strike actually signaled Russias backwardness, and that to emulate it in Germany would be the worst strategic blunder (Luxemburg, 2004f, pp. 208-31). The intra-party struggle between revolutionists and reformists in the SPD was thus taken to another level, foretelling the historic split that was soon to come.

But Luxemburg was also concerned with what the mass strike revealed about the Russian party, which as early as 1904, as well as subsequently, she criticized for a lethal combination of ultra-centralism with vanguardist factionalism. As was also the case with the more temporizing parties in Germany and elsewhere, it could not accept the insignificant role of a conscious minority in shaping tactics in the face of great creative acts, often of spontaneous, class struggle (Luxemburg, 2004c, p. 256; see also 2004b pp. 266-80). In any case, amidst massive state repression as well as the unmistakable waning of the strike wave between 1907 and 1911, the RSDLP collapsed from over a hundred thousand members to a few thousand. While the Menshevik wing of the party looked more and more toward a strategic alliance with the small liberal bourgeoisie, Lenin in exile clung, as Mieville tells us, to a pitiful optimism, managing to interpret any scrap  an economic dip there, and up-tick in radical publications here  as a turning point (Mieville, 2017, p. 27). When the Bolsheviks failed to predict the renewed labour upsurge of 1912-14 in Russia, this appeared to confirm Luxemburgs general claim that the initiative and conscious leadership of social democratic organizations played an extremely insignificant role in such developments.

Yet this did not prevent the Bolsheviks from this point onwards becoming the dominant political force in the labour movement (Leblanc, 2016, p. xi). After the massive demonstrations of January 9, 1917  the twelfth anniversary of 1905s Bloody Sunday  it was the Bolsheviks who were most acutely attuned to keeping pace with the many waves of protests and strikes that shook the old regime right up to the moment it collapsed at the end of February. What they were especially attuned to was that through the course of this popular upsurge to be a worker took on important social and political meaning, even if one worked as a waiter in a Petrograd cafe or a cab driver in Piatogoirsk (Koerner and Robinson, 1992, p. 135). As a fascinating study of the press at the time has shown, what especially distinguished the Bolsheviks strike reports was the recognition that activist behaviour by generally dormant workers like shop assistants, and women laundry employees was itself a matter of real political import. Moreover, not only the editors of the Bolshevik papers, but socialist editors of all persuasions appeared to portray class struggle, as illustrated by the strike movement, in the broadest possible terms, encouraging diverse segments of the labour force to abandon their narrow interests and to identify with a working class that transcended the limits of manufacturing industries. The conclusion drawn from this is especially important:

The very identification of shop assistants with leather workers, laundresses with industrial workers, could not help but suggest a broad commonality of interest and an aggregate workers class, legitimately entitled on these grounds to share in determining the political future of Russia. In these circumstances, the competitive identity of citizen was seriously compromised and the liberal values, on which Provisional Government authority was based, were likewise weakened (Koerner and Robinson, 1992, p. 143).

Trotskys own monumental History of the Russian Revolution , written in the first years after his forced exile by Stalin from the USSR, captured exactly this in relating two significant incidents in the days just before the February revolution, both of a kind that go unrecorded in most accounts. The first describes a street encounter of workers and Cossacks which a lawyer observed from his window, and which he communicated to the deputy [This] was to them an episode in an impersonal process: a factory locust stumbled against a locust from the barracks. But it did not seem that way to the Cossack who had dared wink to the worker, nor to the worker who instantly decided that the Cossack had winked in a friendly manner. The molecular interpenetration of the army with the people was going on continuously. The workers watched the temperature of the army and instantly sensed its approach to the critical mark. Trotskys account of the second incident is based on a quote from a senators incensed report against a tramcar conductor (I can still see the face of that unanswering conductor: angrily resolute, a sort of wolf look) who on encountering a street demonstration had immediately told everyone to get off. On which Trotsky comments: That resolute conductor, in whom the liberal official could already catch a glimpse of the wolf look must have been dominated by a high sense of duty in order all by himself to stop a car containing officials on the streets of imperial Petersburg in a time of war. The conductor on Liteiny boulevard was a conscious factor of history. It had been necessary to educate him in advance (Trotsky, 1934, pp. 167-8). Thus does Trotsky introduce his brilliant critique of spontaneity:

The mystic doctrine of spontaneousness explains nothing. In order correctly to appraise the situation and determine the moment for a blow at the enemy, it was necessary that the masses or their guiding layers should make their examination of historical events and have their criteria for estimating them. In other words, it was necessary that there should be not masses in the abstract, but masses of Petrograd workers and Russians in general It was necessary that throughout this mass should be scattered workers who had thought over the experience of 1905, criticized the constitutional illusions of the liberals and Mensheviks, assimilated the perspectives of the revolution, meditated hundreds of times about the question of the army, watched attentively what was going on in its midst  workers capable of making revolutionary inferences from what they observed and communicating them to others. And finally, it was necessary that there should be in the troops of the garrison itself progressive soldiers, seized, or at least touched, in the past by revolutionary propaganda. In every factory, in each guild, in each company, in each tavern, at the military hospital, at the transfer stations, even in the depopulated villages, the molecular work of revolutionary thought was in progress. Everywhere were to be found the interpreters of events, chiefly from among the workers, from whom one inquired: Whats the news and from whom one awaited the needed words. These leaders had often been left to themselves, had nourished themselves upon fragments of revolutionary generalizations arriving in their hands by various routes, had studied out by themselves between the lines of the liberal papers what they needed. Their class instinct was refined by a political criterion, and though they did not think all their ideas through to the end, nevertheless their thought ceaselessly and stubbornly worked its way in a single direction. Elements of experience, criticism, initiative, self-sacrifice, seeped down through the mass and created, invisibly to a superficial glance but no less decisively, an inner mechanics of the revolutionary movement as a conscious process (Trotksy, 1934, p. 169).

Dual Power

It was their attunement to this that led the Bolsheviks, gradually and not without considerable divisions among the leadership, to move strategically as they did between February and October. Even if they initially accepted what Trotsky admitted was the equivocal formula democratic dictatorship in reference to cross-class party alliances constituted in the Duma at a time when the official Social Democratic programme was still common to the Bolsheviks and Menshiviks, the Bolsheviks themselves nevertheless stayed out of any such parliamentary alliances (Trotsky, 1934, p. 337). Their acute sense was that the Russian bourgeoisie, whatever promises were made, would not be able to actually accommodate even the eight hour day, let alone land reform as the peasants wanted it  without compensation, or the workers ubiquitous demands for the right to elect representatives to factory committees which would oversee internal work rules as well as hiring and firing in the factories (Mandel, 2016, pp. 119-54). As the Bolsheviks took ever greater distance from the various attempts other socialist parties made to sustain alliances with the representatives of the propertied classes, popular support for them increasingly grew.

The novel notion of dual power  which placed the haphazard democracy of various layers of representation in the workers and soldiers councils (soviets) at the centre of Bolshevik strategy, was developed in this context. But there were many fits and starts, entailing much controversy within the leadership, before the Bolsheviks moved to adopt an unequivocal stance just before the October insurrection in favour of an immediate dictatorship of the proletariat under the heady slogan of All Power to the Soviets. To be sure, this was Lenins inclination from time he arrived in Petrograd from exile earlier in the spring, once he observed, as did Trotsky later, just how far elements of experience, criticism, initiative, self-sacrifice, seeped down through the mass and created, invisibly to a superficial glance but no less decisively, an inner mechanics of the revolutionary movement as a conscious process. Yet what must be kept in mind is that the central message of Lenins famous April Theses  already proclaiming the passage from the first stage of the revolution to its second stage, which must place power in the hands of the proletariat and the poorest sections of the peasants (Ali, 2017, p. 162)  was not primarily conceived with the intention of launching what anti-revolutionists derided as an irresponsible socialist experiment on the morrow of taking power. It was rather, as it always had been, strategically bound up with breaking the capitalist chain at its weakest link  that is, with what decisively ending Russias participation in the terrible imperialist war would also do by way of inspiring a revolution in Germany and elsewhere in the more advanced capitalist countries. Lenin, as well as Trotsky, still saw this as the sine qua non for rendering viable any transition from capitalism to socialism.

The diffuse but palpable anger at the suffering and chaos of Russias continued participation in the Great War, together with an accumulating sense that a pro-Czarist counterrevolution against the weak and vacillating Kerensky government might succeed, is what lay behind the mass popular support for the October revolution. That said, David Mandel is completely convincing in his assessment that a crucial factor in addition to this was the fear among militant class conscious workers, whom the Bolsheviks had not only influenced but whose attitudes they were always most attentive to, that employers were about to resort again to the prolonged lockouts that had broken the 1905 uprising. Yet in terms of what happened after the Bolsheviks took power, he is no less convincing in showing that the Bolshevik organization in the capital almost disappeared in the year following the October revolution. The politically active workers  and most of these were organized in the Bolshevik party  felt that, now that the people had taken power in its hands, the task was to work in the soviets, in the economic administrations, to organize the Red Army (Mandel, 2016, p. 162).

To this should be added Sheilas Fitzpatricks insightful observations on how radical intellectuals who knew little about the working of bureaucracy, whose study of Marx had given them some understanding of economic interest but none of institutional responded once they entered the highest offices of the old state. It was a shock to members of the first Soviet government when they found that being socialists, bound by Party discipline, did not automatically produce consensus once they were put in charge of a particular sector  industry, education, the army  and started to see the world through its eyes (Fitzpatrick, 2015, p. 184). The notion that creating a totalitarian state was the whole object of the revolutionary exercise was always either a figment of the counter-revolutionaries imaginations, or a cynically-deployed arrow from their ideological toolbox. The anti-Marxist historians position has always been to claim contingency rather than inevitability regarding the revolution itself, but when the contingency in question applied to the revolutions Stalinist outcome to insist on inevitability (Fitzpatrick, 2017, p. 13). There was no direct passage from Lenin to Stalins leadership, and even under the latter, as all of Fitzpatricks great historical work on the USSR has shown, both the party and the state were much less monolithic, if not any less bureaucratic, that they looked from the outside.

Lenins own antipathy to bureaucratic statism was evident in The State and Revolution , written on the very eve of the October revolution. While extolling some aspects of the planning capacity of the wartime German state (especially the post office), his central concern was with showing how a workers state founded on the soviets which had formed in the process of making the revolution would displace the bourgeois state with something like facility and ease (Krausz, 2015, p. 183). Even if that is regarded more as unrealistic rhetoric than as a sober assessment of possibilities, Lenin was also concerned to show that he was not utopian in this respect, explicitly recognizing that an unskilled labourer or cook cannot immediately get on with the job of state administration. The key point is that in challenging the prejudiced view that only officials chosen from rich families are capable of administering the state, Lenin was explicitly defining the central revolutionary task as the preparation of workers for this task. Lenins first proclamation after the October revolution To the Population as Chairman of the new council of Peoples Commissars clearly drew on this perspective: Comrades, working people! Remember that now you yourselves are at the helm of state. No one will help you if you yourselves do not unite and take into your hands all affairs of the state. Your Soviets are from now on the organs of state authority, legislative bodies with full powers (Lenin, 2016, p. 173).

Whatever capacities workers and soldiers may have developed through the soviets during the course of 1917, how far they could respond adequately to such an exhortation was bound to be most severely tested, especially in wake of the failure of German revolution, during the civil war, exacerbated as it was by the interventions, military and otherwise, of the victorious capitalist states in World War One. As Mieville puts it: Under such unrelenting pressures, these are months and years of unspeakable barbarity and suffering, starvation, mass death, the near-total collapse of industry and culture, of banditry, pogroms, torture and cannibalism. The beleagured regime unleashes its own Red Terror (Mieville, 2017, p. 311). Far from the soviet democracy of workers and peasants the revolutionaries had envisaged and promised, thus was established the dictatorship of what from 1918 was called the Russian Communist Party (bolsheviks). If it was in any sense a dictatorship of the proletariat, it was only one that would at best represent the idea of the class, not the class itself, as Isaac Deutscher later insightfully put. The Bolsheviks had not merely clung to power for its own sake, he insisted. In identifying the new republics fate with their own  banning opposition parties and reconstructing the soviets as well as trade unions as agents of the new party-state as the only force capable of safeguarding the revolution  they were steadfastly refusing to allow the famished and emotionally unhinged country to vote their party out of power and itself into a bloody chaos. Nevertheless, his key point was this:

They had always tacitly assumed that the majority of the working class, having backed them in the revolution, would go on to support them unswervingly until they had carried out the full programme of socialism. Naive as the assumption was, it sprang from the notion that socialism was the proletarian idea par excellence and that the proletariat, having once adhered to it, would not abandon it It had never occurred to Marxists to reflect whether it was possible or admissible to try to establish socialism regardless of the will of the working class (Deutscher, 1954, pp. 505-6).

What Rosa Luxemburg discerned within the October revolutions first year would soon come to definitively mark the outcome. The revolutionary party itself would become a clique affair where in reality only a dozen outstanding heads do the leading and an elite of the working class is invited from time to time to meetings where they are to applaud the speeches of the leaders, and to approve proposed resolutions unanimously. The great danger, Luxemburg foresaw, was that in a state without general elections, without unrestricted freedom of press and assembly, without a free struggle of opinion, life dies out in every public institution, becomes a mere semblance of life, in which only the bureaucracy remains as the active element (Luxemburg, 2004d, pp. 304-6).

Lenin himself admitted in 1923 that virtually no progress had been made in developing capacities for popular administration. He lamented that state institutions still bore all the traces of the overbearing, centralized, merciless Russian Bureaucracy, inherited in large part from the tsarist system. Tamas Krausz has recently aptly summed Lenins quandary in coming to this conclusion shortly before his death:

Because of the limits imposed by historical circumstances and individual mortality, Lenin was able to provide only a limited Marxist answer to the issue of having to resort to a dictatorship even against its own social base for the sake of preserving Soviet power. On the one hand, he tried to compensate for political oppression by proclaiming, in opposition to the remaining and ever stronger state power, that the working class must defend itself against its own state. He left unexplained how it could do so with the support of that very state. In other words, the workers must confront the state, yet defend the state and all its institutions at the same time. There was no dialectical solution for such a contradiction (Krausz, 2015, pp. 342, 368).

The effects of this on working class consciousness and democratic capacities was chillingly captured by what a leader of a local trade union committee at the Volga Automobile plant expressed in 1990, just before the USSR collapsed: Insofar as workers were backward and underdeveloped, this is because there has in fact been no real political education since 1924. The workers were made fools of by the party (Panitch and Gindin, 1992, p. 19). The words here need to be taken literally: the workers were not merely fooled, but made into fools; their democratic capacity was undermined. The Russian revolution yielded not so much a deformed workers state in the authoritarian communist regimes as a deformed working class. There is indeed a lesson here. If the revolution party, after a long and active process of class formation, proves incapable of effecting a state transformation that in fact yields a maximization of democracy, the effect of this will be class deformation.

Conclusions

From our 21st century perspective amidst neoliberal global capitalism it is very clear that the understanding of the revolutionists within the Second International  that capital concentration plus social reform, far from gradually tipping capitalist societies into socialist ones, could at best only ameliorate certain contradictions and conflicts within capitalism while intensifying others  has been proven completely correct. Moreover, the parlous state of the liberal democracies today, where increasingly precarious and disorganized working classes have been left politically naked before xenophobic appeals, depressingly reveals the consequences of an absence of mass socialist parties engaged in developing democratic capacities through their role in class formation. This brings us back to where we began  with the historical importance of such parties as the fulcrum between class formation and state transformation.

Redeeming this historical fact is not a matter of nostalgia. It was for good reason that Simone Signoret forty years ago already titled her autobiography, Nostalgia Isnt What It Used to Be (Signoret, 1976). Nor is it the left-wing melancholia so haunted by the defeated revolutions of the past as to be rendered immobile in the present, and thus effectively negate the admirably positive spin Enzo Traverso today proposes to give to the notion of a fruitful melancholia which does not mean to abandon the idea of socialism or the hope for a better future; it means to rethink socialism at a time in which memory is lost, hidden, and forgotten and needs to be redeemed. This melancholia does not mean lamenting a lost utopia, but rather rethinking a revolutionary project in a nonrevolutionary time (Traverso, 2016, p. 20).

The various attempts that were made at redeeming the revolutionary project via new Leninist parties in the wake of the heady spirit of 1968 proved so barren precisely because they did not encourage such rethinking. As Ralph Miliband noted in his famous Moving On essay in the 1976 Socialist Register : All these organizations have a common perception of socialist change in terms of the revolutionary seizure of power on the Bolshevik model of October 1917. This is their common point of departure and of arrival, the script and scenario which determines their whole mode of being. It was this basic perspective rather than some innate sectarianism, dogmatism, adventurism and authoritarianism that explained not only why they failed to become mass parties or even large parties but even why they have scarcely become parties at all, and it was their isolation which at least in part if not wholly produces their unpleasant characteristics (Miliband, 1976, pp. 138-9).

The final demise of the authoritarian communist regimes between 1989 and 1991 hardly rated as very significant in itself for a 1960s left generation which had been radicalized not because of but rather in spite of the example of actually  existing socialism. Nor was it necessary to await the realism without imagination that the craven accommodation to neoliberalism of the Blairite Third Way represented by the late 1990s to recognize that social democracys own reformist historical course had long before this reached its own dead end. As traditional working class supporters of both Communist and Social Democratic parties were left bereft of any ideological  let alone material  buffers against the grotesquely rising class disparities of the early 21st century (advanced capitalism, advanced inequality, one might call it), it should not be surprising to see them falling prey today to the patriotism of political scoundrels.

The accumulating failures of both Communist and Social Democratic parties over the past 50 years was accompanied by a marked shift on the radical left toward a broad-ranging movementism  whether in its pressure-group or protest-oriented dimensions. As Jodi Dean has recently argued, those trying thereby to escape the constraints of party often reduced it to the actuality of its mistakes while its role as concentrator of collective aspirations and affects [was] diminished if not forgotten. She observes that more and more movement actors themselves today increasingly recognize the limitations of a politics conceived in terms of issue- and identity-focused activisms, mass demonstrations which for all intents and purposes are essentially one-offs, and the momentary localism of anarchist street fighting. Thus they are asking again the organizational question, reconsidering the political possibilities of the party form (Dean, 2016, pp. 202-3, 205). It is just this which also serves to heighten a sense of the importance, and yet also the inadequacies, of Syriza and Podemos among the newer parties, as well as of the Corbyn/Momentum and Sanders/Our Revolution insurgencies in the old ones (Panitch and Gindin, 2016). These have emerged in direct response to the severe demobilizing effects of the old social democratic reformism even vis-a-vis its own base. Yet they also clearly have regarded the Bolshevik model as anachronistic. What new party forms will emerge to succeed both of these in the very different conditions of the 21st century, with all that will mean for class formation as well as state transformation, remains to be seen. But one thing is very clear. The question of the party  which appeared to have been relegated to the political scrapheap of history, rather like the steam locomotives that once powered certain teleological representations of historical materialism  is palpably back on the agenda of the left. 

This article will appear in the forthcoming issue of the journal Constellations on the Russian Revolution.
The essential component of totalitarian propaganda is artifice (het toepassen van kunstgrepen. svh) . The ruling elites, like celebritie...
News / Africa

by Staff Reporter

Three Zimbabwean men, who are alleged to have masqueraded as traditional healers in Botswana, were yesterday further remanded in custody pending trial.The trio, Gift Chihwayi (27), Phillip Rusari (39) and Emmanuel Chihwayi (42) appeared before Broadhurst Magistrate, Wame Mosugelo. Representing the State, detective senior superintendent sergeant Marapo pleaded with the court to further remand the suspects in custody because all of them were illegal immigrants who did not have passports."If this court can grant them bail the immigration laws of the land would take effect and they would be deported immediately as they are illegal immigrants and do not have passports," Marapo said, adding that it would be difficult to trace them.He said that the three are not candidates for bail and that the police have completed their investigations. Gift pleaded with the court for bail citing family problems, as he said his wife was rushed to Princess Marina Hospital where she was hospitalised and his minor child was under the care of their neighbours."I have a problem. I am pleading for bail because I do not know my wife's current condition at the hospital. I am not even sure if my child is well taken care of," Gift said. For his part, Emmanuel told the court that his family was falling apart, as he did not know his wife's whereabouts."I understand the Magistrate on this case is not available today, but I would like to know when will we appearagain for bail hearing. I am currently in prison and my wife does not know where I am and cannot locate her because I am in custody. I'm pleading with court to grant me bail."The pleas for bail did not convince the Magistrate who demanded to know why and how the accused persons entered the country without passports."How do you want the court to help you if you do not have passports? Do you want this court to break the law? There is no how this court could grant you bail. Therefore you will further be remanded in custody until your next mention," Mosugelo said.The trio is facing two counts of attempting to obtain by false pretences as well as entering Botswana through an un-gazetted point.It is alleged that on October 13, 2017, acting in consent at Phiring location in Gaborone, they tried to obtain the sum of P1,000 from Linet Mmali David by falsely pretending that they were traditional doctors.They are alleged to have planted a dead baboon in the woman's yard and then charged her P1,000 claiming their powers had discovered' and removed it. Court once revealed that the trio told David that they had removed a thokolosi from her house, which prosecutors say they knew it was false, as they had planted a dead baboon.
Another weird atmospheric phenomenon occurred on November 2, 2017 in Mexico.

Residents of Tijuana and Mexicali started heard a loud boom, started feeling their homes shake and windows rattling. But there was no earthquake. So scientists are looking up to the sky Again!

Suddenly, a loud boom shook homes and rattled windows across Tijuana and Mexicali, Mexico on November 2, 2017 at 11:56am (Pacific Time). But no earthquakes were recorded by seismographs in the area.

Interestingly, some loud booms also rattled San Diego a bit later (7pm) on the same day:

Definitely felt was seemed earthquake here east of San Diego, but its not on the USGS feeds. Sonic boom? Live fire at Camp Pendelton?  Michael Eskin (@Seisiuneer) November 2, 2017

Whats going on in San Diego? Earthquake? Sonic Boom? Military test?  Josh Barry (@barryjosh729) November 2, 2017

So what the heck in Mexico?

The official explanation is the following:

In English, it says: We inform that the event occurred this morning at 11:56 a.m. Pacific Time, WAS NOT AN EARTHQUAKE. The sensors of the Seismic Network of the CICESE recorded vibrations that are believed to be related to a meteorological phenomenon generated when hot and cold air masses clash together. This violent collision can produces a BOOM that can make the windows vibrate. Analyses of seismic stations of Tijuana show that the event isnt similar to an earthquake.

OFFICIALS have already used the same explanation (brutal clash between a cold and a warm front) to explain the mysterious apparition of light columns in the sky of Argentina on October 24, 2017:

Of course, residents are now questioning this OFFICIAL answer. There were also trainings at Camp Pendleton.

So whats going on? Are they testing a new kind of weather weapon? In the mean time GET READY!

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Extranos fenomenos en la frontera de Tijuana y Mexicali que no tienen explicacion!  OVNI y SISMOS
The Kelso City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall to discuss the 2018 legislative agenda, property tax levy and amendments to rules and procedures.

The council is expected to approve chemical purchases for water treatments in 2018. The total estimated cost for next year is about $55,500.

The council will also review and potentially adopt the states 2018 legislative agenda, which includes priorities such as housing conditions, mental health, chemical dependency and economic development tools.

In other business, the council will discuss the possibility of a program that educates residents about their responsibilities to maintain and repair water and sewer systems on their property.

The council is expected to take action on the 2018 property tax levy which totals about $1.5 million. This amount is about $33,000 more than last year due to new construction costs and a one-percent increase.

Following discussion during the Oct. 17 meeting, staff will propose amendments to the Council Rules and Procedures to allow public comment for items slated for action on the council agenda.
News / Local

by Stephen Jakes

Mthwakazi Liberation Front has condemned the arrest of Mzilikazi II, the Ndebele King Stanley Raphael Khumalo, by the police saying it is another ploy to silent those pushing for the restoration of Mthwakazi.MLF spokesperson Chrispen Nyoni said Stanely Raphael was arrested today by police and described the move as yet another bogus way of closing the Mthwakazi peoples from exercising their right to what they believe in."While other Mthwakazi groupings have been given space, it appears that SRK has never been given that space. There is a telling story from that and I will be unpacking that from a political pedestal that I am on," he said.Stanley was arrested at Lobengula Kraal in Bulawayo as he and his group planned to conduct Inxwala celebrations.Details of the charges he is facing are yet to be established.
DU accords reception to 32 retired professors



Dhaka University (DU) conferred reception to 32 retired professors on Saturday with a view to honouring the contribution of the teachers to academia of the public university.

DU Teachers' Association (DUTA) organised the programme at Professor Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury auditorium on the campus, said a press release on Sunday.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr M Akhtaruzzaman was the chief guest of the programme moderated by DUTA President Prof Dr ASM Maksud Kamal.

Pro VC (Academic) Prof Dr Nasrin Ahmad and Treasurer Prof Dr M Kamal Uddin, DUTA General Secretary Prof Dr M Rhamat Ullah, among others, spoke at the event.

The speakers highlighted the contribution of the retired teachers while the professors recalled their memories in the university.
News In Brief

Trump to meet Putin during Asia trip

AFP, Japan

US President Donald Trump said Sunday he expected to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during an Asian tour likely to be dominated by international tensions over North Korea.

"I think it's expected we'll meet with Putin, yeah. We want Putin's help on North Korea, and we'll be meeting with a lot of different leaders," Trump told reporters on Air Force One.



Vietnam typhoon death toll reaches 27

Reuters, Vietnam

Floods inundated swathes of central and southern Vietnam on Sunday in the wake of a typhoon that left at least 27 dead just days before the region is due to host the APEC summit of Asia-Pacific leaders.

Typhoon Damrey, the 12th major storm to hit Vietnam this year, made landfall on Saturday with winds of up to 90 km/h (56 mph) that damaged more than 40,000 homes, knocked down electricity poles and uprooted trees.



Red Cross admits $6m fraud during Ebola crisis

AFP, Geneva

The Red Cross has uncovered several cases of fraud by officials during efforts to combat the Ebola outbreak that struck West Africa in 2014-2016, estimating losses of $6 million (5.2 million euros). In a statement, the Geneva-based International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said it was "outraged", and said it would "ensure any staff involved are held to account."



Scottish minister quits over 'inappropriate behaviour'

AFP, London

A junior minister in Scotland's government resigned on Saturday after admitting "inappropriate behaviour", as a sleaze scandal in British politics showed no sign of abating.

Childcare minister Mark McDonald said in a statement that he apologised "unreservedly to anyone I have upset or who might have found my behaviour inappropriate".



Sicilians vote for new governor

AP, Milan

More than 4.6 million voters in Sicily are heading to the polls Sunday to pick a new regional governor in the last important vote before a national election early next year. While five candidates are running, political polling heading into the vote indicated that the race has narrowed down to a contest between center-right candidate Nello Musumeci and the 5-Star Movement's Giancarlo Cancelleri.



Missile from Yemen intercepted near Riyadh airport

AFP, Riyadh

Saudi Arabia on Saturday intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile near Riyadh's international airport after it was launched from conflict-torn Yemen, in an escalation of the kingdom's war against Iran-backed Huthi rebels. The missile attack was the first aimed by the Shiite rebels at the heart of the Saudi capital, underscoring the growing threat posed by the raging conflict in Yemen.

A loud explosion was heard and smouldering debris landed inside the King Khalid International Airport, just north of Riyadh, after the missile was shot down but authorities reported no major damage or loss of life.




Public lecture, seminar at EU

Prof Dr Muntassir Mamoon, Department of History, University of Dhaka speaks at a public lecture on Bangabandhu at East West University (EWU) on Thursday.

Campus Report :

A public lecture on Bangabandhu and a seminar on Food Sustainability were arranged by the East West University (EWU) on Thursday at University campus, Aftabnagar in the capital.

Department of Social Relations of the University organized the public lecture titled 'Bangobondhu Janaboktrita'. The lecture was delivered by Prof Dr Muntassir Mamoon, Department of History, University of Dhaka. Dr Muntassir Mamoon expressed his satisfaction at the acceptation of the historical speech of Bangabandhu on 07 March 1971 by UNESCO as a world documentary heritage. Prof Mamoon also stressed how Bangabondhu first articulated his idea of Bangladesh as early as 1948, and how he pursued his dream afterwards till it became a reality.

Besides, a seminar on 'Food Sustainability in the Context of Bangladesh' was organized by the Department of Business Administration of EWU and the Swedish Institute (SI) Alumni network in Bangladesh. The keynote speaker of the seminar was Md. Nazrul Islam, e- agricultural expert of the donor organization USAID.

Among those attending the seminar and public lecture Dr Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, EWU and the former governor of Bangladesh Bank, Dr Rafiqul Huda Chaudhury, Member of the Board of Trustees, EWU, Prof Dr MM Shahidul Hassan, Vice Chancellor, EWU, Prof Dr Fakrul Alam, Pro-Vice Chancellor, EWU, Mikael Salomonsson, Project Manager, (SI) Alumni network, Swedish Institute. Prof Dr Tanbir Ahmed Chowdhury, Dean of the faculty of Business and Economics, EWU, Prof Dr Anup Chowdhury, Chairperson of the Department of Business Administration and Dr Lutfun Nahar, Chairperson of the Department of Social Relations other faculty members and students of the two departments were also present on the occasions.


Turkish Stream enters Turkey's exclusive economic zone

TASS, Moscow :

The first line of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline on Saturday entered the Turkish exclusive economic zone, the project's operator said.

"Pioneering Spirit, the world's largest construction vessel, laid into the sea the pipe sections with the Russian and Turkish flags, which symbolize crossing of the exclusive economic zone's border between the countries," the operator said.

The border crossing marks end of two marine line's construction in the Russian exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Over less than six months, almost 25% of the marine passage construction were completed (448 kilometers of both lines). The construction continues in accordance with the schedule. Gas transportation along the pipeline is due in December 2019.

The Pioneering Spirit laid one line to the EEZ border, and then returned to Anapa (Russia) to begin the deep-water laying of the second line. The other vessel - Audacia - in late July finished laying both lines in shallow waters. Thus, the main pipe-laying operations in the Russian EEZ were made within one campaign.

Now, the Pioneering Spirit will continue laying one line to Turkey's shore. Both lines will get ashore about 100km west of Istanbul, in Kiyikoy. The vessel is laying about four kilometers of pipes a day. On November 1, 2017, it laid the record 5.15km of the Turkish Stream. The Black Sea's depth at the EEZ's border is 2,171meters, which is actually the deepest passage of the pipeline.
Congress ignored issues of abuse, trafficking

Stella Paul :

Twenty-year-old Gogontlejang Phaladi of Mahalapye, Botswana is grateful she was never sent to a so-called "hyena" like scores of girls in neighboring Malawi were.

In a ritual approved by the community, a solo man (the hyena) would have sex with the adolescent girls of an entire village to "sexually cleanse" them so they would be considered fit for marriage.

"It makes sense to bring village and religious leaders in this conversation on violent crimes. After all, most of them are validated by the society and traditions."-Gigi Phaladi

"I am so glad that in Botswana we do not have hyenas, but we face other forms of sexual violence such as stepfathers molesting stepdaughters and giving them HIV," says Phaladi, founder of Pillar of Hope, a project that counsels, educates and trains local adolescents to tackle these challenges.

Last week, Phaladi attended the 11th World Congress on Adolescent Health which was held in New Delhi and focused on different health aspects of youth in the age group of 10-24. Speaking to an audience that included diplomats, bureaucrats, researchers, doctors and activists, Phaladi stressed that if the problems of adolescents were to be truly addressed, they had to be involved in the process.

Talking to IPS on the sidelines of the Congress later, Phaladi said that there were adolescents who experienced the most heinous and violent crimes across the world such as sexual assaults, trafficking, violent social norms and religious practices of violent crime.

Aside from HIV, beating, molestation, and sexual exploitation at schools by teachers - the challenges faced by adolescents were multiple. But the adolescents directly affected by the violence and crime were not included in the process to address them.

"You see, the laws in these countries are not firm enough to protect the adolescents from these crimes. So, it's not just a health issue, but a governance deficiency and we need to talk about this at such events, from the adolescents themselves," she said.

Unfortunately, violent crimes like sexual slavery, hyenas, molestation at schools or breast ironing - another crime reported widely from Western Africa - were missing from the Congress on Adolescent Health, as were issues of cross-border sex trafficking of adolescent boys and girls in Asia and community-backed forced prostitution of young women in India. Mental health was discussed as a generic issue, but rising cases of mental illness in militarized and conflict zones were also missing.

A big reason behind this could be lack of any data, said Rajib Acharya, a researcher from Population Council of India, a New Delhi-based NGO researching population issues across India. Acharya just conducted a study of 20,000 adolescents aged 10-14 in two states of India - Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Presented at the Congress, the study showed, among others, severe levels of anemia among the adolescents. According to the study, 1.2 million and 2.8 million are severely anemic, respectively, in these two States.

But it took four months and a team of 50 researchers to interview the adolescents on nutrition and sexual and reproductive health. Three weeks were spent on training the researchers, and analyzing the data took another four to five months. To generate data on multiple issues would mean multiplying the investment of this time, effort and money, Acharya reminded.

He also said that if the issue was complicated, sensitive and involved traveling to conflict zones, it was less likely to be taken up for research as gathering credible date would be incredibly hard.

Forums like the Congress should ideally be utilized to bring on the hard-hitting issues related to adolescents, said Thant Aung Phyo, a young sexual and reproductive healthcare activist in Myanmar. Pointing out the severe restrictions on adolescents in accessing abortion care, Phyo said, "The rigid government policies and social traditions that restrict the rights of adolescents need to be brought up and discussed at forums like this."

Myanmar is currently caught in a human rights disaster where over a million Rohingyas had been forced to flee their homes, taking refuge in neighboring countries including Bangladesh, India and Thailand. The refugees included hundreds of thousands of adolescents who are living in trauma, poverty, fear and uncertainty.

Decribing their suffering as "unfathomable" and "unprecedented", Kate Gilmore, Deputy High Commissioner of the UN Human Rights Commission, says that refugee and migrant adolscents across the world must be provided free and regular healthcare as a right. "Migrant adolescents must have access to healthcare without the fear of being reported, detained and deported," Gilmore said.

India, home to the world's largest adolescent population (253 million), launched an adolescent-specific program in 2014 - the first country in the world to do so on such a scale. Titled Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (KRSK), the program aimed at improving health and nutrition of adolescents besides protecting them against violence and injuries.

It is currently run in 230 of the country's 707 districts, but even after three years, there was little data available on the program's impact. The data presented at the event by the health ministry of India at the Congress only specified the facilities built by the government so far (700 adolescent health clinics) and services provided (training over 20,000 adolescents as peer educators).

However, the selection of the peer educators and the skills of the field workers had been questioned by experts from the non government sector.

"The peer educator component is the most controversial aspect of the program. The skill of the workforce on the ground is also questionable," observed Sunil Mehra, one of the pioneers on adolscent health in India and head of Mamta Health Institute for Mother and Child which coorganised the Congress.

Agreed Rajib Acharya: "If we spoke with community level health workers, we would see that only 5 or 6 out of every 30 or 40 knew what they were supposed to say or do to adolescent patients."

On Saturday, however, the ministry announced certain changes to improve the RKSK program and monitor certain services Said Ajay Khera, Deputy Commissioner (Adolescent Health) at the minsitry, the government would "now make the program promotion and prevention-centric and monitorable".

The ministry would particularly monitor its Weekly Iron Folic Supplementation (WIFS) programme on digital platforms to tackle anemea among adolescents. A special toolkit called "Sathiya" was also launched at the World Congress on Friday for better peer education. The Toolkit-available both in print and online - focused on six broad themes of the RKSK such as integrated child health , sexual and reproductive health, injuries and violence, nutrition, substance abuse and mental health.

There are other instituions and systems that India and other countries could make better use of to address the "wicked problems" faced by the adolescents, reminded Anthony Costello, Director, Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health at the World Health Organization (WHO). "Promoting greater interaction among adolescents of different age and sex is one. Involving parents in learning of the health issues of adolescents is another. Talking of difficult and disturbing issues like breast ironing, rape, trafficking is yet another. We need to use all of these," Costello told IPS.

Gigi Phaladi added that traditioonal and religious leaders also must be roped in to talk about adolescents. In Botswana, she said, pastors in churches were urged to talk of gender violence, HIV and other gender-based crimes. "People were surprised to hear their religious leaders talk about sex etc, but they also started paying attention. The general feeling among people was 'if the pastors do not feel hesitant to talk about these issues, why should we?' So, it makes sense to bring village and religious leaders in this conversation on violent crimes. After all, most of them are validated by the society and traditions,"she said.

The three-day (Oct 27-29 ) 11th Congress on Adolescent Health, which had 1,200 participants from 65 countries, concluded on Sunday.

IPS
CPA meeting must bring pressure on Myanmar to take back Rohingyas

THE two-day Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) opens in the city yesterday at a time when Bangladesh is facing the exodus of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar's Rakhine State There are many routine items for discussion in this conference by the parliamentarians. More than 550 delegates from 144 National and Provincial parliaments of 44 countries out of 52 CPA members are attending the conference.







But we must say the single most important issue in this conference for Bangladesh is the Rohingya crisis and we know Bangladesh will place the issue for seriously taking stock of the humanitarian crisis resulting from the ethnic cleansing of Rohingya Muslims by Myanmar military. We believe the participants will not hold just empty talks but seriously look into whether a country can strip its nationals the citizenship and oust them from their homeland which was once an independent Arakan State before Burmese warlords occupied it over two and a half century ago.







The occupation power is now expelling the original owner of the land and the world is witnessing it without seriously coming to their help mobilizing action how to save these people from being permanently stateless. No country, no parliamentarian having honest commitment to human rights and international law can tolerate such brutalities that include mass killing, rape of women and torching of Rohingya villages. We must say the conference must take serious resolution and plan of action to force Myanmar to stop the genocide, give back citizenship to the Rohingyas and take back them to their abandoned homes.









We would also call upon the government to take the CPA participants to refugee camps to see for themselves the Rohingya exodus and the miserable conditions that they are exposed to life in overcrowded camps. Parliamentarians must understand that it is a big international crisis and humanitarian problem beyond the ability of a small and resource scarce country like Bangladesh to handle. We can't give shelter to so many people and feed them. They are already outnumbering the locals in the area and joining in crimes and creating local tension. This is a new challenge as it threatens the breakdown of law and order. So the CPA meeting must make the real contribution to create the world opinion against the Myanmar atrocities and bring pressure on Myanmar to end the genocide.







The Rohingya issue also came up for discussion in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference at St Petersburg in Russia two weeks ago. But it fell short of any strong resolution to force Myanmar government to end the crisis. The situation has flared up to such a level now that Myanmar will not pay heed to any call until it achieves its final solution of Rohingya problem. We want that the world must positively and quickly respond to save these people. Seeing a crime happening is also a crime and the international community can't avoid the responsibility in this regard. We hope the CPA conference realise the gravity of the situation in this meeting.






Threat from record level carbon emission





THE World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere surged at a record-breaking speed in 2016 to the highest level in eight hundred thousand years. The abrupt changes in the atmosphere witnessed in the past 70 years are without precedent. The organization's Greenhouse Gas Bulletin said globally averaged concentrations of CO2 reached 403.3 parts per million in 2016, up from 400ppm in 2015 because of a combination of human activities and a strong El Nino event that sends ocean water at certain regions at boiling point. Without rapid cuts in CO2 and other Greenhouse Gas emissions, the world is heading to face dangerous temperature increases by the end of this century.







As a low lying country, Bangladesh is on critical radar of climate change affect where the impact of climate change in the form of disrupting seasonal weather and untimely raindrop or drought are already visible. If all parties to Paris Climate Agreement don't slash carbon emission to their commitment level, the world is going to face serious disaster and Bangladesh will be in the forefront of the countries to suffer the worst.







The Bulletin said rapidly increasing atmospheric levels of CO2 and other Greenhouse Gases have the potential to initiate unprecedented changes in climate systems, leading to severe ecological and economic disruptions. The factors mainly responsible for unprecedented rise in carbon emission have been identified as faster population growth, intensive agricultural practices, increases in land use and deforestation, industrialization and more energy use from fossil fuel sources. They are at work beginning in 1750. Concentrations of CO2 are now 145 percent of the pre-industrial era. Since 1990, there has been a 40 percent increase in total radioactive activities in the atmosphere warming the climate. The laws of physics tell us we will face a much hotter and more extreme climate in the future.





The developed countries - USA, China and developing like India and Brazil -- are the highest carbon emitters in the world. While Bangladesh emitted only 70 tons of carbon in 2015 the impact of the Greenhouse Effect would hard hit the coastal people of Bangladesh without much contributing to Carbon Emission. The problem is that the USA is the biggest emitter of carbon in the air as an industrial nation but President Donald Trump's withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement to allow US to use unrestraint fossil fuel in industrial activities is the biggest threat to rein in the situation.







We must say the USA was the biggest victim of unprecedented flood and sea storm this year like in the previous years and we believe President Trump will agree now that climate change is the biggest threat not only to the USA but to all humanity. The world must work together before too late.
Missile intercepted near Riyadh



Saudi Arabia says it has intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen, after a loud explosion was heard near Riyadh airport on Saturday evening. The missile was destroyed over the capital and fragments landed in the airport area, officials quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency said.

A TV channel linked to Houthi rebels in Yemen said the missile was fired at the King Khalid International Airport. The civil aviation authority said that air traffic was not disrupted.

Saudi forces have reported shooting down Houthi missiles in the past , though none has come so close to a major population centre. "The missile was launched indiscriminately to target the civilian and populated areas," said Turki al-Maliki, a spokesman for the Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen.

"Shattered fragments from the intercepted missile landed in an uninhabited area of the airport and there were no injuries." Witnesses reported seeing parts of the missile in the airport's car park, Saudi broadcaster Al-Arabiya reported. Residents in the north of Riyadh said their windows were rattled by a loud blast on Saturday evening that was followed by the roar of low-flying aircraft. The Houthi-run Saba News in Yemen said the missile had been a Burkan H2.

The rebel group is believed to have access to a stockpile of Scud ballistic missiles and home-grown variants. Saudi forces have previously brought them down with Patriot surface-to-air missiles bought from the US. The Houthis fired a missile towards Riyadh in May, a day before US President Donald Trump was due to arrive in the city for a visit, but it was shot down 200km (120 miles) from the capital.

Yemen has been devastated by a war between forces loyal to the internationally recognised government of President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi and those allied to the Houthi rebel movement.

Saudi Arabia is leading a campaign to defeat the Houthis, and is the biggest power in an international air coalition that has bombed the rebel group since 2015.

On Wednesday a suspected strike by the Saudi-led coalition killed at least 26 people at a hotel and market in northern Yemen, medics and local officials said.

The coalition, which rights groups say has bombed schools, hospitals, markets and residential areas, said it struck a "legitimate military target".


Congress leader praises Hasina for support to Rohingyas

Indian National Congress leader and spokesperson Salman Nizami haspraised the actions of Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in welcoming the Rohingyas, calling it an example of the motherliness of humanity.

"Bangladesh government has not only opened the borders but also opened the hearts with love and compassion to the children, women, old, the sick, the wounded and even the thousands who are unborn," he said.

The Congress leader along with a team of volunteers reached Bangladesh-Myanmar border on Saturday to provide relief to the Rohingya Muslim families still fleeing Myanmar. Nizami visitedShah Parir Dwip, Teknafandmany camps in Cox's Bazar, including Hindu camps, where he distributed relief among the refugees.

He said many Rohingya Muslims are living without water, food, clothes and shelter.

They are sitting wherever they can find a corner, they do not have anywhere to go, he said adding that they are in an extremely bad state as of now. Nizami also said the Myanmar government has been carrying out genocide against Rohingyas which is tantamount to declaring a war. Mentioning the worldwide criticism against Myanmar government, Nizami said, "A vested quarter especially Hindutva brigade is hatching conspiracy capitalising on the Rohingya problem for political benefit in India & spreading fake news that Rohingya Muslims killed Hindus and Bangladeshi Muslims are forcing Hindu refugees to convert into Islam."

Nizami said, "I met the Hindu refugees in Cox's Bazar and they totally denied these allegations. The Hindu refugees blamed Myanmar army for the genocide and also thanked Bangladeshi government for providing assistance and shelter to them." Nizami urged people to remain alert against such 'conspiracy' and to come forward and help the Rohingya Muslims. He said, "Our team will visit each Rohingya camp and distribute food, medicines and essentials among the refugees, and will ensure their safety on humanitarian grounds."
US for dialogue to end Rohingya crisis

Punishment no solution: Shannon

Staff Reporter :

Visiting US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas A Shannon said, only diplomatic efforts can resolve the Rohingya crisis. United States does not want to punish anyone in this regard.

"Our efforts are to resolve the crisis and not to punish anyone. United States is working with Bangladesh government and other international organisations to address the ongoing Rohingya refugee influx," he said.

Thomas A Shannon said this in a joint briefing at State Guesthouse of Padma in Dhaka on Sunday.

Shannon headed the US delegation while Foreign Secretary Md Shahidul Haque led the Bangladesh team at the partnership dialogue.

Responding to a query from a journalist during a press briefing about US sanction or any other restrictive measure on Myanmar if its government does not take back their own nationals who fled persecution inflicted by their own security forces in the State of Rakhine, Shannon said, there have been engagements between diplomats and other government officials between Bangladesh and Myanmar.

"So, engagement is taking place. Dialogue is taking place,' Shannon said adding that their purpose is to try and find a way to capture that and continue to move it forward towards some kind of solution," he said.

On October 23, the US State Department said it was exploring scopes to impose sanctions against Myanmar.

Since August 25, more than 607,000 Rohingya refugees were forced to leave their home and several other thousands were killed in the violence in the Rakhine State of Myanmar.

Every day hundreds of Rohingya people are crossing the border and taking refuge in Bangladesh on a daily basis.

The US envoy conveyed his country's high appreciation on the generosity that the government and people of Bangladesh have shown by hosting over 607,000 Rohingya refugees.

Earlier in the day, the sixth US-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue was held reviewing the entire gamut of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Apart from the bilateral issues, regional and global issues also, including the Rohingya crisis, were discussed in the dialogue. US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas A Shannon led the US side while Foreign Secretary M Shahidul Haque the Bangladesh side.

Shahidul Haque said the US remains the strongest supporter of Bangladesh over the Rohingya issue and the US has so far taken 31 concrete steps over the issue. Foreign Ministry officials said, the safe, sustainable and dignified return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals was discussed with outmost importance in the dialogue. Bangladesh underscored the vital importance of sustained political pressure and actions of all kinds on Myanmar government by the international community and particularly by the US government for their early repatriation and permanently stopping the violence.

Bangladesh side highlighted the five-point proposal given by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during the 72nd UNGA in New York in September this year.

Both Bangladesh and the US sides discussed the humanitarian crisis unfolding on the border with Myanmar.

'I reiterated the alarm expressed by officials at the highest levels of the US government, including President Trump, Vice-President Pence, and Secretary Tillerson, regarding the scale of the atrocities that are being reported in northern Rakhine State,' Shannon said.

Bangladesh underlined the fact that despite the claim from the Myanmar side that the violence has stopped, people from Myanmar are still crossing the border and coming to Bangladesh in thousands every day, narrating the stories of atrocities that are contributing to the continued influx of Rohingyas. Shannon attended the partnership dialogue for the second time since its beginning in 2012.

Shanon who arrived on Sunday morning met journalists around 2:40pm after participating in the Sixth US-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue at State Guest House Padma in Dhaka.

Shannon will leave Dhaka today.


News / Local

by Staff Reporter

Zanu PF Bulawayo Province has passed a resolution to expel Vice President Emerson Mnangagwa from the party, while some Central Committee members were also given marching orders for causing disturbances during 9th Presidential Youth Interface rally at White City Stadium yesterday.Bulawayo Province called an emergency Provincial Coordinating Committee (PCC) meeting to discuss yesterday's event, where some Central Committee members including the Women's League Provincial Chairperson, Eva Bitu were ejected from the meeting.The stormy meeting saw a number of party officials being fingered as being part of Mnangagwa's camp who participated in the disturbances that took place at the interface rally.Also fingered as being the financier of factional politics in Zanu PF was businessman, Mr Raj Modi who was said to have provided meals for the party factional team that is said to have come from the Midlands using the Kwekwe and Deka high schools' buses.The meeting resolved that Mnangagwa be expelled from the party.The provincial leadership said the resolve will be communicated to the party's national leadership.Meanwhile, the province has apologized to President Robert Mugabe and the First Lady, Dr Grace Mugabe for the disturbances that happened at White City where some rogue elements booed the latter while delivering her speech.A communique that was read out by Provincial Chairman, Dennis Ndlovu stated that the incident was an embarrassment for Bulawayo although they were not part of the misguided elements.It was also resolved that the party must continue rebuilding its structures ahead of the 2018 elections.
Govt gets more time to publish judges conduct rules

Staff Reporter :

Attorney General Mahbubey Alam on Sunday said that Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha's rejoining office after returning to Bangladesh is "a far cry."

"As I said earlier, Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha's rejoining office after returning to Bangladesh is a far cry, even today. How can Chief Justice S K Sinha discharge the judicial duty if other judges of the Appellate Division do not want to sit with him in the Bench," he questioned while talking to reporters at his office after the Supreme Court held hearing on Masdar Hossain case, known as judiciary separation case.

The Chief Justice left for Australia on a month's leave on October 13 on health grounds. During his departure, he told the media that he is not sick and he will come back to the country.

The Attorney General also said Law Minister Anisul Huq may hold meeting with the judges of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court on Thursday to talk on the topic for publishing a gazette notification on the rules determining the guidelines of lower court judges.

"We have granted four weeks time from the court. I said to the court that the Law Minister wanted to hold meeting with the judges of the Appellate Division to see how to solve the problem. Tentatively, he (Law Minister) can hold the meeting on next Thursday," Mahbubey Alam said.

Meahnwhile, the Appellate Division granted four weeks time to the state side to publish the gazette notification and fixed December 3 for the next hearing on the matter.

A five-member Bench of the Appellate Division headed by the Acting Chief Justice, Md Abdul Wahhab Miah, passed the order after considering the time prayer filed by the Attorney General.
CPA extends solidarity on Rohingya issue

Staff Reporter :

Parliamentarians from various countries under Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) on Sunday extended full support to Bangladesh with commitment to stand beside the country on resolving Rohingya crisis.

The Parliament Members proposed taking a resolution on plights of Rohingya people, sending a CPA delegation to Myanmar to get firsthand information and meeting Myanmar leader Aung Sun Suu Kyi.

They also wanted to visit the Rohingyas who fled Myanmar's persecution and taken shelter in camps in Cox's Bazar.

They said this after Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali briefed them about the Rohingya issue on Sunday.

They also termed the atrocities against Rohingyas in Myanmar as "genocide" which cannot be tolerated.

Chairperson of the CPA and Speaker of Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury said that the CPA will seriously consider the proposal prepared by the visiting Members of Parliament to adopt a resolution on the Rohingya issue.

Shirin Sharmin said that the MPs appealed to adopt a resolution in all the respective countries' Parliaments to denounce the atrocities committed against the Rohingyas, leading to their mass exodus from Myanmar to Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, the eight-day long 63rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) was inaugurated officially on Sunday on the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad in the capital.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, also vice-patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, inaugurated the conference in the noon .

Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad and Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) are jointly organising the CPC which will end on November 8.

The theme of CPC is "Continuing to enhance high standards of performance of Parliamentarians." The theme of the CPA is Democracy, Diversity and Development.

Chairperson of CPA and Speaker of Jatiya Sangsad of Bangladesh Dr Shirin Sharmin Choudhury delivered welcome address while Secretary-General of the CPA Akbar Khan, Commonwealth youth representative Aiman Sadique and treasurer of CPA Vicki Dunn spoke, among others, on the occasion.

Messages of Queen Elizabeth (II) and Secretary General of the Commonwealth Secretariat Patricia Scotland were read out on the occasion.

More than 550 delegates from 144 National and Provincial parliaments of 44 countries joined the conference. A total of 52 countries are members of CPA.

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali in a written statement also asked CPA members to "take a united stand against all discriminatory policies and activities that run counter to human rights and good relations between countries, and that any such policies are thwarted and not allowed to thrive for upholding democratic principles globally."

He said the Rohingyas must be able to return to their original place of residence in the Rakhine State.

"About a million persecuted, disenfranchised, stateless people are vulnerable to any kind of radical ideas or instigation. Deep frustration and hopelessness of the forcibly displaced population could create condition ripe for radicalisation and destabilise the region and beyond," the Minister added.
Force Myanmar to stop persecution, take back Rohingyas

ROHINGYA INFLUX CONTINUES: Hundreds of unarmed civilians, including women, children and elderly people, are entering Bangladesh every day amid aggressive ethnic cleansing operation by the Myanmar army that ravaged most of the Muslim dominated villages in

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday urged the Commonwealth countries to force Myanmar to stop persecution on its Rohingya citizens and take them back from Bangladesh at the earliest.

"I would like to request you all to discuss the Rohingya issue with utmost importance and exert pressure on the Myanmar government to stop persecution on its citizens [Rohingyas]and take them back at the earliest," she said. The Prime Minister said this while officially inaugurating the 63rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) at the South Plaza on Parliament premises here.

She said 'Friendship to all, malice to none' is Bangladesh's policy in maintaining relations with foreign countries. "Especially, we're eager to maintain good relations with our neighbours." Sheikh Hasina, also the vice patron of the 63rd CPC, said Bangladesh resolved long-standing problems of Ganges water sharing and land boundary dispute with India through signing treaties. "Similarly, maritime boundary problem with India and Myanmar was also resolved amicably."

But, the Prime Minister said, the inhuman persecution inflicted on the Rohingya population in the Rakhaine state of Myanmar and their forceful expulsion from their homeland have created instability in the region and beyond. She said over 622,000 Myanmar nationals fled to Bangladesh to escape persecution. After 1978, another 500,000 Rohingyas came to Bangladesh at different times. "We've given temporary shelter to this huge number of people on humanitarian ground." The CPA and Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad are jointly arranging the conference with the theme: 'Continuing to enhance the high standards of performance of parliamentarians'. The eight-day conference 2017 began on November 1 with the meetings of different committees and sub-committees of the CPA as well as conferences of small branches before the official inauguration.

Hasina said, the main aim of the government is to build a hunger- and poverty- free Bangladesh through strengthening the foundation of democratic rule in the country. "Aiming to fulfill the goal, we've framed Vision 2021 and now are implementing the same devising specific plans."

The Prime Minister said Bangladesh has been in a journey through the roads of peace, democracy, development and prosperity. "We've already been elevated to a lower middle-income country. We expect that Bangladesh will emerge as a country of middle income on the Golden Jubilee of our Independence in 2021 and as a developed one by 2041."

But, she said, a new campaign of facing militancy and terrorism has been added to the efforts of the government to eradicate hunger and poverty. "Thoughtless acts of a section of people are claiming innocent lives. Militancy is not a problem of a particular country, rather it became a global phenomenon," she said. The Prime Minister mentioned that a few days back, eight precious lives were lost on a New York road. "We've to be united to get rid of this menace."

Talking about the climate change and its impact, she said Bangladesh is the worst victim of the climate change. "This year we experienced excessive precipitation and recurrence of flooding that washed away our vast localities and damaged standing crops. We expect immediate implementation of the promises made at different times to offset the adverse impacts of climate change," she said.

In Bangladesh, Hasina said, people have been striving hard to build a poverty- and hunger-free democratic society. She also said independent and strong mass media are the vigilant watchdog of democracy. In the past few years, Bangladesh witnessed huge expansion of mass media. "The freedom of mass media and people's right to information has been ensured." CPA President and Speaker of Bangladesh Parliament Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, Secretary-General Akbar Khan, CPA treasurer Vicki Dunn, and Commonwealth youth representative Aiman Sadique spoke on the occasion. Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury read out the message of the patron of CPA Queen Elizabeth (2nd) and video message of commonwealth secretary general Patricia Scotland was screened at the programme.
HC orders to stop hydraulic horn across country

Staff Reporter :

The High Court (HC) on Sunday directed the government to take necessary steps to stop hydraulic horn or high sounding horns of the vehicles across the country including the capital city.

The court also ordered to form surveillance teams across the country to control high level sound according to the Environmental Rules and Sound Pollution Control Rules.

Inspector General of Police, DIG (highway), Chairman of BRTA and Joint-Commissioner (Traffic) will comply this order.

The HC bench of Justice Quazi Reza-Ul Hauque and Justice Mohammad Ullah passed the order after hearing a supplimentary petition.

Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh, a rights organization, filed the petition seeking necessary directives from the court to stop hydraulic horn or high-sounding horn across the country.

Advocate Monzil Murshed took part in the hearing in favour of the petition while Assistant Attroney General Titus Hillol Rema stood for the state.

After court's order, Advocate Monzil Murshed said, sound level in residential, commercial and industrial areas are detailed in the Environmental rules 1997 and Sound Pollution Control Rules 2006.

As per rules, no one can use high-sounding horn in those areas. But high sounding horns are used there.

The court had ordered the above four to form observing teams across the country including Dhanmondi, to control high level sound.

The court also fixed December 13, 2017 for further hearing on the matter.

On October 8, the same HC bench directed the vehicle owners and drivers all over the country to handover hydraulic horns to the concerned police stations within 15 days.

The court also asked police to destroy the hydraulic horns soon after getting those in hands.

Earlier on August 23, the HC directed the government to take necessary steps in 48 hours to stop the use of hydraulic horns in Dhaka city.
China sees prospect in Dhaka-Naypyidaw power sharing

UNB, Dhaka :

China sees a good prospect in electricity sharing by Bangladesh and Myanmar in the future through grid interconnection transmitting clean hydropower from China's Yunnan Province, says a senior official of a leading power company of China.

"May be in the future Bangladesh and Myanmar can reach an agreement and we can transmit clean hydropower from Yunnan Province to Myanmar and then to Bangladesh," Deputy Director of China Southern Power Grid Co. Ltd Li Xinhao told UNB.

While talking to this correspondent at his office, he, however, said their company is actively participating in the One Belt, One Road (OBOR) initiative though grid interconnection is a very complex issue when it involves a third country. "Especially when the third country and your destination country have some border issues," said the official at the International Business Department of the company which is seriously looking for power cooperation with South Asian and the Southeast Asian regions.

He said they, as a company, always do what their central government directs them to do. "We can't personally facilitate such collaboration. I believe it's a state-to-state issue." Xinhao said they are currently considering establishing China-Myanmar inter-grid connection considering the evolving political and economic landscape. "May be in the future, Bangladesh and Myanmar will also reach a similar consensus following the growing electricity demand." Responding to a query, Xinhao said Bangladesh's manufacturing sector is growing fast and Bangladesh, after a certain



stage, will go for a high-end manufacturing path.

"High-end manufacturing requires high quality electricity and stable grid connection and smooth transmission sector," he said sharing China's experience in this particular transition.

He said, development of power sector in a country is a precondition of economic development. "If you don't have stable power and transmission system, it'll affect overall production system."

Responding to another question, Xinhao said they are willing to help Bangladesh develop its power sector. "We're willing to share our technology, strength, management and overseas experience with Bangladesh."
US reaffirms support to BD

The United States will continue its support to Bangladesh over Rohingya issue keeping up pressure on Myanmar to take back from Bangladesh its forcibly-evicted nationals.

The assurance came whenUS Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas A Shannon met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official residence Ganobhaban on Sunday evening. After the meeting, PM's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters. Echoing the US Under Secretary of State, Sheikh Hasina said the pressure on Myanmar as well as engagement will have to be kept up to peacefully resolve the Rohingya crisis.

The Prime Minister recalled her visit to Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar and narrated the untold sufferings and plight of the Rohingya people, especially that of women and children. Hasina said her government has given shelter to tens of thousands of Rohingyas on humanitarian grounds. She compared the recent exodus of Rohingya nationals into Bangladesh with the situation created in 1971 when huge people from Bangladesh took shelter in neighbouring India during the Liberation War. About combating terrorism, Hasina reiterated her call to stop the source of money and funding of the terrorists saying, "The US can play a vital role in this regard," she said. Regarding cyber security, Hasina said it is a very important issue and Bangladesh needs US support in this regard in addition to sharing information to combat it. On terrorism issue, Shannon highly praised Bangladesh for combating terrorism. He also appreciated Bangladesh's stunning socioeconomic development under the Prime Minister. "Bangladesh is now a remarkable example and model of self-development and self-confidence." Paying tributes to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the US under secretary of state said he visited Bangabandhu Memorial Museum to pay homage to the great leader.

The Press Secretary also said the issue of extradition of the fugitive convicted killer of Bangabandhu Rashed Chowdhury also came up for discussion at the meeting. PM's International Affairs Secretary Dr Gowher Rizvi and Principal Secretary Dr Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury, Bangladesh Ambassador to the USA M Ziauddin and US Ambassador to BangladeshMarcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat.


News / National

by Stephen Jakes

The National People's Party Harare province official Nyaradzai Naite Sande has resigned from the party citing due to lack of direction by the party."I am writing this letter to notify you that I am quitting National People's Party with immediate effect. What I was expecting is not what is on the ground."I do not think we will achieve anything with this type of leadership so let me take a rest," she wrote."It pains to leave you but there is absolutely nothing I can do. We have no direction at all.People are leaving everyday but you do not even care. It seems you care more about positions than the masses."
News / National

by Staff reporter

President Robert Mugabe's declaration to ban foreign poll observers is "misplaced" and "perilous", as the move will put the freeness, fairness and credibility of the forthcoming 2018 elections in question, an independent poll watchdog has warned.Recently, the 93-year-old leader - endorsed as Zanu-PF's presidential candidate - told the Chinese media in Harare that Zimbabwe will not invite foreign observers, arguing that they (foreign observers) work in cahoots with opposition political parties."Mugabe's statements are not only misplaced but perilous, as they further raise a lot of questions as far as the freeness, fairness and credibility of elections is concerned," Election Resource Centre (ERC) executive director Tawanda Chimhini said.He said Mugabe cannot be a referee and a player at the same time."It is not within President Mugabe's jurisdiction but the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)'s mandate to decide who should monitor and observe Zimbabwe's elections."If...Mugabe wants to be a referee in 2018, he must not be a candidate for the 2018 election...Mugabe can't be a player, referee and the linesman at the same time. Mugabe must be reminded that he is only a player during the 2018 elections," Chimhini said.Chimhini insisted that if Mugabe has nothing to hide, "why would he block the accreditation of foreign observers?"The ERC boss said the move is unexpected since Zimbabwe is a signatory to a number of international bodies, including the United Nations, that seek to promote international best practice on elections."What boggles the mind is that Zimbabwe is a signatory to regional and international bodies that have clear guidelines and principles that encourage member states to hold elections adhering to international best practice," Chimhini said.He urged Zec to be autonomous in order to champion the interests of Zimbabweans by allowing international observers to observe."Honest democratic elections must be an expression of sovereignty, which belongs to the people of Zimbabwe, not the president or the executive," Chimhini said.He said "it is naive, archaic and out of touch with reality in the global village" for a country to bar international observers at a time when they have widely been accepted around the world.International observers assess election processes in accordance with international principles to ensure genuine democratic elections and domestic law.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa's ally, controversial businessman Energy Mutodi says a coup is likely in Zimbabwe if President Robert Mugabe fails to "carefully choose his successor" amid rising succession tensions within the ruling Zanu-PF.Two distinct camps have emerged in Zimbabwe's revolutionary party in recent years, as factions seek to outwit each other in the race to succeed the 93 year-old leader.Mnangagwa was allegedly leading a faction that was angling to succeed Mugabe calling itself "Team Lacoste", while another grouping made up of young Turks, commonly known as Generation 40 and backing First Lady Grace Mugabe to succeed her ageing husband, wanted to torpedo Mnangagwa's presidential ambitions.Although both Mnangagwa and the First Lady have publicly denied harbouring presidential ambitions, the ructions in the revolutionary party have now become synonymous in Zanu-PF politics.Adding his voice in the growing calls for Mugabe to name a successor, Mutodi said that the veteran leader had to be careful in choosing his successor and consult widely.Mutodi, according to New Zimbabwe.com, wrote on his Facebook page, that the veteran leader should avoid raising "any suspicion of unfairness or discrimination" as it may "backfire" and even tarnish his name.Said Mutodi: "Decision making in succession issues has always been a problem among Africans; resulting in civil wars, repetitive coups and economic turmoil."See Mutodi's post below.He said that Mugabe needed to consult with the country's security establishment as it had played an instrumental role in keeping him in power."President Mugabe [needs] to be careful in naming his successor. Any suspicion of unfairness or discrimination on account of tribalism or factionalism may backfire. There are key stakeholders that need to be consulted, among them the military and the whole security establishment called the Joint Operations Command that is chaired by Vice President Mnangagwa," wrote Mutodi .He said that Mugabe's prolonged stay in power was unlikely going to have happened without the backing of the military top brass.Mutodi's remarks came a few weeks after First Lady Grace Mugabe told Zimbabwe's vice presidents at a campaign rally in Chinhoyi that they were serving at her husband's will.Grace warned her husband's deputies Mnangagwa and Phelekezela Mphoko that they risked losing their jobs if they did not perform to the expectations of her husband.A few days earlier, the First lady had publicly urged her ageing husband to name his successor.
News / Religion

by Simbarashe Sithole

The Apostolic Christian Council of Zimbabwe (ACCZ) leader Bishop Johannes Ndanga has vowed that the 93-year-old Zimbabwean president will die in power.Addressing thousands of church members who converged at Rufaro Stadium this afternoon at a ZANU PF ceremony dubbed "Super Sunday" Ndanga said they imposed Mugabe as a life time president."We are the ones who said the President should rule and die in office!" he thundered."Isu tikagadza maBishop, vatova maBishop kusvika vafa."Ini izvozvi nditori President wemachechi kusvika ndafa."So President Mugabe has the mandate of the people until he dies."Ndanga enthusiastically told the gathering that Mugabe and his wife Grace are inseparable and that they wanted to give the First Lady a present."There is political talk that the President Mugabe and the First lady are two different people. That is very wrong to try and separate these two."In 2014 we wanted to give the First lady a prize for standing by the President through thick and thin," said Bishop Ndanga.Minister of State for Harare, Miriam Chikukwa, who is affectionately known as Pastor was clad in Apostolic garments, supported Ndanga's views and bemoaned all those who oppose the nonagenarian President."President Robert Mugabe is our life time president who was imposed by God to rule forever."Biblically if you read Exodus chapter 24 you will understand better."Those who are opposing the President are refusing God's instruction," bellowed Chikukwa.However, the event was characterized by ZANU PF slogans and denouncement of MDC.Many senior government officials inclusive of the First Lady wore white garmentsBishop Ndanga concluded by marking Super Sunday as the best day for indigenous churches."Nomatter the object this is the best thing to ever happen to people of indigenous churches."
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Linkedin Sebastian Partogi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, November 4, 2017 12:41 1838 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a276c1e8 1 Art & Culture jalur-rempah,sriwijaya-kingdom,exhibition,national-museum Free

Unhappy the land that is in need of heroes, the late German poet and playwright Bertolt Brecht once said.



Fortunately, while many observers have lamented a paucity of positive role models in contemporary Indonesia, we could actually learn a lot from the success stories in the vaults of our own history.



To inspire the public through our historic role models, PT Jalur Rempah Nusantara officially opened on Friday an exhibition called Kedatuan Sriwijaya: the Great Maritime Empire at the National Museum in Central Jakarta.



The exhibition, which runs from Nov. 4 to 28, concludes the companys Jalur Rempah (spice trail) program on the history of the Indonesian spice trade, which reached its peak when European traders arrived during the 15th and 16th centuries.



The program comprises journalistic reports, television programs as well as the launch of a documentary film titled Banda, the Dark Forgotten Trail.



During the exhibition, visitors will get information on one of the peaks of Indonesian civilization marked by the glory of Sriwijaya in South Sumatra, which served as an international spice trade hub from its rise in the early seventh century until its decline around the 12th century, so that they can be motivated to develop the nation to reach new heights.



The exhibition features historical evidence, archaeological relics as well as contemporary visual artworks comprising paintings and installations. It will also present panel discussions on the subject of Indonesias past, present and future.



Historian JJ Rizal said history had helped shape the nation, from its national identity to language, through hundreds of years of global cultural exchange.

Read also: Jalur Rempah Nusantara: How Sriwijaya once served as beacon for interreligious harmony

Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita said at the opening of the exhibition that Indonesia should accelerate its spice production and exports to live up to the glory of its old days. The price of local pepper as a commodity, for instance, has reached a new low, according to the minister.



We now lag behind Singapore in terms of spice exports, which is ironic because we are a great spice producer; Singapore buys the raw materials from us and while they become famous as an international spice exporter, we no longer get added value [from the global spice trade], he lamented.



Therefore, starting from today, we will learn from history [through the exhibition] and we [in the Trade Ministry] will up our ante in managing the Indonesian spice trade to boost the price of commodities that are endemic to Indonesia, he said.



Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan, meanwhile, said that the current governments effort to boost Indonesias spice trade and economic growth in general through intensive infrastructure building was in line with the spirit of Sriwijayas glory.



We, however, have to sacrifice [our comfort] for a few years before the projects [particularly transportation infrastructure] come to fruition, which will not happen overnight, he said, referring to complaints about traffic congestion caused by simultaneous transportation infrastructure projects in Jakarta.



Luhut said that once the projects had been completed, Indonesia would be able to cut its transportation costs down from the current 14.1 percent to around 7 to 8 percent, which will contribute to economic growth.



He added that the projects also sought to create economic equality, not just focusing on the islands of Sumatra and Java but also across Indonesia to boost trade, economic growth and price stability.
(special feature)

Fidel Castro: People like Che exist by the million

Slander against Cuban leaders aimed at revolution

This year is the 50th anniversary of the death of Ernesto Che Guevara, who was killed Oct. 9, 1967, while leading a revolutionary struggle against the military dictatorship in Bolivia.

Even before Guevara went to Bolivia, opponents of the Cuban Revolution were working overtime to promote the myth that Fidel Castro and Guevara had a falling out amid irreconcilable differences. They said Fidel was disillusioned with Ches adventurism, preferring peaceful coexistence. After Guevaras death, they claimed Castro had sent him on a suicide mission to get him out of the way.

These slanders are still promoted to this day. Their purpose is to undermine the Cuban revolution he helped to lead and to foster cynicism. After all, if Fidel Castro, the central leader of the revolution, and Che were backstabbers and murderers, whats the point of fighting to change the world and studying the lessons of the Cuban Revolution?

In 1955 the Argentine-born Guevara joined the July 26 Movement, led by Castro. He was part of the 1956 Granma expedition, where Castro and others returned to Cuba to launch the revolution.

Castro forged a cadre of revolutionists who were able to lead millions to topple the U.S.-backed Batista dictatorship in January 1959, establish a workers and farmers government and expropriate the U.S. and Cuban capitalists and landlords. In Fidels judgment, Che became a highly skilled strategist and fighter, the first Castro promoted to commander.

U.S. imperialism never forgave the revolutionary working people of Cuba for being a powerful example to millions worldwide.

For many liberals and Stalinist groups, the Cuban Revolution is an obstacle to their bureaucratic scorn for the working class, and their course of reforming capitalism.

Following Castros death in 2016, the New York Daily News repeated the well-worn slanders that Castro left his old comrade stranded to die in Bolivia.

When Guevara joined the Cuban revolutionary forces he asked one thing, Castro told journalist Ignacio Ramonet in the book My Life, that Castro not forbid me for reasons of state, from going to Argentina to make a revolution there.

Agreed, I said to him, Castro says.

Guevara left Cuba in 1965, seeking to expand the revolution internationally, to help make one, two three Vietnams, a course he and Castro agreed on wholeheartedly. At the request of revolutionary fighters there, he went first to the Congo to aid the anti-imperialist struggle, and then to Bolivia.

Cuban leaders shared Ches views

In 1965, after false rumors circulated in his absence about divisions in the Communist Party, Guevara sent a letter to Castro. Other nations of the world summon my modest efforts of assistance. I can do that which is denied you due to your responsibility as the head of Cuba, Guevara wrote.

When Castro learned about Guevaras plans to go to Bolivia, we suggested he needed more time, not to get impatient, Castro told Ramonet. To wait until the new guerrilla movement there was more established.

But Guevara argued the pre-revolutionary situation in the Southern Cone called for timely action. Castro persuaded him to return to Cuba so they could work together to maximize the chances for success.

We helped Che; we shared his views. At that moment, Che was right. At that moment the struggle could have been spread, Castro told Ramonet. This assessment was born out in the years following Guevaras death when explosive working-class struggles broke out in Argentina in 1969 and Bolivia in 1970.

While in Cuba, Guevara  with Castros help  handpicked the veteran Cuban combatants he asked to volunteer for Bolivia.

After Guevara arrived in Bolivia and the guerrilla nucleus had begun its training, they were stabbed in the back by Mario Monje, head of the Stalinist Bolivian Communist Party. Monje said his party would stop supporting the guerrilla effort unless he was given personal command of the group. And the CP refused any further support.

Fidel did everything he could for the fighters in Bolivia as he did for us in the Congo as he has done for Cuban internationalist fighters everywhere, said Victor Dreke on a 2002 speaking tour in the U.S. Dreke served as second in command under Guevara in the combat mission in the Congo in 1965.

Dreke described Che as a great leader who led by personal example.

He was one of the noblest  most unselfish men Ive ever known, Castro told Ramonet, which would be of no importance unless one believed that men like him exist by the million.

Thats what makes fighting to make a revolution like Cubas in the U.S. today realistic.

Che thought and acted as an internationalist, Socialist Workers Party leader Mary-Alice Waters wrote in her introduction to Ches Bolivian Diary. He knew that only new revolutionary victories elsewhere, especially new socialist advances in the Americas, would change the relationship of class forces internationally and break the isolation that weighed so heavily on Cuba.

That remains true today. And despite the slanders, which continue to circulate, in todays crisis-ridden world growing numbers of workers and youth will be drawn to the Cuban Revolution, discussing how the example set by Castro and Guevara can be emulated.





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Cindy K. Jackman, CISR, CIC, of Carbondale was recently honored at the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois annual convention in Tinley Park with the presentation of the Charles M. Cartwright Merit Award.

The award is considered the most prestigious award the group presents. Named for Charles Cartwright, editor of the nationally acclaimed insurance periodical National Underwriter for more than 50 years, the award is presented at the discretion of the Cartwright Committee and IIA executive committee to the person who has performed the most meritorious service for the good of the insurance agents of Illinois.
Have you ever wondered about all the different incentives  besides your immediate bottom line  there are for energy efficiency and renewables?

Going to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency website (see pullout information) shows 95 different programs in Illinois to help defer the upfront cost of putting in energy saving and producing equipment.

In the solar energy world we like to say: For every $1 spent on energy efficiency you will save $3 to $5 on your solar system.

Energy efficiency and energy savings are very important to look at and considered before installing solar. Doing both energy efficiency and solar can make a Zero Energy building in that it produces onsite enough energy to offset your annual utility energy usage. Some months the building produces more than it needs and some months it produces less than it needs with the goal to produce up to your annual energy usage.

This is allowed under the Public Utilities Regulatory Participation Act of 1978, which was updated in 2002 which says utilities have to provide a credit to you when you turn the meter backwards when your solar or renewable energy system produces more than your building uses. The law was created in response to the 1970s energy crisis to promote more use of renewable energy.

Did you know you can get a $100 off rebate for a smart thermostat like a Nest? If you turn back your thermostat one degree for eight hours a day you will save three percent on your monthly bill. It is much easier to do if you have a programmable or even better a smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats need to be programed while a smart thermostat like the Nest learns your habits and adjusts accordingly.

There are lots of incentives for businesses to do complete energy saving light upgrades and I will cover lighting in upcoming articles as lighting is the quick low hanging fruit.

The most popular incentive right now is Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) as it is a cash back program. Basically, a solar electric (photovoltaic) system produces regular electricity that offsets your electric bill and it produces clean energy. People always ask me how they can get the utility company to pay them for energy production. The utility doesnt necessarily buy produced energy but the Illinois Power Agency does buy your clean energy based on how much you produce and that is measured in SRECs. The SRECs that are currently available  until they run out or the end of the year  covers 33 percent of the cost of photovoltaic system.

Along with the 30 percent tax credit and the 30 percent Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System  MACRS which is an accelerated depreciation  a business gets 93 percent of their money back without even counting energy savings.

I have been installing solar for 18 years and have seen the cost of solar drop sharply.

I now feel like a game show host showcasing what's behind the curtain as there is so many incentives. This makes me tingle with excitement and energy because it means I can help many more people Get Energized!
When a lawyer asked Jesus, what is the greatest commandment, He replied, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets."

(Matthew 22:37-40, NASU)

We are commanded to love our Creator and those created in His image. In the Old Testament, God gave us quite a while to get to know Him before He told us that He loved us and before He commanded us to love Him. God revealed Himself in Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers before He brought up the fact that He loved us, and that He wanted us to love Him. In the first four books, God revealed Himself as Creator, Provider, Redeemer, etc. and now in Deuteronomy as the One Who Loves. Deuteronomy 4:37 lets us know that He had always loved us but now He is going to let us know, Because He loved your fathers, therefore He chose their descendants after them. (NASU)

Deuteronomy 7:7-9 describes the nature of Gods love toward us very plainly, The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any of the peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but because the Lord loved you and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers, the Lord brought you out by a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments. (NASU) Clearly there is nothing in you or me that merits Gods love. He simply loves us because He chooses to do so. Just as clearly, Gods love is never ending. Just 3 chapters later God makes this point again. Deuteronomy 10:14-15 states, Behold, to the Lord your God belong heaven and the highest heavens, the earth and all that is in it. Yet on your fathers did the Lord set His affection to love them, and He chose their descendants after them, even you above all peoples, as it is this day. (NASU) What a beautiful truth: the Lord set His affection to love them.



In the midst of the Balak-Balaam episode God declared His unfailing love once again, The Lord your God was not willing to listen to Balaam, but the Lord your God turned the curse into a blessing for you because the Lord your God loves you. (Deuteronomy 23:5, NASU) God later declared the unconditional nature of His love when He prophesied that even though His people would desert Him, He would remain faithful. Moreover the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, so that you may live. (Deuteronomy 30:6, NASU)



As the life of Moses and the book of Deuteronomy both come to a close, Moses declares, Indeed, He loves the people. (Deuteronomy 33:3, NASU) God wants His people to know that He loves them. In no way do we deserve or merit Gods love. He simply chooses to love us. He loves us unconditionally and unfailingly. There is no end to His love. He loves us so that we can return that love. We love because He first loved us. Even our keeping of the greatest commandment is a direct result of His work in us.


Lindsey Perry admits that her approach to shopping is probably different than other millennials.

I try to buy locally whenever I can, the 24-year-old from Herrin said. I practically never buy anything online.

Its not that Perry is particularly against internet shopping. Rather it is because she sees the benefits of making purchases locally.

Ive worked at a family-owned business for five years, she said. Ive seen first-hand how local shopping affects individual shop owners, their families, employees and even the community. For that reason, almost everything I own, I bought in Southern Illinois, and probably all Ill buy for Christmas, Ill get locally, too.

Perrys way of thinking about shopping is exactly the approach University of Illinois Extension Educator Susan Odum wants others to take. Odum has been tracking what she calls economic leakage in 16 Illinois counties since 2012. She analyzes and then shares with civic groups and others about the flow of dollars in and out of rural areas. For that reason, she is a huge proponent of doing business locally.

When people go online or out of state to make purchases, its very unlikely that that money they spend will ever come back to their own region, she said. We talk about what that means for the community when dollars leave. It goes and doesnt have the opportunity to come back to multiply and broaden the tax base.

Odum calls the need to encourage others to shop local a community development issue. She said that economic research has shown that local spending has a multiplier effect, meaning that the impact of every dollar spent is much more than $1. For example, when someone buys tires at a local service center, that business is responsible for paying property and other taxes, utilities and salaries to employees as well as other expenses. Those employees, in turn, purchase clothing at a local shop. The clothier also pays taxes, employees and for repairs to her building. The repairman buys a pickup truck from a local car dealer who also pays his employees. It goes on and on.

If, instead, the original tires are purchased online, the buyer pays with a credit card and the money does not leaves the area without any sort of re-circulation.

Studies have shown a multiplier of as much as seven in larger communities, but for many of our areas, it may be more like a multiplier of one or two simply because there are not that many places any more to turn the money over and keep it going, Odum said. However, every time you do keep the money local, it supports the community, supports the tax base again and goes back into the community. When the money leaves, that multiplier is zero.

Making purchases locally ensures that money at least begins to multiply. That is one reason that efforts designed to promote local business are gaining traction. While these Shop Local campaigns are most prevalent during the Christmas holiday shopping season, experts say that it is a mindset that needs to be present all year long.

Making purchases locally should be a year-round thing, said Herrin Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jennifer Buckley. It is not just a Christmas thing.

Many economic development leaders feel that by sharing the shop local message during the holidays when shopping is on the minds of many people, they can instill an attitude that will last throughout the year. They also strive to convince shoppers that even if they are not shopping locally to shop at near-by communities. That is the thinking of programs like the Locally Fir$t, an effort started in 2014 by the Union County Women in Business who are reminding Union County residents to Keep It in the County and to Think, Shop, Buy Locally Fir$t.

Using those two taglines, the pair is leading the charge to get consumers to, whenever possible, do business with local merchants and service providers. Charlotte Clover, an agent with Country Financial, who helped to establish the program, says the original plan was for a year-long effort.

That was in 2014, and were still plugging along, she said.

Co-founder of Locally Fir$t Evelyn Bailey said the concept is simple. We realized that for a lot of our local people the need to purchase a birthday gift it automatically means a trip to Cape Girardeau. We want them to realize and consider what is right here. They could save time, money and contribute to our local economy. We want our people to shop here for local services and products. We want them to give our local businesses a chance.

Other groups are sharing the same message. Many downtown and Main Street organizations conduct local shopping promotional programs and participate in the Small Business Saturday celebration. Shop Southern Illinois, an effort of area chambers of commerce reaching from Nashville to Metropolis which encourages holiday shopping in any community in the region.

Odum said local shopping is vital to the health of area communities.

If we dont spend our money in local places, why would others want to come here to spend theirs? When we shop online or in other communities, were cutting off our ability to support ourselves.

She said that another reason to support local business is that the businesses support the community in many ways.

Ill often speak to local youth groups or classes about shopping locally and I always ask the students if theyve ever been involved in any fundraisers for things like a graduation event, a band trip, 4-H or some other group. Without fail, the students say that theyve done these fundraisers. I ask them then who do they ask for money and they always say, Well, we go to the local businesses. Then I ask them if they could write letters to Amazon or some other online company asking for their support and they look at me as to say why would we do that, those companies arent here. I tell them that it is exactly my point. Local businesses are the ones that support you.

Efforts to promote local shopping are bolstered by the Small Business Saturday campaign begun in 2010 by American Express. The day, observed on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encourages shoppers to do business with small, locally-owned shops and businesses. Its estimated that 95 million shoppers visited small businesses during the 2016 day.

Small business owners and Main Street businesses are the fabric of our daily lives, Maria Conteras-Sweet, the head of the U.S. Small Business Administration, said in a press release about Small Business Saturday. They have energy and passion for what they do, and when we support small businesses, jobs are created and local communities preserve their unique culture. More than anything, these entrepreneurs need customers. Small Business Saturday provides us an opportunity to honor and celebrate the hardworking men and women that are creating jobs and fueling the economy in their local neighborhoods.

Those are jobs like Perrys, and she understands the benefits to the area.

Even by shopping locally, youre not only helping local families, youre giving back to the community.
Union County is one of those places that embraces local commerce. Its a place full of makers, artists, harvesters and generally welcoming folks who understand the importance of supporting one another.

Many businesses and organizations in Union County not only shop local, they talk local. Theyre able to stay social with one another both online and in-person. They utilize their shareable resources and provide soft referrals by encouraging their individual audiences to participate with other businesses and organization.

Michelle Sirles, vice president of Rendleman Orchards, has become a gateway to all things Union County. While developing an online presence that very accurately depicts life in the orchards, Sirles has been successful at incorporating other local businesses and organizations into the stories she shares with the world.

The online relationships established and showcased to audiences often evolve into fruitful face-to-face activities offline. Such is the case with their Fall Market event, where dozens of local vendors organized to showcase their offerings at Rendleman Orchards. The local vendors, ranging from small gifts to local foods, were able to use their collective voices to reach tens of thousands of people online. Their willingness to talk local resulted in a steady stream of visitors throughout the day, hundreds at a time, who chose to shop local.

Steve Grimmer of Alto Clay Works is one of seven potters who organize another local event, the Shawnee Hills Pottery Trail. These potters have created value for one another by sharing resources, such as their contact lists, and keeping their talk local.

Grimmer says that all of the potters involved in the Shawnee Hills Pottery Trail brought together their mailing lists, both email and postal, to reach as many of their established consumers as possible.

Including people doesnt make you cut the pie into more pieces. It makes the pie bigger, Grimmer said. We marketed through Facebook and through email. The seven of us combined our contact lists so we did a post card mailing.  We have a Facebook page and a website. Between all of those we try to get the word out best we can.

Thanks to the success of this strategy the potters have been able to increase their efforts for this event, even adding another potter to their trail.

Its not just established businesses who see the value in keeping their talk local. Jerri Schaefer of Havisham House has been successful because of the extended voice she has through her Union County community.

Everyone helps everyone. Its amazing. The people that have shared my posts on Facebook, really, its almost like I have people working for me, says Shaefer. They are just so good at extending that generosity by sharing my information with their guests, and their customers and their friends on social media and in return I try do the same for them. [We] want people to see what Southern Illinois has to offer.

For Schaefer, these local conversations have led to even greater meaning than expected, providing value for community members who have personal connections to the property that has become her new business.

People have such a better way to connect because of social media therefore Im learning things about that house that I would have never known, Schaefer said of her property. As it spread on social media I would have private messages come through and people telling me their stories of how they were connected to Alto Pass and that house specifically. That has helped me build a small timeline and history of the home.

These stories go to show that you never know what is possible until you decide to share your voice with others. There are positive outcomes to be had when sharing your digital resources with other local entities. Investing a small amount of your time to keeping talk local with other businesses, organizations, and community members can have an exponential payoff for your local community down the road.
BLOOMINGTON  Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's surprise announcement in September that she would not seek re-election in 2018 set off a mad dash of Democrats entering the race but  so far  Republicans have stood pat behind their only declared candidate, Erika Harold.

That's a good move by the Illinois GOP, according to long-time political observer Bob Bradley, emeritus professor of political science at Illinois State University.

I think the Republicans are doing something very savvy by not making it a multi-candidate race, said Bradley.

However, John Jackson of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University sees some positives to the large Democratic field  one of them being a chance for a largely unknown field to make itself better known.

Ordinarily, you don't like a deeply divided primary, said Jackson. But if you can use that as a springboard to raise money and raise your name identification, that will help.

Democrats who have announced their candidacy include former Gov. Pat Quinn, state Rep. Scott Drury, state Sen. Kwame Raoul, Chicago Park District President Jesse Ruiz, Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering, former assistant U.S. attorney Renato Mariotti and Sharon Fairley, former chief administrator of Chicago's Civilian Office of Police Accountability.

Although the number of candidates could divide the party, Jackson said, it's also a good sign.

The race on the Democratic side shows the party has got a lot of 'bench strength' in Illinois, said Jackson. That the opposite of what's true nationally or in most states.

Bradley doesn't sense much excitement in either party for Republican incumbent Gov. Bruce Rauner or his leading Democratic challenger, J.B. Pritzker. But the attorney general's race could be different.

It's going to to generate a fair amount of enthusiasm that you probably won't get from the governor's race, said Bradley. This race could really energize the electorate.

Madigan has been attorney general since January 2003, narrowly defeating Joe Birkett. Since then, she has been re-elected three times with at least 60 percent of the vote.

George Gordon, a McLean County Democratic precinct committeeman and retired ISU political science professor, said, Her successor will have a lot to live up to.

Chuck Erickson, McLean County Republican chairman, said he doesn't expect any other Republicans to enter the race.

I would strongly expect that everyone is rallying around Erika, he said. She has support from the base to the top.

Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon, who had been considering a run for the Republican nomination, threw his support behind Harold on Wednesday.

Jackson said having an opponent in the primary could help raise the profile of Harold, who isn't well-known outside of the congressional district where she challenged incumbent U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis in the Republican primary in 2014.

Having Madigan bow out benefits Republicans, Erickson said, because it evens the playing field.

Dorothy Deany, co-chair of the McLean County Democratic Party, said there will be a clearer picture once the filing period begins in December. If the field remains large, she is concerned that people will have a hard time learning who everyone is. She hopes there will be debates or forums to help.

Many voters will probably be focused on the governor's race, she said. But the attorney general will have an impact on them whether they realize it or not.

Quinn benefits from high name recognition and a record of involvement in consumer and environmental protection, said Bradley.

However, he said, His drawback is the most recent thing people will remember is his time as governor.

Jackson said Quinn has to be considered a front-runner at this point, although he's got baggage and the most recent poll he saw put Quinn's support at only 28 percent.

It all depends on the campaign he runs, said Jackson. He's never been a great fundraiser.

Erickson was shocked by Madigan's decision not to run but added, I don't think she's getting out of politics. I think she's just taking a sabbatical before her next run for office.

Bradley thinks there are a number of reasons why Madigan decided not to seek re-election.

With two daughters to put through college, she could be considering the higher salary she could get in the private sector, Bradley suggested.

She may be setting herself up for a Senate run amid speculation that fellow Democrat U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin might not run again, he said.

The unpopularity of her father, House Speaker Mike Madigan, also could be a factor, according to Bradley.

I think she might be tired and sees the writing on the wall that her brand was going to be hurt, said Bradley, describing Mike Madigan as the most or second most hated politician in Illinois.
Despite the push to consolidate Orangeburg Countys three school districts into one, voters will still go to the polls on Tuesday to elect trustees.

Lawmakers approved a bill consolidating Orangeburg Countys school districts earlier this year.

The bill would have suspended school board elections, but it was vetoed by the governor. He said the bill allowed state lawmakers to retain control over the schools budget, which is unconstitutional.

The Orangeburg County Legislative Delegation is expected to try again when they return in January.

Once consolidation is started, lawmakers plan for the transition to be guided by a committee of school board chairs and a second board member from each of the current boards. There will also be five members appointed by the Orangeburg County Legislative Delegation.

Only one school board chairman is being challenged in the upcoming elections.

Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 Chairman Aaron Rudd is being challenged once again by Stacie Conyers Fulton.

Also in OCSD4, vice chairman Randy Carrigg is being challenged by Leroy Stroman and Glenn Dale Edwards Sr. for Seat 3.

Incumbent Joe Garvin is unopposed in the District 1 seat. Also running unopposed is incumbent William O. Quinn in the District 7 seat.

In District 3, Seat 5 on the board is the only to see opposition. Three are running for the seat: Rev. Henry L. Damon, Betty Macon Pelzer and Ruthermae A. Randolph. The incumbent, Beatrice Swett, did not file for re-election.

Seat 1 incumbent Barbara Butler is unopposed for the seat. Also unopposed is Catherine Shuler in Seat 3.

Seat 7 is also up for election but no one has filed for the seat, including Chairman Betty Shuler. Orangeburg County Director of Voter Registration Aurora Smalls said the position will have to be a write-option for voters.

Smalls said voters can write-in who they want, but the winner can only be a resident of that area.

All District 5 board members have no opposition.

In Seat 1, incumbent Susan Gleaton is unopposed, as well as incumbent Vernon Stephens in Seat 5. Also unopposed are incumbents Julius Page and Idella W. Carson in the at-large Seat 3 position, which is a shared seat.

Smalls said all polling locations will be open except for the Cope and Edisto locations.

In the only race featuring a challenged chairman, Fulton is once again challenging Rudd. In the 2013 race, Rudd defeated Fulton.

Stacie Fulton

Fulton said she filed to run because, I believe in the promise and potential of Orangeburg County.

As an employee of Orangeburg County DAD for the last 20 years, I have noticed the educational disparities of some of our school districts, Fulton said. Consequently, because of these disparities, it makes it difficult for our county residents to obtain certain career opportunities. It also directly affects our ability to attract others.

She feels some of the most important issues include student achievement, infrastructure (physical and technological), teacher quality, teacher retention, parent/community relations and fiscal responsibility.

Regarding consolidation, Fulton said she is for whatever is best for the students of Orangeburg County.

We owe it to our children to offer them the best educational experience that we can by whatever means we can, she said.

Fulton serves on the board for the Orangeburg Area Boys and Girls Club and also served one year as an advisory board member for the Orangeburg County Area Boys and Girls Club. She has been actively involved with the Edisto School Improvement Council.

The Williamsburg County native has been married for 20 years and has two sons.

She is a member of Edisto Fork United Methodist Church.

Fulton earned a bachelors degree from Claflin University and a master of counselor degree from Webster University.

She has worked for 20 years with the S.C. Department of Social Services as the Orangeburg County DSS Human Service Coordinator II Supervisory.

Aaron Rudd

Rudd, an Orangeburg County native, has been a member of the District 4 board for 44 years. He has served as chairman for 31 of those years.

He said he has been very proud of the educational opportunities and facilities that we have been able to provide and sustain for our students.

Through his years on the board, Rudd said they have been able to build new buildings while keeping taxes down at the same time. Additions and renovations have been made to schools in the district.

If re-elected, he plans to focus on teacher pay.

Weve got to do something to increase the pay for teachers, Rudd said.

Rudd said there are many challenges ahead for public education and the district. One concern is the possible consolidation of schools.

This proposed legislation may very well pass this year, Rudd said. If it does and I am able to secure a seat on that board, I will work diligently in the best interest of our schools and students.

He is a member of the Elks Lodge and Ebenezer Baptist Church.

It has been my honor to serve you and our community for 44 years as a member of the Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 Board, Rudd said. I want to thank you for your support over the past years and for the faith you have placed in my representation of you on behalf of your children and grandchildren who attend school here.
Norway dairy farmer Allen Riddle is a fourth-generation dairyman.

Riddle bought his first 20 cows while still in high school at about 16 years old. After high school, he got a bank loan to buy 80 more cows and put them in with his parents herd.

The family formed a corporation and bottled their own milk until about 1988.

The Riddle brothers ended up selling the operation to another farm that was interested in bottling milk.

They bought a new farm in 1993 along with about 250 cows and grew their herd steadily over time.

Today, Allen and his son, Josh, have about 1,100 cows on 1,300 acres.

"We continue to pump out a huge amount of milk," Allen said. "It increases constantly."

The flow of milk comes as commodity prices for corn and soybeans are lower -- about 25 percent lower than they have been in the last four years, Riddle said.

With the price received for milk reasonable at about $20 per hundredweight (cwt) and their costs down with lower commodity prices, "We can keep everything paid," Allen said. A hundredweight is roughly equal to 100 pounds.

"We are not piling up a lot of money but it is a fairly comfortable margin," he said.

Last year, milk prices hovered around $17 per hundredweight. Earlier in 2016, milk prices were $13 per hundredweight. The last time prices fell below $12 was in 2009.

Three years ago, milk prices reached near record level highs, averaging about $28 to $29 per hundredweight.

Riddle said milk prices do tend to fluctuate, tending to be higher in the early fall after a hot summer reduces milk production. Production increases over the winter and spring, and prices tend to drop. He said this past spring milk prices were about $16.

"The one bright spot for the whole dairy industry is the big demand for whole milk and butter," he said, noting new medical studies have shown whole milk and butter are not bad for the heart. "McDonald's is changing their menus to real butter and that has helped us tremendously."

He said other restaurants have also jumped on board. Pizza restaurants have also done well with cheese demands.

Riddle said butterfat prices are the best since 2014 at about $2.60 a pound.

"Over half my milk check comes from what butterfat brings," he said.

Bowman dairy farmer Kent Whetsell has been in business for seven years and farms about 175 cows, which is slightly below his herd of 190 last year.

Whetsell says the dairy story as it is every year revolves around milk prices.

"Over the past two months, they are coming up," he said.

Whetsell said he would like to see milk prices over $24 in order to be able to make a profit.

"There is so much milk in the market right now and exports are not where they have been in the past," Whetsell said, noting exports to China have been going down since 2014. Another big exporter of milk is Russia.

"People in other parts of the country can produce it a lot cheaper and more efficiently than we can," he said.

In order to deal with the lower prices, the farm over the last couple of years has transitioned to processing its own milk.

The farm has its own label -- Lowcountry Creamery. The creamery produces whole milk, chocolate milk, greek yogurt and buttermilk.

Input costs have generally been lower, helping to offset less-than-desired milk prices, Whetsell said.

Whetsell feeds his cows corn silage and citrus pulp. He is concerned about the future of citrus pulp.

"There was the hurricane in Florida and I am sure it (citrus pulp) will be going up here in the next few months with their citrus being damaged," he said.

Mother Nature has been relatively kind to Whetsell this year.

Summer temperatures were on average lower than last summer.

"It has not been terrible," he said. "You always have some depressed production during the summertime, but once it starts cooling down, the cows start producing a little more."

Whetsell is one of a handful of dairy farmers left in Bowman, which used to be considered the dairy capital of the state.

Dairymen estimate that in the 1970s, there were about 30 dairy farmers in the Bowman area.

Today, there about about six, Whetsell said.

"There are no new people coming on board," he said. "It is pretty hard to be optimistic right now."

Riddle echoed Whetsell.

"It takes a tremendous amount of investment of about $4,000 to $5,000 per cow," he said. "It is hard to cash flow that."

Finding labor is a challenge for existing dairymen but it could also mean the eventual demise of dairy in the county.

"Labor is always an issue," Whetsell said. "Most people can find a better job elsewhere than working physical labor."

Riddle agreed.

"We have several local people who work with us and we have a few Hispanics, but it is hard to find documented Hispanics," he said. "We need a good immigration policy for guest workers."

According to the 2012 census, countywide there are 11 dairy farmers operating in Orangeburg County, with an average herd size of about 300 cows.

The county's dairy industry has fallen from about 48 dairy herds in the mid-1980s.

Despite the decline in dairies over the years, Orangeburg County ranked second in South Carolina in total milk production in 2012 at 48.5 million pounds, according to Southeast Dairy.

Riddle is hoping dairy will be in his family for many years go come.

Both of his grandsons own cows and his 6-year-old grandson has "loved cows since he could walk."

Leader in livestock

Orangeburg County remains the state leader in livestock production.

The county, according to the 2012 U.S. Department of Agriculture Census, ranks ninth in the number of cattle and calves, eighth in the number of poultry and eggs, and third in broilers behind Lexington and Oconee counties.

Orangeburg County had about $10.7 million in sales in milk from cows in 2012, ranking the county second in the state.

Orangeburg County was second --behind only Newberry County -- in 2013 for milk production at 53.5 million pounds, according to the South Carolina Dairy Association.

Swine's place at the Orangeburg County table continues to remain small as integration has kept farmers from entering the business.

Cattle

Sixth-generation farmer and Branchville cattleman Thad Wimberly has about 120 head of cattle on his farm. Amid "flat prices," Wimberly said he is holding his herd steady.

"Prices are still down," he said, noting early October feeder cattle was averaging about $153 per ctw. "We are not making any big moves buying or selling. We need to get prices back up where we can pencil a profit."

Wimberly said about two years ago, beef prices were near record highs of about $173 per cwt.

At the retail stores at that time, beef prices were averaging about $3.40 per pound, though $2.50 per pound would be a more reasonable price to expect and one farmers could be satisfied with.

"We want to make sure the consumer is able to buy the beef. So if they are outpriced, they will not be able to buy it," Wimberly said.

According to the South Carolina Department of Agriculture Market Report, medium and large high-quality feeder steers sold for an average of $116 per cwt for a 805-pound steer and $166 (per cwt) for a 288-pound steer in early October.

In early October, SCDAMR reported prices of feeder steers and feeder bulls were unevenly steady.

The markets were showing slaughter cow and slaughter bull prices were steady. There is a low demand for fleshy, full and/or extremely thin fleshed calves, according to the SCDAMR.

For 2017, cattle prices have held together better than expected, officials say. Prices were generally higher in 2017 than a year ago.

In 2016, the price was in a free fall from the March peak of $139 to the October low of $98.

This years peak was in May at $144/$145. Earlier in September, the bottom was made at $105.

Orangeburg Stockyard owner Steve Nash said the year has been fairly typical for beef cattle in the Orangeburg area. He said cattle prices have come back to average after high prices two to three years ago.

"They are similar to where they were five years ago," he said. "It has been a typical marketing season. We are in a period of lower prices, which is typical in September and October."

Strong domestic and international demand for U.S. beef did mitigate much of the price pressure from growing beef production. Continued strong beef demand can limit 2018 cattle and beef price changes to modest declines.

According to the USDA, beef production is expected to increase again in 2018, currently projected at 27.4 billion pounds.

This would be a record level of U.S. beef production, exceeding the previous high of 2002 with 27 billion pounds.

Increased beef, combined with other meats, is projected to push production to 101 billion pounds of total meat in 2018, a new record as well.

As far as input costs, Wimberly said commodity prices for grains and mixed cotton seed are down.

"We had a decent year with hay as there was plenty of rainfall," Wimberly said. "The feed supply will be fine."

Nash said there has not been a "high demand for replacement cattle, which would be cow/calf pairs or heifers going back to the farm for breeding."

Nash said the quality of cattle in the area "continues to get better.

"They are paying attention to what the buyers want and we are seeing improvements to the feeder cattle," he said.

But he said improved quality has not increased the numbers.

"Overall, the numbers in this area are decreasing," he said.

In terms of the market, Wimberly said he does not see many people getting into it.

"The whole industry is an up-and-down kind of game," he said. "I would hope we would be near the bottom now."

Wimberly said he does not know of any other cow/calve operations in the county, though he says there are a few feed stockers buying calves in the market, feeding them and then sending them out west.

Like many sectors, the cattle industry in Orangeburg County has decreased in size. There are estimated to be about two dozen cattle farmers in the county.

As for the future of cattle in Orangeburg County, Wimberly said he has two boys, one 12 and the other 10. He is hoping they will consider farming as a livelihood.

"I think the oldest one for sure will, as he really enjoys working on the farm," Wimberly said.

Poultry

Thomas Brickle at the Cope Brickle Egg Farm manages 11,400 chickens in each of his two houses, along with about 1,200 roosters.

The farm serves as a breeder grower, keeping hens for about 10 months of the year and then spending the remaining two months preparing the houses for the next round of chickens. Brickle said the hens will lay eggs and the roosters will fertilize the eggs to be hatched.

The eggs will go to Columbia Farms to hatch and then the biddies will go to pullet farms, where they are grown to be fryers.

For Brickle, 2017 was more of the same as expenses such as fans and cooling cells, insurance and repair costs continue to eat into any profits.

The one positive is that in the breeder side of the poultry business, there are no heating expenses.

But Brickle says a blessing for the year is the fact that South Carolina poultry farmers avoided what is their biggest fear: the Avian flu.

The disease was found on chicken farms in central Tennessee and northern Alabama earlier this year but the cases were relatively isolated and none was reported in South Carolina. Avian flu was also reported in Wisconsin turkeys and Montana ducks.

Two years ago, farmers were concerned about Avian influenza. The disease was spreading into the West and Midwest but never made an appearance in Orangeburg County.

"I hope we don't have any Avian flu," Brickle said. "If you keep that away, it is pretty good."

For many Orangeburg County poultry farmers, Pilgrim's Pride is the company of record. Pilgrim's provides the bird, feed and veterinary services, while the growers provide the labor, housing, litter and utilities.

Pilgrim's is the largest provider of birds from Orangeburg to the coast.

Chicken demand continues to be high, surpassing beef and pork. The demand is causing chicken prices to rise.

The increase of wing and chicken restaurants -- Golden Chick and A Town Wings opened this year in Orangeburg alone -- have fueled demand. And while chicken supplies are increasing, so is American's ravenous appetite for the fowl.

The number of poultry farmers in the county has dwindled over the years.

Like other agricultural sectors, the county's poultry industry is comprised primarily of farmers contracting with large companies to grow chickens.

There are always challenges facing the poultry industry, with a major one being the ongoing costs of maintaining and operating the chicken houses, which need to be cooled in the summer and heated in the winter.

Swine

Hog inventories are generally up compared to last year, but despite more pigs in the production chain, prices are steady. That keeps pig farmers generally profitable during this expansion phase.

The large supply has been helped along by demand both in exports and domestically.

Locally, prices for feeder pigs at the close of September were $7.50 to $30 per head under 100 pounds. Last year, prices for feeder pigs locally were $26 to $29 per head under 100 pounds.

Lower feed costs have helped create a profitable environment for growth in 2017, but experts expect profit margins in 2018 to be lower due to lower hog prices and higher costs of production related to increased corn costs.

Texas-based Cactus Feeders, which purchased Orangeburg Foods in 2015, is the only significant swine player locally.

Swine Graphics Enterprises, a division of Cactus Feeders, breeds, gestates and weans pigs and then transports them to be grown and then sold to packers.

The company also provides farmers with feed and hogs.

Locally, there are about a dozen hog producers in the county, and expectations are the industry will remain stable due to prohibitive entry costs.
Calhoun County poultry farmer Michael Drake has been growing chickens for 15 years at his farm in Sunny Plains.

This year's story has been the changes and enhancements in growing and feeding chickens by Columbia Farms, with whom local chicken farmers contract. Growers are seeing healthier birds.

"The quality of baby chicks has improved dramatically, so we are getting good-quality chicks to start off with," said Drake, who has four chicken houses with about 25,000 chickens per house or 100,000 per flock. He does between four and five flocks a year. He raises 8-pound to 9-pound birds.

The reason behind the improvement? A new chicken hatchery built near Monetta in Aiken County by Columbia Farms, which is an affiliate of House of Raeford Farms.

Under the arrangement with Drake, Columbia Farms provides the birds, the feed and the veterinary services. Drake provides the labor, housing, litter and utilities.

Drake says the chicks are not only healthier due to the hatchery but also because of a change in processing feed. Columbia Farms has changed to a pellet seed, which has also helped older chickens.

"Instead of being power-like corn meal, the chickens as they get older eat the pellets better," Drake said. That helps with growth and health of the bird.

Drake also praised Columbia Farms for being proactive when it comes to chicken welfare and biosecurity.

"We want to do the same thing," he said. "We want to take good care of the birds and deliver a good and healthy product to your dinner table."

As part of the biosecurity, the farm monitors who can and cannot enter chicken houses. There is also a foot bath to prevent spread of any possible contaminants.

Drake said the county was also spared from Avian flu, which did make an appearance in Tennessee but did not come into South Carolina.

"We prepare for the worst and hope for the best," he said.

Ensuring a healthy bird also means dealing with Mother Nature.

Drake's chicken houses are kept at a comfortable 79 degrees in the summertime, which makes for a happy chicken. He says the chicken houses also utilize 800-cubic-foot-per-minute blowers.

"It feels good in there to me," Drake said. "The birds love it."

The cooling was needed for the chickens during the hot summer months said Drake, noting he did lose power to the houses for a short period of time when Hurricane Irma came through in early September.

But with a 165-kilowatt generator as backup, the birds were protected from the storm.

Drake said energy costs have stabilized.

"The energy costs kept going up and up and up but they have finally come down and leveled out on the propane side," Drake said. "The electricity side is still up, but with new changes in the (presidential) administration, we are looking at all alternative energy sources that are not totally green. We will utilize what works and if something comes along that works, then we will try it."

The increasing integration of the poultry business has impacted the volume of chicken growers in Calhoun County over the years. There are only a handful of them.

Even though his adult sons have chosen not to continue farming, Drake is optimistic the industry will grow into the future due to the continued increase in demand for chickens as well as the available land.

"The only direction Columbia can grow is toward Calhoun and Orangeburg," Drake said, noting Orangeburg and Calhoun counties provide the rural space needed for chicken farms to flourish.

Cattle

Fort Motte cattleman and Orangeburg Area Cattlemens Association President Larry Elmore described 2017 as an unusual year, especially in terms of weather feed production.

"We had a couple of dry periods and the winter grazing was wilting," Elmore said. "We had a late frost and a lot of hay fields started putting out new green growth."

He said the frost ended up harming the hay even more.

Then the rains and rain chances picked up, making farmers afraid to cut.

"A lot of the harvest was delayed longer than it should have been," he said. "Hay got over-mature and it was not the best quality."

As a result, farmers who normally have three hay cuttings or maybe four had a difficult time even getting three.

"Hay may be short this winter," he said.

Elmore said beef cattle farmers also saw a new problem in 2017: the arrival of the bermuda grass stem maggot. The maggot reduced grass yields by as much as 50 percent in some cases.

"It is a very small fly that lays an egg on the grass stem and the egg hatches and burrows into the stem and stops the upward growth," Elmore said. "We knew we had these in scattered pockets for several years, but they never have been a problem."

Elmore blames the pest on two consecutive mild winters.

In light of the reduction in hay and grass, he says cattlemen resorted to rye grass and clover. But rye grass has also been in short supply and costs have gone up.

He said most of the rye grass comes from Oregon and Mother Nature was not too kind to rye this year.

As far as cattle are concerned Elmore said farmers are expanding their herds, helping to increase supply and reduce prices.

"A lot of economists tell us it costs us $750 to $800 to carry a cow for a year and that figures in direct and indirect costs," Elmore said.

He said 400 to 500-pound calves are about $1.38 a pound, meaning $585 to $700 for a calf is "not going to cover all the costs incurred to keep that mama cow. Prices last year were slightly higher than this year."

"People are looking to keep lighter-weight calves to put additional weight and to sell at a later time so they can get more for them," Elmore said.

According to the South Carolina Department of Agriculture Market Report, medium and large high-quality feeder steers sold for an average of $116 per cwt for a 805-pound steer and $166 (per cwt) for a 288-pound steer in early to mid-October.

In early October, SCDAMR reported prices of feeder steers and feeder bulls were unevenly steady.

The markets were showing slaughter cow and slaughter bull prices as steady. There is a low demand for fleshy, full and/or extremely thin fleshed calves, according to the SCDAMR.

For 2017, cattle prices have held together better than expected, officials say. Prices were generally higher in 2017 than a year ago.

In 2016, the cash cattle was in a free fall from the March peak of $139 per cwt to the October low of $98 per cwt.

This years peak was in May at $144/$145 per cwt. Earlier in September, the bottom was made at $105 per cwt.

Elmore said the demand for beef has "held up very well" with its competitors of pork and chicken.

"Even for the very highest priced times we had three years ago and the demand for beef was down, we had a good following," he said. "We want to continue to maintain that market."

Another positive for the beef industry is opening of the Chinese market, Elmore said.

"They are very specific in what they want," he said. "This is a major plus for the beef industry."

Continued strong beef demand can limit 2018 cattle and beef price changes to modest declines.

According to the USDA, beef production is expected to increase again in 2018, projected at 27.4 billion pounds.

This would be a record level of U.S. beef production, exceeding the previous high of 2002 with 27.0 billion pounds.

Beef production, combined with other meats, is projected to surpass 101 billion pounds of total meat production in 2018, a new record as well.

For Calhoun County cattleman John Nelson, the big news in 2017 was a reduction in his herd size from about the middle 60s to 20 head.

"We were overstocked for our size," Nelson said, noting he has gotten out of the brood herd business and is now strictly raising steers. "We are trying to keep smaller replacement steers and produce in a manner that is consistent with our pasture-raised, grass-fed beef."

The reduction in herd size is part of a business model shift for Nelson, who will focus on a smaller but leaner operation.

"We are producing our own food now," he said. The feed supply should be able to take him through the winter.

"The spring was great," he said of his hay crop, which is grown using natural fertilizers. "We had a good first cutting then there was that drought in July and we have been drier since then. We were pretty lucky early on."

Overview

Livestock as well as dairy are important to Calhoun County's economic engine.

According to the 2012 U.S. Department of Agriculture census, there are about 77 beef cattle farms in the county.

The county ranks 15th in the state in the value of livestock and poultry, 36th in the number of cattle and calves, and 12th in the number of broilers produced.

Swine

There are currently no independent hog producers in Calhoun County as the industry has transitioned from privately owned to contract producers.

The transition caused all of the county's hog producers to leave the industry.

The expense of contract production was too much for hog producers to handle, causing them to leave the industry altogether.

Most hog houses were also old and were not well-suited to do what the new-age contract situation required.

In the middle 1990s, Calhoun County was home to about 30 to 35 independent swine producers.

Dairy

Calhoun County does not have any dairy farmers and has not had any for several years, county officials say.

The Sandy Run Dairy is situated in the northern part of the county just off Interstate 26 at Exit 125 on S.C. Road 31, but the cows that produce the milk for the ice cream it makes and sells are raised outside of Calhoun County.
Bahrain's government has started the distribution of 4,800 housing units to its major beneficiaries within Northern City (Al Madina Al Shamaliya), one of the largest strategic projects being carried out by the housing ministry, said a report.



The move comes following the order of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, reported BNA.



The project is a massive one in terms of area and population covering 740,000 hectares, and on completion it will accommodate around 100,000 people, stated the report, citing a senior government official.



The distribution of the Northern Citys units adds to the Crown Princes previous orders to hand over units to beneficiaries under the 25,000-unit Government Action Plan, remarked Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the undersecretary at the Housing Ministry.



This emanates from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifas directives to build 40,000 homes across the country, stated Shaikh Abdulla.



He underlined the housing ministrys keenness on implementing the Crown Princes orders through speedy implementation of the residential projects to help meet the housing needs of the citizens nationwide.
Deyaar Development, one of the UAEs largest real estate companies, has launched a new initiative coinciding with the UAE Flag Day for its Midtown project in Dubai.

A 1.2-million-sq-ft development, Midtown is located in Dubai Production City, previously International Media Production Zone - the UAEs growth corridor which is close to the Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport. It has a built-up area of more than five million sq ft, said a statement from Deyaar.

The developer said the campaign is designed to provide unique saving opportunities for UAE nationals.



Under this package, UAE nationals will enjoy discounted down-payments starting from Dh74,000 ($20,142), and monthly payments from Dh1,120. Deyaar will also cover 50 per cent of the four per cent Dubai Land Department registration fee on property.



The Dubai developer is offering a variety of studios, one- and two-bedroom residential units in Deyaars Midtown development.



It is aims at encouraging Emiratis to make the right savings choices when purchasing property, taking advantage of a range of generous promotional offers with reduced monthly instalments, complimentary property management services for the first year and tailored-made mortgage finance solutions which will be available on various units within the iconic Midtown project, said a senior official.



Unveiling the offer, Nasser Amer, the vice-president (sales) at Deyaar, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for UAE nationals to make a smart property investment."



"We are pleased to offer UAE nationals generous incentives that will help them make the right investment choices. Midtown is proving to be a popular development within the UAE nationals segment, which represents the largest sales portfolio in the project," noted Amer.



Construction work on Midtowns Dania District and Afnan Districts is well under way according to schedule, and Deyaar will launch Midtowns third phase in the coming year, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The city of Cleveland will name an additional part of 15th Street Billy Graham Avenue on Tuesday, Mayor Tom Rowland said.

Three blocks of the same street were dedicated in the evangelist's name in Februrary 2014. His daughter Gigi Graham attended that dedication service.

It was noted that 15th Street runs thought the campus of Lee University and almost dead ends at Medlin Hall where Billy Graham lived while attending college there. It was then Bob Jones College.



Mayor Rowland asked the city council to approve the naming of the extended portion of the street with the signs to be unveiled on Dr. Graham's birthday, which is Tuesday.

The brief ceremony will be skyped to the Graham home on Montreat in hopes Dr.Graham can view it. His daughter said family members should be available to view as well.

After the 2014 ceremony, Mayor Rowland received a hand-written note from Billy Graham, thanking the city for the honor.

Mayor Rowland and his wife Sandra have become friends of the Graham family.

Next Tuesday's ceremony will take place at Parker and 15th Street.
Travellers expectations have changed drastically during the pandemic and the travel industry needs to better understand the behaviours and expectations of the new traveller in order to respond to them, says Roshan Mendis of Sabre.
Saudi Arabias King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has issued a series of orders that included relieving Prince Miteb bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz from office in an anti-corruptaion drive, reports said.

The royal orders included formation of a supreme committee, chaired by the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

The King has appointed Prince Khalid bin Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Ayyaf Al Muqren as the new Minister of the National Guard.

Minister of Economy and Planning Eng Adel bin Mohammed Faqih was also relieved of his post and Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri was appointed as Minister of Economy and Planning, Saudi Press Agency said.

Admiral Abdullah bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Sultan, the Commander of the Naval Forces, was terminated and retired. Vice Admiral Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Ghifaili was promoted to the rank of admiral and appointed as Commander of the Naval Forces.

Meanwhile, Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television said the government had detained 11 princes, four current ministers and tens of former ministers.

Billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who owns investment firm Kingdom Holding, is among people detained and under investigation by the new anti-corruption body, a senior Saudi official was quoted by Reuters as saying.

Another report said also detained and under investigation is former Saudi finance minister Ibrahim Al-Assaf.

The new anti-corruption committee will inlcude chairman of the Monitoring and Investigation Commission, chairman of the National Anti-Corruption Authority, chief of the General Audit Bureau, Attorney General and Head of State Security, reported Emirates news agency Wam, citing the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The committee will be tasked with identifying offences, crimes, persons and entities involved in cases of public corruption.



The committee has the right to take any precautionary measures it sees, until they are referred to the investigating authorities or judicial bodies.



It may takes whatever measures deemed necessary to deal with those involved in public corruption cases and take what it considers to be the right of persons, entities, funds, fixed and movable assets, at home and abroad, return funds to the state treasury and register property and assets in the name of state property.
Dubais Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a new generation of vehicles licensing plates design as well as a new two-code plate as of December 2017.



The first lot of the new distinctive dual code plates will be released in an open auction to be held on December 9 at Westin Hotel (Habtoor City). This package includes 10 distinctive single, dual, triple, quadruple and Penta digit plates of Code AA namely: 7, 10, 12, 100, 333, 786, 1000, 8888, 77777 and 55555.



The dual code plates will be released only through Open Auctions. RTA will plan the release of these numbers through the upcoming auctions and make announcements through various media and communication channels.



This new initiative underlines RTAs keenness to satisfy the needs of customers aspiring to own distinctive number plates, especially as the stock of single-code distinctive plates is about to be exhausted, said Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of RTA.



The new design of vehicle number plates is clear and easy to read from a distance. It is composed of three elements: The word Dubai (Brand), Number and Code. RTA would start replacing the existing plates of light vehicles by the newly designed plates as of Feb 2018.



The replacement will be gradual and in lots according to a time chart to be announced in future. Clients interested in the (Regular) Plate bearing Dubai Brand in Black Colour, would have their vehicle plates replaced at cost of Dh35 ($9.5) for short plates and Dh50 for long plates. Others opting for the coloured Dubai Brand Plate need to pay a fee of Dh400, explained Al Tayer.
Baskin Robbins, the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty stores, today celebrated a landmark occasion with the opening of its 500th store in Saudi Arabia.



The event, which took place at its 500th location in Dammam, was attended by a large number of senior representatives from parent companies and master franchisee, including Bill Mitchell, president of Dunkin Brands International; Mohammed Yahya Kazi, Executive Committee - Board of Directors of Galadari Brothers -Galadari Ice Cream Company (GICC); John Varughese, vice president of Dunkin Brands International; Shabeer Shah, general manager of Galadari Ice Cream Company and Osama Saleh M. Yadkar  deputy general manager- Administration- Jumeirah Trading Company Ltd (JTCL).



Speaking at the occasion, Mitchell highlighted Dunkin Brands commitment to Saudi Arabia and the region as a whole. Our history in Saudi Arabia goes back more than 35 years when we opened the first Baskin-Robbins store in Riyadh back in 1982. Since that time, the Baskin-Robbins brand has grown into a local favorite that today proudly stands as Saudi Arabia's largest quick-service restaurant brand.



Mitchell further added: The Baskin-Robbins brand spans generations of Saudis. People who used to come to our stores as kids now bring their own children to enjoy our wide range of delicious flavors. We remain committed to our strategy of product and service innovation and commitment to the local community for the generations to come.



Kazi said: The ice cream industry in Saudoi Arabia has gone from strength to strength, achieving an annual growth rate of 6 per cent. We are growing along with the industry at a comparable rate.



Saudis represent more than 80 per cent of Baskin-Robbins customers, Yadkar noted. He went on to add that the company has focused on increasing its customer reach by opening outlets in new geographic regions and introduced the concept of neighborhood stores across Saudi Arabia, offering convenient services such as home delivery, and entering into tie-ups with reputed local aggregators.



As part of its commitment to local economic development, JTCL also adopted an ambitious Saudization policy to recruit and develop local talent, from frontline staff to senior executive management. To date, the company has hired over 37 per cent Saudi staff. It has also been an active partner of the Disabled Children Association since 2012.



GICC currently operates more than 800 stores across GCC. It is also a joint venture partner with Dunkin Brands for the Baskin-Robbins business in Australia where there are currently more than 80 locations.



Baskin-Robbins currently has more than 7,900 restaurants in 52 countries around the world. - TradeArabia News Service


Careem, a leading ride-hailing service in the Middle East and North Africa, recently announced a 400 percent increase in the number of its captains in Bahrain, thanks to a new partnership with the Public Transport Drivers Society.

The employment of Bahraini taxi drivers as captains will provide them with additional income and more flexible working hours, while also creating shorter wait times for Careem customers.

This partnership was established through a memorandum of understanding signed by Careem and the Public Transport Drivers Society (PTDS).

PTDS was established in 2002 to represent workers in the local transportation industry, both by helping organise and operate the industry and by working to find more effective solutions to the challenges faced by drivers.

This step underscores Careems commitment to improving the transportation industry through collaborative measures, working alongside key industry players in Bahrain to provide job opportunities and reduce unemployment. This agreement also aims to enhance the quality of service that Careem provides to its customers, by allowing for quicker pick-up times and greater reach throughout the country, including in the southern parts of the kingdom, the company said.

Through the MoU, the partners will also be working together to help ensure that more taxis are able to meet the specifications and standards required to work through smartphone applications. The standards set in the memorandum emphasize the importance Careem places on the Bahraini market, as well as the companys eagerness to provide local customers with high-quality, convenient, and reliable service.

Careems Managing Director of Emerging Markets, Ibrahim Manna, said: We at Careem are thrilled to further build on our commitment to the Bahraini market by bringing local taxi drivers into our esteemed fleet. Through our partnership with the Public Transport Drivers Society, we will be able to more actively contribute to the improvement of the transportation sector, while also elevating the services provided to our customers. Additionally, this step will contribute to the local job market by providing employment opportunities for both drivers and support staff. As always, we aspire to develop our services and solutions in ways that simplify and improve peoples lives. - TradeArabia News Service
Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Voyages president and CEO Tom McAlpin hosted a Ship Tease, where key details were revealed about what sailors can expect on the first of three ships, coming to the high seas in 2020.



Live from Fincantieris shipyard in Genoa, Italy, they also celebrated the laying of the keel for the first ship, marking the commencement of construction.



Sir Richard and Tom McAlpin arrived on stage via a 200-foot crane drop, in true Virgin style. They were joined by Bain Capital chairman Stephen Pagliuca and Fincantieris Alberto Maestrini to weld ceremonial coins into the keel for good luck and smooth sailing.

Richard expressed excitement that construction is now underway. This is a very big day for Virgin Voyages, as an exciting new holiday option for travellers starts to get ship shape. She will be the most recognisable ship sailing the seven seas, delivering an irresistible sailor experience. Were also committed to making sure our crew are the happiest at sea and will be proud to sail with us.



Tom McAlpin shared specifics on the Virgin Voyages design philosophy and experience. The entire ship will be built with an attention to detail, reflecting the craftsmanship and materiality inspired by super yachts. Designed to feel more intimate and connected to the sea, 86 per cent of all cabins will feature a sea terrace and 93 per cent an ocean view. Virgin Voyages is creating a sophisticated ship and a transformational experience that offers our sailors a place where rejuvenating day-life meets exciting nightlife and everything in between.



In a bold and unique move for the industry, McAlpin then gave details that the first ships experience will be Adult By Design  meaning that sailors must be at least 18 or older to sail. The decision was driven by feedback from future sailors and travel professionals, who are looking for a more elevated and premium experience, with a few Virgin style surprises.



The world also got its first glimpse of the ships distinct livery, which will feature a sleek silvery-grey hull, with smoked glass, and of course, distinctive touches of red. The livery was conceptualised by Ben Christie and David Azurdia from the multi-award-winning Magpie Studio in London. RWD from Beaulieu England, who are leaders in super yacht design, created the iconic red Virgin funnel of the vessel.



Virgin Voyages first fleet will be known as the Lady Ships, a play on the term your ladyship, giving a nod to Virgins British heritage. The spirit of the ship will be represented by a beautiful mermaid design that will adorn the bow. The mermaid is inspired by figureheads on historic vessels and was designed by London-based artist Toby Tinsley, who also designed the beautiful feminine motif on Virgin Galactic.



Consistent with their commitment to have one of the cleanest fleets at sea, Virgin Voyages signed an agreement with Scanship, providers of advanced waste management systems. Together, they will explore the development of potentially game-changing technology that could one day significantly reduce ocean discharge by turning waste into energy.



The final announcement from Virgin Voyages is that it is now open for business at virginvoyages.com. Future sailors and travel partners can place a $500 refundable deposit for access to an exclusive pre-sale before Virgin Voyages goes on general sale.



McAlpin wrapped up the ceremony by introducing Grammy Award-winning artist Boy George who then performed as the nights superstar DJ.



Future sailors and travel partners are invited to check out Virgin Voyages by visiting www.virginvoyages.com or following them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. - TradeArabia News Service


To understand the latest battle over the greater sage grouse one need look no further than how Matt Mead and Ryan Zinke present themselves. Consider the bicep. For Zinke, the Interior Secretary, thats easy. The departments website offers a shot of the 56-year-old fly fishing, his flexed arm extended just so. Mead has formidable arms of his own. But the Wyoming governor poses in suits. Or shirtsleeves.

Of course, this isnt a story about the biceps of western politicians. But it is about a federal administrator who seems close to unraveling one of the governors signature achievements  preserving sage grouse protections  and attacking one of Meads core beliefs about how politics should be conducted.

Mead exudes decency in his public persona. The 55-year-old prefers committees, task forces and multi-party initiatives to top-down orders. He is about as far from the zeitgeist of national politics in 2017  the spectacle of clashing, aggressive personalities  as one can be.

If Mead is an outlier, he matches his state well. Wyoming is important, but quietly so. Quietly providing 40 percent of the nations coal. Quietly fighting Obama-era regulations in the courts. Quietly spending a decade developing its own conservation plans for the imperiled sage grouse that were eventually picked up by federal agencies and implemented in some form across 11 western states.

Over the summer, Zinke opened a 60-day review of those federal sage grouse management plans put in place to stop the bird from being listed as an endangered species. The review was followed by a notice in the federal register signaling key aspects will be reconsidered. The public has 45 days to respond.

The rushed timeline and long-term risk of weaker plans have led to strange bed fellows looking at Mead as their reluctant champion. And so onto a political landscape, where animosity is increasingly standard, struts an oblivious bird with a bright yellow chest, a swaggering former Navy SEAL-turned-bureaucrat and a mild-mannered western governor who doesnt believe ruffling feathers gets the job done.

What could go wrong?

***

It goes beyond just a bird to me and the reason it does is because whats at risk.  Matt Mead, Wyoming governor

It takes time for those new to the sage grouse dance to pick up its rhythm, the political, social and economic resonance it has across the West. From keeping Wyomings landscape open and wild to exploring for oil and gas and running livestock, virtually every western issue overlaps with the bird and conserving the places where it lives.

This isnt as simple as whether the bird can coexist with a drilling rig. Experts say its about finding a way to repair a damaged habitat while maintaining the industries and interests of the people who love the West, the people who live and work in it.

It affects everything. Industry  where they can drill, ranchers  how they graze their cattle, said Dan Smitherman, Wyoming representative for the Wilderness Society, which opposes wholesale changes to the sage grouse plans that also protect the habitat of about 350 other species.

It touches the entire political spectrum and nowhere more so than Wyoming.

The state relies primarily on its energy economy for revenue. Nearly three-quarters of public funds come from taxes on mining companies. When Wyoming developed a sage grouse strategy to stave off an endangered species listing, it did so to protect the bird, sure, but more so to protect everything else. A listing doesnt offer compromises for the Western way of life and cares little for state economies.

A listing has one objective: save the bird.

A governor has many.

***

I certainly have all the confidence in the world in my governor.  Paul Ulrich, industry representative on the Sage Grouse Implementation Team

On such a contentious issue, Mead is largely seen as having effectively shepherded a sage grouse policy acceptable to almost all those involved.

Now that the basis of the plan may be in jeopardy due to the federal review, those whove worked on sage grouse from the beginning  even those who say the plans are too strict, or not strict enough  like Meads style.

Mead is in the moderate camp when it comes to Zinkes review. He believes there is room for improvement and clarification on what are complicated and detailed policies covering a wide span of the West, and Wyoming will be submitting its suggestions for change during the Interiors public comment period.

But Mead has also voiced doubts.

We understand that you are considering changing the Departments approach to sage-grouse, moving from a habitat management model to one that sets population objectives for the states, wrote Mead and Colorado governor John Hickenlooper in a June letter to Zinke. We are concerned that this is not the right decision.

Many interested parties see Meads measured approach as an effective counterpoint to the ineffective divisiveness popular of late.

I really believe there are a lot of us that might have handled (the sage grouse changes) differently, said Brian Rutledge, conservation policy and strategy advisor for the Audubon Society.

Meads leadership, mild and diligent, may prove to be the most effective way to deal with Zinke, he said

A shadow strategy has developed for groups on all sides of the sage grouse debate: campaign for your interests, but stand with Mead while he takes the high road.

And its not only environmentalists that side with Mead when he respectfully disagrees with the administrations approach.

The mining industries are worried. They dont want a directive out of Washington to control sage grouse management in Wyoming.

I think there is general concern that Interiors reopening of the federal plan could result in a top down approach and come with significant unintended consequences, said Travis Deti, director of the Wyoming Mining Association in an email. With the state plan, we know where we stand. With the feds taking another look, it injects the element of uncertainty.

The governor has noted this concern, pointing out that constant change isnt good for Wyomings industries, besides being a dismal approach to species management.

Paul Ulrich, director of government affairs for Jonah Energy, is hopeful. Ulrich is a member of Wyomings Sage Grouse Implementation Team, the body tasked with carrying out and updating the states conservation strategy. He believes industry has some valid concerns with the federal rules that can be alleviated without damaging the future of the grouse.

The core group that developed the plans in the first place is still there, and they havent changed their approach, he said, despite a number of distracting voices, from industry groups, environmental factions and politics.

You are not going to affect significant change by battling it out in the media at any level, Ulrich said, echoing his governor. Where we have demonstrated success is sitting down at the table ... and having a good conversation that is based in reality and not rhetoric.

***

I guess its just however I am,  Matt Mead, Wyoming governor

On the surface, Mead and Zinke have a lot in common. They were born in western states, went on to prestigious public service careers  Mead as a federal prosecutor, Zinke in the military  and ended up as Republican politicians considered moderates in a party that has veered to the right in recent years.

But Mead? Hes no Zinke.

Less than a year after being elected to the U.S. House in Montana, Zinke offered to become Speaker of the House. When he endorsed Trump, he offered to join the ticket as the vice presidential candidate. Zinke flies an obscure departmental flag when hes working at his Interior Department office, a move his spokeswoman said is modeled after what military commanders do when they are in garrison.

He rode a horse to his first day of work.

Zinkes also racked up a reputation as something of a bully. During the health care debate this summer, Zinke called Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, who was refusing to vote for the GOP plan. Murkowski better fall in line, Zinke allegedly warned, or he might hold up energy development projects in her state.

(Zinke denies doing anything inappropriate and, through a spokeswoman, declined to be interviewed for this story.)

Meanwhile, Mead presides over Wyomings state government with little pomp. He tends to avoid talking points and favors coalitions over dictates. Meads signature initiative this year has been Endow, a 20-year plan to improve Wyomings economic diversity through a series of detailed studies and measured recommendations.

Whether or not Zinkes resolve to change the federal sage grouse plan has raised alarms at the governors mansion in Cheyenne, Mead has so far declined to throw out his trusted political playbook.

I just dont think theres any substitute  and particularly the more thorny the issue is  than continuing to reach out and try and find common ground, he said.

Mead wont entertain hypotheticals about what happens if his approach fails. But its clear this is an important issue to him, and its not just about sage grouse or a potential endangered species listing.

It has meaning to the West beyond just this bird, Mead said. It has to do with the collaborative process, with our state being able to determine our own destiny.

Wyomings sage grouse plan brings out one of Meads deeper beliefs about politics as they should be. Get him talking long enough and what seems like genuine estrangement from both contemporary politics and his own party start to show through. He speaks of frustration with partisan battles, Republican versus Democrat.

Those are instruments to help us make better decisions. They are not entities in themselves that are worthy of the protection that we seem to want to provide them, Mead said in a September interview. I want to know, is it good for the country? Is it good for Wyoming?

***

(This) sort of approach in Washington is not going to bode well for Wyoming,  Jennifer Jensen, author of The Governors Lobbyists: Federal-State Relations Offices and Governors Associations in Washington

But for governors, successfully playing D.C. politics takes more than caring about a state or the nation. Its often a tricky dance, and perhaps even more so under the current administration.

Jennifer Jensen, a political science professor and author of The Governors Lobbyists, said governors are most effective when they can argue that a cause has bipartisan support and states are better at handling a given issue than Washington.

But that requires flexibility on the part of administration officials, something Jensen said has not been apparent under Trump. A carefully-negotiated issue like the sage grouse plans, which included input from a broad coalition as well as scientific study, is unlikely to find a sympathetic hearing.

It hits up against the president  who thinks, OK, Im going to have the Secretary of Interior do X, Jensen said. That sort of approach in Washington is not going to bode well for Wyoming.

Wyoming is also disadvantaged by not having an established lobbying presence in Washington. Jensen said that roughly half of all states have employees based in the nations capital or a standing relationship with a lobbyist based there. Washington is a city of relationships and Jensen said its difficult to be heard if you dont know who to talk to or what to say.

Mead, for his part, got Zinkes ear on sage grouse once, at a semi-public Montana event in June where the secretary was speaking to a group of governors. Since then hes spoken with Deputy Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, and thinks Bernhardt gets it.

Hendrix College political science professor Jay Barth, who has studied how governors can influence policy, said Mead may have a shot at prevailing in the sage grouse fight. It certainly helps that hes a Republican working with a Republican administration. And, Barth said, Wyoming has a strong claim to leadership on sage grouse.

But when it comes to Meads particular ability to sway federal policy, theres some bad news.

Barth conducted a study on how the personality of governors across the country corresponded to their effectiveness.

The two traits that really matter in a positive way are higher levels of desire for achievement and higher levels of desire for power in a traditional sense, Barth said.

While Mead seems focused on achievement, the business of governance, he hasnt shown much interest in hardball politics. Barth said that governors who used their public platform to talk about cooperation and unity were generally less effective. When Mead spoke about sage grouse policy at an energy conference in Colorado last Tuesday, he focused precisely on the importance of cooperation.

If we go down a different road now with the sage grouse, what it says is, when you try to address other endangered species problems in this country, dont have a collaborative process, dont work together, because its going to be changed, Mead said. To me, that would be a very unfortunate circumstance.

***

I do remain convinced that Wyomings voice is and should remain strong in this discussion, and well continue to make that the case,  Matt Mead, Wyoming governor

Mead has faced off with the federal government over sage grouse before, and the former lawyer has an impressive history of suing the Obama-administration on a variety of issues.

Its a pattern he admits isnt the best way to develop policy, but regardless of who is in the White House, the governor says his role is to protect Wyoming.

If we have disagreements with the federal government on an issue that I believe is harmful to our state, I will challenge that in any way that I can, he said.

Ulrich, from Jonah Energy doesnt expect a battle this time. But Rutledge, of the Audubon, and a fellow member of the sage grouse team, is rolling up his sleeves.

Both men from either ends of the political spectrum say Mead has a loyal following that will rally around him if things get tough.

Well take the hits with him, Rutledge said. I dont think there is anybody here that wont walk into the fight with him.
JACKSON  Local leaders of Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts say they want to empower girls and promote their leadership skills. They just differ on the best organization to accomplish that.

The announcement Oct. 11 that Boy Scouts of America would start accepting girls to be Cub Scouts in 2018 and let them work toward the Eagle Scout rank in 2019 could shake up Scouting in Teton County with more options for parents with daughters.

For more than 100 years both organizations have operated in a complementary but separate matter.

Ulterior motives are at play, some say. The head of Girl Scouts of the USA, Kathy Hopkinkah Hannan, wrote the national president of the Boy Scouts, Randall Stephenson, earlier this year calling the covert campaign to recruit girls a way to resist falling membership.

The New York Times described tense phone conversations between the executives as the idea to include girls, and the potential for partnership between the two organizations, was floated and then nixed.

But locally, Boy and Girl Scout leaders say they have a good relationship and consider each other friends.

Ive found that local Boy Scouts leaders have been very inclusive to us as a sister organization, said Margaret Gordon, volunteer and service unit manager. They all seem like very nice people.

Its worth noting that some Boy Scouts programs are coed. Girls between 14 and 20 years old can already participate in Venture Scouts and have since 1969. About a decade ago a Venture Scout crew inviting girls in Jackson began, affiliated with Teton County Search and Rescue. There are also the coed career-based Explorer Scouts and ocean-focused Sea Scouts.

But the switch to allowing girls in Cub Scout dens and Boy Scout troops is a big change from 1991, when third-grader Margot Goldstein and her family sued the Boy Scouts, who wouldnt admit Goldstein formally.

One of Clarke Farrers daughters mimics the story of Goldstein, who saw what her older brothers were doing and wanted in. Farrer is the Grand Teton Council Scout executive.

When I first heard the idea put forward, I was a little taken aback, Farrer said. But the more I thought about it, all three of my sons are Eagle Scouts. I cant think of any reason other than tradition that my daughter shouldnt have been able to enjoy the same experience as her brothers.

The smallest units in Cub Scouts are called dens. Dens meet in larger groups called packs. Dens will remain single-sex, but packs  with some boy dens and some girl dens  will be co-ed.

The only difference I will see is at a pack meeting, girls will be getting awards, too, not just boys, Farrer said. I dont know why thats a problem.

Boy Scouts volunteer Patrick Starich, who is part of a district committee to train new leaders, said his opinion on coed Boy Scouts has come around, too.

In the end, it will produce more well-rounded adult perspectives as young people grow up, Starich said. I think young women will benefit from greatly from it, I really do.

Someone asked Starich what they would call Eagle Scouts if girls can join the Boy Scouts.

You would call them Eagle Scouts, he said. The criteria and the requirements arent going to change.

Change is tough, Farrer said, but he thinks people who arent on board soon will be. Looking at things differently, he said, will include camping trip sleeping protocols and bathroom logistics.

Once they get over the initial shock, I think, like me, theyll realize that Scouting programs will just be as beneficial for girls as they have been for boys, he said.

But what about the girls who dont want to be with their brothers?

Girl Scouts volunteer and service unit manager Gordon strongly feels there are things girls can get in Girl Scouts that they cant get elsewhere.

One of the things I really like is the big emphasis is teaching girls to be leaders and to handle themselves in the real world, Gordon said. I think thats something that the Girl Scouts can offer that the Boy Scouts cant necessarily specifically offer to girls. Theres something about the experience about growing up as a girl in our society that just kind of throwing merit badges at them isnt going to necessarily handle.

Gordons two daughters have participated since first grade. She said she likes the focus on everybody taking part, being a sister to other Scouts and respecting what fellow Scouts have to say. Her daughters learn about everything from pottery and local animals to first aid and bike safety as well as complete a service project progression as they age.

I think that makes for a well-rounded, confident girl, Gordon said. Thats what Im looking for.

Kristi Overlund, the marketing and communications manager for Girl Scouts of Montana and Wyoming, believes girls having time away from boys is valuable.

Were co-ed most of our lives, so to give these girls a time and a safe space thats girl-inclusive, it just helps foster support among girls and the confidence enabling them to stretch beyond their limits before they have to start competing with the other gender, she said.

And for those who dont know, Girl Scouts do more than just sell cookies.

People still think of Girl Scouts as cookies, campfires and friendship bracelets, Osterlund said. But were so much more than that. Theres this misconception about Girl Scouts that we dont have the outdoor aspect or the adventure aspect, and that is absolutely false.

Residential camps offer outdoor opportunities, Overlund said, and events around the state focus on STEM  science, technology, engineering and math.

There are 24 Girl Scouts robotics teams in Montana and Wyoming, Overlund said, and weve got girls who start garage bands and just happen to sell the best cookies as well.

Roughly 80 percent of Boy Scout units in the Grand Teton Council, which encompasses western Wyoming and eastern Idaho, are sponsored by wards of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The church announced it wont use Boy Scout programs for girls.

But only two packs and two troops in the Jackson district are affiliated with the church.

I would predict based on that well see no girls involved in Scouting in Star Valley, but I bet we will see a lot of girls in Jackson participating, Farrer said. I imagine there will be a strong interest. I wouldnt be surprised if a year from now we see 100 more girls in Jackson.

But Overlund isnt anticipating much to change in Wyoming.

We havent seen any direct effect yet, and I dont know that we will, she said. Its not like weve not had competition in the past. We certainly dont feel threatened by this.

One thing is for sure: Girl Scouts wont be taking boys.

Our mission is to serve girls, Overlund said. So we will continue to be all girl, girl-led and girl-centric.
CLIFTON, Colo.  Sheriff's deputies say a western Colorado student found a vail of methamphetamine on the grounds of an elementary school.

A 7-year-old boy wound up taking the drug to his home in Cliffton without knowing what it was. His mother took it back to Clifton Elementary School, where a Mesa County sheriff's officer assigned to the school tested it and discovered it was methamphetamine.

Sheriff's spokeswoman Megan Terlecky says deputies are investigating how the drug wound up in the schoolyard. She says officials don't believe students were involved.

Brianna Palmer, whose son brought the vial home, says he told her another student gave it to him. She says the two boys often swap toys and game cards.

It wasn't clear when the incident occurred.
The light blue stickers posted on the front door of Jacquies Bistro, Brunch & Bar arent large or particularly flashy, but the cafes owner hopes they send a powerful message.

Me too, reads one sign. I believe you, states the other.

The phrase Me too has become a popular rallying cry on social media in the last month, meant to encourage victims of assault to share their stories and support others. And inside the restaurant on Thursday morning sat a handful of women living that message.

Seven members of the Wyoming Women Warriors were gathered at the cozy cafe to offer guidance and comfort to a woman dealing with the aftermath of leaving an abusive ex-boyfriend. They sipped coffee and talked while reading over police reports and calling up attorneys to see whos taking on clients.

Its something that I dont feel that I could have faced alone, said the woman, who wished to remain anonymous.

And thats the point of the organization-that no woman should have to be alone, according to founder Aimee Kidd.

The group was created about three months ago to empower victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, and has since grown to 350 members, said Kidd. Although the Warriors were initially focused on offering emotional support, the organization has since expanded to include advocacy efforts.

Its not us just sitting around and sharing our stories and hashing all that out, explained Kidd. Its proactive.

Group members accompany women while they attend court hearings or undergo sexual assault forensic testing, raise funds for those who cannot afford attorney fees and physically assist those who need to move out of abusive homes.

The organization partially formed as a result of anger regarding how local police were handling sexual assault cases. Kidd first approached Casper City Council in 2016 with concerns about how police were dealing with a complaint she filed. Prosecutors ultimately declined to pursue charges, citing insufficient evidence. In the meantime, dozens of women had reached out to share their own stories.

This summers well-publicized arrest of Casper businessman Tony Cercy, who is facing sexual assault charges related to allegations that he raped an unconscious 20-year-old, also played a role in the groups creation. Cercy has pleaded not guilty.

Casper City Council member Amanda Huckabay, who was elected in part for her advocacy for sexual assault victims and is a member of the Warriors, said Thursday that shes elated to see the Me Too movement sweeping the nation.

I think when these things are going on at a national level, it creates momentum, she explained.

Huckabay compared the countrys current atmosphere to that of a boiling tea pot, and said steam is finally starting to be released.

Women are standing up and saying weve had enough, she remarked.

The Me Too social media movement went viral in October as a response to The New York Times investigative report detailing a multitude of sexual assault allegations against prominent film producer Harvey Weinstein.

Huckabay, who has previously identified herself as a rape survivor, said hearing about sexual assault cases can also be difficult for victims. Its infuriating to think about how many people experience assault, she explained, and it can bring up painful memories about their own experiences. But the group is also glad people are speaking out.

We have a problem in this community, said Jacquies Bistro owner Jacquie Anderson, adding that she decided to start her own restaurant years ago after repeatedly experiencing sexual assault and discrimination at work.

Anderson wants everyone who enters her downtown establishment to understand that its a safe space. Harassment of any sort, be it to a customer or an employee, will not be tolerated.

Thats why she welcomes groups like the one that came together Thursday.

They had returned from a hearing at a nearby Casper courtroom to support the woman trying to obtain a protective order. She recently decided to hire a lawyer, so the hearing Thursday was brief and no conclusion was reached. But thats not to say it wasnt stressful.

Moments before entering the courtroom, she was served custody papers from her ex-boyfriend, who is asserting that she should not be allowed to care for their children because he claims she is suicidal.

Group members, some of whom attended the hearing, assured her that attempting to blindside victims before they enter a courtroom is a common technique used by abusers, and urged her not to be intimidated. The woman, who periodically broke down into tears, said she was grateful to have the groups support throughout this ordeal.

Its empowering, said Kidd. Were not going to take this stuff anymore
By Ken Grimes Laura Craig McNellis By Dan Miller Mirel Crumb unpacks Dan Miller's artwork in the Cress Gallery of the Fine Arts Center Cress Gallery Director and Curator Ruth Glover, left, and Mirel Crumb discuss Dan Millers artwork, which will be part of a new exhibition at the gallery Previous Next

Cress Gallery of Art at UTC, in partnership with Chattanoogas AIM Center, Inc., will present fearless and resilient featuring works by Ken Grimes, Laura Craig McNellis, and Dan Miller.

In Gallery II will also be a curated selection of works created by the emerging artists of the AIM Center, Inc., Arts Program.

There will be a special lecture by Roger Ricco on Thursday, Nov. 16, 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Derthick Hall, Room 201, 624 Vine St. Gallerist, artist, and author, Mr. Ricco will discuss his research and experiences with Mr. Grimes, Ms. McNellis, Mr. Miller, and other remarkable artists with disabilities.

An opening reception follows at the Cress in the lobby of the Fine Arts Center, 752 Vine St.

Shuttle service will be available between UTC Fine Art Center and Derthick Hall; ADA accessible. Suggested parking for the lecture and opening reception is in Lot #10, at 5th and Palmetto Street. Parking is free daily after 5 p.m. in any UTC Lot not marked 24 hour reserved.

The exhibition dates are Nov. 16-Dec. 10. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The Cress and all its public events are open to the public. Admission is free.

Review for the exhibit:

The adjectives employed to title this exhibition fearless and resilient refer to traits any artist should cultivate to survive. Yet for this group of artists, their fearlessness of making in the face of disadvantage, and their resilience to overcome adversity and strongly continue, is both remarkable and inspirational. All three fall into the realm of Outsider Art, yet each is equally and fully accepted into the Contemporary mainstream.

Ken Grimes (b. 1947, New York City) has spent nearly five decades studying his obsession with crop circles, UFOs, alien abductions, the aranormal, and his own experiences with synchronicity and cosmic coincidence. This led him to investigate SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) and Project Ozma, a 1960s initiative that searched for electromagnetic transmissions from civilizations in far off galaxies, specifically Epsilon Eridani, a close star to earth. Mr. Grimes research ranges from newspaper and magazine articles to the writings of astrophysicists and astro-astronomers such as Carl Sagan and Frank D. Drake. Mr. Grimes feels that painting connects with a wider audience, yet has increasingly incorporated pure text into his work. He limits his palette to black and white, symbolic of deception and truth, providing a contrast that Mr. Grimes feels necessary to communicate directly. Mr. Grimes diagrammatic images and block letter texts simultaneously project both ironic humor and compelling visionary thought about the enduring mysteries of the cosmos.

Mr. Grimes was one of 30 artists included in the American Folk Art Museums Self-Taught Artists of the 20th Century, and his work is in the collections of the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and other public and private collections world-wide. In recent years, Mr. Grimes has been a resident at Fellowship Place in New Haven, CT., a mental health and living facility that encourages intuitive artistic creativity. His work appears in the Cress courtesy of Ricco Maresca Gallery, NYC. Mr. Grimes is schizophrenic.

Laura Craig McNellis (b. 1957, Nashville, TN.) has been painting since childhood, at first at night, while her two sisters and family slept, on scrap newsprint her father brought home from the postal facility where he worked. Her choice of subjects, those common objects of life, dinners and birthday cakes, and the architectural spaces around her, communicate and document her own unique vision of the world. Using ordinary materials (scissors, watercolor, and tempera paint), her work has undeniably progressed through stylistic phases, as she responded and mentally processed her experiences into visual form. The primacy of color, the attention to detail in quick renderings, and the employment of unique pictorial devices and symbols, demonstrate her intent. This exhibition in the Cress will provide a survey of the development of her work over time. Ms. McNelliss work is included in public and private collections worldwide, and appears in the Cress courtesy of Ricco Maresca Gallery, NYC, and the Trust of Laura Craig McNellis, Mooresville, NC. Ms. McNellis is developmentally disabled and autistic.

Dan Miller (b. 1961, Castro Valley, CA.) is described by his sister as always drawing if paper and pen were available. Since 1982, Mr. Miller has worked with the Creative Growth Art Center in Oakland, CA., a pioneering institution whose mission is to foster the aesthetic development of people with disabilities in the visual arts, emphasizing the quality of the work rather than the disability. Miller employs pencil, pen, paint sticks, and pastels to develop compositions of intense layers of marks, letterforms, and diagrammatic representations of simple objects, creating a captivating, rhythmic pictorial space. Mr. Millers work has been featured in solo exhibitions at Ricco Maresca Gallery and White Columns, NYC, and Galerie Christian Berst, Paris, and at Frieze New York, the Armory Show, NYC, and NADA, Miami. His work is in the collections of the Museum of Modern Art, NYC, and the Smithsonian Museum of American Art, Washington, DC, and is currently featured at Viva Arte Viva, the 57th International Art Exhibition Venice Biennale. Mr. Miller is autistic.

Roger Ricco is a gallerist, artist, and author, and co-founder of Ricco Maresca Gallery, NYC. Mr. Ricco was UTC Diane Marek Visiting Artist in 2006 (the first year of the Series) along with an exhibition of his photography Small Events. At the time, Mr. Ricco visited the AIM Center and the early manifestation of its visual arts program. He visited Chattanooga again in 2009 to support the AIM Centers arts initiative and has continued to be available informally as a consultant. Mr. Riccos extensive research on outsider artists, and artists with autism and other disabilities has resulted

in his authoring and co-authoring numerous books on these subjects. A dynamic speaker, Mr. Riccos personal experience with the artists in this exhibition, and with others he has followed and supported, provide an amazing and captivating commentary about the springs of creativity.

Gallery II of the Cress will feature an exhibition of works by the emerging Artists of Chattanoogas Aim Centers Arts Program curated by Mr. Ricco. The 12 featured artists are Anita Bright, Jesse

Crick, Ruby Ford, Shariece Hayes, David Hudson, Consuella Jackson, Rodrick McGee, Miriam Prepodnik, Bill Sera, Michael Tyous, Robert Waters, and Demetrius Witherow.

The AIM Center provides education, employment, housing, wellness, and socialization opportunities for adults in recovery from serious mental illness. Since 1989, the Aim Center has helped adults be self-advocates for their mental wellness. Standing for Achievement, Independence, and Motivation, AIM Center is a non-profit mental health program with a Clubhouse approach that empowers individuals to reclaim their independence while successfully managing their mental illness to lead full and productive lives.

The Cress Gallery of Art is in the lobby of the UTC Fine Arts Center, 752 Vine Street at the corner of Vine and Palmetto Streets.

If you require accommodations for this event, please contact the UTC Disability Resource Center at (423) 425-4006, email Michelle-Rigler@utc.edu a week prior to the event if possible.

For more information about the exhibition and the Diane Marek Series community and campus events, visit www.cressgallery.org, like the Cress Gallery on Facebook, or contact Ruth Grover at ruthgrover@utc.edu or 304-9789.
In considering the indictment of former Donald Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and an associate, I am reminded of former Bill Clinton aide and defender James Carvilles line about the ability of a grand jury to indict a ham sandwich.

Manafort and a longtime business partner, Rick Gates, pleaded not guilty to all 12 counts against them. Manafort is under house arrest after posting an outrageously high bond of $10 million. Gates bond was set at $5 million. George Papadopoulos, who was a foreign policy advisor to the Trump campaign, has pleaded guilty to making a false statement to the FBI about his foreign contacts with several top Russian officials.

Predictably, the major media are celebrating this as the beginning of the end of the nascent Trump presidency. Within hours of the announced indictments, New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof rushed into print with a column titled Will Manafort Sing? If so, it may mark the beginning of the end of this presidency. Look for more of this wishful thinking that the establishment, the Democrats and all of the mainstream media have been hoping for since Trump won the election.

What Manafort stands accused of has nothing to do with the 2016 election, or with Russian collusion. No one, so far, has produced any evidence the Russians affected the elections outcome. This is all about overturning the results and keeping the swamp full for those who live in it and reject change.

Real collusion might be in the significant share of U.S. uranium sold to the Russians during Hillary Clintons tenure as secretary of state (she signed off on the deal), followed by a $500,000 fee paid to her husband for a speech in Moscow and the millions of dollars that subsequently flowed into the Clinton Foundation from uranium investors.

Special counsel Robert Mueller and Congress should investigate that Russian connection, along with the role of the Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton campaign (and the earlier Republican role) in creating an anti-Trump dossier that has been shown to be a fraud and yet was used to justify the appointment of Mueller. If the reason for Muellers appointment is fraudulent, how can it be said that his investigation, which includes staff attorneys who made donations to Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, is not tainted?

Among the many problems with this investigation is that it has no legal, subject or monetary limits. If Mueller and his associates are unable to prove collusion with the Russians, one can count on them coming up with something else. Far-left members of Congress, such as Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), openly state that their objective is to take out the president, and they dont mean to lunch.

There is also the matter of leaks from the grand jury. Not surprisingly, the details of the indictments matched the leak to CNN. Unless that network employs mind readers and engages in paranormal activity, those leaks are felonies and the leakers should be prosecuted.

Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress are firing up investigations of their own, including long-overdue looks into various questionable and possibly illegal activities by the Clintons. Congress is the proper avenue for such investigations, not special counsels, who can go rogue if they wish.

These seemingly endless accusations and investigations are what so much of the country hates about Washington, the D.C. that increasingly seems to stand for dysfunctional city. No matter which party controls government, the other party does all it can, by whatever means, to undermine those elected. This behavior solves no problems. It is only about grabbing and holding onto power.

Given the many moving parts in the Mueller probe and the loss of focus on the primary reason for it, the government may have a difficult time proving its case in court. But with unlimited funds and a staff of lawyers who have Democratic affiliations, you can bet they will try to make more than a ham sandwich out of it.
After a rocky stretch, the Casper Police Department appears to be on the upswing.

The department began the year facing criticism over its handling of sexual assault cases. A few months later, it was rocked when the local branch of the Fraternal Order of Police went public with allegations of morale issues stemming from then Chief Jim Wetzels leadership style. Wetzel was soon dismissed from his position for still unknown reasons.

The department lost its leader just as it was gearing up for a massive influx of visitors spurred by the Aug. 21 eclipse. But when the tourists arrived, police rose to the challenge, keeping tens of thousands of people safe and happy through four days of festivities. Since then, there have been more signs of improvement in the form of an initiative designed to strengthen ties between officers and the community they serve.

Now the department is at a critical juncture. City Manager Carter Napier has named four finalists for the chiefs job. They are Boise, Idaho police lieutenant Brett Quilter, former West Jordan, Utah police chief Drew Sanders, former Farmington, New Mexico deputy police chief Keith McPheeters and interim Casper police chief Steve Schulz.

Its not an overstatement to say this decision will be one of the most important Napier will make in his first year as city manager. After all, there are few municipal responsibilities more critical than public safety.

We are heartened that the four finalists have experience managing a police force in Mountain West communities. The experience theyve gathered will surely serve them if they are selected to oversee Caspers police force.

Napier expects to make his pick by Nov. 10. We hope whomever he chooses will build on the progress that our community has seen in its police department over the past several months. The city manager would be wise to select a candidate with the ability to improve ties between police and the public even further.

We would like to see a chief who will communicate quickly, effectively and honestly with the citizens of Casper. The police department has made great strides in becoming a more transparent agency, posting more frequent and informative updates through social media. Theyve also created ways for people to easily share feedback about officers. This results in a better informed populace, while tamping down on unhelpful rumor and innuendo.

The new chief should also be effective at communicating with his own officers to avoid morale problems like those that surfaced this spring. The department needs a leader who can provide stability so that officers can perform their jobs effectively.

More than anything, the new chief needs to treat Casper not as a stepping stone to advance a career, but as a community with real value, and one worth committing to for the long haul. Our residents  and officers  deserve nothing less.
We've collected a few front pages from newspapers.com to give you a look at some Nov. 5 papers in history. With a subscription to newspapers.com you can search the Arizona Daily Star and many other newspapers using keywords or dates, and download articles or pages.
The Arizona Department of Education misallocated tens of millions of dollars from federal special-education funds that it distributed to schools in the past three years, according to a recent federal audit.

The department wrongly distributed more than $35 million in federal Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funds  money aimed at paying for special-education teachers and support staff  to schools since 2015.

Some schools received too much money and could be forced to repay the funds, while others received too little and will likely see a windfall in the form of repayments over the next few years.

The error accounts for about 6 percent of the total IDEA funding the state has handed out in the past three years.

The finding comes on the heels of last weeks revelation that the department also misallocated more than $60 million in federal Title I funds designed for low-income schools.

Its a very similar problem, said Stefan Swiat, a spokesman for the Department of Education. Its a pretty complex formula, and it was wrong.

Ricky Hernandez, chief financial officer of the Pima County School Superintendents Office and president of the Arizona Association of School Business Officials, noted that schools are required by law to provide special-education services, whether they were given the correct amount of money to cover it or not.

At some point, the non-special-ed kids are having to cough up their dollars to pay for special ed, he said. (Not having) money is not an excuse.

The error was first identified in a federal audit completed in early 2015, but the actual scope and source of the problem wasnt identified until this year, leaving a three-year period where state officials distributed money based on a faulty formula.

Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas sent a letter to schools this week informing them of the problem and saying her department is working with the federal Department of Education in hopes of repaying schools that were shorted and holding harmless schools that received more than they should have.

But the U.S. Department of Education has not yet seen, nor approved, that plan, and its unclear if they will forgive and forget the misallocations.

Swiat said that based on initial conversations, the Arizona Department of Education is optimistic its federal counterpart will forgive the error and not require schools that were overpaid to refund the money. But he acknowledged that at the end of the day, the decision is up to the federal government.

But Hernandez said that the department sounds overly optimistic that the federal government will agree to their plan.

I dont know. The experience Ive had has been if you screw up, you gotta fix it. I wouldnt be so cheery about the possibility of having millions of dollars in errors forgiven, he said.

Douglas sent the letter to schools only after her staff was contacted by the Arizona Daily Star about the problem this week and did not tell districts the exact amount that they had been underfunded or overpaid.

Jesus. What is going on up there? Gabriel Trujillo, superintendent of the Tucson Unified School District, said when informed of the departments latest error.

Records provided by the department in response to a public records request show most Pima County school districts were overfunded. Unless the federal government decides to forgive the error, the districts could end up on the hook for those funds.

Those records show TUSD was overallocated more than a quarter-million dollars in the past three years, the length of the audit, from the main pot of IDEA money, which covers costs for special-education students between the ages of 3 to 21. At the same time, the district received about $20,000 more than it should have from a separate, smaller pot of IDEA funding, which is targeted specifically at preschoolers.

Trujillo said TUSD relies heavily on IDEA funding from the federal government and if the district were forced to pay it back, it would strike at the heart of their efforts to educate special-needs student.

Thats our speech therapists, our aides, our paraprofessionals, money to pay for special transportation, thats vision, speech, hearing. Thats an important pot of money. Thats kind of scary. Thats scarier than Title I, he said.

TUSDs overpayments were the largest in Pima County but still make up just a fraction of the districts overall special-education funding, which totals just over $9 million per year.

The Department of Education gave Flowing Wells Unified School District $178,000 more than it deserved over the past three years, which accounts for about 20 percent of the districts total annual IDEA funding, according to the records.

Two school districts, Vail Unified and Sunnyside Unified, actually received less than they deserved, and should see repayments to make up for those funds over the next three to five years, according to the ADE plan.

Lisa Cervantez, chief administrative officer at the Vail Unified School District, said the department hasnt provided the district with any numbers or specific information about their past allocations and hasnt yet responded to questions from the district about the problem.

According to the records provided by the department, Vail was shortchanged $343,000 over the past three years.

If thats the case, well be scrambling for every penny that were owed, Cervantez said.

Swiat said schools havent been given details of the problem yet because the department didnt have hard numbers on the problem until recently, when the federal Office of Special Education Funding completed their full fiscal audit of the state program.

When leadership talks to schools, we want to have exact numbers, we want to have the details, he said.

Many charter schools were also underfunded through the flawed formula, and Eileen Sigmund, president of the Arizona Charter Schools Association, said they will be working with the Department of Education to recoup those lost funds.

Douglas, in her letter to schools, said she plans to repay schools that were shortchanged by sweeping funds from past years and using set-aside money to make up the difference to wrongfully underfunded schools.

However, since the top priority of ADEs Exceptional Student Services is to make the field whole by completely emptying our coffers from set aside funds, ESS will be forced to make selectively identified priorities related to professional development and the provision of guidance for specifically designed instruction, Douglas told schools in the letter.

Going forward, the allocations should be correct, she said, since the numbers have now been vetted by the U.S. Department of Education and others.

Douglas stressed that special-education leadership at the department has had a complete turnover since the initial problem was identified. But rather than identifying top leadership staff turnover as a problem contributing to the departments string of recent funding formula errors, Swiat said the turnovers have actually been the reason the department is finally addressing the longstanding errors.

The new leadership is not covering up or hiding the problems, but attacking the problems, he said.

Asked if this is the final funding formula error the department expects to come to light, Swiat replied, I certainly hope so.
A Tucson police officer who was fired in August for signing his ex-wifes name on a check was reinstated by a city review board last month.

During the Oct. 3 meeting of the Civil Service Commission, the board discussed Officer Charles Foleys termination on the grounds of failure to report, commission of a forgery with intent to defraud  a felony  and untruthfulness, according to the commissions legal action report.

The board unanimously voted there was no just cause for the discipline imposed in regard to the allegations of failure to report and commission of a felony, the report said.

In the matter of untruthfulness, the board unanimously voted that Foley knew or reasonably should have known that his conduct could lead to discipline, but it overturned his firing and instead imposed a 120-hour suspension without pay, the report said.

The board also ordered that he be provided with back pay, for the time he was unemployed that exceeded 120 hours, according to the report.

Only three of the five board members were present during the meeting, the report shows.

Last December, Foleys ex-wife contacted the Sheriffs Department to report that someone signed her name on a $4,133 check issued from a brokerage firm, of which she was entitled to half of under her divorce decree, but never received the money, according to Foleys termination letter.

The check was issued in June 2015 from a joint investment account the Foleys had shared when they were married, but Foleys ex-wife wasnt aware that all of the funds had been withdrawn until a year later, after which she sent Foley two emails, asking about the account being cashed out and telling him she was going to contact authorities, the letter said.

She suspected Officer Foley had received the distribution check and had signed her name in order to cash it, the letter said.

During a recorded phone call with a sheriffs deputy at the end of January, Foley confirmed he owed his ex-wife $2,066 and said hed mail it to her by Feb. 3, which he did, according to the letter.

Foleys ex-wife still wanted to prosecute for forgery, saying she didnt receive any interest on the money for the year and eight months that Foley had it and she believed she wouldnt have ever received it had she not filed a police report. During a second recorded phone call with the deputy, Foley claimed to never have received the emails from his ex-wife and denied signing her name on the back of the check, saying, I did not sign her name on it, no, so I dont know who did, the letter said.

When Foley was interviewed by TPDs office of professional standards, he said he knew his ex-wife was entitled to half the check and that when he received it, he emailed her to let her know, according to the letter.

Foley admitted to signing his and his ex-wifes name on the check and said he put her half of the money in a savings account for when she requested it, the letter said.

Foley had no proof he sent the email to his ex-wife, and when asked why he didnt immediately send her a cashiers check, he said he was upset with her at the time, the letter said.

When confronted with the fact that he told the deputy he didnt sign his ex-wifes name, Foley said he wasnt truthful because he thought the Sheriffs Department was investigating a civil matter, the letter said.

Foley also failed to contact his supervisor after he was questioned by the deputy, saying that he didnt think it was necessary to tell his supervisor, because it was a civil matter and didnt concern TPD, according to the letter.

The Sheriffs Department presented the forgery case against Foley to the Arizona Attorney Generals Office, which declined to file charges, according to the letter.

The office of professional standards determined Foley lied during a police investigation and committed felony forgery. It was also determined he violated a department policy that says employees must notify their supervisor in writing whenever theyre involved as a witness, suspect or victim in any law enforcement agencys investigation, the letter said.

Foley returned to work Oct. 10 and is assigned to the communications division.

The Civil Service Commission heard all the evidence and after considering everything, they decided that based on the totality of everything, they didnt think Officer Foley was untruthful and that the appropriate thing to do was to reinstate him to the Police Department, said Foleys attorney, Louis Fidel. I think thats a good result for everybody, because obviously Officer Foley gets his job back and the Police Department gets an experienced officer back, who has received multiple decorations in his career. Thats good for the city of Tucson.

Foley was previously suspended for 80 hours in 2012 after he shared provocative videos and a photo of his girlfriend  a police lieutenant  with other officers.

The lieutenant, Diana Duffy, who at that time went by the last name Lopez, was demoted as a result of the investigation, but her rank was restored after a Pima County Superior Court judge asked the Civil Service Commission to reconsider her appeal.

Duffy filed a lawsuit in federal court last month, saying that she was the victim of sex discrimination, hostile work environment and retaliation by TPD, after she appealed her demotion.

Foley was honored by the Tucson Police Foundation in 2015 as one of TPDs unsung heroes for his work with Flags for the Flagless, a group that works to return American flags to once-barren flagpoles across Tucson.
Ricky Hernandez, Chief Financial Officer of the Pima County School Superintendents Office and president of the Arizona Association of School Board Officials, will host a presentation explaining how schools are funded.

The presentation, School Finance 101, will be held Thursday, Nov. 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m at 200 N. Stone Ave.

The event is free, but space is limited. Register online at schools.pima.gov.

Program helps navigate the college admissions process

The Student Expedition Program (STEP), a college access and leadership program for high school students, is accepting applications from high-school sophomores from low-income households who want assistance navigating the college admissions process.

To be considered, applicants must be close to qualifying for the federal free or reduced lunch program, be a first generation college-bound student, have an un-weighted GPA of at least 3.6 and be taking multiple honors classes.

High school sophomores who meet STEPs qualifications can obtain an application at stepexpedition.org. Applications are due Tuesday, Nov. 21.

Town hall will feature talk about public education

Jitu Brown, national director of journey for justice and #WeChoose Alliance, will host a town hall meeting at 6p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 14, at the YWCA on 525 N. Bonita Ave.

The event will include organizers, educators and local officials discussing school privatization and how public education can be strengthened.

Kindergartners invited to St. Ambrose open house

St Ambrose Catholic School, a centrally located private school, is inviting prospective kindergartners and their parents to visit their campus at 300 S. Tucson Blvd., on Friday, Dec. 1, from 7 a.m. to noon.
When the Rev. John Fife arrived at Southside Presbyterian in 1969 as the new pastor, he told the congregation that he never saw a church wear out its facilities. But were going to do that in the next few years, he told the congregation.

And we did, Fife said last week.

In the subsequent years the multiracial and multiethnic congregation expanded, as did its ministries focusing on social justice and humanitarian work. Southside built a new church, called the kiva and added space to its campus at West 23rd Street and South 10th Avenue, in a low-income barrio adjoining South Tucson.

Fife stepped down as Southsides pastor in 2005, but the congregation continued expanding its mission and ministries, fulfilling his 1969 prescient words about wearing out the church. Today not only is Southside worn out, its run out of space, which is used full time by the congregation for prayer and Bible study, and by community groups including Cross Streets Community, which serves the homeless, Samaritans who provide assistance to undocumented border crossers in the desert, Southside Workers Center, Paisanos and Keep Tucson Legal Clinic, which work with immigrant families. Southside even provides worship space for a small congregation of Seventh Day Adventists.

This place has been worn down to make Tucson a better place, said the Rev. Alison Harrington, who succeeded Fife as Southsides pastor in 2009.

To expand its facilities, Southside is engaged in a $1.7 million capital campaign to build a new commercial kitchen, additional classrooms, a new fellowship hall, library and parking lot, a main entrance, and enhancements of the interior courtyard and outdoor gathering space, including a mediation area in the new parking lot.

As part of its fundraising effort, Southside will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Fifes ordination ceremony on Nov. 18 in honor of his work, which elevated Southside Presbyterian into a nationally recognized congregation for commitment to its Christian values of helping others in need.

Southside is best known for being at the forefront of the international Sanctuary movement in the early 1980s, when thousands of Central American refugees fled persecution and political violence in Central America. Again, in the latter years of the Barack Obama presidency as immigrant families were being separated under increased deportations, Southside resurrected sanctuary efforts.

It means everything to me today, said Patricia Barcelo, who fled Guatemala with her family in 1985 because of political persecution. Southside gave her and her family  parents, grandmother and two siblings  new life.

Barcelos family, as well as many others, found refuge within Southsides buildings.

A day doesnt go by that I dont give thanks, Barcelo said.

Southsides walls and history are rooted in welcoming and embracing families who were rejected elsewhere.

It was founded as a church for Tohono Oodham who left the reservation and came to Tucson for work and better opportunities. The first Oodham in the congregation worshipped under a tent in the early 1900s. They could not worship elsewhere. In 1906 a small sanctuary was built out of adobe, but it later burned down. Portions of its walls remain.

Debbie Bergmans Oodham grandparents, who raised eight children, were one of Southsides founding families. Her grandfather bought a small plot across the street from Southside where the family found spirituality and security.

Their lives were surrounded by the church, said Bergman. And its still a focal point for my family. Her sister kept their grandfathers house and members of Bergmans extended family continue to attend services at Southside.

Southside is a small church, but its doors are wide. It is a safe anchor in the barrio and a moral beacon for Tucson.

The church has always been shaped by what was happening in the barrio, Harrington said. Were creating space for people to gather; were creating space for justice.

A successful building campaign will ensure that Southside will continue its mission in support of social equity and community involvement.

When they complete the project, the mandate is going to be the same, Fife said. Were going to wear it out.
A Pima County Justice Court program and judge were honored by the Arizona Supreme Court for their efforts to promote access to justice.

Warrant Resolution Night Court was launched last October 2016, with the monthly sessions offering evening hours for people who have work or personal obligations during normal court hours.

During the Arizona Supreme Courts 2017 Strategic Agenda Awards last month, the program and Judge Keith Bee, who presides over the monthly sessions, received the award for one of the agendas five goals, promoting access to justice, according to Arizona Supreme Court spokeswoman Heather Murphy.

The resolution court offers a variety of services for attendees, including quashing warrants, setting up or re-establishing payment plans, making a payment, filing for extensions, drivers license reinstatement, submitting documents to the court and scheduling court dates.

From October 2016 to September 2017, night and weekend warrant resolution events at Justice Court have helped 2,533 people at customer service windows, held 1,447 hearings, lifted 714 drivers license defaults and quashed 667 warrants, according to the Arizona Supreme Court.

Bee first brought up the idea of having extended court events years ago, said Deputy Court Administrator Micci Tilton.

I was told initially by the court administration years ago that we couldnt do it because you wouldnt be able to get the county attorney on board and you wouldnt be able to get the defense attorneys on board, but weve had wonderful participation from all our colleagues on this, Bee said.

The Oct. 10 court night saw more than 400 people turn out to address warrants, traffic defaults, attend hearings and have smaller legal matters settled.

Upon opening the heavy doors at the Justice Court building, attendees went through a security check, walking through monitors and getting their bags checked before boarding the elevators to get to their designated floor to take care of business.

The second floor saw the most traffic, as it bustled with people meeting with court staff to settle simpler legal matters.

Those looking to settle civil traffic matters headed to the fourth floor, while those with outstanding warrants went to the fifth.

Bee sat atop the bench at criminal court, settling warrants swiftly and with authority, as Ray Carroll, the newly appointed Green Valley justice of the peace and a former Pima County supervisor, sat next to him, observing the event.

A dozen or so attendees were spread throughout the court pews at any given time, waiting to be called up after checking in with the courtroom clerk. Attendees ranged from senior citizens to college-aged adults, many of them in the company of husbands, wives, mothers and friends.

These are people that would have called and said, Hey what do I do? I havent been to court, I need to come in,  Bee said. Oftentimes people with outstanding warrants are afraid to come to court to settle their warrants, thinking theyll get arrested if they come to court.

On the contrary, Justice Court publicizes these events as an opportunity to make it right, he said, adding, Were not going to punish you by the fact that youre coming to court to settle things.

Participants approached the bench when called. Details of their cases could not be heard from the courtroom seating, except for the occasional small talk and lighthearted banter on Bees part.

You might win the lottery and be able to pay all that off at once, Bee joked to one middle-aged man getting his warrant taken care of. The man laughed and nodded, before thanking Bee and heading to the court clerk to gather his files.

Between settling warrants and as the event neared its end, Bee and Carroll sipped coffee from small cups, keeping their energy up for any latecomers.

So basically we can schedule people all the way up to 7 p.m. and we stay until everybodys case has been handled, Bee said. The latest weve ever stayed has been around 9 p.m. I dont want to turn it into midnight court.

Justice Court quashed 49 warrants that night, with Bee attributing the efficiency to volunteer judges willing to extend their day and attorneys who attended the event.

Very few misdemeanors seek jail time or have jail time as a consequence, and every time someone fails to appear at a court event, thats another warrant being issued, he said So if we can finish these cases, have people come down and settle these cases, the number will go down.

The warrant caseload at Justice Court, which was 23,000 only two years ago, is now under 17,000, Tilton said, adding that the night and weekend warrant events have helped contribute to the sizable decline.

The next Warrant Resolution Night Court will be Nov. 28 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Facebook can be nice, if you dont get sucked in too deep, or if you have to use it for work.

But it doesnt beat real life.

Thats been my experience after two weeks of no posting to Facebook, a site I used to use constantly. I met more people in person, talked to more on the phone, and had more time for other things when I wasnt using Facebook.

Coincidentally, over that same period, we learned more about social-media companies mishandling of their own sites, especially during the 2016 election. As Facebook prepared to face congressional questioning last week, the company acknowledged that Russian agents, posing as American activists, reached up to 126 million Facebook users with divisive political messages about refugees, immigration and other topics.

Americans gobbled it up.

The Russian efforts may or may not have had an influence on the election  there was plenty of similar, non-Russian content floating around during the campaign. But I thought Rep. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, made a perceptive and relevant point about the Russians efforts during Wednesdays hearing as he questioned executives of Facebook, Twitter and Google.

He said the Russians understood that the algorithms you use tend to accentuate content that is either fear-based or anger-based. That helps it pick up an audience and go viral and be amplified.

He went on, The algorithms that are designed to keep our attention and keep our eyes on the platform for advertising purposes may also have the unintended consequence of widening divisions of our society, of polarizing people.

Certainly thats been my experience over the last few years on Facebook, which remains by far the dominant social-media platform. Far from bringing people together, it drives them apart. Foreign meddlers just exploit that tendency by repeatedly plucking hot nerves.

Colin Stretch, Facebooks general counsel, denied that is the intent of the algorithms. He said Facebook mostly shows users posts that their friends and family are interested in.

In a political season, oftentimes whats important to your friends and family are challenging, provocative social issues, so you will see that. Our responsibility is that when you see that content, its authentic, so that you can trust the dialogue thats occurring on the platform.

As questionable as the platforms behavior may be, thats where the real problem lies: With us. Social media so instantly reflect users authentic impulses  while keeping us at a physical remove from each other  that they often display and perpetuate the worst in us. The fact that the platforms have no real filter means there are no social standards. Funny how that used to seem like a good thing.

Just last week, Maricopa County Recorder Adrian Fontes was forced to apologize after telling a man who posted Facebook critiques of Fontes handling of Tuesdays election to go F- yourself. Heres the kicker: They were both Democrats who largely agree on the issues, but on Facebook the conversation spiraled downward quickly.

As a journalist, though, I have to offer a conditional surrender to social media. These days, you cant be an efficient, effective researcher without Facebook or other platforms. Before even a day had passed from the time I deactivated my Facebook account on Oct. 18, I found I needed to use Facebooks messenger system to contact colleagues and sources. The messenger system can work without having an active Facebook account.

Then, a couple of days later, I found myself needing to reactivate my account to check out a couple of local news tips that were posted on Facebook. And a few days after that, I found myself needing Facebook to look up and contact a person I didnt know for a possible column. It was the most efficient way.

Before the internet, we used the phone book, and it seemed pretty full of information  all those names, addresses and phone numbers. Facebook operates in a different dimension. People have freely shared with the world their pictures, their family connections, their political views, their employment history, their contact information. Facebook has made billions off of that info, and it frankly makes a reporters job much easier.

Its also seductive, almost addictive. Its designed to make you keep going back for the next post or comment that triggers a dopamine rush in your brain. The resulting habit can almost be like a drug dependency.

So for many of us, unhappy either with how we use social media or how it uses us, the only solution is to do the kind of thing Elliott Glicksman did Friday. Without knowing about my column two weeks ago criticizing Facebook, Glicksman, a well-known local attorney, posted this Friday:

Leaving Facebook til its fixed. Ive loved FB for years. It began and remains a great way to find old friends, keep up with out of town family, and see pictures of everyones dinner. But lately Ive realized FB is much more than that. Its a threat to our civility and possibly our democracy.

He went on: But why should FB change if we all continue to check in multiple times a day to see an adorable photo of a monkey nursing a kitten? The only motivation for FB to fix its problems is if we stop looking. So Im off. At least until its fixed.

I dont really know if it can be fixed, but I know I cant do completely without it. The one thing I can change is to limit how I use Facebook.

If I use it simply to post my work and that of my colleagues, or to help me discover information for a column, that feels good  like me using Facebook, rather than being used by Facebook.

That, in turn, should leave a lot more time for real life outside the confines of a screen.
A Pima County jury last week awarded $12 million to a 46-year-old Tucson woman who was severely incapacitated by what her lawyers say was a hospital medical error.

The jurys verdict in favor of Esmeralda O. Tripp and against the University of Arizona Health Network, now Banner-University Medical Center Tucson, is the largest civil verdict reported in Arizona to date this year.

It is also the largest medical malpractice verdict in Pima County since at least 2004, said Kelly Wilkins, an attorney and partner with Snell & Wilmer in Phoenix, who has been tracking Arizona verdicts for 13 years.

Now she can get the round-the-clock care she needs, said David Wenner, a lawyer for Tripp, who is a mother of four and grandmother of seven. Her family shouldnt be homebound because of this tragedy.

Lawyers for the hospital said an appeal of the verdict is likely, and they emphasized that the jury found Tripp was partially at fault.

The total verdict was $15 million but was reduced by $3 million due to fault attributed to the plaintiff.

The defendants included the UA Health Network, the Arizona Board of Regents, University Physicians Healthcare, University Medical Center Corp. and the UA College of Medicine.

Banner Health was not named as a defendant in the case. But in 2015, Phoenix-based Banner Health merged with the UA Health Network, became the surviving entity and assumed its liabilities. The UA Health Network included University Medical Center Corp. and University Physicians Healthcare.

We are truly sorry for the medical outcome that occurred for Ms. Tripp and her family, Christoper J. Smith and Kathleen L. Leary, lawyers for the UA Health Network and other defendants, said in a written statement.

We believe these physicians acted in good faith with sound medical judgment based on the information they were provided.

The money was awarded to Tripp, who is now in a persistent vegetative state, via Tucson-based conservator Robert B. Fleming. The jury found the relative degree of fault in the case was 20 percent for Tripp and 80 percent for the defendants.

Lawyers for the hospital and other defendants had argued, among other things, that Tripp did not provide accurate information about her medical history when she went to the emergency room with pain and thin blood on the afternoon of Sept. 13, 2013, and that they acted appropriately based on the available information.

But her lawyers and her daughter say Tripp most certainly gave information she believed to be accurate. Shes not a medical professional and she trusted the doctors who were caring for her, they say.

They made this whole case about her, said Brian Snyder, another of Tripps lawyers. They were trying this case on dragging her through the mud. They knew she couldnt respond.

Tripps daughter, 26-year-old Jamaica Tripp-Serrano, sat through the entire trial and said it was upsetting to hear lawyers for the hospital try to blame her mother.

She maintains doctors were in error when they chose to give her mother a dangerous drug to treat her symptoms, and says thats clearly why her mother was deprived of oxygen to the brain. It wasnt because of anything her mother did, she said.

Tripp-Serrano said she hopes her mothers case sheds light on medical errors, which can go unnoticed due to confidential settlements.

Do your research, ask questions, she said. We trust doctors, put our lives in their hands. But they can make mistakes.

Three-week trial

The verdict came Monday after a three-week trial. The jury deliberated for three and a half hours.

Tripps Phoenix-based lawyers argued that a medical resident violated the hospitals own guideline and standard of care by giving Tripp the drug Profilnine after Tripp went to the emergency room on the advice of her primary care physician because her blood was unusually thin.

She also had flank pain  pain in her upper abdomen, back and sides.

Tripps lawyers contended that a little more than two hours after getting the Profilnine, which controls bleeding, Tripp suffered significant blood clots and a heart attack that caused brain damage. The drug carries a risk of thrombosis and clotting that can cause a heart attack or stroke, her lawyers argued.

I was really troubled that they didnt say, We admit we violated our guideline. They litigated that to the death, Wenner said.

Nobody is saying doctors are bad people. But on this day they werent at their best.

Tripp was then hospitalized for seven weeks and is now in what her lawyers in court filings classified as a chronic vegetative state.

The hospital where she got her care was the UA Medical Centers university campus, 1501 N. Campbell Ave. At the time, it was operated by the UA Health Network. It is now called Banner-University Medical Center Tucson.

Hospital officials denied violating the standard of care and denied any negligence in the case.

Emergency room physicians are regularly faced with making important medical decisions based on the information provided by patients and their families, Smith and Leary wrote in a statement they said came from court proceedings.

The physicians capacity to act quickly on that information is vital to the best patient outcome, and in some cases may even make the difference between life and death.

No one expects to have an emergency medical situation, but a patients knowledge and willingness to provide the most accurate information about symptoms, health history, current medications and allergies is paramount to the physicians ability to deliver the right care in the safest manner.

At the time she sought help at the emergency room, Tripp had been taking the blood thinning drug Coumadin because of blood clots in the veins in her legs and lungs many years before, motions filed by her attorneys say.

Dangerous drug

Lawyers for the hospital said Tripp was taking four times the level of Coumadin that shed been prescribed, which complicated her case. They also said she claimed to have a medication allergy that turned out to be inaccurate.

Tripp, who was 42 at the time, had a history of hypertension, irregular heartbeat, heart disease and seizure disorder, court documents say.

That day, Tripps blood testing showed higher-than-normal levels of Coumadin, which means the blood is too thin and the body is taking too long to clot, putting the patient at risk for bleeding.

Doctors measure blood levels by a standard called the international normalized radio (INR) and the ideal therapeutic range is two to three.

On the afternoon of Sept. 13, her lawyers say, Tripps primary care physician told her that her INR measured at 13 and instructed her to go to the hospital.

It wasnt the first time Tripp had gone to the hospital because of a high INR. Her lawyers say that from 2006 to 2013, Tripp had been seen at the hospital several times for higher than normal INR and that on each occasion shed been successfully treated with either Vitamin K or fresh frozen plasma, or both.

But Tripps lawyers argued that on Sept. 13, 2013, a medical resident eight weeks out of medical school and her attending doctor decided that Tripps INR should be rapidly reversed with the blood clotting medication Profilnine, which was given to Tripp in the early-morning hours of Sept. 14, 2013.

The hospital guidelines say Profilnine should be used if the patient has serious or life-threatening bleeding, or if the patient requires emergency surgery.

Therein was the key argument of Tripps lawyers  that Tripp did not have life-threatening bleeding and did not need a fast-acting treatment to bring down her INR level. A preliminary report indicated Tripp may have had appendicitis, and thats when the Profilnine was administered. But it turned out she did not need surgery for appendicitis.

Hospital officials argued that Profilnine is quickly becoming standard treatment for reversing a high INR and that giving Tripp the drug was within the standard of care.

Within 30 minutes of getting the Profilnine, Tripps INR was within therapeutic range. But her lawyers say that about two hours later she screamed in pain and that her heart rate and blood pressure went extremely high.

Court documents show a code arrest was called. The doctors gave her the clot-busting drug TPA, which helped restore her heart rate and oxygen levels.

After approximately two hours, Ms. Tripps vital signs, including her blood pressure, heart rate and the level of oxygen in her blood, had returned to normal levels, lawyers Wenner, Snyder and co-counsel Kevin Keenan wrote.

Nonetheless Ms. Tripp did not ever regain consciousness.

Tripps lawyers said the Profilnine led to the code arrest. But the defendants filed court documents suggesting Tripps persistent vegetative state and arrest were more likely due to her underlying conditions than the Profilnine.

Family impact

Tripp is being cared for in a hospital bed in the den of her familys home by her husband and her children. She has a feeding tube and needs to be bathed and turned regularly to prevent bedsores.

A caregiver provided by the states Medicaid program has been coming four hours per day, five days per week, Wenner said.

The jury award will allow Tripp to have better care and it will no longer be financed by Medicaid, her lawyers said.

Wenner and Snyder say the defendants initially offered to settle for $1 million. Lawyers for the defendants would not confirm whether thats true.

Responding to this question would inappropriately reveal information about a confidential settlement negotiation, Smith and Leary wrote.

Tripp-Serrano said her mother was born and raised in Tucson, attended Sunnyside High School, loved horses, collected angel figurines and volunteered as a ticket taker at the Tucson Rodeo every year.

Above all, she loved caring for her family. On Friday, Tripp-Serrano was in the kitchen making horchata from one of her mothers recipes. The family said it believes Tripp still has some awareness and can feel their love for her.

Tripp-Serrano said she knows that juries often side with doctors and hospitals in malpractice cases. But she also knows the jury saw the truth in this case, she said, and that it was undisputed the hospital gave her mother the Profilnine.

Shes been in bed for four years. We are so grateful she will live a better life, Tripp-Serrano said. We still believe shes there and we will take care of her as long as God allows us.

Nobody is saying doctors

are bad people. But on this day

they werent at their best. David Wenner, lawyer for Esmeralda O. Tripp
This is the blog of China defense, where professional analysts and serious defense enthusiasts share findings on a rising military power.
Zimbabwe

American goes to court

on subversion charge

HARARE  An American woman charged with subversion in Zimbabwe for allegedly insulting the president on Twitter as a sick man made her first court appearance Saturday as her lawyers disputed the charges.

A lawyer for 25-year-old Martha ODonovan, Rose Hanzi, told the court that the subversion charge was illegal because police did not inform ODonovan of it when she was taken from her home in the capital, Harare, on Friday morning.

The court disagreed, and ODonovan will remain in custody over the weekend. Hanzi said they will approach the High Court for bail on Monday.

ODonovan is accused of calling 93-year-old President Robert Mugabe a sick man in a Twitter post that included a photo illustration of the president with a catheter. The charge of subversion carries up to 20 years in prison.

Sierra Leone

Red Cross: $6 million stolen through fraud

FREETOWN  Fraud by Red Cross workers and others wasted at least $6 million meant to fight the deadly Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the organization confirmed Saturday.

The revelations follow an internal investigation of how the organization handled more than $124 million during the 2014-2016 epidemic that killed more than 11,000 people in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea.

The disease erupted in Guinea and quickly spread to Sierra Leone and Liberia. The international aid response was initially slow, and money once it arrived was often disbursed quickly in the rush to purchase supplies and get aid workers into the field.

As much as $2.13 million disappeared as the result of likely collusion between Red Cross staff and employees at a Sierra Leonean bank, the investigation found. It is believed that the money was lost when they improperly fixed the exchange rate at the height of the epidemic.

Belgium

Ousted Catalan leader says he will cooperate

BRUSSELS  The ousted leader of Catalonia remained the subject of a European arrest warrant Saturday as questions mounted over how long he would elude the Spanish justice system by staying undercover in Belgium and delaying extradition.

Former Catalan President Carles Puigdemont and several members of his separatist government fled north to Brussels after Spanish authorities removed the regions top officials from office a week ago. It is thought that Puigdemont and the four others are still in Belgium, but sources close to them would not reveal their whereabouts.

Puigdemont wrote in Dutch on his Twitter account Saturday that he would cooperate with Belgian authorities, although his lawyer has said the pro-independence politician would fight a forced return to Spain.

Norway

Russian helicopter

is raised from seabed

A Russian helicopter was raised Saturday from the seabed where it had crashed last month off Norways Arctic Svalbard archipelago with eight people on board.

Norways Accident Investigation Board said none of the missing people were inside the helicopter that went down Oct. 26 near the settlement of Barentsburg. So far, only one body has been recovered from the Mi-8 helicopters wreckage, which was located at a depth of about 685 feet.

The agency says the helicopters cockpit voice recorder was found when the aircraft was brought to the surface early Saturday by a ship equipped with a sturdy crane. It will be sent to Moscow together with the GPS units from the helicopter for analysis.

It said the search continued for the helicopters flight data recorder, which had not been found, and the missing crew and passengers. The helicopter had been carrying five crew members and three members from Russias Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute.

Mission: Impossible to shoot at tourist site

Technical equipment to shoot Mission: Impossible 6 is being helicoptered in to southern Norways most famous tourist attraction  which means the site is being temporarily closed off for visitors.

Cameras are to be rolling Tuesday through Thursday at the Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a plateau and spectacular viewpoint over Norways mountainous landscape that sits nearly 2,000 feet above the Lysefjord.

Tom Cruise, who broke his ankle while performing a stunt for the film during a London shoot, is expected to be on the Norway set.

The Stavanger Aftenblad newspaper said Saturday that an airplane with filming gear has landed at a nearby airport and a helicopter was seen hoisting containers onto Pulpit Rock.
Re: the Oct. 29 article Dentists skip Hope Fest, seek better way to satisfy astronomical need.

I myself was blessed last year at Hope Fest to wait overnight and have 14  yes, 14  teeth pulled in one day. I left so happy to not have infection raging through my mouth, which I had endured for years. I was told by a dentist that he would follow up to help me get dentures. That never happened.

I called denture services here in town, was told, Wait for Hope Fest and get some dentures.

I was devastated to find no dental care at Hope Fest this year. I literally have six functional teeth on the bottom, none on top, cannot eat most foods either. And there is literally no way I can afford any sort of dental care.

So I am one of many that has no other option and is just stuck under this rock of poverty. If the dentists are going to offer free service, please do it soon. A lot of us are suffering and no one cares.

Jodi Rivera

Southeast side
A few months ago, back in July, President Trump in a stately speech in front of a galvanized citizenry in Warsaw, Poland, asserted to the world a message of resounding significance that still continues to ring true to this day.

In his speech, he said, The fundamental question of our time, is whether the West has the will to survive. Do we have the confidence in our values to defend them at any cost? Do we have the desire and courage to preserve our civilization in the face of those who would subvert or destroy it?

On Halloween, a day intended to bring jubilance and fanciful fright, this line of argument came to the fore. An Uzbekistan immigrant named Sayfullo Saipov, 29, decided to run down scores of harmless people in New York City with a rented Home Depot truck with the premeditated intent of harming Westerners.

If you took notice, I am using the term Westerner, and not American in this situation, and that is because the nature of these attacks are not unique to the United States. Over the past decade or so, we have seen a multiplicity of these egregiously baleful acts play out in other parts of the world  the Western world, that is.

In less than two years, we become witnesses to the 2017 Manchester Arena bombings in England after an Ariana Grande concert, the 2017 Barcelona attacks in Spain, the 2016 Nice attacks in France on Bastille Day, the 2016 Berlin attacks in Germany on a Christmas market, and the 2016 Brussels airport bombings in Belgium, just to name a few.

These terrorist campaigns continue to rise in incidence, and regardless of which ideological doctrines these individuals utilize to justify their nefarious deeds, the end goal in their mind, is the same  to see the ruination of Western civilization. Whether their values are incongruent with ours, or they merely see our society as unworthy of its blessings, there are unfortunately people in this world who would want nothing more than to see the fall of the West.

This now brings me to President Trumps Poland speech. Ever since his wildly unanticipated election in 2016, I, along with the vast majority of conservatives who remain rather lukewarm about his presidency, cannot help but to ardently agree with his thesis  the West is being assailed by others, specifically by foreign forces.

Reflecting on Election Day, Trumps victory over Hillary Clinton was in large part never about actual public policy, but rather mostly about the reaffirmation of the American identity and Western culture.

Americans for years have been under the impression that their civilization, their society, and their way of life, has been under attack, particularly from other civilizations. This is not to suggest a clash of civilizations, but it is to suggest that there are other civilizations that do want to harm the West and impugn its character.

With that in mind, Trump is not wrong to suggest that Westerners ought to protect and preserve Western civilization, arguably the most awe-inspiring society on Earth. What transpired in New York City on Halloween is emblematic of the current conditions we in the West now live in.
The U.S. Supreme Court will soon consider taking a case that challenges Arizonas death-penalty law on the grounds that it fails to narrow the punishment to the worst offenders. Regardless of whether the court accepts it, the case raises serious questions about the death penalty that the Arizona Legislature needs to come to grips with.

As the attorney general, I was responsible for overseeing dozens of appeals from sentences of death. Six people were executed during my tenure. It was critical for me that we imposed the ultimate sanction only on those most deserving.

Tragically, our state has failed in this undertaking in fundamental ways. The breadth of our statute, capturing nearly every first-degree murder, makes it unconstitutional. But more than that, Arizonas use of the death penalty is bad policy.

Arizona does not have a good track record for getting it right. At least nine times our death penalty has swept up the innocent in its net. Nationwide, 160 people have been exonerated from death row. Getting it wrong once is one time too many. Death, in its finality, means correcting a wrongful sentence is not an option. Sentencing the innocent to die undermines the publics confidence in the entire criminal justice system, and is reason alone to abandon the death penalty.

Moreover, Arizonas death penalty scheme has unsettling racial disparities in its application. People in Arizona who are accused of murdering white victims are more likely to receive the death penalty. Hispanic men who are accused of murdering whites are more than four times as likely to be sentenced to death as white defendants accused of murdering a Hispanic victim. Any other state policy with that sort of disparity would be quickly repudiated. The Legislature should end this horrible death penalty malfunction.

The spiraling costs of seeking and imposing a death sentence are further reason to abandon the policy. These costs have caused the location of the crime to take precedence over its heinousness. Several counties simply cannot afford to pursue the death penalty, creating imbalances having nothing to do with the crime. Maricopa County imposed the death penalty at a rate 2.3 times higher than the rest of the state between 2010 and 2015. The increased use of the death penalty was driven, in part, by an overzealous County Attorney, Andrew Thomas, who later lost his law license for abusing his authority.

The costs associated with defending Arizonas statute (never mind the cases themselves) have been substantial. Dozens of convictions have been set aside because Arizona, unlike almost every other state, did not provide for jury sentencing in capital cases. Arizona was one of two states to extend the death penalty to felony murders, leading to a rebuke by the Supreme Court and further reversals. The Arizona Supreme Court narrowly interpreted our states prohibition on executing the intellectually disabled until they were recently forced to reconsider. And case after case has been reversed because of flaws in the instructions given in capital sentencing proceedings.

The case now before the Supreme Court is only the latest example of these problems. But the case itself highlights stunning breadth of Arizonas statute. Virtually every first-degree murder is eligible for the death penalty, leaving imposition of the death penalty to the unfettered discretion of prosecutors and juries, causing an intolerable risk of arbitrariness in its administration.

Weve been here before. In 1972, the court struck down every states death-penalty statute because they operated to execute a capriciously selected random handful, rather than the worst offenders. Similar to other states efforts, then-state Sen. Sandra Day OConnor and Rudy Gerber (who later became an Arizona judge) rewrote Arizonas statute to comply with the courts narrowing requirements by obligating the prosecutor to prove one or more aggravating factors before the death penalty could be imposed.

More than four decades have passed and we are back to square one. Despite the efforts of OConnor and Gerber, Arizona has failed to narrow the application of the death penalty and has been unable or unwilling to provide the guidance necessary to ensure that the death penalty is only imposed on the worst offenders.

Finally, 31 states have abandoned the death penalty. In light of its myriad problems, Arizona should join the rising tide against imposing it.
This week saw the centenary of the Balfour Declaration and Theresa May hosted the Israeli PM, Benjamin Netanyahu, for a dinner celebrating the event and furthering the UK government's support of the Israeli government. It has been framed as Britain's support for Israel as the homeland for the Jewish people, but the reality is that it is an exercise by Netanyahu and Theresa May to continue the strong relations between the regimes.

The history of Israel and the Balfour Declaration is that of bloodshed, oppression and global leaders using the idea of Zionism to colonise Palestine.

The reality is that both the people of Israel and Palestine want peace, but Netanyahu's terrorist group are in complete control over Israel.

What happened following the Balfour Declaration?

In 1917, foreign secretary, Sir Arthur James Balfour, signed an agreement that gave the land of Palestine to the newly formed Zionist Federation, a political movement whose goal was the creation of the Jewish state. The idea is not absurd however, the declaration promised away land that didn't belong to Britain and ignored the political rights to those who were native to the region, the Palestinians. The British Empire used Zionism as a tool to protect their strategic interest in the region.

The British Governor of Jerusalem, Ronald Storrs, believed that creating Israel would place "a little loyal Jewish ulster" within the region and Sir Winston Churchill stated that he would see "a Jewish state under the protection of the crown" by the banks of Jordan.

The idea of giving the Jewish people their own homeland isn't a bad idea but in 1937 at the Peel Commission, Churchill stated that the Balfour Declaration would make Palestine an overwhelmingly Jewish stated. Essentially advocating the genocide and forced migration of the Palestinian people.

The British led a campaign that saw the Palestinian people swept into concentration camps, with torture methods such as waterboarding being used.

The war waged was bloody and unrelenting against the native Palestinians with numerous massacres being carried out. In one instance in Al-Bassa in 1938 where British soldiers forced Arabs onto a bus and made them drive over a land mine. It was also common practice to take Arab hostages and force them to ride in convoy with them to prevent attacks, this is tactic that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) use today.

Central policy to the British repression in Palestine was the collective punishment method, which saw entire towns and cities dynamited. By May 1948, 400,000 Palestinians had been ethnically cleansed from 220 villages and between 750,000 to 900,000 men, women and children had been driven out of their homeland by Jewish militia supported and oversaw by Britain. Since the declaration of independence, 70 years on the Israeli government continue their campaign of genocide against the Palestinian people and there are more than 5 million Palestinian refugees living in camps across Palestinian territories, Lebanon and Jordan, and in Syria.
The Westminster Sexual Harassment allegations have exploded, and this puts severe scrutiny on every party, in particular, Labour and Conservative. International Trade Minister, Mark Garnier, kicked off proceedings when it was revealed that he asked his secretary to buy sex toys and called her "sugar tits". Following the revelation, Theresa May ordered an investigation into whether he broke the ministerial code.

Commons speaker, John Bercow, described the Westminster allegations of a "culture of sexual harassment" allegations of a "culture of sexual harassment" as "disturbing".

Senior authorities' in parliament met to discuss a new helpline to deal with complaints of sexual harassment and abuse within parliament.

From bad to worse

Unfortunately, before anything has been able to begin to be done, the allegations against both Conservative and Labour MPs and members have been coming out. Notably a document was released from the Conservative party that detailed allegations of sexual assault and personal information of 36 MPs. The document has major figures such as Amber Rudd, Boris Johnson, Liam Fox, Liz Truss and Michael Fallon (who has subsequently resigned as defence secretary, being replaced by previous holder of this document, former Chief Whip, Gavin Williamson).

Fallon resigned after 'touching the knee' of a journalist 15 year ago, however, this was widely regarded as a moved to deflect the pressure from the more serious allegations.

Labour had already Labour had already suspendedi Jared O'Mara Jared O'Mara over previous misogynistic and homophobic views, however, were further rocked by allegations that Bex Bailey had been raped at a party event in 2011 and subsequently set up an independent inquiry into the allegations. Kelvin Smith has also been suspended from the party pending an investigation over allegations he assaulted a young activist.

Prominent Labour MP, Clive Lewis, has been alleged to have sexually assaulted a woman at the Labour Conference this year and what is deeply concerning is that Conservative Whip, Charlie Elphicke, has been suspended from that role after more serious allegations have been passed onto police. Clive Lewis has said that he accepts the need of an independent investigation and that he would cooperate fully but refutes the allegations.

Charlie Elphicke also denies any wrongdoing.

There has been significantly more that has happened since the news first broke and Michael Fallon is the first big scalp, there is also an ongoing investigation into Conservative Deputy Leader, Damien Green. The list of Conservative MPs from the Chief Whips office highlights the lengths parties will go to keep their MPs in line at the expense of other people. Also, there are those who are trying to play down the severity of the issue and these further compounds the feeling that parliament is an old-fashioned, elitist, 'boys' club that is in dire need of reform.
Joel Sartore as a photographer at National Geographic has collected over 6,500 pictures of very different animal species, with one trait in common: they are all at risk of extinction. Sartores objective is to create an immense archive, in order to raise awareness of this phenomenon among the public opinion. The project, called the Photo Ark, has been already projected on the Empire State Building in New York, as well as on Saint Peters Basilica in Rome.

The Photo Ark project

Joel Sartore started taking pictures for his ark in 2005, at age 42, after his wife, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Luckily, Kathy is now well and fine, but that moment signified a profound change in the photographers mindset, as he was faced with the shortness and fragility of life. Sartore remembers that, while staying at home and taking care of his wife and three children, the question of how it was possible that people seemed so careless of the fact that by the turn of the next century the world could lose half of all animal species. This began to haunt him.

As a consequence, Sartore decided to take on himself the responsibility to give a face, if not a voice, to endangered species by making a series of portraits that would give people a chance to look the animals in the eyes and see all the beauty, grace, and intelligence that all creatures on Earth share.

The portraits are simple and clean, with the animal in close-up. The black and white backgrounds make it impossible to discern dimensions. This choice is symbolic, as it aims to convey a message of equality: the tiny ant has the same importance and majesty as the huge elephant. The message is all creatures are equals and equal care should be taken of them.

Endangered species

Currently, there are about 12,000 animal species in human care around the world. The WWF list starts with the Amur leopard, to continue with the black rhino, the Bornean orangutan, and the Cross River gorilla. There are already nineteen critically endangered species, and twenty-five endangered: among them are elephants, tigers, whales, pandas, dolphins, lions and many more animals we used to draw as kids.

But will our children be able to do the same?

Sartore believes all animal species have a basic right to exist: human activities are directly or indirectly prejudicing the survival of many of them and it is, therefore, our responsibility to prevent their disappearance from occurring. Each species is fundamental to maintain the ecosystem and, consequently, for the survival of humankind. We all know we need bees to save us from starvation, but also less popular animals as bats play a key role as they keep insects under control. Plankton seems too minuscule to be cared about, but blooms of plankton are visible from the space, they provide half of the oxygen we breathe and sustain the life of billions of marine creatures.

Sartore still has almost half of his ark to fill in with animals, but his intention is to complete it in the next 15 years. His goal is to present the worlds biodiversity in all its splendour and, hopefully, to make people start caring more about saving animals - while we still have time. To conclude, I would like to share Sartores message: the future of life on Earth is a crucial issue that deserves peoples attention, now as never before. You too can make a difference and contribute to the protection of endangered animals, by sharing the photos (joelsartore.com) and engaging in activities devoted to saving species and habitats.
The gunpowder plot to blow up the Parliament Building in the British Isles led to Guy Fawkes Day. The devious plan was foiled before it was carried out and is the reason behind the celebration. The day is a time of merrymaking, and when people of all ages get a kick out of seeing effigies go up in flames on bonfire night.

A gunpowder stockpile

A group of disgruntled Roman Catholic activists led by Robert Catesby felt mistreated by the Protestant government and hatched a plot to blow up the Parliament building during a meeting attended by King James I of England and his cabinet on November 5th, 1607.

Guy Fawkes, along with other conspirators, stockpiled gunpowder in a room below the meeting place and many lives would have been lost had the discovery not been made. The perpetrator who was caught red-handed in the building was tried and executed along with his other cohorts.

November 5th

The gunpowder plot fascinated the residents of Great Britain who were overjoyed that disaster was averted. To celebrate, they started bonfire celebrations which led King James I to declare November 5th a day of public thanksgiving and a public holiday. It is a celebration of victory over a potentially devastating plot.

Traditions and customs

Today, Guy Fawkes Day continues to be celebrated throughout Great Britain. Celebrations include the parading and burning of effigies, bonfires, fireworks, as well as the cooking of large potatoes on bonfires.

What could have been a solemn remembrance has become a celebration of a disaster averted. When a new session of Parliament is opened today, there is a customary search of the basement carried out by the Yeomen of the Guard. The search has been carried out since 1928. Effigies of 'Guy' are used to raise money for fireworks.

In the days leading up to November 5th, children would carry their "Guys" through the streets or set them up at corners with a sign asking for "a penny for the guy."

Bonfires at night

Weeks before Bonfire night, children collect wood and other materials for burning. These are used to light large community bonfires. Sussex is famous for its torchlight processions by a number of bonfire societies who burn not only effigies of the guy but of popular personalities as well. Guy Fawkes Day customs can vary from one town, country or city to the next. Bonfires, fireworks, effigies and everything combustible is at the heart of the Guy Fawkes traditions.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets with Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of TerraPower, in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 3, 2017. (Xinhua/Ma Zhancheng)

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has called for closer China-U.S. cooperation in developing the next-generation nuclear power technology, as he met with Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of TerraPower Friday.

Speaking highly of the China-U.S. partnership in this field, Li said companies of the two countries have set up a joint venture with each holding half of shares and agreeing to share the intellectual property rights.

TerraPower LLC signed a joint venture agreement with China National Nuclear Corporation to form the Global Innovation Nuclear Energy Technology Co., Ltd. The two companies plan to work together to complete the Travelling Wave Reactor (TWR) design and commercialize the TWR technology.

"This is a pioneering work in China-U.S. high-tech cooperation, which is on a voluntary basis. This shows the open attitudes of both sides," Li said. He expected win-win results in this cooperation.

China hopes to combine its advantage in talent resources with advanced technologies overseas, and make good use of the internet platform, to promote technological progress that the world can share and benefit from, Li said.

Acknowledging the significance of the next-generation nuclear power in the development of future energy technology, Gates said it is important to ensure the energy supply is clean, safe and reliable.

He said his company cherishes the cooperation with the Chinese counterpart, values China's rich talent resources, and will take an open attitude to translate their shared cooperation vision into reality.
One of the bigger stories in recent days comes from former chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) Donna Brazile accusing Hillary Clinton of reaching a backdoor deal with the Democrats to allegedly squeeze Bernie Sanders out of the nomination. As the news continues to trickle out, one Fox News contributor and guest host used controversial language to put the problems of the DNC on former President Obama.

Fox News on Obama

In her upcoming book titled "Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-Ins and Breakdowns That Put Donald Trump in the White House," former chair of the DNC, Donna Brazile created multiple headlines when she appeared to accuse Hillary Clinton of "rigging" the Democratic party.

Brazile claims she "found proof" that Clinton reached a deal with party officials to take control and fund the DNC during the primary to stop the party from falling into deeper debt. Since then, Brazile has slightly walked back her remarks by distancing herself from the term "rigging" when used in conjunction with Clinton's deal with the DNC. On Sunday, another excerpt from the book was released where Brazile admits she was looking into possibly having Clinton replaced in the general election after her fainting spell during a 9/11 memorial last year. Various names were under consideration, with former Vice President Joe Biden at the top of the list, with Sen. Cory Booker being looked at as potential running mate.

These issues and more were discussed during the November 4 edition of "Fox & Friends" on Fox News.

(Jackson's comments start at 10:10 in the above video)

Joining co-hosts Abby Huntsman and Pete Hegseth was guest host and network contributor Kevin Jackson. Following Huntsman questioning how the DNC ended up in such a tight financial position, Jackson put the blame on Barack Obama.

"Sad part about that is Barack Obama was supposed to be a rock star, Jackson said, before using racially sensitive remarks to continue attacking the former president. "Here is this guy (Obama), sadly to say, the black man leaves them with no money," Jackson said.

Memo between Clinton campaign, DNC outlines fundraising arrangement https://t.co/bx5NVIDd2X pic.twitter.com/fItCOEgGHh  Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) November 4, 2017

"I know that a lot of people are going to be offended by that but that was the guy that was supposed to save the party," Kevin Jackson added.

The segment continued as the other hosts deflected from Jackson's remarks and attempted to shift the conversation in another direction. This isn't the first time that Jackson has commented about race, as he's been known to oppose members of the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as express his criticism of the Obama administration. Though Fox News hosts and contributors have come under fire for making alleged racially offensive comments in the past, backlash has not resulted over the most recent remarks, possibly due to the fact that Jackson is an African-American.

Fox News Kevin Jackson on DNC Debt: The Black Man Leaves Them With No Money https://t.co/g62WNIGDe9 (VIDEO) pic.twitter.com/kPbMC3vMpj  Mediaite (@Mediaite) November 4, 2017

Next up

While Fox News continues to focus on the dissension within the Democratic Party, other networks are spending more time addressing the ongoing Russian scandal. With Donald Trump currently at the start of a planned 12-day foreign trip to Asia, only time will tell how the issues play out by the time he returns to the states.
As Donald Trump takes part in his longest foreign trip since becoming president, First Lady Melania Trump decided to tweet along with her husband. After expressing their enthusiasm about the trip to Asia, critics of the administration wasted no time firing back.

Melania on Twitter

Ever since Donald Trump was sworn into office following his upset win over Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, he's faced massive amounts of criticism from the majority of the media and his political opponents. Despite accusing the press of a biased attack against him, the overwhelming majority of the American people believe that Trump is the cause of his own problems.

One issue that many appear to have a problem with is the way the former host of "The Apprentice" handles foreign conflicts, in addition to how he presents himself on social media. From the early days of his campaign for president, Trump used Twitter as a way to bypass the traditional media that often held his feet to the fire. While doing so, Trump has badmouthed many of his opponents in Washington, in the media, and in Hollywood, but has also lashed out at various world leaders. As Trump set off for a 13-day trip to Asia, Melania Trump and the president both gave their thoughts during a pair of November 4 tweets as they landed in Japan.

On the way to Asia. I am looking forward to seeing Mrs. Abe , First Lady Kim  and Madame Peng  again! #FLOTUSinAsia  Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) November 4, 2017

Taking to Twitter on Saturday afternoon, Melania Trump seemed enthusiastic about joining Donald Trump in Asia over the next two weeks.

"On the way to Asia," Melania tweeted prior to take-off. "I am looking forward to seeing Mrs. Abe, First Lady Kim and Madame Peng again!" she added, while using the hashtag "#FLOTUSinAsia."

I am landing shortly. Cant wait to be with our GREAT MILITARY. See you soon! https://t.co/AVLrrOxmm4  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 5, 2017

As the first couple was about to land at the Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, Japan, Donald Trump announced their arrival on his own Twitter feed.

"I am landing shortly," Trump tweeted out, stating, "Cant wait to be with our GREAT MILITARY. See you soon!"

.@POTUS waves to greeters on tarmac at Yokota Air Base in Japan. https://t.co/iAaXJXPWIx pic.twitter.com/qHIwIcRxgT  Fox News (@FoxNews) November 5, 2017

Twitter reacts

Not long after touching down in Japan, those who oppose Donald Trump decided to speak out in opposition to himself and Melania Trump.

"Donald Trump will get to Japan and ask where the best Chinese buffet is at," one tweet humorously read.

I am about 500% sure that you will be making a fool of yourself within hours.  Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) November 5, 2017

None of the living Presidents support you, and very few of those individuals in the military do as well  Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) November 5, 2017

"Did you hear today, both George Bushes had some very unkind words for you?" another tweet pointed out, in reference to the recent criticism from George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush. In a follow-up tweet, the same Twitter user asked, "Can you explain why Jared Kushner went to Saudi Arabia last week and today you try encouraging the IPO to take place here?

Are you getting paid for this deal?"

Donald Trump will get to Japan and ask where the best Chinese buffet is at.  Chuck Cobb (@CobbChuck) November 5, 2017

Please tell your husband to not embarrass America!  Dorothy Rose (@Deed183) November 4, 2017

"I can't wait for you to be with our Great Special Counsel sitting before a Jury of your peers," another Twitter user wrote, while adding, "I am about 500% sure that you will be making a fool of yourself within hours." "Please tell your husband to not embarrass America!" one tweet wrote in response to Melania Trump.

Michael Skorpia....the man, the myth.... the nobody  WeThePeople (@PaigeAndJon) November 4, 2017

Please continue to promote your anti-cyberbullying campaign. You'll be seated next to the biggest cyber bully on the planet on Air Force 1.  Danny B (@LegalStream15) November 4, 2017

"Please continue to promote your anti-cyberbullying campaign.

You'll be seated next to the biggest cyber bully on the planet on Air Force 1," yet another Twitter user wrote back to the first lady. "What was the name of the Madame that ran the bordello you worked in when you lived in Slovenia?" a tweet rhetorically asked Melania. As the negative reaction continued to pour in, it was clear that many Americans were not going to hold back their thoughts as the president kicks off his foreign trip.
It was just last week when special counsel Robert Mueller filed the first round of charges in the Russian investigation. While three names have already been made public, it appears that another is about to be announced.

Flynn and Russia

Not long after Donald Trump announced his plan to run for president back in June 2015, questions were raised as to how his private business history would impact his potential presidency. As the months moved on, speculation grew about Trump's potential ties to Russia, as the former host of "The Apprentice" would refrain from criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin on the campaign trail.

In addition, Trump became the first major presidential candidate to keep his tax returns hidden from the public, which caused other red flags to pop up. As expected, Trump has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that any allegations that say he colluded with Russia are just "fake news." Following his upset win over Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton last November, several well-respected news outlets and government reports have concluded that Russia hacked the 2016 election, and did so with the goal of helping Trump get into the White House. Since then, an investigation has been underway in an attempt to get to the bottom of what took place, with Robert Mueller being brought on board over the summer as special counsel.

As reported by NBC News on November 5, yet another former member of the current administration could soon be indicted.

EXCLUSIVE: Special Counsel Robert Mueller has enough evidence to bring charges in Michael Flynn investigation https://t.co/8TD2rrfPiw pic.twitter.com/0WSRPX1Kd7  NBC News (@NBCNews) November 5, 2017

According to a bombshell report by NBC News on Sunday morning, former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn is expected to be feeling the heat shortly.

The report notes that federal investigators now have enough information to file charges against Flynn and his son, Michael Flynn Jr, for allegedly secretly meeting with Russian officials.

JUST IN: Mueller has enough evidence to charge Flynn in Trump-Russia probe: report https://t.co/9R1VKlFjBW pic.twitter.com/DQRw9gOdwG  The Hill (@thehill) November 5, 2017

Last week, former campaign manager Paul Manafort and his assistant Rick Gates were indicted, but have since pleaded not guilty.

However, former campaign adviser, George Papadopoulos, has pleaded guilty to lying to authorities on the matter at hand. While Donald Trump and the White House have not yet offered a comment on the potential charges against Flynn, it didn't stop critics on social media from sounding off.

Twitter reacts

Not long after the news broke that Michael Flynn and his son could soon be charged in the Russian investigation, those who oppose Donald Trump wasted no time firing back. "A little over a year ago Michael Flynn was shouting "lock her up", and now he is going to be charged with a crime. Life comes at you fast," one tweet read.

Michael Flynn  is about to get his wish   but instead of lock her up - Hillary Clinton  he is about to be locked up   robert (@reyoung1350) November 5, 2017

How great is it that Michael Flynn who lead a lock her up chant at a rally is now about to go to jail. KARMA YOU TRAITOROUS MOTHERFUCKER  Sir Psycho T (@SirPsychoT) November 5, 2017

They can trash Hillary, but Mr. "Lock her up" is next up 4 indictment. Every 1 of them projected their own guilt on the woman

Michael Flynn  Devorah Blachor (@DevorahBlachor) November 5, 2017

"How great is it that Michael Flynn who lead a lock her up chant at a rally is now about to go to jail.

KARMA YOU TRAITOROUS MOTHERF***er," another tweet added. "Michael Flynn will definitely turn on Trump to save his despicable son. Time to celebrate another," one Twitter user wrote.

A little over a year ago Michael Flynn was shouting "lock her up", and now he is going to be charged with a crime. Life comes at you fast.   Anti-DJ.Trump (@Anti_DJTrump) November 5, 2017

Michael Flynn didn't really mean to do it. "Where's Comey when you need him?"  Chris Temple (@ChrisDTemple) November 5, 2017

Michael Flynn will definitely turn on Trump to save his despicable son. Time to celebrate another #MuellerMonday!  KillerTigger (@KillerTigger) November 5, 2017

"They can trash Hillary, but Mr. 'Lock her up' is next up 4 indictment.

Every 1 of them projected their own guilt on the woman," yet another tweet pointed out. "Michael Flynn is about to get his wish   but instead of lock her up - 'Hillary Clinton'.. he is about to be locked up," a Twitter user stated. The backlash continued as the pressure mounts on Donald Trump and his current and former associates.
GOP Senator Rand Paul, (Ky.), who was tackled while mowing the lawn at his Bowling Green, Kentucky residence, is fine after suffering minor injuries to his face and one rib. The 2016 GOP Primary Presidential candidate, who labelled Donald Trump's attack on Syria as unconstitutional in April of 2017, allegedly has been involved in an ongoing dispute with his neighbor, Rene Albert Boucher, 59. Authorities are investigating the attack by Boucher, who is a local anesthesiologist, to see if it emanated from the personal dispute, or if it was politically motivated.

As of now, Boucher has been charged with misdemeanor assault and is being held at the Warren County Regional Jail in lieu of a $5,000 bond.

How the case will be prosecuted

If it turns out that Boucher had political motives for the attack, the case will become much more serious. At that point, the case will become a matter for the federal courts. The distinction between a personal attack and a political attack is on a fine line. If the investigation reveals that Boucher said anything to Paul that denoted his status as a United States Senator, or attacked his views on the issues, then the attack can be elevated to a federal offense.

On the other hand, if Boucher said nothing when he committed the attack, or if he said something personal, but not political, the offense most likely will be prosecuted as a misdemeanor.

The determination as to how the case will be prosecuted will not made until the federal investigation is complete. The State Police are not yet releasing any information on the attack for security reasons.

Senators' two homes

As a rule, United States Senators maintain two homes, one in their home state and one in Washington, D.C..

They must maintain their primary residence to retain their right to represent their home states in the United States Senate. And they must maintain a home in Washington, D.C. that is nice enough for hosting guests at dinner parties and other similar events. It is a great deal to juggle financially, considering that Senators make around $178,000 per year.

Maintaining two households on that salary can be challenging, especially considering the costs of housing in Washington, D.C.. In consideration of the high expenses involved in being a Senator, it is no wonder that Paul, whose colleague Bob Corker is considering a Presidential run in 2020, was mowing his own lawn instead of hiring someone to do it for him.

Becoming a lobbyist

One year after a Senator leaves office, he or she is eligible to become a lobbyist on Capitol Hill, a highly profitable venture for most former Senators. In Paul's case, he also will be eligible to practice medicine since he also is a licensed medical doctor. Whether or not he will practice medicine at the same hospital as Boucher remains to be determined.
An odd story came out of Germany this past week. The Miami Herald reported on Nov. 2, more than 250 artworks seized from Jewish collectors by the Nazis and held in a Hitler-era dealers home for the last 72 years, have gone on display for the first time anywhere, in a Bonn museum show entitled Nazi Art Theft and its Consequences. The oddity is that the paintings and sculpture amassed and held on to all this time had been condemned by the Fuhrer as degenerate.

Burning question

Not only was this cache of painting and sculpture scorned in the Third Reich, but several of the artists were Jewish, and we all know what this fascist regime thought of them.

Historian Henry Grossham quoted the Fuhrer in his 1983 book "Hitler and the Artists" saying, The Jews have succeeded in condemning nearly everything that was healthy in art to junk and trash. One wonders, then, why the Nazis held onto works that their leader deemed junk. Why didnt they just toss it on a bonfire the way they did books he didnt like? For that matter, why did the Fuhrer bother to mount an exhibit of said junk under the banner Art of the Degenerates, which only served to call attention to it?

Likely answer

One possible answer may be that Hitler wanted everyone to feel as he did  insulted by the art in question. This is a good place to describe the works that he said; destroys or confuses natural form. Translation: The Nazi leader didnt like modern art  not the abstract variety, mind you, but the recognizable kind that comes with some distortion.

Known today as Expressionism, this style was intended to convey the inner world of the heart and mind, which accounts for the exaggerated forms that made the Fuhrer so uncomfortable.

Mean streets

For example, the paintings of Max Beckmann (a Jew by the way), really ticked Hitler off. With tortured forms, he sought to express the abhorrent things he saw as a medical corpsman in WWI.

As he said, I wanted to show in my work the idea which hides behind so-called reality. Peter Seltzs biography of Beckmann made the point that the artist was so traumatized by the anti-Semitism he suffered in Nazi Germany that even when he moved to the U.S., panic seized him when he saw a policeman.

Still asking

Camille Pissarro, who also was Jewish and whose work was likewise classed degenerate was an Impressionist who steered clear of emotions.

But, as he wrote to his son John, We have to approach nature sincerely, with our own modern sensibilities. Clearly, that was something Hitler couldnt do. Instead, he restricted imagery to Arcadian views wiped clean of what he called our rotting world. Look whos calling the world 'rotting.' All of which still leaves the question, why hold onto so-called degenerate art?
China's largest trade fair concluded its 122nd session on Saturday in Guangdong Province, with more foreign buyers and more deals.

Export turnover reached 30.2 billion U.S. dollars, up 8.2 percent year on year. A total of 191,950 buyers from 213 countries and regions attended the fair, up by 3.4 percent, according to fair spokesman Xu Bing.

Xu said that over 60 percent of industries saw an increase in deals.

"Steady growth of China's foreign trade is expected to continue, on the premise that no major risk events would happen," according to Xu.

The China Import and Export Fair, known as the Canton Fair, is held every spring and autumn in Guangzhou. It is widely seen as a barometer of China's exports.

The fair's double surges in export turnover and buyers attested to the effectiveness of Chinese foreign trade companies in business innovation and economic restructuring, according to industry insiders.

More than 160,000 types of products manufactured by about 25,000 companies were exhibited in some 60,000 booths at the fair. And a large proportion of the exhibits at the fair were smart, low-carbon and customized products of local brands.

More than 2,000 domestic manufacturers with their own brands attended the event, many bringing their state-of-the-art products.

The fair also attracted 84,445 buyers, up 3.48 percent from last year, from countries and regions along the Belt and Road.

Export turnover with the Belt and Road countries and regions increased by 13.6 percent to 9.37 billion U.S. dollars, or 31.1 percent of the fair's total.

Exhibitors from various sectors, including construction materials, machinery, home appliances, textiles and food, saw robust demands and growing deals from such countries and regions.

Wenzhou Reluex is a manufacturer of health care and massage equipments based in east China's Zhejiang Province. Its export turnover expanded by 62.5 percent in the first eight months of this year, thanks to a larger market share in Southeast Asia and countries along the Belt and Road.

Besides, 341 companies from 17 Belt and Road countries and regions also attended the fair's import exhibition, which provided a major platform for them to explore the Chinese market and meet buyers from around the world.

However, Xu also warned that rising raw material prices, exchange fluctuations, manufacturing refluxing of developed countries and the rise of middle and low-end manufacturing in emerging economies would still have an impact on China's foreign trade development.

Protectionism, sluggish external demands, and the struggling recovery of the world economy were also among the "many uncertain and unstable factors" affecting China's foreign trade.

Many buyers at the fair remained cautious and just placed short-term orders of no more than 6 months, Xu noted. He called for continued efforts to reform and upgrade China's foreign trade industry.

"The Canton Fair will continue to support Chinese foreign trade companies in their supply-side structural reform, forge a comprehensive and open platform, and make contributions to the transformation and upgrading of Chinese foreign trade," he said.
After a three week hiatus, "Saturday Night Live" made its return. As expected, Donald Trump and the current administration were top targets.

"SNL" on Trump

When Donald Trump announced that he was going to run for office back in the summer of 2015, his candidacy was initially greeted as a joke. The consensus was that Trump was serious about becoming president, and was possibly doing so to generate ratings for his reality show. However, as the months moved forward and Trump's poll numbers increased, the reality that he could represent the Republican Party kicked in.

Once the former host of "The Apprentice" locked up the GOP nomination, "Saturday Night Live" hired veteran actor Alec Baldwin to play a satirical role of the billionaire real estate mogul. In the months that followed, Trump would lash out on social media over the show's popularity increase, which was largely due to their mockery of the 2016 election. Trump called for "SNL" to be canceled, and repeatedly accused Baldwin of not being funny. Since Election Day, "SNL" and other comedy shows have continued to poke fun at the current administration, with Baldwin actually winning an Emmy Award earlier this year for his performance. As seen on the November 4 edition of "Saturday Night Live," Trump was once again the prime target of satire and humor.

"I brought you in the shower to make sure you werent wearing a wire, Paul." #SNL pic.twitter.com/I5wtLoDjZy  Saturday Night Live (@nbcsnl) November 5, 2017

Kicking off the show's cold open, Alec Baldwin's Donald Trump visited former campaign manager Paul Manager at his hotel room. After Baldwin explained that a blow-up doll of his likeness was attending his oversees trip to Asia with First Lady Melania Trump, he went on to complain that everyone is being too politically correct, pointing out that if he went to China, he wouldn't be able to mock them by doing the "slanty eyes thing."

Alec Baldwin and the satirical Paul Manafort spoke about the Russian investigation, with the president warning his former campaign manager that he could be attacked in prison due to the way he mocked minorities in the past.

The segment than cut back to Air Force One where Melania was speaking to the blow-up doll of Trump, and appeared thrilled she could actually get a word in without being talked down.

Just a normal shower, nothing to see here. #SNL pic.twitter.com/KhCZFmGP9M  Saturday Night Live (@nbcsnl) November 5, 2017

Not stopping there, Alec Baldwin ended up taking the mock Paul Manafort to the bathroom to avoid being recorded by authorities.

While the two were in the shower, a satirical Mike Pence showed up to wash both men. "If you say anything about this Mike, I'll text this photo straight to Jesus," Baldwin said. The segment ended when Jeff Sessions, played by Kate Mckinnon, joined them with a stripped swim suit. "I thought we better get used to wearing stripes," she said, in reference to the Russian probe.

Next up

While Donald Trump continues to be the headline joke for comedy shows and late night TV hosts, the president has more important issues to worry about. On Friday, the president left the country to take part in a 13-day trip to Asia, landing in Japan on Saturday night. As the world waits to see how Trump handles himself with other world leaders, only time will tell how it all plays out.
Selena Gomez has had quite a year personally and professionally. Through everything, she has proved herself a force to be reckoned with when it comes to an unrelenting work ethic combined with philanthropy. Her heart for helping and inspiring others has not gone unnoticed. The 25-year-old pop star, actress, and producer will be honored on November 30 as Billboards 2017 Woman of The Year. Billboard made the announcement yesterday, according to several media reports.

John Amato, President at Billboard and The Hollywood Reporter, stated that Gomezs music not only soars on the charts, she also is not afraid to speak her mind, the Los Angeles Daily News reported.

He also applauded her for using her platform to advocate for others. Amato described Billboard as thrilled with honoring Gomez as our Woman of the Year. He further lauded her for inspiring young women everywhere and encouraging their authenticity.

Steady stream of chart-topping hits are not a fluke

Included in her Top 40 hits that have topped the charts as Hot 100 singles are Fetish, Bad Liar, and Wolves (with Marshmello). In collaboration with Norwegian DJ and record producer Kygo, It Aint Me was an international sensation  with more than half a billion streams in the time since it was released in February, the Daily News noted. Its not a fluke for Gomez to have smash hits either.

Same Old Love, We Dont Talk Anymore, and Hands to Myself also topped the charts in 2015 and 2016, according to Billboard.

Previous prestigious women honorees who have received the Billboard magazines accolade include Pink, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, and Beyonce, E! News reported. Additional past winners were Reba McEntire, Ciara, Katy Perry, and Madonna.

Billboard has been honoring its Woman of the Year for roughly a decade.

Award recipient active in philanthropic endeavors

In addition to her musical prowess, Gomez has applied her talent to fulfill the role as executive producer for "13 Reason Why," a drama on the streaming service Netflix. Her belief in philanthropy has been evidenced by her involvement in UNICEF.

Since 2009, Gomez has been a pro-active ambassador; she has traveled the globe raising both funds and awareness, the Daily News relayed.

As well, she has been hands-on when it comes to working with the Step Up Foundation. Her effort to help and support others doesnt stop there. Gomez has raised over $500,000 for the Lupus Research Alliance.

Most impressive is the fact that Gomez could just as easily have sat on the sidelines and encouraged other people to get involved. However, she isnt one to give important endeavors lip-service and not back up her stance with direct action. Not until she chose to share her personal experience of living with Lupus did anyone know the toll that the auto-immune condition was taking on her health.

Honoree applied personal experience aiming to help people

Once again, aiming to possibly help more people and raise awareness, Gomez disclosed in September that she had a kidney transplant during the summer. Her best friend Francia Raisa, who is an actress, donated one of her kidneys after she learned that Gomez needed the life-saving surgery.

Billboard will present Gomez with her Woman of the Year award during its annual Women in Music dinner and gala, which will be held in Los Angeles at the end of this month. November 30 will also be the first time that the event and pre-show will be available for live viewing on Twitter, starting at 9 PM ET.
The family of Guo Chenwei, a University of Utah student who was killed during a carjacking attempt, released a statement about the loss of the young man who brought "immense joy" to family and friends.

The university in Salt Lake City released the statement on Friday on behalf of Guo's family, noting that his life was taken in "a senseless act of violence earlier this week. Understandably, they are grieving the loss of their son and ask for privacy at this time. This is the only statement they will make."

"We are devastated by the loss of our son Chenwei, who brought immense joy into our lives and the lives of all who knew him. It is hard to capture in words his happy, positive outlook on life. Chenwei aspired to work in the future helping others to feel better about themselves," the statement said.

"He was outgoing, adventurous, highly intellectual and a deeply faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was thankful to be able to share his testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ with many as a missionary in Provo.

"We are grateful for the experiences Chenwei had in Utah and at the University of Utah. We are very moved by the outpouring of support and sympathy we have received from so many of his friends and even from those who did not know Chenwei personally. These expressions of remembrance and condolence have given us comfort.

"We know many are interested in Chenwei's story, but we respectfully ask for privacy at this time as we grieve our beloved son."

Guo, 23, of Beijing, a pre-computer science major, was remembered and honored publicly at a candlelight vigil held on the Utah campus on Nov 1. His funeral service is being arranged by his family through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Wednesday that the Chinese embassy in the United States has requested information from police, urging that the case be handled expeditiously.

The embassy also expressed sympathy and said it had provided assistance to Guo's family, she said.

"The Foreign Ministry and the embassy in the US will keep a close eye on the development of the case and offered necessary support for the family's visit to the US," she added.

The Chenwei Guo Family Fund was set up by Guo's friend Elena Diane Jin with the permission of Guo's family on GoFundMe.com.

Austin Boutain, the ex-convict accused of killing Guo, casually strolled multiple floors of a downtown Salt Lake City library about 15 hours after the fatal shooting and amid a massive manhunt. But he was quickly arrested in a bathroom by security, according to surveillance video released Thursday.

Videos released by the Salt Lake City Public Library showed Boutain, 24, enter the building just after noon Tuesday, about 4 miles (6 kilometers) from the canyon on the edge of the university campus where police believe Boutain killed Guo during an attempted carjacking.

Boutain fatally shot Guo and then tried to force a woman who was with him, a university student whose name was not released, up a canyon, according to police. The woman escaped when Boutain, who fired at her twice and missed, was distracted, police said.

"Obviously, he had just killed somebody; he had an ill intent toward this young lady," University of Utah Police Chief Dale Brophy told reporters.

Boutain, with tattoos on his arms, face and back of his neck and wearing a white T-shirt, black beanie and jeans, can be seen carrying a water bottle and dark jacket around as he walks through multiple floors of the library and rides an elevator.

About 20 minutes after he arrived in the library, the video showed Boutain enter a bathroom on the third floor. About two minutes later, a security guard entered the bathroom.

The guard left but returned quickly with a second guard and entered the bathroom with his hand hovering over a gun on his hip.

A third guard can be seen arriving in the hallway, talking on the phone to someone as the other guards emerge from the bathroom with Boutain, whose wrists are handcuffed behind his back.

Police later said he surrendered without incident.

Other library surveillance footage shows Boutain in a library security holding room standing calmly as officers pat him down and have him sit on a bench waiting for police to arrive.

After about 10 minutes, officers showed up and walked Boutain calmly out of the nearly empty library, according to the footage.

Boutain, who has not yet been formally charged, was being held Thursday in jail on suspicion of aggravated murder, robbery and other charges. He will likely face charges in Utah, then be extradited to Colorado, where police believe he killed 63-year-old Mitchell Ingle, stole his guns and drove his truck to Utah.

Ingle's body was found in his trailer in Colorado on Tuesday.

Boutain's wife, Kathleen Boutain, is also named as suspect in Ingle's death. She was in jail in Utah on drug and theft charges.

No attorney has been listed for the Boutains.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
With clear waters and white sand beaches, the town of Gulfport on the Mississippi Gulf Coast draws in many visitors, especially families, each year. Theme and water parks as well as watersports equipment rentals offer high-thrill activities for the brave, while others can relax on the smooth waters of the gulf on a private sailing charter. The town has a choice of museums, including a children's museum, model train and retro car museums, and even tours of the famous Stennis Space Center.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

1. The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies  The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies is an organization devoted to research, conservation, and education in the sphere of marine mammal biology and ecology along the Gulf Coast. Behind the scenes, the institute conducts important research on animals from this region and cares for and rehabilitates sick and injured animals. The group also runs the Center for Marine Education and Research, which creates educational displays based on the animals with which the institute works. The center is very hands on, featuring touch pools and a fossil dig. Guests can also participate in encounters with dolphins and other marine mammals and view related presentations. 10801 Dolphin Lane, Gulfport, MS 39503, Phone: 228-896-9182

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2. Lynn Meadows Discovery Center  Lynn Meadows Discovery Center

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Mississippi's first children's museum, promotes learning and development through fun, interactive exhibits. The center has 15,000 square feet of indoor displays, plus six outdoor spaces where kids and parents can laugh, play, and explore together. The areas of the museum each have a cohesive theme such as art, animals, cooking, the nearby port, history, and science. The facility also includes a tiny outdoor library booth from which children can borrow books. In addition to regular visits to Lynn Meadows, families can participate in cooking and performance classes as well as camps with various areas of focus. 246 Dolan Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39507, Phone: 228-897-6039

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3. Gulf Islands Water Park  Gulf Islands Water Park

Gulf Islands Water Park, a seasonal waterpark and recreation center, has miles of water slides and an exciting program of shows to keep the whole family having fun out in the sun. Thrill seekers can get an adrenaline rush on rides with towering drops and lightning speeds, while the littlest of little ones can splash around in the Ship Island Wreck and Spray St. Louis play areas. Gulf Islands also has a lazy river and a wave pool that parents and kids can take advantage of together. Performances often feature famous characters from Disney and Nickelodeon programs. The park has several different eating establishments on the premises, and cabanas, pavilions, and lockers are available for rent. 13100 16th St., Gulfport, MS 39503, Phone: 228-328-1266



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4. North Star Sailing Charters  North Star Sailing Charters



North Star Sailing Charters is a private charter sailing company situated at the Gulfport Small Craft Harbor. Its two sailboats, the 40-foot Kashmir and the 31-foot Polaris, take guests out on private charter trips along the Mississippi Sound and the Gulf of Mexico. Each charter can take up to six passengers, and many packages are offered, including daytime, sunset, and moonlight cruises, trips for dolphin and pelican watching, and private dinner cruises catered by a local Gulfport restaurant. North Star allows for flexible start times, and they let clients customize their charter to their needs. The company also offers sailing lessons. Phone: 228-617-8057

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5. Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum  Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum



The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum, which is supported by the region's model railroad club, keeps an honored tradition alive in its railroad track and car displays and exhibits. The club has three HO, O, and N table layouts for model railroads and trains as well as five raised G trains for kids. There is even a LEGO train set complete with its own model town. Patrons can come for regular museum visits or utilize the space for birthday parties. At these events, both the young and the young at heart can ride the museum's electric carnival riding train or one of its six Thomas the Tank Engine riding trains. 522 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS 39507, Phone: 228-284-5731

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6. Romantic Activities Near Me: Set Sail Away-Day Cruises  Set Sail Away-Day Cruises

Set Sail Away takes the charter experience up a notch with its luxury yachts and cruise packages. The company operates three yachts, two of which are large enough to include space for private cabins and room to roam around and enjoy onboard amenities such as couches and television entertainment systems. Set Sail Away cruises can accommodate up to six passengers, and trips can last from a short two hours to the entire day. The boats are equipped with a full crew who make the experience especially high end and comfortable. Different dining options are available, depending on the length of the cruise and the time of day. 1133 20th Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501, Phone: 228-596-1670



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7. Romantic Activities Near Me: Ship Island Excursions, Gulfport, MS  Ship Island Excursions

According to Ship Island Excursions, the best beaches in Mississippi are found on West Ship Island, which is located 11 miles south of Gulfport and is one of five barrier islands in the state. In addition to clear waters and clean sands, West Ship Island is home to Fort Massachusetts, a historic brick fortification from the nineteenth century. Ship Island Excursions runs a convenient ferry service that takes visitors to the island so they can enjoy its tranquil natural splendor. The ride lasts 50 minutes, and riders can often see Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins swimming in the transparent waters of the gulf along the way. In addition, for those seeking a more luxurious experience, Ship Island Excursion also has a range of private charter packages for large groups. 1040 23rd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501, Phone: 228-864-1014



8. Things to do in Gulfport, MS: Chandeleur Brewing Company  Chandeleur Brewing Company

The Chandeleur Brewing Company was founded by Cammack and Cain Roberds, two Gulfport, Mississippi natives who discovered their passion for fine craft beer in the 1990s. When the pair decided to turn this passion into a business in 2013, they looked no further than their hometown, where they bought the historic building that now holds the Chandeleur Brewing Company. The brewery is located in the downtown area very close to the coast, and it produces a unique selection of beers (including ales, stouts, and porters) using only carefully selected ingredients. Visitors can tour the lively facility to learn about how these unique Mississsippi concoctions are created. 2711 14th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501, Phone: 228-701-9985

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9. Kids Activities Near Me: Stennis Space Center, Gulfport, MS  Stennis Space Center

Stennis Space Center is an official NASA facility where flight certification and rocket propulsion systems testing are carried out. The complex was initially built in the 1960s in preparation for the major Apollo space project, and since then, Stennis has served as a key testing center in the United States' vast space program. Stennis Space Center has a dedicated visitors area known as the INFINITY Science Center. Here, guests can dive into interactive exhibits that focus on the history of space exploration, STEM topics, and other interesting themes. From INFINITY, guests can take a bus tour of the part of Stennis Space Center that is open to visitors. One Discovery Circle, Pearlington, MS 39572, Phone: 228-533-9025



10. Places to Visit: The Crosby Arboretum, Gulfport, Mississippi  The Crosby Arboretum

Affiliated with Mississippi State University, The Crosby Arboretum is an important educational center that works to preserve and educate the public about many of the plants native to the Pearl River Drainage Basin. In addition to its research efforts, the arboretum has a pavilion, seven natural areas, and three main curated ecological displays: the Savanna, Aquatic, and Woodland exhibits. Each of these exhibits incorporates flora from the region and provides background information about the habitat. Visitors can walk through the center on their own using the trail signs to create a self-guided tour, or they can sign up for a staff-led tour of the grounds. 370 Ridge Road, Picayune, MS 39466, Phone: 601-799-2311

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11. Jones Park  David/stock.adobe.com

This massive 60-acre park is the perfect place for families to enjoy an afternoon out. Known as the Front Yard for the State of Mississippi ' because of its location by the state port, Jones Park has several attractions within its borders as well as nearby. The park holds a walking track, a functioning amphitheater, a huge replica lighthouse, as well as a playground and tropical themed splash pad. There are also two pavilions available for anyone looking to enjoy a picnic. Close by, visitors can also find several other attractions and dining options. The park is well loved by the community, being rebuilt from the ground up after Hurricane Katrina. The rebuild took an effortful seven years and finally reopened in 2012. 2250 Jones Park Drive, Gulfport, Mississippi 39501



12. Activities Near Me: Making Memories Sailing, Gulfport, MS  Making Memories Sailing

A trip to Gulfport is incomplete without time spent out on the smooth waters of the Mississippi Sound, and the Making Memories Sailing charter company provides a number of ways to do just that. Making Memories Sailing operates its own yacht, the Kahlua, a 33-foot classic sailboat that has been recently restored. Captain Roger takes guests out on charters of varying lengths; options include a sunset cruise (two-and-a-half hours), half-day cruises in the morning or evening (four hours), and full-day six-hour cruises. The boat has convenient places to sit both on and below deck, and passengers can soak up the sun and seawater spray and perhaps even meet some fish or dolphins on charter. 1133 20th Ave. Pier 6, Slip 4, Gulfport, MS 39501, Phone: 228-257-1776



13. Activities Near Me: Wut Sup Standup Paddleboards & Rentals  Wut Sup Standup Paddleboards & Rentals

Wut SUP Standup Paddleboards & Rentals gives visitors a new way to see the Gulf Coast on a standup paddleboard, or SUP. The mission of the shop is to spread the joy of paddle boarding by giving visitors everything they need to get out on the watera board, leash, bag, fins, and paddle, plus lessons from their staff instructor. The shop is located near both the gulf and Gulfport Lake, making either one an option for an exciting paddleboard adventure. Wut SUP also rents and sells kayaks, bicycles, and skateboards, and any equipment they offer can be delivered to local accommodation. 13247 Seaway Road, Unit E, Gulfport, MS 39503, Phone: 228-669-1802



14. Things to Do Near Me: Zip'N Fun Adventure Park, Gulfport, Mississippi  Zip'N Fun Adventure Park



A trip to Zip'N Fun Adventure Park is sure to be a challenging, active, and fun experience. Unlike other coastal attractions in and around Gulfport, Zip'N Fun takes its guests up to the treetops, where they complete an obstacle course made up of fifty games. Visitors wear harnesses and make their way to high platforms, where they then have to cross challenges like tight ropes, swinging logs, unstable rope bridges, and more in order to complete the course, which increases in difficulty as players move through it. In addition to its tough obstacles, the Zip'N Fun course also has several zip lines for bursts of adrenaline along the way. 17200 16th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501, Phone: 228-206-7056

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15. Mississippi Aquarium  NDABCREATIVITY/stock.adobe.com



Families of all ages will love learning about the beautiful aquatic wildlife at the Mississippi Aquarium. This world-class facility isnt simply filled with awe-inspiring attractions for entertainment but is seriously committed to the education of its guests by introducing them to some of the worlds most invaluable ecosystems. Through the aquarium's exhibits and daily programs, guests can learn about hundreds of aquatic species such as the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin and alligator snapping turtle. Theyll also be able to view different species of sharks, alligators, and even birds. In between attractions, guests may grab a bite to eat at the Pelican Pointe Cafe where they serve several tasty snacks such as nachos, burgers, tacos, salads, and grilled cheese. 2100 E. Beach Boulevard, Gulfport, Mississippi 39501, Phone: 228-241-1300



16. Island View Casino  whyframeshot/stock.adobe.com



For adults visiting Gulfport without children, a visit to the Island View Casino is sure to make for an enjoyable and memorable experience. Find hundreds of slot and table games in their grand casino which promises a fun, clean, and safe gaming experience for all of its visitors. Their smoke-free dining options are also plentiful with an award-winning buffet, outdoor bar, steakhouse, beignet cafe, and sweet shop amongst others. 24-hour coffee shops are also available anytime guests need a cup of coffee. The casinos luxurious hotel rooms are just steps away, each equipped with dreamy beddings and custom bath products. 3300 W Beach Blvd, Gulfport, Mississippi 39501, Phone: 228-314-2100

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17. Altitude Trampoline Park  Altitude Trampoline Park



Stop by the Altitude Trampoline Park for an energizing afternoon of fun. This isnt your ordinary trampoline park aside from the main court filled with wall-to-wall trampolines, there are loads of additional attractions and games to enjoy. Take on a challenge at Wipe Out, where players try to avoid padded arms on a spinning wheel, or combat friends at the Battle Beam as you try to knock each other into a large foam pit. There are also trampoline sports such as extreme dodgeball and trampoline basketball, as well as an obstacle course. 9444 Highway 49, Gulfport, Mississippi, Phone: 228-314-3316



18. Windance Golf  AboutLife/stock.adobe.com



The 18-hole championship golf course at Windance Golf is a golfers dream with 6,600 yards of playing space surrounded by stunning landscapes. Originally designed by Mark McCumber, the course has gone through recent upgrades including a new lake, new landscaped native areas, and the installation of state-of-the-art irrigation systems. Its no surprise that it has become one of Mississippis best resort golf courses and is annually included in Golfweek magazines Best Places You Can Play. Aside from the beautiful course, players may also warm up and perfect their swing at the clubs driving range as well as shop for all their golfing needs at the Pro Shop. The View at 19 Bar and Grill is the perfect spot for a break as it offers an excellent dining experience together with great overlooking views. 19385 Champion Cir, Gulfport, Mississippi 39503, Phone: 228-832-4871

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19. Bananas Mini-Golf & Arcade  Bananas Mini-Golf & Arcade



Escape with the whole family to Bananas Mini-Golf & Arcade for some tropical-themed fun. Established in 2016, this relatively new establishment offers an entertaining (and challenging) outdoor mini-golf course. Foster some friendly competition amongst family and friends as you make your way through the 18-hole course and see who emerges victorious. During the day, players can stay cool with the help of multiple mister stations and available umbrellas. In the evening, on the other hand, players will enjoy a fully lit course with colorful waterfall displays. The course is completely handicap accessible, even offering handicap putters. Be sure to stop by their state-of-the-art arcade as well as the country style mini mart while visiting! 2251 East Pass Road, Gulfport, Mississippi 39507, Phone: 228-206-3015



20. Half Shell Oyster House of Gulfport  Half Shell Oyster House of Gulfport



Get a taste of New Orleans inspired cuisine at the Half Shell Oyster House of Gulfport. Here youll find traditional staples like seafood gumbo, crab cakes, fried shrimp, and of course delicious oysters. Other menu highlights include hand-cut steaks, Redfish Orleans, and seafood stuffed portabellas. Half Shell Oyster House also offers a number of specialty drinks including a variety of martinis, wine by the glass, as well as draft and bottled beer. If you like martinis, be sure to give their Pink Pearl Martini a try! Complete the experience with the restaurants laid-back yet classic ambiance, very similar to that of the French Quarter, with its moody interior and jazz playing in the background. 12068 Intraplex Parkway, Gulfport, Mississippi 39503, Phone: 228-867-7001



21. Shaggys Gulfport Beach  Shaggys Gulfport Beach



Step into your next vacation every time you visit Shaggys Gulfport Beach. Whether youre visiting with family or friends, you can expect to enjoy some great food paired together with an easygoing island ambiance. Frequently visited by locals and vacationers alike, Shaggys is known for its delicious seafood, refreshing margaritas, and some of the best views of the Gulf of Mexico. Their menu offers a wide selection of dishes such as wraps, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, seafood platter, flatbreads, oysters, and many more. Some of their specialties and must-try items include their yellowfin tuna bowl and American Wagyu baseball cut sirloin. Shaggys Gulfport Beach is ready to welcome customers every day of the week. 1724 E. Beach Blvd, Gulfport, Mississippi 39501, Phone: 228-241-1007

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22. Gulfport Dragway  Gulfport Dragway Gulfport Dragway brings a little something different to this shore community with its long, straight drag racing track, which supports 1/4- and 1/8-mile races. The dragway, surrounded by trees and greenery, is located a little bit inland. It hosts various kinds of high-speed drag races, including street and footbrake car races and fast-paced motorcycle and diesel truck competitions as well. Spectators root for their favorites out in the open air along the side of the track in an exhilarating, yet family-appropriate atmosphere. While Gulfport Dragway does have concessions for sale, fans are permitted to tailgate at the venue as well. 17085 Racetrack Rd., Gulfport, MS 39503, Phone: 228-863-4408



22 Best Things to do in Gulfport, MS

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Missouri is that unassuming state tucked away in America's Midwest. On its western edge, Kansas City is famous for barbecue, hosting the annual American Royal Barbecue, the world's largest competitive barbecue event. It's also home to Kansas City jazz and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. On the Mississippi side, St Louis boasts the Gateway Arch, the World Chess Hall of Fame, and the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. The Ozark Mountains and many other attractions are on hand to fill any summer holiday with fun.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

1. Fantastic Caverns  Courtesy of macropixel - Fotolia.com

Fantastic Caverns in Springfield, Missouri, offers visitors a unique chance to explore a cave in one-of-a-kind spelunking fashion. It is the only cave in North America that offers a completely ride-through tour, which is made possible via a Jeep-drawn tram. First discovered in 1862 by John Knox and his hunting dog, the cave wasn't explored until 5 years later by a group of twelve women associated with the Springfield Women's Athletic Club. Their names can be seen etched into a cave wall to this day. Visitors will find this cave to be a wondrous showcase of the state's underground phenomenon in the heart of the Ozarks. Things to Do in Springfield 4872 North Farm Road 125, Springfield, MO 65803, Phone: 417-833-2010

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2. Titanic Museum  Titanic Museum

The Titanic Museum in Branson, Missouri, first opened its doors in 2006. Its purpose was to share with patrons, as closely as possible, the experience that both passengers and crew endured on the Titanic's tragic maiden voyage. The museum itself is shaped like the Titanic, though smaller in size than the actual ship. Guests have the opportunity to see authentic artifacts, news coverage from that time period, and personal items from those who were aboard the ship. They can also touch a real growing iceberg or dip their hand in 28F water for tactile experiences that bring the exhibit to life. The tour takes approximately 2 hours. Things to Do in Branson 3235 West 76 Country Boulevard, Branson, MO 65616, Phone: 800-381-7670

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3. Branson Scenic Railway  Branson Scenic Railway

The historic Branson Scenic Railway originates in Branson, Missouri, and winds through the beautiful Ozark Mountains on a round trip of approximately 40 miles. This vintage passenger train will take riders over trestles and through tunnels, traveling amid parts of the Missouri and Arkansas wilderness where wildlife is on full display. The three domed cars afford panoramic views that occupy most of the passengers' attention; however, guests will also want to tour the cars on their journey, as they have been restored and refurbished to match the same passenger experience of 50 years ago. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. 206 East Main Street, Branson, MO 65616, Phone: 417-334-6110



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4. World Chess Hall of Fame  World Chess Hall of Fame



A tribute to the greatest names in the world of chess, the World Chess Hall of Fame hosts exhibitions, musical concerts, lectures and chess classes. Although the emphasis is on chess and the attraction will be particularly interesting to chess players, everyone will find something to interest them at this unique facility. If you live in the area, you can sign up to become a member so that you can attend a host of special lectures and events throughout the year. Varied exhibitions feature rare or unique chess sets and chess boards, chess inspired art, and home decor. 4652 Maryland Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63108, Phone: 314-367-9243

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5. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis  Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis



The Contemporary Art Museum (CAM) in St. Louis is a 27,000-square-foot building designed by the renowned American architect Brad Cloepfil. Celebrating the art of our time, the CAM offers a unique variety of changing exhibitions that provide thought-provoking elements contributing to the global cultural landscape. With more than 20 exhibitions each year, guests will see a full range of art, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and performative, conceptual and interactive art. CAM also delivers art education through unique workshops for families, film screenings, and a monthly neighborhood art crawl. The family-friendly art museum can be found in the heart of downtown St. Louis. 3750 Washington Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108, Phone: 314-535-4660

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6. George Washington Carver National Monument  NPS Photo



George Washington Carver National Monument is a 210-acre park situated 2 miles west of Diamond, Missouri. It is the first national monument dedicated to a black American and non-president, and bears great significance to the history of Missouri as well as to that of the United States. This park offers guided tours on a -mile nature trail where guests will see the 1881 Moses Carver house, a pre-Civil War cemetery where Carver family members a buried, a museum, and an interactive exhibit. The trail also takes guests across streams, through woodlands, and along a tallgrass prairie restoration area. Art and education programs teach about the famous scientist, educator, and humanitarian. 5646 Carver Road, Diamond, MO 64840, Phone: 417-325-4151

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7. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum  Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri, is home to many historical collections from Truman's presidency. It houses two permanent exhibitions: The first being Truman: The Presidential Years, and the second being Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions like the 2017 Saving the White House: Truman's Extreme Makeover, which gives guests the chance to follow the story of the controversial $5.7 million, 1,222-day renovation of the White House. Museum visitors will also see two decision theaters, new interactive elements, and letters exchanged between Harry and Bess Truman over the years. 500 West US Highway 24, Independence, MO 64050, Phone: 816-268-8200



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8. Jefferson National Expansion Memorial  Courtesy of Adam - Fotolia.com

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is located at the heart of St. Louis, Missouri. The memorial, nestled up to the Mississippi River, is near the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Patrons will find cultural history collections that include artifacts representing five major categories: St. Louis History, the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse, Westward Expansion, and the museum archives. Visitors will also have the opportunity to learn about the lives of Thomas Jefferson, Virginia Minor, the Lewis and Clark Journey of Discovery, and African-American Life in St. Louis, 18041865. The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is a part of the National Park Service. 11 North 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102, Phone: 314-655-1600



9. Things to Do in Missouri: Kansas City Zoo  Courtesy of Rusty Dodson - Fotolia.com

The Kansas City Zoo in Swope Park boasts 202 acres of wildlife exhibits. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about many different species of wildlife through zookeeper chats, some of which include topics such as penguins, gorillas, polar bears, elephants, lions, rhinos, tigers, and cheetahs. Guests will also experience the zoo's animal shows like Wings of Wonder (bird show) and Sea Lion Splash. They offer other attractions in the form of zoo rides, such as the African Sky Safari, Endangered Species Carousel, Zebra Tram, Boat Ride, and Train Ride. This Kansas City attraction is fun for the whole family. 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132, Phone: 816-595-1234

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10. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum  Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum is dedicated to the fascinating life of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name, Mark Twain. Located in Hannibal, Missouri, visitors will have the opportunity to peer into the life of one of America's most famous novelists of literary realism. Twain is best known for his novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, and its sequel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Here, guests will have the chance to see the home Mark Twain grew up in, the Tom & Huck Statue, the Huckleberry Finn House, the Becky Thatcher House, the interpretive center, and the museum gallery. 120 North Main Street, Hannibal, MO 63401, Phone: 573-221-9010



11. Places of Interest in Missouri: Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum  Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum

Located on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, in the university's Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, one of the oldest teaching museums in the country. The permanent collection of contemporary art represents a period from the turn of the 20th century to today. Temporary exhibitions at the museum have included The Modern Meal: Sustenance through Ritual. Visitors will also see pieces from renowned artists like Max Beckmann, Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollock, Thomas Eakins, Theo van Doesburg, Willem de Kooning, Charles Ferdinand Wimar, and William Hogarth. The building was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Fumihiko Maki. 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, Phone: 314-935-4523

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12. Fun Things to Do in Missouri: Missouri Botanical Garden  Courtesy of Dmitry V. Petrenko - Fotolia.com

Informally known as Shaw's Garden after its founder and philanthropist Henry Shaw, Missouri Botanical Garden is located in St. Louis. With 79 acres of incomparable horticultural design, the botanical garden has a little something for everyone. Guests will see beautiful displays like the English Woodland Garden, Ottoman Garden, Chinese Garden, and Victorian District. The Climatron conservatory boasts a wondrous tropical rainforest. The Japanese Garden stretches across 14 acres and is one of the largest strolling Japanese gardens in North America. Some signature events to watch out for are the Orchid Show, Japanese Festival, Gardenland Express, and the Whitaker Music Festival. 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110, Phone: 314-577-5100



13. Things to Do in MO: Missouri History Museum  Missouri History Museum

Founded in 1866 and operated by the Missouri Historical Society, the Missouri History Museum is located in the Forest Park neighborhood of St. Louis. Visitors will have the opportunity to view many unique exhibitions here, like Civil Rights: The African American Freedom Struggle in St. Louis, World War I: Missouri and the Great War, Seeking St. Louis, The 1904 World's Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward, and the History Clubhouse. The museum also offers a wide array of activities, including workshops, tours, lectures, music, films, theatre, and community events. After stimulating the mind, stimulate the stomach at Bixby's, the museum restaurant on the second floor. 5700 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63112, Phone: 314-746-4599



14. Things to Do in Missouri: Museum of Transportation  Museum of Transportation

This 42-acre National Museum of Transportation is located in the city of Kirkwood. While here, patrons will see rail and transit collections from the 1800s and 1900s, which have been transformed into more than 190 exhibits. Some of what they'll see include freight cars, interurban and city transit, passenger cars, rail motive power, and rail maintenance and test cars. There is a collection of rare and classic autos and trucks, like the 1901 St. Louis Motor Carriage Co. Automobile, Bobby Darin's "Dream Car", a Chrysler turbine car, and 1959 Ford gas turbine tractor. The museum also features other exhibits like the Douglas aircraft C-47A and the HT Potts towboat. 2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122, Phone: 314-965-6212



15. Missouri Vacation: The Gateway Arch  Courtesy of andreykr - Fotolia.com



The Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis is the nation's tallest monument. The curved 630-foot-tall monument pays tribute to Thomas Jefferson's vision of St. Louis as the gateway to Western Expansion. The awe-inspiring catenary arch was designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen, and was built over 20 months between February 1964 and October 1965. Sixteen tram cars holding five passengers each, making 4-minute trips to the top. Once at the top, visitors can stay on the observation deck as long as they like; 16 windows overlook St. Louis and 16 windows on the opposite side overlook the Mississippi River. 11 North 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102, Phone: 877-982-1410

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16. Things to Do in Missouri: National Blues Museum  National Blues Museum



The National Blues Museum is located in downtown St. Louis and is dedicated to exploring the musical history and influence of the blues. The origin of blues music resides in the Deep South and has been the foundation of nearly all American popular music over the last century. Around 15,000 square feet of the 23,000-square-foot space are dedicated to highly interactive technology, artifact-driven exhibits, special event space, and a theater. This museum offers visitors the chance to explore the various regional styles of the blues as well as learn about the musicians who created it. The museum often hosts public programs, including lectures, films, and live musical performances. 615 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63101, Phone: 314-925-0016



17. Things to See in Missouri: Negro Leagues Baseball Museum  Negro Leagues Baseball Museum



The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum was founded in 1990 and is dedicated to preserving the history of African-American Baseball. Located in Kansas City, the 10,000-square-foot museum shares its space with the American Jazz Museum. When African-Americans began playing baseball in the late 1800s, they started off playing on college, military, and company teams, eventually making their way into professional baseball. Bud Fowler and Moses Fleetwood Walker were among the pioneers at that time. The museum offers guests the chance to explore what it was like throughout the history of the league through baseball artifacts, hundreds of photographs, multi-media computer stations, and film exhibits. Things to Do in Kansas City 1616 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, Phone: 816-221-1920

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18. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art  Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art



This neoclassically designed museum boasts beautiful pieces of artwork from all over the world. Located in Kansas City, the museum has over 35,000 works of art and welcomes about 500,000 visitors per year. Guests will find ancient artworks here, such as Egyptian and Near Eastern, Greek, Roman, and early Christian exhibits. Visitors will also find a large collection of Native American artwork that includes basketry, quill and beadwork, paintings, sculptures, and textiles. That's not all; additionally, the museum presents African, Chinese, American, European, Japanese, and South and Southeastern Asian collections. The Rozzelle Court Restaurant, styled after 15th-century Italian courtyards, is a relaxing place to grab something to eat at the museum. 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64111, Phone: 816-751-1278



19. Missouri Attractions: Pulitzer Arts Foundation  Pulitzer Arts Foundation



The Pulitzer Arts Foundation in St. Louis was designed by the internationally renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. It first opened to the public in 2001. The foundation's art exhibits are always changing, as it is a non-collecting institution with only three permanent art installations, which were commissioned by the Pulitzers. They are Ellsworth Kelly's Blue Black, Richard Serra's Joe, and Scott Burton's Rock Settee. The foundation offers a wide variety of exhibitions like Buddhist art, Old Masters, and modern contemporary artists Ann Hamilton and Dan Flavin. The foundation offers an impressive roster with leaders in fields like art, design, architecture, urban planning, science, and technology. 3716 Washington Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108, Phone: 314-754-1850

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20. Things to Do in Missouri: Saint Louis Art Museum  Saint Louis Art Museum



The Saint Louis Art Museum is located in St. Louis's Forest Park. The museum, built in 1904, was designed by architect Cass Gilbert, who got his inspiration for the design from the Baths of Caracalla in Rome, Italy. With over 33,000 works of art, guests can expect to see work from these collections: African-American, African, American, Ancient American, Ancient, Pacific Islands, Asian, contemporary, decorative and design, European, Islamic, modern, Native American, photographs, prints, drawings, sculpture, and textile arts. Patrons will also see exhibitions like The Hats of Stephen Jones, In the Realm of Trees, and Lost in Space by Shimon Attie. 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110, Phone: 314-721-0072



21. Things to Do in Missouri This Weekend: Saint Louis Science Center  Saint Louis Science Center



The Saint Louis Science Center is located in the southeastern corner of Forest Park and was founded 1963. The site offers a three-story Science Center connected by a skybridge to a three-story Planetarium. The center offers a variety of scheduled activities like Simulated Space Missions, Family Med School, Flight Academy, Science at Sunset, Date Night under the Stars, and Camp-Ins. Visitors will also find exhibits and attractions such as The Discovery of King Tut, Mission: Mars, Human Adventure, and the Life Science Lab. Also available to visitors is the Omnimax Theatre with movies like Born to be Wild, Extreme Weather, Dream Big: Engineering our World, and Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs. 5050 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, Phone: 314-289-4400



22. Missouri Activities: Saint Louis Zoo  Courtesy of Alfred - Fotolia.com



Recognized as a leader in conservation, education, and animal management, the Saint Louis Zoo in Forest Park is a must-visit attraction when in Missouri. Widely considered America's top free attraction, the zoo stretches over 90 acres of property, has approximately 14,840 wild animals, and is home to around 603 different species. While here, guests will see animals that include cheetahs, grizzly bears, jaguars, lions, polar bears, snow leopards, slender-tailed meerkats, monkeys, apes, elephants, Caribbean flamingos, bald eagles, owls, and penguins. Visitors will also want to check out the zoo's safari tours, keeper chats, sea lion feedings, and penguin feedings. 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110, Phone: 314-781-0900

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23. Missouri Tourist Attractions: Science City at Union Station  Science City at Union Station Science City at Union Station is located in Kansas City and features over 120 hands-on displays, the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, and the City Extreme Screen theatre. Observe tools and methods of paleontology at the Dinolab and Digsite, where guests will find Lyle the Camarasurus  a real fossil. Other great attractions patrons will find here are the Demo Area, Force & Motion, Genetics: Unlock the Code, Giant Lever, KC Rail Experience, Maze Park, Nature Center, Science on a Sphere, Sky Bike, Spark!Lab, and The Science of Energy. Science City is a magical place where family, kids, and even adults will find new things to explore on every visit. 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, Phone: 816-460-2020



24. Things to Do Around Me: Anheuser-Busch Brewery  Courtesy of master_c - Fotolia.com The Anheuser-Busch "Budweiser" Brewery is located in the Soulard neighborhood of St. Louis. Since inception in 1852, they have prided themselves on brewing the finest beer, while maintaining tradition, one batch at a time. This site is the oldest and largest of their breweries, chosen because of its proximity to the Mississippi River. Originally, the area offered many natural cave formations the brewery used to store beer before artificial refrigeration. While here, guests can enjoy tours like the Complimentary Tour, Beermaster Tour, Beer Museum Tour, and the Day Fresh Tour. After a tour, guests can head to The Biergarten for a fresh ice-cold Budweiser and a bite to eat. 1200 Lynch Street, St. Louis, MO 63118, Phone: 314-577-2626



25. Must Do in Missouri: Innsbrook Resort  Innsbrook Resort Innsbrook Resort is a beautiful vacation home community that sprawls across an astounding 7,500 acres of land, located just 45 minutes west of St. Louis. The resort has an event center, restaurant, and 18-hole championship golf course as well as recreational and residential properties. Guests will have plenty of activities to choose from, like horseback riding, hiking magnificent nature trails, playing a round of golf, and canoeing or sailing on one of its 100-plus lakes. This resort offers individuals, couples, and families the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while on vacation, while connecting more intimately with Missouri's nature. 596 Aspen Way Dr, Innsbrook, MO 63390, Phone: 636-928-3366



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City Museum

Guests will discover the City Museum in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri. The one-time International Shoe Company building now houses a grand 600,000-square-foot playhouse museum. It is the brainchild of classically trained sculptor and world-renowned artist, Bob Cassilly, who with his team of artisans have built what can only be described as a funky funhouse and playground museum. The unique and eclectic displays of found items transformed into architectural marvels are completely interactive. Salvaged bridges, old chimneys, miles of tile, construction cranes, and two abandoned airplanes are all on display here. Visitors are encouraged to dress for a rough-and-tumble good time  with some rules. Things to Do in St. Louis

750 North 16th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, Phone: 314-231-2489

Attraction Spotlight: George Washington Carver National Monument

Located near Diamond, Missouri, the George Washington Carver National Monument was the first unit of the National Park Service dedicated to an African American and the first national monument dedicated to a non-presidential figure, honoring leading 20th-century inventor, botanist, and environmentalist George Washington Carver. Though his exact date and year of birth are unknown, George Washington Carver was born as a plantation slave in Diamond Grove, Missouri between 1861 and 1865.

History

Within the first week of his life, he was kidnapped by raiders from Kentucky along with his mother and sister, though he alone was recovered by efforts from his master, Moses Carver. Following the abolition of slavery during the American Civil War, George and his older brother James were raised as part of Moses family, with Moses and his wife Susan encouraging both boys to pursue intellectual interests. After being rejected from application at Highland University in Kansas, Carver became the first African-American student of the Iowa State Agricultural College, earning a masters degree in botany and operating an experiment station focused on plant mycology and pathology, which brought him national recognition.

Throughout his career, Carver taught as an instructor in the agriculture department of the Tuskegee Institute, creating a mobile learning program inside a Jesup wagon, named after financial backer Morris Ketchum Jesup. He popularized a number of widely adapted farming rotation techniques, including the planting of sweet potatoes and legumes as a means of revitalizing overfarmed cotton fields, which earned him the nickname The Plant Doctor. A farmers bulletin on the farming of peanuts gained him widespread national acclaim, earning him celebrity status as a public speaker on both agriculture and racial issues. As the result of his extensive work, Carver became the leading African-American public figure of his time, earning him the nickname Black Leonardo in a 1941 Time magazine feature. Following Carvers death in 1943, $30,000 of funds were dedicated toward the development of a national monument in his honor, encompassing a number of preserved sites connected to his boyhood home, by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Permanent Exhibits and Attractions

Today, the George Washington Carver National Monument spans 240 acres near present-day Diamond, Missouri, including the preserved 1881 Moses Carver House and surrounding fields where Carver spent his childhood. A Visitor Center serves as an entrance to the monument, which contains a small museum with interactive exhibits on Carvers life and scientific advancements, as well as a bookstore and a theater presenting a short orientation film. An observation deck also allows for views of the areas rolling hills and expansive prairie woodlands.

Along the one-mile Carver Trail, visitors may explore the woodlands and streams of the area along a self-guided loop, along with several historic sites connected to Carvers life. The Carver Cemetery contains the grave sites of Moses and Susan Carver, though George himself is buried at a site at Tuskegee University. The parks Boy Carver Statue, commissioned in 1960 by sculptor Robert Amendola, sits near a bridge in one of the parks natural areas, and a pond on the former Moses property, Williams Pond, dates back to the 1930s and is named for Moses Carvers niece, Sarah Jane Williams, featuring several meditative plaques elaborating on Carver family history.

While the Visitor Center is entirely wheelchair-accessible, visitors with accessibility concerns should inquire with park rangers about their individual needs before embarking on the Carver Trail. Service animals are also welcome throughout the entire facility. Visitors are encouraged to stay on established trails while on the Carver Trail and discouraged from swimming, wading, fishing, or climbing on cemetery headstones. As the park is a natural preserve area, visitors are also cautioned to be on the lookout for poison ivy, ticks, and other natural hazards, and may not remove plants or wildlife from the park.

Ongoing Programs and Education

Guided tours of the monument are offered daily throughout the morning and afternoon, lasting approximately one hour and 15 minutes and including tours of the historic Moses Carver house. A variety of educational programming and demonstrations are also offered for young visitors, including hands-on reenactments of traditional farm activities such as old-fashioned laundering with lye soap and a scrub board. A natural dyes program offers art experiences with traditional mediums, and nature programming educates about the nearby plant and wildlife ecosystems that influenced Carvers scientific findings. A Junior Rangers summer program also offers the opportunity to earn participation badges and certificates in exchange for completion of park activities.

5646 Carver Rd, Diamond, MO 64840, Phone: 417-325-4151

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Attraction Spotlight: Riverbluff Cave

Located near Springfield, Missouri, Riverbluff Cave is a paleontological site that is operated as a private scientific research site. Though the cave is not open to the public, an online photo archive documents researchers findings within the cave, and the nearby Riverbluff Cave Museum offers a variety of fossils and exhibits related to the caves natural wildlife.

History

Riverbluff Cave is approximately 830,000 years old, making it the oldest fossil cave site within the United States. The cave, which is located within the Missouri Ozarks Springfield Plateau karst landscape, is approximately 2,000 feet long and contains fossils from the Pleistocene era dating back as far as 1.8 million years ago. The cave was discovered by accident in the modern era on September 11, 2001 during county-supervised blasting for the development of a new road near Springfield, Missouri. Prior to its discovery, there is no evidence that the cave had ever been accessed by humans. In order to protect its unique geological ecosystem and features, the caves entrance was covered to enclose the site following its discovery, and an airtight passageway entrance system was implemented in 2002 to create a safe entryway for researchers to access the site.

Attractions

Today, Riverbluff Cave is operated as a paleontological site overseen by the Missouri Institute of Natural Science. Exploration and fossil collection is overseen by Springfield-Greene County Parks naturalist Matt Forir and Missouri Institute of Natural Science director Lisa McCann. Though the cave is not open to the public, it is the second cave in the world to be digitally wired for virtual touring, and an archive of photography of the caves fossils and formations are showcased on the caves website.

The 830,000-year-old cave is the United States oldest fossil cave site, showcasing a wide variety of Pleistocene-era fossils and geological formations. The cave measures approximately 2,000 feet long from its entrance to its furthest room, with a large, elaborately-decorated main room encompassing its first 200 feet. Notable geological formations within the room include a calcite river, a snow cone formation, bacon-like formations, and a calcite structure known as the caves Christmas Tree. Unlike many commercial show caves within the Mississippi region, the caves speleothems and other formations remain in their original state today and have not been touched or altered for more than 55,000 years.

The caves fossils and ecosystem are indicative of Missouris climate within the interglacial Pleistocene era, which spanned from approximately 1.8 million years ago to 11,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age. During that time, the Missouri region was home to a number of animals that are typically characteristic of lower latitudes, including the peccary, a member of the artiodactyl family Tayassuidae, which also contains well-known pig and boar species. Bones of flat-headed and long-nosed pecarries have been found in caves within Missouri, Kentucky, and Texas. A passage within the cave contains the largest known tract of peccary tracks found anywhere in the world. A large number of short-faced bear fossils have also been found within the cave, along with specimens of snakes, reptiles, and giant turtles common to the area during the Pleistocene. The cave is home to a millipede specimen dating back as far as 50,000 years ago, the only documented fossilized millipede from the Pleistocene era. A number of fossils belonging to cooler-climate animals are also showcased, including American lions and mammoths.

Riverbluff Cave Museum

Though the cave is not open to the public due to the delicate nature of its contents, the Missouri Institute of Science operates the nearby Riverbluff Cave Museum, which showcases a variety of fossils and minerals excavated from the cave. The nonprofit museum is operated as an educational endeavor to showcase findings from the cave and educate visitors on the Missouri regions geological and biological history. The museum is divided into two exhibit sections, with one section exclusively dedicated to showcasing fossil findings from the cave, including giant short-faced bear fossils, peccary footprints, and mammoth bones. A reproduction of the caves giant short-faced bear scratches is presented, along with a display of fossilized dung and a comparative display of fossil skulls.

In the museums general natural history exhibit, a large collection of minerals is showcased, with some displayed under ultraviolet light to create a glow effect and illuminate the specimens. Dioramas depict the soil layers of the Missouri region and the fossils contained within each. Fossils of area dinosaurs, ancient fish, and insects are showcased, including pieces of a triceratops skeleton. The museum offers a small gift shop area selling fossils, minerals, and souvenirs. Guided group tours and presentations for elementary and secondary school student groups may be arranged by appointment.

2327 W. Farm Road 190, Springfield, MO 65810, Phone: 417-883-0594

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Attraction Spotlight: Joplin History and Mineral Museum Complex

Located in Joplin, Missouri, the Joplin History and Mineral Museum Complex contains two museums detailing the industrial and mining history of the Joplin region and the Tri-State Mining District. The Tri-State Mining District was a historic mining district in the United States Great Plains region that was formed following an 1870 discovery of zinc ore near the city of Galena, Kansas.

History

For the greater part of the next century, the district became one of the main zinc and lead ore mining regions in the world, producing more than 50 percent of the United States zinc mining products and 10 percent of its lead mining products. Major Superfund sites sprung up throughout the mid-to-late 19th and early 20th centuries in southeast Kansas, southwest Missouri, and northeast Oklahoma. Production within the Joplin-Granby region of southwest Missouris Jasper and Newton Counties began in the mid-19th century, and the city of Joplin was founded in 1873 as a mining boomtown. Though the regions mining deposits were largely abandoned in the late 1960s and early 1970s, mining conditions within the region resulted in a number of federal, state, and local cleanup and reclamation projects to reduce acidic water conditions produced from the flooding of abandoned mines.

The Joplin History and Mineral Museum was originally the vision of Dorothea B. Hoover, an instrumental figure in the creation of the citys Joplin Historical Society and its public Historical Museum facility. Hoover was the daughter of an early pioneer family and grew up during Joplins height as a mining boomtown. Following her education at Wellesley College and a professional career in Washington, D.C., Hoover returned to the Joplin area and became a major advocate for cultural and historic preservation within the region. Hoovers vision was eventually recognized by a citizen group led by Tri-State Mineral Museum curator Everett Ritchie, who created the Joplin History and Mineral Museum facility in 1994.

Permanent Exhibits and Collections

Today, the Joplin History and Mineral Museum Complex is presented as a dual museum complex, showcasing two museums detailing the social and economic history of Joplin and the Tri-State Mining District. Original museum exhibits and mineral specimen displays created by Everett Ritchie in 1994 are still on display at the museum, along with a variety of exhibits related to the social and cultural history of the city of Joplin. As a public educational museum facility, the museum strives to connect community audiences with the regions past and foster civic engagement to shape its future through its public programming.

Two distinct museum facilities are showcased at the complex, including the Everett J. Ritchie Tri-State Mineral Museum, which boasts one of the most notable mineral collections within the Tri-State Mining District region. The geology and geochemistry of the region is examined through a variety of exhibits, along with the mining methods and processes utilized by miners throughout the regions 100-year operation period. An Evolution of Mining exhibit chronicles the timeline and development of the region from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century and beyond, while a Prehistoric Finds exhibit showcases fossil finds and artifacts connected to the regions geological development and prehistory. Several special mineral collections are on display, including a Glowing Rocks exhibit that showcases minerals under fluorescent lights. A Maps Collection displays historic preserved mining maps detailing areas throughout the region, while a Mineral in Product exhibit details the everyday uses of lead and zinc and the common products the minerals are used in.

At the Dorothea B. Hoover Historical Museum, the social and cultural history of the Joplin region are explored through a variety of exhibits utilizing collections obtained by the Joplin Historical Society. Major exhibit areas chronicle the development of notable businesses and industries in the area that grew as a result of the mining districts success, such as the Empire District Electric Company exhibit. Famous Joplin residents such as Langston Hughes and Dennis Weaver are highlighted in the Famous Joplinites exhibit, while the areas connection to national figures of note is explored in a Bonnie and Clyde exhibit and a Merle Evans Miniature Circus exhibit. A Joplin Sports Hall of Fame exhibit honors local and regional sports figures, while a Parkwood and Memorial High Schools Memorabilia exhibit preserves items connected to the citys public high schools. Other major exhibits on display include a turn-of-the-century soda shop replica, a large historic cookie cutter collection, and a display of Belsnickle artistic creations by artist Linda Lindquist Baldwin.

Ongoing Programs and Events

A variety of annual public special events are hosted at the museum complex, including a three-day Spring Rock and Gem Show displaying a wide variety of rare and significant mineral and gemstone specimens. A Chatauqua weekend event also serves as a major museum fundraiser, offering a variety of public activities throughout a weekend in October. Activities presented as part of the fundraiser include a cocktail event, a downtown mural tour, and a historic walking tour.

504 S. Schifferdecker Avenue, Joplin, Missouri 64801, Phone: 417-623-1180

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Aptly named Big Sky Country, Montana is defined by its spectacularly beautiful and incredibly diverse terrain which ranges from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the endless Great Plains. The state is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, national reserves and parks in the country, including Glacier National Park. The world-renowned park is home to tranquil lakes, snow-capped peaks, and alpine hiking trails, along with the famous 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

1. Medicine Rocks State Park  Christopher Boswell/stock.adobe.com

Medicine Rocks State Park is a state park and recreation area named for a series of tall sandstone pillars with eerie undulations, holes, and tunnels in them known as the Medicine Rocks. Owned by the state of Montana, the park is 330 acres and 3,379 feet in elevation and features numerous examples of Native American rock art. Considered a sacred holy place by Plains Indians, tribes once came here in search of food and medicinal plants to use in their vision quests. The site boasts chained and isolated arches, and caves and spires reaching 80 feet high and 200 feet across, along with thousands of ancient tribal petroglyphs, inscriptions of elk, cattle brands, and military mentions, a famous profile of a woman with a flower beside a bird, and signatures of cowpunchers. Medicine Rocks State Park is open year-round, and there are 12 camping sites and a museum located nearby in Ekalaka. 1141 MT-7, Ekalaka, MT 59324, Phone: 406-377-6256

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2. Pictograph Cave State Park  Jacob/stock.adobe.com

Pictograph Cave State Park is a 23-acre state park and reserve with three caves featuring pictographs that are over 2,000 years old. Located five miles south of Billings in Montana, the park was excavated in 1937, and the pictographs were discovered, along with more than 30,000 artifacts and over 20,000 animal remains, ranging from large mammalian species to reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The deepest of the three caves, Pictograph Cave spans 160 feet wide and 45 feet deep and still has visible pictographs that document the story of the Native Americans of the area for thousands of years thought to be between 200 and 2,100 years old. The site was designated a National Historic Landmark and featured paved trails to the caves, with interpretative and informative displays detailing the prehistoric paintings, natural features, and fauna and flora found in the area. 3401 Coburn Rd, Billings, MT 59101

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3. Pirogue Island State Park  Pamela/stock.adobe.com

Pirogue Island State Park is a state park and public recreation area on the Yellowstone River with more than 2.5 miles of designated hiking trails. Located just north of Miles City, the 269-acre state park has no formal development but offers excellent hiking with interpretive signs along the trails within the park. The park is situated on an isolated, cottonwood-covered Yellowstone River island that is home to a wealth of wildlife and a wide variety of bird species including belted kingfishers, bald eagles, passerines, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Activities in the park include boating, fishing, picnicking, bird-watching, wildlife viewing, and seasonal hunting. Miles City, MT 59301, Phone: 406-377-6256



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4. Sluice Boxes State Park  PPstock/stock.adobe.com



Sluice Boxes State Park is a state park and public recreation area in the Little Belt Mountains of Montana with spectacular landscapes of towering cliffs, dramatic ledges, and deep canyons. Located 12 miles south of Belt on the Kings Hill Scenic Byway, the park consists of eight miles of the Belt Creek Canyon, which features the remains of the area's mining and railroading days. The Barker mines and the Montana Central Railroad are just a part of the rich history of Sluice Boxes State Park. Activities in the park include hiking, backcountry camping, picnicking, fishing, bird and wildlife watching, photography, and swimming. 38 Evans Riceville Rd, Belt, MT 59412, Phone: 406-454-5840

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5. Tongue River Reservoir State Park  LUGOSTOCK/stock.adobe.com



Tongue River Reservoir State Park is a state park and public recreation area on the western shore of the 12-mile-long Tongue River Reservoir a few miles north of Decker. Surrounded by the vast open prairies and densely forested canyons of southeastern Montana, the 642-acre park boasts breathtaking landscapes and offers an array of outdoor and recreational activities, ranging from boating, fishing, and swimming to camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.. The park also offers camping with electrical hookups, and there is a golf course, and two museums are located nearby in Sheridan. Decker, MT 59025, Phone: 406-757-2298

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6. Travelers' Rest State Park  GCapture/stock.adobe.com



Located at a historic and contemporary crossroads that was once a stopping point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Travelers' Rest State Park and National Historic Landmark take visitors back to a time of exploration. Located about one mile south of Lolo, the park is at the core of a campsite that was once used by the Corps of Discovery in the early 1800s and gives visitors the chance to walk in the footsteps of the two great pioneers, Lewis and Clark. Native Americans used the area as a campsite and trail junction for centuries, and today, storytellers bring their history alive as part of the programming at Travelers' Rest State Park. Travelers' Rest State Park and National Historic Landmark is home to a wealth of birds and wildlife and provides excellent hiking within the park boundaries. The park has a Visitor's Center and Museum which features exhibits of Native American handcrafts, Lewis & Clark Expedition replicas, a frontier Main Street, and Salish culture. 6717 US-12, Lolo, MT 59847

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7. Wild Horse Island State Park  suti/stock.adobe.com

Wild Horse Island is the largest island in the vast Flathead Lake, the biggest freshwater lake in Montana. The island was used by the Salish-Kootenai for centuries to pasture their horses and protect them from being stolen. The 2,164 acre-island was part of the Flathead Indian Reservation from 1872 to 1904 when unsuccessful attempts were made for agricultural development. Today, the island's scenic shoreline offers a wealth of activities ranging from boating, fishing, bird-watching, wildlife watching, sail boating, and swimming. The park is home to a range of birds and wildlife including bighorn sheep, wild horses, mule deer, bald eagles, songbirds, falcons, and waterfowl. 490 North Meridian Road, Kalispell, MT 59901, Phone: 406-752-5501



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8. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area  Noradoa/stock.adobe.com

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area straddles the border between Wyoming and Montana and has four historic ranches within its boundaries, namely the L Slash Heart Ranch, the Mason-Lovell Ranch, the Cedarvale Ranch, and the Ewing-Snell Ranch. Established by an act of Congress in 1966, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is home to the Yellowtail Dam, which harnesses the waters of the Bighorn River and offers a range of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, bird and wildlife viewing. The park is also home to nearly one-quarter of the Pryor Mountains Wild Horse Range and provides excellent hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Fort Smith, MT 59035, Phone: 406-666-2412



9. State Parks in Montana: Big Hole National Battlefield  merrimonc/stock.adobe.com

The Big Hole National Battlefield is a 1,010.61-acre park is located 10 miles west of Wisdom and commemorates the Battle of the Big Hole, where the Nez Perce fought a five-month conflict of delaying action on the site against the 7th Infantry Regiment of the United States in 1877, during their failed attempt to escape to Canada. Big Hole National Battlefield is a memorial to the people who fought and died in the battle and visitors can take a step back in time at the Visitors Center which overlooks the battlefield and features a 26-minute video program and a gallery of photographs, quotations and personal belongings of some of the battle participants. Self-guiding trails lead to points of interest on the Battlefield, the Howitzer Capture site, the Siege Area, and the Nez Perce Camp. Ranger-conducted programs are offered in summer, along with year-round introductory presentations and exhibits. 16425 Highway 43 West, Wisdom, MT 59761, Phone: 406-689-3155

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10. Montana National Parks: Glacier National Park  ricktravel/stock.adobe.com

Glacier National Park is a vast national park that rests on the United States-Canada border, encompassing over 1 million acres, two mountain ranges, over 130 lakes, and thousands of plant and animals species. This natural wonderland is at the center of what is referred to as the "Crown of the Continent Ecosystem" and is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise, with a range of recreational activities to enjoy, from hiking, biking, mountain climbing, and wildlife watching. The Park is home to the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, an engineering marvel that spans 50 miles through the park's wild interior, and boasting some of the most spectacular sights and views in Montana. Other unique locations to explore in the Park include the Goat Haunt, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier, where visitors can discover Native American history, historical homesteading sites, and soak up spectacular natural landscapes. Glacier National Park is open every day of the year. West Glacier, MT, Phone: 406-888-7800



11. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site  NPS Photo

The Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site preserves these symbols and commemorates the role of cattlemen in American history. Established in 1972 along the banks of the Clark Fork River at Cottonwood Creek by a Canadian fur trader, Johnny Grant, the park commemorates the Western cattle industry. Once the headquarters of a 10-million-acre cattle empire, the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is still a 1,500-acre ranch working ranch with rangers emulating early ranch life by tending cattle, taking care of horses and equipment, and mending fences. Visitors can tour several ranch buildings, including the bunkhouses where cowboys and ranch hands lived, and the handsome ranch house where the ranch owners stayed. 266 Warren Ln, Deer Lodge, MT 59722, Phone: 406-846-2070

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12. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument  donyanedomam/stock.adobe.com

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument stands as a memorial to the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn, one of the most famous battles in American history. The Monument stands as a testament and memorial to both the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry who were led by General Custer and the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes who fought to preserve their traditional way of life. The National Monument is also home to the Custer National Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers who fell in the battle rest in eternity, as well as the site of military action led by Frederick Benteen and Marcus Reno. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is open year-round. 756 Battlefield Tour Rd, Crow Agency, Montana 59022, Phone: 406-638-2621



13. Nez Perce National Historical Park  James Mattil/stock.adobe.com

The Nez Perce National Historical Park is a national historical park that is made up of 38 different sites and spans four states, namely Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Established in 1965, the sections include traditional aboriginal lands of the Nez Perce people, who lived on the property for thousands of years and were pursued by U.S. Army cavalry forces, fighting numerous battles against them. The park headquarters are based Spalding, Idaho, and a museum was opened here in 1983. The 38 sites of the Nez Perce National Historical Park commemorate the culture and the history of the Nimiipuu and their interaction with the pioneers, farmers, fur traders, explorers, missionaries, and settlers who moved through the area. 39063 US Hwy 95, Lapwai, ID 83540-9715, Phone: 208-843-7009



14. National Parks in Montana: Yellowstone National Park  blvdone/stock.adobe.com

Yellowstone National Park is a world-renowned wilderness recreation area atop a volcanic hot spot that spans for more than 3,500-square miles across three states and features spectacular natural scenery made up of hot springs and gushing geysers, lush forests and alpine rivers, majestic mountains, and dramatic canyons. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1872 as the first national park in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site today, the park is home to the famous gushing geysers known as Old Faithful, as well as a wealth of fauna and flora, ranging from bears and wolves to elk, bison, and moose. Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168, Phone: 307-344-7381



15. State Parks in Montana: Ackley Lake State Park  glebchik/stock.adobe.com



Nestled deep in the heart of Montana's Big Sky Country surrounded by the Little Belt Mountains and Snowy Mountains, Ackley Lake State Park is a 290-acre state park and public recreation area located four miles southwest of Hobson that is centered around 160-acre Ackley Lake. Captured by the legendary Western artist, Charlie Russell, a hundred years ago, the spectacular landscapes of this park still attract visitors who come to soak up the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a wealth of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, picnicking and camping. The well-stocked lake is home to rainbow trout which provides excellent fishing and the shoreline 15 campsites and two boat launches. 989 Ackley Lake Rd, Hobson, MT 59452, Phone: 406-727-1212

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16. State Parks in Montana: Beaverhead Rock State Park  Carlos Caetano/stock.adobe.com



Beaverhead Rock State Park is a state park that as established to protect Beaverhead Rock, also known as Point of Rocks, which is a famous rock formation overlooking the Beaverhead River. Located 12 miles south of Twin Bridges in Madison County, the rock formation resembles the head of a beaver and was discovered by a young Shoshone Indian guide traveling with the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Today, the is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is not directly accessible but can be photographed and views from a distance. 62 Beaverhead Rock Road, Twin Bridges, MT 59754, Phone: 406-834-3413



17. Chief Plenty Coups State Park  Chief Plenty Coups State Park



Situated within the Crow Reservation near the base of the Pryor Mountains, Chief Plenty Coups State Park emcompasses 195 acres on the Crow Indian Reservation. The park is centered around the last chief of the Crows log home and store, which stand as historical evidence of the chief's efforts in bringing two cultures together. The property belonged to Chief Plenty Coups, the last tribal Chief of the Apsaalooke people who left his home and property to the people of the region. The park is home to the only museum of Apsaalooke culture in the country, along with a memorial to Plenty Coups and his achievements. 1 Pryor Rd, Pryor, MT 59066, Phone: 406-252-1289

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18. Montana State Parks: Elkhorn Ghost Town State Park  Natalia Bratslavsky/stock.adobe.com



Elkhorn Ghost Town State Park is Montanas smallest state park and is located in Jefferson County in southwestern Montanas Elkhorn Mountains. The park consists of two buildings set on less than an acre of land and is sometimes considered to be a ghost town. The off-the-beaten-path abandoned town is a relic of Montana's silver mining boom, which is highlighted in one of the buildings known as Fraternity Hall. The beautifully preserved wooden building boasts a fusion of Greek Revival and gold camp architecture and features wooden pillars, a neo-classical balcony and a false front common, which was popular among western buildings in the day. Both buildings, Fraternity Hall and Gillian Hall, can be viewed year-round and the second floor of Fraternity Hall is open to the public. Helena, MT 59601, Phone: 406-495-3260



19. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park  Michael/stock.adobe.com



First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is a state park and National Historic Landmark near the city of Great Falls in Cascade County. The 1,481-acre park is home to the Ulm Pishkun, or Ulm Buffalo Jump, an ancient buffalo jump (a cliffy area where Native Americans historically used to hunt and kill plains bison in mass quantities) used by many different Native American tribes. First People's Buffalo Jump is one of only three protected buffalo jumps in the state and is the worlds largest buffalo jump. The park features a visitor's center which has displays that describe how buffalo hunts were organized, and a small gallery displaying archeological treasures from the site, including a family of stuffed bison, and a life-size buffalo-hide tipi. 342 Ulm Vaughn Rd, Ulm, MT 59485, Phone: 406-866-2217

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20. Giant Springs State Park  hoshi/stock.adobe.com



Giant Springs State Park is a state park and recreation area that is home to the world's largest freshwater spring and the Rainbow Dam. Discovered by the Lewis & Clark Expedition in 1805, Giant Springs is famous for its crisp, crystal-clear waters which originate from the Little Belt Mountains and flow from the Madison Aquifer at a rate of 156 million gallons per day. The water remains at a constant 54 degrees year-round, and during the winter the warm vapors form beautiful ice-covered trees around the springs. The park offers a wealth of year-round activities, ranging from hiking, mountain biking, camping and picnicking to boating, fishing, bird-watching and a variety of ranger and educational programs. 4803 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, Phone: 406-727-1212



21. Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park  wolterke/stock.adobe.com



Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park is a state park on the eastern edge of the community of Greycliff that was established to protect and preserve the black-tailed prairie dog. This 98-acre park is home to a large population of black-tailed prairie dogs and offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the prairie dogs in their natural environment. These small mammals play a vital ecological role as they create patches of habitat that provide prey, shelter, and forage for a diverse variety of other animals, such as black-footed ferrets, burrowing owls, and mountain plovers. The park features interpretive displays that tell the story of the prairie dogs and their role in the prairie ecosystem and the little creatures can be viewed from the parking area. 2300 Lake Elmo Drive, Billings, Montana 59105, Phone: 406-247-2940



22. Montana State Parks: Hell Creek State Park  schankz/stock.adobe.com



Hell Creek State Park is a state park and public recreation area on the south side of Fort Peck Lake that offers a wealth of outdoor and recreational activities. Located 20 miles north of the community of Jordan, the park rests on the Hell Creek Arm of Fort Peck Lake and is surrounded by spectacular natural scenery, which attracts outdoor lovers. The park boasts five camping loops with excellent camping facilities, a boat launch for boat camping in the wild and scenic Missouri Breaks, fishing for walleye, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. Other facilities include a playground, a fish cleaning station, picnic tables, fire rings and grills, and showers and toilet facilities. Hell Creek has five camping loops offering plenty of camping opportunities. 2456 Hell Creek Rd, Jordan, MT 59337, Phone: 406-557-2362

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23. Montana State Parks: Lake Elmo State Park  kitty45/stock.adobe.com Lake Elmo State Park is a state park and public recreation area the northeast side of Billings that occupies 123 acres and offers a variety of outdoor and recreational activities. Resting at an elevation of 3,199 feet, the parks Lake Elmo is ideal for watersports such as leisure boating, swimming, fishing, and sunbathing on one of three beach-front areas. There is also a fishing pier, grassed multi-use areas, a childrens playground, group-use shelters, and fenced-in dog park on the lake's west side. Other activities that can be enjoyed in the park include cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, bird and wildlife-watching. 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Road, Whitehall, MT 59759, Phone: 406-287-3541



24. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park  EvanTravels/stock.adobe.com Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is a state park in southeastern Jefferson County that is named for its primary feature  the namesake limestone caverns. Montana's first and best-known state park was established to showcase the spectacular limestone caverns, which are naturally air-conditioned and lined with massive columns, helictites, stalactites, and stalagmites. The park is also home to a new visitors center with an amphitheater, a large campground with overnight cabins, a tipi, and showers that are open year-round, picnic areas, and several hiking trails. Amenities and services in the park include mountain biking, fishing, guided and self-guided interpretive nature walks, bird and wildlife watching. Whitehall, MT 59759, Phone: 406-287-3541



25. Montana State Parks: Yellow Bay State Park  nopporn/stock.adobe.com Yellow Bay State Park is a state park and public recreation area on the eastern shore of Flathead Lake that offers an array of outdoor and recreational activities. Nestled in valleys of sweet cherry orchards in Lake County, the 15-acre park includes Yellow Bay Creek and a broad, stony beach which is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, scuba-diving, pleasure boating, trout fishing, and waterskiing. Day-use areas have picnic tables, pedestal grills, flush toilets, and drinking water, and a boat ramp and dock are available for launching. A golf course can be found nearby in Polson, along with three museums. 490 North Meridian Road, Kalispell, MT 59901, Phone: 406-982-3034



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Zhao Kezhi was appointed minister of public security in accordance with the decision by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) at a bi-monthly session, which closed on Saturday.

Zhao replaced Guo Shengkun, currently secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Committee under the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

Zhao was previously the secretary of CPC Hebei Provincial Committee.

After the Standing Committee concluded its session, Zhao attended an oath-taking ceremony to pledge his allegiance to the Constitution.
Empowering female entrepreneurs is a no-brainer in the most important areas - employment generation and sustainable development; the evidence is that they are more responsible stewards, writes Thu Van.

The sad, shocking sight of large amounts of dragonfruit being fed to cattle or left to rot on roadsides in many places smote her heart.

Le Nguyen was also haunted by the fate of farmers in the southern province of Binh Thuan, a principal producer of dragon fruit in Viet Nam, as prices fell and they suffered huge losses in 2014 and 2015.

She thought about ways to redeem the situation and ensure it would not be repeated. She came up with the idea of establishing a co-operative to buy dragonfruit at a stable and reasonable price from local farmers, and to make wine with it as an added value product.

I wanted to do this so that farmers wouldnt have to sell their crops to traders at any price, or throw the fruit away, and of course I wanted to make a profitable product, Nguyen said.

In November 2015, the Ham uc Co-operative was set up with 17 members, all farmers in Ham uc Commune, Ham Thuan Bac District. By the end of 2016, they had produced 60,000 litres of dragonfruit wine, and by the end of this year, the output is expected to almost triple at 170,000 litres. The co-operative now hires 22 workers, mostly local women.

A female entrepreneurs initiative has helped stabilise farmers lives and generated employment for local women, facilitating genuinely sustainable growth.

At a time when the world economy is stagnating, and jobs and other forms of income generation have become hot topics, female entrepreneurship, particularly at the grassroots level, assumes greater importance.

At the APEC Women and the Economy Forum held late September in Hue City, a joint-statement called for members to support womens access to capital and markets, skills development, leadership and application of innovation and technology.

We recognise womens immense contribution to the achievement of sustainable, innovative and inclusive growth in the region and acknowledge the remarkable contribution of MSMEs to the GDP of every APEC economy, the statement said.

It called on the private sector to champion an inclusive business agenda, giving women greater roles, whether as workers, suppliers, distributors, customers or consumers.

APEC leaders also encouraged the public and private sectors to collaborate on gender-responsive policies that improve access to resources and opportunities for women-led enterprises.

Currently, in the 21 APEC economies, approximately 600 million women are in the labour force, and over 60 per cent of them are engaged in the formal sector, contributing up to US$89 billion annually to the bloc. Placing these figures in the context of APEC contributing more than 50 per cent of global real GDP growth only underlines the value and importance of boosting womens access to growth opportunities.

A Goldman Sachs report has said that unlocking the potential of women by narrowing the gender gap could lead to a 14 per cent rise in per capita incomes by the year 2020 in several APEC economies, including China, Russia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Viet Nam, and Korea.

Therefore, it does not make socio-economic sense that women face more challenges than men in the business world.

Multiple barriers

In this years Global Talent Competitiveness Index, Viet Nam was placed 88th in terms of business opportunities for women.

Kamal Malhotra, Co-Chair of the Informal Ambassadors and Heads of Agencies Gender Policy Coordination Group and Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in Viet Nam, said there were multiple barriers to equal access, participation and progress in the labour market for women in Viet Nam.

The Labour Code reflects the presumption that only women have responsibility for family and home care. This provides a rationale for excluding women from jobs that are considered unsuitable for them.

The notion that a particular skill, job or industry is better suited to one sex leads to horizontal segregation of the labour market, often clustering women into the informal sector and lower paying jobs, he said.

Many Vietnamese women have experienced this, including Le Nguyen of the Ham uc Dragonfruit Co-operative.

Nguyen, who graduated as an engineer in 2004, first managed to open her own construction company in 2010. But she was not lucky enough to have the support of her husband, and a year later they divorced. Nguyen took care of their two kids.

My husband didnt want me to do business, just stay at home and take care of the housework, she said.

When our conflicts could not be solved, I chose my career, she said.

But the choice came at a high price, she feels.

I totally didnt want it. I dont want and dont think any woman who wants to go out there and have her own business should have to sacrifice their families for that, she said.

Hai Yen, director of Benew, a clothing company in Ha Noi, shared Nguyens feelings.

Although I have a happy family, my husband does not really support the fact that Im a businesswoman, said Yen, whose company employs 20 people.

So its pretty much just me when I have difficulties or trouble in my work, and sometimes, its very stressful when you cant share this with your partner.

Wide gap

A report titled Towards Gender Equality in Viet Nam: Making Inclusive Growth Work for Women, prepared by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and the Institute for Family and Gender Studies, Viet Nam Academy of Social Sciences, noted that while a number of job opportunities have opened up for female workers in export-oriented manufacturing sectors, women are less likely than men to receive training and be promoted.

The gender-earning gap has also widened. The report found that agriculture was still the main source of livelihood for a large portion of the population, particularly for women in the central-north and Central Highlands regions. Besides, a large percentage of women work without pay on their family farms. This leaves them vulnerable, with limited opportunities to earn more secure incomes and become more productive.

Women also spend disproportionately more time on unpaid domestic work in comparison with men. The burden of unpaid work limits womens access to economic opportunities and capacity to engage in paid work, according to the report.

Credit discrimination

A recent report by the Mekong Business Initiative (MBI) showed that apart from gender-specific barriers, many challenges facing women-owned businesses are generic and also shared by male business owners. These include limited capital, inadequate market information and a shortage of skilled employees.

Nguyen said her dream is to open a factory that can produce dragon fruit juice, but she does not have the financial capacity to do so.

It would cost a lot to set up such factory, and bank loans are very difficult to access for small businesses like mine, she said.

Although theres no gender bias, banks would require conditions that new companies like the Ham uc Co-operative cant meet. I understand that banks have their risks  so I dont blame them but am trying to find my way round and saving up money gradually to expand my business.

A study released in October by the International Finance Corporation, an affiliate of the World Bank Group, found that while Viet Nams investment climate for women is generally supportive, there was a large financing gap between womens demand for capital and what they tend to receive.

According to the countrys 2014 GSO Enterprise Census, Viet Nams women own 95,906 or about 21 per cent of formal enterprises. Some 57 per cent of these are micro-enterprises; and 42 per cent are SMEs. Women-owned businesses are also similar in size to that of men, with similar average annual revenues, (the 2015 Enterprise Census showed average annual revenue of US$548,000 for small women-owned enterprises against $543,000 for men).

However, the study said that even when women entrepreneurs do qualify for a bank loan, they tend to receive less than what they ask for, and lower amounts than men. As it stands, the financing gap is estimated at $1.19 billion for women-owned SMEs.

Most banks either see no need for a different approach to women entrepreneurs, or view the segment as less profitable, said ao Quang Hung, deputy director of the Viet Nam Prosperity Banks SMEs Division.

This is because of the misconceptions that women are less business savvy and require more support, and are therefore costlier customers to acquire and serve, he said.

Kyle Kelhofer, IFC Country Manager for Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao PDR, said: It is an opportune time for banks to recognise women-owned SMEs as a separate and strategic customer segment, with uniquely tailored products and services.

Hung of VPBank said that according to their data, the fact is that when women who own businesses take loans, they tend to be more serious about repayment than men and are more careful in running their businesses.

Even in times of difficulties, women are better at managing situations, Hung said.

A viable strategy

VPBank was one of the first banks in Viet Nam to adopt a strategy specifically designed for women-owned businesses; and now, around 25 per cent of its SME clients having loan are women.

The bank expresses their ambition of increasing the women owned business in their portfolio significantly in coming years.

The bank is also facilitating free-access to non-financial services for women-owned SMEs, where female entrepreneurs can share experiences with each another and find new connections for their businesses.

I found these activities very helpful as I get to network and learn from other enterprises. I think non-financial support like helping SMEs with financial management skills, customer care services, networking, and so on are very useful, said Hai Yen, director of the Benew clothing company.

World Bank Country Director for Viet Nam, Ousmane Dione, spoke of the need to address specific constraints on access to finance for women, such as lack of collateral and necessary documentation.

Viet Nam has set the target of having 35 per cent of businesses owned by women in 2020. But in order to foster womens participation in economic sectors, Viet Nam, as well as other APEC members, have much to do.

Given the urgent need for sustainable development, policy makers and other stakeholders, including banks, should be motivated by the fact that enabling women like Nguyen and Yen to do business will yield disproportionately higher returns.  VNS
The launch of production plans for the first-ever made-in-Viet Nam cars has ignited hopes of a big boost for the domestic auto and auto parts industries. Viet Nam News reporter Mai Huong spoke with VinFast CEO James B. DeLuca about the companys market vision.

What does your companys advent portend for Viet Nams auto industry?

The domestic automobile market is growing strongly with a double-digit rate from now to 2020, reaching total sales of about 450,000 to 500,000 vehicles, with expectations to reach 800,000 to 900,000 vehicles by 2025. With VinFasts entry, we believe that domestic automobile market will experience even stronger growth.

There are high hopes for the first ever made-in-Viet Nam car. Please tell us about VinFasts production plans.

As planned, VinFast will launch its first Sedan and SUV in September 2019, targeting sales of 100,000 vehicles in the first year of operation and 500,000 units by 2025. With the guidelines of adapting to new and environmental friendly technologies, VinFast will apply the most modern technologies in the world to production, ensuring strict compliance with Euro 5 and Euro 6.0 emission standards; at the same time, we will maximize the use of green energy in our production process at the factory.

To accomplish these objectives, we have been building a team of highly experienced professionals in automobile manufacturing. In addition, VinFast has also cooperated with world leading corporations such as Boston Consulting Group, Bosch and Siemens in the project planning process, for equipment and component supply, and digital-based plant operations.

VinFast is also co-operating the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce in Viet Nam to set up a leading training center for mechatronics and industrial mechanics in the Southeast Asia, following the German Dual System (Learn & Practice) standards so as to prepare high-qualified engineers to work in the factory, ensure proficiency in operation of modern production lines as well as the ability to receive technology transfers from partners.

With careful and systematic preparation, I am very enthusiastic and look forward to launching the first two sedans and SUV models of VinFast.

Taking shape: The Sedan 02 model of Ital Design.

There is speculation that VinFast is targeting high-end cars. Why not the lower market segment to meet broader consumption demand?

By applying the most advanced technologies, VinFast will manufacture vehicles of international quality at reasonable prices for domestic market, ensuring that the majority of Vietnamese people can own a car.

It is also said that designs of key components will be purchased from leading European and American designers. What parts and components will Vietnamese companies produce for VinFast?

VinFast will always endeavor to build close relationships with domestic partners and suppliers, aiming at gradually achieving a localization rate of 60 per cent. Our plan is to prioritize the purchase of made-in-Viet Nam parts that meet technical criteria set by VinFast, and assist other domestic suppliers in further accelerating the production of automotive parts using the most modern technology. In particular, VinFast will reserve 30 per cent of the area for suppliers at the VinFast Automobile Manufacturing Complex in inh Vu-Cat Hai Economic Zone in Hai Phong City. We have held many meetings and discussions on this topic recently.

VinFast has said it aims to become the leading automobile manufacturer in Southeast Asia. What will make your products stand out from others?

Our products will be manufactured in compliance with international standards, from car body to motors, mechanical systems, technologies, and interior decoration. We have a clear direction to create a series of safe, high-quality, luxurious and premium cars that meet consumers tastes. All production stages will be directly operated by leading manufacturing experts and technologies. So, we believe that our products will compete well with other products of similar type in the world.VNS
While the USs withdrawal is a big blow to the TPP, the agreement forged after five years of negotiations still has a lot to offer. Vo Tri Thanh explains.

In February 2016, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), one of the worlds biggest and most-awaited multinational trade deals was signed by 12 member economies in New Zealand. The deal was the fruit of negotiations that had lasted five years.

It can be said that the trade deal was most expected because it offered great advantages and potentials to the signatories.

First of all, TPP would have a substantial impact on trade, investment and growth of member economies. With high standards that outperform traditional free trade agreements (FTAs) in both scope and depth of commitment, it took freedom of trade to a higher level, with not just greater tax cuts, but also the lowest restrictive non-tariff barriers, creating favourable conditions for exports that would help fuel extra economic growth.

In their working paper on TPPs economic effects in 2016, Professor Peter A. Petri from the Brandeis University and Professor Micheal Plummer from Johns Hopkins University predicted member-country incomes would rise by US$465 billion (1.1 per cent) and exports by $1,025 billion (11.5 per cent) annually by 2030, when the agreement is almost fully followed.

Secondly, TPP would be a driving force for strong institutional reforms because it sets out regulations that facilitate trade and investment liberalisation, and forms rules for sensitive issues that are often bottlenecks in global economic integration, thereby forcing member economies to change behind-border policies. Such issues include competition, e-commerce, intellectual property rights, labour standards, State-owned enterprises, government procurement, and environment protection.

Thirdly, it was a regional agreement of the best quality so far, in the sense that it was a prototype for other FTAs. More importantly, APEC leaders agreed that the TPP could become a stepping stone for a much wider Free Trade Agreement of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), a long-term goal of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

Thats the reason why after the deal was signed, a number of countries in the region expressed interest in joining it, concerned that they would lag and be left behind.

In fact, TPP talks began in 2011 with just nine nations  Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Viet Nam and the United States (US). Three others  Japan, Canada and Mexico  asked to join later.

Reaching the signing stage is just an important step, noted New Zealand Prime Minister John Key at the signing ceremony. The massive trade pact is still just a piece of paper, or rather over 16,000 pieces of paper until it actually comes into force.

To take real effect, the TPP had to undergo a two year ratification period in which at least six countries that account for 85 per cent of the combined gross domestic production (GDP) of the 12 TPP nations approved the final text.

Given their economic size, both the United States and Japan would need to ratify the deal, because the US alone accounts for nearly 60 per cent of the groups GDP.

If everything went smoothly, the deal was supposed to take effect early next year.

However, when the countries were yet to get half-way with their ratification processes, the new US administration announced its withdrawal from the pact on the very first day its new president took office as part of his America First policy.

Though the announcement did not shock the world much as many politicians and businessmen had envisioned TPPs future with the US absent from it under its new leader, but the withdrawal was still something that no member economy was prepared for.

Former US President Barack Obama was a strong supporter of the TPP, which he claimed was a tool to remove international barriers to trade and investment, connecting 40 per cent of the worlds economy.

And it is undeniable that the worlds largest economy had led and contributed a large part to setting rules and regulations for negotiations.

Given its economic, trade, investment and service figures, it is true that to an extent, the US administrations decision to pull out of the deal has diminished the TPPs significance and values, forcing member economies to reconsider the grounds of the deal.

Still, amidst the emerging protectionism and anti-trade liberalisation sentiment, we can still see the deals vitality beyond the basic nature of a free trade agreement.

TPPs vitality

The vitality of TPP was evidenced by the gathering of remaining members of the agreement in May in Ha Noi on the sidelines of an APEC meeting. They looked for ways to move the trade deal forward without the US.

The 11 member countries agreed on three points.

They unanimously reaffirmed balancing outcomes and the economic and strategic significance of TPP and agreed to realise the benefits the deal can bring about. They were also determined to consider alternative TPP-11 scenarios before the APEC Summit 2017 taking place later this week in the central city of a Nang, including favourable conditions for those who signed the TPP.

The members also emphasised the possibility of TPP extension to other economies that can meet and accept the high standards of the agreement.

Since then, negotiators showed little signs of stopping. There have been four TPP-11 official meetings: one in Sydney in August and three in Tokyo in July, September and early November.

To make the TPP-11 real and as significant as TPP-12, the members have to deal with a couple of challenges.

One is to keep several countries on board, especially those that would have benefited most from the deal if the US did not go away. Now, the opportunity to get better access to the US market is fading, they want to renegotiate some points.

If some key regulations were frozen or removed, the TPP might not become a high-standard agreement as expected.

This also means that countries are trading off between benefits of market access thanks to trade and investment liberalisation, and chances for implementing institutional reforms which is a foundation for sustainable development.

Besides, the perception of TPP as a legal contract for member nations or a template for wider and deeper regional integration would continue to drive the way they act.

However, there is a hope that the changes in the playing rules, if any, will be minimum, so that the spirit of a high-quality agreement would remain.

And the TPP would continue to serve as a building block for the realisation of the FTAAP because APEC has since 2006 been tasked with the role of an incubator for a FTAAP.

Viet Nams commitment

Viet Nam was invited to join the TPP negotiations from the very beginning as an associate member and guest. After attending three sessions of negotiations, Viet Nam officially joined the TPP on 11 January, 2010.

According to a 2012 study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE), Viet Nam would have had the largest income and export increase among the 12 TPP countries, with growth rates of 13 per cent and 37 per cent, respectively, compared to a base line with no TPP.

Source: Foreign Investment Agency

It was estimated that the TPP would potentially help increase Viet Nams GDP by $23.5 billion in 2020 and $33.5 billion in 2025, with exports to increase by $68 billion in 2025.

Most of these gains would come from Viet Nams growing production and export of apparel and footwear, which would benefit from the removal of high duties in TPP member countries, especially the US.

Therefore, the USs withdrawal would have much more of a negative impact on Viet Nam than any other member.

Kenichi Kawasaki, a professor at Japans National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), has pointed out in a research paper this year that Viet Nams real GDP gains from tariff reductions offered by TPP-11 would tumble to 1.10 per cent from 6.79 per cent offered by TPP-12.

However, this loss does not mean that Viet Nam is no longer keen on joining the trade pact.

Viet Nam still has reasons to strongly support the TPP-11. Kawasakis estimated non-tariff reductions in TPP-11 would still bring substantial economic gains even after the USs withdrawal (9.29 per cent in real GDP gains). If the membership increases in the future, Viet Nam will benefit from access to more markets.

In fact, the deal had brought many advantages even before it came into force. One is easily seen: foreign direct investment worth billion of dollars flowing into Viet Nam to take advantage of the TPP deal, inspiring local businesses.

According to numbers from the Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, as of the end of 2016, apart from Peru, Papua New Guinea, and Chile which do not yet have any projects in Viet Nam, the other 17 APEC members have already entered the country, registering projects worth a total of $230 billion, making up 78.5 per cent of the total FDI flow into Viet Nam over the past 30 years.

Notably, of the top 10 biggest investors in Viet Nam, besides British Virgin Islands ranking 5th, the remaining nine spots belong to APEC members.

Besides, the high-quality deal will require Viet Nam to make structural adjustments, including enhancing transparency and the rules of law, implementing new labour and environmental standards, and improve the competitiveness and efficiency of Sate-owned enterprises, among other significant changes.

If the core of TPP obligations is preserved, TPP-11 would continue to be a catalyst for Viet Nams strong institutional reform, especially as globalisation and integration remain inevitable trends.

With this in mind, Viet Nam has been and will be a responsible member, actively contributing to creating a positive outcome at the APEC Summit 2017. It could be the TPP-11 members signing a document or promising to sign one in a near future.

And who knows, one day, the US might return.  VNS

*Thanh is Chairman of the Vietnam National Council for Pacific Economic Cooperation. He is a senior economist at the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) and a member of the National Financial and Monetary Policy Advisory Council. A doctorate holder in economics from the Australian National University, Thanh mainly undertakes research and provides consultation on issues related to macro-economic policies, trade liberalisation and international economic integration. Other areas of interest include institutional reforms and financial systems.
Viet Nam News CMC Corporation, one of the leading Vietnamese ICT group, recently announced its Go Global strategy to expand to foreign countries, starting with Japan. Chairman/CEO of the corporation Nguyen Trung Chinh and CMC Japans CEO Kumeda Masakuni spoke with Viet Nam News reporter Yen Vy about the companys global strategy and the Vietnamese ICT industry. Nguyen Trung Chinh, Chairman/CEO of CMC Corporation

CMC Corporation recently announced its strategy to Go Global, could you introduce the strategy to Viet Nam News readers?

CMC Global was established in March this year with the aim of promoting the export of software and IT products. We want to introduce our best products to international markets. Previously, we had worked with many foreign partners, but recently, we determined to go to the global market by ourselves. CMC Global will be the face of our group.

The way we go in will not only be software outsourcing but IT services and products. In the past years, we have co-operated with many foreign partners, including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, France, Germany and the United States (US).

For example, we built labs for Vietnamese customers of IBM Viet Nam. We were also chosen by Honda Viet Nam over many other competitors in providing SAP ERP services. This has proved our quality as Japanese companies are mostly customers with high demand.

Through these experiences, we are more confident to step outside the border of Viet Nam and go to other countries.

On November 7, CMC Japan will officially open in Yokohama. We received an investment licence in August with a total investment capital of US$2 million. We expect to increase this to $5 million or $10 million in the future.

By 2020, CMC Global intends to have 1,000 to 1,500 employees. We also expect that CMC Global will bring us a revenue similar to that of the domestic market.

After the Japanese market, CMC will continue to expand market to more ASEAN countries, including Singapore, Asian countries such as South Korea then to Europe and the US.

CMC will inaugurate its first branch in Japan this month. Why did the corporation choose Japan as its first market to enter?

A report from Gartner last year showed that the value of outsourcing the market of Japan was about $30 billion per year. Therefore, there are many opportunities for technology companies like us to invest.

We approached the Japanese market 10 years ago, but were only doing outsourcing. Our determination was not drastic enough at that time. Therefore, the success and revenue was small. As I mentioned, we have had many Japanese partners before, but we have not had any official companies based in the locality.

Having a company based in the locality, it is easier for us to connect to Japanese customers. For CMC Japan, not only Vietnamese, we even employ foreign human resources from Japan and China.

Being a corporation managing more than 2,000 ICT technicians in Viet Nam. How do you evaluate the level of Vietnamese ICT staffs?

The countrys ICT human resource is lacking in both quality and quantity. To enhance ICTs human resources here, there should be policies boosting more resources to invest in education, including both individuals and enterprises. We also need to renovate teaching methods. Vietnamese students need more chances to practise in reality.

There should be more linkages between universities and enterprises so that universities can produce staffs that meet the demand of enterprises while enterprises can invest in facilities for schools. We built a research and development (R&D) institute, an innovation centre and we also have policies to promote creativeness.

To ensure staff for our global market of up to 1,000-1,500 people, we built our own R&D institute so that we can train our own people. In the future, we hope to have more connections with universities and colleges so that we can recruit more employees meeting our demands after they graduate.

Besides the R&D Institute, we have CMC Innovation Centre, which is a place to connect and share ideas. We often organise meetings to share research results. We also have an innovative fund, just like angel capital.

In 2008-2009, we invested in a group, which has now become CMC InfoSec, a leading security company in Viet Nam.

Could you tell us about the newest achievements of the corporation as well as its development strategy. What are the key fields that the group wants to promote, especially in the context of the 4.0 industry?

At the moment, we are building an organisation in a popular creative model that many companies in the world are applying, such as Google.

In addition, we are transferring traditional service products to digitalisation. We will focus on building a cloud platform for enterprise customers.

Fintech platform is one of the fields we are interested in. We are working with FE Credit and banks.

In the context of Internet of Things development, there are more and more risks from information sercurity. Therefore, CMC is also strengthening investment to enhance capacity of cyber security.

Overcoming 24 years of building and developing, CMC is now one of the leading ICT companies in Viet Nam. Being the leader of such a successful company, what is your advice for Vietnamese ICT enterprises in the integration period?

My advice for Vietnamese ICT companies or start-ups is that they should determine goals and firmly pursue them.

One of the advantages of the ICT industry over other industries is that there is no border on the Internet environment. A company or a start-up doesnt need a large investment for space or facility. They just need one or more computers and work at simple places, even at home or at a coffee shop.

In addition, it is easy to approach users worldwide by uploading products on iOS or Android platforms. Thousands to millions users can see your products.

The importance is that if your products are good, it may be easy to go viral and many people in the world will know about this. Flappy Bird is a typical example.

Kumeda Masakuni, CEO of CMC Japan

CMC Corporation will inaugurate its branch in Japan. Could you share the goal of the project?

Leveraging over 24 years of experience in the field of ICT and more than 10 years of outsourcing experience of CMC Corporation, CMC Japan was established with the goal of providing products and services with the best quality to customers in the Japanese market. We believe that with the professional experiences that meet global standards, we will meet the needs of Japanese enterprises in the areas of technology, automation, services and IT integrated solutions.

Having had experiences for a long time in the field of ICT and worked with many multinational companies such as Oracle, IBM, CISCO, NetOne or EMC Japan, what are the reasons for you to choose to work for CMC?

I am a kind of person who likes challenges. With CMC, I realise both opportunities and challenges. Before accepting the position as CEO of CMC Japan, I had the opportunity to visit and work at CMC Corporation and its member companies such as CMC Soft or CMC Telecom. My appreciation for CMC is not only a unit with 24 years of experience, one of the top 2 ICT enterprises in Viet Nam but also a young, innovative and disciplined organisation. The challenge is a market like Japan, but I believe CMC Japan and I will have many opportunities with the support of CMC parent company and its 10 member companies.

With your experiences, what are your plans for the development of CMC Japan?

I will try to make the most of my 30-year experience in the field of ICT in Japan. I will wholeheartedly build and develop CMC Japan in line with CMCs globalisation strategy and soon become a leading company in providing ICT solutions and services in this market.

How do you evaluate CMC Corporation in particular and Vietnamese ICT companies in general?

I think that Vietnamese IT enterprises have good capacity, especially plentiful, young and responsible human resources. As for CMC, I realise that this is a technology group with strong internal strength with sustainable development and especially has a core competitive competency that is human. CMC people are young technologists who possess the core values of creativity, professionalism and teamwork.

Japan is a potential market to Vietnamese ICT businesses. In your opinion, what are the strengths and difficulties of Vietnamese companies when approaching and developing in the Japanese market?

In my opinion, the strength of Vietnamese enterprises when approaching and developing in the Japanese market, is the abundant human resources. Japan currently lacks more than 100,000 IT engineers. The number is expected to reach 230,000 by 2020, and 590,000 by 2030.

Therefore, there are many opportunities for Vietnamese businesses to provide human resources for the market. However, the difficulty is to improve the quality of human resources to ensure they can maximise their ability of deployment and creativity.

The second strong point is that Vietnamese businesses have good capacity, qualified and comprehensive products and services, which are fully capable of competing with businesses in this market.

However, language and culture barriers are also difficult and challenging for Vietnamese businesses, which requires them to try and improve.  VNS
A NANG  Senior representatives from APEC will hold a news conference on Tuesday in the central city of a Nang to provide insights into the weeks meetings of the regions leaders and ministers to shape the direction of Asia-Pacific trade and globalisation policy.

The news conference will examine key issues for the 21 Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) member economies, which account for half of world trade and nearly 60 per cent of GDP, a news release issued by the APEC Secretariat on Sunday said.

It will further provide insights into the outlook for trade and growth, and associated policy recommendations from the latest APEC Regional Trends Analysis to be launched at the event, the press release said.

The press conference immediately follows the Chair of APEC Senior Officials post-Concluding APEC Senior Officials Meeting (CSOM) news conference at the newly-built International Media Centre in the city.

Guided by Viet Nams permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and 2017 Chair of APEC Senior Officials, the CSOM will take place in a Nang on Monday and Tuesday and finalise measures for boosting trade participation and employment across the economies.

The first three SOMs were held across the country throughout the year including SOM 1 in the coastal city of Nha Trang, SOM 2 in Ha Noi and SOM 3 in HCM City.

Executive Director of the APEC Secretariat Dr Alan Bollard and Director of the APEC Policy Support Unit Dr Denis Hew will preside over the press briefing.

The event will focus on topics including the context of the APEC Economic Leaders Week and expectations for APEC Leaders and Ministers meetings in a Nang.

In an interview with the APEC bulletin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh said leaders and ministers are meeting at a time when global and regional landscapes are undergoing complex and rapid transformation.

It is true that there are many risks and uncertainties in the regional and global economies, he added.

However, we are encouraged to see stronger economic prospects, and trade continues to be a key driver of regional and global growth and a main employment generator. Asia-Pacific remains a bright spot, with growth rates higher than global levels, said Minh who will co-chair the APEC Ministerial Meeting on Wednesday, together with Viet Nams Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh.

Latest trade and growth trends/outlook for the region as well as challenges in the trading landscape and institutions that support it will also be on the agenda of the press conference.  VNS
By Thien Huong

On the tourist routes of central Viet Nam, Hoi An ancient town offers a change of pace from the normal hustle and bustle of cities. The small town boasts mossy old churches, temples and wooden houses dotted along small lanes shadowed with green and flowery climbing vines.

While many visitors stroll the ancient town, enjoy local cuisine and purchase souvenirs, they may miss out on seeing life in the traquil villages in the area, where locals plant vegetables and fish. Thanks to a crop of local tour companies, tourists may participate in homestays to join villagers in their work.

Jack Tran Tours, originally known as Hoi An Eco-Tour, has been among the most successful tour companies in Hoi An, offering opportunities for tourists to experience local lifestyles.

The company was established in 2005 by Tran Van Khoa, who is also known as Jack Tran and the director, with his parents, younger brother and a cousin.

My first purpose is to create a unique ecological tourism product for Hoi An, Khoa said. The service is tied to the local community. Jack Tran Tours has received the certificate of excellence for tour operators in Viet Nam for five succeeding years. The company designs tours on local rivers, in which tourists can both admire natural scenery and experience to plant vegetables, ride buffaloes, ride coracles and learn how to fish while understand about history and culture of Cam Thanh Village. They also spend time collecting rubbish to contribute to environmental protection in the area.

As a tourism enterprise, we would like to help improve locals lives by making them involved in the tours, Khoa/Jack said, More than anyone else, farmers can best introduce their homeland, and guide tourists in farming and fishing techniques while protecting the local environment.

After 12 years, the company now has 45 staff, who deal with office tasks, tour guiding and coordinating with hundreds of farmers in the surrounding villages of Cam Thanh, Cam Chau, An My, Tra Que, Phuoc Hai, Cua ai and Duy Hai.

Joining Jack Tran Tours service for the past 12 years, 67-year-old Mai Van Truc, a retired fisherman, said he is happy to act as a guide to help tourists learn to fish.

My wife and I had not been able to imagine one day we could host so many foreigners, who were interested in our daily tasks, until Mr Khoa/Jack proposed us for the job, Truc said, We even can earn stable income from the service.

Bui Thi Hue, 23, has worked as a tour guide for the company for five years after she finished high school.

I love the job, she said, It offers me more than I expected. I have met so many interesting people.

Some tourists are really nice to help me improve my English, invite me to join them in exploring the area after the tour, and some even promised to sponsor me to learn computer skills and enter university, she said.

Castaway: A fishing tour allows tourists to learn local techniques.

Besides various tours to explore aspects of local life, like the sunrise fish market and local fishing villages, the company now also offers tours to nearby Cu Lao Cham Island and sea fishing as well as homestays.

Tripadvisor has ranked Jack Tran Tours No 1 of 151 outdoor activities in Hoi An.

We have just arrived back at the hotel after spending the day on a great day out, wrote tourist with nick name Jimbobbins from London on March 17, After looking at the prices and various tour options available with Eco-Tours, we were unsure which to pick... However, as Hoi An is such a beautiful place, we decided to go for the full day Country Life Experience... And I have to say, it was worth spending the money.

The whole day was well thought out, organised and involved meeting so many local people with different skills, talents and trades, patiently showing us and teaching us how they earn a living, and encouraging us to try to replicate, he added.

However, encouragements by customers have not helped Khoa forget what he is facing.

Rapid development in tourism has affected the local environment and disrupted animal and plant life in the green nipa forest.

We still have two basic purposes of sharing benefits from tourism with local community and being active in saving environment, Khoa said. We offer the chance for tourists to join us in planting forests, gathering rubbish on rivers and beaches and mobilizing locals to live in harmony with nature.

Khoa added that Hoi Ans tourism environment industry is challenged by the lack of proper infrastructure to accommodate the rapid development happening today.VNS
HA NOI  The Government has decided to abolish the decades-old household registration book system.

Future citizen management will be performed with a new online national database, according to Resolution 112/NQ-CP on the simplification of administrative procedures signed by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc last week.

Each citizen will be issued a new ID card with a 12-digit national identification (NI) number, which incorporates all basic personal information, some of which is currently recorded in household registration books, known in Vietnamese as so ho khau, and identity card, or chung minh thu.

The new ID card will include information such as name, place of birth, fingerprints, permanent address, marital status, and all data relating to births, deaths, number of children and criminal convictions.

With the abolishment of the household registration book, some time-consuming administrative procedures, such as procedures to change persons listed in a book, procedures to obtain a new book when moving houses, or procedures to void permanent residency, will be scrapped.

The procedures to declare temporary residence with ward- and commune-level police will also be abolished.

Citizens will also no longer be required to present household registration books and ID cards when registering vehicles, registering businesses, or procedures at border gates.

Instead, all personal procedures will be performed with the NI number, as all changes of personal information will be updated on the national database and recorded in each persons NI number.

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Tran Hong Phu, deputy director of the Department on Residential Management Registration and National Citizen Database, under the Ministry of Public Security, told Dan Tri e-newspaper that until the end of 2018 and early 2019, the ministry will complete gathering personal information on all the population to improve efficiency when conducting administrative procedures.

The issuance of the new ID card is being conducted in 16 cities and provinces across the country in a pilot project and will be expanded.

The Government has planned that by 2020, all Vietnamese citizens will be provided the new ID card with NI numbers.

Since becoming effective in the 1960s, the household registration book system has played an important role in Vietnamese peoples lives. As a main method for the Government to manage public security, economic planning, and control of immigration, it is required in many administrative procedures. In many cases, possessing a registration book is a condition for being qualified for a certain job, which has been lamented as causing inequality among people from different regions.  VNS
A NANG  Delegates travelling to the APEC Summit arrived at a Nang International Airport on Sunday, kicking off this years biggest foreign affairs event in Viet Nam.

A security worker guides an APEC delegate at a Nang International Airport. More than 10,000 delegates, business people, tourists and journalists will participate in the APEC Summit in a Nang City on November 6-11.  VNA/VNS Photo

All 21 leaders of the APEC economies have confirmed their attendance at the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders Week in the central city.

APEC delegates wait for their luggage at a Nang Airport after their flights landed at the citys airport on Sunday.  VNA/VNS Photo

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice Chairman of the APEC 2017 National Committee Bui Thanh Son shared the information at a press briefing on Thursday in Ha Noi.

Visitors and delegates in the a Nang Airport lobby.  VNA/VNS Photo

The APEC 2017 Economic Leaders Week, themed Creating New Dynamism, Fostering a Shared Future, will take place from November 6-11.

APEC delegates and visitors are welcomed by local volunteers and staff from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  VNA/VNS Photo

Bilateral meetings will be held on the sidelines of the event between Vietnamese and APEC leaders, aiming to enhance relations and co-operation within APEC.

Established in 1989, the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) comprises 21 economies, and represents about 39 per cent of the worlds population, 57 per cent of global GDP and 49 per cent of international trade. VNS
E-commerce has become the easiest way for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Viet Nam to achieve success in both the domestic and foreign markets.

Thu Ngan

HCM CITY  E-commerce has become the easiest way for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Viet Nam to achieve success in both the domestic and foreign markets.

This trading method has become popular in Viet Nam, a concomitant to the surging number of internet and smart-phone users.

Last year 65 per cent of the population using the internet shopped online, according to the white book on e-commerce released by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Besides, consumers purchasing habits are changing, with even people visiting shops searching online for information about them before going there.

Companies too are greatly benefiting from e-commerce, especially small ones that struggle with capital and human resources.

Tran inh Toan, deputy CEO of OSB Investment and Technology Joint Stock Company, said e-commerce enabled companies to approach customers anywhere in the world at any time.

"It is also cheaper than traditional trading methods," he said.

Besides, if MSMES use online shopping platforms, they would also get support in terms of managing orders, payment, and shipping, he added.

Pine Kyaw, managing director of Shopee Vietnam, said: E-commerce in Viet Nam is currently still in its infancy. Vietnamese online sales are expected to grow four-fold to become a US$7.5-billion market.

The adoption of e-commerce by SMEs will enable them to access a larger database of users and expand their reach to consumers across Viet Nam and grow their business.

Lai Viet Anh, deputy head of the Ministry of Industry and Trades E-commerce and Digital Economy Department, said: It is estimated that around 200,000 businesses in the country use e-commerce and most of them are MSMEs.

She told Viet Nam News that e-commerce is a supportive method that helps businesses, especially MSMEs, enter the market and bolster their competitiveness.

Using e-commerce is an important step for MSMEs to connect with each other and investors so that they can enter the market with competitive prices.

MSMEs in e-commerce are supported by the Government in the form of training programmes to improve their knowledge of e-commerce and how to effectively exploit it.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, as of the end of last year around 66 per cent of companies had dedicated IT and e-commerce staff in their business structure.

E-commerce to give wings to MSMEs

There are many ways for MSMEs to use e-commerce, the most popular being setting up their own websites and co-operating with online shopping platforms in and outside the country. Some MSMEs opt for a single method but others combine several.

Phong Van Trade and Production Investment Company Ltd has decided to both set up its own website and tie up with an online shopping platform.

Owner of fashion brand Laka, Phong Van is one of many MSMEs in Viet Nam trying hard to develop in a market which is becoming more and more competitive.

Two years after expanding its business by using e-commerce, the company has revealed that selling online helped it increase turnover by 20 per cent.

The companys e-commerce team leader Nguyen The Phuong told Viet Nam News that the idea of developing e-commerce had come to them as soon as the companys founders had thought of establishing the company.

The company chose to go with an online shopping platform because of the great support it was offered, he said.

The platform, Shopee.vn, helped with transportation and quick payment, an important factor for a newly established company.

Tying up with an online shopping platform has also been useful because it, besides advertising the platform, also advertises its merchants, he said.

E-commerce has played an important role in the development of MSMEs in Viet Nam because it offers us many benefits, especially creating and developing brands.

Bach Coffee Company Ltd chose a tougher way, but one which has started to bear fruit.

With a dream of taking Vietnamese coffee to the world market, the companys owner bravely chose three years ago to work with Amazon.

The companys deputy director, Ton Nu Dieu Thao, told Viet Nam News that after listing on the website, more and more customers and investors began to visit her factories.

While admitting that revenue growth has not been as expected, she said e-commerce has instilled a strong belief in her and her colleagues that even small companies can enter foreign markets.

Hoa Lu Fine Arts and Handicrafts Company set up its own website but also sells on many online shopping platforms.

Tu Anh, the companys deputy director, said the company has developed e-commerce for many years now, and thanks to selling online, it has found partners and customers in many countries.

Pham Thong, Lazada Vietnams CMO, said selling online is an inevitable trend.

Talking about co-operation between merchants and online shopping platforms, he said MSMEs tying up with online shopping platforms get many tools they can utilise.

Flying higher

Experts said, the early success notwithstanding, MSMEs have to make more efforts to develop online sales and overcome challenges.

Toan of OSB said companies need to make detailed plans on how to invest in and exploit e-commerce.

MSMEs should clearly know what their strengths and weakness are and who their competitors are. Finding a professional company providing e-commerce services is also important because these companies will help them avoid risks and become successful.

Furthermore, "developing skilled human resources is necessary, and there should be staff to answer all questions from customers 24/7," he said.

Be patient. Not everyone can be successful right away.

E-commerce using the business to customer [B2C] model can achieve result in two or three months. But business to business [B2B] model can take three to six months.

Viet Anh said: MSMEs should be creative and think outside the old models that other companies have already used. They should bravely adopt new models of e-commerce.

Learning by studying e-commerce models around the world and developing human resources are important.

Kyaw of Shopee said one of the key challenges is the slow pick-up in non-cash payments. Vietnamese are still highly dependent on cash on delivery (COD), which tends to have a high rate of mid-transaction cancellations, which causes hassle and increases costs.

Another challenge is the large geographical area of Viet Nam, he said, explaining this poses a logistical challenge in terms of how to extend the delivery network to cover most areas and also ensure efficiency is not compromised even in case of remote locations.

The third challenge is the low overall awareness of e-commerce and digital technology in Viet Nam, he added.  VNS
Facing the World is a British-based charity group which aims to give new life to severely disfigured children. The charity Voluntary CEO and Trustee Katrin Kandel will travel to Viet Nam this month to raise donations to train doctors, provide machinery and perform life-changing operations for children.

By Nguyen My Ha in Ha Noi and Pham Diem Quynh in London

Six months after an operation, Cao thi Hoans youngest girl, Bui thi Thu Giang is confident enough to ride to school on the back of her twin sisters electric bicycle.

Giang is enjoying her new face, which was put together in a 10-hour operation last April by MD Simon Eccles from the Facing the World team and Dr. Nguyen Hong Ha, head of the Department of Maxillo-facial, Plastic, Aesthetic Surgery at Viet-uc Hospital in Ha Noi.

When I gave birth to my twin girls, my family did not let me hold Thu Giang that day, Hoan said. But then I said, I will love her no matter what!

Giang was born with hypertelorism, a birth defect that was not life-threatening, but it affected the quality of life. She went through four plastic surgery operations at two, four and seven and 10 years at Ha Nois Viet Nam-Cuba Hospital, until her doctor told Giangs mother, that it was all he could do. He would not touch the girls skull, which was vital to give her a new face.

Im forever grateful to Dr Lap, director of Hong Ngoc Private Hospital in Ha Noi, Hoan said. He looked online and off for all the possible ways to help us. But going overseas was out of our reach. He told us to wait for international doctors who come to Viet Nam."

Hoan said they waited for two years, passing along chances to have her operated on by other doctors to wait for the team from Britain.

At 8am, I accompanied my little girl to the operating room. She held onto me really tight. And she cried, Mum, Im so scared. May I give up now, I accept my fate. I dont want to look beautiful any more.

"I cried my heart out with her. As I looked up, everyone in the operating room were overcome. I remember seeing two British doctors crying, their hands holding onto their shirts.

Ten hours later, Hoan heard from Dr Lap what she had always wished to hear: The operation was successful. A little after 9pm, she was allowed into the post-operating room.

Before: Giang holds a photo of herself before the April operation.  VNS Photo Viet Thanh

Facing the world

Facing the World first came to Viet Nam as a partner with another charity to operate on children at a Nang Hospital. It has been active in the country since 2008 and next year marks the tenth year of its operations in Viet Nam.

We would like to run more missions throughout Viet Nam to all the major medical centres, bring more Vietnamese doctors to Britain for fellowships and be able to buy and donate key pieces of medical equipment, which are game changers, Ms Katrin Kandel told the Viet Nam News in London.

In the pril operation mission, only 60 operations were performed out of more than 300 applications from children with facial deformities. Thu Giang was a difficult case.

The doctors had to open her frontal skull bones, remove extra bone in the centre and reposition the eye sockets. This operation involved not just tissue, but bone, skin, nerves and muscles.

Giang was operated on by one of the best cranio-facial surgeons in the world, Dr Simon Eccles. He was named one of the top plastic surgeons in 2012 for his work at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London.

More recently, he was elected Honorary Secretary for the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. His role includes responsibility for the education of plastic surgeons in Britain. He also travels the world to reconstruct children with birth deformities or are disfigured.

After his trip to Viet Nam, Eccles wrote briefly in an e-mail. Vietnamese colleagues were dedicated individuals. They were very caring to their own heritage and communities, keen to learn and to engage, and knowledgeable.

Other visiting doctors also appreciated local doctors, yet commented on the lack of up-to-the-standard medical facilities, such as operating theatres, hygiene standards and cross-infection control.

Dr Niall Kirkpatrick, chairman and medical director of Facing the World, said their were equipment shortages.

"Why did you decide to move from banking to charity work? I had already moved from law to banking early on in my career. I want to give something back. I had an extremely successful banking career. The time was right for me to do something different. Through the charitys activities, I can see a way to make a real difference. Viet Nam has had an incredible war-torn history. My parents were ardent supporters of the anti-war movement. Once I learned more about the countrys history and then had the opportunity to go there and meet the people, I felt strongly that I wanted to do what I could. I put my hand up a few years ago to volunteer as the CEO. I do this 24/7" Katrin Kandel, FTW Voluntary CEO and Trustee

Equipment topnotch

Equipment donations are key to our programme, Ms Katrin Kandel told Viet Nam News. Since the accelleration of our programme in 2015, we have been able to donate more than VN15 billion (over 500,000 pounds) of equipment, a figure that is increasing rapidly. We have donated the top of the line in every category.

We are working towards providing best maxillo-facial equipment, she said.

Ms Katrin Kandel said Facing the World worked closely with partners to identify equipment that was absolutely necessary. She said the charity had arranged with Foundation Direct Relief, a US-based group that provides medical aid to people whose lives are affected by poverty and emergencies. This partnership will enables the charity to donate more basic medical supplies.

Ms Kandel said she hoped to sign an MOU with Viet Nam Red Cross to distribute the much-needed basic equipment to Red Cross clinic networks and rural and remote hospitals.

While the top-notch equipment can make a huge difference in treatment, assisting doctors and easing pain for patients is a much more important role for the visiting doctors.

Doctor training

Dr Ha at the Viet-uc Hospital, is on a two-week training trip to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and St Thomas Hospital. It is a good partnership we are building with Facing the World and British doctors, he said. FTW brings to Viet Nam top plastic surgeons from the best hospitals in Britain."

Ha said the UK-Viet Nam team jointly operated in Viet Nam, which meant 10 Vietnamese doctors joining in the operations. Other doctors from other hospitals in Ha Noi and northern provinces learn from a television screen in the next room. They can also question the team.

When Vietnamese doctors go to Britain for training, they are not licensed to operate, so its very important that the actual operations take place in Viet Nam," he said.

"This helps all parties involved, including our doctors and patients. FTW also helps with medically challenging cases, training doctors and later even training nurses in post-operation care.

Since the programme started, 28 doctors have visited Britain for training. Kandel said she would like to get more top British and Vietnamese hospitals involved.

Facing the World is registered in Viet Nam and is run with a five-year business plan. It plans to raise VN30 billion (1 million pounds) in donations, train 60 doctors over a five-year period and to operate 18,000 life-changing operations.

Our biggest accomplishment, Ms Katrin Kandel said, is the development of a network of doctors who work closely with their British counterparts. The friendship and professional camaraderie have developed alongside the trust. This is lasting and sustainable.

At her home in Thanh Son District near a national park in Phu Tho Province, Giang enjoys her life at school and at home. Showing us a complete Lego castle on her desk, her mother said: After the operation, Dr Lap sent her a Lego set as a gift. But its also his test to see if Giang can maintain her memory. She did it well.

At school now she made two close friends. She told her mum, When I grow up, I want to become a doctor!  VNS
A joke bouncing around the ag grapevine shines more light on where rural Americas politics are than where its funny bone actually is. The abridged version goes like this:

My dog sleeps 20 hours out of 24, eats free food prepared for him every day, gets free medical care, free housing and never cleans up any mess he makes. Thinking about this it suddenly hit me: My dog is either a Democrat or a member of Congress!

Funnier than the joke, perhaps, is that just a week or so ago the cowboys who sent it were flooding rural email boxes with flaming denouncements of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue after he killed the GIPSA rule, a complicated but crucial market reform aimed at leveling the meatpacker-dominated livestock and poultry markets.

Independent ranchers, hog farmers and poultry growers had spent years fighting for the rule, administered by the Grain Inspection, Packers & Stockyards Administration, or GIPSA. All were infuriated, reported USA Today, when Perdue, traveling in Spain, officially withdrew  read dumped  it.

Their anger is understandable. The rule was the last best chance they had to protect what little market independence remains in todays packer-controlled livestock and poultry markets. Perdue threw that chance on the bone pile without looking back  or forward.

The angry cowboys shouldnt have been surprised. Big Meat, Big Ag and Congressional Republicans spent almost 10 years delaying the rule after Democrats pushed it as a key element of the 2008 farm bill. In mid-2015, however, Congress allowed it out of the bureaucratic dog house as part of a broader budget deal. Tom Vilsack, Perdues predecessor, quickly moved to publish an interim rule.

But on Oct. 17, the day before the rule was to become final, Perdue tossed it.

Strangely, just a week later, those GIPSA-hot, Perdue-angered ranchers had all but forgotten the secretary had crushed their hopes for market reform and now were busy comparing a lazy dog to Democrats or worse, members of Congress.

Really? A Republican secretary of agriculture for a stridently Republican White House kills a desperately needed market reform that was promoted, passed, and protected by congressional and White House Democrats (and a brave Republican, Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa) for nearly a decade, and these protectors are now freeloading dogs?

Wow. Little wonder Perdue and the Trump administration tossed the rule; they knew it wouldnt cost them one ounce of political support in beet-red rural America.

And even if it had cost them, were working farmers and ranchers who, according to some estimates, voted for Trump by a staggering 4-to-1 margin, going to cry foul? Democrats in farm and ranch country these days are, after all, as rare as profitable prices.

And yet, despite his anti-farmer/rancher GIPSA action, Secretary Sonny cant escape Big Meats ugly truth. Two stories published Oct. 30 by meatingplace.com showed where some of these loosely regulated giants now are.

The first story reports A class-action lawsuit filed last week in Benton County, Ark., Circuit Court accuses two rehabilitation programs of violating Arkansas law prohibiting slavery by forcing drug addicts to work for free at chicken processing plants and a plastic manufacturing facility under threat of incarceration.

The second story, again set in a poultry processing facility, notes Authorities in Alabama are investigating the death of a work release inmate yesterday while he was working at a Koch Foods poultry plant in Ashland.

Are we as a nation, let alone as farmers and eaters, so blinded by ever-lower costs and ever-higher profits we now have a system that allows drug addicts to be allegedly enslaved and low-cost prison inmates killed in our livestock slaughtering plants?

These arent market failures; theyre human failures. Our food, farms, customers and communities wont get better unless we demand better.

And, lazy dogs or not, Perdues killing of the GIPSA makes all of us worse, not better.The Farm and Food File is published weekly through the U.S. and Canada. Source material and contact information are posted at www.farmandfoodfile.com.
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Somethings we are not capable of letting die and this fact below, that I was sexually harassed and fired for not sleeping with my boss, is one of those points in life that I will never let the world stop knowing about. This is the epitome of the west to me. I was in the groundbreaking writing of nationwide harassment laws and I have been involved helping dozens of woman all over the U.S. for this same issue. I fought against this type of happenings and it happens to me and the company I worked for, ignored it at first and then tried to fight it, after they found out that it really happened

I spent years fighting against what was done to me, I was financially ruined, I was blacklisted in jobs, I was beaten by thugs, I was stabbed, I had a gun stuck in my face and the trigger pulled on an empty chamber (Told next time it would be loaded!,) I had my house burned and I had many other things done because I stood up for myself and refused to fold under the pressure. I sat in the highest court in the land and had to defend myself against a corporation. I actually was beaten senseless on the steps of the Supreme Court, before a session and the guards looked the other way. I sat in court bleeding and half out of it, while the case went on. I refused to give up and they would have to kill me before I did (I told them that as they held me and beat me!)

Yes this case is the perfect epitome of the USA

The Corporation against the individual and I won, albeit a small victory against a giant corporation, but I won and saved my soul from the trashing they tried to do to it

This writ of certiorari below was the last and final step that I had to deal with. There was no more that they could do and change what was. Now before you tell me that I did it for the money! (Yes, I know many women get lots of money for this very same thing.) I received $15,000 and they had to pay my attorney fees. The attorneys got much more than I did

Remember I am a guy but I have learned to put it aside for most of my waking time

NO. 05-1550

IN THE

FLYING J INC.,

Petitioner,

v.

KYLE KEETON,

Respondent.

On Petition for Writ of Certiorari to the

United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit

RESPONDENTS BRIEF IN OPPOSITION

R. GARY WINTERS GREGORY A. BECK

Counsel of Record BRIAN WOLFMAN

MCCASLIN, IMBUS PUBLIC CITIZEN LITIGATION

& MCCASLIN GROUP

632 Vine St., Ste. 900 1600 20th St., NW

Provident Bank Bldg. Washington, DC 20009

Cincinnati, OH 45202 (202) 588-1000

(513) 421-4646

Counsel for Respondent

August 2006

i

QUESTION PRESENTED

Should this Court grant, vacate, and remand the decision below for further consideration in light of the Courts recent decision in Burlington Northern v. White, where the rationale for Petitioners pre-White GVR request was expressly rejected by the Court in White?

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

QUESTION PRESENTED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i

TABLE OF AUTHORITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

STATEMENT OF THE CASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

REASONS FOR DENYING THE WRIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

A. This Courts Decision in Burlington Northern v. White Did Not Alter the Applicable Standard for

Title VII Harassment Claims. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

B. The Court Below Properly Applied Controlling

Precedent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

CONCLUSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

iii

TABLE OF AUTHORITIES

Burlington Indus., Inc. v. Ellerth,

524 U.S. 742 (1998) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 4, 5

Burlington Northern v. White,

126 S. Ct. 2405 (2006) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 5, 6, 7, 11

Hollins v. Atl. Co.,

188 F.3d 652 (6th Cir.1999) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Keeton v. Flying J,

429 F.3d 259 (6th Cir. 2005) . . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 2, 8, 9, 10

Kocsis v. Multi-Care Mgmt., Inc.,

97 F.3d 876 (6th Cir. 1996) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9

Lawrence ex rel. Lawrence v. Chater,

516 U.S. 163 (1996) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Manning v. Metro. Life Ins. Co.,

127 F.3d 686 (8th Cir. 1997) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Mattern v. Eastman Kodak Co.,

104 F.3d 702 (5th Cir. 1997) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Oncale v. Sundowner Offshore Servs., Inc.,

523 U.S. 75 (1998) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Policastro v. Nw. Airlines, Inc.,

297 F.3d 535 (6th Cir. 2002) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Rochon v. Gonzales,

438 F.3d 1211 (D.C. Cir. 2006) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

iv

Washington v. Ill. Dept of Revenue,

420 F.3d 658 (7th Cir. 2005) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

White v. Burlington Northern,

364 F.3d 789 (6th Cir. 2004) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

STATUTES

42 U.S.C.  2000e-2(a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

42 U.S.C.  2000e-3(a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

STATEMENT OF THE CASE

Flying J operates a chain of travel plazas catering to interstate travelers. Keeton v. Flying J, 429 F.3d 259, 261 (6th Cir. 2005). Respondent Kyle Keeton worked for Flying J as an associate restaurant manager assigned to the Walton, Kentucky plaza. Id. At the start of his employment, Flying J orally committed to keep Keeton at the Walton location for five years.

Id.

Keeton worked at the Walton travel plaza between June and December 2001. During that time, he was never disciplined formally or informally and was never warned that his job was in jeopardy. Id. Keetons immediate supervisor in Walton was Judy Harrell, the general manager of the Walton restaurant. Id.

In December 2001, Harrell began making sexual advances toward Keeton. Id. When Keeton rejected the advances, Harrell fired him, explaining, youre not supporting me. Id.

Keeton complained to district manager Jamal Abdalla, who told him he could maintain his position as associate manager if he transferred to the Flying J location in Cannonsburg, Kentucky, a town 120 miles away. Id. Keeton moved to Cannonsburg, but, because his wife suffered from a debilitating back problem, she could not move with him. Id. As a result, Keeton was forced to maintain separate residences for himself and his wife. Id. at 261-62.

In January 2001, Keeton resigned. Id. at 262. He then sued Flying J under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, claiming sexual harassment, retaliation, and constructive discharge. Id. In his sexual harassment claim, Keeton alleged both that he suffered from sexual harassment resulting in a tangible employment action and, in the alternative, that he suffered from sexual harassment resulting in a hostile work environment. Id.

2

The district court denied Flying Js motion for summary judgment. Id. The court also denied Flying Js motion for judgment as a matter of law after Keeton presented his case to a jury and again after Flying J presented its defense. Id. The jury returned a verdict for Keeton and awarded $15,000 in compensatory damages for emotional suffering. Id.

Importantly, the jury found Flying J liable for sexual harassment resulting in a tangible employment action, but not for retaliation or constructive discharge. Id. Because of the jurys verdict, the jury form did not require it to decide whether Keeton had also suffered sexual harassment resulting in a hostile work environment. Id. Thus, Keetons claim for sexual harassment resulting in a tangible employment action is the only claim still at issue in this case.

After the verdict, Flying J renewed its motion for judgment as a matter of law, and the court again denied the motion. Id.

Flying J appealed to the Sixth Circuit, arguing that a lateral transfer to a distant office could not give rise to liability for discrimination under Title VII. Id. at 263. The Sixth Circuit disagreed and upheld the jurys verdict. Id. at 263-66. In doing so, the court applied the standard set forth by this Court in

Burlington Industries, Inc. v. Ellerth, 524 U.S. 742 (1998).

Keeton, 429 F.3d at 262-63. In Ellerth, the Court held that an employer would be strictly liable for sexual harassment if an employee could show that the harassment resulted in a tangible employment action. Ellerth, 524 U.S. at 753-54. Examining its own case law interpreting Ellerth, the Sixth Circuit determined that it had never rejected the proposition that a lateral transfer to a distant location could satisfy this test.

Keeton, 429 F.3d at 264-65. The court held that when sexual harassment results in a lateral transfer to a town 120 miles distant, a jury could reasonably find an employer liable under Title VII. Id. at 265.

3

The Sixth Circuit denied rehearing en banc, and Flying J filed a petition for a writ of certiorari in this Court. Flying J asks for a GVR to give the Sixth Circuit an opportunity to consider the Courts recent decision in Burlington Northern v. White, 126 S. Ct. 2405 (2006). At the time the petition was filed, a decision in White was still pending, so Flying J could only assume that the decision would ultimately affect the outcome in this case. Since then, however, the Court has issued an opinion in White that distinguishes Title VIIs anti-retaliation provision from its substantive provision, holding that the two provisions have distinct language and purposes and are therefore not coterminous. Id. at 2414.

In its petition, Flying J makes three arguments: 1) an issue similar to the issue before the Court in White is at issue in this case, 2) there is a conflict among the courts of appeals regarding the legal standard for a tangible employment action, and 3) the Sixth Circuits decision in this case is contrary to Ellerth and its own precedent. With the benefit of the opinion in White, it is clear that Petitioners arguments are wrong.

4

REASONS FOR DENYING THE WRIT

A. This Courts Decision in Burlington Northern v. White

Did Not Alter the Applicable Standard for Title VII Harassment Claims.

Petitioners first argument in favor of a GVR is that the Sixth Circuit might benefit from this Courts decision in White. A GVR is appropriate to give a lower court the benefit of an intervening decision of this Court when the intervening decision reveal[s] a reasonable probability that the decision below rests upon a premise that the lower court would reject if given the opportunity for further consideration, and where it appears that such a redetermination may determine the ultimate outcome of the litigation. Lawrence ex rel. Lawrence v. Chater, 516 U.S. 163, 167 (1996). Because this Court in White dealt only with Title VIIs anti-retaliation provision, as opposed to the substantive provision at issue in this case, White has no bearing on the correctness of the decision below. In light of the Courts opinion in White, a GVR here would serve no purpose.

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, an employer may not discriminate against any individual based on that individuals race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. 42 U.S.C.  2000e-2(a). In Ellerth, the Court surveyed decisions from the courts of appeals and found that those courts that had considered the question had found employers liable when a discriminatory act results in a tangible employment action. 524 U.S. at 760-61. Relying on these cases, the Court defined a tangible employment action as a significant change in employment status, such as hiring, firing, failing to promote, reassignment with significantly different responsibilities, or a decision causing a significant change in benefits. Id. at 761. The Court did not define the outer

5

boundaries of the substantive discrimination provision, but rather established the consequences for an employer when the provision has been violated in a sexual harassment case. Specifically, the Court held that [w]hen a plaintiff proves that a tangible employment action resulted from a refusal to submit to a supervisors sexual demands, he or she establishes that the employment decision itself constitutes a change in the terms and conditions of employment that is actionable under Title VII. Id. at 753-54.

Aside from the Acts substantive discrimination provision, a separate anti-retaliation provision provides that an employer may not discriminate against an employee or job applicant because that individual opposed any practice that Title VII forbids or made a charge, testified, assisted, or participated in a Title VII investigation, proceeding, or hearing. 42 U.S.C.  2000e-3(a). Prior to White, the courts of appeals were split on the meaning of the term discriminate against in this provision.

White, 126 S. Ct. at 2410-11. The Sixth Circuit was one of several circuits that held discriminate against had the same meaning in both the substantive anti-discrimination provision,  2000e-2(a), and the anti-retaliation provision,  2000e-3(a).

Id. at 2410. Other circuits had adopted a more restrictive standard for retaliation claims, requiring an ultimate employment decision that limited actionable conduct to acts such as hiring, granting leave, discharging, promoting, and compensating. Mattern v. Eastman Kodak Co., 104 F.3d 702, 707 (5th Cir. 1997) (quotation omitted); see also Manning v. Metro. Life Ins. Co., 127 F.3d 686, 692 (8th Cir. 1997). Still other circuits provided a looser standard, requiring a plaintiff to show only that the employers challenged action would have been material to a reasonable employee. Rochon v. Gonzales, 438 F.3d 1211, 1217-19 (D.C. Cir. 2006); Washington v. Ill. Dept of Revenue, 420 F.3d 658, 662 (7th Cir. 2005).

6

As noted above, the only claim still at issue in this case is Keetons claim for sexual harassment resulting in a tangible employment action under Title VIIs substantive provision,  2000e-2(a). In contrast, the only claim at issue in White was an anti-retaliation claim under  2000e-3(a). The question before the Court in White was, therefore, the proper standard to apply to a retaliation claim and, in particular, whether that standard was the same or different from the standard for discrimination claims set forth in Ellerth. Petitioner necessarily based its argument for a GVR on the assumption that the Court would conclude that the standards under the discrimination and retaliation provisions are the same; otherwise, this Courts clarification of the standard under the retaliation provision would have no bearing on the correctness of the Sixth Circuits decision in this case.

Now that this Court has issued its decision in White, it is clear that Petitioners assumption was wrong. In White, the Court resolved the circuit split over the Acts anti-retaliation provision by holding that Title VIIs substantive provision and its anti-retaliation provision are not coterminous. 126 S. Ct. at 2414. As the Court noted, the two provisions differ not only in language but in purpose as well. Id. at 2412. Although [t]he substantive provision seeks to prevent injury to individuals based on who they are, i.e., their status, [t]he anti-retaliation provision seeks to prevent harm to individuals based on what they do, i.e., their conduct. Id. Adopting the standard used by the Seventh and D.C. Circuits, the Court concluded that the retaliation provision covers those (and only those) employer actions that would have been materially adverse to a reasonable employee or job applicant. Id. at 2409.

7

Given the fundamental distinction between a substantive discrimination claim and a retaliation claim, the Court in White would not have had any reason to overrule or modify Ellerths holding on the proper standard for strict liability in substantive discrimination cases, and it did not do so. Indeed, White noted that Ellerth did not mention Title VIIs anti-retaliation provision at all. Id. at 2413. For this reason, nothing in White casts any doubt on the correctness of the standard applied by the Sixth Circuit in this case.1

Furthermore, White casts no doubt on the Sixth Circuits application of the law to the facts. The Court in White held only that a lateral transfer was sufficient to trigger the Acts anti-retaliation provision, but gave no indication that such a transfer would fail to satisfy the more stringent requirements of Title VIIs substantive discrimination provision. Every judge on the en banc Sixth Circuit that applied the stricter standard in White found the standard satisfied there, as did Justice Alito in his concurring opinion in this Court. Id. at 2421-22 (Alito, J., concurring). Petitioner claims that lateral transfers are a mere inconvenience and a matter of personal preference that do not trigger Title VII liability, but the White majority rejected the contention that the lateral transfer in that case was a trivial harm or a minor annoyance, citing case law interpreting Title VIIs substantive discrimination provision. Id. at 2415. Thus, the decision in White is consistent with the conclusion that a lateral transfer would satisfy the standard for either a discrimination or an anti-retaliation claim. Moreover, even assuming that there were some question as to whether Title VIIs anti-

1Because White resolved the split in the circuits on the proper standard of review, Petitioners second argument, that there is a split regarding the proper standard, is no longer relevant.

8

discrimination provision could support a claim based on a lateral transfer, a GVR based on White would not assist the Sixth Circuit in resolving that question because, as explained above, White concerned the anti-retaliation provision. For this reason as well, the petition should be denied.

B. The Court Below Properly Applied Controlling Precedent.

Petitioner also urges this Court to issue a GVR because it contends that the decision below is contrary to both Ellerth and Sixth Circuit precedent. Ellerth, however, was decided in 1998 and is not an intervening decision that would justify a GVR in this case. Furthermore, the Sixth Circuit has already considered and rejected Petitioners arguments about the correct application of its precedent to the facts here.

In Ellerth, this Court held that an employers tangible employment action constitutes a change in the terms and conditions of employment that is actionable under Title VIIs substantive discrimination provision. Ellerth, 524 U.S. at 753-54. In adopting the tangible employment action standard, the Court relied on decisions from the courts of appeals, including the Sixth Circuit in Kocsis v. Multi-Care Management, Inc., 97 F.3d 876 (6th Cir. 1996). See 524 U.S. at 761. Kocsis held that a plaintiff must show a materially adverse employment action to demonstrate actionable conduct under Title VII. 97 F.3d at 885-86.2 Neither Ellerth nor Kocsis set forth an exhaustive list of actions that satisfy the relevant standard. Kocsis held merely

2The Sixth Circuit uses the terms tangible employment action

and adverse employment action interchangeably. Keeton, 429 F.3d

at 263 n.1.

9

that such actions might include termination of employment, a demotion evidenced by a decrease in wage or salary, a less distinguished title, a material loss of benefits, significantly diminished material responsibilities, or other indices that might be unique to a particular situation. Id. at 886 (quotation omitted).

Carefully examining both Ellerth and its own case law, the Sixth Circuit in this case noted that reassignments without salary or work hour changes do not ordinarily constitute adverse employment decisions in employment discrimination claims. Keeton, 429 F.3d at 264 (quoting Kocsis, 97 F.3d at 885). Nevertheless, the court noted that it had not precluded consideration of such factors as commuting distance or relocation, and concluded that, when sexual harassment results in a lateral transfer to a town 120 miles distant, a jury could reasonably conclude that the employee has suffered a materially adverse employment action. Id. at 265. The court found this case to be an instance where other indices that might be unique to a particular situation justify the jurys finding of liability.

Id. (citing Hollins v. Atl. Co., 188 F.3d 652, 662 (6th Cir. 1999)). Because the court already fully considered both Ellerth and its own case law, a GVR would serve no useful purpose. There is nothing further for the Court to consider.

Petitioner rehashes the same arguments already considered and rejected by the Sixth Circuit below. It quotes the courts statement in Kocsis that a change in employment conditions must be more disruptive than a mere inconvenience or an alteration of job responsibilities to give rise to liability under Title VII. Kocsis, 97 F.3d at 886. Relying heavily on the Sixth Circuits prior decision in Policastro v. Northwest Airlines, Inc., 297 F.3d 535, 539 (6th Cir. 2002), Petitioner argues, as it argued in the Sixth Circuit, that a lateral transfer to a different

10

location can never constitute an adverse employment action. The Sixth Circuit, however, fully considered and rejected this argument, citing Policastros statement that increased distance from home to a new position is a factor in determining whether a constructive discharge has occurred. Keeton, 429 F.3d at 265. The court also relied on its prior decision in White, where the en banc Sixth Circuit upheld Title VII liability for a lateral transfer (albeit under a stricter standard than necessary) to a position that was dirtier, more arduous, and less prestigious than the employees prior position. White v. Burlington Northern, 364 F.3d 789, 803-04 (6th Cir. 2004).

Petitioner contends that Flying Js case involves change even more minor than the slight change in job responsibilities and prestige of White. Pet. 16. In doing so, Petitioner minimizes the impact of the transferand the impact of the employers actions as viewed by this Court in White stating that [t]he only aspect of Mr. Keetons job that changed was that he would move to, and be working in, a different town.

Id. 9. However, a transfer to a different town 120 miles distant (approximately the distance from Washington, D.C. to Philadelphia) is more than a mere inconvenience. An employee facing such a transfer as a result of sexual harassment would either be forced to endure the time and expense of a prolonged and arduous daily commute or else would have to uproot himself from his community to move to the new location. In this case, for example, the transfer forced Keeton to live separately from his wife. Any reasonable employee would find this situation to be a materially adverse change in the terms of his employmentand, thus, reasonable jurors should be entitled to find this to be the case.

Regardless of the merits of Petitioners arguments, it is enough that the Sixth Circuit has already fully considered and

11

rejected them. This Court has recognized that liability under Title VII is necessarily a fact-dependent inquiry. See Oncale v. Sundowner Offshore Servs., Inc., 523 U.S. 75, 81-82 (1998) (The real social impact of workplace behavior often depends on a constellation of surrounding circumstances, expectations, and relationships which are not fully captured by a simple recitation of the words used or the physical acts performed.).

Cf. White, 126 S. Ct. at 2415-16. After fully considering Petitioners arguments, the Sixth Circuit concluded that the unique facts of the case satisfy the standard set forth in both

Ellerth and its own case law. The court has already denied en banc review, and there is no reasonable likelihood that it would reconsider its decision on remand. At most, Petitioners argument amounts to a claim that the Sixth Circuit incorrectly applied its own precedent. The correct application of Sixth Circuit precedent, however, is a question for that court, not this one.

12

CONCLUSION

The petition for a writ of certiorari should be denied.

Respectfully Submitted,

R. Gary Winters

Counsel of Record

McCaslin, Imbus & McCaslin

632 Vine St., Ste. 900

Provident Bank Bldg.

Cincinnati, OH 45202

(513) 421-4646

Gregory A. Beck

Brian Wolfman

Public Citizen Litigation Group

1600 20th St., NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 588-7713

Counsel for Respondent

August 2006

This was a very hard time in my life and I still do not understand how I continued until I reached the end. I even had six heart attacks during this whole thing. Why, I even had 28 weeks of chemo therapy for a brain tumor during this whole escapade in my life. I use to ask God, Hey how about giving me a break?

He listened and he did, but not until I finished the tasks that he set before me

Then he sent Sveta to find me, what a good God he is and I am blessed

Post by Kyle Keeton

Windows to Russia
Got Sammy the Volga back yesterday and she drives down the road smooth as silk. No howling noise from the rear end and all past vibration is gone. I was kicking myself for destroying the Volgas ring and pinion, but now it seems that I just hastened the demise. The rear axle it seems was just worn out. That is what 300,000 plus kilometers will do, you know

If we had rebuilt what we had, which would have been very good to do, or drop the axle and install another axle. The latter is what we had done. An axle from a GAZ Gazelle truck was installed under her rear side and Sammy can now wiggle her butt with the best

A blessing in disguise: GAZ Gazelles are almost 100% interchangeable in mechanical parts with GAZ Volgas. Since Volga is no longer manufactured, we have to rely upon Gazelle mechanical parts It works and is better actually. The GAZ truck is still going strong with business

This is why Boza and I stayed an extra week in the Tiny Russian Village. Sammy had some more work too have done and we are glad that we fixed her. I am not sure how much longer the rear would have gone? A week or a year? Rear axles are tough, but. Now she is good to go

Like Svetochka said, Sammy is family! and you dont let family suffer

We have had Sammy the Volga for seven years now!

Best car I have ever owned (and I have owned plenty, from a Turbo SAAB, Mercedes, Corvette, Cadillac STS and a few Lincoln Town Cars and dozens more to boot. Svetochka and Boza just think Sammy is the cats meow. So do I and would not trade her for anything out there. Sammy is family

Svetochka said, If Sammy is quiet now, maybe we could get a car radio put in? 

I smiled to myself, for if Svetochka wants it, she gets it. Time to save money and get a radio put in Sammy the Volga. Really we do not have one. Really!

I can do that work easily So get it done then Kyle

It is Sunday and I am not going to gripe about anything! Really?

Yes really and maybe tomorrow I will post some pictures I have taken. Oh and Svetochkas camera died, she is grouchy and misses her camera. I hope it can be fixed easily?

Have a nice day

WtR
Important first containerised C-MABR smart packaged plant win with QSY is part of a longer term strategic relationship



Wins First C-MABR Contract with Strategic Partner QSY in China

Melbourne, Nov 6, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Fluence Corporation Limited ( ASX:FLC ) ( EMFGF:OTCMKTS ) ("Fluence" or the "Company"), a global leader in water and wastewater treatment solutions, today announced that it has executed a binding agreement with Qingshuiyuan Environmental Company ("QSY") to design, build and operate its first commercial, fully packaged, containerised C-MABR plant with a capacity of 300,000 liters/day. The system is expected to be commissioned by December 2017 in Luoyang City, Henan Province in China.



- Fluence and QSY have signed a binding agreement to design, build and operate a commercial fully containerised C-MABR smart packaged plant in Henan Province



- This project is part of a broader cooperation agreement between Fluence and QSY covering three provinces in China



- Fluence's MABR technology was pre-selected by the local government authority for its ability to consistently meet Class 1A effluent standards, lower operating costs and reduced maintenance requirements



- This is another example of Fluence's growth in the rural wastewater treatment market in China, representing an estimated US$2.6B in rural wastewater treatment sales in the three provinces alone covered by QSY, over the next five years and further proof of its Smart Packaged MABR business model for the rural wastewater treatment market in China.



This is an important signing as part of a broader long-term cooperation agreement between Fluence and QSY and follows a Memorandum of Understanding entered into in May this year. The cooperation agreement aims to promote Fluence's advanced MABR technology and establish a close strategic cooperation relationship with QSY covering the Xinjiang, Henan and Sichuan Provinces, and other areas in China. Both parties are working closely on project site selection and technology optimization.



"We are excited to announce our first Smart Packaged C-MABR project with QSY," said Henry Charrabe, Managing Director and CEO of Fluence. "This project follows the MoU entered into with QSY in May this year and reinforces our belief that customers in China are increasingly interested in our low-energy, highefficiency MABR wastewater treatment solutions. This project is part of the long-term cooperation agreement that covers Henan, Xinjiang and Sichuan provinces. It demonstrates that our business model to provide fully designed, Smart Packaged Plants rather than merely the MABR modules alone is well positioned to capitalize on the enormous market opportunity in China, where the total revenue potential for our MABR solutions for the rural market in Henan Province alone is estimated at over US$1 billion. We appreciate the confidence QSY has placed in Fluence and look forward to securing more projects with QSY and our other strategic partners in China in the future."



"Qingshuiyuan Group is committed to the development of the whole industry chain in environmental protection," said Mr. Yonghui Liu, General Manager of QSY (Shanghai). "The cooperation with Fluence aims to develop upscale, smart and lower operating cost wastewater treatment solutions that produce high quality Class 1A effluent for the China rural market. We believe that our cooperation will bring new technologies and ideas to sewage treatment for Chinese towns and villages."



According to the agreement, Fluence will provide QSY the system design and the smart packaged C-MABR configuration, manufactured at Fluence's production facility in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. QSY will integrate Fluence's smart packaged C-MABR into the overall wastewater treatment plant and construct the village collection system.



Fluence's MABR solution was pre-selected as the technology of choice based on its superior ability to consistently meet class 1A effluent standards and its significantly lower energy and maintenance needs, which results in more than 50% lower operating cost compared to conventional extended aeration technologies and MBR.



About Qingshuiyuan Environmental Company



Qingshuiyuan Environmental Technology Co. Ltd ("QSY") is a wholly owned subsidiary of Henan Qingshuiyuan Technology Co. Ltd. QSY is an integrated company which specializes in environmental engineering investment and operation. The Company focuses on the treatment of urban and rural sewage, industrial water and zero emissions. QSY's business scope covers organic solid waste disposal, oily sludge and other hazardous waste treatment, river restoration, contaminated soil assessment and remediation.



To view figures, please visit:

http://abnnewswire.net/lnk/61237559





About Fluence Corporation Ltd





Fluence Corporation (ASX:FLC) (OTCMKTS:EMFGF) is a leader in the decentralized water, wastewater and reuse treatment markets, with its Smart Products Solutions, including Aspiral, NIROBOX, NIROFLEX and SUBRE. Fluence offers an integrated range of services across the complete water cycle, from early stage evaluation, through design and delivery to ongoing support and optimization of water related assets, as well as Build Own Operate Transfer (BOOT) and other recurring revenue solutions. With established operations in North America, South America, the Middle East, Europe and China, Fluence has experience operating in over 70 countries worldwide and enables businesses and communities worldwide to maximize their water resources.

Further information can be found at https://www.fluencecorp.com/
Oregon Law Tells Teens Under 18 That They Don't Get Autonomy Over Their Own Bodies; Says They Are Incapable Of Consenting To Sex

Are we in a race to become an authoritarian state?

I consistently see news reports -- and laws -- that suggest an increasing clampdown on everybody for, well, everything.

This includes what used to be considered the normal stuff of life -- like kids riding their bikes through through their own neighborhood without parental supervision (or that of three heavily-armed hired guards).

The latest is a story from Oregon, from The Daily Caller, where Eric Owen reports that public school teachers must now inform the government when they find out a teenager has had sex. No, we're not talking about sex with some adult predator, but sex with another teen -- consensual sex with another teen.

Teachers in the Salem-Keizer school district face fines and can even lose their jobs if they fail to blow the whistle on teen students who are voluntarily having sex with each other, reports the Statesman Journal, the main newspaper in Salem. The draconian requirements also require teachers in the district to report teen students who might have had consensual sex. ...The state law -- ORS 163.315 -- makes it illegal for anyone who is under 18 years of age to consent to a sex act.

The Statesman Journal story by Natalie Pate does say this:

Another Oregon law, ORS 163.345, or the "three-year rule," addresses when the individuals are similar in age and force and coercion are not present. This often is thought of as "consensual" activity. While this law can be applied in criminal proceedings, it does not apply to mandatory reporting.

The problem is that when laws are passed, laws can be used.

The government has no business telling people under 18 that they aren't allowed autonomy over their own bodies.

Here, from the Daily Caller piece, will be the next set of sex criminals -- and check out how ugly it is that the teachers' jobs are being used as a means to extort them into ratting kids out:

Teachers who aren't sure if there is "reasonable cause" to believe abuse has occurred have an incentive to report teen sex because a finding that teachers withheld information can result in fines or job loss. "It's criminal not to report," Salem-Keizer Public Schools spokeswoman Lillian Govus told the Statesman Journal. "People's careers are at stake here." When a teacher reports a teen high school student for having consensual sex, the state Department of Human Services creates a file. In addition to the creation of a file, a social worker or a police officer could come to the public school to talk to the reported student about all about the sex he or she has been accused of having. Teen students who have been reported for sex do not appear to have recourse concerning their privacy. Thus, information and gossip about their sex lives will remain in government files -- which may or may not be effectively stored.

*
The Maharashtra State Information Commission is headless for the past five months; the files containing names of shortlisted candidates is forwarded and is pending with the Chief Ministers office, according to a reply by the General Administration Department to a RTI filed by Anil Galgali.

The RTI filed by Galgali sought information from the General Administration Department regarding the names of the shortlisted candidates for the position of the Chief Information Commissioner. The Under Secretary of the GAD, Shri S P Khade informed, Ratnakar Gaikwads term as CIC ended on May 29, 2017 and hence, he has retired after handing over the charges to Ajit Kumar Jain, Information Commissioner, Greater Mumbai.

On the further queries about the names of the shortlisted candidates and also details of why and which level is the appointment of a new CIC pending with the government, the department stated that the file for approval has been submitted to the CMs office and hence, they are not in position at the moment to provide the list of shortlisted candidates. The department has also promised to provide the detailed information once the file returns back to the department after necessary approvals, Galgali stated.

He further added, In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, I have demanded that the appointment of the Chief Information Commissioner should be immediately done to enable the held up work at the Information Commission to move forward and to ease up the inconvenience being caused to common man who are awaiting orders on their appeals before the CIC.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Some early morning breaks in the overcast, otherwise cloudy. High 58F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy. Low 36F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
In this Oct. 2017 photo, Stacy Lopez, left, of Dewitt M & J, carries small branches to a large brush pile for Jason West to use a front end loader to pick up on John and L'Nell Starkey's pecan orchard in Thomaston, Texas.
Time for an Assyrian Regional Government in Iraq

When ISIS invaded Iraq and its Nineveh Plain in 2014, one of the most victimized peoples were Assyrians, a Christian community indigenous to the region. After the defeat of ISIS, some of the displaced Assyrians from the Nineveh Plain finally returned to their homeland, but today, they are fleeing their homes as their towns once again become a battleground -- this time between Iraqi and Kurdish forces. The Assyrian-Syriac-Chaldean people have inhabited the Middle East since the beginning of recorded history. We might now, however, be witnessing the disappearance of this community. The end of the Assyrians in Iraq means the eventual end of the Assyrians altogether.

The Threat of Iran

"The UN has a duty to protect Northern Iraq's indigenous peoples. It can also promote stability and security in the Middle East by preventing Iranian expansion to the Mediterranean Sea. Such a zone would also be a bulwark against Iranian-backed militias in Northern Iraq. "What is required for administrative, juridical, and economic functions to take hold in these communities is to be liberated from the immediate threat -- Iran. The presence of a multinational coalition force would likely be sufficient to deter Iranian aggression.... There are already U.S. and other coalition forces on the ground in northern Iraq. The force required to deter external aggression would be small. It is also worth noting that these communities in Northern Iraq were rarely covered in the news from 2003 until 2014, when ISIS conquered them. This is because they were peaceful, productive, and proven allies of the United States. They have suffered much for that alliance. This is no time to abandon them to Iran."

Centuries of Persecution

"For 300 years, Assyrian kings ruled the largest empire the world had yet known. The Assyrian Church of the East records that the Apostle Thomas himself converted the Assyrians to Christianity within a generation after the death of Christ. Christianity was 'well established and organized' in Mesopotamia by the third century CE."

"The Assyrian people have been repeatedly victimized by genocidal assaults over the past century... Massacres, rapes, plundering, cultural desecrations, and forced deportations were all endemic. Around 750,000 Assyrians died during the genocide, amounting to nearly three quarters of its prewar population. The rest were dispersed elsewhere, mostly in the Middle East. "Unfortunately, the persecution of Assyrians did not end with the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. From August 8-11, 1933, in the newly established state of Iraq, Assyrian villagers in the northern Iraqi town of Simele were brutally murdered. Some 3,000 men, women, and children were killed by Iraqi soldiers and Kurdish irregulars."

Why an Assyrian Regional Government (ARG) is an Urgent Need

"We would like to help establish a political structure in Nineveh Plain -- a secular republic -- that is pluralistic and respects the ethnic and religious diversity of the Nineveh Plain. The Assyrian government would also cooperate with its neighbors and others to bring peace to the region and open the door to endless business opportunities for many Western countries to invest."

"The international community just closes eyes on all these...The West should not continue ignoring Assyrians and Yazidis. Every inch of this land and every line of history tells who this territory belongs to. We deserve a state."

"There are two options. Either Assyrians in Iraq will have their own government in Nineveh and will be a free nation, or they might be extinct in a few decades. In order to stop the latter from happening, the Assyrian administration in Nineveh should be protected by the UN and the US. Thank God that Jews, a historically persecuted people just like us, now have Israel. The Assyrian claim for autonomy has never been realized. After centuries of persecution, is it not the time for Assyrians and other persecuted Christians to finally have their own government?"

Christians are also increasingly facing threats from Shiite Iran as, after its gains against ISIS in Iraq and Syria, it attempts to expand its influence in the region. "Iran is aggressively establishing schools and mosques and libraries and other structures within the main Christian towns," said human rights lawyer Nina Shea, who once served on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. A UN- and US-protected region is needed in northern Iraq to help restrict the empowerment and Iranification of Iraq, according to experts in the region Andrew Doran, Robert Nicholson, Mark Tooley, and Stephen Hollingshead. They argue that U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley should call on the UN and US coalition allies to establish a protected zone for genocide victims in northern Iraq:"The Assyrian homeland is in northern Mesopotamia, present-day Iraq, where the ancient cities of Assur and Nineveh were built," writes the scholar Hannibal Travis.Today a stateless and persecuted people, Assyrians have been continuously brutalized by Muslims in the region -- Turks, Kurds, Arabs, and Persians. Every fifty years, there has been a massacre of Assyrians, according to the Assyrian International News Agency (AINA). According to a report by the Center for the Study of Genocide and Human Rights of Rutgers University:As a result of continued persecution and discrimination, the Assyrians in Turkey , Syria and Iran, once sizable communities, have almost completely been exterminated, apart from those who have fled to the U.S., Australia, Europe, Canada and Lebanon.The situation of Assyrians in Iraq is beginning to resemble the previous situation of those in Turkey, Iran, and Syria. Given all of the persecution to which Assyrians have been exposed and the lack of any support or protection from the West, the only way for Assyrian-Syriac-Chaldean people to survive is to have a protected "enclave" in the Nineveh Plain. As can be seen in the region every day, it is not realistic to expect the Assyrians to be quiet and accept their "fate" under the tender mercies of Shiite or Sunni rule. Muslims make up a majority of the population in 49 countries around the world today. Regrettably, the proven hatred of many Muslim fanatics in that part of the world will not magically disappear. It is also delusional to argue that an Assyrian autonomy would somehow "destabilize" a region of chronic, bloody instability. The future Assyrian Regional Government could be an independent state or autonomous region like the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in Iraq. Even if it is city-state like Vatican City, it would be monumental in stopping the annihilation of Assyrian people and could also serve as a safe haven for other persecuted minorities. All the Assyrian activists, politicians and scholars with whom Gatestone spoke asserted that the Assyrians should have a right to self-rule and security in the Nineveh Plain. Yacoob Yaco, for instance, an Assyrian MP and political chair of the Nineveh Plain Protection Units (NPU), said that Assyrians are willing to defend their homeland. "For us to be able to do that effectively, the leading countries of the world must help us determine our fate, and to have our own political and military entity." Joseph Baba, the Western Regional Director for the Assyrian American National Federation, told Gatestone:"Forced displacement, persecution and genocide have caused the drastic decrease in our population," said Anahit Khosroeva, an Assyrian historian specializing on genocide studies, who is based in Armenia.David William Lazar, the Chairman of the American Mesopotamian Organization, called for "the establishment of three new provinces in the districts of the Nineveh Plain, Talafar and Sinjar. "The current Iraqi constitution allows the proposed region to have its own parliament and executive branch similar to the region under the control of the Kurdish authorities." "The world should not expect us to be protected by any other forces but our own," Juliana Taimoorazy, a leading Assyrian activist and the Founding President of the Iraqi Christian Relief Council, told Gatestone. "We have been betrayed by both the Iraqi military and the Kurdish Peshmerga, over and over again." She called on the Kurdish government to recognize Assyrian rights. "There are also Assyrians living under Kurdish rule. We ask the Kurdish government to honor Assyrians under their rule by recognizing our identity, flag, schools, churches, and language." In an interview with Gatestone, Sabri Atman, the founder of the Assyrian Genocide and Research Center (Seyfo Center), said:
Bankers and government officials continue to feature prominently on our newspapers front pages  and not in a good way. Since the financial crisis of 2008, a string of political and corporate scandals has played out in our political and financial centers, and recent investigations of people close to President Trump, including Paul Manafort and Rick Gates, have produced indictments for money laundering and tax fraud. Corporate malfeasance, corruption and tax fraud are shrouded in misconceptions. Here are five enduring myths about white-collar crime.

MYTH NO. 1

Prosecutors fear prosecuting powerful defendants.

Earlier this year, nonprofit news site Rewire sought to explain why the justice department is afraid to prosecute white collar criminals. Likewise, Patrick Radden Keefe argued in the New Yorker this summer that fears of collateral consequences have prevented the government from going after corrupt bankers. Commenters assert that worry about toppling figures whose collapse could mean trouble for entire economies.

But if prosecutors are afraid of going after white-collar defendants, they have a funny way of showing it: Their tactics are the same ones they use in many investigations involving narcotics and violent crime, and being extremely rich and influential is no protection. Former assistant attorney general Lanny Breuer said in 2010 that the Justice Department has begun increasingly to rely, in white collar cases, on undercover investigative techniques that have perhaps been more commonly associated with the investigation of organized and violent crime. As Preet Bharara, a former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said , Today . . . privileged Wall Street insiders who are considering breaking the law will have to ask themselves one important question: Is law enforcement listening?

MYTH NO. 2

White-collar defendants never serve real time.

In the wake of the financial crisis, publications such as Fortune and the Nation have sought to answer why its architects dont do hard time for their crimes. Why does the Justice Department appear to have given up on putting white-collar criminals in jail? Fortune asked. When academics began studying the subject in the 1970s, they noted that federal judges were typically lenient toward white-collar offenders.

Those days are over. Judicial discretion in sentencing was greatly limited by the adoption of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines in 1987, whose penalties for fraud were further enhanced after the Enron scandal broke in 2001. And although the Supreme Court held in 2005 that the guidelines were advisory and no longer mandatory for judges, sentences for white-collar defendants have been getting harshr, not more lenient

According to the U.S. Sentencing Commissions 2013 Report on Sentencing Trends , nearly 70 percent of all offenders sentenced under the guidelines for fraud received some prison time for their crimes in 2012. In 1985, that rate was about 40 percent . For crimes that caused a loss of at least $2.5 million, the same report revealed that offenders were sentenced under the guidelines to an average of nearly five to 17 years in prison in 2012. In 1985, by comparison, the average sentence for white-collar crimes was just 29 months.

MYTH NO. 3

Trumps administration wont enforce anti-corruption laws.

In January, legal blog Above the Law wondered , Is Trump the end of FCPA enforcement? He has criticized the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), and Mother Jones reported in April that some experts fear the Trump administrations long-term goal may be to curb enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, if not neuter the law.

MYTH NO. 4

No one went to prison as a result of the financial crisis.

Not one major executive has been sent to jail for their role in the crisis, David Dayen wrote in the Guardian in 2014. The myth that criminal prosecutors balked when the time came to hold Wall Street executives accountable for the financial crisis is so common that even senior DOJ officials have sought to excuse it

But according to the Special Inspector Generals Office for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, the federal law enforcement agency charged with investigating misconduct related to the financial crisis and the subsequent bailout, 56 bankers and Wall Street traders employed by institutions that received TARP funding  including 13 chief executives  have been sentenced to prison for crimes committed in the lead-up to, during and in the aftermath of the financial crisis. This goes far beyond Kareem Serageldin, the Credit Suisse trader who many publications claim to be  only  top banker to go to prison for activities related to the financial crisis. Edward Woodard, former chief executive of the Bank of the Commonwealth in Norfolk, for instance, was sentenced to more than two decades in prison in 2013 for charges of massive fraud related to the mortgage crisis.

MYTH NO. 5

Financial crime is the same as robbery or theft.

Critics of Wall Street often accuse bankers of  robbing  people, as Hamilton Nolan claimed in a 2015 Gawker article, or of being outright  thieves , as characterized in a 2011 AlterNet piece. And although its true that losing a chunk of ones life savings may be as traumatic for the victim as a home burglary, from the perspective of the perpetrator, the psychology is quite different.
A man authorities believe committed a series of burglaries at mosques across the country in February and March, including three in Alabama, is being sought by the Arizona Attorney General's office.

Attorney General Mark Brnovich announced Friday an arrest warrant has been issued for Andrew Charles Chambers for his alleged involvement in the burglary of two mosques located in Arizona.

In addition to Alabama, Chambers, 54, is also wanted in Virginia. Authorities are working to locate him. Brnovich said he may be operating under a variety of aliases, including Martin Andrew, Flint Frank, Andy Chambers, Flint Franks, Steven Franks, Andrew Ghambers and Flint O'Neil.

Chambers is believed to have broken into three mosques in Alabama, two in Arizona and one in Virginia earlier this year.

Two Alabama mosques, in Gadsden and Anniston, were broken into March 10 and a Tuscaloosa mosque was burglarized on March 14.

Gadsden investigators at the time said the suspect, captured on surveillance video, appeared to be the same man who burglarized a mosque in Blacksburg, Va., on Feb. 25.

Arizona detectives said the photos matched the suspect from burglaries on March 30 in two cities. Donation boxes were taken in both cases.

Chambers faces charges in Arizona of burglary, theft, possession of burglary tools and aggravated criminal damage.
An Alabama Supreme Court ruling on a Birmingham construction project could leave city councils across the state with a little less wiggle room in zoning decisions - and possibly subject developers to additional delays while even the most minor changes are considered.

The Oct. 27 ruling concerned a lawsuit over a 17-story apartment complex being built in the Five Points South section of Birmingham. It didn't necessarily settle that case: Work on the Vesta complex didn't stop, and other litigation is ongoing.

But it did have a definite impact in Mobile: By Tuesday morning the City Council's attorney, Jim Rossler, was telling council members that a zoning standard they'd used since 1999 was no longer valid. Ironically, that standard had been set by another Alabama Supreme Court ruling -- one which came in a bitter fracas over a west Mobile restaurant development, resulting in a case that Mobile lost.

"I don't think there's room to wiggle on that point," Rossler said after the meeting. "Which does change the way things are done."

As it met on Thursday, Mobile's Planning Commission got a similar advisory from Richard Olsen, the city's deputy director of planning and zoning. "It's going to, one way or another, going to change the course of business as we've been doing it for years," he told commissioners.

State law lays out guidelines for how municipalities handle zoning changes. A key provision is that when a city moves to rezone property - from residential to business, for example, or from a light business use to a heavier business use - public notice must be published so that anyone potentially affected by the change has a chance to weigh in with their concerns and argue for relief.

In the code of Alabama, sections 11-52-77 and 11-52-78 spell out the public notice mechanism. Basically they say an ordinance can't be passed unless it has been advertised and opened to public comment, and that that also applies to changes and amendments.

In late 1995 a zoning dispute erupted in west Mobile and those clauses came into play. A developer wanted to put a big Roadhouse Grill restaurant at 6150 Airport Boulevard. Nearby residents objected, saying they'd been led to believe that only small boutique shops would be put on the property. When the zoning was approved they sued, saying that the changes hadn't been duly published and therefore the zoning was invalid.

The Roadhouse Grill case became a punishing, long-running slugfest for residents, city officials and the developer. Between January 1997 and January 1999 the City Council voted three times to approve the zoning, trying to make it stick as two different circuit judges ruled the first two attempts invalid. Somewhere in the middle of the fracas, council members voted via secret ballot to yank Councilwoman Bess Rich - who'd advocated for neighboring residents in the case - off the city's Planning Commission and replace her with another council member.

Meanwhile, the restaurant got built and opened for business. And it stayed in business after the Alabama Supreme Court ruled in 1999 in favor of Cardinal Woods apartments. The ruling that the city hadn't properly handled the zoning did not result in a retroactive shutdown.

But the court did a funny thing. It suggested, in passing, that it might have been okay if Mobile had passed an ordinance with minor differences from the advertised zoning plan.

This led to the city to adopt what some have called the Cardinal Woods standard: The idea that it's okay to tinker with a zoning ordinance as long as the changes are minor and don't affect the fundamental use of the property.

Ever since, things have worked like this: When Mobile's Planning Commission forwards a recommended zoning change to the City Council, it goes through a cycle of advertisement and the council allows a public comment period at one of its meetings. Then the council votes on the ordinance.

Usually it doesn't change anything. Sometimes it makes a significant change, in which case the ordinance has to be re-advertised. But sometimes it makes a minor change, to achieve a little more harmony between developers and nearby residents.

This usually happens in cases where neighbors aren't opposed to a new development, but want a little protection from it - wider buffers, more trees, slightly different traffic flow. Sometimes the council brokers a minor compromise on such points, and proceeds with a vote.

"The council oftentimes, with the agreement of the applicant, has made these minor, non-use changes," Rossler said. "Oftentimes it's done with the agreement of the applicant and the neighboring property owners."

Rich - who currently serves as the council's representative on the Planning Commission -- said it's been satisfying to help people find middle ground, and has found such negotiations a valuable step in the process. "It does give voice to people who will be affected, to see if it can be mitigated in any manner," she said.

The idea, under the Cardinal Woods precedent, has been that that's okay: If the change doesn't affect the fundamental use of the property, and if everybody agrees to it voluntarily, the proposed ordinance doesn't need another cycle of public notice and comment, and can be approved as-is.

That is no longer the idea.

In the ruling issued Oct. 27 in Ex parte Frank S. Buck and Martha Jane Buck, the court was brutally clear about that. At considerable length, it hammered home the point that "the plain language of SS 11-52-77 requires that the ordinance ultimately adopted be the same as the proposed ordinance that was published ... To hold that only a proposed ordinance need be published, but something else, whether an ordinance that is insignificantly different from the proposed ordinance or an ordinance that is radically different, could be adopted, is contrary to the plain language of SS 11-52-77."

This doesn't just change things in Mobile: It changes things for any city where the council might have been inclined to tweak zoning ordinances before voting.

"I think it does shake things up," said Lori Lein, general counsel for the Alabama League of Municipalities.

However, Lein said she didn't necessarily think the change would be disruptive. "From our perspective, yes, perhaps this case is a further narrowing," she said. "but I don't see it as overruling anything."

Lein said she often presents advice to municipalities on zoning procedures, and that questions about a Cardinal Woods-type approach don't often come up. She's not sure how commonly it's used, she said. Her overall advice isn't going to change much. Whatever you're doing, "your city attorney's got to be comfortable with it."

Unlike Rossler, she said she thinks there might still be some wiggle room. "That's going to be a judgment call," she said.

For city councils, the scariest aspect of the change might be the possibility that previous zoning votes could now be challenged in court. But Rossler said he doesn't expect that. For one thing, he said the Cardinal Woods standard was "the law of the land" at the time.

Rich said she also didn't expect old cases to be reopened. "We were very cautious," she said of the council. It didn't try to pass major changes off as minor tweaks. If it made a change that affected the use of the property, she said, the council sent the ordinance back to be advertised again.

For developers, the worst-case scenario is that when a city council makes even the most trivial change, their plans get put on hold. Rossler said re-advertising a zoning change would mean "a minimum of six weeks, if not an eight-week delay."

But maybe it won't come to that. Several people involved in the discussion have said that they hope the process will change to accommodate the new status quo.

If city planners encourage more discussions up front, and developers make more of an effort to work with neighboring residents, they suggest, maybe less tweaking will be necessary when an ordinance finally hits the council agenda.

Olsen told the Mobile Planning Commission that there'd been talk of pushing developers to hold community meetings. "That's something that's in discussion," he said. "I'm not sure where it might go."

Nick Amberger, Mobile's city engineer, told the Planning Commission that developers have a new incentive "to get all the wording resolved" at the planning commission stage, or face delays later.

"This might make everybody do their homework up front," said Libba Latham, a Realtor who is vice chairman of the Planning Commission.

Time will tell whether or not that's wishful thinking. The Mobile City Council has something else to ponder: Next year it expects to consider a completely revised zoning code. Rossler and council members have expressed concern that they will have to be careful about that process, or get caught in a loop of lengthy delays.

For Rich, the matter also serves as a reminder of the hard-fought Roadhouse Grill case, which showed that residents can win the court battle, but still lose the development war.

"Nothing changed, as far as the building was built" by the time the Alabama Supreme Court ruled in 1999, she said. The Roadhouse Grill closed in 2007, after a decade in business. It was replaced by a Texas Roadhouse, meaning the impact on the surrounding neighborhoods stayed much the same.

"I always think about that when I drive by it," Rich said. "And I drive by it a lot."
An Anniston man is dead after being struck by a car while on his bicycle, according to police.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency released a statement Sunday saying John Morris Thompson, 58, was riding his bicycle on Alabama Highway 202 after midnight when he was struck from behind by a vehicle.

Thompson, who police said was not wearing a helmet, died on the scene and the vehicle that was involved "left the scene prior to our arrival and without reporting crash."

The crash occurred at 12:35 a.m. about three miles west of Anniston. Alabama State Troopers will continue to investigate.
U.S. Sen. Rand Paul was assaulted at his Kentucky home Friday afternoon, resulting in a minor injury, police said.

The Kentucky State Police said they responded to a call at the Republican Senator's home just before 3:30 p.m. on Friday.

"Upon their arrival, it was determined that Rene Boucher had intentionally assaulted Paul causing a minor injury," Police said. Boucher, 59, was arrested and charged with one count of assault in the fourth degree - minor injury. He was taken to the Warren County Regional Jail on $5,000 bond.

Boucher is an anesthesiologist and pain specialist, according to the Bowling Green Daily News. The two men reportedly share a corner adjacent to their homes and have been involved in an ongoing feud.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, police said.

Paul's office released a statement saying the state's junior senator was "blindsided" by the attack.

"The assailant was arrested and it is now a matter for the police. Senator Paul is fine," Paul spokesperson Kelsey Cooper told The Lexington Herald-Leader.
Oh Roy Moore. He's such a caricature.

He always finds by a way to invoke his god. To make a buck.

Or to save a few.

Like back in 2015 when Moore, then Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court, decided it was outrageous and unfair that property he owns in the Gallant community of Etowah county continued to increase in value.

Why, the property valuation used to set the taxes had risen 284 percent between 1995 and 2015. It had even risen since 2005, before the housing crash. So Moore -- like a lot of people who don't want to pay any more tax than they have to -- petitioned the county's board of equalization to reduce the valuation on the property.

And the board of equalization did it. It knocked off $41,200 from its valuation, agreeing that Moore's 4,300 square foot home on 16 acres with a seven-car garage was not, in fact, worth the $311,900 it had assessed.

It was worth only $270,700, the board agreed. That would put annual tax on the place at a little more than $1,000.

But that didn't end it.

Moore thought the reduction was not enough. So he hired a lawyer and sued the chairman of the board of equalization and the county's chief appraiser, arguing he should pay less.

Because ...

The Constitution.

And God.

Because let's face it, we are talking about Roy Moore here.

"The Plaintiff has been forced to suffer an unlawful seizure and/or ongoing obligation against his personal property," Moore's lawyer, Trenton Garmon wrote. "Said God-given right to private property ownership as acknowledged in the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution and the laws of the State of Alabama have been restricted and/or infringed upon."

I feel like I need to cough something up.

Moore was forced to suffer an unlawful seizure against his personal property. In a state - where he held the top post in the criminal justice system, if you'll recall - that'll take your money and stuff if you merely look like you might commit a crime. Whether you've been convicted or not.

Bold.

Roy Moore on his high horse. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

He was denied his god-given rights to save a few more dollars. Making clear that Roy's god bestowed more on him than on those saps who get caught up in the court system, who have been tossed in Alabama jails because they cannot pay fines in turnip-squeezing courts. Moore's own judicial system wrung the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness out of anybody who dared worship a god that wasn't just like his.

Oh Roy Moore. He's not just a caricature, but an opportunist who does God a lot more harm than good.

He's not God's prophet but he'll take god's profit.

He takes the lord's name in a vain attempt to save himself cash. The amount at issue in this silly little Etowah County case would have amounted to a couple hundred bucks a year.

PREVIOUS: Roy Moore's foundation pay draws scrutiny



When ol' Roy says it, "Jesus saves" has a whole new meaning. And every dollar counts.

Though it didn't really work so well for him this time.

Despite the fact that Moore was the sitting chief justice of the Alabama Supreme Court - this was before he was kicked off the bench for the second time for putting his own beliefs and interpretations before the law - Etowah County circuit judge David Kimberley threw the case out.

Seems like Moore got his god-given rights wrong. Again.

John Archibald's column appears in The Birmingham News, the Huntsville Times, the Mobile Register and AL.com. Write him at jarchibald@al.com.

Roy Moore Tax Dispute by John Archibald on Scribd
COP23 to begin in Germany months after US president upset environmentalists and pulled out the Paris climate pact.

Bonn, Germany  It is that time of year when the annual climate wagon rolls into town, replete with delegates, politicians, scientists and lobbyists.

COP23, the UN Climate Change Conference, begins on Monday in the German city of Bonn.

In theory, the 2017 version should be a wholly uninteresting fortnight of impenetrable text revisions and, to the outsider, unintelligible policy engineering. But then factor in the US president.

In June this year, Donald Trump told the world the US would not be staying in the Paris Agreement, an accord forged in 2015 by all nations bar Nicaragua and Syria. It pledged to hold global warming well below 2C and aim for a 1.5C limit.

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Since then Nicaragua has signed up, so the US is now in company only with Syria in its climate vision  a dysfunctional nation ripped apart by war.

There have been concerns as to whether the impending US withdrawal will derail the whole agreement. It certainly has changed the dynamic but perhaps, in a surprising way, it appears to have galvanised the effort to tackle climate change.

Even within the US, cities and states have taken it upon themselves to fight back against the federal scepticism which is reversing President Obamas environmental policies and trying to re-energise coal in the name of jobs.

Take Californias governor Jerry Brown, who runs a state which continues to lead in reducing emissions regardless of federal policy. He minimises the negative effects of Trump and is helping fund a US pavilion in Bonn, which will extol the virtues of climate change policy.

On the other hand, it is reported the Trump administration will be promoting coal, natural gas and nuclear energy as an answer to climate change at an event at Bonn. They will argue that no credible projection shows fossil fuels meeting less than 40 percent of global energy demand by 2050. This is likely to be a hugely popular event by virtue of the sheer unpopularity of the concept.

Despite Trump, were still doing this

Meanwhile, NGOs will be pacing the floors of the conference halls to try and keep up momentum.

The WWFs climate adviser, Dr Stephen Cornelius, says global unity can be maintained without the White House.

Clearly, America is an important country, said Dr Cornelius. But you saw when President Trump made his announcement in June, you had a lot of countries standing up saying were still doing this.

So even without the federal government stepping up to the plate, you have national actors prepared to do so.

Clearly, America is an important country. But you saw when President Trump made his announcement in June, you had a lot of countries standing up saying 'we're still doing this'. by Dr Stephen Cornelius, WWF climate adviser

However you feel about climate change, this has been an extraordinary year of weather.

Warming oceans have fuelled the fury of unprecedented hurricanes and cyclones across the world. There have been raging wildfires, floods and heatwaves.

The science of attribution is still being developed but a trend appears to be emerging of bigger, more destructive events.

Still emitting far too much

And that is of particular to concern to low-lying Fiji, which holds this years presidency of the climate conference.

As sea levels rise, Fiji officials will be pressing for the big emitters to step forward and quite simply offer more in the global effort to tackle climate change.

Ultimately, this conference will try to formulate a rulebook on how to proceed and actually implement the Paris Agreement in the year 2020.

Time is of the essence, say the experts.

Trump may not be listening but let us leave the last word to Erik Solheim, head of the United Nations Environment Programme, who puts it simply.

The numbers dont lie. We are still emitting far too much and this needs to be reversed.
Major weekend developments will have seismic implications, not just on Saudi Arabia, but the region and beyond.

Was Saturday a Red Wedding moment for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia? As the plot thickens in Riyadh, heres a roundup of the chatter on the streets.

It started off with the resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, a clearly orchestrated move produced and executed by his paymasters in Riyadh.

Hariri announced on a Saudi-owned channel from the Saudi capital that he was resigning his post in protest at foreign intervention in Lebanons domestic affairs. The irony was lost on him.

The ostensible reason he gave, as he invoked his late fathers name, was that he too is threatened with assassination.

As the day turned into evening, there were reports of explosions being heard close to the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. It transpired that Houthi rebels (linked to Iran and allied with former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, who is partially linked to the United Arab Emirates) had fired at least one ballistic missile from Yemen towards Riyadh. It put an exclamation point on the fact that the war in Yemen is far from over  more than two years since Saudi Arabia launched operation Decisive Storm.

As the clock inched to midnight another bombshell was dropped, this time by the Saudis: A royal decree ordering the arrest of several princes, billionaires, and notable figures, as well as the sacking of senior government officials. Some were the sons of the late King Abdullah. One was the head of the Saudi National Guard.

All three of these developments will have seismic implications, not just in Saudi Arabia, but in the region and beyond.

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The resignation of Hariri, or sacking by his Saudi sponsors, should sound the alarm bells for any government that doesnt want to see another war erupt in the region.

A lot of chatter involved Israel. Its no secret that Israel has been conducting military exercises on its northern front for several months now. While Hezbollah has been busy helping prop up the Assad regime in Damascus, Tel Aviv has been developing its missile defence systems. Sooner or later, it will want to test those in real-life scenarios, as the logic would have it.

Forcing Hariri to quit the government would help Israel frame any aggression against Lebanon as an attack on Iranian proxies. With Gaza politically neutralised for now, following Hamas handover of power to the Palestinian Authority, Israel could very well see this as an optimal time to attack. Such an attack would also provide a perfect opportunity for the West to test the new Saudi leaderships moderate credentials: Would it cheer Israel on?

In Yemen, the war has cost the Saudi economy hundreds of millions of dollars. This war, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to restore Sanaas legitimate government and put Iran in check, has failed to do either. But it has succeeded in killing thousands of innocent people, displacing millions, and helping Tehran position itself as the defender of the oppressed in the Middle East.

The targeting of Riyadh could push the young prince to be even more reckless and destructive in his ongoing expedition in Yemen.

Whats not so clear is the motive behind the mass arrests and sackings that took place in the wee hours of Sunday morning. Removing the head of the National Guard and a one-time contender to the throne is an obvious play to consolidate power by bin Salman.

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However, whats more puzzling is the detention of billionaire prince Alwaleed bin Talal. On paper, bin Talal and bin Salman are a match made in heaven: Both want to transform Saudi Arabia into a secular society, both detest the idea of democracy and liberalism, and both are equally willing to hand over the Kingdoms wealth and sovereignty to the United States.

Earlier I spoke to a contact who used to work for the billionaire prince. He told me that a possible reason for his detention was Alwaleeds refusal to put up money to help prop up Saudis staggering economy. The message from bin Salman to the countrys wealthy elite is: Pay up or get locked up.

In the Saudi version of Game of Thobes, the 32-year-old bin Salman shows that he is willing to throw the entire region into jeopardy to wear the royal gown. His actions have already all but destroyed the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC); Yemen can no longer be referred to as a functioning state; Egypt is a ticking time bomb; and now Lebanon may erupt. Theres a lot to worry about.
Prominent Palestinian activist and politician Mustafa Barghouti was among several thousand people who joined a protest on the 100th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration in central London last week.

Its important for me to be here today and for Palestinians to feel the solidarity of the British people. Its important to see how the British people are against the position of the British government, Barghouti said.

The Balfour Declaration is not over. It is being implemented today across Palestine. It led to the ethnic cleansing during the Nakba, but it is not finished. It led to Israels apartheid regime, which is worse than the apartheid regime that existed in South Africa.

The 1917 declaration realised the Zionist aim of creating a Jewish state in Palestine after Britain pledged to establish a national home for the Jewish people there.
There is a cold war raging in the Middle East and it is on the verge of sparking a violent conflict in Lebanon.

Saudi minister of state for Arab Gulf Affairs Thamer al-Sabhan has become a household name in Lebanon.

Last Sunday, Sabhan considered the silence of Lebanons government and people bizarre in relation to the war on Saudi Arabia which the terrorist militia party Hezbollah is waging.

Two days later, then Prime Minister Saad Hariri tweeted a selfie with his excellency and friend al-Sabhan in Riyadh. The latter reciprocated by praising the long and fruitful meeting with my brother that led to an agreement on many issues that are of interest to the good Lebanese people. God willing, what is coming is better.

Little did the Lebanese people know that what is coming would be the resignation of their prime minister, who headed a government supposed to be regaining the trust of its people. Hariris cabinet was part of a settlement that saw General Michel Aoun elected president, ending a two-year political deadlock in Lebanon.

       pic.twitter.com/vDCnsKuzHs  Saad Hariri (@saadhariri) October 31, 2017

Hariri politically abducted?

On November 4, Saad Hariri announced his surprise resignation on Al-Arabiya channel, speaking from Riyadh rather than Beirut.

There was obviously no subtlety in the choice of location and what it meant in terms of Saudi Arabias role in the decision.

The surprise resignation, coupled with reports of a crackdown on several ministers and princes in the kingdom, led some Twitter users to joke about Hariris abduction calling on him to blink twice if you want us to save you.

Wiam Wahhab, a Druze pro-Hezbollah politician called for the Lebanese state to do what it can to ensure Hariris safe return to Beirut.

To be fair, Hariri yesterday spoke of threats to his life and an environment similar to the one in 2005, the dark year his father was assassinated triggering a series of targeted killings of politicians and journalists. It is worth noting that the Internal Security Forces denied reports about a botched assassination attempt against Hariri prior to his travel to Riyadh.

Now Hariris resignation may well be a calculated political move aiming to boost his standing in the eyes of his constituency, as having stood up to Hezbollah.

But there is also a very good chance that this move is part of the ongoing cold war between Iran and Saudi Arabia which has dragged in Lebanon, as well.

A cold war in the Middle East

Yesterday on Kalam al-Nass, Lebanons premier political talk show, Sabhan claimed that there is no difference between Hezbollah and other terrorist groups. In response to the hosts question on whether there will be a broad anti-terrorism international coalition against Hezbollah, he said that the roots of terrorism lie within the Islamic Republic of Iran alone.

Riyadh has officially declared war on Hezbollah with al-Sabhan noting that there is no room for a terrorist organisation in Lebanons government signalling that there will be no Sunni legitimacy for any government that includes Hezbollah ministers in the future.

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In other words, President Aoun will need a lot of patience and creativity in order to secure a second government during his presidency.

The reason is that the Constitution states: There shall be no constitutional legitimacy for any authority which contradicts the pact of mutual existence. This has been interpreted as the need for all religious groups to be represented in government for any authority to possess constitutional legitimacy within Lebanons confessional system. Hariris opponents used this argument in November 2006 when the government at that time was deemed unconstitutional after the resignation of the Shia ministers.

Now Saudi Arabias role is only half the story. The other half is the ever-growing Iranian influence in Lebanon and the presence of an armed party that openly pledges allegiance to the Islamic Republics supreme leader.

Hezbollahs decision to enter the Syrian conflict was seen by many as the inability of the Lebanese state to control major foreign policy and military decisions, allowing the armed party to cement its state within a state.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani added oil to the fire two weeks ago when trying to bolster his internal positioning vis-a-vis hardliners he blasted imperialism and Americas arrogance and spoke of Irans greatness as being more than at any other time.

He didnt stop there, unfortunately.

Rouhani went on to say: In Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, northern Africa, in the Persian Gulf region  where can action be taken without Iran?

Obviously, this did not go down well in Lebanon. Ever since the political settlement on the presidency, Hariri has been facing fierce criticism of his surrender to Iranian hegemony.

Hariri flatly denied such accusations and claimed he was only acting in Lebanons interest and stability. In a recent interview, his adviser Okab Sakr passionately defended Hariris achievements saying any talk of Sunni frustration is out of place.

Yet, clearly, there must have been some perceptions of frustration in Riyadh, where Hariris decisions are now taken. And clearly, the resignation is a direct response to Rouhanis claims of having a monopoly over decision-making in Lebanon.

Israel and Trump

Lebanon has long been the stage for the Iranian-Saudi regional cold war. But what makes this round of the fight special?

It is at this point no secret that Israel and Saudi Arabia are adopting an almost identical approach to the region following the dictum the enemy of my enemy is my friend.

To both, Iran presents an existential threat and countering its expansion is their number one priority.

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In September, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised cooperation with Arab countries saying: it is much larger than any other period in Israels history. Its a huge change. In a speech to Chatham House last Friday, he said: The good guys are getting together with Israel in a new way, forming an effective alliance to counter the aggression of Iran.

For Netanyahu, Hariris resignation and statements are a wake-up call for the international community to act against Iranian aggression.

The escalation in Lebanon has also been fuelled by the fact that the Trump administration has shown to be much more receptive of Saudi and Israeli demands than Obamas.

Talk of scrapping the nuclear deal and an increased concentration of efforts to target and sanction Hezbollah has created a context in which a confrontation in Lebanon is becoming increasingly likely.

And as researcher Joseph Bahout recently noted: Regionally, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are now seeking ways to compensate for the loss of Syria as a place where they could defy and bleed Iran  If ever they seek to rebalance the regional relationship with Tehran in the Levant, the only place to do so would be Lebanon, despite the many risks that would accompany such an effort.

Only de-escalation can save Lebanon

Seeking to capitalise on regional and international efforts to curb Hezbollahs growing influence, Hariri and other Sunni leaders might end up driving the country back into an abyss of Sunni-Shia escalation and another violent conflict.

Cornering Hezbollah through regional and international pressure or an Israeli war will not do anything good for the country. This is especially true because Hezbollah thrives in an atmosphere of us against the world. Apart from the fact that they are the only armed and trained political party in the country with experience of fighting Israel and a civil war in Syria.

At the same time, Hezbollah would do well to remember that one reason Saudi Arabia has supporters in Lebanon is because the party affords itself an armed wing.

The threats of cutting the hands of whoever wants to call for disarming Hezbollah is not winning hearts and minds in Lebanon. And putting the thorny issue of Hezbollahs weapons back on the table of a potential national dialogue is equally important to de-escalate rising tensions.

Of course, it is too soon to tell what Hariris resignation will mean for Lebanon. In the meantime, non-aligned Lebanese citizens can only hope for the day when both Saudi Arabia and Iran cease their interference in their countrys affairs.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
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Donald Trump is set to arrive in South Korea on November 7. The country is naturally abuzz with anticipation, in a show of how important the military alliance with the US is, especially at a time of tense standoff with North Korea.

The foreign minister and the South Korean ambassador to Washington will reportedly be at the airport to greet Trump and his wife. South Korean President Moon Jae-in will then have a one-on-one with his US counterpart before an extravagant dinner party with K-pop performances and traditional music. Trump will also address the National Assembly and visit US military base, Camp Humphreys.

All that brouhaha over Trumps visit belies the difficult predicament the South Korean government is in. Since taking office, Trump has made clear that he cares only about US interests. To continue kowtowing to Washington would be dangerous, even if Seoul cannot quite quit the pretence of honouring its longtime ally, at least not yet.

The Trump presidency, less than a year old, has been a headache for President Moon, who won the elections in May promising greater engagement and an end to hostility between the two Koreas. He took power exactly as Trump engaged in a verbal escalation with Pyongyang, threatening fire and fury and unilateral military action against North Korea.

It has become apparent that the US president doesnt particularly care about the safety and security of Korean people. According to Republican senator Lindsey Graham, Trump said, If thousands die, theyre going to die over there.

During the visit, Trump is also bound to bring up, at least privately, the free-trade agreement (FTA) between South Korea and the US, having insisted that it is horrible and job-killing for Americans. At Washingtons demand, the two sides agreed early October to renegotiate the deal. While Moon opposed the FTA when he was in opposition six years ago, he is hardly in a position to give it up now, considering that South Korean businesses benefit greatly from the arrangement.

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Despite disagreements, Moon has tried to sound in sync with the US leadership. He has been adamant to show support for stronger measures against North Korea and has repeatedly invoked the word pressure, which he says is necessary to bring North Korea back to the negotiation table.

The government announced on Friday that it was about to release a list of its own sanctions against Pyongyang, at the request of the Americans. And Moon has tried to downplay the looming FTA renegotiation, saying in August that it is not some immediate, major crisis.

Like Moon, South Koreans are not really enamoured with Trump, though they do value relations with the US. Most South Koreans  78 percent, to be precise  have no confidence in Trump, according to a Pew Research Center survey released in June, but a similar number  75 percent  express favourable opinions toward the US even at a time when the USs likeability is declining around the world.

In a separate poll, conducted last November by Asan Institute, a domestic think tank, the percentage of respondents who said that US-South Korean relations would worsen jumped more than four times from 2015 (14.1 percent) to 2016 (64 percent). From 2014 to 2016, the percentage of South Koreans who thought US military presence in South Korea to be the most important issue for the two allies nearly doubled from 17.6 to 30.

In other words, more South Koreans than not view Trumps intentions toward the Korean Peninsula with scepticism, and there is growing attention to whether the US should continue to guarantee South Koreas security.

An ostensibly liberal politician that rose to power as part of a movement to oust a corrupt conservative government, Moon is trapped between an uncaring ally and an electorate that is psychologically dependent on it, and he knows it. His discontent surfaces in the media only through more talkative members of his circle, like special advisor Moon Chung-in, who caused a firestorm late September by saying that even if the US-South Korea alliance falls apart, war must be stopped.

It was actually a good point: Why should South Korea beg for American protection when the US doesnt seem committed to peace in the Korean Peninsula?

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Knowing that there are fundamental differences between Moon and Trump, South Korean conservatives have sought to exploit the visit as an occasion to fan the publics anxiety and undermine the presidents popularity. Opposition lawmakers and conservative media are hounding the presidential office over why Trump is spending only one night in South Korea when he is spending two nights in Japan and China. They insist that the government is slighting the US president or hasnt done enough to win Washingtons favour.

Competing rallies, for and against Trumps visit, took place this weekend, and its obvious that Washington has left Seoul with no choice but to lessen its dependence on the US.

Thats why the administration rightly  but carefully  has begun working to improve relations with China. On October 30, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-hwa announced that there would be no additional deployment of THAAD, a US-made missile defence system which was set up to protect South Korea from North Korean missiles but which has angered Beijing to no end. She also said that South Korea is working on establishing its own defence system. This has brought almost immediate relief for South Korean businesses that have been suffering from a form of unofficial sanctions imposed by the Chinese government over the THAAD deployment last year.

On November 3, Moon gave an interview to Singapores Channel News Asia in which he defined his policy as balanced diplomacy.

But, no doubt, Moon will need to explain to Trump during next weeks visit what this pivot means. And if Trump is smart, he will get the message: Show that you genuinely care for the people of this country, or we can find another ally.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
The Yemen government has been based in Aden and Saudi Arabia since Houthi rebels seized control of Sanaa in 2014.

At least 15 people have been killed in Yemens coastal city of Aden, a local resident said, in an attack claimed by the local affiliate of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group.

The resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told Al Jazeera that several people died in the citys Khormaksar district on Sunday after an explosives-rigged car blew up outside the criminal investigation department (CID) building.

Armed men, some of whom were wearing military fatigues, then proceeded to storm the facility where clashes were still ongoing, the source said.

A separate source told Al Jazeera that at least three terrorists entered the CID building wearing suicide vests, but said there were no reports of hostages.

No gunfire, no explosions, the situation is currently calm, the source said.

Also in Aden on Sunday, a car bomb targeted the Dar Saad-based office of Yemens Islah (Congregation for Reform) party, the countrys largest opposition group, the source said.

The building was abandoned and there were no reports casualties, the source said.

ISIL took responsibility for the attack on the CID building, according to its Amaq,website, claiming the armed group killed around 50 officers.

Al Jazeera could not independently verify the claims.

Earlier on Sunday, images posted on social media showed a pitched street battle between security personnel and unknown fighters near the CID building.

Video by Khaled Al-Senami of clashes between #Aden security forces and ISIS militants at CID HQ in Khormaksar filmed a few hours ago. #Yemen pic.twitter.com/XsxfqqHN9W  demolinari (@demolinari) November 5, 2017

Aden, the temporary base of Yemens government, has seen a wave of bombings and shootings targeting officials and security forces in recent months.

Armed groups have gained ground in the south of the country since forces loyal to President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi  backed by an Arab coalition assembled by Saudi Arabia  drove the Houthi fighters out of Aden in July last year.

Since then, the government and the Arab coalition have struggled to enforce their control as ISIL and al-Qaeda use the security vacuum to carry out attacks.

Sundays violence comes a day after Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for a loud explosion in Riyadh, saying they fired a long-range ballistic missile that travelled more than 800km over the border with Saudi Arabia.

The war in Yemen, the Middle Easts poorest country, started in 2014 after Houthi rebels seized control of the capital Sanaa and began pushing south towards the countrys third-biggest city, Aden.

The Yemen government has been based in Aden and Saudi Arabia since 2014.

Concerned by the rise of the Houthi rebels, believed to be backed by regional rival Iran, Saudi Arabia and a coalition of Sunni Arab states launched an intervention in 2015 in the form of a massive air campaign aimed at reinstalling President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadis government.

Since then, more than 10,000 people have been killed and at least 40,000 wounded, mostly from Saudi-led air raids.
Al Jazeera has obtained exclusive footage of thousands of displaced Rohingya waiting to cross over into Bangladesh. Since August, more than 600,000 have fled the violence, which the UN says amounts to ethnic cleansing.

Al Jazeera has obtained exclusive footage of thousands of displaced Rohingya waiting to cross over into Bangladesh. Since August, more than 600,000 have fled the violence, which the UN says amounts to ethnic cleansing.

The Myanmar government has denied claims its troops have committed atrocities.

Al Jazeeras Florence Looi reports from Yangon.
Papua New Guinea minister presses Australia to hand over 150 refugees to New Zealand from Manus Island prison.

Sydney, Australia  Papua New Guineas immigration minister has told Al Jazeera that Australia must immediately facilitate a New Zealand offer to take 150 refugees formerly detained in an Australian prison camp on its Manus Island.

The strong words came as New Zealands prime minister said on Sunday the offer remains alive during a bilateral press conference in Australia, even as its prime minister declined to accept.

Almost 600 men have refused to leave the prison they were detained in until October 31 when food, water, and electricity were cut off. They say moving to other accommodation on the island  as Australian and PNG authorities are urging them to do  would put them at risk of attacks by locals.

They also dispute Australian government claims that alternative facilities are ready to live in.

On her first foreign visit as leader, New Zealands newly elected Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reiterated her countrys four-year-old pledge to take the refugees.

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We of course do not have the circumstances that Australia is working under, but we also cannot ignore the human face of what Australia is dealing with as well, so the offer is very genuine and absolutely remains on the table as well, Ardern said.

As expected, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull stated that Australia wouldnt be taking up the New Zealand offer, at least not in the short-term.

The offer has been re-stated. We thank New Zealand for making that offer. We are not taking it up at this time for the reasons I explained earlier, he said.

An alternative settlement deal with the United States was enacted in September, while the Australian government says another costly resettlement plan with Cambodia remains alive, despite only having been taken up by a handful of refugees.

The original New Zealand offer, made in 2013, laid the ground for 150 refugees to be resettled from Australia to its smaller neighbour annually.

Following a change of government in Australia, it was never enacted.

PNG will very much appreciate New Zealand assistance in this regard, Immigration Minister Petrus Thomas told Al Jazeera, but the country had gone silent in the process.

PNG, he said, had given a helping hand and identified refugees from non-refugees. Its now Australias responsibility to settle them in a third country.

Al Jazeera asked Ardern if New Zealand would sidestep Australia and deal with PNG directly.

No, because the offer is still under active consideration by Australia so there is no need to do so, she said.
Australian PM has rejected an offer by Jacinda Ardern the PM of New Zealand to resettle 150 refugees in her country.

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has rejected Wellingtons offer to resettle refugees in New Zealand.

Turnbull snubbed New Zealands renewed offer to resettle 150 refugees illegally held at remote Pacific camps despite the closure of one detention centre in Papua New Guinea, which has triggered a standoff between refugees and the Australian authorities.

The issue re-emerged when the Australian prime minister met his New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern for the first time Sunday in Sydney.

Canberra has been forced on the defensive by the move from Wellingtons new government, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull saying Australia would instead prioritise a similar deal with the US to resettle refugees in the US, despite slow progress.

Australia had come under fire from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, with a spokesman in Geneva Friday calling on Canberra to move the refugees from Manus to Australia and criticising the offshore asylum processing policy as unsustainable, inhumane and contrary to its human rights obligations.

We urge the governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea to fully respect their human rights  and to enter into a dialogue with the men to ensure these rights are duly respected, protected and fulfilled, the spokesman added.

About 600 detainees are refusing to leave citing safety fears if they move to transition centres where locals are reportedly unwelcoming.

But conditions in the camp are deteriorating with limited food and water and electricity cut off, with the United Nations warning of a humanitarian emergency.

Under its strict immigration policy, Canberra sends asylum seekers who try to reach Australia by boat to two camps, in Manus and Nauru, and they are barred from ever resettling in Australia.

Australia has struggled to move the refugees to third countries, such as Cambodia or Papua New Guinea.

The offer is very genuine and remains on the table, Ardern told reporters after meeting Turnbull.

But the Australian leader replied that while he appreciated the offer, first made by Wellington in 2013, we are not taking it up at this time.

We have an arrangement with the United States  so we want to pursue those, conclude those arrangements and then in the wake of that, obviously we can consider other ones, he said at the joint press conference.

Under the American deal, struck with previous US President Barack Obama and bitterly criticised by his successor Donald Trump, just 54 refugees have been accepted, with 24 flown to the US.

The agreement had envisaged resettling up to 1,250 refugees from Manus and Nauru to the US, but the vetting process has been slow.

Turnbull said his government had successfully stopped the arrival of asylum seeker boats and cited fears the people-smuggling trade could be restarted.

Many of those people smugglers were trying to get people to New Zealand, he added.

Despite widespread criticism, Canberra has defended its policy.
Despite a 2001 ruling that resolved the dispute, Bahrain cites entitlement to what was cut off forcibly from its land.

Bahrain has claimed the right to take Qatari territory, as tensions between the two Gulf countries heighten amid political deadlock.

A press release published on the countrys state news agency on Saturday said that Bahrain has every right to claim what was cut off forcibly from its land and to dispute the legitimacy of the Qatari rule.

The statement, which references a historic border dispute that was solved by an international court in 2001, did not specify whether Bahrain intends to take any action.

It comes in the context of a broader crisis in the Gulf, in which Bahrain, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt have cut diplomatic ties with Qatar and imposed a sea, land and air blockade.

The blockading countries have accused Qatar of supporting terrorist groups and have issued a list of demands, including the closure of the Doha-based Al Jazeera network. Qatar has vehemently denied the accusations and rejected the demands.

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In recent weeks, Bahrain has stepped up threats against Qatar, vowing last week that it would not attend the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit, which usually takes place in December, if Qatar attended.

Last week, the country imposed visa requirements on Qatari nationals and residents, in a move that Qatar called unprecedented.

Border dispute

The Bahrain-Qatar border dispute began in the mid-1900s, mainly over the Hawar Islands and the town of Zubara.

In 1991, Qatar referred the dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), after decades of failed Saudi mediation and a narrowly avoided armed confrontation between the two countries.

The issue was resolved in 2001 when the ICJ, the principal judicial branch of the United Nations, decided that Bahrain had claim over the Hawar Islands, while Qatar was awarded Zubara and the Janan Islands.

Despite the issue being resolved 16 years ago, the Bahraini government said in its statement on Saturday that it had endured the intolerable and conceded many of its internationally documented historic rights for the benefit of the Gulf countries.

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Alluding to the creation in 1981 of the GCC  a political and economic alliance of Gulf countries  the statement said that Bahrain had agreed to postpone the claim of its rights, accepted the losses and gave up what is rightfully hers in order to ensure the unity of the Gulf.

Jocelyn Sage Mitchell, a political science professor at Northwestern University in Qatar, said that Bahrain was merely throwing out complaints that are long-standing and are still simmering.

If they decided that they wanted to re-pursue their territorial claims over this, that would be in contravention of the international community, Mitchell told Al Jazeera.

That would be something that would be very surprising and an ill-advised move on Bahrains part.
Unmarried couples in the East African country of Burundi have until the end of the year to legalise their relationships through church or state registrations.

Unmarried couples in the East African country of Burundi have until the end of the year to legalise their relationships through church or state registrations.

In May, President Pierre Nkurunziza signed a new law which the government says will help protect women and create a more moral society, but some disagree.

The government insists a legal document recognising a marriage helps protect women and their children, especially when it comes to issues such as inheritance. However, others say the new marriage law infringes on peoples religious beliefs, customs and practices.

Al Jazeeras Haru Mutasa reports from the capital, Bujumbura.
In the weeks leading up to the rallies, far-right websites claimed anti-fascists were planning a civil war.

New York City, New York  Claims that left-wing activists and anti-fascists (also known as Antifa) planned to behead white parents and deploy super soldiers as part of a bid to launch a civil war turned out to be a series of modest anti-Trump marches in cities across the country.

Saturdays demonstrations and marches, which took place in several US cities and largely passed without incident, had been billed by far-right websites as plans to carry out mass bloodshed and execute a coup against right-wing President Donald Trump.

RefuseFascism.Org, a left-wing protest group, called for the rallies to drive out the Trump administration, sparking a storm of far-right conspiracy theories about anti-fascists alleged plans to start a civil war in the country.

A day before the rallies, Fox News dubbed the events the Antifa apocalypse, while far-right forums claimed that leftists planned to indiscriminately murder white people on Saturday.

But the rallies were a far cry from the conspiracy theories that had gone viral on far-right websites, with some 300 people assembling in New York City and dozens rallying in places like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin and Portland, among others.

Speaking to Al Jazeera at the rally, RefuseFascism.Org organiser Carl Dix said far-right websites and social media users spread rumours online because they wanted to demonise what were doing.

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They cooked up a conscious lie talking about violence, he said. We said from the beginning this was going to be a non-violent protest.

Rally participants held signs and banners, reading the Trump-Pence regime must go!

I am sexually attracted to indictments, another sign said.

A handful of pro-Trump hecklers milled around the march, chanting back occasionally, and a brief altercation between a left-wing march participant and a counterdemonstrator was broken up by police.

Behead all white parents

Although RefuseFascism.Org considers itself an anti-fascist group, the organisation is linked to the relatively small Revolutionary Communist Party and is not tied to Antifa chapters and groups that have been clashing with far-right protesters.

The rumours surrounding the rallies first went viral after InfoWars, a conspiracy theory website headed by Alex Jones, published a story under the title: Antifa plan civil war to overthrow Trump on November 4.

After InfoWars ran that story, far-right websites claimed that Antifa super soldiers planned to take to the streets and wage chaos and bloodshed.

Gateway Pundit, a far-right website that supports Trump, published an article purporting that Antifa planned to behead all white parents, citing a satirical post by comedic Twitter account @KrangTNelson.

RefuseFascism.Org protest organisers told Al Jazeera they subsequently received a torrent of hateful messages, including death threats.

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Daryl Lamont Jenkins, an anti-fascist researcher and founder of the One Peoples Project, said that the far right has a long history of spreading misinformation about left-wing protests.

In June, far-right demonstrators gathered in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, after online conspiracy theories claimed that anti-fascists and leftists planned to deface Confederate gravestones at a Civil War cemetery.

Just weeks before that, armed militia members and other far-rightists showed up for a counterprotest in Houston, Texas, after a hoax Facebook page announced that left-wing activists intended to tear down a statue of Sam Houston, a political leader and military figure who fought for the independence of Texas and later advocated the territory becoming a US state.

This is what defines the far right, Jenkins told Al Jazeera, describing the conspiracy theories about a civil war on Saturday as a sign of desperation.

He said: Theyve decided to create their own world, and were just living in it for some reason. Its downright pathetic.
Mohammad Mousa was fatally shot in the back after failing to stop at an Israeli checkpoint, family says.

When 26-year-old Mohammad Mousa left his home in the small village of Deir Ballut in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday morning to renew his drivers license, his family never expected him to return several days later in a plastic body bag.

I remember what my son was wearing and how he smelled that day, Abdallah, Mousas grieving father, told Al Jazeera.

He finished building his home, he was buying a new vehicle, and after the olive harvest he was planning on getting engaged, he said. I lost my senses when I heard the news. I lost my mind. Only God can understand how we are feeling right now.

Hundreds of Palestinians attended Mousas funeral on Friday, after Israel released his remains to the family almost four days after he was fatally shot by Israeli forces.

Shortly before the incident, Mousa was on his way to Ramallah city with his 33-year-old sister, Latifa. He was driving a car with an Israeli license plate  which is illegal for Palestinians with West Bank ID cards  when the siblings turned a corner and unexpectedly met an Israeli flying checkpoint at a junction near Israels illegal Halamish settlement, adjacent to the village of Nabi Saleh.

Local media reported that Israeli forces motioned for Mousa to stop, but he continued past the checkpoint. Israeli forces then opened fire on Mousas car.

Shot from the back

Mousa was allegedly shot in the back and succumbed to his wounds at Israels Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva. Latifa, meanwhile, was struck by a bullet in the shoulder. Although her wounds are moderate, she has remained at Istishari Hospital in Ramallah and underwent surgery on Friday.

An Israeli army spokesperson told Al Jazeera that Mousa was killed after driving in a suspicious manner.

The troops signalled for the vehicle to halt. Upon the drivers continuous advance and failure to comply with the troops instructions, shots were fired, she said, noting that the incident was under review.

Tahseen Elayyan, who heads the monitoring and documentation department at the Palestinian human rights NGO al-Haq, told Al Jazeera that the groups initial investigation revealed that a series of bullets had struck the front and back of the vehicle. The group concluded that Israeli soldiers were continuously shooting at Mousas vehicle as it passed the checkpoint.

Bassam, Mousas uncle, told Al Jazeera that the full autopsy results have not yet been disclosed. However, based on the wounds on his body, its clear he was shot from the back, because the bullet entered the back of his waist and exited from the front.

Extrajudicial killings

Bassam described Mousa as a kind and simple man who did not involve himself in politics. The village itself is well-known to be non-political, he added, noting that Israeli soldiers had even given the village the nickname peaceful town.

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Abdallah told Al Jazeera that the family would focus on obtaining justice for Mousa through legal avenues, saying the excessive violence was extremely disturbing. They could have shot the tires to stop the car, but they wanted to kill him, Bassam said.

Elayyan said the case is just one among scores of incidents in which Israeli soldiers and officers use lethal force on Palestinians who are not posing an immediate threat. Out of hundreds of cases in which Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces over the past two years, most could have been easily avoided, he said.

Such cases qualify as extrajudicial killings and indicate that Israeli forces follow a shoot to kill policy, Elayyan said  and Israeli forces rarely face accountability.

Even in the very few cases where Israelis appeared before Israeli courts, sentences were not proportionate [to the crime], he said.

Such impunity is the reason his nephew is dead, Bassam said. The Israelis are never punished. It allows them to treat us as if we are chickens  like we are not human. And this is what gives them the courage to kill us.
Clashes break out after police tried to disarm Colonel Abbas Kayonga who was sacked from his post.

Gunfire and explosions erupted in Congos eastern city of Bukavu, witnesses said, as Congolese troops clashed with those loyal to a renegade colonel.

A Democratic Republic of Congo army spokesperson for South Kivu region, Dieudonne Kasereka, told Al Jazeera clashes started after police came to disarm Colonel Abbas Kayonga, who was sacked from his post on Thursday.

Security has deteriorated across DRC since the end of last year, when President Joseph Kabila refused to step down despite his mandate expiring.

Surging militia violence in the east  which for decades has been a tinderbox of ethnic rivalries fuelled by the regions mineral wealth  and in the formerly peaceful central Kasai region have raised fears the country could slip back to the multi-faceted civil wars of the turn of the century.

Those wars killed hundreds of thousands of people while millions of others are thought to have died of hunger and disease.

Kayonga is a former rebel from a group that was successfully disarmed and integrated into the Congolese military.

We are determined to arrest him and make him face justice, Kasereka said.

Two security sources estimated the size of Kayongas faction at about 40 men.

The national electoral commission was expected to announce a date for the election to replace Kabila later on Sunday. Last month, it said the vote cannot take place until April 2019, raising fears of an escalation in violence and civil disturbances.

US envoy Nikki Haley, after meeting with Kabila last month, said the vote must happen in 2018 or Congo will lose international support.
At least 26 killed and 20 others injured after gunman opened fire during Sunday morning service in Sutherland Springs.

At least 26 people have been killed and 20 others injured in a mass shooting inside a church in Sutherland Springs, in the US state of Texas.

The shooting took place on Sunday at the First Baptist Church in Wilson County during the 11:00am (17:00 GMT) service, officials told reporters.

Sergeant Robert Murphy of the Guadalupe County Sheriffs office confirmed to Al Jazeera that the attacker was deceased. Officials later told reporters that the suspected gunman was found in neighbouring Guadalupe County dead in his vehicle, but it was not yet clear whether he was killed or died from a self-inflicted wound.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott told reporters that at least 26 people had died. Those who were killed ranged in age from five to 72 years old, officials said.

Authorities added that 23 people were killed inside the church, two outside and one person died after being transferred to a hospital.

Largest mass shooting in state history

As a state we are dealing with the largest mass shooting in our states history, Abbott said.

Officials said they could not yet name the attacker, but described him as a young white male. They added that he was wearing a ballistic vest, dressed in all black and used an assault-type rifle.

Authorities said the suspected attacker entered the church just after 11:20am local time (17:20 GMT) and opened fire. He then fled the church after a local resident used his own rifle to engage with the assailant. He was then pursued by police until he crashed his vehicle and was later found dead.

US President Donald Trump tweeted shortly after the shooting, saying he was monitoring the situation from Japan where he has just started a 12-day tour of Asia.

He later called the shooting a horrific attack.

Contacted by Al Jazeera, the Wilson County sheriff was not immediately available for comment.

Sutherland Springs is a small rural community about 55km outside of San Antonio, Texas.

Sundays attack comes just a month after one of the deadliest mass shootings in US history, when 58-year-old Stephen Paddock killed at least 58 people and injured more than 500 others. Paddock subsequently killed himself.

The Mass Shooting Tracker watchdog has recorded at least 24 mass shootings this month and more than 300 so far this year in the US.
Amid speculation over Saudis role, the move deals a severe blow to Lebanons fragile coalition government, experts say.

The snap resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri over the weekend reflects a push by Saudi Arabia to openly confront Iran, its longtime regional adversary, and Irans Lebanese ally, Hezbollah, analysts say.

It will also likely plunge Lebanon into a fresh political quagmire, as the countrys fragile coalition government suffers a severe blow and general elections set for May appear increasingly uncertain.

Joseph Bahout, a visiting fellow with the Middle East Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, noted that tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran have been building for some time, and the Saudis have recently shown a will [to confront] Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Hariri, a Lebanese Sunni politician and longtime ally of the Gulf kingdom, announced his resignation from Riyadh, the Saudi capital, on Saturday.

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In a televised speech, Hariri said he believed he faced threats to his life.

He called out Iran for sowing disorder and destruction in Lebanon, and criticised Hezbollah, a Lebanese political and armed resistance movement allied with Tehran, for building a state within a state.

I say to Iran and its allies  you have lost in your efforts to meddle in the affairs of the Arab world, Hariri said, adding that the region will rise again and the hands that you have wickedly extended into it will be cut off.

Questions over Saudis role

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was appointed last June, has recently taken a harsher line on Iran.

The long-standing power struggle between the two regional rivals has been playing out in Syria, where Hezbollah is fighting with Irans backing alongside Syrian President Bashar al-Assads forces, and in Yemen.

The Saudis feel that its time for them to be much more aggressive against what they perceive or describe as Irans expansion in the region, Bahout told Al Jazeera. The new thing is that they have decided to throw Lebanon into this kind of fire.





Saudi Arabia, however, has denied being behind Hariris resignation.

Saudi Minister of State for Gulf Affairs Thamer al-Sabhan told Lebanese television station LBC on Saturday that it was entirely Hariris decision to step down.

Nonetheless, the resignation comes amid increasingly hostile rhetoric from Sabhan himself, who recently posted several tweets condemning Hezbollah, which he described as a terrorist force.

Those who cooperate and work with it politically, economically and through the media should be punished, Sabhan wrote on October 26. There should be serious work to curb it internally and externally and to confront it with force.

Hariris resignation speech mirrored Sabhans language. And just days earlier, on October 31, Hariri posted a photo to Twitter of himself with Sabhan, captioned: Long meeting with His Excellency my friend Thamer al-Sabhan.

Tawfiq Shuman, a Lebanese journalist and analyst, told Al Jazeera Arabic that, because Hariri delivered his statement from Riyadh, he had to use the same tone and language the kingdom uses when speaking about Hezbollah.

This language is one of war, military and confrontation, Shuman said.

Bahout maintained that Saudi Arabia appears to be behind Hariris decision to resign, noting that the Saudis would not have made such a move unless they felt they had the blessing of the United States, another longtime ally.

They feel the climate is right now, Bahout said. In the longer run, I think the real question is, how far are the Saudis willing to go? Whats their aim?

US pressure

In recent months, the Trump administration has been increasingly critical of Hezbollah, which the US has listed as a terrorist group since the late 1990s. US President Donald Trump has also spoken out against Iran and the nuclear deal signed between Tehran and Western nations.

Last month, the US Congress unanimously approved additional sanctions on Hezbollah and foreign states that support the group.

Israel also used Hariris resignation as an opportunity to speak out against Iran.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted late Saturday that the resignation was a wakeup call to the international community to take action against the Iranian aggression that is trying to turn Syria into a second Lebanon.

The resignation comes amid a very heightened, anti-Hezbollah discourse, said Carmen Geha, an assistant professor of public administration at the American University of Beirut.

Hezbollah Secretary-General Hasan Nasrallah is expected to comment on Hariris resignation on Sunday.

Geha told Al Jazeera that she expects Nasrallahs speech to accuse Hariri of defecting to the Saudis and to proclaim the importance of Hezbollahs role in the region. I dont think it is going to be conciliatory at all, she said.

What are the next steps?

Internally, Bahout said Hariris resignation plunges Lebanon into what could be a very long governmental crisis. General elections are set for next May, but a vote would be unlikely to go ahead if a government is not in place, he said.

Officially, Lebanese President Michel Aoun must accept Hariris resignation.

Aoun, who is allied with Hezbollah, will then be tasked with appointing a new prime minister, who, under Lebanons sectarian political system, must be a Sunni Muslim.

However, that will be far from easy, as the Hariri-led coalition government was put in place last year after several years of political deadlock in Lebanon.

Geha told Al Jazeera that while the Lebanese cabinet can continue on an operational basis, it appears more likely that the Lebanese political system will go into complete paralysis.

Either there will be an indication of a will to have a minimum of socioeconomic stability at least, or not, which I feel is more likely, said Geha, who added that she expected political polarisation to deepen as a result of Hariris resignation.

Geha said there is no lack of Lebanese Sunni politicians who can replace Hariri, but if his resignation is tied to Saudi Arabia, a regional consensus over a potential successor may be necessary.

I think this time, it will be difficult to replace the prime minister, she said. If this is Saudi-led  it will take a lot of regional consensus-building.

Additional reporting by Zena Tahhan
Protests and criticism drive up pressure on conservative government as 600 refugees hold out on Manus Island.

Perth, Australia  Australias Guantanamo detention centre on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea (PNG) officially closed a week ago, but nearly 600 desperate refugees are refusing to leave.

The facility once formed the cornerstone of Australias controversial refugee resettlement policy, but had been ruled illegal by PNGs Supreme Court in 2016.

A year later, the Australian government complied with the decision to shutter it.

It turned off the power, cut the water supply, and pulled its people out  leaving behind 587 men who have barricaded themselves inside the camp, saying they fear attacks from locals if they are relocated.

Of them, 447 are confirmed refugees while the other 140 have had their applications rejected and are waiting on the Australian government to return them.

Ever since the group has been in a standoff with PNG officials, triggering a political crisis around what to do with the men who wont leave, but cant stay.

Refugee on Manus with severe kidney stones, crying from pain. Govt obviously violating human rights. I'm witnessing a tragedy, a disaster.  Behrouz Boochani (@BehrouzBoochani) November 5, 2017

[The Australian government] left us here in this jungle. It is a jungle. A jungle and an ocean, Behrouz Boochani, a refugee held on Manus Island, told Al Jazeera over the phone from the detention centre.

There are no medical services, no food, no water. Nothing here. And yet they left us here.

Boochani is an Iranian journalist who founded the Kurdish newspaper Werya, but was forced to flee in 2013 when its offices were raided by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

He was picked up by the Australian government while attempting a boat crossing from Indonesia and held on Manus Island as a refugee.

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Since then, he has become a spokesman for the men who have spent the last four years in limbo while they waited on the Australian government to make a decision about their fate.

Having been left to fend for themselves, Boochani says the situation is growing desperate.

On Saturday night, one man collapsed with chest pains but did not receive medical treatment, and starvation is starting to set in as police and navy personnel stopped all deliveries of food and medicine.

We are prepared to stay here and die in this prison camp, says Boochani.

In response to the crisis, the Australian government has defended itself by pointing out it has offered alternative accommodation for the men, though two of the facilities on offer are currently still under construction.

The only operational facility is in Lorengau, which the detainees say is not equipped to handle 600 men, lacks proper medical services, and is located in a community that is hostile towards them.

Inside Australia, the series of events have triggered rallies calling on the Australian government to end the crisis by resettling the men.

Jonno Revanche attended a rally in Sydney and was involved in an earlier sit-in at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection offices. He told Al Jazeera that supporters fear the government will leave the men to die.

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[This government] doesnt represent what even a lot of traditional Australians would even deem acceptable, Revanche said.

I think if the majority of Australians listened to the people on Manus, and clearly saw how they were treated up close, theyd be outraged and deeply in opposition to what is happening.

The situation has not gone unnoticed by international bodies.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) warned of an unfolding humanitarian emergency in a press conference last Friday, where it repeated its criticism of Australias current policy of offshore detention as unsustainable, inhumane and contrary to its human rights obligations.

We have serious concerns about the welfare, safety and well-being of the roughly 600 men who remain in the accommodation compound, who are too frightened to leave, UNHCR spokesperson Rupert Colville said.

This was echoed by Elaine Pearson of Human Rights Watch who visited the island in October and said the situation on Manus Island had grown increasingly desperate over the weekend.

In the immediate term, theres an emergency for food, for water and medical assistance for the men who are in that centre, whether its provided by the UN or the PNG government in the long run, Pearson said.

This is an Australian-made humanitarian catastrophe because Australia is walking away from its obligation. Its basically paying off the PNG government and trying to shirk off its international obligations onto a poor country.

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All of this has placed mounting pressure on the ruling conservative government, which has steadily implemented a deterrence-based refugee policy since taking office in 2013.

For a moment, a limited solution appeared to be possible on Sunday when New Zealands Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern arrived in Australia to meet with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and renewed an offer to resettle 150 refugees in New Zealand.

The offer had been first been made to Australia in 2013 by former New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, but was turned down out of concern it might restart people-smuggling operations in the region.

Turnbull, however, rejected Arderns proposal citing an existing deal with the US that would accept 1,250 people, subject to vetting by local authorities.

That deal was originally struck with the US at the end of Barrack Obamas presidency, and was originally seen by members of the Australian government as a convenient way out of an intractable problem.

However, the election of Donald Trump complicated matters.

A leaked transcript of a phone conversation between Turnbull and the US president showed Trump was deeply hostile to the idea, even as he praised Australias hard-line refugee policy.

That is a good idea. We should do that too. You are worse than I am, Trump said when it was explained to him.

How likely the resettlement programme is to proceed remains in question, and so with no political solution in sight, those on Manus Island continue to live under a state of siege.

I want the people around the world to understand, we have been forgotten people for four years, Boochani said.

I want people to hear our voice.
Lebanese PMs resignation raises fears of an escalation in Saudi-Iran feud, with Lebanon on the front lines.

Iran has said that the resignation of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri on Saturday aims to create tension in Lebanon and the entire region.

In a statement on Irans state news agency, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said his country rejects Hariris claims against Iran as a repetition of false and unfounded anti-Iran accusations by the Zionist regime, the Saudis and the Americans.

In a surprise move, Hariri announced his resignation in a televised speech during a visit to the Saudi capital, Riyadh, blaming Iran and its Lebanese ally, the Hezbollah movement, for his decision.

Hariri said Iran had fomented disorder and destruction in the country and meddled in the internal affairs of Lebanon and other Arab states.

Referring to Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran, Hariri said: Irans arm  has managed to impose a fait accompli on Lebanon through the power of its weapons in the last few decades. They have built a state within a state, he said.

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I say to Iran and its allies  you have lost in your efforts to meddle in the affairs of the Arab world, he continued, adding that the region will rise again and the hands that you have wickedly extended into it will be cut off.

Hariris resignation has stoked fears of an escalation in the regional divide between Iran and the Gulf states, primarily Saudi Arabia, with Lebanon  a politically unstable country  on the front lines.

The sudden resignation of Mr. Hariri and its announcement in another country is not only a source of pity and wonder, but also indicates he is playing in a ground where the ill-wishers of the region have designed, Qasemi said in the statement.

Hussein Sheikh al-Islam, adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, also responded to Hariris speech, saying the resignation was done with planning by Donald Trump, the president of America, and Mohammed bin Salman, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia.

Hariri, a leading Sunni politician, has been in office for less than a year, but previously served as prime minister between 2009 and 2011.

He assumed office again in late 2016 in a power-sharing government headed by President Michel Aoun, a supporter of Hezbollah, whose members have been accused by the International Court of Justice of assassinating Hariris father, Rafik, in a 2005 bombing.

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The country spent two years in political deadlock without a president before Aouns election in October 2016, after Hariri endorsed the latter  a move seen by some analysts as a sign of Irans influence in Lebanon.

On Friday, after a meeting with Hariri in Beirut, a senior adviser to Irans Supreme Leader congratulated Lebanon for its stability and the formation of the coalition government.

Hariris resignation now casts doubt on Lebanons political future.

Walid Jumblatt, the leader of Lebanons Druze and the Progressive Socialist Party, said Hariris resignation could adversely affect the country.

He said it was the latest evidence of a power struggle between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and urged an intensification of diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions.

Lebanon is too small and vulnerable to bear the economic and political burden that comes with this resignation, Jumblatt said via social media.

I will continue to call for dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Attacks aimed at Iraqs PMF kill five, injure more than 20 in the northern oil-rich city.

Two explosions struck the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, killing at least five people and wounding more than 20 others, local medics said.

The suicide attack targeted offices of Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) on Atlas Street, located in the heart of the city, on Sunday, according to local media reports.

The PMF are Iranian-backed, Shia-dominated paramilitaries who have fought alongside Iraqi government forces since 2014.

The attack was the first of its kind since the Iraqi central government regained control of the multi-ethnic city last month from Kurdish Peshmerga forces  who had been in control of the area for three years.

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A controversial September 25 referendum on Kurdish secession led to mounting tensions between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Iraqi central government. Baghdad had declared the results of the referendum illegal.

The non-binding vote led to a military confrontation between Peshmerga forces and Iraqi government forces in Kirkuk, which was previously considered among the disputed areas of the northern region.

Kirkuk was among territory seized by Peshmerga forces when the Iraqi military abandoned the city in the face of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) advances in 2014, but it is not within the borders of the KRGs autonomous territory.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for Sundays attack.

Baghdad has reiterated it would re-assert federal control over all borders the KRG currently controls  with Syria, Turkey, and Iran  in line with the Iraqi constitution.
Thousands are expected to descend on Londons Trafalgar Square for Million Mask March on Guy Fawkes Night.

Thousands are expected to descend on Londons Trafalgar Square to attend the Million Mask March.

What is the Million Mask March?

Associated with the hacktivist group Anonymous, Million Mask March protesters worldwide have rallied every year since 2013 against militarisation and police brutality and for self-governance.

In a 27-minute message posted to YouTube in the run-up to the 2017 event, Anonymous said: Every November 5, the Million Mask March is a sign that humanity around the world is crying out for change.

Protesters usually wear masks depicting Guy Fawkes.

Who was Guy Fawkes?

Guy Fawkes, also known as Guido Fawkes, was a member of the English Catholics who planned the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

The group wanted to blow up the House of Lords but ultimately failed. Guy Fawkes and three other plotters were hanged and quartered on January 31, 1606.

Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated across Britain, with revellers setting off fireworks and burning a Guy Fawkes effigy on a bonfire. The festival, which had Protestant spirit, started as a way to give thanks because the Gunpowder Plot failed but later fuelled anti-Catholic bigotry.

When will the Million Mask March take place?

The main march is expected to take place on Sunday, November 5 at 6pm (18:00GMT) at Trafalgar Square in central London.

The annual event coincides with Guy Fawkes Night. Police have said the march must end by 9pm. There is also an event planned in Barcelona, according to social media.

Is violence expected at Sundays rally?

Thousands usually take part in the march, and there is usually some disruption. Last year, dozens were arrested.

Police have imposed a series of conditions on protesters. If, for example, demonstrators stray from the march route, they face arrest.

We have strong reasons to believe that peaceful protest is the last thing on the minds of some of those who will attend, said Chief Superintendent Elaine Van-Orden.

Criminality at the event has increased year-on-year. Arrests have increased from four in 2012 to 53 in 2016, she added.

British media reports say police will ramp up the use of body cameras to monitor violence.

What is the focus of this years rally?

More than 1,000 people have expressed interest in attending the London rally on a Facebook page.

We have seen the pushes to make the internet yet another part of the surveillance state, we have seen the governments disregard for migrants, for the poor, the elderly and the disabled, organisers said.

We have seen the capital, profit and greed of the few put before the well-being of the many and we say enough is enough.

The government and the 1 percent have played their hand, now it is time to play ours.

The rally is expected to be live-streamed and will be available to watch online.
The leader of Lebanons Hezbollah movement has called the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Hariri a Saudi-imposed decision.

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In a televised appearance on the Hezbollah-owned Al Manar TV, Hassan Nasrallah said on Sunday that Hariris resignation speech was written by Saudi.

It was not our wish for Hariri to resign, he said of the sudden and unexpected move.

Even if he was forced to resign, the way in which it was executed does not reflect Hariris way in dealing with things, Nasrallah added, questioning the text of Hariris speech broadcast during his visit to the Saudi capital, Riyadh, on Saturday.

Hariri blamed interference in Lebanon by Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah for his decision to quit, adding he feared an assassination attempt.

Hariri said Iran fomented disorder and destruction in the country and meddled in the internal affairs of Lebanon and other Arab states. He described Hezbollah as Irans arm in the country.

They have built a state within a state, said Hariri.

His resignation has stoked fears of an escalation in the regional divide between Iran and the Gulf states, primarily Saudi Arabia, with Lebanon on the front lines.

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It would have been better to allow him to go back to Lebanon, meet the president, submit his resignation, and declare it from the palace, said Nasrallah.

The way in which it was delivered makes it clear that Saudi Arabia meddles in Lebanons internal affairs  The tone was not at all suitable. We need to discuss the Saudi element.

He also demanded to know the real reason behind the move, which he said Hariri owed to the Lebanese people.

Nasrallah questioned the motive behind the surprise resignation, suggesting possibilities such as Saudi internal conflicts.

Is it a conflict relating to financial matters? A struggle between princes? Is Saudi not happy with Hariris performance? Do they [Saudi officials] think he can be replaced by someone who would abide by Saudi policies? he asked.

Or maybe it has to do with Hezbollah  this is another possible reason.

He reassured the people of Lebanon of Hezbollahs commitment to maintain the countrys safety and stability.

Nasrallah concluded his remarks by saying Hezbollah will never be pressured.

Al Jazeeras senior analyst Marwan Bishara said the speech was Nasrallahs attempt to contain and prevent further escalation.

Saudi Arabia wants to escalate its proxy war with Iran  not only in Yemen and Syria, but also in Iraq and Lebanon, said Bishara.

Were seeing now Lebanon being put in the middle of this proxy conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia  with the Iranians really pushing hard in order to take more control of Lebanon through Hezbollah, as well as Saudi Arabia trying to expand its influence and confront Iran in places like Lebanon.

Hariri, a leading Sunni politician, had been in office for less than a year, but previously served as prime minister between 2009-2011.

He assumed office again in late 2016 in a power-sharing government headed by President Michel Aoun, a supporter of Hezbollah. Hariris resignation now casts doubt on Lebanons political future.
Sacked Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont is currently seeking protection in Belgium, where he went after being removed from office. Puigdemonts supporters say they agree with his decision to stay in Belgium, while others are not convinced.

Sacked Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont is currently seeking protection in Belgium, where he went after being removed from office.

Puigdemont says he will not return to Spain until he receives a guarantee that he will face a fair trial.

In his hometown of Girona, Puigdemonts supporters say they agree with his decision to stay in Belgium, while others are not convinced.

Al Jazeeras Andrew Simmons reports from Girona, Spain.
Kingdom retaliates with more than 29 air strikes on central Yemen, hours after Houthi rebels fired a missile at Riyadh.

The Saudi-led coalition bombing Yemen carried out at least 29 air strikes on Sanaa province, hours after Houthi rebels fired a ballistic missile towards the Saudi capital Riyadh.

Residents told Al Jazeera that bombs rained down on several neighbourhoods of the capital on Sunday, targeting a stage in al-Sabeen square used by Houthi rebels for military parades, the nearby presidential palace, the national security headquarters and the interior ministry.

The Houthi-run Saba news agency reported more than 15 air strikes in Sanaa and a further 14 in the districts of Sinhan and Bani Bahloul.

Fatik al-Rodaini, an activist based in the capital, told Al Jazeera some of the raids aimed at Sanaas old city, a UNESCO world heritage site.





This is the worst day Ive experienced since the start of the war, Rodaini said.

I am fearing for my childrens lives. They havent gone outside all day. Just a few minutes ago I was thinking of letting them run to the shops but we heard another loud explosion and my wife said no.

The Saudis dont care about our children, our future, our lives. They know that civilians live in close proximity to government buildings yet they continue to target those areas  they just dont care.

Hours earlier, the Saudi military confirmed intercepting a ballistic missile that was fired from Yemeni territory towards the kingdom.

Riyadh sleeps peacefully

Colonel Turki al-Maliki said Saudi forces intercepted the ballistic missile with a surface-to-air Patriot missile, which caused it to shatter into fragments in an uninhabited area east of Riyadhs King Khalid International Airport.

The Houthis  a group of rebels who control Saada province, the capital Sanaa, as well as other parts of central Yemen  claimed responsibility for the attack, vowing to target the capitals of all Arab countries that are bombing the country.

Riyadh slept in peace and comfort last night due to the efforts of the Saudi armed forces, al-Maliki said.

We will continue to target the Houthis and their missiles that are sponsored by the Iranians, he added.

In an interview with Al Jazeera earlier this month, Mohammed Abdul Salam, a spokesman for the Houthi rebels, threatened to escalate operations on the Yemeni-Saudi border and target deep inside the kingdom.

The Saudis started the war. Our response will continue and increase, whether its targeting deep inside Saudi Arabia, targeting military positions where Saudi jets fly from, or military bases inside Yemeni territory, Abdul Salam said.

Abu Dhabi and others that target Yemen are  as far as were concerned  a fair military target. Any country that targets Yemen will be struck by our missiles.

Yemen, which sits on the southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, has been engulfed in war since September 2014, when Houthi fighters swept into the capital and overthrew President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadis internationally recognised government.

Concerned by the rise of the Houthis, believed to be backed by regional rival Iran, Saudi Arabia and a coalition of Sunni Arab states launched an intervention in 2015 in the form of a massive air campaign aimed at reinstalling Hadis government.

Since then, the Houthis have been dislodged from most of the south, but remain in control of Sanaa and much of the north.
Lebanons PM Saad Hariri quits in fear of being assassinated and accuses Iran and Hezbollah of sowing strife in region.

Hariris resignation came as a surprise. The fact that he did it from Riyadh, accusing Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah of sowing strife in the Arab world, sent shockwaves through the region. His resignation shatters a delicate deal that put him in a coalition government after a two-year political vacuum.

It is not the first time a Lebanese government has collapsed  it happened in 2005, 2011 and 2013.

The countrys political structure requires that the president must be a Maronite Christian, the prime minister a Sunni Muslim, and the speaker of parliament a Shia Muslim.

Last year Lebanons parliament swore in a new cabinet dominated by Hezbollah and its allies  in a major victory for the Shia, Iran-backed group. Add to that, Hezbolllahs military wing has been racking up victories in Syria, building up its arsenal, and steadily increasing its influence at home, and that has upset some, including Saudi Arabia.

So, what is next? And will Lebanon again become the battleground for other peoples wars?

Presenter: Martine Dennis

Guests:

Joseph Kechichian, Senior Fellow at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies

Mostafa Khoshchesm, Professor of Journalism at the Applied Sciences University in Tehran

Rami Khouri, Senior Public Policy Fellow and adjunct Professor of Journalism at the American University of Beirut.
What is the legacy of Irans Islamic revolution and how does it affect Iranian society more than three decades later?

After decades of royal rule, millions of Iranians took to the streets in a popular movement against a regime that was seen as brutal, corrupt and illegitimate.

Revolutionary forces, under the leadership of Grand Ayatollah Khomeini, forced the shah of Iran into exile.

His government was overthrown and replaced by a new Islamic order. The Islamic revolution put Iran on a new path  one that led to an ongoing conflict with the West.

Decades after the founding of the Islamic republic, the ideals that inspired the uprising continue to affect everyday life in modern Iran.

So how has the revolution managed to sustain itself through war, international isolation, economic sanctions, and regional turbulence?

And how has Iranian society changed since the seismic upheaval of 1979?

Rageh Omaar went to Iran to find out.

FOR MORE WATCH: Iran 1979: Anatomy of a Revolution

This documentary was first broadcast on Al Jazeera English in August 2009.
This past Oct. 29, Iranians marked the international day of Cyrus the Great, the ancient ruler of the Persian empire whose legacy is credited with forging the Iranian national identity. King Cyrus II is held in great regard in Iran for creating the largest empire of civilized nations then known in the world, around 600 years before Christ. King Cyrus was not only a master military strategist, he differed from other conquerors of the time in his tolerance of the customs and cultures of those who came under his rule. He was the author of the worlds first human rights charter. He is an honored figure in Judaism because he freed the Jews from Babylonian captivity, declared that the temple in Jerusalem be rebuilt, and allowed the Jews to return to their homeland. In Islamic holy readings, he is considered a just ruler.

Iranians commemorate this day by gathering at Pasargad, the tomb of Cyrus the Great, which is located in the Fars province. Siasat Rouz, one of the state-run Iranian newspapers said, The cyberspace is filled with pictures of Cyruss tomb and invitations to attend the commemoration ceremony!

But recognizing Cyrus as a just ruler does not register with Irans mullahs, whose own rule compares quite poorly to the ancient Persian king. Terrified of large gatherings and potential protests against the government, the Iranian regime resorted to military exercises on the day Iranians remember Cyrus and increased suppressive activities in different cities in the Fars province, especially regions that surround the Pasargad tomb.

This year, Irans Revolutionary Guards and state security forces established a virtual military curfew in the surrounding regions. They blocked all roads that lead to Pasargad and prevented vehicles from going to the site. The Revolutionary Guards distributed an announcement to all vehicles and people who are moving toward Pasargad, which read: The illegal gathering at Pasargad on Oct. 29 was orchestrated by the dissenters and anti-state movements. All mischief-makers will be dealt with through law and the judiciary.

Despite all these measures, large groups of people defied the mullahs and gone to Pasargad to pay their respects to King Cyrus II by foot and vehicle

People from all over the country headed for Pasargad on Friday, Oct. 27, in a show of unity against the regime and in commemoration of Cyrus the Great. Worried about protests and uprisings against the regime, state officials expanded their suppressive measures a few weeks ago in order to prevent any gathering from taking shape. These measures have further escalated in the past week and day.

From sources in Iran, these actions are listed as:

Revolutionary Guards, state security forces and plain-clothes agents gathered into the Fars province and controlled the roads and pathways that lead to Pasargad, in order to prevent people from entering the area.

Some of these forces are patrolling the area in black vehicles. All of the roads and parking lots surrounding the Pasargad site are swarming with security forces.

Revolutionary Guards and state security are patrolling the area with helicopters.

Parts of the Isfahan-Shiraz highway has been blocked by Irans City and Road Construction Office under the pretext of repairs and maintenance.

On Friday, Oct. 27, security forces forced a number of people at Saadat Shahr (25 km distance from Pasargad) to leave the city. A number of people were arrested in this area.

State security forces set up a long succession of motorcycles to patrol the area, in a bid to cause fear and panic.

Between 5,000 and 8,000 anti-riot forces were dispatched to the area.

Regime forces made widespread arrests in the past few few days in order to cause fear among people and create the impression that anyone participating in the Cyrus Day event will be convicted of political crimes.

Irans Revolutionary Guards blocked all roads that lead to the area. State security threatened people who were heading to the area, telling them, If youre going to Pasargad, youre with the Mojahedin (MEK), referring to the regimes main opposition group, which has been banned since 1981.

Despite the blockade, people found alternative ways through the mountains in order to reach the site. Regime forces have arrested and beaten some of the people who have tried to reach Pasargad through the mountains.
In Reform Islam or Live the New Normal Forever, Roger Simon argues that Donald Trumps often frustrated travel ban on problematic countries, though not illegal, is insufficient. It's only a meager beginning in dealing with a situation that has not changed in any real sense since 9/11, as the events in New York Tuesday testify. If we do not move even more seriously to prevent them, they will indeed become the new normal.  The violence, he continues, will never be squelched until the ideology is defeated and reformed We must all now be obnoxious, politically incorrect busybodies and get in Islam's face, demanding reform in every way possible, economically, socially, theologically and, yes, militarily.

This is a bravely unpopular stance to adopt vis a vis Islam that will surely be opposed and condemned by progressivists and offended Muslims. In fact, however, it does not go nearly far enough. Islam is a notoriously resistant and tentacular faith. I have long argued in book and article that Islam cannot be reformed. For starters, it features no single pontifical authority that could institute real change. Moreover, the canonical network is too intricate and too vast to admit of effective modification. Expurgating the Koran, were it even possible, is only the tip of the sand dune. The hundreds of thousands of Hadith would need to be reviewed and amended, as would the Sunnah and Sirah, the five schools of jurisprudence, Twelver Shia, centuries of ulemic literature, and the underlying cultural predispositions, beliefs, ideals, and orthodox practices that form the bedrock of 57 Muslim nations and the Wests Muslim populations.

Tightening immigration protocols, as Trump is valiantly trying to do, may be a welcome step in the right direction, but it cannot meaningfully address the problem of jihadist violence or creeping Islamization. Ilana Mercer reminds us that Religion is The Risk Factor, not chaotic countries-of-origin... The data show that young, second-generation Muslims are well-represented among terrorists acting out almost weekly across the West.

Trumps initiative, then, would not have prevented truck-ramming Sayfullo Saipov, a legal Uzbek immigrant, from killing eight Americans; nor would it have prevented American Muslims, immigrant or native-born, such as the Fort Hood shooter, the San Bernardino couple, and the Orlando gay nightclub killer, from wreaking carnage and mayhem. The new normal will persist for the soldiers of Islam are already among us. Their agenda has been materially facilitated by a treasonable left-wing constituency and pandering political class in Europe and America, by the sentimental tolerance of current liberalism, and by the general ignorance of the tenets, doctrines and usages of Islam.

What is to be done? To begin with, we should stop all Muslim immigration to our shores for the foreseeable future, not just a selective minority from terror-sponsoring countries. Additionally, every mosque must be scrupulously investigated and many permanently closed, for it is among these putative houses of worship, as David Yurashalmi and Mordechai Kedar have shown in a Middle East Quarterly essay Sharia and Violence in American Mosques, that terror breeds unabated. Of course, there are peaceable and moderate Muslims who wish only to get on with their lives. But as Bruce Bawer has cogently argued in an article treating of the Tariq Ramadan rape case, the codes of Islam are endemic and those who continue to identify as a Muslim while rejecting fundamental aspects of Islam are engaging in sheer delusion.

Bawer, like the much maligned Geert Wilders, who distinguishes between the private individual and an ideological machine, is right. It is not a question of individual Muslims, who may be decent people and law-abiding citizens, but of the faith they profess or nominally acknowledge, a faith whose codes, teachings and dogmas are conquest-oriented and which is materially sustained by its adherents, whether they know it or not. A militant and supremacist theology is thus reinforced by its communicants, no matter how innocent of malice they may be. Such is the Dar al-Islam, a theo-imperialist establishment which is sustained by its moderates no less than by its radicals. As Mercer points out, The fact that there are moderate Muslims doesnt mean there is a moderate Islam

Those who contend, like Clifford Smith, Director of the Middle East Forum Washington Project, that a more discerning vetting process, a holistic approach regarding applicants ideology, can resolve the problem of distinguishing between bona fide Muslim migrants and those placing violent ideologies over American law, reveal a profound misunderstanding of the ancestral resilience of Islam. This approach merely fudges the issue and does not account for home-grown jihadists, as well as being vulnerable to the Islamic principal of taqqiyah, officially approved lying. Canonical Islam would still remain intact and continue to pose a threat to a pluralistic democracy with which it is incompatible. As former Israeli Consul General to the U.S. Yoram Ettinger writes, acts of terror are not an aberration, but an integral episode of 14 centuries of Quran-sanctioned terrorism against the abode of the infidel. Jihad is a fundamental pillar of Islam which commands Muslims to emulate previous struggles against the enemies of Islam, within the context of an eternal battle.

As for those proponents of the new normal who frivolously claim, for example, that more people are killed, say, by lightning than by jihad, the rebuttal is obvious. Simon points out that TheReligionofPeace website documents 34 jihadist attacks in 13 countries over just six days this past week (Oct. 21-27), resulting in 444 killed and 114 injured. That doesn't include the horrific suicide bombing in Somalia on October 28 that took over two dozen lives -- including three children and a beheaded woman. On the other hand, how many were killed by lightning in the last six days?

Lets be realistic. The New Normal is indeed here to stay -- the invasion has become too expansive to be reversed -- but its ravages and incidence can be reduced if we repudiate the cultural sedatives of the day and proceed, as Ettinger urges, to pre-empt, rather than react, that is, to act decisively on several related fronts: a recognition that reform cannot succeed, a strict moratorium on immigration, a relentless surveillance of terror-fostering mosques, and a refusal to succumb to the Kumbaya rhetoric of the politically correct.

Again, to be realistic, a sea-change of this nature is highly unlikely -- since we appear to be as unamenable to reform as is Islam. Nevertheless, unless we come to our senses, realize that we are in the midst of a 1400-year civilizational war, and take appropriate measures, the sequel is a foregone conclusion. As the Gullah song goes, Someones laughing, Lord, kumbaya -- but it wont be us.
On December 5, the Supreme Court will hear oral argument in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commissioner, the controversial case about Jack Phillips, a Christian baker seeking an exemption from his state's public accommodations law based on his First Amendment right against compelled speech. This is a case that will shape our personal expressive liberties in profound ways for years to come. It bears not only on religious freedom but on the potential for people to channel their creative energies into meaningful livelihoods rather than having to default to alienating jobs or embark on paths of ruthless careerism.

As the parties mobilize in anticipation, liberals befog the stakes with anti-right cliches.

Here are the basics. Petitioner Jack Phillips maintains that his commissioned wedding cakes materially embody his ideas and beliefs about marriage. Indeed, the wish to live and work in full harmony with his religious tenets explains his life decision some twenty-odd years ago to put his artistic skills to use as a baker and open his own business. As the Justice Department as amicus put it (and kudos that the department weighed in on this one), "Phillips is a Christian who seeks to incorporate his religious principles into all facets of his business." When respondents Craig and Mullins initially expressed an interest in ordering a cake from him for their same-sex ceremony, Phillips therefore declined. He explained that were he to fulfill this specific order (though not any others the couple might choose from his varied inventory), this would be tantamount to his sending a message of approval of the rite in which the cake would be featured. He did not feel that approval, nor did he wish other people to mistakenly perceive that he did.

A social media campaign, the terms of whose vilification of Phillips are easily imagined, ensued. Another local cake-maker stepped forward and offered to supply the cake gratis. The cake the couple picked bore a rainbow design  that is, it made the symbolic statement Phillips preferred not to link himself or his business to, pursuant to his (free speech-related) freedom of expressive association. Meanwhile, Craig and Mullins lodged a complaint against Phillips with the state administrative agency empowered to enforce nondiscrimination laws, the one in question requiring vendors not to discriminate in the provision of goods and services on the basis of protected characteristics, including sexual orientation. Phillips lost and was severely and degradingly penalized. Left with no choice, he took the case up the chain. Finally, he obtained the grant of certiorari from the U.S. Supreme Court that will be argued next month.

There, Phillips will press his claim that by coercing him to contribute his artistry to the communicative aspect of Craig's and Mullins's event, the state is compelling him to convey an unwanted message. On the other side, respondents will urge that the public accommodations law at issue does not intrude on creative activity. The process of designing what they claim are standard-issue baked goods cannot in their view be distinguished from any normal sale of goods and services, an area long regulated by government.

But protected speech as understood by the Supreme Court has a penumbra around it that encompasses degrees of enacted, rather than exclusively spoken or written, expression. There's the rub. Waving a flag is a substitute for verbalizing support for the nation that flag stands for. It is considered "expressive conduct." Does the cake-creating process fall into this constitutionally privileged category?

The lower court hedged on this. If the cake emitted a "particularized message," it said, a wedding cake could be deemed expressive. But Craig and Mullins never reached the point of divulging the design they wanted. The couple might have specified something "nondescript." Phillips therefore couldn't have known that he would be, as the Department of Justice argues, "giving effect to their message by crafting a unique product with his two hands." What's more, even if a wedding cake could under certain circumstances be considered to be "imbued with expressive elements," any message it disseminated would be the customer's, not the baker's.

My focus here is not on the Supreme Court precedents that dispute this, but rather on the disconnect between respondents' position and our hyper-deconstructed, market-driven culture. Petitioner Phillips focuses rightly on the cake's prominent ceremonial significance. But there's also the fact that everything, we are told by the social justice warriors  from hair braids to a pair of shoes worn by the first lady  carries meaning. These meanings the New York Times and its ilk regularly "decode" for us, the cultural illiterati. So, to select a few examples, elite critics call those who splash paint on buildings not vandals, but graffiti "writers." They decipher the "vernacular" of cityscapes. They hail rights for nonhumans (in effect, endowing animals with voices). And they hype commodities that have the power to "construct"  i.e., make readable  individual identity.

Language, language everywhere. Only Phillips's edible monuments to marriage are mute. This equates to their being excluded from the Sunday-magazine logosphere, where left-leaning authorities with superior savvy expatiate on everything from the crock pot you're using (or should be using) to what we can't possibly understand about the LGBTQ experience.

Yet if Phillips's commissioned wedding cakes are expressive nullities, they are so only up the point that they're not. That comes when the commentariat and the interests they serve cease to get their way. At that point, the thought police mass, clamorously supplying the missing subtext. The cake, or more specifically, Phillips's refusal to contribute his artistic process to a ceremony he can't condone, becomes not only symbolic. It becomes the Ur-symbol, the archetype of everything hateful and destructive to enlightened society. This from the SCOTUSblog:

This cake is not really about a cake. It is about equal citizenship of gay people, and whether we may engage in the kinds of ordinary transactions others take for granted in the commercial marketplace and beyond. Will moral objections to who we are and whom we love be accorded constitutional supremacy over ordinary human decency, over the Golden Rule, over the long-standing American rule of businesses dealing with all comers? Will these objections justify closing the door on LGBT people, and, once again, marking them  including the youth who had begun to hope they could live a full life  as outcasts and inviting further discrimination?

Defiling the Golden Rule...that's a lot of symbolic freight to carry for a cake that a minute ago was a prosaic accessory to an "ordinary" transaction.

What are the expressive rights of commercial artists like Phillips, whom you'll never see dressed in casual chic staging his social grievances in a layout in Vanity Fair? Are they no more than a hired gun for progressives who declaim their sensitivities louder than the Christian photographer forced to take pictures at a same-sex ceremony or the Jewish sketch artist condemned by the state to get up close and personal with the attendees at a neo-Nazi convention? These and other questions the Supreme Court will be called upon to decide.

It shouldn't be easy. But it isn't helped when writers like Dorothy Samuels reduce the legal and human nuances involved to a "dishonest, if clever, distraction" concocted by the Justice Department.

By the way, if you're marveling at the hubris of a few government lawyers trying to slip a fast one past nine justices, marvel no more. Instead, do what the callow American Prospect contributor appears not to have done. Read footnote 3.
One century ago, in the middle of the First World War, British foreign secretary Arthur Balfour issued a declaration that paved the way for the establishment of a Jewish state. The declaration was ambiguous in some respects because the British aimed not only to win the support of Jews around the world, but also to bring Arabs into more direct conflict with the Turkish Ottomans, who ruled both Jews and Arabs in the Middle East.

The Turks had dealt savagely with both the Jews and the Christians. The genocide of Armenians is an overlooked holocaust, and Bat Ye'or's book on the long persecution of Christians by the Ottomans is a vital, but often missing, part of the history of the region.

The creation of a Jewish state had less to do with religion  many of the Jewish immigrants to Palestine after the First World War ended were agnostics or even atheists  than with race. The Kurds, for example, had no specific religious identity. Many were Muslims, some were Christians, and some even were Jews. The Kurdish experience has been one of persecution and division.

What Jews wanted was simply a place, in fact a very small place in global terms, in which Jews were not hounded and hated for being what they were by birth. The Dreyfus Affair decades earlier solidified feelings that Jews could never be fully safe anywhere. Theodore Herzl after that ghastly miscarriage of justice founded a formal Zionist organization committed to the establishment of a Jewish state.

The idea was simple: let Jews live in their historic homeland in peace and friendship with whoever would be peaceful and friendly toward them. The migration of Jews into Palestine between the wars was wracked with violence: Arab attacks on Jews that were supported by both the Nazis and the Soviets (which gives some idea of the nature of the enemies of a Jewish state), with the Soviets actually arguing that the Jews in Palestine were tools of the Nazis.

After the Second World War and the horror of the Holocaust, the impetus for establishing a Jewish state gained critical mass. While there was still uncertainly about what exactly the Balfour Declaration actually meant  was it support for a Jewish state or support for a state to which Jews were welcome to immigrate?  Auschwitz and Treblinka made chilling and absolute arguments that unless they had their own nation with their own self-defense forces, Jews would never be truly safe again.

The attitude of Arabs after the war provided another reminder of the helplessness of Jews in a land controlled by others: throughout North Africa, Jews whose only crime was being Jewish were persecuted by Arabs. The rest of the world did nothing to help these Jews except, in some cases, for help from the caudillo Francisco Franco, who made it his business to help Sephardic Jews.

In 1948, when the State of Israel was founded, all citizens of that nation, including Arabs, Muslims, and Christians, were granted equal civil and political rights, which state of affairs has remained to the present time. Israel became the second functioning democracy in the Middle East, after Lebanon, whose Maronite Christian majority working in collaboration with moderate Muslims created in Lebanon the "Switzerland of the Middle East." Today, after Muslim genocide against Lebanon's Christians, that nation has descended into misery and hopelessness.

Israel is a success in the sense that Lebanon was once a success. The promise of the Balfour Declaration and the Zionists who pushed for that declaration has worked. Jews now have a homeland determined to resist those who would destroy Jews and Israel, and the flourishing diversity of politics and opinion in Israel is a magnificent expression of those ideals the West professes to embrace.

The Balfour Declaration was the turning point in the struggle for a Jewish state. It is a turning point of which Jews and Christians alike can be proud. It is a clear affirmation of all that is good in Western civilization and all that can grant hope to all peoples desperate for their own homelands, whose aspirations we ought to embrace as strongly as we embrace the meaning in the Balfour Declaration a century ago.
Ive been muddling through the weeks events respecting the special counsels activities, trying to provide a clearer road map. And even harder -- trying to do it in a way that doesnt make it seem more complicated than need be. A friend reminded me of Lord Palmerstons observation: The Schleswig-Holstein question is so complicated, only three men in Europe have ever understood it. One was Prince Albert, who is dead. The second was a German professor who became mad. I am the third and I have forgotten all about it.

Actually, it may be simpler than that, though not much more.

A good place to start is with Conrad Black. If you recall, he, too, was, was the victim of overzealous prosecution which destroyed his publishing empire and resulted in his serving jail time before much of the case was tossed on appeal.

After detailing the medias uneasiness in the blowback disaster of the Russian collusion with Trump nonsense, he observes:

There is not a shred of evidence to support this, despite fervent efforts by the Obama administration and the special counsel to unearth some. Nor is there any evidence of actual Russian influence on the election result or of any policy change by the present administration toward Russia that the Kremlin would welcome. Nor, though The New York Times clings to the story, has any evidence surfaced that Fusion GPS was initially retained on this file by anti-Trump Republicans. [snip] As this hydrogen balloon was blowing up like the Hindenburg at the mast at Lakehurst, New Jersey, in 1937, the Uranium One affair was boiling over as a new congressional investigation was launched into the whole issue of about $131 million to $145 million being pledged or paid to the Clinton Foundation as Bill Clinton was paid $500,000 for an ordinary speech in Moscow. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Attorney General Eric Holder agreed to sell 20 percent of American uranium resources to Russia, through Russian intermediaries then under intensive investigation by the FBI director, Robert Mueller, and by then U.S. attorney in Maryland Rod Rosenstein. [snip] The trifecta was completed with the revelation that the investigation of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort was not based on his brief relations with Donald Trump, but on his lengthy connection with the Democratic Podesta brothers, and the extent to which he helped them funnel wealthy and influential Russians into high governmental circles in Washington. There need not be anything wrong with this either, but it has nothing to do with Trump and the entire fraudulent defamation that Trump did anything improper with the Russians, much less engage in anything compromising the validity of the 2016 presidential election. That claim is an outrage whose time for asphyxiation has come. Still to be unearthed are the full stories of the Wasserman Schultz skullduggery, and the real story of improper and probably illegal surveillance at Trump Tower. As that will get all the way to President Obama, it may be expected to ooze out slowly and reluctantly, sluggish and foul.[snip] The Russian collusion scam was just a convenient intersection between the denial syndrome of the post-defeat Clintonians and the fear and anger of the garrison of the Washington sleaze factory as the improbable avenger approached.

How far afield from the original appointment of Mueller as special counsel have we gone? Very. John Hinderaker writes at Powerline:

This mornings Minneapolis Star Tribune reported, in a story that doesnt seem to have gotten a lot of national attention, that William Muellers ever-widening investigation has ensnared Vin Weber, a former Minnesota Congressman and long-time Washington lobbyist: [snip] Muellers operation is leaking on a more or less daily basis. Isnt that illegal? Arent grand jury proceedings supposed to be secret? Maybe the Attorney General should appoint a special counsel to look into possible crimes associated with leaks by Muellers staff. With the emphasis on the Ukrainian lobbying efforts, Muellers criminal probe is moving beyond investigating ties between the Trump campaign and Russia and is aggressively pursuing people who worked as foreign agents without registering with the Justice Department. But wait! Muellers investigation isnt supposed to move beyond investigating ties between the Trump campaign and Russia. The Order appointing Mueller empowers him to investigate any links an or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump; and any matters that arose or may arise directly from the investigation. It seems that the current focus of Muellers efforts is lobbying that was carried out on behalf of one of Ukraines political factions, or, more broadly, failure to register as a foreign agent with the Justice Department by anyone, at any time. This is not what Mueller was appointed to do. [snip] The special counsel statute is a very poor idea, and Muellers implementation of it illustrates why. The job of a special counsel (or special prosecutor, as he was formerly called) is to hang scalps on the wall. Whose scalps, or why they were taken, is incidental at best. President Trump would be fully justified in firing [Bob] Mueller, but a better idea, in my opinion would be to appoint several more special counsel to look into various Democratic misdeeds. That would bring this whole farce to a screeching halt.

Conrad Black, writing that the Russian collusion story was blowing up, suggested that Wasserman-Schultz had engaged in skullduggery before former DNC head Donna Brazile threw this weeks latest bombshell at the DNC and in particular Hillary Clinton, whom the party appears eager to yank off the stage. Brazile charged that the DNC was nearly bankrupted by Obama and was saved only by cash infusions from Hillary Clinton, but in return for the lifeline, Clinton took control of the party and used that power to cheat Bernie Sanders out of the nomination. More, Brazile argued that the victory fund which was to be used to fund party races down ticket was instead grabbed by Hillary for her own campaign, with very little dribbled out to other candidates.

John Hinderaker, over at Powerline Blog, notes Braziles charges amount to a claim that Hillary and the DNC engaged in a criminal conspiracy

So Hillarys campaign paid off the debt and placed the [Democratic] party on an allowance. Brazile said she had no knowledge of these arrangements -- or even of the partys perilous financial condition -- even though she was an officer of the DNC. It was all Debbies fault. Brazile endorses Politicos assertion, made in May of last year, that Clintons arrangement with the DNC was essentially money laundering. Which seems like a rather dangerous concession for a former DNC chair to make. The campaign had the DNC on life support, giving it money every month to meet its basic expenses, while the campaign was using the party as a fund-raising clearinghouse. Under FEC law, an individual can contribute a maximum of $2,700 directly to a presidential campaign. But the limits are much higher for contributions to state parties and a partys national committee. Individuals who had maxed out their $2,700 contribution limit to the campaign could write an additional check for $353,400 to the Hillary Victory Fund -- that figure represented $10,000 to each of the 32 states parties who were part of the Victory Fund agreement -- $320,000 -- and $33,400 to the DNC. The money would be deposited in the states first, and transferred to the DNC shortly after that. Money in the battleground states usually stayed in that state, but all the other states funneled that money directly to the DNC, which quickly transferred the money to Brooklyn [Ed: the Hillary campaign]. [snip] So Brazile sadly told Bernie Sanders that what had been leaked was true: the DNC had rigged the nomination process to ensure Hillarys victory. [snip] I think this is grist for a third special counsel: the second, as I have said before, should look into Uranium One, the FBIs apparent complicity in the cover-up of Uranium One, and collusion between the Clinton campaign and Russians. The third special counsel should investigate whether the Clinton campaign and the DNC violated campaign finance laws or other statutes through their money laundering agreement.

Hillarys refusal to accept the results of the election might prove to be a disaster to the DNC and its officials, but it might be boon to DCs white-collar criminal defense bar. That is, if we dont all grow sick and tired of special counsels and do away with them bipartisanly before we reach that point.

But theres even more: a new report states that FBI Deputy director McCabe is himself in the hot seat.

Documents recently released by conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch show that while current FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe recused himself from the investigation of Hillary Clinton, he didnt do so until days before Novembers election. The information was obtained through a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the FBI that sought records related to McCabes involvement with the state Senate campaign of his wife, Dr. Jill McCabe. McCabe was the Assistant Director in Charge of the Washington Field Office when the probe was going on, and therefore controlled resources for the investigation. While the investigation was still underway, in February 2016, McCabe became Deputy Director of the Bureau, thus overseeing the whole operation. The Clinton investigation officially began in July 2015, but Clintons private email server became public knowledge that March. Days after that news got out, Jill McCabe was approached by Clinton associate Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe about running for office and Dr. McCabe announced her candidacy less than a week later. McAuliffe raised nearly $700,000 for the campaign. [snip] An internal memo, Overview of Deputy Director McCabes Recusal Related To Dr. McCabes Campaign for Political Office, also addressed McCabes potential conflicts, including the Clinton investigation. The same document showed that FBI officials had a set answer to questions about McCabe and his wifes campaign, and that was to say that he did not play any role, attend events, or help support the campaign at all. Despite this, a photograph surfaced of McCabe at a campaign event, and days before the election, a social media page of Dr. McCabes showed an image of Andrew with a sign saying, I am voting for Jill because she is the best wife ever. The FBI is compromised. Mr. McCabe should have been nowhere near the Hillary Clinton investigations, Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton said in a statement. That he saw fit to recuse himself only days before the election further demonstrates the FBIs Clinton email investigation was a sham. No wonder it took a year and a federal lawsuit to get these records. It is well past time for the Justice Department to reopen the Clinton email investigation.

About the same time Mrs. McCabe was receiving almost  of a million dollars from Clinton friends, a special FBI agent apparently began a criminal investigation of the agencies involved in the Uranium One deal approval with requests that they preserve the records:

Taken in their totality those FBI special agent notifications now encompassed every member of the CFIUS group who signed off on approval of the Uranium One deal. It would be intellectually dishonest not to see the very likely attachment of the special agents action. That is to say an FBI probe originating as an outcome of information retrieved in parallel to the timing of the criminal probe of Secretary of State Hillary Clintons email use. The sequence of events highlights a criminal probe starting [early August 2015], followed by notifications to the Uranium One CFIUS participants [late August 2015]. If you consider the larger Clinton timeline; along with the FBI special agent requests from identified participants; and overlay the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as the leading entity surrounding the probe elements; and the fact that the CFIUS participants were the recipients of the retention requests; well, its just too coincidental to think this is unrelated to the Uranium One deal and the more alarming implications. Further, if you consider this factual researched information against the backdrop of new and current information about the roles of each of the outlined participants; and the knowledge of the mystery FBI informant who was threatened to keep his mouth shut; well, its not a leap to connect the dots and see that the top-tier of the FBI (Robert Mueller, James Comey) and DOJ (Eric Holder, Loretta Lynch, Rod Rosenstein, et al), along with their subordinates, would potentially be in legal jeopardy. And dont think that in 2017 these people are not acutely aware of that risk, and signaling their audience [snip] Congress can get, and see, those FBI preservation notification documents without redaction. Congress could then interview the FBI special agent who was obviously in charge of key elements within the 2015 probe. Put the FBI special agent together with the unnamed FBI informant, question them, and discover what they know about the entire Uranium One deal -- and theres the road-map to tear this thing wide open.

Pressure is building to demand that Trump fire McCabe and Mueller and replace Sessions and Rosenstein. I understand the frustrations of those who are calling for such actions. Someday in the future, some or all of those actions might have to be taken. Someday, but not just yet. If the President removed them now, every media flake would be screaming Saturday Night Massacre and cover up. As the facts leak out, discrediting Mueller and his Clintonite crew, steam is building against them. For the moment, why not concentrate on reducing regulations, increasing employment, getting more nominations confirmed, moving a moribund economy back on track, and closing the borders (the importance of which was underlined this week by the horrible massacre in New York City). In the meantime, it appears that Manafort's and Gatess lawyers seem well equipped to pitch battle and I expect Vin Webers and Skadden Arpss are, too. When the extent of the perfidy becomes clear and the first objectives met -- and the midterms are over -- it may be the right time to act. More simply put, I don't feel equipped to second-guess a man who is such an artful strategist.

Especially when the people who pitched the grenade in his direction are watching it bounce back.
If anything is in the domain of the public's right to know, it's the facts on whether Fusion GPS paid journalists to write what they wanted written.

That's what's being wrangled in Congress now, whether Fusion GPS should be forced to reveal its banking records showing payments to journalists, payments that might possibly have come from the Russian government or some other moneybags client. Glenn Reynolds at Instapundit asks it right out flat:

WAS FUSION GPS ACTUALLY PAYING JOURNALISTS? Fusion GPS And House Intel Committee Renew Battle Over Bank Records. Fusion GPS and the House Intelligence Committee renewed their legal battle on Friday over subpoenas for the Trump dossier firms bank records. Lawyers for Fusion submitted a new request for a temporary restraining order preventing its bank, TD Bank, from producing records requested by the House panel regarding records of its transactions with any law firm, media company or journalist with which it has worked. The filing raises the possibility that Fusion has paid journalists. Wow.

Because while there is nothing illegal about an opposition research firm, however disreputable, paying for information, there is plenty wrong with journalists at mainstream publications taking cash on the side for running stories in their mainstream publications and not telling anyone about it. Was that story about the city councilman being corrupt the result of what the reporter dug up without fear or favor on his own, or was it a put-up job paid for by some deep-pocketed political opponent to knock him from power? Did that story about the awfulness of, say, Sergei Magnitsky, amount to a paid story from a foreign government? That's, to take hypothetical examples, something the public has a right to know, particularly because newspapers advertise themselves as being on the up and up.

Fusion GPS is the sort of Washington smear outfit described well by Sharyl Attkisson in her bestseller, The Smear: How Shady Political Operatives and Fake News Control What You See, What You Think, and How You Vote. She wrote of how these groups have a corrupting influence on news and often rely on smearing their targets rather than allowing reporters to report in calm, fair, perspective, and they are known to pressure reporters to manipulate the news their way.

Media Matters was clearly the worst in her book, which came out last summer. But Fusion GPS is noteworthy, too, since it follows the same pattern.

The company, founded by two ex-Wall Street Journal reporters, been known to pressure reporters to spike stories which are unfavorable to their paid clients, which is one sign of its efforts to manipulate news.

One such example of Fusion GPS's behavior is described in The Federalist, here.

Interestingly, given Fusion GPS admitted role in compiling a dossier against Donald Trump, Halvorssen said that Fusion GPS methods of going after whistleblowers and journalists included smear campaigns, dossiers containing false information, and carefully placed slanderous news items. Halvorssen said that Fusion GPS was able to kill a Wall Street Journal story on the Venezuelan scandal by having reporter Jose de Cordoba meet with Fritsch, his former boss at the Journal. Mr. De Cordoba described this blatant intimidation tactic as something that made him feel uncomfortable. Mr. Fritsch sent Mr. De Cordoba a dossier containing false and derogatory information about me and about the other whistleblowers who have drawn attention to Derwick, Halvorssen said. You can read more about that from another source here. When he returned to the United States, De Cordobas supervisors received threatening letters from the law firm Derwick hired to pay Fusion GPSs fees. The law firm is key because Fusion GPS says being paid by a law firm means all paperwork about their work for Derwick is covered by attorney-client privilege. Stories at Bloomberg News and The Economist were also killed prior to publication, Halvorssen said.

Circumstantial information also signals that there may be more than just killing stories in Fusion GPS's repertoire. According to an investigation by The Tablet, Fusion GPS also influences reporters to write stories, effectively planting them. Halvorssen accuses reporter Ken Silverstein, who identifies himself as a journalist with cash-flow problems and a friend of Fusion GPS's founder Glenn Simpson, as one such person who has taken his cue to write based on information that apparently came from Fusion GPS, although Silverstein denies it. Silverstein's work generally seems to be very good yet what he wrote about Halvorssen is utter rubbish, seemingly out of character.

With those kinds of allegations going on, it's very much the public's right to know whether journalists have been bought off by firms like Fusion GPS, which has been known to take money from the Russians. There's not a reputable news outlet out there that will tolerate this kind of activity and yes, anyone who does engage in such profit-taking, for whatever reason without telling anyone does get fired, as the recent firing of Wall Street Journal chief foreign correspondent Jay Solomon shows. Readers have a right to know that their news is untainted by sly little payments from special interests made under the table.

Particularly if they are foreign governments, in the case of Fusion GPS.

It's just this sort of activity that is at the root of fake news, and the degeneration of trust in the press that has occurred so intensely from the public in recent years. Attkisson sums up the scope of the problem for the public quite well at the end of her book, stating:

For now, one thing you can count on is that most every image that crosses your path has been put there for a reason. Nothing happens by accident. What you need to ask yourself isn't so much Is it true? but Who wants me to believe it--and why?

For that, it behooves Congress to get to the bottom of whether Fusion GPS was paying journalists and why.
As one reads the wretched news of how Hillary Clinton came to take over the Democratic Party and snatch the nomination from rival Bernie Sanders, in the memoirs of former DNC acting chair Donna Brazile, it's striking how the central persuading dynamic of it is money. As Fox News' Greg Jarrett explained:

According to Brazile, the DNC went broke under the leadership of Florida Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz. This dire circumstance presented a perfect scenario for Clinton to seize command of the party apparatus by paying off its debt of roughly $20 million dollars. But in exchange, the DNC executed a written, albeit hidden, agreement transferring to Clinton the committees finances, strategy, and money raised -- all to the benefit of Clinton and to the detriment of Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, her primary opponent. Even more deceptions and money shuffling ensued. It was a clever and complicated stratagem, but here is the simple version. During Clintons joint fundraising events with the DNC and state parties held across the nation, more than $82 million was raised. The states immediately kicked back nearly all of their share to the DNC which, in turn, kicked back their share and the states share to Clintons campaign. With Clinton in control of the Democratic partys staffing, budgeting, data, analytics, mailings and money, she was able to overcome the serious primary challenge by Sanders in securing the nomination. The DNC, which was supposed to remain neutral, had been neutered by Clinton. It devolved into nothing more than a willing accessory to a devious scheme for Clintons campaign to get rich at the expense of Sanders. There appears to be little doubt that Clinton rigged the election process.

Basically, Clinton bought her way to access to power because she had more money than Bernie Sanders did. Bernie's smalltime donor-based money pile proved to be no match for Hillary's kookabucks. The millions and millions she had from her pay to play operations that moved through her foundation and were so irregular of bookkeeping control that no philanthropy rating agency would rate them. Most of the foundation's work went to personal expenses, which could mean anything.

Including, quite possibly, campaign finance and bailing out the DNC. Which is why, as Jarrett points out, a Special Counsel ought to be named, targeting her activities.

Because given the scope of the pay to play activities at the foundation, including the Russia-linked $145 million that came in in the wake of the Uranium One sale, it might just mean that Clinton's DNC takeover was effectively foreign-financed, wittingly or not. It may mean Russian money effectively allowed Hillary to snatch control of the DNC, and take the nomination from Bernie.

Hillary had more money than Bernie and that money came from gamy sources. Did Hillary's takeover of the DNC amount to Russia's takeover of the DNC? What a strange twist this could be, given the yelling from the Clinton camp about Russian collusion.

A Special Counsel ought to be appointed to sorrt this out.
The FBI handed over hundreds of documents to Congress detailing how the bureau came to its conclusion not to prosecute Hillary Clinton in the personal email investigation. The documents should give us at least some insight into FBI deliberations, specifically why former director James Comey took the actions he did.

The Hill:

The sources said the Justice Department notified the Senate Judiciary Committee late Friday and the FBI began transmitting memos soon after to assist Congress in its review of former Director James Comey's handling of the Clinton email case. The memos detail how and when the bureau's leadership declined to pursue criminal charges against Clinton for transmitting classified information on her private email server as secretary of State, an investigation that has remained controversial since the 2016 presidential campaigns. FBI officials declined to comment. "We don't have any information for you," spokeswoman Carol Cratty told The Hill. The Senate committee has been seeking the memos for some time as it investigates whether Comey chose to absolve Clinton of criminal liability before the election-year probe was complete and before she was even interviewed. Comey ultimately concluded that while Clinton's handling of classified emails was careless, there was not enough evidence of intent to warrant criminal charges. Comey had announced in July 2016 that the FBI was declining to pursue charges against Clinton for what it called the careless transmission of classified documents on her private email server. The FBI then re-opened the email case in late October 2016, shocking the political world because it was so close to Election Day, after a new trove of emails was found on an associate's computer. Comey then announced a second time he did not plan to pursue criminal charges, a move that came just two days before Clinton lost to Trump in the election. The FBI's handling was roundly criticized by both Clinton and Trump, and was one of the reasons cited when Trump fired Comey as director earlier this year. Clinton has also blamed Comey in part for her loss in the election.

The original decision not to prosecute Clinton was inexplicable. But so was Comey's decision in late October to announce he was reopening the investigation. Law enforcement experts were aghast at what many of them saw was blatant interference in the election. Comey himself testifed that he knew the decision would be controversial but thought it was important enough to inform the American people.

Personally, I don't think Comey's decision in late October changed many votes. By that time, the polls had been frozen for weeks. Many voters were not happy with their decision to support either candidate, but the revelation about a reopened investigation failed to move the needle toward either candidate.

No doubt some of the documents will reflect Comey's discomfort at making a potentially game changing announcement. But I'm far more interested in the reasons for his decision not to prosecute Clinton in the first place. Was there opposition within the bureau heirarchy to his decision? Will any of the documents illuminate why he thought there wasn't enough evidence to prosecute her?

No doubt the leaks from Congress about what's in the documents will begin next week. It should prove interesting.
Now that the self-admitted deserter Bowe Bergdahl has been given a slap on the wrist for causing massive suffering to many American soldiers, commentators, including some "conservative" ones, are getting back to the real story: it's all Trump's fault.

Instead of condemning an obviously politically biased and uber-P.C. judge who clearly has no idea of what it takes to maintain morale in the military, those august seers, some of whom are lawyers, are telling us that the president of the USA, expressing both common sense and the consensus of the people, is a threat to our justice system.

Why is it that those same sage pundits have no problem with people in power, like, say, Obama, saying glowing things about traitors?

While it's not possible to read their minds, the obvious point is that our modern justice system is designed to favor the guilty. Any evidence adverse to the crook's case must pass a huge list of complex rules before being admissible, while a red carpet is rolled out for any potentially exculpatory, or even just jury-confusing, evidence.

It's precisely that asymmetry that causes Americans to feel that the "justice" system is rigged in favor of traitors, deserters, terrorists, rapists, drug-dealers, and murderers. While no one wants to get rid of due process, people are tired of lawyers playing games, and enriching themselves, at the expense of future victims.

Because the people who run the justice system live in safe, or even gated, neighborhoods, they're not the ones who suffer when rapists, drug-dealers, and murders are let free based on technicalities. Similarly, the members of the military who run the military justice system aren't going to have to occupy a foxhole at any point in the near future, so saying desertion in the face of the enemy is no big deal won't impact their life expectancy much.

That asymmetry, however, is what's gotten the American people, who do have to deal with the consequences of liberal P.C. judges, upset.

Americans want a legal system that gets justice, which includes freeing the innocent, not one that exults simply following the rules.

The people are tired of a system where rich people, or members of protected classes like deserters who have been lionized by Obama, can game the system to literally get away with murder. Basically, the people want a legal system that uses common sense, not legalistic sophistry.

Anyone who says the president talking about a specific case will cause all those involved, from the judge to the lawyers, to suddenly become corrupt is either a liar or a fool. They know that Trump's comments won't impact judges or juries, but because he's violating the legal decorum  the guilty are really innocent, no matter what the evidence shows  it's just another thing to attack Trump about.

The same commentators who are saying Trump's comments would deny Bergdahl a fair trial seem to think massively biased liberal media coverage of any issue  like, say, the Duke lacrosse team rape case  doesn't imperil people's right to a fair trial.

Those Beltway commentators are silent while the entire Democrat media complex is working nonstop to attack Trump about his imaginary ties to Russia while a special prosecutor is investigating those ties. If Trump making a single comment destroys the chances for someone to get a fair trial, why doesn't CNN's 24/7 "Trump is a traitor" diatribe invalidate Mueller's investigation?

The answer is that it's the asymmetry. It's okay to malign conservatives and people the left doesn't like, such as Trump, but it's verboten to condemn terrorists, deserters, drug-dealers, rapists, and murders.

Basically, these commentators are saying that while the media have the First Amendment right to lie to their heart's content about people liberals don't like, the president doesn't have the right to express his opinion.

This is shocking only for the "conservative" pundits pushing this narrative. The liberal pundits, on the other hand, are already on record supporting the suppression of the free speech rights of anyone they don't agree with.

It's time for the people to make it clear that we want a just justice system, not a system designed to enrich lawyers and massively increase the number of people who are the victims of crime.

You can read more of Tom's rants at his blog, Conversations about the obvious, and feel free to follow him on Twitter.
Saad al-Hariri, the prime minister of Lebanon, resigned on Saturday citing death threats against him. He also blamed Iran and Syria for fomenting unrest in the Arab world.

A Saudi Arabian news agency reported that Hariri had been informed of a threat against his life by western intelligence. There was also a report in another new outlet that Hariri had escaped an assassination attempt in Beirut earlier last week.

Hariri's resignation statement was made from an undisclosed location, probably in Saudi Arabia. Hariri is personal friends with Crown Prince Salman and has had close business ties to Saudi Arabia for many years.

Hariri held the position of prime minister, a post reserved for Sunni Muslims in Lebanon's sectarian political structure, for less than a year. He assumed office in December, 2016 following two years of political deadlock engineered by Hezb'allah, the Lebanese terror group and proxy for Iran, who represent most Shia Muslims in the government. Now that Hariri has resigned, Hezb'allah's political allies, pro-Syrian Christians, led by the country's President Michel Auon, will join with the terrorists to make the takeover of Lebanon complete.

In effect, Iran is now in the driver's seat in Lebanon.

Reuters:

Western intelligence agencies warned former Lebanese prime minister Saad al-Hariri of an assassination plot against him, the Saudi-owned pan-Arab newspaper Asharq al-Awsat reported on Sunday. It cited unnamed sources close to Hariri. However, al-Mayadin, a Lebanese news channel, reported that Major General Abbas Ibrahim, head of Lebanons General Security, told it that he was not aware of any information about an assassination plot against political figures in Lebanon. Asharq al-Awsat reported that the sources revealed that he had received Western warnings of an assassination attempt that was prepared against him. It did not give further details of the alleged plot.

Hariri's father the former prime minister Rafiq, was murdered in 2005 by Hezb'allah agents under orders from the highest levels of the Syrian government. This was the conclusion reached by a special UN commission set up to investigate the assassination that was made public when a draft of the report was released "inadvertently." The final version did not mention the names of Syrian officials involved in the murder, but the draft fingered the brother and brother in law of President Bashar Assad.

Hariri said in his resignation statement that the climate in Lebanon resembled that before his father's assassination.

Hariri was in the cross hairs because Iran wants a friendly, docile Lebanon amendable to carrying out Tehran's wishes. For Syria, Lebanon is a cash cow as many pro-Syrian politicians and businessmen carry on a lucrative kick back operation, enriching the Syrian elites while milking Lebanon dry.

Tiny Lebanon is in one of the most strategic positions in the Middle East, bordering Israel, Syria and Jordan. Obviously, Iranian control of Lebanon worries Israel, given that the country has now become a de facto province of Syria and Hezb'allah controls the Lebanese military and security services. It's probably only a matter of time before Hezb'allah looks to start another war with Israel. And this time, they will be allied with an Iran unencumbered by sanctions and an emboldened Syria, fresh off a victory in the civil war.

The entire region will feel the earthquake caused by Hariri's resignation and the ascendancy of Iran in Lebanon.
A coup is taking place within the House of Saud, in which a modernizing monarch is grabbing power and taking out rivals. Forces now under command of the ruler just arrested 11 princes among dozens of others and is launching financial investigations that could lead to serious punishment. In Saudi Arabia, they behead people (at least 157 times in 2015) and amputate a limb off of thieves. It is widely believed that baksheesh is not unknown in Saudi Arabian business circles, and an anti-corruption committee was recently formed. In other words, the tools are in place to take out any opposition among the powerful, within or outside the royal family.

Bloomberg reports:

Prince Miteb, son of the late King Abdullah, was removed from his post as head of the powerful National Guards.

Thats the first thing you do in coup: grab control of the forces on the ground.

Billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal was picked up at his desert camp, the senior official said. Authorities did not disclose the evidence that prompted the arrests.

Prince Alwaleed bin Talal presides over a vast financial empire (estimated $35 billion in 2015):

Alwaleed is the largest individual shareholder of Citigroup, the second-largest voting shareholder in 21st Century Fox and owns a number of hotels. TIME even called him "Arabian Warren Buffet".

The second thing you do is take out any potential bankroller of rivals.

It all began a month after the historic visit of President Trump, when 81-year-old King Salman displaced the previous crown prince, who was his nephew, as tradition of succession required,[i] and installed that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as effectively the monarch.

MBS, as the Crown Prince is known, is the leader who is launching what modernizers hope will be a Saudi Version of the Meiji Restoration[ii] in Japan, transforming the political economy and culture out of necessity  in order to survive in the modern world system. The Saudis have practiced religious and cultural isolationism, while their oil allowed the country to avoid the necessity of building an economy that could supply anything else that the rest of the world would be willing to pay for.

The power grab was necessary, because Saudi Arabia has to modernize, and it wont be pleasant for lots of people, in and out of the royal family. Thanks to fracking and associated technologies, prices are never going to return to $100 a barrel. The regime itself is at stake because the population is growing and the young have few prospects of employment. The House of Saud almost fell in 1979, when the Grand Mosque in Mecca was seized by Shiite insurgents (The Saudi Shiite minority is concentrated in the oil producing region near Iran) declaring their prophet to be the Mahdi. The entire religious legitimacy of the family is that they are custodians of the holy places of Islam, and yet they had to bring in Pakistanis to retake the holy of holies, the Kaaba.

They understand that in order to stay in power, they have to deliver change.

When President Trump visited Riyadh in May, the discussions must have included a mutual understanding of the changes the Regime has in mind. The US delegation included veteran Saudi-hand Secretary of State Tillerson and economic visionary Wilbur Ross of the Department of Commerce. These are precisely the people a monarch would want to talk to about restructuring his regime to cope with a reality that has changed. A big part of the modernization is entering closer relations with Israel, a natural mutual ally in resisting Iranian Shiites. Purportedly clandestine cooperation is widely in to be underway already.

Of the people arrested, Alwaleed bin Tala is the most intriguing for Americans thanks to his Twitter sparring with candidate Trump during the election, and for a startling connection unearthed by Jack Cashill more than five years ago in World New Daily.

In late March 2008, on a local New York City show called Inside City Hall, the venerable African-American entrepreneur and politico, Percy Sutton, told host Dominic Carter how he was asked to help smooth Barack Obamas admission into Harvard Law School 20 years earlier. The octogenarian Sutton calmly and lucidly explained that he had been introduced to [Obama] by a friend. The friends name was Dr. Khalid al-Mansour, and the introduction had taken place about 20 years prior. Sutton described al-Mansour as the principal adviser to one of the worlds richest men. The billionaire in question was Saudi prince Al-Waleed bin Talal.

Deep currents are being stirred.

Hat tip: Clarice Feldman
The final nail in the coffin of identity politics just might have been hammered home by the Harvey Weinstein sex scandal. It appears that nearly every day, a new accusation or allegation is happening against one of the many leftist Hollywood elites who've been subjecting the country to their moral preening and lecturing for decades. In an incredible display of irony, they are now taking down their own moralizers, who have been excoriating conservatives as long as they've had a public platform to proselytize their holier-than-thou-ness.

Some of the more high-profile harassers who have surfaced include Kevin Spacey, Dustin Hoffman, and Casey Affleck. For each one, the allegations go back ten or more years  thirty-one years, to be exact, in the case of Spacey. Recently, movie producer and director extraordinaire Brett Ratner was accused of rape, and he's suing his accuser for defamation of character.

So in a supreme act of irony, the Harvey Weinstein sex scandal that continues to widen its net, ensnaring other leftists, has revealed the incoherence, internal contradictions, and extreme hypocrisy that is liberalism and identity politics. For years, it's been an open secret that to get ahead, actresses subject themselves to the infamous casting couch, putting out a quid pro quo: sex for a movie role. This led to a conspiracy of silence throughout the industry, where someone like Kevin Spacey assumed he could get away with sexual abuse against a fourteen-year-old boy at his apartment while not on stage together doing a Broadway play.

On the upside of all of these revelations, we will be spared the sanctimonious virtue-signaling that is Hollywood's stock and trade for the foreseeable future. And maybe it will have a spillover effect when it comes to Democrat politicians in stifling their nonstop moralizing on the virtues of identity politics and victimhood, at least when it comes to gender and LGBTQ.

Finally, on the downside, this scandal has exposed the "guilty before proven innocent" mentality so ingrained in the left, especially within the mainstream media. When Kevin Spacey is accused of something that happened over three decades ago, where is the limit in how far back you can go to ruin a person's reputation? It seems that due process is a big casualty of the Harvey Weinstein sex scandal, which shouldn't be too surprising, since there's been virtually zero for conservatives. When it comes to a person on the right, it's always been "hang him now, try him later." One only needs to read the Huffington Post on a regular basis to get the idea.

In the end, schadenfreude overrides any concern for any loss of due process on the left. Payback is a...well, you know.
Thirty-seven years ago this week, I was almost packed to move to Mexico. My company was transferring me to the bank branch in Mexico City. It was an exciting time, especially as I went through the last details of my Mexico work visa and other matters related to the change.

I was also a volunteer on the Reagan-Bush team. On Friday night, I recall working a phone bank and hearing all the senior people talking about a close election. A few days before, we had seen Mr. Reagan debate President Carter, but the impact of "there you go again" was still unclear. I guess we did not see the impact of that debate until election day.

On election day, I voted early, went to work, and then listened to the radio for any detail I could find.

At 7:00 P.M., I tuned in to the TV, expecting to stay up all night, as I had in 1976, when the Ford-Carter literally went into early morning.

Around 7:00 P.M., the Eastern results came in, and Carter looked weak. By 9:00, the Southern results started projecting a Reagan victory. By 11:00, the Western results made it a landslide.

The Reagan-Bush team got 489 electoral votes and almost 44 million votes. It was amazing, to say the least.

Of course, the next part was even better. The GOP picked up Senate seats and ended up with a majority for the first time in years.

The GOP won open seats in Alabama, Alaska, and Florida. The real fun was defeating our favorite liberals, such as Frank Church of Idaho; Birch E. Bayh II of Indiana; George S. McGovern of South Dakota, the 1972 party nominee; and Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. It was not a good night to be a liberal Democrat between the coasts! I guess we were seeing the beginning of what we would later in the red states!

Over time, I've tried to read as much as possible about that election of 1980, especially the last week, where millions of votes moved to Reagan. Victor Davis Hanson explained it in a good post back in 2012:

Finally, in late October, Reagan capitulated to Carters preconditions and met him one time, face to face, without Anderson present. In other words, until the very last week of the campaign, Reagan had an uphill fight. True, he eventually won a landslide victory in the Electoral College (489 to 49) and beat Carter handily in the popular vote. Yet Reagan only received a 51-percent majority. What had saved Reagan from a perfect storm of negative factors  gaffes, additional conservative candidates on the ballot, a single debate, and a biased media  was not just the debate. Voter turnout was relatively low at only 53 percent. If Reagans conservative base was united and energized, Carters proved divided and indifferent.

One way or another, millions of voters that year made up their minds late. In the end, I had a wonderful time celebrating the results and watching some of those liberals like Church and McGovern go down!

A few days later, everyone in Mexico was curious as to how Reagan did it. I had a lot fun explaining the victory south of the border.

PS: You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter.
(ANSA) - Vatican City, November 2 - Pope Francis visited the US cemetery in Nettuno south of Rome and then the Ardeatine Caves on Rome's southern outskirts on Thursday, All Souls Day.

Almost 8,000 US soldiers killed in the Sicily, Salerno and Anzio landings are buried at Nettuno, as well as American Red Cross nurses killed during the Italian campaign.

The Ardeatine Caves are the site of Rome's worst WWII German atrocity, the 1944 reprisal killings of 335 Italian men and boys after a partisan attack that killed 33 South Tyrolean SS military police in central Rome.

At Nettuno the pope visited the tombs including an unknown soldier, an Italo-American and a Jew before saying Mass. He was greeted by the cemetery's director Melanie Resto and the mayors of Nettuno and Anzio, respectively Angelo Casto and Luciano Bruschini. At the cemetery Mass, the pontiff railed against the futility of war and cited Pope Benedict XV who vainly tried to stop World War One.

Francis appealed for the end of all war. "Please Lord, not more war, not more of these pointless slaughters, as Benedict XV would have said. "Better to hope without destruction, thousands and thousands of young people, broken hopes, no more Lord, and we must say this today in this place in a special way for these young people, today when the world is again at war and is preparing to go to war again. "No more Lord, no more, everyone loses with war". At the Ardatine Caves later the pope stood in silent prayer for four minutes and then laid wreath of white roses at some tombs before walking silently alone along the corridors that separate them.

He was greeted by, among others, Rome Chief Rabbi Riccardo Di Segni.

There were 75 Jews among the 335 killed in the quarry on March 24, 1944.